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The Forgotten War
After Ceriana Hartfield, the conceited daughter of one of the most powerful families in the Duchy of Tenaren, discovers a strange stone washed up on the beach, she begins to suffer a disturbing metamorphosis. Her body intermittently glows an eerie translucent red and her nights are haunted by nightmarish visions. Ceriana’s discovery heralds the awakening of an ancient and terrifying power, a power that has the ability to turn the tide in the bloody, hopeless war that has long laid waste to her country.
An extraordinary epic that contains all the ingredients of the classic fantasy –brutal battles and tender love stories, headstrong elves and ambition-crazed warriors, thrilling landscapes and perilous journeys –delivered with unusual hard-headed realism and dry, bitter humour. The result is a gripping, searing tale about the dangers of power and the ugliness of war that speaks unnervingly to our age.
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Former guitarist and founder member of The Third Sex, the greatest band that no one has ever heard of and who never played live, Howard Sargent was a civil servant for 20 years before leaving to care full-time for his wife, who has Parkinson’s disease.
Howard lives in Cardiff and The Forgotten War was originally written in serial form for his wife
An extraordinary epic that contains all the ingredients of the classic fantasy –brutal battles and tender love stories, headstrong elves and ambition-crazed warriors, thrilling landscapes and perilous journeys –delivered with unusual hard-headed realism and dry, bitter humour. The result is a gripping, searing tale about the dangers of power and the ugliness of war that speaks unnervingly to our age.
-------
Former guitarist and founder member of The Third Sex, the greatest band that no one has ever heard of and who never played live, Howard Sargent was a civil servant for 20 years before leaving to care full-time for his wife, who has Parkinson’s disease.
Howard lives in Cardiff and The Forgotten War was originally written in serial form for his wife
- GenresFantasyEpic Fantasy
1065 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2014
1 person is currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
September 29, 2014
I totally adored this book. Normally with epic stories I begin to feel trapped in them because I feel like they will never end, but this one kept me so wrapped up in the story that I didn't realise just how many weeks I have spent reading it right up until the end! I am so thankful for being given an advance copy, and I hope to add this to my collect properly and to advertise it to many other. Really, who wouldnt like a story fill with mages, knights fighting bravely in battle, elves shrouded in mystery, legends of dragons, and not to mention a bunch of strong and deadly women!
For my full and honest review check it out on my blog http://jazminjade.wordpress.com/2014/...
For my full and honest review check it out on my blog http://jazminjade.wordpress.com/2014/...
July 19, 2016
Big book...even bigger story. Epic fantasy at its finest. Vivid world with real characters. Highly recommended for anyone that loves intelligent fantasy.
December 16, 2024
(Minor non-story spoilers. DNF at 48%)
A few things stop this book from being very good.
Firstly, the speed at which anything happens. It's an extremely long book, and could have done with an editor wielding a sharp sword to trim the excess. The pace is glacial.
Secondly, the lack of depth of the characters. It's like each character has a question mark over their face in your mind as you read. They don't stand out, and I lost track of who was who, mainly because it's just names, no distinguishing features to remember them by. Remembering people by personality instead is all well and good, letting actions define a character etc., but they're very plain characters, and it's not enough. The only one I recall fondly is a grizzled war vet with a smart mouth, who sadly is not around for long.
Depth also refers to personality here, especially the women. Oh geez, the women. I see some other reviewer praising the "strong deadly women". I didn't find any of that here. I encountered the beautiful princess-ish character, who is supposed to be so strong and brave, but can't seem to do anything without strong Nordic hubby looking over her shoulder. Then there's the stunningly beautiful mage, who stops to put on makeup before going into battle. (Really???) She's great at magic we are told, and yet quickly falls flat on her face without male mentor-guy there to save and protect her. The one female character I've liked by 48% (my stopping point) was an elf character who does indeed defy the tropes (even though she is also, of course, stunningly beautiful. Are ugly, plain, scarred or fat women not allowed in fantasy books?), and I'm sorry I won't get to see how her story ends. She, at least, had guts and personality, she felt somewhat real.
My third problem is not the writing style itself, which is highly praiseworthy otherwise, but the annoying use of big pretentious words I had to keep looking up in the dictionary. A word ceases to have the desired effect if your readers have to look the damn thing up. It's great that the author knows these words, but most people won't and it comes across less as elegant writing and more as showing off.
I tried very hard with this book, because I can see the potential in it for a great story. And I'm sure it IS a great story, for those willing to overlook these points. But I can't do it. I made it to almost half way, which was a fair try. Then I just had to quietly pack up my tent and sleeping bag and desert in the dead of night.
I will point out however, that if the Amazon book blurb about the author is correct, and he isn't a professional writer, then what he has achieved is quite remarkable and commendable despite my own personal dislikes about the book itself. There is world building at work here, and the book shines with it. Forests come alive, waterfalls crash around your boots, and the smoke from battle is all around. There is great writing here in places, and I would read another book from this writer if it were shorter, and perhaps more focused on a single character.
A few things stop this book from being very good.
Firstly, the speed at which anything happens. It's an extremely long book, and could have done with an editor wielding a sharp sword to trim the excess. The pace is glacial.
Secondly, the lack of depth of the characters. It's like each character has a question mark over their face in your mind as you read. They don't stand out, and I lost track of who was who, mainly because it's just names, no distinguishing features to remember them by. Remembering people by personality instead is all well and good, letting actions define a character etc., but they're very plain characters, and it's not enough. The only one I recall fondly is a grizzled war vet with a smart mouth, who sadly is not around for long.
Depth also refers to personality here, especially the women. Oh geez, the women. I see some other reviewer praising the "strong deadly women". I didn't find any of that here. I encountered the beautiful princess-ish character, who is supposed to be so strong and brave, but can't seem to do anything without strong Nordic hubby looking over her shoulder. Then there's the stunningly beautiful mage, who stops to put on makeup before going into battle. (Really???) She's great at magic we are told, and yet quickly falls flat on her face without male mentor-guy there to save and protect her. The one female character I've liked by 48% (my stopping point) was an elf character who does indeed defy the tropes (even though she is also, of course, stunningly beautiful. Are ugly, plain, scarred or fat women not allowed in fantasy books?), and I'm sorry I won't get to see how her story ends. She, at least, had guts and personality, she felt somewhat real.
My third problem is not the writing style itself, which is highly praiseworthy otherwise, but the annoying use of big pretentious words I had to keep looking up in the dictionary. A word ceases to have the desired effect if your readers have to look the damn thing up. It's great that the author knows these words, but most people won't and it comes across less as elegant writing and more as showing off.
I tried very hard with this book, because I can see the potential in it for a great story. And I'm sure it IS a great story, for those willing to overlook these points. But I can't do it. I made it to almost half way, which was a fair try. Then I just had to quietly pack up my tent and sleeping bag and desert in the dead of night.
I will point out however, that if the Amazon book blurb about the author is correct, and he isn't a professional writer, then what he has achieved is quite remarkable and commendable despite my own personal dislikes about the book itself. There is world building at work here, and the book shines with it. Forests come alive, waterfalls crash around your boots, and the smoke from battle is all around. There is great writing here in places, and I would read another book from this writer if it were shorter, and perhaps more focused on a single character.
March 19, 2014
READING DAY ONE: On closer inspection, I have just noticed that this book actually encompasses three books. There is also an epilogue and three appendix at the end for good measure. The first book is entitled Autumn and is where my reading adventure starts. Having been introduced to key characters such as The Baron and Reynard, my favourite character, so far, is Morgan 'The Protector'.
Day One: (Page 1 -100 ) The book has started with three plot lines so far and a massive number of characters who navigate each strand of the story. A vast array of details and settings are also thrown into the story. The language is challenging and very detailed, perhaps creating a slightly slower reading pace but this is really necessary to give the reader a sense of the story ahead. This only adds to the the enjoyment of the experience.
Day Two: (Page 100 - 200 ) A fourth plot line has just been introduced. I've got my full fantasy mind into gear. The story is flowing easily and building up very well to the many mysteries that lay ahead.
Book Synopsis: For ten years the people of eastern Tanaren have known nothing but war, a war to which there seems to be no end in sight. Now, however, things may be about to change. Pitched into the heart of the conflict are four people: Morgan, a veteran warrior charged with an important mission; Cheris, a gifted but wayward sorceress called from her exile on a remote island; Ceriana Hartfield, a noblewoman whose marriage is pre-empted by a chance discovery on a beach; and Cygan, a man from the desolate marshes seeking aid against a merciless foe. Between them, could they hold the key to ending this deadly conflict? But at what cost?
Day Three: (Page 200-300) - This book is coming together like a cauldron full of magic; it's all binding together like a witches spell..... The ingredients are rapidly coming to boil as we plough further into the story. The action has intensified and a shock death in one of the many plots has slightly shocked me. As I progress further into the story it now feels like a well worn shoe. I love the complex structure of the story, it is very clever and must have taken some time to map out.
Day Four: (Page 300-433) I am now getting to see the other side of the enemy for the first time. They story is opening up with many more elements to understand and get your head around. I am loving it more and more by the minute. With brutal battles, bitter humour and some tough gripping storylines, the author has not just written a story, he has built a world around many stories. His great imaginative writing leaves the reader lapping up the words. All of these elements have been outstandingly achieved within his first ever book.
Day Five: (Page 433-562) END OF BOOK ONE: I have now arrived at the final section of book one. I have travelled along a bleak path of rape and death as well as dark graphic encounters which are not for the feint of heart. The action is starting to coalesce into a maelstrom of action which would sit equally as well within the best fantasy classics.
This book is beginning to feel like an old friend. I am happy and comfortable to venture along many of the paths that the story has to offer. I have bonded with most of the characters that I have been introduced to and I am desperately hoping that their future's remain safe within the next book, Winter.
I have received a great guest post from the author. If you would like to read it, then check it out here.
http://www.mrripleysenchantedbooks.co...
New Day (Page 562 - 700) Book Two: The story is now rolling down a path that holds an uncertain future for the characters. The action has slowed down - it is allowing me to briefly get my breath back. However the characters are leaping about from one plot line into another. The vivid description and imagery is spellbinding. I think that I have developed muscles in my mind as well as in my biceps - this fantasy workout is building up my reading stamina. In my opinion, this is a spectacular work that has been produced by a debut author. To read it, is to believe it. This is your chance to finally buy a copy as it is officially out today. So go on and get yourself a copy - you won't be disappointed if you love this genre. http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/Forgo...
Next day (pages: 700 - 958) I am still making my way through this epic fantasy. The action has intensified ten fold, it's bursting with fantastical moments that delight me as a reader. The more I read, the more I think back to the first time when I read a J.R.R Tolkien book. To me, this story is actually as good as that. I can only hope that you give this book a chance to be read and that you're not put off by the size as every page is worth reading.
I have now entered book three, Spring, and only have another 100 or so pages left to read. This might be the biggest book that I have read, ever!
Last part to follow........
Day One: (Page 1 -100 ) The book has started with three plot lines so far and a massive number of characters who navigate each strand of the story. A vast array of details and settings are also thrown into the story. The language is challenging and very detailed, perhaps creating a slightly slower reading pace but this is really necessary to give the reader a sense of the story ahead. This only adds to the the enjoyment of the experience.
Day Two: (Page 100 - 200 ) A fourth plot line has just been introduced. I've got my full fantasy mind into gear. The story is flowing easily and building up very well to the many mysteries that lay ahead.
Book Synopsis: For ten years the people of eastern Tanaren have known nothing but war, a war to which there seems to be no end in sight. Now, however, things may be about to change. Pitched into the heart of the conflict are four people: Morgan, a veteran warrior charged with an important mission; Cheris, a gifted but wayward sorceress called from her exile on a remote island; Ceriana Hartfield, a noblewoman whose marriage is pre-empted by a chance discovery on a beach; and Cygan, a man from the desolate marshes seeking aid against a merciless foe. Between them, could they hold the key to ending this deadly conflict? But at what cost?
Day Three: (Page 200-300) - This book is coming together like a cauldron full of magic; it's all binding together like a witches spell..... The ingredients are rapidly coming to boil as we plough further into the story. The action has intensified and a shock death in one of the many plots has slightly shocked me. As I progress further into the story it now feels like a well worn shoe. I love the complex structure of the story, it is very clever and must have taken some time to map out.
Day Four: (Page 300-433) I am now getting to see the other side of the enemy for the first time. They story is opening up with many more elements to understand and get your head around. I am loving it more and more by the minute. With brutal battles, bitter humour and some tough gripping storylines, the author has not just written a story, he has built a world around many stories. His great imaginative writing leaves the reader lapping up the words. All of these elements have been outstandingly achieved within his first ever book.
Day Five: (Page 433-562) END OF BOOK ONE: I have now arrived at the final section of book one. I have travelled along a bleak path of rape and death as well as dark graphic encounters which are not for the feint of heart. The action is starting to coalesce into a maelstrom of action which would sit equally as well within the best fantasy classics.
This book is beginning to feel like an old friend. I am happy and comfortable to venture along many of the paths that the story has to offer. I have bonded with most of the characters that I have been introduced to and I am desperately hoping that their future's remain safe within the next book, Winter.
I have received a great guest post from the author. If you would like to read it, then check it out here.
http://www.mrripleysenchantedbooks.co...
New Day (Page 562 - 700) Book Two: The story is now rolling down a path that holds an uncertain future for the characters. The action has slowed down - it is allowing me to briefly get my breath back. However the characters are leaping about from one plot line into another. The vivid description and imagery is spellbinding. I think that I have developed muscles in my mind as well as in my biceps - this fantasy workout is building up my reading stamina. In my opinion, this is a spectacular work that has been produced by a debut author. To read it, is to believe it. This is your chance to finally buy a copy as it is officially out today. So go on and get yourself a copy - you won't be disappointed if you love this genre. http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/Forgo...
Next day (pages: 700 - 958) I am still making my way through this epic fantasy. The action has intensified ten fold, it's bursting with fantastical moments that delight me as a reader. The more I read, the more I think back to the first time when I read a J.R.R Tolkien book. To me, this story is actually as good as that. I can only hope that you give this book a chance to be read and that you're not put off by the size as every page is worth reading.
I have now entered book three, Spring, and only have another 100 or so pages left to read. This might be the biggest book that I have read, ever!
Last part to follow........
October 24, 2014
Note: I read the Kindle edition (from Amazon UK) but it will not let me select that.
This book is really awesome. The stories from the viewpoint of individual characters are all quite gripping and coalesce into fewer main interwoven threads nearer the end. The overall chronicle, to me at least, is more equal to Lord of The Rings and it will remain vivid in my memory for the rest of my life. The tales are so real, that I will admit to something that perhaps a man in his sixties should not normally do, on more than one occasion just reading one of the character tales saw me so emotionally involved with their plight that I was brought to tears.
There are so many other things about this book that are wonderful, including the humour between comrades (or the more cutting variety between foes), the painting of the landscape, environment, tastes and smells, but the masterful manner in which everything is brought together produces an epic.
I do so very much hope that Howard is working on a second volume as a continuance of the storyline; I would not dream of including a spoiler in this review, but I suggest that I can be sufficiently vague by saying there is plenty of room to see the return of a dragon and her soulmate, the recall of a Mage, and that of lovers facing prejudice, to even greater challenges. Fortunately, the manner in which this tome ends makes all of this perfectly credible, should the master scribe feel up to it.
I also dearly hope that Peter Jackson reads this book as I am certain that in his very capable hands it could be turned into one or more magnificent movies.
This book is really awesome. The stories from the viewpoint of individual characters are all quite gripping and coalesce into fewer main interwoven threads nearer the end. The overall chronicle, to me at least, is more equal to Lord of The Rings and it will remain vivid in my memory for the rest of my life. The tales are so real, that I will admit to something that perhaps a man in his sixties should not normally do, on more than one occasion just reading one of the character tales saw me so emotionally involved with their plight that I was brought to tears.
There are so many other things about this book that are wonderful, including the humour between comrades (or the more cutting variety between foes), the painting of the landscape, environment, tastes and smells, but the masterful manner in which everything is brought together produces an epic.
I do so very much hope that Howard is working on a second volume as a continuance of the storyline; I would not dream of including a spoiler in this review, but I suggest that I can be sufficiently vague by saying there is plenty of room to see the return of a dragon and her soulmate, the recall of a Mage, and that of lovers facing prejudice, to even greater challenges. Fortunately, the manner in which this tome ends makes all of this perfectly credible, should the master scribe feel up to it.
I also dearly hope that Peter Jackson reads this book as I am certain that in his very capable hands it could be turned into one or more magnificent movies.
February 10, 2014
I loved this book. Fantastic characters, lots of action, politics, magic and romance. An epic book, quite a doorstopper too!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews