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Shadow Swarm
Born to Rule. Lived to Heal. Died to Save. Born Again. ~~~ Aberthol Nauile doesn’t know that he beheld the creation of the world, ravaged by a war of the gods, and began anew; or that he led legions in a war that had raged since the dawn of time; or that he once rode on a dragon with his father. All he knows is that he awoke in a coffin deep within a tomb, hearing voices in his head, and now the whole world thinks he is their savior. EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS an epic fantasy adventure spanning millennia, set in a world full of magic and dark forces where creatures of legend come alive. (Great for readers 15 and up.) [DRM-Free] Praise for Shadow Swarm : “ Shadow Swarm sucked me in….” ~ Michelle Isenhoff “Great action adventure!” ~ AllisonBurres “It’s extremely poetic and something I haven’t seen done in any other book that I’ve read.” ~ Tara Lee “D. has a way of spinning a story that engrosses you from the moment you begin reading.” ~ LizzieBeth “ Shadow Swarm is a new novel that goes beyond touching the surface of fantasy and takes the reader into a whole new level of fiction.” ~ Lois Ann Interview with the Author What made you want to write epic fantasy novels? I grew up on this J.R.R. Tolkien, Stephen R. Donaldson, Roger Zelazny... I could go on and on, but it was this kind of epic fantasy with dragons, and magic and fantastical worlds that filled my imagination as a kid. So the question is more like how could I not write an epic fantasy? Do you consider Shadow Swarm a Sword & Sorcery type epic? There are certainly elements of sword and sorcery in the novel. With big sweeping battles and magic I poured all that I love into this story. I also worked to create a world with a rich history, political machinations and fantastical creatures of every kind. Again, this is the stuff I love. Shadow Swarm is also clean without the language and sex found in many books today, so it can be a great epic fantasy book for teens to read as well.
- GenresFantasy
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2014
About the author
D. Robert Pease
17 books377 followersD. Robert Pease has been interested in creating worlds since childhood. From building in the sandbox behind his house, to drawing fantastical worlds with paper and pencil, there has hardly been a time he hasn't been off on some adventure in his mind, to the dismay of parents and teachers alike. Also, since the moment he could read, books have consumed vast swaths of his life. From The Mouse and the Motorcycle, to The Lord of the Rings, worlds just beyond reality have called to him like Homer's Sirens. It's not surprising then he chose to write stories of his own. Each filled with worlds just beyond reach, but close enough we can all catch a glimpse of ourselves in the characters he creates.
~~~~~~~
Books by D. Robert Pease
Noah Zarc Series:
Noah Zarc: Roswell Incident
(A Noah Zarc Short Story Prequel)
Noah Zarc: Mammoth Trouble
Noah Zarc: Cataclysm
Noah Zarc: Declaration
Noah Zarc: Omnibus
(All three books from the Noah Zarc Trilogy)
Shadow Swarm
coming May 19, 2014
Dream Warriors: A Joey Cola Novel
coming July 21, 2014
A short story, called "A Chink in the Armor" is available in "Forged if Flame: A Dragon Anthology"
~~~~~~~
D. Robert lives in the grey-skied world of Northeast Ohio with his wife, two kids (a boy and a girl) and two pets (a dog and a cat) and a pond full of goldfish. When not writing he loves to travel the U.S. via RV with his trusty Jeep in tow, or ride the hills of Ohio on his bike.
~~~~~~~
Books by D. Robert Pease
Noah Zarc Series:
Noah Zarc: Roswell Incident
(A Noah Zarc Short Story Prequel)
Noah Zarc: Mammoth Trouble
Noah Zarc: Cataclysm
Noah Zarc: Declaration
Noah Zarc: Omnibus
(All three books from the Noah Zarc Trilogy)
Shadow Swarm
coming May 19, 2014
Dream Warriors: A Joey Cola Novel
coming July 21, 2014
A short story, called "A Chink in the Armor" is available in "Forged if Flame: A Dragon Anthology"
~~~~~~~
D. Robert lives in the grey-skied world of Northeast Ohio with his wife, two kids (a boy and a girl) and two pets (a dog and a cat) and a pond full of goldfish. When not writing he loves to travel the U.S. via RV with his trusty Jeep in tow, or ride the hills of Ohio on his bike.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 27, 2014
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Shadow Swarm, an epic fantasy set in the year 3967 YR, opens with the second birth of Aberthol Nauile, King of Nuadaim. Although he has no immediate recollection of his original birth and life, Aberthol quickly comes to realize not only that he is king of all the land, but also that he is the greatest hope of all the people to free them from the grip of The Dark Master. As he sets out to fulfill his destiny, he is plagued with self-doubt, unsure as to how he is to accomplish so great a task. Furthermore, he feels that he is unworthy of the deference others give him simply because he is their king. As his journey progresses he comes to know, love, and depend upon the support of the various groups of beings which give Nuadaim its character and variety.
Having read other offerings from this author, I quickly found myself fully immersed in the story, unable to willingly set it aside for anything but short periods of time. The quality of writing was such that, as I tell my students, I was able to “see a movie in my mind”; a key, I tell them, to tell whether or not you’re encountering good writing. The development of the characters made them believable, realistic, and genuine. I really appreciated seeing the flaws and weaknesses of Aberthol as he struggled to understand how to fulfill his destiny. I also appreciated the fact that many characters, although initially wary of the fact that Aberthol was/is their king, once they’ve come to a full appreciation of this, they give their allegiance and aid to the cause he is engaged in.
As a 5th grade teacher I am always on the lookout for good books to recommend to my students. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I am unable to recommend it to them as I feel it is a bit too intense for their still tender minds. I do, however, foresee older middle grade readers devouring it as did I. One thing I was impressed with was the list of “Names and Terms” the author provided at the end of the book for the many unusual names of characters and locations. Additionally, in the ebook version, a link to the list is provided at the end of every chapter. I also found the maps helpful so I was better able to wrap my mind around the many locations of the events as they occurred. The one enhancement which I feel would have been helpful for me would be to have a pronunciation guide so I would have had a better understanding of how to say these names. Although initially this was a distraction, I soon found a way to compensate so it did not adversely affect my overall enjoyment.
D. Robert Pease – Bravo, well done, another outstanding offering from a very talented author.
Shadow Swarm, an epic fantasy set in the year 3967 YR, opens with the second birth of Aberthol Nauile, King of Nuadaim. Although he has no immediate recollection of his original birth and life, Aberthol quickly comes to realize not only that he is king of all the land, but also that he is the greatest hope of all the people to free them from the grip of The Dark Master. As he sets out to fulfill his destiny, he is plagued with self-doubt, unsure as to how he is to accomplish so great a task. Furthermore, he feels that he is unworthy of the deference others give him simply because he is their king. As his journey progresses he comes to know, love, and depend upon the support of the various groups of beings which give Nuadaim its character and variety.
Having read other offerings from this author, I quickly found myself fully immersed in the story, unable to willingly set it aside for anything but short periods of time. The quality of writing was such that, as I tell my students, I was able to “see a movie in my mind”; a key, I tell them, to tell whether or not you’re encountering good writing. The development of the characters made them believable, realistic, and genuine. I really appreciated seeing the flaws and weaknesses of Aberthol as he struggled to understand how to fulfill his destiny. I also appreciated the fact that many characters, although initially wary of the fact that Aberthol was/is their king, once they’ve come to a full appreciation of this, they give their allegiance and aid to the cause he is engaged in.
As a 5th grade teacher I am always on the lookout for good books to recommend to my students. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I am unable to recommend it to them as I feel it is a bit too intense for their still tender minds. I do, however, foresee older middle grade readers devouring it as did I. One thing I was impressed with was the list of “Names and Terms” the author provided at the end of the book for the many unusual names of characters and locations. Additionally, in the ebook version, a link to the list is provided at the end of every chapter. I also found the maps helpful so I was better able to wrap my mind around the many locations of the events as they occurred. The one enhancement which I feel would have been helpful for me would be to have a pronunciation guide so I would have had a better understanding of how to say these names. Although initially this was a distraction, I soon found a way to compensate so it did not adversely affect my overall enjoyment.
D. Robert Pease – Bravo, well done, another outstanding offering from a very talented author.
July 8, 2014
“The value of myth is that it takes all the things you know and restores to them the rich significance which has been hidden by the veil of familiarity…We do not retreat from reality, we rediscover it. As long as the story lingers in our mind, the real things are more themselves... By dipping them in myth we see them more clearly.” – C. S. Lewis, on Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings
I read the Lord of the Rings years ago. I’ve often heard it called the forerunner of high fantasy. Since it was also my first foray into the genre and my favorite story of all time, I often compare other epic fantasies to it (unfairly, perhaps). In D. Robert Pease’s new story, Shadow Swarm, I see much that feels like a reforming of the old, but I also discovered some originality. And, to Mr. Pease’s credit, I discovered many familiar and dear thoughts and beliefs that had been painted for me in a whole new way. This rediscovery, as Lewis says, adds depth, richness, and significance to a story. It is also one of the highest compliments I can give any book. I grant it to this one.
Shadow Swarm sucked me in immediately with the first plot sequence. The suspense, the not knowing why Aberthol woke in a sarcophagus with no memory of who his was, pulled me in quickly. I also liked the series of visions that gave clues about the past. This initial sequence, the first 10-15% of the book—which leads to a great twist, btw—is among my favorite in the book. However, I could never fully get behind the heroine, Elise. I found her rather capricious and lacking in warmth. Also, the dialogue and specific interactions between Aberthol and Elise, meant to establish a relationship that sustains Aberthol through the rest of the book’s difficulties, often feel hurried and forced. I think both problems could be solved without adding anything to the plot but by simply fleshing out of each characters’ thoughts, feelings, and reasons for saying and doing what is already written. It is the only place in the story that felt insufficient, but it comes at a crucial time. I guess, as a woman reader, I want to see a more authentic relationship established here, the kind that warrants the devotion given to it by the hero throughout the rest of the book. That is my harshest criticism.
My second is that, while I eventually learn why Aberthol emerges from the sarcophagus and why he knows nothing, I never really understand how this works. Aberthol is of significant lineage and after his natural birth, he experiences a “rebirth” unlike anything we know in our physical world. I was given clues, but I struggled to get a handle on his first 300 years. Also, in a related event, we learn that Aberthol lost his memory of those 300 years to someone. I still feel very much in the dark on how that happened, as well.
Now that my criticisms are out of the way, I’ll share more things I really liked. First of all—world-building. I always struggle when I enter a place with a different reality, but this one was a pretty easy transition. While I see some distinct patterns of Middle Earth, the geography of Nuadaim, its people, and its cultures are fully formed. The villain and his generals are absolutely fabulous. I like the vulnerability Aberthol’s memory loss gives him. It makes him flawed, human, and likeable. He’s easy to cheer for when he fights as the underdog. And finally, the epic scope of this battle against overwhelming evil (also Tolkienesque) takes a good deal of imagination to pull off. It’s done creatively and seemlessly while preserving the integrity of the cultures and characters.
Shadow Swarm is billed as adult literature, which I’d agree with. However, the total absence of language, inappropriate sexuality, drugs, etc. makes this a great read for young adults. (I maintain a children's lit blog, "Bookworm Blather".) There is war on a grand scale, but it’s handled very appropriately. I’d give this a 14+ recommendation but without any reservations of handing it off to a child of 10 who could handle the length and scope of epic fantasy.
I read the Lord of the Rings years ago. I’ve often heard it called the forerunner of high fantasy. Since it was also my first foray into the genre and my favorite story of all time, I often compare other epic fantasies to it (unfairly, perhaps). In D. Robert Pease’s new story, Shadow Swarm, I see much that feels like a reforming of the old, but I also discovered some originality. And, to Mr. Pease’s credit, I discovered many familiar and dear thoughts and beliefs that had been painted for me in a whole new way. This rediscovery, as Lewis says, adds depth, richness, and significance to a story. It is also one of the highest compliments I can give any book. I grant it to this one.
Shadow Swarm sucked me in immediately with the first plot sequence. The suspense, the not knowing why Aberthol woke in a sarcophagus with no memory of who his was, pulled me in quickly. I also liked the series of visions that gave clues about the past. This initial sequence, the first 10-15% of the book—which leads to a great twist, btw—is among my favorite in the book. However, I could never fully get behind the heroine, Elise. I found her rather capricious and lacking in warmth. Also, the dialogue and specific interactions between Aberthol and Elise, meant to establish a relationship that sustains Aberthol through the rest of the book’s difficulties, often feel hurried and forced. I think both problems could be solved without adding anything to the plot but by simply fleshing out of each characters’ thoughts, feelings, and reasons for saying and doing what is already written. It is the only place in the story that felt insufficient, but it comes at a crucial time. I guess, as a woman reader, I want to see a more authentic relationship established here, the kind that warrants the devotion given to it by the hero throughout the rest of the book. That is my harshest criticism.
My second is that, while I eventually learn why Aberthol emerges from the sarcophagus and why he knows nothing, I never really understand how this works. Aberthol is of significant lineage and after his natural birth, he experiences a “rebirth” unlike anything we know in our physical world. I was given clues, but I struggled to get a handle on his first 300 years. Also, in a related event, we learn that Aberthol lost his memory of those 300 years to someone. I still feel very much in the dark on how that happened, as well.
Now that my criticisms are out of the way, I’ll share more things I really liked. First of all—world-building. I always struggle when I enter a place with a different reality, but this one was a pretty easy transition. While I see some distinct patterns of Middle Earth, the geography of Nuadaim, its people, and its cultures are fully formed. The villain and his generals are absolutely fabulous. I like the vulnerability Aberthol’s memory loss gives him. It makes him flawed, human, and likeable. He’s easy to cheer for when he fights as the underdog. And finally, the epic scope of this battle against overwhelming evil (also Tolkienesque) takes a good deal of imagination to pull off. It’s done creatively and seemlessly while preserving the integrity of the cultures and characters.
Shadow Swarm is billed as adult literature, which I’d agree with. However, the total absence of language, inappropriate sexuality, drugs, etc. makes this a great read for young adults. (I maintain a children's lit blog, "Bookworm Blather".) There is war on a grand scale, but it’s handled very appropriately. I’d give this a 14+ recommendation but without any reservations of handing it off to a child of 10 who could handle the length and scope of epic fantasy.
July 6, 2014
Shadow Swarm starts by a man awaking in a tomb without any memories. He is weak and naked. He's also very confused. There is no writing on his tomb and has no idea who he is. The tomb doesn't supply him with any information on this.
Eventually he is able to escape the tomb and run into people who have been attending his needs and his tomb for over 300 years. They tell him who he is and of his legacy. His legacy was foretold in a prophecy.
He didn't believe or understand anything that they had told him.
When it was time to announce his awakening, a war broke out and one of the people help him and they managed to escape.
Battle upon raging battle, the cities and towns fought. None able to beat the Shadow Swarm.
What link does he have that will help the people to defeat the "Shadow Swarm"? How many more people will have to fight and will they win? How many more will be captured other than the ones that tried to defeat him many years before?
My thoughts on this book:
At first I thought it was a bit long and drawn out. But as I got further into the book, I realized that it wasn't long and drawn out. The book was rather interesting and full of action. The details were WAY beyond great!
The characters were described rather well and full of details that you could see them in your mind.
There are several battles that take place. The battles come to life with each detail that the author gives.
My rating:
5*****
The cover is amazing and shows the King on his dragon. I honestly think that the maps inside were a great help with showing the layout of the cities and what they looked like (along with the description from the author). The book was rather enjoyable.
Eventually he is able to escape the tomb and run into people who have been attending his needs and his tomb for over 300 years. They tell him who he is and of his legacy. His legacy was foretold in a prophecy.
He didn't believe or understand anything that they had told him.
When it was time to announce his awakening, a war broke out and one of the people help him and they managed to escape.
Battle upon raging battle, the cities and towns fought. None able to beat the Shadow Swarm.
What link does he have that will help the people to defeat the "Shadow Swarm"? How many more people will have to fight and will they win? How many more will be captured other than the ones that tried to defeat him many years before?
My thoughts on this book:
At first I thought it was a bit long and drawn out. But as I got further into the book, I realized that it wasn't long and drawn out. The book was rather interesting and full of action. The details were WAY beyond great!
The characters were described rather well and full of details that you could see them in your mind.
There are several battles that take place. The battles come to life with each detail that the author gives.
My rating:
5*****
The cover is amazing and shows the King on his dragon. I honestly think that the maps inside were a great help with showing the layout of the cities and what they looked like (along with the description from the author). The book was rather enjoyable.
July 6, 2014
I was unsure about this story walking into it. I'm not traditionally a fantasy style reader, so this was me taking a chance. The promotional video and cover art sold me on this book - no questions asked (for real, check out the promo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5-05...).
I don't want to include any spoilers in my review, so here is what I think matters to the reader: The writing is solid with clear with clean action. There is something compelling about how the character development is delivered. I really enjoy learning about Aberthol and his journey. Each character is unique and enjoyable.
So what do we have here? Easy to read, but not too easy, good likeable characters, a solid plot, a familiar but unique story... I feel comfortable recommending this to people.It has good, strong, moral lessons regarding right and wrong, honor, love, trust, faith (and so much more, for real. It's all there if you want to find it). There are numerous lessons taught in D. Robert Pease's words. This book is worth your time and money, flat out. Please read it, please enjoy.
I will be checking out more from this author.
I don't want to include any spoilers in my review, so here is what I think matters to the reader: The writing is solid with clear with clean action. There is something compelling about how the character development is delivered. I really enjoy learning about Aberthol and his journey. Each character is unique and enjoyable.
So what do we have here? Easy to read, but not too easy, good likeable characters, a solid plot, a familiar but unique story... I feel comfortable recommending this to people.It has good, strong, moral lessons regarding right and wrong, honor, love, trust, faith (and so much more, for real. It's all there if you want to find it). There are numerous lessons taught in D. Robert Pease's words. This book is worth your time and money, flat out. Please read it, please enjoy.
I will be checking out more from this author.
July 3, 2014
“Shadow Swarm” was published in 2014 and was written by D. Robert Pease (http://www.drobertpease.com). Mr. Pease has published 7 books.
I obtained this novel for free through https://www.netgalley.com for review. This is a fantasy novel set in a place different from ours. Aberthole Nauile awakens to find himself in a stone sarcophagus. He knows neither who nor where he is. As the story quickly unfolds you find that Aberthole is the king of Nuadaim and he has just been “born” fully grown. He meets the Neglafem who are the guardians of the heir, and who have been watching over him.
Aberthole is still trying to accept that he is a king, when he and the Neglafem are attacked. Illiam the elder of the Neglafem who has just begun to teach Aberthole of this world, is killed during the attack. Illiam’s grand daughter, Elise, helps Aberthole to escape. While she is leading Aberthole away she is taken by the forces of evil. That starts a long battle raging widely across this world to get Elise back. Aberthole recruits others to help him battle the forces of evil that have been enslaving the world.
Aberthole is expected to have great power and be able to defeat the forces of evil, but he knows nothing about his powers. While he fights to overcome the enemy and get Elise back, he is full of self doubts.
He is tormented by the memory of the many who die under his leadership. He also feels he is letting his followers down because he is unable to wield the power they had expected him to possess. What power he slowly masters does not look like it will be enough to overcome the forces of evil.
I thought that this was a good fantasy story. It seems to be compressed into one novel, where the same tale in other fantasy series would be spread out over more. The way the story ends though, there may be follow on novels. I did not particularly like the main character Aberthole. He seemed to lack too much confidence in himself. Other than the violence of battles with sword and spear, I would rate this PG, and I would give the novel a 4 out of 5.
Other book reviews I have written can be found at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I obtained this novel for free through https://www.netgalley.com for review. This is a fantasy novel set in a place different from ours. Aberthole Nauile awakens to find himself in a stone sarcophagus. He knows neither who nor where he is. As the story quickly unfolds you find that Aberthole is the king of Nuadaim and he has just been “born” fully grown. He meets the Neglafem who are the guardians of the heir, and who have been watching over him.
Aberthole is still trying to accept that he is a king, when he and the Neglafem are attacked. Illiam the elder of the Neglafem who has just begun to teach Aberthole of this world, is killed during the attack. Illiam’s grand daughter, Elise, helps Aberthole to escape. While she is leading Aberthole away she is taken by the forces of evil. That starts a long battle raging widely across this world to get Elise back. Aberthole recruits others to help him battle the forces of evil that have been enslaving the world.
Aberthole is expected to have great power and be able to defeat the forces of evil, but he knows nothing about his powers. While he fights to overcome the enemy and get Elise back, he is full of self doubts.
He is tormented by the memory of the many who die under his leadership. He also feels he is letting his followers down because he is unable to wield the power they had expected him to possess. What power he slowly masters does not look like it will be enough to overcome the forces of evil.
I thought that this was a good fantasy story. It seems to be compressed into one novel, where the same tale in other fantasy series would be spread out over more. The way the story ends though, there may be follow on novels. I did not particularly like the main character Aberthole. He seemed to lack too much confidence in himself. Other than the violence of battles with sword and spear, I would rate this PG, and I would give the novel a 4 out of 5.
Other book reviews I have written can be found at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
January 18, 2025
This story was a little harder for me to get into which is probably due to my lack of reading more classically written epic fantasy books. The writing is on par with language of Tolkien and Lord of the Rings. As I am more of a sci-fi/urban fantasy reader I discovered this was a challenging read for me. Also the fact that this story is more for an adult instead of the YA I usually read could be a factor, although I could imagine this could be read by younger readers.
I enjoyed the story but the pacing for me was a bit long and I personally wished for it to be more straight forward. Perhaps I have the attention span of a gnat but I found myself skimming some of the parts to get to the good stuff. There was a lot of description in the story that I wasn't sure was relevant to the story so those were the parts that I skipped. It was well written but I may not have been the target audience for this book.
The dialogue was also unfamiliar to me as I tend to lean more towards modern or futuristic stories. Still there was a certain formal lyrical lilt that I found to the dialogue that I did find pleasing.
The ending was decent. The climax was adequate to what the story was building up to but again I find it was hard to get to that point. Again, because I didn't really have an emotional connection with the characters I didn't find myself upset over any of the multiple deaths in the book.
Perhaps I lean more towards the happy, light-hearted, humorous fantasy stories that this book didn't touch me as one who is a fan of the epic fantasy. Those who are fans of Lord of the Rings and other similar books will find this book more appealing. I'm glad I gave this book a chance because it did awaken my interest in other certain parts of epic fantasy that I may or may not quite enjoy. You should give this book a chance if you like epic adventure stories with rescuing lots of people!
2.7 out of 5 rating for me!
For my full review go to: http://originiquequanimity.blogspot.c...
I enjoyed the story but the pacing for me was a bit long and I personally wished for it to be more straight forward. Perhaps I have the attention span of a gnat but I found myself skimming some of the parts to get to the good stuff. There was a lot of description in the story that I wasn't sure was relevant to the story so those were the parts that I skipped. It was well written but I may not have been the target audience for this book.
The dialogue was also unfamiliar to me as I tend to lean more towards modern or futuristic stories. Still there was a certain formal lyrical lilt that I found to the dialogue that I did find pleasing.
The ending was decent. The climax was adequate to what the story was building up to but again I find it was hard to get to that point. Again, because I didn't really have an emotional connection with the characters I didn't find myself upset over any of the multiple deaths in the book.
Perhaps I lean more towards the happy, light-hearted, humorous fantasy stories that this book didn't touch me as one who is a fan of the epic fantasy. Those who are fans of Lord of the Rings and other similar books will find this book more appealing. I'm glad I gave this book a chance because it did awaken my interest in other certain parts of epic fantasy that I may or may not quite enjoy. You should give this book a chance if you like epic adventure stories with rescuing lots of people!
2.7 out of 5 rating for me!
For my full review go to: http://originiquequanimity.blogspot.c...
May 11, 2017
Worth reading
If you like reading alternate time travel with premonitions and dreamlike sequences than this book is one for you to read
If you like reading alternate time travel with premonitions and dreamlike sequences than this book is one for you to read
January 1, 2018
Very intriguing creation novel
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a bit confusing in the beginning, but it became clear after awhile. It's quite different from Pease's other books.
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a bit confusing in the beginning, but it became clear after awhile. It's quite different from Pease's other books.
August 14, 2014
The Shadow Swarm review tour has gone pretty well. I've read all the reviews so far, and some of them are great! There's a a link to the tour page below which has all the reviews of Shadow Swarm so far.
First, a disclaimer, I work for Novel Publicity. So there won't be any stars for my review here or on Goodreads. For that reason, I won't post a review at Amazon, but would really love to because I did very much enjoy the book, and would have chosen to be part of the tour even if I wasn't working for NP.
In this world of indie books, and self-published titles, and small house pubs, I find reviewing an increasingly difficult task. I've had my share of blogger bashing, and dealt with hard to handle people. I deal with that in my day job too, and honestly bullying and bashing has become far to common place everywhere (in my opinion).
Why the rant?
Precisely because D. Robert Pease is DEFINITELY NOT one of those authors. In fact, every author I've ever dealt with from Evolved Publishing has been wonderful so far. The books are always well edited, and don't make me scream at grammatical errors, and even better, the authors are approachable, and professional.
Not every book is for every person - but Shadow Swarm was definitely for me.
I've found some of the comments interesting. One blogger mentioned not finding the relationship between Aberthol & Elise believable. I clearly must be more of a romantic. He obviously fell in love with her because of the song, and the poetry... right? There's something absolutely charming and undeniably beautiful about the possibility of 'love at first sight' that I found in the beginning of their relationship. While it requires a suspension of belief, I still enjoyed the story, and didn't have a problem believing in the relationship.
I've also read some reviews with remarks about the religious content. While I agree there's definitely symbolism there, I don't think its necessary to call it Christian, or anything else for that matter. many books use symbolism, and whether we're talking about creation stories, Ark stories, or anything else, they are common in many religious, and not just Christianity. So, my 'official' thought on the use of symbolism in Shadow Swarm, is that it works, and it works well. I wasn't bombarded with undertones of a particular slant or religion, the song Elise sings in the beginning of the book is certainly 'hymn-like' but I definitely wasn't offended, and I'm definitely not a Christian either. My opinion is that you could read this book whatever your religious background and still enjoy it and not be distracted. After all, geeks all over the world love Tolkein's Lord of the Rings. It has religious symbolism all over the place.
The story is generally well told. The descriptive elements are wonderful. The use of adjectives and adverbs was not over done, and the imagery really played out throughout the tale. If I had teenage kids, or maybe a little older, I would definitely recommend this as an entry level book into the sci-fi genre. It's a saga, and not nearly as daunting or difficult to read as so The Gormenghast trillogy, but equally as intriguing.
Finally, a note about chapters. This is one of my personal pet peeves. I like chapters that are chapters for a reason. The end of the chapter should be an END of some sort. The cut of a scene, and indication that an event is over. SOMETHING CONCLUSIVE. I find with many, MANY self-pubs and indie books, they chapters are super short, and I'm not always sure why.
Shadow Swarm hit it out of the park with chapters for me. There was only one instance where I questioned why a chapter ended where it did, and as an editor I would have made the same choice (to end it where it was). There wasn't a super clear spot in the next chapter to end, and combining them would have made for a very draggy long chapter near the beginning of the book. This wasn't jarring enough to distract from the general story though. Convenient though, that it can bring up a good talking point.
What is it with all the super short chapters I find in ebooks now?
First, a disclaimer, I work for Novel Publicity. So there won't be any stars for my review here or on Goodreads. For that reason, I won't post a review at Amazon, but would really love to because I did very much enjoy the book, and would have chosen to be part of the tour even if I wasn't working for NP.
In this world of indie books, and self-published titles, and small house pubs, I find reviewing an increasingly difficult task. I've had my share of blogger bashing, and dealt with hard to handle people. I deal with that in my day job too, and honestly bullying and bashing has become far to common place everywhere (in my opinion).
Why the rant?
Precisely because D. Robert Pease is DEFINITELY NOT one of those authors. In fact, every author I've ever dealt with from Evolved Publishing has been wonderful so far. The books are always well edited, and don't make me scream at grammatical errors, and even better, the authors are approachable, and professional.
Not every book is for every person - but Shadow Swarm was definitely for me.
I've found some of the comments interesting. One blogger mentioned not finding the relationship between Aberthol & Elise believable. I clearly must be more of a romantic. He obviously fell in love with her because of the song, and the poetry... right? There's something absolutely charming and undeniably beautiful about the possibility of 'love at first sight' that I found in the beginning of their relationship. While it requires a suspension of belief, I still enjoyed the story, and didn't have a problem believing in the relationship.
I've also read some reviews with remarks about the religious content. While I agree there's definitely symbolism there, I don't think its necessary to call it Christian, or anything else for that matter. many books use symbolism, and whether we're talking about creation stories, Ark stories, or anything else, they are common in many religious, and not just Christianity. So, my 'official' thought on the use of symbolism in Shadow Swarm, is that it works, and it works well. I wasn't bombarded with undertones of a particular slant or religion, the song Elise sings in the beginning of the book is certainly 'hymn-like' but I definitely wasn't offended, and I'm definitely not a Christian either. My opinion is that you could read this book whatever your religious background and still enjoy it and not be distracted. After all, geeks all over the world love Tolkein's Lord of the Rings. It has religious symbolism all over the place.
The story is generally well told. The descriptive elements are wonderful. The use of adjectives and adverbs was not over done, and the imagery really played out throughout the tale. If I had teenage kids, or maybe a little older, I would definitely recommend this as an entry level book into the sci-fi genre. It's a saga, and not nearly as daunting or difficult to read as so The Gormenghast trillogy, but equally as intriguing.
Finally, a note about chapters. This is one of my personal pet peeves. I like chapters that are chapters for a reason. The end of the chapter should be an END of some sort. The cut of a scene, and indication that an event is over. SOMETHING CONCLUSIVE. I find with many, MANY self-pubs and indie books, they chapters are super short, and I'm not always sure why.
Shadow Swarm hit it out of the park with chapters for me. There was only one instance where I questioned why a chapter ended where it did, and as an editor I would have made the same choice (to end it where it was). There wasn't a super clear spot in the next chapter to end, and combining them would have made for a very draggy long chapter near the beginning of the book. This wasn't jarring enough to distract from the general story though. Convenient though, that it can bring up a good talking point.
What is it with all the super short chapters I find in ebooks now?
September 1, 2014
Can you imagine waking up in a tomb, not knowing who you are, where you are, or why you're there? That's how Shadow Swarm by D. Robert Pease begins.
Aberthol is told that he is king and that this is basically his "rebirth". Everyone expects him to have all the answers. But he doesn't. What's worse is that mere moments after being presented to the city that has waited for him for hundreds of years, or at least... to an empty courtyard in the city, tragedy befalls and people are killed. With the help of the granddaughter of the man who was supposed to help Aberthol remember who he was and the history of his family, he manages to escape.
First, I would like to say that I looked back through my books read this year and noticed I haven't really read an epic-like fantasy all year. I've read paranormal books, fairytale retellings, and science fiction... but nothing with dragons and people who fly and a king who's a descendant from a Creator. It was about time I remedied that.
It was an easy enough story to get drawn in to. I mean, it starts out a complete mystery. We find out the details of Aberthol and how he began where he did right along with him. However, it lost me for a bit. From the names that looked like someone just ran their fingers across the keyboard so they were impossible to pronounce to a song Elise sang that went on for pages and pages... I was worried I wouldn't finish it.
Elise is captured, however. And who attempts a rescue? Why, Aberthol and Elise's very own dead-but-not-dead father. WITH the aid of a golden dragon that I picture MUCH larger than the one on the cover of this book. Haha. He is a handsome thing though isn't he? Moving on... in their quest to rescue Elise, Aberthol and her father discover that myths passed down from generation to generation are, in fact, truth. And that truth ends up needing to be rescued and fought for just as much as the kingdom that Aberthol has been told he's in charge of.
I think that's something everyone has dreamed of at one time or another right? That something they thought was merely fairytale or folk lore would end up being true? Aberthol allies himself with dragon and people who can fly.
The more I read this the more I picture Avatar the Last Airbender. That's how I see Aberthol. Latest in a long line of this particular type of man who is supposed to be the good in the world. Who has the power to heal and kind of journeys in to his own "spirit world" seeing visions of the past and visions of things that could have been or of people who he has never truly known but are as real to him as he is.
It's a good story. I'm glad I stuck it out. The imagery and description in this book is just absolutely amazing and almost lyrical in how it's portrayed and delivered. Things are described in such detail that I can picture them in my mind as I read them. And with fantasy stories that's always one of the best parts.
I'd have to say one of my favorite characters is the dragon, Dwairomore. He is ancient and wise and friendly. And I loved the way that he spoke.
"No one that doth achieve great things ever sets out to do them. Only when thou dost think thyself worthy of greatness will all hope be lost... Remember, thou needs only to call and I shall come."
It's extremely poetic and something I haven't seen done in any other book that I've read (the Bible aside).
If you're like me and have yet to read a true fantasy novel this year, this one is for you. If you like tales of magical and mystical things like people with wings and dragons and kings of old this is for you. If you like quests and battles and good vs. evil this book is definitely for you.
Aberthol is told that he is king and that this is basically his "rebirth". Everyone expects him to have all the answers. But he doesn't. What's worse is that mere moments after being presented to the city that has waited for him for hundreds of years, or at least... to an empty courtyard in the city, tragedy befalls and people are killed. With the help of the granddaughter of the man who was supposed to help Aberthol remember who he was and the history of his family, he manages to escape.
First, I would like to say that I looked back through my books read this year and noticed I haven't really read an epic-like fantasy all year. I've read paranormal books, fairytale retellings, and science fiction... but nothing with dragons and people who fly and a king who's a descendant from a Creator. It was about time I remedied that.
It was an easy enough story to get drawn in to. I mean, it starts out a complete mystery. We find out the details of Aberthol and how he began where he did right along with him. However, it lost me for a bit. From the names that looked like someone just ran their fingers across the keyboard so they were impossible to pronounce to a song Elise sang that went on for pages and pages... I was worried I wouldn't finish it.
Elise is captured, however. And who attempts a rescue? Why, Aberthol and Elise's very own dead-but-not-dead father. WITH the aid of a golden dragon that I picture MUCH larger than the one on the cover of this book. Haha. He is a handsome thing though isn't he? Moving on... in their quest to rescue Elise, Aberthol and her father discover that myths passed down from generation to generation are, in fact, truth. And that truth ends up needing to be rescued and fought for just as much as the kingdom that Aberthol has been told he's in charge of.
I think that's something everyone has dreamed of at one time or another right? That something they thought was merely fairytale or folk lore would end up being true? Aberthol allies himself with dragon and people who can fly.
The more I read this the more I picture Avatar the Last Airbender. That's how I see Aberthol. Latest in a long line of this particular type of man who is supposed to be the good in the world. Who has the power to heal and kind of journeys in to his own "spirit world" seeing visions of the past and visions of things that could have been or of people who he has never truly known but are as real to him as he is.
It's a good story. I'm glad I stuck it out. The imagery and description in this book is just absolutely amazing and almost lyrical in how it's portrayed and delivered. Things are described in such detail that I can picture them in my mind as I read them. And with fantasy stories that's always one of the best parts.
I'd have to say one of my favorite characters is the dragon, Dwairomore. He is ancient and wise and friendly. And I loved the way that he spoke.
"No one that doth achieve great things ever sets out to do them. Only when thou dost think thyself worthy of greatness will all hope be lost... Remember, thou needs only to call and I shall come."
It's extremely poetic and something I haven't seen done in any other book that I've read (the Bible aside).
If you're like me and have yet to read a true fantasy novel this year, this one is for you. If you like tales of magical and mystical things like people with wings and dragons and kings of old this is for you. If you like quests and battles and good vs. evil this book is definitely for you.
August 5, 2014
From the moment Aberthol Nauile awakened in a darkened crypt, he knew his life would take a different turn. His memories were full of fuzzy remnants of the past, and he can't quite recall what he was meant to do. Deep inside, he knows his life has a purpose, though he's not sure as to what it truly is. Still, he's determined in setting all wrongs to right, or die trying.
When the object of Aberthol's affections goes missing, he soon realizes that the enemy's plans are not quite what he expected them to be. If he's to succeed in thwarting the Swarm's plans, he'll need to familiarize himself with the past once more. To do that, he has to forge new friendships along the way in the hopes of gleaning insight into the Swarm's patterns. Granted, not everyone is willing to give him the time of day, but he refuses to allow Elise to come to further harm.
Determined to make good on his convictions, Aberthol looks deep within himself for the answers to the questions in his mind. He knows he needs to see the bigger picture. To heal the land of the ravages of war. The Swarm will stop at nothing until it devours the realm itself. To fight the unknown, he must believe in himself and the legacy he was bequeathed. Only then, can he rid the land of the oncoming darkness bent on wreaking havoc wherever it can.
I've been a fan of D's work from the moment I met him and read his middle-grade story, Noah Zarc: Mammoth Trouble. D has a way of spinning a story that engrosses you from the moment you begin reading. Shadow Swarm is no exception. We're thrust smack-dab into the chaotic life of Aberthol Nauile, a king who's come back to the living with no clue of who or what he was before. He's a man who must find it within himself to reconcile his uncertainties in order to save those he loves.
Aberthol has shown that he'll do everything possible to cleanse the realm of the impending darkness. The Swarm has to be stopped, no matter the cost. Granted, he's not sure if he'll succeed, at first, but it's endearing to see how far he's come by the time the book ends. He's a man that stands by his convictions, and will see to it that things get done. A truly enjoyable story, Shadow Swarm is sure to pull you in just as it did me. I look forward to more of D's future stories. He's one to keep an eye on!
When the object of Aberthol's affections goes missing, he soon realizes that the enemy's plans are not quite what he expected them to be. If he's to succeed in thwarting the Swarm's plans, he'll need to familiarize himself with the past once more. To do that, he has to forge new friendships along the way in the hopes of gleaning insight into the Swarm's patterns. Granted, not everyone is willing to give him the time of day, but he refuses to allow Elise to come to further harm.
Determined to make good on his convictions, Aberthol looks deep within himself for the answers to the questions in his mind. He knows he needs to see the bigger picture. To heal the land of the ravages of war. The Swarm will stop at nothing until it devours the realm itself. To fight the unknown, he must believe in himself and the legacy he was bequeathed. Only then, can he rid the land of the oncoming darkness bent on wreaking havoc wherever it can.
I've been a fan of D's work from the moment I met him and read his middle-grade story, Noah Zarc: Mammoth Trouble. D has a way of spinning a story that engrosses you from the moment you begin reading. Shadow Swarm is no exception. We're thrust smack-dab into the chaotic life of Aberthol Nauile, a king who's come back to the living with no clue of who or what he was before. He's a man who must find it within himself to reconcile his uncertainties in order to save those he loves.
Aberthol has shown that he'll do everything possible to cleanse the realm of the impending darkness. The Swarm has to be stopped, no matter the cost. Granted, he's not sure if he'll succeed, at first, but it's endearing to see how far he's come by the time the book ends. He's a man that stands by his convictions, and will see to it that things get done. A truly enjoyable story, Shadow Swarm is sure to pull you in just as it did me. I look forward to more of D's future stories. He's one to keep an eye on!
August 27, 2014
Arbethol Nauile is the promised saviour and the rightful heir to the throne of the Nuadaim. He just doesn't know it yet. When he wakes up in a mausoleum not knowing his own name, or anything that has happened to him in the past 300+ years, it looks as if the ancient prophecy has failed, and the Neglafem's sacrifice to protect him has been in vain.
Elise is more than ready to give up on the prophecy and leave the strange man to fend for himself after watching her grandfather, Iliam, being killed on the day of the King's Presentation, but her grandfather's sacrifice and faith means more to her than anything in the world. Leading Nauile out of the citadel where they were beset by the enemy, she is soon taken hostage by the enemy to be used against Nauile.
Because Arbethol is remembering things in flashes as well as being told them by the people he meets, you do get a rather good background of the Nuadaim over the course of the book, usually when you need to know it. The list of names and terms at the back was also quite useful, though a little clunky to refer to on the kindle (that really only works well on paperbacks). The world is pretty well-built, and the narrative is well-written. The characters seem a little flat and one-sided at times - it's not to say that they weren't well-developed. It's just that they felt a little stereotypical, especially Elise. Other than her kidnapping being the catalyst that launches Nauile to start a war against the enemy, I don't really see why he falls in love with her or how. I guess traipsing through the woods together might make you attracted to one another, but... that was it?
Shadow Swarm is very strongly Christian allegory - I could smell it from the middle of the book, though that's probably because I'm extremely sensitive to these kinds of things. It doesn't really detract from the story itself; it's only just a little predictable at the end.
I received a free copy of this book for review as part of the Novel Publicity Tour.
Elise is more than ready to give up on the prophecy and leave the strange man to fend for himself after watching her grandfather, Iliam, being killed on the day of the King's Presentation, but her grandfather's sacrifice and faith means more to her than anything in the world. Leading Nauile out of the citadel where they were beset by the enemy, she is soon taken hostage by the enemy to be used against Nauile.
Because Arbethol is remembering things in flashes as well as being told them by the people he meets, you do get a rather good background of the Nuadaim over the course of the book, usually when you need to know it. The list of names and terms at the back was also quite useful, though a little clunky to refer to on the kindle (that really only works well on paperbacks). The world is pretty well-built, and the narrative is well-written. The characters seem a little flat and one-sided at times - it's not to say that they weren't well-developed. It's just that they felt a little stereotypical, especially Elise. Other than her kidnapping being the catalyst that launches Nauile to start a war against the enemy, I don't really see why he falls in love with her or how. I guess traipsing through the woods together might make you attracted to one another, but... that was it?
Shadow Swarm is very strongly Christian allegory - I could smell it from the middle of the book, though that's probably because I'm extremely sensitive to these kinds of things. It doesn't really detract from the story itself; it's only just a little predictable at the end.
I received a free copy of this book for review as part of the Novel Publicity Tour.
July 30, 2014
Shadow Swarm is a great novel! It fits into the high fantasy genre- with the character's names. I was so glad that there was a list to keep track of who was who and what everything meant. It is something I love and hate about the fantasy realm.
I enjoyed reading about Aberthol's adventures. I connected with his struggle to find out who he was and how to save people. It quite a change in doing things that he had to find out himself.
His companions were quite the characters! And who can resist a dragon! My favourite character was Lexy, who had so much spirit. He was really fun to read about.
I thought the story-line was epic and well written. There was a lot of details, but the novel didn't over describe events either. Although one of the negatives is that the story doesn't reveal all- like how Aberthol is reborn- I am hoping that it is made clear in a new story.
4.5 stars and I am excited that this is part of a series. I personally would love to read more of Pease's works.
I received a free review copy. It did not affect my review.
I enjoyed reading about Aberthol's adventures. I connected with his struggle to find out who he was and how to save people. It quite a change in doing things that he had to find out himself.
His companions were quite the characters! And who can resist a dragon! My favourite character was Lexy, who had so much spirit. He was really fun to read about.
I thought the story-line was epic and well written. There was a lot of details, but the novel didn't over describe events either. Although one of the negatives is that the story doesn't reveal all- like how Aberthol is reborn- I am hoping that it is made clear in a new story.
4.5 stars and I am excited that this is part of a series. I personally would love to read more of Pease's works.
I received a free review copy. It did not affect my review.
September 2, 2014
Aberthol Nauile wakes up in a tomb and doesn’t know who he is. The people around him tell him he is the King, come to save them from the blackest enemy. His triumphant return becomes an ambush and he must flee with the granddaughter of a man he wasn’t able to save. They meet up with her exiled father and learn that the situation is even worse than they thought. The only person who can save them is Aberthol, if he can only remember how.
I enjoyed reading a book that is complete in itself. I enjoy a trilogy when it is well done, but it is nice to have a book that begins and ends satisfactorily in one volume. Shadow Swarm is a great read. The main character is complex and the people of the land who he is to save are unique and varied. One may think that the plot of a chosen person to save a country from a dark overlord is a plot that has seen its day, but the author puts his own spin on the plot and weaves us in and out of time to riveting conclusion.
I recommend the book for people who like fantasy, especially epic fantasy.
I enjoyed reading a book that is complete in itself. I enjoy a trilogy when it is well done, but it is nice to have a book that begins and ends satisfactorily in one volume. Shadow Swarm is a great read. The main character is complex and the people of the land who he is to save are unique and varied. One may think that the plot of a chosen person to save a country from a dark overlord is a plot that has seen its day, but the author puts his own spin on the plot and weaves us in and out of time to riveting conclusion.
I recommend the book for people who like fantasy, especially epic fantasy.
August 22, 2014
First, I would like to thank the author D. Robert Pease for sending me this book for an honest review. Once I picked up this book, I had a hard time setting it down when I needed to, I wanted to stay in the story. The world building is very good and the story-line is equally as good. The characters are very well developed and written. I am sad as this seems like it is not going to be a series, I may be mistaken, but I have not seen anything telling me otherwise. I would like to see more books on some of the main secondary characters. I would be interesting to see more coming from this book. The author was new to me until I read this book and I am impressed, as this book is an adult novel and the author has written more middle-grade and Young Adult books, showing he can jump age range. I just finished his Young Adult novel Dream Warriors and am looking forward to reading more of that series.
July 6, 2015
A great fantasy story with some good time-travel elements, Shadow Swarm had characters that were difficult to relate to at times. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good clean fantasy novel and doesn't mind long names. (Read more at my blog, thebookhoundchristianspecfic.blogspot.com).
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