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Chains of Honor #1
Warrior Mage
His mother was one of the most powerful wizards in the Nurian Empire until she abandoned her people to become a notorious pirate. That choice doomed the family she left behind to a life of disgrace.
Yanko White Fox doesn’t remember his mother, but as the only gifted child in the family, he is expected to erase the mark she left on them all. With an affinity for earth magic and communicating with animals, he’s not the most natural candidate to become a warrior mage, but it’s the only sure route back into the Great Chief’s good graces. He has resigned himself to training for that destiny, whether it matches his passions or not.
Long before he’s ready for his first battle, insurrection comes to his distant corner of the empire. Rebels take over the salt mine his family manages and slay the only relative who ever supported Yanko. On the heels of the tragedy, a courier brings a message from the Great Chief’s son. Whether he is prepared or not, Yanko must undertake a quest, one that could save millions of lives… or fail utterly, leaving him dead, his family forgotten, and his people the victims of starvation and endless war.
Yanko White Fox doesn’t remember his mother, but as the only gifted child in the family, he is expected to erase the mark she left on them all. With an affinity for earth magic and communicating with animals, he’s not the most natural candidate to become a warrior mage, but it’s the only sure route back into the Great Chief’s good graces. He has resigned himself to training for that destiny, whether it matches his passions or not.
Long before he’s ready for his first battle, insurrection comes to his distant corner of the empire. Rebels take over the salt mine his family manages and slay the only relative who ever supported Yanko. On the heels of the tragedy, a courier brings a message from the Great Chief’s son. Whether he is prepared or not, Yanko must undertake a quest, one that could save millions of lives… or fail utterly, leaving him dead, his family forgotten, and his people the victims of starvation and endless war.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2015
1022 people are currently reading
2037 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Buroker
198 books6,237 followersI'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
May 18, 2020
Out of the frying pan, into the fire
A hood book and a very interesting start to the series. I love the world of magic, science and of course Martial Arts. A great young hero Yanko.
In this world both science and magic exists. Magic is call the mental science, and fire is rules over all else. Enter Yanko an talented young practitioner hoping to got to school to further his talent.
A total contradiction, the ultimate outsider. Where family honour is paramount, he comes from a once great but disgraced family, though powerful not in the right element, dispite coming from a privileged background he gets his hands dirty.
Part of my loves the way Yanko though completely in over his head manages to rise to the occasion, as well earn grudging respect from people around him. His sheltered life changes when "offered" a quest. That with every victory just keep getting more and more dangerous.
A good book, that did entice me to carry on reading the series. I hope to see Yanko grow to the potential others see in him. Also kick hand out some well deserved butt kicking to certain people. With a lot of history, and ground to cover the potential for growth is endless.
A hood book and a very interesting start to the series. I love the world of magic, science and of course Martial Arts. A great young hero Yanko.
In this world both science and magic exists. Magic is call the mental science, and fire is rules over all else. Enter Yanko an talented young practitioner hoping to got to school to further his talent.
A total contradiction, the ultimate outsider. Where family honour is paramount, he comes from a once great but disgraced family, though powerful not in the right element, dispite coming from a privileged background he gets his hands dirty.
Part of my loves the way Yanko though completely in over his head manages to rise to the occasion, as well earn grudging respect from people around him. His sheltered life changes when "offered" a quest. That with every victory just keep getting more and more dangerous.
A good book, that did entice me to carry on reading the series. I hope to see Yanko grow to the potential others see in him. Also kick hand out some well deserved butt kicking to certain people. With a lot of history, and ground to cover the potential for growth is endless.
May 13, 2019
4,25 stars -English Ebook - 🦋🦋🦋
Quote from the book : But it wasn’t a gun in the drawer. It was a golden amulet, one with a spherical jade stone in the middle, held in place by a lizard’s claw - or Maybe that was supposed to be the claw of a mythological dragon. A curious piece of jewelry, one Yanko had never seen his father wear. He touches it, wonderkind if it had any magical power, and a flame of warm orange light washed over him. Energy sang to him, he felt it. 🌹🌹🌹
A new series with new characters but still in a familiar world. It was a good start of this series, the charaters where well placed in the storyline. It made me want to read the second book in the series. 🌼🌼🌼
Quote from the book : But it wasn’t a gun in the drawer. It was a golden amulet, one with a spherical jade stone in the middle, held in place by a lizard’s claw - or Maybe that was supposed to be the claw of a mythological dragon. A curious piece of jewelry, one Yanko had never seen his father wear. He touches it, wonderkind if it had any magical power, and a flame of warm orange light washed over him. Energy sang to him, he felt it. 🌹🌹🌹
A new series with new characters but still in a familiar world. It was a good start of this series, the charaters where well placed in the storyline. It made me want to read the second book in the series. 🌼🌼🌼
June 23, 2017
Warrior Mage
A fun page turner, Yanko is a young man with all of his families hopes and dreams pinned on his back due to his magical aptitude. But the family wants more from Yanko than he wants to give so he is sent to the family salt mines to be toughened up before his entrance exams.
A fun page turner, Yanko is a young man with all of his families hopes and dreams pinned on his back due to his magical aptitude. But the family wants more from Yanko than he wants to give so he is sent to the family salt mines to be toughened up before his entrance exams.
