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The Pillars of Reality #2
The Hidden Masters of Marandur
It’s Book 2 of The Pillars of Reality, the exciting epic fantasy series written exclusively for Audible by New York Times bestselling author Jack Campbell!
Someone wants to kill Mari, a young Steam Mechanic in the Guild that controls all technology. She has learned that her world of Dematr is headed for a catastrophe that will destroy civilization, and that Mages really can alter reality for short periods. Someone also wants to kill Alain, a young Mage who has learned that Mechanics are not frauds as his Guild teaches, and that Mechanic Mari is the only person who can prevent the oncoming disaster.
Narrowly escaping death, the Mechanic and the Mage stay alive thanks to their combined skills, an alliance never before seen. But it becomes clear that both of their Guilds, the most powerful forces in the world, are trying to destroy them. Other powers, like the great Empire and a mysterious secret Order, also seek to kill or capture them, using every weapon from Imperial Legions to Mage-created trolls, dragons, and rocs.
Trying to survive and learn the truth about their world so they will know how to save it, Mari and Alain realize that the answers they seek may lie in the dead city of Marandur. But Marandur is guarded by the legions that have sealed it off from the rest of the world for more than a century. Mari and Alain's only hope may rest with the unseen Masters of Marandur.
Someone wants to kill Mari, a young Steam Mechanic in the Guild that controls all technology. She has learned that her world of Dematr is headed for a catastrophe that will destroy civilization, and that Mages really can alter reality for short periods. Someone also wants to kill Alain, a young Mage who has learned that Mechanics are not frauds as his Guild teaches, and that Mechanic Mari is the only person who can prevent the oncoming disaster.
Narrowly escaping death, the Mechanic and the Mage stay alive thanks to their combined skills, an alliance never before seen. But it becomes clear that both of their Guilds, the most powerful forces in the world, are trying to destroy them. Other powers, like the great Empire and a mysterious secret Order, also seek to kill or capture them, using every weapon from Imperial Legions to Mage-created trolls, dragons, and rocs.
Trying to survive and learn the truth about their world so they will know how to save it, Mari and Alain realize that the answers they seek may lie in the dead city of Marandur. But Marandur is guarded by the legions that have sealed it off from the rest of the world for more than a century. Mari and Alain's only hope may rest with the unseen Masters of Marandur.
Audio CD
First published February 10, 2015
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About the author
Jack Campbell
115 books3,031 followersJack Campbell is a pseudonym for American science fiction author John G. Hemry.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
John G. Hemry is an American author of military science fiction novels. Drawing on his experience as a retired United States Navy officer, he has written the Stark's War and Paul Sinclair series. Under the name Jack Campbell, he has written four volumes of the Lost Fleet series, and on his website names two more forthcoming volumes. He has also written over a dozen short stories, many published in Analog magazine, and a number of non-fiction works.
John G Hemry is a retired United States Navy officer. His father, Jack M. Hemry, also served in the navy and as John points out was a mustang. John grew up living in several places including Pensacola, San Diego, and Midway Island.
John graduated from Lyons High School in Lyons in 1974 then attended the US Naval Academy (Class of '78) where he was labeled 'the un-midshipman' by his roommates.
He lives in Maryland with his wife and three kids. His two eldest children are diagnosed as autistic and suffer from Neuro immune dysfunction syndrome (NIDS), an auto-immune ailment which causes their illness, but are progressing under treatment.
John is a member of the SFWA Musketeers whose motto reads: 'The Pen is Mightier Than the Sword, but the Wise Person Carries Both'.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
John G. Hemry is an American author of military science fiction novels. Drawing on his experience as a retired United States Navy officer, he has written the Stark's War and Paul Sinclair series. Under the name Jack Campbell, he has written four volumes of the Lost Fleet series, and on his website names two more forthcoming volumes. He has also written over a dozen short stories, many published in Analog magazine, and a number of non-fiction works.
John G Hemry is a retired United States Navy officer. His father, Jack M. Hemry, also served in the navy and as John points out was a mustang. John grew up living in several places including Pensacola, San Diego, and Midway Island.
John graduated from Lyons High School in Lyons in 1974 then attended the US Naval Academy (Class of '78) where he was labeled 'the un-midshipman' by his roommates.
He lives in Maryland with his wife and three kids. His two eldest children are diagnosed as autistic and suffer from Neuro immune dysfunction syndrome (NIDS), an auto-immune ailment which causes their illness, but are progressing under treatment.
John is a member of the SFWA Musketeers whose motto reads: 'The Pen is Mightier Than the Sword, but the Wise Person Carries Both'.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
July 2, 2016
Re-read for 3rd time on May 2016
**4.5 stars**
Ever since I first discovered this series, I’ve read each book multiple times, which is EXTREMELY rare for me. But this series is just so good that whenever I find myself in a funk, I start the series all over.
At the end of The Dragons of Dorcastle, Alain & Mari decided to separate in order to save each others' lives. Their guilds were highly suspicious of the time they spent together so they realized that if their guilds discovered they are in love, they would be signing their death warrants. However, even after keeping their nose clean for several months, it’s clear their guilds decided to kill them anyway. Mari discovers this first and decides to look for Alain, even though after a separation of several months, she’s not sure if his feelings are the same.
Since departing from Mari, Alain has missed the companionship and conversation of others and he fears that his Elders have detected the changes in him. When he’s contracted to fight against the Empire, he can’t help but talk to the General in charge, a very unusual move for a mage. Once Mari arrives and the General finds out that she’s Alain’s friend, his amazement knows no bounds until he remembers the rumors that are circulating about the Daughter of the Prophesy. It doesn’t take him long to figure out that she’s the young woman all the commons are talking about.
Soon enough, Mari and Alain undertake a dangerous trip to get answers. Mari still hopes to fix the situation with her guild but as they travel as commons with many different factions after them, that hope dwindles more and more. During a good chunk of the book, Mari and Alain are still at crossroads about the prophesy, with her refusing to hear anything he has to say about it because she thinks he’s talking about something else and he believing that she knows what he wants to tell her.
In this book Mari starts gathering some allies, even though she doesn’t even know she’ll need them. She has mechanic friends who are willing to follow her but it’s Alain who helps with the commons and mages – he’s come so far since the first book where he was so unemotional! As soon as the General finds out Mari’s identity, he pledges his allegiance, and even though the Mage training tried to destroy all connection between the Mage acolytes, Alain discovers he has a mage friend who’s willing to risk her life to help him.
During this time, we learn a lot more about Alain & Mari’s personality. Mari has some really good qualities but a few of her bad ones come to the fore: she’s jealous, impatient, sulky and irrational at times. You can understand that she’s under a lot of pressure but Alain is so nice that you feel bad for him when Mari is in one of her moods. Because of his training as a Mage, testosterone doesn’t get in Alain’s way: he never gets offended, he’s extremely calm under pressure, he doesn’t feel the need to boss around because he’s the guy and he listens to her and values her input:
For many years, I listened only to the elders. When I met you, when you spoke to me, I realized that other voices should also be heard. Your words, your actions, showed me that what I’ve been told for twelve years as a Mage acolyte was not all that was worth knowing.
On top of that, Alain makes an effort to show some emotion even though he fears for his powers – he’s quietly romantic and even has a dry sense of humor (shocker!) Besides some issues with social skills, Alain is so freaking good that it’s almost painful. The most touching parts of the book are actually due to him, as he’s trying to feel again and understand others around him.
I can’t say enough good things about MacLeod Andrews’ narration. It’s so nuanced and inspired! There’s a moment when Mari is wondering why his guild is so threatened by her because she’s “low in ammunition when it comes to physical charms” and Alain responds “You are beautiful beyond all other women”. The way Mr. Andrews delivered that line, with a mix of total sincerity and bafflement, as if she’s crazy to even doubt her charms was so freaking perfect! There are many such moments throughout the book where Mr. Andrews imbues a phrase or word with so much meaning that it almost breaks your heart.
Like the last book, there’s lost of action so if that’s what you like in your books, it won’t be disappointed by this one.
First posted at Badass Book Reviews
**4.5 stars**
Ever since I first discovered this series, I’ve read each book multiple times, which is EXTREMELY rare for me. But this series is just so good that whenever I find myself in a funk, I start the series all over.
At the end of The Dragons of Dorcastle, Alain & Mari decided to separate in order to save each others' lives. Their guilds were highly suspicious of the time they spent together so they realized that if their guilds discovered they are in love, they would be signing their death warrants. However, even after keeping their nose clean for several months, it’s clear their guilds decided to kill them anyway. Mari discovers this first and decides to look for Alain, even though after a separation of several months, she’s not sure if his feelings are the same.
Since departing from Mari, Alain has missed the companionship and conversation of others and he fears that his Elders have detected the changes in him. When he’s contracted to fight against the Empire, he can’t help but talk to the General in charge, a very unusual move for a mage. Once Mari arrives and the General finds out that she’s Alain’s friend, his amazement knows no bounds until he remembers the rumors that are circulating about the Daughter of the Prophesy. It doesn’t take him long to figure out that she’s the young woman all the commons are talking about.
Soon enough, Mari and Alain undertake a dangerous trip to get answers. Mari still hopes to fix the situation with her guild but as they travel as commons with many different factions after them, that hope dwindles more and more. During a good chunk of the book, Mari and Alain are still at crossroads about the prophesy, with her refusing to hear anything he has to say about it because she thinks he’s talking about something else and he believing that she knows what he wants to tell her.
In this book Mari starts gathering some allies, even though she doesn’t even know she’ll need them. She has mechanic friends who are willing to follow her but it’s Alain who helps with the commons and mages – he’s come so far since the first book where he was so unemotional! As soon as the General finds out Mari’s identity, he pledges his allegiance, and even though the Mage training tried to destroy all connection between the Mage acolytes, Alain discovers he has a mage friend who’s willing to risk her life to help him.
During this time, we learn a lot more about Alain & Mari’s personality. Mari has some really good qualities but a few of her bad ones come to the fore: she’s jealous, impatient, sulky and irrational at times. You can understand that she’s under a lot of pressure but Alain is so nice that you feel bad for him when Mari is in one of her moods. Because of his training as a Mage, testosterone doesn’t get in Alain’s way: he never gets offended, he’s extremely calm under pressure, he doesn’t feel the need to boss around because he’s the guy and he listens to her and values her input:
For many years, I listened only to the elders. When I met you, when you spoke to me, I realized that other voices should also be heard. Your words, your actions, showed me that what I’ve been told for twelve years as a Mage acolyte was not all that was worth knowing.
On top of that, Alain makes an effort to show some emotion even though he fears for his powers – he’s quietly romantic and even has a dry sense of humor (shocker!) Besides some issues with social skills, Alain is so freaking good that it’s almost painful. The most touching parts of the book are actually due to him, as he’s trying to feel again and understand others around him.
I can’t say enough good things about MacLeod Andrews’ narration. It’s so nuanced and inspired! There’s a moment when Mari is wondering why his guild is so threatened by her because she’s “low in ammunition when it comes to physical charms” and Alain responds “You are beautiful beyond all other women”. The way Mr. Andrews delivered that line, with a mix of total sincerity and bafflement, as if she’s crazy to even doubt her charms was so freaking perfect! There are many such moments throughout the book where Mr. Andrews imbues a phrase or word with so much meaning that it almost breaks your heart.
Like the last book, there’s lost of action so if that’s what you like in your books, it won’t be disappointed by this one.
First posted at Badass Book Reviews
January 7, 2020
Finished the second instalment quickly after the first and I think the relationship and real-ness of the characters is getting better as the books go. I definitely think there's a lot of room for a big epic in this world, and I am intrigued about what will happen next now that Mari has a destiny and Alain has a mission... 3*s overall and I will continue :)
September 2, 2016
Re-read August 2016 and it's just as good as the first time!
The adventure continues as Alain and Mari venture into unknown territory. Being on the run has never been this much fun.
In this second book in the Pillars of Reality series, the two young prodigies from the Mage and Mechanic Guilds find themselves in some serious trouble. Their Guilds want them silenced in their challenge to the status quo. The two are avoiding assassins and disasters in general, braving the elements, falling more in love and struggling to define their relationship.
There is some serious character development happening here and it's delightful. Alain continues to emerge from his shell as Mari struggles to accept her prominent role in the future of their world. As they gather the clues that will give them the tools they need to fight the oncoming storm, their clever banter gets better and better. Alain learns the nature and practice of sarcasm as Mari teaches him about appropriate social cues. We meet some new characters and situations. And we get to see even more of their natural talents as they evade capture and death - life is a lot easier when you can do magic and blow stuff up.
The world gets more extensive here as well. We find an entirely new society hidden from the rest of the world, which only deepens the story as the saga continues. The romance deepens and well, let's face it - the whole book is just a continuation of the fantastic story that is the Pillars of Reality.
Once again MacLeod Andrews is astounding in his narration. The way this guy can bring a specific character to life is just amazing! These characters are so diverse and yet he distinguishes each one so well. I never felt I was being read a book or even hearing narration - rather it was like listening in on the conversations of characters. The publishers hit it out of the park on the choice of Andrews as narrator.
This series has been written specifically for audio and boy does it deliver. The projected release date for the next book, The Assassins of Altis, is July 2015. I cannot wait. Bring on the barrage of Mages and Mechanics!
The adventure continues as Alain and Mari venture into unknown territory. Being on the run has never been this much fun.
In this second book in the Pillars of Reality series, the two young prodigies from the Mage and Mechanic Guilds find themselves in some serious trouble. Their Guilds want them silenced in their challenge to the status quo. The two are avoiding assassins and disasters in general, braving the elements, falling more in love and struggling to define their relationship.
There is some serious character development happening here and it's delightful. Alain continues to emerge from his shell as Mari struggles to accept her prominent role in the future of their world. As they gather the clues that will give them the tools they need to fight the oncoming storm, their clever banter gets better and better. Alain learns the nature and practice of sarcasm as Mari teaches him about appropriate social cues. We meet some new characters and situations. And we get to see even more of their natural talents as they evade capture and death - life is a lot easier when you can do magic and blow stuff up.
The world gets more extensive here as well. We find an entirely new society hidden from the rest of the world, which only deepens the story as the saga continues. The romance deepens and well, let's face it - the whole book is just a continuation of the fantastic story that is the Pillars of Reality.
Once again MacLeod Andrews is astounding in his narration. The way this guy can bring a specific character to life is just amazing! These characters are so diverse and yet he distinguishes each one so well. I never felt I was being read a book or even hearing narration - rather it was like listening in on the conversations of characters. The publishers hit it out of the park on the choice of Andrews as narrator.
This series has been written specifically for audio and boy does it deliver. The projected release date for the next book, The Assassins of Altis, is July 2015. I cannot wait. Bring on the barrage of Mages and Mechanics!
July 4, 2015
We went from steampunk to teenie bop. I almost stopped listening 30% in because its all I love him...we can't be together...I love her...no we can't. I hated that. It got a little better about half way through but the start put me off completely.
The Dragons of Dorcastle (book 1) was centered on the two main characters and its obvious a love interest was in play; but that book had three/four plot points that all were based on them doing something. In this book Mr. Campbell goes completely off on this tangent and half the book is about the two mooning over each other and "what shall we do".
I also got this as an audio book and read #1 as an e-book. This may have changed things for me since I really disliked the various false accents and they simply emphasized how unlike this story is from the action driven stories I expect from Mr. Campbell.
The plot you can get from the summary but the switch from a action plot to the emotional plot really made me dislike this story. I only hope that the next story brings us back to the action plot more.
gallandro
The Dragons of Dorcastle (book 1) was centered on the two main characters and its obvious a love interest was in play; but that book had three/four plot points that all were based on them doing something. In this book Mr. Campbell goes completely off on this tangent and half the book is about the two mooning over each other and "what shall we do".
I also got this as an audio book and read #1 as an e-book. This may have changed things for me since I really disliked the various false accents and they simply emphasized how unlike this story is from the action driven stories I expect from Mr. Campbell.
The plot you can get from the summary but the switch from a action plot to the emotional plot really made me dislike this story. I only hope that the next story brings us back to the action plot more.
gallandro
July 8, 2018
I liked this, but not as much as the first in the series. I like the relationship between Alain and Mari, but there was way too much "I love you and I will never leave you". It got pretty repetitive and I felt like too much time was spent on it. Hopefully the next book will have less of this.
March 3, 2015
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy.
I may be a little biased because Jack Campbell is my favorite living author, but I loved THE HIDDEN MASTERS OF MARANDUR. This book picks up about two weeks after THE DRAGONS OF DORCASTLE ended, and you’re thrown right into the action. The intense battle and action scenes are one of the places where Campbell’s writing really shines. There are a lot of urban and epic fantasy novels that make me cringe when I read their battles, but Campbell’s years of military experience help him write realistic battles.
Even though the battles are amazing, my favorite part of this book is the interaction between Mari and Alain. In the previous book, Alain and Mari only barely admitted their feelings to each other, so it’s great to see their friendship and relationship develop as they continue working together and saving each others’ lives. One of the things I loved the most about THE DRAGONS OF DORCASTLE was the fun and natural banter between Alain and Mari, and that banter is still in this book and maybe even a touch better. Though Alain is continuing to learn more about normal social interaction, he still makes slips every once in a while that will make you want to either laugh or put your head in your hands.
While they’re relationship continues to grow, it’s also fun to watch their individual characters develop. They have to remove their guild related garb and don the clothes of commons, as they run from both of their guilds. This allows them to see the world through the eyes of the commons when they interact with commons on an equal level. They both work hard to throw off the false teachings of their guilds, as they see what the world is actually like.
I love/hate cliffhangers just as much as anyone else, but Campbell hasn’t found the need for them yet in the Pillars of Reality series. Campbell ended THE HIDDEN MASTERS OF MARANDUR in a great place, where I’m dying to know what happened next, but without putting the characters in a life or death situation. I just have to hope the next installment comes out as quickly as THE HIDDEN MASTERS OF MARANDUR did. It will be an instant buy for me.
On the Audiobook:
Jack Campbell is in the process of getting the books in print, but until that happens the Pillars of Reality series is exclusively on Audible. And that’s okay because MacLeod Andrews does an amazing job narrating the series. MacLeod does an excellent job putting emotion into the banter between Alain and Mari, adding an extra layer of realism to the production.
Sexual content: Kissing and references to sex
I may be a little biased because Jack Campbell is my favorite living author, but I loved THE HIDDEN MASTERS OF MARANDUR. This book picks up about two weeks after THE DRAGONS OF DORCASTLE ended, and you’re thrown right into the action. The intense battle and action scenes are one of the places where Campbell’s writing really shines. There are a lot of urban and epic fantasy novels that make me cringe when I read their battles, but Campbell’s years of military experience help him write realistic battles.
Even though the battles are amazing, my favorite part of this book is the interaction between Mari and Alain. In the previous book, Alain and Mari only barely admitted their feelings to each other, so it’s great to see their friendship and relationship develop as they continue working together and saving each others’ lives. One of the things I loved the most about THE DRAGONS OF DORCASTLE was the fun and natural banter between Alain and Mari, and that banter is still in this book and maybe even a touch better. Though Alain is continuing to learn more about normal social interaction, he still makes slips every once in a while that will make you want to either laugh or put your head in your hands.
While they’re relationship continues to grow, it’s also fun to watch their individual characters develop. They have to remove their guild related garb and don the clothes of commons, as they run from both of their guilds. This allows them to see the world through the eyes of the commons when they interact with commons on an equal level. They both work hard to throw off the false teachings of their guilds, as they see what the world is actually like.
I love/hate cliffhangers just as much as anyone else, but Campbell hasn’t found the need for them yet in the Pillars of Reality series. Campbell ended THE HIDDEN MASTERS OF MARANDUR in a great place, where I’m dying to know what happened next, but without putting the characters in a life or death situation. I just have to hope the next installment comes out as quickly as THE HIDDEN MASTERS OF MARANDUR did. It will be an instant buy for me.
On the Audiobook:
Jack Campbell is in the process of getting the books in print, but until that happens the Pillars of Reality series is exclusively on Audible. And that’s okay because MacLeod Andrews does an amazing job narrating the series. MacLeod does an excellent job putting emotion into the banter between Alain and Mari, adding an extra layer of realism to the production.
Sexual content: Kissing and references to sex
June 7, 2017
Ever been on a road trip with a ferociously insecure teenage couple who are certain that they're destined for each other, but feel the need to reaffirm it every five minutes? Sounds like hell, right? Well, having read The Hidden Masters of Marandur, I can tell you that it is worse than you could possibly imagine.
The story follows the fugitives Alain and Mari as they flee death at the hands of their respective guilds. I can't blame their guilds, though. I wanted to kill them myself. In the previous book, it was a half-hearted "will they won't they". Now the dam has burst and every other sentence is some kind of pronouncement of undying love. I wanted them to die.
The really aggravating thing is that the story is pretty decent, thus the two star rating. Interesting things are going on in the background that have the ring of Campbell's better work. The problem is that the foreground is full of agonized teenagers, moaning over how desperately they want to boink one another if circumstances permitted. The circumstances are that you're being hunted both by steampunk assassins and invisible mages with dragons and rocs! Why do we care more about the sexual troubles of two extremely dislikable characters than the violent clashes of this world's superpowers? It's ludicrous!
There are moments that this book shows promise. Near the beginning, there's a pitched battle between two armies that are both employing mages. It was great! There was carnage and explosions and a dragon and high speed chases. It was everything I was hoping these books would be. Then the main character shows up and all of that fades into the background, where it stays, agonizingly close, but eclipsed by a writhing mass of angst and insecurity.
It concludes with the promise of even more interesting story stuff in the third book, but I just don't think it's worth the effort. It doesn't matter what amazing scenery we might pass, if I'm going to be stuck in the car with those two, I'm staying home.
The story follows the fugitives Alain and Mari as they flee death at the hands of their respective guilds. I can't blame their guilds, though. I wanted to kill them myself. In the previous book, it was a half-hearted "will they won't they". Now the dam has burst and every other sentence is some kind of pronouncement of undying love. I wanted them to die.
The really aggravating thing is that the story is pretty decent, thus the two star rating. Interesting things are going on in the background that have the ring of Campbell's better work. The problem is that the foreground is full of agonized teenagers, moaning over how desperately they want to boink one another if circumstances permitted. The circumstances are that you're being hunted both by steampunk assassins and invisible mages with dragons and rocs! Why do we care more about the sexual troubles of two extremely dislikable characters than the violent clashes of this world's superpowers? It's ludicrous!
There are moments that this book shows promise. Near the beginning, there's a pitched battle between two armies that are both employing mages. It was great! There was carnage and explosions and a dragon and high speed chases. It was everything I was hoping these books would be. Then the main character shows up and all of that fades into the background, where it stays, agonizingly close, but eclipsed by a writhing mass of angst and insecurity.
It concludes with the promise of even more interesting story stuff in the third book, but I just don't think it's worth the effort. It doesn't matter what amazing scenery we might pass, if I'm going to be stuck in the car with those two, I'm staying home.
June 7, 2017
Book 2. Massive spoilers ahead for The Dragons of Dorcastle.
It opens with our intrepid pair discovering that their separation at the end of Dragons was not enough to protect them. After some trouble with an assignment, Mari is ordered into a place collapsed in anarchy. And Alain is ordered as the sole Mage in a military raid. After the events of the last book, he asks questions enough to establish that he was lied to. And they discover trouble
Mari goes somewhere else. As a consequence, she and Alain meet again. And the rest includes a forbidden device, killing a dragon, a roc attacking a train, a dead city and its secrets, a blizzard and passing as an eloping couple, some failures to communicate being fixed up (with strong reactions) and more. Consequences are building. So is the foreseen (and metaphorical) storm.
It opens with our intrepid pair discovering that their separation at the end of Dragons was not enough to protect them. After some trouble with an assignment, Mari is ordered into a place collapsed in anarchy. And Alain is ordered as the sole Mage in a military raid. After the events of the last book, he asks questions enough to establish that he was lied to. And they discover trouble
Mari goes somewhere else. As a consequence, she and Alain meet again. And the rest includes a forbidden device, killing a dragon, a roc attacking a train, a dead city and its secrets, a blizzard and passing as an eloping couple, some failures to communicate being fixed up (with strong reactions) and more. Consequences are building. So is the foreseen (and metaphorical) storm.
April 5, 2015
Basically more of what we got with the first book. If you enjoyed the first one you'll probably like this one. Again, teenaged romance as written by a retired military man leaves something to be desired, and Alain's complete and utter social ineptitude is really starting to grate on me a bit too. It was still a fun book, for what it is, and is generally harmless, with nothing really offensive or terrible about it. It's a little old-fashioned and cliche as far as modern fantasy novels go, but it's nothing too horrible.
November 30, 2016
Even better than the first one, this really delved into it's two main characters and gave us a bit more of the world that I found so fascinating in the first one. The plot is a bit less focused, but it's always moving forward and gives us a lot to think about for the next one. I'm really looking forward to seeing where this series goes!
May 3, 2021
I felt that pretty much all the other elements of the story took a bit of a back seat to the romantic development between the two main characters in this one. It was still cute in it's way but definitely not as engrossing as the first novel. A typical second novel in a trilogy as it mostly seemed to set up things to come in the finale.
February 15, 2016
Find this and many other reviews at Geekritique!
It's been a long while since I've been so engrossed in a series like I am with this. Two incredibly different people from two historically-opposing guilds, working together to throw down the major guilds, literally breaking the pillars of the realities they know, in the hopes that they can change the world. This unassuming fantasy adventure was intended to be a straight-to-Audible series, but since then the first three novels have been printed in paperback and eBook. As with any good audiobook, I can vouch for the book being a good read - and a breath of fresh air for the genre that I haven't felt since the Riyria Revelations series.
Areas in the first volume which I once might have seen as merely lazy writing or plot holes are slowly getting filled in. These areas of ambiguous history and popular mentality amongst the fictional populace do more than serve as sidesteps for the author, as he has begun placing those moments under the microscope. There is much more going on behind the scenes in this story than meets the eye (or ear, if you're listening to it).
Some of the issues I had with the previous novel, including those pertaining to certain Mage, have been dealt with by the time this story wraps up. That's not to say that these issues haven't been replaced by other issues. One of my biggest gripes with this book happens to involve the love shared between our two main protagonists. Sometimes it becomes nauseating, and distracting - on occasion to an eye-rolling degree.
That said, this is the first actual fantasy story I can remember where the two main characters are courting each other whilst adventuring. It's refreshing, and author Jack Campbell nails it. When they're not nauseating, and actually when they are, the characters are believable. Despite what the characters are going through, their love never seems forced, or rushed.
This is, by far, a character driven series. I expected that to change with this book, now that the two are together, but that isn't so. Not much actually happens. You'll be able to name about 5 major events in this book - and yet it's so enjoyable. Like the previous novel, The Dragons of Dorcastle, much gets accomplished in the last quarter. But this time we have a far greater grasp on where the story is headed.
And most importantly, we get some much needed answers. We learn more about the history of the Empire, and the Daughter of Jules. We even get some crazy action in a forbidden city. The way the information is being developed, I have a strong suspicion that, due to where these people are from, that has a lot to do with why the world is the way it is. Suppressed information, along with a world that refuses to change, leads to negative progress and turmoil, and eventually to revolution.
If you haven't given this series a shot yet, grab it now. Click the Audible banner below to start your free trial and get any two free books to listen to.
It's been a long while since I've been so engrossed in a series like I am with this. Two incredibly different people from two historically-opposing guilds, working together to throw down the major guilds, literally breaking the pillars of the realities they know, in the hopes that they can change the world. This unassuming fantasy adventure was intended to be a straight-to-Audible series, but since then the first three novels have been printed in paperback and eBook. As with any good audiobook, I can vouch for the book being a good read - and a breath of fresh air for the genre that I haven't felt since the Riyria Revelations series.
Areas in the first volume which I once might have seen as merely lazy writing or plot holes are slowly getting filled in. These areas of ambiguous history and popular mentality amongst the fictional populace do more than serve as sidesteps for the author, as he has begun placing those moments under the microscope. There is much more going on behind the scenes in this story than meets the eye (or ear, if you're listening to it).
Some of the issues I had with the previous novel, including those pertaining to certain Mage, have been dealt with by the time this story wraps up. That's not to say that these issues haven't been replaced by other issues. One of my biggest gripes with this book happens to involve the love shared between our two main protagonists. Sometimes it becomes nauseating, and distracting - on occasion to an eye-rolling degree.
That said, this is the first actual fantasy story I can remember where the two main characters are courting each other whilst adventuring. It's refreshing, and author Jack Campbell nails it. When they're not nauseating, and actually when they are, the characters are believable. Despite what the characters are going through, their love never seems forced, or rushed.
This is, by far, a character driven series. I expected that to change with this book, now that the two are together, but that isn't so. Not much actually happens. You'll be able to name about 5 major events in this book - and yet it's so enjoyable. Like the previous novel, The Dragons of Dorcastle, much gets accomplished in the last quarter. But this time we have a far greater grasp on where the story is headed.
And most importantly, we get some much needed answers. We learn more about the history of the Empire, and the Daughter of Jules. We even get some crazy action in a forbidden city. The way the information is being developed, I have a strong suspicion that, due to where these people are from, that has a lot to do with why the world is the way it is. Suppressed information, along with a world that refuses to change, leads to negative progress and turmoil, and eventually to revolution.
If you haven't given this series a shot yet, grab it now. Click the Audible banner below to start your free trial and get any two free books to listen to.
Grab this in:
Audible | Paperback | eBook
June 26, 2015
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
I have to admit, something just isn't working for me with this series. Everything feels manufactured - plotted to within an inch of its life and so lacking in realistic pathos as to be nearly inert. Instead of rooting for the characters and their romance, I was bored and really tired of being hit over the head with the same points over and over (e.g., Mari misunderstanding Alain, Alain incessantly professing his undying love, and hey, yes the guilds are evil, we can figure that out). With a wild train chase, attack by both a dragon and a roc, and a grand army battle, this should have been far more interesting and intriguing than it was.Story: Alain and Mari have separated so their guilds don't consider them rogue for their friendship. But it soon becomes clear to both that they are being assigned suicide missions. Remaining separate soon becomes a far more dangerous proposition as they are targeted ruthlessly by their guilds.
This book two features a *alot* of rumination and the characters' somewhat slow and dimwitted understanding of the true nature of their situations. Endless discussions of 'does he/she love me or not?' was off-putting and compounded a serious issue through these first two books of endless repetition of the same points. It's a problem with most of Jack Campbell's books, sure (try a drinking game where you take a shot every time 'relativistic' is explained in the Los Fleet books, and you'll be drunk soon). Even when the action was happening, I felt as unengaged as supposedly emotionless mage Alain.
There should have been something really good here - the worldbuilding is excellent and the writing sharp. But the YA angle is killing it - genre specifics that should have made the book interesting instead bog it down terribly. I began to wonder if Campbell took a checklist of YA attributes and then wrote the story around it. Not surprisingly, I can't help but think this would have been far better with older characters.
So although I will continue with the series, I wish I found it more engaging. The narration was, of course, well done but the deadpan delivery needed to portray an emotionless mage leached a lot of life out of story.
March 25, 2015
4.5 Stars
The Hidden Masters of Marandur is the second (audio) book in The Pillars of Reality by Jack Campbell. Narrated by MacLeod Andrews.
I liked first (audio) book, The Dragons of Dorcastle, but if I’m honest I wasn’t crazy about. Still, I decided to give this second (audio) book a chance; I’m very happy I did because I liked it and enjoyed a lot more.
At the end of The Dragons of Dorcastle Master Mechanic Mari and Mage Alain say goodbye thinking they will be safer apart than together; but after just couple of weeks they both realize their respective guilds don’t want the information they now possess to come to the light. Their guilds cannot openly kill them so they are both sent on impossible quests where their deaths will be imminent. With the realization that their guilds want them dead, and with not other ally, Mari finds Alain, and together they embark in an adventure that will take them to the lost city of Marandur, where they are hoping to find the information they need to fight their guilds.
Although I liked Mari more this time around, her stubbornness and emotional outbursts frustrate me at times. I know she is young and many secrets and truths have been dropped on her, so I’m okay giving her some space and time to grow and accept her new circumstances. I just hope she will be more mature in third book.
Alain continues to be my favorite character and the one I consider has grown the most. I loved seeing him learning social skills and also learning to see the differences between what he learned at the Mage guild and what it is true. His social inadequacies provide the humor relief and a cute factor (if I can call it that) to the story.
Read the rest of my review at The Bookaholic Cat
The Hidden Masters of Marandur is the second (audio) book in The Pillars of Reality by Jack Campbell. Narrated by MacLeod Andrews.
I liked first (audio) book, The Dragons of Dorcastle, but if I’m honest I wasn’t crazy about. Still, I decided to give this second (audio) book a chance; I’m very happy I did because I liked it and enjoyed a lot more.
At the end of The Dragons of Dorcastle Master Mechanic Mari and Mage Alain say goodbye thinking they will be safer apart than together; but after just couple of weeks they both realize their respective guilds don’t want the information they now possess to come to the light. Their guilds cannot openly kill them so they are both sent on impossible quests where their deaths will be imminent. With the realization that their guilds want them dead, and with not other ally, Mari finds Alain, and together they embark in an adventure that will take them to the lost city of Marandur, where they are hoping to find the information they need to fight their guilds.
Although I liked Mari more this time around, her stubbornness and emotional outbursts frustrate me at times. I know she is young and many secrets and truths have been dropped on her, so I’m okay giving her some space and time to grow and accept her new circumstances. I just hope she will be more mature in third book.
Alain continues to be my favorite character and the one I consider has grown the most. I loved seeing him learning social skills and also learning to see the differences between what he learned at the Mage guild and what it is true. His social inadequacies provide the humor relief and a cute factor (if I can call it that) to the story.
Read the rest of my review at The Bookaholic Cat
May 7, 2018
This is the second book in a fantastic epic fantasy series called The Pillars of Reality. I absolutely loved it!
Mari is a fantastic character and I liked her from the moment she was introduced. I love her determination to do the right thing, even at the cost of her own life. She is an eighteen year-old Master Mechanic. She has attained it by qualifying as the youngest Lady Master Mechanic since the Guild was first formed several centuries earlier.
Mage Alain is also a fantastic character. I liked him a lot. He is seventeen years-old and one of the youngest Acolytes to achieve Mage status. He has been taught from a young age not to show or feel any emotions and that the world he lives in is an illusion, where nothing is real.
I listened to this story in audio format, rather than read it. The story is once again narrated by MacLeod Andrews. He does a fantastic job in bringing the story to life. Even Alain, who's voice is meant to be flat and emotionless comes across with subtle hints. You would think that Alain's voice would be monotonous, but it's not so. I love the way he brings all the characters to life with different accents, inflections and tones. He even makes the women's voices sound perfect for each character. As for his narration, he read the story clearly and concisely, and his pacing was perfect. I would definitely listen to more books read by this narrator.
This story picks up a few months after the events in Dorcastle (see Book One: The Dragons of Dorcastle). Alain has been sent by his guild on a contract to protect some common soldiers who are travelling to war. Along the way, they are attacked.The foresight Alain has developed has shown him that a storm is coming, though he has no idea what his vision means, so wishes to seek answers. Meanwhile, Mari has been sent to Tay (sorry, unsure of spelling due to only hearing it spoken and not reading the book), a region that has fallen into anarchy, by her guild. Unwilling to be a sacrificial lamb, Mari goes in search of Mage Alain. Together once more, they face several challenges and dangers. However, one of their leads takes them to Marandur, a city declared dead by the emperor one hundred and fifty years previously, where they make a startling discovery. Will they survive only to stumble at the final hurdle?
This story introduces us to the world of Dematr. It is a mass of contradictions. There are two great Guilds who hold all the power over the common folk - The Mechanics and The Mages. These Guilds have held power for centuries and refuse to relinquish their hold and reject change of any kind. However, this is slowly strangling the world, making it harder and harder for the Mechanics, especially as their technology is regressing. This story has a steampunk feel to it, with machinery being steam driven at times - trains for instance. Though there are some more modern items such as far-talkers (walkie-talkies to you and me), torches using batteries, and rifles and pistols that are decidedly more modern-day. Mages use energy from the land around them and some of their own energy to make spells. These spells can be used in various ways - from hiding oneself to creating a dragon.
This book is told through the eyes of both Mari and Alain and I found myself completely hooked from beginning to end. I loved meeting the two main protagonists once more, and watching (in my minds eye) the story unfold as I listened. The story is full of action, adventure, and danger and I found myself an emotional wreck at times. Have you ever read or listened to a story and felt completely emersed in it? This happened to me whilst listening to this book. These characters have come to life for me and have become my friends. I found myself missing them when the story finished, so I began listening to it again. I've listened to this book now at least four times. Each time I listen to it, the story and characters sweep me up and carry me away to a world that is alien and yet familiar at the same time, and makes me want to go and visit it. This book ends with a slight cliffhanger and the audio version has a preview of the next book in the series, which I am now looking forward to reading/listening to. I will be listening to The Assassins of Altis as soon as I can.
Jack Campbell is a new author to me. I've never read or listened to any of his other books. However, I may have to add him to my favourite authors list, as he's found a fan in me. I love his writing style, which is fast paced and descriptive, and the flow of the story is good too.
Although there is no mention of any scenes of a sexual nature, I do not, however, recommend this book to younger readers under the age of 15 due to some violence. I do, however, highly recommend this book if you love dark or epic fantasy, steampunk or action/adventure and supernatural/paranormal romance genres. - Lynn Worton
Mari is a fantastic character and I liked her from the moment she was introduced. I love her determination to do the right thing, even at the cost of her own life. She is an eighteen year-old Master Mechanic. She has attained it by qualifying as the youngest Lady Master Mechanic since the Guild was first formed several centuries earlier.
Mage Alain is also a fantastic character. I liked him a lot. He is seventeen years-old and one of the youngest Acolytes to achieve Mage status. He has been taught from a young age not to show or feel any emotions and that the world he lives in is an illusion, where nothing is real.
I listened to this story in audio format, rather than read it. The story is once again narrated by MacLeod Andrews. He does a fantastic job in bringing the story to life. Even Alain, who's voice is meant to be flat and emotionless comes across with subtle hints. You would think that Alain's voice would be monotonous, but it's not so. I love the way he brings all the characters to life with different accents, inflections and tones. He even makes the women's voices sound perfect for each character. As for his narration, he read the story clearly and concisely, and his pacing was perfect. I would definitely listen to more books read by this narrator.
This story picks up a few months after the events in Dorcastle (see Book One: The Dragons of Dorcastle). Alain has been sent by his guild on a contract to protect some common soldiers who are travelling to war. Along the way, they are attacked.The foresight Alain has developed has shown him that a storm is coming, though he has no idea what his vision means, so wishes to seek answers. Meanwhile, Mari has been sent to Tay (sorry, unsure of spelling due to only hearing it spoken and not reading the book), a region that has fallen into anarchy, by her guild. Unwilling to be a sacrificial lamb, Mari goes in search of Mage Alain. Together once more, they face several challenges and dangers. However, one of their leads takes them to Marandur, a city declared dead by the emperor one hundred and fifty years previously, where they make a startling discovery. Will they survive only to stumble at the final hurdle?
This story introduces us to the world of Dematr. It is a mass of contradictions. There are two great Guilds who hold all the power over the common folk - The Mechanics and The Mages. These Guilds have held power for centuries and refuse to relinquish their hold and reject change of any kind. However, this is slowly strangling the world, making it harder and harder for the Mechanics, especially as their technology is regressing. This story has a steampunk feel to it, with machinery being steam driven at times - trains for instance. Though there are some more modern items such as far-talkers (walkie-talkies to you and me), torches using batteries, and rifles and pistols that are decidedly more modern-day. Mages use energy from the land around them and some of their own energy to make spells. These spells can be used in various ways - from hiding oneself to creating a dragon.
This book is told through the eyes of both Mari and Alain and I found myself completely hooked from beginning to end. I loved meeting the two main protagonists once more, and watching (in my minds eye) the story unfold as I listened. The story is full of action, adventure, and danger and I found myself an emotional wreck at times. Have you ever read or listened to a story and felt completely emersed in it? This happened to me whilst listening to this book. These characters have come to life for me and have become my friends. I found myself missing them when the story finished, so I began listening to it again. I've listened to this book now at least four times. Each time I listen to it, the story and characters sweep me up and carry me away to a world that is alien and yet familiar at the same time, and makes me want to go and visit it. This book ends with a slight cliffhanger and the audio version has a preview of the next book in the series, which I am now looking forward to reading/listening to. I will be listening to The Assassins of Altis as soon as I can.
Jack Campbell is a new author to me. I've never read or listened to any of his other books. However, I may have to add him to my favourite authors list, as he's found a fan in me. I love his writing style, which is fast paced and descriptive, and the flow of the story is good too.
Although there is no mention of any scenes of a sexual nature, I do not, however, recommend this book to younger readers under the age of 15 due to some violence. I do, however, highly recommend this book if you love dark or epic fantasy, steampunk or action/adventure and supernatural/paranormal romance genres. - Lynn Worton
June 15, 2016
Also posted (with Bonus Author Interview) on my blog Got My Book.
Mari & Alain's second adventure continues the genre-blending fun with dragons, rocket launchers, and more friends.
BOOK DETAILS:
The Hidden Masters of Marandur by Jack Campbell, read by MacLeod Andrews, published by Audible Studios (2015) / Length: 12 hrs 54 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #2 of 4 (so far) in "The Pillars of Reality" series. Check out my review of Book #1 . Books #5 & #6 will be released at Audible on 7/1 & 8/1/16 respectively, which will complete the series. Other formats will be released approximately 90 days afterwards.
**This review contains spoilers for the previous book.**
SUMMARY:
I just finished reading Book #4, and this is still my current favorite series. I will repeat what I said in my review of the first book, "forget this review, just go read the book."
CHARACTERS:
Mari: At the end of the last book, she decided that she would change the entire world if necessary in order to make it right and allow her to be with Alain. In this book she is trying to gather more information on how the world got to be the way it is, since she believes is doing research before taking on a problem. She is also grappling with the effects her abandonment issues have on her relationship with Alain.
Alain: He begins this book struggling to deal with the loneliness he now feels after having had Mari to talk to previously. Once they are reunited he has to juggle his determination to protect The Daughter and his own efforts to become truly human again.
Mari & Alain: At the end of the last book, Mari told Alain that she loved him, and he answered "Yes" when she asked if he had feelings for her (he really struggles to express love, since Mages were severely punished for such behavior). The relationship continues to grow in this book in a, mostly, healthy and satisfying manner. Mari does display some serious jealousy that has proved irritating to many readers. It didn't bother me, because she recognized her feelings and tried to deal with them.
I have seen complaints about how Mari is the one who controls their physical relationship. I think that it is absolutely every individuals right to set their own limits. Since, in this relationship, she is the one who wants to "wait" then she is the one choosing where the limits are. Now it is true that she does so in her usual bossy manner, which is what I think they were bothered by, since it might seem like she is telling him what he has to do. But Alain has proven himself more than capable of speaking up if he doesn't agree.
This is the book where we begin to truly introduce some of the wonderful supporting characters that inhabit this world. Important ones include: General Flyn, who I liked despite my concerns expressed below. / Calu, a mechanic friend of Mari's who was briefly mentioned in the first book and whose interest in Theoretical Physics brings out some very intriguing connections between science and the mages magic. / Mage Asha, an extremely beautiful former fellow acolyte of Alain's / Professor S'san, the one who pushed Mari hard so she would reach Master Mechanic status before the rules were changed to set a minimum age. / Mechanic Alli, Mari's best friend and a favorite of mine, is mentioned again.
WORLDBUILDING & PLOT:
In the first book, Alain & Mari were always in the same place even when they were not always together. However at the end of that book they each came to the conclusion that the only way to protect the other was to separate, since being seen together could get them killed by either guild. This book starts out with them halfway across the world from each other.
Note: The parts with Mari alone are never my favorite parts. Not because of her; but because, for some reason, I dislike the Senior Mechanics more than the Mage Elders.
The majority of the book is spent in the territory of The Empire, the largest political power in the world. Their aggression is held in check only by the Guilds, who don't want anyone challenging their control. They are very organized and orderly and have many of the same public institutions as we do, but they are also very controlling.
Trains are officially becoming "a thing." In the first book, she convinced Alain to travel on one and they almost crash due to a sabotaged bridge. Despite his reluctance, they again choose to travel on a train and meet with an adventure.
We get to meet another dragon and a Roc (giant bird), and Mari uses some seriously cool ordinance.
The book ends with some hope that they may finally learn something about their world and how it became so screwed up.
HIGHLIGHTS / CAUTIONS:
--Alain really needs to learn "social skills."
--Mari's recognition that they haven't really known each other that long, and are in mortal danger, so maybe now isn't the time to make big decisions about their future.
--A scene in which Mari is traumatized & despairing and unable to make good choices for herself, and so Alain makes the choice he knows is consistent with her true desires.
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT:
I have serious doubts about the morality of the raids being conducted by General Flyn and his soldiers (i.e. I think they are immoral). The rationale is that they keep their soldiers practiced and their enemy off balance. But, even with their no-kill policy, it is not really the enemy government that suffers. The border farmers are the ones that have to deal with the losses.
I also have concerns about books in which characters regularly "sleep together" when they want, and plan, to not have sex yet. It is made clear in this particular book that Mari doesn't do that until she is confident in their self-control, but waiting is important to her and I personally think that it's unwise to promote the idea that such a practice isn't likely to lead to unplanned activities.
OTHER CAUTIONS: Throughout this series, it is made clear that most Mages & Mechanics don’t concern themselves with “consent” when it come to physical relations with Commons. We don’t get any details of particular incidents though, and neither of our main characters is comfortable with the practice. (repeated from the first review)
NARRATION:
Character voices differentiated = Yes / Opposite sex voices acceptable = Yes / Accents good = Yes. He actually does a really good job with this, since he has to invent accents for people from different fictional regions. / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Good / Emoting = Good. Like the 1st book, he does well with both the emotional Mari and the "just learning to express some emotions, but mostly flat" Alain / Speed = Good, was able to listen on normal speed rather than my usual 1.25.
Mari & Alain's second adventure continues the genre-blending fun with dragons, rocket launchers, and more friends.
BOOK DETAILS:
The Hidden Masters of Marandur by Jack Campbell, read by MacLeod Andrews, published by Audible Studios (2015) / Length: 12 hrs 54 min
SERIES INFO:
This is Book #2 of 4 (so far) in "The Pillars of Reality" series. Check out my review of Book #1 . Books #5 & #6 will be released at Audible on 7/1 & 8/1/16 respectively, which will complete the series. Other formats will be released approximately 90 days afterwards.
**This review contains spoilers for the previous book.**
SUMMARY:
I just finished reading Book #4, and this is still my current favorite series. I will repeat what I said in my review of the first book, "forget this review, just go read the book."
CHARACTERS:
Mari: At the end of the last book, she decided that she would change the entire world if necessary in order to make it right and allow her to be with Alain. In this book she is trying to gather more information on how the world got to be the way it is, since she believes is doing research before taking on a problem. She is also grappling with the effects her abandonment issues have on her relationship with Alain.
Alain: He begins this book struggling to deal with the loneliness he now feels after having had Mari to talk to previously. Once they are reunited he has to juggle his determination to protect The Daughter and his own efforts to become truly human again.
Mari & Alain: At the end of the last book, Mari told Alain that she loved him, and he answered "Yes" when she asked if he had feelings for her (he really struggles to express love, since Mages were severely punished for such behavior). The relationship continues to grow in this book in a, mostly, healthy and satisfying manner. Mari does display some serious jealousy that has proved irritating to many readers. It didn't bother me, because she recognized her feelings and tried to deal with them.
I have seen complaints about how Mari is the one who controls their physical relationship. I think that it is absolutely every individuals right to set their own limits. Since, in this relationship, she is the one who wants to "wait" then she is the one choosing where the limits are. Now it is true that she does so in her usual bossy manner, which is what I think they were bothered by, since it might seem like she is telling him what he has to do. But Alain has proven himself more than capable of speaking up if he doesn't agree.
This is the book where we begin to truly introduce some of the wonderful supporting characters that inhabit this world. Important ones include: General Flyn, who I liked despite my concerns expressed below. / Calu, a mechanic friend of Mari's who was briefly mentioned in the first book and whose interest in Theoretical Physics brings out some very intriguing connections between science and the mages magic. / Mage Asha, an extremely beautiful former fellow acolyte of Alain's / Professor S'san, the one who pushed Mari hard so she would reach Master Mechanic status before the rules were changed to set a minimum age. / Mechanic Alli, Mari's best friend and a favorite of mine, is mentioned again.
WORLDBUILDING & PLOT:
In the first book, Alain & Mari were always in the same place even when they were not always together. However at the end of that book they each came to the conclusion that the only way to protect the other was to separate, since being seen together could get them killed by either guild. This book starts out with them halfway across the world from each other.
Note: The parts with Mari alone are never my favorite parts. Not because of her; but because, for some reason, I dislike the Senior Mechanics more than the Mage Elders.
The majority of the book is spent in the territory of The Empire, the largest political power in the world. Their aggression is held in check only by the Guilds, who don't want anyone challenging their control. They are very organized and orderly and have many of the same public institutions as we do, but they are also very controlling.
Trains are officially becoming "a thing." In the first book, she convinced Alain to travel on one and they almost crash due to a sabotaged bridge. Despite his reluctance, they again choose to travel on a train and meet with an adventure.
We get to meet another dragon and a Roc (giant bird), and Mari uses some seriously cool ordinance.
The book ends with some hope that they may finally learn something about their world and how it became so screwed up.
HIGHLIGHTS / CAUTIONS:
--Alain really needs to learn "social skills."
Mari shifted position, grimacing. "Blazes, my butt hurts. I think horses were designed as instruments of torture. And my thighs. You can't imagine how my thighs feel."
"I have tried to imagine how they feel," Alain offered.
Mari stared back at him blankly for a moment, then broke into laughter. "Alain, you don't just say something like that to a girl. Everybody knows men are thinking it, but they're not supposed to say it."
--Mari's recognition that they haven't really known each other that long, and are in mortal danger, so maybe now isn't the time to make big decisions about their future.
--A scene in which Mari is traumatized & despairing and unable to make good choices for herself, and so Alain makes the choice he knows is consistent with her true desires.
I COULD HAVE DONE WITHOUT:
I have serious doubts about the morality of the raids being conducted by General Flyn and his soldiers (i.e. I think they are immoral). The rationale is that they keep their soldiers practiced and their enemy off balance. But, even with their no-kill policy, it is not really the enemy government that suffers. The border farmers are the ones that have to deal with the losses.
I also have concerns about books in which characters regularly "sleep together" when they want, and plan, to not have sex yet. It is made clear in this particular book that Mari doesn't do that until she is confident in their self-control, but waiting is important to her and I personally think that it's unwise to promote the idea that such a practice isn't likely to lead to unplanned activities.
OTHER CAUTIONS: Throughout this series, it is made clear that most Mages & Mechanics don’t concern themselves with “consent” when it come to physical relations with Commons. We don’t get any details of particular incidents though, and neither of our main characters is comfortable with the practice. (repeated from the first review)
NARRATION:
Character voices differentiated = Yes / Opposite sex voices acceptable = Yes / Accents good = Yes. He actually does a really good job with this, since he has to invent accents for people from different fictional regions. / Phrasing, Pacing & Pronunciation = Good / Emoting = Good. Like the 1st book, he does well with both the emotional Mari and the "just learning to express some emotions, but mostly flat" Alain / Speed = Good, was able to listen on normal speed rather than my usual 1.25.
September 1, 2017
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Someone wants to kill Mari, a young Steam Mechanic in the Guild that controls all technology. She has learned that her world of Dematr is headed for a catastrophe that will destroy civilization, and that Mages really can alter reality for short periods. Someone also wants to kill Alain, a young Mage who has learned that Mechanics are not frauds as his Guild teaches, and that Mechanic Mari is the only person who can prevent the oncoming disaster.
Narrowly escaping death, the Mechanic and the Mage stay alive thanks to their combined skills, an alliance never before seen. But it becomes clear that both of their Guilds, the most powerful forces in the world, are trying to destroy them. Other powers, like the great Empire and a mysterious secret Order, also seek to kill or capture them, using every weapon from Imperial Legions to Mage-created trolls, dragons, and rocs.
Trying to survive and learn the truth about their world so they will know how to save it, Mari and Alain realize that the answers they seek may lie in the dead city of Marandur. But Marandur is guarded by the legions that have sealed it off from the rest of the world for more than a century. Mari and Alain's only hope may rest with the unseen Masters of Marandur.
MY TAKE
The story is excellent again. I enjoy how Campbell is slowly setting up situations for Mari to accept that she is, indeed, the "daughter" of the prophecy. The interactions between her and Alain make me smile, and I love how their skills complement each other.
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is that it ends rather abruptly. It's too cliffhangerish for my tastes. While the first book had a decided ending, even while it was obvious the story wasn't over, this one doesn't.
Someone wants to kill Mari, a young Steam Mechanic in the Guild that controls all technology. She has learned that her world of Dematr is headed for a catastrophe that will destroy civilization, and that Mages really can alter reality for short periods. Someone also wants to kill Alain, a young Mage who has learned that Mechanics are not frauds as his Guild teaches, and that Mechanic Mari is the only person who can prevent the oncoming disaster.
Narrowly escaping death, the Mechanic and the Mage stay alive thanks to their combined skills, an alliance never before seen. But it becomes clear that both of their Guilds, the most powerful forces in the world, are trying to destroy them. Other powers, like the great Empire and a mysterious secret Order, also seek to kill or capture them, using every weapon from Imperial Legions to Mage-created trolls, dragons, and rocs.
Trying to survive and learn the truth about their world so they will know how to save it, Mari and Alain realize that the answers they seek may lie in the dead city of Marandur. But Marandur is guarded by the legions that have sealed it off from the rest of the world for more than a century. Mari and Alain's only hope may rest with the unseen Masters of Marandur.
MY TAKE
The story is excellent again. I enjoy how Campbell is slowly setting up situations for Mari to accept that she is, indeed, the "daughter" of the prophecy. The interactions between her and Alain make me smile, and I love how their skills complement each other.
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is that it ends rather abruptly. It's too cliffhangerish for my tastes. While the first book had a decided ending, even while it was obvious the story wasn't over, this one doesn't.
March 16, 2015
originally posted at: http://thebookplank.blogspot.com/2015...
In the beginning of this year I listened to the first audiobook in the The Pillars of Reality series of Jack Campbell. I was pleasantly surprised by the originality of the story. Jack Campbell is best known for his hard hitting science fiction space opera's, thus writing in the lines of more traditional epic fantasy is quite something different but Jack Campbell wrote it in a way that it will stick with you. When I was listening to this second installment I came to realize just how much I missed Mari the Mechanic and Alain the Mage.
The Hidden Masters of Marandur picks up directly after the events of The Dragons of Dorcastle. In the first book you met both Mari and Alain, a Mechanic and a Mage, who previously lived very separate lives, but who now due to very unforeseen events have come very close. Something that shouldn't happen between Mechanics and Mages as they live their lives differently and not to speak of the facts that their respective guilds are sort of at war with each other, they cant stand one another. Call it what you will I think I can call it love at first sight. they have become inseparable, they learned from each other and now the protect one another. Anyway in the end of The Dragons of Dorcastle Alain and Mari were called back to their guild and set with new tasks, being separated once again. This is how the story begins. Mari is tasked with a new mission by her Mechanic Guild and the same happens to Alain by his Mage Guild. But much more is already brewing in the respective Guilds. Because they have certain thoughts about what has actually transpired in Dorcastle. So Alain finds himself once again alone on a mission, one that quickly turns into a mission impossible... because you know Dragons. Soon Mari jumps into the picture yes not out of the back of an caravan. Mari aids Alain and his new friends to the rescue unleashing some devastating Mechanic gadgets. After this it comes to show that Mari was missing Alain and that she used some very clever means to trace to where Alain was heading. During this reunion, both Mari and Alain come to the understanding that they are definite wildfires for their guild and both are sought to be killed, but Alain mentions something of a certain prophecy. A prophecy where Mari may play a crucial role in.
Not only are the Guild looking out to find Mari and Alain. Do you still recall some discoveries that were made in the first book? Pinned on the Dark Mechanics? Well you learn that there are more forces at play here, more importantly a force known as the Order. It was really a cool thing of Jack Campbell to make a confrontation with the Order as this added a completely different perspective to everything. But this is not everything where the emphasize is lain upon. In essence this story now turns into a race to find out what the current world is about and why the power is in the hands of the Mage and Mechanic Guild. When Mari meets up with an old acquaintance of her she uncovers more about what the world is, her talk with a professor who trained teachers her even more. Step by step Maria and Alain uncover more and more questions, yes not answers, but questions. The Mechanic Guild has built magnificent things, but things that were build over a hundred years ago haven't changed, why is this? They must have the brains to further their knowledge, to innovate, why is this called to a halt? There are many more questions like these and only one place to find the answers and that Marandur. A sealed off city that may hold the key to them. The journey to Marandur will see Mari and Alain through hostile lands that are ruled by the Imperials and that is not even mentioning getting into and out of Marandur alive. This quest is paved with troubles. One question that will be answered in the book is if Mari and Alain will be up for this task.
If I would have to compare The Hidden Masters of Marandur with The Dragons of Dorcastle, I have to say that this sequel is amazing. I had some minor squabbles with the story of The Dragons of Dorcastle, but those are completely absent in this story. jack Campbell has nicely outdone himself with telling the story of The Hidden Masters of Marandur. When I look back on the first story I now see clearly the time that Jack Campbell had invested in setting up the characters and there history was just spot on. From the first moment in this second book he only moves forward. There was already something brewing between Mari and Alain in the first book that now becomes much more appararent. Also Mages are emotionless people where as Mechanics are arrogant people. Mari was really a catalyst in the change of Alain, and I really liked this transformation of him and in the end the interplay that both Mari and Alain have. I think they will be in more surprises of each other! Overall there is a great character development. I liked how Alain warmed up to everything and even started to make his own jokes and how both came to realize that the indoctrination of their Guild is mightily wrong, and how they are trying to persuade others as well.
I don't know whether this series will be a trilogy but with the track that Jack Campbell is one three books just won't cut it. He has really outdone himself with this second book. Delving much deeper into the history of the Guild and the world of Dematr, raising a lot of questions that aren't answered just yet, so I think I am not the only one who will be saying bring on the third book now!
Once again I also have to give a hand to MacLeod Andrews, I was impressed with the narration he did in the first book, but he just as Jack Campbell did an even finer job with The Hidden Masters of Marandur. What I particularly liked was when the emotions ran high between Mari and Alain. Their "fights" and discussions were really brought to life. It was great to see that they weren't always on one line or that they had different expectations of different events. MacLeod Andrews' narration just added that little extra to make it sound just as real people fight in the real world. You just as I will be taken by it. Not only the discussions and fights though, there are small jokes or quirky remarks that are narrated with the same passion. A great job. No Macleaod Andrews did an amazing job.
In the beginning of this year I listened to the first audiobook in the The Pillars of Reality series of Jack Campbell. I was pleasantly surprised by the originality of the story. Jack Campbell is best known for his hard hitting science fiction space opera's, thus writing in the lines of more traditional epic fantasy is quite something different but Jack Campbell wrote it in a way that it will stick with you. When I was listening to this second installment I came to realize just how much I missed Mari the Mechanic and Alain the Mage.
The Hidden Masters of Marandur picks up directly after the events of The Dragons of Dorcastle. In the first book you met both Mari and Alain, a Mechanic and a Mage, who previously lived very separate lives, but who now due to very unforeseen events have come very close. Something that shouldn't happen between Mechanics and Mages as they live their lives differently and not to speak of the facts that their respective guilds are sort of at war with each other, they cant stand one another. Call it what you will I think I can call it love at first sight. they have become inseparable, they learned from each other and now the protect one another. Anyway in the end of The Dragons of Dorcastle Alain and Mari were called back to their guild and set with new tasks, being separated once again. This is how the story begins. Mari is tasked with a new mission by her Mechanic Guild and the same happens to Alain by his Mage Guild. But much more is already brewing in the respective Guilds. Because they have certain thoughts about what has actually transpired in Dorcastle. So Alain finds himself once again alone on a mission, one that quickly turns into a mission impossible... because you know Dragons. Soon Mari jumps into the picture yes not out of the back of an caravan. Mari aids Alain and his new friends to the rescue unleashing some devastating Mechanic gadgets. After this it comes to show that Mari was missing Alain and that she used some very clever means to trace to where Alain was heading. During this reunion, both Mari and Alain come to the understanding that they are definite wildfires for their guild and both are sought to be killed, but Alain mentions something of a certain prophecy. A prophecy where Mari may play a crucial role in.
Not only are the Guild looking out to find Mari and Alain. Do you still recall some discoveries that were made in the first book? Pinned on the Dark Mechanics? Well you learn that there are more forces at play here, more importantly a force known as the Order. It was really a cool thing of Jack Campbell to make a confrontation with the Order as this added a completely different perspective to everything. But this is not everything where the emphasize is lain upon. In essence this story now turns into a race to find out what the current world is about and why the power is in the hands of the Mage and Mechanic Guild. When Mari meets up with an old acquaintance of her she uncovers more about what the world is, her talk with a professor who trained teachers her even more. Step by step Maria and Alain uncover more and more questions, yes not answers, but questions. The Mechanic Guild has built magnificent things, but things that were build over a hundred years ago haven't changed, why is this? They must have the brains to further their knowledge, to innovate, why is this called to a halt? There are many more questions like these and only one place to find the answers and that Marandur. A sealed off city that may hold the key to them. The journey to Marandur will see Mari and Alain through hostile lands that are ruled by the Imperials and that is not even mentioning getting into and out of Marandur alive. This quest is paved with troubles. One question that will be answered in the book is if Mari and Alain will be up for this task.
If I would have to compare The Hidden Masters of Marandur with The Dragons of Dorcastle, I have to say that this sequel is amazing. I had some minor squabbles with the story of The Dragons of Dorcastle, but those are completely absent in this story. jack Campbell has nicely outdone himself with telling the story of The Hidden Masters of Marandur. When I look back on the first story I now see clearly the time that Jack Campbell had invested in setting up the characters and there history was just spot on. From the first moment in this second book he only moves forward. There was already something brewing between Mari and Alain in the first book that now becomes much more appararent. Also Mages are emotionless people where as Mechanics are arrogant people. Mari was really a catalyst in the change of Alain, and I really liked this transformation of him and in the end the interplay that both Mari and Alain have. I think they will be in more surprises of each other! Overall there is a great character development. I liked how Alain warmed up to everything and even started to make his own jokes and how both came to realize that the indoctrination of their Guild is mightily wrong, and how they are trying to persuade others as well.
I don't know whether this series will be a trilogy but with the track that Jack Campbell is one three books just won't cut it. He has really outdone himself with this second book. Delving much deeper into the history of the Guild and the world of Dematr, raising a lot of questions that aren't answered just yet, so I think I am not the only one who will be saying bring on the third book now!
Once again I also have to give a hand to MacLeod Andrews, I was impressed with the narration he did in the first book, but he just as Jack Campbell did an even finer job with The Hidden Masters of Marandur. What I particularly liked was when the emotions ran high between Mari and Alain. Their "fights" and discussions were really brought to life. It was great to see that they weren't always on one line or that they had different expectations of different events. MacLeod Andrews' narration just added that little extra to make it sound just as real people fight in the real world. You just as I will be taken by it. Not only the discussions and fights though, there are small jokes or quirky remarks that are narrated with the same passion. A great job. No Macleaod Andrews did an amazing job.
December 28, 2017
The first introduced us to this bizarre world of Mages and Mechanics and the second one builds on that tremendously. Even though there is this annoying sappy relationship thread throughout the book, it does lend itself to becoming a plot point and works well. Looking forward to the third installment of Mage and Mech!
August 27, 2017
The romantic development between the two leads got just a bit more irritating (Jack Campbell nailed the teenaged angst, which is a double edged sword of a writing skill) but the world building got even more amazing, which evens everything out.
March 3, 2017
The plot thickens, the story continues, but now Alain can smile and be sarcastic ^___^
June 14, 2025
2nd time trying this series out. I like Jack Campbell. This is not my cup of tea.
September 5, 2021
I continue to love this story and am really liking how it develops, the love sub plot is still a bit annoying but I get now that it will be a slow burn progression towards a more healthy relationship dynamic, fingers crossed!
Read
May 27, 2020Very good.
September 10, 2025
After the first book, I started to get a bit more into the characters and the story. Perhaps because they grow through their experiences and feel less young. Again, remind me to not read YA. I liked how now, the proper hero's journey has started.
October 28, 2025
First- there are some spoilers if you haven't yet read the first book. So, stop now, read The Dragons of Dorcastle, then come back if you don't want any spoilers.
I absolutely loved the first book in the series and I absolutely love everything about this second installment...except for the one thing that knocked it down to four stars for me- Mari and Alain's romance. Logically, I get it. They're both experiencing love for the first time under extreme duress and social prejudices that make Romeo and Juliet look like a walk in the park. On top of all that, no matter how many life-threatening situations they've survived, they're both still teenagers and thus susceptible to extreme emotions. I get all of that, but it was still painful at times to watch them navigate how much they loved each other. Okay, wait, let me amend that- it was painful to watch Mari navigate her love for Alain. I'm still a huge Alain fan and I thought he handled all these new emotions with an unexpected maturity and understanding, despite not understanding. Mari, however, was like a bag of cats. I mean, what else does Alain have to do to show how much he loves her and won't abandon her? And why is she always so desperate to avoid talking about her future when it comes to him? I wanted to throttle Mari more than once, and her awkward handling of her emotions kept the five star ranking off this book. But still, I'm glad that they both finally decided that they're better and stronger together rather than apart, and are brave enough to be together in public.
In other aspects, Mari is pretty awesome. She takes the bull by the horns and throws herself into things wholeheartedly. I mean, who else would go on a cross-country trek armed with two rocket launchers on the off-chance that she would need them? I mean, good thing she did, because they were absolutely necessary, but still. But for someone who has longed to be important and recognized, she really, really, really does not want to hear anything about her future and the possibility that she might be fated for great things. It's a bit odd.
As I said before, I continue to love Alain! He's a steady presence at Mari's side and I love how he can be so perceptive and clueless all at the same time, usually from one breath to the next. He definitely takes some major personal risks, but his belief in others is outstanding. He's learning to trust people other than Mari and so far, it's working out in his favor.
This second book is even more action-packed than the first, if that's even possible. I really don't know how Mari and Alain have enough perseverance to get through half the stuff they do. In their travels, they're slowly building a group of supporters around them and I can't wait to see how everything is going to play out. The book ends with the two of them stuck in a tough spot, and I'm interested to know how they get themselves out of it.
I absolutely loved the first book in the series and I absolutely love everything about this second installment...except for the one thing that knocked it down to four stars for me- Mari and Alain's romance. Logically, I get it. They're both experiencing love for the first time under extreme duress and social prejudices that make Romeo and Juliet look like a walk in the park. On top of all that, no matter how many life-threatening situations they've survived, they're both still teenagers and thus susceptible to extreme emotions. I get all of that, but it was still painful at times to watch them navigate how much they loved each other. Okay, wait, let me amend that- it was painful to watch Mari navigate her love for Alain. I'm still a huge Alain fan and I thought he handled all these new emotions with an unexpected maturity and understanding, despite not understanding. Mari, however, was like a bag of cats. I mean, what else does Alain have to do to show how much he loves her and won't abandon her? And why is she always so desperate to avoid talking about her future when it comes to him? I wanted to throttle Mari more than once, and her awkward handling of her emotions kept the five star ranking off this book. But still, I'm glad that they both finally decided that they're better and stronger together rather than apart, and are brave enough to be together in public.
In other aspects, Mari is pretty awesome. She takes the bull by the horns and throws herself into things wholeheartedly. I mean, who else would go on a cross-country trek armed with two rocket launchers on the off-chance that she would need them? I mean, good thing she did, because they were absolutely necessary, but still. But for someone who has longed to be important and recognized, she really, really, really does not want to hear anything about her future and the possibility that she might be fated for great things. It's a bit odd.
As I said before, I continue to love Alain! He's a steady presence at Mari's side and I love how he can be so perceptive and clueless all at the same time, usually from one breath to the next. He definitely takes some major personal risks, but his belief in others is outstanding. He's learning to trust people other than Mari and so far, it's working out in his favor.
This second book is even more action-packed than the first, if that's even possible. I really don't know how Mari and Alain have enough perseverance to get through half the stuff they do. In their travels, they're slowly building a group of supporters around them and I can't wait to see how everything is going to play out. The book ends with the two of them stuck in a tough spot, and I'm interested to know how they get themselves out of it.
July 1, 2017
Well, I think my rating actually runs closer to 3.5 stars....not because I didn't enjoy it (which I did), but it just didn't stand out as much from the pack as the first one did. If you're interested in this series, read the first book. If you like Dragons of Dorcastle, then snag this one. It's solid and good, has decent action, spends probably a little too much time dealing with the feelings of the two main characters for each other (though with the characters Campbell has set up, their conversations are justifiable, to a point).
This book, in my mind, really provides the justification for what Mari will do and Alain's role beside her. In the last book we leave her in denial of her potential, by the end of this book she has relented to her 'destiny' and begun to embrace it. While her transition to world-changing revolutionary leader is incomplete, Campbell explores here Mari's transition.
The action, though more sparse than I would prefer, was pretty good. There is a lot more 'relationship' talk about feelings and their love for one another throughout this book. Again, though I haven't read the other books in the series I really suspect that Campbell is establishing their relationship and their roles so he can build off that foundation later on in the series (if he's not, I'm going to be ticked off...).
Good book, excellent listen, definitely recommend if you enjoyed Dragons of Dorcastle. Don't start the series here, though - get the first book and read/listen to it first.
This book, in my mind, really provides the justification for what Mari will do and Alain's role beside her. In the last book we leave her in denial of her potential, by the end of this book she has relented to her 'destiny' and begun to embrace it. While her transition to world-changing revolutionary leader is incomplete, Campbell explores here Mari's transition.
The action, though more sparse than I would prefer, was pretty good. There is a lot more 'relationship' talk about feelings and their love for one another throughout this book. Again, though I haven't read the other books in the series I really suspect that Campbell is establishing their relationship and their roles so he can build off that foundation later on in the series (if he's not, I'm going to be ticked off...).
Good book, excellent listen, definitely recommend if you enjoyed Dragons of Dorcastle. Don't start the series here, though - get the first book and read/listen to it first.
March 19, 2017
The second book in The Pillars of Reality series was very polarizing compared to the first book. This was largely due to the main protagonist's repetitive whining and all out temper tantrums which became very irritating to have to listen to, but also from the quality of the writing in this book as it seemingly took a large step backwards almost like an amateur writer had stepped in for book 2. I liked the magic system and the way the story progressed, but because of my previous statement found it hard to concentrate on other things that happened throughout the story with the constant interruptions.
I do understand that the main protagonist is young and often immature, and having issues coming to terms with all that is happening to her, but the author focuses on this way too often through out the book. Quite a few of her temper tantrums were identical and many of them could probably have been written out without affecting the storyline at all.
If you can get past this the book is enjoyable and very entertaining to read, often times funny enough to make you laugh out loud. I would have given this book 4 stars, but the negatives are distracting enough to lower my rating to 3 stars.
I do understand that the main protagonist is young and often immature, and having issues coming to terms with all that is happening to her, but the author focuses on this way too often through out the book. Quite a few of her temper tantrums were identical and many of them could probably have been written out without affecting the storyline at all.
If you can get past this the book is enjoyable and very entertaining to read, often times funny enough to make you laugh out loud. I would have given this book 4 stars, but the negatives are distracting enough to lower my rating to 3 stars.
December 1, 2016
I like a lot of things about this book - the world created in the Dragons of Dorcastle is expanded, the Guilds' gender equality is interesting and believable, the connection between Mari and Alain is also believable (although their conversation is occasionally a tad clunky.)
I do not at all, however, like the way that Mari is established as the keeper of purity. It seems based on a very 1950s view of sexual behavior. Where mean feel lust and women have to control themselves. Yes, Mari says it's because she doesn't want to risk pregnancy, but she's the one who demands they halt, Alain the one who respects her decision/request. The author could have countered the pregnancy issue any number of ways; it's his world, after all.
Instead Mari is the one responsible for their mutual desire, which carries the implication that Alain must struggle with it, when he shows no signs of doing so. It irked me.
I'd love to see a sex-positive or even sex-neutral book in the age group where both characters took equal responsibility for their behavior, as these two do in the rest of their interactions.
Their growing attachment and Alain's learning to feel is beautiful. And very moving.
I do not at all, however, like the way that Mari is established as the keeper of purity. It seems based on a very 1950s view of sexual behavior. Where mean feel lust and women have to control themselves. Yes, Mari says it's because she doesn't want to risk pregnancy, but she's the one who demands they halt, Alain the one who respects her decision/request. The author could have countered the pregnancy issue any number of ways; it's his world, after all.
Instead Mari is the one responsible for their mutual desire, which carries the implication that Alain must struggle with it, when he shows no signs of doing so. It irked me.
I'd love to see a sex-positive or even sex-neutral book in the age group where both characters took equal responsibility for their behavior, as these two do in the rest of their interactions.
Their growing attachment and Alain's learning to feel is beautiful. And very moving.
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