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The Watchmage of Old New York
It is 1855, and Nathaniel Hood walks between two worlds. As the Watchmage of New York City, Nathaniel is charged with protecting, regulating, and administering justice to the myriad supernatural beings immigrating to the city. When his policeman son, Jonas, is brutally beaten by Veil Dwellers—creatures born of human legends and dreams—while investigating a kidnapping that has the city in an uproar, Nathaniel breaks his vow not to interfere with human society and joins the search. While searching for the kidnapped infant heir amidst the broken lives of the supernatural on the Bowery, father and son discover the heir’s terrible secret born in ancient magic, lust, and blood. The Watchmage of Old New York is an expansion of the award-winning and highly popular serial from JukepopSerials.com. It’s a blend of fantasy, history, humor, and mystery, wrapped in a well-detailed and vivid mid-19th century New York.
- GenresFantasy
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2015
9 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Sanders
4 books18 followersC. A. Sanders is a writer, teacher, and essayist. His debut novel, Song of Simon, is available in e-format and print at Damnation Books, Amazon.com, or your local bookseller. His latest release is The Watchmage of Old New York, based on his award-winning serial of the same name. It is available for preorder on Amazon now, and its official release is October 27th.
C.A has a BA in Creative Writing from SUNY New Paltz and an MA from The City College of New York. After graduating in '00, C.A. took on a variety of unique, interesting, and occasionally terrible jobs, in order to gain experience for his writing. C.A. has worked as a tarot reader, a writer/actor in a dinner theater, an ambush salesman, a non-profit solicitor, a Human Resources pencil pusher, a music journalist, a guitar instructor, a limo driver, and a Special Education teacher, to name just a few. He currently tutors and teaches creative writing.
A life long New Yorker, C. A. currently lives in the suburbs of NYC with a turtle that he has had for thirty years. He is patiently waiting for MetroNorth service in his area. He is convinced that this is the year that the Jets win the Super Bowl...he says this every year.
C.A has a BA in Creative Writing from SUNY New Paltz and an MA from The City College of New York. After graduating in '00, C.A. took on a variety of unique, interesting, and occasionally terrible jobs, in order to gain experience for his writing. C.A. has worked as a tarot reader, a writer/actor in a dinner theater, an ambush salesman, a non-profit solicitor, a Human Resources pencil pusher, a music journalist, a guitar instructor, a limo driver, and a Special Education teacher, to name just a few. He currently tutors and teaches creative writing.
A life long New Yorker, C. A. currently lives in the suburbs of NYC with a turtle that he has had for thirty years. He is patiently waiting for MetroNorth service in his area. He is convinced that this is the year that the Jets win the Super Bowl...he says this every year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 18, 2018
I like it. The setting was particularly interesting, bringing to life New York City in an era earlier than one I'm familiar with. I've read a lot about turn of the century New York, but not about the city 50 years earlier. Seeing the city from this prospective was fascinating. The plot was also interesting and the ending twist was unexpected but appropriate. I was less fond of the characters and the magic system. The characters were quite flat. Because of the lack of depth, I never really cared about them. The magic system wasn't developed enough and the limits were poorly defined. The wizard character seemed akin to Superman, too OP. While his son fighting along side him with a gun was even marginally useful was never clear. All that said, it was still an interesting read, which I recommend to those who have an interest in the history of New York.
November 8, 2015
I usually hate fantasy, but I love this book. It's because of the characters and plot. They're legit! I'm sure there are other fantasy mysteries out there (This is more fantasy than mystery), but this is the one I've read and I'm pleasantly surprised.
The story, which takes place in old New York, features a father and son on the hunt for a missing baby. What happened to the baby? What are its deeper connections to the supernatural world? All unfolds at a steady clip, and the final answer is quite the twist. I didn't see it coming.
Now, there are a LOT of fantastic elements in this book, and usually, that's a deal-breaker for me. I don't like trolls or pixies or flying animals. I find the genre annoying. But I didn't find this book annoying. It's because the characters, Nathaniel (the father) and Jonas (the son) ground the narrative. Nathaniel, who is the magician, reminds me somewhat of Dr. Strange, which is pretty much the only magician I'm really into in comic lore. His desire to protect his son at all costs is what really cements the story for me. And what's great is that you get both perspectives, so you see it through two different eyes. And the scenery is amazing. I never thought I wanted to read about old New York until I read this story, but now that I have, I want to travel back to this world. It reminds me somewhat of the game, Dishonored. It just has that feel to it.
In the end, I highly recommend this book. It's a tad bit longer than it needs to be, but the ending is satisfying and it's worth the read. Looking forward to more.
The story, which takes place in old New York, features a father and son on the hunt for a missing baby. What happened to the baby? What are its deeper connections to the supernatural world? All unfolds at a steady clip, and the final answer is quite the twist. I didn't see it coming.
Now, there are a LOT of fantastic elements in this book, and usually, that's a deal-breaker for me. I don't like trolls or pixies or flying animals. I find the genre annoying. But I didn't find this book annoying. It's because the characters, Nathaniel (the father) and Jonas (the son) ground the narrative. Nathaniel, who is the magician, reminds me somewhat of Dr. Strange, which is pretty much the only magician I'm really into in comic lore. His desire to protect his son at all costs is what really cements the story for me. And what's great is that you get both perspectives, so you see it through two different eyes. And the scenery is amazing. I never thought I wanted to read about old New York until I read this story, but now that I have, I want to travel back to this world. It reminds me somewhat of the game, Dishonored. It just has that feel to it.
In the end, I highly recommend this book. It's a tad bit longer than it needs to be, but the ending is satisfying and it's worth the read. Looking forward to more.
November 7, 2015
A fun, atmospheric historical urban fantasy story with a real sense of the period. I enjoyed the many small touches and larger work put into portraying real-life class/culture that infuses the fantastic stuff and makes it meaningful. Maybe starts a bit slow, but I was totally with it by about 20% through. Highly recommended, looking forward to the next one.
November 26, 2015
Every now and then a book comes along that stays with you and becomes a read that you mention every time someone asks for your favourite books. For me, The Watchmage of Old New York is just such a book.
Beautiful, in its own descriptively gritty way, this book manages to steel the reader's mind away to the streets and tenements of late19th century New York, effortlessly enveloping the senses amid the sights, sounds, and smells. I know only a little about the era and the location but, from what I do know, Sanders definitely did his homework. Believable to the point of every single scene feeling like I was actually there.
Then we get to the characters. This book contains some of the most fleshed out, three-dimensional characters I've ever read. My favourite being Jonas, even though I found myself getting cross with him at points - but that's what a good character should make a reader do. Each character had their own distinct voice. I quickly came to the point where I could actually hear them speaking their dialogue in my head, with no effort at all. And speaking of dialogue - WOW! Good dialogue makes people sound real. Great dialogue makes them sound like they're in the room with you and you are an actual witness to their conversations. TWoONY succeeds at achieving the latter.
Finally we come to the story. I won't lie, there is no 'epicness' about this tale. It sort of rambles along, weaving the reader in and out of the lives of the characters, turning occasionally down back alleys, and then punching you in the gut when you least expect it. None of that is a criticism. I enjoy epic fantasy, but this was a refreshing change. I don't think the author meant it to be epic, so he has successfully achieved that, too. This was urban fantasy/historical fantasy at its finest. The inclusion of magic into a real world setting didn't feel at all forced. It was as if magic actually existed in 1855 New York.
I didn't feel too surprised by the ending, even though I know some readers did, but to be honest, a surprise ending would have, in my opinion, felt out of place. The conclusion reached was satisfactory and seemed to sit nicely with the rest of the plot. TWoONY has its own 'rhythm and flow', one I'm more accustomed to seeing on the small screen. I think it'd be perfect adapted as a TV series. The biggest intrigue came in the epilogue. I can't say more, but make sure you read it. Trust me.
The book does use terms that some readers may find offensive. I didn't, as I understood that such terms were used in that time period. I hope other readers will also accept that. I found that to be a big plus as far too many things these days are adapted to suit the politically correct brigade, thus taking the realism out of it. For something set in the real world, realism is key.
If I had any complaints with this book, it would be that there were a couple of instances where tenses seemed to get a little confused. I got confused a few times when it would swap about from past tense to present tense in narrative. However, this was such a small thing, in such a great book, that I easily brushed it to one side. Other than that, the editing was practically flawless.
To sum up, realistic setting filled with truly believable characters and a story that takes you with it every step of the way. First class writing!
Beautiful, in its own descriptively gritty way, this book manages to steel the reader's mind away to the streets and tenements of late19th century New York, effortlessly enveloping the senses amid the sights, sounds, and smells. I know only a little about the era and the location but, from what I do know, Sanders definitely did his homework. Believable to the point of every single scene feeling like I was actually there.
Then we get to the characters. This book contains some of the most fleshed out, three-dimensional characters I've ever read. My favourite being Jonas, even though I found myself getting cross with him at points - but that's what a good character should make a reader do. Each character had their own distinct voice. I quickly came to the point where I could actually hear them speaking their dialogue in my head, with no effort at all. And speaking of dialogue - WOW! Good dialogue makes people sound real. Great dialogue makes them sound like they're in the room with you and you are an actual witness to their conversations. TWoONY succeeds at achieving the latter.
Finally we come to the story. I won't lie, there is no 'epicness' about this tale. It sort of rambles along, weaving the reader in and out of the lives of the characters, turning occasionally down back alleys, and then punching you in the gut when you least expect it. None of that is a criticism. I enjoy epic fantasy, but this was a refreshing change. I don't think the author meant it to be epic, so he has successfully achieved that, too. This was urban fantasy/historical fantasy at its finest. The inclusion of magic into a real world setting didn't feel at all forced. It was as if magic actually existed in 1855 New York.
I didn't feel too surprised by the ending, even though I know some readers did, but to be honest, a surprise ending would have, in my opinion, felt out of place. The conclusion reached was satisfactory and seemed to sit nicely with the rest of the plot. TWoONY has its own 'rhythm and flow', one I'm more accustomed to seeing on the small screen. I think it'd be perfect adapted as a TV series. The biggest intrigue came in the epilogue. I can't say more, but make sure you read it. Trust me.
The book does use terms that some readers may find offensive. I didn't, as I understood that such terms were used in that time period. I hope other readers will also accept that. I found that to be a big plus as far too many things these days are adapted to suit the politically correct brigade, thus taking the realism out of it. For something set in the real world, realism is key.
If I had any complaints with this book, it would be that there were a couple of instances where tenses seemed to get a little confused. I got confused a few times when it would swap about from past tense to present tense in narrative. However, this was such a small thing, in such a great book, that I easily brushed it to one side. Other than that, the editing was practically flawless.
To sum up, realistic setting filled with truly believable characters and a story that takes you with it every step of the way. First class writing!
March 17, 2018
This is an excellent fantasy book, the product of a very imaginative mind! By the mid point of the book I was completely immersed in the magical world of 19th century New York, to the extent it no longer required any suspension of disbelief. This was a world that really could exist! The characters are original and well developed. The plot has plenty of action and a surprise ending. Even if fantasy is not your normal genre I recommend giving this a try because much of the book is grounded in the reality of old New York, which just happens to also be inhabited by fantasy creatures as well as humans.
September 11, 2016
The Watchmage was an intriguing read, with its mixture of fantasy and real world, mystical beings living amongst humans, hiding their true nature. The story centres around the kidnapping with the use of magic, of Stuart Vanderlay, the baby son of a rich family, based in Old New York. Jonas Hood, a municipal Policeman has been tasked with finding the child and enlists the help of his father, the watchmage, Nathaniel Hood. They hit many obstacles in carrying out their task, which all part of the fun of reading this book. I love the old world feel of the story, and the authentic old world language used in the dialogue. A job well done.
The story was cleverly written, and I loved the fact that both Nathaniel and Jonas were written in the first person POV, and the author made it quite clear, who's POV it was at the heading of every chapter. There are some intriguing supporting characters within the story. One of my favourites would have to be Hendricks, the trainee/servant in Nathaniel's household.
This is a must-read for people who like a bit of a magical fantasy.
*I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review
The story was cleverly written, and I loved the fact that both Nathaniel and Jonas were written in the first person POV, and the author made it quite clear, who's POV it was at the heading of every chapter. There are some intriguing supporting characters within the story. One of my favourites would have to be Hendricks, the trainee/servant in Nathaniel's household.
This is a must-read for people who like a bit of a magical fantasy.
*I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review
March 14, 2018
There’s Magic In Old New York
First, let me say, I recommend this book. It was a fascinating dive into a world that was fascinating, and absorbing. Not only do we get to follow a father/son investigation into a murder kidnapping case, but we get to wade through the muck and grit of a city prior to the turn of the 20th century. There is magic in this world, powerful magic. But it is not magic that is without consequence to both the magic use and those around around them. Innocents can get swept up into that magic, so to protect bystanders and magic users, a council of oversight put into place watchmages to ensure the rules (as best as possible) are followed.
I don’t want to give away too much of the plot, but the action comes briskly, and often, much to this reader’s delight. The use of first person perspective is challenging to get right, and in my experience, very few can pull it off. However, this author is deft at using first person with skill. However, the jumping from perspective from father to son was a bit jarring at first. However, by the time I got into the rhythm, it smoothed out for me. By the final half of the book, I really enjoyed it.
This is a wonderful, magical and dangerous start to the series. I look forward to the next one! And am passing Watchmage of Old New York on to my YA daughter.
First, let me say, I recommend this book. It was a fascinating dive into a world that was fascinating, and absorbing. Not only do we get to follow a father/son investigation into a murder kidnapping case, but we get to wade through the muck and grit of a city prior to the turn of the 20th century. There is magic in this world, powerful magic. But it is not magic that is without consequence to both the magic use and those around around them. Innocents can get swept up into that magic, so to protect bystanders and magic users, a council of oversight put into place watchmages to ensure the rules (as best as possible) are followed.
I don’t want to give away too much of the plot, but the action comes briskly, and often, much to this reader’s delight. The use of first person perspective is challenging to get right, and in my experience, very few can pull it off. However, this author is deft at using first person with skill. However, the jumping from perspective from father to son was a bit jarring at first. However, by the time I got into the rhythm, it smoothed out for me. By the final half of the book, I really enjoyed it.
This is a wonderful, magical and dangerous start to the series. I look forward to the next one! And am passing Watchmage of Old New York on to my YA daughter.
April 9, 2018
Let me preface this _ I don' t usually read much fantasy. That said, I found the writing so enjoyable I kept reading, and really had fun with this one. Wow does this writer have an imagination. Really enjoyed the historical New York mixed with wizards, gnomes, dwellers, mages etc. The two main characters, Nathaniel and his son, Jonas Hood, are both engaging characters, so easy to get hooked. They are solving a mystery - kidnapped baby, which also hooks the reader, and the imagery is wonderful. I gave it four instead of five only because I found it hard to track the many characters, and eventually that left me a little confused at the climax. But I wish I could give it 4.5, actually. Fun read, especially if you like the idea of Harry Potter meets Sherlock Homes in Manhattan, when Manhattan still had muddy roads and Central Park was a vague idea, being hotly debated. Good read.
April 7, 2018
I really liked this story. There's enough history to anchor it in reality, enough magic to satisfy a fantasy lover and enough punch to satisfy a lover of action-thriller. Set in 1850's New York City, this story centers around Nathaniel, the Watchmage of New York, a magician who is like a justice of the peace among magical beings, and his non-magical son, Jonas, a police officer. They are trying to solve a mysterious kidnapping and the whole situation gets out of control. The writing is clever and flows as the story escalates at a thrilling pace. I'm looking forward to the next installation.
April 20, 2018
I really enjoyed this book; it had sort of a Neil Gaiman feel to it and reads as a mix of fantasy, mystery, and historical fiction. The author makes the sights, sounds, and smells of early 20th century New York come alive and takes me from seedy backroom fights to the homes of prominent New York society. He also can pack a scene with non-stop action and even a little humor. Quite an imagination created the magical characters and beings in this tale. I'd love to see a flerrier! Truly, I enjoyed reading this book all the way to the surprising resolution.
October 19, 2017
The author really knew how to draw you into a world of magic and history.
This world was amazing and unique. I'm not one for the era but I found myself curious about what was true and what was make believe.
The story followed Jonas a Watchmage in old New York. He hunts down bad guys and saves the innocent from mean creatures all over the city.
I can't say enough good things about this well written work of art.
This world was amazing and unique. I'm not one for the era but I found myself curious about what was true and what was make believe.
The story followed Jonas a Watchmage in old New York. He hunts down bad guys and saves the innocent from mean creatures all over the city.
I can't say enough good things about this well written work of art.
February 21, 2018
Fantasy is not typically my favorite genre. I did enjoy this book, but did have difficulty at times keeping up with the various characters and the plot. Sometimes I had to go back and re-read certain sections. The book was well edited and the storyline was set at a good pace. There was murder, kidnapping, love, death, and many fantasy creatures. I like the ending which had me guessing for quite a while.
All in all an enjoyable read.
All in all an enjoyable read.
February 24, 2018
Old New York City With A Twist
The Watchmage is tasked with keeping the various magical creatures in old New York in line, while his son, a policeman, deals primarily with the less magical citizens. A baby is stolen from the Vanderbuilt family and they join forces to solve the crime.
Featuring interesting characters and a twisting plotline, this one should appeal to most fans of steampunk and historical fiction novels.
The Watchmage is tasked with keeping the various magical creatures in old New York in line, while his son, a policeman, deals primarily with the less magical citizens. A baby is stolen from the Vanderbuilt family and they join forces to solve the crime.
Featuring interesting characters and a twisting plotline, this one should appeal to most fans of steampunk and historical fiction novels.
October 22, 2017
The Watchmage of Old New York
I don't usually read books of this genre but this was very good! All of the characters were quite developed and very interesting. I hope there is more in book 2 of these characters. A great read!!
I don't usually read books of this genre but this was very good! All of the characters were quite developed and very interesting. I hope there is more in book 2 of these characters. A great read!!
February 1, 2020
Well written. The author paints a world that injects the reader into 1920's New York, but with a fantastical twist.
November 3, 2015
I was originally attracted to this book because I am from New York and have been fascinated by the 19th century in the city for many years. While this is a fantasy, Sanders still maintains the unique flavor of the New York City in 1855. Interspersing the gangs of New York, the crowded streets, the corruption in politics and on the police forces with gnomes, wizards, and mages is a brilliant blend of reality and imagination. I was hooked from the first page.
More than a fantasy, this is a story of relationships. Nathaniel Hood is the Mage and as such he is responsible for maintaining stability in the city he loves. But he carries his own personal baggage. Aching for his late wife, concerned for his son Jonas, and determined to keep the balance in his own life, he struggles with the weights assigned him by his life. His son Jonas has dedicated himself to his work as a Municipal Policeman, carrying burdens of his own. Father and son are both committed to doing “good” although they approach things from very different angles.
At the heart of this story is the search for a missing baby, the son of a prestigious New York family, the Vanderlays. Although Nathaniel has remained outside the issues of the everyday common world, he is drawn into the investigation of the kidnapping after Jonas is savagely attacked by Veil Dwellers. Filled with stunning twists and turns, vibrant characters, and unexpected secrets, the story drew me in and held my attention throughout. Beautifully written with colorful descriptions of the city and its inhabitants, both human and non-human, this is a book that demands to be read. The character development is remarkable and the settings so real I could practically smell the smoke and crowded streets of old New York.
High praise for C.A.Sanders and “The Watchmage of Old New York” as I eagerly look forward to the next book in this series.
More than a fantasy, this is a story of relationships. Nathaniel Hood is the Mage and as such he is responsible for maintaining stability in the city he loves. But he carries his own personal baggage. Aching for his late wife, concerned for his son Jonas, and determined to keep the balance in his own life, he struggles with the weights assigned him by his life. His son Jonas has dedicated himself to his work as a Municipal Policeman, carrying burdens of his own. Father and son are both committed to doing “good” although they approach things from very different angles.
At the heart of this story is the search for a missing baby, the son of a prestigious New York family, the Vanderlays. Although Nathaniel has remained outside the issues of the everyday common world, he is drawn into the investigation of the kidnapping after Jonas is savagely attacked by Veil Dwellers. Filled with stunning twists and turns, vibrant characters, and unexpected secrets, the story drew me in and held my attention throughout. Beautifully written with colorful descriptions of the city and its inhabitants, both human and non-human, this is a book that demands to be read. The character development is remarkable and the settings so real I could practically smell the smoke and crowded streets of old New York.
High praise for C.A.Sanders and “The Watchmage of Old New York” as I eagerly look forward to the next book in this series.
November 21, 2015
Exuberant fantasy showing two sides to 19thC New York
Fantasy is probably my favourite genre but unfortunately that means I’ve grown jaded reading so many books that rehash the same old stories and characters. C.A.Sanders brightened up my evening with this exuberant and inventive novel. 19th century New York is a character in itself, with its Jewish community and thug underworld. I love the historical background and the dual nature of the city as perceived fully by those with magical powers.
The watchmage himself, Nathaniel, is a sympathetic character, burdened both by his responsibility to police the city’s magical inhabitants and by his grief, which has imposed some past barriers between himself and his son Jason. I’m hoping that in the second book we find out more about this backstory.
Jason shares the narrative and is responsible for policing the non-magical inhabitants of New York, working with his father when necessary. The partnership between Jason and Nathaniel’s powerful but untrained assistant leads to some wild duels both with and without magic. All of the combat scene are action-packed, with clever twists and unexpected solutions to apparent dead ends – ‘dead ends’ for some of our favourite characters, that is.
I did not see the end coming and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am completely hooked on the main characters who combine superhero qualities with a humanity regarding others’ failings and some political wiles.
‘The Watchmage of Old New York’ is extremely well-written, spare and telling in style, daring in imagination. And I have added a flerrier to my list for Santa. I want one.
Fantasy is probably my favourite genre but unfortunately that means I’ve grown jaded reading so many books that rehash the same old stories and characters. C.A.Sanders brightened up my evening with this exuberant and inventive novel. 19th century New York is a character in itself, with its Jewish community and thug underworld. I love the historical background and the dual nature of the city as perceived fully by those with magical powers.
The watchmage himself, Nathaniel, is a sympathetic character, burdened both by his responsibility to police the city’s magical inhabitants and by his grief, which has imposed some past barriers between himself and his son Jason. I’m hoping that in the second book we find out more about this backstory.
Jason shares the narrative and is responsible for policing the non-magical inhabitants of New York, working with his father when necessary. The partnership between Jason and Nathaniel’s powerful but untrained assistant leads to some wild duels both with and without magic. All of the combat scene are action-packed, with clever twists and unexpected solutions to apparent dead ends – ‘dead ends’ for some of our favourite characters, that is.
I did not see the end coming and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am completely hooked on the main characters who combine superhero qualities with a humanity regarding others’ failings and some political wiles.
‘The Watchmage of Old New York’ is extremely well-written, spare and telling in style, daring in imagination. And I have added a flerrier to my list for Santa. I want one.
December 11, 2015
The Watchmage of old New York is a gem. Well crafted, full of pyrotechnical plot elements, it is fascinating from the very beginning. Literature and media is full of tales of Victorian New York City. Mr. Sanders merges the magic of old New York with actual magic. The watchmage is a guardian of “dwellers”, paranormal creatures from other planes of existence that cross a barrier that is called “The Veil”. He watches over them, helping them find decent lives on the earthly plane. His ammunition in this pursuit is an impressive array of magic that he uses to subdue evil humans and dwellers alike.
Those of us who know New York City can delight in the obviously meticulous research that Mr. Sanders has undertaken to resurrect Victorian New York in incredible detail. The slang, the old neighborhoods, like Five Points, now lost to history, all of these will entertain even those readers who know little about New York City. But more than that, “The Watchmage of Old New York” is a taught, intelligent tale of magic, tough cops, and an immense variety of add creatures from different planes of existence. The most impressive aspect of the story is how the author overlays a fully formed world of paranormal creatures and phenomena over a very definite and gritty Victorian New York without it being the least bit awkward. The reader accepts a mage, magelings and assorted other “dwellers” as if they belonged walking with the Irish, paperboys and the Pug Uglies.
This is a book not to be missed.
Those of us who know New York City can delight in the obviously meticulous research that Mr. Sanders has undertaken to resurrect Victorian New York in incredible detail. The slang, the old neighborhoods, like Five Points, now lost to history, all of these will entertain even those readers who know little about New York City. But more than that, “The Watchmage of Old New York” is a taught, intelligent tale of magic, tough cops, and an immense variety of add creatures from different planes of existence. The most impressive aspect of the story is how the author overlays a fully formed world of paranormal creatures and phenomena over a very definite and gritty Victorian New York without it being the least bit awkward. The reader accepts a mage, magelings and assorted other “dwellers” as if they belonged walking with the Irish, paperboys and the Pug Uglies.
This is a book not to be missed.
February 3, 2016
Free book for honest review. juliesbokreview.blogspot.com
Rating: 4 Stars
Fantasy is not my normal genre. I struggle with mythical creatures and keeping them straight. Is there a difference between a pixie and a fairy?? This is why I normally shy away from fanciful creatures in stories. However this novel's main characters are in fact human or at least I am pretty sure Nathaniel is still human despite being a wizard. The story goes back in forth in points of view from Nathaniel to his son Jonas giving the ready two points of view in terms of the investigation. The story centers around a kidnapping of a human child by magical forces. Jonas (a police officer) must team up with his father Nathaniel (a policeman of sorts for magical creatures) to solve the crime and bring the child home.
The book is easy to read and follow and kept me engaged in the mystery as it unfolded. I was able to finish it in just a couple days so it is a good length and the story didn't feel drawn out. If you enjoy a good mystery with supernatural aspects this is your book.
Ana Elise Meyer
Twitter:@AnaEliseMeyer
Facebook: www.facebook.com/anaelisemeyer
Rating: 4 Stars
Fantasy is not my normal genre. I struggle with mythical creatures and keeping them straight. Is there a difference between a pixie and a fairy?? This is why I normally shy away from fanciful creatures in stories. However this novel's main characters are in fact human or at least I am pretty sure Nathaniel is still human despite being a wizard. The story goes back in forth in points of view from Nathaniel to his son Jonas giving the ready two points of view in terms of the investigation. The story centers around a kidnapping of a human child by magical forces. Jonas (a police officer) must team up with his father Nathaniel (a policeman of sorts for magical creatures) to solve the crime and bring the child home.
The book is easy to read and follow and kept me engaged in the mystery as it unfolded. I was able to finish it in just a couple days so it is a good length and the story didn't feel drawn out. If you enjoy a good mystery with supernatural aspects this is your book.
Ana Elise Meyer
Twitter:@AnaEliseMeyer
Facebook: www.facebook.com/anaelisemeyer
November 4, 2015
Fantasy is not my normal genre. I struggle with mythical creatures and keeping them straight. Is there a difference between a pixie and a fairy?? This is why I normally shy away from fanciful creatures in stories. However this novel's main characters are in fact human or at least I am pretty sure Nathaniel is still human despite being a wizard. The story goes back in forth in points of view from Nathaniel to his son Jonas giving the ready two points of view in terms of the investigation. The story centers around a kidnapping of a human child by magical forces. Jonas (a police officer) must team up with his father Nathaniel (a policeman of sorts for magical creatures) to solve the crime and bring the child home.
The book is easy to read and follow and kept me engaged in the mystery as it unfolded. I was able to finish it in just a couple days so it is a good length and the story didn't feel drawn out. If you enjoy a good mystery with supernatural aspects this is your book.
The book is easy to read and follow and kept me engaged in the mystery as it unfolded. I was able to finish it in just a couple days so it is a good length and the story didn't feel drawn out. If you enjoy a good mystery with supernatural aspects this is your book.
October 28, 2015
A copy of this Book Was Given To Me By The Author In Exchange For An Honest Review*
The story is a good one, except that I felt it would have been a better read if nearer to 200 pages instead of over 300. The author keeps to his rules in Nathaniel’s world and you will have no trouble identifying with him. Whilst this storey does not end in a cliff hanger, I guarantee that the ending will be a surprise: you will not see the explanation of the kidnapping of the baby as something you thought of yourself At least I didn’t - - and I usually do.
Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
The story is a good one, except that I felt it would have been a better read if nearer to 200 pages instead of over 300. The author keeps to his rules in Nathaniel’s world and you will have no trouble identifying with him. Whilst this storey does not end in a cliff hanger, I guarantee that the ending will be a surprise: you will not see the explanation of the kidnapping of the baby as something you thought of yourself At least I didn’t - - and I usually do.
Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
October 27, 2015
This book was given to me by the author pre-release in exchange for an honest review. This book takes the reader on a trip through the familiar New York City area in the 1800s at a time when magic was alive and well. There is a mystery that needs to be solved with many magical elements much like Mercedes Lackey's Elemental Masters series. If you love Mercedes Lackey and the magical aspects she adds to Europe then this is a book for you!
The writing style and prose is well done too! The storyline along with the writing style kept my interest and was hard to put down. If you like fantasy elements superimposed over real places than this is the one for you.
The writing style and prose is well done too! The storyline along with the writing style kept my interest and was hard to put down. If you like fantasy elements superimposed over real places than this is the one for you.
December 23, 2016
A joy to read...
I absolutely loved this book. It's been a while since a fantasy boom has gripped me in this way. I took my time getting through it, partly because of the demands of daily life, and partly because I was enjoying savouring the experience. The world created in the story is rich and draws you into a somehow familiar yet altogether foreign New York. Join the watchmage and his son as they try to solve the mystery of a missing baby. It takes both their efforts, one from a world of magic and the other desperately trying to find a place for himself in the world of mortal men. All I can say is, read it!
I absolutely loved this book. It's been a while since a fantasy boom has gripped me in this way. I took my time getting through it, partly because of the demands of daily life, and partly because I was enjoying savouring the experience. The world created in the story is rich and draws you into a somehow familiar yet altogether foreign New York. Join the watchmage and his son as they try to solve the mystery of a missing baby. It takes both their efforts, one from a world of magic and the other desperately trying to find a place for himself in the world of mortal men. All I can say is, read it!
April 13, 2016
Sanders' second book takes a different Direction than his "Song of Simon" did. This time he reaches into the past and his careful research of the history of New York city adds veracity to this alternate history. The blending of fact and the fantastic adds depth to the tapestry he weaves of this period of time, with more than just human immigrants struggling to make their way where the streets are not paved in gold as promised. His descriptions of the city and the authentic language gives insight to the thoughts and motivations of his characters.
October 30, 2015
This one was unlike any book I have read before and I found it very interesting. We are taken to a world with many wonders and interesting characters. A world filled with magick and mayhem. I found the story line intriguing and wanted to know more with each turn of the page. I was captivated by the characters and had no clue as to what was really going on and was guessing until the end. I had no idea it would turn out the way it did and I cannot wait to see what comes from this series.
February 26, 2016
Historical debauchery, flying dogs and tons of action! A fantasy novel that's not for the faint of heart. In Watchmage, C.A. Sanders once again takes us to a world of magic. Much like his first novel (Song of Simon) the imagery is masterful. The plot intrigues the reader and keeps them hooked until the end. I can't wait for book 2!! Five huge stars!
October 27, 2015
4 Stars
An excellent action packed adventure. Great character interaction, an enticing plot, fighting, magic, and a whole lot of entertainment. There are some spelling errors, but they do not detract from the story.
I highly recommend this to all who like to read.
An excellent action packed adventure. Great character interaction, an enticing plot, fighting, magic, and a whole lot of entertainment. There are some spelling errors, but they do not detract from the story.
I highly recommend this to all who like to read.
September 21, 2016
An escape from reality
A fun blend of magic, history, love, loss, and action, with just a touch of whimsy thrown in. I plan I reading future sequels.
A fun blend of magic, history, love, loss, and action, with just a touch of whimsy thrown in. I plan I reading future sequels.
March 5, 2018
It takes a time period that I knew nothing about had such detail that I couldn't tell what was real or not.
April 8, 2016
Imaginative. Too dumb for me. Good for teen readers.
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