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Empire's Foundation #2
A Wizard's Gambit
Thomas, Sarentha, and Eliza will learn that peace never lasts. After fighting for their freedom, wicked forces beyond the Tamorran Empire's borders rise against them. Tamor's king falters when threats of genocide and an undead plague arise. The would-be heroes must fill new roles of responsibility and power to hold Tamor together.
When more menaces emerge, each darker than the last, their adventure spans the entire continent. Thomas, Sarentha, and Eliza must make difficult choices and face their darkest fears to uncover their lost history by reviving long-dead wizards. Only by illuminating the past will they be able to step into the future.
One misstep could lead to their undoing.
When more menaces emerge, each darker than the last, their adventure spans the entire continent. Thomas, Sarentha, and Eliza must make difficult choices and face their darkest fears to uncover their lost history by reviving long-dead wizards. Only by illuminating the past will they be able to step into the future.
One misstep could lead to their undoing.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2015
21 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Toxopeus
13 books20 followersRyan Toxopeus, award winning writer of the Empire's Foundation fantasy trilogy, has been writing fantastic tales for two decades. His first award was received in university, when he entered a short story contest with a work of fiction that chronicled a Dutch resistance fighter in World War II, who was captured by the Nazis and put in a concentration camp. The story took first place, much to the surprise of the judges who said they were not used to seeing that quality of writing, especially from an engineering student. Although he loved writing, his schooling took him elsewhere, and he did not start writing seriously again until after the birth of his daughter. Since then, Ryan has published three novels (A Noble's Quest, A Wizard's Gambit, A Hero's Birth), two novellas (Demon Invasion, Dangers of Tensire), and several short stories both related to his larger fantasy world, and stand alone stories including Macimanito Môswa which won Honourable Mention in the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future contest.
While writing, he keeps the mantra, "If I'm bored writing it, readers will be bored reading it," in mind. Thus his focus is on fast-paced action and intrigue. His world and plots are rich and complex, keeping readers guessing right until the end.
A Noble's Quest is Ryan Toxopeus' first full length novel in the epic fantasy Empire's Foundation trilogy. It follows two lumberjacks, Thomas and Sarentha, and a noble woman named Eliza as they try to uncover a terrifying truth. It is available in paper back and e-book formats on Amazon.
My short story 1100 Before Gods' War (BGW) hit #1 on Amazon's Free 30-minute SFF category! It's about a minotaur farmer who questions her leader's right to rule.
Demon Invasion is a novella about the backstory for Glezxnodin, the main antagonist from A Wizard's Gambit.
Book 2, A Wizard's Gambit, sees the characters take on more responsibility within the Tamorran Empire, while outside forces threaten to wipe them out, and an undead plague breaks out in the capital.
Dawn: A dwarven story of creation is a collection of short stories with a mythological leaning. It examines the first four chapters of the dwarven Holy Book, with related short stories for each chapter. The themes for each story vary widely, adding to the history of Illuma, where the Empire's Foundation trilogy takes place.
A Hero's Birth is the final book in the Empire's Foundation trilogy. It starts with the trio going their separate ways to learn more about themselves and the world they live in. When they come together again, it's with a mission to defeat an ancient foe and reclaim their lost homeland.
Upcoming works include the first book in the Strongblade Siblings series, A Queen's Edict. I also have a few short stories I'm working on.
While writing, he keeps the mantra, "If I'm bored writing it, readers will be bored reading it," in mind. Thus his focus is on fast-paced action and intrigue. His world and plots are rich and complex, keeping readers guessing right until the end.
A Noble's Quest is Ryan Toxopeus' first full length novel in the epic fantasy Empire's Foundation trilogy. It follows two lumberjacks, Thomas and Sarentha, and a noble woman named Eliza as they try to uncover a terrifying truth. It is available in paper back and e-book formats on Amazon.
My short story 1100 Before Gods' War (BGW) hit #1 on Amazon's Free 30-minute SFF category! It's about a minotaur farmer who questions her leader's right to rule.
Demon Invasion is a novella about the backstory for Glezxnodin, the main antagonist from A Wizard's Gambit.
Book 2, A Wizard's Gambit, sees the characters take on more responsibility within the Tamorran Empire, while outside forces threaten to wipe them out, and an undead plague breaks out in the capital.
Dawn: A dwarven story of creation is a collection of short stories with a mythological leaning. It examines the first four chapters of the dwarven Holy Book, with related short stories for each chapter. The themes for each story vary widely, adding to the history of Illuma, where the Empire's Foundation trilogy takes place.
A Hero's Birth is the final book in the Empire's Foundation trilogy. It starts with the trio going their separate ways to learn more about themselves and the world they live in. When they come together again, it's with a mission to defeat an ancient foe and reclaim their lost homeland.
Upcoming works include the first book in the Strongblade Siblings series, A Queen's Edict. I also have a few short stories I'm working on.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
April 6, 2015
I received a free ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review
I must admit that I was very pleased when I was offered an ARC copy of this book after I enjoyed the previous book A Noble's Quest. The author did not disappoint.
There is always the risk of the middle book in a trilogy being a little squishy and not really offering much to the story as a whole. That is far from the case with this book. The plot stays true to the epic fantasy genre while still making good use of multiple sub-plots, twists, turns, and wonderful fresh takes on old and familiar ideas. The characters themselves are an absolute delight as they really come into themselves and show that they're anything but cardboard cut-outs. The author has clearly worked hard to give them well-defined personalities and their own arcs within the larger plot arcs.
The book as a complete entity is tightly written with a very good pace that makes good use of well thought out action and emotional moments to give the reader a thoroughly enjoyable ride. The world-building is clean and clear without getting in the way of anything else. The history has been well thought out and the snippets offered are done so in a way that advances the prose and story around it rather than getting in the way.
Finally, the prose is tight and a joy to read. Altogether this is an excellent example of the epic fantasy genre and the author is definitely one to watch. He's demonstrated a lot of passion and skill within this genre and I look forward to seeing more from him.
I must admit that I was very pleased when I was offered an ARC copy of this book after I enjoyed the previous book A Noble's Quest. The author did not disappoint.
There is always the risk of the middle book in a trilogy being a little squishy and not really offering much to the story as a whole. That is far from the case with this book. The plot stays true to the epic fantasy genre while still making good use of multiple sub-plots, twists, turns, and wonderful fresh takes on old and familiar ideas. The characters themselves are an absolute delight as they really come into themselves and show that they're anything but cardboard cut-outs. The author has clearly worked hard to give them well-defined personalities and their own arcs within the larger plot arcs.
The book as a complete entity is tightly written with a very good pace that makes good use of well thought out action and emotional moments to give the reader a thoroughly enjoyable ride. The world-building is clean and clear without getting in the way of anything else. The history has been well thought out and the snippets offered are done so in a way that advances the prose and story around it rather than getting in the way.
Finally, the prose is tight and a joy to read. Altogether this is an excellent example of the epic fantasy genre and the author is definitely one to watch. He's demonstrated a lot of passion and skill within this genre and I look forward to seeing more from him.
November 14, 2017
First things first: if you read A Noble’s Quest, I think you’ll enjoy following along on the continuing adventures of Eliza, Thomas, Sarentha and the rest of the characters in the Tamorran Empire. Toxopeus has a smooth, detailed writing style that breezes you right along, and it is rare that much time passes without a touch of humor in the dialogue or events that are occurring. This makes a nice counterbalance for when :spoiler alert: not everything turns out the way the characters plan it.
Like the first book, this sequel can at times seem like a series of unrelated quests, right up to the end of the book, and it is not clear that there is an overall plot to the book while reading it. Things are happening as they must according to a prophecy, but without that prophecy, it doesn’t always seem to make sense that the characters are doing what they’re doing. The characters themselves lampshade this at different times, stating they’re not sure why they’re doing what they’re doing. But as I think I said with the first book, if you go along for the ride, you’ll have a fun time with the world-building, cinematic action scenes, and further character development.
Like the first book, this sequel can at times seem like a series of unrelated quests, right up to the end of the book, and it is not clear that there is an overall plot to the book while reading it. Things are happening as they must according to a prophecy, but without that prophecy, it doesn’t always seem to make sense that the characters are doing what they’re doing. The characters themselves lampshade this at different times, stating they’re not sure why they’re doing what they’re doing. But as I think I said with the first book, if you go along for the ride, you’ll have a fun time with the world-building, cinematic action scenes, and further character development.
May 10, 2015
A Wizard's Gambit by Ryan Toxopeus
Thomas, Sarentha, and Eliza are fighting for their freedom. The King of Tamor threatens genocide. Together the three fight to save their land. They face difficult choices and their darkest fears. Along the way they discover their lost history and revive long dead wizards.
A complex engaging story full of action, adventure, danger and new discoveries. Thomas, Sarentha and Eliza are likable characters. They each have their own qualities that are helpful to their little group.
They encounter many dangerous people, mystical beings, and creatures. Well written with vivid details, the story moves at an even pace. Although the story is very "deep" with many characters, it is easy to follow. I really enjoyed the originality and the dangerous situations. I was at the edge of my seat wanting to know more.
I recommend A Wizard's Gambit to those who love a great Epic Fantasy. It is sure to be enjoyed by many. (The cover art is fantastic, it captures the story perfectly).
Thomas, Sarentha, and Eliza are fighting for their freedom. The King of Tamor threatens genocide. Together the three fight to save their land. They face difficult choices and their darkest fears. Along the way they discover their lost history and revive long dead wizards.
A complex engaging story full of action, adventure, danger and new discoveries. Thomas, Sarentha and Eliza are likable characters. They each have their own qualities that are helpful to their little group.
They encounter many dangerous people, mystical beings, and creatures. Well written with vivid details, the story moves at an even pace. Although the story is very "deep" with many characters, it is easy to follow. I really enjoyed the originality and the dangerous situations. I was at the edge of my seat wanting to know more.
I recommend A Wizard's Gambit to those who love a great Epic Fantasy. It is sure to be enjoyed by many. (The cover art is fantastic, it captures the story perfectly).
September 18, 2018
As the second book in the trilogy, it set out to do several things:
1) follow up on the climactic finish of the first book, addressing the major change that has happened.
2) show the repercussions on both sides of that climactic finish
3) present a way in which the three main characters have a chance to continue to grow and show their worth and continue to have a reason for them to function as a trio
4) introduce another threat/enemy that makes sense and how historically they are connected to the current situation
5) flesh out the history of the world of the series in different creative ways
6) have a climactic battle with the new threat and show the very real stakes it has.
7) hint at a future problem throughout the entire book that will likely be addressed during the final part of the trilogy
It does all of these quite well but because of the scope of what is being done this book felt like it had 3 distinct sections and was more of a bridge between books 1 and 3.
There are a lot of characters in this series, including the main three, and they all grow and change in little ways which was wonderful to see. Each book in the trilogy also seems set up to focus on major growth in each of the three main characters each time, with this one revolving around Sarentha. He learns a lot and while there are still shades of the young man he started the series as, he has definitely grown. Eliza gets to shine a bit as well, particularly in the first part of the book, which makes sense given it follows up on her moment in the spotlight in Book 1. Thomas though is slowly but surely becoming the most relatable for me with several scenes that really make you feel for him. Given the set up for book 3, it'll be interesting to see if he gets to shine as much as he should.
I understand there is a companion novella to this book so I'll be reading that fairly soon to see how it connects.
1) follow up on the climactic finish of the first book, addressing the major change that has happened.
2) show the repercussions on both sides of that climactic finish
3) present a way in which the three main characters have a chance to continue to grow and show their worth and continue to have a reason for them to function as a trio
4) introduce another threat/enemy that makes sense and how historically they are connected to the current situation
5) flesh out the history of the world of the series in different creative ways
6) have a climactic battle with the new threat and show the very real stakes it has.
7) hint at a future problem throughout the entire book that will likely be addressed during the final part of the trilogy
It does all of these quite well but because of the scope of what is being done this book felt like it had 3 distinct sections and was more of a bridge between books 1 and 3.
There are a lot of characters in this series, including the main three, and they all grow and change in little ways which was wonderful to see. Each book in the trilogy also seems set up to focus on major growth in each of the three main characters each time, with this one revolving around Sarentha. He learns a lot and while there are still shades of the young man he started the series as, he has definitely grown. Eliza gets to shine a bit as well, particularly in the first part of the book, which makes sense given it follows up on her moment in the spotlight in Book 1. Thomas though is slowly but surely becoming the most relatable for me with several scenes that really make you feel for him. Given the set up for book 3, it'll be interesting to see if he gets to shine as much as he should.
I understand there is a companion novella to this book so I'll be reading that fairly soon to see how it connects.
September 29, 2016
There is a lot going on in this book!
(dragon attacks, the training of dragon riders, raising ancient wizards from the dead, a zombie outbreak, etc!)
Fortunately, Toxopeus made a smart move writing a couple of short stories, in between books 1 & 2, that help to fill in some of the gaps/questions.
(I definitely recommend reading the novella 'Demon Invasion' before reading this book.) *see my last post, regarding the preferred reading order of these stories*
For those who have already read 'A Noble's Quest' and are fans of the orc wizard Feng, there is a great battle near the end of this book where he faces off with the ancient dragon Fyrsanthemar: the god crusher. (I just had to mention that, as I am still pumped from that battle!)
Toxopeus bookends each book by having the prologues and epilogues tie into past events, which I love, and definitely makes me look forward to the release of 'A Hero's Birth' next year!
(dragon attacks, the training of dragon riders, raising ancient wizards from the dead, a zombie outbreak, etc!)
Fortunately, Toxopeus made a smart move writing a couple of short stories, in between books 1 & 2, that help to fill in some of the gaps/questions.
(I definitely recommend reading the novella 'Demon Invasion' before reading this book.) *see my last post, regarding the preferred reading order of these stories*
For those who have already read 'A Noble's Quest' and are fans of the orc wizard Feng, there is a great battle near the end of this book where he faces off with the ancient dragon Fyrsanthemar: the god crusher. (I just had to mention that, as I am still pumped from that battle!)
Toxopeus bookends each book by having the prologues and epilogues tie into past events, which I love, and definitely makes me look forward to the release of 'A Hero's Birth' next year!
March 9, 2018
I've been a big fan of Ryan's Empire's Foundation series for a long time. And so I was super excited when the final book in the core trilogy came out this February. The series as a whole runs a most delightful path that totally sucks you in and keeps you trapped in Illuma for a delightful week or two.
A Wizard's Gambit is an excellent follow up to A Nobel's Quest. Our three heroes go on a quest to help the wizard Ramar find the history that all the Tamorran people cannot remember. What they learn sends them on a grand adventure to recapture New Home and beyond. This is one of those times that I know why an author is writing the plot the way they are, and it's totally necessary, but I really hate that someone I love has to become an idiot/antagonist/insane person/etc.
You can read my review of the entire series at https://www.adrielwiggins.com/empires...
A Wizard's Gambit is an excellent follow up to A Nobel's Quest. Our three heroes go on a quest to help the wizard Ramar find the history that all the Tamorran people cannot remember. What they learn sends them on a grand adventure to recapture New Home and beyond. This is one of those times that I know why an author is writing the plot the way they are, and it's totally necessary, but I really hate that someone I love has to become an idiot/antagonist/insane person/etc.
You can read my review of the entire series at https://www.adrielwiggins.com/empires...
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews