Iseris: House of Power

by A.A. Smith

Mora Hytich is a nineteen year old villager from the heartland of Augstia. Unlike her peers, she is not proficient in magic. Instead, she lives a quiet life with her mom. One day she and her best friend Cassel are walking to school when things go awry. Now she must face some uncomfortable truths, including those about her family, her country, and herself.

201 pages, Paperback

Published November 6, 2024

Reviews

[Matt McAvoy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A.A. Smith is a fine writer, and has crafted a genuinely intriguing and interesting world, where people are judged by their ability to do magic or the reputation of their peoples. In it, Mora, a naïve and somewhat innocent teenager at the start, learns hard truths about life and grows up the hard way, through a very unexpected adventure and some genuinely heart-rending and poignant discoveries, against the backdrop of tension and conflict. As you have surely guessed, there is a great deal in this book which could be construed as metaphor for real life – and that is the beauty of the fantasy genre; it can be used as a device to reflect contemporary society with the most artistic and creative brush.

When you reach the end of this book, you realize that it is mostly the character origin and development instalment of a series in the making. The story itself, which is very promising, and intriguing from the outset, ultimately might leave you seething a touch, though, for, rather than a cliffhanger ending, this one just abruptly pushes you off and tells you to come back later, which is something which admittedly niggles me a great deal . That said, I don’t feel it leaves much unresolved in the context of current events, but rather establishes a wider picture.

I have to be completely honest, whilst I absolutely admire Smith’s genuine writing skill and talent for the craft, I felt a slight imbalance between character interaction and action sequences. There is some of the latter, but scant in comparison, and it appears rather more in passing, which is a shame, because this book seems to have some great setpieces. All in all, it seems rather more inclined toward establishing characters and their relationships to each other, as well as the class, ableist and race metaphors. All this is great, don’t get me wrong, and the author does it fantastically well, but I would have liked to see the genuinely quite thrilling action elaborated upon a great deal further. The outcome in its current form is a slow burner which, in truth, I occasionally struggled to keep engaged with for long periods. The characters are superb, and presentation of the book was very professional, but I often went drifting off elsewhere. However, it is a decent and worthy entry in the otherworld fantasy genre, though I do recommend it may be best suited to fans of the genre looking for a promising series, and prepared to engross themselves in character-led series establishment. As for Smith, definitely an author to follow.

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Spellbinding Journey of Self-Discovery...

In this gripping fantasy, A.A. Smith crafts a refreshing take on the genre through the story of Mora Hytich, a nineteen-year-old who stands out in her magical world precisely because she lacks magical abilities. When her ordinary life in Augstia shatters after a catastrophic event, Mora finds herself navigating a web of deception that challenges everything she believed about her family and homeland. The story excels in its fast-paced narrative and unique world-building.

What truly sets this novel apart is its masterful character development and the organic way Smith builds relationships between Mora and her diverse band of unlikely allies. Each companion brings their own mysteries and talents to the journey, creating a rich tapestry of interpersonal dynamics. The author weaves in world-building details naturally, populating the story with fascinating creatures and innovative forms of magic. While the cliffhanger ending may leave readers desperate for more, the journey to get there is thoroughly rewarding. Highly recommended.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alright, fantasy lovers—strap in, because Iseris: House of Power is one wild ride! Mora might not have magic, but she’s got guts, and sometimes that’s even better. One minute she’s a normal teen, and the next, she’s on a high-stakes journey full of jaw-dropping twists. And let me tell you, the secrets she uncovers? YIKES. If you love fantasy with strong characters and shocking reveals, grab this book ASAP. You’ll thank me later. ⚡📖

[Abigail L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iseris: House of Power throws you headfirst into a world where magic rules—except for Mora, a young woman who doesn’t have any. But when a simple walk to school turns into a life-changing journey, she’s forced to uncover secrets about her family, her country, and herself. This book had everything I love—an unpredictable adventure, deep world-building, and characters that feel real. I couldn’t stop flipping the pages, wanting to know what truth Mora would have to face next.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartfelt coming-of-age fantasy with a touch of mystery. Mora is an instantly relatable heroine, and her journey of self-discovery feels genuine and emotional. The world of Augstia sounds intriguing, and the hints of magic and hidden truths set up a story full of potential. A great start for readers who love character-driven fantasy and personal growth.

[Logan Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Emotional Rollercoaster Through a Rich, Magical World

I was hooked from the first page! The opening scenes are so intense and vivid, and Mora's journey broke my heart and rebuilt it again. The world-building is incredible, and the magic system feels fresh. Can’t wait for the sequel!

[Jo Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gripping Story with Real Heart

This book surprised me in all the best ways. Mora's struggles felt so real, and the mix of personal growth with larger world conflict was perfectly balanced. Some parts left me breathless. Highly recommend if you love character-driven fantasy.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Characters and High Stakes

Mora is such a relatable heroine. She’s not the strongest or the most gifted, but her resilience makes you root for her every step of the way. The political tensions and looming war added a real sense of urgency that kept me flipping pages.

[Isaiah Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating and Unique

Iseris feels like a world all its own—alive, layered, and full of secrets. The way magic is woven into daily life is really well done, and the dialogue feels natural. There’s humor, heartbreak, action... just a phenomenal read overall.

[Amie M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iseris: House of Power pulled me in from the first page. Mora’s struggle of being different in a world that worships magic is something that hit home for me. Beautifully written, heartfelt, and thrilling at the same time.

[Jerald V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book feels like stepping into a magical world where every page is alive. Mora’s journey is both heartwarming and breathtaking. I didn’t want it to end!

[Wayne K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A.A. Smith has spun a tale that balances magic, friendship, and mystery with such elegance. Iseris is the fantasy escape I’ve been waiting for.

[Joseph B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mora’s struggle made me tear up, smile, and cheer all at once. If you want a story that makes you feel alive, this is it.

[Carlos A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me why I love fantasy. It’s not just about spells and kingdoms it is about identity, friendship, and finding courage when the world tells you you’re powerless.

[Paul B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mora Hytich is a character I’ll never forget. She’s vulnerable yet strong, doubtful yet determined. A.A. Smith knows how to make you care deeply about every choice she makes.

[Jerome R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I would just skim a few chapters before bed next thing I knew, it was 3 AM and I had finished the whole book. The storytelling is THAT addictive.

[Frank P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is something refreshing about a fantasy that doesn’t hand the hero all the powers on a silver platter. Mora’s journey feels raw and real, and that’s what makes this book shine.

[Miriam M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassel and Mora’s friendship is one of the highlights for me. It felt authentic, full of warmth, and reminded me of the best kind of lifelong bonds

[Glen J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing is elegant but easy to follow almost like being told a story by a close friend. I could see the world of Augstia so vividly in my mind.

[Randall R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iseris isn’t just another fantasy novel it’s a mirror that reflects our own fears of not belonging, while reminding us that we all carry a power within us.

[Anthony N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What impressed me most was the pacing. The author balances action with quiet, emotional moments so perfectly. I was hooked the whole way through.

[Peggy L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iseris: House of Power swept me away into a world where every secret feels alive. Mora’s journey from ordinary to extraordinary kept me glued to the pages!

[Larry M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantasy that dares to be different A.A. Smith has crafted a heroine who doesn’t rely on magic, but on strength, heart, and courage.

[Victor D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn’t just a book, it’s a portal to Augstia. I laughed, gasped, and even teared up while walking with Mora through every twist.

[Christopher S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have ever doubted your place in the world, Mora’s story will remind you that even without magic, you can be powerful.

[Clifford E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a reminder that sometimes the quietest people carry the loudest destinies.

[Toni R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written, with layers of mystery and heart A.A. Smith knows how to keep a reader turning pages late into the night.

[Diane F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iseris: House of Power is proof that even an underdog can shake an entire kingdom. Mora is the heroine we didn’t know we needed.

[Patricia W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Augstia feels so real I swear I could smell the markets and feel the magic buzzing in the air!