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The Binding of the Twelve
“The Teller, the Herder, the Trickster, the Tender, the Thief, the Mendicant that knows too much, two Gad’riyel, two delv’ar Scouts, and two Companions. Twelve you shall be . . .”
A foreboding prophecy reaches Fife, a Keeper of Wisdom. For two thousand years, the Keepers have hoarded ancient knowledge, believing it too dangerous for the world—the Cataclysm wrought by the Twelve Builders had proven that beyond any doubt.
But as a new threat arises, old ideas must be challenged. A forgotten empire hungers for conquest, and an ancient evil stirs, seeking revenge. Fife wonders if the only hope for the Three Lands is the old knowledge that destroyed it in the first place.
Despite his doubts, the prophecy was clear. A new Twelve must be bound, and it is up to him to search the Three Lands. Can he find and convince them to join him before it is too late? Will he be able to weave doubt, fear, and old divisions into hope, or will the world fall into darkness for a final time?
A foreboding prophecy reaches Fife, a Keeper of Wisdom. For two thousand years, the Keepers have hoarded ancient knowledge, believing it too dangerous for the world—the Cataclysm wrought by the Twelve Builders had proven that beyond any doubt.
But as a new threat arises, old ideas must be challenged. A forgotten empire hungers for conquest, and an ancient evil stirs, seeking revenge. Fife wonders if the only hope for the Three Lands is the old knowledge that destroyed it in the first place.
Despite his doubts, the prophecy was clear. A new Twelve must be bound, and it is up to him to search the Three Lands. Can he find and convince them to join him before it is too late? Will he be able to weave doubt, fear, and old divisions into hope, or will the world fall into darkness for a final time?
674 pages, Paperback
Published April 25, 2025
21 people are currently reading
1189 people want to read
About the author
Nathanael Bazzell
2 books16 followersNathanael Bazzell lives in Kentucky with his wife, children, dogs, and chickens. He received his master’s degree in history and has, at one point or another, worked at a feed mill, played in a rock band, and taught as a professor. When he isn’t attending soccer tournaments, track meets, or volleyball matches, he enjoys bow fishing.
A lifelong fantasy and science fiction reader, he especially loves long stories that take multiple books to tell. Having determined there are not nearly enough of those, he decided to write his own and share the tale with like-minded readers.
Subscribe to Nathanael's mailing list: https://bazzellbooks.com/contact11/
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A lifelong fantasy and science fiction reader, he especially loves long stories that take multiple books to tell. Having determined there are not nearly enough of those, he decided to write his own and share the tale with like-minded readers.
Subscribe to Nathanael's mailing list: https://bazzellbooks.com/contact11/
Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bazzellbooks/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 29, 2025
This book takes you on an enthralling journey into a richly woven world that immediately calls to mind the grandeur of Tolkien for sure, while still feeling fresh and original. From the very first chapters, the stakes are monumental: ancient knowledge long hidden, a forgotten empire stirring, and an evil so old it feels inevitable.
At the heart of the story is a mission, which is both perilous and poignant, entwined with rumors of magical stones, a foreboding prophecy, and the heavy weight of history pressing down on them. The characters are diverse, flawed, and compelling, each bringing unique strengths and struggles that make the group dynamic feel authentic and deeply human.
The novel shines brightest in its world-building. The realms are textured, immense, and brimming with wonder: breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable creatures, and battles that pulse with tension. The action is gripping, the magic system intriguing, and the philosophical undercurrent gives the story depth beyond the sword and sorcery.
At the heart of the story is a mission, which is both perilous and poignant, entwined with rumors of magical stones, a foreboding prophecy, and the heavy weight of history pressing down on them. The characters are diverse, flawed, and compelling, each bringing unique strengths and struggles that make the group dynamic feel authentic and deeply human.
The novel shines brightest in its world-building. The realms are textured, immense, and brimming with wonder: breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable creatures, and battles that pulse with tension. The action is gripping, the magic system intriguing, and the philosophical undercurrent gives the story depth beyond the sword and sorcery.
December 26, 2025
Wholesome Fantasy with a Biblical Feel
When Fife the Seeker turns into a Teller, his path begins to shape itself into something greater and more prophetic than he could have foreseen. He comes into company with others who have been called and chosen, and those twelve set out to save their broken and threatened world.
The author weaves together a tale from a world that is reminiscent of Tolkien’s with men, dwarves, elves, orcs, and more. He then adds in multiple Biblical themes and layers the story with timeless values, all while sprinkling the pages with humor despite the dire circumstances to make the characters endearing.
I loved the adventure, the wholesome feel of the story, and the variety of characters that are all uniquely critical to the story. I was devastated by the cliffhanger end and can’t wait to read the next book.
When Fife the Seeker turns into a Teller, his path begins to shape itself into something greater and more prophetic than he could have foreseen. He comes into company with others who have been called and chosen, and those twelve set out to save their broken and threatened world.
The author weaves together a tale from a world that is reminiscent of Tolkien’s with men, dwarves, elves, orcs, and more. He then adds in multiple Biblical themes and layers the story with timeless values, all while sprinkling the pages with humor despite the dire circumstances to make the characters endearing.
I loved the adventure, the wholesome feel of the story, and the variety of characters that are all uniquely critical to the story. I was devastated by the cliffhanger end and can’t wait to read the next book.
October 9, 2025
There are those who are bound to protect the world for wisdom and morality. Reminds me of Tolkien-so much struggle and duty. There are magical adventures, bravery, especially Calak, and others, who rose to the occasion to keep Ang away. There is amazing courage, but fierce brutality, as the fighting was rough to read. The blades, swords and death to the end. I liked the tinkerer, who helped as a defender thru his crafts to steer away their enemy. My favorite phrases: “Small steps first. Focus on what you can accomplish. You can’t fix everything at once.” And the older man Cleary, “That’s the nature of things being pulled and pushed to and fro by things you’ve no control over.”
October 13, 2025
Mysterious parallel worlds yet so similar to reality, prophecies, magic, adventurous journeys to avert the returning evil that threatens to plunge the kingdoms back into darkness. It captivates the hero Fife, with his courage, his purity, and also his weaknesses, but the negative characters remain equally etched in the mind. The writing style is also refined. After reading 'The Lord of the Rings,' I felt orphaned, but 'The Chronicles of the Orphan King,' in its uniqueness, gave me new material to read and reignited my passion for epic stories. And the anticipation of having the already announced sequel in hand is great. Thank you, Nathanael Bazzell!
December 21, 2025
This book puts the "epic" in "epic fantasy." Grand quests, well-written characters, and a dense in-world history that leaves you wanting more. The text is very descriptive, which aids in the universe building. It felt like reading the history in A Song of Ice and Fire or Lord of the Rings at times, without ever compromising the pacing. The book is quite long, especially in the later chapters, but the remarkable world-building, exciting battles, and cast of characters leave you wanting more with each page.
February 5, 2026
The Binding of the Twelve belongs right up there with works by Brandon Sanderson and the Wheel of Time. Loved it. I will definitely be getting the next book! I love the characters and the way Bazzell tells the story from multiple characters' POVs. All of the main characters are likable in their own unique ways and situations. This is the best new Epic fantasy I have read in quite some time.
September 7, 2025
A little confusing as you have a lot of characters, but overall very enjoyable. I'll look forward to the next one in the series.
September 17, 2025
Engrossing start of the series.
July 16, 2025
In The Binding of the Twelve by Nathanael Bazzell, we are introduced to Fife, a world traveling Keeper, who meets up with an unkempt nobleman claiming that he has urgent information that must be shared with Fife.
Fife is extremely interested in what this man has to tell him. The man, Olan, explains that the news he has can change the fate of all that live in the Three Lands. He explains he has heard that the Alv’ar (elves) and Delv’ar (dwarves) are plotting a war against the Men’ar (humans). This will be cataclysmic for everyone involved. Although Fife is leery of this man, he knows deep down that the prophecy is clear. A new band of Twelve must be found and he is the one to fulfill this mission within the Three Lands. Is Fife able to find the new Twelve that will make things right again? If so, are they successful in their mission to save the Three Lands or will the results be catastrophic?
Right from the start, readers are immersed in an epic world that consists of the Three Lands, the Men’ar Kingdoms, the Delv’ar Holds and the Alv’ar Realms. Each kingdom has their important role and must work in tandem with each other to be a successful world. Fife becomes troubled once he finds out that the Men’ar people will be attacked by the Alv’ar and Delv’ar people. Being the Keeper of Wisdom, he knows he is the chosen one who must right this injustice before it begins. The characters Nathanael Bazzell has created will keep readers eagerly wanting to learn about each person and how they will form a new team of Twelve to thwart this potential injustice. Each character introduced is so believable that you will forget this is a work of fiction and instead become completely engrossed in the story.
This author outdid himself with the level of creativity with the development of the Three Lands. Each is its own unique kingdom with its own class of people. The inventiveness it took for Bazzell to craft these Three Lands and wrap the entire story around these lands is truly amazing. Just as the characters are believable, so too are the lands he created for these people in which to live.
This is the first installment in an ongoing series and it will have readers eagerly awaiting the next story’s release to see where this book ends and the next one picks up. This book is so intelligently assembled that it could easily be made into a motion picture like some other well-known fantasy stories, such as the Lord of the Rings series and works by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Quill says: The Binding of the Twelve by Nathanael Bazzell is an epic book that readers should enjoy uninterrupted so as to allow themselves to become fully immersed in the captivating story. With the well-developed storyline, the believable characters and the uniquely crafted lands, readers will be transported to a faraway land while reading this novel.
Fife is extremely interested in what this man has to tell him. The man, Olan, explains that the news he has can change the fate of all that live in the Three Lands. He explains he has heard that the Alv’ar (elves) and Delv’ar (dwarves) are plotting a war against the Men’ar (humans). This will be cataclysmic for everyone involved. Although Fife is leery of this man, he knows deep down that the prophecy is clear. A new band of Twelve must be found and he is the one to fulfill this mission within the Three Lands. Is Fife able to find the new Twelve that will make things right again? If so, are they successful in their mission to save the Three Lands or will the results be catastrophic?
Right from the start, readers are immersed in an epic world that consists of the Three Lands, the Men’ar Kingdoms, the Delv’ar Holds and the Alv’ar Realms. Each kingdom has their important role and must work in tandem with each other to be a successful world. Fife becomes troubled once he finds out that the Men’ar people will be attacked by the Alv’ar and Delv’ar people. Being the Keeper of Wisdom, he knows he is the chosen one who must right this injustice before it begins. The characters Nathanael Bazzell has created will keep readers eagerly wanting to learn about each person and how they will form a new team of Twelve to thwart this potential injustice. Each character introduced is so believable that you will forget this is a work of fiction and instead become completely engrossed in the story.
This author outdid himself with the level of creativity with the development of the Three Lands. Each is its own unique kingdom with its own class of people. The inventiveness it took for Bazzell to craft these Three Lands and wrap the entire story around these lands is truly amazing. Just as the characters are believable, so too are the lands he created for these people in which to live.
This is the first installment in an ongoing series and it will have readers eagerly awaiting the next story’s release to see where this book ends and the next one picks up. This book is so intelligently assembled that it could easily be made into a motion picture like some other well-known fantasy stories, such as the Lord of the Rings series and works by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Quill says: The Binding of the Twelve by Nathanael Bazzell is an epic book that readers should enjoy uninterrupted so as to allow themselves to become fully immersed in the captivating story. With the well-developed storyline, the believable characters and the uniquely crafted lands, readers will be transported to a faraway land while reading this novel.
July 10, 2025
Nathanael Bazzell’s The Binding of the Twelve, the opening chapter of The Chronicles of the Orphan King series, is a captivating fantasy epic that pulls you into a world of magic, prophecy, and high stakes. This thrilling tale, set across 36 chapters, weaves a rich tapestry of adventure and intrigue, making it a must-read for fantasy fans eager for a fresh saga.
The story unfolds in the Three Lands—men’ar, alv’ar, and delv’ar—each with its own vibrant culture and history. At its heart is an ancient prophecy tied to mystical artifacts called Pieces, some corrupted into red, orange, and yellow hues, unlike their pure blue, green, and white counterparts. The narrative kicks off with Fife, a Keeper haunted by his parents’ death, meeting the refined Olan in the gritty Squealing Pig tavern, where whispers of corrupted Pieces and looming war set the quest in motion. The prophecy centres on a group of twelve chosen individuals destined to save the Three Lands, with perspectives shifting between characters like Cael, a shepherd craving adventure, and Liana, an alv’ar princess fighting for her people. Others, like Deglan, Cearbhal, Cait, and Baine, a bold delv’ar prince, emerge as key figures, while Cleary, Fife’s wise mentor, and King Iomhar, a steadfast leader, add depth to the unfolding tale.
Bazzell’s writing is vivid, painting scenes so immersive you can almost taste the ale in The Squealing Pig. The Three Lands feel alive, with their clashing cultures and tangled histories. The Pieces aren’t just magical trinkets—they spark questions about power and corruption. A shadowy Order tied to the prophecy adds a delicious layer of mystery, keeping you glued to the pages.
The characters shine brightly. Fife’s sharp wit and burdened heart make him a compelling lead. Cael’s journey from humble herder to prophesied hero feels authentic, while Liana’s resolve is inspiring. Cleary’s warmth and Iomhar’s gravitas ground the story, though early chapters give less focus to figures like Deglan and Cearbhal, whose roles grow later. The book explores themes of unity, sacrifice, and the perils of power, with tensions between the Three Lands echoing real-world divides.
That said, the story can feel dense at first, juggling multiple characters and threads, and the pacing dips when world-building takes centre stage. Some arcs remain open-ended, likely for future books. Still, The Binding of the Twelve is a stellar launch to a promising series, blending rich world-building with characters you’ll root for. Dive into the Three Lands—you won’t regret it.
The story unfolds in the Three Lands—men’ar, alv’ar, and delv’ar—each with its own vibrant culture and history. At its heart is an ancient prophecy tied to mystical artifacts called Pieces, some corrupted into red, orange, and yellow hues, unlike their pure blue, green, and white counterparts. The narrative kicks off with Fife, a Keeper haunted by his parents’ death, meeting the refined Olan in the gritty Squealing Pig tavern, where whispers of corrupted Pieces and looming war set the quest in motion. The prophecy centres on a group of twelve chosen individuals destined to save the Three Lands, with perspectives shifting between characters like Cael, a shepherd craving adventure, and Liana, an alv’ar princess fighting for her people. Others, like Deglan, Cearbhal, Cait, and Baine, a bold delv’ar prince, emerge as key figures, while Cleary, Fife’s wise mentor, and King Iomhar, a steadfast leader, add depth to the unfolding tale.
Bazzell’s writing is vivid, painting scenes so immersive you can almost taste the ale in The Squealing Pig. The Three Lands feel alive, with their clashing cultures and tangled histories. The Pieces aren’t just magical trinkets—they spark questions about power and corruption. A shadowy Order tied to the prophecy adds a delicious layer of mystery, keeping you glued to the pages.
The characters shine brightly. Fife’s sharp wit and burdened heart make him a compelling lead. Cael’s journey from humble herder to prophesied hero feels authentic, while Liana’s resolve is inspiring. Cleary’s warmth and Iomhar’s gravitas ground the story, though early chapters give less focus to figures like Deglan and Cearbhal, whose roles grow later. The book explores themes of unity, sacrifice, and the perils of power, with tensions between the Three Lands echoing real-world divides.
That said, the story can feel dense at first, juggling multiple characters and threads, and the pacing dips when world-building takes centre stage. Some arcs remain open-ended, likely for future books. Still, The Binding of the Twelve is a stellar launch to a promising series, blending rich world-building with characters you’ll root for. Dive into the Three Lands—you won’t regret it.
January 22, 2026
“The Binding of the Twelve” opens in a world fractured by ancient catastrophe. Fife the Teller sets out to assemble twelve prophesied figures, among them dwarven prince Baine ru'Badoc, elven diplomat Liana Elskar, and shepherd-turned-chosen Cael a'Leora, before the ancient Builders return to finish what they started. Bitter enemies find themselves forced into uneasy alliance, magically bound by dangerous relics and a prophecy none of them fully trusts.
Nathanael Bazzell's debut leans proudly into classic epic fantasy traditions, honing their keen sword-edges with action and clarity. I enjoyed reading about the gathering itself: watching disparate cultures clash, negotiate, and slowly cohere under pressure. Bazzell’s prose is clean and confident, prioritizing forward motion without sacrificing texture, and the ensemble cast is handled with surprising assurance for a first novel. Knowing where the series goes, this book reads as a strong foundation rather than mere prologue. The motif of unity as necessity, not virtue, gives the familiar quest structure real bite. Recommended for fans of character-driven, high-stakes fantasy that earns its scope.
Nathanael Bazzell's debut leans proudly into classic epic fantasy traditions, honing their keen sword-edges with action and clarity. I enjoyed reading about the gathering itself: watching disparate cultures clash, negotiate, and slowly cohere under pressure. Bazzell’s prose is clean and confident, prioritizing forward motion without sacrificing texture, and the ensemble cast is handled with surprising assurance for a first novel. Knowing where the series goes, this book reads as a strong foundation rather than mere prologue. The motif of unity as necessity, not virtue, gives the familiar quest structure real bite. Recommended for fans of character-driven, high-stakes fantasy that earns its scope.
October 3, 2025
This is an epic fantasy that immerses readers in a vast and mysterious world. The story follows Fife, a Keeper of Wisdom, on his quest to gather the Twelve (companions from different races) who must face the resurgence of a forgotten empire and the rise of an ancient darkness. What makes the tale stand out is its rich and detailed world-building, full of culture, myth, and history that feels both grand and authentic. The battles are intense and cinematic, while the relationships between characters bring warmth and emotional depth, creating a balance between thrilling action and heartfelt moments. With a style reminiscent of Tolkien and Robert Jordan yet carrying its own unique voice, this is a story that captures both the wonder of high fantasy and the human struggles at its heart. A wonderful read for anyone who craves an immersive, high-stakes adventure filled with magic, prophecy, and courage.
November 7, 2025
The Binding of the Twelve is everything I want from epic fantasy — immersive world-building, layered characters, and a story that balances grandeur with heart. Nathanael Bazzell crafts a world that feels vast yet deeply personal, filled with myth, history, and emotional resonance.
Fife’s journey as a Keeper of Wisdom unfolds with purpose and power, surrounded by a cast of companions who feel real and alive. Every chapter reveals new depths — from breathtaking battles to quiet moments of reflection — and the themes of duty, sacrifice, and found family linger long after the final page.
It’s a rare debut that captures both the scale of Tolkien and the readability of modern fantasy masters. If you love worlds that breathe, heroes who struggle and grow, and storytelling that moves both heart and imagination — this is a must-read.
An unforgettable start to The Chronicles of the Orphan King.
Fife’s journey as a Keeper of Wisdom unfolds with purpose and power, surrounded by a cast of companions who feel real and alive. Every chapter reveals new depths — from breathtaking battles to quiet moments of reflection — and the themes of duty, sacrifice, and found family linger long after the final page.
It’s a rare debut that captures both the scale of Tolkien and the readability of modern fantasy masters. If you love worlds that breathe, heroes who struggle and grow, and storytelling that moves both heart and imagination — this is a must-read.
An unforgettable start to The Chronicles of the Orphan King.
September 26, 2025
This book heralds the beginning of an amazing saga on par with the Wheel of Time series. It contains everything an excellent story requires: entertaining, lovable/hateable characters, witty dialogue, epic battles both internal and external, and unexpected twists and turns in an intriguing, engaging plot. In book 1 of this series, The Binding of the Twelve, the 12 main protagonists, full of doubt, frailty, and power, must be united, or bound, together to save the world. These consist of the Teller, the Herder, the Trickster, the Tender, the thief, the mendicant, two Gad'riyal, two Delv'ar scouts, and two Companions. Full of humor, mystery, intrigue, sorrow, evil, purity, despair, and hope, the opening act of this promising series delivers the beginning of an epic tale of heroism, unspeakable evil, and unbelievable magic. A grand entrance by Book 1 of The Chronicles of the Orphan King!
October 31, 2025
Oh wow, the first few chapters were enough to capture my attention a lot. I was drawn into this dark, mythic world that feels both familiar and completely new. You can tell the author put a lot of heart and soul into the characters, each one has their own story and struggles. Fantastic world building as well.
Something that I liked was how the story kept surprising me. Every time I thought I had it figured out, something twisted or revealed a deeper layer to the prophecy. There’s action, tension, and just enough mystery to keep you thinking long after you put it down.
If you love fantasy with big stakes, ancient secrets, and heroes who aren’t perfect but still keep fighting, this one’s worth picking up. It’s got that “first in a series” energy that makes you want to know what happens next.
Something that I liked was how the story kept surprising me. Every time I thought I had it figured out, something twisted or revealed a deeper layer to the prophecy. There’s action, tension, and just enough mystery to keep you thinking long after you put it down.
If you love fantasy with big stakes, ancient secrets, and heroes who aren’t perfect but still keep fighting, this one’s worth picking up. It’s got that “first in a series” energy that makes you want to know what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2025
Big Fantasy Story with Many Heroes
The Binding of the Twelve is a very interesting fantasy book. The story is about a prophecy, dark power, and twelve heroes who must work together. From the start, I feel the danger coming and the world feel like it is changing fast.
The best part for me is the characters. Each hero is different and have their own story. Some are strong, some are hurt inside, but all of them matter. I like how the author show their fear, courage, and hope. It make the story feel more real.
The world is big with magic, kingdoms, and battles. The writing is easy to read and keep me interested. There are many exciting moments and also some emotional parts.
If you like epic fantasy with prophecy, heroes, and dark magic, this book is very good start to a new series. I enjoy it and give 5 stars.
The Binding of the Twelve is a very interesting fantasy book. The story is about a prophecy, dark power, and twelve heroes who must work together. From the start, I feel the danger coming and the world feel like it is changing fast.
The best part for me is the characters. Each hero is different and have their own story. Some are strong, some are hurt inside, but all of them matter. I like how the author show their fear, courage, and hope. It make the story feel more real.
The world is big with magic, kingdoms, and battles. The writing is easy to read and keep me interested. There are many exciting moments and also some emotional parts.
If you like epic fantasy with prophecy, heroes, and dark magic, this book is very good start to a new series. I enjoy it and give 5 stars.
February 10, 2026
This is the stuff of legends. Seriously, this book was so good, I’ll probably read it again later this year. If you want a nice, stimulating summer read, this book is perfect. It is like Lord of the Rings, but it’s also not in some ways. It definitely has a serious tone, and you feel that right away. Everything isn’t laid out in an easy manner; you have to put the pieces together yourself, but it’s fun and interesting to do so. I liked how the author wrote Fife and other characters like Cleary and Danil and Beril. It's pretty intense in some ways, and I would totally recommend any fiction lover to give it a go. There are some parts that are pretty exciting and fast paced. If you read this book you won’t regret it! It is one of the best in this genre I have read in a long time. I am ready for more.
October 21, 2025
Nathanael Bazzell’s The Binding of the Twelve is an epic high fantasy novel. The story revolves around Fife, a young “Keeper of Wisdom,” and a prophetic group known as “The Twelve.” The events unfold with action, suspense, and the characters’ inner growth. Although Bazzell’s writing is sometimes dense and descriptive, he masterfully builds a vivid and detailed world.
This book is not just an adventure; it also explores themes such as the depth of its characters, the sharing of knowledge, sacrifice, and the cost of power, giving the story a philosophical dimension. In this way, it reinterprets the classic tradition of high fantasy with a modern narrative style. I highly recommend this remarkable work.
This book is not just an adventure; it also explores themes such as the depth of its characters, the sharing of knowledge, sacrifice, and the cost of power, giving the story a philosophical dimension. In this way, it reinterprets the classic tradition of high fantasy with a modern narrative style. I highly recommend this remarkable work.
October 26, 2025
The Binding of the Twelve delivers everything I love about epic fantasy: grand quests, ancient prophecies, and heroes worth cheering for. From the first page, I was immersed in Nathanael Bazzell’s detailed world. The writing is vivid and cinematic, the battles gripping, and the emotional moments powerful.
Fife’s journey as a Keeper of Wisdom is thrilling and heartfelt. Each companion he meets brings something unique to the story. The world-building is deep and lived-in, full of history, myth, and meaning that brings every chapter to life.
It’s rare to find a fantasy that HAS IT ALL! Yes, it's THIS GOOD! If you love epic adventures, magic, courage, and memorable stories, this is the book for you.
An outstanding debut and the start of a series I’ll eagerly follow. Highly recommend!
Fife’s journey as a Keeper of Wisdom is thrilling and heartfelt. Each companion he meets brings something unique to the story. The world-building is deep and lived-in, full of history, myth, and meaning that brings every chapter to life.
It’s rare to find a fantasy that HAS IT ALL! Yes, it's THIS GOOD! If you love epic adventures, magic, courage, and memorable stories, this is the book for you.
An outstanding debut and the start of a series I’ll eagerly follow. Highly recommend!
November 21, 2025
The Binding of the Twelve kicks off The Chronicles of the Orphan King with rich world-building, an intriguing prophecy, and a diverse cast of heroes whose destinies collide in unexpected ways. The pacing is brisk, the magic system feels fresh, and the rising darkness adds a constant sense of urgency.
The story shines most in its character moments—each of the Twelve carries a distinct voice and emotional weight, making it easy to get invested. At times, the narrative juggles so many threads that it feels slightly overwhelming, but it never loses its central heartbeat.
Overall, it’s a compelling and promising opening to a fantasy series that’s clearly constructing something big. I’m excited to see where the prophecy leads next
The story shines most in its character moments—each of the Twelve carries a distinct voice and emotional weight, making it easy to get invested. At times, the narrative juggles so many threads that it feels slightly overwhelming, but it never loses its central heartbeat.
Overall, it’s a compelling and promising opening to a fantasy series that’s clearly constructing something big. I’m excited to see where the prophecy leads next
November 24, 2025
The Binding of the Twelve hit all the notes I look for in a big, sweeping fantasy. The world feels ancient and textured, and Fife makes a great lead. He is thoughtful, uncertain, and far from the typical unstoppable hero, which made his choices feel human and meaningful. I liked how each member of the Twelve brings something distinct to the story, and how their roles matter in real ways.
The writing leans descriptive, but it works with the scale of the world. The themes of sacrifice, duty, and the cost of knowledge add weight without slowing the pace. I enjoyed the magic system and the sense of history under everything.
Overall, it is an immersive, character-driven start to a promising epic. I turned the final page ready for book two.
The writing leans descriptive, but it works with the scale of the world. The themes of sacrifice, duty, and the cost of knowledge add weight without slowing the pace. I enjoyed the magic system and the sense of history under everything.
Overall, it is an immersive, character-driven start to a promising epic. I turned the final page ready for book two.
February 10, 2026
If you want a nice and exciting piece of fiction to get lost in, this book has got to be it. It’s everything you could want in an epic fantasy. It’s got a quest that the world hangs un, an unsuspecting humble hero, and a menagerie of characters that will keep you on your toes. This has got to be one of my favorite fantasy books of all time. The way it’s written… it feels so real that you forget it’s fantasy, seriously. The world and the characters hum—they feel so alive. I loved the cool cover art and I was really pleasantly surprised by this book. It’s just a masterpiece. I hope anyone who loves the Eragon books or Lord of the Rings will give this a try, and I can’t wait to read the next book!
February 10, 2026
You will adore this if you enjoy The Lord of the Rings. The Binding of the Twelve by Nathanael Bazzell is a great example of an epic fantasy. It’s serious, and nothing in the story is taken lightly. The book presents a rich, engrossing world that compares well to Middle-earth. It is suspenseful, emotive, and rich. The characters are designed well and the protagonist of the tale is Fife, a modest preserver of knowledge. He is thrown into a mission that has worldwide ramifications and can change his life. While inventive, the fantasy parts feel realistic. I think other fans of ancient predictions and high-stakes adventures, like myself, will be captivated and intrigued. It’s certainly a strong start to what I hope will be a continuing series!
February 10, 2026
Bazzell has created an extremely detailed fantasy world in The Binding of the Twelve. He clearly understands every aspect of it and has planned everything out to a T—you can tell just by reading. Everything feels genuine, both the whimsical and the politics. This planet is a living force somewhat like our world; it’s not merely a setting. It has a rich and complex past with lots of intrigue and danger. I was completely engrossed by it and the knowledge aspects. Once you step inside this world, you won't want to leave. It’s great for fans like me who enjoy expansive and multi-textured environments. Once you get a glimpse, you just want to jump in and explore it. I’m glad that this is part of a series, because I haven’t had enough!
February 10, 2026
I felt like the sacrifice is what gives this work its real impact! Throughout the story, Fife must make difficult yet important decisions. You are constantly aware of the seriousness of the situation as you read, and you sympathize with Fife. It’s a kind of story that makes you really question what you would do if you were him. It also adds a lot of emotional weight to the story, which I beleive is essential for any good book. It's almost like a metamorphosis, not merely a quest. And when it comes to his characters, the author doesn't cut corners. There are a lot of characters and they are all well defined. I think the heart of the story, about stepping up and facing giants is the narrative stays with you after you've turned the last page.
October 8, 2025
An Epic Fantasy Worth Diving Into
This book pulls you right into a vivid world that feels both familiar and completely new. The author has built an immersive story filled with prophecy, danger, and richly drawn characters that kept me turning the pages. I loved how the themes of courage, wisdom, and unity came through without ever slowing down the action.
The battles and creatures were exciting, but what stood out most was the depth of the worldbuilding. It reminded me of classic fantasy, yet it carried its own voice and vision. For anyone who enjoys a story that blends adventure with meaning, this book is a fantastic start to a promising series.
This book pulls you right into a vivid world that feels both familiar and completely new. The author has built an immersive story filled with prophecy, danger, and richly drawn characters that kept me turning the pages. I loved how the themes of courage, wisdom, and unity came through without ever slowing down the action.
The battles and creatures were exciting, but what stood out most was the depth of the worldbuilding. It reminded me of classic fantasy, yet it carried its own voice and vision. For anyone who enjoys a story that blends adventure with meaning, this book is a fantastic start to a promising series.
November 21, 2025
I started this thinking it’d be just another fantasy quest, but it surprised me. The emotional stakes are big. Fife’s choices really hit me. He’s trying to do what’s right, but nothing is simple in this world. I liked how he connects with the other characters , those relationships made it more human.
I wouldn’t say it's a fast-paced book, but it has a rhythm that works. The way the story unfolds makes you think. And tbh, I actually liked that not everything was spelled out. The author's writing made it easy for me to follow, even though English isn’t my first language. Really cool to have KU to discover such a book !
I wouldn’t say it's a fast-paced book, but it has a rhythm that works. The way the story unfolds makes you think. And tbh, I actually liked that not everything was spelled out. The author's writing made it easy for me to follow, even though English isn’t my first language. Really cool to have KU to discover such a book !
December 17, 2025
This book delivers a rich and immersive start to an epic fantasy series filled with prophecy, ancient knowledge, and rising darkness. The worldbuilding is detailed without feeling overwhelming, and the story balances large-scale stakes with thoughtful character moments. What stands out most is its reflective tone—this isn’t just about battles and heroes, but about responsibility, wisdom, and the cost of hidden truths. Fans of traditional epic fantasy will appreciate the familiar grandeur, while the philosophical undercurrent adds depth and originality. A strong, engaging opening that sets the stage for an expansive and meaningful journey.
December 31, 2025
The Book successfully explores themes of duty, found family, and the price of leadership as Fife works to unite the "Twelve" before their world is lost. I loved its classic style and engaging storytelling.
The world created is incredibly detailed and amazing, it made me visually captivated and fully engrossed in the story.
The characters are well-developed and memorable; each of the Twelve has a distinct voice and emotional weight, making it easy to get invested in their individual journeys.
I enjoyed the brisk pacing and unexpected turns; it kept me engaged from start to finish.
The novel is highly recommended as a strong and captivating start to a new fantasy saga.
The world created is incredibly detailed and amazing, it made me visually captivated and fully engrossed in the story.
The characters are well-developed and memorable; each of the Twelve has a distinct voice and emotional weight, making it easy to get invested in their individual journeys.
I enjoyed the brisk pacing and unexpected turns; it kept me engaged from start to finish.
The novel is highly recommended as a strong and captivating start to a new fantasy saga.
January 14, 2026
The world building is truly extraordinary, with a sense of history, rules, and quiet danger that makes everything feel real instead of just described. I especially liked how the lore is revealed gradually through the characters rather than dumped all at once. Fife feels thoughtful and human, and the growing weight of responsibility around him kept me emotionally invested. A strong and satisfying start to a series I’m genuinely excited to continue.
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