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Stranger in the Wizard's Tower
Poor bumbling Athin can’t get anything right. Unlike his dazzling rival apprentice, Mir, his magic is flaccid and weak. When he sneaks into his master’s forbidden study he sets in motion a series of events that spiral out of control.
Worlds away at a highway pit stop, Dustin is used as a pawn in a greater game and gets sucked into another world. The way home barred, his only way back is forward, with the help of a bewitching sorceress and a curious young apprentice.
The Land of Lenoran has stability under the rule of wizards, but that peace is threatened by the rising power of the warrior class. Their ruthless leader controls the land’s dragons and will stop at nothing to gain every advantage in the coming war.
In this fun romp across worlds, a team of unlikely allies sets out on a journey of discovery. Over five mind-blowing days, Athin and Mir both set their sights on the handsome stranger from another world. Will the magic that brought them together now tear them apart?
Worlds away at a highway pit stop, Dustin is used as a pawn in a greater game and gets sucked into another world. The way home barred, his only way back is forward, with the help of a bewitching sorceress and a curious young apprentice.
The Land of Lenoran has stability under the rule of wizards, but that peace is threatened by the rising power of the warrior class. Their ruthless leader controls the land’s dragons and will stop at nothing to gain every advantage in the coming war.
In this fun romp across worlds, a team of unlikely allies sets out on a journey of discovery. Over five mind-blowing days, Athin and Mir both set their sights on the handsome stranger from another world. Will the magic that brought them together now tear them apart?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2015
2 people are currently reading
1041 people want to read
About the author
Deric McNish
5 books39 followersDr. Deric McNish is the author of PARTICLE MAN and STRANGER IN THE WIZARD'S TOWER.
He recently narrated Evan Currie's HEIRS OF EMPIRE and Dana Cameron's BURNING THE RULEBOOK for Brilliance Audio.
He is an assistant professor at Michigan State University. He's an actor, director, and professional audiobook narrator.
He recently narrated Evan Currie's HEIRS OF EMPIRE and Dana Cameron's BURNING THE RULEBOOK for Brilliance Audio.
He is an assistant professor at Michigan State University. He's an actor, director, and professional audiobook narrator.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 23, 2015
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Stranger in the Wizard’s Tower, put simply, is an interesting book. In a nutshell, it introduces the world of Lenoran – a parallel universe boasting an organized and elaborate society with a civilization akin to that of the medieval times. However, unlike most stories with a medieval setup, there are no kingdoms and crowned heads. Castles exist but they are resided by wizards and their apprentice.
The book is interesting because unlike my initial expectation, the focus did not fall heavily on Athin and Dustin’s relationship. So if you are imagining a budding romance of two people from disparate worlds, then this is not the book for you.
Was I disappointed? Maybe at first. But then, this would have easily fallen under ‘forgettable’ and ‘clichéd’ if my expectation was followed.
But Deric McNish has a unique way storytelling. Told in multiple perspectives, each character in the book had their chance in the limelight. And if you worry about transitions, don’t. With a theatrical flourish, the book is divided into acts such that when one curtain closed, a new one opened. Each act has its own subplot for which you may view as confusing and irrelevant at first but you’ll soon find out that each one intermingles and contributes to the cohesiveness of the entire plot in the end.
Although told in a comedic and exaggerating tone, don’t be deceived as the book is cunning, intelligent, and well-written. Every time, I felt as if there was more to what the story was letting on.
McNish’s book is highly engaging and extremely imaginative with a lot of things going on in just one book. The nature of The Council, the battle for power and sovereignty among wizards and between wizards and the Kou G’en, the interference of man, Ma’ax’s story, Yensid’s psychotic tendencies, and so much more. Politics, feminism, war, friendship and betrayal, sexuality, oppression and injustice are prevalent themes in the book. And while it may seem like all these things in one story can be overwhelming and messy, it did not feel like so. For me, all these worked together to create a tale of epic proportions but with timely relevance.
And while I’m excited for the sequel, I would love to see a more balanced focus between the plot and the characters in the next book. In this installment, I read this with a spectator mindset – as if I was only an audience to a stage. An outsider. But, what I’d like next time is to be able to feel and empathize with the characters. To put myself in their shoes which for me, is what this book essentially lacked.Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Stranger in the Wizard's Tower. And I'm pretty sure fans of fantasy, adventure, and magic will, too.
October 24, 2015
So the one incompetent wizard likes to sneak into the real world and watch people enjoying porn, and when that's not enough he gets in on the action while staying in the shadows. So voyeur with a side of dubious consent.
The other wizard comes over to teach him how to make what seems to be a sex feather and she seems to have a hard time understanding the word 'no'
And when her mentor mentions how the dude in the village is slipping women a roofie spell, the only reactions are slut shaming and tittering over the 'scandalous' baby one of them is having. Neither woman seems remotely upset about the fact the dude is RAPING people.
Charming. I'm firmly convinced the authors is nobody I ever want to know, and his characters are by and large equally atrocious people.
July 13, 2016
I got this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review through the DBML program of the M/M Romance group at Goodreads.
I probably should have read more of the blurb before reading it but it is fantasy and magic so I was predisposed to loving it and didn't pay attention to the blurb. I was startled by the amount of M/f in it as I was expecting a M/M book. The fantasy setting rocked and the basis of Magic being the transfer of energy was well detailed and explained in the story. I loved the M/M romance that was one of the subplots in this complex and intriguing fantasy. I could have done without the rape scene and the abundance of m/f romance it worked for the plot but was too much for me to consider it LGBT more general fiction with a touch of M/M. All things considered It was a really well written fantasy debut, but my expectation since I got it from a M/M group had to be factored into my ranking. If I got this from a plain romance or fantasy group it would have been 5 stars but factoring in the disappointment of expectations factor I had to drop it a star. The young protagonists Dustin, Athin, Mir, and Erick were well characterized and well rounded. the villain Noks't was cunning and had some charm but wasn't as well fleshed out.
I probably should have read more of the blurb before reading it but it is fantasy and magic so I was predisposed to loving it and didn't pay attention to the blurb. I was startled by the amount of M/f in it as I was expecting a M/M book. The fantasy setting rocked and the basis of Magic being the transfer of energy was well detailed and explained in the story. I loved the M/M romance that was one of the subplots in this complex and intriguing fantasy. I could have done without the rape scene and the abundance of m/f romance it worked for the plot but was too much for me to consider it LGBT more general fiction with a touch of M/M. All things considered It was a really well written fantasy debut, but my expectation since I got it from a M/M group had to be factored into my ranking. If I got this from a plain romance or fantasy group it would have been 5 stars but factoring in the disappointment of expectations factor I had to drop it a star. The young protagonists Dustin, Athin, Mir, and Erick were well characterized and well rounded. the villain Noks't was cunning and had some charm but wasn't as well fleshed out.
December 18, 2015
Copy of this book was kindly given by the author for the exchange of an honest review.
A story where modern world (represented by US military) and alternate universe of Lenoran (land of the wizards, dragon rider and such) collided. It was told from third person perspective alternately, though I lost count of the POVs as there were quite a few of them.
This is an adventure fantasy tale, of which a pair of characters happened to be gay. Other than those two, the rest were mostly straight; there were some M/F scenes and/or thoughts implied. So if you're a totally-M/M-only, don't-want-to-see-man/woman-bits-mixed, you'd better stay clear of this book.
As for me, I am not entirely happy with this book.
I found the start rather rough and confusing. It might have things to do with the randomly alternate POV and the too many characters taking turn appearing on page.
Furthermore, what made the rating dropped for me were the following.
- The master wizards acted and described so powerful, but easily overpowered when ambushed. Also, as master or teacher, they're quite a tyrant to their apprentices.
- There two female characters were either flighty, slutty, had cruel streak, or all of those. Then the author had them encountered pretty harrowing situations .
Frankly, it had me wonder why the author created any female characters at all, when they turned up not very likable and rather degrading.
- The battle, which was supposed to be a culmination of the story, turned up like some jokes plus lucky coincidences. I wish the way Athin came into his magic was told more, how Erik beat the next dragon(s) - which I thought plenty entertaining - described more. Again, the seasoned wizards didn't appear too bright here.
Of all the characters, Athin, Dustin and Erik were pretty much the decent guys, they didn't pretend to be more than they were. Max turned out to be quite smart - being exiled out of wizard land for years notwithstanding - and more dependable than his fellow wizards. As for the others, they really got on my nerves (and I'm not gonna touch on the villainous Yensid! Gag!).
Apparently, there will be sequel coming after this. I don't know if I want to read it, we'll just wait and see.
A story where modern world (represented by US military) and alternate universe of Lenoran (land of the wizards, dragon rider and such) collided. It was told from third person perspective alternately, though I lost count of the POVs as there were quite a few of them.
This is an adventure fantasy tale, of which a pair of characters happened to be gay. Other than those two, the rest were mostly straight; there were some M/F scenes and/or thoughts implied. So if you're a totally-M/M-only, don't-want-to-see-man/woman-bits-mixed, you'd better stay clear of this book.
As for me, I am not entirely happy with this book.
I found the start rather rough and confusing. It might have things to do with the randomly alternate POV and the too many characters taking turn appearing on page.
Furthermore, what made the rating dropped for me were the following.
- The master wizards acted and described so powerful, but easily overpowered when ambushed. Also, as master or teacher, they're quite a tyrant to their apprentices.
- There two female characters were either flighty, slutty, had cruel streak, or all of those. Then the author had them encountered pretty harrowing situations .
Frankly, it had me wonder why the author created any female characters at all, when they turned up not very likable and rather degrading.
- The battle, which was supposed to be a culmination of the story, turned up like some jokes plus lucky coincidences. I wish the way Athin came into his magic was told more, how Erik beat the next dragon(s) - which I thought plenty entertaining - described more. Again, the seasoned wizards didn't appear too bright here.
Of all the characters, Athin, Dustin and Erik were pretty much the decent guys, they didn't pretend to be more than they were. Max turned out to be quite smart - being exiled out of wizard land for years notwithstanding - and more dependable than his fellow wizards. As for the others, they really got on my nerves (and I'm not gonna touch on the villainous Yensid! Gag!).
Apparently, there will be sequel coming after this. I don't know if I want to read it, we'll just wait and see.
December 24, 2015
Stranger in the Wizard’s Tower begins with a young traveler gently lured to someplace other than his destination. I found it rather ingenious, who would think one would find a magic gate to an alternate universe in a porno shop; some kind of magic maybe but definitely not the wizardly type. The author superbly narrated his story and lent credibility to each character. Deric’s voice is clear and easy to listen to, his pace is steady and the story flows at an average speed. There were a few minor breathing or mouth noises (chapter 2 comes to mind) but they were very minor and didn’t distract me from the story.
The alternate universe appears to be set up in similar style to that of the 11th to 15th century Europe with wizards of simple powers to those knowing how to make gates to Earth and who are mostly flawed like any human, then you have present day (or 2002) in the USA. The people and wizards of the old world meet the folks of modern America with our own bits of magic in the form of television, phones, glass buildings, etc. What a terrifying thrill that is for both sides.
This is a good fantasy story with fairly equal amounts of magic, dragons, war, action, adventure, and romance. Young adults work together to save Lenoran from the warrior class and Earth. I really liked the characters in the story even the revolting and hideous Yensid whom I imagine has an even darker plot brewing next time. The descriptions of people, places and things were well done and I never felt lacking for information. I think I’d really like to live in Max’s castle with the scary “dog.”
I was thoroughly impressed with the way the author handled the relationships in the book. This being my first time to read about a male/male relationship I was pleased to see it not dirty or cheapened as one tends to read in some books with the male/female relations. Dustin and Athin are well-suited for one another, both kind of bumbling guys finding their way through life. Hmmmm, I’m wondering if maybe passing through the gate doesn’t give Dustin a little power too which will help Athin in the future? I think the over-willing Mir is going to drive Erik crazy but keep him happy, though I must admit I find him lacking in….something….he’s a military man yet he doesn’t seem to have the strength or wits of a man of his background. I do see the young people playing vital roles in the next book and hope each new love blossoms. For me personally, the most endearing relationship was with the two gruff, crazy old wizards because they reminded me of the men in the movie “Secondhand Lions.” Also, I can’t wait to see how Murithniel (spelling may be incorrect due to hearing and not seeing the words) works her magic with the General and the rest of Earth, or at least the USA; hehehe, she’s going to be an amazing Ambassador.
I enjoyed this audiobook and was happy to listen to the story twice, which I often do to make sure I don’t miss anything of importance. This book was given to me by Deric McNish and Audible in exchange for a fair and honest review. I look forward to listening to the second book in the series.
x-posted on Audible.com, Amazon.com and Facebook
The alternate universe appears to be set up in similar style to that of the 11th to 15th century Europe with wizards of simple powers to those knowing how to make gates to Earth and who are mostly flawed like any human, then you have present day (or 2002) in the USA. The people and wizards of the old world meet the folks of modern America with our own bits of magic in the form of television, phones, glass buildings, etc. What a terrifying thrill that is for both sides.
This is a good fantasy story with fairly equal amounts of magic, dragons, war, action, adventure, and romance. Young adults work together to save Lenoran from the warrior class and Earth. I really liked the characters in the story even the revolting and hideous Yensid whom I imagine has an even darker plot brewing next time. The descriptions of people, places and things were well done and I never felt lacking for information. I think I’d really like to live in Max’s castle with the scary “dog.”
I was thoroughly impressed with the way the author handled the relationships in the book. This being my first time to read about a male/male relationship I was pleased to see it not dirty or cheapened as one tends to read in some books with the male/female relations. Dustin and Athin are well-suited for one another, both kind of bumbling guys finding their way through life. Hmmmm, I’m wondering if maybe passing through the gate doesn’t give Dustin a little power too which will help Athin in the future? I think the over-willing Mir is going to drive Erik crazy but keep him happy, though I must admit I find him lacking in….something….he’s a military man yet he doesn’t seem to have the strength or wits of a man of his background. I do see the young people playing vital roles in the next book and hope each new love blossoms. For me personally, the most endearing relationship was with the two gruff, crazy old wizards because they reminded me of the men in the movie “Secondhand Lions.” Also, I can’t wait to see how Murithniel (spelling may be incorrect due to hearing and not seeing the words) works her magic with the General and the rest of Earth, or at least the USA; hehehe, she’s going to be an amazing Ambassador.
I enjoyed this audiobook and was happy to listen to the story twice, which I often do to make sure I don’t miss anything of importance. This book was given to me by Deric McNish and Audible in exchange for a fair and honest review. I look forward to listening to the second book in the series.
x-posted on Audible.com, Amazon.com and Facebook
November 12, 2015
4 out of 5 stars
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
In the land of Lanoran, wizards are beloved by the populace but feared by a warrior race called the Kou G’en. Though they have a seat on the ruling council that is dominated by the wizards, the Kou G’en mistrust magic users. A recent Earth college graduate is transported to this world and now must find a way to get back home.
Dustin started his trip to visit friends in upstate New York when he stops at an adult arcade. While in one of the booths, he feels something caress him through what seems to be the Plexiglas separator between booths. When he investigates, he pushes his way through the portal and lands in a dark room in what turns out to be another universe.
Athin is the apprentice to master wizard Arconduil. While the master wizard thinks his young apprentice has a lot of potential, he thinks the boy is not concentrating on his studies. While another apprentice, Mir, is visiting, they find a stranger in Arconduil’s castle. Athin decides to help the young man find a way home, as he is responsible for bringing Dustin to Lanoran. However, the master wizard has sealed the portal that Dustin used and they must find a new portal to get him back.
Rumors of another portal lead Arconduil to search for it before the Kou G’en can get to it. What they do not know is that the military of the United States has already found this portal and has been exploring this new world. With three competing forces trying to control the route between worlds, will Dustin ever make it back to New York? Will he want to after spending his time with Athin?
I found this to be a very enjoyable read, Deric McNish, an actor and professor of theater at Michigan State University, has crafted a book that could easily be turned into a screenplay. None of the three major groups trust the other and it soon becomes an enemy of my enemy is my friend type situation. The author has also set up possible sequels with both the ending of the book and also the epilogue.
The cover art by Damonza shows silhouettes of Dustin and Athin above the Lanoran marsh like setting. There is a dragon flying between the silhouetted figures. It is a decent cover but with “Wizard’s Tower” in the title, one might have expected the tower or castle in the cover.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
In the land of Lanoran, wizards are beloved by the populace but feared by a warrior race called the Kou G’en. Though they have a seat on the ruling council that is dominated by the wizards, the Kou G’en mistrust magic users. A recent Earth college graduate is transported to this world and now must find a way to get back home.
Dustin started his trip to visit friends in upstate New York when he stops at an adult arcade. While in one of the booths, he feels something caress him through what seems to be the Plexiglas separator between booths. When he investigates, he pushes his way through the portal and lands in a dark room in what turns out to be another universe.
Athin is the apprentice to master wizard Arconduil. While the master wizard thinks his young apprentice has a lot of potential, he thinks the boy is not concentrating on his studies. While another apprentice, Mir, is visiting, they find a stranger in Arconduil’s castle. Athin decides to help the young man find a way home, as he is responsible for bringing Dustin to Lanoran. However, the master wizard has sealed the portal that Dustin used and they must find a new portal to get him back.
Rumors of another portal lead Arconduil to search for it before the Kou G’en can get to it. What they do not know is that the military of the United States has already found this portal and has been exploring this new world. With three competing forces trying to control the route between worlds, will Dustin ever make it back to New York? Will he want to after spending his time with Athin?
I found this to be a very enjoyable read, Deric McNish, an actor and professor of theater at Michigan State University, has crafted a book that could easily be turned into a screenplay. None of the three major groups trust the other and it soon becomes an enemy of my enemy is my friend type situation. The author has also set up possible sequels with both the ending of the book and also the epilogue.
The cover art by Damonza shows silhouettes of Dustin and Athin above the Lanoran marsh like setting. There is a dragon flying between the silhouetted figures. It is a decent cover but with “Wizard’s Tower” in the title, one might have expected the tower or castle in the cover.
November 21, 2015
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher, and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review.
I would definitely listen to this book again, and am anxiously awaiting the next installment.
This story combines modern day Earth and its technology with a world in another dimension which is still in medieval times; but with magic and all that it entails. I'm not normally a fan of modern technology in my fantasy books, but it was a necessity to the plot line of this book. I'm not one to summarize the story in my reviews, but I will tell you this: It was filled with characters with depth, wonderful world building, creative imagery, and plenty of action.
The characters are easy to love, or dislike, depending on the circumstances. There is a bit of innocent romance that I hope is explored more in the (hopefully) upcoming books. The main budding relationship brought to mind the first book or two of Lynn Flewelling's Nightrunner series; not the story line itself, just the way the MC's start to connect. There is nothing explicit, and the language is quite tame throughout the book. There was some mild cursing, but very little, and nothing offensive.
It's hard to pick a favorite character. I really liked Athin probably the most. Mir and Dustin come in close seconds. I thought Deric McNish did a fantastic job narrating the story. He really brought the characters to life, and made the story a truly fun experience.
I tried to listen to this all in one sitting. I work full-time, and am a single mother; so I woke up at 3:00 this morning with my headphones still on...I just started from where I had left off, and finished up.
I would definitely listen to this book again, and am anxiously awaiting the next installment.
This story combines modern day Earth and its technology with a world in another dimension which is still in medieval times; but with magic and all that it entails. I'm not normally a fan of modern technology in my fantasy books, but it was a necessity to the plot line of this book. I'm not one to summarize the story in my reviews, but I will tell you this: It was filled with characters with depth, wonderful world building, creative imagery, and plenty of action.
The characters are easy to love, or dislike, depending on the circumstances. There is a bit of innocent romance that I hope is explored more in the (hopefully) upcoming books. The main budding relationship brought to mind the first book or two of Lynn Flewelling's Nightrunner series; not the story line itself, just the way the MC's start to connect. There is nothing explicit, and the language is quite tame throughout the book. There was some mild cursing, but very little, and nothing offensive.
It's hard to pick a favorite character. I really liked Athin probably the most. Mir and Dustin come in close seconds. I thought Deric McNish did a fantastic job narrating the story. He really brought the characters to life, and made the story a truly fun experience.
I tried to listen to this all in one sitting. I work full-time, and am a single mother; so I woke up at 3:00 this morning with my headphones still on...I just started from where I had left off, and finished up.
October 21, 2015
I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review.
Personal rating: 3.75 stars
Summary: By a mishap, Dustin tumbles into a magical world of Lenoran. With the help of two apprentices, Athin and Mir, he has to follow to wizards to get to the portal that will take him back home. The very portal that the wizards are set to destroy.
I liked the book. It was fun and quirky, and way less serious than I expected after reading the summary. The magical world is described well enough and I liked the descriptions of different parts of it, but I feel that there is little to no character development and the characters themselves lacked personality. They did and said things that didn't seem serious enough, and the opinions and relationships were treated too lightly. I felt that some of the rather serious topics (like abuse) were also turned into something that was dealt with rather lightly. In a way it is explained by the genre itself, which I could describe as comic fantasy and/or low fantasy.
Nevertheless, I would have preferred stronger characters and better character development (the main relationship in the story was rather hastily dealt with - it all felt awkward and less plausible than it could have been), but I did enjoy reading the book as it is, once I lowered my expectations and realized it was not high fantasy novel.
It is the first book in the series - something that I did expect but now I am rather curious about what will happen next.
I am grateful to the author for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
Personal rating: 3.75 stars
Summary: By a mishap, Dustin tumbles into a magical world of Lenoran. With the help of two apprentices, Athin and Mir, he has to follow to wizards to get to the portal that will take him back home. The very portal that the wizards are set to destroy.
I liked the book. It was fun and quirky, and way less serious than I expected after reading the summary. The magical world is described well enough and I liked the descriptions of different parts of it, but I feel that there is little to no character development and the characters themselves lacked personality. They did and said things that didn't seem serious enough, and the opinions and relationships were treated too lightly. I felt that some of the rather serious topics (like abuse) were also turned into something that was dealt with rather lightly. In a way it is explained by the genre itself, which I could describe as comic fantasy and/or low fantasy.
Nevertheless, I would have preferred stronger characters and better character development (the main relationship in the story was rather hastily dealt with - it all felt awkward and less plausible than it could have been), but I did enjoy reading the book as it is, once I lowered my expectations and realized it was not high fantasy novel.
It is the first book in the series - something that I did expect but now I am rather curious about what will happen next.
I am grateful to the author for giving me an opportunity to read and review this book.
November 8, 2015
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review through DBML.
Stranger in the Wizard’s Tower very much reminds me of a Stargate SG1 meets Harry Potter.
On one side of the portal we have the human world of the USA. The descriptions of the mountain facility remind me of the Cheyenne Mountain Facility. Although their air craft and items transported to their off world base are ordinary human objects, it’s just a reminder of Stargate’s off world safe base.
The other world is full of magical creatures, plants and people. Wizards, warriors, and non-magical humans live together in sort of a peace, but the warriors aren’t happy with the wizards. Plus “There be Dragons!”
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It pinged on all my favorites. I thought the writing could have been a bit less repetitive in certain areas, but overall it was an enjoyable read. For the strict M/M fans, there is a bit of M/F relations, but nothing is explicit. There is romance, but it’s a pretty subdued romance. More like an action/adventure where some of the MC’s find love be they a straight couple or a gay couple.
Stranger in the Wizard’s Tower very much reminds me of a Stargate SG1 meets Harry Potter.
On one side of the portal we have the human world of the USA. The descriptions of the mountain facility remind me of the Cheyenne Mountain Facility. Although their air craft and items transported to their off world base are ordinary human objects, it’s just a reminder of Stargate’s off world safe base.
The other world is full of magical creatures, plants and people. Wizards, warriors, and non-magical humans live together in sort of a peace, but the warriors aren’t happy with the wizards. Plus “There be Dragons!”
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It pinged on all my favorites. I thought the writing could have been a bit less repetitive in certain areas, but overall it was an enjoyable read. For the strict M/M fans, there is a bit of M/F relations, but nothing is explicit. There is romance, but it’s a pretty subdued romance. More like an action/adventure where some of the MC’s find love be they a straight couple or a gay couple.
October 29, 2015
I won't lie; when I first started listening to this book I thought I had loaded the wrong book or there was a mistake with the file. You don't expect a fantasy book to basically start in a porn shop. Personally, I think switching Athin's first scene with Dustin's would have made more sense. The world building is pretty spot on. The characters feel like real people with real faults and prejudices. I guess I didn't look at the description and the genres close enough, because I was not expecting the MM romance. That's not a bad thing and I thought it was handled well.
I listened to the audio version and McNish did a good job. The pacing was good and the characterizations were great. I liked how each character felt distinct.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
I listened to the audio version and McNish did a good job. The pacing was good and the characterizations were great. I liked how each character felt distinct.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
November 14, 2016
2.5 Stars Audible Edition
November 12, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through DBML on Goodreads.
Dustin, a man from the modern United States, accidently gets transported to a parallel wold/alternate dimension where Wizards, dragons, and magic are real. He needs to team up with a couple of apprentice wizards to try and find his way home.
I dislike leaving negative reviews, but I didn't enjoy reading this book.
The wizard and his apprentice both have names that start with A. The female wizard and her apprentice both have names starting with M and they have the same first three letters, although the second two letters are in a different order. I found this crazy distracting because I had to stop and really look at the name each time it came up to make sure I have the correct person. This pulled me out of the story several times, especially when apprentice A was asleep in a bed, then asleep in front of a fire and then back in bed with apparently no time In between. I reread it twice trying to figure out if I'd gotten the A names mixed up.
I could let this go if I were engaged in the story, but I wasn't. It needs additional beta reading and editing. There was repetitive word use. A lot of sentences started with Her/she and he/him. This isn't necessarily a problem, but when I noticed it, I counted and in an eleven sentence paragraph - seven stated with the word she or her.
The POV was all over the place. There were too many to keep the story in order, including the POV of the pet bird. Dustin, modern guy form the USA, refers to s girl as a strumpet and a harlot. People don't talk that way. The crazy villain who likes to drug and rape girls monologues for a few pages about how wants to drug and rape the girl and he talks in brackets, which was probably for stylistic purposes, but is odd with the quotation marks. And we don't learn anything new. The casual treatment of rape by several characters, including a girl, is seriously disturbing.
This is being billed as a M/M romance and I'm not seeing it. Dustin makes a joke about writing a toned down book about his erotic adventure but there isn't anything erotic to tone down. He went to an adult entertainment place to watch porn, slept only in a bed with another guy and they had held hands briefly at the time he made the comment. They seem to like each other as people, but I'm not getting any chemistry and the whole "romance" feels tacked on at the end because "reasons" and not for plot advancement.
I liked Erik. He was genuine and interesting which I guess is why people tended to info-dump on him for absolutely no reason. Except, of course for his milatary commander, who sent him off on a dangerious mission with zero information into what he'd have to deal with. I'm not happy with his "happy ending." Erik deserves better.
The chapter titled "Climax" didn't provide one in any sense of the word and the one titled "Loose Ends" didn't actually tie them up. I have no idea what the point of the epilogue was. I could go on, but this was a train wreck with a non-ending. I don't care if it's in a series, a book needs an actual ending. Thank your for the opportunity to read this book, but it wasn't for me. I wouldn't have finished it if I hadn't agreed to review it, and I don't do reviews on books I don't finish. I won't be reading this book again or anything else by this author.
One star.
Dustin, a man from the modern United States, accidently gets transported to a parallel wold/alternate dimension where Wizards, dragons, and magic are real. He needs to team up with a couple of apprentice wizards to try and find his way home.
I dislike leaving negative reviews, but I didn't enjoy reading this book.
The wizard and his apprentice both have names that start with A. The female wizard and her apprentice both have names starting with M and they have the same first three letters, although the second two letters are in a different order. I found this crazy distracting because I had to stop and really look at the name each time it came up to make sure I have the correct person. This pulled me out of the story several times, especially when apprentice A was asleep in a bed, then asleep in front of a fire and then back in bed with apparently no time In between. I reread it twice trying to figure out if I'd gotten the A names mixed up.
I could let this go if I were engaged in the story, but I wasn't. It needs additional beta reading and editing. There was repetitive word use. A lot of sentences started with Her/she and he/him. This isn't necessarily a problem, but when I noticed it, I counted and in an eleven sentence paragraph - seven stated with the word she or her.
The POV was all over the place. There were too many to keep the story in order, including the POV of the pet bird. Dustin, modern guy form the USA, refers to s girl as a strumpet and a harlot. People don't talk that way. The crazy villain who likes to drug and rape girls monologues for a few pages about how wants to drug and rape the girl and he talks in brackets, which was probably for stylistic purposes, but is odd with the quotation marks. And we don't learn anything new. The casual treatment of rape by several characters, including a girl, is seriously disturbing.
This is being billed as a M/M romance and I'm not seeing it. Dustin makes a joke about writing a toned down book about his erotic adventure but there isn't anything erotic to tone down. He went to an adult entertainment place to watch porn, slept only in a bed with another guy and they had held hands briefly at the time he made the comment. They seem to like each other as people, but I'm not getting any chemistry and the whole "romance" feels tacked on at the end because "reasons" and not for plot advancement.
I liked Erik. He was genuine and interesting which I guess is why people tended to info-dump on him for absolutely no reason. Except, of course for his milatary commander, who sent him off on a dangerious mission with zero information into what he'd have to deal with. I'm not happy with his "happy ending." Erik deserves better.
The chapter titled "Climax" didn't provide one in any sense of the word and the one titled "Loose Ends" didn't actually tie them up. I have no idea what the point of the epilogue was. I could go on, but this was a train wreck with a non-ending. I don't care if it's in a series, a book needs an actual ending. Thank your for the opportunity to read this book, but it wasn't for me. I wouldn't have finished it if I hadn't agreed to review it, and I don't do reviews on books I don't finish. I won't be reading this book again or anything else by this author.
One star.
April 13, 2016
Title: Stranger in the Wizard's Tower
Author: Deric McNish
Publisher: Pyramus Press
ISBN: B00DFKVJ5C
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Stranger-Wizard...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Poor bumbling Athin can’t get anything right. Unlike his dazzling rival apprentice, Mir, his magic is flaccid and weak. When he sneaks into his master’s forbidden study he sets in motion a series of events that spiral out of control.
Worlds away at a highway pit stop, Dustin is used as a pawn in a greater game and gets sucked into another world. The way home barred, his only way back is forward, with the help of a bewitching sorceress and a curious young apprentice.
The Land of Lenoran has stability under the rule of wizards, but that peace is threatened by the rising power of the warrior class. Their ruthless leader controls the land’s dragons and will stop at nothing to gain every advantage in the coming war.
In this fun romp across worlds, a team of unlikely allies sets out on a journey of discovery. Over five mind-blowing days, Athin and Mir both set their sights on the handsome stranger from another world. Will the magic that brought them together now tear them apart?
Summary:
Given for an honest review.
The story took place on two distinct realities. One on Earth and one on a world, Lenoran, where magic took the place of science. Athin, an apprentice magician, had difficulty performing the most simple spells and when Mir, another apprentice, offered to teach him a spell that gave gave pleasure to those it touched he was intrigued. Dustin never thought that his decision to take a side trip to Another World, adult entertainment building, would lead to an adventure that could change his life forever. Upon entering the building, Dustin found a room that shouldn't exist with a window, or portal, that introduced him to world that few knew about. That one action spurred Dustin to stumble his way to Lenoran where the magical and the non-magical were struggling for supremacy. Add to that the presence of the US military in the mix making situations that held me spellbound . The apprentices are not about to be left out on the mix and their masters get in over their heads creating even more problems. This was a very complex and interesting story that at first was difficult to follow. Initially, the divergent story lines confused me because the book went from one scene to another without a pause or noted separation in the book. It was easier to follow along in the audiobook because reader paused between scenes making the reader aware of the change. The many magical creatures and situations enhanced the plot added mystery to the story. It was fascinating how the story evolved as the armed forces and the magic users worked together to protect themselves as their foes used dragons against them. I would never have thought to pit modern day technology against magic and it was fascinating to read as the book unfolded. Many of the characters forged relationships with each other that overcame the differences in their worlds in spite of the complications they could cause.
Author: Deric McNish
Publisher: Pyramus Press
ISBN: B00DFKVJ5C
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Stranger-Wizard...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Poor bumbling Athin can’t get anything right. Unlike his dazzling rival apprentice, Mir, his magic is flaccid and weak. When he sneaks into his master’s forbidden study he sets in motion a series of events that spiral out of control.
Worlds away at a highway pit stop, Dustin is used as a pawn in a greater game and gets sucked into another world. The way home barred, his only way back is forward, with the help of a bewitching sorceress and a curious young apprentice.
The Land of Lenoran has stability under the rule of wizards, but that peace is threatened by the rising power of the warrior class. Their ruthless leader controls the land’s dragons and will stop at nothing to gain every advantage in the coming war.
In this fun romp across worlds, a team of unlikely allies sets out on a journey of discovery. Over five mind-blowing days, Athin and Mir both set their sights on the handsome stranger from another world. Will the magic that brought them together now tear them apart?
Summary:
Given for an honest review.
The story took place on two distinct realities. One on Earth and one on a world, Lenoran, where magic took the place of science. Athin, an apprentice magician, had difficulty performing the most simple spells and when Mir, another apprentice, offered to teach him a spell that gave gave pleasure to those it touched he was intrigued. Dustin never thought that his decision to take a side trip to Another World, adult entertainment building, would lead to an adventure that could change his life forever. Upon entering the building, Dustin found a room that shouldn't exist with a window, or portal, that introduced him to world that few knew about. That one action spurred Dustin to stumble his way to Lenoran where the magical and the non-magical were struggling for supremacy. Add to that the presence of the US military in the mix making situations that held me spellbound . The apprentices are not about to be left out on the mix and their masters get in over their heads creating even more problems. This was a very complex and interesting story that at first was difficult to follow. Initially, the divergent story lines confused me because the book went from one scene to another without a pause or noted separation in the book. It was easier to follow along in the audiobook because reader paused between scenes making the reader aware of the change. The many magical creatures and situations enhanced the plot added mystery to the story. It was fascinating how the story evolved as the armed forces and the magic users worked together to protect themselves as their foes used dragons against them. I would never have thought to pit modern day technology against magic and it was fascinating to read as the book unfolded. Many of the characters forged relationships with each other that overcame the differences in their worlds in spite of the complications they could cause.
November 9, 2015
A copy of this title was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
Going in this book was hard for me to get into and started losing me at the end too, it was a tad confusing and just wasn't holding my attention. It really took me a fourth of the book to get into it.
In general there was a lot of players introduced into this book in what felt like a very short time and in doing so there became an overabundant amount of components associated with them:
- First there was Dustin who is supposedly driving to meet a friend. On his way he needs to go to the bathroom so stops in at a small convenience/gas station store. There he sees a ad for adult entertainment written on the wall. Being in his early twenties he's still interested in experiencing erotic entertainment. So decides to go check it out even though the shopkeeper, Ma'ax, warns him off.
I thought this extremely dangerous and stupid of him.
- In the other world, readers meet much more interesting characters in the form of Athin and Mir and their respective teachers/masters, Arconduil and Mrithniel. The two are apprentices to powerful wizards and it's actually Athin's little experiment with magic that goes awry and allows Dustin to come to his world. When Athin's teacher discovers that something came through, he thinks he accidental left the portal open and freaks out, calling a counsel meeting and wanting to kill the very thing that came through when he has found it. Athin enlists Mir's help and the two try to hide Dustin while they try to find out more and figure out how to get Dustin home.
- Yensid, a old apprentice of Arconduil, is brought in as a character who likes to drug and rape females. He just brings a host of issues down on Athin, Dustin and Mir. He really was just an annoying horrible character.
- Eric and the military serve as another distracting element worked into the book.
- The story of Ma'ax and how he's associated with the wizards and the issues surrounding the wizards and portal.
- Nok’st appearance and Arconduil and Mrithniel putting themselves in danger
- Erik's encounter with the Dragon and meeting Taisda, a Kou G’en.
- The confusing epilogues with the intro of Malaya, which I believe should be a set up for book 2?
It also struck me as weird that the females and young men in this book were considered pretty and it was remarked on many different characters, whether or not the character hailed from Lenoran or the USA (or Yoo Essay..). I also felt that towards the end of the book the story started to get a bit disjointed. I felt as if I was missing a piece here or there, almost like I had skipped over a detail or two during the reading. With all that being said, there were aspects of the book that kept me reading the story (i.e. Mir taking care of Yensid and punishing him, Athin trying to fix a mistake he made and coming into his power, Arconduil trying to look out for everyone and also trying to keep Lenoran safe, etc)
2.5 stars
Going in this book was hard for me to get into and started losing me at the end too, it was a tad confusing and just wasn't holding my attention. It really took me a fourth of the book to get into it.
In general there was a lot of players introduced into this book in what felt like a very short time and in doing so there became an overabundant amount of components associated with them:
- First there was Dustin who is supposedly driving to meet a friend. On his way he needs to go to the bathroom so stops in at a small convenience/gas station store. There he sees a ad for adult entertainment written on the wall. Being in his early twenties he's still interested in experiencing erotic entertainment. So decides to go check it out even though the shopkeeper, Ma'ax, warns him off.
I thought this extremely dangerous and stupid of him.
- In the other world, readers meet much more interesting characters in the form of Athin and Mir and their respective teachers/masters, Arconduil and Mrithniel. The two are apprentices to powerful wizards and it's actually Athin's little experiment with magic that goes awry and allows Dustin to come to his world. When Athin's teacher discovers that something came through, he thinks he accidental left the portal open and freaks out, calling a counsel meeting and wanting to kill the very thing that came through when he has found it. Athin enlists Mir's help and the two try to hide Dustin while they try to find out more and figure out how to get Dustin home.
- Yensid, a old apprentice of Arconduil, is brought in as a character who likes to drug and rape females. He just brings a host of issues down on Athin, Dustin and Mir. He really was just an annoying horrible character.
- Eric and the military serve as another distracting element worked into the book.
- The story of Ma'ax and how he's associated with the wizards and the issues surrounding the wizards and portal.
- Nok’st appearance and Arconduil and Mrithniel putting themselves in danger
- Erik's encounter with the Dragon and meeting Taisda, a Kou G’en.
- The confusing epilogues with the intro of Malaya, which I believe should be a set up for book 2?
It also struck me as weird that the females and young men in this book were considered pretty and it was remarked on many different characters, whether or not the character hailed from Lenoran or the USA (or Yoo Essay..). I also felt that towards the end of the book the story started to get a bit disjointed. I felt as if I was missing a piece here or there, almost like I had skipped over a detail or two during the reading. With all that being said, there were aspects of the book that kept me reading the story (i.e. Mir taking care of Yensid and punishing him, Athin trying to fix a mistake he made and coming into his power, Arconduil trying to look out for everyone and also trying to keep Lenoran safe, etc)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There were things I liked about this book and things I didn't. The world itself and the fantasy elements were great; I also enjoyed the whole magical transfer explanation. For a straight up fantasy book, this would have been good. This was labeled as a m/m book, however, and that's where the author lost me. I was looking forward to reading this and I love m/m books but there was SO MUCH m/f in this book that I came away feeling misled about what I was reading. Then there was the scene that talked fairly flippantly about rape; I can't condone it, even if the author thought it fit with the characters. I had certain expectations about what I was going to read and unfortunately came away disappointed. If you'd like a good fantasy book and don't care what pairing you read, maybe give this a shot but if you want a straight up m/m, pick something else.
There were things I liked about this book and things I didn't. The world itself and the fantasy elements were great; I also enjoyed the whole magical transfer explanation. For a straight up fantasy book, this would have been good. This was labeled as a m/m book, however, and that's where the author lost me. I was looking forward to reading this and I love m/m books but there was SO MUCH m/f in this book that I came away feeling misled about what I was reading. Then there was the scene that talked fairly flippantly about rape; I can't condone it, even if the author thought it fit with the characters. I had certain expectations about what I was going to read and unfortunately came away disappointed. If you'd like a good fantasy book and don't care what pairing you read, maybe give this a shot but if you want a straight up m/m, pick something else.
November 11, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not sure what I think of this story. It was entertaining and a lot went on. The main MCs didn’t actually begin anything until near the end of the book. This book had a bit of head jumping between many different characters and you were able to see lots of things that were going on, however it made it a bit harder to stay connected with the book. Dustin was suddenly thrust into Athin’s world and wants to choose to stay with him, but is forced back to earth in the end. The end is open for another book to follow the story.
I enjoyed the story, however it really isn’t a romance as described in the blurb.
I’m not sure what I think of this story. It was entertaining and a lot went on. The main MCs didn’t actually begin anything until near the end of the book. This book had a bit of head jumping between many different characters and you were able to see lots of things that were going on, however it made it a bit harder to stay connected with the book. Dustin was suddenly thrust into Athin’s world and wants to choose to stay with him, but is forced back to earth in the end. The end is open for another book to follow the story.
I enjoyed the story, however it really isn’t a romance as described in the blurb.
June 20, 2017
**A free copy of the audiobook was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
The concept was decent enough. Though I wished there was more in the romance side of things. There was absolutely no chemistry between Dustin and Athin. It didn't help that we spent a lot of time reading the POV from everybody else in the story. We didn't really spend much time with Dustin and Athin. Which was a shame. Mir was barely tolerable so I didn't think she deserved her own happy ending. I was a little confused with the ending. Maybe it will be explained more in an upcoming sequel? That'd be nice. Anyway, my final rating is 2.5
The concept was decent enough. Though I wished there was more in the romance side of things. There was absolutely no chemistry between Dustin and Athin. It didn't help that we spent a lot of time reading the POV from everybody else in the story. We didn't really spend much time with Dustin and Athin. Which was a shame. Mir was barely tolerable so I didn't think she deserved her own happy ending. I was a little confused with the ending. Maybe it will be explained more in an upcoming sequel? That'd be nice. Anyway, my final rating is 2.5
couldnt-finish
June 6, 2017Ok I gave up after more than 50%
I was bored. I kept waiting for it to get better. There were waaaay too many point of views. I wasn't lost, but I guess I need two main characters to get engaged.
Maybe one day I will try again. (Considering I gave up on the Cut and Run series at first, and ditched Josh Landon as boring....now I love these books)
I was bored. I kept waiting for it to get better. There were waaaay too many point of views. I wasn't lost, but I guess I need two main characters to get engaged.
Maybe one day I will try again. (Considering I gave up on the Cut and Run series at first, and ditched Josh Landon as boring....now I love these books)
July 6, 2016
3.75 stars. I really enjoyed this book. It's quirky and geeky. It has some dark issues, like rape and murder, but overall it's a good-vs-evil book. Loved the magic in it. Not too thrilled by the ending.
February 4, 2020
2.5 stars - I don't think the storyline from multiple POVs worked for me - I ended up not being emotionally invested in any character.
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