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The Forbidden Spire
Not yet published
Expected 27 Jun 26Magic. Mind. Machine. Each has its champions. Each has its cost.
Three people from Earth awaken in a world where reality isn’t a constant. All Rick, Chad, and Evan want is a way home. But Necsis has other plans.
The path ahead cuts through a war of unfathomable scope—and every step demands choices that pull them further from who they used to be.
As trust frays and paths divide, the question shifts:
Not how they’ll survive …
But whether they’ll still recognize themselves when they do.
One wrong choice could unravel not just their journey—but the world itself.
Three people from Earth awaken in a world where reality isn’t a constant. All Rick, Chad, and Evan want is a way home. But Necsis has other plans.
The path ahead cuts through a war of unfathomable scope—and every step demands choices that pull them further from who they used to be.
As trust frays and paths divide, the question shifts:
Not how they’ll survive …
But whether they’ll still recognize themselves when they do.
One wrong choice could unravel not just their journey—but the world itself.
616 pages, Paperback
Expected publication June 27, 2026
About the author
Matthew E. Yetter
2 books8 followersMatthew E. Yetter is an epic fantasy author, actor, and world adventurer who has visited every inhabited continent, drawing real-world inspiration for the cultures and landscapes of Necsis. His stories blend mythic weight with emotional depth, where magic, mind, and machine intertwine. The Forbidden Spire is the first book in The Infinite Conflict trilogy, the opening arc of his ten-book epic The Infinite Saga.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
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May 25, 2026** I was given an advanced copy by the author with no promises for reading or reviewing it **
The Forbidden Spire is an ambitious portal fantasy that starts in the ordinary world and then throws its characters into Necsis, a dangerous fantasy realm shaped by prophecy, ancient conflict, and powers that are only beginning to wake up again.
The strongest part of the book for me was the character work. Rick, Chad, and Evan do not feel like the same person in different costumes. Rick is precise and anxious, Chad covers pain with humor, and Evan has a softer but very real strength. Their reactions to being stranded in another world felt believable, especially the fear, arguing, problem-solving, and slow adjustment to the fact that nothing about their situation is normal anymore.
The worldbuilding is large and detailed. There are kingdoms, old wars, strange magic, political tension, and a sense that the history of Necsis matters just as much as the current danger. At times, the book is a slower read because it is setting up a lot, but that also gives the world room to breathe.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy epic fantasy, portal fantasy, chosen-group stories, and books where the characters have to grow into the roles the world is forcing on them. It feels like the opening chapter of something much bigger.
The Forbidden Spire is an ambitious portal fantasy that starts in the ordinary world and then throws its characters into Necsis, a dangerous fantasy realm shaped by prophecy, ancient conflict, and powers that are only beginning to wake up again.
The strongest part of the book for me was the character work. Rick, Chad, and Evan do not feel like the same person in different costumes. Rick is precise and anxious, Chad covers pain with humor, and Evan has a softer but very real strength. Their reactions to being stranded in another world felt believable, especially the fear, arguing, problem-solving, and slow adjustment to the fact that nothing about their situation is normal anymore.
The worldbuilding is large and detailed. There are kingdoms, old wars, strange magic, political tension, and a sense that the history of Necsis matters just as much as the current danger. At times, the book is a slower read because it is setting up a lot, but that also gives the world room to breathe.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy epic fantasy, portal fantasy, chosen-group stories, and books where the characters have to grow into the roles the world is forcing on them. It feels like the opening chapter of something much bigger.
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May 16, 2026How could a picnic and a planned proposal go so horrifyingly wrong? How could a place suddenly – not be that place? Abruptly transported and trapped on a terrifyingly alien world, Rick, Evan, and Chad are thrown into a prophesy that threatens to break every bond they have between them.
This is a unique and amazing take on magic and a thrilling take on prophesy! I was instantly drawn in by the complexities, depth, and dynamics of the three primary characters. Not only do they reflect family dynamics with which I am very familiar, they press those dynamics near to the breaking point, pushing the two brothers apart and leaving Evan torn over the use of her gift. The story held me spell-bound through the struggles of each character to adapt to their unexpected and inexplicable circumstances and the strain on their relationships. So well are these characters presented that I found myself wanting to either commiserate with them, yell at them, or cheer them on at each turn. And oh, the turns! Here, where magic is explained in terms of science, where high technology is forbidden, and where Evan’s mental gifts are as much threat as hope, I was carried through amazing landscapes so beautifully described and was introduced to such a variety of people and creatures that the whole thing played out like a movie in my mind. I am now eagerly anticipating the second and third books in this series.
This is a unique and amazing take on magic and a thrilling take on prophesy! I was instantly drawn in by the complexities, depth, and dynamics of the three primary characters. Not only do they reflect family dynamics with which I am very familiar, they press those dynamics near to the breaking point, pushing the two brothers apart and leaving Evan torn over the use of her gift. The story held me spell-bound through the struggles of each character to adapt to their unexpected and inexplicable circumstances and the strain on their relationships. So well are these characters presented that I found myself wanting to either commiserate with them, yell at them, or cheer them on at each turn. And oh, the turns! Here, where magic is explained in terms of science, where high technology is forbidden, and where Evan’s mental gifts are as much threat as hope, I was carried through amazing landscapes so beautifully described and was introduced to such a variety of people and creatures that the whole thing played out like a movie in my mind. I am now eagerly anticipating the second and third books in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has been the absolute best book I have read this year. I was immediately pulled into the story wanting to learn more about the three protagonists, two brothers and a girlfriend of one of them. You are met with the relational dynamic between brothers that is often felt within families, where neither realize their affect on the other. The girlfriend can see the struggle between their relationship and loves both of them in differing ways.
You are then pulled from Earth into another world where Magic, Mind, and Machine once worked together, but Machine (technology) has been banned. The characters are thrown into Necsis and feel like they have gone back in time without all the tech.
The story arc and character arc is simply amazing. The author helps with the character arcs by having differing points of view from multiple characters in each chapter. This is the first book I have read where it has been done like this to this degree. It worked so well and helped the character arcs progress in a way that is difficult with single point of view.
Each chapter leaves you wanting to read more. This book is the first in an epic series. It is a longer book that may scare some readers, but it is well worth the read and will leave you desperately waiting for the next installment. Reading this book made me feel like I felt reading The Wheel of Time Series and Patrick Rothfuss's Name of the Wind and Wise Man's Fears. It is a very well written book. The world building is beautifully done. I am very much looking forward to the next book.
You are then pulled from Earth into another world where Magic, Mind, and Machine once worked together, but Machine (technology) has been banned. The characters are thrown into Necsis and feel like they have gone back in time without all the tech.
The story arc and character arc is simply amazing. The author helps with the character arcs by having differing points of view from multiple characters in each chapter. This is the first book I have read where it has been done like this to this degree. It worked so well and helped the character arcs progress in a way that is difficult with single point of view.
Each chapter leaves you wanting to read more. This book is the first in an epic series. It is a longer book that may scare some readers, but it is well worth the read and will leave you desperately waiting for the next installment. Reading this book made me feel like I felt reading The Wheel of Time Series and Patrick Rothfuss's Name of the Wind and Wise Man's Fears. It is a very well written book. The world building is beautifully done. I am very much looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I originally planned to save The Forbidden Spire for a long cross‑country flight. That didn’t happen. I sat down intending to read just the first chapter—just enough to make sure I’d enjoy it and wouldn’t be scrambling for Wi‑Fi to download something else. The next thing I knew, I was halfway through the book, staring at the pages like they’d bewitched me. I forced myself to put it down… only to discover, moments later, that it had somehow found its way back into my hands. At that point, it was far too late to pretend this was still my “travel book.” I surrendered and finished it. You know exactly how that goes.
What pulled me in so completely were the characters—raw, flawed, determined, and achingly human. Their struggles echoed pieces of my own younger self, and I could easily imagine them as people in my own friend group if their world were real. The book blends human angst, self‑discovery, and a dark, grueling journey in a way that feels both intimate and epic.
There are moments when you’re furious, heartbroken, or holding your breath without realizing it. The real world fades as your imagination strains to hear the cavern’s dripping echoes, the clash of battle, the cries of fear or triumph. You feel the heat of the land, the grit of sand scraping your skin, the weight of every choice the characters make.
Buy this book if you need an escape so complete it steals hours without asking permission. But don’t buy it if you have plans anytime soon—you’ll be a world away.
What pulled me in so completely were the characters—raw, flawed, determined, and achingly human. Their struggles echoed pieces of my own younger self, and I could easily imagine them as people in my own friend group if their world were real. The book blends human angst, self‑discovery, and a dark, grueling journey in a way that feels both intimate and epic.
There are moments when you’re furious, heartbroken, or holding your breath without realizing it. The real world fades as your imagination strains to hear the cavern’s dripping echoes, the clash of battle, the cries of fear or triumph. You feel the heat of the land, the grit of sand scraping your skin, the weight of every choice the characters make.
Buy this book if you need an escape so complete it steals hours without asking permission. But don’t buy it if you have plans anytime soon—you’ll be a world away.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book Review of “The Forbidden Spire” by Matthew Yetter
I have just returned from a marvelous, soul-filling vacation to a land called Necsis. I had never been there before. But this book has filled me with the sights, and sounds of this kingdom. Even more surprising to me, the author was able to make the smells of Necsis come to me and stay! I joined three young charming adults as our day is interrupted by entry via a “shift” into this before unknown land. Not easy to leave, they spend their time (and mine) trying to figure out how to get back home.
Little by little, adventure by exciting challenge, we learn about this kingdom and the things that make it unique and charming. I was not a bystander, I was a fellow adventurer. At one point, I realized I had been holding my breath through an entire chapter because the tension simply would not let up. Eventually, I moved forward and actually felt fully present when we reached the promised ‘Forbidden Spire’. I cannot wait to experience the second book of the promised trilogy by Matthew Yetter. This is a must-read volume, satisfying in every way. If you are a lover of magic, mystery and immersive worlds, this is a journey well worth taking. Imagine a profound vacation never leaving your reading nook. I cannot recommend this experience strongly enough!
Bonita V
I have just returned from a marvelous, soul-filling vacation to a land called Necsis. I had never been there before. But this book has filled me with the sights, and sounds of this kingdom. Even more surprising to me, the author was able to make the smells of Necsis come to me and stay! I joined three young charming adults as our day is interrupted by entry via a “shift” into this before unknown land. Not easy to leave, they spend their time (and mine) trying to figure out how to get back home.
Little by little, adventure by exciting challenge, we learn about this kingdom and the things that make it unique and charming. I was not a bystander, I was a fellow adventurer. At one point, I realized I had been holding my breath through an entire chapter because the tension simply would not let up. Eventually, I moved forward and actually felt fully present when we reached the promised ‘Forbidden Spire’. I cannot wait to experience the second book of the promised trilogy by Matthew Yetter. This is a must-read volume, satisfying in every way. If you are a lover of magic, mystery and immersive worlds, this is a journey well worth taking. Imagine a profound vacation never leaving your reading nook. I cannot recommend this experience strongly enough!
Bonita V
Review of advance copy
God, it took me 4 days to complete this book and it is HUGE. It is a long epic fantasy with a lot of world building, adventure, mystery and magic. From the very beginning, the story is full of danger with the prophecy and the strange world of Necsis.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the characters. Rick, Chad, and Evan all felt very different from each other, which made their relationship and group really enjoyable to read. I liked how realistic their emotions were when they were suddenly thrown into a dangerous new world.
The size of the book may feel intimidating at first, but I honestly think the length helps the story. The author gives enough time for the world, characters, and mysteries to develop slowly and naturally. It made me feel more connected to the fantasy world. The descriptions of the volcanic lands, strange skies, and magical elements were vivid and easy to imagine. Most of the scenes felt very cinematic and exciting.
Even though it is a long book, it never felt boring. There is always something happening, whether it is character development, tension, mystery, or world building. Readers who enjoy detailed fantasy books and slow burn adventures will probably enjoy this a lot.
As this is an ARC, there were a few small typo and formatting issues, but nothing that stopped me from enjoying the story.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the characters. Rick, Chad, and Evan all felt very different from each other, which made their relationship and group really enjoyable to read. I liked how realistic their emotions were when they were suddenly thrown into a dangerous new world.
The size of the book may feel intimidating at first, but I honestly think the length helps the story. The author gives enough time for the world, characters, and mysteries to develop slowly and naturally. It made me feel more connected to the fantasy world. The descriptions of the volcanic lands, strange skies, and magical elements were vivid and easy to imagine. Most of the scenes felt very cinematic and exciting.
Even though it is a long book, it never felt boring. There is always something happening, whether it is character development, tension, mystery, or world building. Readers who enjoy detailed fantasy books and slow burn adventures will probably enjoy this a lot.
As this is an ARC, there were a few small typo and formatting issues, but nothing that stopped me from enjoying the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
More than a story. More than a world.
Every character left a mark on me, each in their own way.
They do not shine perfectly—they flicker, each unlike the other, but all burn for something.
Decisions are shaped by everything that came before.
Right and wrong are never simple—and that’s what makes the characters feel real.
Some conflicts cannot be escaped, they can only be faced.
Every choice demands a price—and once paid, it echoes.
Necsis isn’t a world you simply visit—it pulls you in.
The worldbuilding is in a league of its own, with depth and history that existed long before you enter it.
The more you read, the more everything starts to connect.
But when you think you know where it’s going, it shifts.
Variables appear when you least expect them.
I can say without exaggeration that no other story has left me thinking this intensely about its world, its characters, and the meaning beneath it all.
The pacing is incredible.
You don’t get the impression it has 600+ pages—you get 600+ impressions instead.
I’m excited there is so much more to come!
Every character left a mark on me, each in their own way.
They do not shine perfectly—they flicker, each unlike the other, but all burn for something.
Decisions are shaped by everything that came before.
Right and wrong are never simple—and that’s what makes the characters feel real.
Some conflicts cannot be escaped, they can only be faced.
Every choice demands a price—and once paid, it echoes.
Necsis isn’t a world you simply visit—it pulls you in.
The worldbuilding is in a league of its own, with depth and history that existed long before you enter it.
The more you read, the more everything starts to connect.
But when you think you know where it’s going, it shifts.
Variables appear when you least expect them.
I can say without exaggeration that no other story has left me thinking this intensely about its world, its characters, and the meaning beneath it all.
The pacing is incredible.
You don’t get the impression it has 600+ pages—you get 600+ impressions instead.
I’m excited there is so much more to come!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Struggling a bit to write this review, it's really 4.5 stars not 4 stars. The story moved along well, finished in 4 days, even though it felt like there was far too much time spent in each characters head/thoughts/feelings - it felt like this was every other page or action taken by another character in the first half of the book. There were points when character actions felt really out of place but this was resolved with reveals towards the end of the book. This storyline feels very plausible! I shall watch for shimmering lights from now on, LOL. Truly enjoyed the interesting take on the magic system!!! Interesting breadcrumbs for the remaining books in series, surprise character changes… who is running things, who is part of the conspiracy, who is exactly what they seem? Hopefully we get answers in the coming books. A good start to what will definitely be an interesting conclusion (has to be, given book 1).
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Forbidden Spire is a sprawling epic modern high fantasy tale with engaging characters, a unique magic system and tons of action sequences.
Three normal young adults are sucked through a portal into the lands of Necsis, where they encounter a land in which technology has been banned, but magic is real. The three primary protagonists are richly written and serve as the representatives for the primary sources of Necsis power, Magic, Mind and Machine.
Overall, a wonderful combination of character development, world-building, and adventure. There are so many elements here that were well done and I would highly recommend The Forbidden Spire for anyone looking for a true epic.
This is book 1 in what is projected to be a bookshelf-bending 10-book series. Definitely gave me Wheel of Time vibes.
Three normal young adults are sucked through a portal into the lands of Necsis, where they encounter a land in which technology has been banned, but magic is real. The three primary protagonists are richly written and serve as the representatives for the primary sources of Necsis power, Magic, Mind and Machine.
Overall, a wonderful combination of character development, world-building, and adventure. There are so many elements here that were well done and I would highly recommend The Forbidden Spire for anyone looking for a true epic.
This is book 1 in what is projected to be a bookshelf-bending 10-book series. Definitely gave me Wheel of Time vibes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I genuinely loved this book. It is an epic fantasy of a group on an adventure to save a world they do not belong to. The characters grow with every chapter and the story flows really well. You never feel bogged down when you’re reading it. The characters were great and their arcs were interesting, pulling you in and connecting you to the characters because they felt real.
This is a book with highs and lows, adventure and the moments between, and it will leave you wishing the second book was published already so you can dive in.
This is a book with highs and lows, adventure and the moments between, and it will leave you wishing the second book was published already so you can dive in.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews