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Waterborne #1
The Waterborne Blade
The citadel has long been the stronghold of Highkell. All that is about to change because the traitor, Vasic, is marching on the capital. Against her better judgement, Queen Alwenna allows herself to be spirited away by one of the Crown's most trusted servants, safe from the clutches of the throne's would-be usurper.
Fleeing across country, she quickly comes to learn that her pampered existence has ill-equipped her for survival away from the comforts of the court. Alwenna must toughen up, and fast, if she is even to make it to a place of safety. But she has an even loftier aim - for after dreaming of her husband's impending death, Alwenna knows she must turn around and head back to Highkell to save the land she loves, and the husband who adores her, or die in the attempt.
But Vasic the traitor is waiting. And this was all just as he planned.
Fleeing across country, she quickly comes to learn that her pampered existence has ill-equipped her for survival away from the comforts of the court. Alwenna must toughen up, and fast, if she is even to make it to a place of safety. But she has an even loftier aim - for after dreaming of her husband's impending death, Alwenna knows she must turn around and head back to Highkell to save the land she loves, and the husband who adores her, or die in the attempt.
But Vasic the traitor is waiting. And this was all just as he planned.
512 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 5, 2015
3 people are currently reading
1279 people want to read
About the author
Susan Murray
5 books26 followersWriter of fantasy and science fiction. Open University graduate. Serial house renovator.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 21, 2015
Originally posted on Roberta's Literary Ramblings
I received this ARC from the publisher through NetGally in exchange for an honest review.
Overall Impression: An exciting new fantasy series with an awesome female protagonist that is compulsively readable.
Recommended for: Fantasy fans. Fans of strong female protagonists.
I knew I was going to like this book from the very beginning. It's well written, and the characters are developed quite nicely. It starts with action rather than a bunch of exposition about the events leading up to what is currently happening and world development. Instead, the book begins with Alwenna being sent away by her husband with his trusted King's Man, Weaver, who is an immediately intriguing character. Weaver is obviously less than thrilled about being assigned to this task as he wants to stay behind and fight in the oncoming battle. However, his dissatisfaction in his king's decision seems to stem from more personal reasons, and Susan Murray does a good job of keeping his reasons a mystery until the opportune moment.
When we meet Alwenna, she is a woman who has been pampered for her entire life who suddenly has to rough it through the wilderness (against her wishes) in order to escape the clutches of the usurper, Vasic, whom her husband fears will take over the kingdom. However, despite Alwenna's cushy upbringing, she rises to the occasion, and time and again proves herself to be more than capable of taking care of herself when push comes to shove. Alwenna never shies away from a challenge, and never expects someone to save her. She insists that she be taught how to build a fire and properly de-feather, gut, and cook a chicken in case she ends up not having any servants to take care of her. (Which happens at various times throughout the book.) Not only does she insist on learning these things, but a couple of the things she learns become important later. This was refreshing since some books tend to have their heroes spontaneously gain skills when they are needed. Not the case here. It was well thought out, which made it that much more fun to read.
The plot moves at just the right pace, keeping it exciting while also allowing some time to develop Alwenna and Weaver as characters. This makes it really easy to become invested in the outcome since you actually know them well. I never felt like it was dragging and it was difficult for me to put it down. I almost missed my MAX stop on my way home because of this book. It's totally engrossing, which makes this book go by pretty quickly, and leaves you wanting more.
I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out, and will be anxiously awaiting the day! I need to know things! Also, the cover is pretty cool. Just saying.
I received this ARC from the publisher through NetGally in exchange for an honest review.
Overall Impression: An exciting new fantasy series with an awesome female protagonist that is compulsively readable.
Recommended for: Fantasy fans. Fans of strong female protagonists.
I knew I was going to like this book from the very beginning. It's well written, and the characters are developed quite nicely. It starts with action rather than a bunch of exposition about the events leading up to what is currently happening and world development. Instead, the book begins with Alwenna being sent away by her husband with his trusted King's Man, Weaver, who is an immediately intriguing character. Weaver is obviously less than thrilled about being assigned to this task as he wants to stay behind and fight in the oncoming battle. However, his dissatisfaction in his king's decision seems to stem from more personal reasons, and Susan Murray does a good job of keeping his reasons a mystery until the opportune moment.
When we meet Alwenna, she is a woman who has been pampered for her entire life who suddenly has to rough it through the wilderness (against her wishes) in order to escape the clutches of the usurper, Vasic, whom her husband fears will take over the kingdom. However, despite Alwenna's cushy upbringing, she rises to the occasion, and time and again proves herself to be more than capable of taking care of herself when push comes to shove. Alwenna never shies away from a challenge, and never expects someone to save her. She insists that she be taught how to build a fire and properly de-feather, gut, and cook a chicken in case she ends up not having any servants to take care of her. (Which happens at various times throughout the book.) Not only does she insist on learning these things, but a couple of the things she learns become important later. This was refreshing since some books tend to have their heroes spontaneously gain skills when they are needed. Not the case here. It was well thought out, which made it that much more fun to read.
The plot moves at just the right pace, keeping it exciting while also allowing some time to develop Alwenna and Weaver as characters. This makes it really easy to become invested in the outcome since you actually know them well. I never felt like it was dragging and it was difficult for me to put it down. I almost missed my MAX stop on my way home because of this book. It's totally engrossing, which makes this book go by pretty quickly, and leaves you wanting more.
I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out, and will be anxiously awaiting the day! I need to know things! Also, the cover is pretty cool. Just saying.
May 13, 2015
2.5 stars
https://lynnsbooks.wordpress.com/2015...
This is the start of a new fantasy series set in a faux medieval world. I admit I was really attracted by the premise and the gorgeous cover. Having completed, well, I can’t really say that this is a series I will continue with to be honest. And it pains me to say that because I hate to give negative reviews and I really set out with great expectations for this particular book.
The story gets off to an immediate start with the King of Highkell, Trisilian, despatching is wife, Alwenna, to safety in the face of imminent attack by Vasic – traitor and would-be usurper. And so Alwenna begins her journey to sanctuary, accompanied by the King’s man Weaver and her maid. From there on the story becomes one of flee, capture, escape and flee again! It very soon becomes apparent that Alwenna has visions and also seems capable of wielding certain magic and in fact much darker magic is involved in the story towards the conclusion. In fact, I must confess in that respect the twist towards the end gave me a real surprise.
In terms of characters. The main two are Alwenna and Weaver who do spend a good deal of time in each other’s company. On top of this we have Vasic taking the role of baddie of the piece and a number of additional peripheral characters that join at different points during the course of the story.
So, why didn’t i love this. I certainly imagine that some people will do so to be honest. It’s quite an easy book to read although the constant travelling back and forth does become a bit tiresome. In fact, I started off thinking I would really enjoy this, even though Alwenna annoyed me almost immediately with her ridiculous demands, for example demanding to take a maid on a dangerous escape mission – just so that the proper formalities could be observed – get over yourself and stop putting people in danger. I actually quite like ‘road’ journeys – a fact borne out by my love of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings and so I was puzzled as to why my interest dwained a little and I think this is due to the perception of ‘size’ with this world. It just really felt like a very small place. I know that’s probably not the best articulation of how I felt but I do think it gives you a good idea. The distances between A to B seemed easy traversed, there never felt like any real threats were encountered on the way and it just didn’t seem like the sort of place that a person could simply get lost or disappear into.
On top of that I became increasingly frustrated with Alwenna and Weaver. They knowingly walked into any number of situations which they ‘had a bad feeling about’ – just why! And, for goodness sake, Alwenna can see the future – how could she have had no idea of what was actually going on. Okay, i realise her visions became stronger after she received a certain ‘gift’ but she did already have ‘the sight’. I think my feelings towards both of them was that in spite of any number of reasons why they shouldn’t they continually made themselves into victims and I found it hard to comprehend. On top of that I just couldn’t become attached to them. They both had their odd moments of inspiration but overall I felt there was simply no chemistry involved between the two, the majority of the time they were at odds with each other and their eventual trist felt completely wrong and in fact a little bit cold and almost calculated. I also struggled with why Weaver, given the knowledge that he had now come by would step out of character so blatantly.
Now, this all seems terribly critical – which I hate. I really don’t think this is a bad book however I don’t really think it is for me. I simply had too many things that niggled me and frankly didn’t add up.
I received a copy of this book from the pubishers through Netgalley for which my thanks. The above opinion is my own.
https://lynnsbooks.wordpress.com/2015...
This is the start of a new fantasy series set in a faux medieval world. I admit I was really attracted by the premise and the gorgeous cover. Having completed, well, I can’t really say that this is a series I will continue with to be honest. And it pains me to say that because I hate to give negative reviews and I really set out with great expectations for this particular book.
The story gets off to an immediate start with the King of Highkell, Trisilian, despatching is wife, Alwenna, to safety in the face of imminent attack by Vasic – traitor and would-be usurper. And so Alwenna begins her journey to sanctuary, accompanied by the King’s man Weaver and her maid. From there on the story becomes one of flee, capture, escape and flee again! It very soon becomes apparent that Alwenna has visions and also seems capable of wielding certain magic and in fact much darker magic is involved in the story towards the conclusion. In fact, I must confess in that respect the twist towards the end gave me a real surprise.
In terms of characters. The main two are Alwenna and Weaver who do spend a good deal of time in each other’s company. On top of this we have Vasic taking the role of baddie of the piece and a number of additional peripheral characters that join at different points during the course of the story.
So, why didn’t i love this. I certainly imagine that some people will do so to be honest. It’s quite an easy book to read although the constant travelling back and forth does become a bit tiresome. In fact, I started off thinking I would really enjoy this, even though Alwenna annoyed me almost immediately with her ridiculous demands, for example demanding to take a maid on a dangerous escape mission – just so that the proper formalities could be observed – get over yourself and stop putting people in danger. I actually quite like ‘road’ journeys – a fact borne out by my love of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings and so I was puzzled as to why my interest dwained a little and I think this is due to the perception of ‘size’ with this world. It just really felt like a very small place. I know that’s probably not the best articulation of how I felt but I do think it gives you a good idea. The distances between A to B seemed easy traversed, there never felt like any real threats were encountered on the way and it just didn’t seem like the sort of place that a person could simply get lost or disappear into.
On top of that I became increasingly frustrated with Alwenna and Weaver. They knowingly walked into any number of situations which they ‘had a bad feeling about’ – just why! And, for goodness sake, Alwenna can see the future – how could she have had no idea of what was actually going on. Okay, i realise her visions became stronger after she received a certain ‘gift’ but she did already have ‘the sight’. I think my feelings towards both of them was that in spite of any number of reasons why they shouldn’t they continually made themselves into victims and I found it hard to comprehend. On top of that I just couldn’t become attached to them. They both had their odd moments of inspiration but overall I felt there was simply no chemistry involved between the two, the majority of the time they were at odds with each other and their eventual trist felt completely wrong and in fact a little bit cold and almost calculated. I also struggled with why Weaver, given the knowledge that he had now come by would step out of character so blatantly.
Now, this all seems terribly critical – which I hate. I really don’t think this is a bad book however I don’t really think it is for me. I simply had too many things that niggled me and frankly didn’t add up.
I received a copy of this book from the pubishers through Netgalley for which my thanks. The above opinion is my own.
June 17, 2015
I loved the plot and the direction its going. It's not as detailed as I hope it would be.
June 4, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
The citadel has long been the stronghold of Highkell. All that is about to change because the traitor, Vasic, is marching on the capital. Against her better judgement, Queen Alwenna allows herself to be spirited away by one of the Crown's most trusted servants, safe from the clutches of the throne's would-be usurper.
Fleeing across country, she quickly comes to learn that her pampered existence has ill-equipped her for survival away from the comforts of the court. Alwenna must toughen up, and fast, if she is even to make it to a place of safety. But she has an even loftier aim - for after dreaming of her husband's impending death, Alwenna knows she must turn around and head back to Highkell to save the land she loves, and the husband who adores her, or die in the attempt.
But Vasic the traitor is waiting. And this was all just as he planned.
This is hard for me - on one hand I found the story-telling and world-building to be quite fascinating. I liked the addition of the darkness in the sorcery and magic. That really added to the story for me.
On the other hand, I just didn't like the characters at all. Alwenna was such a 'distant' character - I found it hard to connect with her and her indifference to those around her. And Weaver, well, I just don't think the author could have made them any more "opposite" if she tried. And it seemed just so they had a story - constant bickering etc, trying to create a relationship that I never bought in to.
Overall, a great story for the start of a series that, for me, was let down by the characters...
Paul
ARH
The citadel has long been the stronghold of Highkell. All that is about to change because the traitor, Vasic, is marching on the capital. Against her better judgement, Queen Alwenna allows herself to be spirited away by one of the Crown's most trusted servants, safe from the clutches of the throne's would-be usurper.
Fleeing across country, she quickly comes to learn that her pampered existence has ill-equipped her for survival away from the comforts of the court. Alwenna must toughen up, and fast, if she is even to make it to a place of safety. But she has an even loftier aim - for after dreaming of her husband's impending death, Alwenna knows she must turn around and head back to Highkell to save the land she loves, and the husband who adores her, or die in the attempt.
But Vasic the traitor is waiting. And this was all just as he planned.
This is hard for me - on one hand I found the story-telling and world-building to be quite fascinating. I liked the addition of the darkness in the sorcery and magic. That really added to the story for me.
On the other hand, I just didn't like the characters at all. Alwenna was such a 'distant' character - I found it hard to connect with her and her indifference to those around her. And Weaver, well, I just don't think the author could have made them any more "opposite" if she tried. And it seemed just so they had a story - constant bickering etc, trying to create a relationship that I never bought in to.
Overall, a great story for the start of a series that, for me, was let down by the characters...
Paul
ARH
May 17, 2021
Oh dear. This isn't a good start to my attempt at returning to regular reviewing.
I really really wanted to like this book. The cover is gorgeous, it's epic fantasy by a female author, the protagonist is female. I like all these things. But having started it ages ago, then felt no desire at all to pick it back up, I think I have to conclude that I'm never going to finish it.
The main problem with this book is that I found it unbearably boring. I can forgive almost anything about a book except that. The writing is flat. The characters are flat. It just didn't resonate with me in any way whatsoever. I got about halfway through and found that I was at one and the same time bored and a little confused. Fatal combination I'm afraid.
Had to laugh though, I skipped to the end and read the acknowledgements etc. and the author thanks Mike Shevdon for improving the opening chapters with his critique. Having read one of Mike Shevdon's books and found it equally flat, I can only conclude that this particular style of writing is not for me.
I really really wanted to like this book. The cover is gorgeous, it's epic fantasy by a female author, the protagonist is female. I like all these things. But having started it ages ago, then felt no desire at all to pick it back up, I think I have to conclude that I'm never going to finish it.
The main problem with this book is that I found it unbearably boring. I can forgive almost anything about a book except that. The writing is flat. The characters are flat. It just didn't resonate with me in any way whatsoever. I got about halfway through and found that I was at one and the same time bored and a little confused. Fatal combination I'm afraid.
Had to laugh though, I skipped to the end and read the acknowledgements etc. and the author thanks Mike Shevdon for improving the opening chapters with his critique. Having read one of Mike Shevdon's books and found it equally flat, I can only conclude that this particular style of writing is not for me.
May 1, 2015
The Waterborne Blade by Susan Murray is the first book in a new fantasy series which caught my eye with its gorgeous cover and exciting premise. I had very high hopes for this series and was ready to fall head-over-heels with it. The story has an interesting fantasy setting that I enjoyed with a touch of dark magic and political intrigue that kept me on edge. Unfortunately though, I did not connect well with the heroine nor the romance as much as I had hoped to.
The story opens with Alwenna fleeing from Highkell at her husband's command as the citadel is under an attack by a traitor named Vasic who wants the throne of Highkell and Alwenna as his wife. The setting of The Waterborne Blade was interesting and I liked the overall medieval feel given to the story, though it felt slow moving in the beginning. Much of the time is spent traveling as Alwenna is led by the King's Man, a royal guard named Weaver, fleeing to a sanctuary located on a small island off of its Norther Coast. Once there, suddenly there is a new threat with deathly omens and betrayals, sending Alwenna back to the very place we spend such a large chunk in the beginning running from.
I did enjoy the interesting plot threads dealing with magic and even sorcery. Alwenna seems to come from a long line of seers and has a family history that is notorious for its dark magic. A prophecy also seems to warn against her. All this captured my attention, but I would have loved more explanation. Besides betrayals and intrigue, there was a strange and unexpected, almost paranormal aspect I really wanted to know more about.
The most difficult issue I came across in The Waterborne Blade was the fact that I never really felt connected to Alwenna through the entire story. Alwenna's voice just felt cold and indifferent to me which made it hard for me to ever warm up to her as a character. In the beginning of the story when on the run she exuded a combination of aloofness towards her husband Tresilian, the one who supposedly adores her, and indifference to the royal guard Weaver who is entrusted with her safety. As the story progressed, I did see changes in her that I liked, mainly a new appreciation for Weaver and loyalty to her husband when she tries to go back and help him, but not the connection to her I had hoped for.
The romance was confusing for me as well. I suspect Alwenna suffered an arranged marriage and her relationship with Trisilian felt like it. There is no time to get to know them as a couple as she is literally thrust, within pages of the story, away from him and on the run. She suddenly finds herself in a situation with the kings guard as well as being sought after by the traitor Vasic. Each one seems to want/need/or possess Alwenna, yet betray her in different ways and I could not emotionally find myself wishing for any of them to end up with her romantically.
Overall the aspect I found most appealing in the story was the dark magic and strange sorcery sprinkled throughout and the political intrigue as plots are hatched to take over the throne of Highkell. Despite my inability to connect well with Alwenna and the romance, other readers may enjoy this for the unique fantasy it is.
My rating: 3.o stars. It was an okay read for me with some issues.
PLEASE NOTE: A courtesy review copy of this book was provided by Angry Robot in exchange for my fair review. Thank you, Angry Robot for the review opportunity!
The story opens with Alwenna fleeing from Highkell at her husband's command as the citadel is under an attack by a traitor named Vasic who wants the throne of Highkell and Alwenna as his wife. The setting of The Waterborne Blade was interesting and I liked the overall medieval feel given to the story, though it felt slow moving in the beginning. Much of the time is spent traveling as Alwenna is led by the King's Man, a royal guard named Weaver, fleeing to a sanctuary located on a small island off of its Norther Coast. Once there, suddenly there is a new threat with deathly omens and betrayals, sending Alwenna back to the very place we spend such a large chunk in the beginning running from.
I did enjoy the interesting plot threads dealing with magic and even sorcery. Alwenna seems to come from a long line of seers and has a family history that is notorious for its dark magic. A prophecy also seems to warn against her. All this captured my attention, but I would have loved more explanation. Besides betrayals and intrigue, there was a strange and unexpected, almost paranormal aspect I really wanted to know more about.
The most difficult issue I came across in The Waterborne Blade was the fact that I never really felt connected to Alwenna through the entire story. Alwenna's voice just felt cold and indifferent to me which made it hard for me to ever warm up to her as a character. In the beginning of the story when on the run she exuded a combination of aloofness towards her husband Tresilian, the one who supposedly adores her, and indifference to the royal guard Weaver who is entrusted with her safety. As the story progressed, I did see changes in her that I liked, mainly a new appreciation for Weaver and loyalty to her husband when she tries to go back and help him, but not the connection to her I had hoped for.
The romance was confusing for me as well. I suspect Alwenna suffered an arranged marriage and her relationship with Trisilian felt like it. There is no time to get to know them as a couple as she is literally thrust, within pages of the story, away from him and on the run. She suddenly finds herself in a situation with the kings guard as well as being sought after by the traitor Vasic. Each one seems to want/need/or possess Alwenna, yet betray her in different ways and I could not emotionally find myself wishing for any of them to end up with her romantically.
Overall the aspect I found most appealing in the story was the dark magic and strange sorcery sprinkled throughout and the political intrigue as plots are hatched to take over the throne of Highkell. Despite my inability to connect well with Alwenna and the romance, other readers may enjoy this for the unique fantasy it is.
My rating: 3.o stars. It was an okay read for me with some issues.
PLEASE NOTE: A courtesy review copy of this book was provided by Angry Robot in exchange for my fair review. Thank you, Angry Robot for the review opportunity!
September 7, 2015
This review originally appeared on my blog, Books Without Any Pictures:
http://bookswithoutanypictures.com/20...
he Waterborne Blade by Susan Murray is a story of adventure and betrayal set in a medieval/fantasy world. The story begins with a capital city that’s about to be attacked. The king asks his best friend, a low-class man named Weaver, to help get his (secretly pregnant) wife Alwenna out of the city, because he knows that the odds of surviving the attack are slim. Alwenna and Weaver must make their way through the countryside, and as they do, they must learn the hard way which of the king’s “friends” can be trusted and which are opportunistic.
Alwenna is introduced to us as a spoiled bimbo. She hates Weaver because he isn’t cultured, even though he’s doing everything he can to save her life. She’s not prepared to face any kind of hardship whatsoever, and has a lot of growing up to do. I hated her with a passion. However, about 1/3 of the way through the story, she does a complete 180 and turns into a normal person/heroine. And, of course, she’s a special snowflake who has the power to see the future, and we learn that her powers are even more vast than we’ve been told. I found Alwenna’s sudden shift to be a bit too abrupt. She never felt like a complex character, or a real person at all, for that matter.
I was also frustrated by the foreshadowing in the story, which generally consisted of some kind of warning/gut feeling that Weaver and Alwenna were about to do something incredibly stupid, only for them to ignore it and walk into a trap. This happened several times, and I wished that the author would have used a different way of letting readers know that something was about to happen, because this particular method just made me feel that the main characters were being stupid.
Despite those weaknesses, I did find myself intrigued by the magic in The Waterborne Blade. There’s a cursed/evil family, some kind of magical zombie/soul-leeching, a powerful knife, and magic earthquakes. Gotta admit, magic earthquakes are pretty cool.
My overall thought is that The Waterborne Blade definitely isn’t the strongest fantasy novel I’ve ever read. Not by a long shot. There are better books out there. But if, say, you find yourself stuck on a long layover and The Waterborne Blade happens to be on your Kindle, it’s a quick read that will help kill some time.
http://bookswithoutanypictures.com/20...
he Waterborne Blade by Susan Murray is a story of adventure and betrayal set in a medieval/fantasy world. The story begins with a capital city that’s about to be attacked. The king asks his best friend, a low-class man named Weaver, to help get his (secretly pregnant) wife Alwenna out of the city, because he knows that the odds of surviving the attack are slim. Alwenna and Weaver must make their way through the countryside, and as they do, they must learn the hard way which of the king’s “friends” can be trusted and which are opportunistic.
Alwenna is introduced to us as a spoiled bimbo. She hates Weaver because he isn’t cultured, even though he’s doing everything he can to save her life. She’s not prepared to face any kind of hardship whatsoever, and has a lot of growing up to do. I hated her with a passion. However, about 1/3 of the way through the story, she does a complete 180 and turns into a normal person/heroine. And, of course, she’s a special snowflake who has the power to see the future, and we learn that her powers are even more vast than we’ve been told. I found Alwenna’s sudden shift to be a bit too abrupt. She never felt like a complex character, or a real person at all, for that matter.
I was also frustrated by the foreshadowing in the story, which generally consisted of some kind of warning/gut feeling that Weaver and Alwenna were about to do something incredibly stupid, only for them to ignore it and walk into a trap. This happened several times, and I wished that the author would have used a different way of letting readers know that something was about to happen, because this particular method just made me feel that the main characters were being stupid.
Despite those weaknesses, I did find myself intrigued by the magic in The Waterborne Blade. There’s a cursed/evil family, some kind of magical zombie/soul-leeching, a powerful knife, and magic earthquakes. Gotta admit, magic earthquakes are pretty cool.
My overall thought is that The Waterborne Blade definitely isn’t the strongest fantasy novel I’ve ever read. Not by a long shot. There are better books out there. But if, say, you find yourself stuck on a long layover and The Waterborne Blade happens to be on your Kindle, it’s a quick read that will help kill some time.
May 11, 2015
A satisfying fantasy novel which kept me up late last night because I had to know what happened next.
Queen Alwenna, who reluctantly agrees to be sent away from court as danger approaches, is gradually revealed to have hidden strengths. The King's Man, Weaver, who is given the job of protecting her, has his own secrets.
We gradually become aware that there is something much darker going on beneath the surface. What should be sanctuary turns into a place of danger. Loyalties are tested, and no one is as they first seem. There is something rotten in the state of Highkell. There is dark magic, and the Blade of the title is a part of it, and perhaps Alwenna too.
I've been reading a lot of psychological thrillers lately, and in many ways this was a fantasy novel mining the same vein. I absolutely loved it, and am awaiting the sequel with some impatience.
Full disclosure: I know Susan through Open University courses, but this is the first time I've read her fiction.
Queen Alwenna, who reluctantly agrees to be sent away from court as danger approaches, is gradually revealed to have hidden strengths. The King's Man, Weaver, who is given the job of protecting her, has his own secrets.
We gradually become aware that there is something much darker going on beneath the surface. What should be sanctuary turns into a place of danger. Loyalties are tested, and no one is as they first seem. There is something rotten in the state of Highkell. There is dark magic, and the Blade of the title is a part of it, and perhaps Alwenna too.
I've been reading a lot of psychological thrillers lately, and in many ways this was a fantasy novel mining the same vein. I absolutely loved it, and am awaiting the sequel with some impatience.
Full disclosure: I know Susan through Open University courses, but this is the first time I've read her fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2015
Great start to a new series. The book is very plot-focussed; the characters are important to me, but everyone is expendable as far as I am concerned. Murray managed to make me care about the story more than the individuals. Before reading The Waterborne Blade, I wouldn't have guessed it was possible for me to read and love a book whose characters play second fiddle to the plot, but that's what has happened here.
I want to know the fate of the Peninsular Kingdoms and the rest of the world Murray has created. And I don't care (too much) what happens to the people involved – as long as they take on more rides that are exciting and intriguing and compellingly complex as the one I've already been on.
I want to know the fate of the Peninsular Kingdoms and the rest of the world Murray has created. And I don't care (too much) what happens to the people involved – as long as they take on more rides that are exciting and intriguing and compellingly complex as the one I've already been on.
July 10, 2016
This was an enjoyable fantasy read. It didn't do anything groundbreaking as far as fantasy goes, but I liked the characters, and the pacing was good. The end left me wanting to read more.
Rating: 8/10
Rating: 8/10
November 2, 2023
Ahora recuerdo por qué me había encantado este libro cuando lo leí por primera vez, casi no me acordaba de nada de lo que había pasado pero al leerlo por segunda vez creo que me ha gustado incluso más. Me lo he devorado en muy poco tiempo (el final por lo menos, aunque llevara meses en mi lista).
La historia en sí me encanta, de las primeras fantasías que leí, por eso le guardo un lugar especial en mi corazón. Los personajes han ido siendo cada vez más interesantes y les he cogido más y más cariño a lo largo de la historia, el romance entre Weaver y Alwenna me encanta y sé que también me encantó la primera vez, era uno de los motivos por los que quería seguir leyendo la duología, solo espero que él esté vivo y arreglen sus diferencias en el siguiente libro.
La historia en sí me encanta, de las primeras fantasías que leí, por eso le guardo un lugar especial en mi corazón. Los personajes han ido siendo cada vez más interesantes y les he cogido más y más cariño a lo largo de la historia, el romance entre Weaver y Alwenna me encanta y sé que también me encantó la primera vez, era uno de los motivos por los que quería seguir leyendo la duología, solo espero que él esté vivo y arreglen sus diferencias en el siguiente libro.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2020
A fun bit of classic fantasy. It's a slow burner but really picks up after 100 pages or so. Some of the characterisation is a bit inconsistent and, it being fantasy, it contains some eye-wateringly cringeworthy sexual scenes which add little value.
The story was gripping though, and I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
The story was gripping though, and I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
February 13, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book.
January 9, 2020
It seems author does not understand making story. Choices made by character does not make sence.
Story is all over the place. Nobody is loyal to the king, was he blind?
Story is all over the place. Nobody is loyal to the king, was he blind?
April 1, 2015
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for a chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publish Date: 5th May 2015
Full review can also be found on: Paein and Ms4Tune’s Book Blog
I was so excited about getting this book and I couldn't wait to read it! However, my copy had editorial notes throughout. It wasn't until after I'd read most of it that I was sent an email about downloading a copy without the notes.I didn't want to loose my place or have bits of the book move around on me so I opted to continue as I was. I'll wait for the actual book to compare them!
I have to say though, the book could have done with a little more explanation, I did spend a lot of it confused. I think part of this was purposely, but I also wonder if something was edited out that was kind of important or if I missed something key somewhere.
The book is quite long which was exciting more than annoying because every time I checked there was so much left!!! It did feel like it was a little dragged out in the middle though, almost like the start and the second half and end were written and they needed a filler. The whole book takes place in under 18 days but it does feel a lot longer. I think we see each day but you do assume that a few days have passed as there's no clear indicator until a little way into the book.
My favourite character switched while I was reading and at the moment I'm undecided. I'll have to see what book 2 brings. Alwenna annoyed me though. She resists something that, were she to embrace it, would perhaps have helped her substantially. Hopefully she'll embrace this in the future and step up. Where she is in her life now, it's time for her to be taking a stand and pushing back. I'm hoping she will,. she seems the type and I really cant wait.
There's obviously something far more going on within this world and I for one want to know it all.
I nearly didn't add this last bit, I couldn't quite work out how to say it without giving too much away but in the end I felt I had to bring it up as it's something that, according to society, doesn't exist and that's man rape. Just because the body seems willing, doesn't mean the guy actually is and in this instance the poor guy was barely awake, having spent the better part of two weeks at deaths door. Later, we find out the many things weren't what they first seemed, but still, that initial interaction stuck with me enough for me to mention it. I don't know what my mentioning it does, beyond calling attention to it, but I've mentioned it nevertheless.
November 17, 2015
As The Waterborne Blade opens, Queen Alwenna learns she must flee her home at Highkell, ahead of the imminent attack on her husband’s realm by her cousin, Vasic. King Tresilian believes that if Alwenna can reach the protection of the island sanctuary of Vorrahan she will escape the machinations of war. He entrusts Alwenna to Ranald Weaver, whose position of “King’s Man”, makes him the ideal candidate to deliver the Queen to safety. She is loath to go but once at Vorrahan meets with the seer, Brother Gwydion, who bestows upon her a powerful gift. This gift, combined with Vasic’s malevolent plans, will propel Alwenna on a journey full of treachery, danger, and unexpected discovery.
The Waterborne Blade is an enjoyable read. Susan Murray uses alternating POV’s to keep the story moving and its pacing is terrific. The use of dreams to fill in Alwenna’s past blends in seamlessly with the unfolding action of the story. Murray’s strong female protagonist begins as a pampered queen and shows excellent growth as she deals with the hardships being presented to her. The supporting cast is also well written, with the exception of, in my opinion, Weaver. Ranald Weaver is a bundle of contradictions. He professes his loyalty often to his king and queen yet I feel his actions do not always follow suit. I also didn’t like his treatment of Alwenna. Weaver’s many character flaws can be forgiven once his past is taken into account but not all.
To see the review in its entirety as posted on the Qwillery- please click the link....
http://qwillery.blogspot.com/2015/05/...
The Waterborne Blade is an enjoyable read. Susan Murray uses alternating POV’s to keep the story moving and its pacing is terrific. The use of dreams to fill in Alwenna’s past blends in seamlessly with the unfolding action of the story. Murray’s strong female protagonist begins as a pampered queen and shows excellent growth as she deals with the hardships being presented to her. The supporting cast is also well written, with the exception of, in my opinion, Weaver. Ranald Weaver is a bundle of contradictions. He professes his loyalty often to his king and queen yet I feel his actions do not always follow suit. I also didn’t like his treatment of Alwenna. Weaver’s many character flaws can be forgiven once his past is taken into account but not all.
To see the review in its entirety as posted on the Qwillery- please click the link....
http://qwillery.blogspot.com/2015/05/...
July 30, 2016
The best thing about The Waterborne Blade is that it manages never to be quite what it seems. At first I expected a little bit of a young queen becomes older wiser queen gambit with Alwenna. But then Alwenna's voice never that immature and although she moves from a place of quiet resilience to determined heroine.
Then, I thought I was reading a journey fantasy novel. You know the type. They are going somewhere important and along the way there will be banter, bandits and long silent treks through a continent to set the stage for a return years away. But Weaver is not quite that kind of typical kingsman for that plot to be borne out--though loyal he's rough and nothing softens his manners.
Fine then. With Queen Alwenna's vision and her magic and Vasic with his, you may figure this is the actual tale. A showdown between good and evil, right? And without spoiling it's not quite that either, because there is a moral greyness that sets in midway that is never quite shaken through the end of the novel.
I'm never quite taken with the romance in this novel and I love romance but it seems tacked on, particularly as it seems that everyone is consumed by their own motivations.
Overall I'm interested to see where this goes. I think there's the makings of a strong series here, but I'd like to see the cast expanded a little to make it seem a little bigger in scope.
Full disclosure: I received this book as a review copy from Angry Robot through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Originally posted at: http://galactictidesx.blogspot.ca/201...
Then, I thought I was reading a journey fantasy novel. You know the type. They are going somewhere important and along the way there will be banter, bandits and long silent treks through a continent to set the stage for a return years away. But Weaver is not quite that kind of typical kingsman for that plot to be borne out--though loyal he's rough and nothing softens his manners.
Fine then. With Queen Alwenna's vision and her magic and Vasic with his, you may figure this is the actual tale. A showdown between good and evil, right? And without spoiling it's not quite that either, because there is a moral greyness that sets in midway that is never quite shaken through the end of the novel.
I'm never quite taken with the romance in this novel and I love romance but it seems tacked on, particularly as it seems that everyone is consumed by their own motivations.
Overall I'm interested to see where this goes. I think there's the makings of a strong series here, but I'd like to see the cast expanded a little to make it seem a little bigger in scope.
Full disclosure: I received this book as a review copy from Angry Robot through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Originally posted at: http://galactictidesx.blogspot.ca/201...
July 31, 2015
This book started off a little slow, but I liked the characters enough to read until it got better. The Waterborne Blade got kinda interesting when they reached the monastery (I forget the name now), when it was impossible to know who was on Alwenna's side and who was plotting to hand her over to the usurper King. But I lost interest in that after a while - which about sums up how I felt about all of this book. I enjoyed it (a lot in some parts, with the rituals and blood magic and action bits) but after a while I got bored and wanted to move onto something new. I suppose the slow pace kinda hindered my enjoyment a bit, but I still did really like certain parts.
I love Alwenna, and Weaver, and Drew. I think they're all great characters. I thought the threat/villain was pretty realistic, and scarier for it. And I liked the world, even if it didn't feel particularly unique. What was unique was the free merchants, and I'm still not entirely sure whether they're trustworthy or dodgy or looking out for Alwenna. I guess I'll find out in the next book. For me, this book was lacking magic - there were parts of it throughout, but I wanted more actual magic in the first half, wanted to learn more about Alwenna's water magic, but judging from the ending, the second book will more than make up for it!
An interesting high fantasy with great characters (but not enough magic!)
I love Alwenna, and Weaver, and Drew. I think they're all great characters. I thought the threat/villain was pretty realistic, and scarier for it. And I liked the world, even if it didn't feel particularly unique. What was unique was the free merchants, and I'm still not entirely sure whether they're trustworthy or dodgy or looking out for Alwenna. I guess I'll find out in the next book. For me, this book was lacking magic - there were parts of it throughout, but I wanted more actual magic in the first half, wanted to learn more about Alwenna's water magic, but judging from the ending, the second book will more than make up for it!
An interesting high fantasy with great characters (but not enough magic!)
January 23, 2016
This epic fantasy follows Queen Alweena as she flees Highkell when her cousin Vasic, the traitor, attacks the citadel with the lofty goal of becoming the next King. Alweena soon finds out that her pampered lifestyle has ill-prepared her for life on the run. While being sheltered with the monks, her gift of 'the sight' takes an unexpected turn when she is brought before the ancient seer. Alweena now believes she should have never left Highkell in the first place and attempts to return. That's when everything goes sideways.
This is an exciting story full of twists and turns. The writing is sharp and the characters fully fleshed out. No one is all-good or all-evil, but fall somewhere in the middle. Alweena is a complicated young queen who tries to understand her magic while trying to stay alive one day at a time. My favorite character was Weaver, the battle hardened soldier, charged with keeping Alweena safe. The author keeps us interested as she slowly lets details about Weaver's life come to light. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, another unexpected twist throws everyone into chaos. I was sorry to see this story end on a pretty big cliffhanger without book 2 being available for sale. Fans of epic fantasy will thoroughly enjoy this action-packed 500+ page novel.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is an exciting story full of twists and turns. The writing is sharp and the characters fully fleshed out. No one is all-good or all-evil, but fall somewhere in the middle. Alweena is a complicated young queen who tries to understand her magic while trying to stay alive one day at a time. My favorite character was Weaver, the battle hardened soldier, charged with keeping Alweena safe. The author keeps us interested as she slowly lets details about Weaver's life come to light. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, another unexpected twist throws everyone into chaos. I was sorry to see this story end on a pretty big cliffhanger without book 2 being available for sale. Fans of epic fantasy will thoroughly enjoy this action-packed 500+ page novel.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 7, 2015
c2015;FWFTB: citadel, usurper, survival, safety, Highkell. For me, this was one of those books that, after a mere 5 pages, you know you are not going to get very far. I think the synopsis sounds great, the cover looked good (although the ubuquitous hood and sword are in evidence) and reviews on the 'net sounded promising. I am not sure who Mr Talboys is but he reckoned that this is "An intriguing and compelling fantasy.". Hmmmm. I'm afraid I would have to disagree. I think it was the faux medieval dialogue that just didn't work for me but in any event I just could not summon up the energy to battle on and on especially as there are others on my TBR pile that are singing for attention. So, unable to recommend to the normal crew at this time. "Husband, your family have long impressed upon me the importance of appropriate behaviour for my station. Imagine the outcry if it became common knowledge you had me smuggled out under cover of darkness like some wrongdoer?"
March 20, 2016
The prose of this book has an easy and readable style, but I didn't end up finishing it as I ultimately found myself unable to engage with it. The characters feel flat and uninspired, and I found most of them difficult to visualise as there wasn't much description of their appearance. Also, the fantasy world created feels underdeveloped: we don't learn enough about things like their society or religion, besides vague references to the Goddess (e.g. characters saying "Goddess willing" instead of "God willing").
July 15, 2015
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.
I really enjoyed this book. It starts off kind of slow, but it really picks up near the end. I wanted the story to keep going, and I am eagerly anticipating the sequel!
I gave it four stars because of the slow start, and because I was not sure about the romance; it seemed a bit forced. However, I really enjoyed the characters, and how they evolved through the book.
I recommend this to fantasy fans!
I really enjoyed this book. It starts off kind of slow, but it really picks up near the end. I wanted the story to keep going, and I am eagerly anticipating the sequel!
I gave it four stars because of the slow start, and because I was not sure about the romance; it seemed a bit forced. However, I really enjoyed the characters, and how they evolved through the book.
I recommend this to fantasy fans!
June 1, 2017
I loved the cover of this book and I was looking forward to reading a book with a strong heroine. And while the book was good overall, I was also disappointed. The heroine was not a strong character for much of the book and all of the relationships were very frustrating. While the relationship with Weaver was obvious, I didn't really feel a rapport between them. The book hinted at hidden feelings but I didn't feel it in the way they interacted.
June 23, 2015
A good read overall . At first the characters seemed a bit thin, and behaved somewhat strangely but there were reasons that became apparent. So that was OK. My main gripe was I never felt comfortable with the geography - everything seemed very close together, or they travelled very fast! Events accelerated in the last third and stakes got a lot higher, bringing it to a satisfactory state for the next book.
September 3, 2016
An enjoyable read. We slowly get to know the main character Alwenna as we follow her journey, with many shocking revelations and cliffhangers along the way. The plot unravels with many twists and turns. Who can be trusted? Can she save her kingdom?
Looking forward to reading the next installment.
Looking forward to reading the next installment.
February 15, 2017
Not a bad book. Full review over here: https://rickusbookshelf.wordpress.com...
August 5, 2015
Will keep you at the edge of your seat, screaming t the characters. Iloved it. I won my copy on Goodreads First Reads.
July 31, 2015
Yawn.
deals
November 30, 201530 November 2015: $2.99 on Kindle
March 27, 2015
review coming 5 Apr 15
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