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Craving of the Sands: A Runebreakers Novel
An Amazon #1 bestseller. A Barnes & Noble Bestseller. A Kobo Bestseller.
Wilhilm Grindtosser just wants to keep his rampaging magic under control, but when a gnomish gadget called the EyeStone broadcasts his latest magical disaster to the entire city, he becomes an accidental celebrity. Fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be—especially when it comes with dark whispers, sudden combustions, and shadowy villains.
Now, Wilhilm and his misfit crew must uncover the EyeStone’s secrets before it destroys everything they care about. Can they save the day? Or will Wilhilm’s magic go haywire at the worst possible moment—again?
For fans of Terry Pratchett and absurd, laugh-out-loud adventures, this fantasy romp promises a wild ride through a city where magic and mayhem collide.
Wilhilm Grindtosser just wants to keep his rampaging magic under control, but when a gnomish gadget called the EyeStone broadcasts his latest magical disaster to the entire city, he becomes an accidental celebrity. Fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be—especially when it comes with dark whispers, sudden combustions, and shadowy villains.
Now, Wilhilm and his misfit crew must uncover the EyeStone’s secrets before it destroys everything they care about. Can they save the day? Or will Wilhilm’s magic go haywire at the worst possible moment—again?
For fans of Terry Pratchett and absurd, laugh-out-loud adventures, this fantasy romp promises a wild ride through a city where magic and mayhem collide.
- GenresFantasy
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2024
39 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 18, 2024
The EyeStone, a modified communication stone, allows people to share what they think and do with others. Wilhilm Grindtosser accidentally rises to fame when his magic goes awry and all of Tiringar can see it. Aside from this, there are more unsavory side effects to using the EyeStone, like spontaneous combustion, ominous shadows, and dramatically whispering. Along with his friends, Wilhelm is determined to uncover the truth behind the EyeStone. An old nemesis has a plan to annihilate the world—just when there’s a new restaurant in town they’d really like to visit.
We open with an ad of sorts for the Runebreakers, which helps to set the tone that we're about to see. This novel doesn't take itself seriously and is firmly within the cozy fantasy genre. There's a little more death and fire than the usual cozy fantasy, but it's played as slapstick than serious. Chapters are short and punchy, with titles drawn from modern songs. The Runebreakers see themselves as "chaos with a side of competence," and that's certainly what we get. Wilhelm the magician doesn't even like magic and tends to be clumsy and make mistakes. He and his friends travel around, crack jokes, and seem to make random decisions. This adds to the slapstick nature of the book, and it's almost a comedy of errors to fix everything.
Within the scope of the book, the EyeStone seems to function like our phones. His attempt at podcasting gives him the validation that modern podcasters get, but others get so entranced at times that they don't even respond to the real world. (sound familiar?) Wilhelm hears whispers from the EyeStone right before things go terribly wrong, and is encouraged to look into the EyeStone problem. There are nods to social media, influencers, podcasting, and convention life. About halfway through we see what Wilhelm's problem really is, and what the EyeStone is really connected to. Not to worry, I won't spoil it, but it only seems to add to the commentary on social media. It also plays on a lot of the fantasy tropes that are out there, which adds to the fun of this book.
We open with an ad of sorts for the Runebreakers, which helps to set the tone that we're about to see. This novel doesn't take itself seriously and is firmly within the cozy fantasy genre. There's a little more death and fire than the usual cozy fantasy, but it's played as slapstick than serious. Chapters are short and punchy, with titles drawn from modern songs. The Runebreakers see themselves as "chaos with a side of competence," and that's certainly what we get. Wilhelm the magician doesn't even like magic and tends to be clumsy and make mistakes. He and his friends travel around, crack jokes, and seem to make random decisions. This adds to the slapstick nature of the book, and it's almost a comedy of errors to fix everything.
Within the scope of the book, the EyeStone seems to function like our phones. His attempt at podcasting gives him the validation that modern podcasters get, but others get so entranced at times that they don't even respond to the real world. (sound familiar?) Wilhelm hears whispers from the EyeStone right before things go terribly wrong, and is encouraged to look into the EyeStone problem. There are nods to social media, influencers, podcasting, and convention life. About halfway through we see what Wilhelm's problem really is, and what the EyeStone is really connected to. Not to worry, I won't spoil it, but it only seems to add to the commentary on social media. It also plays on a lot of the fantasy tropes that are out there, which adds to the fun of this book.
partly-read
September 29, 2024I shouldn't have picked this one up. The blurb gave me little reason to hope that it would be good, and my expectations were not exceeded.
It's wordy, and not because it spends a lot of time on the inner life of the characters or on the setting; the characters are paper-thin, no more than their stereotypes plus (if they're lucky) their role in the plot, and the setting is bland, generic, and barely described. It's wordy because it takes a long time to cover every tiny detail of the mundane and obvious, sometimes repetitiously.
I found it even less funny than most "funny fantasy". There's a broad and obvious parody of Tik-Tok, and that's about it. Most so-called "funny fantasy" consists largely of silly names and fantasy cliches; in this one, even the names aren't particularly silly, and the fantasy cliches don't even seem to be being played for laughs a lot of the time.
Continuity is not a strength either. A red dragon becomes a silver dragon within a couple of pages.
I had a pre-publication ARC via Netgalley, and hope it gets a good deal more editing before publication, by an editor who is good with commas; I saw examples of just about every comma error I've ever come across, and even one or two I think are new, although they weren't in every sentence or even on every page. At the point that I stopped, 16% of the way through, there's an it's/its error, though otherwise it's fairly good with homonyms.
I've read worse books, but it just didn't do anything for me.
It's wordy, and not because it spends a lot of time on the inner life of the characters or on the setting; the characters are paper-thin, no more than their stereotypes plus (if they're lucky) their role in the plot, and the setting is bland, generic, and barely described. It's wordy because it takes a long time to cover every tiny detail of the mundane and obvious, sometimes repetitiously.
I found it even less funny than most "funny fantasy". There's a broad and obvious parody of Tik-Tok, and that's about it. Most so-called "funny fantasy" consists largely of silly names and fantasy cliches; in this one, even the names aren't particularly silly, and the fantasy cliches don't even seem to be being played for laughs a lot of the time.
Continuity is not a strength either. A red dragon becomes a silver dragon within a couple of pages.
I had a pre-publication ARC via Netgalley, and hope it gets a good deal more editing before publication, by an editor who is good with commas; I saw examples of just about every comma error I've ever come across, and even one or two I think are new, although they weren't in every sentence or even on every page. At the point that I stopped, 16% of the way through, there's an it's/its error, though otherwise it's fairly good with homonyms.
I've read worse books, but it just didn't do anything for me.
October 2, 2024
A wizard, a dwarf, a rogue and a Druid meet in the forest after chasing down a gnome. Wilhilm the wizard needs to capture a gnome to restore his soul. Of course, Wilhilm falls for the gnome’s fantastic story about not being able to help him, but he has a really great rock that he will give Wilhilm as a quasi-consolation prize.
The rock is an EchoStone that can connect to the EyeStone network, the medieval version of the internet. Wilhilm and his friends soon find out how to get free food and ale by showing themselves eating and drinking and becoming influencers. Of course this brings them no closer to restoring Wilhilm’s soul until they set off on their final quest to find the lost city in the desert. And in the greatest tradition of all the “Raiders of the Lost Ark” adventures, nothing is ever as easy as it looks.
This is a great thumbing-of-the-nose to social media. It is an hilarious romp through the Middle Ages with an enjoyable team of misfits.
I received this free copy from the author and NetGalley. This was apparently an early release copy and had a number of spelling and syntax errors. The editor replied very promptly to my list to check them.
Never trust a gnome…
The rock is an EchoStone that can connect to the EyeStone network, the medieval version of the internet. Wilhilm and his friends soon find out how to get free food and ale by showing themselves eating and drinking and becoming influencers. Of course this brings them no closer to restoring Wilhilm’s soul until they set off on their final quest to find the lost city in the desert. And in the greatest tradition of all the “Raiders of the Lost Ark” adventures, nothing is ever as easy as it looks.
This is a great thumbing-of-the-nose to social media. It is an hilarious romp through the Middle Ages with an enjoyable team of misfits.
I received this free copy from the author and NetGalley. This was apparently an early release copy and had a number of spelling and syntax errors. The editor replied very promptly to my list to check them.
Never trust a gnome…
January 3, 2025
On its surface, Craving of the Sands is a fairly standard novel about magic and genies - but if you look a little closer, you'll see a social commentary about the increasing reliance on short videos as a means of social interaction and commentary, through the use of Eye Stones, a magical device that allows the user to share their thoughts with anyone around them. The story is told in a light-hearted way, with a few too many bad puns for my taste (never mind that poem that now has Barry Manilow's Mandy running through my head...), rather reminiscent of the Myth Adventures in both tone and setting.
It's a little too wordy and repetitive; one character brings up ale at every chance, to the point that it becomes tiresome. There's a little bit too much explication. Still, I'd be willing to read a sequel if the author gets an editor who's a little more ruthless in cutting out the excess prose.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It's a little too wordy and repetitive; one character brings up ale at every chance, to the point that it becomes tiresome. There's a little bit too much explication. Still, I'd be willing to read a sequel if the author gets an editor who's a little more ruthless in cutting out the excess prose.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 8, 2024
"Cavern of the Sands" by Cearnach Grimm is a captivating novel that follows the wizard Wilhelm Grindtrosser, who accidentally becomes popular when his magic goes wrong, revealing his catastrophes to all Tiringar. The story revolves around the Eyestone, a powerful artifact with a hidden dark secret. "The readers are anxiously waiting to know the secret behind this antique, and this expedition takes the characters on a journey to confront an ancient vendetta and a demonic plan that could demolish the world. They encounter various challenges throughout their quest, including fire, darkness, and eerie whispers. They must band together and fight to prevent the world from being destroyed. The novel combines elements of fantasy, action, and imagination, captivating readers with an engaging narrative and a mind-blowing read while presenting tense and dramatic situations. Fans of magical tales will thoroughly enjoy it!"
September 30, 2024
Craving of the Sands: A Runebreakers Novel by Cearnach Grimm delivers an exciting and immersive fantasy journey set in a captivating desert world. The author skillfully combines magic, action, and camaraderie to create a thrilling plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The characters, particularly Wilhilm Grindtosser, are complex and well-developed, with unique abilities that shape the narrative in interesting ways. The book's exploration of loyalty, survival, and the dangers of wielding magic add depth to the high-stakes adventure.
Grimm's world-building is exceptional, making the harsh desert environment feel vivid and alive. Overall, this is a must-read for fans of action-packed fantasy with a touch of mysticism.
The characters, particularly Wilhilm Grindtosser, are complex and well-developed, with unique abilities that shape the narrative in interesting ways. The book's exploration of loyalty, survival, and the dangers of wielding magic add depth to the high-stakes adventure.
Grimm's world-building is exceptional, making the harsh desert environment feel vivid and alive. Overall, this is a must-read for fans of action-packed fantasy with a touch of mysticism.
October 3, 2024
"Craving of the Sands: A Runebreakers Novel" by Cearnach Grimm is an enthralling fantasy adventure set in a mystical desert world dominated by elemental forces. The story follows Wilhilm Grindtosser who supernaturally bends reality while navigating through the environmental and magical challenges that test the ability to stay united.
The author skillfully weaves an intricate tale filled with intense action, camaraderie and tension as the Runebreakers face internal conflicts while battling external threats. The novel delves into themes of loyalty, survival and the high stakes of wielding magic. The gripping narrative, set against a vast unforgiving desert makes for an immersive read.
The author skillfully weaves an intricate tale filled with intense action, camaraderie and tension as the Runebreakers face internal conflicts while battling external threats. The novel delves into themes of loyalty, survival and the high stakes of wielding magic. The gripping narrative, set against a vast unforgiving desert makes for an immersive read.
October 4, 2024
In "Craving of the Sands" Cearnach Grimm weaves an enthralling tale set in Tiringar, where the innovative EyeStone becomes a source of both wonder and chaos. The protagonist Wilhilm Grindtosser finds himself embroiled in a series of magical mishaps alongside his eccentric companions. As they confront an old enemy with a nefarious agenda the narrative blends humor with high-stakes adventure. The author's skillful storytelling and imaginative world-building create a captivating experience that keeps readers engaged from start to finish that makes it a delightful addition to the fantasy genre.
September 30, 2024
"Craving of the Sands: A Runebreakers Novel" by Cearnach Grimm will grab you from the start. This fantasy adventure takes place in a world where the elements rule. Our hero, Wilhilm, lives in a desert where magic is rampant, and Wilhelm is a wizard who can bend reality. This puts him in demand, and he finds himself on a journey to find the heart of the Nexus, making friends and enemies, fighting demons, tied to other realms through magic he can't control, and trying to manipulate genies.
October 5, 2024
I feel like the story is a little too pat and the references a little too obvious. So while it's not a terrible story it's not really a story for me. The writing is a little juvenile- but not in a YA or children's sort of way- more like somebody trying to put together a buddy cop movie in the 80's (with much less Eddie Murphy). 3 out of 5.
This review is based on an advance copy that I received for free.
This review is based on an advance copy that I received for free.
October 14, 2024
Craving of the Sands: A Runebreakers Novel offers a delightful mix of humor, magic, and mystery. Cearnach Grimm's world of Tiringar is brought to life through the whimsical misadventures of Wilhilm Grindtosser, whose magic often backfires. The EyeStone, with its bizarre side effects, adds a fun twist to this tale of friendship and peril. With witty dialogue and a fast-paced plot, this novel is perfect for readers who enjoy fantasy with a comedic edge.
October 4, 2024
magical
This book is a hilarious take on magic and modern technology. The author has a talent for mixing humor with action. The characters are well-drawn, and their struggles are relatable. I enjoyed the fast-paced storytelling and the unexpected plot developments. It’s a fun read from start to finish.
This book is a hilarious take on magic and modern technology. The author has a talent for mixing humor with action. The characters are well-drawn, and their struggles are relatable. I enjoyed the fast-paced storytelling and the unexpected plot developments. It’s a fun read from start to finish.
October 5, 2024
Good dialogues
Craving of the Sands is the perfect mix of humor and adventure. The characters are eccentric and lovable. The EyeStone is an interesting concept, and I liked how it added a twist to the story. The dialogue is sharp and full of wit. I found myself laughing and eager to see what happened next.
Craving of the Sands is the perfect mix of humor and adventure. The characters are eccentric and lovable. The EyeStone is an interesting concept, and I liked how it added a twist to the story. The dialogue is sharp and full of wit. I found myself laughing and eager to see what happened next.
October 5, 2024
Unique and imaginative.
This book is a breath of fresh air in the fantasy genre. It’s funny, clever, and full of personality. The world-building is unique and imaginative. I loved the playful tone and the unpredictable magic. The characters feel alive and real. It’s a story that left me smiling and wanting more.
This book is a breath of fresh air in the fantasy genre. It’s funny, clever, and full of personality. The world-building is unique and imaginative. I loved the playful tone and the unpredictable magic. The characters feel alive and real. It’s a story that left me smiling and wanting more.
November 15, 2025
Craving of the Sands is a wildly entertaining, laugh-out-loud fantasy adventure where magic, mischief, and mayhem collide in a city that never sleeps
November 1, 2024
NetGalley pub 9/24/24
I was in the mood for a fun fantasy story and this seemed to fit the bill. I was surprised by the parody of tik Tok and other social media. It makes social media seem pretty silly. The characters were fun as they navigate their world. I liked the side characters and wished we had more of them.
I was in the mood for a fun fantasy story and this seemed to fit the bill. I was surprised by the parody of tik Tok and other social media. It makes social media seem pretty silly. The characters were fun as they navigate their world. I liked the side characters and wished we had more of them.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews