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Origins of a Guild Master: A Thaumorian Legends Novella
Dive into the captivating world of Thaumoria in this new novella, described as dark fantasy meets 'Oliver Twist.' Join Malachi as he uncovers the hidden underground world of Thaumoria.
In the City of Kinetics, people are seen as cogs in a machine, logic reigns supreme, and fantastical inventions emerge from the depths of the surrounding mountains. Malachi, a sheltered denizen of this highly efficient world, yearns for nothing more than to spend his days reading contracts and exploring the underground world of mines.
But when his business-focused parents send him to the City of Elementals in their place, Malachi is thrust into a realm of unfamiliar customs and aristocratic elites. Desperate to return home, he can't fathom another night of discussing dinner menus or Elemental pastimes until a fateful night changes everything.
As a homeless boy sneaks into Malachi’s room to ease him of his coins, the gears of his world grind to a halt. Suddenly, Malachi's ordered life is upended, and he embarks on a mission to save a life, discovering a hidden side of Thaumoria that challenges everything he thought he knew.
In the City of Kinetics, people are seen as cogs in a machine, logic reigns supreme, and fantastical inventions emerge from the depths of the surrounding mountains. Malachi, a sheltered denizen of this highly efficient world, yearns for nothing more than to spend his days reading contracts and exploring the underground world of mines.
But when his business-focused parents send him to the City of Elementals in their place, Malachi is thrust into a realm of unfamiliar customs and aristocratic elites. Desperate to return home, he can't fathom another night of discussing dinner menus or Elemental pastimes until a fateful night changes everything.
As a homeless boy sneaks into Malachi’s room to ease him of his coins, the gears of his world grind to a halt. Suddenly, Malachi's ordered life is upended, and he embarks on a mission to save a life, discovering a hidden side of Thaumoria that challenges everything he thought he knew.
- GenresFantasy
69 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 19, 2023
2 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Eno
10 books53 followersOriginally from Howell, Michigan, A.M. Eno travels full-time with her husband and two cats. In 2017, she earned her Bachelor of Science from Black Hills State University, majoring in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. As a lifelong avid reader, she hopes to create worlds and characters that invite readers to fall in love and feel at home. She strives to write high fantasy series that are a safe space for people of all backgrounds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 23, 2024
The cover brought me in but I stayed for the story. Malachi is a Kinetic who likes spending time alone learning and growing his powers. One day his parents tell him he needs to go to the City of Elementals and represent the family business. Malachi doesn't like to socialize but he does it anyway. While there he encounters a child who attempts to rob him. Malachi feels so bad for the child because he's clearly malnourished and just gives him the money. The image of this child stays with him however and he becomes obsessed with finding him and helping him. Once he finds Eu, things are not as easy as he thought they would be and he ends up learning the biggest lesson of his life.
This is not my usual type of go to story to read but it definitely left me with a powerful message at the end. I felt so bad for Malachi because all he wanted to do was help despite all the things he didn't know and the obstacles in his way. The ending had me gasping but I also can't wait to see the places Malachi will go, the things he will do and the people he will inspire.
This is not my usual type of go to story to read but it definitely left me with a powerful message at the end. I felt so bad for Malachi because all he wanted to do was help despite all the things he didn't know and the obstacles in his way. The ending had me gasping but I also can't wait to see the places Malachi will go, the things he will do and the people he will inspire.
August 20, 2024
I was browsing Instagram as one does and came across an ARC sign up for Dawn of a Ruinous Love. I devoured it.
I then realized I had 2 previous stories to get into, so I started back here, at the beginning. I love learning about the characters in a sort of spotlight more or less before we get into the larger story of The Death Bringer.
So it's simple. A.M. Eno writes, I read!
Specifically going into Malachi's story, I LOVE that we get to meet him first. I'm always excited to see a character be thrown into a world theyre unfamiliar with. It always astounds me just how much emotion is packed into less than 100 pages.
I then realized I had 2 previous stories to get into, so I started back here, at the beginning. I love learning about the characters in a sort of spotlight more or less before we get into the larger story of The Death Bringer.
So it's simple. A.M. Eno writes, I read!
Specifically going into Malachi's story, I LOVE that we get to meet him first. I'm always excited to see a character be thrown into a world theyre unfamiliar with. It always astounds me just how much emotion is packed into less than 100 pages.
October 6, 2025
This novella was so intriguing! I kept wondering how it was going to end and my jaw still dropped. I wasn’t expecting THAT. It goes to show that even when you think you have the purest intentions, things can go terribly wrong.
February 7, 2024
This was great short novella. The story was intriguing and a different ending. It was a sad ending, heartbreaking. I would love to know more about what happens. Hopefully A.M. Eno gives us more. But this was great book for a break from the intense fantasies I have been reading.
December 15, 2023
Loved it! It had the “leaving the nest and adventuring on your own” type of journey but with a sharp left turn. Definitely tugged on the heartstrings with Eu and his story. Now I’m wondering on what Malachi will do next in his journey. Can’t wait to read more on the world of Thaumoria.
August 12, 2024
that was a cute short story <3
the world feels as if it was given lots of thought and it worked because it was awesome
the world feels as if it was given lots of thought and it worked because it was awesome
December 6, 2023
I loved this fantasy novela! It was a quick read that follows Malachi on his journey to a new city for his family's business, but it quickly turns into an eye-opening and life changing experience for him. This novela gives you a nice little glimpse of a unique world and magic systems. I can't wait to learn more about this world!
December 19, 2023
The best way to describe Malachi’s journey is a quote from Batman The Dark Knight (2008) “you either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain”
You’ll have to read the novella and the whole series to figure out which one Malachi (the main character) turns out to be
Born into a life of privilege with loving parents and an empire waiting to be inherited Malachi is particular about his routines and interests. He has no experience in the world or on the streets and spends most of his time in the mines of Thaumoria or with his nose in a history book.
As a kinetic it is expected that he think logically and efficiently. Is there any other way to live?
However when Malachi meets Eu he learns quickly that the real world is much more cut throat and corrupted than his books prepared him for. Malachi would do anything he could to save Eu but in the end it might not be enough. Watch as Malachi brings his optimistic, do-gooder attitude to a city that eats optimism for breakfast. What he saw has changed him forever but what exactly did he learn from all of this?
A.M. does a great job of immersing you into Thaumoria and Kinetic City and the City of Elementals. Malachi is the kind of delightful character you want to protect from the world but you also know protecting him won’t be good for him. I was genuinely rooting for him. I can’t wait to read the rest of the story in the next novellas and then the actual novels.
GREAT DEBUT!!!
You’ll have to read the novella and the whole series to figure out which one Malachi (the main character) turns out to be
Born into a life of privilege with loving parents and an empire waiting to be inherited Malachi is particular about his routines and interests. He has no experience in the world or on the streets and spends most of his time in the mines of Thaumoria or with his nose in a history book.
As a kinetic it is expected that he think logically and efficiently. Is there any other way to live?
However when Malachi meets Eu he learns quickly that the real world is much more cut throat and corrupted than his books prepared him for. Malachi would do anything he could to save Eu but in the end it might not be enough. Watch as Malachi brings his optimistic, do-gooder attitude to a city that eats optimism for breakfast. What he saw has changed him forever but what exactly did he learn from all of this?
A.M. does a great job of immersing you into Thaumoria and Kinetic City and the City of Elementals. Malachi is the kind of delightful character you want to protect from the world but you also know protecting him won’t be good for him. I was genuinely rooting for him. I can’t wait to read the rest of the story in the next novellas and then the actual novels.
GREAT DEBUT!!!
September 18, 2024
𝑶𝒏𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒔𝒐 𝒃𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒙𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆.
I received an ARC of The Death Bringer and decided to familiarize myself with the world of Thaumoria before diving in. This novella is my introduction to the world.
Malachi, a kinetic, travels to the land of the elementals to secure a business deal on behalf of his parents.
Characters- Malachi is meticulous and well-read but naive due to his lack of real life experiences. His naive idealism results in catastrophic consequences but makes him determined to learn from his mistakes and grow.
Eu is sweet and can do no wrong. My heart hurts for him.
The two women leaders in this novella are cruel and powerful and do a good job representing the two sides of the City of Elementals.
World-building - I love the idea of using novellas to establish familiarity with a world through different POVs. This book gives us an insight into the City of Elementals and the City of Kinetics.
There is a peek into their social classes, economy, and even sports.
I hope future novellas or Death Bringer includes a map of the different cities of Thaumoria
Magic system - We are introduced to Kinectics who can move objects and elementals who use the power of the elements (similar to Avatar the Last Airbender). More powerful elementals can wield two or even three elements.
Overall, for such a short story, this novella packs an impressive amount of information and heartbreak.
I received an ARC of The Death Bringer and decided to familiarize myself with the world of Thaumoria before diving in. This novella is my introduction to the world.
Malachi, a kinetic, travels to the land of the elementals to secure a business deal on behalf of his parents.
Characters- Malachi is meticulous and well-read but naive due to his lack of real life experiences. His naive idealism results in catastrophic consequences but makes him determined to learn from his mistakes and grow.
Eu is sweet and can do no wrong. My heart hurts for him.
The two women leaders in this novella are cruel and powerful and do a good job representing the two sides of the City of Elementals.
World-building - I love the idea of using novellas to establish familiarity with a world through different POVs. This book gives us an insight into the City of Elementals and the City of Kinetics.
There is a peek into their social classes, economy, and even sports.
I hope future novellas or Death Bringer includes a map of the different cities of Thaumoria
Magic system - We are introduced to Kinectics who can move objects and elementals who use the power of the elements (similar to Avatar the Last Airbender). More powerful elementals can wield two or even three elements.
Overall, for such a short story, this novella packs an impressive amount of information and heartbreak.
June 25, 2024
Origins of a Guild Master by A.M. Eno is a captivating journey into a fantastical realm where magic and ambition collide. This story is set against the backdrop of intricate world-building and richly written characters and tells the tale of the early days of the guild’s rise to prominence.
A.M. Eno weaves a story that balances action with introspection, showing the main character's growth from being uncertain and naive to learning the ways of the world as he comes across a young street urchin and learning more about life on the streets in the city.
This is a world of politics and magic where values and morals differ depending on where you go, delving into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of power, giving us not just conquest but a reflection on the human condition.
A.M. Eno weaves a story that balances action with introspection, showing the main character's growth from being uncertain and naive to learning the ways of the world as he comes across a young street urchin and learning more about life on the streets in the city.
This is a world of politics and magic where values and morals differ depending on where you go, delving into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of power, giving us not just conquest but a reflection on the human condition.
December 20, 2023
"Malachi used the exploitative nature of his magic to analyze not only what the door was made of, but its inner workings."
I stumbled across the cover of this novella on Threads and was immediately intrigued by the title. After reading that it involved telekinesis I was sold!
The story was a paced well, and felt like a scene plucked out of something (hopefully) larger. I really liked the elemental aspect. I wish the short story had delved a bit more into the telekinesis side of things, mostly because I find that kind of thing fascinating.
Overall I think this novella is the beginning of something amazing!
I stumbled across the cover of this novella on Threads and was immediately intrigued by the title. After reading that it involved telekinesis I was sold!
The story was a paced well, and felt like a scene plucked out of something (hopefully) larger. I really liked the elemental aspect. I wish the short story had delved a bit more into the telekinesis side of things, mostly because I find that kind of thing fascinating.
Overall I think this novella is the beginning of something amazing!
February 5, 2024
Malachi lives a very sheltered life in the City of Kinetics. When his parents order him to attend a business meeting he is beside himself, prefering books and soltitude to small talk with outsiders. Until one night a young boy climbs into his window, intent on robbing him, sending Malachi on a path that will open his eyes to the horrors of the world.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The scenes are so well described, its as if you step right into the page. Though a bit tragic the ending does have some undertones of hope. I look forward to reading more works from this author.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. The scenes are so well described, its as if you step right into the page. Though a bit tragic the ending does have some undertones of hope. I look forward to reading more works from this author.
February 12, 2024
I received a free copy of this book through a giveaway on Story Graph and this is my honest review.
I really liked this novella! I liked the writing and I really liked the vibe. But at the same time, usually when I read a fantasy novella I'm already familiar with the world where is set in, and this is not the case. I needed more storybuilding for me to trully enjoyed it.
It's a sad story but ends with the promise of a better future and I want to keep reading about Malachi and he's adventures.
3.5⭐
I really liked this novella! I liked the writing and I really liked the vibe. But at the same time, usually when I read a fantasy novella I'm already familiar with the world where is set in, and this is not the case. I needed more storybuilding for me to trully enjoyed it.
It's a sad story but ends with the promise of a better future and I want to keep reading about Malachi and he's adventures.
3.5⭐
February 23, 2024
This was such a good read! Definitely a great introduction into this world. I cannot wait to see more of the world building and get to know the other characters. I need to know absolutely everything about this world and the other nations. You can really feel Malachi’s emotions and it’s like you go through these things right along with him. I found myself wanting to yell at some points and just wanting to hug a couple of characters at others. I got to the end and I was like “Wait tell me more!” Highly recommend!!!
February 3, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The cover is absolutely stunning to match the beautifully written story of Malachi. This novella has the perfect amount of character development and plot. And the author's writing style pulls you in and doesn't let you go. Malachi's journey was compelling and inspirational. I will not spoil the story for you, but it was heartbreaking and inspiring at the same time. Read it! And then read the next novella in the series, Secrets of a Sagacious Witch (out Feb. 19th!).... so good!
February 5, 2024
5⭐️ For a novella, the author did an amazing job of telling a full story in such little amount of time.
This novella definitely pulled at my heartstrings. The story and lesson was beautifully written, and I quickly connected with the characters, and fell into the story easily. And there was something about how the descriptions of the world and people were written that made it so easy and interesting to read about.
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review*
This novella definitely pulled at my heartstrings. The story and lesson was beautifully written, and I quickly connected with the characters, and fell into the story easily. And there was something about how the descriptions of the world and people were written that made it so easy and interesting to read about.
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review*
February 29, 2024
I was absolutely to receive an Ebook Arc of this wonderful novela. I am a bit delayed on reading and rating it but I enjoyed the pace of this book. Definitely read it within one day. I only wished there was a bit more world building. However, overall it was a wonderful novela and I can’t wait to continue reading more of A.M Emi’s books. This can be read as a stand alone but it’s also part of a wonderful series she’s working on.
September 24, 2024
Malachai's character development is top tier. No only do we see how his perceptions change and alter in a short amount of time, but we also get to see where he started his guild and why. Malachai is such a strong character and is very strong willed in his ideals. It is great to get to see his naivety in his sheltered word. The story and world building happen fast and leaves y0u hanging and wanting more.
January 3, 2024
Very interesting concept, although I would have liked a little more world building, how the different magics work etc. A very short, quick read, granted it is a novella. The story was captivating and I look forward to seeing what happens next and what Malachi accomplishes so I hope this isn't the end.
February 7, 2024
Ok! So I am extremely excited to read all the upcoming novellas of the series. I really enjoyed the narration of the story, the pacing was perfect and short and sweet, though it gives you such an impactful story and twist with a very obviously thought out world. The magic system is something I am definitely more excited to read about and will definitely recommend to my friends.
February 13, 2024
I had the great pleasure of receiving an ARC ebook copy of this novella. It was a good novella. The storyline builds up at a nice pace and had good characters. The ending was not what I was expecting....I need more to this story!!! I need more Malachi and Eu!! Sad ending, but it was a good novella that leaves you wanting more of the story😊
August 13, 2024
Out of all of these novellas, this was one of my favorites.
We learn about Malachi, and his life before other events in these novellas. His story of being forced by his parents to leave the comforts of home to help with the family business leads him to the City of Elementals, where his eyes are opened to how different things are in the world outside of his previous life. What happens in this book is so heartbreaking, but these events are what shape him and change his life forever.
I loved his story, as heartbreaking as it was. Learning about the City of Elementals a little more in this book builds on the world building associated with all of the novellas. The characters and the places are so well written it's hard to not be sucked in.
We learn about Malachi, and his life before other events in these novellas. His story of being forced by his parents to leave the comforts of home to help with the family business leads him to the City of Elementals, where his eyes are opened to how different things are in the world outside of his previous life. What happens in this book is so heartbreaking, but these events are what shape him and change his life forever.
I loved his story, as heartbreaking as it was. Learning about the City of Elementals a little more in this book builds on the world building associated with all of the novellas. The characters and the places are so well written it's hard to not be sucked in.
October 3, 2024
I enjoyed this novella read! It was such a fast paced, light read with a great intro to the characters and world building. It really set the tone and mood of the story as well as the overall theme of economic and social disparities among the less fortunate. I am so heartbroken about Eu, and am hopeful/yearning for a happy outcome for him and Malachi 🤞🏼
December 22, 2023
Wow. Just Wow!
I had the pleasure of reading this wonderful story and I can honestly say that I am itching to see what Malachi does next! Such a cute story, with an honestly heartbreaking and rage inducing ending. I really enjoyed the "out of the nest" and "finding your calling" vibes that this story has, and I will be here anxiously awaiting further installments!
I had the pleasure of reading this wonderful story and I can honestly say that I am itching to see what Malachi does next! Such a cute story, with an honestly heartbreaking and rage inducing ending. I really enjoyed the "out of the nest" and "finding your calling" vibes that this story has, and I will be here anxiously awaiting further installments!
February 18, 2024
I didn't know it was possible to so thoroughly break a person's heart with only 8 Chapters and an Epilogue. This Novella was short, heartbreaking, and such a compelling start to what I'm sure will be a spectacular series.
July 10, 2024
loved this!
This short novella made me feel all the things, hope, love, sadness, desperation. The authors ability to convey all of these feelings throughout a short read is incredible. I am so excited to see where the world of Thaumoria ends up as the author continues!
This short novella made me feel all the things, hope, love, sadness, desperation. The authors ability to convey all of these feelings throughout a short read is incredible. I am so excited to see where the world of Thaumoria ends up as the author continues!
March 18, 2025
I usually prefer full-length novels and long series, but the author does a wonderful job of introducing the magic system and worldnin this little novella. I look forward to continuing this series and hope the characters featured in the novellas will come together in the first main novel.
January 20, 2024
This was so beautifully written 🩵
April 20, 2024
Really enjoyed this novella! The story building was great for being such a short book. The undercover/hiding the MC is doing is setting up the third novella to be really awesome!
July 22, 2024
This was a quick and easy read. The story is both sad and heartbreaking, yet uplifting and hopeful at the same time. I'm intrigued to see if we get more from Malachi and Eu.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews