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Sword and Fire
‘Get away from me, you wyrm-ridden idiots. You have no idea what’s coming for you!’ Meloc shouted, ‘I need to speak to Chief Feitar!’‘Your threats have no hold here, warlock-scum!’ the Wergend officer growled.’The sorcerers of Dunmuirlun watch for ripples in the galdor energy pathways throughout the Two Kingdoms. Anyone within the Kingdom of Mercia, able to control this energy is a potential threat to Dunmuirlun and in the months prior to the invasion many of the Mercian magikborne disappeared.Meloc came to Welfasten to warn the town chief of an evil presence growing in the darkness and the disappearances of the Mercian magikborne. However, he had not made it past the great city walls and had been thrown in prison accused of practising illegal magik.The city chief offers him two either be sent to Eldingar Tower and undergo the unmynstering to remove his magik or find the Serpent’s Breath, the lost galdor weapons of Mercia, the only weapons able to destroy the magically enhanced Dunmuir army.To the hunted warlock either choice could have deadly consequences.Which will he risk losing? His life or his magik?The Reviews -'A dark, gritty, atmospheric fantasy novel with a gripping plot and complex characters.' A Reader.
- GenresFantasy
308 pages, Paperback
Published January 20, 2024
3 people are currently reading
8 people want to read
About the author
P.J. Reed
49 books53 followersP.J. Reed - writer of warlocks and other magical creatures. She also writes under the penname of Pami Reed.
P.J. Reed is a writer and poet from England. She holds a BAEd from Canterbury Christ Church University, an MA from Bradford University and has dabbled in psychology with the OU. She is an outrageously eclectic writer.
Her work has appeared in a wide variety of online and print magazines, books, collections, and podcasts. In 2015, she was shortlisted for the National Poetry Anthology award. In 2018, P.J. won the Forward Press Poetry 'Circle of Life' competition for her poem 'The Empty Chair.'
While in 2024, P.J. had the honour of being asked to write a poem as part of the UNESCO cities of Literature, 'Illustrating The World' literary exhibition.
In 2026, P.J. had the great honour of being accepted onto the Haiku Register.
P.J. Reed is a writer and poet from England. She holds a BAEd from Canterbury Christ Church University, an MA from Bradford University and has dabbled in psychology with the OU. She is an outrageously eclectic writer.
Her work has appeared in a wide variety of online and print magazines, books, collections, and podcasts. In 2015, she was shortlisted for the National Poetry Anthology award. In 2018, P.J. won the Forward Press Poetry 'Circle of Life' competition for her poem 'The Empty Chair.'
While in 2024, P.J. had the honour of being asked to write a poem as part of the UNESCO cities of Literature, 'Illustrating The World' literary exhibition.
In 2026, P.J. had the great honour of being accepted onto the Haiku Register.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 7, 2024
This was my first contact with this author and, for a new acquaintance, was a great one.
The book starts a bit slow but then starts to pick up pace and gets very interesting. It has a good plot, where one country attacks other with the help of magic, and three not so good heroes join to help his country.
This will continue in the next book that I'm eager to know how it ends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book starts a bit slow but then starts to pick up pace and gets very interesting. It has a good plot, where one country attacks other with the help of magic, and three not so good heroes join to help his country.
This will continue in the next book that I'm eager to know how it ends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 8, 2024
From the moment I delved into the pages of this gripping tale, I was utterly captivated. The intricate world-building and vivid descriptions pulled me into a realm filled with dark magic, looming threats, and characters so complex they practically leap off the page. Meloc's journey, fraught with danger and impossible choices, kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. A must-read for any fan of high fantasy adventure. Prepare to be spellbound.
February 21, 2024
This is the story of a long journey in which Meloc and Kasian, two strangers and first and enemies, learn to trust each other, among their differences and faiths.
Meloc is a warlock, hatred by everyone because his magic nature; Kasian is a Wergend's order soldier, whose duty is to capture and restrain unmynistered magikborne such as Meloc. When Dunmuir invade the north, though, they are forced together on the desperate quest for the only weapon capable to defend Mercia and ir people from Dunmuir's dark magic: the Serpent Breath. On their way they will meet a young and charismatic blond ally, pursuing his chance to clear his name.
A great story of friendship and loyalty, teaching us to overcome our differences and have faith in dark moments, fighting side by side for what we stand for.
I loved the atmospheres, the story and my favorite charaters were Kasian(I love men of honor) and Vargal (I love bad boys too, plus he is so fascinating and have such a carisma!).
But… But: I found the story entertaining but repetitive. I suggest you,too,to reread carefully your book once you finished it, 'cause I found plot holes and careless mistakes. A book needs balance between calm scenes and fast and thrilling scenes. Those characters don't have few minutes of stillness, to recover from wounds and effort, that yet another perill finds them… and this again, again… and again. It's not realistic, even in a fantasy setting. All the story happens very rushful, a lot of things happen and the 'surprise effect' does not appear as surprise when you use it almost in every scene(I referr to Meloc's remedy to every risk).
I loved the worldbuilding and I think you should explore it more. Some things as names, places and gods were only mentioned once or taken for granted and readers find themselves lost in a big world, with very few coordinates. You could better explain about magic and its use or more about Meloc's power or limits: he seems to be overpowered and it's boring to see how everytime he's the one who save the situation).
But I'm very intered for a sequel. I have an idea on where all of the story is heading… But we will see. Good job!
I received an advance review copy for free and I'm leaving this review voluntarily!^-^
Meloc is a warlock, hatred by everyone because his magic nature; Kasian is a Wergend's order soldier, whose duty is to capture and restrain unmynistered magikborne such as Meloc. When Dunmuir invade the north, though, they are forced together on the desperate quest for the only weapon capable to defend Mercia and ir people from Dunmuir's dark magic: the Serpent Breath. On their way they will meet a young and charismatic blond ally, pursuing his chance to clear his name.
A great story of friendship and loyalty, teaching us to overcome our differences and have faith in dark moments, fighting side by side for what we stand for.
I loved the atmospheres, the story and my favorite charaters were Kasian(I love men of honor) and Vargal (I love bad boys too, plus he is so fascinating and have such a carisma!).
But… But: I found the story entertaining but repetitive. I suggest you,too,to reread carefully your book once you finished it, 'cause I found plot holes and careless mistakes. A book needs balance between calm scenes and fast and thrilling scenes. Those characters don't have few minutes of stillness, to recover from wounds and effort, that yet another perill finds them… and this again, again… and again. It's not realistic, even in a fantasy setting. All the story happens very rushful, a lot of things happen and the 'surprise effect' does not appear as surprise when you use it almost in every scene(I referr to Meloc's remedy to every risk).
I loved the worldbuilding and I think you should explore it more. Some things as names, places and gods were only mentioned once or taken for granted and readers find themselves lost in a big world, with very few coordinates. You could better explain about magic and its use or more about Meloc's power or limits: he seems to be overpowered and it's boring to see how everytime he's the one who save the situation).
But I'm very intered for a sequel. I have an idea on where all of the story is heading… But we will see. Good job!
I received an advance review copy for free and I'm leaving this review voluntarily!^-^
September 16, 2024
Highly Recommended. The minute I bought this book I began reading it and it is one of the best alternate universe books I have read. I don't like the term Dark Fantasy. Rather, I'd prefer creative genius when it comes to PJ Reed's writing, imagination and storytelling flow. This enchanting, amazing fantasy novel is very rich in visual detail, featuring a compelling narrative and multifaceted characters, like something you'd like to watch on Netflix. A R. From the very first page of this enthralling story, I found myself completely engrossed and literally could not put this book down, because the author does not miss a thing. The elaborate world-building and striking imagery transported me to a universe encased with dark sorcery, imminent dangers, and, a creative new world anyone would like to experience and enjoy. The characters are unique ones that are transforming readers to a new and wonderful universe. Meloc's journey was entertaining until the final moment this was my favorite character in this wonderful book. I have enjoyed many high-fantasy adventures, but none ever matched this one for me. This book is the true definition of page-turner. The action is relentless, featuring well-created creatures that you enjoy getting to know. The land of Mercia is brilliantly breathed into life by Reed's extraordinary writing, with every dark and ominous aspect described in detail. I am still reading the last pages but I had to let readers know what a joy this read truly is. Be ready to set aside a day, especially for Sword and Fire: The Mercian Chronicles! I commend this book to all.
May 16, 2024
So, I just received a copy of the book called “Sword & Fire” by P.J. Reed and wow, this was quite an interesting read!
The book starts off with a war happening in the land and a man named Meloc came to Welfasten to warn the city chief, Feitar, of an incoming darkness, as well as the disappearances of the Mercian magikborne. Unfortunately, Meloc ends up being captured and thrown in prison, while the war still rages on. Now, he has to find a way to save himself during the time of war.
Wow! This was such an interesting short read! P.J. Reed did such a great job at building up the tension of the war throughout the story as we get to see how the war affected characters like Anders and Thorne, as well as Meloc himself. P.J. Reed also did a great job at establishing the world building and explaining to the audience about how magic works in this world and about the ongoing war in this story. I was always interested in seeing how Meloc performed his magic in this universe and I was also quite shocked by how brutal the war in this story is.
Now the only issue that I had with this book was that the pacing can be a bit slow at times, especially at the beginning of the book.
Overall, “Sword and Fire” is an extremely interesting read for anyone who loves books about sorcery and swords!
The book starts off with a war happening in the land and a man named Meloc came to Welfasten to warn the city chief, Feitar, of an incoming darkness, as well as the disappearances of the Mercian magikborne. Unfortunately, Meloc ends up being captured and thrown in prison, while the war still rages on. Now, he has to find a way to save himself during the time of war.
Wow! This was such an interesting short read! P.J. Reed did such a great job at building up the tension of the war throughout the story as we get to see how the war affected characters like Anders and Thorne, as well as Meloc himself. P.J. Reed also did a great job at establishing the world building and explaining to the audience about how magic works in this world and about the ongoing war in this story. I was always interested in seeing how Meloc performed his magic in this universe and I was also quite shocked by how brutal the war in this story is.
Now the only issue that I had with this book was that the pacing can be a bit slow at times, especially at the beginning of the book.
Overall, “Sword and Fire” is an extremely interesting read for anyone who loves books about sorcery and swords!
February 26, 2024
Diving into 2024: Mercian Chronicles and the Epic Kickoff to the Year!
This book is the perfect Historical fiction for those who like me are looking for an exciting combination between fantasy and history.
This is the first P J Reed work I've read in my life and boy, I've been missing such skilful storytelling, the way the world is described throughout the chapters is so captivating, and the strategic battles and the magical set-up are delightful.
To be honest, as much as I love and enjoy all of the narrative aspects and hidden gems throughout the book, for me, what matters are the characters, personally, I cannot enjoy a story if I don't feel interested even in the sightless with the main character, so it was a great joy to find out that this book has such great characters!
The characters in this tale are brought to life with such depth and authenticity that is impossible not to become invested in their journey. Regardless if they're the main characters or supporting characters they all have an excellent development. That's why I enjoyed this story so much, getting to know these in such depth these people, makes the triumphs, betrayals, tragedies and everything along the way feel intensely personal.
I have nothing more to say than what a way to start the year!!!!
This book is the perfect Historical fiction for those who like me are looking for an exciting combination between fantasy and history.
This is the first P J Reed work I've read in my life and boy, I've been missing such skilful storytelling, the way the world is described throughout the chapters is so captivating, and the strategic battles and the magical set-up are delightful.
To be honest, as much as I love and enjoy all of the narrative aspects and hidden gems throughout the book, for me, what matters are the characters, personally, I cannot enjoy a story if I don't feel interested even in the sightless with the main character, so it was a great joy to find out that this book has such great characters!
The characters in this tale are brought to life with such depth and authenticity that is impossible not to become invested in their journey. Regardless if they're the main characters or supporting characters they all have an excellent development. That's why I enjoyed this story so much, getting to know these in such depth these people, makes the triumphs, betrayals, tragedies and everything along the way feel intensely personal.
I have nothing more to say than what a way to start the year!!!!
December 29, 2023
As a big fan of Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillian, I have been looking for another world building, epic fantasy series. I was not looking for romance or misplaced random elf maidens I just wanted to read some pure and epic fantasy. This book did not disappoint. It is full of magic, adventure, and adversity. The lands are beautifully described and when you read this book you can really enter a new kingdom on the cusp of destruction.
I suspect the author has a background in Dark Age history as the descriptions of battles are magical but accurate and deadly.
I particularly liked this book because it wasn’t dumbed down in the least. You have to be intelligent to read this story which is wonderfully refreshing in a monosyllabic world.
I recommend this novel to lovers of dark epic high fantasy, sword and shield fantasy, and fighting fantasy who want to immerse themselves in a completely new magical kingdom.
I suspect the author has a background in Dark Age history as the descriptions of battles are magical but accurate and deadly.
I particularly liked this book because it wasn’t dumbed down in the least. You have to be intelligent to read this story which is wonderfully refreshing in a monosyllabic world.
I recommend this novel to lovers of dark epic high fantasy, sword and shield fantasy, and fighting fantasy who want to immerse themselves in a completely new magical kingdom.
February 8, 2024
The writing, the descriptions, and the imagination are just phenomenal!
*
I love this new world created by P.J. Reed, and I am looking for the next installment in the series (this one does finish with a cliffhanger, but I didn't mind it.)
*
If you love epic fantasy stories and don't care for romance, this novel is definitely for you!
*
But I have to say, you need to be patient with the story. The premise enticed me enough to keep reading, but there were so many characters at the beginning that I was a little confused. It took me about 25% of the book to finally get a grip on the story and be fully involved in it.
*
Again, the writing is beautiful. I felt immersed in this new world and really rooted for the trio, Meloc, Kasian, and Anders! They are fantastic characters, so well developed!
*
I love this new world created by P.J. Reed, and I am looking for the next installment in the series (this one does finish with a cliffhanger, but I didn't mind it.)
*
If you love epic fantasy stories and don't care for romance, this novel is definitely for you!
*
But I have to say, you need to be patient with the story. The premise enticed me enough to keep reading, but there were so many characters at the beginning that I was a little confused. It took me about 25% of the book to finally get a grip on the story and be fully involved in it.
*
Again, the writing is beautiful. I felt immersed in this new world and really rooted for the trio, Meloc, Kasian, and Anders! They are fantastic characters, so well developed!
December 29, 2023
Sword and Fire is a fast-paced story of magic and mayhem.
Reed’s writing is edge of the seat action with thrilling sword fights, daring escapes, and unexpected twists. I was particularly impressed with the immersive fantasy setting, dripping with detailed descriptions and lore, which I found intriguing. There was also a rich range of characters - the lead protagonists Anders, Meloc and Kasian are complex and flawed characters, grappling with internal struggles and difficult choices as they try to save their kingdom from the Dunmuir invaders.
Highly Recommended.
Reed’s writing is edge of the seat action with thrilling sword fights, daring escapes, and unexpected twists. I was particularly impressed with the immersive fantasy setting, dripping with detailed descriptions and lore, which I found intriguing. There was also a rich range of characters - the lead protagonists Anders, Meloc and Kasian are complex and flawed characters, grappling with internal struggles and difficult choices as they try to save their kingdom from the Dunmuir invaders.
Highly Recommended.
January 1, 2024
Phenomenal!
I've been a fan of Reed's work for quite some time now, and this is her best book yet, in my opinion. All of her strengths are on display in this one: exquisite prose, vivid settings, a mastery of atmosphere and description, but there's also a beating heart at the center of its narrative that I think all readers of great fiction will connect with. And the characters are fascinating! I can't wait to see where Meloc, Anders, and Kasian go in the next installment. Highly recommended!
I've been a fan of Reed's work for quite some time now, and this is her best book yet, in my opinion. All of her strengths are on display in this one: exquisite prose, vivid settings, a mastery of atmosphere and description, but there's also a beating heart at the center of its narrative that I think all readers of great fiction will connect with. And the characters are fascinating! I can't wait to see where Meloc, Anders, and Kasian go in the next installment. Highly recommended!
January 8, 2025
A Thrilling Tale of Magic and war
I was hooked from the very start of this book, drawn into a world of magic, politics, and war. The author's writing is engaging and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the world and its inhabitants. Meloc is a complex and compelling protagonist, driven by a mix of motivations that make him relatable and human. The plot is fast-paced and suspenseful, with plenty of surprises and setbacks along the way. Overall, this is a fantastic read for fans of fantasy and adventure.
I was hooked from the very start of this book, drawn into a world of magic, politics, and war. The author's writing is engaging and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the world and its inhabitants. Meloc is a complex and compelling protagonist, driven by a mix of motivations that make him relatable and human. The plot is fast-paced and suspenseful, with plenty of surprises and setbacks along the way. Overall, this is a fantastic read for fans of fantasy and adventure.
September 9, 2024
Love it
This exciting fantasy novel grabs your attention right away. It follows Meloc, a warlock who’s thrown in prison when he tries to warn the city about a dark threat. He’s given a choice: lose his magic or go on a dangerous quest to find the Serpent’s Breath, the only weapon that can stop the enemy army. With a thrilling plot and strong characters, this book is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.
This exciting fantasy novel grabs your attention right away. It follows Meloc, a warlock who’s thrown in prison when he tries to warn the city about a dark threat. He’s given a choice: lose his magic or go on a dangerous quest to find the Serpent’s Breath, the only weapon that can stop the enemy army. With a thrilling plot and strong characters, this book is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy.
February 14, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This was my first book by the author and wow it didn't disappoint. It gripped me within the first few chapters and I didn't stop to finish!
If you're a fan of fantasy and adventure this is definitely your book.
This was my first book by the author and wow it didn't disappoint. It gripped me within the first few chapters and I didn't stop to finish!
If you're a fan of fantasy and adventure this is definitely your book.
January 22, 2024
This is a fantastic, engaging, and incredibly well-written book which gripped me from the very beginning. I'm astonished that it's being sold for such a cheap price, and I would happily pay much more for a copy. I highly recommend giving this a go if you're a fan of fantasy. 5/5!
March 18, 2024
Vivid descriptions, excellent world building and likeable characters makes this a great read. Dark magic, war….what could be better for a weekend read?!?
I enjoyed this book greatly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book greatly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 1, 2024
Good grimdark fantasy book. A bit like playing DND but with more battles, intrigue, and murder.
January 29, 2024
I’m partial to a good fantasy adventure. It needs to have great worldbuilding, fascinating characters and a good dose of magic. A quest is essential and bonus points will be awarded for some surprises.
This story delivers on all of the above.
Meloc is a slightly dubious warlock, in a land where magic occupies a somewhat ambiguous place. He wants to warn people of the impending doom provided by an invading army. Instead, he’s imprisoned. Then he’s given a choice. His adventures are just beginning.
What follows is an epic quest, as he seeks the magic weapons of old to save his lands, not to mention his life. There is just about non-stop action, with a cast of creatures that all leap from the pages as they seek to thwart him and his allies.
The land of Mercia comes alive under Reed’s pen, every dark and brooding part of it is vividly described, while the action scenes are frantic and visceral.
Bring on the next instalment.
This story delivers on all of the above.
Meloc is a slightly dubious warlock, in a land where magic occupies a somewhat ambiguous place. He wants to warn people of the impending doom provided by an invading army. Instead, he’s imprisoned. Then he’s given a choice. His adventures are just beginning.
What follows is an epic quest, as he seeks the magic weapons of old to save his lands, not to mention his life. There is just about non-stop action, with a cast of creatures that all leap from the pages as they seek to thwart him and his allies.
The land of Mercia comes alive under Reed’s pen, every dark and brooding part of it is vividly described, while the action scenes are frantic and visceral.
Bring on the next instalment.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews