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The Shadows of Erathal
An ancient treasure reemerges. Whispers of evil echo through the shadows. As a new power rises, only one thing is Evorath will never be the same.
Jaldor lives a peaceful life. Tending his farm, caring for his family, and feeding his community. But his entire world is turned upside down when a malevolent force arrives to threaten his family. In the moment when all seems lost, unexpected heroes arrive and renew his hope for the future.
After years of adventuring as a bounty hunter and mercenary, the shapeshifter Zelag returns to his family. But the unsettling news he brings threatens to shake the very core of their peaceful community. He and the other heroes must work quickly if they hope to quell the shadows of Erathal.
As the heroes of Erathal shine light on the shadowy underbelly, they discover terrifying alliances that threaten to plunge the continent into war. And with the imminent invasion of a dark elf army, it’s clear that not everyone will make it through the night.
Faced with overwhelming odds, can these motley heroes survive another day?
The Shadows of Erathal is the thrilling first book in The Legends of Evorath epic fantasy series. If you enjoy expansive world-building, mind-bending magic, and believe family is deeper than blood, you’ll fall in love with Joseph P Macolino’s fast-paced adventure.
Buy The Shadows of Erathal today and embark on an unforgettable quest.
Jaldor lives a peaceful life. Tending his farm, caring for his family, and feeding his community. But his entire world is turned upside down when a malevolent force arrives to threaten his family. In the moment when all seems lost, unexpected heroes arrive and renew his hope for the future.
After years of adventuring as a bounty hunter and mercenary, the shapeshifter Zelag returns to his family. But the unsettling news he brings threatens to shake the very core of their peaceful community. He and the other heroes must work quickly if they hope to quell the shadows of Erathal.
As the heroes of Erathal shine light on the shadowy underbelly, they discover terrifying alliances that threaten to plunge the continent into war. And with the imminent invasion of a dark elf army, it’s clear that not everyone will make it through the night.
Faced with overwhelming odds, can these motley heroes survive another day?
The Shadows of Erathal is the thrilling first book in The Legends of Evorath epic fantasy series. If you enjoy expansive world-building, mind-bending magic, and believe family is deeper than blood, you’ll fall in love with Joseph P Macolino’s fast-paced adventure.
Buy The Shadows of Erathal today and embark on an unforgettable quest.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2024
7 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Joseph P. Macolino
8 books46 followersHusband, father, and seeker of truth, Joseph Macolino has a passion for nature, philosophy, and all things fantasy. An unwavering Christian and self-declared anarchist, he dreams of a future human society where people can truly cooperate and voluntarily exchange ideas, goods, and services.
When he’s not writing Evorath, he’s likely outside gardening, spending time watching a show with his family, or reading a book on philosophy. Considering himself a lifelong student of humanity, Joseph enjoys meeting new people and being exposed to new perspectives. He believes each person’s unique gifts can help contribute to stronger communities and hopes his work encourages others to embrace their gifts.
Evorath introduces a rich world full of magic, adventure, and diverse characters trying to find their place in the world.
When he’s not writing Evorath, he’s likely outside gardening, spending time watching a show with his family, or reading a book on philosophy. Considering himself a lifelong student of humanity, Joseph enjoys meeting new people and being exposed to new perspectives. He believes each person’s unique gifts can help contribute to stronger communities and hopes his work encourages others to embrace their gifts.
Evorath introduces a rich world full of magic, adventure, and diverse characters trying to find their place in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 22, 2025
Wow. If you like world building and lots of characters, this book has them both!
This was my first time reading anything from this author. I was a little lost when references were made from the previous book since I did not read that one before doing an advance reading of this one. There is enough going on in this installment that the reader shouldn’t be completely lost if unfamiliar with the previous book. At least, I wasn’t.
This was an enjoyable read. I loved the magical elements, the banter and humor between characters, and the quiet humor that would appear from a narrative perspective as part of a particular chapter’s events were observed or experienced through from another character’s point of view.
I definitely want to read more from this author. His rich descriptions made me feel like I was there along the action sometimes.
This was my first time reading anything from this author. I was a little lost when references were made from the previous book since I did not read that one before doing an advance reading of this one. There is enough going on in this installment that the reader shouldn’t be completely lost if unfamiliar with the previous book. At least, I wasn’t.
This was an enjoyable read. I loved the magical elements, the banter and humor between characters, and the quiet humor that would appear from a narrative perspective as part of a particular chapter’s events were observed or experienced through from another character’s point of view.
I definitely want to read more from this author. His rich descriptions made me feel like I was there along the action sometimes.
October 29, 2024
I'm all for world building epics, but this was a lot. The writing, plot structure, characters, and the world created are masterfully crafted. I am interested in revisiting this story when there is an audio version. This isn't a quick read, and it requires you to delve into your imagination.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2024
Another great installment in the Evorath Series. The Shadows of Erathal picks up about 80 years after The Battle for Erathal ended. It continues the story of Artimus and Savannah and all of their friends as a new threat emerges in Evorath.
With each book, Macolinos’s writing becomes richer and this book proves it. Filled with action, magic, more extensive worldbuilding of Evorath, and character interactions, this book is a great read.
If you love high fantasy and are looking for an entertaining and easy to read fantasy series, this one is for you. While I think you could read The Shadows of Erathal on its own, there is a lot referenced in this book for the first trilogy, I would recommend reading that first.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With each book, Macolinos’s writing becomes richer and this book proves it. Filled with action, magic, more extensive worldbuilding of Evorath, and character interactions, this book is a great read.
If you love high fantasy and are looking for an entertaining and easy to read fantasy series, this one is for you. While I think you could read The Shadows of Erathal on its own, there is a lot referenced in this book for the first trilogy, I would recommend reading that first.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2024
In “The Shadows of Erathal,” book one in The Legends of Evorath series by Joseph P. Macolino, tranquility meets turmoil as Jaldor, a simple farmer devoted to his family, is faced with an encroaching evil that threatens not just the life of his family, but the future of the entire land. Zelag, a shapeshifting mercenary, arrives home after years of travel, but his return is far from ideal. He brings unsettling news that sends him on a quest with old friends to thwart the darkness threatening to eclipse all Erathal. With a band of quirky mages by his side, they discover a terrifying alliance being formed that seeks to plunge the continent into war. With the imminent invasion of a dark elf army and mortal peril, can they survive long enough to win the battle over evil?
One of the things I loved most about “The Shadows of Erathal” was the complex and unique magic system. Particularly, I loved that magic was just as accessible to regular mortals, such as Sarah and George, as it was to seasoned magic wielders such as Savannah and Artimus, who have already lived multiple human lifespans. The intertwining of the mystical with the mundane shows how the book emphasizes the theme of not only working together with your fellow community members but also working together with people and beings of all kinds. The collaboration between so many different races will be valuable to readers across generations and demographics and is a theme that cannot be overstated in the current state of our world.
One thing I have always loved about epic fantasy is the ability to transcend social boundaries and stigmas and emphasize unity. The magic of Erathal is deeply woven into the fabric of the novel so that it influences not just battle scenes but the nature of the characters’ family ties and personal aspirations. It makes the characters challenge their understanding of their world and their own selves.
I did find a few of the characters to be a little trivialized at times in “The Shadows of Erathal,” particularly George. He always seemed to try so hard in his endeavors but seemed to wind up as the butt of someone else’s joke. Of course, he took everything in good stride, but I worried that his character development suffered a little under the guise of adding humor to balance against the threat of evil invasion by the dark elves.
Some of the names of the characters were also quite similar, particularly the female characters, which made it a little hard to keep everyone straight at times. For example, we have Sarah, Savannah, Samantha, Sissera, Cassandra, and Allesandra. There were instances where I would mix up Sarah and Savannah, in particular. Cassandra and Allesandra are also very similar. A little more diversification of the names might help readers maintain their orientation while reading the book. Lastly, I wished for a little more build-up or background to the Hajje, the dark elves. The concept was so intriguing. I love books with elves, there is something so mystical about them, especially dark elves. It just was not entirely clear at first the true extent of the threat the Hajje posed, and why, and how it would have greater ramifications for Erathal.
Overall, for those who cherish intricate world-building coupled with the complexities of family and destiny, “The Shadows of Erathal” offers an exciting adventure into the heart of darkness and the light that can emerge from it. For those who delve into the pages of this fast-paced story, the magic enclosed promises to be expansive and profound, as well.
One of the things I loved most about “The Shadows of Erathal” was the complex and unique magic system. Particularly, I loved that magic was just as accessible to regular mortals, such as Sarah and George, as it was to seasoned magic wielders such as Savannah and Artimus, who have already lived multiple human lifespans. The intertwining of the mystical with the mundane shows how the book emphasizes the theme of not only working together with your fellow community members but also working together with people and beings of all kinds. The collaboration between so many different races will be valuable to readers across generations and demographics and is a theme that cannot be overstated in the current state of our world.
One thing I have always loved about epic fantasy is the ability to transcend social boundaries and stigmas and emphasize unity. The magic of Erathal is deeply woven into the fabric of the novel so that it influences not just battle scenes but the nature of the characters’ family ties and personal aspirations. It makes the characters challenge their understanding of their world and their own selves.
I did find a few of the characters to be a little trivialized at times in “The Shadows of Erathal,” particularly George. He always seemed to try so hard in his endeavors but seemed to wind up as the butt of someone else’s joke. Of course, he took everything in good stride, but I worried that his character development suffered a little under the guise of adding humor to balance against the threat of evil invasion by the dark elves.
Some of the names of the characters were also quite similar, particularly the female characters, which made it a little hard to keep everyone straight at times. For example, we have Sarah, Savannah, Samantha, Sissera, Cassandra, and Allesandra. There were instances where I would mix up Sarah and Savannah, in particular. Cassandra and Allesandra are also very similar. A little more diversification of the names might help readers maintain their orientation while reading the book. Lastly, I wished for a little more build-up or background to the Hajje, the dark elves. The concept was so intriguing. I love books with elves, there is something so mystical about them, especially dark elves. It just was not entirely clear at first the true extent of the threat the Hajje posed, and why, and how it would have greater ramifications for Erathal.
Overall, for those who cherish intricate world-building coupled with the complexities of family and destiny, “The Shadows of Erathal” offers an exciting adventure into the heart of darkness and the light that can emerge from it. For those who delve into the pages of this fast-paced story, the magic enclosed promises to be expansive and profound, as well.
January 22, 2025
The Shadows of Erathal is an intriguing fantasy novel that follows Jaldor, a human dairy farmer whose peaceful way of life is turned on its head when dark elves invade his land. Just when he thinks that everything is lost, he is unexpectedly saved by a band of unlikely heroes made up of different races of fantasy creatures. They warn Jaldor that the attacks by the dark elves are only going to get worse and so together, they set out to confront the threat that faces their world.
The plot itself is incredibly readable and does the classic fantasy trope of simple character overcoming dark forces very well. The characters are likeable and fun, and there is a solid and loyal relationship between the members of the group, even one of them who has apparently done something terrible in the past (something that is never explored further, frustratingly) is welcomed back into the fold. However, their individual growth and development feel somewhat underdone, and the relationships between them could have been fleshed out a whole lot more. I also felt like there wasn’t a whole lot of point to Jaldor past the initial attack on his farm, and the parts of the narrative spent discussing his cheese making could probably have been better spent giving us more details on the heroes.
One of my biggest issues with this book is the quality of the writing. The book is riddled with spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and instances where words are used incorrectly. I found this to be incredibly frustrating as it really takes you out of the story, particularly when incorrect words were used and I had to spend time trying to puzzle out what the author could have actually meant. While the premise of the story is good, these technical issues were what knocked off stars for me.
Another downside for me was the structure of the story itself. It jumps around quite a lot, between characters and locations, and as a result the pacing felt really off, particularly in the transitions between scenes or important events which were rather abrupt at points. Because of this its hard to follow where the story is heading and it leaves you wondering what the actual point of the story is. The world is hinted at being vast and filled with a rich and intriguing history, but this is never expanded on and leaves the overall story wanting.
Although the characters are fun and likeable, there are a LOT of characters to get your head round, some of them having very similar names, which leaves you having to flick back to check who it actually is that’s being referred to and it gets quite confusing.
Overall this is a solid novel but the story does feel a little bit incomplete and leaves an awful lot of unanswered questions. With a little more attention to detail, more time spent getting to know individual characters of importance and a lot more time spent on the editing, this could easily have been a five star novel.
The plot itself is incredibly readable and does the classic fantasy trope of simple character overcoming dark forces very well. The characters are likeable and fun, and there is a solid and loyal relationship between the members of the group, even one of them who has apparently done something terrible in the past (something that is never explored further, frustratingly) is welcomed back into the fold. However, their individual growth and development feel somewhat underdone, and the relationships between them could have been fleshed out a whole lot more. I also felt like there wasn’t a whole lot of point to Jaldor past the initial attack on his farm, and the parts of the narrative spent discussing his cheese making could probably have been better spent giving us more details on the heroes.
One of my biggest issues with this book is the quality of the writing. The book is riddled with spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and instances where words are used incorrectly. I found this to be incredibly frustrating as it really takes you out of the story, particularly when incorrect words were used and I had to spend time trying to puzzle out what the author could have actually meant. While the premise of the story is good, these technical issues were what knocked off stars for me.
Another downside for me was the structure of the story itself. It jumps around quite a lot, between characters and locations, and as a result the pacing felt really off, particularly in the transitions between scenes or important events which were rather abrupt at points. Because of this its hard to follow where the story is heading and it leaves you wondering what the actual point of the story is. The world is hinted at being vast and filled with a rich and intriguing history, but this is never expanded on and leaves the overall story wanting.
Although the characters are fun and likeable, there are a LOT of characters to get your head round, some of them having very similar names, which leaves you having to flick back to check who it actually is that’s being referred to and it gets quite confusing.
Overall this is a solid novel but the story does feel a little bit incomplete and leaves an awful lot of unanswered questions. With a little more attention to detail, more time spent getting to know individual characters of importance and a lot more time spent on the editing, this could easily have been a five star novel.
November 20, 2024
The story bounces around a bit throughout the beginning and it took me a bit to get my footing. Once I felt like I was grounded, the story wound through different magical establishments from a magic school to a tavern filled with seedy humans and creatures alike. There’s a bigger history and world hinted at throughout the book and it takes some sleuthing to put the pieces together as the story follows the main troupe of characters.
The head hopping was personally a bit more chaotic than I’m comfortable with but I was super intrigued by the magic system, political upheaval, and world history that unfolds in the background of the story. The hints given to us as the characters navigate a budding war make me want to know more about the rest of the world, instead of the quest at hand.
That said, there are some epic battles in the book that follow the action well and demonstrate the power and threat different factions pose.
I’m left feeling a little directionless and wondering what the focus of the story was, after all. Was it political development and the seeds of war being sown? Was it character development as people grew and established new relationships? Was it a focus on the religion at the heart of the story? If so, I’m not sure what is being said about it. The depiction of magic seemed like a pretty direct reflection of Christianity, which I have no interest in. Maybe I’ve just missed something somewhere or I’m simply not the right reader for this book.
The head hopping was personally a bit more chaotic than I’m comfortable with but I was super intrigued by the magic system, political upheaval, and world history that unfolds in the background of the story. The hints given to us as the characters navigate a budding war make me want to know more about the rest of the world, instead of the quest at hand.
That said, there are some epic battles in the book that follow the action well and demonstrate the power and threat different factions pose.
I’m left feeling a little directionless and wondering what the focus of the story was, after all. Was it political development and the seeds of war being sown? Was it character development as people grew and established new relationships? Was it a focus on the religion at the heart of the story? If so, I’m not sure what is being said about it. The depiction of magic seemed like a pretty direct reflection of Christianity, which I have no interest in. Maybe I’ve just missed something somewhere or I’m simply not the right reader for this book.
January 30, 2025
This was an enjoyable read that follows our protagonist Jaldor who lives in peaceful bliss as a dairy farmer until some dark elves come and invade his land. It doesn't look good for him and just as he is slipping into despair along comes a group of all different kinds of fantasy creatures to save the day, carrying a warning that this is only the start. Our unlikely heroes - now including Jaldor- then set off to put a stop to the elves and save the world.
This is a compelling story line that drew me in right from the start and made me want to keep reading. My favourite part of the book however was the characters, I fell in love with them especially the little band of creatures, however I would have liked more on them such as more backstory.
As it is the start of the series it is expected that this book would be heavy on the world building and it set the book up perfectly for the rest of the series, I just found it a bit hard at times, but that's a me thing not the book as I find world building tough to get through if there is a lot of it. Having said that though I can't wait to continue on with the series.
This is a compelling story line that drew me in right from the start and made me want to keep reading. My favourite part of the book however was the characters, I fell in love with them especially the little band of creatures, however I would have liked more on them such as more backstory.
As it is the start of the series it is expected that this book would be heavy on the world building and it set the book up perfectly for the rest of the series, I just found it a bit hard at times, but that's a me thing not the book as I find world building tough to get through if there is a lot of it. Having said that though I can't wait to continue on with the series.
December 27, 2024
The shadows of erathal
By Joseph P. Macolino
Where do I even begin with this book? When I picked it up, I didn’t expect it to be this good. From start to finish, it had me completely hooked. The world-building? Phenomenal. The character development? Masterful. The plot twists and turns kept me on my toes the entire time. The writing flowed seamlessly, making it such an easy yet immersive read—I’m already searching for my next fix.
This book was intricately crafted, engaging, and thought-provoking, with unexpected heroes stepping up in ways that truly surprised me. It pulled me into the world Joseph P. Macolino created and refused to let go. I noticed it’s marked as “book one of one,” but I also discovered he has other works, and now I need them all because I’m obsessed with this particular universe.
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this. It’s easily one of the best books I’ve read this year. Joseph P Macolino - Author
Thank you so much I can’t wait to read your other books
By Joseph P. Macolino
Where do I even begin with this book? When I picked it up, I didn’t expect it to be this good. From start to finish, it had me completely hooked. The world-building? Phenomenal. The character development? Masterful. The plot twists and turns kept me on my toes the entire time. The writing flowed seamlessly, making it such an easy yet immersive read—I’m already searching for my next fix.
This book was intricately crafted, engaging, and thought-provoking, with unexpected heroes stepping up in ways that truly surprised me. It pulled me into the world Joseph P. Macolino created and refused to let go. I noticed it’s marked as “book one of one,” but I also discovered he has other works, and now I need them all because I’m obsessed with this particular universe.
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this. It’s easily one of the best books I’ve read this year. Joseph P Macolino - Author
Thank you so much I can’t wait to read your other books
November 5, 2024
Engaging read with intricate magic system
This epic fantasy novel follows the story of Jaldor, a simple farmer who is forced to confront a looming evil that threatens his family and the entire land of Erathal. The novel features a complex and unique magic system that is accessible to regular mortals, adding an intriguing element to the story.
While the concept of the novel is captivating, there are some aspects that could be improved upon. The multiple characters with similar names and the lack of background information on the dark elves added confusion to the story. Additionally, the character development could have been more fleshed out.
Despite these shortcomings, "The Shadows of Erathal" is a good epic fantasy read. The author's world-building skills and the intricate magic system make for an engaging read. I would recommend this book to fans of the fantasy genre looking for a new and exciting adventure.
This epic fantasy novel follows the story of Jaldor, a simple farmer who is forced to confront a looming evil that threatens his family and the entire land of Erathal. The novel features a complex and unique magic system that is accessible to regular mortals, adding an intriguing element to the story.
While the concept of the novel is captivating, there are some aspects that could be improved upon. The multiple characters with similar names and the lack of background information on the dark elves added confusion to the story. Additionally, the character development could have been more fleshed out.
Despite these shortcomings, "The Shadows of Erathal" is a good epic fantasy read. The author's world-building skills and the intricate magic system make for an engaging read. I would recommend this book to fans of the fantasy genre looking for a new and exciting adventure.
January 27, 2025
The Shadows of Erathal is an addictive action-filled fantasy novel, which introduces the readers to Jaldor, a humble dairy farmer whose quiet life is shattered by dark elves invading his land. When all seemed lost, a somewhat diverse and very unexpected bunch of heroes comes into play and involves Jaldor along on a truly adrenaline-filled quest against a growing danger that threatens their world.
The concept of the story is fun, with classic fantasy tropes mixed with intriguing hints of a larger world full of magic, danger, and history. The group of heroes brings energy and loyalty to the narrative, making the group dynamics fun and engaging. The urgency of the plot keeps you hooked, with plenty of action and twists to keep you at the edge of your seat.
I wish there was a deeper dive into the dark elves, and sometimes the similarity in characters names left me a bit confused.
The Shadows of Erathal is still a solid and enjoyable beginning in The Legends of Evorath.
The concept of the story is fun, with classic fantasy tropes mixed with intriguing hints of a larger world full of magic, danger, and history. The group of heroes brings energy and loyalty to the narrative, making the group dynamics fun and engaging. The urgency of the plot keeps you hooked, with plenty of action and twists to keep you at the edge of your seat.
I wish there was a deeper dive into the dark elves, and sometimes the similarity in characters names left me a bit confused.
The Shadows of Erathal is still a solid and enjoyable beginning in The Legends of Evorath.
January 28, 2025
At the start of the story we are introduced to a character called Jaldor. Now Jaldor is a farmer who is going about his everyday life when suddenly appear some dark elves who invade his land. Through twists and turns a group of unexpected heroes arrive and involve Jaldor in a quest of growing danger against their world. This is a fun fantasy read which has typical fantasy tropes and will constantly have your attention. Although this book follows a prequel trilogy which gives you the history of some of the characters I personally don’t think you need to read it prior to reading The Shadows of Erathal or at least for me personally I haven’t read the prequel trilogy before reading this and I was still hooked to this book and understood everything that happened. That being said I will definitely go back and read the prequel trilogy and do a possible reread of this book and see if it changes my reading experience.
March 7, 2025
Jaldor is in for a ride, and he has no clue yet as we follow him through this morning in the village.
Not only are his wants few, his needs are few as well.
A trait I admire.
Creating a world with magic, I enjoy this adventure, and, to my great joy, there is a map of the realm as well. 😁
Then, out of the blue, his little farm is attacked by hájji, a group of dark elves. He is uncertain if he will survive and be able to keep his little family alive.
Thankfully, another kind of family shows up and saves the day.
Son of a dragon, what a family that is!
The family even includes a troll named Oogmot!
We find quite the variety of characters in this book, everything from humans to the fierce Luna Freya.
I was not sure about this Zelag character. Can he be trusted?
And what’s up with hájji? Even the bad guys are scared of them!
With our band taking the last stand against the hájji, can they save Ethara
Can they even survive the night?
Not only are his wants few, his needs are few as well.
A trait I admire.
Creating a world with magic, I enjoy this adventure, and, to my great joy, there is a map of the realm as well. 😁
Then, out of the blue, his little farm is attacked by hájji, a group of dark elves. He is uncertain if he will survive and be able to keep his little family alive.
Thankfully, another kind of family shows up and saves the day.
Son of a dragon, what a family that is!
The family even includes a troll named Oogmot!
We find quite the variety of characters in this book, everything from humans to the fierce Luna Freya.
I was not sure about this Zelag character. Can he be trusted?
And what’s up with hájji? Even the bad guys are scared of them!
With our band taking the last stand against the hájji, can they save Ethara
Can they even survive the night?
October 31, 2024
Looking for in-depth world building, exotic locales, and well-wrought dialogue in epic fantasy? This might be your book! Starting with a dream/nightmare and following a community as bad news comes to it, this story is an expansive, entertaining read.
Jaldor is down-to-earth but his and the community's view is shaken when news arrives of a growing danger. Themes of friendship, derring do, and doing your best. Individuals lifted from daily life and thrust into tough situations - al of these can be focuses in well-written fantasy and author Macolino handles it deftly.
This can be read as a standalone but the previous series really does enrich a few things. (This one is set 80 years or so after the first)
Jaldor is down-to-earth but his and the community's view is shaken when news arrives of a growing danger. Themes of friendship, derring do, and doing your best. Individuals lifted from daily life and thrust into tough situations - al of these can be focuses in well-written fantasy and author Macolino handles it deftly.
This can be read as a standalone but the previous series really does enrich a few things. (This one is set 80 years or so after the first)
February 1, 2025
Have to say, The Shadows of Erathal was a great start to the series, and right up my street.
We follow Jaldor, our main character, who lives a peaceful famers life, providing for his community, when tragedy strikes when a hoard of dark elves invade, their presence threatens full scale war.
Can a rag tag band of heroes save the day? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, this read was everything I look for in epic fantasy. Rich, Sweeping world building, action, fantastical characters, magic and danger.
For the most part, the story was well paced, but I must say, it did jump around somewhat, from character to character or place to place, so that did hamper the pace a little.
Overall, a well put together start to the series.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
We follow Jaldor, our main character, who lives a peaceful famers life, providing for his community, when tragedy strikes when a hoard of dark elves invade, their presence threatens full scale war.
Can a rag tag band of heroes save the day? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
So all in all, this read was everything I look for in epic fantasy. Rich, Sweeping world building, action, fantastical characters, magic and danger.
For the most part, the story was well paced, but I must say, it did jump around somewhat, from character to character or place to place, so that did hamper the pace a little.
Overall, a well put together start to the series.
4 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from me.
November 12, 2025
The Shadows of Erathal by Joseph P. Macolino is an ambitious fantasy novel with an intricate world and a strong sense of lore. The author clearly put a lot of thought into the mythology, politics, and history of Erathal — it feels expansive and well-built, perfect for readers who love getting lost in detailed worldbuilding.
That said, while I appreciated the creativity and the depth of the story, it wasn’t quite my cup of tea. The pacing dragged in a few places, and I struggled to fully connect with the characters on an emotional level. Still, the writing itself was solid, and the concept had plenty of intrigue.
Overall, it’s a well-crafted fantasy for readers who enjoy complex plots and rich settings — just not one that fully hooked me personally.
That said, while I appreciated the creativity and the depth of the story, it wasn’t quite my cup of tea. The pacing dragged in a few places, and I struggled to fully connect with the characters on an emotional level. Still, the writing itself was solid, and the concept had plenty of intrigue.
Overall, it’s a well-crafted fantasy for readers who enjoy complex plots and rich settings — just not one that fully hooked me personally.
July 25, 2024
An interesting start to a new fantasy series. An oddball group of friends, with history, gather to protect what on the face of it is an ordinary farm owned by an ordinary family. A war is brewing and it's difficult to know who is pulling the strings behind the scenes, and who is friend or foe.
I enjoyed how the strands of the story are woven together though by the end there is still much that I don't quite understand. I hope they'll become clearer as I read the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My rating and review is solely my own words and opinion
I enjoyed how the strands of the story are woven together though by the end there is still much that I don't quite understand. I hope they'll become clearer as I read the next book.
I received a copy of this book from the author. My rating and review is solely my own words and opinion
January 30, 2025
This was a good epic fantasy story and a good start to the series. I'm definitely interested in continuing these books and am glad the sequel is supposed to be out soon.
However, I do feel like I was missing out a bit by not having read the first trilogy. It isn't necessary for this book, but many of the characters obviously know each other from the previous books and a few times I felt like I was missing out on a private joke when they talked about things that had happened before. Hopefully I have a chance to catch up on them
However, I do feel like I was missing out a bit by not having read the first trilogy. It isn't necessary for this book, but many of the characters obviously know each other from the previous books and a few times I felt like I was missing out on a private joke when they talked about things that had happened before. Hopefully I have a chance to catch up on them
February 2, 2025
The Shadows of Erathal by Joseph P Macolino.
The Legends of Evorath #1.
This was a good read i did like the cover and blurb. I love elves, especially dark elves. I loved the magic in this book. The world building was a lot to get into. I loved the creatures that came to help. Although I hadn't read the first trilogy, I did sort of understand it. This took me a few days to read. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
The Legends of Evorath #1.
This was a good read i did like the cover and blurb. I love elves, especially dark elves. I loved the magic in this book. The world building was a lot to get into. I loved the creatures that came to help. Although I hadn't read the first trilogy, I did sort of understand it. This took me a few days to read. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
August 29, 2024
Excellent. Loved this book. The author has made an interesting world with lots of interesting characters, magic, humor, and a bit of romance. Macolino draws you into his world, and you feel the characters' joys, pain, and sorrow. I highly recommend this book.
This book was received from the author through Voracious Readers Only, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was received from the author through Voracious Readers Only, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 5, 2024
Interesting book.
I have not read any of the others in this universe, so some parts that reflected events in the first Trilogy were lost on me.
I enjoyed the way the world was presented. I was startled to see characters introduced as important, then relegated to secondary status as new characters were brought forward.
I hope some day to get the opportunity to return to this universe.
I have not read any of the others in this universe, so some parts that reflected events in the first Trilogy were lost on me.
I enjoyed the way the world was presented. I was startled to see characters introduced as important, then relegated to secondary status as new characters were brought forward.
I hope some day to get the opportunity to return to this universe.
August 24, 2024
One of my Voracious Reads. Very good book. Very high fantasy and very enjoyable. Alot more fighting than I'm used to but it was good and the relationships were very strong, you could really get into the heads of the characters. Definitely would recommend!
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