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Marked
A deadly plague is spreading from the South and a group of zealots known as the Sanctifiers believe the only cure is the destruction of magic users and all who would support them.
Wymond Royce lives in a quiet village, planning a peaceful life, until an accident manifests his hidden magic abilities. Now he is caught in a struggle he never asked for and on the run to safety in a world that is crumbling before his eyes.
Wymond Royce lives in a quiet village, planning a peaceful life, until an accident manifests his hidden magic abilities. Now he is caught in a struggle he never asked for and on the run to safety in a world that is crumbling before his eyes.
- GenresFantasy
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2024
3 people are currently reading
1408 people want to read
About the author
Matt Calhoun
3 books22 followersMatt Calhoun lives in Wichita, Kansas with his wife and two children. He writes both science fiction and fantasy and his titles include The Knowledge of Sin and The Plaguelands series. Aside from writing, Matt enjoys brewing beer, cooking, and traveling.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
August 13, 2024
A highly contagious, deadly plague is spreading quickly. The Sanctifiers (soldiers/mercenaries) believe if they eradicate magic then the plague will be cured. A teenager Royce lives the small life in a small town that he loves but suddenly his magic manifests and he leaves the town for his family's safety.
He embarks on a journey to find others with magic and to avoid the plague but also the Sanctifiers. He has many adventures along the way and he learns to fight with his magic. But the Sanctifiers find him and the other magic wielders and the fight for his life begins.
Royce was an interesting, almost naive character, some due to his age, some to his upbringing. I found I couldn't connect with him as I wanted and found a few flaws in him such as when he found his village burning, he didn't look for his family or even mention them.
The writing was simple and easy to read which would make this great for younger readers. While this book was not for me, I do believe younger readers will enjoy it.
Thank you to Goodreads for the giveaway win!
He embarks on a journey to find others with magic and to avoid the plague but also the Sanctifiers. He has many adventures along the way and he learns to fight with his magic. But the Sanctifiers find him and the other magic wielders and the fight for his life begins.
Royce was an interesting, almost naive character, some due to his age, some to his upbringing. I found I couldn't connect with him as I wanted and found a few flaws in him such as when he found his village burning, he didn't look for his family or even mention them.
The writing was simple and easy to read which would make this great for younger readers. While this book was not for me, I do believe younger readers will enjoy it.
Thank you to Goodreads for the giveaway win!
October 30, 2025
“Marked” pulls you into a dark, crumbling world where fear, faith, and power collide in the shadow of a spreading plague. Matt Calhoun crafts a hauntingly believable realm filled with tension, moral conflict, and characters you can’t help but root for.
Wymond Royce’s journey from an ordinary villager to a hunted magic wielder is both emotional and thrilling. The story captures the fear of persecution and the desperate will to survive in a society that destroys what it doesn’t understand. I was especially impressed by how Calhoun balances world-building, fast-paced action, and moments of quiet humanity.
The Sanctifiers make for a chilling antagonist force reminding us how fanaticism can thrive in times of crisis. Each chapter raises the stakes, leading to an ending that leaves you wanting more.
If you love fantasy worlds with real emotional depth think The Witcher meets The Name of the Wind then Marked is a must-read. A powerful start to what promises to be an unforgettable series.
Wymond Royce’s journey from an ordinary villager to a hunted magic wielder is both emotional and thrilling. The story captures the fear of persecution and the desperate will to survive in a society that destroys what it doesn’t understand. I was especially impressed by how Calhoun balances world-building, fast-paced action, and moments of quiet humanity.
The Sanctifiers make for a chilling antagonist force reminding us how fanaticism can thrive in times of crisis. Each chapter raises the stakes, leading to an ending that leaves you wanting more.
If you love fantasy worlds with real emotional depth think The Witcher meets The Name of the Wind then Marked is a must-read. A powerful start to what promises to be an unforgettable series.
November 15, 2025
Marked by Matt is a gripping and immersive fantasy that pulls you straight into a world on the brink of collapse. The rising plague, the fear-driven Sanctifiers, and Wymond’s sudden awakening of magic create a tense, emotional journey that feels both urgent and heartfelt. Matt delivers rich world-building, strong character depth, and a storyline full of danger and humanity. If you love fantasy tales of survival, destiny, and resistance, this book is absolutely worth reading.
October 1, 2025
A gripping tale of survival, magic, and destiny. Wymond Royce’s journey from a quiet villager to a hunted magic wielder is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The clash between fear, faith, and power is woven brilliantly, keeping you hooked from start to finish. A must-read for fans of epic fantasy with high stakes and emotional depth.
September 24, 2025
A gripping fantasy tale of survival and awakening. Wymond’s accidental discovery of magic thrusts him into a dangerous world where fear and fanaticism reign. Tense, heartfelt, and impossible to put down.
July 26, 2024
I won my copy from the Goodreads giveaways! Post read review to come soon!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews