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The Chronicles of the Exile #3
Red Tide
Red Tide, the third volume in Marc Turner's The Chronicles of the Exile, following When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters.
The Augerans are coming. And their ships are sailing in on a red tide.
The Rubyholt Isles are a shattered nation of pirate-infested islands and treacherous waterways shielding the seaboards of Erin Elal and the Sabian League, a region even dragons fear to trespass upon.
The Augerans beseech the Warlord of the Isles, seeking passage for their invasion fleet through Rubyholt territory. But they are sailing into troubled waters. Their enemies have sent agents to sabotage the negotiations and to destroy the Augeran fleet by any means necessary.
The emperor of Erin Elal seeks to forge an alliance with the Storm Lords, hoping to repulse the Augerans with a united front. But the battle lines for the struggle are not as clearly drawn as it first appears, for the Emira of the Storm Isles mistrusts the Erin Elalese as much as she does their common enemy. And the Augerans might just be planning a little sabotage of their own.
But nothing in the realm of mortals escapes the notice of their meddling gods; every step they take is shadowed and every choice they make ensnared in a web so subtle and vast, its true shape may be fathomed only when it is far, far too late.
A new epic adventure in the fantastic world of When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters!
The Augerans are coming. And their ships are sailing in on a red tide.
The Rubyholt Isles are a shattered nation of pirate-infested islands and treacherous waterways shielding the seaboards of Erin Elal and the Sabian League, a region even dragons fear to trespass upon.
The Augerans beseech the Warlord of the Isles, seeking passage for their invasion fleet through Rubyholt territory. But they are sailing into troubled waters. Their enemies have sent agents to sabotage the negotiations and to destroy the Augeran fleet by any means necessary.
The emperor of Erin Elal seeks to forge an alliance with the Storm Lords, hoping to repulse the Augerans with a united front. But the battle lines for the struggle are not as clearly drawn as it first appears, for the Emira of the Storm Isles mistrusts the Erin Elalese as much as she does their common enemy. And the Augerans might just be planning a little sabotage of their own.
But nothing in the realm of mortals escapes the notice of their meddling gods; every step they take is shadowed and every choice they make ensnared in a web so subtle and vast, its true shape may be fathomed only when it is far, far too late.
A new epic adventure in the fantastic world of When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters!
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First published September 20, 2016
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About the author
Marc Turner
11 books193 followersCheck out my website for a free audio short story: http://tinyurl.com/pgulukw
Video trailer: http://tinyurl.com/o9e7ye9
Marc Turner was born in Toronto, Canada, but grew up in England. He graduated from Lincoln College, Oxford University, in 1996 with a BA (Hons) in law, and subsequently joined a top ten law firm in the City of London. After realising that working there did not mix well with simple pleasures such as having a life, he fled north first to Leeds and then to Durham in search of a better work-life balance. Unfortunately it proved elusive, and so in 2007, rather than take the next step and move to Scotland, he began working part time so he could devote more time to his writing. Following the sale of his debut epic fantasy novel, When the Heavens Fall, he started writing full time.
Why writing? Because it is the only work he knows where daydreaming isn’t frowned upon, and because he has learned from bitter experience that he cannot not write. The authors whose work has most influenced him are Steven Erikson and Joe Abercrombie. Consequently he writes fast-paced, multi-threaded novels with a liberal sprinkling of humour; novels written on a panoramic scale, peopled by characters that stay in the memory. Or at least that’s the theory . . .
He lives in Durham, England, with his wife and son.
Video trailer: http://tinyurl.com/o9e7ye9
Marc Turner was born in Toronto, Canada, but grew up in England. He graduated from Lincoln College, Oxford University, in 1996 with a BA (Hons) in law, and subsequently joined a top ten law firm in the City of London. After realising that working there did not mix well with simple pleasures such as having a life, he fled north first to Leeds and then to Durham in search of a better work-life balance. Unfortunately it proved elusive, and so in 2007, rather than take the next step and move to Scotland, he began working part time so he could devote more time to his writing. Following the sale of his debut epic fantasy novel, When the Heavens Fall, he started writing full time.
Why writing? Because it is the only work he knows where daydreaming isn’t frowned upon, and because he has learned from bitter experience that he cannot not write. The authors whose work has most influenced him are Steven Erikson and Joe Abercrombie. Consequently he writes fast-paced, multi-threaded novels with a liberal sprinkling of humour; novels written on a panoramic scale, peopled by characters that stay in the memory. Or at least that’s the theory . . .
He lives in Durham, England, with his wife and son.
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October 30, 2016
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.
With Red Tide, Marc Turner once again has exceeded all my expectations, delivering a complex, page-turning epic which not only expands on The Chronicles of the Exile universe but adds even more wrinkles to it. This novel a mesmerizing tale of old and new characters caught in a literal web of intrigue, conflict, and escalating mystery. Not only is this the best book in the series so far, but it is currently my pick for best fantasy of 2016!
Erupting days after the events portrayed in book two, this story begins the process of integrating the characters and plots from When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters, bringing together new and old characters into the tumultuous aftermath of the havoc wrecked upon the Sabian Sea. All of it beginning in the Rubyholt Isles where the Augerans approach the Warlord of the Isles, seeking passage for their invasion fleet through Rubyholt waters. These island waterways so treacherous with magic and other more mundane obstacles that even these fierce conquerors needing aid to bring their forces to bear on Erin Elal and the Sabian League.
Complicating these negotiations are the Rubyholters themselves; at least, some of them. This land of a thousand islands populated by backstabbing, cutthroat pirates; the Warlords son, Galantas, being one of the most powerful of the moment, and also the individual who sees the Warlord’s plan to aid the Augerans as a sign it is time to replace him – with himself, of course. And helping stoak the flames of unrest and dissent are agents form Erin Elal, lead by Guardian Amerel Duquy; this trusted agent of the Emperor prepared to do anything to anyone in order to complete her mission.
Meanwhile, the Sabian League is still in an uproar after the treachery on Dragon Day. New Emira Mazana Creed’s rule shaky at best and propped up by mercenary forces who face off daily with the former emira’s loyal followers. Many people waiting breathless for Mazana’s response to the Augerans sabotage. From the emira’s pet Guardian Senar Sol to the Chameleon siblings Karmel and Caval to the Spider goddess herself, everyone is caught up in the seething political schemes building within the land of the Storm Lords. All of it coming to a head when Emperor Avallon Delamar of Erin Elal himself request a council to discuss an alliance against the Augerans.
And voluntarily inserting himself into this tinderbox comes Prince Ebon of Galitia, as he sails across the Sabian Sea on a personal quest. His lover Lamella and his brother Rendale having escaped the horrors of the siege of Majack but not having returned, and so he hunts for them across the world, determined to locate them and bring them home – if they remain alive.
So much to love here that it really is hard to know where to start. But I suppose, I will begin with the characters themselves, because no matter how wonderful the world building or intricate the plot a story is only as good as its characters. And with Red Tide, Marc Turner weaves this epic yarn with numerous point-of-view characters; each of them as different in flavor as the people we pass on the street every day, which means there is sure to be one to suit every reader’s taste.
Personally, I felt myself drawn to two in particular: Prince Ebon and Guardian Amerel. Good and bad, if you will. Ebon perfectly portraying the consummate “good guy”, who casts himself into dangerous waters to hunt down and find his lady love and his brother. This quest causing him constant grief and embroiling him in conflicts which he would rather not be involved in. But, at heart, Ebon is a hero, and so he acts like one. On the other hand, Amerel is one hell of a “bad guy”; this Guardian dubbed by me as the female Jorg Ancrath (Jorg being the infamous Prince of Thorns in Mark Lawrence’s The Broken Empire trilogy), and she is, without a doubt, bad to the bone. Not only will Amerel take down her enemies without any hesitation, but she is coolly ruthless and brutally efficient in her tasks, discarding and double-crossing anyone (and I mean anyone!) she needs to in order to obtain her desired ends. Even those who believe themselves to be experts at the more shadowy art of manipulation and intrigue finding themselves her surprise victims. And I admit being mesmerized by every appearance of Amerel on the page; her deviousness captivating me as no character has since the aforementioned Jorg.
As for the rest of the characters, their individual plot lines were amazing in their own way. Mazana and Senar’s story continuing to grow, further complicated by his divided loyalties. Karmel and Caval familial conflicts simmering yet failing to find a resolution until it is too late. Galantas erupting from the story as a pirate to be feared. And the Spider’s return triumphant, as she weaves her webs of intrigue with help from a returning character. Even a new, dark yet humorous character named Hex a pure delight; his behavior in the tale compared by many to Heath Ledger’s Joker in The Dark Knight. Marc Turner’s tendency to have realistic consequences for all of these people adding an important dimension to every one of their choices and turning every moment with them into a treasure, because, unlike some fantasy series, when your luck runs out in Exile you tend to die (which might or might not be a good thing according to your perspective).
Even with outstanding characters, the bread and butter of The Chronicles of the Exile is the amazing world building and plot however; the only comparison to Marc Turner’s grand vision and epic scope Malazan by Steven Erikson and Ian Cameron Esslemont. Each novel in this series gaining more complexity, requiring more familiarity with the preceding installments to truly grasp all the pieces Marc Turner is juggling. And since Red Tide is book three, this story is all about adding layer upon layer to this magnificent edifice, slowly building the world even more, developing the magic of this place, revealing its shadowy history, and slowly steeping all of these elements together until they thicken and intertwine even more, transforming into a living, breathing place with real people with individual motives approaching one another on a collision course that can only be fully appreciated if you focus all your attention on understanding the brilliant web Marc Turner has woven around them.
Since this is a book I adore, I really do not have any major criticisms to level at Red Tide. Honestly, in its present form, it is as close to perfect for my reading tastes as anything I’ve experienced. However, as a reviewer, the one element I could see others pointing to as an issue would be the pacing. The beginning of the narrative could be a slow go for some, especially those who are not already familiar with these characters and the ongoing story up to this point. For those individuals, Red Tide might overwhelm them briefly with lots of characters, places, past events, and different plot lines to become familiar with before they can truly get into a smooth paced reading of this amazing tale.
Full of unforgettable characters, shocking scenes, amazing plot twists, and even a few darkly humorous moments, Red Tide is yet another triumph for Marc Turner. This novel continuing the rising tide of greatness which will soon make both The Chronicles of the Exile and its author familiar names in the genre, as they take their rightful place among the upper echelon of epic fantasy series penned by greats such as George R.R. Martin, Steven Erikson and Ian Cameron Esslemont.
I received an advanced reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
With Red Tide, Marc Turner once again has exceeded all my expectations, delivering a complex, page-turning epic which not only expands on The Chronicles of the Exile universe but adds even more wrinkles to it. This novel a mesmerizing tale of old and new characters caught in a literal web of intrigue, conflict, and escalating mystery. Not only is this the best book in the series so far, but it is currently my pick for best fantasy of 2016!
Erupting days after the events portrayed in book two, this story begins the process of integrating the characters and plots from When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters, bringing together new and old characters into the tumultuous aftermath of the havoc wrecked upon the Sabian Sea. All of it beginning in the Rubyholt Isles where the Augerans approach the Warlord of the Isles, seeking passage for their invasion fleet through Rubyholt waters. These island waterways so treacherous with magic and other more mundane obstacles that even these fierce conquerors needing aid to bring their forces to bear on Erin Elal and the Sabian League.
Complicating these negotiations are the Rubyholters themselves; at least, some of them. This land of a thousand islands populated by backstabbing, cutthroat pirates; the Warlords son, Galantas, being one of the most powerful of the moment, and also the individual who sees the Warlord’s plan to aid the Augerans as a sign it is time to replace him – with himself, of course. And helping stoak the flames of unrest and dissent are agents form Erin Elal, lead by Guardian Amerel Duquy; this trusted agent of the Emperor prepared to do anything to anyone in order to complete her mission.
Meanwhile, the Sabian League is still in an uproar after the treachery on Dragon Day. New Emira Mazana Creed’s rule shaky at best and propped up by mercenary forces who face off daily with the former emira’s loyal followers. Many people waiting breathless for Mazana’s response to the Augerans sabotage. From the emira’s pet Guardian Senar Sol to the Chameleon siblings Karmel and Caval to the Spider goddess herself, everyone is caught up in the seething political schemes building within the land of the Storm Lords. All of it coming to a head when Emperor Avallon Delamar of Erin Elal himself request a council to discuss an alliance against the Augerans.
And voluntarily inserting himself into this tinderbox comes Prince Ebon of Galitia, as he sails across the Sabian Sea on a personal quest. His lover Lamella and his brother Rendale having escaped the horrors of the siege of Majack but not having returned, and so he hunts for them across the world, determined to locate them and bring them home – if they remain alive.
So much to love here that it really is hard to know where to start. But I suppose, I will begin with the characters themselves, because no matter how wonderful the world building or intricate the plot a story is only as good as its characters. And with Red Tide, Marc Turner weaves this epic yarn with numerous point-of-view characters; each of them as different in flavor as the people we pass on the street every day, which means there is sure to be one to suit every reader’s taste.
Personally, I felt myself drawn to two in particular: Prince Ebon and Guardian Amerel. Good and bad, if you will. Ebon perfectly portraying the consummate “good guy”, who casts himself into dangerous waters to hunt down and find his lady love and his brother. This quest causing him constant grief and embroiling him in conflicts which he would rather not be involved in. But, at heart, Ebon is a hero, and so he acts like one. On the other hand, Amerel is one hell of a “bad guy”; this Guardian dubbed by me as the female Jorg Ancrath (Jorg being the infamous Prince of Thorns in Mark Lawrence’s The Broken Empire trilogy), and she is, without a doubt, bad to the bone. Not only will Amerel take down her enemies without any hesitation, but she is coolly ruthless and brutally efficient in her tasks, discarding and double-crossing anyone (and I mean anyone!) she needs to in order to obtain her desired ends. Even those who believe themselves to be experts at the more shadowy art of manipulation and intrigue finding themselves her surprise victims. And I admit being mesmerized by every appearance of Amerel on the page; her deviousness captivating me as no character has since the aforementioned Jorg.
As for the rest of the characters, their individual plot lines were amazing in their own way. Mazana and Senar’s story continuing to grow, further complicated by his divided loyalties. Karmel and Caval familial conflicts simmering yet failing to find a resolution until it is too late. Galantas erupting from the story as a pirate to be feared. And the Spider’s return triumphant, as she weaves her webs of intrigue with help from a returning character. Even a new, dark yet humorous character named Hex a pure delight; his behavior in the tale compared by many to Heath Ledger’s Joker in The Dark Knight. Marc Turner’s tendency to have realistic consequences for all of these people adding an important dimension to every one of their choices and turning every moment with them into a treasure, because, unlike some fantasy series, when your luck runs out in Exile you tend to die (which might or might not be a good thing according to your perspective).
Even with outstanding characters, the bread and butter of The Chronicles of the Exile is the amazing world building and plot however; the only comparison to Marc Turner’s grand vision and epic scope Malazan by Steven Erikson and Ian Cameron Esslemont. Each novel in this series gaining more complexity, requiring more familiarity with the preceding installments to truly grasp all the pieces Marc Turner is juggling. And since Red Tide is book three, this story is all about adding layer upon layer to this magnificent edifice, slowly building the world even more, developing the magic of this place, revealing its shadowy history, and slowly steeping all of these elements together until they thicken and intertwine even more, transforming into a living, breathing place with real people with individual motives approaching one another on a collision course that can only be fully appreciated if you focus all your attention on understanding the brilliant web Marc Turner has woven around them.
Since this is a book I adore, I really do not have any major criticisms to level at Red Tide. Honestly, in its present form, it is as close to perfect for my reading tastes as anything I’ve experienced. However, as a reviewer, the one element I could see others pointing to as an issue would be the pacing. The beginning of the narrative could be a slow go for some, especially those who are not already familiar with these characters and the ongoing story up to this point. For those individuals, Red Tide might overwhelm them briefly with lots of characters, places, past events, and different plot lines to become familiar with before they can truly get into a smooth paced reading of this amazing tale.
Full of unforgettable characters, shocking scenes, amazing plot twists, and even a few darkly humorous moments, Red Tide is yet another triumph for Marc Turner. This novel continuing the rising tide of greatness which will soon make both The Chronicles of the Exile and its author familiar names in the genre, as they take their rightful place among the upper echelon of epic fantasy series penned by greats such as George R.R. Martin, Steven Erikson and Ian Cameron Esslemont.
I received an advanced reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
March 10, 2018
Red Tide is worthy of a fantasy award. Find one and give it to Turner.
To begin with, you have to admit Turner's genius. He created his world by writing two separate stories that take place simoultaneously, but in a different place and with different characters and, as a result, not only does he provide us with eight unique POVs but he manages to avoid overcrowding his novels. Add to this number the two newest POVs from Red Tide, and you now have ten different characters to tell you a story (or multiple stories), used alternately as not to bore or suffocate you. And while you could start your journey to The Chronicle of the Exile realm with either of the first two books, you now have to catch up with both of them before reading Red Tide. The stories may not intertwine (yet), but the characters surely do.
"The best leaders were those who could see farther than others. And that would be Galantas's task here tonight: keep his kinsmen's gazes directed to the horizon so they didn't notice him digging the ground out from under their feet."
In his third novel Marc has already established his world-building & magic system (since it's a continuum of sorts to Dragon Hunters), and he now has more time to simply tell his story. And -oh boy- isn't he doing it flawlessly. Full of plot twists, shocking elements, exciting action and humorous elements (without shading off his serious and grim tone), Red Tide is an indisputable high point of the series (so far).
Before closing my review, I would like to mention something my eye caught the other day. I saw (I can't recall where) Amerel (a new main character) referred to as "the female Jorg Ancrath". Fortunately, that is not the case. Although they share some traits; with her being gritty, ruthless and cunning as he is, the resemblance stops there.
And, with Amerel being such a wonderful and original character, it's a shame for us to cast Jorg's shadow on her.
To conclude, Red Tide deserves to be on top of your TBR list.
.
.
.
Have you bought it yet?
.
.
.
How about now?
You can find more of my reviews over at http://BookNest.eu/
To begin with, you have to admit Turner's genius. He created his world by writing two separate stories that take place simoultaneously, but in a different place and with different characters and, as a result, not only does he provide us with eight unique POVs but he manages to avoid overcrowding his novels. Add to this number the two newest POVs from Red Tide, and you now have ten different characters to tell you a story (or multiple stories), used alternately as not to bore or suffocate you. And while you could start your journey to The Chronicle of the Exile realm with either of the first two books, you now have to catch up with both of them before reading Red Tide. The stories may not intertwine (yet), but the characters surely do.
"The best leaders were those who could see farther than others. And that would be Galantas's task here tonight: keep his kinsmen's gazes directed to the horizon so they didn't notice him digging the ground out from under their feet."
In his third novel Marc has already established his world-building & magic system (since it's a continuum of sorts to Dragon Hunters), and he now has more time to simply tell his story. And -oh boy- isn't he doing it flawlessly. Full of plot twists, shocking elements, exciting action and humorous elements (without shading off his serious and grim tone), Red Tide is an indisputable high point of the series (so far).
Before closing my review, I would like to mention something my eye caught the other day. I saw (I can't recall where) Amerel (a new main character) referred to as "the female Jorg Ancrath". Fortunately, that is not the case. Although they share some traits; with her being gritty, ruthless and cunning as he is, the resemblance stops there.
And, with Amerel being such a wonderful and original character, it's a shame for us to cast Jorg's shadow on her.
To conclude, Red Tide deserves to be on top of your TBR list.
.
.
.
Have you bought it yet?
.
.
.
How about now?
You can find more of my reviews over at http://BookNest.eu/
November 21, 2017
“Betrayal is such an emotive word. And so ripe with hypocrisy.”
With his third novel in The Chronicle of the Exile series Marc Turner continues to impress with yet another brilliant, high paced and blood boiling sequel.
With convergence of the characters from first book When the Heavens Fall as well as second Dragon Hunters, and successfully intertwining their fates without overshadowing their personal stories, he manages to close this particular chapter, while preparing the stage for further development, without glaring cliffhangers and wide-opened teasers.
Story continues barely two weeks after main events in second book (as well as first one since events in first two books are overlapping) while main protagonist are mending their wounds after successful coup and failed invasions on their countries.
Prince of Galitia after abdicating the throne in an effort to protect his citizens now seeks across the world those he loves.
Mazana Creed after acquiring new position and godlike powers for herself now has to prepare for invasion, while forging alliance with unlikely associates, while her ex-Guardian bodyguard is torn between oaths to a country of an Emperor he hates or his foreign employer, while quickly realizing he cannot actually mount two saddles.
There are new characters also. Opportunistic, one-armed, warlord wannabe pirate Galantas whose attempts at fighting off ancient Augeran Empire expedition has pitiful success.
And as cunning as ruthless Guardian Amerel Duquy, who, unlike other ex-Guardians, serves Emperor of Erin Elal as a spy.
As fittingly quote says at the beginning of this review, book deals about betrayals, and circumstances under which they are committed, either for the love of a country, a woman or your sibling.
To what extent is someone willing to go? Is atrocity less atrocity if it’s labeled as protection of a country?
That’s something author touched upon with probably two of my favorite characters in this series, Goddes Spider:
“Why is it that people get so insufferably emotional over the fate of a child? I will never understand it. There is a simple cure to such sentimentality, and it requires just a subtle change in perspective. Instead of brooding over today’s doe-eyed boy, consider instead the small-minded tyrant he would doubtless have become.”
So when her High Priestess Romany aptly askes her:
“So what is your answer to all this? To the iniquity and the suffering?”
She gets following:
“What makes you think there is an answer? Or that I would know it if there was? I’m only a goddess, after all.”
Yes, in retrospect the Spider was probably the last person Romany should be asking.
To the Goddess there was no such thing as right and wrong, just interesting and uninteresting; no good and evil, just useful and useless.
And even if the Spider had given Romany an answer, why should the Priestess have accepted it as true?
What made the Goddess’s judgment any more valid than Romany’s own? What were immortals, but beings who wielded more power than the unfortunate souls they made their playthings? Did that power give them a moral imperative? No more than it does any tinpot dictator. – as author explained to us.
The only thing I wish for is that in following books author provide main antagonist’s point of view.
It was mentioned as one of the many possibilities what their ultimate goal is, and just because of it, reading from their perspective, my opinion is that, series would lose this already established “ancient evil” stigma and replace it with “necessary evil”, far believable evil we can actually understand given the circumstances.
Now, I don’t know how many books author is planning for this series, but I hope it’s at least ten.
Yeah, it’s that good.
February 13, 2018
Book 1: 3*
Book 2: 3.25*
Book 3: 3.5*
The series continues to get a little bit better each book.
The world is vibrant and multicultured offering a lot of different perspectives and players in the game. The storyline continues to widen and the end of the book convergence gets better every book. The issue I have which keeps this series from being a 5* effort is the characters. It's not that they're bad it's that I don't have an affinity for any of them. I can really like a evil character but all of them are a collective meh. Even when writing about the dragons there lacks that malice which other authors provide giving them a personality even without speaking parts.
This is only the authors third book so I hope he continues to grow into it. His writing is much smoother at this point than an Esslemont who had the advantage of Erikson's setting the table with the world and characters in place.
Romney and the Spider come the closest. I wish there was a lot more of them. They at least offer a subterfuge behind every move I find compelling.
I'll continue when the second half of the series comes out. Hopefully the author grows and puts more into the characters.
Book 2: 3.25*
Book 3: 3.5*
The series continues to get a little bit better each book.
The world is vibrant and multicultured offering a lot of different perspectives and players in the game. The storyline continues to widen and the end of the book convergence gets better every book. The issue I have which keeps this series from being a 5* effort is the characters. It's not that they're bad it's that I don't have an affinity for any of them. I can really like a evil character but all of them are a collective meh. Even when writing about the dragons there lacks that malice which other authors provide giving them a personality even without speaking parts.
This is only the authors third book so I hope he continues to grow into it. His writing is much smoother at this point than an Esslemont who had the advantage of Erikson's setting the table with the world and characters in place.
Romney and the Spider come the closest. I wish there was a lot more of them. They at least offer a subterfuge behind every move I find compelling.
I'll continue when the second half of the series comes out. Hopefully the author grows and puts more into the characters.
Read
April 10, 2018[DNF at 54% - No Rating]
I didn’t put this book down because it was a bad read. I put it down because it was taking me well over two weeks to get to just the 50% mark and I just couldn’t muster the enthusiasm to get into it knowing that it’s meant to be a six book series and there’s not a single peep that the author’s even working on the next book (for more of a reference, all 3 of the released titles came out between May 2015 and September 2016 and it doesn’t look as though he’s shared any updates on his website since). So I was finding it difficult to really care what was going on with no continuation in sight. If the author announces another book, I’ll happily pick this back up where I left off (until then…). For what it’s worth, I liked the story, the world building, the interwoven plot lines, and even the characters (who are extremely one-dimensional). It wouldn’t be the first fantasy series I recommend, but I wouldn’t discourage anyone from reading it, either.
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
Other books you might like:
I didn’t put this book down because it was a bad read. I put it down because it was taking me well over two weeks to get to just the 50% mark and I just couldn’t muster the enthusiasm to get into it knowing that it’s meant to be a six book series and there’s not a single peep that the author’s even working on the next book (for more of a reference, all 3 of the released titles came out between May 2015 and September 2016 and it doesn’t look as though he’s shared any updates on his website since). So I was finding it difficult to really care what was going on with no continuation in sight. If the author announces another book, I’ll happily pick this back up where I left off (until then…). For what it’s worth, I liked the story, the world building, the interwoven plot lines, and even the characters (who are extremely one-dimensional). It wouldn’t be the first fantasy series I recommend, but I wouldn’t discourage anyone from reading it, either.
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
Other books you might like:
February 7, 2018
Wow! I think maybe I have a new favorite on-going Fantasy series. Can't you how amazing this book is. And damn! that ending! Woo-hoo! Y'all have got to read The Chronicle of the Exile! You're going to love this one!
I keep thinking about this one. It's a perfect fantasy book to my tastes. Much like Steven Erickson but without all those negatives in the Malazan books. Turner's like a jacked-up, fat-free, muscular, page-turning, thriller, lucid and crisp version of Erickson. Erickson's Malazan series was a huge, genre-changing accomplishment. Turner finally gives Fantasy fans the next step.
Cannot recommend this book and the series highly enough.
I keep thinking about this one. It's a perfect fantasy book to my tastes. Much like Steven Erickson but without all those negatives in the Malazan books. Turner's like a jacked-up, fat-free, muscular, page-turning, thriller, lucid and crisp version of Erickson. Erickson's Malazan series was a huge, genre-changing accomplishment. Turner finally gives Fantasy fans the next step.
Cannot recommend this book and the series highly enough.
December 4, 2017
I liked this so much that I decided to put my name to it. No, really.
Red Tide is my favourite book of the series to date. It’s also the book where I start weaving together the storylines from When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters. It features some returning characters from both novels, along with two new main characters, Amerel and Galantas.
Here are a few snippets to whet your appetite:
The guard who had punched the assassin shook his hand out. The others, even the ones who’d played no part in the scuffle, were huffing like they’d just wrestled a titan.
Mazana tapped a foot as she surveyed them. “Well done, sirs—oh, well done indeed! I thought I’d need a dozen guards to protect me from old women, but no, you’ve proved six is enough.”
*
“Is that the White Lady’s Temple burning?” Noon said, pointing to a blazing ruin at the edge of the Old Town.
Amerel nodded. “Fair to say the Augerans aren’t believers.”
“It’s one thing not to follow a goddess, another to spit in her eye.”
“Though if you are going to pick a fight with an immortal, the goddess of mercy and reconciliation is the one to choose.”
*
“I’m guessing that money went north with the Augerans. I’m guessing it’s on board their flagship. Who knows, if we see where that ship goes down, we might be able to send our mages back to recover the loot. Twenty thousand talents. Split seven ways, that makes each of us”—Galantas looked up at the ceiling and muttered some numbers as if he were doing the sums—“a shitload of money.”
Red Tide is my favourite book of the series to date. It’s also the book where I start weaving together the storylines from When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters. It features some returning characters from both novels, along with two new main characters, Amerel and Galantas.
Here are a few snippets to whet your appetite:
The guard who had punched the assassin shook his hand out. The others, even the ones who’d played no part in the scuffle, were huffing like they’d just wrestled a titan.
Mazana tapped a foot as she surveyed them. “Well done, sirs—oh, well done indeed! I thought I’d need a dozen guards to protect me from old women, but no, you’ve proved six is enough.”
*
“Is that the White Lady’s Temple burning?” Noon said, pointing to a blazing ruin at the edge of the Old Town.
Amerel nodded. “Fair to say the Augerans aren’t believers.”
“It’s one thing not to follow a goddess, another to spit in her eye.”
“Though if you are going to pick a fight with an immortal, the goddess of mercy and reconciliation is the one to choose.”
*
“I’m guessing that money went north with the Augerans. I’m guessing it’s on board their flagship. Who knows, if we see where that ship goes down, we might be able to send our mages back to recover the loot. Twenty thousand talents. Split seven ways, that makes each of us”—Galantas looked up at the ceiling and muttered some numbers as if he were doing the sums—“a shitload of money.”
May 20, 2017
Red Tideis Marc Turner’s third entry in his debut seriesThe Chronicles of the Exile, and it’s an absolute masterpiece. The plots and characters of the first two stand-alone novels, When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters, are woven together to provide the first glimpse of a far-reaching fantasy epic in the vein of the Malazan series. Built upon the solid foundations of the first two books, Red Tide truly shines as a masterwork of fantasy. It’s also particularly grimdark with plenty of moral ambiguity, grit and darkness.
Red Tide by Marc TurnerBeginning mere days after the catastrophic events of Dragon Day in Dragon Hunters, Red Tide opens with the terrifying stone-skins on the verge of launching a full-scale invasion against the lands we’ve grown to know and love from the first two books. All the stone-skins profess to require is safe passage through the hazardous Rubyholt Isles from the pirate-lord who rules it. Sent to sabotage the negotiations is a new character, the cold-hearted ex-Guardian Amerel. As she cunningly manipulates her pawns, another manipulator emerges in the form of Galantas, the swaggering son of the pirate-lord who is out to steal his father’s title. As these two twist negotiations into something more sinister, we return to an old favourite, Romany, the high-priestess of the Spider, given new life by the deity. Thankfully, she’s lost none of her dry wit or cleverness, and sets off to worm her way into the court of Mazana Creed, the newly crowned ruler of the Storm Isles. At Mazana’s side is Senar Sol, the heroic Guardian who continues to struggle with finding the right thing to do in a world made from shades of grey, and this time he’s also forced to grapple with divided loyalties as his homeland is threatened by the stone-skin menace. Karmel, the conflicted Chameleon priestess with the power of limited invisibility, is sent into the mix with her brother Caval, the same brother who sent her off to die in Dragon Hunters. Somehow finding himself swept up into the mix is Ebon, the well-meaning but tortured Prince of Galitia, another favourite from the first book, who this time chases after the trail of his love and his brother, a deeply personal story in the midst of clashing empires.
It’s genuinely exciting to return to the characters from the first two books, especially since the books had stand-alone plots and characters. It feels like a special treat, since Turner could have easily created a third stand-alone book with all-new characters. However, the weaving together of disparate strands begins to create hints of the tapestry of a larger world and plot that’s grand in scale. Each character’s story is deeply personal and intimate but, together, they tell the story of world-shaking events of magic, empires and gods. This is nothing new, of course, but it’s handled so perfectly that there are few, if any, moments where pace or emotion is sacrificed for world-building and story development. Each of the characters is so complex, emotionally developed and compelling that it’s all too easy to become drawn in and miss your train stop as you read.
Amerel is extremely compelling as a morally ambiguous, the-ends-justify-the-means, coldly calculating manipulator. Yet, there are hints of the kinder person she once was which makes it impossible to predict what she may do in any given situation. She suffers from a magical curse similar to post-traumatic stress disorder that causes her to feel the pain of everyone she sees hurt. Yet that doesn’t stop her hurting them, even for an instant. A few of her decisions were surprising enough that lead me to second-guess everything I thought about her, and that’s incredibly engaging. Where the Guardians we’ve met so far focus on using their Jedi-like powers to augment their fighting prowess, Amerel focuses on manipulating the minds of those around her, friends and enemies alike. When she does use her telekinesis to fight, she does so in such a wonderfully creative manner.
If Amerel is a good person broken by a harsh world and turned bad, then Galantis is a bad person who puts on a show of being good to serve his own ends. He projects the image of the fearless pirate hero, swimming with sharks, leading the charge to capture merchant ships and even saving the lives of those he owes nothing to. Of course, he’d cut his own father to pieces and leave him for the dogs if it meant he’d get ahead. But in projecting a heroic façade, Galantas sometimes ends up doing things that are genuinely heroic if only for appearances. The other characters are familiar to those who have read the previous books: Senar Sol, Romany, Karmel and Ebon are even better developed in Red Tide.
The secondary characters and villains are also a highlight of Red Tide. Mazana Creed dealing with the results of absorbing the soul of the dead god Fume is interesting. The Revenants, the company of mercenaries she’s hired as her private army, is filled with colourful characters, such as Twist, the sub-commander who can’t help but challenge everyone he meets to a duel. Vale, Ebon’s bodyguard and time-shifting best friend, is a stoic, tragic figure, whose backstory is finally delved into. One particularly unforgettable character is Hex, the stone-skin mage who speaks in jaunty rhymes as he transforms the lives of our protagonists into literal living nightmares.
These characters inhabit a world that’s beginning to take shape next to those of Malazan or A Song of Ice and Fire as a fully realised, living, breathing place with history, geography, religions and cultures. The corner of that world explored in this book, the Rubyholt Isles, is a fantastic place to explore, and is actually the remains of an ancient continent, shattered by unknowable magic and filled with underwater ruins and rifts through which deep-sea monstrosities emerge into “waters made choppy by a dozen writhing tentacles”. What makes this even more interesting is the casual manner with which native Rubyholters, like Galantas, refer to things like, “the telltale shadow[s] in the water that mark a gateway where this world overlap[s] with another”, or the fact that one of the most popular market stalls in Galantas’s home city of Bezzle sells slices of a giant tentacle for people to eat as they peruse the market’s wares. Turner has also meticulously crafted his world down to the most insignificant alleyway. Rather than going down the next random street, characters will instead, for example, choose “Brine Alley”, since it runs “parallel to the waterfront”. Little details like this really bring his world to life.
Red Tide is written in a similar way to Malazan or the First Law Trilogy, in that it alternates between the tight third-person perspectives of its protagonists. Its action scenes are a real triumph, whether they be sword-fights, magical duels, chase scenes, ship battles or larger skirmishes. There are always multiple layers to the action beyond just the strokes of the blades. Even the “slower” scenes are charged with multiple levels of conflict, whether Galantas is trying to convince pirates to follow him while hiding his true intentions or Senar Sol is trying to sway Mazana Creed in helping his homeland while trying to assess how deeply Fume’s spirit has corrupted her. The world-building is snuck in as part of the action and, without realising it, the Rubyholt Isles start to feel like home.
My sole criticism of both When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters is that both took a long time for their pace to ratchet up to page-turning levels. Red Tide, however, is captivating from page one. This is perhaps due to it being the third book in the series with many recurring characters, thus less setup is necessary. Nonetheless, it’s a commendable achievement since Red Tide mostly takes place in an entirely new location and features plenty of new characters and factions. I wouldn’t, however, recommend reading it before its predecessors. Although they are stand-alone, Red Tide does draw strongly from both of them even though it doesn’t continue from them directly.
Overall, it’s an exquisitely crafted novel, from a macro level down to the smallest details. It’s structured beautifully, populated with interesting characters, features a wonderfully developed, magical world and is tightly written. Red Tide is my favourite fantasy novel of 2016 and I have nothing bad to say about it.
ORIGINAL POST: my link text
Red Tide by Marc TurnerBeginning mere days after the catastrophic events of Dragon Day in Dragon Hunters, Red Tide opens with the terrifying stone-skins on the verge of launching a full-scale invasion against the lands we’ve grown to know and love from the first two books. All the stone-skins profess to require is safe passage through the hazardous Rubyholt Isles from the pirate-lord who rules it. Sent to sabotage the negotiations is a new character, the cold-hearted ex-Guardian Amerel. As she cunningly manipulates her pawns, another manipulator emerges in the form of Galantas, the swaggering son of the pirate-lord who is out to steal his father’s title. As these two twist negotiations into something more sinister, we return to an old favourite, Romany, the high-priestess of the Spider, given new life by the deity. Thankfully, she’s lost none of her dry wit or cleverness, and sets off to worm her way into the court of Mazana Creed, the newly crowned ruler of the Storm Isles. At Mazana’s side is Senar Sol, the heroic Guardian who continues to struggle with finding the right thing to do in a world made from shades of grey, and this time he’s also forced to grapple with divided loyalties as his homeland is threatened by the stone-skin menace. Karmel, the conflicted Chameleon priestess with the power of limited invisibility, is sent into the mix with her brother Caval, the same brother who sent her off to die in Dragon Hunters. Somehow finding himself swept up into the mix is Ebon, the well-meaning but tortured Prince of Galitia, another favourite from the first book, who this time chases after the trail of his love and his brother, a deeply personal story in the midst of clashing empires.
It’s genuinely exciting to return to the characters from the first two books, especially since the books had stand-alone plots and characters. It feels like a special treat, since Turner could have easily created a third stand-alone book with all-new characters. However, the weaving together of disparate strands begins to create hints of the tapestry of a larger world and plot that’s grand in scale. Each character’s story is deeply personal and intimate but, together, they tell the story of world-shaking events of magic, empires and gods. This is nothing new, of course, but it’s handled so perfectly that there are few, if any, moments where pace or emotion is sacrificed for world-building and story development. Each of the characters is so complex, emotionally developed and compelling that it’s all too easy to become drawn in and miss your train stop as you read.
Amerel is extremely compelling as a morally ambiguous, the-ends-justify-the-means, coldly calculating manipulator. Yet, there are hints of the kinder person she once was which makes it impossible to predict what she may do in any given situation. She suffers from a magical curse similar to post-traumatic stress disorder that causes her to feel the pain of everyone she sees hurt. Yet that doesn’t stop her hurting them, even for an instant. A few of her decisions were surprising enough that lead me to second-guess everything I thought about her, and that’s incredibly engaging. Where the Guardians we’ve met so far focus on using their Jedi-like powers to augment their fighting prowess, Amerel focuses on manipulating the minds of those around her, friends and enemies alike. When she does use her telekinesis to fight, she does so in such a wonderfully creative manner.
If Amerel is a good person broken by a harsh world and turned bad, then Galantis is a bad person who puts on a show of being good to serve his own ends. He projects the image of the fearless pirate hero, swimming with sharks, leading the charge to capture merchant ships and even saving the lives of those he owes nothing to. Of course, he’d cut his own father to pieces and leave him for the dogs if it meant he’d get ahead. But in projecting a heroic façade, Galantas sometimes ends up doing things that are genuinely heroic if only for appearances. The other characters are familiar to those who have read the previous books: Senar Sol, Romany, Karmel and Ebon are even better developed in Red Tide.
The secondary characters and villains are also a highlight of Red Tide. Mazana Creed dealing with the results of absorbing the soul of the dead god Fume is interesting. The Revenants, the company of mercenaries she’s hired as her private army, is filled with colourful characters, such as Twist, the sub-commander who can’t help but challenge everyone he meets to a duel. Vale, Ebon’s bodyguard and time-shifting best friend, is a stoic, tragic figure, whose backstory is finally delved into. One particularly unforgettable character is Hex, the stone-skin mage who speaks in jaunty rhymes as he transforms the lives of our protagonists into literal living nightmares.
These characters inhabit a world that’s beginning to take shape next to those of Malazan or A Song of Ice and Fire as a fully realised, living, breathing place with history, geography, religions and cultures. The corner of that world explored in this book, the Rubyholt Isles, is a fantastic place to explore, and is actually the remains of an ancient continent, shattered by unknowable magic and filled with underwater ruins and rifts through which deep-sea monstrosities emerge into “waters made choppy by a dozen writhing tentacles”. What makes this even more interesting is the casual manner with which native Rubyholters, like Galantas, refer to things like, “the telltale shadow[s] in the water that mark a gateway where this world overlap[s] with another”, or the fact that one of the most popular market stalls in Galantas’s home city of Bezzle sells slices of a giant tentacle for people to eat as they peruse the market’s wares. Turner has also meticulously crafted his world down to the most insignificant alleyway. Rather than going down the next random street, characters will instead, for example, choose “Brine Alley”, since it runs “parallel to the waterfront”. Little details like this really bring his world to life.
Red Tide is written in a similar way to Malazan or the First Law Trilogy, in that it alternates between the tight third-person perspectives of its protagonists. Its action scenes are a real triumph, whether they be sword-fights, magical duels, chase scenes, ship battles or larger skirmishes. There are always multiple layers to the action beyond just the strokes of the blades. Even the “slower” scenes are charged with multiple levels of conflict, whether Galantas is trying to convince pirates to follow him while hiding his true intentions or Senar Sol is trying to sway Mazana Creed in helping his homeland while trying to assess how deeply Fume’s spirit has corrupted her. The world-building is snuck in as part of the action and, without realising it, the Rubyholt Isles start to feel like home.
My sole criticism of both When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters is that both took a long time for their pace to ratchet up to page-turning levels. Red Tide, however, is captivating from page one. This is perhaps due to it being the third book in the series with many recurring characters, thus less setup is necessary. Nonetheless, it’s a commendable achievement since Red Tide mostly takes place in an entirely new location and features plenty of new characters and factions. I wouldn’t, however, recommend reading it before its predecessors. Although they are stand-alone, Red Tide does draw strongly from both of them even though it doesn’t continue from them directly.
Overall, it’s an exquisitely crafted novel, from a macro level down to the smallest details. It’s structured beautifully, populated with interesting characters, features a wonderfully developed, magical world and is tightly written. Red Tide is my favourite fantasy novel of 2016 and I have nothing bad to say about it.
ORIGINAL POST: my link text
September 3, 2016
Wow. I don't even know what to say. Eugh. Bloody amazing. Review coming up on Fantasy-Faction in the next couple of weeks. If you haven't started this series GET ON IT right now. Seriously.
March 5, 2019
4.5 Stars
Red Tide took a little while to get going, but once it did…wow. After reading three books in Marc Turner’s Chronicles of the Exile series, I can safely say that it is one of my favorite series I’ve read in the last decade.
For the first time, we get a fairly direct continuation of the plot from the previous book. The Sabian League is reeling from the events of Dragon Day, which appear to have implications not just for the League but for Erin Elal as well. A new player in the form of the pirate kingdom of the Rubyholt Isles enters the fray as their islands stand between the Augeran empire and both Erin Elal and the Sabian League. Both Erin Elal and the League race to figure out what the Augeran’s are plotting and how to stop them, each dispatching their own agents to further their plans, which may bring them into conflict not only with the Augerans but also each other.
As has become the norm, the narrative is divided into several different POV characters. We have Galantas, son of the Rubyholt warlord and Amerel, a Guardian in service to the Erin Elal emperor. Returning is the Guardian Senar Sol, the Chameleon priestess Karmel, and from the first book prince Ebon. Each of them are drawn into this conflict in various ways, and Turner does a clever job utilizing their differing viewpoints to present the present the story. The plot is more complicated than the first two books, with different nations and rival factions within those nations striving to survive a looming invasion they don’t fully understand.
Turner continues to do an excellent job with his characters, creating layered people that feel real. I didn’t always like the characters, which is usually a problem for me, but I always enjoyed reading about them. And the worldbuilding. I can’t say enough good things about it. It truly is exceptional. Every book unfolds another little corner of the massive world Turner has created, leaving me anxious to learn more.
The only real issue I had with the book is the pace. There were times, particularly in the beginning and middle, where the pacing dropped. The ending more than made up for it, however, with a climactic sequence that resulted in incredible scenes from each POV. A couple small touches at the end, particularly concerning a pair of Guardians, made me extremely curious to find out where the story goes next.
Sadly, from what I’ve heard it may be a while until we see a fourth book. That said, even though the completion of the series (as far as I know at least) is in limbo, I would still strongly recommend reading the three books already completed. Turner is an outstanding writer, and I hope that at some point is able to complete the rest of the series.
Red Tide took a little while to get going, but once it did…wow. After reading three books in Marc Turner’s Chronicles of the Exile series, I can safely say that it is one of my favorite series I’ve read in the last decade.
For the first time, we get a fairly direct continuation of the plot from the previous book. The Sabian League is reeling from the events of Dragon Day, which appear to have implications not just for the League but for Erin Elal as well. A new player in the form of the pirate kingdom of the Rubyholt Isles enters the fray as their islands stand between the Augeran empire and both Erin Elal and the Sabian League. Both Erin Elal and the League race to figure out what the Augeran’s are plotting and how to stop them, each dispatching their own agents to further their plans, which may bring them into conflict not only with the Augerans but also each other.
As has become the norm, the narrative is divided into several different POV characters. We have Galantas, son of the Rubyholt warlord and Amerel, a Guardian in service to the Erin Elal emperor. Returning is the Guardian Senar Sol, the Chameleon priestess Karmel, and from the first book prince Ebon. Each of them are drawn into this conflict in various ways, and Turner does a clever job utilizing their differing viewpoints to present the present the story. The plot is more complicated than the first two books, with different nations and rival factions within those nations striving to survive a looming invasion they don’t fully understand.
Turner continues to do an excellent job with his characters, creating layered people that feel real. I didn’t always like the characters, which is usually a problem for me, but I always enjoyed reading about them. And the worldbuilding. I can’t say enough good things about it. It truly is exceptional. Every book unfolds another little corner of the massive world Turner has created, leaving me anxious to learn more.
The only real issue I had with the book is the pace. There were times, particularly in the beginning and middle, where the pacing dropped. The ending more than made up for it, however, with a climactic sequence that resulted in incredible scenes from each POV. A couple small touches at the end, particularly concerning a pair of Guardians, made me extremely curious to find out where the story goes next.
Sadly, from what I’ve heard it may be a while until we see a fourth book. That said, even though the completion of the series (as far as I know at least) is in limbo, I would still strongly recommend reading the three books already completed. Turner is an outstanding writer, and I hope that at some point is able to complete the rest of the series.
February 16, 2018
The best book of the series. I liked the world building as always; I was happy to see new and old characters interacting and being integral part of the story.
I also cannot believe this is the last book. It seems there will be more!
I also cannot believe this is the last book. It seems there will be more!
September 27, 2016
I have recently finished Red Tide by Marc Turner and what a fantastic novel it is! For those who follow my blog or on social media, you will know of my fanatical support of Marc and his writing! Red Tide is the eagerly awaited third book in the Chronicles of the Exile, here is brief excerpt about the novel...
The Augerans are coming. And their ships are sailing in on a red tide. The Rubyholt Isles are a shattered nation of pirate-infested islands and treacherous waterways shielding the seaboards of Erin Elal and the Sabian League, a region even dragons fear to trespass. The Augerans beseech the Warlord of the Isles, seeking passage for their invasion fleet through Rubyholt territory. But they are sailing into troubled waters. Their enemies have sent agents to destroy the Augeran fleet by any means necessary. The emperor of Erin Elal seeks to forge an alliance with the Storm Lords, hoping to repulse the Augerans with a united front. But the battle lines are not as clearly drawn as it first appears, for the Emira of the Storm Isles mistrusts the Erin Elalese as much as she does their common enemy. And the Augerans might just be planning a little sabotage of their own. But nothing in the realm of mortals escapes the notice of their meddling gods; every step they take is shadowed; and every choice they make is ensnared in a web so subtle and vast, its true shape may be fathomed only when it is far, far too late.
I will start by saying that this is best novel I have read this year! This is a wonderful continuation of a series that was preceded by the epic Dragon Hunters. The action picks up not too long after the events of Dragon Day and Dragon Hunters and moves the story along some very unexpected ways. We have a familiar cast of characters re introduced to us as well some new ones! My absolute favorites where Amerel (a female guardian) and Galantas (a Machiavellian Pirate). Amerel has been described as a female version of Jorg Ancrath, I would not disagree with this statement as she is unhinged and dangerous (for reasons you will find out if you dare..) Galantas is a man looking to achieve greatness and uses the coming of the Augerans as a springboard to achieve this.
In this book, you will see more of why the book is called the Chronicles of the Exile (NO SPOILERS!) and some plot threads coming together laid down in the first book When The Heavens Fall and book two Dragon Hunters will come together in ways that will just excite you. A grand epic story is being penned here and I for one cannot wait for the next chapter in this epic story. Marc's wonderful descriptive writing is on full display here and describes a world so intricately detailed that it is hard not to realise that it is a secondary world that the story is set in.
This is epic fantasy for the modern age, the first half of this series is completed and I eagerly await the next half of one of my favorite modern fantasy series being written at the moment! Marc, you are a wonderful writer please keep the world full of your wonderful stories!
The Augerans are coming. And their ships are sailing in on a red tide. The Rubyholt Isles are a shattered nation of pirate-infested islands and treacherous waterways shielding the seaboards of Erin Elal and the Sabian League, a region even dragons fear to trespass. The Augerans beseech the Warlord of the Isles, seeking passage for their invasion fleet through Rubyholt territory. But they are sailing into troubled waters. Their enemies have sent agents to destroy the Augeran fleet by any means necessary. The emperor of Erin Elal seeks to forge an alliance with the Storm Lords, hoping to repulse the Augerans with a united front. But the battle lines are not as clearly drawn as it first appears, for the Emira of the Storm Isles mistrusts the Erin Elalese as much as she does their common enemy. And the Augerans might just be planning a little sabotage of their own. But nothing in the realm of mortals escapes the notice of their meddling gods; every step they take is shadowed; and every choice they make is ensnared in a web so subtle and vast, its true shape may be fathomed only when it is far, far too late.
I will start by saying that this is best novel I have read this year! This is a wonderful continuation of a series that was preceded by the epic Dragon Hunters. The action picks up not too long after the events of Dragon Day and Dragon Hunters and moves the story along some very unexpected ways. We have a familiar cast of characters re introduced to us as well some new ones! My absolute favorites where Amerel (a female guardian) and Galantas (a Machiavellian Pirate). Amerel has been described as a female version of Jorg Ancrath, I would not disagree with this statement as she is unhinged and dangerous (for reasons you will find out if you dare..) Galantas is a man looking to achieve greatness and uses the coming of the Augerans as a springboard to achieve this.
In this book, you will see more of why the book is called the Chronicles of the Exile (NO SPOILERS!) and some plot threads coming together laid down in the first book When The Heavens Fall and book two Dragon Hunters will come together in ways that will just excite you. A grand epic story is being penned here and I for one cannot wait for the next chapter in this epic story. Marc's wonderful descriptive writing is on full display here and describes a world so intricately detailed that it is hard not to realise that it is a secondary world that the story is set in.
This is epic fantasy for the modern age, the first half of this series is completed and I eagerly await the next half of one of my favorite modern fantasy series being written at the moment! Marc, you are a wonderful writer please keep the world full of your wonderful stories!
October 19, 2016
I am really amazed.
After reading When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters, both great books, especially the first one, this third chapter of the Chronicles of the Exile, where the 2 storylines are converging, is even better.
The bigger picture begins to be slightly clearer, very slightly, and we also know a little more of the infamous stone-skins, which are quite scary and seem unstoppable.
We discover also a little more of the world where the series is placed and of the history behind this impending war.
The main story is definitely becoming more and more epic, and I love epic.
We found again most of the main characters from the first books, including one of my favorites ( thank you Mr. Turner for giving her back to me!), and we have 2 new point of views, one of which is becoming very fast another big love of mine.
I would also like to mention a secondary character, Hex, who is one of the scariest bad guys I can remember.
With so many points of view to manage, you can clearly see the improvement of the author from the first book.
All the different plots are woven more smoothly and harmoniously, to the advantage of the rhythm and pace of the story, which ends with a great convergence that could have not been written better even by Erikson.
I read that Erikson had a big influence on Turner, so I mean it as a huge compliment.
The epilogue then, with hints of what could happen in the next books for all the main characters, including some not appearing in Red Tide, is really awesome.
The Chronicle of the Exile are definitely one of the best series in epic fantasy, and I mean of all times, and this is clearly the best book of the series so far.
I have only a couple of minor complaints.
First, as someone already mentioned in another review, the gods are less present and involved in this book.
I would like instead to see more of them and in active roles, especially Shroud, but this is just a personal taste.
The second complaint I think is shared with the majority of the readers.
Mr. Turner please give us the fourth book very quickly!!
And don't forget the fifth and the sixth!!
After reading When the Heavens Fall and Dragon Hunters, both great books, especially the first one, this third chapter of the Chronicles of the Exile, where the 2 storylines are converging, is even better.
The bigger picture begins to be slightly clearer, very slightly, and we also know a little more of the infamous stone-skins, which are quite scary and seem unstoppable.
We discover also a little more of the world where the series is placed and of the history behind this impending war.
The main story is definitely becoming more and more epic, and I love epic.
We found again most of the main characters from the first books, including one of my favorites ( thank you Mr. Turner for giving her back to me!), and we have 2 new point of views, one of which is becoming very fast another big love of mine.
I would also like to mention a secondary character, Hex, who is one of the scariest bad guys I can remember.
With so many points of view to manage, you can clearly see the improvement of the author from the first book.
All the different plots are woven more smoothly and harmoniously, to the advantage of the rhythm and pace of the story, which ends with a great convergence that could have not been written better even by Erikson.
I read that Erikson had a big influence on Turner, so I mean it as a huge compliment.
The epilogue then, with hints of what could happen in the next books for all the main characters, including some not appearing in Red Tide, is really awesome.
The Chronicle of the Exile are definitely one of the best series in epic fantasy, and I mean of all times, and this is clearly the best book of the series so far.
I have only a couple of minor complaints.
First, as someone already mentioned in another review, the gods are less present and involved in this book.
I would like instead to see more of them and in active roles, especially Shroud, but this is just a personal taste.
The second complaint I think is shared with the majority of the readers.
Mr. Turner please give us the fourth book very quickly!!
And don't forget the fifth and the sixth!!
September 6, 2016
I won a copy of this book , but this is an honest review. Number one I don't generally read fantasy and i can't even give a reason why I love fantasy movies and tv shows. Secondly the first thing i noticed about this book was it was very well written and had a very good flow. My only issue I was a bit lost with all the different characters and their backgrounds (very thankful there was a list of characters); that being said me being lost with who was who wasn't because of the way the book was written, it was because this is the third book in a series and many of the characters and the events mentioned were most likely developed over the course of the first two books. If you like fantasy and well written books then i would recommend this one, but i would suggest unlike myself read the first two books prior to this one as I do believe they well make this book even more enjoyable because you aren't trying to figure out who was who.
May 24, 2017
My review today is for:
Red Tide: The Chronicles of the Exile, Book Three
by Marc Turner
A copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
Now I must say I was completely into the first two books in this series. They had complexed characters, a vast universe, and mythos that I was immersed in. This book takes it to a new level. Most of my favorite characters were back and mingling with the new characters that are great. Everything comes together in this third book. I am so excited to see where this series heads next. There is so much going on and so much more to come. You can just feel it! I need more!
In conclusion I highly recommend this book, and series. I have very high hopes for the next book as I am loving this series. I have seen where this series is a throw back to 80’s – 90’s Fantasy and even compared to Malazan! I can see both points but this book was unique in it’s own right even with these favorable comparisons. I can’t wait to read and review the next book of this series, whenever we might get one. Marc Turner has provided a stunning new fantasy series, and I am a big fan.
As you know if you have read my reviews before I am not about long reviews with synopsis and spoilers. I just give my opinion on my experience with this book and you can take it from there. Now on to the next book.
4.5/5 STARS
All of my reviews can be seen here: https://mightythorjrs.wordpress.com/
Red Tide: The Chronicles of the Exile, Book Three
by Marc Turner
A copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
Now I must say I was completely into the first two books in this series. They had complexed characters, a vast universe, and mythos that I was immersed in. This book takes it to a new level. Most of my favorite characters were back and mingling with the new characters that are great. Everything comes together in this third book. I am so excited to see where this series heads next. There is so much going on and so much more to come. You can just feel it! I need more!
In conclusion I highly recommend this book, and series. I have very high hopes for the next book as I am loving this series. I have seen where this series is a throw back to 80’s – 90’s Fantasy and even compared to Malazan! I can see both points but this book was unique in it’s own right even with these favorable comparisons. I can’t wait to read and review the next book of this series, whenever we might get one. Marc Turner has provided a stunning new fantasy series, and I am a big fan.
As you know if you have read my reviews before I am not about long reviews with synopsis and spoilers. I just give my opinion on my experience with this book and you can take it from there. Now on to the next book.
4.5/5 STARS
All of my reviews can be seen here: https://mightythorjrs.wordpress.com/
February 25, 2018
No spoilers here.
This final book in the Chronicles of Exile trilogy, combines some characters (alive and previously dead) from the first two books.
The Augerans are old enemies of The Erin Elalese, who were driven out centuries ago. Now they return with an invasion fleet. Standing in the fleet's way is the Rubyholt Isles, occupied by pirates, who the Augerans try to bribe.
The action starts right off in the beginning pages, and never lets up.
Turner leaves with some setup for a further sequel.
This final book in the Chronicles of Exile trilogy, combines some characters (alive and previously dead) from the first two books.
The Augerans are old enemies of The Erin Elalese, who were driven out centuries ago. Now they return with an invasion fleet. Standing in the fleet's way is the Rubyholt Isles, occupied by pirates, who the Augerans try to bribe.
The action starts right off in the beginning pages, and never lets up.
Turner leaves with some setup for a further sequel.
November 21, 2016
As always my fellow bookish people this review can also be found on my blog: https://thetattooedbookgeek.wordpress...
I received a free copy of this book courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Red Tide is the third book in Marc Turner’s most excellent The Chronicles of The Exile series, following on from the previous two books, Dragon Hunters and his debut When The Heavens Fall.
Red Tide starts mere days after the events at the conclusion of the previous book Dragon Hunters. The first two books in the series are both very separate affairs with differing tones, locations and sets of characters. However, Red Tide is where Turner finally starts to merge the two previous books together as we continue with the aftermath of Dragon Hunters whilst becoming reacquainted with storylines and characters from When The Heavens Fall blending the previous two stories into one more overall coherent and over arching story where we get to see little hints and nods towards the bigger picture that Turner is creating.
Yes, we still have separate story arc’s to follow (of course we do – its epic fantasy) and not all the characters from When The Heavens Fall reappear but the foundations have been layed for returns further down the line in the series.
The book starts in the Rubyholt Isles where the Augerans led by Commander Eremo are attempting to create an alliance and form a treaty with Dresk – the Warlord of the isles to aid in their efforts in their war against The Sabian League. The Isles are a treacherous location of various passages, water ways, obstacles and creatures, including a terrifying area known as The Dragon’s Boneyard and the Augeran’s require the Rubyholters help to navigate the area safely.
The Rubyholters are a fractured bunch of different tribes and while they are led by Dresk, others want to cause trouble, take his place and be Warlord to, namely his son Galantas who takes the opportunity of the treaty as a sign that his Father has grown weak and weary and instead of united the Rubyholt tribes and being a rival for The Sabian League, Dresk has been content to let the tribes remain fractured whiling away his time drinking and Galantas realises that it’s time for change.
Also in the Isle are agents of The Emperor of Erin Elal, Guardian Amerel Duquy and the Breaker Noon who are there to cause sabotage and sow discord amongst the Rubyholters and Augerans.
We also have returning characters thrown unsuspectingly into the mix in the form Prince Ebon and Vale who are sailing across the Sabian Sea on a personal journey searching for Ebon’s lover and brother who managed to escape the siege of Majack in When The Heavens Fall but have failed to return home.
Back in Olaire, Mazana Creed the new Emira’s rule is tumultuous at best with daily fracas taking place between her mercenary forces and the former rulers still loyal followers. Add in the political machinations involving everyone from Senar Sol, the Chameleon Siblings, to the Spider and her Priestess Romany that are all linked to Mazana and are taking place as everyone awaits Mazana’s response to the Augeran’s treachery from Dragon day and you have a cauldron ready to boil over, finally erupting when The Emperor of Erin Elal Avallon Delamar requests an audience with Mazana to discuss the Augeran threat and what it means.
From here the story builds throughout the book as the players and pieces gradually take their places. And, as the story progresses you are treated to top quality storytelling, intrigue, action packed set pieces, visceral action, a multi threaded plot full of unexpected twists and turns culminating in an epic conclusion.
All the story arcs/plot lines in Red Tide are exceptional and Turner creates what is the strongest story in his Chronicles of The Exile series to date with a slow build and an action packed finale the book is a joy to read throughout. For some the pacing might be slightly slow in places, namely at the beginning but not all fantasy has to be fast paced action and a slower build, giving you time to become more involved in the characters lives and stories is sometimes far better as you get the emotional impact later on. – (I personally didn’t have a problem with the pace, I enjoy the slower parts in books as they add to the story and are informative but I know some people prefer constant action).
For me one of the best things about Turners work has always been his immense characterisation, he creates a large cast of characters but always manages to develop each separately, giving them all their own unique personality, traits and voices.
The returning characters from both previous books all continue to grow and the relationships between certain characters are also developed further. Mazana and her motley bunch of henchmen are all as engaging as ever. Mazana’s relationship with The Guardian Senar Sol grows in complexity and in turn his divided loyalties which are stretched even further with The Emperor Avallon’s arrival. Romany and The Goddess The Spider who continue to weave their web of intrigue and plots. The Chameleon Siblings Caval and Karmel and the familial rivalry that plagues their relationship. And, Ebon, who is perhaps the character in red Tide most likely to be described as “The Good Guy”.
The new characters are also outstanding, Eremo the Augeran Commander shows us a slightly more human side to the Augeran’s than what I was expecting while also managing to showcase their brutality. He is ably aided by Hex, a Dreamweaver, he was one of my favourite characters in the book and is a genuinely creepy and sinister creation.
Mention also goes to Gallantas who I found played a large part in the story and was an engaging and captivating presence to base the Rubyholters around.
Now onto The Guardian, Amerel, if Hex is creepy then Amerel is just downright bad, calling her psychotic seems slightly to harsh but she’s ruthless, cunning and cold-hearted, everything to her is simply a means to an end and she lets nothing get in the way of finishing her mission.
With both the returning characters and the new characters Turner manages to make them all seem real with real reasons behind their motivations and consequences to their actions. However even with a large cast of characters all are given the page time to shine and play important roles in the story being told.
The world building in Turner.s books is always top quality and being the third book in the series it’s a world that we now know and admire for its sheer scope and grandeur. It’s a world filled with history and lore and one of the best things is that Turner never over emphasises the size and scale of his created world, he doesn’t drop information on top of information, as a writer he’s far more subtle than that and adds little nuances, nod, suggestions and references at what is still to be explored and revealed.
The magic system is another great creation, it’s used to help propel the story forward and is an integral part to that story, feeling organic to the world. The Will has been present from the very beginning and is again used to great effect aiding the Guardians in both fights and with influences people. The water mages and water magic are again important and there are some truly epic sea battles and magic usage that take place in the book. And, this time we are also introduced to dream magic courtesy of Hex, the creations he conjures in the dream world are unnerving and menacing leaving you feeling dark and disturbed with a sense of dread whenever his power is unleashed.
Turner’s writing is again top quality as he pulls you into his story from the first few pages through to the last, great characters, settings, story arcs, plot twists, deadly magic, sea dragons, action dark humour and emotion Red Tide has everything that you could want and more in an Epic Fantasy book and is by far Turner’s best work so far.
With Red Tide, Marc Turner has written his best book yet. It’s a book that should propel him to the forefront of modern fantasy allowing him to stand alongside his peers and cementing his reputation as one of the must read authors in the genre.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Red Tide is the third book in Marc Turner’s most excellent The Chronicles of The Exile series, following on from the previous two books, Dragon Hunters and his debut When The Heavens Fall.
Red Tide starts mere days after the events at the conclusion of the previous book Dragon Hunters. The first two books in the series are both very separate affairs with differing tones, locations and sets of characters. However, Red Tide is where Turner finally starts to merge the two previous books together as we continue with the aftermath of Dragon Hunters whilst becoming reacquainted with storylines and characters from When The Heavens Fall blending the previous two stories into one more overall coherent and over arching story where we get to see little hints and nods towards the bigger picture that Turner is creating.
Yes, we still have separate story arc’s to follow (of course we do – its epic fantasy) and not all the characters from When The Heavens Fall reappear but the foundations have been layed for returns further down the line in the series.
The book starts in the Rubyholt Isles where the Augerans led by Commander Eremo are attempting to create an alliance and form a treaty with Dresk – the Warlord of the isles to aid in their efforts in their war against The Sabian League. The Isles are a treacherous location of various passages, water ways, obstacles and creatures, including a terrifying area known as The Dragon’s Boneyard and the Augeran’s require the Rubyholters help to navigate the area safely.
The Rubyholters are a fractured bunch of different tribes and while they are led by Dresk, others want to cause trouble, take his place and be Warlord to, namely his son Galantas who takes the opportunity of the treaty as a sign that his Father has grown weak and weary and instead of united the Rubyholt tribes and being a rival for The Sabian League, Dresk has been content to let the tribes remain fractured whiling away his time drinking and Galantas realises that it’s time for change.
Also in the Isle are agents of The Emperor of Erin Elal, Guardian Amerel Duquy and the Breaker Noon who are there to cause sabotage and sow discord amongst the Rubyholters and Augerans.
We also have returning characters thrown unsuspectingly into the mix in the form Prince Ebon and Vale who are sailing across the Sabian Sea on a personal journey searching for Ebon’s lover and brother who managed to escape the siege of Majack in When The Heavens Fall but have failed to return home.
Back in Olaire, Mazana Creed the new Emira’s rule is tumultuous at best with daily fracas taking place between her mercenary forces and the former rulers still loyal followers. Add in the political machinations involving everyone from Senar Sol, the Chameleon Siblings, to the Spider and her Priestess Romany that are all linked to Mazana and are taking place as everyone awaits Mazana’s response to the Augeran’s treachery from Dragon day and you have a cauldron ready to boil over, finally erupting when The Emperor of Erin Elal Avallon Delamar requests an audience with Mazana to discuss the Augeran threat and what it means.
From here the story builds throughout the book as the players and pieces gradually take their places. And, as the story progresses you are treated to top quality storytelling, intrigue, action packed set pieces, visceral action, a multi threaded plot full of unexpected twists and turns culminating in an epic conclusion.
All the story arcs/plot lines in Red Tide are exceptional and Turner creates what is the strongest story in his Chronicles of The Exile series to date with a slow build and an action packed finale the book is a joy to read throughout. For some the pacing might be slightly slow in places, namely at the beginning but not all fantasy has to be fast paced action and a slower build, giving you time to become more involved in the characters lives and stories is sometimes far better as you get the emotional impact later on. – (I personally didn’t have a problem with the pace, I enjoy the slower parts in books as they add to the story and are informative but I know some people prefer constant action).
For me one of the best things about Turners work has always been his immense characterisation, he creates a large cast of characters but always manages to develop each separately, giving them all their own unique personality, traits and voices.
The returning characters from both previous books all continue to grow and the relationships between certain characters are also developed further. Mazana and her motley bunch of henchmen are all as engaging as ever. Mazana’s relationship with The Guardian Senar Sol grows in complexity and in turn his divided loyalties which are stretched even further with The Emperor Avallon’s arrival. Romany and The Goddess The Spider who continue to weave their web of intrigue and plots. The Chameleon Siblings Caval and Karmel and the familial rivalry that plagues their relationship. And, Ebon, who is perhaps the character in red Tide most likely to be described as “The Good Guy”.
The new characters are also outstanding, Eremo the Augeran Commander shows us a slightly more human side to the Augeran’s than what I was expecting while also managing to showcase their brutality. He is ably aided by Hex, a Dreamweaver, he was one of my favourite characters in the book and is a genuinely creepy and sinister creation.
Mention also goes to Gallantas who I found played a large part in the story and was an engaging and captivating presence to base the Rubyholters around.
Now onto The Guardian, Amerel, if Hex is creepy then Amerel is just downright bad, calling her psychotic seems slightly to harsh but she’s ruthless, cunning and cold-hearted, everything to her is simply a means to an end and she lets nothing get in the way of finishing her mission.
With both the returning characters and the new characters Turner manages to make them all seem real with real reasons behind their motivations and consequences to their actions. However even with a large cast of characters all are given the page time to shine and play important roles in the story being told.
The world building in Turner.s books is always top quality and being the third book in the series it’s a world that we now know and admire for its sheer scope and grandeur. It’s a world filled with history and lore and one of the best things is that Turner never over emphasises the size and scale of his created world, he doesn’t drop information on top of information, as a writer he’s far more subtle than that and adds little nuances, nod, suggestions and references at what is still to be explored and revealed.
The magic system is another great creation, it’s used to help propel the story forward and is an integral part to that story, feeling organic to the world. The Will has been present from the very beginning and is again used to great effect aiding the Guardians in both fights and with influences people. The water mages and water magic are again important and there are some truly epic sea battles and magic usage that take place in the book. And, this time we are also introduced to dream magic courtesy of Hex, the creations he conjures in the dream world are unnerving and menacing leaving you feeling dark and disturbed with a sense of dread whenever his power is unleashed.
Turner’s writing is again top quality as he pulls you into his story from the first few pages through to the last, great characters, settings, story arcs, plot twists, deadly magic, sea dragons, action dark humour and emotion Red Tide has everything that you could want and more in an Epic Fantasy book and is by far Turner’s best work so far.
With Red Tide, Marc Turner has written his best book yet. It’s a book that should propel him to the forefront of modern fantasy allowing him to stand alongside his peers and cementing his reputation as one of the must read authors in the genre.
Highly recommended.
November 8, 2025
8 / 10 ✪
https://arefugefromlife.wordpress.com...
The Augeran stunt on Dragon Day signaled their coming, but not every nation accepted the threat as real. Just because a few Stone-skins showed up on this side of the ocean doesn’t mean the rest will follow. Erin Elal, however—homeland of the Guardians, ancient enemy of the Augerans—is not about to take the risk.
Thus, the Emperor has come to negotiate an alliance with Imerle and the Storm Lords. What he finds is Mazana Creed alone, and with her Senar Sol. The Guardian is more than familiar with the Emperor, but his allegiance remains in doubt. The two on one side would simplify things, surely, but the Sabian League, having just undergone a coup, is in no way ready for a war. And even if they were to fight one, wouldn’t the Augeran side be preferable? Erin Elal has never been a friend to them.
The Rubyholt Isles are of the same opinion. Its denizens, pirates and cutthroats, are prepared to sell to the highest bidder, and the Stone-skins have come calling with gold. Erin Elal, instead, has sent saboteurs.
But it seems the Augerans have sabotage on their mind as well. And when it comes down to it, war makes no plans simple—just chaos.
—
This couldn’t be murder; this was war. Killing wasn’t murder if you stole the victim’s country while you were at it.
—
Following my reread of Dragon Hunters—and the news that, at long last, Marc Turner had finished Chronicle #4 and was shopping publishers—I was more than ready to read Red Tide. Thing is, it took a while. But that shouldn’t be taken as a point against the book.
See, while Red Tide is the first direct sequel in the series (immediately following the events of Dragon Hunters), there’s still somehow a sharp learning curve. Romany—spider priestess—returns from Book #1, and I only vaguely remembered what part she played. There was more than a little to learn about Erin Elal, and the Guardians’ flight across the sea. There was a good deal more political intrigue than before, where Book #2 was a bit more action-heavy, even in its early stages. There’s another brand new locale to explore, and new culture and people to get used to. Which… to be fair, Books #1 and #2 also had.
So… basically, it was just a bit slower build than the last. But the world remains vivid and deep, the characters complicated and (mostly) human. Ebon I had issues with, at first. His power seemed to be pretty much the equivalent of giving a caveman an M-15. A get out of jail free card for any would-be plot issue. I came around a bit later on, but his story was a bit uninspired as well. More seemed to be setting up the story of Book #4 than much else.
Senar Sol, Mazana, Karmel, Caval all return from Book #2. (As aforementioned) Romany reprises her role from Book #1. Another Guardian and her Breaker companion, as well as an ambitious pirate captain round out the cast. The cast—on the whole—was pretty solid. All in all, I thought the overarching story was pretty good. Maybe not as immersive as Book #2, but close to it. World-building continues to impress. Slow build only lasts to the halfway point before taking off. Chaos reigns through to the end; plots upon plots upon plots. Anyone can die, and frequently people do, so try not to get too attached to any one character. But there wasn’t one character that shone above the rest. So, I had little enough problems with this.
TL;DR
If you’re anything like me, you had a good break between Books 1-2, and then again between 2-3. Probably not the best idea, as the learning curve of the Chronicles seems to be quite steep. Dense, vivid world, thick with intrigue and politics. No more so than in Red Tide. I found the book a bit slower to build, but still possessed of an immersive, entertaining plot, especially once the action got rolling (which, sadly, it didn’t, until at least the halfway point). A solid cast of characters; no one shone brighter than the rest. Dark fantasy—anyone who can die may, so don’t get too attached. But, for all may minor caveats, I found Red Tide a thoroughly enjoyable read, especially for Epic or High Fantasy lovers who like a little bit of darkness in their plots (or in their chocolate). I hope the author finds a publisher for #4 soon, as I’m more than ready to read it!
https://arefugefromlife.wordpress.com...
The Augeran stunt on Dragon Day signaled their coming, but not every nation accepted the threat as real. Just because a few Stone-skins showed up on this side of the ocean doesn’t mean the rest will follow. Erin Elal, however—homeland of the Guardians, ancient enemy of the Augerans—is not about to take the risk.
Thus, the Emperor has come to negotiate an alliance with Imerle and the Storm Lords. What he finds is Mazana Creed alone, and with her Senar Sol. The Guardian is more than familiar with the Emperor, but his allegiance remains in doubt. The two on one side would simplify things, surely, but the Sabian League, having just undergone a coup, is in no way ready for a war. And even if they were to fight one, wouldn’t the Augeran side be preferable? Erin Elal has never been a friend to them.
The Rubyholt Isles are of the same opinion. Its denizens, pirates and cutthroats, are prepared to sell to the highest bidder, and the Stone-skins have come calling with gold. Erin Elal, instead, has sent saboteurs.
But it seems the Augerans have sabotage on their mind as well. And when it comes down to it, war makes no plans simple—just chaos.
—
This couldn’t be murder; this was war. Killing wasn’t murder if you stole the victim’s country while you were at it.
—
Following my reread of Dragon Hunters—and the news that, at long last, Marc Turner had finished Chronicle #4 and was shopping publishers—I was more than ready to read Red Tide. Thing is, it took a while. But that shouldn’t be taken as a point against the book.
See, while Red Tide is the first direct sequel in the series (immediately following the events of Dragon Hunters), there’s still somehow a sharp learning curve. Romany—spider priestess—returns from Book #1, and I only vaguely remembered what part she played. There was more than a little to learn about Erin Elal, and the Guardians’ flight across the sea. There was a good deal more political intrigue than before, where Book #2 was a bit more action-heavy, even in its early stages. There’s another brand new locale to explore, and new culture and people to get used to. Which… to be fair, Books #1 and #2 also had.
So… basically, it was just a bit slower build than the last. But the world remains vivid and deep, the characters complicated and (mostly) human. Ebon I had issues with, at first. His power seemed to be pretty much the equivalent of giving a caveman an M-15. A get out of jail free card for any would-be plot issue. I came around a bit later on, but his story was a bit uninspired as well. More seemed to be setting up the story of Book #4 than much else.
Senar Sol, Mazana, Karmel, Caval all return from Book #2. (As aforementioned) Romany reprises her role from Book #1. Another Guardian and her Breaker companion, as well as an ambitious pirate captain round out the cast. The cast—on the whole—was pretty solid. All in all, I thought the overarching story was pretty good. Maybe not as immersive as Book #2, but close to it. World-building continues to impress. Slow build only lasts to the halfway point before taking off. Chaos reigns through to the end; plots upon plots upon plots. Anyone can die, and frequently people do, so try not to get too attached to any one character. But there wasn’t one character that shone above the rest. So, I had little enough problems with this.
TL;DR
If you’re anything like me, you had a good break between Books 1-2, and then again between 2-3. Probably not the best idea, as the learning curve of the Chronicles seems to be quite steep. Dense, vivid world, thick with intrigue and politics. No more so than in Red Tide. I found the book a bit slower to build, but still possessed of an immersive, entertaining plot, especially once the action got rolling (which, sadly, it didn’t, until at least the halfway point). A solid cast of characters; no one shone brighter than the rest. Dark fantasy—anyone who can die may, so don’t get too attached. But, for all may minor caveats, I found Red Tide a thoroughly enjoyable read, especially for Epic or High Fantasy lovers who like a little bit of darkness in their plots (or in their chocolate). I hope the author finds a publisher for #4 soon, as I’m more than ready to read it!
October 31, 2018
Glorious. That is all.
...just kidding. 4.5 stars rounded up after that shocking moment near the end that made me realise how invested I am in this story.
If you’re looking for a slightly condensed version of Malazan with the wit and dry humour of First Law then this series is perfect for you. If you want to see just how sharp some of Turner’s prose is, then check out some of my updates for this book. Honestly, some of the quotes are absolutely hilarious and had me frequently in stitches.
This is my fourth 5 star rating this year and my first one since March! So it goes without saying that I highly recommend this fantastic series (start with Dragon Hunters). I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
...just kidding. 4.5 stars rounded up after that shocking moment near the end that made me realise how invested I am in this story.
If you’re looking for a slightly condensed version of Malazan with the wit and dry humour of First Law then this series is perfect for you. If you want to see just how sharp some of Turner’s prose is, then check out some of my updates for this book. Honestly, some of the quotes are absolutely hilarious and had me frequently in stitches.
This is my fourth 5 star rating this year and my first one since March! So it goes without saying that I highly recommend this fantastic series (start with Dragon Hunters). I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
January 28, 2021
I sincerely hope Marc Turner will continue this series one day, because The Chronicles of the Exile has become one of my favourite book series ever. The world building is just phenomenal, each culture and characters are super detailed but rather than being written in a dumping info kind of way, it's done bit by bit, giving these novels a very slow burn atmosphere. Everything is just incredible rich and diverse with a real originality and complexity to it.
I love the way he plotted each book, with the different characters starting their own stories separately then everything coming together in such an organic way.
July 21, 2017
Marc Turner continues his series with what is by now a trademark blistering pace, threading his POV characters through an intense and Machiavellian invasion plot, and testing them to possible destruction in the process. The world is more assured now, and the stakes are even higher - and Turner has some nasty surprises in store for characters you thought might just escape by the skin of their teeth...
September 30, 2016
Before I get to my thoughts on Red Tide I want to point out this is the third in a series, so read the previous two books first. It doesn't matter the order: If you want to read about necromancers, legions of the undead and dark forests then start with book 1. If you want to read about Water mages, sea dragons and port cities then start with book 2.
Red Tide weaves the plot threads of the previous two books, adds a few new characters, and introduces a brand new area of the world. The novel is ambitious but never overwhelming. Marc Turner continues to craft arguably the best series out right now. I enjoyed the plot, characters, worldbuilding and all the many twists the book took me on. This series reminds me a lot of the early malazan books by Erikson (before the heavy philosophical bits).
November 21, 2016
It's always difficult to read a third book in a series when you have not read the other two, particularly when there is no sort of synopsis and the plots and characters are so entwined and complex, but having read this I will be investing for sure in the first two books. Turner writes in a style that reminds me of Steven Erikson in the complexity of the character relationships and plot lines but once I had found my way around the core characters I found the plot itself extremely entertaining and the book moved at a good pace building to a truly excellent climax - with a couple of chapters to close setting the scene for the next book in the series, complete with an unexpected final twist.
All in all, I was very impressed with Marc Turner and would heartily recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy on an epic scale, but do not pick this up for a quick and easy read, for that it is not!
All in all, I was very impressed with Marc Turner and would heartily recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy on an epic scale, but do not pick this up for a quick and easy read, for that it is not!
November 4, 2016
c2016: FWFTB: pirates, dragons, Will, sharks, Stone-skins. A coming together of some old characters and some new ones which seems to be a trend in the Chronicles. I do wish there was a what has gone before though. It took me forever to get myself orientated and it hadn't been that long ago that I had read the 2nd book. The great world building continues and the magic and mystery doubles. Looking forward to the next one! I'm hoping that all will come together and that I will finally remember all the bits of the jigsaw. Recommended to the normal crew."'I know my worth. A man is no worse for being criticised than he is better for being praised. If you take note of what you are inwardly, you need not pay attention to what others say of you."
November 2, 2016
I know what you're thinking "Man Garrett always rates 4 stars.." well, this is true, but its normally because I round up 3.5 stars.
this book was so close to getting the 5th and final star which I usually reserve for my all-time favorites.
Simply put this was a great book and pulled elements from both the 1st and 2nd book in the series which were parallel to each other until now. It's been awhile since I started reading a book I was reluctant to put done...however this book was one of them :-)
this book was so close to getting the 5th and final star which I usually reserve for my all-time favorites.
Simply put this was a great book and pulled elements from both the 1st and 2nd book in the series which were parallel to each other until now. It's been awhile since I started reading a book I was reluctant to put done...however this book was one of them :-)
November 23, 2016
I knew I was gonna love this book before I opened the cover and it didn't disappoint! Simply amazing series so far. If you love A song of Ice and Fire, Malazan, The wheel of time , then you gotta read this. If the author keeps it up, when this series is finished it will be able to go toe-to-toe with previously mentioned heavyweights!
June 1, 2017
Great to read the next step in the story. I admit it wasn't as gripping as the first two but definitely got more into it as I moved through the book. I can't wait for the next part of the story!
September 4, 2020
Definitely the strongest book in the series so far - I absolutely loved it.
March 24, 2020
I will preface this by saying, anyone who likes epic fantasy should buy Chronicles of the Exile. buy them all, but ESPECIALLY Red Tide. The series was planned to be 5 books long, but it appears to be stuck in publishing hell, so BUY THIS BOOK, so that there's a greater chance we will get to read the rest. The book ends at a good point, concluding the "story arc" from "Dragon Hunters" in an organic fashion, and it does not seem an abrupt or cliffhanger ending; But the story is clearly not resolved, and it would be a shame if we didn't get more of this world.
With that glowing recommendation out of the way....
"Red Tide" picks up exactly where "Dragon Hunters" left off, so, obviously, some spoilers will follow. The Dragon Hunt gone wrong shook up the power balance in the Sabian league, and Stormlord Mazana Creedis now the Emira, single-handedly ruling the Sabian sea and all of the trading cities. The stone-skinned Augeran soldiers who orchestrated the Dragon Day massacre are followed by a military emissary to the Rubyholt arhipelago- home of the clannish lawless pirates who jealously guard their knowledge of the passageway among the islands that lie over an ocean rife with magical anomalies. The Augerans need the islanders' knowledge to strike at the Empire of Erin Elal; the Emperor Avallon sends another Guardian (think Jedi-Assassin) to sabbotage the negotiations; then there's local power struggles; and Mazana Creed's grappling with the power of the Elder God Fume she happened to absorb during her coup; And Ebon, the Galitian prince from "When the Heavens Fall", who was possessed by an ancient goddess of a vanished race stumbles into the conflict as he pursues his beloved into the border-city of Gilgamar...
Suffice it to say, there's A LOT going on. Again. Turner cribs heavily from Seven Erikson's playbook of creating multi-faceted conflicts, stacked by powerful players (every major side features at least one, often more, character with unique type of magic/similar skill) all plotting and counter-plotting, and eventually the intrigues get tangled up into a Gordian knot that's resolved with an epic showdown of a convergence. As a plot structure it may feel a little formulaic, but at the same time, it's kind of the meat of epic fantasy. And Turner's build up earns those moments. The action develops at a steady pace, and although we jump between multiple PoVs in multiple locations, I never felt bored or eager to get back to a different story-line. The plot was paced well and it maintained a sense of flow all the way to the explosive ending, and nothing felt like a Deus ex Machina out of nowhere, which is always a good sign.
In terms of named characters, there's good variety to them, and they're generally not a single-trait plot device. Not everyone has the same depth, and this isnèt really a series you read for deep character development. For all the inner turmoils, few of them show actual growth or progression. But all the same they kept my interest as we built up to the final convergence.
And it was good. Totally worth it. Great, solid piece of epic fantasy about clash of fantasy cultures featuring meddling gods and various warriors and mages of insane power levels, all doing crazy, cool stuff. It's action-packed, and full of mental quips you'd expect from a summer action blockbuster, but it manages to fit the tone and not be out of place.
In conclusion: BUY THIS BOOK. I want to see the rest of the series published.
With that glowing recommendation out of the way....
"Red Tide" picks up exactly where "Dragon Hunters" left off, so, obviously, some spoilers will follow. The Dragon Hunt gone wrong shook up the power balance in the Sabian league, and Stormlord Mazana Creedis now the Emira, single-handedly ruling the Sabian sea and all of the trading cities. The stone-skinned Augeran soldiers who orchestrated the Dragon Day massacre are followed by a military emissary to the Rubyholt arhipelago- home of the clannish lawless pirates who jealously guard their knowledge of the passageway among the islands that lie over an ocean rife with magical anomalies. The Augerans need the islanders' knowledge to strike at the Empire of Erin Elal; the Emperor Avallon sends another Guardian (think Jedi-Assassin) to sabbotage the negotiations; then there's local power struggles; and Mazana Creed's grappling with the power of the Elder God Fume she happened to absorb during her coup; And Ebon, the Galitian prince from "When the Heavens Fall", who was possessed by an ancient goddess of a vanished race stumbles into the conflict as he pursues his beloved into the border-city of Gilgamar...
Suffice it to say, there's A LOT going on. Again. Turner cribs heavily from Seven Erikson's playbook of creating multi-faceted conflicts, stacked by powerful players (every major side features at least one, often more, character with unique type of magic/similar skill) all plotting and counter-plotting, and eventually the intrigues get tangled up into a Gordian knot that's resolved with an epic showdown of a convergence. As a plot structure it may feel a little formulaic, but at the same time, it's kind of the meat of epic fantasy. And Turner's build up earns those moments. The action develops at a steady pace, and although we jump between multiple PoVs in multiple locations, I never felt bored or eager to get back to a different story-line. The plot was paced well and it maintained a sense of flow all the way to the explosive ending, and nothing felt like a Deus ex Machina out of nowhere, which is always a good sign.
In terms of named characters, there's good variety to them, and they're generally not a single-trait plot device. Not everyone has the same depth, and this isnèt really a series you read for deep character development. For all the inner turmoils, few of them show actual growth or progression. But all the same they kept my interest as we built up to the final convergence.
And it was good. Totally worth it. Great, solid piece of epic fantasy about clash of fantasy cultures featuring meddling gods and various warriors and mages of insane power levels, all doing crazy, cool stuff. It's action-packed, and full of mental quips you'd expect from a summer action blockbuster, but it manages to fit the tone and not be out of place.
In conclusion: BUY THIS BOOK. I want to see the rest of the series published.
April 11, 2021
In Red Tide führt Marc Turner die Handlungsstränge der beiden vorherigen Bücher zusammen. Alte Charaktere, die zuvor nie zusammen auf einer Buchseite vorkamen, treffen aufeinander und das Spiel der Göttin Spider geht in die nächste Runde, während die Augeraner Erin Elal bedrohen. Die Welt von The Chronicles of the Exile wird hier noch weiter ausgeführt, denn die Handlung findet in einer neuen Gegend statt und erstmals treten die Augeraner überhaupt derart direkt auf den Spielplan.
Wo mich Dragon Hunters etwas enttäuscht hat, liefert dieser Teil wieder voll ab. Die besten Charaktere der beiden vorherigen Bücher kämpfen gemeinsam ums Überleben und auch die Handlung macht wieder mächtig Laune. Diese ist ein Mix der dauerhaften Action des ersten Buchs und der Intrigen des zweiten Teils. Es fühlte sich beim Lesen beinahe so an, als wären die beiden vorherigen Bücher nur eine Vorbereitung für Red Tide gewesen – und das obwohl beide super als Einzelbücher funktionieren.
Insgesamt ist Red Tide ein sehr gutes Buch und ein phänomenaler dritter Teil der Reihe. Gerade hinsichtlich der Augeraner wurde mein Interesse für weitere Bücher geweckt. Ich werde gespannt auf eine Fortsetzung warten, die hoffentlich (bald) erscheint.
Wo mich Dragon Hunters etwas enttäuscht hat, liefert dieser Teil wieder voll ab. Die besten Charaktere der beiden vorherigen Bücher kämpfen gemeinsam ums Überleben und auch die Handlung macht wieder mächtig Laune. Diese ist ein Mix der dauerhaften Action des ersten Buchs und der Intrigen des zweiten Teils. Es fühlte sich beim Lesen beinahe so an, als wären die beiden vorherigen Bücher nur eine Vorbereitung für Red Tide gewesen – und das obwohl beide super als Einzelbücher funktionieren.
Insgesamt ist Red Tide ein sehr gutes Buch und ein phänomenaler dritter Teil der Reihe. Gerade hinsichtlich der Augeraner wurde mein Interesse für weitere Bücher geweckt. Ich werde gespannt auf eine Fortsetzung warten, die hoffentlich (bald) erscheint.
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