RIGGED

by Greg Lucci

Every poor sailor across the Grand Sea has heard stories of Amrestir, the lonely island town in the west, built from piracy and pyromancy. Far from just a rumor, Amrestir’s years of plundering and pillaging have grown its reputation like a wildfire among its victimized neighbors, each one of them now looking to get their hands, feathers, flippers and fins in on the action.With news of international attention on the horizon, a young runaway and con-artist named Pamela tries her hand at a pardon-forging scheme to capitalize on the excitement of her fellow scoundrels. Pamela’s plans run aground thanks to the meddling of a local town guard named Phil and a powderkeg of a professor named Johan, colliding with the arrival of the ambassadors in a splash that will ripple to every corner of the Grand Sea. Now roped into acting as Johan’s assistant on a secret project at the local institute, Pamela is pressed to make something of herself, or get ‘fired’ in more ways than she’d like to imagine.While Pamela toils away below, the rest of Amrestir is left to float in the wake of its new political position. Phil finds himself having to keep order in a town literally torn apart by greed and distrust, caught in a tangle of metal men and ruthless rats. Amrestir’s own governor, Charlie Windell, clings to the last bits of control over his community, and his own life, against his fellow dignitaries. And far, far away, on a ship drifting to the end of the world, an artificial deckhand learns how to be his own pirate, and his own man.Though each hungry hopeful across the Grand Sea may think they’re out on their own voyages, when the sun sets, they're all still tied up in the same rigging.

360 pages, Paperback

Published March 25, 2024

Reviews

[Evan Claessens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rigged was a fun read with memorably and playfully despicable characters, colorful idioms, and an intriguing world built upon contradictions. That’s a good thing in this case though. Why would so many pyromancers be sailers? It’s silly and fun and new.

Give Rigged a shot if you want some new pirate fantasy to sink into.

[Book Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

"RIGGED" by Greg Lucci masterfully blends high-seas adventure, political tension, and fantasy in a unique and entertaining yarn.

Set in Amrestir, a pirate hub rife with magic and intrigue, the story centers on Pamela Marsson, a daring con artist whose forgery scheme entangles her in a complex web of corruption, diplomacy, and secrets at the magic institute. Alongside her, Phil, a steadfast town guard, and Charlie Windell, a struggling governor, navigate a town on the brink of chaos.

One thing that sets this novel apart is the presence of Lucci’s own original illustrations, vivid artwork of his own creation that give this book a feeling all its own. My only critique of the novel is the tendency at times to become overly verbose and wordy, which slows down the pace and deadens interest.

But Lucci's vivid world-building shines, offering clever humor, nautical grit, and unique touches like undersea armies and walrus fitness cults. Themes of ambition and interconnected destinies weave through the tale, creating a compelling narrative.

This is a fresh take on fantasy, both thrilling and thought-provoking, and perfect for fans of adventure and wit. Greg Lucci delivers a story designed to entertain readers from start to finish.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating: Pirates and Ink

A fascinating book about pirates, the people surrounding them, and ink. Not everyone is human, some are fish, some are humans, and some are robot like things called Feo. This is a truly unique story, about the power of the pen. It's a different form of power, and I can't say much more without giving away spoilers. This story has some true twists and turns. There are also illustrations, and I love illustrations in books, even though I'm an adult. They were done quite well. If you want to read something original, read this.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: "RIGGED (The Grand Sea)"

by Greg Lucci 🔥📚

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉Prepare to be swept away on an exhilarating voyage through the enchanting world of "RIGGED (The Grand Sea)" by the master storyteller Greg Lucci! From the very first page, Lucci casts a spellbinding net of intrigue, adventure, and humor that ensnares readers and refuses to let go until the very last word. 🌟✨

👉In this fantastical realm where pirates rule the waves and secrets lurk beneath every crest, we meet the intrepid Pamela Marsson, a woman seeking a fresh start amidst the chaos of the Grand Sea. Little does she know that her journey to the remote island of Amrestir will thrust her into a whirlwind of deception, political maneuvering, and high-stakes gambits. 💼💰 As Pamela navigates through a landscape teeming with counterfeit pardons, enigmatic foreign dignitaries, and the allure of untold riches, readers are treated to a captivating blend of suspense and exhilaration that keeps you on the edge of your seat with every turn of the page. 🎩🔍

👉Yet, "RIGGED" is not merely a tale of daring escapades and perilous encounters. Lucci infuses his narrative with a rich tapestry of humor, satire, and social commentary, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of themes ranging from the machinations of big business to the complexities of human nature. 💼🎭 Through his vivid prose, colorful characters, and intricate plot twists, Lucci crafts a story that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally engaging, inviting readers to ponder the deeper truths that lie beneath the surface of this captivating tale. 🤔💡

👉As an avid reader and lover of fantasy literature, I found myself utterly enthralled by the world of "RIGGED (The Grand Sea)". Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the genre, this book promises an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, laughter, and moments of sheer brilliance. ⚓️📖 So hoist the sails, chart your course, and prepare to embark on an adventure unlike any other. "RIGGED" awaits, beckoning you to dive headfirst into its mesmerizing depths and discover the magic that lies within its pages.

#bookreview

Happy reading..

[Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amrestir is more than just a pirate town—it’s a fiery crucible of ambition, magic, and deception. This synopsis teases a thrilling tale where schemers, guards, and outlaws clash in a world teetering on the edge of chaos. Pamela, a cunning con artist, sets the stage for high-stakes trickery, only to be swept into a much larger conflict. The ensemble cast, from the embattled town guard Phil to the ambitious governor Windell and the mysterious artificial deckhand, promises a rich, layered story where every character has something to lose—and even more to gain. With political tensions, magical forces, and a desperate struggle for power, Amrestir sounds like an epic adventure where the sea isn’t the only thing that’s unpredictable.

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piracy, politics, and pyromancy—what more could you want? The tangled web of alliances and betrayals makes Amrestir feel alive, like a city on the edge of something massive. Pamela’s forgery scheme is the perfect entry point into this world of thieves, revolutionaries, and ambitious dreamers, and as the story expands, so does the tension. Between the warring factions, sentient automatons, and a fragile government on the brink of collapse, every page pulls you deeper into the storm. If you love fast-paced, intelligent storytelling with a sharp sense of humor, this book is calling your name.

[Phillip John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this! Every character is a star in their own right, from the scheming con artist to the weary town guard. The worldbuilding is top-tier, and I was hooked from page one.

[Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piracy, politics, and pyromancy—what’s not to love? This book balances thrilling action with razor-sharp humor. Pamela is my new favorite scoundrel.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

An electrifying tale that’s equal parts clever and chaotic. If you love morally gray characters, high-seas adventures, and witty banter, this is for you.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This world is so vivid! The Grand Sea feels real, and Amrestir is a fascinatingly chaotic place. Highly recommend!

[Alvina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters are fantastic! Phil's struggle to keep order and Pamela's cunning are a perfect blend. A must-read for fantasy fans!

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put it down! The plot twists kept me guessing, and the writing is superb. A new favorite!

[Nanaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has everything! Action, humor, and a compelling storyline. I'm already eager for the next installment.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling pirate fantasy that crackles with tension, humor, and heart. The setting is as alive as its morally complex characters—prepare for adventure!

[Ava · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sharp, witty, and filled with unpredictable twists, this is a pirate story unlike any other. Come for the adventure, stay for the incredible worldbuilding!

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Amrestir is a wild, lawless place full of rogues and revolutionaries, and this book captures every ounce of its magic and mayhem. A must-read for fantasy lovers!