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The Paladin Sequence #1
Devil's Garden: Book One of the Paladin Sequence
God will never grant a pardon to those who seed The Devil's Garden"
In the green paradise of what was the Mayan Empire, something dark has begun. Father Lamas has been performing exorcisms without Papal authorization, but it doesn't stop there. Reports of missing children lead Paladin to the depths of the jungle, where the Shadows are alive and well. Nothing is as it seems as Gerald and Matthew learn what has awakened in the Devil's Garden!
Devil's Garden introduces Gerald Ironblood, Alpha Exorcist of the Holy See, American Liaison with the Bureau Of Exorcism, and mentor of Matthew Paladin. The occult forces that have drawn Paladin and Ironblood together unfold as a possessed girl s family deals with the terrifying reality of the Infernals. An apparently simple exorcism spirals into a series of encounters orchestrated by something from beyond. As the players are revealed, Matthew joins Ironblood on a mission to bring an errant priest back into the fold.
ABOUT THE PALADIN SEQUENCE
The Paladin Sequence is an introduction to a world on the brink of apocalypse. Told through the eyes of Matthew Paladin, an exorcist who knows all too well what it means to be a thrall to an infernal force, the Paladin Sequence is a retrospective account of the events that have led Matthew to the end of what seems to be mankind s best hope for salvation. As his allies fall around him, he remembers what brought them together to do battle with forces that were ancient when man first walked the earth. Through a series of flashbacks, we meet the people that are trapped in a web of prophecy written in the religious scriptures of the world, all bound by the presences of two key Paladin and Azrael.
In the green paradise of what was the Mayan Empire, something dark has begun. Father Lamas has been performing exorcisms without Papal authorization, but it doesn't stop there. Reports of missing children lead Paladin to the depths of the jungle, where the Shadows are alive and well. Nothing is as it seems as Gerald and Matthew learn what has awakened in the Devil's Garden!
Devil's Garden introduces Gerald Ironblood, Alpha Exorcist of the Holy See, American Liaison with the Bureau Of Exorcism, and mentor of Matthew Paladin. The occult forces that have drawn Paladin and Ironblood together unfold as a possessed girl s family deals with the terrifying reality of the Infernals. An apparently simple exorcism spirals into a series of encounters orchestrated by something from beyond. As the players are revealed, Matthew joins Ironblood on a mission to bring an errant priest back into the fold.
ABOUT THE PALADIN SEQUENCE
The Paladin Sequence is an introduction to a world on the brink of apocalypse. Told through the eyes of Matthew Paladin, an exorcist who knows all too well what it means to be a thrall to an infernal force, the Paladin Sequence is a retrospective account of the events that have led Matthew to the end of what seems to be mankind s best hope for salvation. As his allies fall around him, he remembers what brought them together to do battle with forces that were ancient when man first walked the earth. Through a series of flashbacks, we meet the people that are trapped in a web of prophecy written in the religious scriptures of the world, all bound by the presences of two key Paladin and Azrael.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2015
4 people are currently reading
1237 people want to read
About the author
Lance Tuck
4 books19 followersBorn in 1970, Lance Tuck was raised in the shadows of the Great Chalk Pyramids of Western Kansas. His formative years were spent exploring the fossil beds and ecosystems of the great plains, guided by his grandfather, a Navy officer and scientist who encouraged a rational, scientific view of the world around us. His grandmother and mother encouraged his appetites for the fantastic, teaching him about the mythologies and religions around the world, and the esoteric orders that forged the realities of history. The surprisingly effective public school system added the final elements that created the information processing systems responsible for the literary efforts you hold before you.
His literary influences include Robert E. Howard, Lord Dunsany, H.P. Lovecraft, Frank Herbert, Michael Moorcock, Richard Adams and Stephen King. Alan Moore, Chris Claremont, Garth Ennis and Kieron Gillen have made significant impacts on his storytelling styles. His uncle Dan’s comic collection spanned the sixties and seventies; his father’s pulp novels from the forties and fifties were fodder for his imagination as well.
Graduating from Kansas State University with degrees in Psychology and Anthropology led to a lifelong love of tattooing. Lance is a practitioner and instructor of tattooing in Kansas, and has been plying this trade for nearly twenty five years. And through all that time, there have been stories to tell.
You might hear a verbal history of Ancient Egypt, or the Indus River valley, or maybe a classic multi-issue arc from one of his favorite comic series. He might perform a film, or, if you are very lucky, he might tell you one of his own. This oral tradition is what forged Paladin and all the characters from his world, as well as dozens of others. His first foray into professional writing is The Paladin Sequence.
His literary influences include Robert E. Howard, Lord Dunsany, H.P. Lovecraft, Frank Herbert, Michael Moorcock, Richard Adams and Stephen King. Alan Moore, Chris Claremont, Garth Ennis and Kieron Gillen have made significant impacts on his storytelling styles. His uncle Dan’s comic collection spanned the sixties and seventies; his father’s pulp novels from the forties and fifties were fodder for his imagination as well.
Graduating from Kansas State University with degrees in Psychology and Anthropology led to a lifelong love of tattooing. Lance is a practitioner and instructor of tattooing in Kansas, and has been plying this trade for nearly twenty five years. And through all that time, there have been stories to tell.
You might hear a verbal history of Ancient Egypt, or the Indus River valley, or maybe a classic multi-issue arc from one of his favorite comic series. He might perform a film, or, if you are very lucky, he might tell you one of his own. This oral tradition is what forged Paladin and all the characters from his world, as well as dozens of others. His first foray into professional writing is The Paladin Sequence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 4, 2018
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway (signed by the author) :)First off I want to say this is a really cool title for the book. I love it.
This book is all about demons and exorcisms. It followed a priest named Ironblood and a man named Paladin. They show you many encounters they come into. It all leads up to battling and overcoming a priest and his followers who believe this great Shadow is God and is performing unauthorized exorcisms to please 'God'.
Now the book wasn't awful. The concept,story, and subject seemed very interesting. I was really looking forward to reading this. I liked all the encounters in the book. I was enjoying it and was interested, BUT my problem with this is I was confused most of the time. This could be because I was focused enough, but I didn't follow along with this book well. I kept getting confused on the timeline, where they were, and on some characters. I just didn't seem to know what was really happening a lot of the time. I feel like this could have been a 5 star book, but it just wasn't organized well enough for me. I have to say I did like the ending chapters of the book. I plan on reading this a second time at some point just to see if I can better understand, and maybe then I will enjoy it more and write a different review.
This book is all about demons and exorcisms. It followed a priest named Ironblood and a man named Paladin. They show you many encounters they come into. It all leads up to battling and overcoming a priest and his followers who believe this great Shadow is God and is performing unauthorized exorcisms to please 'God'.
Now the book wasn't awful. The concept,story, and subject seemed very interesting. I was really looking forward to reading this. I liked all the encounters in the book. I was enjoying it and was interested, BUT my problem with this is I was confused most of the time. This could be because I was focused enough, but I didn't follow along with this book well. I kept getting confused on the timeline, where they were, and on some characters. I just didn't seem to know what was really happening a lot of the time. I feel like this could have been a 5 star book, but it just wasn't organized well enough for me. I have to say I did like the ending chapters of the book. I plan on reading this a second time at some point just to see if I can better understand, and maybe then I will enjoy it more and write a different review.
October 8, 2015
Lance Tuck's Devil's Garden is a multi-layered story revolving around supernatural entities that are able to possess or take over humans. Not only are we talking about demons and fallen angels; but much older creatures from before the creation of mankind as well.
The main characters are Gerald Ironblood and Matthew Paladin. Ironblood is an expert exorcist who works directly for the Papacy within a small group that has power and sway over a number of the world's governments. He first discovered how powerful the Infernals (as they call the possessing spirits) are while serving as a sapper during the second World War.
Paladin is a man who was possessed as a child due to his father's involvement in diabolic arts. As an adult, he still carries his "passenger" despite many travels and attempts to remove the spirit through various means. Although Paladin does wish to be rid of the uninvited guest, it does come through to aid him on occasion. Paladin is also a part of Ironblood's exorcist group.
The story itself jumps through various time periods. This allows the readers to have a better understanding of Ironblood and Paladin's experiences that led them to their current situation.
This book is full of interesting ideas on demonology, creationism, and the supernatural. It reads quite smoothly and kept me turning pages once the hooks were into me. It only took a few pages to catch my fancy and get my interest.
My biggest recommendation to those involved would be to do some better formatting and editing before releasing anything else. Small print, some strange spacing, and two paragraphs being repeated at random 8 pages after their initial use were the issues that really stood out to me.
I would definitely read more by this author and am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
The main characters are Gerald Ironblood and Matthew Paladin. Ironblood is an expert exorcist who works directly for the Papacy within a small group that has power and sway over a number of the world's governments. He first discovered how powerful the Infernals (as they call the possessing spirits) are while serving as a sapper during the second World War.
Paladin is a man who was possessed as a child due to his father's involvement in diabolic arts. As an adult, he still carries his "passenger" despite many travels and attempts to remove the spirit through various means. Although Paladin does wish to be rid of the uninvited guest, it does come through to aid him on occasion. Paladin is also a part of Ironblood's exorcist group.
The story itself jumps through various time periods. This allows the readers to have a better understanding of Ironblood and Paladin's experiences that led them to their current situation.
This book is full of interesting ideas on demonology, creationism, and the supernatural. It reads quite smoothly and kept me turning pages once the hooks were into me. It only took a few pages to catch my fancy and get my interest.
My biggest recommendation to those involved would be to do some better formatting and editing before releasing anything else. Small print, some strange spacing, and two paragraphs being repeated at random 8 pages after their initial use were the issues that really stood out to me.
I would definitely read more by this author and am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
June 30, 2015
From the first sentence of the first page you're completely pulled in to this world. The characters, the settings, the story line- it's all brilliant. The fact this will be a very long series is the most exciting. There's so much to dig into it'll be an amazing series to follow along. If you haven't picked up your copy- you should probably do that now.
March 14, 2016
What A Ride!
The summary for Devil's Garden is as follows:
The Paladin Sequence is an introduction to a world on the brink of apocalypse. Told through the eyes of Matthew Paladin, an exorcist who knows all too well what it means to be a thrall to an infernal force, the Paladin Sequence is a retrospective account of the events that have led Matthew to the end of what seems to be mankind’s best hope for salvation....
This story is amazing because you don't just get to know why things are happening but how. As the reader you're introduced to key players that bring to you a visual, sometimes bloody, how Paladin is to battle against Original Evil.
Tuck carefully developed histories and personalities that are both tortured and full of faith to do what they're required to do to help all that are lost and ignorant to what's happening around them. I personally loved Gerald Ironblood's story. Not only did he go up against The demon and fail; he sulked then came back like Rocky Balboa and blew it away... for a while. Paladin's story is deeper and as you travel across and around the world, you find out just how much research and planning went into this book.
I was amazed, grossed out and encouraged to read until it ended... Or did it?
http://tinyurl.com/h57b27s
The summary for Devil's Garden is as follows:
The Paladin Sequence is an introduction to a world on the brink of apocalypse. Told through the eyes of Matthew Paladin, an exorcist who knows all too well what it means to be a thrall to an infernal force, the Paladin Sequence is a retrospective account of the events that have led Matthew to the end of what seems to be mankind’s best hope for salvation....
This story is amazing because you don't just get to know why things are happening but how. As the reader you're introduced to key players that bring to you a visual, sometimes bloody, how Paladin is to battle against Original Evil.
Tuck carefully developed histories and personalities that are both tortured and full of faith to do what they're required to do to help all that are lost and ignorant to what's happening around them. I personally loved Gerald Ironblood's story. Not only did he go up against The demon and fail; he sulked then came back like Rocky Balboa and blew it away... for a while. Paladin's story is deeper and as you travel across and around the world, you find out just how much research and planning went into this book.
I was amazed, grossed out and encouraged to read until it ended... Or did it?
http://tinyurl.com/h57b27s
February 13, 2017
This book was sent to me from the publisher and I can’t thank them enough for sending me this to jewels.
This mixture of ancient powers, exorcisms, demons and many more, were so good. I just love to read books that are really dark in some stuffs and this one in particular blew my mind. I was so amaze on how the story develops itself. When I finally got to read more about Gerald he was kind of dark even if his in the Alfa Exorcist of the Holy See. But everything about Matthew Paladin for me was more interesting, I don’t know why. It shows lots of faces on how we see everything in different perspectives. Mainly here you can the dark side, which is basically demons and everything that is bad. And then you have the side of Gerald, his is a follower of the good things (most of). His in the path of God.
You can also see some supernatural things going on here. Places that are breath taking. I am messing everything up right now. It is a good book, and if you are more in the dark things. You should give this book a BIG TRY !
This mixture of ancient powers, exorcisms, demons and many more, were so good. I just love to read books that are really dark in some stuffs and this one in particular blew my mind. I was so amaze on how the story develops itself. When I finally got to read more about Gerald he was kind of dark even if his in the Alfa Exorcist of the Holy See. But everything about Matthew Paladin for me was more interesting, I don’t know why. It shows lots of faces on how we see everything in different perspectives. Mainly here you can the dark side, which is basically demons and everything that is bad. And then you have the side of Gerald, his is a follower of the good things (most of). His in the path of God.
You can also see some supernatural things going on here. Places that are breath taking. I am messing everything up right now. It is a good book, and if you are more in the dark things. You should give this book a BIG TRY !
January 19, 2016
3.5
This was quite an interesting book. It was fairly entertaining. I really liked how all the characters, even minor ones, we're likeable. Usually I do not like all characters in a book and get bored if attention is focused on so many different characters, but this was not the case here. The characters were nice and interesting. Iron blood and Mathew, the main characters were quite likeable and they seem to make a great team. Even Mathew and his 'passenger' had quite the interesting relationship and interactions. I hope we get to see more of them in the next book!
I also really liked how this book showed the horrors and disgusting things people do in the name of 'God.' It is clear that the one true God would not ask one to commit such atrocities. Just goes to show how deceptive and tempting these evil ancient beings are.
Overall, I enjoyed this book well enough. Will most likely pick up the 2nd book to this series.
This was quite an interesting book. It was fairly entertaining. I really liked how all the characters, even minor ones, we're likeable. Usually I do not like all characters in a book and get bored if attention is focused on so many different characters, but this was not the case here. The characters were nice and interesting. Iron blood and Mathew, the main characters were quite likeable and they seem to make a great team. Even Mathew and his 'passenger' had quite the interesting relationship and interactions. I hope we get to see more of them in the next book!
I also really liked how this book showed the horrors and disgusting things people do in the name of 'God.' It is clear that the one true God would not ask one to commit such atrocities. Just goes to show how deceptive and tempting these evil ancient beings are.
Overall, I enjoyed this book well enough. Will most likely pick up the 2nd book to this series.
October 25, 2015
3.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads' First Reads program. I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I began reading, but I did find the story engaging, and fast moving. What initially seemed to be a book about a priest exorcising demons turned out to have quite a broader scope. Along with the angels and demons of the Christian tradition, the author also explores some of the Aztec mythos. If you are a fan of the TV show Supernatural, you'll probably recognize some of the angel and demon names sprinkled throughout this. Getting into the book at first was a bit challenging, as it does jump viewpoints and times, but the story still could be followed. I am intrigued by the world the author is building, and curious to see where this goes as the series plays out.
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads' First Reads program. I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I began reading, but I did find the story engaging, and fast moving. What initially seemed to be a book about a priest exorcising demons turned out to have quite a broader scope. Along with the angels and demons of the Christian tradition, the author also explores some of the Aztec mythos. If you are a fan of the TV show Supernatural, you'll probably recognize some of the angel and demon names sprinkled throughout this. Getting into the book at first was a bit challenging, as it does jump viewpoints and times, but the story still could be followed. I am intrigued by the world the author is building, and curious to see where this goes as the series plays out.
July 22, 2015
I received this as a Goodreads First Read Giveaway.
All I can say is wow. Lance Tuck takes exorcism to the next level. His attention to detail is flawless. I know I will have trouble sleeping with his detail account of demon possession. I really enjoyed this book. My only suggestion to new readers is be engaged in the reading. It will take you on an intriguing journey if you allow it. I couldn't decide who my favorite character was. I loved both Gerald and Matthew. If I had to pick I would say Matthew's dark passenger intrigued me the most. I look forward to reading more from this author. Thank you Goodreads for giving me the opportunity to read this epic book.
All I can say is wow. Lance Tuck takes exorcism to the next level. His attention to detail is flawless. I know I will have trouble sleeping with his detail account of demon possession. I really enjoyed this book. My only suggestion to new readers is be engaged in the reading. It will take you on an intriguing journey if you allow it. I couldn't decide who my favorite character was. I loved both Gerald and Matthew. If I had to pick I would say Matthew's dark passenger intrigued me the most. I look forward to reading more from this author. Thank you Goodreads for giving me the opportunity to read this epic book.
September 13, 2015
I really enjoyed this book in many unexpected ways. I really thought the direct way that Ironblood and Paladin dealt with exorcisms was enlightening and captured my imagination as no other book has ever done. Ironblood had authorisation by the then pope and was sent to deal with infernals accordingly. The interaction between Ironblood and Paladin was inspired and Paladin obviously had his own ‘demon’ to contend with which added a depth to the story. This book went by in a flash and was very hard to put down. If you like a story that will get your blood pumping then this has to be the one.
July 11, 2015
This book was not what I excepted it to be! I really enjoy a good surprise. This book was creepy and supernatural. I enjoy books about demons and supernatural. This author has a new way to write about these things like this. This book definitely held my attention. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 2, 2015
I received this book in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
I was pleasantly surprised by this one... Very different from what I normally read. It kept me engaged and interested. It starts off exciting and doesn't stop. I would definitely recommend this to someone wanting to try something a little new and different!
I was pleasantly surprised by this one... Very different from what I normally read. It kept me engaged and interested. It starts off exciting and doesn't stop. I would definitely recommend this to someone wanting to try something a little new and different!
October 12, 2016
This book sets up a very intriguing world. The author clearly has a deep knowledge of demonology and religious lore. I have a feeling this series is not going to be for the faint of heart. I'm looking forward to reading all 13!
September 21, 2015
I was afraid it was going to be one of those "The Exorcist" knock-offs. I was wrong, very wrong. Fantastic story, drew me in after the second chapter. Highly engaging and I can't wait for the next book in the series!
April 17, 2016
Demons
Exorcisms
I enjoyed this book, very entertaining and the flow of the book keeps you interested.
Have to say that the description of the book will do a way better job of finding out what it is all about, but looking forward to reading the next Paladin Sequence, which I do have.
Exorcisms
I enjoyed this book, very entertaining and the flow of the book keeps you interested.
Have to say that the description of the book will do a way better job of finding out what it is all about, but looking forward to reading the next Paladin Sequence, which I do have.
November 2, 2015
Received by Goodreads First Reads
It's a book that uses many religions things without getting preachy. It's also pretty exciting and gets pretty wacky near the end. Go read this
It's a book that uses many religions things without getting preachy. It's also pretty exciting and gets pretty wacky near the end. Go read this
October 22, 2015
Great sci-fi/fantasy blend. The characters are engaging, and the story draws you in page by page. It is well written, and keeps a great pace. I'm really looking forward to the future installments!
November 13, 2019
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I feel terrible about waiting so long to read this book. I started it a while back after winning a copy a few years ago but it got packed away a few times when I moved and I only rediscovered it recently with others so if Mr Tuck is reading this, I am so so so sorry.
Devil's Garden definitely kept me occupied and I really didn't want to put it down at all (but had to when at work). Lance Tuck really knows how to keep the reader entranced with the plot and the characters so much so = that when you get to the end, you're left with wanting a whole lot more.
A few grammatical and spelling errors but nothing so outrageous that it would really draw a lot of attention.
I was quite pleased with this reading and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I feel terrible about waiting so long to read this book. I started it a while back after winning a copy a few years ago but it got packed away a few times when I moved and I only rediscovered it recently with others so if Mr Tuck is reading this, I am so so so sorry.
Devil's Garden definitely kept me occupied and I really didn't want to put it down at all (but had to when at work). Lance Tuck really knows how to keep the reader entranced with the plot and the characters so much so = that when you get to the end, you're left with wanting a whole lot more.
A few grammatical and spelling errors but nothing so outrageous that it would really draw a lot of attention.
I was quite pleased with this reading and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
February 3, 2017
Intense well written book about exorcism. This book is amazing. It is well written and executed. Different time periods are referenced as Gerald Ironblood and Matthew deal with possessions. This book is thick with fascinating details and characters. I would highly recommend this book to all my friends who enjoy horror and suspense. It is a book that may take a little more time to read because of the amazing detail and the fluctuations in time. The reader is taken to ww2 as well as other various time periods. Give yourself more time to read this , and you will be rewarded with an intense amazing book.
July 29, 2019
This book features an array of exorcists who, in some cases, are actually hosts of their own demons. The Alpha Exorcist, Gerald Ironblood, is sent by the Pope with his assistant, Paladin, to investigate missing children in the Mayan ruins in Mexico. The priest who has attempted the exorcisms of the children is suspected of evil. In my opinion, this is a well-written horror story although I had a hard time dealing with the excessive violence and gore.
Read
June 20, 2019Not my cup of tea---but might be enjoyed by someone else. I chose not to rate it in stars.
I won an autographed copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.
I won an autographed copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.
July 17, 2015
(I was given my copy of this novel for review by the project manager for the Paladin Sequence. This in no way has altered my opinion of the book or the author and I intend to write an unbiased and informative review.)
Synopsis
Gerald Ironblood is known for his unorthodox methods of exorcism. Though the Catholic Church may not approve of these methods completely, he has managed to prove himself time and time again and is thus still allowed to practice.
Matthew Paladin wasn’t always a believer. And still to this day, he fights the call of the church. But he can’t deny it anymore: he has a very powerful spirit inside him. Though the demon may be unwelcome, it has given Matthew an inside look into the word of the possessed and possessors. This insight is invaluable to the exorcists and having Matthew around proves to be worth more than the trouble of hosting this demon.
Along with Matthew’s help, Gerald is charged with the special task of rooting out the corruption of the church. The men find themselves at Hell’s Gates when it turns out it is another priest behind the murders of members of the church. Is this rogue priest acting on his own? Or has he fallen prey to the tricks of the Infernals?
Structure
As far as I know, I was given a commercial copy of the novel. That being said, I would not agree that the book I received is industry standard. The font is about a 10 pt and there are many formatting errors in the print (such as line breaks in the middle of sentences.) This let me a little concerned but I have chosen the give the team behind the Paladin Seqeunce the benefit of the doubt that they had environmental causes in mind when making these choices.
On the Page
Within the first few pages of reading, I found it hard to get over the overly cliché names blazoned throughout this novel. I understand it this a fantasy novel, but if you are writing about the “secret side of the church”, it might be more believable to have your characters (characters who are in the public eye) have “normal names”. Apart from the lack of concern for the cliché names, I felt the author may have been hiding behind long, impressive words. Later it feels less-so as I believe the author became more comfortable and broke down his own walls.
As I was reading, I found it hard to keep track of the many character who were introduced. This effect is only amplified when they are introduced by their full name and then called a nickname in the next line without warning. Characters did seem to have a sense of individualism about them and the personalities did not become muddled throughout the story.
I lost count of editing errors in this novel, which is never a good sign. Throughout the book I found cases of the wrong words being used in many places. As a writer myself, I feel this is easily avoidable with proper editing and I view it as unacceptable. This is both the fault of the author and the editor. The entire piece feels as if it was rushed to make a deadline and could have benefitted greatly from another reading- over.
Rating
With everything mentioned above taken into account, I am pained to give this novel a total of 4/10. I was very excited when I learned of this project, as it is an idea which the market has not had a great saturation in. But I was greatly disappointed. This novel will not be staying on my shelf. I am unable to recommend this novel to anyone as there are a million other pieces worth reading.
Synopsis
Gerald Ironblood is known for his unorthodox methods of exorcism. Though the Catholic Church may not approve of these methods completely, he has managed to prove himself time and time again and is thus still allowed to practice.
Matthew Paladin wasn’t always a believer. And still to this day, he fights the call of the church. But he can’t deny it anymore: he has a very powerful spirit inside him. Though the demon may be unwelcome, it has given Matthew an inside look into the word of the possessed and possessors. This insight is invaluable to the exorcists and having Matthew around proves to be worth more than the trouble of hosting this demon.
Along with Matthew’s help, Gerald is charged with the special task of rooting out the corruption of the church. The men find themselves at Hell’s Gates when it turns out it is another priest behind the murders of members of the church. Is this rogue priest acting on his own? Or has he fallen prey to the tricks of the Infernals?
Structure
As far as I know, I was given a commercial copy of the novel. That being said, I would not agree that the book I received is industry standard. The font is about a 10 pt and there are many formatting errors in the print (such as line breaks in the middle of sentences.) This let me a little concerned but I have chosen the give the team behind the Paladin Seqeunce the benefit of the doubt that they had environmental causes in mind when making these choices.
On the Page
Within the first few pages of reading, I found it hard to get over the overly cliché names blazoned throughout this novel. I understand it this a fantasy novel, but if you are writing about the “secret side of the church”, it might be more believable to have your characters (characters who are in the public eye) have “normal names”. Apart from the lack of concern for the cliché names, I felt the author may have been hiding behind long, impressive words. Later it feels less-so as I believe the author became more comfortable and broke down his own walls.
As I was reading, I found it hard to keep track of the many character who were introduced. This effect is only amplified when they are introduced by their full name and then called a nickname in the next line without warning. Characters did seem to have a sense of individualism about them and the personalities did not become muddled throughout the story.
I lost count of editing errors in this novel, which is never a good sign. Throughout the book I found cases of the wrong words being used in many places. As a writer myself, I feel this is easily avoidable with proper editing and I view it as unacceptable. This is both the fault of the author and the editor. The entire piece feels as if it was rushed to make a deadline and could have benefitted greatly from another reading- over.
Rating
With everything mentioned above taken into account, I am pained to give this novel a total of 4/10. I was very excited when I learned of this project, as it is an idea which the market has not had a great saturation in. But I was greatly disappointed. This novel will not be staying on my shelf. I am unable to recommend this novel to anyone as there are a million other pieces worth reading.
September 14, 2015
First I must say that I received a copy of this book as part of the Goodreads giveaway. That being said, on with my review. First, the things I really liked about this novel. The characters were really well developed and I did find myself liking them...even some of the minor characters. I am interested in the world, the demons and the agency for dealing with possessions/exorcisms. The main character, Gerald Ironblood is a priest who has been exorcising demons for many years when the book opens. Through him we are introduced to Matthew Paladin, who is currently working for the Bureau of Exorcism on a mission which has him encountering an entity he has battled with before and who is taunting him now. Most of the book is set in Matthew and Gerald's past, which is to introduce the reader to each character and how they became the men they are in the beginning of the book.
The problem for me was the HUGE number of flashbacks in the first 5 chapters of the book. It seemed like every chapter we were in a new time, which is fine if the reader is given time to adjust. I just felt like in the beginning of a book where I want to learn more about the world and how this Exorcism Bureau came to be and the main characters, it was flashback to a different time which leads to a character remembering an earlier case and the next chapter is flashing back to that case,which leads to a flashback to an even earlier time and place, and another flashback to where Ironblood was young and just learning. Then we flash forward again to the time where most of the story takes place. At certain points I was flipping back to the earlier chapters just so I knew where in time I and the story were. I would have enjoyed the story much more if the author had spent more time in each chapter/time explaining things more and letting us as readers get used to this world and these characters.
Once the author settled into the main story, which happens many years prior to the opening of the book, I enjoyed it. Learning about Ironblood and Paladin when they are at the beginning of their relationship and Paladin is learning about what Ironblood does as Ironblood is trying to both teach Paladin how to become part of the Bureau, and to help him deal with his current possession problem for which Ironblood feels responsible. They go on an investigation together and discover more than they bargained for in an entity that is far more than the demons and possessions they are used to dealing with.
Knowing that the author intends for the release of the other books in the series in a short period of time makes it more bearable to come to the end of the novel, which basically ends with the end of the main characters first investigation together. I am interested in seeing what is really going on in the opening chapter of the book, and how Ironblood and Paladin's story gets them to where they are in the beginning.
The problem for me was the HUGE number of flashbacks in the first 5 chapters of the book. It seemed like every chapter we were in a new time, which is fine if the reader is given time to adjust. I just felt like in the beginning of a book where I want to learn more about the world and how this Exorcism Bureau came to be and the main characters, it was flashback to a different time which leads to a character remembering an earlier case and the next chapter is flashing back to that case,which leads to a flashback to an even earlier time and place, and another flashback to where Ironblood was young and just learning. Then we flash forward again to the time where most of the story takes place. At certain points I was flipping back to the earlier chapters just so I knew where in time I and the story were. I would have enjoyed the story much more if the author had spent more time in each chapter/time explaining things more and letting us as readers get used to this world and these characters.
Once the author settled into the main story, which happens many years prior to the opening of the book, I enjoyed it. Learning about Ironblood and Paladin when they are at the beginning of their relationship and Paladin is learning about what Ironblood does as Ironblood is trying to both teach Paladin how to become part of the Bureau, and to help him deal with his current possession problem for which Ironblood feels responsible. They go on an investigation together and discover more than they bargained for in an entity that is far more than the demons and possessions they are used to dealing with.
Knowing that the author intends for the release of the other books in the series in a short period of time makes it more bearable to come to the end of the novel, which basically ends with the end of the main characters first investigation together. I am interested in seeing what is really going on in the opening chapter of the book, and how Ironblood and Paladin's story gets them to where they are in the beginning.
November 30, 2015
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
I was a bit unsure of what to make of this book at first. I thought the concept was really interesting and it drew me in really easily. I did get a bit confused with the constant switching back and forward in time, though. I would have liked to see the chapters written in more of a chronological order.
There was a lot of mystery in this book, which was good. I understood most of what was going on... but I did find there were a few too many instances of info dumping. It would have been good to see more of the minor characters and how they related to the main ones.
I would have liked to see more of the differences between how Gerald and Matthew operated. There was a lot of telling rather than showing when it came to the different ways they did things.
There were some particularly gruesome scenes in this book. Although it was disappointing to see that so many of the possessed victims died, I did think that it made sense. The possessions of Matthew's mother and sister were particularly hard to read about... especially since I wasn't sure how the possession worked; whether anyone could be possessed, or if it was only a specific type of situation.
It was interesting to see Matthew's 'relationship' with his 'passenger'. I would have liked some more details about how that all worked... and it didn't seem like Gerald was really that concerned with helping Matthew get rid of his 'passenger'.
I had quite a few theories by the end of this book, but I was still left with a lot of unanswered questions. I did find myself reading the book more avidly by the end of this storyline. There were a couple of random scene changes without actual scene breaks, but although I did get a bit confused at those times, there was plenty to keep me focused. I wasn't really sure I liked Gerald... but I did find both him and Matthew interesting characters.
I probably would read the next book/s in this series at some point in the future. It would be good to see more of the characters and how everything will come together.
(This review may contain spoilers).
I was a bit unsure of what to make of this book at first. I thought the concept was really interesting and it drew me in really easily. I did get a bit confused with the constant switching back and forward in time, though. I would have liked to see the chapters written in more of a chronological order.
There was a lot of mystery in this book, which was good. I understood most of what was going on... but I did find there were a few too many instances of info dumping. It would have been good to see more of the minor characters and how they related to the main ones.
I would have liked to see more of the differences between how Gerald and Matthew operated. There was a lot of telling rather than showing when it came to the different ways they did things.
There were some particularly gruesome scenes in this book. Although it was disappointing to see that so many of the possessed victims died, I did think that it made sense. The possessions of Matthew's mother and sister were particularly hard to read about... especially since I wasn't sure how the possession worked; whether anyone could be possessed, or if it was only a specific type of situation.
It was interesting to see Matthew's 'relationship' with his 'passenger'. I would have liked some more details about how that all worked... and it didn't seem like Gerald was really that concerned with helping Matthew get rid of his 'passenger'.
I had quite a few theories by the end of this book, but I was still left with a lot of unanswered questions. I did find myself reading the book more avidly by the end of this storyline. There were a couple of random scene changes without actual scene breaks, but although I did get a bit confused at those times, there was plenty to keep me focused. I wasn't really sure I liked Gerald... but I did find both him and Matthew interesting characters.
I probably would read the next book/s in this series at some point in the future. It would be good to see more of the characters and how everything will come together.
December 27, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, and appreciate the introduction to the Paladin series. This is atypical of the books I normally read (science fiction, mystery, etc), but I am glad I expanded my library to include this book. Hopefully, the series will make an appearance on Google Play Books so that I can get the sequel there.
Paladin and Ironblood's story is told in a series of flashbacks, which can be frustrating for those who prefer a more linear narrative. However, I got vested in the book as I learned more about the characters' backgrounds. Supernatural and demonic entities continue to prey on humanity's weaknesses, resulting in people being possessed and wreaking havoc on those around them. With the assistance of Father Ironblood of the Bureau of Exorcism (BOE) and Paladin, some may be rescued, while others are beyond redemption. The detail in the book is amazing, and showcases Lance Tuck's passion for the Paladin sequence. I finished the book with a desire to read the sequel and look forward to the continuation of Paladin's story.
Paladin and Ironblood's story is told in a series of flashbacks, which can be frustrating for those who prefer a more linear narrative. However, I got vested in the book as I learned more about the characters' backgrounds. Supernatural and demonic entities continue to prey on humanity's weaknesses, resulting in people being possessed and wreaking havoc on those around them. With the assistance of Father Ironblood of the Bureau of Exorcism (BOE) and Paladin, some may be rescued, while others are beyond redemption. The detail in the book is amazing, and showcases Lance Tuck's passion for the Paladin sequence. I finished the book with a desire to read the sequel and look forward to the continuation of Paladin's story.
January 26, 2016
This book had a lot of action and was fairly fast paced. The story itself has a lot of potential and I think it could be going good places.
I was not really a fan of how much of the book was back story. If that was the story that was going to be told I think I would have enjoyed it more if it just started in the past and worked its way forward through the time line.
My biggest complaint is the amount of spelling and grammar errors in this book. I understand that this will happen sometimes and is usually not a problem for me. The amount of errors in this book was very irritating.
I am going to read the second one now as I received it in a goodreads giveaway and I imagine the story will be on par with this one. I just hope a better job was done with the editing process.
I was not really a fan of how much of the book was back story. If that was the story that was going to be told I think I would have enjoyed it more if it just started in the past and worked its way forward through the time line.
My biggest complaint is the amount of spelling and grammar errors in this book. I understand that this will happen sometimes and is usually not a problem for me. The amount of errors in this book was very irritating.
I am going to read the second one now as I received it in a goodreads giveaway and I imagine the story will be on par with this one. I just hope a better job was done with the editing process.
August 17, 2015
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
This is a story about a priest, Gerald Ironblood, and a young man, Matthew Paaldin. They do exorcisms together. Matthew harbors a secret and as the story moves along, Ironblood finds out about it. But that doesn't stop him from trying to convert Matthew. For Matthey harbors an infernal and one of the greater ones.
This is book one of the series and gives the history of Ironblood and Paladin. It is not a story for the faint hearted nor for those that don't like stories like those written by Stephen King or Dean Koontz. I would rank this book up with those written by these two authors. I would recommend this book to those kind of people.
This is a story about a priest, Gerald Ironblood, and a young man, Matthew Paaldin. They do exorcisms together. Matthew harbors a secret and as the story moves along, Ironblood finds out about it. But that doesn't stop him from trying to convert Matthew. For Matthey harbors an infernal and one of the greater ones.
This is book one of the series and gives the history of Ironblood and Paladin. It is not a story for the faint hearted nor for those that don't like stories like those written by Stephen King or Dean Koontz. I would rank this book up with those written by these two authors. I would recommend this book to those kind of people.
August 27, 2015
From page 1, I was hooked on Lance Tuck's "Devil's Garden." The characters, plot and descriptive use of the English language, brought me into the story and kept me hook.
Gerald Ironblood and Matthew Paladin, members of the B.O.E. (Bureau of Exorcims), go from place to place, on behalf of the Pope, to perform exorcisms on those allegedly possessed. Though they don't know, the biggest exorcism is to come. The trail leads them to the former Mayan Empire, in which they will battle with an unknown force and an old friend, Father Lamas.
Intriguing, spellbinding and captive! Looking forward to read book number 2.
Gerald Ironblood and Matthew Paladin, members of the B.O.E. (Bureau of Exorcims), go from place to place, on behalf of the Pope, to perform exorcisms on those allegedly possessed. Though they don't know, the biggest exorcism is to come. The trail leads them to the former Mayan Empire, in which they will battle with an unknown force and an old friend, Father Lamas.
Intriguing, spellbinding and captive! Looking forward to read book number 2.
August 12, 2015
This book was given to me by the authors' project manager.
This book was not what I expected at all. It took some time for me to get into it at the beginning, the detail was great but was slow. But, the book afterwards was great! I loved the twists, the puzzles they needed to figure out with each exciting and difficult exorcism performed!! The way this book was written made it so that even if you aren't interested it makes you want to find out what's going to happen anyways. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more! The next books need to hurry up :P
This book was not what I expected at all. It took some time for me to get into it at the beginning, the detail was great but was slow. But, the book afterwards was great! I loved the twists, the puzzles they needed to figure out with each exciting and difficult exorcism performed!! The way this book was written made it so that even if you aren't interested it makes you want to find out what's going to happen anyways. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more! The next books need to hurry up :P
May 13, 2016
I received this book by entering a goodreads drawing.
I found the writing very good and the characters intriguing. I generally don't read books pertaining to possession but because the story flowed so well I became interested in what became of the possessed and the exorcists. Thus, I had no trouble finishing the book. I do plan to read sequence #2 and am looking forward to finding out what happens to Matthew.
I found the writing very good and the characters intriguing. I generally don't read books pertaining to possession but because the story flowed so well I became interested in what became of the possessed and the exorcists. Thus, I had no trouble finishing the book. I do plan to read sequence #2 and am looking forward to finding out what happens to Matthew.
August 6, 2015
I received a copy from the Goodreads first reads giveaway... the cover is nice but the print is way too small..even with glasses I could barely see the words...I only read part of the book but I was getting a headache from squinting so I didn't finish it. Sadly I wouldn't know if it was good or not since my head hurt so much from trying to read the tiny print.
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