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The Mystic Trilogy #1
Mystic
The start of an enchanting new epic fantasy series from the founder of Dragonmount
I called to the Myst, and it sent us you.
For hundreds of years, high-born nobles have competed for the chance to learn of the Myst.
Powerful, revered, and often reclusive, Mystics have the unique ability to summon and manipulate the Myst: the underlying energy that lives at the heart of the universe. Once in a very great while, they take an apprentice, always from the most privileged sects of society.
Such has always been the tradition—until a new High Mystic takes her seat and chooses Pomella AnDone, a restless, low-born teenager, as a candidate.
Commoners have never been welcomed among the select few given the opportunity to rise beyond even the highest nobility. So when Pomella chooses to accept the summons and journey to Kelt Apar, she knows that she will have more to contend with than the competition for the apprenticeship.
Breaking both law and tradition, Pomella undergoes three trials against the other candidates to prove her worthiness. As the trials unfold, Pomella navigates a deadly world of intolerance and betrayal, unaware that ruthless conspirators intend to make her suffer for having the audacity to seek to unravel the secrets of the Myst.
I called to the Myst, and it sent us you.
For hundreds of years, high-born nobles have competed for the chance to learn of the Myst.
Powerful, revered, and often reclusive, Mystics have the unique ability to summon and manipulate the Myst: the underlying energy that lives at the heart of the universe. Once in a very great while, they take an apprentice, always from the most privileged sects of society.
Such has always been the tradition—until a new High Mystic takes her seat and chooses Pomella AnDone, a restless, low-born teenager, as a candidate.
Commoners have never been welcomed among the select few given the opportunity to rise beyond even the highest nobility. So when Pomella chooses to accept the summons and journey to Kelt Apar, she knows that she will have more to contend with than the competition for the apprenticeship.
Breaking both law and tradition, Pomella undergoes three trials against the other candidates to prove her worthiness. As the trials unfold, Pomella navigates a deadly world of intolerance and betrayal, unaware that ruthless conspirators intend to make her suffer for having the audacity to seek to unravel the secrets of the Myst.
319 pages, Hardcover
First published November 3, 2015
63 people are currently reading
3890 people want to read
About the author
Jason Denzel
9 books135 followersMy name is Jason Denzel, and I invite you to check out my adult and YA-friendly epic fantasy saga, THE MYSTIC TRILOGY, which begins with Mystic and continues with two sequels, Mystic Dragon and Mystic Skies.
In addition to writing, I'm also an award-winning filmmaker, and the founder of Dragonmount.com, the leading online community for Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson's Wheel of Time saga.
When I'm not writing or pursuing other creative ventures, I study Choy-Li-Fut Kung Fu. I live in Northern California.
For updates on The Mystic Trilogy and other projects, you can follow me on Instagram (@jasondenzel), Threads, or Blue Sky (@jasondenzel.com) or check out my website at JasonDenzel.com. Thanks for reading!
In addition to writing, I'm also an award-winning filmmaker, and the founder of Dragonmount.com, the leading online community for Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson's Wheel of Time saga.
When I'm not writing or pursuing other creative ventures, I study Choy-Li-Fut Kung Fu. I live in Northern California.
For updates on The Mystic Trilogy and other projects, you can follow me on Instagram (@jasondenzel), Threads, or Blue Sky (@jasondenzel.com) or check out my website at JasonDenzel.com. Thanks for reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
October 27, 2015
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum http://bibliosanctum.com/2015/10/27/b...
Mystic is one of the most charming fantasy debuts I’ve read this year. While not strictly marketed as Young Adult, Jason Denzel’s new book is a magical coming-of-age tale that nevertheless has the kind of crossover appeal which would make it a hit with a wide range of readers.
At the heart of this story is a young commoner woman named Pomella who receives an opportunity of a lifetime. A messenger has to come her village with a summons from Kelt Apar, inviting her to participate in a competition to become apprentice to the new High Mystic. But such a post has always been reserved for the scions of the nobility, and it has been like this for time eternal. So why would the High Mystic choose a low-born teenager as a candidate now?
Everything about the invitation goes against law and tradition, but Pomella decides to accept anyway, even if it will mean giving up her whole life. For if she goes to Kelt Apar but fails to win the apprenticeship, she will become Unclaimed – nameless, homeless, and declared anathema. Now Pomella will need to pit her wits and abilities in a series of trials against three other elite candidates to show she is worthy of the High Mystic’s attentions, and prove that even a commoner can have a place in the Myst.
If you enjoy reading about pure-hearted and genuine characters, then you are sure to like Pomella. She might be not your typical “kickass female protagonist”, but she is no less strong in her own way, without all the bluff and bluster of false bravado. Instead, the author has created a character here who comes across as real as you or me—a person with dreams, doubts, and desires that seem impossible to achieve. Pomella’s emotions and reactions toward new experiences feel very believable to me, especially when she finds herself in difficult situations.
There’s also so much to love about the magical world of Mystic. Steeped in the wonders of nature, the Myst is an ancient force that is as powerful as it is mysterious. Men and women who have a connection to it have the potential to become Mystics, able to manipulate its energies. Depending on the individual, this can be done in various ways. For Pomella, the Myst is tied to her talent for singing, and thus music is a huge part of who she is and the power of song also plays a significant role in the events of this story.
And that’s not the end of it. This is a very rich setting inspired by many sources. You’ll no doubt recognize a few familiar motifs from myth and legend, but at the same time Jason Denzel has placed his own touches on them to make them all his own. The world is filled with surprises and I loved peeling back its many layers. The Myst hides many secrets, including a whole other realm filled with silvery, spirit-like creatures called the Fay that are only visible to Mystics. And even though this book takes place mostly in Kelt Apar and its surrounding areas on the island of Moth, there’s a whole wide world out there full of different cultures from different kingdoms. Over the course of her trials, Pomella will meet a host of new friends and enemies—both human and non-human—who hail from all over the map.
For such a quick read, the story is surprisingly packed too. Things tie up quite neatly, but despite there being some traditional plot elements in play, I wouldn’t exactly call this book predictable. There’s a mix of interesting and unique dynamics, and an exciting climax. There were some unexpected twists, and it was also a nice touch to show another side of story by including a few chapters told in the perspective of Pomella’s friend Sim. As always, there’s room for expansion, but I’m overall really impressed with the level of detail in both the storytelling and the exploration into the themes of social class. Denzel’s writing style flows naturally and it is very enjoyable, making it easy to lose yourself in Mystic.
If you’re looking for compelling characters and a gorgeously crafted fantasy world, then Mystic will definitely appeal. I love how this is a self-contained story, but I’m also intrigued by the mysteries of the Myst and want to know more about the world and its protagonist Pomella. Seeing how this is the first of a planned trilogy, looks like I’ll get my wish. This was an awesome debut and I’m looking forward to more.
Mystic is one of the most charming fantasy debuts I’ve read this year. While not strictly marketed as Young Adult, Jason Denzel’s new book is a magical coming-of-age tale that nevertheless has the kind of crossover appeal which would make it a hit with a wide range of readers.
At the heart of this story is a young commoner woman named Pomella who receives an opportunity of a lifetime. A messenger has to come her village with a summons from Kelt Apar, inviting her to participate in a competition to become apprentice to the new High Mystic. But such a post has always been reserved for the scions of the nobility, and it has been like this for time eternal. So why would the High Mystic choose a low-born teenager as a candidate now?
Everything about the invitation goes against law and tradition, but Pomella decides to accept anyway, even if it will mean giving up her whole life. For if she goes to Kelt Apar but fails to win the apprenticeship, she will become Unclaimed – nameless, homeless, and declared anathema. Now Pomella will need to pit her wits and abilities in a series of trials against three other elite candidates to show she is worthy of the High Mystic’s attentions, and prove that even a commoner can have a place in the Myst.
If you enjoy reading about pure-hearted and genuine characters, then you are sure to like Pomella. She might be not your typical “kickass female protagonist”, but she is no less strong in her own way, without all the bluff and bluster of false bravado. Instead, the author has created a character here who comes across as real as you or me—a person with dreams, doubts, and desires that seem impossible to achieve. Pomella’s emotions and reactions toward new experiences feel very believable to me, especially when she finds herself in difficult situations.
There’s also so much to love about the magical world of Mystic. Steeped in the wonders of nature, the Myst is an ancient force that is as powerful as it is mysterious. Men and women who have a connection to it have the potential to become Mystics, able to manipulate its energies. Depending on the individual, this can be done in various ways. For Pomella, the Myst is tied to her talent for singing, and thus music is a huge part of who she is and the power of song also plays a significant role in the events of this story.
And that’s not the end of it. This is a very rich setting inspired by many sources. You’ll no doubt recognize a few familiar motifs from myth and legend, but at the same time Jason Denzel has placed his own touches on them to make them all his own. The world is filled with surprises and I loved peeling back its many layers. The Myst hides many secrets, including a whole other realm filled with silvery, spirit-like creatures called the Fay that are only visible to Mystics. And even though this book takes place mostly in Kelt Apar and its surrounding areas on the island of Moth, there’s a whole wide world out there full of different cultures from different kingdoms. Over the course of her trials, Pomella will meet a host of new friends and enemies—both human and non-human—who hail from all over the map.
For such a quick read, the story is surprisingly packed too. Things tie up quite neatly, but despite there being some traditional plot elements in play, I wouldn’t exactly call this book predictable. There’s a mix of interesting and unique dynamics, and an exciting climax. There were some unexpected twists, and it was also a nice touch to show another side of story by including a few chapters told in the perspective of Pomella’s friend Sim. As always, there’s room for expansion, but I’m overall really impressed with the level of detail in both the storytelling and the exploration into the themes of social class. Denzel’s writing style flows naturally and it is very enjoyable, making it easy to lose yourself in Mystic.
If you’re looking for compelling characters and a gorgeously crafted fantasy world, then Mystic will definitely appeal. I love how this is a self-contained story, but I’m also intrigued by the mysteries of the Myst and want to know more about the world and its protagonist Pomella. Seeing how this is the first of a planned trilogy, looks like I’ll get my wish. This was an awesome debut and I’m looking forward to more.
February 17, 2016
I enter the world called real as one enters a mist.
----Julien Green
Jason Denzel, an American author, pens his debut YA fantasy series, Mystic which is the first book in this young adult series, that narrates the story of a young commoner living in a world dominated by barony where a young apprentice is chosen among privileged teenagers, who is not a commoner, to become and uncover the hidden powers of a true Mystic from the nature under the guidance of a higher Mystic.
Synopsis:
I called to the Myst, and it sent us you.
For hundreds of years, high-born nobles have competed for the chance to learn of the Myst.
Powerful, revered, and often reclusive, Mystics have the unique ability to summon and manipulate the Myst: the underlying energy that lives at the heart of the universe. Once in a very great while, they take an apprentice, always from the most privileged sects of society.
Such has always been the tradition—until a new High Mystic takes her seat and chooses Pomella AnDone, a restless, low-born teenager, as a candidate.
Commoners have never been welcomed among the select few given the opportunity to rise beyond even the highest nobility. So when Pomella chooses to accept the summons and journey to Kelt Apar, she knows that she will have more to contend with than the competition for the apprenticeship.
Breaking both law and tradition, Pomella undergoes three trials against the other candidates to prove her worthiness. As the trials unfold, Pomella navigates a deadly world of intolerance and betrayal, unaware that ruthless conspirators intend to make her suffer for having the audacity to seek to unravel the secrets of the Myst.
Pomella AnDone is born as a commoner in her village minus the luxury of a noble life or the silk gowns, but with a powerful voice that channels the Myst from the nature. In her village there is a tradition, that once in a while the High Mystic will choose a candidate among the noble and privileged families to compete against one another to become an apprentice under the High Mystic. But during the spring fest in Pomella's village, a messenger arrives from Kelt Apar- the home to the High Mystic, with the message that the new High Mystic has summoned Pomella to compete in the competition with other noble candidates to become a Mystic. Against the tradition and the rules, Pomella journeys to Kelt Apar to become a Mystic but little did she knew that the noble families whose sons and daughters are competing against her are plotting an agenda to stop her from becoming a Mystic.
Welcome to yet another fantasy series which has the elements of magic and other magical creatures, thus providing a vision into the make-believe world created by the author. For me, the world development matters a lot when it comes to fantasy stories and that has been handled by the author so flawlessly. The world that he developed is convincing and described with great details and even a map to understand the land and the names of the places. The author's projection of this world is vivid thus letting the readers take a voyage along with the young heroine through the forests towards Kelt Apar.
The author's writing style is fantastic and very easy to
comprehend with. The narrative is appealing and free-flowing and has the power to keep the readers engrossed into the story line till the very end. The pacing of the book is fast and the thrilling adventure as well as the three trials will keep the readers on their edges. There is an air of mystery which has been depicted by the author satisfyingly with enough twist and turns but unfortunately they are easy to anticipate.
The characters are well-developed highlighting both their strong ans weak attributes. The main character, Pomella, is more like a Katniss-kinda girl, brave and fearless and someone who also cares about her family a lot. But unlike Katniss, Pomella is sociable and has friends and even a boy who likes her a lot, and not to mention, there is a love triangle, so if you're against teenage love triangles, then it's better, if you skip this book. The romance is a big negative for me in this story as I will say that it has not been featured with enough passion or heart-felt emotions to make me feel it. There are some characters which are magical and their witty and adorable demeanor makes the story even more interesting to read.
There is a mild cliffhanger in the climax which will definitely make the readers vouch for the next book in the series. Well, in a nutshell, this is a promising fantasy story from a newbie author which is extremely intriguing and thrilling to the very core of the story line.
Verdict: Here comes a compelling and exciting new series that you definitely need to look out for.
Courtesy: Thank to the author, Jason Denzel's publicist for providing me with a copy of the book, in return for an honest review.
----Julien Green
Jason Denzel, an American author, pens his debut YA fantasy series, Mystic which is the first book in this young adult series, that narrates the story of a young commoner living in a world dominated by barony where a young apprentice is chosen among privileged teenagers, who is not a commoner, to become and uncover the hidden powers of a true Mystic from the nature under the guidance of a higher Mystic.
Synopsis:
I called to the Myst, and it sent us you.
For hundreds of years, high-born nobles have competed for the chance to learn of the Myst.
Powerful, revered, and often reclusive, Mystics have the unique ability to summon and manipulate the Myst: the underlying energy that lives at the heart of the universe. Once in a very great while, they take an apprentice, always from the most privileged sects of society.
Such has always been the tradition—until a new High Mystic takes her seat and chooses Pomella AnDone, a restless, low-born teenager, as a candidate.
Commoners have never been welcomed among the select few given the opportunity to rise beyond even the highest nobility. So when Pomella chooses to accept the summons and journey to Kelt Apar, she knows that she will have more to contend with than the competition for the apprenticeship.
Breaking both law and tradition, Pomella undergoes three trials against the other candidates to prove her worthiness. As the trials unfold, Pomella navigates a deadly world of intolerance and betrayal, unaware that ruthless conspirators intend to make her suffer for having the audacity to seek to unravel the secrets of the Myst.
Pomella AnDone is born as a commoner in her village minus the luxury of a noble life or the silk gowns, but with a powerful voice that channels the Myst from the nature. In her village there is a tradition, that once in a while the High Mystic will choose a candidate among the noble and privileged families to compete against one another to become an apprentice under the High Mystic. But during the spring fest in Pomella's village, a messenger arrives from Kelt Apar- the home to the High Mystic, with the message that the new High Mystic has summoned Pomella to compete in the competition with other noble candidates to become a Mystic. Against the tradition and the rules, Pomella journeys to Kelt Apar to become a Mystic but little did she knew that the noble families whose sons and daughters are competing against her are plotting an agenda to stop her from becoming a Mystic.
Welcome to yet another fantasy series which has the elements of magic and other magical creatures, thus providing a vision into the make-believe world created by the author. For me, the world development matters a lot when it comes to fantasy stories and that has been handled by the author so flawlessly. The world that he developed is convincing and described with great details and even a map to understand the land and the names of the places. The author's projection of this world is vivid thus letting the readers take a voyage along with the young heroine through the forests towards Kelt Apar.
The author's writing style is fantastic and very easy to
comprehend with. The narrative is appealing and free-flowing and has the power to keep the readers engrossed into the story line till the very end. The pacing of the book is fast and the thrilling adventure as well as the three trials will keep the readers on their edges. There is an air of mystery which has been depicted by the author satisfyingly with enough twist and turns but unfortunately they are easy to anticipate.
The characters are well-developed highlighting both their strong ans weak attributes. The main character, Pomella, is more like a Katniss-kinda girl, brave and fearless and someone who also cares about her family a lot. But unlike Katniss, Pomella is sociable and has friends and even a boy who likes her a lot, and not to mention, there is a love triangle, so if you're against teenage love triangles, then it's better, if you skip this book. The romance is a big negative for me in this story as I will say that it has not been featured with enough passion or heart-felt emotions to make me feel it. There are some characters which are magical and their witty and adorable demeanor makes the story even more interesting to read.
There is a mild cliffhanger in the climax which will definitely make the readers vouch for the next book in the series. Well, in a nutshell, this is a promising fantasy story from a newbie author which is extremely intriguing and thrilling to the very core of the story line.
Verdict: Here comes a compelling and exciting new series that you definitely need to look out for.
Courtesy: Thank to the author, Jason Denzel's publicist for providing me with a copy of the book, in return for an honest review.
October 29, 2015
Review originally posted at The Speculative Herald: http://www.speculativeherald.com/2015...
Mystic is very much a coming of age, perhaps somewhat standard fare for a young adult novel. And maybe you could say the story, in some ways, was predictable. But you know what? I don’t care. I found the characters refreshing, I wanted to read their experiences as they venture through this story. So, regardless of anything that felt familiar, I still really enjoyed it (remember, sometimes familiar is fun when the story is told well).
Mystic is a book to immerse yourself in, in a way that makes you feel you can join the adventure as it unfolds on the page. It is very much a character driven story and the reader’s connection with Pomella is crucial to make this work. Luckily, I found Pomella very intriguing and wanted to root for her the entire time.
Even though this is a character driven story, the magic in it is also very cool. The Myst is the magical force/entity/power in which “magic” lives. This type of magic feels natural, like part of the earth and environment, but only select people have the ability to access and manipulate it. Honestly, I loved the Myst and how those who could call on it (unveil it) each had different ways to do so. Pomella’s singing is her strength, it makes her unique, and it also connects her to the Myst. There is just a natural beauty to the Myst that is refreshing.
But, as beautiful and natural as it seems, the world they live in has restricted training and use of the Myst to just the upper class. But, in direct opposition to the norm and expected procedures, Pomella is quite unexpectedly invited to the trials for a chance to serve as an apprentice to a High Mystic. This opportunity is huge, it is a dream come true. But it is also an invitation that could result in losing everything she currently has in life. I love stories where characters get the chance to tear down social barriers, especially when it will open the chance of achieving something that would typically be denied to them. It’s is unfair to that Pomella, and other commoners, that they are unable to be Mystic candidates based solely on some superficial standard. Mystic is very much one of those stories I look for where a character gets to challenge convention.
Pomella is faced with a heart wrenching choice, follow her dream and lose everything she has if she doesn’t win the apprenticeship, or play it safe and turn down the invitation of a lifetime. If she fails, she will not only lose out on her dream, but also her name, her family, her friends and neighbors. She will be relegated to the caste of people who are the lowest of lows, forced to shave her head for all to know she is not welcome in society. The criminals, people who have committed some unspeakable crime. People that even as a commoner, you do not talk to much less touch. This is a huge price to pay for taking a chance on fulfilling a dream you never thought possible.
As Pomella is faced with hard decisions, and placed in even harder situations, she often remembers the wisdom of her grandmother. I loved the bond she had with her and how much that relationship has helped mold Pomella to be the person she is. Overall, I found Mystic to be highly enjoyable and engaging and am eager for the next in the series.
Mystic is very much a coming of age, perhaps somewhat standard fare for a young adult novel. And maybe you could say the story, in some ways, was predictable. But you know what? I don’t care. I found the characters refreshing, I wanted to read their experiences as they venture through this story. So, regardless of anything that felt familiar, I still really enjoyed it (remember, sometimes familiar is fun when the story is told well).
Mystic is a book to immerse yourself in, in a way that makes you feel you can join the adventure as it unfolds on the page. It is very much a character driven story and the reader’s connection with Pomella is crucial to make this work. Luckily, I found Pomella very intriguing and wanted to root for her the entire time.
Even though this is a character driven story, the magic in it is also very cool. The Myst is the magical force/entity/power in which “magic” lives. This type of magic feels natural, like part of the earth and environment, but only select people have the ability to access and manipulate it. Honestly, I loved the Myst and how those who could call on it (unveil it) each had different ways to do so. Pomella’s singing is her strength, it makes her unique, and it also connects her to the Myst. There is just a natural beauty to the Myst that is refreshing.
But, as beautiful and natural as it seems, the world they live in has restricted training and use of the Myst to just the upper class. But, in direct opposition to the norm and expected procedures, Pomella is quite unexpectedly invited to the trials for a chance to serve as an apprentice to a High Mystic. This opportunity is huge, it is a dream come true. But it is also an invitation that could result in losing everything she currently has in life. I love stories where characters get the chance to tear down social barriers, especially when it will open the chance of achieving something that would typically be denied to them. It’s is unfair to that Pomella, and other commoners, that they are unable to be Mystic candidates based solely on some superficial standard. Mystic is very much one of those stories I look for where a character gets to challenge convention.
Pomella is faced with a heart wrenching choice, follow her dream and lose everything she has if she doesn’t win the apprenticeship, or play it safe and turn down the invitation of a lifetime. If she fails, she will not only lose out on her dream, but also her name, her family, her friends and neighbors. She will be relegated to the caste of people who are the lowest of lows, forced to shave her head for all to know she is not welcome in society. The criminals, people who have committed some unspeakable crime. People that even as a commoner, you do not talk to much less touch. This is a huge price to pay for taking a chance on fulfilling a dream you never thought possible.
As Pomella is faced with hard decisions, and placed in even harder situations, she often remembers the wisdom of her grandmother. I loved the bond she had with her and how much that relationship has helped mold Pomella to be the person she is. Overall, I found Mystic to be highly enjoyable and engaging and am eager for the next in the series.
October 23, 2025
Good, standard fantasy.
This had very strong YA vibes and I can see where a younger person who has not read very much fantasy would really get into this as writer Jason Denzel checks all the boxes for a solid story that does not break much new ground.
We have a likable protagonist who is raised a commoner yet displays awesome hidden power - check.
Unlikable aristocratic antagonists - check.
Very likable magical creatures - check.
Decent world building - check.
Passable magic rules - check.
A few twists and turns - check.
And a good book. Not much character development, the dialogue was OK, and nothing wrong with this one at all.
This had very strong YA vibes and I can see where a younger person who has not read very much fantasy would really get into this as writer Jason Denzel checks all the boxes for a solid story that does not break much new ground.
We have a likable protagonist who is raised a commoner yet displays awesome hidden power - check.
Unlikable aristocratic antagonists - check.
Very likable magical creatures - check.
Decent world building - check.
Passable magic rules - check.
A few twists and turns - check.
And a good book. Not much character development, the dialogue was OK, and nothing wrong with this one at all.
February 18, 2016
3.5ish
This felt very . . . standard. Commoner has special powers! Mean people are mean! (There was some attempt for depth at the end, but it wasn't really enough.) There was a lot of "commoners must be kept in their place!" which felt pretty overdone.
And I didn't ever feel like I had a good understanding of what "Myst" was.
(Also, this might just be a pet peeve thing, but the story took place in WAY too short of a time frame. Developments--from relationships to attitude changes--happened too quickly.)
Probably won't read more in the series.
This felt very . . . standard. Commoner has special powers! Mean people are mean! (There was some attempt for depth at the end, but it wasn't really enough.) There was a lot of "commoners must be kept in their place!" which felt pretty overdone.
And I didn't ever feel like I had a good understanding of what "Myst" was.
(Also, this might just be a pet peeve thing, but the story took place in WAY too short of a time frame. Developments--from relationships to attitude changes--happened too quickly.)
Probably won't read more in the series.
December 30, 2015
Something tells me I should stop picking up random books just because they have pretty covers, but knowing me, I'm going to keep doing it anyways.
I didn't go into this book expecting much. But when you're halfway through the book and you care more about the random dog that showed up once or twice than the main character, there's a problem there. I suppose I didn't hate this book, but then again, I really didn't feel anything about it at all.
Maybe I should give it 1.5 stars instead of 1. Just for the dog.
First of all, let's address the characters. Usually when I give a one star book one star, it's because the main character annoyed me beyond belief. But Pomella? She was just incredibly bland. Basically a cookie cutter mold of YA heroines with an "oh so special power" that she must grow into and learn to use. Except she doesn't really.
And don't even get me started on her love interests, Quentin and Sim. I'm not sure how much more cliche you can get with a YA love triangle than these two, but The Testing certainly is a contender. Quentin is a fellow candidate and fantastically kind noble, who seems to have transcended prejudices to accept Pomella for her powers, not her status. He seems to have no ambition to become High Mystic despite training for it all his life, and pays no mind to his family's legacy or rank when trying to help his "Pomella-my" become the Mystic's apprentice. In other words,
And then there's Sim. A childhood friend of Pomella who pursues her to protect her in her conquest, all while nursing secret feelings of love. Sound familiar yet? I found myself skimming his POV even faster than I did Pomella's, simply because I didn't care for him, his journey, or any of the dangers that befell him.
Next, the plot. Pomella, a commoner from an out of the way village, is chosen as a candidate to become the new High Mystic's apprentice. Except they've only ever chosen nobles to compete before, and she must pass 3 trials to prove herself worthy to both the other candidates and the High Mystic herself. If that didn't already sound overused and dull to you, might I suggest reading The Testing, or Red Queen? Plenty of cookie-cutter YA plots to go around! None of the conflicts struck me as particularly interesting or exciting, and every plot twist was unbelievably predictable. Everything just felt flat and boring.
Overall, I didn't hate this book. It was just incredibly dull, and I wouldn't recommend it unless you enjoyed a couple of the titles already mentioned above. I recognize the fact that some familiar patterns in YA and fiction in general can be enjoyable, but this book used them all the point where I could barely remember anything significant or unique even after just finishing it. If you're looking for something familiar, yet well written and engaging, I'd suggest something more like Red Rising. Otherwise, I'd go for a book with a bit more substance and characters that don't immediately fall into every YA love triangle trope there is.
I didn't go into this book expecting much. But when you're halfway through the book and you care more about the random dog that showed up once or twice than the main character, there's a problem there. I suppose I didn't hate this book, but then again, I really didn't feel anything about it at all.
Maybe I should give it 1.5 stars instead of 1. Just for the dog.
First of all, let's address the characters. Usually when I give a one star book one star, it's because the main character annoyed me beyond belief. But Pomella? She was just incredibly bland. Basically a cookie cutter mold of YA heroines with an "oh so special power" that she must grow into and learn to use. Except she doesn't really.
And don't even get me started on her love interests, Quentin and Sim. I'm not sure how much more cliche you can get with a YA love triangle than these two, but The Testing certainly is a contender. Quentin is a fellow candidate and fantastically kind noble, who seems to have transcended prejudices to accept Pomella for her powers, not her status. He seems to have no ambition to become High Mystic despite training for it all his life, and pays no mind to his family's legacy or rank when trying to help his "Pomella-my" become the Mystic's apprentice. In other words,
And then there's Sim. A childhood friend of Pomella who pursues her to protect her in her conquest, all while nursing secret feelings of love. Sound familiar yet? I found myself skimming his POV even faster than I did Pomella's, simply because I didn't care for him, his journey, or any of the dangers that befell him.
Next, the plot. Pomella, a commoner from an out of the way village, is chosen as a candidate to become the new High Mystic's apprentice. Except they've only ever chosen nobles to compete before, and she must pass 3 trials to prove herself worthy to both the other candidates and the High Mystic herself. If that didn't already sound overused and dull to you, might I suggest reading The Testing, or Red Queen? Plenty of cookie-cutter YA plots to go around! None of the conflicts struck me as particularly interesting or exciting, and every plot twist was unbelievably predictable. Everything just felt flat and boring.
Overall, I didn't hate this book. It was just incredibly dull, and I wouldn't recommend it unless you enjoyed a couple of the titles already mentioned above. I recognize the fact that some familiar patterns in YA and fiction in general can be enjoyable, but this book used them all the point where I could barely remember anything significant or unique even after just finishing it. If you're looking for something familiar, yet well written and engaging, I'd suggest something more like Red Rising. Otherwise, I'd go for a book with a bit more substance and characters that don't immediately fall into every YA love triangle trope there is.
July 15, 2017
Pros: fun protagonists, good world-building, interesting plot
Cons: immersion broken at times
Pomella AnDone is astonished when she’s invited by the new High Mystic to compete for an apprenticeship. Though Pomella has a book with mystic symbols and songs from her grandmhathir, and has always been able to see wispy animal shapes no one else can, she never dreamed that a commoner would be allowed to apprentice. Defying her Baron, her fathir, and custom, she sets out. Pomella wants to start her new life by leaving her old life behind but her potential beau Sim, follows after, wanting to make sure she gets to the meeting place safely. And others aren’t keen on a commoner rising above her station.
It took me a little while to get into the story. While I appreciated the attempt at making some words sound ‘fantasy’, I kept tripping over ‘fathir’ and ‘grandmhathir’. There were also a few early scenes that bumped me out of the story - particularly when Pomella starts reading her grandmhathir’s book in the rain - and the book somehow doesn’t suffer any damage (nor does it suffer much damage after being left out in the elements - open - for 2 days). I also had a few issues with light sources that other readers probably won’t notice or care about. In one scene Sim tries to pass time by reading - under a wagon, when the sky’s dark with clouds, with no candle or other named light source - and yet he’s able to see the colour of the ink on the page.
Those minor nitpicks aside, this is an enjoyable book. A lot of effort was put into the world-building. My favourite aspect was the wide variety of world - and character - appropriate exclamations and expressions. Sim, an apprentice blacksmith, uses a few that reference metal-working. It was also cool to see sumptuary style laws in place, stating what people of different classes were allowed to do, along with specific written languages for each class. The multi-racial make-up of the continent vs the island where the book takes place, was also cool to see.
Pomella, as a sixteen year old, isn’t sure what she wants out of life, and so questions her decisions often. She’s feisty but she also realizes she can’t do everything on her own. In one scene that made me want to cheer are these sentences; “Now, faced with the first Trial, she needed someone. Not because she couldn’t succeed by herself, but because the thought of being in this alone made her sick” (p122). Too many books assume that for a protagonist to be strong they have to do everything alone. But they ignore the reality that friendship is important, and we all need help and support to achieve our dreams.
The plot is interesting, and the ending is quite exciting. I really enjoyed how things pan out. While it wasn’t a perfect book, it was a good debut.
Cons: immersion broken at times
Pomella AnDone is astonished when she’s invited by the new High Mystic to compete for an apprenticeship. Though Pomella has a book with mystic symbols and songs from her grandmhathir, and has always been able to see wispy animal shapes no one else can, she never dreamed that a commoner would be allowed to apprentice. Defying her Baron, her fathir, and custom, she sets out. Pomella wants to start her new life by leaving her old life behind but her potential beau Sim, follows after, wanting to make sure she gets to the meeting place safely. And others aren’t keen on a commoner rising above her station.
It took me a little while to get into the story. While I appreciated the attempt at making some words sound ‘fantasy’, I kept tripping over ‘fathir’ and ‘grandmhathir’. There were also a few early scenes that bumped me out of the story - particularly when Pomella starts reading her grandmhathir’s book in the rain - and the book somehow doesn’t suffer any damage (nor does it suffer much damage after being left out in the elements - open - for 2 days). I also had a few issues with light sources that other readers probably won’t notice or care about. In one scene Sim tries to pass time by reading - under a wagon, when the sky’s dark with clouds, with no candle or other named light source - and yet he’s able to see the colour of the ink on the page.
Those minor nitpicks aside, this is an enjoyable book. A lot of effort was put into the world-building. My favourite aspect was the wide variety of world - and character - appropriate exclamations and expressions. Sim, an apprentice blacksmith, uses a few that reference metal-working. It was also cool to see sumptuary style laws in place, stating what people of different classes were allowed to do, along with specific written languages for each class. The multi-racial make-up of the continent vs the island where the book takes place, was also cool to see.
Pomella, as a sixteen year old, isn’t sure what she wants out of life, and so questions her decisions often. She’s feisty but she also realizes she can’t do everything on her own. In one scene that made me want to cheer are these sentences; “Now, faced with the first Trial, she needed someone. Not because she couldn’t succeed by herself, but because the thought of being in this alone made her sick” (p122). Too many books assume that for a protagonist to be strong they have to do everything alone. But they ignore the reality that friendship is important, and we all need help and support to achieve our dreams.
The plot is interesting, and the ending is quite exciting. I really enjoyed how things pan out. While it wasn’t a perfect book, it was a good debut.
November 10, 2015
I am fortunate enough to have talented, creative, and imaginative friends. One of the side benefits of that is that a number of them write, so I get to read creative and imaginative works by people I know and like. And sometimes, I get to be a part of that creative process, as a Beta reader. Such was the case with Mystic. Back in early 2014, this lucky gal got to read an early version of the manuscript, before it was accepted for publication.
Sometimes re-reading a book you read in manuscript is tiring. Not the case with Mystic. The story zips along, fairly sings to the reader, as Pomella, a commoner, journeys to the seat of the new High Mystic, to compete as a candidate for her assistant. The catch is, few commoners have ever been welcome into the world of the Mystics. Should Pomella lose to one of the high born candidates, she most likely will be shunned by society, and become a scorned Unclaimed.
One of the things I really like about this book is that Jason has incorporated his extensive knowledge of the master/disciple relationship, gained from his many years involved in martial arts. Whether that relationship is in martial arts, spiritualism, or magic, there are essential shared elements. The author sculpts the growth of Pomella's character using the these same techniques. This, for me, along with the magic system within the book, and with a strong female main character, was quite welcome.
In a market for YA literature drenched in sensationalism, Mystic is a blessed relief. There are elements that satisfy those yearning for romance, but the story itself is focused on the task at hand: the chance to rise above a lowborn birth and find your destiny, find your song, in a world of magic. As the cover proclaims: "One Master. One Apprentice. One Chance."
Pick up a copy of Jason Denzel's Mystic for you or for your favorite YA reader. I think you'll be pleased.
(Jason was just here in Charleston for the start of a book tour that is running conjointly with The Wheel of Time Companion, of which my husband is a co-author. I have known Jason since 2007, when we met at the funeral of Robert Jordan (James O Rigney Jr.) It's just a tad embarrassing to learn I've been saying "Denzel" wrong, all these years. Sorry Jason. Unfortunately, I can't remember which way is right, as I have both in my head now, so am bound to be wrong at least 50% of the time. What are friends for?!)
Sometimes re-reading a book you read in manuscript is tiring. Not the case with Mystic. The story zips along, fairly sings to the reader, as Pomella, a commoner, journeys to the seat of the new High Mystic, to compete as a candidate for her assistant. The catch is, few commoners have ever been welcome into the world of the Mystics. Should Pomella lose to one of the high born candidates, she most likely will be shunned by society, and become a scorned Unclaimed.
One of the things I really like about this book is that Jason has incorporated his extensive knowledge of the master/disciple relationship, gained from his many years involved in martial arts. Whether that relationship is in martial arts, spiritualism, or magic, there are essential shared elements. The author sculpts the growth of Pomella's character using the these same techniques. This, for me, along with the magic system within the book, and with a strong female main character, was quite welcome.
In a market for YA literature drenched in sensationalism, Mystic is a blessed relief. There are elements that satisfy those yearning for romance, but the story itself is focused on the task at hand: the chance to rise above a lowborn birth and find your destiny, find your song, in a world of magic. As the cover proclaims: "One Master. One Apprentice. One Chance."
Pick up a copy of Jason Denzel's Mystic for you or for your favorite YA reader. I think you'll be pleased.
(Jason was just here in Charleston for the start of a book tour that is running conjointly with The Wheel of Time Companion, of which my husband is a co-author. I have known Jason since 2007, when we met at the funeral of Robert Jordan (James O Rigney Jr.) It's just a tad embarrassing to learn I've been saying "Denzel" wrong, all these years. Sorry Jason. Unfortunately, I can't remember which way is right, as I have both in my head now, so am bound to be wrong at least 50% of the time. What are friends for?!)
March 30, 2016
Mystic had a lot of elements I love; relatable characters, Irish influence, focus on nature, and just the right touch of mysticism, magic, and the Fae. This is one of those easily blended genres; found mostly in Adult SciFi/Fantasy, but marketed with a very YA feel. I read this in one sitting, and it left me feeling reminiscent of Juliet Marillier.
The Myst is a very organic, natural source of all magic, which certain people can learn to call upon. Our heroine, Pomella, is a nice change from the common MC. She is not the typical "I don't know I'm beautiful or special" heroine, but had some traits that annoyed me nonetheless. For one, I could not get over her name...which, to be fair, is no fault of hers. I could not stop myself from saying "Palmolive" every time I read her name.
*shrugs*
Some things just don't click with me, what can I say.
There were a few aspects that held this book back for me. The first, and biggest, issue I had was the fact that the cover jacket gave away a key betrayal. Now, maybe I would have guessed it for myself, but I'll never know now, will I? I can't stress enough how annoying it is when a cover blurb gives away the entire story...this didn't do that exactly, but it definitely set up the outline. I like much more to be surprised (or not) and discover the story as I read, not before I even begin.
I usually enjoy jargon thrown in to build the setting, but I found many terms to be overused and disjointed from the projected time period and setting. A phrase such as "Quick as a luck-in" can be used once or twice, but after that it jarred me out of the writing.
Though the tasks themselves and use of magic were a bit underwhelming, the landscape was beautifully constructed and the descriptions of magic were colorful and vivid. I adored the depictions of the fae, and the hummingbirds that bond with Pomella are delightfully imaginative - I loved them. Oxillian is another fascinating being, pulled up from the very earth as a protector of everyone within the High Mystic's forest. There is an underlying social class issue presented with the Unclaimed - those who are cast out from their lord's protection and have no home or family - and Pomella's greatest fear throughout Mystic is becoming one of these outcasts. Definitely a highlight of the story for me is watching her journey to understanding these "Unclaimed" are not tainted, or dangerous, any more so than any high lord could be. They are simply people doing their best, whom the world has chosen to mark as unwanted and punish for their differences.
I'm looking forward to reading the next installment, and am fully expecting it to grow into a great tale. Perhaps not Marillier level, but charming and engaging even so.
The Myst is a very organic, natural source of all magic, which certain people can learn to call upon. Our heroine, Pomella, is a nice change from the common MC. She is not the typical "I don't know I'm beautiful or special" heroine, but had some traits that annoyed me nonetheless. For one, I could not get over her name...which, to be fair, is no fault of hers. I could not stop myself from saying "Palmolive" every time I read her name.
*shrugs*
Some things just don't click with me, what can I say.
There were a few aspects that held this book back for me. The first, and biggest, issue I had was the fact that the cover jacket gave away a key betrayal. Now, maybe I would have guessed it for myself, but I'll never know now, will I? I can't stress enough how annoying it is when a cover blurb gives away the entire story...this didn't do that exactly, but it definitely set up the outline. I like much more to be surprised (or not) and discover the story as I read, not before I even begin.
I usually enjoy jargon thrown in to build the setting, but I found many terms to be overused and disjointed from the projected time period and setting. A phrase such as "Quick as a luck-in" can be used once or twice, but after that it jarred me out of the writing.
Though the tasks themselves and use of magic were a bit underwhelming, the landscape was beautifully constructed and the descriptions of magic were colorful and vivid. I adored the depictions of the fae, and the hummingbirds that bond with Pomella are delightfully imaginative - I loved them. Oxillian is another fascinating being, pulled up from the very earth as a protector of everyone within the High Mystic's forest. There is an underlying social class issue presented with the Unclaimed - those who are cast out from their lord's protection and have no home or family - and Pomella's greatest fear throughout Mystic is becoming one of these outcasts. Definitely a highlight of the story for me is watching her journey to understanding these "Unclaimed" are not tainted, or dangerous, any more so than any high lord could be. They are simply people doing their best, whom the world has chosen to mark as unwanted and punish for their differences.
I'm looking forward to reading the next installment, and am fully expecting it to grow into a great tale. Perhaps not Marillier level, but charming and engaging even so.
July 11, 2018
Ahoy there me mateys! This be book one of me e-Arrrrrc Extravaganza Challenge wherein I attempt to read 5 books in 7 days before their July 17th release date. Arrr! Now why this (a non e-Arc) be the first book in me list is for a silly reason. Ye see, Macmillian-Tor/Forge, be kind enough to approve me request for mystic dragon, the second book in the series. I inadvertently, and happily, requested it just because I recognized Jason Denzel's name and thought "oh I love him" and clicking. Only to realize that while me ports for plunder list had the first book, mystic, on it to buy since 2015, I never had! Well of course now that I had book two, I had to read book one first so I quickly bought it. And devoured it. It be a tasty treat that I truly should have read years ago. I be super excited that tomorrow I be readin' the sequel. Arrrr!
So this story follows Pomella, a young girl with a secret ambition. She wants to be a Mystic, one of the practitioners of magic. The problem is that she is common-born. And magic is reserved for the nobility who have the time, talent, and training for the art. So imagine everyone's surprise when she is summoned for a spot in the contest to choose a new apprentice for the High Mystic. Pomella decides to break tradition and participate but if she fails the consequences are dire. She will become Unclaimed and lose her place in society, her name, and the ability to ever go home.
Now first off all, I absolutely love the myst. The fae magic underlies the world but only mystics can access it. The magic lends itself to the user through different means - painting or an instrument for example. Those that see the myst can see the silvery creatures that live there. And not all of them are nice. I thought the use of the myst in this book was fascinating and yet ye only get a small glimpse of its potential. I am looking forward to finding out more.
Pomella be a very fun character. She is intelligent but makes mistakes. She is driven but can be blinded by stubbornness. She doubts her own abilities and choices. She works hard for what she wants. As a character, Pomella above all feels authentic. Just a person trying to achieve a huge, difficult but possible dream.
I also liked the other characters as well. There is a young man from Pomella's village named Sim who I adored. He did not have many chapters but those he did have helped enrich the story. I also loved the magical creatures, Pomella's best friend in her village, and the gardener. The romantic elements in the story were realistic and not over-the-top.
But best of all was the writing that helped draw me into the story and also the plot twists that were unexpected and yet so seemingly perfect when they happened. The arc was complete at the end of the book but I hope there be a lot more adventures for Pomella and Sim. So if like me, ye somehow failed to read this charming book, go get yerself a copy!
Stay tuned for book two tomorrow. I am looking forward to the explanation of dragon in the title. Arrrr!
Check out me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
So this story follows Pomella, a young girl with a secret ambition. She wants to be a Mystic, one of the practitioners of magic. The problem is that she is common-born. And magic is reserved for the nobility who have the time, talent, and training for the art. So imagine everyone's surprise when she is summoned for a spot in the contest to choose a new apprentice for the High Mystic. Pomella decides to break tradition and participate but if she fails the consequences are dire. She will become Unclaimed and lose her place in society, her name, and the ability to ever go home.
Now first off all, I absolutely love the myst. The fae magic underlies the world but only mystics can access it. The magic lends itself to the user through different means - painting or an instrument for example. Those that see the myst can see the silvery creatures that live there. And not all of them are nice. I thought the use of the myst in this book was fascinating and yet ye only get a small glimpse of its potential. I am looking forward to finding out more.
Pomella be a very fun character. She is intelligent but makes mistakes. She is driven but can be blinded by stubbornness. She doubts her own abilities and choices. She works hard for what she wants. As a character, Pomella above all feels authentic. Just a person trying to achieve a huge, difficult but possible dream.
I also liked the other characters as well. There is a young man from Pomella's village named Sim who I adored. He did not have many chapters but those he did have helped enrich the story. I also loved the magical creatures, Pomella's best friend in her village, and the gardener. The romantic elements in the story were realistic and not over-the-top.
But best of all was the writing that helped draw me into the story and also the plot twists that were unexpected and yet so seemingly perfect when they happened. The arc was complete at the end of the book but I hope there be a lot more adventures for Pomella and Sim. So if like me, ye somehow failed to read this charming book, go get yerself a copy!
Stay tuned for book two tomorrow. I am looking forward to the explanation of dragon in the title. Arrrr!
Check out me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
March 9, 2017
I really wanted to like MYSTIC more than I did. But despite the strengths of this ethereal, charming coming-of-age fantasy, the story never truly won me over.
On the plus side, the magic system that Jason Denzel has created for MYSTIC is intriguing. Not a lot is revealed, mostly because readers are learning about it at the same time as the protagonist Pomella is. But the Myst appears to be tied closely to nature and humanity's relationship with it, and the way in which Mystics and potential apprentices communicate with the Myst took my breath away. The lush forest setting, sensitive exploration of caste systems, and diverse cultural representation of the story's characters (including non-human ones) also flesh out the story's worldbuilding beautifully and define the consequences of what will happen should Pomella fail.
Also, Pomella is a good example of a female SF&F protagonist who shows inner strength instead of "kick-ass-ness." She's vulnerable and realistic, often doubting her potential and feeling inadequate compared to the other, more high-born Mystic candidates. But she's also sweet, humble, and curious, eager to learn more about the enigmatic powers of her world and brave enough to do what needs to be done in the end. The final outcome surprised me, but that made it bittersweet and refreshing compared to typical happy endings.
Also, MYSTIC has hummingbirds. Yes. HUMMINGBIRDS. :D And they play an important role in the story!
All that aside, the writing style of MYSTIC... just didn't do it for me. As an adult fantasy novel with the potential to appeal to younger readers, you'd think there would still be a level of maturity or complexity about it. But it's not there. Much of the dialogue, descriptions, and word choices felt weak or childish; and the frequency of slang used by the characters irritated me after a while. The pacing is steady, though, and the adventure storyline is ripe with suspense and danger. But that's enough for me to overlook the other issues.
In short, MYSTIC might be a better fit for younger readers who enjoy popular YA fantasy series such as THRONE OF GLASS or SNOW LIKE ASHES. Adults might enjoy it, too, but if you prefer strong writing in addition to solid worldbuilding, then this book might not be for you.
On the plus side, the magic system that Jason Denzel has created for MYSTIC is intriguing. Not a lot is revealed, mostly because readers are learning about it at the same time as the protagonist Pomella is. But the Myst appears to be tied closely to nature and humanity's relationship with it, and the way in which Mystics and potential apprentices communicate with the Myst took my breath away. The lush forest setting, sensitive exploration of caste systems, and diverse cultural representation of the story's characters (including non-human ones) also flesh out the story's worldbuilding beautifully and define the consequences of what will happen should Pomella fail.
Also, Pomella is a good example of a female SF&F protagonist who shows inner strength instead of "kick-ass-ness." She's vulnerable and realistic, often doubting her potential and feeling inadequate compared to the other, more high-born Mystic candidates. But she's also sweet, humble, and curious, eager to learn more about the enigmatic powers of her world and brave enough to do what needs to be done in the end. The final outcome surprised me, but that made it bittersweet and refreshing compared to typical happy endings.
Also, MYSTIC has hummingbirds. Yes. HUMMINGBIRDS. :D And they play an important role in the story!
All that aside, the writing style of MYSTIC... just didn't do it for me. As an adult fantasy novel with the potential to appeal to younger readers, you'd think there would still be a level of maturity or complexity about it. But it's not there. Much of the dialogue, descriptions, and word choices felt weak or childish; and the frequency of slang used by the characters irritated me after a while. The pacing is steady, though, and the adventure storyline is ripe with suspense and danger. But that's enough for me to overlook the other issues.
In short, MYSTIC might be a better fit for younger readers who enjoy popular YA fantasy series such as THRONE OF GLASS or SNOW LIKE ASHES. Adults might enjoy it, too, but if you prefer strong writing in addition to solid worldbuilding, then this book might not be for you.
December 5, 2015
At best, it is mediocre fanfiction of Star Wars. The dialog is horrible and heavy handed. The plot is boring. This book was just BLARGH.
February 11, 2020
For hundreds of years, high-born nobles have competed for the chance to learn of the Myst.
Powerful, revered, and often reclusive, Mystics have the unique ability to summon and manipulate the Myst: the underlying energy that lives at the heart of the universe. Once in a very great while, they take an apprentice, always from the most privileged sects of society.
Such has always been the tradition—until a new High Mystic takes her seat and chooses Pomella AnDone, a restless, low-born teenager, as a candidate.
Commoners have never been welcomed among the select few given the opportunity to rise beyond even the highest nobility. So when Pomella chooses to accept the summons and journey to Kelt Apar, she knows that she will have more to contend with than the competition for the apprenticeship.
For the most part, I enjoyed reading this book. It did start out a bit slow (that seems to be the case for several of the books I've read in the past month). I thought both Pomella and Sim were a little dumb at times. Some things they didn't pick up on were obvious to me, and I thought should have been obvious to them. Pomella was also a bit fickle when it came to the two love interests. I was really surprised at how far she was willing to go with one of them. For me the book read pretty innocent up until that point, and it just bothered me that it took that turn.
I did like the world that the author created. I found the fey creatures interesting and the magical use of the myst an interesting idea, but because I found myself rolling my eyes at things the characters did, I couldn't give this more than a three star rating. I really liked the way it ended though, and the book did pack one surprise for me.
This is the first book in a trilogy, but it works well as a standalone. I think I'll leave it as one.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Powerful, revered, and often reclusive, Mystics have the unique ability to summon and manipulate the Myst: the underlying energy that lives at the heart of the universe. Once in a very great while, they take an apprentice, always from the most privileged sects of society.
Such has always been the tradition—until a new High Mystic takes her seat and chooses Pomella AnDone, a restless, low-born teenager, as a candidate.
Commoners have never been welcomed among the select few given the opportunity to rise beyond even the highest nobility. So when Pomella chooses to accept the summons and journey to Kelt Apar, she knows that she will have more to contend with than the competition for the apprenticeship.
For the most part, I enjoyed reading this book. It did start out a bit slow (that seems to be the case for several of the books I've read in the past month). I thought both Pomella and Sim were a little dumb at times. Some things they didn't pick up on were obvious to me, and I thought should have been obvious to them. Pomella was also a bit fickle when it came to the two love interests. I was really surprised at how far she was willing to go with one of them. For me the book read pretty innocent up until that point, and it just bothered me that it took that turn.
I did like the world that the author created. I found the fey creatures interesting and the magical use of the myst an interesting idea, but because I found myself rolling my eyes at things the characters did, I couldn't give this more than a three star rating. I really liked the way it ended though, and the book did pack one surprise for me.
This is the first book in a trilogy, but it works well as a standalone. I think I'll leave it as one.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
September 15, 2023
I remember reading this when I was younger but I’d forgotten 99% of it so I brought it to Chicago. This was a light read. Way too much Sim content. I’m happy Vivianna and Pomella became besties. Idk not really anything to say, I didn’t dislike it but I wasn’t super impressed. Kinda mad it’s a series, didn’t know I was committing to that. Hopefully the next one will build significantly.
September 29, 2024
The story was good but it needed to be fleshed out more. It was quick and predictable but I enjoyed it.
May 8, 2020
No spoilers.
A light YA fantasy with much of the usual coming of age fantasy tropes, but an enjoyable story.
A light YA fantasy with much of the usual coming of age fantasy tropes, but an enjoyable story.
August 5, 2021
Overall not a bad YA novel per-say, just a little too predictable for my taste. I saw the ending coming from a mile away and just didn’t really resonate with many of the characters. For a series expository novel, not nearly enough was explained about the world or the magic within it. Like other reviews, I agree that everything just fell a little flat, nothing was quite grand enough for the concept set out.
December 3, 2015
I'm a long time fan of girl power, coming of age, fantasy style books, etc. This book is so exactly my genre, I didn't doubt picking it up from the bookstore. I'm glad I did. There's nothing special about the writing itself, and there's nothing groundbreaking about the genre or even the world, but it's super well paced and keeps up interesting happenings the whole way through.
I love the ending. So, so much. You know right from the beginning that things will work out for the main character in the end. It's that sort of friendly book. But somehow there's so much conflict Denzel finds in the things that you don't know for sure right from the start, as comfortable as the book is, it is not predictable. I was five minutes late for class when it all clicked for me, like eight pages from the end, and I pretty much slammed the book shut and had to sit and stare off into the distance to try to remember absolutely everything that lead up to that exact moment. All the evidence is there.
I love the characters, too. I'm a bit iffy about the main antagonists' motivations-- they were kind of just infodumped and eh-- but every main character is so well-portrayed. There are side characters who really change over the course of the book. There are minor antagonists that I actually really respect for their decisions, even if it brought them against the main character. There are secondary characters who really want what Pomella has. It said on the book cover a scene where Pomella is told there's nothing special about her, and honestly there really isn't except that she's good at what she does, but she's the main character of a fantasy book, so that gives her a lot haha. Her friends and peers are faced with jealousy and fear and worry and heartbreak and everything imaginable, but in the end, I respect how they act. The conflicts are genuine, not just from stupid characters doing stupider things.
When I read the first few pages, I was really uncertain about the main character-- Pomella comes off as way snotty in the beginning, and she has her fair moments of true stupidity. Also I don't like her name. But she seems to collect genuine friends who really care about her, and I ended up loving her after all of it.
I plan to take a break and reread the lovely parts with my favorite characters. This isn't the sort of book I expect to make the news, but it feels so perfect for me, it feels like it could have been written for me. It does everything a good book ought to do. It captivates me and sends me into a world with great descriptions, makes me wonder about what I'd do in her shoes, and lets me spend an afternoon curled up with fascinating thoughts. I want to write, and if I ever do half of what Mystic has done for me with my writing for someone else, I would consider that a success. Kudos to you, Denzel, thanks for a good read.
I love the ending. So, so much. You know right from the beginning that things will work out for the main character in the end. It's that sort of friendly book. But somehow there's so much conflict Denzel finds in the things that you don't know for sure right from the start, as comfortable as the book is, it is not predictable. I was five minutes late for class when it all clicked for me, like eight pages from the end, and I pretty much slammed the book shut and had to sit and stare off into the distance to try to remember absolutely everything that lead up to that exact moment. All the evidence is there.
I love the characters, too. I'm a bit iffy about the main antagonists' motivations-- they were kind of just infodumped and eh-- but every main character is so well-portrayed. There are side characters who really change over the course of the book. There are minor antagonists that I actually really respect for their decisions, even if it brought them against the main character. There are secondary characters who really want what Pomella has. It said on the book cover a scene where Pomella is told there's nothing special about her, and honestly there really isn't except that she's good at what she does, but she's the main character of a fantasy book, so that gives her a lot haha. Her friends and peers are faced with jealousy and fear and worry and heartbreak and everything imaginable, but in the end, I respect how they act. The conflicts are genuine, not just from stupid characters doing stupider things.
When I read the first few pages, I was really uncertain about the main character-- Pomella comes off as way snotty in the beginning, and she has her fair moments of true stupidity. Also I don't like her name. But she seems to collect genuine friends who really care about her, and I ended up loving her after all of it.
I plan to take a break and reread the lovely parts with my favorite characters. This isn't the sort of book I expect to make the news, but it feels so perfect for me, it feels like it could have been written for me. It does everything a good book ought to do. It captivates me and sends me into a world with great descriptions, makes me wonder about what I'd do in her shoes, and lets me spend an afternoon curled up with fascinating thoughts. I want to write, and if I ever do half of what Mystic has done for me with my writing for someone else, I would consider that a success. Kudos to you, Denzel, thanks for a good read.
December 6, 2015
Though clearly written for young adult and teens with simplistic characters and a romantic triangle, I did really enjoy the ending of Mystic. There were a few spoilers I guessed and one or two I didn't. That works well for me as I like to be right about some parts and surprised on others. :-)
I thought the world building depended a little two much on some random slang terms and respelling of the familiar terms like mother and father to make them more foreign. I didn't get enough sense of a deep rich history behind the people/world. It's easy to err with too much backstory about the world and characters, but I could have done with a little more here to add some depth.
I'm always glad to find another author of epic fantasy, and I'll look for more from this writer.
I thought the world building depended a little two much on some random slang terms and respelling of the familiar terms like mother and father to make them more foreign. I didn't get enough sense of a deep rich history behind the people/world. It's easy to err with too much backstory about the world and characters, but I could have done with a little more here to add some depth.
I'm always glad to find another author of epic fantasy, and I'll look for more from this writer.
November 21, 2015
Mystic has a quick hook, and is plainspoken with a clear, definitive voice. It has the classic tropes expected of the fantasy genre and bildungsroman literature, but doesn’t feel recycled. The worldbuilding feels authentic, not forced. At times I thought some of the names were clumsy, but overall they worked, and the gleanings of culture—of Oakspring and beyond—were well done. I particularly liked the idea behind the Common Cord—where family-specific knots are tied on a cord in a show of community solidarity.
It’s a quick little YA read that was a refreshing change of pace. It’s comfortable in itself, and I find that’s important—especially in a first novel.
Full review here.
August 21, 2015
This is a book you should get to share with the whole family. While the content here might exclude a much younger audience, I see preteens and above getting great enjoyment from it. And the story and world are intriguing enough to engross an older audience completely, as well. It was very hard to put down once I picked it up, losing myself in the plight of an everyday-girl forced above her station. This is not cookie cutter fantasy, and should appeal to those not typically drawn to the genre due to such a relatable cast of characters. Even so, the world and magic system are unique enough to entice super nerds like me as well.
August 4, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this first outing by Jason Denzel and am looking forward to this story continuing. I like coming of age stories and this one didn't disappoint. It was easy to care about Pomella right from the beginning. It has appropriate tension and the pacing is quick. There's very few wasted words. The ending is very well done and makes it easy to see further stories in this world. Kudos, Mr. Denzel!
The story held up well on reread. I’m very much looking forward to Mystic Dragon and further tales of Pomella and friends. 8/18
The story held up well on reread. I’m very much looking forward to Mystic Dragon and further tales of Pomella and friends. 8/18
July 25, 2017
World Building: A++
Mythology: A+
Girl Power: B
Plot-Twists: A
Love-Interests: A
Villains: B+
Heartbreak, joy, despair, hope, adventures, broken trust and friendships forged. Mystic was a magical roller coaster and wonderful adventure I'm certain I will enjoy again in the future. I definitely wasn't expecting that ending until I was right up on it.
For you clean-readers: this book does NOT have mature content. There are some creative curse words, though.
Mythology: A+
Girl Power: B
Plot-Twists: A
Love-Interests: A
Villains: B+
Heartbreak, joy, despair, hope, adventures, broken trust and friendships forged. Mystic was a magical roller coaster and wonderful adventure I'm certain I will enjoy again in the future. I definitely wasn't expecting that ending until I was right up on it.
For you clean-readers: this book does NOT have mature content. There are some creative curse words, though.
May 23, 2015
MYSTIC is a solid debut novel that would be my first pick to take to the beach with me this summer. It's a fast, enjoyable read in a fun fantasy setting. I suspect this is going to be a great series.
unfinished-reads
August 23, 2017I really enjoyed the early excerpt Tor offered up on this book, but I have to say that the full piece just didn't work for me. Honestly, it's more that it reads young when I was looking for something a little more adult. When I want a YA-ish fantasy, I'm almost certain to come back to it, but not for now.
March 10, 2018
More like a 3.5/5! I enjoyed it more as the story progressed. It needed more character development and the writing could have been more engaging, but the world was interesting. I liked the little twist at the end!
December 15, 2024
I picked this up from the library free shelf and started it before realizing it was the first in a trilogy. It's definitely more on the juvenile side of YA; that along with a rudimentary writing style and high fantasy invented language will make me pass on continuing the series.
January 29, 2016
I bought this book because Brandon Sanderson said it was a good one, and he was right! Mystic feels a little like some of Brandon Sanderson's books in that it hovers between YA and mature fantasy. It's the quick-paced story of a girl who doesn't fit in and who gets an unlikely opportunity to break out of the restrictions imposed by her birth.
Pomella AnDone is a commoner in a village on the small island of Moth. She's considered odd by the other villagers due to her ability to see silver animals that nobody else sees and her interest in the Myst, the art of magic practiced only by nobles. One night during a celebratory festival, an earthen golem of sorts, known as the Green Man, appears and announces that Pomella has been selected by the High Mystic as a candidate to become her apprentice and get an education in how to use the Mysts, if she'll travel to Kelt Apar to accept the invitation. The catch? Pomella's not allowed to leave the barony where she was born. If she does, the baron will declare her Unclaimed--the lowest caste in society, scorned, shunned, nameless, and unable to own any sort of property. So if she goes, she has to make sure she's selected as the High Mystic's apprentice, or her life is effectively over.
Pomella, being a determined and daring young woman, decides to accept the invitation and leave despite the threat of becoming Unclaimed. When she arrives, two of the three other candidates turn their noses up at her upon finding out she's not a noblewoman. The third, Quentin, seems not to mind and is the only one who treats her like an actual human being from then on. All four candidates will be subject to three Trials, which the High Mystic Yarina will use to decide whom to take on as her apprentice.
I quite enjoyed Mystic. The magic system of the Mysts isn't fully fleshed out in this first book, since it is about Pomella earning her apprenticeship and not actually doing much apprenticing, but what we do see of it is very interesting. Every person accesses the magic differently; Pomella's way of doing so (her Unveiling, as they call it) is singing. As a result, there are several sets of song lyrics in the novel, and now I'm wondering if they have been set to music and posted anywhere. I, for one, would love to hear them.
One thing I liked about the story was how we got to see what Pomella's friend/crush Sim was doing while he and Pomella were apart. Sim's adventures outside Kelt Apar both engaged me and contributed to the overarching plotline, and I loved seeing the two storylines twine into one toward the end of the book. And speaking of the end of the book, there was this pretty major plot twist near the end that made me go, "Whaaaaaaaaat?" but which I probably should have seen coming. Maybe I would have if I hadn't read the whole book in a single day without stopping to think about it. But anyway, I thought it was a pretty cool twist--betrayal from where you least expect it, and it's like the floor just dropped out from under your feet.
I also liked Pomella herself. Although it's absolutely imperative that she win the apprenticeship to the High Mystic, she doesn't play dirty in the Trials. She's not willing to compromise her good character or exploit others to get ahead of the other candidates, even after they treat her like dirt just because she wasn't born a noble. And when everything goes wrong and it's up to her to save her friends' lives, she shows herself to be creative, resourceful, courageous, and more talented with the Myst than she realizes.
I mentioned earlier that Mystic sort of hovers between YA and mature fantasy. It's a great story told in a mature way, but it's thankfully free of the sort of mature content (sex, heavy language, and graphic violence) that would make me call this fantasy for the fully adult audience. There's a bit of mild language here and there, and some heated kissing at one point, but no actual sex, and the violence is not awfully graphic. There's not even a lot of it. I think this book would be suitable for most teens in terms of its mature content.
All in all, quite an enjoyable book. If you like a good clean fantasy with a spunky but wholesome heroine, give Mystic a read. I'll certainly be keeping an eye on Jason Denzel for future books, because his debut was excellent. Bravo!
Pomella AnDone is a commoner in a village on the small island of Moth. She's considered odd by the other villagers due to her ability to see silver animals that nobody else sees and her interest in the Myst, the art of magic practiced only by nobles. One night during a celebratory festival, an earthen golem of sorts, known as the Green Man, appears and announces that Pomella has been selected by the High Mystic as a candidate to become her apprentice and get an education in how to use the Mysts, if she'll travel to Kelt Apar to accept the invitation. The catch? Pomella's not allowed to leave the barony where she was born. If she does, the baron will declare her Unclaimed--the lowest caste in society, scorned, shunned, nameless, and unable to own any sort of property. So if she goes, she has to make sure she's selected as the High Mystic's apprentice, or her life is effectively over.
Pomella, being a determined and daring young woman, decides to accept the invitation and leave despite the threat of becoming Unclaimed. When she arrives, two of the three other candidates turn their noses up at her upon finding out she's not a noblewoman. The third, Quentin, seems not to mind and is the only one who treats her like an actual human being from then on. All four candidates will be subject to three Trials, which the High Mystic Yarina will use to decide whom to take on as her apprentice.
I quite enjoyed Mystic. The magic system of the Mysts isn't fully fleshed out in this first book, since it is about Pomella earning her apprenticeship and not actually doing much apprenticing, but what we do see of it is very interesting. Every person accesses the magic differently; Pomella's way of doing so (her Unveiling, as they call it) is singing. As a result, there are several sets of song lyrics in the novel, and now I'm wondering if they have been set to music and posted anywhere. I, for one, would love to hear them.
One thing I liked about the story was how we got to see what Pomella's friend/crush Sim was doing while he and Pomella were apart. Sim's adventures outside Kelt Apar both engaged me and contributed to the overarching plotline, and I loved seeing the two storylines twine into one toward the end of the book. And speaking of the end of the book, there was this pretty major plot twist near the end that made me go, "Whaaaaaaaaat?" but which I probably should have seen coming. Maybe I would have if I hadn't read the whole book in a single day without stopping to think about it. But anyway, I thought it was a pretty cool twist--betrayal from where you least expect it, and it's like the floor just dropped out from under your feet.
I also liked Pomella herself. Although it's absolutely imperative that she win the apprenticeship to the High Mystic, she doesn't play dirty in the Trials. She's not willing to compromise her good character or exploit others to get ahead of the other candidates, even after they treat her like dirt just because she wasn't born a noble. And when everything goes wrong and it's up to her to save her friends' lives, she shows herself to be creative, resourceful, courageous, and more talented with the Myst than she realizes.
I mentioned earlier that Mystic sort of hovers between YA and mature fantasy. It's a great story told in a mature way, but it's thankfully free of the sort of mature content (sex, heavy language, and graphic violence) that would make me call this fantasy for the fully adult audience. There's a bit of mild language here and there, and some heated kissing at one point, but no actual sex, and the violence is not awfully graphic. There's not even a lot of it. I think this book would be suitable for most teens in terms of its mature content.
All in all, quite an enjoyable book. If you like a good clean fantasy with a spunky but wholesome heroine, give Mystic a read. I'll certainly be keeping an eye on Jason Denzel for future books, because his debut was excellent. Bravo!
June 25, 2019
The occasional YA novel is a good escape from the pressures of adulthood. The author chose to focus on a female main character, but didn't give them agency in their own lives. I definitely had the impression that the women were just puppets being acted on and none of their choices made any difference until quite late in the book. The love interest was more interesting, simply because his actions did drive the story.
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