October 31, 2019
My rating 4.5
The book Warrior Mage (Chains of Honor, # 1) by Lindsay Buroker is a solid fantasy novel and the story is great to me. The characters and the world in which the action takes place is super-designed, and the story simply pulls you in to read it to find out what happens later. Now, a little about the story, the main character in the book, Yanko White Fox wants to become a Warrior Mage, but in a contest of circumstances, he fails to become a student of the school of magic. His father is disappointed with him and sends him to his uncle's salt mine to do the hard work of digging salt. Yanko is angry with himself for failing to become a member of the Magic School as a candidate and accepts his father's wish without talking. But not much time will pass and his life will be at a turning point. Rebels against the empire will attack the mine, his uncle and most of the miners will die, and Yanko will barely get his head alive from the mine. He and his friend Lakeo will manage to escape, but this is just the beginning of the trouble that will start to happen to him. The world in which he lives will suddenly begin to change, his fate will choose a path he never hoped for as he would receive a task from the prince, the survival of the empire, which is slowly crumbling, will depend on Yanko. But there will be plenty of enemies in his path who will try to kill him. If you like fantasy stories this is a great book and readers will just want to know what happens on the next page. Although this is the beginning of the series I like the story and I want to read the sequels.
The book Warrior Mage (Chains of Honor, # 1) by Lindsay Buroker is a solid fantasy novel and the story is great to me. The characters and the world in which the action takes place is super-designed, and the story simply pulls you in to read it to find out what happens later. Now, a little about the story, the main character in the book, Yanko White Fox wants to become a Warrior Mage, but in a contest of circumstances, he fails to become a student of the school of magic. His father is disappointed with him and sends him to his uncle's salt mine to do the hard work of digging salt. Yanko is angry with himself for failing to become a member of the Magic School as a candidate and accepts his father's wish without talking. But not much time will pass and his life will be at a turning point. Rebels against the empire will attack the mine, his uncle and most of the miners will die, and Yanko will barely get his head alive from the mine. He and his friend Lakeo will manage to escape, but this is just the beginning of the trouble that will start to happen to him. The world in which he lives will suddenly begin to change, his fate will choose a path he never hoped for as he would receive a task from the prince, the survival of the empire, which is slowly crumbling, will depend on Yanko. But there will be plenty of enemies in his path who will try to kill him. If you like fantasy stories this is a great book and readers will just want to know what happens on the next page. Although this is the beginning of the series I like the story and I want to read the sequels.
Read
June 25, 2017DNF 45%
This is my first book by this author and judging by the other reviews of this book it looks as though I should have started with one of her other fantasy series.
Interesting premise, but I felt that this was written more for a middle grade audience - and even then I would say it's on the mediocre side. There are just too many convenient situations, and the main character is given a lot more responsibility than seems likely. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at every situation in which he found himself. Given more thought the magic could be very interesting, but so far it's only proven to be another convenient tool, with very few obstacles that prevent it's use. I can't see myself continuing this series so I've decided to call it quits.
This is my first book by this author and judging by the other reviews of this book it looks as though I should have started with one of her other fantasy series.
Interesting premise, but I felt that this was written more for a middle grade audience - and even then I would say it's on the mediocre side. There are just too many convenient situations, and the main character is given a lot more responsibility than seems likely. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at every situation in which he found himself. Given more thought the magic could be very interesting, but so far it's only proven to be another convenient tool, with very few obstacles that prevent it's use. I can't see myself continuing this series so I've decided to call it quits.
Read
May 24, 2015Another thoroughly fun adventure from Buroker, with her kitchen sink world building that works, I think, because of the overriding sense of sheer fun.
Yanko is eighteen and his family expects him to recoup their slide from prestige into respect again (in spite of his notorious pirate mother who decamped years ago) by becoming a warrior mage. But fate has other plans.
Soon he, and Lakeo, a young woman from his uncle's mines, find themselves propelled into adventure, driven by a mysterious letter from Yanko's friend, the Nurian prince. Characters from the Emperor's Edge books turn up, we have lots of Buroker's wonderful banter, and a host of interesting characters. Looking forward to the next!
Yanko is eighteen and his family expects him to recoup their slide from prestige into respect again (in spite of his notorious pirate mother who decamped years ago) by becoming a warrior mage. But fate has other plans.
Soon he, and Lakeo, a young woman from his uncle's mines, find themselves propelled into adventure, driven by a mysterious letter from Yanko's friend, the Nurian prince. Characters from the Emperor's Edge books turn up, we have lots of Buroker's wonderful banter, and a host of interesting characters. Looking forward to the next!
June 30, 2021
Great start to a new series. Fans of Buroker's other works will be thrilled with this crossover series. Same world different circumstances.
I am very happy to say there is a cameo character appearance as well as lots of new characters to enjoy.
Of course, this will be another fantasy series I must follow.
Buroker is a auto buy author for me, I don't even need to see the synopsis before I one click the ebook.
I am very happy to say there is a cameo character appearance as well as lots of new characters to enjoy.
Of course, this will be another fantasy series I must follow.
Buroker is a auto buy author for me, I don't even need to see the synopsis before I one click the ebook.
March 23, 2015
As a major fan of Lindsay Buroker's The Emperor's Edge, I've been chomping at the bit to read the new Chains of Honor series (set in the same universe) ever since it was first announced. The trio of short stories in The Swords & Salt Collection, Tales 1-3 that introduced us to Yanko and the land of Nuria only whetted my appetite, so when the chance to read an advanced copy of Warrior Mage came, I jumped on it. It didn't disappoint; I've come to count on Lindsay Buroker for action-packed fantasy that will sweep you along for the ride and that's precisely what I got here.
Firstly, I should note that while Warrior Mage can be read as a standalone, it's recommended to read at least the first two of the three short stories in the Swords & Salt collection first. Yanko's decisions and changing relationships with his friends and allies in this book carry much greater impact with the added background: The first story laid out the first meeting between Yanko and Dak as well as his warring desire to do what he loves (the earth sciences) and what he is honour-bound to do for his family (train in fire/warrior magic), and the second story introduced readers to the tough ladies who become Yanko's allies in Warrior Mage.
What all three short stories also built up to in succession is the undercurrent of unease that not all is well inthe state of Denmark Nuria; the ruling aristocracy is more fractured than Yanko could imagine and the land itself can barely keep up with the needs of its inhabitants. In Warrior Mage, the issue finally comes to a head, so when Prince Zirabo (whom we met in
Republic
and the first Swords & Salt short story) gives Yanko a mission to sail to the Kyatt Islands and track down something that could potentially solve Nuria's problems, Yanko doesn't have much of a choice - not if he wants to restore honour to his once-prestigious family. Naturally he finds himself well out of his depth with neither the training, experience nor allies to point him in the right direction and more enemies invested in his quest than he could cope with; the result is an enjoyable high-tension read as Yanko fights to stay one step ahead of disaster.
Lindsay Buroker always writes intelligent and likeable protagonists, and Yanko is no different in that regard. I find him easily sympathetic and, unlike other heroes who often sound too old for their supposed teen years, Yanko reads very true to the 18-year-old that he is. He's well-mannered, quick on his feet and determined, but is currently stuck in the phase where he has to deal with being looked down upon or plain overlooked because of his youth (but enjoying the freedom that comes with it) or being expected to do more than he's capable of due to his talent and being at the cusp of adulthood (but potentially winning the respect of those around him). But what I like best about Yanko is his general good sense balanced with morals; in fantasy universes where it's kill-or-be-killed, it's easy to swing too far in either direction. I rather like Yanko's take on it:
He does have his fair share of flaws, most notably his lack of confidence, a tendency to underestimate his own abilities (though after a lifetime of being crushed by the pressure of his family's unreasonable expectations and his father's constant disapproval, it's not surprising) and an inability to judge people as a result of his sheltered upbringing, but these are weaknesses that he himself recognizes and watching him learn to surpass them is part of the adventure.
For the supporting characters, I loved getting reacquainted with Dak (and I want MUCH MORE of him since he remains mostly a mystery to Yanko in this book - how'd he get stuck in Nuria?) and Akstyr is surprisingly a hoot; he's less moody here and his terrible grasp of Kyattese makes for some hilarious situations. I like Yanko and Lakeo's partnership as well, though I'm hoping the banter will grow in time as Yanko becomes less overwhelmed with the situation he's faced with - his isolation from any friends or allies that he can trust 100% has meant we're robbed of a lot of the humour and banter that the author is a master of. The only character that I don't like is Arayevo, however; she's still selfish and self-absorbed and I find her utterly unnecessary as anything other than a first love that Yanko will hopefully learn to get over.
For those who wanted more magic of the traditional fire-flinging and earth-moving kind, Warrior Mage more than delivers; it's somewhat reminiscent of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and I love it. Can't wait for the second book - thank goodness Lindsay Buroker writes so fast!
I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Lindsay Buroker
Firstly, I should note that while Warrior Mage can be read as a standalone, it's recommended to read at least the first two of the three short stories in the Swords & Salt collection first. Yanko's decisions and changing relationships with his friends and allies in this book carry much greater impact with the added background: The first story laid out the first meeting between Yanko and Dak as well as his warring desire to do what he loves (the earth sciences) and what he is honour-bound to do for his family (train in fire/warrior magic), and the second story introduced readers to the tough ladies who become Yanko's allies in Warrior Mage.
What all three short stories also built up to in succession is the undercurrent of unease that not all is well in
Lindsay Buroker always writes intelligent and likeable protagonists, and Yanko is no different in that regard. I find him easily sympathetic and, unlike other heroes who often sound too old for their supposed teen years, Yanko reads very true to the 18-year-old that he is. He's well-mannered, quick on his feet and determined, but is currently stuck in the phase where he has to deal with being looked down upon or plain overlooked because of his youth (but enjoying the freedom that comes with it) or being expected to do more than he's capable of due to his talent and being at the cusp of adulthood (but potentially winning the respect of those around him). But what I like best about Yanko is his general good sense balanced with morals; in fantasy universes where it's kill-or-be-killed, it's easy to swing too far in either direction. I rather like Yanko's take on it:
Yes, any kind of killing disturbed him, but he was logical enough to understand the need for self-defense, to understand that if he didn't kill her, she would keep coming after him. Somehow that logic did not make it all right.
He does have his fair share of flaws, most notably his lack of confidence, a tendency to underestimate his own abilities (though after a lifetime of being crushed by the pressure of his family's unreasonable expectations and his father's constant disapproval, it's not surprising) and an inability to judge people as a result of his sheltered upbringing, but these are weaknesses that he himself recognizes and watching him learn to surpass them is part of the adventure.
For the supporting characters, I loved getting reacquainted with Dak (and I want MUCH MORE of him since he remains mostly a mystery to Yanko in this book - how'd he get stuck in Nuria?) and Akstyr is surprisingly a hoot; he's less moody here and his terrible grasp of Kyattese makes for some hilarious situations. I like Yanko and Lakeo's partnership as well, though I'm hoping the banter will grow in time as Yanko becomes less overwhelmed with the situation he's faced with - his isolation from any friends or allies that he can trust 100% has meant we're robbed of a lot of the humour and banter that the author is a master of. The only character that I don't like is Arayevo, however; she's still selfish and self-absorbed and I find her utterly unnecessary as anything other than a first love that Yanko will hopefully learn to get over.
For those who wanted more magic of the traditional fire-flinging and earth-moving kind, Warrior Mage more than delivers; it's somewhat reminiscent of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and I love it. Can't wait for the second book - thank goodness Lindsay Buroker writes so fast!
I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Lindsay Buroker
August 7, 2015
A new, spin-off series in the same universe of The Emperor's Edge.
Now we're on the other side: the Nurians'... a really young and naive Nurian! :)
I laughed and sometimes cringed during his adventures! He's so endearing!
Also all the other characters are great!
I liked it very much and I'm looking forward to the next book!
Now we're on the other side: the Nurians'... a really young and naive Nurian! :)
I laughed and sometimes cringed during his adventures! He's so endearing!
Also all the other characters are great!
I liked it very much and I'm looking forward to the next book!
Read
July 4, 2017DNF at about 70%. I was struggling with this book almost from the beginning, tried to finish, but it's not worth my time. It's a badly written YA. I don't care about characters much, they are annoying and not interesting at all.
The story wasn't very good and it seemed like a lot of things happened just because the author wanted them to happen...
Magic in this book is not well explained, and I would say that the mages are a cross between wizards (throwing fire-balls and things like that) and Jedi knights (controlling animals, feeling the approach of others....). It wouldn't be that bad, but it seems to me like it's just too much and it doesn't make much sense...maybe it's explained in the next books, but I am not very patient and I'm not going to wait...
The story wasn't very good and it seemed like a lot of things happened just because the author wanted them to happen...
Magic in this book is not well explained, and I would say that the mages are a cross between wizards (throwing fire-balls and things like that) and Jedi knights (controlling animals, feeling the approach of others....). It wouldn't be that bad, but it seems to me like it's just too much and it doesn't make much sense...maybe it's explained in the next books, but I am not very patient and I'm not going to wait...
September 2, 2015
Not as good as the Emperor's Edge but pleasant all the same.
Chains of Honor is a new series set in the same world as EE except that we're not in Turgonia anymore but in Nuria. We follow a new character, Yanko, a young noble who wants to enter the Mage Academy to become a Warrior Mage. Only, there's a problem. Yanko does not want to become a warrior mage.
But one does not always do what one wants...
Chains of Honor is a new series set in the same world as EE except that we're not in Turgonia anymore but in Nuria. We follow a new character, Yanko, a young noble who wants to enter the Mage Academy to become a Warrior Mage. Only, there's a problem. Yanko does not want to become a warrior mage.
But one does not always do what one wants...
October 19, 2018
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
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March 11, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/11/2020)! 🎁
March 23, 2015
I usually praise Lindsay Buroker for producing consistently entertaining adventure fiction, and this is certainly that. However, if her books have a fault, it's that, occasionally, the plots rely on unlikely but convenient coincidences. There's usually only one per book, and they usually meet the Pixar Test of getting the characters into trouble, rather than out of it. This book, though, has a good half-dozen, mostly more helpful than not, and the protagonist teeters on the edge of being what I call a Spoiled Protagonist: someone that randomly encountered people will help for no really good reason, in order to move him in the direction of his Destiny.
For example, he reaches a sizeable city, and practically the first person he sees is someone who owes him a favour. He can only find one sea captain to get him where he needs to go, who happens to employ an old friend/crush of his, thus motivating him to an out-of-character act which moves the plot along further. They escape the blockaded harbour partly through his actions, but largely through a fortunate coincidence.
The guy who's now more than discharged his owed favour introduces the protagonist to someone who has even less reason to help him, and says so, but does anyway.
He shouldn't need the help, either. The opening chapter establishes him as someone who's capable of qualifying to enter an elite college for warrior mages, physically and mentally formidable, if a little callow.
There's a lampshade hung on the unlikely coincidences at one point, and the protagonist credits his people's gods. Given that, in the numerous books set in this world so far, we've had no indication that the gods are real and active, I didn't find this an adequate explanation. (Granted, I haven't read every one of the books, and the Turgonians are atheists, but still.)
The competent, enjoyable adventure scenes and the out-of-their-depth, bickering characters are still there, but for me, they were overshadowed by the author's excessive generosity to the protagonist to get him out of trouble and assemble his team and resources.
(I received a copy from the author for purposes of review, based on having reviewed previous books.)
For example, he reaches a sizeable city, and practically the first person he sees is someone who owes him a favour. He can only find one sea captain to get him where he needs to go, who happens to employ an old friend/crush of his, thus motivating him to an out-of-character act which moves the plot along further. They escape the blockaded harbour partly through his actions, but largely through a fortunate coincidence.
The guy who's now more than discharged his owed favour introduces the protagonist to someone who has even less reason to help him, and says so, but does anyway.
He shouldn't need the help, either. The opening chapter establishes him as someone who's capable of qualifying to enter an elite college for warrior mages, physically and mentally formidable, if a little callow.
There's a lampshade hung on the unlikely coincidences at one point, and the protagonist credits his people's gods. Given that, in the numerous books set in this world so far, we've had no indication that the gods are real and active, I didn't find this an adequate explanation. (Granted, I haven't read every one of the books, and the Turgonians are atheists, but still.)
The competent, enjoyable adventure scenes and the out-of-their-depth, bickering characters are still there, but for me, they were overshadowed by the author's excessive generosity to the protagonist to get him out of trouble and assemble his team and resources.
(I received a copy from the author for purposes of review, based on having reviewed previous books.)
June 10, 2021
Dropped at 65% ish.
While I found the prose very enjoyable, and the limited yet detailed worldbuilding on point, the main character just didn't do it for me. He's just... so dumb. Sure, he knows a lot and has his bright moments, but most of his decisions gave me a headache. As said in the blurb, he gets a quest that is supposed to be secret, but then he goes and basically announces it to pretty much anyone and everyone he meets, even though he has a very plausible cover story that he's supposed to be using. He thinks he's smart, but the way he blotches up every real world encounter is straight up infuriating. Add to that mix his boyhood crush after whom he still pines in a rather cringy way - maybe I'm just getting old. A younger audience would probably find the mc very relatable.
This book just really wasn't for me.
While I found the prose very enjoyable, and the limited yet detailed worldbuilding on point, the main character just didn't do it for me. He's just... so dumb. Sure, he knows a lot and has his bright moments, but most of his decisions gave me a headache. As said in the blurb, he gets a quest that is supposed to be secret, but then he goes and basically announces it to pretty much anyone and everyone he meets, even though he has a very plausible cover story that he's supposed to be using. He thinks he's smart, but the way he blotches up every real world encounter is straight up infuriating. Add to that mix his boyhood crush after whom he still pines in a rather cringy way - maybe I'm just getting old. A younger audience would probably find the mc very relatable.
This book just really wasn't for me.
January 9, 2024
The main charachter is Yanko, who I've already met in the Sword & Salt prequel series.
I would definitely recommend reading the Sword & Salt series before this series because it is the story that leads up to the quest he is on in this book. This book briefly mentions people and events from Yanko's past that are explained in more detail in the Sword & Salt series. I'm sure you can follow the story in this book without knowing the details of those past events but it certainly makes the story richer if you do know the background story behind it.
I would definitely recommend reading the Sword & Salt series before this series because it is the story that leads up to the quest he is on in this book. This book briefly mentions people and events from Yanko's past that are explained in more detail in the Sword & Salt series. I'm sure you can follow the story in this book without knowing the details of those past events but it certainly makes the story richer if you do know the background story behind it.
April 28, 2015
This is the first time I have been provided a book by an author. It did not impact my rating or my review (and I ended up buying the book anyway because I can't stand to read on the computer!). Just so you know where I am at. My reviews are mostly for my own edification. I've read (and read) so many books that I have found goodreads to be a great site to keep my own thoughts on authors/books/series so that I would know A. If I've read the book (before buying it twice...or you know three times...not saying I've done that of course...). and B. whether or not I liked the author. I don't buy based on genre. I read so much that there are not enough books in the genres I really love (sci-fi and urban fantasy) to keep me going for a month. I read just about everything under the sun. So if an author I like writes in multiple genres...all the better for me. Lindsay Buroker happens to be an author I LOVE. I have purchased and read every single one of her books. I love them. There is not one I would count as a bad book. Some were 4's rather than 5's mostly because of the characters (can't love em all). I have also read her books as Ruby Lionsdrake and loved those as well.
All right, now that the love fest is over I'll tell you what I really enjoyed about Warrior Mage. The Charcaters! Hands down Lindsay writes the best characters and dialogue. I actually prefer to read from a female pov (a weird quirk of mine). I don't mind 2 points of view (male and female for example) but when the only point of view is male I usually will lose interest in the book at the half way point. This one is narrated by a young male and actually held my interest from beginning to end. This book takes place in a world I am familiar with, having read all of Burokers fantasy series but rest assured you could jump into with this book without worrying whether or not you will understand everything (although I urge you to go read them all! really!) The world building is excellent as usual and the secondary characters are also outstanding. The plot and action move right along and while this is most definitely the first book in a series I am very happy with were it ended. I can't wait for the next one!
All right, now that the love fest is over I'll tell you what I really enjoyed about Warrior Mage. The Charcaters! Hands down Lindsay writes the best characters and dialogue. I actually prefer to read from a female pov (a weird quirk of mine). I don't mind 2 points of view (male and female for example) but when the only point of view is male I usually will lose interest in the book at the half way point. This one is narrated by a young male and actually held my interest from beginning to end. This book takes place in a world I am familiar with, having read all of Burokers fantasy series but rest assured you could jump into with this book without worrying whether or not you will understand everything (although I urge you to go read them all! really!) The world building is excellent as usual and the secondary characters are also outstanding. The plot and action move right along and while this is most definitely the first book in a series I am very happy with were it ended. I can't wait for the next one!
March 26, 2015
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoy most of this author’s work but my absolute favourite is her Emperors Edges series so it was with much joy that I returned to that world (if a different continent). Warrior Mage is a full length novel following on from the Swords and Salt collection (3 short stories featuring our hero Yanko). While WM can be read as a stand alone novel I highly recommend that you read the prequel collection as gives great insight into Yanko’s character and features his meeting with two very important characters – his travelling companions Dak and Laeko.
Lindsey writes great adventure stories with interesting and likeable characters and WM is no exception. I particularly like Yanko’s moral compass and how he is concerned with doing the honourable thing even when it may not be particularly convenient. He is polite, kind and decent not because he should be but because that is who he is. He also lacks confidence in himself and is quite naieve which is understandable given the pressure and lack of approval he has laboured under his whole life and I am looking forward to seeing him grow in confidence and hopefully stand up for himself a little more (especially with Laeko) as he continues on his adventure.
And as a fan of EE I LOVED the visit to the Komptis family plantation, the blood thirsty delight of Tikya & Rias’ daughter and Akstyr as an indifferent student guide and linguistic ‘ladies man’.
I am very curious about his mother and why she made the choice she did and I hope we get to see more of Dak as well.
I really enjoy most of this author’s work but my absolute favourite is her Emperors Edges series so it was with much joy that I returned to that world (if a different continent). Warrior Mage is a full length novel following on from the Swords and Salt collection (3 short stories featuring our hero Yanko). While WM can be read as a stand alone novel I highly recommend that you read the prequel collection as gives great insight into Yanko’s character and features his meeting with two very important characters – his travelling companions Dak and Laeko.
Lindsey writes great adventure stories with interesting and likeable characters and WM is no exception. I particularly like Yanko’s moral compass and how he is concerned with doing the honourable thing even when it may not be particularly convenient. He is polite, kind and decent not because he should be but because that is who he is. He also lacks confidence in himself and is quite naieve which is understandable given the pressure and lack of approval he has laboured under his whole life and I am looking forward to seeing him grow in confidence and hopefully stand up for himself a little more (especially with Laeko) as he continues on his adventure.
And as a fan of EE I LOVED the visit to the Komptis family plantation, the blood thirsty delight of Tikya & Rias’ daughter and Akstyr as an indifferent student guide and linguistic ‘ladies man’.
I am very curious about his mother and why she made the choice she did and I hope we get to see more of Dak as well.
September 19, 2016
Great to be back in the world Buroker created for Emperor's Edge! While this probably works fine on it's own, I would recommend reading at least the first Emperor's Edge book (which can be downloaded for free on Amazon) before picking up this one. The stories are not directly connected but there is some pertinent world-building that occurs.
Buroker introduces a great set of new characters, and there are also a few brief appearances from regulars in her other series. I really enjoyed Yanko, the main character, and the novel keeps a brisk pace. Looking forward to the next in the series!
Buroker introduces a great set of new characters, and there are also a few brief appearances from regulars in her other series. I really enjoyed Yanko, the main character, and the novel keeps a brisk pace. Looking forward to the next in the series!
January 25, 2021
3.75 Stars
Warrior Mage is an enjoyable and easy-to-read book that maybe handled things with kid gloves too much.
For a book with the word 'Warrior' in the title, you would imagine a lot of action but there's not too much. The action that is here is good but Yanko, the main character, is always talking about how worried he is he might hurt someone or do something illegal. He's a complete boy scout, which can be a bit annoying. The world-building is light but the story is solid, teasing you with what's going to happen next, both with the story and with its characters. The magic system, while not the most original, is used in interesting and clever ways.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with Warrior Mage but definitely hope (and expect) for an improvement in Snake Heart.
Warrior Mage is an enjoyable and easy-to-read book that maybe handled things with kid gloves too much.
For a book with the word 'Warrior' in the title, you would imagine a lot of action but there's not too much. The action that is here is good but Yanko, the main character, is always talking about how worried he is he might hurt someone or do something illegal. He's a complete boy scout, which can be a bit annoying. The world-building is light but the story is solid, teasing you with what's going to happen next, both with the story and with its characters. The magic system, while not the most original, is used in interesting and clever ways.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with Warrior Mage but definitely hope (and expect) for an improvement in Snake Heart.
June 15, 2022
4,25 stars- English Ebook
I like this book, it's written with the same easy flow that all of Lindsay Buroker's books are, however I will say that the story is short.
There are no major turning points here, just a rush of events that the main character is reacting to. You don't get a strong feel for the secondary characters.
It's easy to bond with Yanko, both because he is well written and because in small ways he reminds me of Amaranthe...capable, and weirdly good with people. Despite the familiar feeling he is his own character however, with a much younger, more inexperienced voice, and different motivations.
I quite enjoyed the book overall, and immediately purchased the second in the series.
I like this book, it's written with the same easy flow that all of Lindsay Buroker's books are, however I will say that the story is short.
There are no major turning points here, just a rush of events that the main character is reacting to. You don't get a strong feel for the secondary characters.
It's easy to bond with Yanko, both because he is well written and because in small ways he reminds me of Amaranthe...capable, and weirdly good with people. Despite the familiar feeling he is his own character however, with a much younger, more inexperienced voice, and different motivations.
I quite enjoyed the book overall, and immediately purchased the second in the series.
July 17, 2025
3.25 Stars
We’re back with Yanko again! It was so much fun to catch up with these characters and follow them on their adventure.
I didn’t love the pacing in this book but enjoyed myself nonetheless, I look forward to seeing how it all turns out. I’m really hoping we meet Yanko’s Mum. I also want to know more about Dak - he seemed somewhat familiar, apparently he was in Republic but it’s been so long since I read it, I don’t actually remember.
We’re back with Yanko again! It was so much fun to catch up with these characters and follow them on their adventure.
I didn’t love the pacing in this book but enjoyed myself nonetheless, I look forward to seeing how it all turns out. I’m really hoping we meet Yanko’s Mum. I also want to know more about Dak - he seemed somewhat familiar, apparently he was in Republic but it’s been so long since I read it, I don’t actually remember.
May 17, 2023
Great first volume with super fun characters :-) Loving the world building so far, not being familiar with most of it so far. I read somewhere there's some sort of prequel around the main character but I have yet to read it. With that said, I did not feel I was missing anything in particular from the plot. Definitely going to go at the full series.
June 12, 2015
Lindsay Buroker’s books are always good for a fast-paced, page-turning ride—and Warrior Mage is no exception. It’s the first in the author’s new Chains of Honor series and there is never a dull moment, from the beautiful cover to a closing scene that leaves the reader chomping at the bit for what happens next. I was delighted to take the author up on her offer of a free read in exchange for an honest review. So here it is!
Buroker takes seriously the instructions to “start in the middle of the action.”
The main character, Yanko, starts the story with a bang, duking it out on the testing grounds of the elite Stargrind school of magic, chosen to redeem his family from disgrace because he’s the only one who can wield magic. Things don’t slow down after that, though there are a few places where you can at least catch your breath. Set in the same world as the Emperor’s Edge books, this tale offers a view from the continent of Nuria, but the author has promised some appearances from some old characters — indeed, one of them shows up in Warrior Mage. Not telling which. You’ll have to read and find out for yourself!
Yanko is eighteen. He’s still a kid—but he’s not. He’s got some growing up to do, and the Fates are seeing to it. I love how Buroker has made him smart (but not too smart), inexperienced, naïve in spite of himself, arrogant (in the way that only teens can be arrogant), and confused. I love the way that circumstances have pushed him along, and he goes without stopping to think about it the way an adult might. Another intriguing aspect of the story is how he deals with — and learns more about — magic. Without being formally schooled, he has the option of being creative, of exploring through participation. His specialty is the earth sciences, and they are not particularly popular in the rest of his world.
And his new bodyguard? Dak is Turgonian—the enemy. He’s also full of mystery and unexplained secrets and activities. In spite of the enmity between their countries (or perhaps because of it, we’ll have to read more to learn!), he takes a particular shine to his new charge. At least a dozen times I wondered out loud, “WHAT is going on in that man’s head?”
Besides the bodyguard, Yanko has a sidekick, too. Laeko may have Turgonian blood (also frowned upon in this neck of the woods), she’s an artist, she is curious and loyal—and drips sarcasm. Gotta love that gal.
The three of them embark on a secret quest that far too many people know about. From the outset they are dodging attacking armies, mage hunters, betrayal, explosions, confusion, secrets, plots within plots, suspicion and murder… And, without turning the story into a comedy, there is Buroker’s trademark humor. She knows exactly how to use it in just the way normal people would reacting to things out of their control or terrifying to the point of the ridiculous. I know that’s what I do, and that’s probably why Buroker’s stories work so well for me.
So. Question: When is the next book in the series coming?
Buroker takes seriously the instructions to “start in the middle of the action.”
The main character, Yanko, starts the story with a bang, duking it out on the testing grounds of the elite Stargrind school of magic, chosen to redeem his family from disgrace because he’s the only one who can wield magic. Things don’t slow down after that, though there are a few places where you can at least catch your breath. Set in the same world as the Emperor’s Edge books, this tale offers a view from the continent of Nuria, but the author has promised some appearances from some old characters — indeed, one of them shows up in Warrior Mage. Not telling which. You’ll have to read and find out for yourself!
Yanko is eighteen. He’s still a kid—but he’s not. He’s got some growing up to do, and the Fates are seeing to it. I love how Buroker has made him smart (but not too smart), inexperienced, naïve in spite of himself, arrogant (in the way that only teens can be arrogant), and confused. I love the way that circumstances have pushed him along, and he goes without stopping to think about it the way an adult might. Another intriguing aspect of the story is how he deals with — and learns more about — magic. Without being formally schooled, he has the option of being creative, of exploring through participation. His specialty is the earth sciences, and they are not particularly popular in the rest of his world.
And his new bodyguard? Dak is Turgonian—the enemy. He’s also full of mystery and unexplained secrets and activities. In spite of the enmity between their countries (or perhaps because of it, we’ll have to read more to learn!), he takes a particular shine to his new charge. At least a dozen times I wondered out loud, “WHAT is going on in that man’s head?”
Besides the bodyguard, Yanko has a sidekick, too. Laeko may have Turgonian blood (also frowned upon in this neck of the woods), she’s an artist, she is curious and loyal—and drips sarcasm. Gotta love that gal.
The three of them embark on a secret quest that far too many people know about. From the outset they are dodging attacking armies, mage hunters, betrayal, explosions, confusion, secrets, plots within plots, suspicion and murder… And, without turning the story into a comedy, there is Buroker’s trademark humor. She knows exactly how to use it in just the way normal people would reacting to things out of their control or terrifying to the point of the ridiculous. I know that’s what I do, and that’s probably why Buroker’s stories work so well for me.
So. Question: When is the next book in the series coming?
March 19, 2015
Received in exchange for an honest review.
Warrior Mage - the upcoming release from Emperor's Edge Author, Lindsay Buroker, marks a welcome return to the 'Edgeiverse.'
You don't need to read Buroker's other works before diving in to Warrior Mage, but I would thoroughly recommend checking out the Swords and Salt Trilogy, as they do provide further information on Warrior Mage's MC, Yanko, and how he came to meet Lakeo, Prince Zaribo, and Dak (the latter two you may recognise from Forged in Blood II and Republic respectively)
Warrior Mage begins about a month after the final installment of Swords and Salt, with Yanko taking his entrance exams for the prestigious Stargrind Warrior Mage Training School, which he doesn't particularly want to go to. I've always felt a bit sorry for Yanko - he's a bit like Sespian, in that he's being forced in to a destiny that he doesn't quite have the aptitude for, when he'd rather be doing something else - following his own path, instead of the one placed before him that others expect him to tread. It's only after he and the ever sarcastic Lakeo narrowly escape death at the hands of some Nurian Rebels, that Yanko is granted the opportunity to forge his own destiny - but not without great cost and loss of life.
During the course of his journey, Yanko learns to harness and understand his own magic better, even in the face of danger, and with other practiotioners breathing down his neck. He also catches up with a couple of old friends and is introduced to Akstyr (yay!) now studying the Mental Sciences on the Kyatt Islands. Dear lord, he's hilarious. His grasp of the language is like that of the guy in your local Chinese Restaraunt who offers you 'Flied Lice' instead of Fried Rice, and, as expected, he's still getting himself in to trouble.
Like the EE series, Warrior Mage isn't lacking in adventure. In spite of being a brand new series, it dives straight in, and sweeps you along from beginning to end. I'm very much looking forward to the next leg of Yanko's travels.
A well deserved 4.5 out of 5!
Warrior Mage - the upcoming release from Emperor's Edge Author, Lindsay Buroker, marks a welcome return to the 'Edgeiverse.'
You don't need to read Buroker's other works before diving in to Warrior Mage, but I would thoroughly recommend checking out the Swords and Salt Trilogy, as they do provide further information on Warrior Mage's MC, Yanko, and how he came to meet Lakeo, Prince Zaribo, and Dak (the latter two you may recognise from Forged in Blood II and Republic respectively)
Warrior Mage begins about a month after the final installment of Swords and Salt, with Yanko taking his entrance exams for the prestigious Stargrind Warrior Mage Training School, which he doesn't particularly want to go to. I've always felt a bit sorry for Yanko - he's a bit like Sespian, in that he's being forced in to a destiny that he doesn't quite have the aptitude for, when he'd rather be doing something else - following his own path, instead of the one placed before him that others expect him to tread. It's only after he and the ever sarcastic Lakeo narrowly escape death at the hands of some Nurian Rebels, that Yanko is granted the opportunity to forge his own destiny - but not without great cost and loss of life.
During the course of his journey, Yanko learns to harness and understand his own magic better, even in the face of danger, and with other practiotioners breathing down his neck. He also catches up with a couple of old friends and is introduced to Akstyr (yay!) now studying the Mental Sciences on the Kyatt Islands. Dear lord, he's hilarious. His grasp of the language is like that of the guy in your local Chinese Restaraunt who offers you 'Flied Lice' instead of Fried Rice, and, as expected, he's still getting himself in to trouble.
Like the EE series, Warrior Mage isn't lacking in adventure. In spite of being a brand new series, it dives straight in, and sweeps you along from beginning to end. I'm very much looking forward to the next leg of Yanko's travels.
A well deserved 4.5 out of 5!
April 21, 2015
I was given an early copy of this book for an honest review.
First of all, I have to say I love Lindsay Buroker. I adore her Emperor's Edge series and highly recommend it. Unfortunately, this book just could not live up to that same level of awesomeness.
The characters felt very one-dimensional to me, especially the main character Yanko. By the end of the story, I really knew nothing more about him than was revealed in the first couple of chapters. The storyline fell flat for me as well. While there is action in the story, I never felt as if the storyline itself actually progressed.
While there story leaves several unanswered questions, the story has not interested me enough to continue with the series to find out what will happen.
First of all, I have to say I love Lindsay Buroker. I adore her Emperor's Edge series and highly recommend it. Unfortunately, this book just could not live up to that same level of awesomeness.
The characters felt very one-dimensional to me, especially the main character Yanko. By the end of the story, I really knew nothing more about him than was revealed in the first couple of chapters. The storyline fell flat for me as well. While there is action in the story, I never felt as if the storyline itself actually progressed.
While there story leaves several unanswered questions, the story has not interested me enough to continue with the series to find out what will happen.
May 26, 2015
Lindsay Buroker has excelled herself. This is a story in her best tradition, giving EE a serious run for its money. Yanko has sneaked up to become one of my all-time favourite Lindsay characters. He is such a humble, self-deprecating, kick-butt hero. It was a joy to be in his head. And as for the Akstyr scenes, they were such fun to read. All in all, the plot was exciting, unpredictable and fast-paced. Just brilliant. Can't wait for the next one.
May 5, 2015
I found myself laughing out loud at quite a number of moments - the banter and irreverent humour from some of the characters are really funny.
However, I did find myself getting irritated at Lakeo a little bit... it's more of "Stop talking, stop asking if he's doing something, he's a mage, he needs to concentrate!" But I guess that's part of her character.
However, I did find myself getting irritated at Lakeo a little bit... it's more of "Stop talking, stop asking if he's doing something, he's a mage, he needs to concentrate!" But I guess that's part of her character.
August 21, 2016
A little boring and a little too YA for me. Could use a little less uncertainty/ squeamishness/embarrassment from the MC. Wish he had grown into his powers a little more. What strength he showed was almost by accident or despite himself. Why bother rooting for him?
February 9, 2019
Can't wait for the next.
rereading
rereading
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