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Neuyokkasinian Arc of Empire #1
The Dragon Ring
This coming of age, epic fantasy occurs at the twilight of primal beings and the emergence of man. Wizards, witches, elves, dwarves, trolls, ogres, orcs, dragons, and new fantastic creatures still interact with men in this classic struggle between good and evil. The Dragon Ring opens in a politically charged kingdom on the Powterosian continent. The reigning queen has recently ascended the throne at the insistence of the nobility who forced her corrupt brother to abdicate. The former queen, a soulless upstart, ruthlessly schemed to attain power and position. The sudden loss of status has unhinged her. She's resorted to witchcraft to destroy her sister-in-law and the royal family to regain the throne. Caught in the middle are the royal children including young Prince Saxthor, the second son and spare heir. The unexpected discovery of Saxthor's unique powers aggravates the political conflict. The witch feels threatened and attempts to kill Saxthor shattering his carefree world. His mentor wizard sends Prince Saxthor racing into exile that he might survive to grow into his mysterious powers. But he's followed. The witch also has a co-conspirator, a ruthless warlock. He's using her for an end she's unaware of. The sorcerers draw in the ultimate personification of power, dragons, bending them to good or evil in the conflict for ultimate control. Only Saxthor can alter the looming war's outcome. Can Saxthor survive his pursuers' attacks? Will he overcome his own doubts and rebuild lost confidence? Will his character develop and restore his self-assurance sufficient to face his worst fear? He will need exceptional character to control his unique gifts without succumbing to them. This epic provides fantasy entertainment atop undercurrents of political and psychological depth.
- GenresFantasy
366 pages, Paperback
First published August 9, 2014
39 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
C. Craig Coleman
14 books34 followersI grew up in a small town, Kinston, in Eastern North Carolina during the golden age of youth. I say golden age, because kids dashed out the door on Saturday morning, took to bicycles, and explored the world around them unrestrained only returning home for dinner in the late afternoon. I scampered over fields and swampy low grounds, investigated and collected anything that moved and half the flora I came across. That gave me the knowledge of the natural world that backgrounds my epic.
I studied mythology and developed my own language that has served me well through life. My most prized names took form in the characters and places of my books all these decades later.
I went to college at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where I graduated with a BA degree in Ancient and European History. An elective course on castle and cathedral fired up a love of medieval architecture. Little did I know political histories, biographies, art, and architecture would again arise in the fortresses and palaces in my books.
I served my country in the Vietnam War, repairing the display computers on the Air Force's F111 aircraft, though not in Vietnam. Then I audited agriculture courses at NC State University for a year before returning to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduating with a MBA, Masters of Business Administration.
A long career in the textile industry working in materials inventory, computer systems development, and finally, manufacturing operations ended abruptly due to a corporate buyout. The imploding industry left little economic opportunity. I found myself looking 'outside the box' for future options. A seed suggestion to write down some of my stories, planted by a doctor of literature in my youth, germinated. I decided to write a fantasy story. I had no inkling it would lead me on the greatest adventure of my life. Though I didn't know the stern mandates of creative writing before I started, I learned backwards by rewriting my epic over the years correcting the point of view, show don't tell, 'ly' adverb, passive voice, etc. issues until at last I have the story down pat.
My greatest supporter and companion through the years of writing this epic was my little silky terrier, Miss Delia. She passed away after sixteen years just prior to my publishing my first of the four books. This epic is dedicated first and foremost to that precious little girl.
I studied mythology and developed my own language that has served me well through life. My most prized names took form in the characters and places of my books all these decades later.
I went to college at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where I graduated with a BA degree in Ancient and European History. An elective course on castle and cathedral fired up a love of medieval architecture. Little did I know political histories, biographies, art, and architecture would again arise in the fortresses and palaces in my books.
I served my country in the Vietnam War, repairing the display computers on the Air Force's F111 aircraft, though not in Vietnam. Then I audited agriculture courses at NC State University for a year before returning to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduating with a MBA, Masters of Business Administration.
A long career in the textile industry working in materials inventory, computer systems development, and finally, manufacturing operations ended abruptly due to a corporate buyout. The imploding industry left little economic opportunity. I found myself looking 'outside the box' for future options. A seed suggestion to write down some of my stories, planted by a doctor of literature in my youth, germinated. I decided to write a fantasy story. I had no inkling it would lead me on the greatest adventure of my life. Though I didn't know the stern mandates of creative writing before I started, I learned backwards by rewriting my epic over the years correcting the point of view, show don't tell, 'ly' adverb, passive voice, etc. issues until at last I have the story down pat.
My greatest supporter and companion through the years of writing this epic was my little silky terrier, Miss Delia. She passed away after sixteen years just prior to my publishing my first of the four books. This epic is dedicated first and foremost to that precious little girl.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 8, 2018
It’s never really a good idea to depose a queen when she’s a powerful witch. That’s what the denizens of C. Craig Coleman’s The Dragon Ring figure out pretty quick. The world is full of interesting monsters and a plot full of political intrigue that draws you in til the very end.
May 24, 2017
At only 12-years-old, young Prince Saxthor is caught up in an assassination plot and a run for his life as his aunt—the power-mad, evil witch known as Earwig, wife of the deposed ruler, Minnabec III—seeks revenge on the ruling family and her own seat on the royal throne in this first installment of C. Craig Coleman’s “The Dragon Ring”. Helping Saxthor escape and evade his would-be captors is a valiant band of comrades whose combined talents seem to deter a wealth of deadly intentions and murderous attempts on the boy-prince: best friend and constant companion, Bodrin, and Tournak, assistant wizard and mentor to the boys, along with the powerful wizard, Memlatec, who guides their journey from the palace where he keeps an effective albeit remote watch over the travelers, while monitoring the activities of Saxthor’s mother, the benevolent enthroned queen, Eleatsubetsvyertsin, and her jealous sister, Witch Earwig. Much is expected of young Saxthor and his friends as they embark on their designated travels throughout the region, and he is often burdened by the great quest set before him—one he must complete in order to return to his homeland and claim his rightful place in the royal dynastic line.
Although the author inserts a bevy of the most challenging and nearly impossible-to-speak-aloud tongue-twisters in titling his characters, castles, lands, and towns, Coleman provides plenty of action, adventure, and confrontation in “The Dragon Ring”. Coleman’s world-building skills are at peak form as Saxthor’s travels take him from the high seas to harbor after harbor, and isle after isle, where unique civilizations, commerces, and cultures common to the realm—yet different enough in their overall natures—abide, allowing the young prince a glimpse into what necessary changes must be made in order for his people to thrive. Also populating these domains are an assortment of startlingly unique creatures— dragon fish, saber-wolves, bird-men, elves, orcs, rock-dwarves, poisonous snakes, vaporous wraiths, and yes … deadly dragons—that pop up with amazing regularity, seeking to either be of help or hinder the young prince in fulfilling his quest. Coleman effectively provides his creatures with distinct personalities and purposes unique to the story. His ability to create an inner dialogue and somewhat human characteristics in these denizens of the kingdom—both companions and enemies to Saxthor—graces the reader an insider’s view into the back-story that is driving the forces working for, and set against, our main protagonist. The plot moves forward at a reasonable pace, and although it sometimes seems the author is stretching out the story a bit too thin with a grave threat to Saxthor and his companions at each and every turn, Coleman conjures up each encounter to effectively demonstrate the young prince’s growing strengths and maturity.
All in all, I found “The Dragon’s Ring” to be an exciting read. The author’s creativity comes through in the innovative spells Earwig and other evil characters conjure, along with the great dangers Saxthor and his friends must overcome. Coleman’s descriptive landscapes, thoughtful dialogue, and clear visualization of each character’s attributes, adds a punch of realism that significantly contributes to a reader’s enjoyment of the story. Although I would not recommend this tale to children or pre-teens, young adult and adult readers will find “The Dragon’s Ring” a challenging but highly entertaining read. Coleman’s story-telling skills have already compelled me to move on to the next chapter in this exciting fantasy adventure series, “The Crystal Legacy”, and I look forward to someday completing the series with great anticipation.
Although the author inserts a bevy of the most challenging and nearly impossible-to-speak-aloud tongue-twisters in titling his characters, castles, lands, and towns, Coleman provides plenty of action, adventure, and confrontation in “The Dragon Ring”. Coleman’s world-building skills are at peak form as Saxthor’s travels take him from the high seas to harbor after harbor, and isle after isle, where unique civilizations, commerces, and cultures common to the realm—yet different enough in their overall natures—abide, allowing the young prince a glimpse into what necessary changes must be made in order for his people to thrive. Also populating these domains are an assortment of startlingly unique creatures— dragon fish, saber-wolves, bird-men, elves, orcs, rock-dwarves, poisonous snakes, vaporous wraiths, and yes … deadly dragons—that pop up with amazing regularity, seeking to either be of help or hinder the young prince in fulfilling his quest. Coleman effectively provides his creatures with distinct personalities and purposes unique to the story. His ability to create an inner dialogue and somewhat human characteristics in these denizens of the kingdom—both companions and enemies to Saxthor—graces the reader an insider’s view into the back-story that is driving the forces working for, and set against, our main protagonist. The plot moves forward at a reasonable pace, and although it sometimes seems the author is stretching out the story a bit too thin with a grave threat to Saxthor and his companions at each and every turn, Coleman conjures up each encounter to effectively demonstrate the young prince’s growing strengths and maturity.
All in all, I found “The Dragon’s Ring” to be an exciting read. The author’s creativity comes through in the innovative spells Earwig and other evil characters conjure, along with the great dangers Saxthor and his friends must overcome. Coleman’s descriptive landscapes, thoughtful dialogue, and clear visualization of each character’s attributes, adds a punch of realism that significantly contributes to a reader’s enjoyment of the story. Although I would not recommend this tale to children or pre-teens, young adult and adult readers will find “The Dragon’s Ring” a challenging but highly entertaining read. Coleman’s story-telling skills have already compelled me to move on to the next chapter in this exciting fantasy adventure series, “The Crystal Legacy”, and I look forward to someday completing the series with great anticipation.
April 27, 2015
A solid lead book to an engaging series. Coleman pulls you in to a detailed and compelling world that takes hold and won't let you go. I don't usually read fantasy, but this one held my attention. Much enjoyed!
July 23, 2018
Interesting adventure of growing up with some magic, mystery adventure blended in. One of the sequence reminds me of hobbit or lord of rings theme touches on it during a princes journey facing courage.
Another one is a boat journey to a town , on the sea has a water monster and swirling whirlpool to go through. I am going to read some more of these adventures. For those who like magic, adventure, dragons or something light to read, try this author's story :)
Another one is a boat journey to a town , on the sea has a water monster and swirling whirlpool to go through. I am going to read some more of these adventures. For those who like magic, adventure, dragons or something light to read, try this author's story :)
August 3, 2015
Wow! I have just finished The Dragon Ring by C. Craig Coleman and I am trying to catch my breath. This awesome adventure would not let me rest.
The author has done an excellent job of developing a tale that is fast past and full of plot twist / excitement. Between the adventures and intrigue it is hard to put down once you start reading. C. Craig Coleman's storytelling style made the story come alive as I read the book, drawing me deep into the story.
I liked how the author developed his characters as the story progressed. As you watch they continued to grow and mature into the heroes of the tale. They were very real and easy to believe in. I really liked that in his book.
I liked The Dragon Ring by C. Craig Coleman and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
The author has done an excellent job of developing a tale that is fast past and full of plot twist / excitement. Between the adventures and intrigue it is hard to put down once you start reading. C. Craig Coleman's storytelling style made the story come alive as I read the book, drawing me deep into the story.
I liked how the author developed his characters as the story progressed. As you watch they continued to grow and mature into the heroes of the tale. They were very real and easy to believe in. I really liked that in his book.
I liked The Dragon Ring by C. Craig Coleman and I highly recommend this book to all readers.
January 31, 2019
Looking forward to the next book.
September 11, 2020
The old wizard Memlatec sends Saxthor, second son of the king, and his best friend Bodrin away to escape a deadly witch. Tournak, another wizard, joins them in exile. This fantasy adventure has a sword of power, magical ring, dragons, orcs, and creative spells. The characters are appealing and the storyline is solid.
The creation of the dragon ring, and its powers, is beautifully written. There’s a touch of poignant mystery about the dragon. I also enjoyed the descriptive writing. “The words cut like a cold knife through the sun’s last rays.” Later, “his fingers felt both hilt and blade as a blind man seeing.” The story reaches a satisfying end, though not the conclusion; the adventure will continue. Five stars!
The creation of the dragon ring, and its powers, is beautifully written. There’s a touch of poignant mystery about the dragon. I also enjoyed the descriptive writing. “The words cut like a cold knife through the sun’s last rays.” Later, “his fingers felt both hilt and blade as a blind man seeing.” The story reaches a satisfying end, though not the conclusion; the adventure will continue. Five stars!
December 27, 2014
This review was first published by Kurt's Frontier under Invincible Love of Reading.
Synopsis:
Prince Saxthor is a thirteen-year old boy in the midst of court intrigue and a coming war with dark powers. His aunt, the former queen, is a ruthless witch who realizes the young prince is her greatest threat to reclaiming the throne. A ruthless warlock is assembling an army of orcs, ogres, trolls, and dragons to conquer the surrounding lands. For his own safety, the young prince is sent on a dangerous quest with his best friend and the court wizard’s apprentice that will remove him from the former queens sights. Dogged by evil every step of the way, Prince Saxthor must also battle his self doubts and lost confidence.
Review:
The Dragon Ring is a coming of age novel in the classic sense, mixed with a strong dose of Epic High Fantasy. The character of Prince Saxthor is easily sympathetic. The dialogue is reminiscent of Tolkien. There are no problems with the books pacing. C. Craig Coleman doesn’t waste much of time on set up before the young prince finds himself in danger. Lovers of swords and sorcery will find this a very entertaining read.
Synopsis:
Prince Saxthor is a thirteen-year old boy in the midst of court intrigue and a coming war with dark powers. His aunt, the former queen, is a ruthless witch who realizes the young prince is her greatest threat to reclaiming the throne. A ruthless warlock is assembling an army of orcs, ogres, trolls, and dragons to conquer the surrounding lands. For his own safety, the young prince is sent on a dangerous quest with his best friend and the court wizard’s apprentice that will remove him from the former queens sights. Dogged by evil every step of the way, Prince Saxthor must also battle his self doubts and lost confidence.
Review:
The Dragon Ring is a coming of age novel in the classic sense, mixed with a strong dose of Epic High Fantasy. The character of Prince Saxthor is easily sympathetic. The dialogue is reminiscent of Tolkien. There are no problems with the books pacing. C. Craig Coleman doesn’t waste much of time on set up before the young prince finds himself in danger. Lovers of swords and sorcery will find this a very entertaining read.
October 22, 2014
It takes a very special kind of writer to be equally comfortable creating an absorbing new world while populating it with honest, flesh and blood characters engaged in mythic struggles. C Craig Coleman has done that and more in his debut novel, The Dragon Ring. I was completely carried along as a young prince, full of self-doubt and fresh ideas, is exiled into safety. He's carefully nurtured into a confident manhood with a sense of his own purpose while dodging every imagined kind of fiendish adversary. His allies range from tiny, flitting wrens to full-fledged wizards, owls and even, strange as it seems, a huge dragon. If you are a fan of satisfying, epic fantasy slightly reminiscent of Tolkien, you will enjoy immersing yourself in the looming battle for Powteros. The next book can't come too soon!
May 27, 2015
I was blown away when I read this book. Not my normal genera, but thought I would take a chance, and boy am I glad I did. Not since devouring the books of Terry or Tolkien have I found myself transported to another world so completely.
The story of The Prince and the powers aligned against him was a wonderful journey. Finding his way through the perils of a magical world with the help of his friends and comrades was amazing.
It's always a challenge to create a world while keeping the reader engaged, and C. Craig Coleman did a wonderful job. It took me a couple of chapters to get into the flow, but once I did it flowed wonderfully. I look forward to continuing my journey with Prince Saxthor.
The story of The Prince and the powers aligned against him was a wonderful journey. Finding his way through the perils of a magical world with the help of his friends and comrades was amazing.
It's always a challenge to create a world while keeping the reader engaged, and C. Craig Coleman did a wonderful job. It took me a couple of chapters to get into the flow, but once I did it flowed wonderfully. I look forward to continuing my journey with Prince Saxthor.
September 11, 2014
What a tale! I felt an instant bond with many of the characters and, oddly enough, I felt strangely familiar with the kingdoms, cities, and rivers of the mythical Powteros continent, almost as though I had lived there myself. The characters evoke images of monumental familial and political conflict. This was an artfully woven epic of selfishness, ruthlessness, greed, and cunning conflicting with youthful uncertainties, naivety, and heroism. The story moved at rapid-fire pace from one phantasmal adventure to another, yet left the reader intimately familiar with a world that once was, and could be again. Epic fantasy is not my normal reading genre, but this was one I really could get into.
September 28, 2014
I stepped out of my comfort zone read for this one. I must admit it took me a bit of time to get into the story, because I don’t read fantasy very often. The story finally grabbed me after a few chapters and I started to get a grip on the characters and the names. It’s a wonderfully written story of greed, and heroism.
C. Craig Coleman wove this wonderful fantasy and the story moves along quickly. Once engaged in the story it kept me turning pages and holding my breath to read the outcome. I will probably keep this one on the kindle and reread it on a rainy day. I look forward to the next book in the series.
C. Craig Coleman wove this wonderful fantasy and the story moves along quickly. Once engaged in the story it kept me turning pages and holding my breath to read the outcome. I will probably keep this one on the kindle and reread it on a rainy day. I look forward to the next book in the series.
February 6, 2016
This is one of few stories that i can't put. A clever mind came up with this, to have the usual dragons elves and so on and still be a totally new and engaging story.
I have read many many books over the years and i have a list of 6 that i love and will always come back to, its now 7!
The young Hero go on a great adventure meeting many enemy's and making strong friends along the way. There are good insights into his thinking and his friends thinking. Just enough detail to make understanding easy and fun.
Very entertaining read!
I have read many many books over the years and i have a list of 6 that i love and will always come back to, its now 7!
The young Hero go on a great adventure meeting many enemy's and making strong friends along the way. There are good insights into his thinking and his friends thinking. Just enough detail to make understanding easy and fun.
Very entertaining read!
September 11, 2014
I'd like to start by saying that I love Epic Fantasy. This book rates right up there with Terry Brooks' Shanara series for me. It was fun, well paced and exciting. Mr Coleman's development of the characters, the story and the Kingdom were wonderful. I felt myself pulled in to the story and taken along for a wonderful ride. I cannot wait for the next installment.
November 28, 2014
Engaging from the very beginning! Colorfully illustrated, if only in my mind! Doesn't everyone need a dragon friend! Great work, Coleman. More!
February 14, 2016
An enjoyable read.
This was a well written book with plenty of action and interesting characters. A good book for younger readers but also an entertaining read for adults.
This was a well written book with plenty of action and interesting characters. A good book for younger readers but also an entertaining read for adults.
February 17, 2016
Great read
It had all the characters I love in a fantasy novel. It was well written and well thought out, esp. the back and forth of the story lines. Thank you.
It had all the characters I love in a fantasy novel. It was well written and well thought out, esp. the back and forth of the story lines. Thank you.
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September 22, 2014Reviewed By Eduardo Aduna for Readers’ Favorite
Saxthor, second son of the current Queen, is in danger from his very own aunt, the Witch Earwig - who also happens to be the previous queen. With the help of two well-meaning mages and a host of magical creatures, Saxthor must find a way to tap the power inside him and survive the political machinations of his immediate family.
There are several things that makes a fantasy epic work. World building is an essential part of any fantasy novel, as is populating this imaginary world. C. Craig Coleman has taken genre tropes like dragons and faeries and imposed his own style and flair on them. He then placed these magical creatures in a world that is different enough to be exotic, but familiar enough for readers to have solid points for reference. Saxthor, as a protagonist in what is the first book of the series, fits the archetypal hero mold. Youngish readers would have no trouble identifying with his desire for independence, his capacity for self-reliance and his intuitive cleverness. He is a character whose story readers would want to follow. I for one would love to see his development from a capable young man to someone who can truly impact the fantasy world that he lives in. The world you built and the magical creatures populating it was top-notch.
Of course, no protagonist would be interesting without a capable antagonist to bring out the best in him. As far as crafting villains and nefarious characters go, C. Craig Coleman manages to combine evil and weird while adding a slight pinch of humanity to the mix. The Dragon Ring, Neuyokkasinian Arc of Empire Book 1, is a charming and solidly written book with surprising depth that can gain C. Craig Coleman a legion of new fans.
5-star reader reviews on Amazon Reviewed By Eduardo Aduna for Readers’ Favorite
Saxthor, second son of the current Queen, is in danger from his very own aunt, the Witch Earwig - who also happens to be the previous queen. With the help of two well-meaning mages and a host of magical creatures, Saxthor must find a way to tap the power inside him and survive the political machinations of his immediate family.
There are several things that makes a fantasy epic work. World building is an essential part of any fantasy novel, as is populating this imaginary world. C. Craig Coleman has taken genre tropes like dragons and faeries and imposed his own style and flair on them. He then placed these magical creatures in a world that is different enough to be exotic, but familiar enough for readers to have solid points for reference. Saxthor, as a protagonist in what is the first book of the series, fits the archetypal hero mold. Youngish readers would have no trouble identifying with his desire for independence, his capacity for self-reliance and his intuitive cleverness. He is a character whose story readers would want to follow. I for one would love to see his development from a capable young man to someone who can truly impact the fantasy world that he lives in. The world you built and the magical creatures populating it was top-notch.
Of course, no protagonist would be interesting without a capable antagonist to bring out the best in him. As far as crafting villains and nefarious characters go, C. Craig Coleman manages to combine evil and weird while adding a slight pinch of humanity to the mix. The Dragon Ring, Neuyokkasinian Arc of Empire Book 1, is a charming and solidly written book with surprising depth that can gain C. Craig Coleman a legion of new fans.
Saxthor, second son of the current Queen, is in danger from his very own aunt, the Witch Earwig - who also happens to be the previous queen. With the help of two well-meaning mages and a host of magical creatures, Saxthor must find a way to tap the power inside him and survive the political machinations of his immediate family.
There are several things that makes a fantasy epic work. World building is an essential part of any fantasy novel, as is populating this imaginary world. C. Craig Coleman has taken genre tropes like dragons and faeries and imposed his own style and flair on them. He then placed these magical creatures in a world that is different enough to be exotic, but familiar enough for readers to have solid points for reference. Saxthor, as a protagonist in what is the first book of the series, fits the archetypal hero mold. Youngish readers would have no trouble identifying with his desire for independence, his capacity for self-reliance and his intuitive cleverness. He is a character whose story readers would want to follow. I for one would love to see his development from a capable young man to someone who can truly impact the fantasy world that he lives in. The world you built and the magical creatures populating it was top-notch.
Of course, no protagonist would be interesting without a capable antagonist to bring out the best in him. As far as crafting villains and nefarious characters go, C. Craig Coleman manages to combine evil and weird while adding a slight pinch of humanity to the mix. The Dragon Ring, Neuyokkasinian Arc of Empire Book 1, is a charming and solidly written book with surprising depth that can gain C. Craig Coleman a legion of new fans.
5-star reader reviews on Amazon Reviewed By Eduardo Aduna for Readers’ Favorite
Saxthor, second son of the current Queen, is in danger from his very own aunt, the Witch Earwig - who also happens to be the previous queen. With the help of two well-meaning mages and a host of magical creatures, Saxthor must find a way to tap the power inside him and survive the political machinations of his immediate family.
There are several things that makes a fantasy epic work. World building is an essential part of any fantasy novel, as is populating this imaginary world. C. Craig Coleman has taken genre tropes like dragons and faeries and imposed his own style and flair on them. He then placed these magical creatures in a world that is different enough to be exotic, but familiar enough for readers to have solid points for reference. Saxthor, as a protagonist in what is the first book of the series, fits the archetypal hero mold. Youngish readers would have no trouble identifying with his desire for independence, his capacity for self-reliance and his intuitive cleverness. He is a character whose story readers would want to follow. I for one would love to see his development from a capable young man to someone who can truly impact the fantasy world that he lives in. The world you built and the magical creatures populating it was top-notch.
Of course, no protagonist would be interesting without a capable antagonist to bring out the best in him. As far as crafting villains and nefarious characters go, C. Craig Coleman manages to combine evil and weird while adding a slight pinch of humanity to the mix. The Dragon Ring, Neuyokkasinian Arc of Empire Book 1, is a charming and solidly written book with surprising depth that can gain C. Craig Coleman a legion of new fans.
August 16, 2015
On the continent of Powterosian the corrupt King was forced off his throne and his sister set to rule in his place. The former King's wife Earwig upset about being taken off the thrown has sworn revenge against the reluctant Queen. In an attempt to regain her throne she starts practicing witchcraft and plans to kill the Queens oldest son the heir to the throne. But it is the Queen's second son that is the real threat Prince Saxthor who is possession of magical ability. The Witch Earwig quickly realizes her mistaken and sets all her efforts into ending her young nephews life, and so the High Court Wizard Memlatec sends the young prince into exile to keep him safe along with his best friend Bodrin along with the Wizard's protege Tournak.
Not quite sure what bought this book to my attention. But I liked the cover art and I found the synopsis interesting (I love a good quest). For some reason seeing the dragon on the cover reminded me of The Dragonlance Series of books an old favourite of mine. Before purchasing I did some research and found out it is the first in a series of 6 books (so far) by newcomer C. Craig Coleman. I also saw that all the books in the series beginning with the second feature a Reader's favourite badge and at $3.99 it was a bargain. But alas I could not even finish the book I got about half way and just couldn't continue. The story began to drag on very early, the protagonist are trying to reach their destination while the villain makes numerous attempts on their life and kept failing. It seemed very comical almost like an episode of the Road Runner and I never felt like the heroes were in any type of danger. Also the names of the characters and places were just to ridiculous, absurd even. I understand that in a fantasy medieval word you would want exotic names but these were just to much. Queen Eleatsubetsvyertsin? Really? Neuyokkasinian? It just became to much for me. I was really disappointed I was looking for a new fantasy series to get into from the ground floor early on. Also the first book in the series was published in August 2014 and within a years time six books were written. Now I know this can easily be explained, the author could of been working on this series his entire life before the first book saw the light of day. In parting I've given up on this series and don't think I will ever revisit it again unless someone can convince me that it gets better.
Not quite sure what bought this book to my attention. But I liked the cover art and I found the synopsis interesting (I love a good quest). For some reason seeing the dragon on the cover reminded me of The Dragonlance Series of books an old favourite of mine. Before purchasing I did some research and found out it is the first in a series of 6 books (so far) by newcomer C. Craig Coleman. I also saw that all the books in the series beginning with the second feature a Reader's favourite badge and at $3.99 it was a bargain. But alas I could not even finish the book I got about half way and just couldn't continue. The story began to drag on very early, the protagonist are trying to reach their destination while the villain makes numerous attempts on their life and kept failing. It seemed very comical almost like an episode of the Road Runner and I never felt like the heroes were in any type of danger. Also the names of the characters and places were just to ridiculous, absurd even. I understand that in a fantasy medieval word you would want exotic names but these were just to much. Queen Eleatsubetsvyertsin? Really? Neuyokkasinian? It just became to much for me. I was really disappointed I was looking for a new fantasy series to get into from the ground floor early on. Also the first book in the series was published in August 2014 and within a years time six books were written. Now I know this can easily be explained, the author could of been working on this series his entire life before the first book saw the light of day. In parting I've given up on this series and don't think I will ever revisit it again unless someone can convince me that it gets better.
March 24, 2016
Very well written but
It was very well written and detailed but I hated what happened to those poor dragons and how they were used. I do not know if I will continue with the series but will give it a try. I hope dragons won't get hurt or killed further just because of power or evil.
It was very well written and detailed but I hated what happened to those poor dragons and how they were used. I do not know if I will continue with the series but will give it a try. I hope dragons won't get hurt or killed further just because of power or evil.
September 23, 2016
3.5 * Full review to come.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews