Heroes of Time Legends: Murdoch's Choice

Heroes of Time #1

by Wayne D. Kramer

Captain Murdoch has the chance of a lifetime in his grasp…or is it just a fool’s errand?

Zale “the Gale” Murdoch, one of the greatest seafaring merchants in the kingdom of Tuscawny, is at the top of his game. No one has reached the guild’s grandmaster status in generations, and he’s but one job away, with his biggest rival right on his heels. When a mysterious stranger approaches him with information that will seemingly ensure his success, Zale is tempted. The mission: to retrieve the Grimstone, a mythical artifact obscured by the shadows of history and religious folklore…an object of immeasurable value…if it’s real. The journey to find out could cost him more than his reputation and a leisurely retirement. He’ll have to battle dark magic on a perilous voyage to the hostile land where the Grimstone is reportedly hidden…a land very few sailors return from alive.

Starlina Murdoch, Zale’s estranged daughter, wants nothing to do with the sea. But Jensen, the boy she loves, is a member of her father’s crew and determined to make a career as a sailor. As she becomes unexpectedly entangled with her father’s voyage, she must find her bearings amongst the crew and decide for herself where her dreams truly lead.

Join Zale, Starlina, Jensen, and the rest of Murdoch’s Mates on an epic adventure of daring, danger, and magic in this first installment of the “Heroes of Time” series.

Genres: Fantasy, Pirates, Young Adult

Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2025

Reviews

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually read this book in paperback (instead of Kindle), and aesthetically, I have to say the book was lovely to just hold... the soft texture of the cover was pleasing, and the book was floppy just how I like 'em.

I was all set for a fantasy adventure with this one and was not let down with the adventure plot crossed with some very 'Pirates of the Caribbean' vibes.
The start of the story had a fair bit of world building so the first 100 pages didn't grab me initially as there was a lot of fantasy names and characters to familiarise myself with but oncevthe action started and the journey was underway I found reading a lot smoother and could just enjoy the plot.
The characters were a great mix and the vivid descriptions had me conjuring all sorts of images to mind and no matter how much they described Boomer as a red panda I couldn't shake the image of Rocket Racoon out of my head. Ps. I think I love Boomer, he's an adorable menace.

I would recommend this book to YA male readers as it just read that way to me but to be honest, anyone could enjoy this book who loves a good sea faring adventure with a bit of magic and mystery thrown in.

[John Stanifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

3/22/22: Finished the audio version tonight!

Narrator Ed Romanoff gives an entertaining performance here, especially when it comes to the main villain, Seadread. I couldn't help thinking of Geoffrey Rush's Barbossa from Pirates of the Caribbean.

The sound effects were often a hoot, too. Screams, laughter, and clashing swords are inserted into the background at appropriate points. There's even the occasional musical riff. I wish more audio books did that sort of thing (maybe I just haven't found the right ones).

*Laughs like Wigglebelly*

A suitably professional production. Very much recommended if you're looking for a swashbuckling good time!

9/12/21: If you're looking for a fun adventure yarn, look no further than "Murdoch's Choice!"

If sailing ships, sea battles, sword fights, magic, and mystery are your thing, you'll love the story and characters in store for you in this quick (but substantial!) read.

You will probably find it hard to pick a favorite character -- I know I did. Most of them have hilarious nicknames ("Wigglebelly" has to be the winner on that front).

I also appreciated the hints at what is sure to be a much larger world in future installments. I'm eager to see how the religious, political, and cultural elements play out. That being said, there is more than enough that we're given in this volume to make it satisfying by itself.

This feels something like . . . Guardians of the Galaxy by way of Pirates of the Caribbean. If you see that red panda on the back cover and are tempted to wonder if he's basically Rocket, fear not. The character is entertainingly original and will make you laugh.

Murdoch's Choice has a little bit of everything in it and was a delightful read. Congratulations to the author on an auspicious debut -- here's to much more down the road!

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captain Zale Murdoch, owner of the merchant ship Queenie, accepts a challenge in order to achieve grandmaster status from the guild. He sails away after the famed magical Grimstone. But does this relic serve the Light or the Dark forces? Murdoch will have a difficult choice to make once he finds this coveted object. Along the way, he’ll learn more about his own heritage and what’s truly important to him. Starlina, his spoiled daughter, inadvertently finds herself aboard his ship. She’s a rather one-dimensional figure who doesn’t have much of a role. She comes across as a bit whiny until the end, when she pitches in with the crew. Nonetheless, the action and adventure on the high seas are exciting enough to keep your interest.

[The Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fans of the Pirates of the Caribbean Franchise will love this superbly written fantasy sea-faring adventure. Each character is extremely likeable, bringing an added dimension to the story. I simply loved them all! With their different attributes and personalities brought together onboard, Queenie’s crew, led by the hilarious and charismatic Captain Zale, make for a highly entertaining read. I therefore commend the author for his characterisation and the work and commitment he has invested in each one to make them larger than life. This is no easy task for an author to accomplish, especially in their first novel. The dialogue itself is extremely well written and compliments the story well, with plenty of action, excitement, laugh out loud, and feel good moments, the author makes it simple for a reader to visualise each scene as it happens and to build an emotional connection with the cast. A born story teller, Wayne Kramer, does not disappoint, and I am thrilled that I don’t have to wait to read its sequel, Murdoch’s Shadow, as it is now available at The Book Dragon. (Book Tour Reviewer Kirsty McKay)

This is a great yarn that I would say does not take itself too seriously. The story starts with what appears to be a young romance, which isn’t entirely my cup of tea, I admit, but it soon moved into the more interesting world of quests and pirates and treasure. I loved Zale. He absolutely carries the plot and his verbal shenanigans makes this book great. None of the other characters can hold a torch to him, including in my opinion, his daughter Starlina or her hapless suitor. The pace is fast. It gallops along at a rate of knots, and the conclusion hits fast. Could it have meandered a little more? Maybe. Is it the worse for it? I don’t think so. It’s fun, it’s a little irreverent and it’s piratey. (Book Tour Reviewer Eryn McConnell)

With intriguing lore, a unique magic system, and some rather engaging characters, Murdoch’s Choice was an entertaining read in an interesting world that leaves you wanting more. (Book Tour Reviewer Lucas Walker)

Making a story that is both epic and relatable is a difficult balance to strike, but I think one that has been struck wonderfully here. Wayne has a cinematic storytelling style, with wit, warmth and drama, which I felt really transported me to the world of Eliorin. I love fantasy settings, but I often feel that fantasy novels can risk either having the pace bogged down in explanation of the world’s workings or lack immersion for lack of explanation. Murdoch’s Choice suffers from neither of those pitfalls, and I enjoyed both the narrative and worldbuilding. The extra elements of the preface, maps, artwork and appendices all help to make the setting feel even more alive. I look forward to reading more of the Heroes of Time: Legends series! (Book Tour Reviewer Tim Marshall)

A beautifully written book. Wayne’s writing has a rhythmic quality and I found myself delighted to partake in the dance. The characters are vivid and wonderfully described, with both their physicality and traits easy to visualise. The book contains a lot of love and passion. I don’t just mean in the romantic, familial and friendship relationships demonstrated by the characters, but also that you can tell that Wayne cares about the world he has created. The story is full of fun, but it also has moments that moved me and made me think. I loved the mythology explored around the Grimstone and Shadow Age. Wayne has cleverly managed to capture a stirring sense of adventure, whilst simultaneously creating a cosy feel within the confines of life on the ship. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fun fantasy novels with a sense of heart. It’s witty, warm and a real winner. (Book Tour Reviewer Michelle Marshall)

This is the second book that I’ve read meant for a younger audience (teenage) but can be equally enjoyed by adults. I absolutely loved it. I’m a huge Sir Terry Pratchett fan, and it is extremely difficult to find something similar. Wayne has written a story that engaged me in the same manner, smooth and fast paced action – dangerous adventures – memorable and very vividly real characters – I haven’t been this excited by a book for ages! At first, I wasn’t quite sure what to make of Captain Zale, seen through his estranged daughter’s eyes he seems almost irresponsible and an overachieving entertainer for the crowds that draw around him. As the story progresses into Zale’s last minute decision to go after the supposedly mythical Grimstone on a journey of undoubted peril, my thoughts changed. If it is real, the bounty Zale and his team will earn is hugely plentiful – and it would earn him the almost unobtainable guild Grandmaster status that he craves. Nobody can blame him for trying it, especially when we learn that his ancestors from generations ago were involved and it seems only he is the one for this mission. We learn more about his family, and the man himself. As Captain, he has a responsibility for his crew and his craft – naming his ship Queenie after his beloved cat gives us an insight into his true nature. I would never hesitate to recommend this book, even if the reader didn’t choose the fantasy genre as their two top favourites. It is worth reading by everyone, high praise indeed! (Book Tour Yvonne Marrs)

Murdoch’s Choice is a seafaring adventure with a difference. It is set in in an entirely new world not too dissimilar to our own but with some subtle differences. Following Captain Zale “The Gale” Murdoch and his crew of dogged misfits the adventure follows several key characters on their search for the Grimstone. Against the backdrop of competition and the more important factor of saving the world, Murdoch is seemingly manoeuvred into chasing the artefact (albeit not being his first choice). Wayne has produced a rare gem of a story here. Characters are bold and distinctive and you can’t help but engage with them. The story is well edited, fast paced with just enough time to take breath before the next exciting event and keeps you hooked from cover to cover. Dialogue is natural and really helps to add depth to each character. The twists and turns keep you guessing as to what will happen next and the intricate relationships developed over the course of the story also add great appeal. I cannot wait to sink my teeth into the next adventure. A great start to what will no doubt be a hugely popular “Heroes of Time” series. (Book Tour Reviewer Niall McKay)

We award 5 stars.

[Readbyheart · Rating 5 out of 5]

•MURDOCH’S CHOICE is the first book of the HEROES OF TIME LEGENDS series written by WAYNE KRAMER. The book has an intriguing and adventurous cover page that describes the content uniquely. The theme of the book is a mystery, fantasy, and adventure.

•The book begins with maps of the location where this entire fantasy is centered, as well as a detailed description of the ship QUEENIE, whose captain is the protagonist of the novel, Zale Murdoch. In the kingdom of Tuscawny, Zale is one of the most powerful nautical merchants. No one has ever achieved grandmaster status in the guild during his lifetime, and he is just one step away. His daughter Starlina Murdoch dislikes the sea, but she was forced to join his father's expedition due to her lover Jensen, who was a member of his father's crew and has big ambitions for his future at sea. To achieve that rank, Zale must collect the Grimstone, a mythological artifact, before his rival does.

•How will Zale accomplish this mission? What will be the choices he would have to make to achieve that status? Join him and his crew on this adventurous journey. Buy your book now!!

•The tale is an epic journey filled with peril, magic, and courage. The author has intertwined the people and their roles in this journey in a beautiful way. The plot is excellent, and Captain Murdoch's character sketch with his crew members is vibrant that will keep readers engaged until the finish. As the title suggests, Murdoch's decisions impacted not only him and his know ones, but the narrative also teaches us that our choices can have an impact on individuals we don't even know.

[Audiobookreviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zale “the Gale” Murdoch is an infamous sea captain and member of a guild. Murdoch is seeking the one item that will move from being a member of the guild to the grandmaster. However, to achieve that status he must first obtain the Grimstone and beat his rival. The Grimstone is a mythical object whose value is priceless! Of course, there are milestones and obstacles that get in the way – his daughter, her true love, superstitions, a despicable rival, and the darkest magic ever. The fun is just starting!
The author, Wayne D. Kramer provides an epic adventure that has poignant lessons to be learned. Weaving a magical story and world-building takes a creative mind and a masterful storyteller. With each plot twist and mystery, Kramer captures the listener’s attention and holds it hostage! Characters are well-developed, the dialog is clever and polished, and the action is gripping. This is geared toward young adults, but all listeners will find themselves enjoying the story.
The narrator, Ed Romanoff provides a titillating performance that does the story justice. His unique voices reflect each character’s personality and add to an already exciting adventure.
This is an enjoyable adventure with some hilarious, tongue-in-cheek, and exciting moments. A rich adventure!
There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook. The sound was clear and well done.
Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-bias, honest review.

[Danny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I literally just finished this book and I'm at a loss of words to describe it.
Was it brilliant? Yes!
Was it fantastic? Yes!
Was it worth the wait? Yes, yes, yes!!
For me, this book shines, and to those you who loved it, I imagine you are a bit like me. You found yourself immersed in an enticing world of adventure and magic. The characters came so alive for me that they jumped off the pages. I felt as though l was there in the story with them as opposed to merely following along in their journey.

Murdoch's Choice changed the way I look at fantasy novels. I am going to re-read this book. It is truly a fantastic story. I think we all read books for some type of enjoyment. What evokes that enjoyment varies from reader to reader, but I still find excitement within these pages. To me, that is the mark of a fantastic book.

The story is full of adventure, fantasy, suspense and magic. You will find yourself lost in an epic journey with Captain Murdoch and his men, both are racing to reach the Grimstone. I also loved the involvement of pirates because it made this story more intriguing. I felt this author has an excellent sense for magical and fantasy events. I loved the character development of every character and
also the great plot twists in the story line. Even though guessed a few of the twists ahead of time, Wayne's writing still sucked me into devouring this book.

[The Keepers of the Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in the world of Eliorin, Zale “the Gale” Murdoch is at the top of his game. Even better, he is nearing the completion of his mastery, a fee required to reach the title of Grandmaster. When the mastery fee gets raised to $10 million, his only choice is to take a high-paying job to find the Grimstone. Wanted by the royal family, the reward will pay for his title and more. The problem is his rival is also after the reward. With the deadline for the mastery fee fast approaching, can Zale get the Grimstone before his rival?

Narrator, Ed Romanoff captures the listener’s attention with his unique narrations. His unique voices help distinguish the characters’ personalities and add depth to the story. The plot is well developed and the dialog is witty. The characters are likable, well-developed, and hold the listener’s attention. The world building is unique, magical, enchanting, and draws the listener into Zale’s world. Listeners who like fantasy adventure will enjoy this hilarious, epic adventure. Recommended for most library collections.

Please Note: A copy of this audiobook was given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own. No other compensation was received.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good old-fashioned adventure on the high seas story with just a touch of magic. It's certainly not inappropriate for any age of listener, but I was surprised to see that it is classified as a young adult story given that the main character is a grandfather and the audience for old-fashioned stories tends to be...well, older. The tone of the narration and inclusion of some sound effects gives it the feeling of a radio serial as well, further implying an older audience. None of that is intended as criticism - just things that may not be obvious from the description.

I believe this is the first installment of a planned series, so the lack of resolution to some subplots is likely intentional, as is the large number of characters. The only thing that kept it from five stars, in fact, was the volume and suddenness of the background noise sound effects - while it's not my favorite thing, I understood the intent of including things like ringing bells, clanking swords, etc. - but I'm fairly certain most listeners do not need an illustration of crowd noise every time it is mentioned.

But if you can look past that, this is a fun story for your next family trip...especially if you're going on a cruise. :)

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

[Mary Lee]

Zale “the Gale” Murdoch, one of the greatest seafaring merchants in the kingdom of Tuscawny, is at the top of his game. No one has reached the guild’s grandmaster status in generations, and he’s but one job away, with his biggest rival right on his heels. When a mysterious stranger approaches him with information that will seemingly ensure his success, Zale is tempted. The mission: to retrieve the Grimstone, a mythical artifact obscured by the shadows of history and religious folklore…an object of immeasurable value…if it’s real. The journey to find out could cost him more than his reputation and a leisurely retirement. He’ll have to battle dark magic on a perilous voyage to the hostile land where the Grimstone is reportedly hidden…a land very few sailors return from alive. Starlina Murdoch, Zale’s estranged daughter, wants nothing to do with the sea. But Jensen, the boy she loves, is a member of her father’s crew and determined to make a career as a sailor. As she becomes unexpectedly entangled with her father’s voyage, she must find her bearings amongst the crew and decide for herself where her dreams truly lead.

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked this book while it was quite well paced most of the time there a few very long winded conversations the the captain inevitably disregarded… they felt like page fillers just got the sake of introducing the crew.

I listened to this as an audio book. The narrator was great and at first the production quality was Awesome with music and sound FX but later during fight scenes there was this constant shrieking and metal on metal sword fight sounds. They would have been fine for the first minute or so but they persisted for the entire length of the battles, to really affected my ability to focus and overstimulated my ADHD in a big way.

The audio book might not be the best choice of neurodivergent people, but the story is gripping so I would like to read it again in hard copy or ebook.

[Cody Overholt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! I’ll admit, I enjoyed The Healer a little bit more because I enjoyed Fulgar Geth’s more personal story. I still did enjoy Murdoch’s story and certainly more towards the end! The end really tied in early parts of the story and made me appreciate it all the more! I have to honestly admit, aside from Fulgar Geth and Murdoch, I wasn’t much interested in the other characters. Starlina and Jensen were okay, “Boomer” the anthropod raccoon was a strange edition that didn’t seem to add much to the story. Maybe all of this will add up in Murdoch’s Shadow, so I won’t knock it yet! I’m hopeful Murdoch’s Shadow will help establish these characters a little better (the ones not so interesting)!

[Kelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the story and significance of family wrapped in it. Quick read and fast paced with action, adventure, turmoil and triumph. I love how it ended. I think it's definitely a fantasy unlike many of the ones I have read in that it feels very much like the target audience is children or just a very conservative style of writing. If I chose one word to describe the book and story it would be "wholesome." Great one to read to your kids or with them. You’ll definitely have to help them with some words as there are many “out-there” names of items, times, and places as you’ll find in any fantasy novel. I will definitely read this and any upcoming novels with my son!

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a fantasy land, Captain Zale Murdoch owned and sailed a ship called Queenie. He had done this all his life and was hoping to earn retirement after this last voyage. He and his crew were going to try to capture an evil object callee the Grimstone. This proved to be a strange and eventful trip. He had a woman coxswain to oversee the oarsmen then the wind wasn't favorable. He also had taken on a Healer, Fulgar, who could wield a light antheme as a weapon or as a tool to heal.

The writing in this book is OK, but not great. The plot is fairly convoluted, with many characters. It was hard to keep them straight, but by the end it wasn't really necessary.

[Eleni Diakaki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is brilliant!!!! The detailed description immerses the reader in magic, and the story, featuring different kinds of relationships and adventure is so inventive and with a subtly inclusive message for the reader at its core. I loved the book travelling me to a magic world and I genuinely believe the book series is so promising and the books will keep us on edge, and I am so looking forward to the next one coming up!
All in all, I am very fascinated with the story and I highly recommend it to all those that always feel young at heart no matter what their age is!

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Started off really well, with good worldbuilding and character development.

Story dragged on into multiple subplots that didn't connect well.

Author did not know nautical terminology while writing a story about a sailing ship. On land, a quartermaster helps with supplies/logistics. At sea, a quartermaster helps the navigator with navigation. Keelhauling cannot be done fore-and-aft, it can only be port-and-stasrboard because of the shape of the ship. Keelhauling is always a death sentence.

[Rosa S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this action-packed story, full of adventure and magic. Murdoch’s character is full of life and excitement. The world-building for Eliorin was spot on and created an engaging mental escape as I followed Murdoch and his crew along their perilous journey.
There were several fun plot twists along the way. The story ended in a brilliant way, but I look forward to more adventures with these characters soon.

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heroes of Time Legends: Murdoch's Choice pulls you right into an adventurous world full of danger, loyalty, and tough decisions. Wayne D. Kramer creates a cast of characters that feel alive, especially Murdoch, whose choices carry real weight and emotion. The pacing is strong, the world-building vivid, and it balances action with heart in a way that keeps you turning the pages. A great start to the series, I’m already curious where the next journey will lead!

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book, it is a story you'd like to participate in, and characters you'd like to hang out with. Often times it was like I was walking beside Captain Zale himself, hearing the sounds of the seaside city, then I was sailing on the ship with Jensen and Wigglebelly, towards adventure! It's a fantastic fantasy adventure with a great cast and plot. Definitely recommend.

[Alex McHaddad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murdoch's Choice is an exhilarating first look into what people promises to be the next big series in fantasy fiction. You can't get this book fast enough! You will be able to brag that you were an early fan really soon. Wayne created a holistic world and a unique magic system but hit the trifecta with amazing characters whom you'll love and hope to see again.

[Ryan Harger · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in a new fantasy series, Murdoch's Choice features detailed characters and an exciting plot. The journey with Captain Murdoch and his men racing to reach the Grimstone is filled with adventure, magic, and pirates; because after all, doesn't every good story involve pirates? Whether you're a fan of fantasy or even just the high seas, this book has something for everyone.

[Fred Coffman]

Pretty good

I kept reading. Pretty entertaining, well written, all in all I would say it's a pretty good book worth reading. Certainly not a stinker. I'm not jumping up and down with praise like it is the greatest book ever but I enjoyed it.

[Harold Force · Rating 5 out of 5]

Off I'd the ocean deep.

And we will need to read the next book. Evil begets evil, and the beaked warriors are evil. And how does light come out of dark? No answer there. So I guess it's going to be on to the next book.

[Joan Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank You Wayne D. Kramer

This was a very Quick Read that kept my attention. The copy I was given was quite short so i can only give my review on what I was given

It took under an hour to read so it's a great palate cleanser

[Airwife · Rating 4 out of 5]

Im not usually an adventure reader, but i really enjoyed this book, Especially the audio. It was so well produced ! I will say it started off a little slow, but hy the end I was all in and ready for the next book.

[Cyn]

Unfortunately, I had to stop listening about two hours away from the ending. The storyline just wasn't very interesting and neither were the characters. :-(

[Eryn McConnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very fun adventure, great characters! Superb dialogue.

[Stephen Levesque · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fairly good story but I found it a little dry and frankly boring.

[Carol Clark · Rating 1 out of 5]

Couldn't really get into it.

[Barbara ★ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love hilarious, swashbuckling pirate tales and this one didn't disappoint. It had some surprising things happen but also a lot of what you'd expect on a pirate ship. I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute of this book. I will definitely read more in this series.