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Tempest Rising #1
Zodak: The Last Shielder
A courageous orphan. An ancient evil. A mysterious medallion.
In the village of Laan, Zodak endures a bleak life of misery at the hands of his hateful cousins and aunt. His steadfast uncle Ardon is his only anchor. When a water sprite arrives, speaking of destiny and an epic journey that awaits, Zodak struggles to grasp how an adventure with goblins, krikkis, and dwarves could ever be his story.
But when his uncle falls in a kidnapping plot and entrusts Zodak with a mysterious medallion, Zodak flees into a vast, unknown world. Seeking answers about his past and the medallion he carries, Zodak finds himself drawn to the magnificent city Uth Becca. In his journey, he unearths a clandestine order, a corrupt Magistrate, and a sinister plot that threatens humanity’s very existence.
A great evil awakens. Dark hordes are on the march. In a world desperate for a hero, can an outcast be enough?
Get swept away in an epic fantasy adventure with an unlikely hero on the edge of manhood, world-building reminiscent of Brandon Sanderson, and a protagonist who must decide whether to fight for truth, even if it costs him everything.
In the village of Laan, Zodak endures a bleak life of misery at the hands of his hateful cousins and aunt. His steadfast uncle Ardon is his only anchor. When a water sprite arrives, speaking of destiny and an epic journey that awaits, Zodak struggles to grasp how an adventure with goblins, krikkis, and dwarves could ever be his story.
But when his uncle falls in a kidnapping plot and entrusts Zodak with a mysterious medallion, Zodak flees into a vast, unknown world. Seeking answers about his past and the medallion he carries, Zodak finds himself drawn to the magnificent city Uth Becca. In his journey, he unearths a clandestine order, a corrupt Magistrate, and a sinister plot that threatens humanity’s very existence.
A great evil awakens. Dark hordes are on the march. In a world desperate for a hero, can an outcast be enough?
Get swept away in an epic fantasy adventure with an unlikely hero on the edge of manhood, world-building reminiscent of Brandon Sanderson, and a protagonist who must decide whether to fight for truth, even if it costs him everything.
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2024
126 people are currently reading
2860 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
May 16, 2024
A big thanks to the author for sending over an audio code. Dallin Bradford absolutely knocks it out of the park, this is some of the best narration I’ve heard in quite a long time.
This is a classic (in this case, farm boy) origin story, pulling from those of before like Frodo, Rand al’Thor, Eragon, even Jon Snow. So regardless of the genre tags you’d add to this, the one thing that stood out to me the entire time was “classic”. And I could definitely see this series going down as one. It feels so over the top professional, the author has whittled down the prose to the point where there is not a single unnecessary word throughout the entire novel.
Zodak lives with his aunt and uncle. Their two children, as well as his aunt, find him at best to be a nuisance, and at worst a complete mistake. And of course they can’t stand the fact that Ardon, his uncle, is so fond of him. It makes for one tinderbox of a household.
The impetus that sets Zodak in motion again feels very classic, very Luke Skywalker even, but it’s done so well and flows so brilliantly that I was 100% along for the ride. And while he does meet some help along the way, as well as a ranger-type that made me super happy, he does offer up an experience that's all his own, and his path isn't decided by those that came before him.
I really had to think over what to write here, as otherwise it would have been tons of ramblings and spoilers. And because of that I'd like to stress just how much I loved this! I love that Zodak appears to be the easy chosen one, just to have his newfound dreams crushed…but just maybe? This needs to be added to every TBR. Immediately.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-zodak-...
This is a classic (in this case, farm boy) origin story, pulling from those of before like Frodo, Rand al’Thor, Eragon, even Jon Snow. So regardless of the genre tags you’d add to this, the one thing that stood out to me the entire time was “classic”. And I could definitely see this series going down as one. It feels so over the top professional, the author has whittled down the prose to the point where there is not a single unnecessary word throughout the entire novel.
Zodak lives with his aunt and uncle. Their two children, as well as his aunt, find him at best to be a nuisance, and at worst a complete mistake. And of course they can’t stand the fact that Ardon, his uncle, is so fond of him. It makes for one tinderbox of a household.
The impetus that sets Zodak in motion again feels very classic, very Luke Skywalker even, but it’s done so well and flows so brilliantly that I was 100% along for the ride. And while he does meet some help along the way, as well as a ranger-type that made me super happy, he does offer up an experience that's all his own, and his path isn't decided by those that came before him.
I really had to think over what to write here, as otherwise it would have been tons of ramblings and spoilers. And because of that I'd like to stress just how much I loved this! I love that Zodak appears to be the easy chosen one, just to have his newfound dreams crushed…but just maybe? This needs to be added to every TBR. Immediately.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-zodak-...
February 13, 2024
A page turner, full of heart, in a convincing fantasy world. Something for everyone, from charming wagon-driving plump “tuks” to gristly gang lords to epic plot. Will sure to return for more. (FWIW, my copy was clean of errors…)
April 30, 2024
A big thanks to the author for sending over an audio code. Dallin Bradford absolutely knocks it out of the park, this is some of the best narration I’ve heard in quite a long time.
This is a classic (in this case, farm boy) origin story, pulling from those of before like Frodo, Rand al’Thor, Eragon, even Jon Snow. So regardless of the genre tags you’d add to this, the one thing that stood out to me the entire time was “classic”. And I could definitely see this series going down as one. It feels so over the top professional, the author has whittled down the prose to the point where there is not a single unnecessary word throughout the entire novel.
Zodak lives with his aunt and uncle. Their two children, as well as his aunt, find him at best to be a nuisance, and at worst a complete mistake. And of course they can’t stand the fact that Ardon, his uncle, is so fond of him. It makes for one tinderbox of a household.
The impetus that sets Zodak in motion again feels very classic, very Luke Skywalker even, but it’s done so well and flows so brilliantly that I was 100% along for the ride. And while he does meet some help along the way, as well as a ranger-type that made me super happy, he does offer up an experience that's all his own, and his path isn't decided by those that came before him.
I really had to think over what to write here, as otherwise it would have been tons of ramblings and spoilers. And because of that I'd like to stress just how much I loved this! I love that Zodak appears to be the easy chosen one, just to have his newfound dreams crushed…but just maybe? This needs to be added to every TBR. Immediately.
This is a classic (in this case, farm boy) origin story, pulling from those of before like Frodo, Rand al’Thor, Eragon, even Jon Snow. So regardless of the genre tags you’d add to this, the one thing that stood out to me the entire time was “classic”. And I could definitely see this series going down as one. It feels so over the top professional, the author has whittled down the prose to the point where there is not a single unnecessary word throughout the entire novel.
Zodak lives with his aunt and uncle. Their two children, as well as his aunt, find him at best to be a nuisance, and at worst a complete mistake. And of course they can’t stand the fact that Ardon, his uncle, is so fond of him. It makes for one tinderbox of a household.
The impetus that sets Zodak in motion again feels very classic, very Luke Skywalker even, but it’s done so well and flows so brilliantly that I was 100% along for the ride. And while he does meet some help along the way, as well as a ranger-type that made me super happy, he does offer up an experience that's all his own, and his path isn't decided by those that came before him.
I really had to think over what to write here, as otherwise it would have been tons of ramblings and spoilers. And because of that I'd like to stress just how much I loved this! I love that Zodak appears to be the easy chosen one, just to have his newfound dreams crushed…but just maybe? This needs to be added to every TBR. Immediately.
April 17, 2024
A secret kept hidden for generations. A hope against darkness that infests the land. A destiny thrust upon its unsuspecting wielder.
A thrilling coming of age tale with nods to classic fantasy storytelling. Excellent start to what should be a great series.
A thrilling coming of age tale with nods to classic fantasy storytelling. Excellent start to what should be a great series.
October 23, 2025
Zodak: The Last Shielder by Max Moyer is perfect for fantasy readers who love action, adventure, mysterious artifacts, and interesting mythological creatures. Zodak is an orphan taken in by his uncle and family to raise until he’s old enough to make it on his own. Unbeknown to him, and everyone but his uncle, he is the descendant of a powerful line of warriors. As he is growing into a young man, he is set on a journey across the land of Yiduiijn to Uth Becca to find out exactly what is going on. Along the way, he learns who he can trust, and who needs to be steered clear of, sometimes a bit too late.
I really enjoyed reading this story. Moyer did an amazing job of giving all the characters their own personalities. We find evil characters who have no redeeming qualities, some who did find the good inside, and those who are wholly good and just had a rough go at life. We do have quite a bit of character development in Zodak, as he had to step up and overcome a lot of obstacles and situations out of his control. We also encounter a lot of other species of creatures and Moyer describes everything in a way that enables the reader to picture what they look like.
The setting and landscape are also well described throughout the book. We encounter the lowly farm, small schoolhouse, medium-sized city, and a large city. We also get to experience the travels along the roads to each place. There are forests that hold evils deep inside and places of simple rest. Everything about this story is adventure-based and done very well. Even the pacing of the story is well done. It keeps you guessing what’s about to happen throughout and has many surprises I could not predict, which I always appreciate an author doing successfully.
There are some words that the author created for this story. He provides a bookmark with a guide to these words at the beginning of the book. I really appreciate this as it makes the story more enjoyable when you understand what exactly someone is trying to say. There is no cursing or romance anywhere throughout the book. Zodak is book one in the Tempest Rising Series, so fans have more to look forward to.
Overall, Zodak: The Last Shielder by Max Moyer, is an extremely fun and adventurous read. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy stories about action, other worlds, and fantastical creatures. While the intended audience is fantasy readers age 16 and up, it would be okay for more advanced middle grade readers as well. There are death and war, but even those descriptions are kept to a minimum. This is definitely a book I will be recommending to other fantasy readers!
I really enjoyed reading this story. Moyer did an amazing job of giving all the characters their own personalities. We find evil characters who have no redeeming qualities, some who did find the good inside, and those who are wholly good and just had a rough go at life. We do have quite a bit of character development in Zodak, as he had to step up and overcome a lot of obstacles and situations out of his control. We also encounter a lot of other species of creatures and Moyer describes everything in a way that enables the reader to picture what they look like.
The setting and landscape are also well described throughout the book. We encounter the lowly farm, small schoolhouse, medium-sized city, and a large city. We also get to experience the travels along the roads to each place. There are forests that hold evils deep inside and places of simple rest. Everything about this story is adventure-based and done very well. Even the pacing of the story is well done. It keeps you guessing what’s about to happen throughout and has many surprises I could not predict, which I always appreciate an author doing successfully.
There are some words that the author created for this story. He provides a bookmark with a guide to these words at the beginning of the book. I really appreciate this as it makes the story more enjoyable when you understand what exactly someone is trying to say. There is no cursing or romance anywhere throughout the book. Zodak is book one in the Tempest Rising Series, so fans have more to look forward to.
Overall, Zodak: The Last Shielder by Max Moyer, is an extremely fun and adventurous read. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy stories about action, other worlds, and fantastical creatures. While the intended audience is fantasy readers age 16 and up, it would be okay for more advanced middle grade readers as well. There are death and war, but even those descriptions are kept to a minimum. This is definitely a book I will be recommending to other fantasy readers!
September 30, 2024
Zodak is our unlikely protagonist in this Heroes journey that seemed to be heavily influenced both by The Hobbit and The Wheel of Time.
Zodak makes a lot of poor choices and trusts all the wrong people. My anxiety was pretty high during the first few chapters. Eventually, he matures a bit, and so my nerves were able to settle down.
It's the first book in a series, so I was fairly confident this book would not leave in a finale type place. I was right, but while there are a lot of open questions, we did get a good sense of where things are headed.
Overall, it's shaping up to be an interesting adventure.
Zodak makes a lot of poor choices and trusts all the wrong people. My anxiety was pretty high during the first few chapters. Eventually, he matures a bit, and so my nerves were able to settle down.
It's the first book in a series, so I was fairly confident this book would not leave in a finale type place. I was right, but while there are a lot of open questions, we did get a good sense of where things are headed.
Overall, it's shaping up to be an interesting adventure.
April 2, 2024
Written in the spirit of a true classic fantasy, this book is a rollicking adventure with the potential to be a grand tale of a hapless farm boy coming-of-age in a tumultuous world on the verge of collapse to ancient darkness. The story invites with truly epic worldbuilding and a hunt that carries our young hero from the pot to the frying pan and into the fire with vivid action and a bracing conclusion that leaves you breathless. A promising start to the series.
April 9, 2024
A page turning fantasy. Reading this was as easy as breathing whilst building a realistic and vivid world. Would definitely recommend to anyone and a perfect book for someone looking to start or get back into fantasy. Will definitely be on the lookout for the next book (I received an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review)
January 11, 2025
Great book in my opinion, loved how it was easy to read, and didn't get bogged down with minutiae.
May 15, 2025
first book in a while that I basically finished in 2 days. Great book.
April 4, 2024
Pure fantasy and adventure.
*** I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review***
Forget everything you know and immerse yourself in this epic quest for knowledge and truth. This coming of age novel followed our MC, Zodak, on twist and turns through a world full of magic and face paced adventure.
We join in on the quest of understanding what seems to just be a family heirloom. But as the truth unfolds, it may actually be the key to saving the entire world from impending darkness.
We start off in the troubled days of Zodaks upbringing, being treated as if he is a curse to the family. Then we are transported into brawls, kidnappings, a found family sweeter than anything he’s known before, cozy inns, street fights, deception, grand adventure and all around magic.
In my opinion, the book ends at a great spot. Setting it up nicely for a follow up in the series. I highly recommend if you are looking to jump into a fun fantasy world all its own. If you are new to epic fantasy, like me, push through the first through chapters of world building. Trust me it’s worth it.
Oh and one last things: Daen. *chefs kiss*
*** I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review***
Forget everything you know and immerse yourself in this epic quest for knowledge and truth. This coming of age novel followed our MC, Zodak, on twist and turns through a world full of magic and face paced adventure.
We join in on the quest of understanding what seems to just be a family heirloom. But as the truth unfolds, it may actually be the key to saving the entire world from impending darkness.
We start off in the troubled days of Zodaks upbringing, being treated as if he is a curse to the family. Then we are transported into brawls, kidnappings, a found family sweeter than anything he’s known before, cozy inns, street fights, deception, grand adventure and all around magic.
In my opinion, the book ends at a great spot. Setting it up nicely for a follow up in the series. I highly recommend if you are looking to jump into a fun fantasy world all its own. If you are new to epic fantasy, like me, push through the first through chapters of world building. Trust me it’s worth it.
Oh and one last things: Daen. *chefs kiss*
Read
February 13, 2024Amazing book. Best fantasy book I have read.
April 23, 2024
Having discovered Max via the wonders of social media algorithms and being introduced to his work via Zodak's prequel Throne Born I was immediately impressed by just how quickly he made you invested in the realm of Maneuvering, political intrigue, intense battles, and the unyielding quest for power so when I had the chance for an ARC of The Last Sheilder I had to immediately put down my sword in favour of the written word
What's immediate from the outset is how Max is immediately able to get the reader to emphasise the hapless farm boy Zodak and because of that, you have that investment from now on into this particular world of ancient darkness.
There are brawls, kidnappings, street fights, deception, adventure and of course Magic
A wonderful cast of characters and elements make Zodak: The Last Shielder a very promising start to this series and setting up the next instalment beautifully
A refreshing start to a sometimes stifled genre
What's immediate from the outset is how Max is immediately able to get the reader to emphasise the hapless farm boy Zodak and because of that, you have that investment from now on into this particular world of ancient darkness.
There are brawls, kidnappings, street fights, deception, adventure and of course Magic
A wonderful cast of characters and elements make Zodak: The Last Shielder a very promising start to this series and setting up the next instalment beautifully
A refreshing start to a sometimes stifled genre
May 13, 2024
Sir, you did it. Congratulations.
Zodak is an ordinary kid, living on an ordinary farm, in an—well—not so ordinary world. But one day, he is visited by a water sprite, who brings tidings…and a calling. “You are called. It is your time.”
From that day on, Zodak’s live was never the same.
And that’s probably all I’ll say here. Whatever you thought after reading the above blurb, please shelve it for the next bit. I’ll get to it. I want to start with some of the good things here.
Yidjuiin! It’s back! It feels a little shallow at the beginning, but you come to realize how much is actually here. I’m quite happy that Max didn’t throw everything at us in one go; there’s still so much more to be discovered. While he may flex his muscles here and there, I don’t think the jargon ever becomes too invasive. While I might have perfered a bit less (in my fantasy at least), it at least makes sense within the world.
A wonderful cast of characters (with half an exception). Everyone has a compelling motive in some way or another, and sometimes when he drops a hint about to characters past I get all excited. All of the cast around Zodak are interesting, and all of a lot of potential (I have one in mind that I can’t wait to see again.)
For me, the “half an exception” is Zodak himself in the first half. The first half in general felt really tropey to me (above), including Zodak’s character and motivations. But once Moyer breaks out of it, HOOOO does he break out of it! He really hits his stride at about the 33% mark (or whenever they get to UB). By the “end”, Zodak is a fun and engaging character, and I can’t wait to read more.
Really great themes and ideas explored here. About following your calling, making choices, and standing beside those we love. Honor, standing by your duty, and never taking a life that doesn’t deserve it.
The prose is still good. Not SUPER funny, but a good joke here and there. It’s a darker tone than most Christian fantasy I’ve read (as they tend to be children’s books), but I enjoy it a lot.
Conclusions:
I think an 8.5/10. Really solid starting off point for a trilogy, though maybe a bit slow at the beginning. I highly recommend sticking through to the end.
Recommended age: Maybe 13, 14+? Yeah. 14+.
Zodak is an ordinary kid, living on an ordinary farm, in an—well—not so ordinary world. But one day, he is visited by a water sprite, who brings tidings…and a calling. “You are called. It is your time.”
From that day on, Zodak’s live was never the same.
And that’s probably all I’ll say here. Whatever you thought after reading the above blurb, please shelve it for the next bit. I’ll get to it. I want to start with some of the good things here.
Yidjuiin! It’s back! It feels a little shallow at the beginning, but you come to realize how much is actually here. I’m quite happy that Max didn’t throw everything at us in one go; there’s still so much more to be discovered. While he may flex his muscles here and there, I don’t think the jargon ever becomes too invasive. While I might have perfered a bit less (in my fantasy at least), it at least makes sense within the world.
A wonderful cast of characters (with half an exception). Everyone has a compelling motive in some way or another, and sometimes when he drops a hint about to characters past I get all excited. All of the cast around Zodak are interesting, and all of a lot of potential (I have one in mind that I can’t wait to see again.)
For me, the “half an exception” is Zodak himself in the first half. The first half in general felt really tropey to me (above), including Zodak’s character and motivations. But once Moyer breaks out of it, HOOOO does he break out of it! He really hits his stride at about the 33% mark (or whenever they get to UB). By the “end”, Zodak is a fun and engaging character, and I can’t wait to read more.
Really great themes and ideas explored here. About following your calling, making choices, and standing beside those we love. Honor, standing by your duty, and never taking a life that doesn’t deserve it.
The prose is still good. Not SUPER funny, but a good joke here and there. It’s a darker tone than most Christian fantasy I’ve read (as they tend to be children’s books), but I enjoy it a lot.
Conclusions:
I think an 8.5/10. Really solid starting off point for a trilogy, though maybe a bit slow at the beginning. I highly recommend sticking through to the end.
Recommended age: Maybe 13, 14+? Yeah. 14+.
March 23, 2024
Note: I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In the enchanting world of Zodak, destiny weaves its intricate threads around an unlikely hero. Zodak, an orphan living a bleak existence in the village of Laan, discovers that his life is anything but ordinary. When a water sprite appears, whispering of prophecies and an epic quest, Zodak’s path takes an unexpected turn.
As Zodak embarks on his journey, he grapples with questions of identity, courage, and sacrifice. The medallion he wears, a relic of forgotten times, holds the key to unraveling mysteries that threaten humanity’s very existence.
Max Moyer weaves a spellbinding tale, reminiscent of the great fantasy epics.
The pacing is relentless, propelling readers through twists, betrayals, and revelations. Themes of loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the reader’s heart.
“Zodak - The Last Shielder” is a symphony of magic, courage, and hope. Max Moyer invites us to believe in legends, to embrace our inner hero, and to stand against darkness. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this book promises adventure, wonder, and a journey you won’t soon forget.
In the enchanting world of Zodak, destiny weaves its intricate threads around an unlikely hero. Zodak, an orphan living a bleak existence in the village of Laan, discovers that his life is anything but ordinary. When a water sprite appears, whispering of prophecies and an epic quest, Zodak’s path takes an unexpected turn.
As Zodak embarks on his journey, he grapples with questions of identity, courage, and sacrifice. The medallion he wears, a relic of forgotten times, holds the key to unraveling mysteries that threaten humanity’s very existence.
Max Moyer weaves a spellbinding tale, reminiscent of the great fantasy epics.
The pacing is relentless, propelling readers through twists, betrayals, and revelations. Themes of loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice resonate, leaving an indelible mark on the reader’s heart.
“Zodak - The Last Shielder” is a symphony of magic, courage, and hope. Max Moyer invites us to believe in legends, to embrace our inner hero, and to stand against darkness. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this book promises adventure, wonder, and a journey you won’t soon forget.
May 25, 2024
This is the debut novel of Max Moyer and boy, did he deliver a great story.
It's a classic fantasy novel with all the tropes I enjoy. There's magic, fights, ancient artifacts, magical creatures and the list goes on.
Zodak may be the chosen one or he may be not - the reader doesn't know by the end of this book and I'm looking firsts to reading the sequel to find out.
I really liked the characters and the world building in this book. The story was fast-paced and easy to follow, the writing style right up my alley.
If you're looking for a classic fantasy story, give this a try!
Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of his book. My thoughts on the book and my review are my own.
It's a classic fantasy novel with all the tropes I enjoy. There's magic, fights, ancient artifacts, magical creatures and the list goes on.
Zodak may be the chosen one or he may be not - the reader doesn't know by the end of this book and I'm looking firsts to reading the sequel to find out.
I really liked the characters and the world building in this book. The story was fast-paced and easy to follow, the writing style right up my alley.
If you're looking for a classic fantasy story, give this a try!
Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of his book. My thoughts on the book and my review are my own.
May 24, 2024
I was fortunate enough to win this book during the Goodreads aways! I'm a hardcore mood reader so it can be hard for a book to keep my attention. This book kept it and I will be looking forward to more of the authors work!
March 30, 2024
"I am sure you have quite a story to tell, and—”
“The open road loves a story,”
4 ⭐
If you're looking for epic adventure, mystery surrounding an ancient object, a story that takes you through imaginative sights and races of people, plus the chaos and intrigue of learning about all of this alongside the main character, then this is the book for you. Zodak is an orphan, living with his uncle, aunt and cousins on their dilapidated farm, running their errands and doing their chores and in return being treated like a curse and a nuisance. Until one day he receives an important message and everything changes, he sets out on the road to learn more about his purpose and along the way is betrayed by those he trusts, faces grave losses, meets new friends and is thrown into a world outside his small village that is bigger and scarier then he could've ever imagined. All the while, an undercurrent of darkness and danger is brewing, and it all seems to be linked to the medallion his uncle gave him. We follow Zodak as he tries to figure out who he is, what this artefact is and what his place in this world will be.
I thought this book was a really fun, adventurous, coming of age YA fantasy. It started off very strong with the reader thrown right into an incredibly interesting first chapter, we learn quickly that not all is as it seems for young Zodak. I was fascinated to learn about Zodak's life and how drastically everything changes as he leaves behind all he has ever known in search of his call. The storyline at the beginning really tugs at the heart strings and leaves you feeling so much emotion for Zodak, I thought this was a great foundation and I was rooting for him throughout this book. I really liked most of the side characters, they had rich backgrounds and I loved how there was a mix of unique, creative races of fantastical creatures as well as many of the recognisable, comfortable types of characters too. The descriptions were vivid and really painted the picture for the journey that Zodak was embarking on. I especially loved the Tuks with their kind, compassionate ways and their beautiful history, I was really swept up in this part of the story and it started to feel like a nice cosy fantasy. Later on in the story, I really enjoyed learning about The Order, Daen and Ozir, this part of the story was really action packed and thrilling, it was truly a fun ride to follow along with.
I did find that some of the story lagged a bit as we went off on side quests to get to the destination, plus the huge cast of new people Zodak was meeting, the worldbuilding and the setting up phase of the story for the big action and wonder filled climax point did get a bit heavy at points. I found myself wondering when we would get back on track for the main plotline and we spent a long time very clueless as to what was going on. In some ways this really work because we were right there alongside Zodak as everything was revealed to him, but it also frustrated me a bit at some points. I think the pacing of the book had a few small issues and I found some of the events that were added in for interest were a bit distracting from the plot, there were a lot of tangents that were taken that sort of cluttered the storyline a bit. But once we got to about the 50% mark and things started to fall into place I got back into it again, the last half of this book was very strong, I was on the edge of my seat for much of it and biting my fingernails hoping everything would work out.
Overall, this was an incredible debut novel for Moyer, there were a few sections that are a bit rough around the edges but this is to be expected. The quality of the writing was amazing, it was very inventive and evocative, and really served to carry this story along even through the parts that held it back slightly. I am invested in this story now and wanted to pick up the next book in the series straight away after reading that cliff-hanger. I want to say a big thank you to Max Moyer for allowing me to read this story in advance and I am really looking forward to seeing where this series goes!
“Don’t give up hope just yet, Zodak. There will be plenty of time for that later.”
“The open road loves a story,”
4 ⭐
If you're looking for epic adventure, mystery surrounding an ancient object, a story that takes you through imaginative sights and races of people, plus the chaos and intrigue of learning about all of this alongside the main character, then this is the book for you. Zodak is an orphan, living with his uncle, aunt and cousins on their dilapidated farm, running their errands and doing their chores and in return being treated like a curse and a nuisance. Until one day he receives an important message and everything changes, he sets out on the road to learn more about his purpose and along the way is betrayed by those he trusts, faces grave losses, meets new friends and is thrown into a world outside his small village that is bigger and scarier then he could've ever imagined. All the while, an undercurrent of darkness and danger is brewing, and it all seems to be linked to the medallion his uncle gave him. We follow Zodak as he tries to figure out who he is, what this artefact is and what his place in this world will be.
I thought this book was a really fun, adventurous, coming of age YA fantasy. It started off very strong with the reader thrown right into an incredibly interesting first chapter, we learn quickly that not all is as it seems for young Zodak. I was fascinated to learn about Zodak's life and how drastically everything changes as he leaves behind all he has ever known in search of his call. The storyline at the beginning really tugs at the heart strings and leaves you feeling so much emotion for Zodak, I thought this was a great foundation and I was rooting for him throughout this book. I really liked most of the side characters, they had rich backgrounds and I loved how there was a mix of unique, creative races of fantastical creatures as well as many of the recognisable, comfortable types of characters too. The descriptions were vivid and really painted the picture for the journey that Zodak was embarking on. I especially loved the Tuks with their kind, compassionate ways and their beautiful history, I was really swept up in this part of the story and it started to feel like a nice cosy fantasy. Later on in the story, I really enjoyed learning about The Order, Daen and Ozir, this part of the story was really action packed and thrilling, it was truly a fun ride to follow along with.
I did find that some of the story lagged a bit as we went off on side quests to get to the destination, plus the huge cast of new people Zodak was meeting, the worldbuilding and the setting up phase of the story for the big action and wonder filled climax point did get a bit heavy at points. I found myself wondering when we would get back on track for the main plotline and we spent a long time very clueless as to what was going on. In some ways this really work because we were right there alongside Zodak as everything was revealed to him, but it also frustrated me a bit at some points. I think the pacing of the book had a few small issues and I found some of the events that were added in for interest were a bit distracting from the plot, there were a lot of tangents that were taken that sort of cluttered the storyline a bit. But once we got to about the 50% mark and things started to fall into place I got back into it again, the last half of this book was very strong, I was on the edge of my seat for much of it and biting my fingernails hoping everything would work out.
Overall, this was an incredible debut novel for Moyer, there were a few sections that are a bit rough around the edges but this is to be expected. The quality of the writing was amazing, it was very inventive and evocative, and really served to carry this story along even through the parts that held it back slightly. I am invested in this story now and wanted to pick up the next book in the series straight away after reading that cliff-hanger. I want to say a big thank you to Max Moyer for allowing me to read this story in advance and I am really looking forward to seeing where this series goes!
“Don’t give up hope just yet, Zodak. There will be plenty of time for that later.”
January 31, 2025
Zodak: The Last Shielder is an adventure story set in a high fantasy world. Zodak, a boy orphaned not long after his birth, is pulled into a quest full of surprises and mystery.
Moyer has created an interesting fantasy world. He has chosen to use many recognizable tropes of the genre but has turned them around just enough to make them feel unique and engaging. His characters are clearly defined individuals with their own motivations. I liked the different locations the protagonist encountered on his journey though, occasionally, I wished there had been a bit more time spent on descriptive details to truly help immerse the reader in the setting.
I liked Zodak as a character. So often protagonists in stories that revolve around “the chosen one” can seem indulgent or even annoying but Zodak is relatable and human. And Moyer provides a twist on this classic fantasy trope that adds some unpredictability. I do think that the sixteen-year-old Zodak tends to act a little more like a “tween-ager” than his age and his actions, especially at the beginning of the book, seemed more like those of a twelve-year-old than someone approaching adulthood.
This book would fit nicely into the young adult genre. Some might say that a bit more complexity would be necessary to make this a work that would be successful with an adult audience but I think there are more than a few fantasy-loving adults who would find Zodak’s story appealing.
Moyer’s writing style is easy to read and really quite impressive for a first book. The dialogue is natural and not overdone. Even in scenes that involved a lot of action his descriptions are easy to follow. The narration is told in third person and almost completely from the main character’s point of view. There are a very small handful of chapters that switch viewpoints and honestly I did find those a touch jarring.
The pacing of the plot is a bit slow during the first half of the book but picks up at the halfway point. Some editing or condensing of earlier scenes in the book might have been helpful with this issue but these scenes were still entertaining and in no way tedious. There are some recurring moments of tension when the protagonist seems just on the cusp of success only to have the action pull things the other way that I especially liked.
The one thing that kept me from rating this book higher was the cliffhanger of an ending. While leaving questions open is certainly a hallmark of an epic fantasy series I just couldn’t help but be frustrated with how much of the plot was left unresolved. Out of a dozen mysteries I was hoping to see resolved, only two or three were really explained and these were revealed three quarters of the way through the story leaving the last hundred pages or so feeling like they ended up leading nowhere. Maybe moving these revelations closer to the end of the book or giving Zodak more of a personal epiphany in the last few pages would have made the ending feel just a bit more satisfying.
In simplistic terms, Zodak: The Last Shielder is a classic story of good versus evil. But it is also a coming-of-age tale of a boy searching for connection and purpose. A worthy book for fans of heroic high fantasy.
Trigger Warnings: Implied torture, suicidal thoughts, violence (though nothing explicit)
Moyer has created an interesting fantasy world. He has chosen to use many recognizable tropes of the genre but has turned them around just enough to make them feel unique and engaging. His characters are clearly defined individuals with their own motivations. I liked the different locations the protagonist encountered on his journey though, occasionally, I wished there had been a bit more time spent on descriptive details to truly help immerse the reader in the setting.
I liked Zodak as a character. So often protagonists in stories that revolve around “the chosen one” can seem indulgent or even annoying but Zodak is relatable and human. And Moyer provides a twist on this classic fantasy trope that adds some unpredictability. I do think that the sixteen-year-old Zodak tends to act a little more like a “tween-ager” than his age and his actions, especially at the beginning of the book, seemed more like those of a twelve-year-old than someone approaching adulthood.
This book would fit nicely into the young adult genre. Some might say that a bit more complexity would be necessary to make this a work that would be successful with an adult audience but I think there are more than a few fantasy-loving adults who would find Zodak’s story appealing.
Moyer’s writing style is easy to read and really quite impressive for a first book. The dialogue is natural and not overdone. Even in scenes that involved a lot of action his descriptions are easy to follow. The narration is told in third person and almost completely from the main character’s point of view. There are a very small handful of chapters that switch viewpoints and honestly I did find those a touch jarring.
The pacing of the plot is a bit slow during the first half of the book but picks up at the halfway point. Some editing or condensing of earlier scenes in the book might have been helpful with this issue but these scenes were still entertaining and in no way tedious. There are some recurring moments of tension when the protagonist seems just on the cusp of success only to have the action pull things the other way that I especially liked.
The one thing that kept me from rating this book higher was the cliffhanger of an ending. While leaving questions open is certainly a hallmark of an epic fantasy series I just couldn’t help but be frustrated with how much of the plot was left unresolved. Out of a dozen mysteries I was hoping to see resolved, only two or three were really explained and these were revealed three quarters of the way through the story leaving the last hundred pages or so feeling like they ended up leading nowhere. Maybe moving these revelations closer to the end of the book or giving Zodak more of a personal epiphany in the last few pages would have made the ending feel just a bit more satisfying.
In simplistic terms, Zodak: The Last Shielder is a classic story of good versus evil. But it is also a coming-of-age tale of a boy searching for connection and purpose. A worthy book for fans of heroic high fantasy.
Trigger Warnings: Implied torture, suicidal thoughts, violence (though nothing explicit)
March 16, 2024
If you're someone who grew up reading classics like The Hobbit, Earthsea, Redwall, and other traditional "High Fantasy" YA books, then Zodak will feel right at home.
This book is the quintessential hero's journey. A neglected farm boy in a small town realizes he's connected to mysterious powers and a larger world of intrigue, politics, and magic. Zodak—the MC—was likeable and understandable as someone thrust into a world totally beyond the scope of anything he'd encountered up until that point. His reactions to the world around him felt believable, considering the complex nature of the world itself.
This book, as a positive or negative, has a lot of *stuff*. What I mostly mean is a deluge of creatures and races. Every major scene will have a half-dozen different fantasy races thrown in, to the point where, at least for me, it did start to get a bit cluttered. The commitment to the unique elements of the world was admirable (no North, South, East & West here), but at the same time, I just gave up even trying to remember which was which and just went along for the ride.
And it was a ride. This book covered a decent amount of ground, and successfully executed an act 3 twist I did not see coming. It is touched upon in the book, an idea that outside forces are guiding actions in the world, but the amount of just, bizarre coincidences really did add up over the course of the story. Looking at it through that very classic fantasy lens, it's pretty easy to write off, but it did undercut the drama a little bit after a while. This book is also surprisingly low magic, despite the setting, I'm curious where that will go in future books.
My single biggest gripe with the book was definitely the lack of clearly defined POVs. You're with Zodak about 80% of the time, but you'll randomly head-hop to another character for a single chapter (sometimes not even that) just to get some additional piece of info or context that he isn't there for. It really took me out of the story, as in some cases these were POVs we only saw once. Now, this is book 1 in a trilogy, so it's possible we're setting up future books, but I think there were better ways of going about it.
Also, this book does take a little bit to get going. The inciting incident doesn't come until about ~70 ish, pages in (eBook). Once it does though, it moves well.
Overall, fun is the word that came to mind with this book. It was a quick fantasy romp that reminded me of the books I grew up reading as a teen. It definitely had some quirks and was a little rough around the edges, but for a debut author, this was a phenomenal showing. If you're looking to support an indie author taking a shot at a not-small concept, you should definitely check this out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is the quintessential hero's journey. A neglected farm boy in a small town realizes he's connected to mysterious powers and a larger world of intrigue, politics, and magic. Zodak—the MC—was likeable and understandable as someone thrust into a world totally beyond the scope of anything he'd encountered up until that point. His reactions to the world around him felt believable, considering the complex nature of the world itself.
This book, as a positive or negative, has a lot of *stuff*. What I mostly mean is a deluge of creatures and races. Every major scene will have a half-dozen different fantasy races thrown in, to the point where, at least for me, it did start to get a bit cluttered. The commitment to the unique elements of the world was admirable (no North, South, East & West here), but at the same time, I just gave up even trying to remember which was which and just went along for the ride.
And it was a ride. This book covered a decent amount of ground, and successfully executed an act 3 twist I did not see coming. It is touched upon in the book, an idea that outside forces are guiding actions in the world, but the amount of just, bizarre coincidences really did add up over the course of the story. Looking at it through that very classic fantasy lens, it's pretty easy to write off, but it did undercut the drama a little bit after a while. This book is also surprisingly low magic, despite the setting, I'm curious where that will go in future books.
My single biggest gripe with the book was definitely the lack of clearly defined POVs. You're with Zodak about 80% of the time, but you'll randomly head-hop to another character for a single chapter (sometimes not even that) just to get some additional piece of info or context that he isn't there for. It really took me out of the story, as in some cases these were POVs we only saw once. Now, this is book 1 in a trilogy, so it's possible we're setting up future books, but I think there were better ways of going about it.
Also, this book does take a little bit to get going. The inciting incident doesn't come until about ~70 ish, pages in (eBook). Once it does though, it moves well.
Overall, fun is the word that came to mind with this book. It was a quick fantasy romp that reminded me of the books I grew up reading as a teen. It definitely had some quirks and was a little rough around the edges, but for a debut author, this was a phenomenal showing. If you're looking to support an indie author taking a shot at a not-small concept, you should definitely check this out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 14, 2024
I received an advance copy through Story Origin in exchange for an honest review.
The Last Shielder starts strong. The reader jumps into the middle of an intense action scene, which draws them into Zodak's world. "Hallah's eyes flashed at her husband. 'Leave it on the doorstep. Drop in in the river. I don't care! I want that thing out of this house.'" So begin Zodak's struggles growing up in a household where only his adoptive father wants him. Overall, the story continues in this vein. The novel is well written, with engaging characters and a compelling plot. The world is rich and detailed, with a variety of species and cultures.
Zodak's perspective is so thoroughly embodied by the author that the reader can only see what Zodak sees. "Beside the door stood a huge, grotesque statue...Carved rock muscles rippled across the statue's chest and arms. Broad shoulders sloped to a thick, square head. A gruesome face peered lifelessly through beady stone eyes." Thus, the reader is as surprised as Zodak when his expectations are not fulfilled. "Shwoop! The axe flashed down in front of the door...The statue stepped in front of the door...that, Zodak, was an obsidian rock giant." After reading this line, I flipped back to the description to find what I had missed, but the creature was to all appearances a mere statue until this surprise was revealed. Other, more noteworthy surprises also appear, but describing them would spoil the story.
The book would have been 4.5 stars if not for two poorly written sections, the first in chapter one, which made me want to give up on the novel. First, the minor characters Alana (18) and Ergis, Zodak's adoptive siblings, are too old for the setting and for their actions. In contrast to more convincing bullies from novels with younger protagonists, Alana and Ergis merely reenact an embarrassing event between Zodak and his father; this does not lead to mocking from other students because Zodak is the only witness of the reenactment. Zodak should be able to casually brush off this childish display; that he cannot undermines him as a hero. Second, Zodak's step mother is too evil, and Zodak is too naive given his stated age. Hallah's impending betrayal is obvious to the reader from the moment she hears Zodak's news, but he doesn't realize he has been betrayed until hours after the event. Alana, Ergis, and Hallah are minor characters whose main function is as obstacles for Zodak to overcome. But they are so two dimensional that they make for only a minor challenge. While a determined reader can see past these shortcomings to enjoy the rest of the novel, other readers may give up on these simple villains before they have the opportunity to enjoy the complexity of Zodak's story.
The Last Shielder starts strong. The reader jumps into the middle of an intense action scene, which draws them into Zodak's world. "Hallah's eyes flashed at her husband. 'Leave it on the doorstep. Drop in in the river. I don't care! I want that thing out of this house.'" So begin Zodak's struggles growing up in a household where only his adoptive father wants him. Overall, the story continues in this vein. The novel is well written, with engaging characters and a compelling plot. The world is rich and detailed, with a variety of species and cultures.
Zodak's perspective is so thoroughly embodied by the author that the reader can only see what Zodak sees. "Beside the door stood a huge, grotesque statue...Carved rock muscles rippled across the statue's chest and arms. Broad shoulders sloped to a thick, square head. A gruesome face peered lifelessly through beady stone eyes." Thus, the reader is as surprised as Zodak when his expectations are not fulfilled. "Shwoop! The axe flashed down in front of the door...The statue stepped in front of the door...that, Zodak, was an obsidian rock giant." After reading this line, I flipped back to the description to find what I had missed, but the creature was to all appearances a mere statue until this surprise was revealed. Other, more noteworthy surprises also appear, but describing them would spoil the story.
The book would have been 4.5 stars if not for two poorly written sections, the first in chapter one, which made me want to give up on the novel. First, the minor characters Alana (18) and Ergis, Zodak's adoptive siblings, are too old for the setting and for their actions. In contrast to more convincing bullies from novels with younger protagonists, Alana and Ergis merely reenact an embarrassing event between Zodak and his father; this does not lead to mocking from other students because Zodak is the only witness of the reenactment. Zodak should be able to casually brush off this childish display; that he cannot undermines him as a hero. Second, Zodak's step mother is too evil, and Zodak is too naive given his stated age. Hallah's impending betrayal is obvious to the reader from the moment she hears Zodak's news, but he doesn't realize he has been betrayed until hours after the event. Alana, Ergis, and Hallah are minor characters whose main function is as obstacles for Zodak to overcome. But they are so two dimensional that they make for only a minor challenge. While a determined reader can see past these shortcomings to enjoy the rest of the novel, other readers may give up on these simple villains before they have the opportunity to enjoy the complexity of Zodak's story.
June 5, 2025
Max Moyer's Zodak: The Last Shielder, the first in the Tempest Rising series, follows a teenage orphan, Zodak, who grows up in a cruel household where he’s treated like a curse. But something stirs in the shadows of the world—a hint of destiny, magic, and ancient prophecy. When a water sprite calls his name and beckons him toward a greater purpose, Zodak’s quiet, harsh life begins to unravel. What starts as a simple, grounded coming-of-age tale soon reveals a broader mythos full of forgotten magic, ancient books, secret lineages, and the deep, thrumming power of belief and identity in a broken world.
The writing is fluid and vivid, making the world feel dirty, real, and magical at the same time. Moyer does a brilliant job of pulling readers into Zodak’s narrow, painful life, so much so that I found myself wincing at every insult and rooting for his small moments of rebellion. The prose is clean but emotionally rich, with bursts of beauty that feel earned rather than forced. What hit me hardest was the aching loneliness in Zodak’s voice—the way he yearns for love, belonging, and meaning in a world that treats him like an afterthought. It’s not just a fantasy story, it’s a story about being seen.
The book doesn’t lean too hard into tropes. There’s prophecy, yes, but also doubt. There’s magic, but it’s quiet, hidden, uncertain. The characters feel alive, especially the complex ones—like Alana, Zodak’s cousin, who starts cruel but unfolds in a way that’s strangely touching. I’ll admit, some parts were slow, especially early scenes where the abuse piled on so thick I wanted to yell at the pages. But that pain pays off later, making Zodak’s small victories feel like revolutions. And the moment he realizes his story has power? That got me.
Zodak: The Last Shielder is about truth, pain, and the quiet force of imagination when it’s all you’ve got. It’s about choosing to believe in something bigger when the world tells you not to. I’d recommend this book to fans of grounded, character-driven fantasy with a slow build and emotional punch. Especially to teens who feel like outcasts, writers who write in secret, or anyone who’s ever hoped for a better world in the silence of their room. If you’re a fan of Brandon Sanderson’s world-building, Patrick Rothfuss’s lyrical prose, or the emotional depth and quiet magic of Lois Lowry, then you'll really enjoy Zodak: The Last Shielder.
The writing is fluid and vivid, making the world feel dirty, real, and magical at the same time. Moyer does a brilliant job of pulling readers into Zodak’s narrow, painful life, so much so that I found myself wincing at every insult and rooting for his small moments of rebellion. The prose is clean but emotionally rich, with bursts of beauty that feel earned rather than forced. What hit me hardest was the aching loneliness in Zodak’s voice—the way he yearns for love, belonging, and meaning in a world that treats him like an afterthought. It’s not just a fantasy story, it’s a story about being seen.
The book doesn’t lean too hard into tropes. There’s prophecy, yes, but also doubt. There’s magic, but it’s quiet, hidden, uncertain. The characters feel alive, especially the complex ones—like Alana, Zodak’s cousin, who starts cruel but unfolds in a way that’s strangely touching. I’ll admit, some parts were slow, especially early scenes where the abuse piled on so thick I wanted to yell at the pages. But that pain pays off later, making Zodak’s small victories feel like revolutions. And the moment he realizes his story has power? That got me.
Zodak: The Last Shielder is about truth, pain, and the quiet force of imagination when it’s all you’ve got. It’s about choosing to believe in something bigger when the world tells you not to. I’d recommend this book to fans of grounded, character-driven fantasy with a slow build and emotional punch. Especially to teens who feel like outcasts, writers who write in secret, or anyone who’s ever hoped for a better world in the silence of their room. If you’re a fan of Brandon Sanderson’s world-building, Patrick Rothfuss’s lyrical prose, or the emotional depth and quiet magic of Lois Lowry, then you'll really enjoy Zodak: The Last Shielder.
April 8, 2024
I was personally contact by Max Moyer himself to see if I wanted to read and review his novel Zodak The Last Shielder, book one of the Tempest Rising series and of course I said yes. I really like to support indie authors where I can so I able to squeeze a review in right before the publishing date (yay).
I do really like to cover art of the book, you can tell it’s a fantasy read and it makes you want to pick up the book and give it a read. I really enjoyed our main character and how he continues to persevere even though he has been dealt a terrible hand. I'm so glad Ardon was able to bring him into his family even though it wasn’t a happy upbringing. I feel like everytime our main character Zodak gets close to being happy and finding answers something else comes up and he’s off again. He never gets a break but it makes the book exciting for the reader. I like how we touched on a bunch of magical creatures too and how sometimes even that have to do bad things to save the people they love. There’s things I need more answers to. I want to know why all of a sudden Zodaks cousin Alana had a change of heart. I also want to know what her story was about. Also what changed Hallah into such a jerk? What ends up happening to Ms. Folba? Will Zodak ever go back to collect his winnings or has someone found them? I do realize this is book one so maybe all of my questions will get answered in book two.
As far as characters I really enjoyed them as well. Ms. Folba was my favourite. She was just very patient and understanding, full of knowledge and just a generally kind and sweet person. I also enjoyed Daen son of Dane (every time I read that I got a chuckle, I’m just picturing both names being pronounced the same). And of course I can’t forget about Zodak. He’s such an easy going character despite having not really been treated well ever and he just kind of goes with whatever he needs to do. He is a bit to believing of a lot of people kind of thinking the best of everyone even when he shouldn’t, but I think he is learning. I can’t wait to see where the story takes us.
I would recommmed this story to those who love an epic adventure. To me the story didn’t read to young adult so I think adults will enjoy this story as well, it doesn’t read too young.
I do really like to cover art of the book, you can tell it’s a fantasy read and it makes you want to pick up the book and give it a read. I really enjoyed our main character and how he continues to persevere even though he has been dealt a terrible hand. I'm so glad Ardon was able to bring him into his family even though it wasn’t a happy upbringing. I feel like everytime our main character Zodak gets close to being happy and finding answers something else comes up and he’s off again. He never gets a break but it makes the book exciting for the reader. I like how we touched on a bunch of magical creatures too and how sometimes even that have to do bad things to save the people they love. There’s things I need more answers to. I want to know why all of a sudden Zodaks cousin Alana had a change of heart. I also want to know what her story was about. Also what changed Hallah into such a jerk? What ends up happening to Ms. Folba? Will Zodak ever go back to collect his winnings or has someone found them? I do realize this is book one so maybe all of my questions will get answered in book two.
As far as characters I really enjoyed them as well. Ms. Folba was my favourite. She was just very patient and understanding, full of knowledge and just a generally kind and sweet person. I also enjoyed Daen son of Dane (every time I read that I got a chuckle, I’m just picturing both names being pronounced the same). And of course I can’t forget about Zodak. He’s such an easy going character despite having not really been treated well ever and he just kind of goes with whatever he needs to do. He is a bit to believing of a lot of people kind of thinking the best of everyone even when he shouldn’t, but I think he is learning. I can’t wait to see where the story takes us.
I would recommmed this story to those who love an epic adventure. To me the story didn’t read to young adult so I think adults will enjoy this story as well, it doesn’t read too young.
April 14, 2024
Zodak is an epic fantasy with some very interesting selling points. So, what do we have? It starts with some familiarity; a downtrodden orphan abused by the family that take him in. But there is something about Zodak and, whether he likes it or not, forces both good and evil find him and break him from his routine rural life.
The titular Zodak is our main POV. He is a bit of a contradictory mess. He is brave and loyal but filled with self-doubt. He often thinks about running away but always is in the thick of things. He overthinks a lot! But, he is kind and he wants to do his best. I liked him and seeing him progress through the story was heart-warming. His uncle, Ardon, plays a big role even when he is not involved, as he is a big influence on Zodak. And I liked the developing bond between Zodak and Dane. Some characters were probably not as rounded off as they could be but there are a lot of supporting characters here. My favourite characters (and interlude) was the Tuks.
There is a lot of history here that is merely hinted at and I suppose more will be revealed in further books in the series. I was left with a lot of questions due to this but it served to whet my appetite rather than leave me frustrated. Yes, we don't get all the answers but the story is strong enough to carry it along. Also, it feels a bit more real not knowing all the details straight away. I think that it was done well, hints tantalising at all the hidden knowledge to come. Similarly, there are things that happen that are not explained here. I would like to think that these are not plot holes but I'll have to read the rest of the series, when available, to find out. It makes it a little difficult to judge this as a book in it's own right but it was intriguing. I am especially invested to see what happens to Alana.
Something that might be worth noting is that the author uses non-standard measurements for time, direction, weight etc. I feel that is completely acceptable in high fantasy because why would they use Earth measurements? There is a mention of standard directions (north etc) but only once and I'm not sure if it related to anything. It didn't affect my enjoyment of the story but it may not be to everyone's taste.
A twisty-turning epic fantasy with a mean twist on the Chosen One trope, I had a lot of fun with Zodak and can't wait to find out what happens next in the Tempest Rising series.
I received an advanced copy from the Author, via BookSirens, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
The titular Zodak is our main POV. He is a bit of a contradictory mess. He is brave and loyal but filled with self-doubt. He often thinks about running away but always is in the thick of things. He overthinks a lot! But, he is kind and he wants to do his best. I liked him and seeing him progress through the story was heart-warming. His uncle, Ardon, plays a big role even when he is not involved, as he is a big influence on Zodak. And I liked the developing bond between Zodak and Dane. Some characters were probably not as rounded off as they could be but there are a lot of supporting characters here. My favourite characters (and interlude) was the Tuks.
There is a lot of history here that is merely hinted at and I suppose more will be revealed in further books in the series. I was left with a lot of questions due to this but it served to whet my appetite rather than leave me frustrated. Yes, we don't get all the answers but the story is strong enough to carry it along. Also, it feels a bit more real not knowing all the details straight away. I think that it was done well, hints tantalising at all the hidden knowledge to come. Similarly, there are things that happen that are not explained here. I would like to think that these are not plot holes but I'll have to read the rest of the series, when available, to find out. It makes it a little difficult to judge this as a book in it's own right but it was intriguing. I am especially invested to see what happens to Alana.
Something that might be worth noting is that the author uses non-standard measurements for time, direction, weight etc. I feel that is completely acceptable in high fantasy because why would they use Earth measurements? There is a mention of standard directions (north etc) but only once and I'm not sure if it related to anything. It didn't affect my enjoyment of the story but it may not be to everyone's taste.
A twisty-turning epic fantasy with a mean twist on the Chosen One trope, I had a lot of fun with Zodak and can't wait to find out what happens next in the Tempest Rising series.
I received an advanced copy from the Author, via BookSirens, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
February 19, 2024
**I received this book as an ARC from Book Sirens and Max Moyer in exchange for an honest review**
*NO SPOILERS* Zodak – The Last Shielder is a new epic fantasy with wonderous lands, fanciful characters and heart pounding plot that will keep the pages turning. We follow the story of Zodak, a simple farmers nephew who turns out to be far from the curse his aunt sees him as. He is torn from his home by her cruelty and plunged into a mind blowing adventure full of new friends, dangerous enemies and a roller coaster of emotions!
This book is written in the third person and we see multiple POVs throughout the novel, but mainly from Zodak, our main character. This book is fast paced from the start, I was a little overwhelmed at the beginning with all the information getting thrown at me so quickly. However, once you get through the first several chapters it does get better. The book is well written and the writing is easy to follow which made this a fast read for me. There is also an interesting inner-dialog we see from Zodak which is a fun addition! The story line is original and quest like so our main character is always moving.
I thought this book was a lot of fun! The journey we follow has many ups and downs that will leave you guessing. There are definitely aspects that I never saw coming which is always refreshing. There are several character storylines outside of Zodak’s that leave you hanging waiting to see what happens next. There is a slight cliff hanger at the end but not one that will absolutely wreck you. It ends in a good spot for the next book to start, and being totally honest…I can’t wait for that book to arrive!
Overall, this book is a great start to a new epic fantasy series. The characters are lovable, and we do see them grow as individuals through the story. At the beginning I struggled because Zodak was written to seem younger than he really is but later on in the book I can see him more as a young man. I love the story, the characters (especially Daen) and I absolutely plan to continue this series! Easily a 4/5!
*NO SPOILERS* Zodak – The Last Shielder is a new epic fantasy with wonderous lands, fanciful characters and heart pounding plot that will keep the pages turning. We follow the story of Zodak, a simple farmers nephew who turns out to be far from the curse his aunt sees him as. He is torn from his home by her cruelty and plunged into a mind blowing adventure full of new friends, dangerous enemies and a roller coaster of emotions!
This book is written in the third person and we see multiple POVs throughout the novel, but mainly from Zodak, our main character. This book is fast paced from the start, I was a little overwhelmed at the beginning with all the information getting thrown at me so quickly. However, once you get through the first several chapters it does get better. The book is well written and the writing is easy to follow which made this a fast read for me. There is also an interesting inner-dialog we see from Zodak which is a fun addition! The story line is original and quest like so our main character is always moving.
I thought this book was a lot of fun! The journey we follow has many ups and downs that will leave you guessing. There are definitely aspects that I never saw coming which is always refreshing. There are several character storylines outside of Zodak’s that leave you hanging waiting to see what happens next. There is a slight cliff hanger at the end but not one that will absolutely wreck you. It ends in a good spot for the next book to start, and being totally honest…I can’t wait for that book to arrive!
Overall, this book is a great start to a new epic fantasy series. The characters are lovable, and we do see them grow as individuals through the story. At the beginning I struggled because Zodak was written to seem younger than he really is but later on in the book I can see him more as a young man. I love the story, the characters (especially Daen) and I absolutely plan to continue this series! Easily a 4/5!
June 17, 2025
A great, classic epic fantasy story.
On my YouTube channel, I exclusively review self-published and indie fantasy books. I ended up giving this book a 8.3/10 overall, and I really enjoyed it overall. You can check out the full review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDgWU...
Here is a brief overview of my breakdown:
Immersion (worldbuilding): 9/10 - Lots of dynamic elements to the worldbuilding. I liked starting on the farm and the schoolhouse, traveling with the tuk tuks, and then getting lost in a massive city and secret organization. This journey to discover the secrets of an ancient medallion exposes the reader to a wide range of creatures and cultures.
Names (characters): 8/10 - I liked the characters, but I do feel like they were a little shallow at times. The dialogue was very question/answer, and sometimes lacked the depth that I want from characters. I also felt like Zodak needed to be a bigger driver of the narrative, rather than the subject of external forces.
Da Magic (& creatures): 8/10 - Not a ton of magic, but enough to keep things interesting. You start off strong with a water sprite and a call to action, then the rest of the journey is discovering the powers and potential of this ancient medallion Zodak is charged with protecting. You also have a wide range of creatures from giants, to trolls, to goblins and much more.
Infrastructure (plot, pacing, prose, etc.): 7.5/10 - The prose and pacing were great. I had issues with the ending of the story–I feel like it ended too abruptly without a proper resolution. I also felt like Zodak, as the main character, should've made more of the decisions to make the story more compelling.
Enjoyment: 9/10 - I'm a sucker for epic fantasy. As long as it mostly works, I can overlook a lot of issues. I had a great time reading this one, and I look forward to future installments.
I love coming of age and reluctant hero tropes, so if you like those components to an epic fantasy, than I highly recommend this story.
On my YouTube channel, I exclusively review self-published and indie fantasy books. I ended up giving this book a 8.3/10 overall, and I really enjoyed it overall. You can check out the full review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDgWU...
Here is a brief overview of my breakdown:
Immersion (worldbuilding): 9/10 - Lots of dynamic elements to the worldbuilding. I liked starting on the farm and the schoolhouse, traveling with the tuk tuks, and then getting lost in a massive city and secret organization. This journey to discover the secrets of an ancient medallion exposes the reader to a wide range of creatures and cultures.
Names (characters): 8/10 - I liked the characters, but I do feel like they were a little shallow at times. The dialogue was very question/answer, and sometimes lacked the depth that I want from characters. I also felt like Zodak needed to be a bigger driver of the narrative, rather than the subject of external forces.
Da Magic (& creatures): 8/10 - Not a ton of magic, but enough to keep things interesting. You start off strong with a water sprite and a call to action, then the rest of the journey is discovering the powers and potential of this ancient medallion Zodak is charged with protecting. You also have a wide range of creatures from giants, to trolls, to goblins and much more.
Infrastructure (plot, pacing, prose, etc.): 7.5/10 - The prose and pacing were great. I had issues with the ending of the story–I feel like it ended too abruptly without a proper resolution. I also felt like Zodak, as the main character, should've made more of the decisions to make the story more compelling.
Enjoyment: 9/10 - I'm a sucker for epic fantasy. As long as it mostly works, I can overlook a lot of issues. I had a great time reading this one, and I look forward to future installments.
I love coming of age and reluctant hero tropes, so if you like those components to an epic fantasy, than I highly recommend this story.
November 14, 2024
I found a signed copy of this book and its prequel in my local Barnes and Noble and it turns out that the author is local to my area as well!
This book was a very refreshing fantasy read for me after reading some of the other popular series out there currently. It's unlike anything popular out there at the moment, I think. It's true fantasy/high fantasy (could be classified technically as YA idrk), but it's totally accessible to anyone, without oversimplifying anything. It's a shorter story so far and somewhat fast paced. I wish it was a longer book! I liked the detail and wanted more!
The magic is different than what I think is out there right now (haven't read everything but it seems like it)! The world seems to have intricate lore and the worldbuilding is pretty great- I liked learning about the different kinds of people. I feel like the author actually represents the thoughts and feelings of a child/teen well, where they are still unsure and scared and react as a normal kid would, even though they had been though traumatic things. The character storylines and arcs are awesome as well. I can totally see the story going in crazy directions with twists or whatever. It sets up at the end for at least another book, but I could honestly see a whole series with tons of books in it - I would definitely read on. I am really excited to move on to the prequel.
I would definitely recommend getting a physical copy as well. The cover art is really cool, and on the copy I have it's printed right onto the cover without a dust jacket. There are high quality pages and a big map & reference info inside as well.
I actually had fun reading this.
This book was a very refreshing fantasy read for me after reading some of the other popular series out there currently. It's unlike anything popular out there at the moment, I think. It's true fantasy/high fantasy (could be classified technically as YA idrk), but it's totally accessible to anyone, without oversimplifying anything. It's a shorter story so far and somewhat fast paced. I wish it was a longer book! I liked the detail and wanted more!
The magic is different than what I think is out there right now (haven't read everything but it seems like it)! The world seems to have intricate lore and the worldbuilding is pretty great- I liked learning about the different kinds of people. I feel like the author actually represents the thoughts and feelings of a child/teen well, where they are still unsure and scared and react as a normal kid would, even though they had been though traumatic things. The character storylines and arcs are awesome as well. I can totally see the story going in crazy directions with twists or whatever. It sets up at the end for at least another book, but I could honestly see a whole series with tons of books in it - I would definitely read on. I am really excited to move on to the prequel.
I would definitely recommend getting a physical copy as well. The cover art is really cool, and on the copy I have it's printed right onto the cover without a dust jacket. There are high quality pages and a big map & reference info inside as well.
I actually had fun reading this.
March 14, 2024
I am pleasantly surprised by how good this book was. I received an ARC in return for a review, and after reading "Throne Born" I was hesitant to continue with the series. I'm happy to say that this one was really good.
It starts out a little slow, but once Zodak is thrust into an unprecedented path, teeming with danger, I was hooked. I liked most of the characters that came along, and was surprised when some became traitors or liars. It kept me on my toes, and I was hesitant when any new characters came into play. Anyone in this world could betray you.
I also like the medallion and the magical aspects of this story. It was explained, yet vague enough that it kept me wanting to learn more. And the settings were always interesting - some teeming with people, others dark and dangerous.
This book was really good, and there were moments I couldn't put it down. And still, I think it could have been better. I was mostly unsure throughout the whole story how old Zodak was. I know that he was a boy, but I don't think his age was ever really clarified. And if it was, it should have been mentioned a little more. For me, he shifted from a boy to a teenager, and back again. This was especially apparent during tough emotional or physical fight scenes. Furthermore, I feel like Moyer is a great author that just needs to polish up his writing a bit more.
I am definitely open to reading more of this world and the books to come.
It starts out a little slow, but once Zodak is thrust into an unprecedented path, teeming with danger, I was hooked. I liked most of the characters that came along, and was surprised when some became traitors or liars. It kept me on my toes, and I was hesitant when any new characters came into play. Anyone in this world could betray you.
I also like the medallion and the magical aspects of this story. It was explained, yet vague enough that it kept me wanting to learn more. And the settings were always interesting - some teeming with people, others dark and dangerous.
This book was really good, and there were moments I couldn't put it down. And still, I think it could have been better. I was mostly unsure throughout the whole story how old Zodak was. I know that he was a boy, but I don't think his age was ever really clarified. And if it was, it should have been mentioned a little more. For me, he shifted from a boy to a teenager, and back again. This was especially apparent during tough emotional or physical fight scenes. Furthermore, I feel like Moyer is a great author that just needs to polish up his writing a bit more.
I am definitely open to reading more of this world and the books to come.
March 13, 2024
Zodak is a coming-of-age epic fantasy novel that plucks the sympathetic cords of the heart from the opening chapter. Author Max Moyer's invitational writing style pulls his readers into the world with such finesse that the details shimmer and character development plunges the heart straight into the core of the story.
With descriptions that paint a vivid picture of the challenging living conditions faced by the main character, Zodak, readers are poignantly connected to the narrative. Moyer threads the novel with themes basic to human nature - especially that of rooting for the underdog.
The characters are relatable and the world-building effectively folds the adventure around you. Through evocative storytelling, Moyer captures the basic struggle between good and evil, insecurity that paralyzes, and destiny that refuses to be thwarted. The connection forged with the protagonist engages the reader in such a way that you want to find out what happens next in this fast-paced narrative about a simple boy facing a complicated challenge.
Zodak would be a welcome addition to any fantasy library. I received an advance reader copy from the publisher but was not required to give a positive review. The opinions expressed are authentically my own.
With descriptions that paint a vivid picture of the challenging living conditions faced by the main character, Zodak, readers are poignantly connected to the narrative. Moyer threads the novel with themes basic to human nature - especially that of rooting for the underdog.
The characters are relatable and the world-building effectively folds the adventure around you. Through evocative storytelling, Moyer captures the basic struggle between good and evil, insecurity that paralyzes, and destiny that refuses to be thwarted. The connection forged with the protagonist engages the reader in such a way that you want to find out what happens next in this fast-paced narrative about a simple boy facing a complicated challenge.
Zodak would be a welcome addition to any fantasy library. I received an advance reader copy from the publisher but was not required to give a positive review. The opinions expressed are authentically my own.
March 19, 2024
Fans of The Inheritance Cycle and Lord of The Rings are sure to enjoy Zodak - The Last Shielder! This is certainly one of my favorite fantasy reads of 2024.
I am very impressed with the Tempest Rising series so far! Zodak - The Last Shielder follows a young, orphaned, stable boy who finds himself unexpectedly on a perilous quest. The many obstacles Zodak faces during his travels had me on the edge of my seat and, at times, wanting to throw the book in outrage. This story has a coming of age theme similar to Eragon, paired with the elements of high fantasy and adventure found in Lord of The Rings. Despite common themes, this still feels like a unique story perfect for lovers of adventure and epic fantasies.
This is a high fantasy novel packed with vivid worldbuilding, compelling creatures and characters, action, and adventure. It was all too easy to become fully engrossed in the world Max Moyer created with this series, and I am eager to see where Zodak's journey takes him in future books!
I am very impressed with the Tempest Rising series so far! Zodak - The Last Shielder follows a young, orphaned, stable boy who finds himself unexpectedly on a perilous quest. The many obstacles Zodak faces during his travels had me on the edge of my seat and, at times, wanting to throw the book in outrage. This story has a coming of age theme similar to Eragon, paired with the elements of high fantasy and adventure found in Lord of The Rings. Despite common themes, this still feels like a unique story perfect for lovers of adventure and epic fantasies.
This is a high fantasy novel packed with vivid worldbuilding, compelling creatures and characters, action, and adventure. It was all too easy to become fully engrossed in the world Max Moyer created with this series, and I am eager to see where Zodak's journey takes him in future books!
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