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The First Definition of Fortune
Not yet published
Expected 4 May 27OVER NINE CENTURIES HAVE PASSED SINCE THE RENDING, a cataclysm that isolated the Illunni Realm from the rest of the world by a series of impassable barriers: sheer mountains, scorching desert, and a stinging barrier reef patrolled by titanic leviathans. Dwindling resources have put the realm at risk of collapse, and with the ruling family betrayed and murdered, nothing is certain.
Dez is a pickpocket, scraping together a life on the reef at the edge of the world. He dreams of finding his fortune in the distant city of Greenleg, but without so much as a pearl to his name, a better life seems further from reach than even the twin moons. When he finds gold in a drifter’s pocket, Dez thinks his prayers to the leviathan gods have been answered...only for a stranger in white to turn all his plans to ashes.
Reeling, broken, Dez finds the world a wider, stranger, and far more treacherous place than he’d imagined. Now, he must do more than survive – he must decide who he wants to be.
And always, the stranger in white draws closer.
A sweeping coming of age story, The First Definition of Fortune is at once an epic adventure and an intimate exploration of identity, belonging, and the necessity of hope.
Dez is a pickpocket, scraping together a life on the reef at the edge of the world. He dreams of finding his fortune in the distant city of Greenleg, but without so much as a pearl to his name, a better life seems further from reach than even the twin moons. When he finds gold in a drifter’s pocket, Dez thinks his prayers to the leviathan gods have been answered...only for a stranger in white to turn all his plans to ashes.
Reeling, broken, Dez finds the world a wider, stranger, and far more treacherous place than he’d imagined. Now, he must do more than survive – he must decide who he wants to be.
And always, the stranger in white draws closer.
A sweeping coming of age story, The First Definition of Fortune is at once an epic adventure and an intimate exploration of identity, belonging, and the necessity of hope.
488 pages, Paperback
Expected publication May 4, 2027
About the author
Ken McEwen
1 book6 followersI was drawn to fantasy at an early age; I’d lived in six houses in four states by the time I turned twelve, and a child without siblings must find companionship somewhere. Any little town has a bookstore, and every bookstore has a corner at the back where swords and dragons and colorful magics whirl across the shelves. I would settle into a patch of faded carpet, worn thread-bare by those who’d come before me, and return to the only places I’d ever known to be familiar.
I rode with heroes, empathized with villains, bartered with beasts and bandits. I carried gems in my pocket, caked with bone dust that lay thick in the dungeon’s halls. I faced the end of the world, burning spear in hand, while suburbia groaned at my back.
I was small. I was mighty.
Now, I’ve added a facet to the great gleaming gem of fantasy. A story born on that patch of faded carpet, carried in my heart all these many years.
My familiar place these days is Birmingham, AL, where I live with my brilliant wife, my daughter, and my son. Prior to moving to The South, I earned a bachelor’s degree in English: Writing and Rhetoric from Pepperdine University, and an MBA from Samford University.
THE FIRST DEFINITION OF FORTUNE is my first novel, but more are on the way!
I rode with heroes, empathized with villains, bartered with beasts and bandits. I carried gems in my pocket, caked with bone dust that lay thick in the dungeon’s halls. I faced the end of the world, burning spear in hand, while suburbia groaned at my back.
I was small. I was mighty.
Now, I’ve added a facet to the great gleaming gem of fantasy. A story born on that patch of faded carpet, carried in my heart all these many years.
My familiar place these days is Birmingham, AL, where I live with my brilliant wife, my daughter, and my son. Prior to moving to The South, I earned a bachelor’s degree in English: Writing and Rhetoric from Pepperdine University, and an MBA from Samford University.
THE FIRST DEFINITION OF FORTUNE is my first novel, but more are on the way!
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was delighted to receive an ARC copy of this book to review.
This book was such a wild adventure!
I'll admit, it did take a few chapters for me to get truly invested. However, the nautical themes, lovable characters, and witty banter ultimately pulled me in.
The main character, Dez, experiences so many different emotions and trials throughout the story. At one point, I actually thought, "What else can go wrong?!" As a result, you very quickly start to genuinely care about him, as well as the characters he encounters along the way, who each leave their mark on him and help him figure out what kind of person he ultimately wants to be.
McEwen's storytelling was incredibly vivid, bringing the world to life. I especially loved the author's unique way of describing things; I learned so many new words! The unexpected similes were wonderfully whimsical and humorous, and I'd find myself stopping just to appreciate them and occasionally laughing out loud.
There was a great balance between adventure, deep emotion, humour, thought-provoking moments, and world-building. Each character has their own personality and genuinely feels like a unique individual. The interactions between Dez and Anabelle were easily one of my favourite parts of the story.
I will say, some of the chapters can be very long. So, if you're like me and hate stopping in the middle of a chapter... you've been warned!
Overall, this was a wonderfully immersive read with a charming cast, a beautifully developed world, plenty of heart, and a writing style that knows how to surprise you with the most delightful comparisons.
It felt like sailing into an adventure with characters you can't help but root for, and I was very happy I got to come along for the ride. I cannot wait to see where Dez's story takes him next.
This book was such a wild adventure!
I'll admit, it did take a few chapters for me to get truly invested. However, the nautical themes, lovable characters, and witty banter ultimately pulled me in.
The main character, Dez, experiences so many different emotions and trials throughout the story. At one point, I actually thought, "What else can go wrong?!" As a result, you very quickly start to genuinely care about him, as well as the characters he encounters along the way, who each leave their mark on him and help him figure out what kind of person he ultimately wants to be.
McEwen's storytelling was incredibly vivid, bringing the world to life. I especially loved the author's unique way of describing things; I learned so many new words! The unexpected similes were wonderfully whimsical and humorous, and I'd find myself stopping just to appreciate them and occasionally laughing out loud.
There was a great balance between adventure, deep emotion, humour, thought-provoking moments, and world-building. Each character has their own personality and genuinely feels like a unique individual. The interactions between Dez and Anabelle were easily one of my favourite parts of the story.
I will say, some of the chapters can be very long. So, if you're like me and hate stopping in the middle of a chapter... you've been warned!
Overall, this was a wonderfully immersive read with a charming cast, a beautifully developed world, plenty of heart, and a writing style that knows how to surprise you with the most delightful comparisons.
It felt like sailing into an adventure with characters you can't help but root for, and I was very happy I got to come along for the ride. I cannot wait to see where Dez's story takes him next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the privilege of reading an ARC of this book.
I went into The First Definition of Fortune with some preconceived expectations based purely on the idea that this book was "fantasy". All of which proved to be inaccurate. However, such is the beauty of fantasy. It is a genre where everything is on the table, and McEwan took full advantage of that freedom.
The world of Illunni is a thoughtful concoction of eclectic and anachronistic components, assembled together to create a refreshing and original world in which the story is told.
Instead of a mass of interconnected stories like many fantasy novels, this story features a narrower scope but is one of immense depth, delving the reader into unparalleled description of the world around the protagonist and a fully transparent view into his mind and thoughts. As a slower reader I did find this daunting as it made for slower scenes and much longer chapters, however it paid dividends in the vividity and immersiveness of the writing that every fantasy reader hopes for in the books they read.
tFDoF stands among its peers the way a thoughtful drama stands among action movies. At first glance it's not as flashy, and without effort it may not seem as engaging. But for anyone of discerning taste who steps back and really looks at it for what it is, the artistic superiority becomes evident.
The book follows Dez on his journey towards what he thinks he wants, unfolding step by step through his struggles and obstacles as he pushes towards his goals while being forced to reconcile what he thinks he wants with the person he's becoming.
The novel is rich with descriptive prose, impressive dialogue and witty banter. The characters, whether present for much of the book or little, seem real and believable, pulling the reader in even further, and serve as just one more pillar on which this impressive story stands.
By the end I was perhaps mildly frustrated by the ratio of answers to new questions, but there's no denying my interest has been whetted and I'm eager for what is to come next.
I sincerely recommend The First Definition of Fortune.
I went into The First Definition of Fortune with some preconceived expectations based purely on the idea that this book was "fantasy". All of which proved to be inaccurate. However, such is the beauty of fantasy. It is a genre where everything is on the table, and McEwan took full advantage of that freedom.
The world of Illunni is a thoughtful concoction of eclectic and anachronistic components, assembled together to create a refreshing and original world in which the story is told.
Instead of a mass of interconnected stories like many fantasy novels, this story features a narrower scope but is one of immense depth, delving the reader into unparalleled description of the world around the protagonist and a fully transparent view into his mind and thoughts. As a slower reader I did find this daunting as it made for slower scenes and much longer chapters, however it paid dividends in the vividity and immersiveness of the writing that every fantasy reader hopes for in the books they read.
tFDoF stands among its peers the way a thoughtful drama stands among action movies. At first glance it's not as flashy, and without effort it may not seem as engaging. But for anyone of discerning taste who steps back and really looks at it for what it is, the artistic superiority becomes evident.
The book follows Dez on his journey towards what he thinks he wants, unfolding step by step through his struggles and obstacles as he pushes towards his goals while being forced to reconcile what he thinks he wants with the person he's becoming.
The novel is rich with descriptive prose, impressive dialogue and witty banter. The characters, whether present for much of the book or little, seem real and believable, pulling the reader in even further, and serve as just one more pillar on which this impressive story stands.
By the end I was perhaps mildly frustrated by the ratio of answers to new questions, but there's no denying my interest has been whetted and I'm eager for what is to come next.
I sincerely recommend The First Definition of Fortune.
September 30, 2026
I received an advance reader copy of The First Definition of Fortune, and I’ll start with what surprised me most: I cannot believe this is a debut novel. Ken McEwen can flat-out write.
From the opening chapters, I was struck by the confidence of the prose, the depth of the world-building, and especially the creativity of the language. McEwen has a gift for describing places, people, and even ordinary moments in ways that feel completely fresh. Again and again, I found myself stopping over a sentence because he had found an image or turn of phrase that I never would have thought of—and yet, once I read it, seemed exactly right. One that particularly stuck with me was Dez’s description of the terrible drinking water aboard ship: “it was as if air had been collected and pressed into some tasteless liquid.” I remember reading that and thinking, That is exactly what bad, flavorless water tastes like—and I never would have thought to describe it that way. It’s a small moment, but it captures something McEwen does remarkably well throughout the book: finding unexpected language for familiar experiences that somehow makes you see—or taste—them differently. The vocabulary is rich without becoming pretentious, and the descriptions are vivid without bogging down the story.
And this is definitely a story that moves. At its center is Dez, a young pickpocket from the impoverished island of Paradiso. Dez is a thief, a troublemaker, and occasionally his own worst enemy, but he is also fiercely loyal, funny, resourceful, and deeply human. He may happily relieve someone of an overstuffed purse, but he also cares about the people around him—particularly those who, like him, live at the margins of society. McEwen manages to make Dez morally complicated without making him difficult to root for. Quite the opposite: I became invested in him very quickly.
What begins as an adventure toward the almost mythical city of Greenleg soon becomes something much larger. I won't spoil the circumstances, but Dez finds himself confronting loss, violence, revenge, friendship, and some increasingly strange questions about his own mortality. One of the novel's most original elements is its treatment of Death itself and Dez's unusual relationship to it. It introduces a supernatural mystery that unfolds alongside the larger adventure and left me wanting to understand it just as badly as Dez does.
The suspense was another surprise. There were several sequences where I realized I was reading faster and faster because I genuinely needed to know what happened next. McEwen is very good at allowing tension to build gradually and then tightening the screws. More than once, I found myself completely absorbed in a scene—as though I were aboard the ship, on the island, or walking alongside the characters rather than simply reading about them.
But what elevated the book for me beyond a really entertaining adventure was the humanity underneath it. There is a wonderful conversation in the novel about the difference between happiness and satisfaction—about having something worth working toward even when life itself is difficult. Dez's response reveals a great deal about him: he understands the idea, perhaps even longs for it, but has spent much of his life pursuing more tangible and immediate rewards. That tension runs quietly beneath the adventure. What is fortune? Is it wealth? Survival? Friendship? Purpose? Something else entirely? The title becomes increasingly meaningful as the story progresses.
The world itself is enormously imaginative. The Illuni Realm feels large, old, culturally varied, and lived-in. There are histories, religions, currencies, social classes, ships, cities, islands, legends, prejudices, customs, and political tensions—but McEwen generally resists the temptation to stop the story and explain his creation to you. You discover the world by traveling through it with Dez. That made it feel less like an invented setting and more like a place that existed before the first page and will continue existing after the last.
If I had to describe the experience, I'd say there are echoes of Treasure Island and Pirates of the Caribbean, mixed with some of the expansive fantasy world-building that makes The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter so immersive. But that comparison only gets you so far. The Illuni Realm, its mythology, and especially Dez's story have an identity of their own.
Perhaps my highest praise is this: at some point I stopped thinking about the fact that I was reading someone's first novel and simply became a reader who wanted to know what happened next. That's a remarkable accomplishment for any novelist, much less a first-time one.
I read plenty of established authors—John Grisham, Stephen King, Pat Conroy among my favorites—and what impressed me most here was finding the same thing I look for in any good writer: a distinctive voice, memorable characters, command of language, and the ability to make me disappear into a story for a while. McEwen has those chops.
I would recommend The First Definition of Fortune to anyone who enjoys adventure, fantasy, seafaring stories, morally complicated heroes, immersive world-building, and a story with something meaningful running beneath all the action.
And yes, I absolutely want Book Two.
From the opening chapters, I was struck by the confidence of the prose, the depth of the world-building, and especially the creativity of the language. McEwen has a gift for describing places, people, and even ordinary moments in ways that feel completely fresh. Again and again, I found myself stopping over a sentence because he had found an image or turn of phrase that I never would have thought of—and yet, once I read it, seemed exactly right. One that particularly stuck with me was Dez’s description of the terrible drinking water aboard ship: “it was as if air had been collected and pressed into some tasteless liquid.” I remember reading that and thinking, That is exactly what bad, flavorless water tastes like—and I never would have thought to describe it that way. It’s a small moment, but it captures something McEwen does remarkably well throughout the book: finding unexpected language for familiar experiences that somehow makes you see—or taste—them differently. The vocabulary is rich without becoming pretentious, and the descriptions are vivid without bogging down the story.
And this is definitely a story that moves. At its center is Dez, a young pickpocket from the impoverished island of Paradiso. Dez is a thief, a troublemaker, and occasionally his own worst enemy, but he is also fiercely loyal, funny, resourceful, and deeply human. He may happily relieve someone of an overstuffed purse, but he also cares about the people around him—particularly those who, like him, live at the margins of society. McEwen manages to make Dez morally complicated without making him difficult to root for. Quite the opposite: I became invested in him very quickly.
What begins as an adventure toward the almost mythical city of Greenleg soon becomes something much larger. I won't spoil the circumstances, but Dez finds himself confronting loss, violence, revenge, friendship, and some increasingly strange questions about his own mortality. One of the novel's most original elements is its treatment of Death itself and Dez's unusual relationship to it. It introduces a supernatural mystery that unfolds alongside the larger adventure and left me wanting to understand it just as badly as Dez does.
The suspense was another surprise. There were several sequences where I realized I was reading faster and faster because I genuinely needed to know what happened next. McEwen is very good at allowing tension to build gradually and then tightening the screws. More than once, I found myself completely absorbed in a scene—as though I were aboard the ship, on the island, or walking alongside the characters rather than simply reading about them.
But what elevated the book for me beyond a really entertaining adventure was the humanity underneath it. There is a wonderful conversation in the novel about the difference between happiness and satisfaction—about having something worth working toward even when life itself is difficult. Dez's response reveals a great deal about him: he understands the idea, perhaps even longs for it, but has spent much of his life pursuing more tangible and immediate rewards. That tension runs quietly beneath the adventure. What is fortune? Is it wealth? Survival? Friendship? Purpose? Something else entirely? The title becomes increasingly meaningful as the story progresses.
The world itself is enormously imaginative. The Illuni Realm feels large, old, culturally varied, and lived-in. There are histories, religions, currencies, social classes, ships, cities, islands, legends, prejudices, customs, and political tensions—but McEwen generally resists the temptation to stop the story and explain his creation to you. You discover the world by traveling through it with Dez. That made it feel less like an invented setting and more like a place that existed before the first page and will continue existing after the last.
If I had to describe the experience, I'd say there are echoes of Treasure Island and Pirates of the Caribbean, mixed with some of the expansive fantasy world-building that makes The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter so immersive. But that comparison only gets you so far. The Illuni Realm, its mythology, and especially Dez's story have an identity of their own.
Perhaps my highest praise is this: at some point I stopped thinking about the fact that I was reading someone's first novel and simply became a reader who wanted to know what happened next. That's a remarkable accomplishment for any novelist, much less a first-time one.
I read plenty of established authors—John Grisham, Stephen King, Pat Conroy among my favorites—and what impressed me most here was finding the same thing I look for in any good writer: a distinctive voice, memorable characters, command of language, and the ability to make me disappear into a story for a while. McEwen has those chops.
I would recommend The First Definition of Fortune to anyone who enjoys adventure, fantasy, seafaring stories, morally complicated heroes, immersive world-building, and a story with something meaningful running beneath all the action.
And yes, I absolutely want Book Two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Full transparency … I was sent an ARC copy of the book to read and review.
As a life long fantasy reader I was very excited to get my hands on this book early. And boy does it deliver! Good worldbuilding, engaging characters, the ever lurking threat from the Man in White, bits and pieces of humor sprinkled throughout the book etc.
Growing up what attracted me to the fantasy genre was the idea of exploring and discovering a new world the author created. And the “small world” as Dez refers to it in the book is one of the best, not to mention more unique, realms I’ve come across. Written with great prose, McEwen slowly reveals a world that is well thought out, chalked full of mystery and intrigue and will leave you wanting more!
It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the characters. From the first introduction to Dez you can tell that despite a rough upbringing he’s a good hearted kid at his core, loyal to his friends but also wanting more from life. It’s easy to fall in love with all the characters as their personalities really shine through the pages. And there is such a wide range of traits, from the stoic to the analytical to the rather chaotic, all well done.
The First Definition of Fortune feels like just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this world. McEwen has a way with worlds that brings it all to life! There is so much out there to explore and this book is just the beginning. Which brings me to my one complaint. The book almost feels like it’s incomplete, like it’s only the first half of something more (which I suppose it is). There’s a whole world out there to explore, new opportunities are opening up to Dez, there are potential dangers and conflicts hinted at and the book just … ends. While a bit anti-climatic it’s still very satisfying and leaves me wanting more. I’m super excited for the next book and about where the rest of the series is going.
The worldbuilding, characters and prose certainly more than make up for any complaints I have and I would for sure recommend this book to any fantasy lovers out there (and even if you don’t read fantasy, give it a try!)
I wish Goodreads would let me give out half grades as this would easily be a 4.5 out of 5 for me. However, keeping in mind this is the author's first book this bumps it up to a 5 for me as.
As a life long fantasy reader I was very excited to get my hands on this book early. And boy does it deliver! Good worldbuilding, engaging characters, the ever lurking threat from the Man in White, bits and pieces of humor sprinkled throughout the book etc.
Growing up what attracted me to the fantasy genre was the idea of exploring and discovering a new world the author created. And the “small world” as Dez refers to it in the book is one of the best, not to mention more unique, realms I’ve come across. Written with great prose, McEwen slowly reveals a world that is well thought out, chalked full of mystery and intrigue and will leave you wanting more!
It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the characters. From the first introduction to Dez you can tell that despite a rough upbringing he’s a good hearted kid at his core, loyal to his friends but also wanting more from life. It’s easy to fall in love with all the characters as their personalities really shine through the pages. And there is such a wide range of traits, from the stoic to the analytical to the rather chaotic, all well done.
The First Definition of Fortune feels like just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this world. McEwen has a way with worlds that brings it all to life! There is so much out there to explore and this book is just the beginning. Which brings me to my one complaint. The book almost feels like it’s incomplete, like it’s only the first half of something more (which I suppose it is). There’s a whole world out there to explore, new opportunities are opening up to Dez, there are potential dangers and conflicts hinted at and the book just … ends. While a bit anti-climatic it’s still very satisfying and leaves me wanting more. I’m super excited for the next book and about where the rest of the series is going.
The worldbuilding, characters and prose certainly more than make up for any complaints I have and I would for sure recommend this book to any fantasy lovers out there (and even if you don’t read fantasy, give it a try!)
I wish Goodreads would let me give out half grades as this would easily be a 4.5 out of 5 for me. However, keeping in mind this is the author's first book this bumps it up to a 5 for me as.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book.
In general, I am someone who does not tend to leave reviews, but love when others do so that I can take advantage and know whether a book is worth my time before diving in. For The First Definition of Fortune, I am happily breaking that habit!
Over the past few years, I've renewed my love for reading fiction, and have been particularly drawn to fantasy. Reading series after series, it can be difficult not to notice some of the tropes and similarities in the worlds authors have created. To no fault of their own - and possibly my own for typically reading more than one book at a time between physical and audiobook formats - they can tend to blend together and lose their novelty, if you'll pardon the pun.
The First Definition of Fortune does not suffer from this at all. On the contrary, from the first chapter, I found myself putting down any other story I was in the middle of, to fully invest in the world the author was describing. It was something I had never come across before and felt fresh and exciting. It needed and deserved my full attention to take in every detail and character. Dez is a compelling protagonist who maintains the feeling of a real person with a full lived experience informing his decisions and reactions, even in the face of the fantastical. At several points I found myself initially surprised at his behavior, only to decide it was completely in line with who this person would actually be, as opposed to any preconceived notion of what a hero should do at the center of a story.
The only thing keeping it from being a full 5 stars for me was the feeling of a slightly anti-climactic ending that felt more of an introduction to a new part or act, rather than a resolution guiding you into the next piece of the story. That said, it is also the first of the series, which is expected to be a fair amount of table setting. I am fully seated and awaiting what comes next!
In general, I am someone who does not tend to leave reviews, but love when others do so that I can take advantage and know whether a book is worth my time before diving in. For The First Definition of Fortune, I am happily breaking that habit!
Over the past few years, I've renewed my love for reading fiction, and have been particularly drawn to fantasy. Reading series after series, it can be difficult not to notice some of the tropes and similarities in the worlds authors have created. To no fault of their own - and possibly my own for typically reading more than one book at a time between physical and audiobook formats - they can tend to blend together and lose their novelty, if you'll pardon the pun.
The First Definition of Fortune does not suffer from this at all. On the contrary, from the first chapter, I found myself putting down any other story I was in the middle of, to fully invest in the world the author was describing. It was something I had never come across before and felt fresh and exciting. It needed and deserved my full attention to take in every detail and character. Dez is a compelling protagonist who maintains the feeling of a real person with a full lived experience informing his decisions and reactions, even in the face of the fantastical. At several points I found myself initially surprised at his behavior, only to decide it was completely in line with who this person would actually be, as opposed to any preconceived notion of what a hero should do at the center of a story.
The only thing keeping it from being a full 5 stars for me was the feeling of a slightly anti-climactic ending that felt more of an introduction to a new part or act, rather than a resolution guiding you into the next piece of the story. That said, it is also the first of the series, which is expected to be a fair amount of table setting. I am fully seated and awaiting what comes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book.
As an avid fantasy reader, I've read and experienced a lot over the years. Various worlds, magic systems, protagonists, adventures... One of the things I really love about the genre is the ability to explore and build is only limited by the author's own imagination.
This worldbuilding exceeded my high expectations. The Illunni Realm - and Paradiso! - are richly imagined and vividly written in a way that brings the grime of the city and the splash of the sea right into my mind. I tend to be a pretty imaginative reader, i.e., what I read, my mind build as I go along. My favorite stories are ones that have seamlessly flowed from page to mind, and I loved that TFDoF (personally coined) slotted right into my mind.
There are a lot of elements in this story that I gravitate towards, in particular the mystery-box nature of some of the story elements. These story elements are not all answered or wrapped up in book 1, obviously, but the threads are there for this to continue to be mapped out in future books.
Dez, Anabelle, Braz, Leyndarik, Granny Raven - to name a few favorites - are well-written and developed, even the smaller ones providing unique perspectives and voices. I'm excited to see where Dez's journey takes him, even as the ending of Book 1 in some ways feels like the beginning of his story.
In future stories, I only expect McEwen's voice and storytelling to further develop as he continues to hone his craft. Having recently read some debut novels from now-favorite fantasy authors, I'm very impressed with the standard this book sets.
The book isn't even fully out yet, but I'm ready for more.
As an avid fantasy reader, I've read and experienced a lot over the years. Various worlds, magic systems, protagonists, adventures... One of the things I really love about the genre is the ability to explore and build is only limited by the author's own imagination.
This worldbuilding exceeded my high expectations. The Illunni Realm - and Paradiso! - are richly imagined and vividly written in a way that brings the grime of the city and the splash of the sea right into my mind. I tend to be a pretty imaginative reader, i.e., what I read, my mind build as I go along. My favorite stories are ones that have seamlessly flowed from page to mind, and I loved that TFDoF (personally coined) slotted right into my mind.
There are a lot of elements in this story that I gravitate towards, in particular the mystery-box nature of some of the story elements. These story elements are not all answered or wrapped up in book 1, obviously, but the threads are there for this to continue to be mapped out in future books.
Dez, Anabelle, Braz, Leyndarik, Granny Raven - to name a few favorites - are well-written and developed, even the smaller ones providing unique perspectives and voices. I'm excited to see where Dez's journey takes him, even as the ending of Book 1 in some ways feels like the beginning of his story.
In future stories, I only expect McEwen's voice and storytelling to further develop as he continues to hone his craft. Having recently read some debut novels from now-favorite fantasy authors, I'm very impressed with the standard this book sets.
The book isn't even fully out yet, but I'm ready for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was sent an ARC copy of this book for review, and…damn.
I don't read stacks of books—but I do thoroughly enjoy fantasy with cleverly written characters when I set aside time to consume them...and The First Definition of Fortune fits that description very well.
Ken McEwen is a storyteller, and his prose is precise and vivid. The world he builds comes alive in your mind without asking you to do a bunch of heavy lifting, and the character dialogue is a joy to consume. The surprises delight, the gut punches hurt. It’s a series opener and a complete book in itself.
Part I does a great job introducing you to the settlement of Paradiso and weaving in the characters. The story provides enough detail for the people and places to pop to life in your mind, while also leaving room for your imagination to take the imagery and run. I found myself feeling like I knew some of the characters personally, or like I've been to Paradiso. And I don't believe that's an accident — I believe that's just great storytelling.
Dez is deeply good-hearted, with a moral compass that doesn't waver even when the world around him does. Injustice bothers him. He cares. He faces real challenges — and he climbs out of his hardships, driven by a quiet confidence; there is a better life out there for him and he's going to find it. Watching him grow into himself is genuinely satisfying. This is a self-discovery story. A coming-of-age story where the growth feels earned.
Part II is where the story really takes off, and I literally can't say more than that without spoilers, but the timing of it all feels great. And Part III lands the whole thing with warmth and enough of an open door that I was immediately annoyed Book II doesn't exist yet. Still, this was both a series opener and a complete book in itself.
I will say that it took me until Chapter 4 to really understand what kind of book this was going to be. Chapters 1-3 weren’t slow or disappointing by any means, just letting the reader wonder a bit before bringing the threads together and finding the heart of the story.
Overall, what stays with me after reading this is the moral richness of it. Altruism. Earned respect. The idea that you trust your gut and do right by the people who deserve it. It doesn't preach — it just lives those values through the characters, and you feel it.
I don't read stacks of books—but I do thoroughly enjoy fantasy with cleverly written characters when I set aside time to consume them...and The First Definition of Fortune fits that description very well.
Ken McEwen is a storyteller, and his prose is precise and vivid. The world he builds comes alive in your mind without asking you to do a bunch of heavy lifting, and the character dialogue is a joy to consume. The surprises delight, the gut punches hurt. It’s a series opener and a complete book in itself.
Part I does a great job introducing you to the settlement of Paradiso and weaving in the characters. The story provides enough detail for the people and places to pop to life in your mind, while also leaving room for your imagination to take the imagery and run. I found myself feeling like I knew some of the characters personally, or like I've been to Paradiso. And I don't believe that's an accident — I believe that's just great storytelling.
Dez is deeply good-hearted, with a moral compass that doesn't waver even when the world around him does. Injustice bothers him. He cares. He faces real challenges — and he climbs out of his hardships, driven by a quiet confidence; there is a better life out there for him and he's going to find it. Watching him grow into himself is genuinely satisfying. This is a self-discovery story. A coming-of-age story where the growth feels earned.
Part II is where the story really takes off, and I literally can't say more than that without spoilers, but the timing of it all feels great. And Part III lands the whole thing with warmth and enough of an open door that I was immediately annoyed Book II doesn't exist yet. Still, this was both a series opener and a complete book in itself.
I will say that it took me until Chapter 4 to really understand what kind of book this was going to be. Chapters 1-3 weren’t slow or disappointing by any means, just letting the reader wonder a bit before bringing the threads together and finding the heart of the story.
Overall, what stays with me after reading this is the moral richness of it. Altruism. Earned respect. The idea that you trust your gut and do right by the people who deserve it. It doesn't preach — it just lives those values through the characters, and you feel it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book
I really enjoyed reading The First Definition of Fortune, It is very well written and this stands out a lot as it is also the author's first novel.
It takes a couple chapters to be introduced to the main character and to build the world and setting but once this is accomplished the story really takes off and sucks you in.
McEwen has done an excellent job in developing all the characters and giving each of them a personality that is life-like and believable.
As things develop McEwen gives you just enough information to keep you intrigued and wanting to keep reading to find out more. you can definitely tell that this is only the first novel in a series as there are several bigger plot lines that are hinted at or that I would love to see explored further and you get the sense that these will be uncovered as the series continues, which makes me just want to read the next book in the series even more.
I really enjoyed reading The First Definition of Fortune, It is very well written and this stands out a lot as it is also the author's first novel.
It takes a couple chapters to be introduced to the main character and to build the world and setting but once this is accomplished the story really takes off and sucks you in.
McEwen has done an excellent job in developing all the characters and giving each of them a personality that is life-like and believable.
As things develop McEwen gives you just enough information to keep you intrigued and wanting to keep reading to find out more. you can definitely tell that this is only the first novel in a series as there are several bigger plot lines that are hinted at or that I would love to see explored further and you get the sense that these will be uncovered as the series continues, which makes me just want to read the next book in the series even more.
October 4, 2026
I was really excited to receive an advance reader copy of The First Definition of Fortune, and I ended up enjoying it a lot. Ken McEwen is a very talented writer and does a great job keeping you interested. The world is original, imaginative, and really well thought out, but what I liked most was watching Dez grow throughout the story. The people he meets and everything he goes through slowly change the way he looks at his future and what he actually wants out of life.
I also loved how the world gets bigger as Dez experiences more of it. Paradiso has this rough, worn down feel to it, and then along the way everything suddenly feels much larger. You see oyster farms, fisheries, businesses along the water, homes and gardens built above them, and then learn more about Greenleg’s industries and social classes. I really liked that you learn about these places naturally as Dez experiences them instead of getting a big history lesson all at once.
I also found myself getting attached to a lot of the people Dez meets along the way, especially Granny Raven, Braz, and Anabelle. The characters all have their own personalities, and even some of the smaller ones still stand out. There is plenty of adventure, mystery, and humor in the book, and there are moments that give the story a lot of heart too. I especially liked Granny Raven, and the advice she gives Dez. She is constantly making him think a little harder about the things he assumes are important, such as that something useful can be worth more than something that isn't. I liked seeing Granny Raven's advice stick with him throughout the story, and those little moments made Dez's growth feel natural.
I highly recommend The First Definition of Fortune. The writing is strong, the world is expansive and easy to visualize, and by the end I was invested in what kind of person Dez is going to become. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.
Hurry up, Book 2!
I also loved how the world gets bigger as Dez experiences more of it. Paradiso has this rough, worn down feel to it, and then along the way everything suddenly feels much larger. You see oyster farms, fisheries, businesses along the water, homes and gardens built above them, and then learn more about Greenleg’s industries and social classes. I really liked that you learn about these places naturally as Dez experiences them instead of getting a big history lesson all at once.
I also found myself getting attached to a lot of the people Dez meets along the way, especially Granny Raven, Braz, and Anabelle. The characters all have their own personalities, and even some of the smaller ones still stand out. There is plenty of adventure, mystery, and humor in the book, and there are moments that give the story a lot of heart too. I especially liked Granny Raven, and the advice she gives Dez. She is constantly making him think a little harder about the things he assumes are important, such as that something useful can be worth more than something that isn't. I liked seeing Granny Raven's advice stick with him throughout the story, and those little moments made Dez's growth feel natural.
I highly recommend The First Definition of Fortune. The writing is strong, the world is expansive and easy to visualize, and by the end I was invested in what kind of person Dez is going to become. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.
Hurry up, Book 2!
October 1, 2026
I was so excited to receive an ARC copy and have the opportunity to read this book before its release, and it did not disappoint!!
From the moment I started reading, I was completely immersed in the world. I loved the character development, the way Dez’s journey unfolded, and especially the clever integration of seemingly “small” details early in the story. Watching those details come back into play and take on much greater significance throughout Dez’s journey was incredibly well done. I felt invested in many different characters, and loved some of the smaller characters through the story!
From start to finish, each chapter left me wanting more and made it difficult to put the book down. I personally love trying to predict where a story might go and what twists might be coming. While I managed to predict a few of them, there were plenty that caught me completely by surprise. I especially loved how those unexpected twists influenced and altered Dez’s journey rather than simply serving as surprises for the sake of a surprise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see where Dez’s story goes next. I was impressed with McEwen’s writing style, I found it entertaining, intelligent (might be an odd word to describe a writing style, but the use of certain words, his writing vocabulary, and their meanings brought this to mind), and loved the attention to detail which help pull me into the world!
In a way it reminded me of “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss.
I’m already looking forward to the next book!
From the moment I started reading, I was completely immersed in the world. I loved the character development, the way Dez’s journey unfolded, and especially the clever integration of seemingly “small” details early in the story. Watching those details come back into play and take on much greater significance throughout Dez’s journey was incredibly well done. I felt invested in many different characters, and loved some of the smaller characters through the story!
From start to finish, each chapter left me wanting more and made it difficult to put the book down. I personally love trying to predict where a story might go and what twists might be coming. While I managed to predict a few of them, there were plenty that caught me completely by surprise. I especially loved how those unexpected twists influenced and altered Dez’s journey rather than simply serving as surprises for the sake of a surprise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see where Dez’s story goes next. I was impressed with McEwen’s writing style, I found it entertaining, intelligent (might be an odd word to describe a writing style, but the use of certain words, his writing vocabulary, and their meanings brought this to mind), and loved the attention to detail which help pull me into the world!
In a way it reminded me of “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss.
I’m already looking forward to the next book!
September 29, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book, but I'll shoot it to you straight.
I thoroughly enjoyed "The First Definition of Fortune". It starts as a swashbuckling adventure where a downtrodden pickpocket uses his wits and a bit of luck to escape his predicament and make something of himself. But while his challenges seemed significant in Paradiso, as the world opens up and becomes awash with opportunity, so does it abound with trial and tribulation. He finds himself in machinations much beyond anything he could imagine, and I'm all here for it. As the story unfolds, the shape of it changes as well, shapeshifting from the sea to an academy. It definitely takes you across the map (and oh do I love books with maps), and can't wait to explore more of it.
Beyond the main character, there's an awesome backdrop of wondrous things to learn about in this new world. Lots of visual imagery, lore, mystery, and so many questions to be answered.
If you've come across "The Lies of Locke Lamora", this book hits a lot of similar notes and scratches equivalent "itches". You have the thief/pickpocket, capers, political backdrop, worldbuilding, rich characters, and lots of adventure.
This is clearly a book that sets the stage for a lot more to come, enjoyable from beginning to end, but more of an amuse bouche, whetting the appetite for what's to come.
I thoroughly enjoyed "The First Definition of Fortune". It starts as a swashbuckling adventure where a downtrodden pickpocket uses his wits and a bit of luck to escape his predicament and make something of himself. But while his challenges seemed significant in Paradiso, as the world opens up and becomes awash with opportunity, so does it abound with trial and tribulation. He finds himself in machinations much beyond anything he could imagine, and I'm all here for it. As the story unfolds, the shape of it changes as well, shapeshifting from the sea to an academy. It definitely takes you across the map (and oh do I love books with maps), and can't wait to explore more of it.
Beyond the main character, there's an awesome backdrop of wondrous things to learn about in this new world. Lots of visual imagery, lore, mystery, and so many questions to be answered.
If you've come across "The Lies of Locke Lamora", this book hits a lot of similar notes and scratches equivalent "itches". You have the thief/pickpocket, capers, political backdrop, worldbuilding, rich characters, and lots of adventure.
This is clearly a book that sets the stage for a lot more to come, enjoyable from beginning to end, but more of an amuse bouche, whetting the appetite for what's to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s hard to believe this is the author’s debut novel – the world-building is excellent, right down to the cultural differences between those on the Rim of the world and those farther inland from the Ocean Beyond.
Our story starts in the Rimmer city of Paradiso, where “violence is just part of life.” It’s a crime-ridden pit with a huge gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’ and teenage pickpocket Dez wants OUT. Dez is street-smart and as kind as the streets will allow him to be – I liked him instantly. So when he sets off on a smuggler’s ship for the cosmopolitan city of Greenleg, well, I was with him all the way, especially when things turned sour.
Poor Dez is shipwrecked and pursued by a mysterious man in white (whose revealed identity was a brilliant touch) and it’s clear his troubles are just beginning. Fortunately, he meets Physicka (think doctor/scientist) Grivaldi and his young granddaughter Anabelle and their crew. There’s darkness all around, but a found-family feel to the story as well, and I really enjoyed it.
It’s an adventure story, first and foremost, but the prose is beautiful, and the pacing is brisk, with plenty of action and some great character moments (I’ll remember “Lady Nails” forever!) The characters have so much depth – we just skim the surface of some of the crew, but we have little glimpses here and there of intriguing back stories. I’m in it for the long haul – I look forward to seeing where Dez and Co. are bound.
My thanks to the author for a copy to read and review!
Our story starts in the Rimmer city of Paradiso, where “violence is just part of life.” It’s a crime-ridden pit with a huge gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’ and teenage pickpocket Dez wants OUT. Dez is street-smart and as kind as the streets will allow him to be – I liked him instantly. So when he sets off on a smuggler’s ship for the cosmopolitan city of Greenleg, well, I was with him all the way, especially when things turned sour.
Poor Dez is shipwrecked and pursued by a mysterious man in white (whose revealed identity was a brilliant touch) and it’s clear his troubles are just beginning. Fortunately, he meets Physicka (think doctor/scientist) Grivaldi and his young granddaughter Anabelle and their crew. There’s darkness all around, but a found-family feel to the story as well, and I really enjoyed it.
It’s an adventure story, first and foremost, but the prose is beautiful, and the pacing is brisk, with plenty of action and some great character moments (I’ll remember “Lady Nails” forever!) The characters have so much depth – we just skim the surface of some of the crew, but we have little glimpses here and there of intriguing back stories. I’m in it for the long haul – I look forward to seeing where Dez and Co. are bound.
My thanks to the author for a copy to read and review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Not usually a fantasy reader, but I signed up for this ARC because the cover and description put me in mind of Treasure Island, one of my lifetime favorites.
I was immediately drawn into the settlement of Paradiso, and Dez is my new favorite thief. He comes from nothing but dreams big, chasing his fortune on a quest that kept me surprised and engaged throughout. I read this ARC on my Kindle, and was totally into the adventure - to the degree that when I “turned the page” and read the word “EPILOGUE” I was bummed it was over. I wanted to go back and read it again, this time armed with the secrets revealed along the way to see if I could pick out any hints of what is coming in the sequel.
This book is all that it promises to be and more: ships, adventure on the high seas, mysterious islands, treasure, wicked bad guys, wonderful good guys, lots of questionable folk in between. Deities, magic, and dreams. McEwen uses beautiful words that show off our language: some paragraphs I read over and over because of the feeling and expressions the words carried.
I can’t wait to read more of this young man’s quest.
I was immediately drawn into the settlement of Paradiso, and Dez is my new favorite thief. He comes from nothing but dreams big, chasing his fortune on a quest that kept me surprised and engaged throughout. I read this ARC on my Kindle, and was totally into the adventure - to the degree that when I “turned the page” and read the word “EPILOGUE” I was bummed it was over. I wanted to go back and read it again, this time armed with the secrets revealed along the way to see if I could pick out any hints of what is coming in the sequel.
This book is all that it promises to be and more: ships, adventure on the high seas, mysterious islands, treasure, wicked bad guys, wonderful good guys, lots of questionable folk in between. Deities, magic, and dreams. McEwen uses beautiful words that show off our language: some paragraphs I read over and over because of the feeling and expressions the words carried.
I can’t wait to read more of this young man’s quest.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Please note, I received an early copy from the author.
As a whole the book is well written, refreshing and engaging. Ken takes the reader into an entirely new world where you are never sure what is going to happen next. While reading I found myself completely lost in the story and upset when I had to put the book down. It’s perfect for regular fantasy readers or those who are just dipping their toe into the genre. Pick it up and let Dez take you for a roller coaster of a ride.
As a whole the book is well written, refreshing and engaging. Ken takes the reader into an entirely new world where you are never sure what is going to happen next. While reading I found myself completely lost in the story and upset when I had to put the book down. It’s perfect for regular fantasy readers or those who are just dipping their toe into the genre. Pick it up and let Dez take you for a roller coaster of a ride.
October 1, 2026
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy of this book.
As someone who considers themselves a “former reader” (if that’s even a thing) and has always enjoyed fantasy novels, this was the perfect way for me to get back into reading again.
What I enjoyed most was the sense of adventure throughout the story. There’s a good balance of world-building, action, mystery, and character development without making the book feel overwhelming. It reminded me of why I enjoyed reading fantasy in the first place—getting lost in a story and wanting to find out what happens next.
Echoing on some other reviews, the chapters can be on the longer side, but that’s not something I found troubling.
Even though I don’t consider myself much of a reader anymore, I found myself looking forward to picking this book back up, which is honestly the best compliment I can give it at this stage in my life.
If you enjoy fantasy, adventure, and getting pulled into a new world, I definitely recommend giving The First Definition of Fortune a try. I’m glad I had the opportunity to read it, and I’m looking forward to seeing where Ken McEwen takes the story next in “The Second Shape of Dreams”.
As someone who considers themselves a “former reader” (if that’s even a thing) and has always enjoyed fantasy novels, this was the perfect way for me to get back into reading again.
What I enjoyed most was the sense of adventure throughout the story. There’s a good balance of world-building, action, mystery, and character development without making the book feel overwhelming. It reminded me of why I enjoyed reading fantasy in the first place—getting lost in a story and wanting to find out what happens next.
Echoing on some other reviews, the chapters can be on the longer side, but that’s not something I found troubling.
Even though I don’t consider myself much of a reader anymore, I found myself looking forward to picking this book back up, which is honestly the best compliment I can give it at this stage in my life.
If you enjoy fantasy, adventure, and getting pulled into a new world, I definitely recommend giving The First Definition of Fortune a try. I’m glad I had the opportunity to read it, and I’m looking forward to seeing where Ken McEwen takes the story next in “The Second Shape of Dreams”.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got an ARC of The First Definition of Fortune, and wow. What a read!
This one did not disappoint. McEwen has a way of bringing a world to life that feels effortless. His writing is vivid, the dialogue is natural, and the story has just the right balance of mystery, emotion, and unexpected twists. Highly enjoyed!
This one did not disappoint. McEwen has a way of bringing a world to life that feels effortless. His writing is vivid, the dialogue is natural, and the story has just the right balance of mystery, emotion, and unexpected twists. Highly enjoyed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
As someone who doesn’t typically read fantasy, I was surprised by how quickly I became immersed. The richly imagined world is grounded in the small, familiar details of everyday life, making it feel remarkably real and lived-in. I was invested from beginning to end. 5 stars!
November 3, 2026
This book unfolds as an enchanting journey that will awaken the adventurer within you. McEwen provides vivid world-building that will draw you in and take you along for the ride!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the privilege of reading the ARC for this book. I was drawn in very quickly, and truly enjoyed the book.
I found this book refreshing in its setting. Fantasy does not always have to be dragons and wizards and fae. The ocean setting, with pirates and deserted islands, made for a unique feel.
The prose flowed well. Wasn't overly wordy to me, and there were a few times I chuckled over a metaphor. It is easy to follow, and didn't require me to exhaust my brain to make sense of anything.
The characters were great. Well written and dynamic. Dez's story is a bit of a rollercoaster, and as someone who has been through loss, I appreciated the understanding of grief and how it affects a person, and how it was portrayed in this story. Anabelle is HILARIOUS! I very much look forward to more of her. All the characters had personality that came through well in the writing.
The dialogue was well done. Witty banter, insults. Humour was well placed. And there were several thought provoking and heartfelt conversations throughout as well.
There is some swearing and more mature comments/incidents. I would let older teens read, 16+ in my mind.
My one complaint is the length of the chapters. They are LONG.
This is not a high action story, but this did not affect my being captivated by the plot. It's a journey of growth and learning who you are when life doesn't go as planned. I was very invested in Dez and what happened to him. We are left with unanswered questions, and there is enough mystery as to what is happening to make me want more. I definitely recommend and look forward to the next book.
I found this book refreshing in its setting. Fantasy does not always have to be dragons and wizards and fae. The ocean setting, with pirates and deserted islands, made for a unique feel.
The prose flowed well. Wasn't overly wordy to me, and there were a few times I chuckled over a metaphor. It is easy to follow, and didn't require me to exhaust my brain to make sense of anything.
The characters were great. Well written and dynamic. Dez's story is a bit of a rollercoaster, and as someone who has been through loss, I appreciated the understanding of grief and how it affects a person, and how it was portrayed in this story. Anabelle is HILARIOUS! I very much look forward to more of her. All the characters had personality that came through well in the writing.
The dialogue was well done. Witty banter, insults. Humour was well placed. And there were several thought provoking and heartfelt conversations throughout as well.
There is some swearing and more mature comments/incidents. I would let older teens read, 16+ in my mind.
My one complaint is the length of the chapters. They are LONG.
This is not a high action story, but this did not affect my being captivated by the plot. It's a journey of growth and learning who you are when life doesn't go as planned. I was very invested in Dez and what happened to him. We are left with unanswered questions, and there is enough mystery as to what is happening to make me want more. I definitely recommend and look forward to the next book.
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