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Deceived Mage
Born into a powerful ruling elite, Ella’s destiny and birthright seem clear—until she uncovers her father's dark plan to secretly unleash a catastrophic Fusion Bomb that could wipe out her beloved hometown and blame the attack on his political opponents.
Determined to stop the impending destruction, Ella must secretly forge an alliance with the very opponents her family seeks to frame.
But as the web of conspiracy tightens, Ella finds herself questioning everything—her loyalty, her identity, and even the nature of power itself.
With time running out and enemies on all sides, Ella must rely on her ingenuity, Fire Mage ability, and a handful of unlikely allies to thwart her father's deadly scheme.
For fans of Mistborn and Red Queen, Deceived Mage blends elemental magic, political intrigue, and fast-paced action in a suspenseful short novel where nothing is as it seems, and betrayal lurks around every corner.
Will Ella save Astronova before it’s too late?
Determined to stop the impending destruction, Ella must secretly forge an alliance with the very opponents her family seeks to frame.
But as the web of conspiracy tightens, Ella finds herself questioning everything—her loyalty, her identity, and even the nature of power itself.
With time running out and enemies on all sides, Ella must rely on her ingenuity, Fire Mage ability, and a handful of unlikely allies to thwart her father's deadly scheme.
For fans of Mistborn and Red Queen, Deceived Mage blends elemental magic, political intrigue, and fast-paced action in a suspenseful short novel where nothing is as it seems, and betrayal lurks around every corner.
Will Ella save Astronova before it’s too late?
- GenresFantasy
180 pages, Paperback
Published October 3, 2024
4 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
T.C. Marti
18 books22 followersAfter spending years devouring the works of J.K. Rowling, George Lucas, and the greatest thinkers in history, TC Marti fuses his imagination with Libertarian themes in his shared universe, the Renegades Epic. Be sure to follow TC on BookBub to catch new releases and sales https://bit.ly/46sKmUH.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 22, 2025
It is positively frightening to be reading Deceived Mage in January of 2025. There are too many parallels with the events in the United States and other countries to ignore the shadow story.
T. C. Marti writes a wonderfully descriptive fantasy, complete with Elemental Masters. Seen through the eyes of their young adults, the structure of government seems to be powerful but fair.
However, heard through the same ears, corruption and greed twisting the hearts and minds of rulers on both sides show them how ugly and self-centered they truly are.
I have already read the next book in the series, Cursed Mage. This is an exciting plotline, I can't wait to find out what is going to happen in the long run. I'm definitely going to become more familiar with the other works of T. C. Marti. I highly recommend you do the same.
T. C. Marti writes a wonderfully descriptive fantasy, complete with Elemental Masters. Seen through the eyes of their young adults, the structure of government seems to be powerful but fair.
However, heard through the same ears, corruption and greed twisting the hearts and minds of rulers on both sides show them how ugly and self-centered they truly are.
I have already read the next book in the series, Cursed Mage. This is an exciting plotline, I can't wait to find out what is going to happen in the long run. I'm definitely going to become more familiar with the other works of T. C. Marti. I highly recommend you do the same.
October 7, 2024
Deceived Mage is an introduction to a new series Catenarian Chronicles by TC Marti. Deceived Mage is packed with action on almost every page. Deceived Mage kept me on the edge of my seat as I raced to the end watching and waiting to see if Ella would have any luck at accomplishing the task she set out to do.
Deceived Mage was full of suspense that helped to keep the pages turning. Deceived Mage held my attention from beginning to end; if it ever did stray, it was pulled back almost immediately. I couldn’t take my eyes off Ella’s story. I had to know if she was going to be successful or not.
I had to know if Ella could save the city she loved from being destroyed by her father. Ella overheard her dad planning to destroy the city she loved most and she set out to do whatever she could to stop that from happening.
Her journey was not an easy one as her dad kept grounding her from doing the things she had to do to stop him without his knowing what she was doing. Ella disobeyed her dad on more than one occasion resulting in her being grounded.
Ella was smart and cunning. She knew how to work things in her favor. She knew how to deceive her dad if it was only for a short time. I am not condoning Ella and the things she did but you have to admit how conning it is.
Deceived Mage was a fun, suspenseful, magical, and adventurous read that kept me glued to my seat wanting to how it would end. I was very shocked on numerous occasions with some of the shocking twists that it contained not to mention the betrayals that befell Ella. I couldn’t believe it. I was stunned at how the story played out in the end leaving me wanting to know more.
I can’t wait to read the first book in the Catenarian Chronicles Cursed Mage. I have a long wait as Cursed Mage is not due out until March 3, 2025. What am I going to do between now and then?
I recommend Deceived Mage to anyone who likes reading stories that have plenty of action, suspense, and magic. Check out Deceived Mage today!
Deceived Mage was full of suspense that helped to keep the pages turning. Deceived Mage held my attention from beginning to end; if it ever did stray, it was pulled back almost immediately. I couldn’t take my eyes off Ella’s story. I had to know if she was going to be successful or not.
I had to know if Ella could save the city she loved from being destroyed by her father. Ella overheard her dad planning to destroy the city she loved most and she set out to do whatever she could to stop that from happening.
Her journey was not an easy one as her dad kept grounding her from doing the things she had to do to stop him without his knowing what she was doing. Ella disobeyed her dad on more than one occasion resulting in her being grounded.
Ella was smart and cunning. She knew how to work things in her favor. She knew how to deceive her dad if it was only for a short time. I am not condoning Ella and the things she did but you have to admit how conning it is.
Deceived Mage was a fun, suspenseful, magical, and adventurous read that kept me glued to my seat wanting to how it would end. I was very shocked on numerous occasions with some of the shocking twists that it contained not to mention the betrayals that befell Ella. I couldn’t believe it. I was stunned at how the story played out in the end leaving me wanting to know more.
I can’t wait to read the first book in the Catenarian Chronicles Cursed Mage. I have a long wait as Cursed Mage is not due out until March 3, 2025. What am I going to do between now and then?
I recommend Deceived Mage to anyone who likes reading stories that have plenty of action, suspense, and magic. Check out Deceived Mage today!
June 12, 2025
Received as an ARC, I am leaving my honest review. I love the prequel of this new series. It has everything from magic, to mystery, incredible inventions, government influence and renegades. One renegade is the daughter of a powerful ruler, determined to save her friends and set things right. Join her daring secret missions trying to save a nearby town and its occupants and what happens when she is caught. All is not as it seems, but the truth will be revealed when the time is right. Suspenseful and enlightening, this story really made me think. Can’t wait for the next book that starts the series.
October 9, 2024
Summary
Deceived Mage is a fusion of action adventure, supernatural fantasy, and political thriller by TC Marti. The story revolves around Ella whose fate in life has been set since birth, until she discovers her father's sinister plan to wipe out the entire city with a fusion bomb and blame it on his political opponents. Determined to protect her beloved hometown, she decides to take matters into her hands. She must secretly forge an alliance with her father's opponents to stop her father's deadly plan.
Review
As a fan of Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen series, Deceived Mage by TC Marti instantly pulled me in. I was surprised to finish it so quickly, not knowing how many hours I’ve been reading! It’s very nostalgic because you’d feel protective of Ella, knowing that young girls her age tend to be spontaneous and very determined once they set their mind into doing something. I think it’s the danger that comes with such kind of spontaneity and bravery that catches us adult readers off guard and at the same time, excites us with questions like, can she pull this off? Is she doing the right thing? But then again, if you’ve read too many fictions already, you know for sure that plans don’t really work out the way the protagonist wants them to be. Overall, I’ve had a great time reading this story and I’m hungry for more. Definitely 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommended!
Deceived Mage is a fusion of action adventure, supernatural fantasy, and political thriller by TC Marti. The story revolves around Ella whose fate in life has been set since birth, until she discovers her father's sinister plan to wipe out the entire city with a fusion bomb and blame it on his political opponents. Determined to protect her beloved hometown, she decides to take matters into her hands. She must secretly forge an alliance with her father's opponents to stop her father's deadly plan.
Review
As a fan of Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen series, Deceived Mage by TC Marti instantly pulled me in. I was surprised to finish it so quickly, not knowing how many hours I’ve been reading! It’s very nostalgic because you’d feel protective of Ella, knowing that young girls her age tend to be spontaneous and very determined once they set their mind into doing something. I think it’s the danger that comes with such kind of spontaneity and bravery that catches us adult readers off guard and at the same time, excites us with questions like, can she pull this off? Is she doing the right thing? But then again, if you’ve read too many fictions already, you know for sure that plans don’t really work out the way the protagonist wants them to be. Overall, I’ve had a great time reading this story and I’m hungry for more. Definitely 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommended!
January 3, 2025
TC Marti writes a remarkable dark fantasy with Deceived Mage
In Deceived Mage, the reader is introduced to Ella, and this world kind of revolves around her and her destiny. If you haven't read anything by TC Marti, you should. Deceived Mage is part of the Catenarian Chronicles series, and this is volume zero. I am a big fan of TC Marti and read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. Ellie is born into a powerful empire, unaware of her father's dark secrets and plans. As a strong and tenacious character, she risks everything to help those caught in her father's destructive path. Ellie is complex—neither a typical heiress nor a damsel in distress. She aims to carve out her own destiny and transform her birthright into something positive, rather than dwell on her family's betrayal. This captivating tale is truly gripping—I couldn't put it down. The story is grand and suspenseful, allowing readers to become completely immersed. With its unpredictability, it stands out as a favorite of mine! Great World Building by TC Marti, as usual. Deceived Mage is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
In Deceived Mage, the reader is introduced to Ella, and this world kind of revolves around her and her destiny. If you haven't read anything by TC Marti, you should. Deceived Mage is part of the Catenarian Chronicles series, and this is volume zero. I am a big fan of TC Marti and read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. Ellie is born into a powerful empire, unaware of her father's dark secrets and plans. As a strong and tenacious character, she risks everything to help those caught in her father's destructive path. Ellie is complex—neither a typical heiress nor a damsel in distress. She aims to carve out her own destiny and transform her birthright into something positive, rather than dwell on her family's betrayal. This captivating tale is truly gripping—I couldn't put it down. The story is grand and suspenseful, allowing readers to become completely immersed. With its unpredictability, it stands out as a favorite of mine! Great World Building by TC Marti, as usual. Deceived Mage is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
July 14, 2025
I came across this book in an email suggestion. It is a dystopian novel where the main character is a young woman names Ella. Accidently she overhears a conversation that changes everything she thinks she knew about her life, her father, and her culture.
I must say the book mimics some of the political unrest of today. I can see how the the character develops her beliefs. I never anticipated the ending and that really impressed me. When I thought I knew where the story would go, I would find it taking a new turn.
One of the most enjoyable characters of the book wasn't a person. It was a insect like robot created by the main character. I loved how it interacted with the characters in the movie. In a way, it played a hero-like role in the story.
I enjoyed how Ella, Aurora and Marjatta's viewpoints changed as they learned more about their world.
I can see younger teens enjoying the book. It reminds me of Divergent and similar series, but there is not the romance component.
I must say the book mimics some of the political unrest of today. I can see how the the character develops her beliefs. I never anticipated the ending and that really impressed me. When I thought I knew where the story would go, I would find it taking a new turn.
One of the most enjoyable characters of the book wasn't a person. It was a insect like robot created by the main character. I loved how it interacted with the characters in the movie. In a way, it played a hero-like role in the story.
I enjoyed how Ella, Aurora and Marjatta's viewpoints changed as they learned more about their world.
I can see younger teens enjoying the book. It reminds me of Divergent and similar series, but there is not the romance component.
June 27, 2025
3.5 stars
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers. I didn’t realize it was a prequel until I finished the book and I do wish I had realized that going into it. Initially, I felt that the story was not long enough to be well developed. Knowing that it’s a prequel shifted my thoughts some, but I still feel like the FMC made some pretty major choices too quickly. After overhearing a single meeting with her father, she decides go rogue and undermine him alongside their longtime enemy? This moment is the impetus for the entire plot and there could have been more attention given to her reasons for dissent. I think the story had incredible potential if it was built out more. Would I still read other books in the series? Probably! Thanks for sharing your book.
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers. I didn’t realize it was a prequel until I finished the book and I do wish I had realized that going into it. Initially, I felt that the story was not long enough to be well developed. Knowing that it’s a prequel shifted my thoughts some, but I still feel like the FMC made some pretty major choices too quickly. After overhearing a single meeting with her father, she decides go rogue and undermine him alongside their longtime enemy? This moment is the impetus for the entire plot and there could have been more attention given to her reasons for dissent. I think the story had incredible potential if it was built out more. Would I still read other books in the series? Probably! Thanks for sharing your book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2025
I found this to be a fun, fast paced read with lots of twists in the story. There are many hints at background that teased me throughout the book but as this is the opening story in a series that should be expected. There are similarities between this world and his other story worlds but Catenary is different. I am interested to see if the name presages future events. Since he tends to write dystopian fiction it will be interesting to see.
The characters are interesting and given all the action I still found them sympathetic and interesting.
I received an advance copy for free and am voluntarily leaving this review.
The characters are interesting and given all the action I still found them sympathetic and interesting.
I received an advance copy for free and am voluntarily leaving this review.
June 23, 2025
This is a fast paced, action filled read as we meet Ella, a strong, complex and brave fmc who stands against the bad guy who in this story happens to be her father. Ella uncovers a nefarious plot to destroy her hometown and so joins forces with them to take him down. Incredible World building as the author weaves their magic and draws you into a gripping and enthralling storyline filled with suspense, betrayal, secret missions and twists and turns as they fight to take down the enemy. I cannot wait to read more from this world.
October 10, 2024
What I love about young adult supernatural or elemental stories like this is that there’s always some kind of training happening and it’s always a must to reach master status. Also, the powers and well, practically every important element of the story such as characters, setting, flow of narrative, and gestures/actions are always well-described, allowing me a cinematic image of the entire story as if I were watching Deceived Mage on the big screen.
October 10, 2024
There is something amusing about a girl who still gets grounded despite her supernatural abilities. This is why young supernatural fiction like this are very interesting to read. It has its own charms because the protagonist always has to prove something, and the reader anticipates how the character will develop.
October 10, 2024
I think the author is into political thriller, but he wanted to express his sentiments via supernatural stories. Though this story is purely a work of fiction and highly imaginative, there is some truth to it that people can relate with. Especially ones who either love politics or hate it. 5 stars for that.
May 13, 2025
Ella is a tech genius and an elemental mage. When she learns of a plot to destroy her hometown, she sets in motion a plan to save her city, only to be betrayed in the worst way possible.
This is a fantastic introduction into the world of Cantenary and the adventures to follow.
I received a copy from the author
This is a fantastic introduction into the world of Cantenary and the adventures to follow.
I received a copy from the author
October 9, 2024
I love it when female protagonists get out of their city, go on a journey to discovery, and uncover surprising revelations. It's an entertaining kind of adventure. A lot of young adults out there would love this kind of entertainment, most especially if it gets adapted into a movie.
October 10, 2024
Highly imaginative! I love high fantasy stories where everything is made up and the only realistic elements are the character's personality, struggles, and inner motivations. 5/5 stars and highly recommended to young adults who love stories with supernatural elements.
October 10, 2024
I hope someone asks me if I know anything about survival so that I can respond with, "I know the theory." Because doesn't every answer in the world start with theories? Hopefully, this novel gets a movie adaptation because I want to see how everything comes to life.
October 10, 2024
There is something very charming about a minor who's supposed to be listening to parents and older people and yet still follows what her heart and mind say, risking being grounded, and at the same time, endangering herself from external threats.
November 13, 2024
Absolutely outstanding as always. Ella’s father is planning something disastrous and she feels it’s up to her to do something. Amazing fantasy, well written, will draw you in and make you want more by this amazing author.
December 13, 2024
A great read about a curious 16 year old who overhears something she doesn't agree with.
She tries to set things right while everyone else is trying to stop her and as the title suggests - deceiving her.
Can't wait to read Cursed Mage to see where the story continues
She tries to set things right while everyone else is trying to stop her and as the title suggests - deceiving her.
Can't wait to read Cursed Mage to see where the story continues
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 8, 2025I really tried to love this but I just couldn't get into it. I spent the first part of the book confused thinking I was starting mid series. I do think the world and technology that T.C. has created has bones and I can see how readers would love diving in. I just couldn't seem to get myself there.
July 31, 2025
I received this as an arc. T.C. Marti writes a wonderful descriptive fantasy. Deceived Mage is an introduction to Marti’s new series. This book is packed with action on every page. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire book. Ella overheard her dad say he wanted to destroy the city that she loved so she set out to find a way to stop him from having him do that. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
October 9, 2024
Fast-paced! Either this was such a short read, or I was just too absorbed because the build up was fast. Revelations were discovered early on, and the protagonist is quick to decide to save the city.
October 9, 2024
Great world building and such a fast-paced young adult adventure! The story launched right into the conflict and rising action, so there is no dull moment at all.
October 10, 2024
This was a quick read! Finished it in a day 'cause it was entertaining! Would love to read more of TC Marti's!
April 8, 2025
Really enjoyed. Interesting characters and thought provoking
June 4, 2025
Very nice plot and the characters flowed
July 23, 2025
I was given this book to read by the Author in exchange for a honest review. I enjoyed reading loved the Characters. Found the storyline easy to understand. Thoroughly recommend.
November 10, 2025
This wonderfully crafted story weaves political ploys that eerily mirror today’s US politics. Packed with twists and turns, it compels readers to pause and ponder even in its fantastical setting.
November 25, 2025
It was well written and i couldn't stop reading until the end. I love the characters as well continue writing will like to read more. I will probably read it again.
May 12, 2025
A fast-paced, action filled story about a brave girl standing up for what she believes in overcoming adversity with a lot of unexpected surprising twists!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews