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Elk Riders #3
The Font of Jasmeen
When a wayward prince, Haille Hillbourne, with his friend, Katlyn Barnes, seek out an enchanted font to cure his seizures they find themselves drawn into a conflict with sorcerers, slave traders, ambitious nobles, and unruly mercenaries; all the disparate players tied together by an elk of unknown origin.
248 pages, ebook
Published December 16, 2016
1 person is currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Ted Neill
93 books74 followersGlobetrotter and writer Ted Neill has worked on five continents as an educator, health professional, and journalist. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Recovery Today, and he has published a number of novels exploring issues related to science, religion, class, and social justice. He is the 2013 winner of the Martin Luther King Jr. Torch of Peace Award. His 2017 novel, The Selah Branch, attempts to confront issues of racism and the divided political environment of the US today and the 1950s. His debut novel, City on a Hill, examines the fault lines of religious conflict in the Middle East. His most novel, Reaper Moon, takes place against the backdrop of a global virus pandemic and how the aftermath unfolds along familiar social divides of race and politics. His most recent young adult novel is, Zombies, Frat Boys, Monster Flash Mobs & Other Terrifying Things I Saw at the Gates of Hell Cotillion, doesn’t need a blurb, the title says it all.
He is also author of two award winning memoirs, Two Years of Wonder which chronicles his time living and working at an orphanage for children with HIV/AIDS and Finding St. Lo a combined account of his grandfather Robert Fowler’s WWII experience as well as a decorated medic in his unit, Gordon Cross. Follow Ted on Facebook and Instagram @therealauthortedneill
He is also author of two award winning memoirs, Two Years of Wonder which chronicles his time living and working at an orphanage for children with HIV/AIDS and Finding St. Lo a combined account of his grandfather Robert Fowler’s WWII experience as well as a decorated medic in his unit, Gordon Cross. Follow Ted on Facebook and Instagram @therealauthortedneill
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 12, 2017
Reviewed For Readers' Favorite by Grant Leishman
Prince Haille has always been made to feel responsible for the death of his beloved mother and Queen, since she died giving birth to him. Coupled with the stigma of his mother’s death is he is considered a cripple, an invalid, a freak even, because of his “shaking sickness” (I’m assuming this is probably epilepsy). When Haille discovers his father, the King, plans to send him away to an orphanage for afflicted children, he determines to seek out and find the legendary Font of Jasmeen, where it is said the enchanted statue can cure and heal any afflicted child. Along with his classmate, Katlyn, the two fourteen-year-old’s head out into a land beset by the threat of war and ruled by duplicitous and self-serving Lords, only loyal to Haille’s father when it suits their purposes. So begins Ted Neill’s young adult adventure, The Font of Jasmeen.
I’m certainly not a young adult, The Font of Jasmeen’s target market, but I’m happy to say this book is suitable for all ages. This is the first book of Ted Neill’s that I’ve read, but I hazard a guess it won’t be the last. I loved the rollicking style of this adventure, as Haille and Katlyn lurched from one crisis to another, never sure who their allies and friends really were. The two principal characters were easily identifiable with, both mercilessly bullied at school for varying reasons. One thing I particularly liked about the story was that Neill allowed his “hero” (Haille) to be exactly what he was, a fourteen-year-old boy, full of angst, self-doubt and often making the wrong decisions, for what seemed the right reasons to his teenage mind. This book was a fantastic read and will have appeal to anyone who likes Epic Fantasy and certainly not just to its intended target market of Young Adults. I am excited that The Font of Jasmeen is part of a series and a quick glance at its companion volumes, on Amazon, tells me the other stories in the series focus on some of the bit-players in this book. Excellent – on my TBR list now.
Prince Haille has always been made to feel responsible for the death of his beloved mother and Queen, since she died giving birth to him. Coupled with the stigma of his mother’s death is he is considered a cripple, an invalid, a freak even, because of his “shaking sickness” (I’m assuming this is probably epilepsy). When Haille discovers his father, the King, plans to send him away to an orphanage for afflicted children, he determines to seek out and find the legendary Font of Jasmeen, where it is said the enchanted statue can cure and heal any afflicted child. Along with his classmate, Katlyn, the two fourteen-year-old’s head out into a land beset by the threat of war and ruled by duplicitous and self-serving Lords, only loyal to Haille’s father when it suits their purposes. So begins Ted Neill’s young adult adventure, The Font of Jasmeen.
I’m certainly not a young adult, The Font of Jasmeen’s target market, but I’m happy to say this book is suitable for all ages. This is the first book of Ted Neill’s that I’ve read, but I hazard a guess it won’t be the last. I loved the rollicking style of this adventure, as Haille and Katlyn lurched from one crisis to another, never sure who their allies and friends really were. The two principal characters were easily identifiable with, both mercilessly bullied at school for varying reasons. One thing I particularly liked about the story was that Neill allowed his “hero” (Haille) to be exactly what he was, a fourteen-year-old boy, full of angst, self-doubt and often making the wrong decisions, for what seemed the right reasons to his teenage mind. This book was a fantastic read and will have appeal to anyone who likes Epic Fantasy and certainly not just to its intended target market of Young Adults. I am excited that The Font of Jasmeen is part of a series and a quick glance at its companion volumes, on Amazon, tells me the other stories in the series focus on some of the bit-players in this book. Excellent – on my TBR list now.
January 24, 2018
Haille is a neglected and unloved prince. Blamed by his father and his people for the death of his much-loved mother in childbirth, and suffering from regular seizures to boot, he is desperate to win approval. So when he finds the old tale of a fountain that heals the children who seek it out, he runs away with his only friend, Katlyn Barnes, in pursuit of a cure for his ailments. But there are traps aplenty for the young and naive, and Haille has much to learn...
This book is at one and the same time the middle of a series, with a few familiar faces for those who have read the two previous books, and the start of a sharply new direction, with a new protagonist and a new setting. Haille is easy to love and sympathize with - though his sheltered life and trusting nature make him frustratingly gullible, that's only to be expected and quite believable for the character. The reader, however, can see what he misses, and some of the plot twists are a bit too readily predictable from our point of view. The focus of the book is on Haille's character development, though, and it's satisfying to watch his growth from the sullen, defensive boy we see in the beginning to a young man who truly values, and is willing to sacrifice for, his friends. The plot leaps about a bit, as journey plots tend to, and characters other than Haille go in and out of the story, but it's not too difficult to keep track of things. The ending offers enough resolution to be satisfying, but there are loose ends enough to tie right into the next book. All in all, if you've enjoyed this series so far, this book offers far more reasons to go on than to give up. And if you're just starting, this is probably the second-best place to start, though reading the first two books will add some useful context.
This book is at one and the same time the middle of a series, with a few familiar faces for those who have read the two previous books, and the start of a sharply new direction, with a new protagonist and a new setting. Haille is easy to love and sympathize with - though his sheltered life and trusting nature make him frustratingly gullible, that's only to be expected and quite believable for the character. The reader, however, can see what he misses, and some of the plot twists are a bit too readily predictable from our point of view. The focus of the book is on Haille's character development, though, and it's satisfying to watch his growth from the sullen, defensive boy we see in the beginning to a young man who truly values, and is willing to sacrifice for, his friends. The plot leaps about a bit, as journey plots tend to, and characters other than Haille go in and out of the story, but it's not too difficult to keep track of things. The ending offers enough resolution to be satisfying, but there are loose ends enough to tie right into the next book. All in all, if you've enjoyed this series so far, this book offers far more reasons to go on than to give up. And if you're just starting, this is probably the second-best place to start, though reading the first two books will add some useful context.
January 17, 2018
The third book in Terry Neill’s Elk Riders series, the Font of Jasmeen tells the story of an epileptic prince named Haille who is determined to prove his worth. After reading about a magical fountain that can possibly cure him of his ailments, he enlists his friend Katlyn to help him find it. They eventually end up accompanied by two mercenaries as well as a mysterious elk. Readers of the previous books will recognize Adamantus and also the villainous pair: Sade and Vondales.
Unlike the previous books, the narrative here only follows Haille’s adventures and it takes place in liner time. That makes it much easier to follow than the previous novels, particularly the first one. Haille and Katlyn are also far more likable protagonists than some of the ones in the first two books.
At this point I really would like a clearer explanation as to why Sade and his brother are so intent on capturing Adamantus. Aside from the fact that he's a magical creature, why bother? Do they need his blood or antlers as spell ingredients or something? Another thing that never gets fully explained is the purpose of the magical band around Katlyn's arm. But perhaps that information is coming up in one of the sequels.
I personally dislike the fact that in many of Neill's works the protagonists end up getting tricked by everyone around them. Not all kids are that trusting. I also think that the plot where the mother dies in childbirth and the father hates the aforementioned kid has been a bit overdone lately. However, this is still a solid book that’s definitely worth a read.
Unlike the previous books, the narrative here only follows Haille’s adventures and it takes place in liner time. That makes it much easier to follow than the previous novels, particularly the first one. Haille and Katlyn are also far more likable protagonists than some of the ones in the first two books.
At this point I really would like a clearer explanation as to why Sade and his brother are so intent on capturing Adamantus. Aside from the fact that he's a magical creature, why bother? Do they need his blood or antlers as spell ingredients or something? Another thing that never gets fully explained is the purpose of the magical band around Katlyn's arm. But perhaps that information is coming up in one of the sequels.
I personally dislike the fact that in many of Neill's works the protagonists end up getting tricked by everyone around them. Not all kids are that trusting. I also think that the plot where the mother dies in childbirth and the father hates the aforementioned kid has been a bit overdone lately. However, this is still a solid book that’s definitely worth a read.
August 2, 2018
Prince Haille Hillbourne has not had an easy life. His mother died in child birth, his father hates and blames him for the death of his mother, and he has an epileptic shakes. When Haille learns that his father plans to send him away to an orphanage for the afflicted, he decides to take matters into his own hands. Haille and his friend Katlyn go on the quest for the Font of Jasmeen, essentially the fountain of youth that should heal Haille. But no good adventure comes without trouble and the friends and going to find themselves in trouble.
We have ventured from Gabriella’s story but we are still going to find ourselves meeting back up with familiar characters; Sade, Vondales, and Adamantus. But the real gem of the story is watching Haille grow from the young, naïve kid in to a strong leader. I say this because I admit that I was short with Haille and tired of his attitude in the beginning of the story. But just has he learns about the world around him he matures and become a great character.
This is a great story and addition to this series. I think this is a great series for both kids and adults alike. I really enjoy how the main characters have issues not usually seen in stories and how they rise above them. I’m really excited to see where the story is going to go in The Journey to Karrith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
We have ventured from Gabriella’s story but we are still going to find ourselves meeting back up with familiar characters; Sade, Vondales, and Adamantus. But the real gem of the story is watching Haille grow from the young, naïve kid in to a strong leader. I say this because I admit that I was short with Haille and tired of his attitude in the beginning of the story. But just has he learns about the world around him he matures and become a great character.
This is a great story and addition to this series. I think this is a great series for both kids and adults alike. I really enjoy how the main characters have issues not usually seen in stories and how they rise above them. I’m really excited to see where the story is going to go in The Journey to Karrith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
January 25, 2018
A change of pace that brings fresh vitality and excitement to the series
This new installment to the Elk Riders series was a nice change of pace that I believe was almost necessary. While the previous two stories featuring Gabriella and Dameon were at times exciting and everything we expect from fantasy novels, this new plot line featuring Haille Hillbourne brings some fresh perspective to the overarching story that will hopefully seamlessly tie this entire world together by the conclusion. At times the trademark themes central to Haille's tale seems too played out, major case in point being the strong similarity of the Font of Jasmeen to the Fountain of Youth, I again deeply appreciate Ted Neill's groundbreaking use of disabilities in his novels that humanizes the characters for the readers often on a personal level and fosters in us a more genuine sympathy and likability of his characters. After this third installment, I'm on edge to see how all these characters and storylines merge and to also get a deeper understanding of our main villains and their ultimate goal.
This new installment to the Elk Riders series was a nice change of pace that I believe was almost necessary. While the previous two stories featuring Gabriella and Dameon were at times exciting and everything we expect from fantasy novels, this new plot line featuring Haille Hillbourne brings some fresh perspective to the overarching story that will hopefully seamlessly tie this entire world together by the conclusion. At times the trademark themes central to Haille's tale seems too played out, major case in point being the strong similarity of the Font of Jasmeen to the Fountain of Youth, I again deeply appreciate Ted Neill's groundbreaking use of disabilities in his novels that humanizes the characters for the readers often on a personal level and fosters in us a more genuine sympathy and likability of his characters. After this third installment, I'm on edge to see how all these characters and storylines merge and to also get a deeper understanding of our main villains and their ultimate goal.
January 31, 2018
In The Font Jasmeen readers return to the world of the Elk Riders, but meet some brand new characters. Prince Haille and Katlyn set off on a quest with little more than their traveling clothes and desperation -- and fortunately a purse of money. After acknowledging the need for some adult protection, they recruit Val and Cody -- a knight from a defunct order sworn to protect all life, and his amiable companion. The four also end up meeting someone the readers will be glad to see -- Adamantus, the Elk -- and someone who is not so welcome -- Vandales. They meet danger in disguise and receive help from unlikely places. Haille starts out the story a petulant, whiny, selfish, defensive boy who makes some truly terrible decisions; but during his journey grows into a young man with a bit more wisdom and much more character. Like the first two Elk Riders books, The Font of Jasmeen is a fast-paced adventure that's tough to put down, a story of friendship, family, and sacrifice.
January 16, 2018
Having read and reviewed the two previous books in this series, many of my thoughts on this novel are simply reiterations of what I have already said - the otherworldly atmosphere of this series is brilliantly written, and has remained consistent throughout the series so far. This alone makes these books a joy to read.
I feel that this book does the series perfect justice, continuing the ongoing sense of adventure of the previous instalments while adding new and interesting elements to the plot. I have given this book 4 stars rather than 5 purely because, of the books in this series so far, I felt that this was the least thrilling of them. That said, I am still excited to see what Volume IV has to offer.
I feel that this book does the series perfect justice, continuing the ongoing sense of adventure of the previous instalments while adding new and interesting elements to the plot. I have given this book 4 stars rather than 5 purely because, of the books in this series so far, I felt that this was the least thrilling of them. That said, I am still excited to see what Volume IV has to offer.
January 24, 2018
This wonderful tome is a classic adventure, much like the tales of old, once told by the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson, Robert E. Howard, and J.R.R. Tolkien. It has all the elements: a child despised because his birth caused the death of a beloved queen, a father torn between family and his people, a war brewing because of his ineffectiveness, a haphazard quest for a cure, betrayal, myths becoming real once more, and a host of villains, saviors, and adventures without end. In a land where magic and mythology Is suppressed, thought to be lost, a ragtag group of heroes will rise, and the result is a page turner of a tale that is hard to be put down. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
January 24, 2018
This wonderful tome is a classic adventure, much like the tales of old, once told by the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson, Robert E. Howard, and J.R.R. Tolkien. It has all the elements: a child despised because his birth caused the death of a beloved queen, a father torn between family and his people, a war brewing because of his ineffectiveness, a haphazard quest for a cure, betrayal, myths becoming real once more, and a host of villains, saviors, and adventures without end. In a land where magic and mythology Is suppressed, thought to be lost, a ragtag group of heroes will rise, and the result is a page turner of a tale that is hard to be put down. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
January 21, 2018
In the third installment of Elk Riders, Ted Neill delivers once more. He has proven himself a master of fantasy fiction. Starting with In the Darkness Visible, The Font of Jasmeen continues the tale of a young prince desperate to find acceptance in his kingdom. Neill takes Prince Haille Hillbourne through many conflicts and emotional tragedies. He leverages a tragic upbringing combined with the loss of his mother. The book also has a happier side. The young prince finds a new mother and learns what love and acceptance truly mean.
January 24, 2018
I have to admit I am not normally a fan of the Fantasy genre, nor have I read the first two installment of this series. None-the-less I found it a charming story that was easy to get right into. The first chapter was such a fast read I was into it from the first word. Part Disney-like, part moral boasting (as we all need to find acceptance within ourselves and our place in the world), part, well fantasy, its an easy read for just about everyone.
January 27, 2018
I do believe this is my favourite entry so far in the series. Well written, it's another page turner that pulls you deep into the world Neill has created. While some characters from the first two books are present here, the main character Haille is new to the series. It makes for a refreshing change and reveals a depth to this narrative that is both unexpected and well appreciated. I hope for more answers in the next one.
January 16, 2018
Another exciting addition to the Elk Riders series! This is an enjoyable read that is a worthy successor to the first two books in the series. While the focus this time in mostly on new characters, we do run into some familiar faces towards the end of the story. Volume III packs just as much action and adventure as the first two books, while introducing us to a new set of young and brave heroes. The author manages to write stories that are filled with fantasy and adventure, featuring well-developed characters that pique the interest of the reader and keep them concerned and interested enough to continue reading! A pleasant and entertaining read. I look forward to the next in the series!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews