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The Archmage
In this world, strength is noticed, strength is feared, strength is punished.
Desperate to fund a Healer for her dying mother, Illusionist Tsillah tricks her way into an apprenticeship with a visiting Archmage by pretending to be an elementalist. When she learns that the Archmage intends for her to compete on the circuit - a fierce competition for combat mages - Tsillah is desperate enough to try the unthinkable - she teaches herself to wield fire to become a dual wielder, a practice outlawed by the High Magus.
Certain she'll be executed on the spot when she's found out, she discovers that her Archmage and his other apprentice have some world altering secrets of their own.
If you love show stopping magic, high stakes tournaments and a heroine desperate to stay alive, you'll love this first installment of the Mages of Might series.
Desperate to fund a Healer for her dying mother, Illusionist Tsillah tricks her way into an apprenticeship with a visiting Archmage by pretending to be an elementalist. When she learns that the Archmage intends for her to compete on the circuit - a fierce competition for combat mages - Tsillah is desperate enough to try the unthinkable - she teaches herself to wield fire to become a dual wielder, a practice outlawed by the High Magus.
Certain she'll be executed on the spot when she's found out, she discovers that her Archmage and his other apprentice have some world altering secrets of their own.
If you love show stopping magic, high stakes tournaments and a heroine desperate to stay alive, you'll love this first installment of the Mages of Might series.
Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
December 14, 2024
A really quick cozy fantasy read with a hint of Romance!
So this book is about Tsillah who has to trick her way into an apprenticeship to save her sick mother. But what happens when she has to wield magic she is not allowed to wield and her archmage intends for her to compete in magical combat matches?
I did enjoy this book a lot! You get thrown right into the story and it is fast paced, so you basically fly through the pages. The storyline is easy to understand and keeps you interest throughout the whole book, while not being too crazy or complicated.
I loved the world building and the magic system that was introduced. It gave me avatar the last airbender vibes!
The characters were well thought out and complimented each other well. I love the dynamic between Tsillah, Ermir and Caius, and loved how different they all were, but still worked so well together.
Also, there was a lot of healthy communication and apologizing which I loved! There was NOT ONE unnecessary misunderstanding or conflict that wasn’t immediately solved by talking with each other like adults.
I really hope there will be some more romance between Tsillah and Caius in the next book, because the hints we got here were so adorable and I just need more.
The only thing I wished for was a bit more explaining of the world building and the magical elements (like animals or the magical words and items used). I have no imagination so sometimes I got a bit confused.
All in all I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it for everyone who just wants a quick easygoing fantasy read in between🥰
So this book is about Tsillah who has to trick her way into an apprenticeship to save her sick mother. But what happens when she has to wield magic she is not allowed to wield and her archmage intends for her to compete in magical combat matches?
I did enjoy this book a lot! You get thrown right into the story and it is fast paced, so you basically fly through the pages. The storyline is easy to understand and keeps you interest throughout the whole book, while not being too crazy or complicated.
I loved the world building and the magic system that was introduced. It gave me avatar the last airbender vibes!
The characters were well thought out and complimented each other well. I love the dynamic between Tsillah, Ermir and Caius, and loved how different they all were, but still worked so well together.
Also, there was a lot of healthy communication and apologizing which I loved! There was NOT ONE unnecessary misunderstanding or conflict that wasn’t immediately solved by talking with each other like adults.
I really hope there will be some more romance between Tsillah and Caius in the next book, because the hints we got here were so adorable and I just need more.
The only thing I wished for was a bit more explaining of the world building and the magical elements (like animals or the magical words and items used). I have no imagination so sometimes I got a bit confused.
All in all I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it for everyone who just wants a quick easygoing fantasy read in between🥰
July 12, 2024
You can find this review of The Archmage on my blog, Heart's Content!
A really big shoutout and thank you to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
Can. 👏🏻 I. 👏🏻 Just. 👏🏻 Say. 👏🏻 How. 👏🏻 Much. 👏🏻 I. 👏🏻 Loved. 👏🏻 This. 👏🏻 Book. 👏🏻
It’s always such a breath of fresh air reading a book that is so utterly unlike anything you know. There are so many familiar terms used in such a unique way, with a fresh and never-seen-before take on them. There are magic levels, scary beings, tournaments, rules, magic practice, levelling up and so much more!
The blurb of The Alchemist tells us so little about just how much you’re going to read in this book. There’s a very interesting concept (that honestly makes so much sense) called the flow, and that’s how this book reads too (at least for me). It reads the way the flow is described; where there’s initial unsureness of where to place your feet, what to do with your hands before you’re just moving with the book. You’re not thinking about your feet or your hands, you’re just enraptured with Emily L.K’s writing. With a unique kind of sweetness, emotion and fantastic imagery, The Alchemist is gripping and enthralling, leading you by the hand with mesmerised eyes into its world.
I’d like to specifically mention how the author has achieved in a 200+ page book something that most 500+ page books struggle with: which is an extremely neat and even pace with a well matched narration; and all of this without compromising on the action, emotion or the story! The book begins by drawing you into the emotion and circumstance of the FMC, who then takes us along with her on a journey of a lifetime.
The narration in this story is an extremely powerful aspect of The Alchemist (enough that some might even argue that the book is character driven). The author has paired a persuasive character with a compelling voice; pulling the readers in and keeping them with her every moment of the daunting task undertaken by her. The story is narrated singularly (in this book at least, curious to see how the rest of the series pans out) by the FMC Tsillah and it’s my favourite type of narration: single POV! So, as you can guess, I enjoyed it greatly!
The characters in this story are so well introduced! There were so many surprises to find in this book, and the way that each character was introduced—with a unique stand-out point, role and personality—was certainly one of them. I loved that the author took their time to let us get to know the primary characters establishing them firmly and slowly slipping in more characters when we’re ready. The secondary and tertiary characters all have their place, surprises and obstacles/help to offer the plot line of The Alchemist.
Here’s my take on the plot of this story. Usually the first book in any series is very important in laying the foundation for the rest of the series—be it with the world building, the situation set-up, the characters, etc. The rest of the series then proceeds to surprise you, by building on all this. However, The Alchemist, according to me did all of that! The foundation for the world was laid, the basic plot-purpose was established and we’re extremely focused on it before pow pow pow! Plot twists! Extremely significant plot twists that no one expects in book one (let’s be honest, the blurb usually just breaks the suspense for us or the writing makes it evident) that made me go :O! These plot twists then pave the road of possibly to a whole new dangerous path and an insight into the real plotline with increased stakes and mayhem! Who doesn’t love that?
As mentioned earlier, the world created by Emily L.K. is one of the true hidden gems out there! With a magic world controlled by a tyrannical and powerful mage, harboured secrets that have secrets of their own, an extremely smiley mentor, an extremely grouchy peer, humour, thrilling tournaments, wagers, grit and determination, The Alchemist is top on the list of books that have surprised me very pleasantly this year!
Five stars! No complaints from me, no sireeee! Happy reading, check trigger warnings as always! This book is available for free for all Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
A really big shoutout and thank you to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
Can. 👏🏻 I. 👏🏻 Just. 👏🏻 Say. 👏🏻 How. 👏🏻 Much. 👏🏻 I. 👏🏻 Loved. 👏🏻 This. 👏🏻 Book. 👏🏻
It’s always such a breath of fresh air reading a book that is so utterly unlike anything you know. There are so many familiar terms used in such a unique way, with a fresh and never-seen-before take on them. There are magic levels, scary beings, tournaments, rules, magic practice, levelling up and so much more!
The blurb of The Alchemist tells us so little about just how much you’re going to read in this book. There’s a very interesting concept (that honestly makes so much sense) called the flow, and that’s how this book reads too (at least for me). It reads the way the flow is described; where there’s initial unsureness of where to place your feet, what to do with your hands before you’re just moving with the book. You’re not thinking about your feet or your hands, you’re just enraptured with Emily L.K’s writing. With a unique kind of sweetness, emotion and fantastic imagery, The Alchemist is gripping and enthralling, leading you by the hand with mesmerised eyes into its world.
I’d like to specifically mention how the author has achieved in a 200+ page book something that most 500+ page books struggle with: which is an extremely neat and even pace with a well matched narration; and all of this without compromising on the action, emotion or the story! The book begins by drawing you into the emotion and circumstance of the FMC, who then takes us along with her on a journey of a lifetime.
The narration in this story is an extremely powerful aspect of The Alchemist (enough that some might even argue that the book is character driven). The author has paired a persuasive character with a compelling voice; pulling the readers in and keeping them with her every moment of the daunting task undertaken by her. The story is narrated singularly (in this book at least, curious to see how the rest of the series pans out) by the FMC Tsillah and it’s my favourite type of narration: single POV! So, as you can guess, I enjoyed it greatly!
The characters in this story are so well introduced! There were so many surprises to find in this book, and the way that each character was introduced—with a unique stand-out point, role and personality—was certainly one of them. I loved that the author took their time to let us get to know the primary characters establishing them firmly and slowly slipping in more characters when we’re ready. The secondary and tertiary characters all have their place, surprises and obstacles/help to offer the plot line of The Alchemist.
Here’s my take on the plot of this story. Usually the first book in any series is very important in laying the foundation for the rest of the series—be it with the world building, the situation set-up, the characters, etc. The rest of the series then proceeds to surprise you, by building on all this. However, The Alchemist, according to me did all of that! The foundation for the world was laid, the basic plot-purpose was established and we’re extremely focused on it before pow pow pow! Plot twists! Extremely significant plot twists that no one expects in book one (let’s be honest, the blurb usually just breaks the suspense for us or the writing makes it evident) that made me go :O! These plot twists then pave the road of possibly to a whole new dangerous path and an insight into the real plotline with increased stakes and mayhem! Who doesn’t love that?
As mentioned earlier, the world created by Emily L.K. is one of the true hidden gems out there! With a magic world controlled by a tyrannical and powerful mage, harboured secrets that have secrets of their own, an extremely smiley mentor, an extremely grouchy peer, humour, thrilling tournaments, wagers, grit and determination, The Alchemist is top on the list of books that have surprised me very pleasantly this year!
Five stars! No complaints from me, no sireeee! Happy reading, check trigger warnings as always! This book is available for free for all Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
January 27, 2025
Actual rating: 3.5/5 ⭐️
That was… interesting. This book was quite different from what I’m used to reading. If you typically enjoy classic fantasy, like I do, you might find something unusual in this novel.
It does include some classic fantasy tropes, but I’d like to point out how the magic school trope is approached here. Usually, I encounter it in middle-grade and YA books, so I was pleased to read a book where the focus was on learning, but the characters were older than the typical students. Tsillah's apprenticeship and the circuit felt like both a school-like experience and a journey—which you could eagerly enjoy, especially if you ever dreamed of learning magic as a child.
The magic system in this book is indeed fascinating, well-developed, and quite intricate. At times, it may appear a bit too convenient, but for me, it was different from the usual, so I still liked it.
The characters are very affectionate toward each other and embody what is often referred to as a 'found family'. I really enjoyed the interactions between the mentors and their apprentices. They show mutual respect, and there's no manipulation or abusive use of authority. This was the most surprising aspect for me, as I often encounter such dynamics in many fantasy books.
However, this book couldn’t fulfill all my initial expectations for its story. With less than 200 pages, this book is relatively short for a fantasy novel set in an entirely different world. Due to its brevity, I found that much of the world-building was lacking, and the magic system was a bit confusing. I still haven't fully grasped how this world operates, and some dynamics remain obscure. Hopefully, these aspects will be further explored in the second book.
I'm eagerly starting the next book because I want to learn more about Tsillah's story and her world. Plus, it ends with a cliffhanger that's got me absolutely hooked!
This book certainly has its weaknesses, but if you love structured magic systems, kind-hearted characters, and the magic-learning trope, you will find much to enjoy in this novel.
That was… interesting. This book was quite different from what I’m used to reading. If you typically enjoy classic fantasy, like I do, you might find something unusual in this novel.
It does include some classic fantasy tropes, but I’d like to point out how the magic school trope is approached here. Usually, I encounter it in middle-grade and YA books, so I was pleased to read a book where the focus was on learning, but the characters were older than the typical students. Tsillah's apprenticeship and the circuit felt like both a school-like experience and a journey—which you could eagerly enjoy, especially if you ever dreamed of learning magic as a child.
The magic system in this book is indeed fascinating, well-developed, and quite intricate. At times, it may appear a bit too convenient, but for me, it was different from the usual, so I still liked it.
The characters are very affectionate toward each other and embody what is often referred to as a 'found family'. I really enjoyed the interactions between the mentors and their apprentices. They show mutual respect, and there's no manipulation or abusive use of authority. This was the most surprising aspect for me, as I often encounter such dynamics in many fantasy books.
However, this book couldn’t fulfill all my initial expectations for its story. With less than 200 pages, this book is relatively short for a fantasy novel set in an entirely different world. Due to its brevity, I found that much of the world-building was lacking, and the magic system was a bit confusing. I still haven't fully grasped how this world operates, and some dynamics remain obscure. Hopefully, these aspects will be further explored in the second book.
I'm eagerly starting the next book because I want to learn more about Tsillah's story and her world. Plus, it ends with a cliffhanger that's got me absolutely hooked!
This book certainly has its weaknesses, but if you love structured magic systems, kind-hearted characters, and the magic-learning trope, you will find much to enjoy in this novel.
February 15, 2021
Tsillah’s mother is dying, and she is willing to do anything to save her. When Tsillah sees an ad for an elemental archmage looking for a paid apprentice, she decides to compete, for the wages could be her mother’s saving grace. The only problem is that Tsillah is not an elementalist. She is an illusionist, and practicing two forms is forbidden. But that is the choice that Tsillah must make when she impresses archmage Caius by chance with a masterful illusion that makes him believe that she is in fact a fire elementalist. Tsillah is sure that Caius will turn her in once he realizes that she isn’t who he thinks she is. But Caius and his other apprentice Ermir are hiding secrets of their own, and when all comes to light, Tsillah must do things she never thought possible.
“The Archmage” by Emily L.K. was an amazing start to a new young adult fantasy series! The characters were well thought out and had depth, and the banter between Caius, Ermir, and Tsillah was very enjoyable. There’s even a hint of romance in this series! I won’t spoil who it is, but let’s just say I’m rooting for these two! I definitely recommend this novel, and I can’t wait for book 2!
“The Archmage” by Emily L.K. was an amazing start to a new young adult fantasy series! The characters were well thought out and had depth, and the banter between Caius, Ermir, and Tsillah was very enjoyable. There’s even a hint of romance in this series! I won’t spoil who it is, but let’s just say I’m rooting for these two! I definitely recommend this novel, and I can’t wait for book 2!
June 28, 2024
4.75⭐️ rounded up to 5⭐️
For a fantasy book, this was VERY easy to read and VERY short which I LOVED. I'm new to reading fantasy so I appreciated the more YA feel and the easy to understand magic system. Can I explain anything about the magic? No, and I'm sure there's still some questions I need answered but in my head I feel like I understand everything right now. The monsters and the Defenders were a lot of fun and I hope they are featured a lot more in the next books.
Absolutely loved the characters and that everyone was just overall nice to each other. Caius, Ermir, and Tsillah are my new favorite trio/found family!! The romance is a super slow burn and the glimpses we got have me hooked and desperate for more. I honestly can't decide who I want Tsillah to be with even though there's currently really only one real option.
I felt really cozy reading this one and just really had an all around fun time with it! In my mind, this book is a 5 star but I gave it 4.75 because the very last sentence or two plus the epilogue just felt weak compared to the rest of the book.
I received a copy of this book from the author - all thoughts are my own!
For a fantasy book, this was VERY easy to read and VERY short which I LOVED. I'm new to reading fantasy so I appreciated the more YA feel and the easy to understand magic system. Can I explain anything about the magic? No, and I'm sure there's still some questions I need answered but in my head I feel like I understand everything right now. The monsters and the Defenders were a lot of fun and I hope they are featured a lot more in the next books.
Absolutely loved the characters and that everyone was just overall nice to each other. Caius, Ermir, and Tsillah are my new favorite trio/found family!! The romance is a super slow burn and the glimpses we got have me hooked and desperate for more. I honestly can't decide who I want Tsillah to be with even though there's currently really only one real option.
I felt really cozy reading this one and just really had an all around fun time with it! In my mind, this book is a 5 star but I gave it 4.75 because the very last sentence or two plus the epilogue just felt weak compared to the rest of the book.
I received a copy of this book from the author - all thoughts are my own!
June 16, 2024
Book Review: The Archmage by Emily LK
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you love:
✨ Romantasy
✨ Magic
✨ Worldbuilding
✨ Slow burn romance
✨ Found Family
✨ High Stakes Competitions
✨ Protective MMC
✨ Strong FMC
I was intrigued by this book from its summary, especially since it’s romantasy and the dedication hooked me even more! The world building of this book is beautifully done and I found Emily’s writing instantly transport me to this book’s world, Teitara. I thoroughly enjoyed all the competition matches and descriptions of all the powers displayed too.
I loved the characters from the main 3 to all the side characters. The found family vibes are strong with this book and I can tell it’s only going to grow more as the series goes on. Tsillah is such a strong, sassy and caring FMC. I loved seeing her growth and journey in navigating her feelings and powers to battling herself and her enemies. I loved how perfectly she fit in with Caius and Ermir to form the best trio. Her banter with them was hilarious 😆. I loved how protective they are of each other and especially when the men protected her. Ermir is giving off grumpy big brother vibes and I loved when him and Tsillah would team up against Caius. This slow burn is going to be so worth it and I can’t freaking wait! All the interactions between Tsillah and Caius had me giddy and my heart race 🥰.
Overall, this was a great romantasy read and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series! Thank you Emily for the ARC and opportunity to share your work! ❤️
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you love:
✨ Romantasy
✨ Magic
✨ Worldbuilding
✨ Slow burn romance
✨ Found Family
✨ High Stakes Competitions
✨ Protective MMC
✨ Strong FMC
I was intrigued by this book from its summary, especially since it’s romantasy and the dedication hooked me even more! The world building of this book is beautifully done and I found Emily’s writing instantly transport me to this book’s world, Teitara. I thoroughly enjoyed all the competition matches and descriptions of all the powers displayed too.
I loved the characters from the main 3 to all the side characters. The found family vibes are strong with this book and I can tell it’s only going to grow more as the series goes on. Tsillah is such a strong, sassy and caring FMC. I loved seeing her growth and journey in navigating her feelings and powers to battling herself and her enemies. I loved how perfectly she fit in with Caius and Ermir to form the best trio. Her banter with them was hilarious 😆. I loved how protective they are of each other and especially when the men protected her. Ermir is giving off grumpy big brother vibes and I loved when him and Tsillah would team up against Caius. This slow burn is going to be so worth it and I can’t freaking wait! All the interactions between Tsillah and Caius had me giddy and my heart race 🥰.
Overall, this was a great romantasy read and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series! Thank you Emily for the ARC and opportunity to share your work! ❤️
February 19, 2021
I was fortunate to get a copy of this and read in less than half a day. It was that good! The Archmage is a page turner full of twists and turns and leaves you wanting to find out more. This novella was a good introduction into the upcoming book and gave a glimpse into what is to come and how everything started. I love the world created as well as the characters. Tsillah, Caius and Ermir don't disappoint! They all have their own personalities and really stand out. I enjoyed reading and am looking forward to the next novel in this series. If you love fantasy and magic, then give this a read! I bet you won't be disappointed!
February 15, 2021
Wow. Wow wow wow. I absolutely LOVED this book. I was so very lucky to recieve an ARC and devoured it in days. The characters are easy to identify with, the suspense has you turning the page quicker and quicker throughout the book, and the surprises never stop.
Tsillah (Sil) is a little reckless fireball that I adored. Her golden heart quickly made her one of my favorite female protagonists I’ve read about in a very long time. The author was amazing at character development throughout the story, totally making me fall in love with each person for their own quirky reasons.
I would 100% recommend this book to lovers of fantasy books, books about magic/elemental magic, or anyone who loved Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard!
Tsillah (Sil) is a little reckless fireball that I adored. Her golden heart quickly made her one of my favorite female protagonists I’ve read about in a very long time. The author was amazing at character development throughout the story, totally making me fall in love with each person for their own quirky reasons.
I would 100% recommend this book to lovers of fantasy books, books about magic/elemental magic, or anyone who loved Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard!
June 8, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! The best part is the flow of information. The author gave you what you needed as you read. Which gave the story a relaxed flow. I loved the found family aspect and the tournaments in the book. Looking forward to see the next adventure for Tsillah, Caius, and Ermir!
September 29, 2023
Tsillah is trying to become a mage, especially since her mother is dying and she wants to help her mother get better. An archmage happens to come visit their village Bayonne who is looking for an apprentice. A tourney will be held for elementalists to showcase their skills for the archmage to select one to become their apprentice. Although Tsillah is registered as an illusionist from birth, she decides to use her illusions to make it look like she is an elementalist. She happens to meet the archmage who asks her to show him what she can do and he decides to take her on as an apprentice and pay her which will help her family and mother. Thus, Tsillah goes on adventure competing as an elementalist while hiding the fact she’s actually an illusionist, otherwise, it may mean her death.
This was a fun read for me! It’s not often I feel like I get to read a book with magical competitions. Then mix in a found family, unique magic, some agonizing hints of slow burn romance, and this makes for a great read!
I really liked Tsillah and her two fellow partners, Ermir and Caius. Tsillah knows what she wants and goes for it, she was very admirable and also cares a lot about people, especially her family, who she is trying to help by risking her life to do these dual competitions. Ermir is that broody male character we always love. Handsome to a fault, broody and moody and yet everyone loves him 😂 when Tsillah first meets him and Caius, I’m always immediately wondering who will be the one she obviously has to fall in love with 😂 you can’t not like one of them with how long you’re intimately traveling together with!
Caius I loved from the beginning. I’ve never read about such a patient and kind person. I mean when you learn more about him and who he is and what he is, wow, what a guy! Seriously the best character and so nice! He’s like all smiles the whole book and it makes you wonder how he can be like that the whole time, not to mention I would have thought I would be annoyed by his smiling all the time, but I really liked him and appreciated how he never let anything get to him or make him angry. Always very levelheaded. Especially with two rather impatient apprentices!
Now by the end of this book, I could see where a potential romance is starting and I was here for it! I love a good slow burn romance with all those “moments” and you’re just waiting for SOMETHING to happen!
Some things that bothered me a bit in the book was the pacing for the most part and some of the random modern things mentioned. It’s a fantasy world and it threw me a bit to read about them eating a burger 😅 it’s a small thing, but it was a bit odd having something like that in such a fantasy world. Then the pacing was very very fast! I mean weeks would suddenly go by and I wouldn’t say it wasn’t believable, it was written in a way that did make it seem like it had been weeks, but it also didn’t seem that way. There’s kind of a lack of detail in some parts of the story and world that had me wondering about things, such as why the Defenders would go after them, and then would stop. They were clearly on the run all the time, but they were never actually being chased? There were just some small details like that that seemed a bit lacking for me. It still made for a great story!
Now onto the next book!
This was a fun read for me! It’s not often I feel like I get to read a book with magical competitions. Then mix in a found family, unique magic, some agonizing hints of slow burn romance, and this makes for a great read!
I really liked Tsillah and her two fellow partners, Ermir and Caius. Tsillah knows what she wants and goes for it, she was very admirable and also cares a lot about people, especially her family, who she is trying to help by risking her life to do these dual competitions. Ermir is that broody male character we always love. Handsome to a fault, broody and moody and yet everyone loves him 😂 when Tsillah first meets him and Caius, I’m always immediately wondering who will be the one she obviously has to fall in love with 😂 you can’t not like one of them with how long you’re intimately traveling together with!
Caius I loved from the beginning. I’ve never read about such a patient and kind person. I mean when you learn more about him and who he is and what he is, wow, what a guy! Seriously the best character and so nice! He’s like all smiles the whole book and it makes you wonder how he can be like that the whole time, not to mention I would have thought I would be annoyed by his smiling all the time, but I really liked him and appreciated how he never let anything get to him or make him angry. Always very levelheaded. Especially with two rather impatient apprentices!
Now by the end of this book, I could see where a potential romance is starting and I was here for it! I love a good slow burn romance with all those “moments” and you’re just waiting for SOMETHING to happen!
Some things that bothered me a bit in the book was the pacing for the most part and some of the random modern things mentioned. It’s a fantasy world and it threw me a bit to read about them eating a burger 😅 it’s a small thing, but it was a bit odd having something like that in such a fantasy world. Then the pacing was very very fast! I mean weeks would suddenly go by and I wouldn’t say it wasn’t believable, it was written in a way that did make it seem like it had been weeks, but it also didn’t seem that way. There’s kind of a lack of detail in some parts of the story and world that had me wondering about things, such as why the Defenders would go after them, and then would stop. They were clearly on the run all the time, but they were never actually being chased? There were just some small details like that that seemed a bit lacking for me. It still made for a great story!
Now onto the next book!
June 13, 2024
I basically devoured this book in no time at all, and I'm glad I did! I didn't know what I was getting myself into when I started this book, but I'd seen that it had elemental magic and that's all I needed to know.
Admittedly I'm a lover of Avatar the Last Airbender, so elemental magic is definitely my jam. I love when you see people wielding elements as weapons, and THE ARCHMAGE delivers on that. There are some incredibly neat ways in which the elements are used, including allowing a wind-mage to open traveling vortexes that take people from one place to another in the blink of an eye. I also liked that wind-mages can use their abilities to send letters across distances and basically drop them into the recipient's hands, though as I think about it, I'm not 100% sure how they can "aim" their letter vortexes to the correct person. But either way, it's a really cool concept that I enjoyed.
Okay, so actual thoughts on the world - I like the magic system, obviously, but I also liked that it's got a hierarchy of magical power that you have to work your way through. There are consequences to using magic, which is important to me, and the "leveling up" system of going from apprentice to journeyman to sorcerer, etc, was all laid out nicely and neatly and made sense to me. Of course, in any world like this you're going to have some Big Bad(s), and in this one it's a combination of black mages (whose magic I'm not sure I understand yet) and the High Magus. This High Magus is the one who strikes fear in the hearts of mages, despite supposedly being the leader of the nation whose Defenders protect law and order.
As far as the characters go, I love Tsillah, Caius, and Ermir! They're great, and I don't even care that Ermir is a big grump most of the story because his background adds so much to the picture of who he is. Caius was a total surprise, especially with a big reveal toward the end of the story that had me sitting up straighter in shock (much like Tsillah), and of course I love Tsillah and her guts and bravery! I hope the second book gives us more of Flint, Rani, and Sakura since they were such fun side characters who made me smile and laugh at different times.
The story definitely works well, and it has that wonderful slow build that I adore. It's not quite a romance yet, but the slow burn is there. And I'm here for it.
And, of course, the only minor things I noticed that bothered me was the passing of time that I somehow failed to pay attention to. Perhaps I was reading so fast that I missed those little beats that show the time passing because there's a point where Tsillah says she's been gone from home for ten months, and I was like, waiiiiit...how did we pass ten months? Probably just me not reading closely enough since obviously she's been traveling from town to town and competing in tournaments, so yeah, duh, time passed.
Other than the usual minor errors I noted in certain parts, there's very little to critique. The errors are about on par with most books, since I don't think I've ever read a book where I haven't caught at least one typo or misspelling or something.
Excellent first book in the series, and I'm really anxious to see what happens to Tsillah in book 2!
Admittedly I'm a lover of Avatar the Last Airbender, so elemental magic is definitely my jam. I love when you see people wielding elements as weapons, and THE ARCHMAGE delivers on that. There are some incredibly neat ways in which the elements are used, including allowing a wind-mage to open traveling vortexes that take people from one place to another in the blink of an eye. I also liked that wind-mages can use their abilities to send letters across distances and basically drop them into the recipient's hands, though as I think about it, I'm not 100% sure how they can "aim" their letter vortexes to the correct person. But either way, it's a really cool concept that I enjoyed.
Okay, so actual thoughts on the world - I like the magic system, obviously, but I also liked that it's got a hierarchy of magical power that you have to work your way through. There are consequences to using magic, which is important to me, and the "leveling up" system of going from apprentice to journeyman to sorcerer, etc, was all laid out nicely and neatly and made sense to me. Of course, in any world like this you're going to have some Big Bad(s), and in this one it's a combination of black mages (whose magic I'm not sure I understand yet) and the High Magus. This High Magus is the one who strikes fear in the hearts of mages, despite supposedly being the leader of the nation whose Defenders protect law and order.
As far as the characters go, I love Tsillah, Caius, and Ermir! They're great, and I don't even care that Ermir is a big grump most of the story because his background adds so much to the picture of who he is. Caius was a total surprise, especially with a big reveal toward the end of the story that had me sitting up straighter in shock (much like Tsillah), and of course I love Tsillah and her guts and bravery! I hope the second book gives us more of Flint, Rani, and Sakura since they were such fun side characters who made me smile and laugh at different times.
The story definitely works well, and it has that wonderful slow build that I adore. It's not quite a romance yet, but the slow burn is there. And I'm here for it.
And, of course, the only minor things I noticed that bothered me was the passing of time that I somehow failed to pay attention to. Perhaps I was reading so fast that I missed those little beats that show the time passing because there's a point where Tsillah says she's been gone from home for ten months, and I was like, waiiiiit...how did we pass ten months? Probably just me not reading closely enough since obviously she's been traveling from town to town and competing in tournaments, so yeah, duh, time passed.
Other than the usual minor errors I noted in certain parts, there's very little to critique. The errors are about on par with most books, since I don't think I've ever read a book where I haven't caught at least one typo or misspelling or something.
Excellent first book in the series, and I'm really anxious to see what happens to Tsillah in book 2!
July 22, 2024
ATTENTION ALL FANTASY LOVERS! YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!!??!!
This book was sent to me as an ARC and my oh my, I had NO IDEA what I was in for when I began this story.
The world building in this series is SO well fleshed out and executed, the concepts while in theory are complex, have been written so remarkably well that you as the reader, have no issue grasping and following along. This is SO hard to do in Fantasy, so well done Emily! You’ve really created something unique and BELIEVABLE.
The characters are so loveable, the story line is ALWAYS encapsulating, I’ve been completely and irrevocably sucked IN to this fantasy world, I don’t want to ever leave!
I’ve gone and purchased book 2 IMMEDIATELY after finishing book 1 as I’m not ready to leave this world yet.
The lighthearted tension between Caius & Tsillah is keeping me ALIVE rn. I’m kicking and screaming at the subtleties of their connection. I love the forbidden attraction aspect that is one sided at this point, but will no doubt be discovered as mutual. Arghhhh!!!! I love caius’ softness, yet the deep and overwhelming concern he feels for Tsillah. He isn’t afraid to show her that he cares in those brief moments where required, and I love the deep sense of duty, providence and protection that both Caius AND Ermir seem to naturally have and give to Sil.
This book needs WAY more hype, and any Romantasy lovers reading this - PLEASE READ THIS SERIES
Thank you to Emily L.K for the opportunity to immerse myself in this fantastic world, I may just stay here for a little while longer!
Question for those who’ve read this, and for the author if she’s reading - If you were a character in this world, what discipline would you be? I feel as though I’d be an Illusionist! ✨🔮🌫️🌌💎🪄💭
This book was sent to me as an ARC and my oh my, I had NO IDEA what I was in for when I began this story.
The world building in this series is SO well fleshed out and executed, the concepts while in theory are complex, have been written so remarkably well that you as the reader, have no issue grasping and following along. This is SO hard to do in Fantasy, so well done Emily! You’ve really created something unique and BELIEVABLE.
The characters are so loveable, the story line is ALWAYS encapsulating, I’ve been completely and irrevocably sucked IN to this fantasy world, I don’t want to ever leave!
I’ve gone and purchased book 2 IMMEDIATELY after finishing book 1 as I’m not ready to leave this world yet.
The lighthearted tension between Caius & Tsillah is keeping me ALIVE rn. I’m kicking and screaming at the subtleties of their connection. I love the forbidden attraction aspect that is one sided at this point, but will no doubt be discovered as mutual. Arghhhh!!!! I love caius’ softness, yet the deep and overwhelming concern he feels for Tsillah. He isn’t afraid to show her that he cares in those brief moments where required, and I love the deep sense of duty, providence and protection that both Caius AND Ermir seem to naturally have and give to Sil.
This book needs WAY more hype, and any Romantasy lovers reading this - PLEASE READ THIS SERIES
Thank you to Emily L.K for the opportunity to immerse myself in this fantastic world, I may just stay here for a little while longer!
Question for those who’ve read this, and for the author if she’s reading - If you were a character in this world, what discipline would you be? I feel as though I’d be an Illusionist! ✨🔮🌫️🌌💎🪄💭
June 28, 2024
I just finished this book and am anxious to get my hands on the next one!
I was excited to see where this book would end, but I also didn't want it to because I devoured every word and became completely immersed in it. Although it is a slow burn romance, The Archmage is a fast-paced story with plenty of twists as secrets, and the intricate workings of the world are uncovered. To save her mother, Tsillah, despite being an illusionist, begins to train herself in elemental magic, defying the law, in order to become a paid apprentice to an archmage. However, as her trip across the continent with her mentor Caius and his other apprentice Ermir exposes secrets, Tsillah finds herself at the centre of a growing uprising.
There are hints of a blossoming romance, but if you expect one, this novel will disappoint you. However, the close bond that develops between Tsillah, Caius, and Ermir makes up for it as they develop their powers and an unshakable allegiance to one other. The character development is consistent, and each adversary that Tsillah faces allows her to grow, and she is an understandable character who admits when she is wrong but is strong in her values and what she fights for. The characters in general were just so well constructed, and I loved each one, especially the three leads, but also Caius' brother Flint, who added a new dynamic to the scene.
The Archmage was an addictive start to the series, but there is still so much to be discovered about the world, and the epilogue gives me hope that more backstory will be revealed as the story unfolds in the following books.
I'm so excited to see where the Mages of Might Series goes!
I was excited to see where this book would end, but I also didn't want it to because I devoured every word and became completely immersed in it. Although it is a slow burn romance, The Archmage is a fast-paced story with plenty of twists as secrets, and the intricate workings of the world are uncovered. To save her mother, Tsillah, despite being an illusionist, begins to train herself in elemental magic, defying the law, in order to become a paid apprentice to an archmage. However, as her trip across the continent with her mentor Caius and his other apprentice Ermir exposes secrets, Tsillah finds herself at the centre of a growing uprising.
There are hints of a blossoming romance, but if you expect one, this novel will disappoint you. However, the close bond that develops between Tsillah, Caius, and Ermir makes up for it as they develop their powers and an unshakable allegiance to one other. The character development is consistent, and each adversary that Tsillah faces allows her to grow, and she is an understandable character who admits when she is wrong but is strong in her values and what she fights for. The characters in general were just so well constructed, and I loved each one, especially the three leads, but also Caius' brother Flint, who added a new dynamic to the scene.
The Archmage was an addictive start to the series, but there is still so much to be discovered about the world, and the epilogue gives me hope that more backstory will be revealed as the story unfolds in the following books.
I'm so excited to see where the Mages of Might Series goes!
June 8, 2024
The Archmage
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Perfect for fans of:
🗡️ Trials and Competitions
✨ Magic - including elemental
👩🏼🤝👨🏻 Found Family
🔥 Slooooow Burn Romance
💪🏼 Strong FMC
I liked this book. A LOT 🫶🏼
The Archmage follows the story of Tsillah as she leaves her village to take on a paid apprenticeship with an Archmage in order to save her mother from illness. She ends up on an amazing adventure with a new group of friends as she competes across the land and learns to wield not just one discipline but two, something that puts her at risk of punishment from the evil High Magus. And it turns out she’s not the only one keeping their powers secret. This is the most wholesome story of found family, secret magic and high stakes action.
There was so much I enjoyed about this book.
I loved all of the characters! They were super relatable and while Tsillah found a family amongst them I felt like I did too.
I loved the story line for this book. Emily LK has come up with an incredible concept of a world where magic welders compete to progress their powers as they move up through the magic levels. The setting is giving medieval vibes with the tourney and traveling by horse and cart, which I was also loving.
While it did lack solid world building and there’s still some elements of the magic system which I didn’t fully understand at points, this was a really good read. And actually I think the fact that it was a really simple story without all the complexity fantasy world building usually brings, made it much more enjoyable and a super fun, easy read.
I can’t wait for book two!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Perfect for fans of:
🗡️ Trials and Competitions
✨ Magic - including elemental
👩🏼🤝👨🏻 Found Family
🔥 Slooooow Burn Romance
💪🏼 Strong FMC
I liked this book. A LOT 🫶🏼
The Archmage follows the story of Tsillah as she leaves her village to take on a paid apprenticeship with an Archmage in order to save her mother from illness. She ends up on an amazing adventure with a new group of friends as she competes across the land and learns to wield not just one discipline but two, something that puts her at risk of punishment from the evil High Magus. And it turns out she’s not the only one keeping their powers secret. This is the most wholesome story of found family, secret magic and high stakes action.
There was so much I enjoyed about this book.
I loved all of the characters! They were super relatable and while Tsillah found a family amongst them I felt like I did too.
I loved the story line for this book. Emily LK has come up with an incredible concept of a world where magic welders compete to progress their powers as they move up through the magic levels. The setting is giving medieval vibes with the tourney and traveling by horse and cart, which I was also loving.
While it did lack solid world building and there’s still some elements of the magic system which I didn’t fully understand at points, this was a really good read. And actually I think the fact that it was a really simple story without all the complexity fantasy world building usually brings, made it much more enjoyable and a super fun, easy read.
I can’t wait for book two!
January 10, 2025
The Archmage (Mages of Might #1) by Emily LK feels like the delightful love child of A Knight’s Tale and Avatar: The Last Airbender, delivering all the cozy fantasy vibes you didn’t know you needed.
The story follows Tsillah, a young girl who cons her way into becoming an apprentice with Caius, who takes her on to settle a bet. Along with Ermir—Caius's grumpy and brooding other apprentice—Tsillah embarks on a series of tournaments across the country to test her magic and prove herself. The dynamic between the three is pure gold: snarky humor, heartwarming moments, layered character development, and some incredible tension.
Emily LK’s gradual worldbuilding is a standout feature. Instead of overwhelming the reader, she unveils her world with subtle details that seamlessly come together. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels effortless and rewarding—perfect for getting lost in without feeling bogged down—while also making you want more!
Emily LK also puts a really enjoyable spin on some of our favorite tropes. Found Family. Touch her and die. Slow burn with so much toe-curling tension. While there’s no “spice,” the emotional depth, unspoken moments, and subtle touches are more than enough to keep you hooked.
If you loved the whimsy of Once Upon a Broken Heart, the comforting charm of Legends & Lattes, or the tension-filled world-building of Shadow and Bone, this book is your next must-read.
I devoured this sweet, enchanting story in no time and am already counting the days until I can get my hands on the next installment. Highly recommend! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The story follows Tsillah, a young girl who cons her way into becoming an apprentice with Caius, who takes her on to settle a bet. Along with Ermir—Caius's grumpy and brooding other apprentice—Tsillah embarks on a series of tournaments across the country to test her magic and prove herself. The dynamic between the three is pure gold: snarky humor, heartwarming moments, layered character development, and some incredible tension.
Emily LK’s gradual worldbuilding is a standout feature. Instead of overwhelming the reader, she unveils her world with subtle details that seamlessly come together. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels effortless and rewarding—perfect for getting lost in without feeling bogged down—while also making you want more!
Emily LK also puts a really enjoyable spin on some of our favorite tropes. Found Family. Touch her and die. Slow burn with so much toe-curling tension. While there’s no “spice,” the emotional depth, unspoken moments, and subtle touches are more than enough to keep you hooked.
If you loved the whimsy of Once Upon a Broken Heart, the comforting charm of Legends & Lattes, or the tension-filled world-building of Shadow and Bone, this book is your next must-read.
I devoured this sweet, enchanting story in no time and am already counting the days until I can get my hands on the next installment. Highly recommend! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
May 31, 2024
This book sucked me in from the start, and kept me hooked until I finished it. The characters are easy to like, and their group dynamic is fun to read. Caius is technically in charge, but he and Ermir function with an understanding and partnership that only occasionally strays into teacher/student, and when it does it always comes from a place of learning. Absolutely no cringe or ego issues from Caius in the group's power dynamic, which was so refreshing!
As the reader, you and Tsillah get to know Caius and Ermir and slowly uncover their motivations for participating in the magical tournament circuit as well as why they picked her to join them. She is quickly brought into the fold and through her learning of fire magic, you come to understand the magical system and political machinations going on in their world without being overwhelmed. The way it's written you get to jump into the story without getting bogged down with extensive world building, instead learning it through Tsillah's experience as she leaves her hometown and travels around the circuit.
The ending isn't necessarily a cliffhanger but leaves you wanting more. There are the beginnings of a slow build romance between Tsillah and Caius but it isn't off-putting like most romances with an unequal power balance are, at least for me. This was a great palate cleanser for me after experiencing a bunch of disappointing booktok DNF's, and I can't wait to read the next book!
As the reader, you and Tsillah get to know Caius and Ermir and slowly uncover their motivations for participating in the magical tournament circuit as well as why they picked her to join them. She is quickly brought into the fold and through her learning of fire magic, you come to understand the magical system and political machinations going on in their world without being overwhelmed. The way it's written you get to jump into the story without getting bogged down with extensive world building, instead learning it through Tsillah's experience as she leaves her hometown and travels around the circuit.
The ending isn't necessarily a cliffhanger but leaves you wanting more. There are the beginnings of a slow build romance between Tsillah and Caius but it isn't off-putting like most romances with an unequal power balance are, at least for me. This was a great palate cleanser for me after experiencing a bunch of disappointing booktok DNF's, and I can't wait to read the next book!
January 16, 2025
My biggest regret of 2025 so far, was not picking up The Archmage as soon as I received it. I did not want to eat or sleep until I had finished the book!
It was so easy to read and get drawn into the book and setting. I found this book to be very well-written! No usage of any swear words to take you out of the world. There was not too much detail of the world itself, but there was enough to envision the story and each scene. It was nice not having to use much brain power envisioning each worldly detail. Instead, the writing allowed me to focus on the magic system, each character's unconventional personality, and the small, heart fluttering moments that made me smile with anticipation. I cannot wait to see how the relationships and story develop further in the next book!
I am so in love with Caius, Ermir, and Tsillah already. I love the communication and how each character handles their conflicts like adults. No long overdrawn misunderstanding that lasts the entire book. The names are unique, yet fit each character so naturally. I can't get enough! Please, please check out this book! If you are tired of insta love or bad romance developments and enjoy reading books with unique elemental magic, give this book a read!
Thank you so much to Emily L.K. for providing me with a review copy for free, in exchange for an honest review.
It was so easy to read and get drawn into the book and setting. I found this book to be very well-written! No usage of any swear words to take you out of the world. There was not too much detail of the world itself, but there was enough to envision the story and each scene. It was nice not having to use much brain power envisioning each worldly detail. Instead, the writing allowed me to focus on the magic system, each character's unconventional personality, and the small, heart fluttering moments that made me smile with anticipation. I cannot wait to see how the relationships and story develop further in the next book!
I am so in love with Caius, Ermir, and Tsillah already. I love the communication and how each character handles their conflicts like adults. No long overdrawn misunderstanding that lasts the entire book. The names are unique, yet fit each character so naturally. I can't get enough! Please, please check out this book! If you are tired of insta love or bad romance developments and enjoy reading books with unique elemental magic, give this book a read!
Thank you so much to Emily L.K. for providing me with a review copy for free, in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2025
This unique and riveting elemental meets sorcery with a bit of some dystopian vibes fantasy story was so much fun to read!
Tsillah will do anything to save her dying, sick mother. When an opportunity to be chosen for an apprenticeship to a mage presents itself, Tsillah finds herself tricking an Archmage into taking her on as an apprentice-an elemental fire wielding apprentice. There’s just one problem…Tsillah is an illusionist. She decides that she must do the impossible-learn to dual wield, both illusions and fire, which is illegal and punishable by death by the ruling High Magus. Tsillah is thrust into a cutthroat tournament and discovers that her sponsor mage, Caius and his other apprentice, Ermir, hold secrets of their own. Will Tsillah be able to pull off her scheme? Or will her growing feelings for her mage sponsor, along with the High Magus’ defenders pursuing her end her dual wielding journey before it’s even begun?
This fun story was a blast to read and I can’t wait to continue Tsillah’s story.
Romantic Content: Mild Innuendos, One Brief Vague Description of Female Nudity, One of Main Male Characters Sleeps Around (not described at all but is implied), Physical Attraction Mildly Descriptive
TW: Loss, Coercion, Poisoning, Lying
Tsillah will do anything to save her dying, sick mother. When an opportunity to be chosen for an apprenticeship to a mage presents itself, Tsillah finds herself tricking an Archmage into taking her on as an apprentice-an elemental fire wielding apprentice. There’s just one problem…Tsillah is an illusionist. She decides that she must do the impossible-learn to dual wield, both illusions and fire, which is illegal and punishable by death by the ruling High Magus. Tsillah is thrust into a cutthroat tournament and discovers that her sponsor mage, Caius and his other apprentice, Ermir, hold secrets of their own. Will Tsillah be able to pull off her scheme? Or will her growing feelings for her mage sponsor, along with the High Magus’ defenders pursuing her end her dual wielding journey before it’s even begun?
This fun story was a blast to read and I can’t wait to continue Tsillah’s story.
Romantic Content: Mild Innuendos, One Brief Vague Description of Female Nudity, One of Main Male Characters Sleeps Around (not described at all but is implied), Physical Attraction Mildly Descriptive
TW: Loss, Coercion, Poisoning, Lying
June 6, 2024
This book is exactly how the author describes it. It has a nice pace and the suspense and action builds steadily throughout the book. It took me a few chapters to fully get entrapped but after that I was invested. Theres a good slow burn romance starting and it developes in a way that feels natural and believable.
I'm a big fan of Tsillah, I love her personality and determination and following her through her trials and growth is a pleasure. I think her found family is so wholesome and I love that for her. The character building is done really well and I feel connected to them all.
I enjoy the magic aspect, it's original in its own way and it's beautifuly written, the descriptions and world building of this aspect is chefs kiss.
Overall the book is a comfy read. It's got enough to keep you interested and I cannot wait to see how the story unfurls further. It's not too dark or overwhelming, sometimes I feel like books can be so heavy with all the dark themes and triggers, this doesn't have that and I appreciate that.
I'm a big fan of Tsillah, I love her personality and determination and following her through her trials and growth is a pleasure. I think her found family is so wholesome and I love that for her. The character building is done really well and I feel connected to them all.
I enjoy the magic aspect, it's original in its own way and it's beautifuly written, the descriptions and world building of this aspect is chefs kiss.
Overall the book is a comfy read. It's got enough to keep you interested and I cannot wait to see how the story unfurls further. It's not too dark or overwhelming, sometimes I feel like books can be so heavy with all the dark themes and triggers, this doesn't have that and I appreciate that.
April 6, 2025
I really enjoy reading fantasy novels with magic, and this one has the magic-users competing in friendly battles to advance their rankings.
Our FMC, Tsillah, is an illusionist, but when a visiting archmage, searching for an elementalist to take on as an apprentice, comes to her home of Bayonne, she lies about being a fire elementalist in order to become Caius' apprentice, and earning money to pay for her mother's much needed treatment. This starts Tsillah's path as a career mage, travelling with the archmage Caius, and his other apprentice, the wind elementalist Ermir. Together they travel the circuit, showing off their skills in their chosen discipline.
The fact Sil isn't actually the fire elementalist she pretended to be adds some early drama, and I really enjoyed reading how she dealt with her deception and how she grew both as a person and a career mage.
This book is the first in the Mages of Might series, and I'm definitely interested in where this tale goes next.
I received a copy of this ebook from the author, with thanks, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
Our FMC, Tsillah, is an illusionist, but when a visiting archmage, searching for an elementalist to take on as an apprentice, comes to her home of Bayonne, she lies about being a fire elementalist in order to become Caius' apprentice, and earning money to pay for her mother's much needed treatment. This starts Tsillah's path as a career mage, travelling with the archmage Caius, and his other apprentice, the wind elementalist Ermir. Together they travel the circuit, showing off their skills in their chosen discipline.
The fact Sil isn't actually the fire elementalist she pretended to be adds some early drama, and I really enjoyed reading how she dealt with her deception and how she grew both as a person and a career mage.
This book is the first in the Mages of Might series, and I'm definitely interested in where this tale goes next.
I received a copy of this ebook from the author, with thanks, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
June 10, 2024
Rating: 3.5 stars.
In comparison to other fantasies I've read this had a cosier feel to it. Through the book we meet Tsillah; an illusionist who, while looking for a way to help raise funds to aid her sick mother pretends to be an elementalist to secure an apprenticeship with a travelling archmage Caius and his other apprentice Ermir.
I was intrigued by the story, the world Author Emily LK builds up and the characters developing relationships together.
Unlike most fantasy novels I've read, this one focuses more on the characters rather than world building and we get snippets of previous events through conversations.
Personally, I would have preferred the book to go a little longer to help build out the world a bit more and to develop the characters/ relationships further. This likely would have helped me to relate more to them.
Overall a cosy, easy-to-read fantasy and I'm intrigued to see how each of their stories continues in book 2.
In comparison to other fantasies I've read this had a cosier feel to it. Through the book we meet Tsillah; an illusionist who, while looking for a way to help raise funds to aid her sick mother pretends to be an elementalist to secure an apprenticeship with a travelling archmage Caius and his other apprentice Ermir.
I was intrigued by the story, the world Author Emily LK builds up and the characters developing relationships together.
Unlike most fantasy novels I've read, this one focuses more on the characters rather than world building and we get snippets of previous events through conversations.
Personally, I would have preferred the book to go a little longer to help build out the world a bit more and to develop the characters/ relationships further. This likely would have helped me to relate more to them.
Overall a cosy, easy-to-read fantasy and I'm intrigued to see how each of their stories continues in book 2.
June 15, 2024
This story was like a cozy fantasy, and I mean that in the best possible way! There was plenty of magic, but the story was easy to follow and digest. And there's sorrow and political mayhem, but also a protective found family. And of course there's a slooooow burn romance building with a man I can't help but love!
I really liked the slow world building! Sometimes I really struggle with the first several chapters of a book because of the world and character building, and it's distracting from really diving into the story. With this book, I could easily understand what was going on and wasn't bogged down or confused.
It's the first book in a series, and I will absolutely be reading the second book! (Psst! Book 2 is already published so you can jump right in!)
🙊 Occasional cursing, no F
🌶 No spice
🩸 Violence, minimal gore
Thanks so much to the author for a copy of the book! I'm leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I really liked the slow world building! Sometimes I really struggle with the first several chapters of a book because of the world and character building, and it's distracting from really diving into the story. With this book, I could easily understand what was going on and wasn't bogged down or confused.
It's the first book in a series, and I will absolutely be reading the second book! (Psst! Book 2 is already published so you can jump right in!)
🙊 Occasional cursing, no F
🌶 No spice
🩸 Violence, minimal gore
Thanks so much to the author for a copy of the book! I'm leaving this honest review voluntarily.
January 8, 2025
Compared to the archmage who has taken her on as an apprentice and his other higher-level apprentice, Tsillah seems completely ordinary and unassuming.
I liked the fact that she could hold her own in a fight but still needed her comrades' help. The novel itself is quite slow-paced but it feels like you're sharing Tsillah's frustrations with her when she loses her matches. She's not a genius magician like Ermir, but what she lacks in magical ability, she makes up for in strategy.
The romance is also slow burn (which I love by the way since it doesn't feel forced at all) and I'm excited to see what the author has in store for us
I liked the fact that she could hold her own in a fight but still needed her comrades' help. The novel itself is quite slow-paced but it feels like you're sharing Tsillah's frustrations with her when she loses her matches. She's not a genius magician like Ermir, but what she lacks in magical ability, she makes up for in strategy.
The romance is also slow burn (which I love by the way since it doesn't feel forced at all) and I'm excited to see what the author has in store for us
June 24, 2024
✨Magical tournament
✨Found family
✨Unique magic system
✨Realistic character growth
✨Emotionally healthy MMC
✨Nuanced FMC
✨Slooooow burn (in a good way)
I had so much fun with this book!!! I was so pleasantly surprised with the characters and how they grew in their skills and in maturity (cough Ermir). The relationships between Tsillah, Caius and Ermir were so pure and I feel they really grew in an organic way considering the timeline of the book.
My absolute FAVORITE thing about this book was the magic system—between illusionists, elementalists and summoners I truly could not get enough. And seeing the magic system play out in the setting of a magical tournament was so cool. Usually with fights and battles in books I get lost but I was so absorbed by the ones in this book!
Highly recommend!!!!
✨Found family
✨Unique magic system
✨Realistic character growth
✨Emotionally healthy MMC
✨Nuanced FMC
✨Slooooow burn (in a good way)
I had so much fun with this book!!! I was so pleasantly surprised with the characters and how they grew in their skills and in maturity (cough Ermir). The relationships between Tsillah, Caius and Ermir were so pure and I feel they really grew in an organic way considering the timeline of the book.
My absolute FAVORITE thing about this book was the magic system—between illusionists, elementalists and summoners I truly could not get enough. And seeing the magic system play out in the setting of a magical tournament was so cool. Usually with fights and battles in books I get lost but I was so absorbed by the ones in this book!
Highly recommend!!!!
April 1, 2025
5.0+ stars
Oh my God, this book, this series is sooo fucking good. The slow burn, the found family, the world building, the small moments between Tsillah and Caius but also all the other characters. I'm in love. I just wished the series was already completed because my heart can't take it if Caius and Tsillah but also Ermir and Rani won't find their happy ever after. They deserve it!
It's truly a slow burn romance, the romance is not the main focus of the story but I still love all the development between Caius and Tsillah. They are so cute together but I know that it will take a long time for them to be happy (and I will set world on fire if they don't end up happy and content 🥺)
Please tell me the fourth book will be the last book (not that I don't want more of Tsillah, an Caius and Ermir) but I don't want to wait years to read the last book! I'm not made for waiting.
Oh my God, this book, this series is sooo fucking good. The slow burn, the found family, the world building, the small moments between Tsillah and Caius but also all the other characters. I'm in love. I just wished the series was already completed because my heart can't take it if Caius and Tsillah but also Ermir and Rani won't find their happy ever after. They deserve it!
It's truly a slow burn romance, the romance is not the main focus of the story but I still love all the development between Caius and Tsillah. They are so cute together but I know that it will take a long time for them to be happy (and I will set world on fire if they don't end up happy and content 🥺)
Please tell me the fourth book will be the last book (not that I don't want more of Tsillah, an Caius and Ermir) but I don't want to wait years to read the last book! I'm not made for waiting.
June 2, 2024
What I loved is the world building for now I can see it’s focused on it which I’m not complaining! I liked it. And also I loved their bond, how their relationship as a trio progresses. We’re not into the climax of the story yet but as I’ve said, I loved the journey.
The magic system is unique and there were other things added apart from the usual 4 elements. In here, we see Tsillah and Ermir training, competing and advancing their ranks each with their own motives.
I hope to see more of their individual development in the next books and hopefully more exciting things happening 😉 and of courseeeee I know the author mentioned a slow-burn but I can’t wait 🫣😂 give it to meeee 🌶️
ARC read. Honest review left voluntarily.
The magic system is unique and there were other things added apart from the usual 4 elements. In here, we see Tsillah and Ermir training, competing and advancing their ranks each with their own motives.
I hope to see more of their individual development in the next books and hopefully more exciting things happening 😉 and of courseeeee I know the author mentioned a slow-burn but I can’t wait 🫣😂 give it to meeee 🌶️
ARC read. Honest review left voluntarily.
June 19, 2024
I would 100% recommend this book to lovers of fantasy books, books about magic/elemental magic. The magic system in this book is fascinating and intricate and once I understood it I loved it.
I enjoyed how the world was revealed as you went through the story, without you being overloaded with information straight away.
I loved the found family aspect of the story and while I am excited to see Tsillah and Casius’ story develop, I’m also looking forward to how the relationship builds between all the other characters, including Tsillah and Ermir.
The way the book ended without revealing how the story is going, and left me wanting more (without leaving me with any heartbreak). I can’t wait to read book 2 and see where Emily takes the characters next.
I enjoyed how the world was revealed as you went through the story, without you being overloaded with information straight away.
I loved the found family aspect of the story and while I am excited to see Tsillah and Casius’ story develop, I’m also looking forward to how the relationship builds between all the other characters, including Tsillah and Ermir.
The way the book ended without revealing how the story is going, and left me wanting more (without leaving me with any heartbreak). I can’t wait to read book 2 and see where Emily takes the characters next.
June 20, 2024
4.75 stars!
The Archmage is a mystical fantasy novel following Tsillah, Ermir and Caius. Caius is an archmage who is training Tsillah and Ermir to complete in the journeyman tournament after brokering a deal with his brother Flint. However, Tsillah lied and said that she is a fire wielder, when she is an illusionist, leaving her to dual wield… which is illegal and punishable by death!
This novel was so gripping! I really enjoyed the journey along with the main characters. I am a sucker for a slow burn, and this novel does just that! I cannot wait to read part 2 after the cliffhanger of the epilogue! I have never read a novel quite like this before, and I have to say i thoroughly enjoyed every single page, turn and twist throughout it.
The Archmage is a mystical fantasy novel following Tsillah, Ermir and Caius. Caius is an archmage who is training Tsillah and Ermir to complete in the journeyman tournament after brokering a deal with his brother Flint. However, Tsillah lied and said that she is a fire wielder, when she is an illusionist, leaving her to dual wield… which is illegal and punishable by death!
This novel was so gripping! I really enjoyed the journey along with the main characters. I am a sucker for a slow burn, and this novel does just that! I cannot wait to read part 2 after the cliffhanger of the epilogue! I have never read a novel quite like this before, and I have to say i thoroughly enjoyed every single page, turn and twist throughout it.
January 27, 2025
Thank you to Emily L.K. for providing me with an ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Read this if you like:
-Unique Magic
-A slow build
-Slow burn
-Exciting high stakes Competitions
-Hidden identity
-Banter
-Strong FMC
-Protective MMC
-Grumpy side character
This was an enjoyable, cozy, quick read. The world-building and magic system is unique. This is a slow build and I’m looking forward to find out where it goes. The romance is also a slow build, so there isn’t much within this first book. I’m excited to where the all the relationships go with Tsillah, Caius, and Ermir (how do you pronounce Caius by the way? Is it Keys?) and their growth as characters. I saw the author mention she wants to build throughout all the books, so not to overload the reader and it is very well written. The ending is intense and I’m excited to see what happens next!
Read this if you like:
-Unique Magic
-A slow build
-Slow burn
-Exciting high stakes Competitions
-Hidden identity
-Banter
-Strong FMC
-Protective MMC
-Grumpy side character
This was an enjoyable, cozy, quick read. The world-building and magic system is unique. This is a slow build and I’m looking forward to find out where it goes. The romance is also a slow build, so there isn’t much within this first book. I’m excited to where the all the relationships go with Tsillah, Caius, and Ermir (how do you pronounce Caius by the way? Is it Keys?) and their growth as characters. I saw the author mention she wants to build throughout all the books, so not to overload the reader and it is very well written. The ending is intense and I’m excited to see what happens next!
June 7, 2024
Tsillah starts as an apprentice to an Archmage to receive a wage to help rehabilitate her dying mother and to help him win a bet. She doesn't realize she will be competing in mage circles to level up her magic level. Therefore, she teaches herself wield fire as an elementalist. However, she is actually a dual wielder. She is an elementalist and a illusionist. The High Magus is threatened by anyone who gets to his level so he kills anyone who gets to close to his level.
This was a great book. The competitions were neat and interesting. The characters were amazing!! I love Tsillah and Caius! This was a quick, fun, and easy read. This would be a great palate cleanser.
This was a great book. The competitions were neat and interesting. The characters were amazing!! I love Tsillah and Caius! This was a quick, fun, and easy read. This would be a great palate cleanser.
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