Wild magic is rife in the world of Remargaren and a shadowy group of dissidents have discovered how to exploit the power for their own purposes.
The goddess, Leyandrii, and her Captain, Guerlaire, must face down this new threat and protect the people from unseen dangers. As Guerlaire learns to wield his own power, three new cadets with the potential to change the world are beginning their journey to become Lady’s Rangers.
Drawn from the back streets of Vespers, a young boy is thrust into a world beyond his comprehension. Battling bigotry and violence, Birler will need to navigate the Rangers’ Academy while grappling with unexpected ties of friendship, a tantalising found family, and embrace ancient magical powers.
A heartwarming tale of friendship and family is set against a backdrop of bigotry and violence in a world where wild magic can precariously tip the balance. Birler and his new friends will have to fight their own battles, not only to earn the right to become rangers but to help Leyandrii and Guerlaire restore the natural balance and defend their world.
USA Today Bestselling author Helen Garraway lives in the UK and has been writing about the world of Remargaren, a fantasy world of her creation since 2016.
Sentinals Awaken, which was Helen's debut fantasy novel, won the 2021 Readers' Favorite Finalist Award in the Epic Fantasy category. It was followed by Sentinals Rising which was released on March 17th 2021 and achieved a Five Star Readers' Favorite review and an Honourable Mention award. Four further books have been released in the Sentinals series along with SoulBreather, the first book in the fantasy romance SoulMist series.
An avid reader of many different fiction genres, a love she inherited from her mother, Helen writes fantasy novels and enjoys paper crafting and scrapbooking as an escape from the pressure of the day job.
Having graduated from the University of Southampton with a Degree in Politics and International Relations, she remains an active member of their alumni.
You can find out more and sign up to my newsletter to download a free copy of Sentinal Stirrings, a novella set in the world of Remargaren at www.helengarraway.com.
I received an ARC copy of this book, and am submitting an honest review.
Helen Garraway has delivered, yet again, another spellbinding masterpiece, to compliment her World acclaimed Sentinals books. It informs us of how these characters formed in the early years of 1125, became the Sentinals we love and admire from her earlier series.
Ms Garraway, takes you on a magical journey from the slums of Vespiri to the training of her rangers, then on to how the Lady Leyandrii, gathers these well remembered young men like, Birler, Tagerill, and Serill from her rangers to create the sentinals of the future. We learn of their strengths and weaknesses, and of how, and why, Clary, a ranger, became the evil that almost caused the downfall of Remargaren.
It is Ms Garraway’s unique ability to gather you in as you read, that lets you, feel and experience all that happens, and to believe everything. These books are a phenomenon, as they go way beyond the bounds of normal fantasy novels. She pulls you in to believe that these characters are real, which is why her books are so remarkable.
Helen Garraway, you have written another outstanding novel, and now doubt it will go on to win many awards across the globe. Five stars is far too little to award it. I can’t wait to read Book 2.
It was so exciting to once again be visiting the world of Remargaren and some of the lovely characters from then original series.
Learning more about where Birler came from was heartbreaking but seeing how honorable he has always been makes it easy to understand why he was made a Sentinal. He has always been my favourite. Reading how the brotherhood particularly between him and Tagerill was lovely. Loved this part of the story.
A lot of the main action came in the second half when they were stationed away from Vespers. I love Terolia and the links that Birler has to this part of the world in later books all started here. The relationships he develops with the families both in Terolia and Greens, make up for his lack of family early on. It's just easy to see why is he so easily accepted by so many people.
I definitely think part 1 has set the scene for something in part 2 and inrrally can't wait to see what that is.
Thank you for ARC and this is my honest review (and for my mention in acknowledgements). It's always a pleasure to read and review your books.
This is the first installment of the prequel to the award-winning Sentinal series. The story follows the goddess Leyandrii and Guerlaire, who is on his journey home. When the main river split into several branches, Guerlaire mistakenly took the wrong tributary. With unreliable maps and no clear path, Guerlaire’s arrival in Vesper was significantly delayed.
Upon finally reaching Vesper, Guerlaire is attacked—an act seemingly intended to harm Leyandrii. As the investigation unfolds, Leyandrii uncovers a disturbing truth: the memories of prisoners and guards have been tampered with.
Told from multiple perspectives, the narrative introduces us to rangers Birler, Tagerill, and Serill as they undergo training to become Sentinals.
The revelations in this book deepened my appreciation for the entire series. It was absolutely worth the wait. The writing is rich and descriptive, and I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
Received as a review copy from Story Origin, this is an honest review. Author Helen Garraway's Sentinal series has just delivered another extraordinary masterpiece of this immersive story with the first part of the origins not only for those brave souls serving as the Lady's Rangers that will become Leyandri's important Sentinals but also the fiery dangers brewing all across the depth and breath of Remargaren. As Lady Leyandri, her Captain Guerlaire and those she can trus t work to give her people the kind of life that all should have access to; and battle those with influence and power believing only people with a certain kind of standing should be given the absolute best. So when the wraith-like young man Birler becomes one among many of Ranger cadets along with Tagerill, Serill and so many others, everything is about change. As cadets learn the rigors of what it takes to be an officer of Vespiri... and Lady Leyandri's voice of justice; friendships and loyalties form against the backdrop of lingering enemies whose dark plans are a simmering catastrophic threat that cannot be ignored. What those plans are just haunting. And for Birler, especially with a poignant and gut wrenching narrative the young man forced to endure is harrowing as it the same time the strength of those that band together to show to Birler that there's good souls among a sea of assholes. No matter where you call home.
The starkest of challenges are storming closer.
Whether you're already a fan of this series or this two part prologue is your introduction- you're about to swept up and into an adventure that will deeply enthrall you.
Sentinals Origins (Part 1) is an excellent prequel to the 6-book Sentinal Series (plus two Novellas) by Helen Garraway. Basically an origin story for many of the characters and events in the Sentinal Series books which will always have a special place in my memories, this book gives significant insight into the formation of the people who become Sentinals. Clarity is brought to major events from the main series by exploring their origins. Sentinals Origins takes place three thousand years before the events of the main series.
A powerful "love story" arc between Leyandrii, the goddess responsible for Remargaren and her Captain/Partner, Guerlaire, is very nicely written. As a reader of Garraway's other series, Soul Mist, I was pleased to get insight into the family connections of Averdeus and Kaenera to Leyandrii.
In the beginning of the story, Birler, a homeless teenager trying to survive on his own in the dregs of Vespers is plucked into a new life and is enrolled in the Rangers' Academy. Two of his fellow students immediately take Birler under their wings and work to guide, protect, and even tutor him. This friendship is the beginning of a major theme throughout the book that I find extremely important and worthy. It takes Birler a while, but he finally realizes that he is worthy of the friendship and family bonds that develop, neither of which he experienced while growing up.
Magic exists in Remargaren, but it is not universal. The rich and powerful want more of both and have discovered a forbidden magical capability that they use to cause unrest in an attempt to take over control of everyone.
Once graduated from the Academy, as a new Ranger, Birler's assignments seem to drop him into the middle of intrigue, treachery, battles, and powerful magic. No matter where he goes, Birler has a positive impact on people and events. Sadly, the bigotry and hatred that started while in the academy continues to follow him but his friends and new family continue to support and help him. Birler's accomplishments and discoveries of treachery lead to the formation of the Sentinals at the end of the book. The new Sentinals are dedicated to the protection of Leyandrii, the world of Remargaren, and the people living there.
This book is extremely well written and I found myself unable to put it down. I highly recommend this book as well as the entire main Sentinal Series. The 3-book Soul Mist Series by Garraway is worthy of my recommendation also as I really enjoyed reading it.
I struggled a little coming up with a recommendation on reading order. I've concluded that reading Sentinal Origins first might capture your interest for this very interesting world, Remargaren, and make you to want to read the full Sentinal series if you haven't already. However, you cannot go wrong in reading it before, in the middle of, or after the main series.
Leyandrii is the daughter of the All-Mother and a mortal woman. A goddess and the creator of the lands, she holds immense power. Guerlaire, the most senior captain in the Lady's Rangers, is deeply in love with her. But he carries a heavy worry—he has no noble lineage to offer. Proposing to a goddess with a powerful family would raise questions of heritage, and he fears he may not be deemed worthy.
On his journey to Vesper, Guerlaire loses his way—despite Leyandrii’s earlier warning not to stray for too long. An unknown force attacks him, and in a desperate effort, he channels his energy to imagine a protective barrier around his ship.
When he finally reached Vesper, he was later attacked by a man with a blade. Leyandrii, shaken by the danger he faced, offers to teach him the art of shielding. In exchange, Guerlaire has to train her guards and rangers.
As the poison in his body takes its toll, he is told, “Your loss will hurt her more than it will hurt you.” Who is behind the attack? What destiny awaits Leyandrii and Guerlaire? Read this beautifully crafted story to uncover the secrets that lie ahead.
I was truly impressed by the world-building in this book. The author has done a remarkable job creating a vivid and immersive universe. The cover art is captivating, and the writing style is gripping from the very first page. Each character is thoughtfully developed, making the story both emotional and unforgettable.
After finishing Helen Garraway’s last book, I was eagerly awaiting her next release—and this one was absolutely worth the wait.
The world-building is as rich as ever, and what truly stood out was the deeper exploration of characters who previously remained in the background. I especially enjoyed getting to know the rangers Birler, Serill, and Tagerill. Birler’s first appearance at the academy lunch, where he eagerly stuffed his plate, brought a smile to my face.
Tagerill was puzzled at first—Birler didn’t look like a typical recruit, and he wondered how Birler even got in. That’s when Birler revealed he was brought to the Ranger's Academy at the Lady’s request. The bond between the three of them grows stronger over time, and watching them rise to become Sentinals was incredibly rewarding. It was a joy to finally uncover their backstories.
If you're a fan of epic fantasy, this series deserves a spot on your shelf. The story is told through multiple points of view, and Helen Garraway does a fantastic job weaving them together. Her writing flows smoothly, keeping you engaged from start to finish. The cover design is beautiful too. I’m so glad I picked this one up—add it to your TBR right away!
It is 3000 years before the events of the "Sentinals" series. We mainly follow three people during the course of this book: - Leyandrii, the one who created the world, and who tries to see that her people do well in that world; - Guerlaire, her Guardian and the captain of her guard, who is also interested in learning as much about her world as he can by exploration and inventory; - Birler, a street waif loyal to Leyandrii, who becomes a student at the Ranger's Academy, a school for those who help protect the land and its people. He befriends Tagerill and Serill there, and we follow them as well. Birler's adoption by Tagerill's family is heartwarming.
There are rumbles of discontent throughout the kingdoms by those who call themselves Ascendants who control others' minds with a technique called "Mentisarium".
This book sets the stage for the upcoming battle between the two sides, both for the current generation and for those 3000 years later. If you enjoyed the "Sentinals" series, you will appreciate and enjoy this background series as well. If you haven't read the "Sentinals" series, why not?
Fans of the world-building in Remargaren will thoroughly enjoy this book. It takes us back to Birler's origins, revealing the circumstances that led to him becoming a Sentinal. One of my favorite aspects was the strong sense of brotherhood between Birler, Tagerill, and Serill—each uniquely drawn. Serill hails from the Borders of Marchwood, adding another rich layer to the world.
Tagerill views Serill as fortunate for not having to meet the towering expectations placed on him. Tagerill’s siblings have already risen through the academy ranks to become Rangers, making his path even more pressure-filled.
As the story unfolds, we get a deeper look into how Rangers are chosen to become Sentinals—guardians of Remargaren. I especially appreciated the detailed world-building and the thoughtful development of each character’s backstory.
Helen has done an impressive job with this book. I truly enjoyed every part of it. The cover is eye-catching, and the language is clear and accessible. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
This gripping story had me hooked right from the first page. When Guerlaire, captain of the Lady's Rangers, is ambushed, the goddess Leyandrii steps in—determined to teach him the art of shielding. She also insists that her guards learn the skill from him.
Birler, Tagerill, and Serill each come from backgrounds where their families have placed heavy expectations on them. The pressure to meet those demands while training at the Ranger’s Academy was intense. But with their sharp minds and impressive abilities, they rise to become the Lady’s Sentinals—tasked with defending her and her people from looming threats. Will peace finally come to Remargaren? You’ll have to read to find out.
Garraway’s smooth narration and vivid descriptions make every one of her books a joy to read. This one is no exception. It’s a must-read for anyone curious about the Sentinals, set in a richly imagined world full of unforgettable characters.
If you enjoy stories filled with magic, this book is sure to delight you. The presence of magic in Remargaren is both intriguing and full of surprises.
This story introduces us to the Sentinels—who they are, where they come from, and how they are chosen. Birler, for instance, was born in the slums of Vespers. Captain Guerlaire brought him to the Academy—a place of discipline and transformation, where Birler could build strength and learn the ways of combat.
At the Academy, Birler meets Serill and Tagerill. He tells Tagerill that the Lady herself invited him to join the Academy, and he feels grateful for the opportunity—and the delicious food. Their training is intense, but it’s a joy to watch them grow, mature, and ultimately become Sentinals.
I highly recommend this book to fellow readers. The world-building is so immersive, it swept me away and made me forget the real world for a while. I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to read the next installment from this talented author.
Wow! I am so blown away by this book. I couldn't stop reading it! Helen Garraway's rich, vivid and beautifully magical world building is mesmerizing and creative. The characters are so well written and very relatable. My favorite character is Birler. His strength coming from the life of "school of hard knocks" and how he learns that friendship, love and family is given freely. I like Tagerill too. The way he automatically befriended Birler and stuck by him no matter what. This book is full of adventure, action, magic, and a little romance. A really fantastic read! I absolutely recommend reading this book! And I can't wait for Sentinals Origins book two!
The characters are more a sum of their powers and passions than belieavable personas. In a sense there is too much magic embeded in the story to allow it grow some legs. Didn't finish it. Obviously it could be somebody else great book, maybe younger than me.
Wow, what an amazing book. It brought me an understanding of the beginning of the Sentinals. I really appreciate this book and enjoyed reading it. Looking forward to the second. Thank you, Helen Garraway.
This is the beginning of the sentinals story and it will be an exciting one. So much for keeping the good work in the quiet. Now all will see there are people ready to serve the good, they are set apart to serve the Lady. Look out evil ones.
Helen Garraway builds her world of Remargaten and tells the story of how the Sentinals came to be.
The story follows Lady Leyandrii and her captain Guerlaire through thick and thin. We are taken on a journey to its origins in an exciting and socially critical way, rooting for the future rangers as well as their journey to protect Remargeren. Will they be able to protect the Lady against all the political intrigues and havoc? It remains exciting right to the end and leaves us hoping for more exciting and complex stories in volume 2.