What do you think?
Rate this book
The Kin of Kings #1
Kin of Kings
The first great war of Ovira is over and the most hated king in centuries is dead, but his nephew still lives. However, Basen had nothing to do with the destructive war his uncle started. In fact, it was his uncle who exiled him and his father to the territory of their enemies, where Basen’s dreams of becoming a legendary mage now fade as he must work all day just to eat. His only chance at regaining some semblance of the life he thought he would lead is to join an elite school that trains, houses, and feeds a thousand new young men and women each year. But little does Basen know that his determination will put him at the center of a war even bloodier than the one he’d barely managed to avoid.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2015
654 people are currently reading
680 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
February 2, 2016
I have some mixed feelings about this book. The story was good, but I felt that the execution could have been done a little differently. I read a lot of YA, and this definitely felt very young to me. My main issues are with the characters. There were so many females in the story, which isn't a bad thing in itself. They all felt very flat, and I found myself confused as to who was who several times. Our main character was such a flirt! I didn't like his interactions with all the girls. I'm not uptight, but sleeping in a bed with two different girls, even innocently, made me not want to like him. I did however, really like that there was some humor to the story. I like when fantasy can bring some humor into it in the right way. I did enjoy this book, despite some minor issues. I would like to check out the next book at some point.
I was provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I was provided this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2016
Final word on this one would have to be "meh".
Lets get to the good thing first: After two weeks of not touching any book at all, it got me back into reading and I could finnish it in one afternoon straight. It was entertaining enough to keep me reading, so it's by all means not a terrible book.
However.
Few cases in point about what I really didn't like:
Know your craft. Persepctive. The book features PoV-characters, but sometimes in the middle of scenes, I found myself jumping heads, suddenly knowing and experiencing the emotions of a person who's not actually the PoV figure. Never a good thing.
The Hero. He's ... too good. Like, he's nice and gentle, a bit cheeky but never overly so, and would rather be a mage than a warrior, but of course he has great physical prowess as well and could have easily chosen the path of a warrior. He never gets into trouble apart from being scolded by his teacher for trying out dangerous stuff without fair warning. Which has no consequences whatsoever, because someone will come and safe the day by making the others see how special he is. He has one considerable weakness, though over the course of book 1 at least, that does not really turn into any kind of obstacle whatsoever. Everything new he tries, he learns fast and without extra instruction. One serious lack in his knowledge is adressed several times, he is told to catch up on it, then it's kind of forgotten and we never learn what the benefit of it really is, because quite frankly, he seems to do splendidly without it.
Insta-Friendships. Relationships do not build here. They drop. Like Basen meets his new room mate and a page later, he talks about having won a friend because they had some friendly small talk. This is not how friendship works in my book.
Also, it seems like a bit of a Mary-Sueish trip. There are a hell of a lot of women characters (Brownie points for that, since they are more than mere decoration) and Basen gets physically close to all of them (though in a non-erotic way, mostly), sleeps in the same bed with two of them (both scenes totally innocent even though he confirmed before that in one case, the girl was wearing nothing under her night gown) and having a clear romantic inclination (that is returned and also kinda developed over one or two dates) towards a third lady.
While some of the ladies have relationships, they always flirt with him and constant mention is made of his good looks and how he could have any girl he wanted. Actual flirting/romantic scenes read clumsy to silly.
Additonal minus point for permanent mention of how beautiful everyone is.
Last thing to mention: I did not click with any of the characters. All of them remain fairly flat, and none is exceptionally likeable. Towards at least half of them I was harbouring a lot of suspicion because of the way they were written. Character deaths didn't touch me at all, I just read over them, which is a telltale sign that I just couldn't bring myself to care.
Will read the second book still, because there are a few plotpoints I am curious about, so I guess that's a plus as well. However, I have to admit that I would not spend money on the books. Reading them through my free trial of Kindle Unlimited atm, otherwise, I wouldn't even have picked up the first.
Lets get to the good thing first: After two weeks of not touching any book at all, it got me back into reading and I could finnish it in one afternoon straight. It was entertaining enough to keep me reading, so it's by all means not a terrible book.
However.
Few cases in point about what I really didn't like:
Know your craft. Persepctive. The book features PoV-characters, but sometimes in the middle of scenes, I found myself jumping heads, suddenly knowing and experiencing the emotions of a person who's not actually the PoV figure. Never a good thing.
The Hero. He's ... too good. Like, he's nice and gentle, a bit cheeky but never overly so, and would rather be a mage than a warrior, but of course he has great physical prowess as well and could have easily chosen the path of a warrior. He never gets into trouble apart from being scolded by his teacher for trying out dangerous stuff without fair warning. Which has no consequences whatsoever, because someone will come and safe the day by making the others see how special he is. He has one considerable weakness, though over the course of book 1 at least, that does not really turn into any kind of obstacle whatsoever. Everything new he tries, he learns fast and without extra instruction. One serious lack in his knowledge is adressed several times, he is told to catch up on it, then it's kind of forgotten and we never learn what the benefit of it really is, because quite frankly, he seems to do splendidly without it.
Insta-Friendships. Relationships do not build here. They drop. Like Basen meets his new room mate and a page later, he talks about having won a friend because they had some friendly small talk. This is not how friendship works in my book.
Also, it seems like a bit of a Mary-Sueish trip. There are a hell of a lot of women characters (Brownie points for that, since they are more than mere decoration) and Basen gets physically close to all of them (though in a non-erotic way, mostly), sleeps in the same bed with two of them (both scenes totally innocent even though he confirmed before that in one case, the girl was wearing nothing under her night gown) and having a clear romantic inclination (that is returned and also kinda developed over one or two dates) towards a third lady.
While some of the ladies have relationships, they always flirt with him and constant mention is made of his good looks and how he could have any girl he wanted. Actual flirting/romantic scenes read clumsy to silly.
Additonal minus point for permanent mention of how beautiful everyone is.
Last thing to mention: I did not click with any of the characters. All of them remain fairly flat, and none is exceptionally likeable. Towards at least half of them I was harbouring a lot of suspicion because of the way they were written. Character deaths didn't touch me at all, I just read over them, which is a telltale sign that I just couldn't bring myself to care.
Will read the second book still, because there are a few plotpoints I am curious about, so I guess that's a plus as well. However, I have to admit that I would not spend money on the books. Reading them through my free trial of Kindle Unlimited atm, otherwise, I wouldn't even have picked up the first.
June 19, 2017
Interesting story, but the writing style was somewhat immature.
December 25, 2018
This reminded me of The Name of the Wind with elements of a who-dunnit. It resembles NotW in that the characters are in a magic academy. I actually liked this more, because right from the start you know this is a "school" fantasy book. (NotW threw me a bit in that regard.)
The story was good. I liked the mystery element and there was a decent cast, but another edit was required.
Pros:
1. A strong female character in Sonya. Some woman empowerment stuff I didn't care for, but you might like.
2. Interesting mystery stuff. Someone gets killed and we need to figure out who.
3. Interesting magic system with good names. Bastial sounds so cool.
4. Cleave... mmm <3 Too bad he was already in a relationship.
5. I liked how the author explained the political situation without spending a 100 pages on exposition. He attempted to work it casually into conversation and although one can tell what he's doing I did appreciate that he tried to make it less tedious than it otherwise usually is.
6. While they are searching for a murderer things escalate politically. Let's just put it this way - there's a big battle towards the end.
7. Fight scenes were pretty good. Loved the warrior training. (The mages fight with wands... ugh. Not my favourite, I'm more of a staff girl myself :P You can use it like a quarterstaff. What can you do with a wand? Poke someone in the eye and run away.)
Cons:
1. No one likes it when the main character is handsome and good at everything.
2. Some of the relationships developed a bit rapidly to be believed. "Insta-friendships" I think someone called it.
3. Conclusions were drawn on inconclusive evidence. Felt very implausible. Examples:
4. Protagonist is reckless and stupid and isn't punished for it.
5. Protagonist doesn't seem to care
6. All the girls want him. Gary Stu.
7. Writing. Sorry Mr. Narro, another edit is necessary. Some of the sentences felt extremely sloppy, like they slipped through the editing process. Examples (can't remember exact wording:
a. "a thought occurred to his mind" (beware redundancy)
b. "he saw the woman before him" ("he saw the woman" is enough)
8. I at first thought this was written by a woman (no offence to the author), because of all the relationshipy stuff in there and the way the protagonist noticed a woman's dress and hairstyle change. Not usually something guys pick up on.
Question: What happens to the body when someone dies? Do they have funerals? What are their funerals like?
That should give you an idea if this is for you or not.
Overall, a good effort. I'd recommend it if you're not too fussy about grammar and good-at-everything protagonists.
The story was good. I liked the mystery element and there was a decent cast, but another edit was required.
Pros:
1. A strong female character in Sonya. Some woman empowerment stuff I didn't care for, but you might like.
2. Interesting mystery stuff. Someone gets killed and we need to figure out who.
3. Interesting magic system with good names. Bastial sounds so cool.
4. Cleave... mmm <3 Too bad he was already in a relationship.
5. I liked how the author explained the political situation without spending a 100 pages on exposition. He attempted to work it casually into conversation and although one can tell what he's doing I did appreciate that he tried to make it less tedious than it otherwise usually is.
6. While they are searching for a murderer things escalate politically. Let's just put it this way - there's a big battle towards the end.
7. Fight scenes were pretty good. Loved the warrior training. (The mages fight with wands... ugh. Not my favourite, I'm more of a staff girl myself :P You can use it like a quarterstaff. What can you do with a wand? Poke someone in the eye and run away.)
Cons:
1. No one likes it when the main character is handsome and good at everything.
2. Some of the relationships developed a bit rapidly to be believed. "Insta-friendships" I think someone called it.
3. Conclusions were drawn on inconclusive evidence. Felt very implausible. Examples:
4. Protagonist is reckless and stupid and isn't punished for it.
5. Protagonist doesn't seem to care
6. All the girls want him. Gary Stu.
7. Writing. Sorry Mr. Narro, another edit is necessary. Some of the sentences felt extremely sloppy, like they slipped through the editing process. Examples (can't remember exact wording:
a. "a thought occurred to his mind" (beware redundancy)
b. "he saw the woman before him" ("he saw the woman" is enough)
8. I at first thought this was written by a woman (no offence to the author), because of all the relationshipy stuff in there and the way the protagonist noticed a woman's dress and hairstyle change. Not usually something guys pick up on.
Question: What happens to the body when someone dies? Do they have funerals? What are their funerals like?
That should give you an idea if this is for you or not.
Overall, a good effort. I'd recommend it if you're not too fussy about grammar and good-at-everything protagonists.
March 26, 2016
3.25 stars
This one surprised me. I didn't expect much because I haven't had piles of luck with high fantasy through kindle unlimited. I didn't even think I'd be likely to read past the 50 page mark when I downloaded it to check it out. But the characters were interesting and the plot pulled me along.
As fantasy goes this is pretty scant on worldbuilding, but the characters and plot move it along.
The drawback is that the author brags about releasing 6 books a year. What he's actually releasing is apparently one book a year carved into six parts. I had my reading progress switched off so it was a complete surprise when the book just ended. It just stopped. I swapped it out for book two and that one carries on right away.
I am very unhappy about that.
This one surprised me. I didn't expect much because I haven't had piles of luck with high fantasy through kindle unlimited. I didn't even think I'd be likely to read past the 50 page mark when I downloaded it to check it out. But the characters were interesting and the plot pulled me along.
As fantasy goes this is pretty scant on worldbuilding, but the characters and plot move it along.
The drawback is that the author brags about releasing 6 books a year. What he's actually releasing is apparently one book a year carved into six parts. I had my reading progress switched off so it was a complete surprise when the book just ended. It just stopped. I swapped it out for book two and that one carries on right away.
I am very unhappy about that.
April 8, 2019
The first great war of Ovira is over, and the most hated king in centuries is dead, but his nephew still lives. However, Basen had nothing to do with the destructive war his uncle started. In fact it was his uncle who exiled him and his father to the territory of their enemies, where Basen's dreams of becoming a legendary mage now fade, as he must work all day just to eat. His only chance at regaining some semblance of the life he thought he would lead is to join an elite school that trains, houses, and feeds a thousand new young men and women each year. But little does Basen know that his determination will put him at the center of a war even bloodier than the one he'd barely managed to avoid.
Battles good, murder, escape, castle intrigue, and a twist that has not been in other stories. No spoilers here. So the moral dilemma is going to be resolved. Just about when I thought there was an answer, the story ended. I really like this author and his style of writing. Basen is not that strong of a leader as his character is flawed and makes him more endearing and life like. Effie and the potion she took, added a human look at feelings/how we are affected by them. There is alot to the story. I sat down to read this book and couldn't put it down, I read it in one sitting! Great reading everyone.
Battles good, murder, escape, castle intrigue, and a twist that has not been in other stories. No spoilers here. So the moral dilemma is going to be resolved. Just about when I thought there was an answer, the story ended. I really like this author and his style of writing. Basen is not that strong of a leader as his character is flawed and makes him more endearing and life like. Effie and the potion she took, added a human look at feelings/how we are affected by them. There is alot to the story. I sat down to read this book and couldn't put it down, I read it in one sitting! Great reading everyone.
January 9, 2016
First this book was given to me for free in exchange for a review.
The characters in this book are young; but that is in fact how most people in armies are. They seem to be very mature at times and at times not so much.
The story line was not deep but did a good job of displaying the issues that were to be handled by the characters. Many of the obstacles were overcome far too easy for the environment but it did keep the story from getting bogged down in details.
I thought this book was going to be at a too young level for me; but was surprised that I actually enjoyed it and wanted to listen to the entire book rather than stop.
There was no one favorite scene. There were several that gave a mild uplift as the characters discovered things about themselves. The most amusing issues were the main character and his unrequited love; yet all the women who want to crawl into his bed for courage and comfort.
I felt the narrator had an issue at the beginning of the book but after getting into the first few chapters he either got with the book or I got used to his narration. Long before the end of the book I found his narration to be a pleasure to listen to.
The characters in this book are young; but that is in fact how most people in armies are. They seem to be very mature at times and at times not so much.
The story line was not deep but did a good job of displaying the issues that were to be handled by the characters. Many of the obstacles were overcome far too easy for the environment but it did keep the story from getting bogged down in details.
I thought this book was going to be at a too young level for me; but was surprised that I actually enjoyed it and wanted to listen to the entire book rather than stop.
There was no one favorite scene. There were several that gave a mild uplift as the characters discovered things about themselves. The most amusing issues were the main character and his unrequited love; yet all the women who want to crawl into his bed for courage and comfort.
I felt the narrator had an issue at the beginning of the book but after getting into the first few chapters he either got with the book or I got used to his narration. Long before the end of the book I found his narration to be a pleasure to listen to.
January 14, 2016
I was a little unsure about this book because I had never heard of the series or the author before and I didn't think it would be any good, but I was completely wrong. When I started to listen I couldn't stop and when I did stop I tried to find time to listen to it again. This book is full of brilliantly written characters and an absorbing storyline, that once you start you don't want to stop. There is humour, action, tension and magic. If you love your fantasy reads to have all these then this is the book for you. I cannot wait to read/listen to the next book in the series.
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author in exchange for an unbiased review
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author in exchange for an unbiased review
May 11, 2016
I liked the book and the story it tells but it had it downsides that stops me from giving it more stars.
The main issue I had was with the POV's in this book. One moment you are reading the books form one characters POV and then suddenly there is a change in the perspective without any indication there has been a change leaving you wondering "what just happened why is the character suddenly thinking like this?" And just when you get accustomed to the change there will be suddenly another switch.
Never the less I enjoyed the book and will defiantly be reading the next.
The main issue I had was with the POV's in this book. One moment you are reading the books form one characters POV and then suddenly there is a change in the perspective without any indication there has been a change leaving you wondering "what just happened why is the character suddenly thinking like this?" And just when you get accustomed to the change there will be suddenly another switch.
Never the less I enjoyed the book and will defiantly be reading the next.
December 20, 2015
I am now on the second book in the series and have found it to be entertaining. It reads a bit like it is targeting a younger audience (early teen), so I have to keep reminding myself that the characters are a bit older than that. The magic system is innovative, and the story deviates nicely from the cookie cutter format -- it does not shock with sudden twists, but it flows well.
November 18, 2015
Solid fantasy novel, and very quickly paced-you won't find any dawdling over meaningless details except how attracted all the characters seem to be to one another. They could all stand a little more development, but overall, an excellent, quick read for anyone interested in an adventure story.
October 14, 2015
Well paced. Good surprise to the cliffhanger ending. Characters could have more dimension.
November 29, 2015
Wow
Great book. Did not see the ending coming at all. Looking forward to book two. I would recommend this book to everyone
Great book. Did not see the ending coming at all. Looking forward to book two. I would recommend this book to everyone
December 3, 2015
The setting of this book is strong and intriguing, and the characters are very interesting. Unfortunately the book is fairly short, but I'm hoping for more.
February 10, 2016
This was good enough to keepp me reading, and I will pick up the next book in the series. i'm not racing to pick it up though.
May 23, 2016
Too many POVs and I didn't care for any of them particularly.
