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Shadows of Endari #1
Revolution
REVOLUTION LEAVES NO SOUL UNSCATHED.
The Shendari Empire controls half the known world, but the colonized lands of the Western Reach believe they deserve independence. Rebellion brews amidst protests and political chaos.
Selina McEntyre finds herself in the frontier capital of that backwater province, seeking a new life as a university student. She must find her path forward, whether as a soldier or a scholar—though the Empire’s oppression may make the choice for her.
Magical forces swirl around the building revolution, a mystery Selina cannot ignore. If the revolution is to survive, it will need more than military prowess. For Selina to survive, she’ll need to uncover the secrets threatening to destroy the world.
REVOLUTION is the first book in Shadows of Endari , an epic flintlock fantasy. Enter a world where magic is everywhere, yet its true cost goes unseen by all.
The Shendari Empire controls half the known world, but the colonized lands of the Western Reach believe they deserve independence. Rebellion brews amidst protests and political chaos.
Selina McEntyre finds herself in the frontier capital of that backwater province, seeking a new life as a university student. She must find her path forward, whether as a soldier or a scholar—though the Empire’s oppression may make the choice for her.
Magical forces swirl around the building revolution, a mystery Selina cannot ignore. If the revolution is to survive, it will need more than military prowess. For Selina to survive, she’ll need to uncover the secrets threatening to destroy the world.
REVOLUTION is the first book in Shadows of Endari , an epic flintlock fantasy. Enter a world where magic is everywhere, yet its true cost goes unseen by all.
485 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2026
About the author
C.D. Tavenor
22 books69 followersC. D. Tavenor is a science fiction and fantasy author based in Columbus, Ohio.
They are excited to tell stories that engage readers beyond a desire for entertainment, whether through philosophical inspiration or social inquiry.
When they're not writing, Tavenor enjoys the more than occasional board game, their favorite being Eclipse.
They are excited to tell stories that engage readers beyond a desire for entertainment, whether through philosophical inspiration or social inquiry.
When they're not writing, Tavenor enjoys the more than occasional board game, their favorite being Eclipse.
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
《 three and a half stars 》
While flintlock/political fantasy isn’t usually a genre I reach for, Revolution proved to be a well‑written and engaging stepping stone into something new. The author’s voice is confident and compelling, and the craftsmanship behind the world‑building and plot structure is easy to appreciate. Some of the characters had a good deal of charm as well.
That said, I never fully connected with the cast (the protagonist, Selina, in particular), and the story didn't captivate me in the way a favorite would. I suspect that’s partly because political fantasy sits outside my comfort zone, and certain elements simply didn’t resonate with me as strongly as I’d hoped.
Still, I’m glad I picked it up. Even if it wasn’t quite the book for me, I can easily see why others might enjoy it, especially readers who are fans of intricate political dynamics paired with strong prose.
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ a note regarding content: Typical fantasy violence, weaponry, death, mild gore, imprisonment, & allusions to torture; occasional swearing (d-, h-, a-) and consumption of alcohol; trials, protests, and other in-world political elements; LGBTQ+ characters (Selina is implied to be bisexual, and there are mentions of f/f & m/m couples on occasion). There seems to be a fantasy religion called the "Way of Peace," with characters quoting its scriptures, creeds, and philosophies here and there.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
While flintlock/political fantasy isn’t usually a genre I reach for, Revolution proved to be a well‑written and engaging stepping stone into something new. The author’s voice is confident and compelling, and the craftsmanship behind the world‑building and plot structure is easy to appreciate. Some of the characters had a good deal of charm as well.
That said, I never fully connected with the cast (the protagonist, Selina, in particular), and the story didn't captivate me in the way a favorite would. I suspect that’s partly because political fantasy sits outside my comfort zone, and certain elements simply didn’t resonate with me as strongly as I’d hoped.
Still, I’m glad I picked it up. Even if it wasn’t quite the book for me, I can easily see why others might enjoy it, especially readers who are fans of intricate political dynamics paired with strong prose.
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ a note regarding content: Typical fantasy violence, weaponry, death, mild gore, imprisonment, & allusions to torture; occasional swearing (d-, h-, a-) and consumption of alcohol; trials, protests, and other in-world political elements; LGBTQ+ characters (Selina is implied to be bisexual, and there are mentions of f/f & m/m couples on occasion). There seems to be a fantasy religion called the "Way of Peace," with characters quoting its scriptures, creeds, and philosophies here and there.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
March 27, 2026
CD Tavenor's first installment in an epic flintlock fantasy hits all the right notes and delivers on its promises. This book follows the story of Selina McEntyre. When she gets accepted to attend the Western Royal University in Fendari, she has no idea what lies in store for her. When her magical training leads to her befriending members of a mysterious group called simply The Fist, Selina may have gotten herself tangled up in something that is much larger than she expected.
Revolution is a sophisticated coming of age story where growing dreams and desires come into conflict with larger social and political forces. Where magic is a beautiful conduit and compliment for the storytelling and larger world. The world of Endari is compelling and I couldn't put the book down once I got going. I especially loved the subtle 'Hamilton' easter eggs throughout.
I can't wait to read book two when it comes out soon.
Revolution is a sophisticated coming of age story where growing dreams and desires come into conflict with larger social and political forces. Where magic is a beautiful conduit and compliment for the storytelling and larger world. The world of Endari is compelling and I couldn't put the book down once I got going. I especially loved the subtle 'Hamilton' easter eggs throughout.
I can't wait to read book two when it comes out soon.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews