What do you think?
Rate this book
Brush With Darkness
It started with a simple dream for join the legions, escape a life of mediocrity, and bring respect to the family name. A border incursion by restive Scentari barbarians looked like that opportunity for an artist turned soldier to transcend his roots, and fight for the glory of the Pazian Republic. Or so it seemed. The return of dark magic, thought to be the stuff of myth and legend, turns a simple mission into a brutal slaughter, and Simon must warn the Senate of the unimaginable defeat. But a mysterious sculptress shows him that his buried creativity may be their only hope against an ancient foe that poses the greatest threat the Republic has ever seen. Simon must explore this Talent while navigating a treacherous maelstrom of political intrigue and shifting allegiances, torn between ambition and curiosity, duty and love. The ARTS REBORN series follows the story of the lives touched by the return of opposing magical forces of artistic creation and elemental destruction to the Republic of Pazh, a historically-inspired world where hints of ancient Rome, Greece and the Mediterranean mix with the fantastical. Brush With Darkness is Book I of Arts Reborn, but stands alone as a story, with additional arcs that continue on in the series. Book Blood of the Water is available now on Amazon. At the publisher's request, this book is being sold without Digital Rights Management software (DRM) applied. This book has been extensively edited and proofread.
- GenresFantasy
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2014
2 people are currently reading
466 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Maltman
4 books27 followersI grew up on the fantastical. My mother read me Narnia when I was three, and around the Horse and His Boy I figured out how the letters on the page worked and finished them myself. She also introduced me to the greatest traveler of all, Doctor Who.
By five I delved into Tolkien on my own and never looked back, visiting myriad fantasy worlds. Later, Mary Stewart, Colleen MacCullough and James Clavell transported me back in time to Rome and Asia for different tastes of our own.
I wrote stories, told stories, drew and painted scenes from my stories, participated in stories through games of all kinds, and twisted everything in school to be creative writing whenever even remotely possible. I studied Latin and later Chinese to explore ancient cultures even further.
While double-majoring in Computer Science and Asia-Pacific studies at the University of Toronto, I had the privilege to go abroad to Hong Kong for a year, falling in love with traveling the real world. I spent a decade working with computer data and running businesses in fund travels with my girlfriend and now wife.
When our first son was born, I was reacquainted with the library, and the stories started screaming to get out. And so I’ve decided to release them, to share with you.
I spent some good time as part of the To Be Read podcast/YouTube show.
Then I had to do more work for my growing family, and the writing too a back seat - when I’m not working I want to spend time doing things with my wife and kids. I’ll return to the writing someday!
When I’m not reading or watching something (lots of sci-Fi and anime with the boys these days), I’m learning and playing games with my wife and two sons, or spending altogether too much time on basketball, namely my beloved Raptors.
My teenage son is now devouring sci-Fi at several books per week, and may be the one to push me to continue writing sooner than later!
We live in the Toronto suburb of Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
I’d love to connect with you on social media, and I could even find you an e-copy of book 3 if you ask nicely.
By five I delved into Tolkien on my own and never looked back, visiting myriad fantasy worlds. Later, Mary Stewart, Colleen MacCullough and James Clavell transported me back in time to Rome and Asia for different tastes of our own.
I wrote stories, told stories, drew and painted scenes from my stories, participated in stories through games of all kinds, and twisted everything in school to be creative writing whenever even remotely possible. I studied Latin and later Chinese to explore ancient cultures even further.
While double-majoring in Computer Science and Asia-Pacific studies at the University of Toronto, I had the privilege to go abroad to Hong Kong for a year, falling in love with traveling the real world. I spent a decade working with computer data and running businesses in fund travels with my girlfriend and now wife.
When our first son was born, I was reacquainted with the library, and the stories started screaming to get out. And so I’ve decided to release them, to share with you.
I spent some good time as part of the To Be Read podcast/YouTube show.
Then I had to do more work for my growing family, and the writing too a back seat - when I’m not working I want to spend time doing things with my wife and kids. I’ll return to the writing someday!
When I’m not reading or watching something (lots of sci-Fi and anime with the boys these days), I’m learning and playing games with my wife and two sons, or spending altogether too much time on basketball, namely my beloved Raptors.
My teenage son is now devouring sci-Fi at several books per week, and may be the one to push me to continue writing sooner than later!
We live in the Toronto suburb of Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada.
I’d love to connect with you on social media, and I could even find you an e-copy of book 3 if you ask nicely.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 10, 2014
This is a great start to what promises to be a fantastic series. While the beginning did seem to move a bit slowly, the pace picked up rather quickly. I found the story to be interesting. I loved the blending of art and magic and I can't wait to see what else Simon and Elysia are capable of with their talents.
Additionally, this book was put to the ultimate test. I allowed portions if it to be read to me by the Kindle. Despite the monotonous tone and peculiar limitations on pronunciation, I still found the story itself to be engaging and easy to follow. I was just as engrossed as when I had read it myself.
Additionally, this book was put to the ultimate test. I allowed portions if it to be read to me by the Kindle. Despite the monotonous tone and peculiar limitations on pronunciation, I still found the story itself to be engaging and easy to follow. I was just as engrossed as when I had read it myself.
December 6, 2014
As a voracious reader, I tend to be someone who can overlook weaker stories, so long as they are good. Not sure what to expect in this one, I dove in, and discovered a world I want to go back to time and again.
The intro is a bit slow, as most political war time stories are, but once past the initial introductions, the pace picked up quite nicely. This is a strong, well written piece with several swirling subplots to keep the reader's attention. The main plot revolves around self-discovery - the main character's and a limited cast of secondary characters who directly influence the main. The subplots are subtly woven through to reinforce the development and add a depth and complexity that is very satisfying for me. (Yes, even when the main character whines that he doesn't know anything - he is a young man after all, and is figuring out what it means to be a soldier.)
Set in a Romanesque setting, it was fun to see the different historical cultures highlighted as the action moved from battle line to the heart of the empire, and then wandered back out to the battle line again.
The intro is a bit slow, as most political war time stories are, but once past the initial introductions, the pace picked up quite nicely. This is a strong, well written piece with several swirling subplots to keep the reader's attention. The main plot revolves around self-discovery - the main character's and a limited cast of secondary characters who directly influence the main. The subplots are subtly woven through to reinforce the development and add a depth and complexity that is very satisfying for me. (Yes, even when the main character whines that he doesn't know anything - he is a young man after all, and is figuring out what it means to be a soldier.)
Set in a Romanesque setting, it was fun to see the different historical cultures highlighted as the action moved from battle line to the heart of the empire, and then wandered back out to the battle line again.
October 18, 2014
Brush with Darkness is a work of fantasy set in a Roman-like setting called the Republic of Pazh. The main character, Simon, is a soldier, but his real talent turns out to be “Talent”, a creative magic that he uses to battle a destructive magic that threatens the world. The story is fast-moving and richly detailed, moving through episodes of war, intrigue, love, discovery, and a final battle against an evil barbarian leader and his horde followers. The plot is well-crafted, the characters are distinctive, and the underlying concept—an exploration of the power of creativity—is original. Some readers, especially those who relish the sword-and-sorcery dimensions of the story, might struggle with the romantic subplot, which becomes more prominent as the tale unfolds. Also, the behaviour and manner of the characters, both in love and war, seems at times more contemporary than might be expected of the setting (for instance, the lovers speak at times like modern lovers, and there is a modern-like sensitivity to the brutality of war). Nevertheless, despite some rough edges, Brush with Darkness is a very well-written debut novel that will be enjoyed by anybody with a taste for fantasy, magic, love, and the ancient world.
October 8, 2014
Reminiscent of Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series, Brush With Darkness is a coming-of-age fantasy which balances the requisite idealism/naivety of the genre with believable and compelling characters.
Simon is the young soldier with a latent talent – which events are about to unlock – as an ancient darkness threatens the land. His journey to come to terms with his power is well-delivered, with a supporting cast of authentic and varied characters around him. The story is fast-paced for an epic fantasy, making it a real page turner; although that sometimes leaves potentially interesting characters and motivations unexplored. This is the first book of a series, though, so there's plenty of room to address that in future volumes, and I found the pacing worth it.
Readers unfamiliar with classical language may struggle with some terminology in the early chapters, but the clarity of Maltman's prose is admirable, and should make this a fleeting concern for most.
The world is vivid, the characters strong, and the magic fresh and exhilarating: a highly recommended work of fantasy, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
Simon is the young soldier with a latent talent – which events are about to unlock – as an ancient darkness threatens the land. His journey to come to terms with his power is well-delivered, with a supporting cast of authentic and varied characters around him. The story is fast-paced for an epic fantasy, making it a real page turner; although that sometimes leaves potentially interesting characters and motivations unexplored. This is the first book of a series, though, so there's plenty of room to address that in future volumes, and I found the pacing worth it.
Readers unfamiliar with classical language may struggle with some terminology in the early chapters, but the clarity of Maltman's prose is admirable, and should make this a fleeting concern for most.
The world is vivid, the characters strong, and the magic fresh and exhilarating: a highly recommended work of fantasy, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
October 6, 2014
Brush With Darkness
I enjoyed this book. It's well written, well plotted, and though the pace could have been upped a little it was something that I looked forward to getting back to every time I picked up my kindle.
The book could be categorised as a Romanesque fantasy. It's set in a world where the empire (Pazh) is ruled by a senate and enforces its will through legions famous for their discipline. The shadow of Rome is ever present. The story follows the experiences of Simon, son of a merchant who joined the legions to see more of the world and win glory for his family name. He's also a frustrated painter, but more of that later. The book opens with a battle, more or less. I thought that more could have been made of this, but the point of view stays resolutely with Simon and outside the heat of battle. The legion loses (that's not much of a spoiler) and Simon is sent back, along with an arrogant aristocratic officer, to present his evidence to the senate . On his way home he meets Elysia, and learns that he not just a painter. I'll avoid any more plot lest I spoil it.
The characters, especially Simon and Eysia are pretty well drawn, likeable and engaging. The black hats are not entirely without merit. They may be
cruel, ambitious, even nasty at times, but they always have a smattering of good characteristics - courage, affection, determination. That makes for more rounded characters, and the story a better tale.
The magical scheme is simple enough in general - creativity versus destruction. It works quite well. The good magic is a little laboured, but the bad magic is somewhat limited, so they balance out.
My only real gripe is with the title, which I suspect of being a somewhat contrived pun - mildly amusing the first time, but less so every time you see it. This is a short review (for me) because there was really nothing to complain about.
All in all a good read. I may well get round to the sequel.
I enjoyed this book. It's well written, well plotted, and though the pace could have been upped a little it was something that I looked forward to getting back to every time I picked up my kindle.
The book could be categorised as a Romanesque fantasy. It's set in a world where the empire (Pazh) is ruled by a senate and enforces its will through legions famous for their discipline. The shadow of Rome is ever present. The story follows the experiences of Simon, son of a merchant who joined the legions to see more of the world and win glory for his family name. He's also a frustrated painter, but more of that later. The book opens with a battle, more or less. I thought that more could have been made of this, but the point of view stays resolutely with Simon and outside the heat of battle. The legion loses (that's not much of a spoiler) and Simon is sent back, along with an arrogant aristocratic officer, to present his evidence to the senate . On his way home he meets Elysia, and learns that he not just a painter. I'll avoid any more plot lest I spoil it.
The characters, especially Simon and Eysia are pretty well drawn, likeable and engaging. The black hats are not entirely without merit. They may be
cruel, ambitious, even nasty at times, but they always have a smattering of good characteristics - courage, affection, determination. That makes for more rounded characters, and the story a better tale.
The magical scheme is simple enough in general - creativity versus destruction. It works quite well. The good magic is a little laboured, but the bad magic is somewhat limited, so they balance out.
My only real gripe is with the title, which I suspect of being a somewhat contrived pun - mildly amusing the first time, but less so every time you see it. This is a short review (for me) because there was really nothing to complain about.
All in all a good read. I may well get round to the sequel.
September 23, 2014
I love reading about politics and fantasy together, and was enticed by the idea of fantasy introduced in an Imperial Rome-like setting. Make no doubt, this is about Imperial Rome, without mentioning it. The feel, the descriptions of way of life, clothing, politics, and military all point to Rome. (A good part of the book takes place in a Senate much like Rome's.)
I just couldn't understand the convoluted story. I felt as if I dropped into another world, without knowing who or why anyone was speaking, like dropping in on conversations where I didn't know anyone. There was a large number of characters, given the moderate length of the book. I was wondering if it was me, or the writing. To me, the jury is still out on that. The beginning was fine enough, but when the hero Simon heads to the city, there follows a series of machinations that result in specific men, with specific agendas out to murder each other, and I couldn't understand the motives, given that there was a significant threat of a sorcerer on the battlefield opposed to their Empire--wouldn't they be united against that threat?
I did enjoy reading about the love affair between Simon and Elysia. I just loved the speeches at the Senate where they debate the versions of what happened on the battlefield (it also helped me understand what the beginning was about, as it was essentially a recap). I wasn't sure about the realism even within a fantasy setting, but more than that, it was hard to follow the plot and the diverse set of characters, so it was harder for me to judge.
The author obviously put a lot of work into his writing. On a technical basis, his writing is sound and highly educated, with no grammatical errors. He has woven the strands of the story as best as he could, and even if I didn't understand the plot, I can see he put great care into it. He is to be commended for being different. Like I said, I'm a sucker for the premise of fantasy in the world of Rome.
I just couldn't understand the convoluted story. I felt as if I dropped into another world, without knowing who or why anyone was speaking, like dropping in on conversations where I didn't know anyone. There was a large number of characters, given the moderate length of the book. I was wondering if it was me, or the writing. To me, the jury is still out on that. The beginning was fine enough, but when the hero Simon heads to the city, there follows a series of machinations that result in specific men, with specific agendas out to murder each other, and I couldn't understand the motives, given that there was a significant threat of a sorcerer on the battlefield opposed to their Empire--wouldn't they be united against that threat?
I did enjoy reading about the love affair between Simon and Elysia. I just loved the speeches at the Senate where they debate the versions of what happened on the battlefield (it also helped me understand what the beginning was about, as it was essentially a recap). I wasn't sure about the realism even within a fantasy setting, but more than that, it was hard to follow the plot and the diverse set of characters, so it was harder for me to judge.
The author obviously put a lot of work into his writing. On a technical basis, his writing is sound and highly educated, with no grammatical errors. He has woven the strands of the story as best as he could, and even if I didn't understand the plot, I can see he put great care into it. He is to be commended for being different. Like I said, I'm a sucker for the premise of fantasy in the world of Rome.
January 20, 2015
I picked this up as a Kindle deal, because I know the author, and he suggested that it might be something I'd like. I didn't really know what to expect, but I was very pleasantly surprised!
Maltman's fantasy concept is refreshingly creative, especially in the current literary atmosphere where so many magical fantasies seem to blend into one another. Most stories in the same vein follow the familiar Hogwarts homage: the protagonist discovers a latent ability and enters training with the existing experts. Instead of repeating this common trope, Maltman's characters find themselves rediscovering a lost craft, so they explore the scope of their powers along with the reader. This cleverly escapes the plot holes that often leave the reader wondering why the novices (rather than the experts) are always the ones fighting the ultimate evil, and why their mentors rarely teach them a fit-for-purpose set of skills.
The decidedly-Roman fantasy world of Pazh is well thought out, and leaves the reader with a twinge of wanderlust, wondering what the other parts of the empire will be like. The prose gives enough hints for the reader to understand the basic geography and culture without needing to extensively refer to the map and notes at the back of the book.
My only criticism is that at certain points the plot felt overly rushed. I had trouble buying into a few of the characters' more emotion-driven decisions and felt that the timeline was a bit too short to be believable. The female lead in particular seems to fluctuate between extreme feelings at a somewhat unrealistic rate. While this wasn't a serious problem, it was enough to strain my suspension of disbelief a few times and pull me back to reality out of an otherwise extremely immersive novel.
Maltman's fantasy concept is refreshingly creative, especially in the current literary atmosphere where so many magical fantasies seem to blend into one another. Most stories in the same vein follow the familiar Hogwarts homage: the protagonist discovers a latent ability and enters training with the existing experts. Instead of repeating this common trope, Maltman's characters find themselves rediscovering a lost craft, so they explore the scope of their powers along with the reader. This cleverly escapes the plot holes that often leave the reader wondering why the novices (rather than the experts) are always the ones fighting the ultimate evil, and why their mentors rarely teach them a fit-for-purpose set of skills.
The decidedly-Roman fantasy world of Pazh is well thought out, and leaves the reader with a twinge of wanderlust, wondering what the other parts of the empire will be like. The prose gives enough hints for the reader to understand the basic geography and culture without needing to extensively refer to the map and notes at the back of the book.
My only criticism is that at certain points the plot felt overly rushed. I had trouble buying into a few of the characters' more emotion-driven decisions and felt that the timeline was a bit too short to be believable. The female lead in particular seems to fluctuate between extreme feelings at a somewhat unrealistic rate. While this wasn't a serious problem, it was enough to strain my suspension of disbelief a few times and pull me back to reality out of an otherwise extremely immersive novel.
June 9, 2014
Vivid Descriptions and Excellent Characters
I wasn't sure what to expect when I first started reading this book. As a lover of historical fiction, I was concerned when the grandeur and immense scope of the Roman Era meets with a rare and specialized form of magic, but Mr. Maltman pulls it off with ease!
As the tale opens, we meet Simon, a young, unassuming member of the Legion who is tasked with the responsibility of informing the Senate of this new development. Along the way, Simon grows from a young, somewhat naive man into a leader as the events of the story mold and shape him.
The descriptions of the various places that Simon travels are vivid and well written. I could definitely smell the paints that Simon uses, and the warm bread from Elysia's shop. I could feel the heat of the sun as the Legion marched, and the spray of the sea when Simon is aboard the ships in transit. And I felt at ease when Simon was met with the familiar sights and sounds as he returned home to Pazh.
With new allies to help him in his new charge to defeat the Scentari army, Simon and his group of trusted friends form a plan to save Pazh from complete destruction. Wielding magic in different forms, Simon and Elysia, along with Kyso and Zeno aid the forces of right against the Scentari.
No spoilers here, but Mr. Maltman has written a tale that will be remembered. I am grateful I had the chance to read this book, and I look forward to finding out more of Simon's life. We certainly have not seen the last of him. I would recommend this book to those who like historical fiction or fantasy, as there is certainly enough of both to keep you hooked and wanting more.
I wasn't sure what to expect when I first started reading this book. As a lover of historical fiction, I was concerned when the grandeur and immense scope of the Roman Era meets with a rare and specialized form of magic, but Mr. Maltman pulls it off with ease!
As the tale opens, we meet Simon, a young, unassuming member of the Legion who is tasked with the responsibility of informing the Senate of this new development. Along the way, Simon grows from a young, somewhat naive man into a leader as the events of the story mold and shape him.
The descriptions of the various places that Simon travels are vivid and well written. I could definitely smell the paints that Simon uses, and the warm bread from Elysia's shop. I could feel the heat of the sun as the Legion marched, and the spray of the sea when Simon is aboard the ships in transit. And I felt at ease when Simon was met with the familiar sights and sounds as he returned home to Pazh.
With new allies to help him in his new charge to defeat the Scentari army, Simon and his group of trusted friends form a plan to save Pazh from complete destruction. Wielding magic in different forms, Simon and Elysia, along with Kyso and Zeno aid the forces of right against the Scentari.
No spoilers here, but Mr. Maltman has written a tale that will be remembered. I am grateful I had the chance to read this book, and I look forward to finding out more of Simon's life. We certainly have not seen the last of him. I would recommend this book to those who like historical fiction or fantasy, as there is certainly enough of both to keep you hooked and wanting more.
July 6, 2014
**I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
“It started with a dream.”
I think there are no truer words. Every self discovery path starts with a dream.
Simon Baroba doesn't want to be a merchant like his father is. He wants more; he wants to see the world. That's why he enlists in a legion of the Republic of Pazh: to build a name for himself and his family.
Six months later, he finds himself in a terrifying battle and must escape to report what his human eyes see but cannot believe: something too dark that destroys the 7th Legion. So he is charged with the task of warning the Senate about the strange fire that consumes everything in its path, but politics is part of an intricate world he knows nothing about. In the middle of it all, he meets Elysia, a woman who can create statues that seem too real to be only that. And he also discovers that he has a gift—and a strange one at that—but he must hide it if he wants to stay alive.
Creativity is no longer a part of the Pazian nation. Imagination is a dangerous thing in a world where everything is done the way it is said that it should be done.
But Simon's gift may be the only one that can save them all, before the darkness destroys the whole Republic of Pazh.
I really enjoyed this book. It was very well written—so much that you can imagine yourself there. It has an ending, even though it's the first book of a series, and I appreciate that.
“Funny how dreams were becoming a reality of late.”
“It started with a dream.”
I think there are no truer words. Every self discovery path starts with a dream.
Simon Baroba doesn't want to be a merchant like his father is. He wants more; he wants to see the world. That's why he enlists in a legion of the Republic of Pazh: to build a name for himself and his family.
Six months later, he finds himself in a terrifying battle and must escape to report what his human eyes see but cannot believe: something too dark that destroys the 7th Legion. So he is charged with the task of warning the Senate about the strange fire that consumes everything in its path, but politics is part of an intricate world he knows nothing about. In the middle of it all, he meets Elysia, a woman who can create statues that seem too real to be only that. And he also discovers that he has a gift—and a strange one at that—but he must hide it if he wants to stay alive.
Creativity is no longer a part of the Pazian nation. Imagination is a dangerous thing in a world where everything is done the way it is said that it should be done.
But Simon's gift may be the only one that can save them all, before the darkness destroys the whole Republic of Pazh.
I really enjoyed this book. It was very well written—so much that you can imagine yourself there. It has an ending, even though it's the first book of a series, and I appreciate that.
“Funny how dreams were becoming a reality of late.”
July 28, 2014
Maltman has created something profound with his "Arts Reborn" series, in the vein of work like "The Black Prism," by Brent Weeks, or the work of Brandon Sanderson and even the grand-master, Robert Jordan. "Brush with Darkness" is the kind of epic fantasy tale that is its own sort of magic, and it's engrossing and inspiring to read.
I've always loved the notion of "creativity as magic." Maltman manages to bring that concept to life, in vivid color and broad strokes (yeah ... I wrote it). The magic system in this book is as unique as any I've encountered, and gives me those daydream fantasies of "what would I do if ..." that mark a good story for me.
The landscape of this book is epic, and feels historic and thoroughly engrossing. You never doubt for a moment that what you're seeing is real. The descriptions are detailed and captivating, and paint a rich experience that draws you back, page after page.
Highly beloved, and highly recommended. I'll be watching for more from Maltman as his star rises. Excellent work.
I've always loved the notion of "creativity as magic." Maltman manages to bring that concept to life, in vivid color and broad strokes (yeah ... I wrote it). The magic system in this book is as unique as any I've encountered, and gives me those daydream fantasies of "what would I do if ..." that mark a good story for me.
The landscape of this book is epic, and feels historic and thoroughly engrossing. You never doubt for a moment that what you're seeing is real. The descriptions are detailed and captivating, and paint a rich experience that draws you back, page after page.
Highly beloved, and highly recommended. I'll be watching for more from Maltman as his star rises. Excellent work.
February 8, 2015
An excellent fantasy novel, packed full of characters so full of life they leap off the page. The world building, scene building, character development, plot and pacing are all brilliant. There is the odd spelling error here and there, and a need for a copy edit to tidy up problematic comma usage. The prose leans toward the passive in places, but is still very well written. I have already loaded my copy of book 2 in the series onto my kindle. Jamie Maltman is definitely an author to watch, and he is obviously at home in the fantasy genre.
July 15, 2015
A very compelling read!
Brush with Darkness and Maltman's writing reminds me a little of Guy Gavriel Kay in world-building and style (a good thing in my books!).
I appreciated the balanced approach to the villains in the novel. Very refreshing!
I'm looking forward to reading the next volume of the series
Brush with Darkness and Maltman's writing reminds me a little of Guy Gavriel Kay in world-building and style (a good thing in my books!).
I appreciated the balanced approach to the villains in the novel. Very refreshing!
I'm looking forward to reading the next volume of the series
May 6, 2014
A wonderful story! I really loved the creativity-based magic system and it didn't take long for me to care deeply about the characters. I'm definitely looking forward to learning more about their lives and the world in future stories!
January 13, 2017
Combining a solid foundation of classical history and recognisable politics with plenty of fantastical action, Maltman creates as novel that will satisfy those interested in depth of world without losing those seeking a thrilling adventure.
Simon Baroba joined the legions in the hopes of a better life than watching his father drink the last of the business. When his talent for maps and designs catches the eye of a senior officer, drawing him from mere legionary to adjutant, Simon thinks that life might be starting. However, when warriors from neighbouring Scentar cross the border seeking to reclaim lands lost in the peace treaty of a generation ago, Simon finds himself first facing dark magic then discovering hidden talents of his own. But with magic seen as either a myth or a complete evil, and many senators more interested taking personal advantage of the situation than in defending the cities under threat, Simon finds himself equally at risk away from the war.
Maltman has created a world based on ancient Rome and the surrounding nations during the height of the Republic. However, this world is neither a Tolkienesque Western fantasy with a veneer of legions and senates, nor mired in historically accurate details such as blade shapes and couch sizes. As such, while readers intimately familiar with classical Europe might see all the differences, they will not see the joins.
The more fantastical elements are similarly both close to real-world religion and magic, and engagingly different. Maltman also draws his cast solely from humanity, and focuses more deeply on a few mystical threads rather than showing glimpses of many things. This clear but not rampant difference from the real-world offers readers an opportunity to experience interesting challenges and new solutions without losing their frame of reference.
Maltman’s use of a solely human cast also adds a firm foundation to the nuances of character. Without the issue of racial powers, biologies, and traits to unravel, readers are more able to see differences of rank, status, and location among even the supporting cast.
This nuance is especially noticeable in Simon, who is clearly influenced by both his parent’s mixed marriage and his father’s precise social status. Disdained by some for not being of pure enough lineage, he reacts with the classic attempt to be more of a citizen than anyone else, leading to a struggle between trusting those who value him for his personality and skills, and those who offer him the beginnings of social status in exchange for playing the game of politics for their team.
This theme of society vs personal goals also pervades the supporting cast: barbarian leaders want the status of superlative raider, but also have strong individual aims; senators seek to protect the citizens of the Republic, but not if the best course of action also strengthens a rival; and criminals judge artists for their failure to consider the good of the whole.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking fantasy that mixes politics with action.
Simon Baroba joined the legions in the hopes of a better life than watching his father drink the last of the business. When his talent for maps and designs catches the eye of a senior officer, drawing him from mere legionary to adjutant, Simon thinks that life might be starting. However, when warriors from neighbouring Scentar cross the border seeking to reclaim lands lost in the peace treaty of a generation ago, Simon finds himself first facing dark magic then discovering hidden talents of his own. But with magic seen as either a myth or a complete evil, and many senators more interested taking personal advantage of the situation than in defending the cities under threat, Simon finds himself equally at risk away from the war.
Maltman has created a world based on ancient Rome and the surrounding nations during the height of the Republic. However, this world is neither a Tolkienesque Western fantasy with a veneer of legions and senates, nor mired in historically accurate details such as blade shapes and couch sizes. As such, while readers intimately familiar with classical Europe might see all the differences, they will not see the joins.
The more fantastical elements are similarly both close to real-world religion and magic, and engagingly different. Maltman also draws his cast solely from humanity, and focuses more deeply on a few mystical threads rather than showing glimpses of many things. This clear but not rampant difference from the real-world offers readers an opportunity to experience interesting challenges and new solutions without losing their frame of reference.
Maltman’s use of a solely human cast also adds a firm foundation to the nuances of character. Without the issue of racial powers, biologies, and traits to unravel, readers are more able to see differences of rank, status, and location among even the supporting cast.
This nuance is especially noticeable in Simon, who is clearly influenced by both his parent’s mixed marriage and his father’s precise social status. Disdained by some for not being of pure enough lineage, he reacts with the classic attempt to be more of a citizen than anyone else, leading to a struggle between trusting those who value him for his personality and skills, and those who offer him the beginnings of social status in exchange for playing the game of politics for their team.
This theme of society vs personal goals also pervades the supporting cast: barbarian leaders want the status of superlative raider, but also have strong individual aims; senators seek to protect the citizens of the Republic, but not if the best course of action also strengthens a rival; and criminals judge artists for their failure to consider the good of the whole.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking fantasy that mixes politics with action.
December 16, 2014
Disclaimer: Though I purchased and read this book of my own accord, the author is an acquaintance. Take that as you will.
Brush With Darkness, the first novel in the Arts Reborn series, by author Jamie Maltman, introduces the reader to our protagonist, Simon Baroba, a legionary of the Republic of Pazh. The story follows the adventures of this young man as the Republic first encounters an evil rising out from Scentar, a neighbouring nation, in the form of dark magic. Simon must help the Republic face the threat of this darkness, a power which was believed to be merely legend. But as Simon discovers, a small group of people have long known otherwise and they will help him discover his own Talent as he tries to stop the threat.
The book weaves a rich tapestry, exposing the reader to an expansive new world, inspired by ancient Rome, Greece and the surrounding territories. The author uses those historical civilizations as the framework for the Pazian military, political and social structures, building an intricate world and society. But this is not historical fiction proper. The historically inspired elements serve to influence and provide a reference for the reader but the world itself is wholly other. There is magic, which provides an element of fantasy to the work, taking what could be a straight historical fiction were it based in Rome proper and adding another layer to the story. The magic itself aligns with good and evil, where good magic is expressed in creation, through art, while evil magic consumes and destroys. The author’s affinity for art, by way of painting and sculpting, also serves as a major theme for the book, woven throughout as both descriptive colour and a critical aspect of the storyline. The threads of art, history and magic suit the story, blending naturally and yet never overwhelming the core narrative.
Brush With Darkness establishes a complex, interesting world that quickly pulled me in. I found myself wanting to know where the story was going next, looking for opportunities to steal a few more moments with the book. I’m looking forward to exploring this world and these characters further as the Arts Reborn series continues. The book should appeal to a broad audience. Though the story contains an aspect of fantasy in the inclusion of magic it is never overwhelming or inaccessible in the way that straight fantasy can sometimes be. Likewise, the historically inspired details serve as a base for setting, time and culture, never dominating the story with unnecessary details. It is a highly accessible adventure that will draw readers in with characters you will pull for and a world that you’ll want to explore further.
Brush With Darkness, the first novel in the Arts Reborn series, by author Jamie Maltman, introduces the reader to our protagonist, Simon Baroba, a legionary of the Republic of Pazh. The story follows the adventures of this young man as the Republic first encounters an evil rising out from Scentar, a neighbouring nation, in the form of dark magic. Simon must help the Republic face the threat of this darkness, a power which was believed to be merely legend. But as Simon discovers, a small group of people have long known otherwise and they will help him discover his own Talent as he tries to stop the threat.
The book weaves a rich tapestry, exposing the reader to an expansive new world, inspired by ancient Rome, Greece and the surrounding territories. The author uses those historical civilizations as the framework for the Pazian military, political and social structures, building an intricate world and society. But this is not historical fiction proper. The historically inspired elements serve to influence and provide a reference for the reader but the world itself is wholly other. There is magic, which provides an element of fantasy to the work, taking what could be a straight historical fiction were it based in Rome proper and adding another layer to the story. The magic itself aligns with good and evil, where good magic is expressed in creation, through art, while evil magic consumes and destroys. The author’s affinity for art, by way of painting and sculpting, also serves as a major theme for the book, woven throughout as both descriptive colour and a critical aspect of the storyline. The threads of art, history and magic suit the story, blending naturally and yet never overwhelming the core narrative.
Brush With Darkness establishes a complex, interesting world that quickly pulled me in. I found myself wanting to know where the story was going next, looking for opportunities to steal a few more moments with the book. I’m looking forward to exploring this world and these characters further as the Arts Reborn series continues. The book should appeal to a broad audience. Though the story contains an aspect of fantasy in the inclusion of magic it is never overwhelming or inaccessible in the way that straight fantasy can sometimes be. Likewise, the historically inspired details serve as a base for setting, time and culture, never dominating the story with unnecessary details. It is a highly accessible adventure that will draw readers in with characters you will pull for and a world that you’ll want to explore further.
August 23, 2014
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It is rare for a book to combine genres like Brush With Darkness does. War, art, and fantasy rarely mingle, especially in this way, but I did enjoy seeing the execution. While the beginning was a bit slow, eventually I found myself drawn into this world, and by the end I was fairly pleased with the outcome.
While I enjoyed the story overall, I will admit the opening was a bit slow for me. Military strategy and conversations tend to bore me, and a lot of the back story was hard to concentrate through. While the writing was good, I did find the pacing a little off in the opening. Then again, I like books with a little more action at the front, then world building afterwards. Another thing that made the story a little difficult to get into was all the different countries, ethnicities and unusual names. While some readers will really enjoy that, I tend to be a little lazy sometimes, and hate trying to keep track of a ton of unfamiliar locations, so they felt a little distracting from the story. Again, small things that won't bother a lot of people, but something to keep in mind if you're looking for an easy read.
The plot itself was unique. I liked the way magic is treated in this world, and how the characters use art as a means to fight. Not something you see every day. The love interest wasn't bad either, which was always a plus. It will be interesting to see where the author takes the story from here, and I think once you start getting into this series it makes it easier to keep up from book to book. The ending wasn't super exciting, but it was still a nice read overall.
It is rare for a book to combine genres like Brush With Darkness does. War, art, and fantasy rarely mingle, especially in this way, but I did enjoy seeing the execution. While the beginning was a bit slow, eventually I found myself drawn into this world, and by the end I was fairly pleased with the outcome.
While I enjoyed the story overall, I will admit the opening was a bit slow for me. Military strategy and conversations tend to bore me, and a lot of the back story was hard to concentrate through. While the writing was good, I did find the pacing a little off in the opening. Then again, I like books with a little more action at the front, then world building afterwards. Another thing that made the story a little difficult to get into was all the different countries, ethnicities and unusual names. While some readers will really enjoy that, I tend to be a little lazy sometimes, and hate trying to keep track of a ton of unfamiliar locations, so they felt a little distracting from the story. Again, small things that won't bother a lot of people, but something to keep in mind if you're looking for an easy read.
The plot itself was unique. I liked the way magic is treated in this world, and how the characters use art as a means to fight. Not something you see every day. The love interest wasn't bad either, which was always a plus. It will be interesting to see where the author takes the story from here, and I think once you start getting into this series it makes it easier to keep up from book to book. The ending wasn't super exciting, but it was still a nice read overall.
October 19, 2014
Cross-posted review from H. McIntyre on Amazon.co.uk:
I was given this book by the author for an honest review - however i liked the book so much i bought it anyway :)
I love - LOVE fantasy books and finding a new and cool world to escape into is what i look for in books, and this book has just that.
A well crafted world that you can slip into and feel immediately at home in.
Descriptions of surroundings detailed enough to let my imagination take over and characters that led me through the story by the hand, kept me interested and had my heart racing with pounding of their feet and the clash of their swords...
As a reader i love the magic and the adventure, the exciting characters, the battle and of course simons personal journey as well as his physical one.
However as a writer i also appreciated the background, the story, the history and the vibrant characters..
Im not great at reviews so i will just say this book is worth the time and the money, its a wonderful adventure in a promising new world with great characters that spring to life.
Well done Mr Maltman definitely a work of art to be proud off, i shall look forward to reading more soon :)
http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-revie...
I was given this book by the author for an honest review - however i liked the book so much i bought it anyway :)
I love - LOVE fantasy books and finding a new and cool world to escape into is what i look for in books, and this book has just that.
A well crafted world that you can slip into and feel immediately at home in.
Descriptions of surroundings detailed enough to let my imagination take over and characters that led me through the story by the hand, kept me interested and had my heart racing with pounding of their feet and the clash of their swords...
As a reader i love the magic and the adventure, the exciting characters, the battle and of course simons personal journey as well as his physical one.
However as a writer i also appreciated the background, the story, the history and the vibrant characters..
Im not great at reviews so i will just say this book is worth the time and the money, its a wonderful adventure in a promising new world with great characters that spring to life.
Well done Mr Maltman definitely a work of art to be proud off, i shall look forward to reading more soon :)
http://www.amazon.co.uk/product-revie...
May 11, 2015
I hate to say this, but I just couldn't get into this book. I was extremely intrigued by the blurb on the back cover. But when I started reading, nothing grabbed me and pulled me in. I felt no connection to the characters. For being book 1 of a series, there wasn't anything done to let the reader get a feel for the world and plot. It's like I was a new student thrown into a class in the middle of the year with no one willing to fill me in on what was happening. There were a lot of characters right from the beginning, and I had a difficult time keeping track of them and remembering who was who. I found it to be unnecessarily wordy and frequently had to read the same sentence multiple times to understand what the author was trying to say. In many ways, it felt like I was reading a history book.
Don't get me wrong, there wasn't anything amiss with Mr. Maltman's writing. It was solid. No grammatical errors. It was extremely well thought out and researched. The combination of Fantasy with Rome is an interesting concept, but the story itself just wasn't for me. That being said, many people have enjoyed it, so just because it wasn't my cup of tea doesn't mean it won't be yours.
Don't get me wrong, there wasn't anything amiss with Mr. Maltman's writing. It was solid. No grammatical errors. It was extremely well thought out and researched. The combination of Fantasy with Rome is an interesting concept, but the story itself just wasn't for me. That being said, many people have enjoyed it, so just because it wasn't my cup of tea doesn't mean it won't be yours.
October 15, 2014
Jamie Maltman's Arts Reborn series are starting with Brush With Darkness. It's a great adventure in a world very close to Roman Empire. The author managed to describe very precisely the Ancient world. He added something very special. The magic of arts. With so many different magic systems and worlds in the fantasy genre Jamie Maltman's idea is very interesting and has huge potential to be developed. The clash between good and bad took some turns during the book and promised a lot of new battles in future.
Bravo for the author, who debuted with such a nice adventure full of action paced moments, battles and of course a sweet love story :) I am hope many more to come in the next parts of Arts Reborn series!
Bravo for the author, who debuted with such a nice adventure full of action paced moments, battles and of course a sweet love story :) I am hope many more to come in the next parts of Arts Reborn series!
March 8, 2016
This was a fun read. A world were magic branches into the artistic word of painting and sculpture and set in a time period full of both. A new and creative take on magic.
November 9, 2014
I loved this book. I've read a lot of epic fantasy, and this one is up there with the absolute best in the genre. I'm will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews