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Symphony of Scars
Not yet published
Expected 12 Nov 26Far outside the Sundered Lands, the Holy Republic of Kellanis has learned to channel the Astral Plane through music in a process called "Symphonics." Music is so sacred that the gravest punishment is to become Scorned - a slave stripped of their ears and tongue so that they can neither enjoy nor create music.
Lia, a prodigiously gifted musician, is accepted into the Van Kall Monastery to master her Symphonic powers and shape the world around her through music.
But a brilliant engineer from a rival nation has discovered a way to destroy Symphonic users, and he has decided to test his weapon on the students of the monastery.
Music can heal. Music can kill. Silence is coming for all.
Lia, a prodigiously gifted musician, is accepted into the Van Kall Monastery to master her Symphonic powers and shape the world around her through music.
But a brilliant engineer from a rival nation has discovered a way to destroy Symphonic users, and he has decided to test his weapon on the students of the monastery.
Music can heal. Music can kill. Silence is coming for all.
- GenresFantasyEpic Fantasy
353 pages, Paperback
Expected publication November 12, 2026
About the author
Corbin Rook
2 books19 followersCorbin Rook is a fantasy author who writes epic, character-driven stories filled with highly creative worldbuilding, unique magic systems, adventure, and unexpected twists.
Inspired by authors like Brandon Sanderson and Michael J. Sullivan, his books are clean and spice-free, delivering mature themes, complex characters, high stakes, and emotional depth without explicit content.
Corbin is the author of The World of Alderia novels, including Shadows of the Sundered Lands and Symphony of Scars. While both books take place in the same shared universe, they are standalone stories that can be read in any order, allowing readers to begin their journey into Alderia wherever they'd like.
When he isn't writing, Corbin is usually reading, running, or dreaming up his next adventure.
Inspired by authors like Brandon Sanderson and Michael J. Sullivan, his books are clean and spice-free, delivering mature themes, complex characters, high stakes, and emotional depth without explicit content.
Corbin is the author of The World of Alderia novels, including Shadows of the Sundered Lands and Symphony of Scars. While both books take place in the same shared universe, they are standalone stories that can be read in any order, allowing readers to begin their journey into Alderia wherever they'd like.
When he isn't writing, Corbin is usually reading, running, or dreaming up his next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Corbin Rook has outdone himself with Symphony of Scars. This is a wonderfully inventive, emotionally powerful fantasy that combines music, magic and warfare into a story that kept me hooked, broke my heart and left me wanting more.
The biggest highlight for me is undoubtedly the magic system. Built around music and sound, Symphonics is such a creative idea, and I loved seeing how it could be used in different ways. Music can be a gift, but it can also become a source of pain, and that adds another layer to an already fascinating concept. The weapons made from a special metal were another brilliant touch, and one of them might just have become my new favourite fantasy weapon. I won't spoil the surprise, though!
The story follows three main characters: Lia, a musician with a painful past, Murad, an engineer with his own ambitions, and Marcus, a general who begins to question the beliefs he's built his life around. Their perspectives offer a great range of experiences, loyalties and motivations. I found them all interesting, and the characters felt like real people rather than simply pieces moving the plot forward. Lia especially carries much of the emotional weight of the story, and her journey had me deeply invested in what would happen to her.
Alderia is a harsh but fascinating world, and the author does a great job of expanding it. The tensions between the three nations create an engaging backdrop for the story, while the school at the centre of the book offers an interesting place where people from different sides can meet. I would have loved to spend a little more time exploring the world before everything starts falling apart, but there's plenty here to enjoy. The themes also give the story more depth, particularly its exploration of how societies treat those they consider lesser and how people can hold on to their self-worth when the world turns against them.
And then there's the emotional side of the book. Rook balances action, humour, adventure and tragedy remarkably well. The lighter moments give you a chance to breathe before the story hits you with something heartbreaking, and some of the twists genuinely caught me off guard. Even when I suspected what might happen, the emotional impact was still there. The book doesn't shy away from brutality, and there's plenty of blood, so readers who prefer gentler fantasy might want to keep that in mind. However, I never felt that the violence was there simply for shock value.
From the very beginning, this book had me hooked, and the further I got into the story, the harder it became to put down. The tension keeps building, the characters draw you in, and there are so many emotional moments and unexpected twists that I just had to keep reading. By the time I reached the end, I wasn't ready to say goodbye. I finished it wanting more of these characters and this world, and I sincerely hope we'll get to return to Alderia one day!
Verdict: Symphony of Scars is a brilliant fantasy that combines an original music-based magic system with memorable characters, gripping conflicts and genuine emotional depth. It delivered everything I wanted and more. If you enjoy inventive magic, morally complex characters and stories that aren't afraid to break your heart, I wholeheartedly recommend this one.
A huge thank you to Corbin Rook for reaching out and sending me a free eARC of Symphony of Scars! I'm so grateful for the opportunity to read and review your work. What a fantastic read!
The biggest highlight for me is undoubtedly the magic system. Built around music and sound, Symphonics is such a creative idea, and I loved seeing how it could be used in different ways. Music can be a gift, but it can also become a source of pain, and that adds another layer to an already fascinating concept. The weapons made from a special metal were another brilliant touch, and one of them might just have become my new favourite fantasy weapon. I won't spoil the surprise, though!
The story follows three main characters: Lia, a musician with a painful past, Murad, an engineer with his own ambitions, and Marcus, a general who begins to question the beliefs he's built his life around. Their perspectives offer a great range of experiences, loyalties and motivations. I found them all interesting, and the characters felt like real people rather than simply pieces moving the plot forward. Lia especially carries much of the emotional weight of the story, and her journey had me deeply invested in what would happen to her.
Alderia is a harsh but fascinating world, and the author does a great job of expanding it. The tensions between the three nations create an engaging backdrop for the story, while the school at the centre of the book offers an interesting place where people from different sides can meet. I would have loved to spend a little more time exploring the world before everything starts falling apart, but there's plenty here to enjoy. The themes also give the story more depth, particularly its exploration of how societies treat those they consider lesser and how people can hold on to their self-worth when the world turns against them.
And then there's the emotional side of the book. Rook balances action, humour, adventure and tragedy remarkably well. The lighter moments give you a chance to breathe before the story hits you with something heartbreaking, and some of the twists genuinely caught me off guard. Even when I suspected what might happen, the emotional impact was still there. The book doesn't shy away from brutality, and there's plenty of blood, so readers who prefer gentler fantasy might want to keep that in mind. However, I never felt that the violence was there simply for shock value.
From the very beginning, this book had me hooked, and the further I got into the story, the harder it became to put down. The tension keeps building, the characters draw you in, and there are so many emotional moments and unexpected twists that I just had to keep reading. By the time I reached the end, I wasn't ready to say goodbye. I finished it wanting more of these characters and this world, and I sincerely hope we'll get to return to Alderia one day!
Verdict: Symphony of Scars is a brilliant fantasy that combines an original music-based magic system with memorable characters, gripping conflicts and genuine emotional depth. It delivered everything I wanted and more. If you enjoy inventive magic, morally complex characters and stories that aren't afraid to break your heart, I wholeheartedly recommend this one.
A huge thank you to Corbin Rook for reaching out and sending me a free eARC of Symphony of Scars! I'm so grateful for the opportunity to read and review your work. What a fantastic read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I just wanted a life of peace and music, full of people that I love.”
Seems like an achievable wish, right? Perhaps to some, but to Lia? This wish may seem like an unattainable dream. Because in a world filled with secrets, power-hungry men, and oppression, hope may look like a dream, one that will never come true. And for some, to our horror, it will remain a dream forever. How devastating it is, in a fantasy world or in ours, that a dream of freedom, peace, and love is only ever a dream. A dream of a girl who just wanted to sing and do good. A girl who never knew of the horrors kept from her and from the entire society. A girl who finally opened her eyes and understood that the foundation of her world had completely shattered. What will she do?
A girl, a general, and an engineer, all coming from different backgrounds and all, seemingly, wanting different things at first. And yet, the most important question they must ask themselves is what they would do when their convictions are challenged. Will they leave their beliefs behind, or will they press on regardless? It all comes down to your inner self and your morals. Some will choose the right path, but others? Others will continue on their path of destruction.
“It is a lie to say that life’s scars are the end.”
Truer words have rarely been spoken. For what are we all but a sum of our scars and our experiences? Anyone can be the hero of their own story, if they choose to be. A savior can come in many forms, even in the form of a girl who refused to break.
Symphony of Scars is a mind-blowing, heart-shattering fantasy novel, and I know you will be left feeling as raw and exposed as I was. And you will be glad of it, for it shows just how deep and devastatingly beautiful this story truly is.
Thank you, Corbin, for having me on your ARC team. It’s an honor.
Seems like an achievable wish, right? Perhaps to some, but to Lia? This wish may seem like an unattainable dream. Because in a world filled with secrets, power-hungry men, and oppression, hope may look like a dream, one that will never come true. And for some, to our horror, it will remain a dream forever. How devastating it is, in a fantasy world or in ours, that a dream of freedom, peace, and love is only ever a dream. A dream of a girl who just wanted to sing and do good. A girl who never knew of the horrors kept from her and from the entire society. A girl who finally opened her eyes and understood that the foundation of her world had completely shattered. What will she do?
A girl, a general, and an engineer, all coming from different backgrounds and all, seemingly, wanting different things at first. And yet, the most important question they must ask themselves is what they would do when their convictions are challenged. Will they leave their beliefs behind, or will they press on regardless? It all comes down to your inner self and your morals. Some will choose the right path, but others? Others will continue on their path of destruction.
“It is a lie to say that life’s scars are the end.”
Truer words have rarely been spoken. For what are we all but a sum of our scars and our experiences? Anyone can be the hero of their own story, if they choose to be. A savior can come in many forms, even in the form of a girl who refused to break.
Symphony of Scars is a mind-blowing, heart-shattering fantasy novel, and I know you will be left feeling as raw and exposed as I was. And you will be glad of it, for it shows just how deep and devastatingly beautiful this story truly is.
Thank you, Corbin, for having me on your ARC team. It’s an honor.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Symphony of Scars takes an unusual idea, a school of music set inside a war-torn fantasy world, and builds a lively, moving adventure around it. Three nations, similar in some ways and distinct in others, struggle against one another. The story follows Lia, a musician, Murad, an engineer, and Marcus, a general. Captain Tanis, a hearing impaired captain from Marcus's nation, rounds out a cast that is easy to like and easy to invest in. These characters are memorable, tangible, and deep. The three perspectives give the story a pleasing range of voices, from a young woman carrying a painful tragedy to an engineer and a high-ranking officer with their own loyalties to weigh.
Lia carries the emotional weight of the book. Her relationship with her mother and the events that shadows her journey give the story its heart, and the book hits hard. At times its heartbreaking and devastatingly beautiful. Around that emotional core, Rook keeps the tone well balanced. Action, comedy, adventure, and sorrow all get room to breathe, so the lighter moments warm the story and the darker ones carry real force.
The standout is the music-based magic system. It is inventive, beautifully conceived, and a pleasure to explore, and the pitch of Pitch Perfect meets epic fantasy suits it well. The magic runs deep, and the more attention you give it, the more it rewards you.
The world itself is vivid. Alderia comes across as harsh, beautiful, and grounded in reality, and this book broadens the setting in satisfying ways. The school at the center of the story works as a neutral zone where the three nations can mingle and influence one another without open war, a smart idea that gives the political tension a place to play out. Cultural detail is lighter than the magic, but the world has plenty of personality. The story also explores themes worth chewing on, including how societies create outcasts and how individuals hold onto their sense of self-worth. The twists land well, too, and the story is willing to go to places many readers will not see coming.
Newcomers can start here, since the book stands on its own. Returning readers get a bonus in the form of references to other Alderia stories. Fans of Brandon Sanderson, Warbreaker in particular, should feel at home. Once the story gets moving, it is hard to put down, and it leaves you excited for what comes next.
A few things could be stronger. The opening takes its time explaining the world and its magic, though the pace lifts after the first quarter. The school's neutral ground gets considerable setup and then sees little use across the rest of the book. Lia's training arc leaves some questions about motivation unanswered, and a recurring focusing habit of hers can feel like a gimmick. A couple of emotional turns arrive quickly, with little transition to carry them, so they land softer than they might. The prose is plain and serviceable, sometimes telling where showing would serve better, and a few scenes play out in a white room with little sense of place.
Those are small bumps on a road worth traveling. Symphony of Scars gives you a lead to root for, a magic system you will want to talk about, and a story with real heart. If you want an inventive fantasy with characters to cheer for, this is an easy one to recommend.
Lia carries the emotional weight of the book. Her relationship with her mother and the events that shadows her journey give the story its heart, and the book hits hard. At times its heartbreaking and devastatingly beautiful. Around that emotional core, Rook keeps the tone well balanced. Action, comedy, adventure, and sorrow all get room to breathe, so the lighter moments warm the story and the darker ones carry real force.
The standout is the music-based magic system. It is inventive, beautifully conceived, and a pleasure to explore, and the pitch of Pitch Perfect meets epic fantasy suits it well. The magic runs deep, and the more attention you give it, the more it rewards you.
The world itself is vivid. Alderia comes across as harsh, beautiful, and grounded in reality, and this book broadens the setting in satisfying ways. The school at the center of the story works as a neutral zone where the three nations can mingle and influence one another without open war, a smart idea that gives the political tension a place to play out. Cultural detail is lighter than the magic, but the world has plenty of personality. The story also explores themes worth chewing on, including how societies create outcasts and how individuals hold onto their sense of self-worth. The twists land well, too, and the story is willing to go to places many readers will not see coming.
Newcomers can start here, since the book stands on its own. Returning readers get a bonus in the form of references to other Alderia stories. Fans of Brandon Sanderson, Warbreaker in particular, should feel at home. Once the story gets moving, it is hard to put down, and it leaves you excited for what comes next.
A few things could be stronger. The opening takes its time explaining the world and its magic, though the pace lifts after the first quarter. The school's neutral ground gets considerable setup and then sees little use across the rest of the book. Lia's training arc leaves some questions about motivation unanswered, and a recurring focusing habit of hers can feel like a gimmick. A couple of emotional turns arrive quickly, with little transition to carry them, so they land softer than they might. The prose is plain and serviceable, sometimes telling where showing would serve better, and a few scenes play out in a white room with little sense of place.
Those are small bumps on a road worth traveling. Symphony of Scars gives you a lead to root for, a magic system you will want to talk about, and a story with real heart. If you want an inventive fantasy with characters to cheer for, this is an easy one to recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Symphony of Scars is a triumph! Rook blends the best of immersive world-building, an engagingly fresh magic system, characters you are ready to weep for, and a plot that will keep you on your toes. Everything built up beautifully to an explosive climax with some earth-shattering plot twists and reveals. Rook’s powerful demonstration of emotional trauma and PTSD, coupled with the hope needed to overcome it, stands as a testament to everyone that we CAN survive the worst the world has to offer us. It’s a message of hope and victory through scarring trial, all wrapped up into a fantastically entertaining story with a diverse cast, unique music-based magic, and war brewing on the horizon. What more could a fantasy lover want?
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Symphony is a fantastic and unique take on a musical fantasy. Where some people can either be so lucky to have musical ability triggered by channeling astral energy through music, or it can be their biggest grief.
You follow 3 characters.
One that just wants a peaceful life filled with music and people she loves, going to a school to learn what she loves the most.
A general that has learned one thing about the world, but is slowly starting to question the moral of it.
An evil, but mastermind engineer that wants the ability to become the most powerful man in the Empire. And won't stop even if it meant the sacrifice of others.
This is a horrible world, where you will love all the characters, but hate what some of them are. There were many moments at the start I was so angry at how people were treating the lesser people called Scorned. That I actually wanted to throw my kindle out the window.
Corbin has mastered a fantastic buildup to the momentum. He doesn't miss a beat when it comes to building up to the tension, even if it's with danger you can feel coming, or something sad you know are to come, he really brings your feelings along, and holds you there.
You sadly don't get much time in the beauty of the world before everything crashes down. As i would love to be, to get a deeper connection with Lia and her friends, and family and what is happening. I do wish the pre war tension was a bit longer on her side. But that is just my preferable wishing for this book at this moment, sometimes I love when we get straight to the point and sometimes I love when we get this nice and slow buildup.
But it doesn't stop this from being a great book, which I would totally read again when the time comes.
Separate from Shadows of the Sundered Lands, so you could definitely start with this one if you haven't read Shadows yet. It is written as a standalone, but with the ending, I feel it could have been a Duology or something, as it leaves with some new questions and I would also just love to see what the characters are doing next. So I do hope we get maybe another book, that answers the questions.
Corbin has by far written his best book in this one, which had me surviving on water and diet soda for the last 30%. As I couldn't put down the book. Can't wait to see what happens next in his world.
Symphony is a fantastic and unique take on a musical fantasy. Where some people can either be so lucky to have musical ability triggered by channeling astral energy through music, or it can be their biggest grief.
You follow 3 characters.
One that just wants a peaceful life filled with music and people she loves, going to a school to learn what she loves the most.
A general that has learned one thing about the world, but is slowly starting to question the moral of it.
An evil, but mastermind engineer that wants the ability to become the most powerful man in the Empire. And won't stop even if it meant the sacrifice of others.
This is a horrible world, where you will love all the characters, but hate what some of them are. There were many moments at the start I was so angry at how people were treating the lesser people called Scorned. That I actually wanted to throw my kindle out the window.
Corbin has mastered a fantastic buildup to the momentum. He doesn't miss a beat when it comes to building up to the tension, even if it's with danger you can feel coming, or something sad you know are to come, he really brings your feelings along, and holds you there.
You sadly don't get much time in the beauty of the world before everything crashes down. As i would love to be, to get a deeper connection with Lia and her friends, and family and what is happening. I do wish the pre war tension was a bit longer on her side. But that is just my preferable wishing for this book at this moment, sometimes I love when we get straight to the point and sometimes I love when we get this nice and slow buildup.
But it doesn't stop this from being a great book, which I would totally read again when the time comes.
Separate from Shadows of the Sundered Lands, so you could definitely start with this one if you haven't read Shadows yet. It is written as a standalone, but with the ending, I feel it could have been a Duology or something, as it leaves with some new questions and I would also just love to see what the characters are doing next. So I do hope we get maybe another book, that answers the questions.
Corbin has by far written his best book in this one, which had me surviving on water and diet soda for the last 30%. As I couldn't put down the book. Can't wait to see what happens next in his world.
Review of advance copy
Symphony of Scars Book Blurb:
Far outside the Sundered Lands, the Holv Republic of Kellanis has learned to channel the Astral Plane throuhg music in a process called "Symphonics." Music is so sacred that hte gravest punishment is to become Scorned - a slave stripped of their ears and tongue so that they can neither enjoy nor create music.
Lia, a prodigiously gifted musician, is accepted into the Van Kall Monastery to master her Symphonic powers and shape the world around her through music.
But a brilliant engineer from a rival nation has discovered a wav to destrov Symphonic users, and he has decided to test his weapon on the students of the monastery.
Music can heal. Music can kill. Silence is coming for all."
Book Review: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Corbin Rook has done it again!
He has masterfully written a story that will stay with you forever. A story that is set in a fantastical fantasy world, full of danger, excitement, and adventure.
Friendship, loyalty, twists, and war. Music and joy, laughter, and weeping.
If you want to be pulled into a story, Corbin leaves you never able to put this book down.
I even had to remind myself to breathe... a lot!
The only content I would say that is a bit of a warning would be the violence. It's not too much to the point where I felt sick (because I'm not one for gore), but enough to understand the pain, gravity, and horrors, all for a real purpose.
Again, what a masterful story. I couldn't find another book full of such heart and excitement. Pain and joy.
This is the kind of story that will stay with you forever. In the best way possible.
Far outside the Sundered Lands, the Holv Republic of Kellanis has learned to channel the Astral Plane throuhg music in a process called "Symphonics." Music is so sacred that hte gravest punishment is to become Scorned - a slave stripped of their ears and tongue so that they can neither enjoy nor create music.
Lia, a prodigiously gifted musician, is accepted into the Van Kall Monastery to master her Symphonic powers and shape the world around her through music.
But a brilliant engineer from a rival nation has discovered a wav to destrov Symphonic users, and he has decided to test his weapon on the students of the monastery.
Music can heal. Music can kill. Silence is coming for all."
Book Review: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Corbin Rook has done it again!
He has masterfully written a story that will stay with you forever. A story that is set in a fantastical fantasy world, full of danger, excitement, and adventure.
Friendship, loyalty, twists, and war. Music and joy, laughter, and weeping.
If you want to be pulled into a story, Corbin leaves you never able to put this book down.
I even had to remind myself to breathe... a lot!
The only content I would say that is a bit of a warning would be the violence. It's not too much to the point where I felt sick (because I'm not one for gore), but enough to understand the pain, gravity, and horrors, all for a real purpose.
Again, what a masterful story. I couldn't find another book full of such heart and excitement. Pain and joy.
This is the kind of story that will stay with you forever. In the best way possible.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Corbin did a phenomenal job with this story! This is the first of his book that I have read and I loved the way he writes!
He does a great job balancing the different POV's and I appreciate that there is intrigue from the first few pages! The magic is incredibly fun, something I hope that we get more of from him! I could read a whole series just on these characters and I would be happy every second of it!
I don't know where everything will go in this world space, the same one as the Sundered lands, but I can't wait to see what the rest of his writings has in store for us!
Also, how cool is it to have books all set in the same world, but each is a standalone novel?? You can jump in anywhere, get to know different aspects of the world, and then go read the others and find out even more! Love that and will be reading Sundered lands very soon after how good this one was!!
He does a great job balancing the different POV's and I appreciate that there is intrigue from the first few pages! The magic is incredibly fun, something I hope that we get more of from him! I could read a whole series just on these characters and I would be happy every second of it!
I don't know where everything will go in this world space, the same one as the Sundered lands, but I can't wait to see what the rest of his writings has in store for us!
Also, how cool is it to have books all set in the same world, but each is a standalone novel?? You can jump in anywhere, get to know different aspects of the world, and then go read the others and find out even more! Love that and will be reading Sundered lands very soon after how good this one was!!
October 15, 2026
♾️/5
✨ A massive thank you to Corbin Rook for kindly sending me this book. I messaged him asking about his book and he sent it to me and Wow. I finished this book a few days ago and honestly I’ve never written 2 back to back A4 page while I also highlighted on my kindle. ✨
✨ Symphony of Scars has multiple povs and this book completely hooked me. I finished it in 3 sittings 😮💨 Starting this book I didn’t like 2 of the characters and Lia was questionable with her actions. But Tanis I absolutely loved her from the get go. She’s a smart badass and so kind and didn’t treat the Scorned like they were beneath her. But saying that did General Marcus redeem himself by the end of the book ?.. Fuck yess end up rooting for him like a weirdo in my kitchen 😂 Literally cheered out loud at the 90% of this book 🫣😩✨
✨By the end of this book I was so invested in the characters that, that ending 👀 Erm WHAT !! I literally had to re read it cos I thought WHAT !!! Just read this book you won’t be disappointed ♾️ I’ll literally read anything Corbin writes. I can’t wait to get my physical copy 😍 ✨
✨ A massive thank you to Corbin Rook for kindly sending me this book. I messaged him asking about his book and he sent it to me and Wow. I finished this book a few days ago and honestly I’ve never written 2 back to back A4 page while I also highlighted on my kindle. ✨
✨ Symphony of Scars has multiple povs and this book completely hooked me. I finished it in 3 sittings 😮💨 Starting this book I didn’t like 2 of the characters and Lia was questionable with her actions. But Tanis I absolutely loved her from the get go. She’s a smart badass and so kind and didn’t treat the Scorned like they were beneath her. But saying that did General Marcus redeem himself by the end of the book ?.. Fuck yess end up rooting for him like a weirdo in my kitchen 😂 Literally cheered out loud at the 90% of this book 🫣😩✨
✨By the end of this book I was so invested in the characters that, that ending 👀 Erm WHAT !! I literally had to re read it cos I thought WHAT !!! Just read this book you won’t be disappointed ♾️ I’ll literally read anything Corbin writes. I can’t wait to get my physical copy 😍 ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Corbin nailed it again for me with Symphony of Scars! He's crafted a beautiful, harsh world with memorable characters and amazing twists. And at the heart of it is Symphonics, an unique magic-system built around music and sound.
Fans of Brandon Sanderson will find plenty to love here. Warbreaker was definitely an inspiration, but I could also see hints of Elantris and Emperor's Soul.
Symphony of Scar has expanded the world of Alderia in an incredible way and I have no doubt that the next installment will be just as good as the last. I have my fingers crossed for a crossover!
Fans of Brandon Sanderson will find plenty to love here. Warbreaker was definitely an inspiration, but I could also see hints of Elantris and Emperor's Soul.
Symphony of Scar has expanded the world of Alderia in an incredible way and I have no doubt that the next installment will be just as good as the last. I have my fingers crossed for a crossover!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Unfortunately, I didn’t really like this book. It does a lot of things right, but I feel it makes some errors in places that I weigh quite heavily. The book has some great moments, but I found myself getting annoyed quite often, which ended up spoiling my enjoyment. It was fairly easy to come back to each day, but I felt I was mostly rage-reading in the hopes of getting resolution that often didn’t quite come.
The characters in this story are pretty good. Lia, in particular, was great to follow. She has an interesting story and most of the best moments of the book. Marcus is fairly solid, and with one glaring exception, is a fun character to root for. The villain character was alright, but he felt a bit flat to me for the amount of time we spent in his head. He filled his role well enough, but I sort of wish the time we spent with him could have been used elsewhere. His villainous schemes also felt a bit … flawed, which, to me, was made awkward by having a significant portion of the book in his POV.
The world was reasonably cool. The two factions both felt like they had some uniqueness and it was nice to explore them. Unfortunately, I feel the story didn’t actually do that much exploring. It mostly set a baseline and then spent a lot of time in places where most of the culture mattered very little (with the notable exception of the Scorned situation). I felt the magic had a similar problem. It is music-based, which is super cool, but it mostly stops being meaningful after the first portion of the book (admittedly for a good reason). After that, it felt more like a metallurgical magic system, which was still somewhat cool, but not really what I was looking for.
As for the plot. I feel the general, overarching plot was reasonably good. However, most of the details between those major plot points felt rather contrived to me. I’ll qualify this by saying that I have been cursed with a tendency to heavily interrogate plot points, contrivances, character decisions, and internal consistency. If you don’t do that, I suspect this book will work a lot better for you. As it was, I couldn’t quite get over the issues in the plot, which led me to get annoyed quite often. I felt a lot of items simply didn’t hold up to scrutiny very well, and, to me, felt like a somewhat faulty bridge to get the story to the next major plot point.
Given that the previous content was rather harsh, I figured I’d change up my normal flow here and talk about some of the items I specifically did like (as opposed to issues I had). Firstly, I liked how the book handled characters who were hard of hearing and/or unable to speak. I felt it did a good job of representing the dehumanizing forces that worked against them, and the little communities they were able to make in spite of it. Secondly, I liked the way our main heroes had to address their own feelings toward the Scorned (enslaved social outcasts). It felt reasonably realistic, and had a lot of heart behind it. Thirdly, I think Lia’s struggle with the horror that was inflicted on her was pretty good, though I wish there would have been more of it on the page.
Altogether, I think the book is probably reasonably good, but it wasn’t for me. There are some great moments, but the issues related to the plot, along with an epilogue that somewhat undermines our heroes’ accomplishments, was simply too much for me. If you’re the type of person who is able to skate over the particular plot issues this story has, I think you’ll find a lot to like. However, if you’re like me and tend to interrogate the plot as you read, I, unfortunately, can’t recommend this book to you.
The characters in this story are pretty good. Lia, in particular, was great to follow. She has an interesting story and most of the best moments of the book. Marcus is fairly solid, and with one glaring exception, is a fun character to root for. The villain character was alright, but he felt a bit flat to me for the amount of time we spent in his head. He filled his role well enough, but I sort of wish the time we spent with him could have been used elsewhere. His villainous schemes also felt a bit … flawed, which, to me, was made awkward by having a significant portion of the book in his POV.
The world was reasonably cool. The two factions both felt like they had some uniqueness and it was nice to explore them. Unfortunately, I feel the story didn’t actually do that much exploring. It mostly set a baseline and then spent a lot of time in places where most of the culture mattered very little (with the notable exception of the Scorned situation). I felt the magic had a similar problem. It is music-based, which is super cool, but it mostly stops being meaningful after the first portion of the book (admittedly for a good reason). After that, it felt more like a metallurgical magic system, which was still somewhat cool, but not really what I was looking for.
As for the plot. I feel the general, overarching plot was reasonably good. However, most of the details between those major plot points felt rather contrived to me. I’ll qualify this by saying that I have been cursed with a tendency to heavily interrogate plot points, contrivances, character decisions, and internal consistency. If you don’t do that, I suspect this book will work a lot better for you. As it was, I couldn’t quite get over the issues in the plot, which led me to get annoyed quite often. I felt a lot of items simply didn’t hold up to scrutiny very well, and, to me, felt like a somewhat faulty bridge to get the story to the next major plot point.
Given that the previous content was rather harsh, I figured I’d change up my normal flow here and talk about some of the items I specifically did like (as opposed to issues I had). Firstly, I liked how the book handled characters who were hard of hearing and/or unable to speak. I felt it did a good job of representing the dehumanizing forces that worked against them, and the little communities they were able to make in spite of it. Secondly, I liked the way our main heroes had to address their own feelings toward the Scorned (enslaved social outcasts). It felt reasonably realistic, and had a lot of heart behind it. Thirdly, I think Lia’s struggle with the horror that was inflicted on her was pretty good, though I wish there would have been more of it on the page.
Altogether, I think the book is probably reasonably good, but it wasn’t for me. There are some great moments, but the issues related to the plot, along with an epilogue that somewhat undermines our heroes’ accomplishments, was simply too much for me. If you’re the type of person who is able to skate over the particular plot issues this story has, I think you’ll find a lot to like. However, if you’re like me and tend to interrogate the plot as you read, I, unfortunately, can’t recommend this book to you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novel is truly a work of art. I was on the edge of my seat from beginning to end! I can see how much Rook has grown as an author. His debut was excellent, this book is superb! There was such a depth of emotion displayed by each and every character, especially Lia. It was so heartbreaking at times. And at the end, I actually began tearing up. That has never happened for me while reading fantasy!
The magic system was so unique! I appreciated every bit of it. I've been a musician most of my life, so seeing a music based magic system was so cool! It was very well done. I was impressed. I especially loved the different weapons made of the "special metal", I won't spoil anything, but it was one of my favorite parts.
The other really special part of this book, was the little quotes at the beginning of the chapters. I normally hate it when authors do this, not gonna lie. Somehow, with this book, it actually fit and made sense. It really added a depth to the story that I was not expecting! Excellently done!
If you liked Shadows of the Sundered Lands, you will LOVE Symphony of Scars! 100%.
The magic system was so unique! I appreciated every bit of it. I've been a musician most of my life, so seeing a music based magic system was so cool! It was very well done. I was impressed. I especially loved the different weapons made of the "special metal", I won't spoil anything, but it was one of my favorite parts.
The other really special part of this book, was the little quotes at the beginning of the chapters. I normally hate it when authors do this, not gonna lie. Somehow, with this book, it actually fit and made sense. It really added a depth to the story that I was not expecting! Excellently done!
If you liked Shadows of the Sundered Lands, you will LOVE Symphony of Scars! 100%.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second installment to Rook's "World of Alderia" series is incredible. You do not need to have read his first book, but there are a few nods that had me grinning from ear to ear knowing where the references came from. On its own the book is fantastic. With adventure and heartbreak, comedy and thrills, I found it hard to put down! As usual for Rook the characters shine bright and you fall in love with them due to their extreme relatability. The world building is great and the magic system will blow you away. A magic system based on music is something I never knew I needed, but I needed it! Look out world, Corbin Rook is on a roll with no signs of slowing down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Symphony of Scars made me actually cry. The characters are people you relate to, and most of them are people you really root for. The magic system is beautiful and there are great references to other stories in the world. But honestly my favorite thing about this book is its themes: Societies create their own outcasts, how will we as individuals treat those others cast aside? What will we do when confronted with their humanity? And when we are the ones cast aside, how will we stand firm in our own self-worth? Read this book if you want to be inspired to love, to embrace your own story, and to ask yourself hard questions about what you believe about the world and the people in it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC review✨ I just need to stare at the wall for a minute and remember how to breathe. Wow. I have been looking forward to reading this book and it did not disappoint. Symphony of Scars is such a gripping story, there were a few moments that caught me off guard, but even the moments that I could see coming left me stunned. The emotions in this book are so palpable that a few times I forgot to breathe, or my chest would tighten with grief. I absolutely loved this book. I will give a warning that this story has a dystopian feel, and lots and lots of blood. However I do feel like even with all the brutality this story is not full of needless gore, and the descriptions are not overly graphic.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did not imagine it possible to enjoy Symphony of Scars even more than I did Shadows of the Sundered Lands, but wow - Corbin Rook does not disappoint. I absolutely LOVED this novel. Every character feels tangible and interesting and the story balances action, comedy, and gritty tragedy with a poise I’m not able to find in many books. If I could somehow rate this higher than 5 stars, I would. Easily one of my favorite books of all time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A brilliant tapestry of music and warfare. Rook expands the world of Alderia in such a brilliant way here, blending unique perspectives from a girl with a traumatic past, an engineer, and a high official. Fans of Brandon Sanderson, especially warbreaker, need to read this. Mixing excellent twists and captivating characters, this is one of the best unique fantasy novels of the year.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A great second book from Corbin Rook. The world building is amazing with cool concepts that are grounded in reality. The magic system is fun and unique. The characters are interesting, and you can’t help but get invested in them. This book has some of the best twist and turns that will leave you floored. There are themes that make you think and that most people wrestle with.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Read this book as a beta reader and it reminded me of Warbreaker by Brandon Sanderson in the best way 😍 Insane plot twists, awesome and mysterious father figure mentor, art-based magic, and an amazing main female character with fun colored hair🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book and I love it! The main character has a lot of depth and unique qualities that keep you invested. The world is very unique and the world building is amazing! I highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Phenomenal! I love the story and plot! Love the magic system such a unique system!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book hits every spot I want out of an epic fantasy. A unique magic system, great characters, and a wide scope to enjoy the setting. But what sticks with me is the emotional impact. This novel doesn't flinch away from respectfully depicting topics that usually get looked over. Not only is it refreshing, but it ponders on themes that are realistic, full of hardship and yet ring with one resounding word. Hope. Thank you, Corbin Rook, for working so hard to create something I am going to enjoy again and again every time I think about this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Corbin Rook takes the wonder of music-based magic (like what's seen in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time) and turns it into something usable in combat. This book is devastatingly beautiful, and the story goes places I did not think the author would dare. It is gut-wrenching, but powerful, and ends on a very powerful note. (pun intended ;)
Also present in this book is a very creative weapon that might just be my new favorite fantasy weapon. What is this awesomeness? You'll just have to read the book and find out!
Also present in this book is a very creative weapon that might just be my new favorite fantasy weapon. What is this awesomeness? You'll just have to read the book and find out!
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