March 12, 2018
Kin of Kings is a 326- page novel written by B.T. Narro. It is the first of a 5-book series that tells the story of Basen Hillard, the nephew of a sinister king who was hated by his subjects. Basen and his father finds themselves exiled from their home, Cairo just before the war and lives in the enemy’s land scraping together a scum life where they work like slaves in the work-house for lodging and food. When the war ends, Basen – a skilled swordsman takes advantage of the opportunity to join the academy – a school for young warriors, mages (magicians), psychics, and chemist. In spite of his father’s wishes, Basen joins the academy as a mage (a position held by most women) instead of a warrior. He goes so far as to trade his sword for a wand. As it turns out, he is very skilled with casting spells and using energy to make fireballs despite his inability to do the very basic things that mages are taught.
In the Academy, his loyalty is tested and he has to conquer obstacles that arise such as his lack of experience at meditation, his desire to impress instructors and students and his last name – the same as his overthrown uncle’s last name. There among the friends he meets, is a girl from his past. She joins the academy as a warrior. This reversal of roles did not seem to have a significant impact on the story and leaves the reader to question its purpose. The female warrior, in this first book, seems to bring nothing to the table or adds any uniqueness to the warriors. An instructor says that she needs to prove that she is exceptional in order to join the academy. This apparently happens when she scores points on the last day of the one-week trials against warriors who brutally beat her the first day. This was not convincing for me, but when we consider the target audience, it may be enough.
This brings me to the issue of target audience. This story is not for adults. It is a fantasy that is entertaining enough to hold one’s attention because it teases the reader’s curiosity. I felt myself wanting to know where everything was heading and expecting something from it that I just did not get. For the target audience – the twelve to fourteen-year-old reader – the simplicity of character and the plot line may work well. The current trend in literature and entertainment to abandon the traditional roles of gender and to depict novice students with unusually high advanced knowledge that only masters have is popular among the millennials. From an adult’s perspective, the character development fails in that the dialogue and over sensitivity found in warriors becomes unbelievable. At times, it seemed more that the characters were in boarding school to learn social skills rather than the art of war – just shortly after a major war ends and government changes.
If, however, the target audience is the early teenage reader, the flaw is the length of the story. There are parts that seem to needlessly drag out as if the narrator is trying to develop character or make the reader become emotionally attached to them. I would say that a 326-page story is a bit much for a thirteen-year-old – even if it is a nice story.
In the end, I give this a 3 out of five because I cannot give half scores. I believe that is a unique concept and nice story. I think that the series is worth reading. I would recommend it to any young teen or pre-teen who likes fantasy.
In the Academy, his loyalty is tested and he has to conquer obstacles that arise such as his lack of experience at meditation, his desire to impress instructors and students and his last name – the same as his overthrown uncle’s last name. There among the friends he meets, is a girl from his past. She joins the academy as a warrior. This reversal of roles did not seem to have a significant impact on the story and leaves the reader to question its purpose. The female warrior, in this first book, seems to bring nothing to the table or adds any uniqueness to the warriors. An instructor says that she needs to prove that she is exceptional in order to join the academy. This apparently happens when she scores points on the last day of the one-week trials against warriors who brutally beat her the first day. This was not convincing for me, but when we consider the target audience, it may be enough.
This brings me to the issue of target audience. This story is not for adults. It is a fantasy that is entertaining enough to hold one’s attention because it teases the reader’s curiosity. I felt myself wanting to know where everything was heading and expecting something from it that I just did not get. For the target audience – the twelve to fourteen-year-old reader – the simplicity of character and the plot line may work well. The current trend in literature and entertainment to abandon the traditional roles of gender and to depict novice students with unusually high advanced knowledge that only masters have is popular among the millennials. From an adult’s perspective, the character development fails in that the dialogue and over sensitivity found in warriors becomes unbelievable. At times, it seemed more that the characters were in boarding school to learn social skills rather than the art of war – just shortly after a major war ends and government changes.
If, however, the target audience is the early teenage reader, the flaw is the length of the story. There are parts that seem to needlessly drag out as if the narrator is trying to develop character or make the reader become emotionally attached to them. I would say that a 326-page story is a bit much for a thirteen-year-old – even if it is a nice story.
In the end, I give this a 3 out of five because I cannot give half scores. I believe that is a unique concept and nice story. I think that the series is worth reading. I would recommend it to any young teen or pre-teen who likes fantasy.
August 25, 2017
Basen’s uncle was King of a country called Cairo. He was also the bad guy who lost a war to the neighboring kingdom. Basen and his father were banished before the end of hostilities and started new lives on the bottom rung of society in a work camp. His only chance is to get accepted into the academy where Warriors, Psychics, Chemists, and Mages train for arm life.
Narro has created a system of magic that is unique to me in my wanderings through the realms of fantasy. Well where have I been anyway? My most recent reads and reviews are on LARC-SicFi(dot)com/BookReviews. There is depth similar to what one expects from a genre giant like Brandon Sanderson. As if his magical system preindustrial world were not enough, Basen discovers there is more to manipulating Bastial and Sartious energy than people at the academy are aware of.
Basen really reminds me of myself during my bachelor days. Each young lady he meets runs through his mind as a potential girlfriend. After twelve years of monogamy with a spotless record (thank you very much) I found it silly at first, but the more I thought of it, the more I realized that I was once in his shoes.
I was given a free review copy at my request and have voluntarily left a review. Any review. That fact that it’s a good one is because the book is good. Which has nothing to do with how awesome I am. You’ll have to find that out for yourself @S_Shane_Thomas on Twitter.
My copy was an audible audiobook. Narration was great! I’m not just saying that because I listen to a synthetic voice on an ereader when I don’t have audiobooks either. Young men, old men, and females all had distinct voices and traits. Narro and Wilcox made a great author and narrator team. My favorite was Stephen, who had a bothersome level of curiosity at all the wrong times!
This was an excellent first book in the series. I think people who have just finished Harry Potter and want something similar yet completely original should give this book a try.
Narro has created a system of magic that is unique to me in my wanderings through the realms of fantasy. Well where have I been anyway? My most recent reads and reviews are on LARC-SicFi(dot)com/BookReviews. There is depth similar to what one expects from a genre giant like Brandon Sanderson. As if his magical system preindustrial world were not enough, Basen discovers there is more to manipulating Bastial and Sartious energy than people at the academy are aware of.
Basen really reminds me of myself during my bachelor days. Each young lady he meets runs through his mind as a potential girlfriend. After twelve years of monogamy with a spotless record (thank you very much) I found it silly at first, but the more I thought of it, the more I realized that I was once in his shoes.
I was given a free review copy at my request and have voluntarily left a review. Any review. That fact that it’s a good one is because the book is good. Which has nothing to do with how awesome I am. You’ll have to find that out for yourself @S_Shane_Thomas on Twitter.
My copy was an audible audiobook. Narration was great! I’m not just saying that because I listen to a synthetic voice on an ereader when I don’t have audiobooks either. Young men, old men, and females all had distinct voices and traits. Narro and Wilcox made a great author and narrator team. My favorite was Stephen, who had a bothersome level of curiosity at all the wrong times!
This was an excellent first book in the series. I think people who have just finished Harry Potter and want something similar yet completely original should give this book a try.
May 12, 2017
Excellent Tale of Mages, Warriors, and Rival Kings
Not knowing of previous series written by B.T. Narro, I had read his book Awaken before reading The Kin of Kings, and I almost didn't read the first book of this series, because I just couldn't get interested in Awaken. However, when I saw how many books he had already written and the positive reviews he had, I decided to give him another chance, and I'm glad I did. I've always enjoyed stories of young people just coming of age, then add magic, swords, and romance, you've got me hooked. Now after being more introduced into the world of these young mages, I may find the later series more interesting. What I found more entertaining in this book, is following along with young Basen, is also the care that the author puts into the development of the magic forms used by his characters, the structure and leadership behind the Academy, as well as the ties and relationships behind the characters. I had no problem becoming or staying interested in the development of the story. If you are a teenager or young adult, even more mature to elderly person who likes stories of magic and proving oneself, I know you will enjoy this book, and I look forward to reading the rest of Narro's books. I hope that Amazon will at least list one of the original books in author's lineup, so I can begin from the beginning in the author's series, and I think others would appreciate that top.
Not knowing of previous series written by B.T. Narro, I had read his book Awaken before reading The Kin of Kings, and I almost didn't read the first book of this series, because I just couldn't get interested in Awaken. However, when I saw how many books he had already written and the positive reviews he had, I decided to give him another chance, and I'm glad I did. I've always enjoyed stories of young people just coming of age, then add magic, swords, and romance, you've got me hooked. Now after being more introduced into the world of these young mages, I may find the later series more interesting. What I found more entertaining in this book, is following along with young Basen, is also the care that the author puts into the development of the magic forms used by his characters, the structure and leadership behind the Academy, as well as the ties and relationships behind the characters. I had no problem becoming or staying interested in the development of the story. If you are a teenager or young adult, even more mature to elderly person who likes stories of magic and proving oneself, I know you will enjoy this book, and I look forward to reading the rest of Narro's books. I hope that Amazon will at least list one of the original books in author's lineup, so I can begin from the beginning in the author's series, and I think others would appreciate that top.
March 24, 2017
When I first started reading Kin of Kings I was immediately drawn in to the word that B.T. created. It was clear the amount of effort that went in to drafting a world in which the readers could relate. As more characters got introduced, I started to lose track as assumptions were made that we should know the stories being discussed and the relationships between these new characters. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep me engaged through this story, and at the end I was left wanting more immediately. After finishing I realized that there is a different series that was first written in this world, and that the Kin of Kings is a continuation of that story. If you HAVE NOT READ THE RHYTHM OF RIVALRY SERIES yet I would recommend diving in to those books first. It helps lay a ground work for the world and characters that will continue through both stories. Overall I want to give this a 3.5 but I chose to round up to 4 as I might read it again after I get back to this series.
January 24, 2022
I really liked this book. I had found myself in a bit of a reading slump and this book was a solid read that kept me engaged. I enjoyed the different plot lines and character arcs. That being said I had 1 problem that stuck out to me and prevented me from giving this book a higher rating.
The Ending (Spoilers)
- In the end, Sana is revealed to be the killer and this felt very out of place. up until this point I had thoroughly enjoyed this mystery however I now believe that it was not as much an actual mystery (where there are a bunch of clues for the reader to solve the mystery and then at the end, it all comes together) but instead this just felt like a plot twist. In fact, I'm not entirely sure if the writer knew who the killer was when they first started the book. The first possible clues that could suggest Sana's involvement would be in the last few chapters. It felt like they needed someone to be the killer so they just picked someone that the reader would be shocked by. Sana wasn't revealed to be a psychic till the very last chapter and like what is the Dream realm?! It felt like a bunch of stuff that was made up on the spot for the sake of making it make sense that she was somehow the killer. Overall I felt very let down by the final chapter and I think the book would have really benefitted from a fully formed murderer. I still really enjoyed the book and would recommend it as a very digestible fantasy novel.
The Ending (Spoilers)
- In the end, Sana is revealed to be the killer and this felt very out of place. up until this point I had thoroughly enjoyed this mystery however I now believe that it was not as much an actual mystery (where there are a bunch of clues for the reader to solve the mystery and then at the end, it all comes together) but instead this just felt like a plot twist. In fact, I'm not entirely sure if the writer knew who the killer was when they first started the book. The first possible clues that could suggest Sana's involvement would be in the last few chapters. It felt like they needed someone to be the killer so they just picked someone that the reader would be shocked by. Sana wasn't revealed to be a psychic till the very last chapter and like what is the Dream realm?! It felt like a bunch of stuff that was made up on the spot for the sake of making it make sense that she was somehow the killer. Overall I felt very let down by the final chapter and I think the book would have really benefitted from a fully formed murderer. I still really enjoyed the book and would recommend it as a very digestible fantasy novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2019
It strikes me that there doesn't seem to be a explanation for the stars that are given. So I thought I'd start giving my take on it.
1 horrible no redeeming qualities. So far I've never given a 1.
2 there are redeeming qualities.
3 good worth reading, or well written but not my cup of tea.
4 great but there's something off.
5 loved it.
This is the first book by B. T. Narrow that I've read. But it won't be the last. I can't wait for the next part.
Reasons I enjoyed this audio book:
Witty, Wonderful characters, Page-turner, Great world building, Unpredictable, Original, Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Action-packed, Twisted.
Bookshelves/tags:
Choose shelves...
elves, fantasy, fighting-war, magic, read, recorded, series, witch, wizards.
This Audiobook was given to me for free at my request from the publisher, author or narrator and I provided this unbiased voluntary review.
1 horrible no redeeming qualities. So far I've never given a 1.
2 there are redeeming qualities.
3 good worth reading, or well written but not my cup of tea.
4 great but there's something off.
5 loved it.
This is the first book by B. T. Narrow that I've read. But it won't be the last. I can't wait for the next part.
Reasons I enjoyed this audio book:
Witty, Wonderful characters, Page-turner, Great world building, Unpredictable, Original, Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Action-packed, Twisted.
Bookshelves/tags:
Choose shelves...
elves, fantasy, fighting-war, magic, read, recorded, series, witch, wizards.
This Audiobook was given to me for free at my request from the publisher, author or narrator and I provided this unbiased voluntary review.
September 20, 2020
Although sometimes it felt like pastry that hadn’t been rolled level, with lumps of information in parts and far too little in others, the story was interesting enough to want to keep reading it.
Although there was nothing explicit, I did find myself wondering about birth control and exactly how old the characters were (although their ages were given or implied) and I wondered exactly what the academy was for as it didn’t seem to be for beginners.
So I guess it was vaguely unsatisfyingly. Oh, I also wondered if I’d missed the story before this one as past events were referenced but not really expanded on.
Although there was nothing explicit, I did find myself wondering about birth control and exactly how old the characters were (although their ages were given or implied) and I wondered exactly what the academy was for as it didn’t seem to be for beginners.
So I guess it was vaguely unsatisfyingly. Oh, I also wondered if I’d missed the story before this one as past events were referenced but not really expanded on.
December 25, 2023
The first of five books. I enjoyed the Jon Oklar series but this is slower. Basen (WTH kind of name is that?) relative of a hated dead king, joins an academy for magicians, warriors, psychics and chemists. They are to be trained to fight the enemies of the country. Though having skill as a swordsman, Basen does fairly well as a magician, even seeming to find a new magic which will open portals. But someone does not want portals open and wants to kiil anyone who does so, and it seems it is a traitor among them. Meanwhile, a previous king starts a coup, killing the old king and threatening all at the academy.
April 13, 2024
The protagonist initially interested me. The world building was also a little unique but then quickly fell into the cliche of "academy training." The action and the protagonist's learning also was engaging. As the political moves became more a part of the story and character intrigue increases, ironically the story becomes less engaging. I probably won't read the next two books since Basen has been turned into a heartthrob instead of a thoughtful, intelligent character. The character inconsistencies undermine the ability to engage with his character as anything more than a plot development tool.
August 3, 2017
My review is based on the Audiobook I really liked this story and the twist at the end is so amazing that I can't wait to get the next book to see where is it takes me. I found the characters to be in depth and likable as well as relatable. Brad C. Wilcox does a great narration. He is easy to follow and his characters are easily distinguishable. Excited for more from this Auhor & narrator!!! I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 22, 2019
Multiple characters in this book, all of them interesting.
This was a good read, but I couldn't connect. Very well thought out and detailed descriptions of the energies and practices. Very believable. For me it was to much. I realize that the author was creating suspense, but with so much going on and no focal point I lost interest. I will continue with the following books just to see the authors intent. Thank you for sharing your imaginations me.6
This was a good read, but I couldn't connect. Very well thought out and detailed descriptions of the energies and practices. Very believable. For me it was to much. I realize that the author was creating suspense, but with so much going on and no focal point I lost interest. I will continue with the following books just to see the authors intent. Thank you for sharing your imaginations me.6
July 24, 2019
Slightly above average YA/School premise
I like the world, but the characters reactions don't feel quite real. I also dislike books about 'special' people who are skilled at everything. While not as bad as some, and he does have flaws, a character who was raised at court then fell from grace and is skilled at combat AND magic is off-putting.
The story has possibilities and I like the world. I'll probably take a look at the second book to see if it's worth pursuing the rest of the series.
I like the world, but the characters reactions don't feel quite real. I also dislike books about 'special' people who are skilled at everything. While not as bad as some, and he does have flaws, a character who was raised at court then fell from grace and is skilled at combat AND magic is off-putting.
The story has possibilities and I like the world. I'll probably take a look at the second book to see if it's worth pursuing the rest of the series.
June 8, 2021
Anyone ever gone onto the men writing women subreddit... yeah it feels like that. All I wanted was a cool fantasy story with swords and magic and yes I got that but then I was sucked right out of the magic because the author needed to decided some lady's chest. It was more the lack of tact than the talk of boobs. also no women in this book has any sort of personality, it feels very much that they are more rewards for the main character than actual people. Disappointed
August 4, 2017
I sat here for several minutes trying to think how I felt about this book. The characters were likable enough. The plot had a steady flow. It kept me reading, until 230 in the morning when I finished the book. This installment felt like it is a setup for something bigger to come. I will keep reading. Don't expect to be wowed by this book but expect a light, easy entertaining read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews