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The Book of Deacon #2
The Great Convergence
The second in the Book of Deacon series, The Great Convergence continues the tale of young Myranda Celeste. With fresh knowledge of magic and steadfast resolve to see the end of the war that plagues her land, Myranda sets out to find and unite the five fated heroes, the Chosen. Each new warrior brings her world a step closer to peace, but does she have the strength to survive the trials ahead?
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First published December 30, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
May 8, 2012
In The Great Convergence we start up directly where we left off in the first book, The Book of Deacon. We left Myranda following Lain out of the cave at Entwell hoping to convince him to stop the war because he had been shown to be one of the five Chosen. And the prophesy said that the five Chosen would end the war, but Lain wants nothing to do with it. Myranda has decided that it is her mission in life to get him to take on his responsibility even if it kills her. So she and Myn, her dragon, track him by means of one of his teeth that she knocked out in a fight. And now the the story starts really gets moving.
We have new important characters including the Northern Alliance Generals Bagu, and Epidime. We have the malthrope Ivy, the business partner Desmeres, the mystic Chosen Ether, and the continuing importance of the wizard Deacon. All these characters leap off the page in technicolor, fully realized, life. Not only that, but each character, not just the main one, goes through hard won personal development - growing and maturing into someone substantially different than the original character. Whether through hardship, love, loss, loneliness, or other factors, they all come out the other side changed by their ordeals, stronger people for the experience though some definitely have scars. This is characterization at its' finest.
The pace of the book is break-neck. It leaves little room for breath as you rip the pages by. You are completely engrossed in the story of Myranda, Lain, Ether and Ivy that there is no room for anything else. I read the book in a single afternoon. I didn't even stop for phone calls. The transitions are seamless as the story is fairly linear, hopping from our heroes to the Northern Alliance Generals and back with no confusion.
There is so much exciting in this story that comes about. There are dragoyles, magic battles, near men, poison breath, magic crystals, evil Generals, mutant beasts, mining scams, hide outs, much running and hiding, a lot of hunting, violin playing, mind raping, aerial battles, magical wound healing, magical swords, evil halbards, and possession. The ending comes at a time that is natural to break off the story, but it still surprised me, as I hadn't once looked up from the book since I started it. I was disappointed that it was over, but then I remembered that I already bought book three.
I would whole heatedly recommend this book to anyone who like epic fantasy, magic, historical warfare, or just a thumping good read. Also, all you students of human nature, this one's a gem. Don't miss this or the first one. I'm on to book three! Yahoo!
We have new important characters including the Northern Alliance Generals Bagu, and Epidime. We have the malthrope Ivy, the business partner Desmeres, the mystic Chosen Ether, and the continuing importance of the wizard Deacon. All these characters leap off the page in technicolor, fully realized, life. Not only that, but each character, not just the main one, goes through hard won personal development - growing and maturing into someone substantially different than the original character. Whether through hardship, love, loss, loneliness, or other factors, they all come out the other side changed by their ordeals, stronger people for the experience though some definitely have scars. This is characterization at its' finest.
The pace of the book is break-neck. It leaves little room for breath as you rip the pages by. You are completely engrossed in the story of Myranda, Lain, Ether and Ivy that there is no room for anything else. I read the book in a single afternoon. I didn't even stop for phone calls. The transitions are seamless as the story is fairly linear, hopping from our heroes to the Northern Alliance Generals and back with no confusion.
There is so much exciting in this story that comes about. There are dragoyles, magic battles, near men, poison breath, magic crystals, evil Generals, mutant beasts, mining scams, hide outs, much running and hiding, a lot of hunting, violin playing, mind raping, aerial battles, magical wound healing, magical swords, evil halbards, and possession. The ending comes at a time that is natural to break off the story, but it still surprised me, as I hadn't once looked up from the book since I started it. I was disappointed that it was over, but then I remembered that I already bought book three.
I would whole heatedly recommend this book to anyone who like epic fantasy, magic, historical warfare, or just a thumping good read. Also, all you students of human nature, this one's a gem. Don't miss this or the first one. I'm on to book three! Yahoo!
December 30, 2011
I admit I am very disappointed. When I read the first book in this series, I thought I had found a virtually unknown author who had some talent and can write a quality novel. I have now changed my mind after reading this book.
Just as when Michelangelo did not use a sledgehammer when he was carving the intricate details of the Statue of David, it was almost as if this author used a sledgehammer to force the plot to fit into the pattern he wanted it to fit in. So in honor of his heavy-handedness, I will substitute the gavel I typically use when judging a book and instead slam my sledgehammer down to give this book ... two stars.
I just could not do it, I just could not give this book one star. I do think this is a one star book. However, I try to limit the books I give one star to reserving it for the books that I truly think that every moment I spent reading them was a waste of my life. I just do not feel that way about this book. In fact, there were moments where I was enjoying this book.
Another fault of this book is how the story could not focus on one character's viewpoint. Instead it would bounce between one character's viewpoint to another character's viewpoint between paragraphs. This led to some rather confusing scenes especially towards the end of the book when the number of major characters grew. about three-fourths of the way through the book, I nearly gave up on it due to just getting confused by what was going on.
Many of the characters are also poorly created. They often tend to be single minded one dimensional characters. Their personalities are hard to believe and sometimes when some of them say something, all I can think of is, "who talks that way?"
I won't say I have given up on this series. In fact I do think I will someday read the conclusion of the trilogy. However, this is a series I do not recommend reading.
Just as when Michelangelo did not use a sledgehammer when he was carving the intricate details of the Statue of David, it was almost as if this author used a sledgehammer to force the plot to fit into the pattern he wanted it to fit in. So in honor of his heavy-handedness, I will substitute the gavel I typically use when judging a book and instead slam my sledgehammer down to give this book ... two stars.
I just could not do it, I just could not give this book one star. I do think this is a one star book. However, I try to limit the books I give one star to reserving it for the books that I truly think that every moment I spent reading them was a waste of my life. I just do not feel that way about this book. In fact, there were moments where I was enjoying this book.
Another fault of this book is how the story could not focus on one character's viewpoint. Instead it would bounce between one character's viewpoint to another character's viewpoint between paragraphs. This led to some rather confusing scenes especially towards the end of the book when the number of major characters grew. about three-fourths of the way through the book, I nearly gave up on it due to just getting confused by what was going on.
Many of the characters are also poorly created. They often tend to be single minded one dimensional characters. Their personalities are hard to believe and sometimes when some of them say something, all I can think of is, "who talks that way?"
I won't say I have given up on this series. In fact I do think I will someday read the conclusion of the trilogy. However, this is a series I do not recommend reading.
February 11, 2012
In the start of the second book, I found Myranda to be rather naive and petulant. In fact, I found her childish and annoying. It made it very hard to enjoy the book.
I also found the beginning of the book slow to start. That and the fact that the heroine was being such a prude made it hard to read.
After that troublesome start, things looked up for the better. In fact, things got considerably better. Enough so that it made up for the beginning.
The book took unexpected twists and turns in the plot that left me wondering what in the world Lallo would do next. Just when I thought things couldn’t get any worse, things did get worse. It definitely wasn’t a light fantasy. This added to the high drama of the story and I loved it.
As in the first book, Lallo did a good job switching from one perspective to another. I always thought this was something of an art form. If the author can do this without making the reader dizzy and in an effective manner. It’s something of an art.
The book does end on a cliffhanger. Luckily the third book is already out. Just make sure you have it handy!
I also found the beginning of the book slow to start. That and the fact that the heroine was being such a prude made it hard to read.
After that troublesome start, things looked up for the better. In fact, things got considerably better. Enough so that it made up for the beginning.
The book took unexpected twists and turns in the plot that left me wondering what in the world Lallo would do next. Just when I thought things couldn’t get any worse, things did get worse. It definitely wasn’t a light fantasy. This added to the high drama of the story and I loved it.
As in the first book, Lallo did a good job switching from one perspective to another. I always thought this was something of an art form. If the author can do this without making the reader dizzy and in an effective manner. It’s something of an art.
The book does end on a cliffhanger. Luckily the third book is already out. Just make sure you have it handy!
July 2, 2019
I'm pretty peeved one of my favorite characters is ripped from the pages; but we know as readers that some beloved character always kicks the bucket. It's just not a story without that tumultuous heart tear. All of that aside, I am literally mind running to the next book to see what happens. Myranda and her group have completely grown on me. Yes, the writing itself can be frustrating (especially when jumping perspectives) and yes some things drag and some things rush while the characters miraculously make it out of back to back- to back- to back (and on and on) battles.... sigh.
BUT, overall I have found myself staying up later than I should swiping to my hearts content (Kindle Format). If you can get passed the drag and connect with the characters, you'll see why I gave this one a 4.
BUT, overall I have found myself staying up later than I should swiping to my hearts content (Kindle Format). If you can get passed the drag and connect with the characters, you'll see why I gave this one a 4.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2018
Приключението продължава, :)
September 6, 2012
OK. Though I didn't care much for the first book in this trilogy, I decided to give the second book a chance because I was interested in the story line and wanted to know how everything ended up. I really wish I hadn't. The problems that were present with the first novel continue in the second one with a few more to note.
The characters Ivy and Ether appear to have multiple personalities. Ivy sometimes acts like a normal being, mature and capable of anything; other times she acts as a child, a brat even, dependent on those around her for her emotional and physical well-being. Ether, likewise, is sometimes condescending, conceited, and flat out mean, unreasonably so; other times, though not exactly friendly, she appears at least neutral or aloof. It's difficult to pin down exactly who these individuals are and what they are like. And that's just a sampling--the other characters in the book have similar flaws.
Moreover, there are too many battles. Now don't get me wrong. I'm not one to shy away from violence, blood, and action. However, the book was riddled with battle after battle after battle, taking away from the development of the plot. And the battles were just confusing--I could no longer picture the battles in my mind (the imagery just wasn't there). It got to the point that I had to scan through the battles because it was just the same thing over and over: Ether turning to stone and wind and water and fire; the cloaks and nearmen being difficult to kill; the stone dragoyles coming down from the sky; etc. It just got so boring.
Finally, you do not kill off your main character (Myranda) in the middle of the second book of your trilogy. When she died in the book, I was tempted to put the book down and just stop reading right then and there. Now, I recognize that she didn't actually die, but we don't find that out until the end of the book. There are better ways of going about shocking your audience with the "death" of the main character and her later resurrection; this was a terrible way to go about it. As a result, I will not be reading the third installment in the trilogy. I just can't be disappointed again.
The characters Ivy and Ether appear to have multiple personalities. Ivy sometimes acts like a normal being, mature and capable of anything; other times she acts as a child, a brat even, dependent on those around her for her emotional and physical well-being. Ether, likewise, is sometimes condescending, conceited, and flat out mean, unreasonably so; other times, though not exactly friendly, she appears at least neutral or aloof. It's difficult to pin down exactly who these individuals are and what they are like. And that's just a sampling--the other characters in the book have similar flaws.
Moreover, there are too many battles. Now don't get me wrong. I'm not one to shy away from violence, blood, and action. However, the book was riddled with battle after battle after battle, taking away from the development of the plot. And the battles were just confusing--I could no longer picture the battles in my mind (the imagery just wasn't there). It got to the point that I had to scan through the battles because it was just the same thing over and over: Ether turning to stone and wind and water and fire; the cloaks and nearmen being difficult to kill; the stone dragoyles coming down from the sky; etc. It just got so boring.
Finally, you do not kill off your main character (Myranda) in the middle of the second book of your trilogy. When she died in the book, I was tempted to put the book down and just stop reading right then and there. Now, I recognize that she didn't actually die, but we don't find that out until the end of the book. There are better ways of going about shocking your audience with the "death" of the main character and her later resurrection; this was a terrible way to go about it. As a result, I will not be reading the third installment in the trilogy. I just can't be disappointed again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2021
I'm quite disappointed.
So Miranda was an extremely naive character in the first book, but as a reader I would expect that her adventures helped her to grow in some manner.
Apparently not. She's portrayed as even more simple-minded in this new book, which makes her look definetely stupid.
But she manages to surround herself with powerful beings, the Chosen, and be part of this adventure despite her efforts to really fuck everything up.
Together they run from fight to fight. And that's all that happens.
But also it does not matter, because nothing comes from said fights. They fight apparently to death, but nobody dies; they all leave and recover so they can fight all over again. Rinse and repeat.
Not a great plot in my humble opinion.
The new characters (Ether, Ivy) are rather underdeveloped.
The focus changes from one of the main characters (heroes & villains) constantly, for no apparent reason other than making the reader dizzy.
And overall I did not give a damn about anything that happened.
I'm refraining from giving this book 1-star because this is not an absolute crap, but to be honest it's so very disappointing that quite often it felt like one.
Not sure whether I'll care to read the last one of the series.
So Miranda was an extremely naive character in the first book, but as a reader I would expect that her adventures helped her to grow in some manner.
Apparently not. She's portrayed as even more simple-minded in this new book, which makes her look definetely stupid.
But she manages to surround herself with powerful beings, the Chosen, and be part of this adventure despite her efforts to really fuck everything up.
Together they run from fight to fight. And that's all that happens.
But also it does not matter, because nothing comes from said fights. They fight apparently to death, but nobody dies; they all leave and recover so they can fight all over again. Rinse and repeat.
Not a great plot in my humble opinion.
The new characters (Ether, Ivy) are rather underdeveloped.
The focus changes from one of the main characters (heroes & villains) constantly, for no apparent reason other than making the reader dizzy.
And overall I did not give a damn about anything that happened.
I'm refraining from giving this book 1-star because this is not an absolute crap, but to be honest it's so very disappointing that quite often it felt like one.
Not sure whether I'll care to read the last one of the series.
October 25, 2025
Gave up…a generous 3 stars
January 17, 2024
If somebody had told me (before I started this book) that this will be one of the best books I've read this year, I would have probably been in a denial. And it wouldn't have been caused by the fact I don't like the author of the series ( I DO), but because I have a really high criteria when it comes to books and if they are worth 5 stars.
Now, that I had finished the book, I'm speechless!?
I want someone to hit me in the face, just because I didn't KNEW how great this author can write!
I knew what he can write from the previous book, but didn't know how INCREADIBLE he can be!!
I'm not that type of person who give left and right compliments, but Joseph Lallo deserve every each one of them... Because he did something I've (honestly) never seen before in book (or don't remember being so impactul)...
He did two things that still had me in shock..
The first thing is how much he succeeded in using the overused trope of the "Chosen One", without making it seems "fake" and the second - how amazing he must be to leave me with the expression that the story was writing itself, and the author was just the hand, writing it, and not leading what's happening!
IT'S AMAZING, because there are probably millions of books, where the author IS THE AUTHOR, but only a few where THE STORY becomes the inventor of the book, not the actual person...
I'm saying that because up until now there wasn't a single moment when I predicted something or was like : "the author would for sure make the hero the winner"...
No, there wasn't such things...
The story was being ~fair~, if I can say that...
When there were fights or hardships to be overcomed, nothing was being given, freely, to the characters - they had to earn it!
They weren't "who will win", but "who will make the first step to help in winning"...
And not only that, but Myranda, despite basically being the typical "Chosen One", she didn't act like she is that great... She wasn't that overly-confindent girl, who thought everything will go as she wants it to be, just because fate or destiny planned for her something ~big~...
She was trying to find out why would it had to be ~her~, who should be this important!
Even though she didn't understand some things, she gave her everything to help the ones, who's more important!
She was the one who made her mission to become part of the world-saving events, by brining all 5 of the Chosen together, even if she didn't had to.
But she did it because for her that was the right choice!
And no matter how crazy I went, when she actually found out she WAS one of the Chosen, I couldn't care less if it was confirmed or not, because for me, from the start of the fisrt book, she was one of them!
And I still keep one tiny bit of hope, that Deacon would also be one of them, even though at the end he said he wasn't a Chosen...
In my heart he is already part of them, but it would be so special if he also becomes one, legally ( I don't know what word to use)!
As they say: "Hope never die"...
Edit:
Omg, I'm so dumb - I forgot to mentions some other things that I liked...
1.I really like Deacon... He's just so precious, I don't know why so many people didn't take him seriously... He's clearly so smart, caring, understanding and well-mannered, and, still, most of the villagers of the Entwell (Im not sure how the village is spelled) are treating him like he is some kind of annoying kid or something.
They should respect him more!!!
2.I found it really funny how self-centered and rude the Chosen Girly was...Not that I agree with the way she was behaving, but (except the times she was rude to Myranda or everyone) she was kind of sassy...
And 3.Why would the author make Min die?!!!?!??!????
I didn't expect that to happen?!?!?!
Now, that I had finished the book, I'm speechless!?
I want someone to hit me in the face, just because I didn't KNEW how great this author can write!
I knew what he can write from the previous book, but didn't know how INCREADIBLE he can be!!
I'm not that type of person who give left and right compliments, but Joseph Lallo deserve every each one of them... Because he did something I've (honestly) never seen before in book (or don't remember being so impactul)...
He did two things that still had me in shock..
The first thing is how much he succeeded in using the overused trope of the "Chosen One", without making it seems "fake" and the second - how amazing he must be to leave me with the expression that the story was writing itself, and the author was just the hand, writing it, and not leading what's happening!
IT'S AMAZING, because there are probably millions of books, where the author IS THE AUTHOR, but only a few where THE STORY becomes the inventor of the book, not the actual person...
I'm saying that because up until now there wasn't a single moment when I predicted something or was like : "the author would for sure make the hero the winner"...
No, there wasn't such things...
The story was being ~fair~, if I can say that...
When there were fights or hardships to be overcomed, nothing was being given, freely, to the characters - they had to earn it!
They weren't "who will win", but "who will make the first step to help in winning"...
And not only that, but Myranda, despite basically being the typical "Chosen One", she didn't act like she is that great... She wasn't that overly-confindent girl, who thought everything will go as she wants it to be, just because fate or destiny planned for her something ~big~...
She was trying to find out why would it had to be ~her~, who should be this important!
Even though she didn't understand some things, she gave her everything to help the ones, who's more important!
She was the one who made her mission to become part of the world-saving events, by brining all 5 of the Chosen together, even if she didn't had to.
But she did it because for her that was the right choice!
And no matter how crazy I went, when she actually found out she WAS one of the Chosen, I couldn't care less if it was confirmed or not, because for me, from the start of the fisrt book, she was one of them!
And I still keep one tiny bit of hope, that Deacon would also be one of them, even though at the end he said he wasn't a Chosen...
In my heart he is already part of them, but it would be so special if he also becomes one, legally ( I don't know what word to use)!
As they say: "Hope never die"...
Edit:
Omg, I'm so dumb - I forgot to mentions some other things that I liked...
1.I really like Deacon... He's just so precious, I don't know why so many people didn't take him seriously... He's clearly so smart, caring, understanding and well-mannered, and, still, most of the villagers of the Entwell (Im not sure how the village is spelled) are treating him like he is some kind of annoying kid or something.
They should respect him more!!!
2.I found it really funny how self-centered and rude the Chosen Girly was...Not that I agree with the way she was behaving, but (except the times she was rude to Myranda or everyone) she was kind of sassy...
And 3.Why would the author make Min die?!!!?!??!????
I didn't expect that to happen?!?!?!
June 2, 2012
love this book series. I cant get over how much i enjoyed the first two books. So many things get explained and revealed. I even teared over Myn. The characters are so well developed and their stuggles are so unbelievable. Sometimes its hard to see them push through. I cant wait to dive into book 3 and see how the story ends
my favorite things about these books is this lil note at the beginning and end
"A story half told is a crime, and there is no crime greater. When this tale began it was the tale of a common woman in an uncommon circumstance. A woman unprepared, unskilled, and unready. When the last words were written, they spoke of a master many times over. She was a woman filled with resolve. Fearless, steadfast, and above all, determined. A woman firm in her belief and single in her focus, willing to charge into the jaws of doom for her cause. A job needed to be done, and she had the tools to do it. Imagine what the next pages will bring . . ."
i read this and got so excited and it truely delivered.
at the end of this book we get this...
"And so she began to recount the tale, a tale that it is my great hope shall find its way to you as well. It begins where the others believed that Myranda's life had ended, in the lowest level of Demont's personal menagerie. Had I the strength, I would not rest until every last word was recorded. But alas, the years weigh heavily upon me. You have my word. When next my stylus is put to work, all that remains will be revealed. The truth is too important to be lost to the ages."
and with that i must go order book 3!!!!!
Joseph Lallo i hear your words <3
my favorite things about these books is this lil note at the beginning and end
"A story half told is a crime, and there is no crime greater. When this tale began it was the tale of a common woman in an uncommon circumstance. A woman unprepared, unskilled, and unready. When the last words were written, they spoke of a master many times over. She was a woman filled with resolve. Fearless, steadfast, and above all, determined. A woman firm in her belief and single in her focus, willing to charge into the jaws of doom for her cause. A job needed to be done, and she had the tools to do it. Imagine what the next pages will bring . . ."
i read this and got so excited and it truely delivered.
at the end of this book we get this...
"And so she began to recount the tale, a tale that it is my great hope shall find its way to you as well. It begins where the others believed that Myranda's life had ended, in the lowest level of Demont's personal menagerie. Had I the strength, I would not rest until every last word was recorded. But alas, the years weigh heavily upon me. You have my word. When next my stylus is put to work, all that remains will be revealed. The truth is too important to be lost to the ages."
and with that i must go order book 3!!!!!
Joseph Lallo i hear your words <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2012
If I could give it three and a half stars, I would, as this book definitely rates more than three but excess baggage keeps it from gaining a whole four.
The second installment of the Book of Deacon series doesn't let down or let up. In fact, that is part of why I gave it a rating of only three stars instead of a well deserved four - it doesn't let up, ever.
VAGUE SPOILERS AHEAD, DON'T READ BETWEEN THE DOTS IF YOU WISH TO REMAIN SPOILER FREE!!!
.
.
.
.
.
It's one battle after another, all of them seeming quite hopeless with Lain and Myranda and the rest of their company severely outnumbered against countless unnatural beasts, wizards, and monsters. The group is always fighting and put into situations that even my imagination is hard pressed to accept that they survived.
.
.
.
.
.
END SPOILERS
Aside from a handful of scenes toward the beginning, there is no peace for any of them. 860 pages of no peace... it is a lot of action to try and get through.
The characters, however, remain strong, each of them growing and developing as any solidly created character should. Lines are drawn and passed that they once didn't think they would ever even reach, shades of grey darkening and multiplying until the black and white world they used to live in is nothing but a memory of quieter times. As I said, the story doesn't let down, and I look forward to what the final chapter may bring.
The second installment of the Book of Deacon series doesn't let down or let up. In fact, that is part of why I gave it a rating of only three stars instead of a well deserved four - it doesn't let up, ever.
VAGUE SPOILERS AHEAD, DON'T READ BETWEEN THE DOTS IF YOU WISH TO REMAIN SPOILER FREE!!!
.
.
.
.
.
It's one battle after another, all of them seeming quite hopeless with Lain and Myranda and the rest of their company severely outnumbered against countless unnatural beasts, wizards, and monsters. The group is always fighting and put into situations that even my imagination is hard pressed to accept that they survived.
.
.
.
.
.
END SPOILERS
Aside from a handful of scenes toward the beginning, there is no peace for any of them. 860 pages of no peace... it is a lot of action to try and get through.
The characters, however, remain strong, each of them growing and developing as any solidly created character should. Lines are drawn and passed that they once didn't think they would ever even reach, shades of grey darkening and multiplying until the black and white world they used to live in is nothing but a memory of quieter times. As I said, the story doesn't let down, and I look forward to what the final chapter may bring.
July 31, 2012
There was much to like about this book - but I had to drop to 3 stars due to my dislike of and irritation with many of the characters. I read to escape, so I need to have someone that I'm rooting for - and Myranda was so foolish, naive, sanctimonious, etc. in the beginning that I had a hard time getting into the book. She has spent her life so opposed to war, has lost her family to the war, but believes that the GENERALS are looking for the Chosen to end the war? really? Then don't get me started on the Chosen - we're doomed if they're to save us. I couldn't stand the outright arrogance of Ether - for someone who doesn't have emotions, she sure was nasty.
However, the story moved along and was enjoyable once I got over my irritation at the characters. Myranda did wake up and realize her folly, and Deacon is back - I figured that he'd have to be since we're dealing with the "Book of Deacon" series. I hope for a satisfying conclusion in the final book. One of the Chosen will die - I hope hope hope it's Ether, but I fear it will be someone I like.
However, the story moved along and was enjoyable once I got over my irritation at the characters. Myranda did wake up and realize her folly, and Deacon is back - I figured that he'd have to be since we're dealing with the "Book of Deacon" series. I hope for a satisfying conclusion in the final book. One of the Chosen will die - I hope hope hope it's Ether, but I fear it will be someone I like.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2012
I really enjoyed the story. I looked forward to my lunch breaks at work and to get home so that I could get back to reading this. It's a little different than the average fantasy novel which kept me interested. The writing style is a little bizarre. There are no chapters or real breaks, which makes it challenging to read on a kindle. It seems as though the author may be young in his career because the sentences/paragraphs are structured in such a way that it is not always clear who/what he is referring to. Besides that, I enjoyed the book.
February 5, 2012
This one is also good, but I did like it less than the first one. I still gave it three stars but it is a low three compared to a high three for the first book. I liked the development of Desmeres in the end of book one and the start of book 2. But what I didn't like as much is just the description of battle after battle after battle.. It got a little boring for me. But the ending does make me look forward to the third book.
October 27, 2012
This is the second in a trilogy and I often find that these can be the slowest or dullest part of a series.
Not so with this one.
The characters have fleshed out more and the back story has developed.
My only criticism is that the romance is lack lustre but then in the middle of a war maybe it is justifiably so.
Roll on book 3. Great entertainment.
Not so with this one.
The characters have fleshed out more and the back story has developed.
My only criticism is that the romance is lack lustre but then in the middle of a war maybe it is justifiably so.
Roll on book 3. Great entertainment.
June 13, 2017
Meh
Not as good as the first one. The author sort of beats a dead horse with all the repetitive fight scenes.
Not as good as the first one. The author sort of beats a dead horse with all the repetitive fight scenes.
February 27, 2019
The sixth book of this wonderful fantasy series follows the travels of The Chosen and their getting to know each other a bit better.
Joseph has created a set of heroes, The Chosen, for this story that are everything but a cohesive unit working towards a singular goal, and, at times, this can become rather frustrating and annoying. I just wanted them to sort their shit out and get on with it, but they just keep pulling in opposite directions with their own agendas being more important than the goal the gods set for them. And the end result of my frustration and annoyance is i end up liking and admiring The Generals more than i do The Chosen.
So far this has been the strangest book of the series. Whereas 'The Book of Deacon' was exploring how magic works within this series, this book is mostly spent with The Chosen learning to fight, both individually and together. And i'm not a big fan of lots of fighting, so i can't say it all worked for me.
But, lots of buts, i suppose this was inevitable. You take a bunch of people, some who don't want to be heroes and some who do, and throw them together for a goal that some don't care about and some do, and you're going to have chaos for a while. And this is what this book is really for: bringing together these conflicts, internal and external, of our heroes and attempting to get them resolved before the big day ahead. Will they all be resolved? Will all our heroes survive? You'll just have to read it and find out.
One more thing about this book. The war between the Northern Alliance and Tressor has been going on for well over 100 years, continuously, and i kept on feeling that this book had a lot to say about war and the reasons we fight it...
Joseph has created a set of heroes, The Chosen, for this story that are everything but a cohesive unit working towards a singular goal, and, at times, this can become rather frustrating and annoying. I just wanted them to sort their shit out and get on with it, but they just keep pulling in opposite directions with their own agendas being more important than the goal the gods set for them. And the end result of my frustration and annoyance is i end up liking and admiring The Generals more than i do The Chosen.
So far this has been the strangest book of the series. Whereas 'The Book of Deacon' was exploring how magic works within this series, this book is mostly spent with The Chosen learning to fight, both individually and together. And i'm not a big fan of lots of fighting, so i can't say it all worked for me.
But, lots of buts, i suppose this was inevitable. You take a bunch of people, some who don't want to be heroes and some who do, and throw them together for a goal that some don't care about and some do, and you're going to have chaos for a while. And this is what this book is really for: bringing together these conflicts, internal and external, of our heroes and attempting to get them resolved before the big day ahead. Will they all be resolved? Will all our heroes survive? You'll just have to read it and find out.
One more thing about this book. The war between the Northern Alliance and Tressor has been going on for well over 100 years, continuously, and i kept on feeling that this book had a lot to say about war and the reasons we fight it...
"Peace is preferable to war. If defeat is the price, I am now willing to pay it," the king stated solemnly.Food for thought there.
"You claim to care for your people, yet you would sacrifice their freedom with victory so nearly at hand," Bagu scolded.
"Their freedom was not mine to sacrifice, nor was it theirs. Their forefathers and mine gave it to the war long ago, and the war has been given to you," said the king.
"Remember this, Your Majesty. Your continued power is an illusion for the benefit of your people. The only true power lies in the hand that wields the sword," warned the general.
With that he returned to his lair. The defeated king sat in silence.
June 7, 2021
The first book was pretty good as a debut fantasy novel. This one falls flat, the characters are frustrating with their motivations and the dialogue feels stilted at times. Myranda suddenly becomes convinced that the army hunting her for most of the entire story is on her side and let's herself be captured. This somehow results in her friends getting paid her bounty. I got somewhere under half way (after the rescue scene) and then decided to move onto something else.
I quite like it when characters suffer but come through stronger. In the words of David Gemmell 'she is a sword blade going through the fire'. This isn't the case of Myranda and it feels like her imprisonment was written solely to introduce the second chosen one. Maybe it shows later or the author decided it was too predictable but a jewel that prevents magic use and creates pain but the prisoner works around and endures seems like a good way to develop her strength and realise she has far deeper reserves then she thought.
I'll probably not return to this series.
I quite like it when characters suffer but come through stronger. In the words of David Gemmell 'she is a sword blade going through the fire'. This isn't the case of Myranda and it feels like her imprisonment was written solely to introduce the second chosen one. Maybe it shows later or the author decided it was too predictable but a jewel that prevents magic use and creates pain but the prisoner works around and endures seems like a good way to develop her strength and realise she has far deeper reserves then she thought.
I'll probably not return to this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2021
I had to read reviews of the third book to see if my favorite character comes back to life because I wasn't sure I could force my way through this. It's fine. It's just fine. I've been listening to it at 2x speed because it's just... fine. Maybe I'll read the third installment? I do love Myn and I like Lain enough that I think I could have this on as background noise while doing chores.
I feel like we are not given enough deep emotions of the characters, and regardless a number of characters are very two dimensional so they don't have deep emotions to show. So the end result is sort of lackluster character interactions with exciting battles. The battles are indeed fun, so knowing comes back to life means I might read the final volume in the trilogy.
I feel like we are not given enough deep emotions of the characters, and regardless a number of characters are very two dimensional so they don't have deep emotions to show. So the end result is sort of lackluster character interactions with exciting battles. The battles are indeed fun, so knowing comes back to life means I might read the final volume in the trilogy.
January 30, 2020
In memory of potatoes?
Spoiler warning *****
The book was good. Don't get me wrong, but I have questions and I'm disappointed. Is Myn dead? Did the cute baby dragon we've come to know and love die? Just like that gone. And never mentioned again? ****
Ok on to the review. Myranda was hard to handle for most of the book. She had just enough magical training to make me feel like she should be harass and not enough to actually do anything useful. Did she forget how to meditate or conjure a pure flame?
Some of the battle seems were unending but that is just my personal dislike of battle scenes. 🤷
All in all a decent second part to this series. I'm still in for the next book.
Spoiler warning *****
The book was good. Don't get me wrong, but I have questions and I'm disappointed. Is Myn dead? Did the cute baby dragon we've come to know and love die? Just like that gone. And never mentioned again? ****
Ok on to the review. Myranda was hard to handle for most of the book. She had just enough magical training to make me feel like she should be harass and not enough to actually do anything useful. Did she forget how to meditate or conjure a pure flame?
Some of the battle seems were unending but that is just my personal dislike of battle scenes. 🤷
All in all a decent second part to this series. I'm still in for the next book.
September 3, 2017
This series has a bit of a YA feel to it but I thoroughly enjoy it anyway. I'm not sure why the series is The Book of Deacon when a completely different character takes center stage way more than Deacon. Nevertheless, the story is full of surprises. The plot is a little loosely constructed as I get the sense that none of the characters really know how to achieve their goals but find themselves cannonballing from one bit of trouble to another. Instead of being irritating, it's part of the book's charm as most fantasy novel assume the heroes know how to do what they need to do and how could they possibly?
August 1, 2021
Outstanding fiction. Fanned good yarn! Already friends with the characters from the first book, this was nail biting stuff as we urged our favourite characters on to new adventure, biting our finger nails as the author dreamed up more dastardly deals from the dekaron.
I’m amazed that more people have not enjoyed these books I’m well read, well educated and these outstanding books allow me to escape from the grim reality of life.
These are, in my opinion, books for people who have empathy, see that there is a huge gap between good and evil, love fantasy with dragons and swords and magic.
I know I will return fir a third read sometime in the future.
I’m amazed that more people have not enjoyed these books I’m well read, well educated and these outstanding books allow me to escape from the grim reality of life.
These are, in my opinion, books for people who have empathy, see that there is a huge gap between good and evil, love fantasy with dragons and swords and magic.
I know I will return fir a third read sometime in the future.
December 6, 2019
This book is too short
While packed with battles and twists, overall nothing is resolved and little storyline was progressed besides those of seemingly endless battles. If you like reading about combat; then you’ll love this one. But I prefer plot and it was lacking. Plus it seemed shorter in length than the first story. So it’s very frustrating to have paid for this and read it in a day.
While packed with battles and twists, overall nothing is resolved and little storyline was progressed besides those of seemingly endless battles. If you like reading about combat; then you’ll love this one. But I prefer plot and it was lacking. Plus it seemed shorter in length than the first story. So it’s very frustrating to have paid for this and read it in a day.
March 24, 2022
The characters continue to be stupid but the story got a bit more interesting. The pace is better than the first book. 3.5 stars. It’s a pity that the author didn’t put a bit more effort into making the character’s way of seeing life more normal for people who lived for generations in a war. The main character grew up as a nomad because her entire city has been destroyed but she has the mind of a sheltered little girl.
December 14, 2017
Received the first book free from bookbub, I usually just stick to the free books because I get so many, even when part of a series. There was no hesitation at the end of this book, I immediately went to the kindle store and bought all the books in the series. These were great, fun, and engaging, highly recommend.
April 12, 2024
Another promising start, but just another face plant!
A magic system that seemed well thought out led me to think we wouldn't bog down in stupid when we got to the action. It did exactly that though, and not even halfway through! Then at the halfway point we started getting into the major conflicts and battles, and it goes right to ridiculous. DNF
A magic system that seemed well thought out led me to think we wouldn't bog down in stupid when we got to the action. It did exactly that though, and not even halfway through! Then at the halfway point we started getting into the major conflicts and battles, and it goes right to ridiculous. DNF
August 10, 2024
The fighting is unbelievable
The fighting is nearly endless, and you don't get a break from it. It became redundant and unbelievable. If you read this book, my advice is to read the first and last sentence of each paragraph. You won't miss much. The same scenes are repeated over and over in almost every chapter.
The fighting is nearly endless, and you don't get a break from it. It became redundant and unbelievable. If you read this book, my advice is to read the first and last sentence of each paragraph. You won't miss much. The same scenes are repeated over and over in almost every chapter.
May 7, 2017
Great two books so far!
Well written compelling fantasy adventure with strong characters you come to care about. The action is non stop and the story line fast pace enough to keep you reading to that next page after time for sleep has post.
Well written compelling fantasy adventure with strong characters you come to care about. The action is non stop and the story line fast pace enough to keep you reading to that next page after time for sleep has post.
June 29, 2017
Good book
I enjoyed this book very much. I had put it down for wuite some time but i started reading it again. I didnt forgot what happened in the beginning, which surprised me. A good read indeed
I enjoyed this book very much. I had put it down for wuite some time but i started reading it again. I didnt forgot what happened in the beginning, which surprised me. A good read indeed
July 11, 2017
I enjoy the characters and what they must endure to help the world defeat evil. I find Lain such an intriguing character. It was so fast paced and at times I thought they would all die! It's a great read for mystic/magic and fantasy fans.
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