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The Fatemarked Epic #3
Soulmarked
Despite the efforts of several of the fatemarked, turmoil and violence continue to plague the Four Kingdoms...
To the north, Annise Gäric ventures into the Hinterlands to discover the truth of the Sleeping Knights, who may be the only hope for her kingdom. Meanwhile, Tarin Sheary travels to Darrin in a desperate bid to repel the eastern forces amassing at Crow's Nest. Unbeknownst to either of them, a new threat rises in Blackstone.
In the west, Rhea Loren seeks to ransom her prisoners, Gareth Ironclad and Gwendolyn Storm, which will bring her one step closer to her goal of controlling the fatemarked. Relying on her ability to summon the ancient sea creature, Wrathos, she seeks to unify her people while persuading them that the child growing inside her was placed there directly by Wrath.
With his fatemarked sister in tow, Grey Arris sails toward Pirate's Peril in search of the truth about Shae's marking and the cause of her recurring dream of a pirate.
In the southern empire of Phanes, a slave rebellion is brewing, with Jai Jiroux and Shanti Parthena Laude at its core. But the Hoza brothers will not relinquish their power without a fight.
Finally, in Calyp, Raven Sandes' dragonia are growing, and she must decide whether to use them against the east, who continue to attack her desert borders. Simultaneously, Roan Loren shows up at her palace with an offer she cannot refuse, as he strives to learn the truth of the Western Oracle's prophecies and the origins of the fatemarked.
As always, Bane is lurking in the shadows with his new partner, Chavos the plaguemarked, plotting how to destroy those who would stand in the path of peace.
To the north, Annise Gäric ventures into the Hinterlands to discover the truth of the Sleeping Knights, who may be the only hope for her kingdom. Meanwhile, Tarin Sheary travels to Darrin in a desperate bid to repel the eastern forces amassing at Crow's Nest. Unbeknownst to either of them, a new threat rises in Blackstone.
In the west, Rhea Loren seeks to ransom her prisoners, Gareth Ironclad and Gwendolyn Storm, which will bring her one step closer to her goal of controlling the fatemarked. Relying on her ability to summon the ancient sea creature, Wrathos, she seeks to unify her people while persuading them that the child growing inside her was placed there directly by Wrath.
With his fatemarked sister in tow, Grey Arris sails toward Pirate's Peril in search of the truth about Shae's marking and the cause of her recurring dream of a pirate.
In the southern empire of Phanes, a slave rebellion is brewing, with Jai Jiroux and Shanti Parthena Laude at its core. But the Hoza brothers will not relinquish their power without a fight.
Finally, in Calyp, Raven Sandes' dragonia are growing, and she must decide whether to use them against the east, who continue to attack her desert borders. Simultaneously, Roan Loren shows up at her palace with an offer she cannot refuse, as he strives to learn the truth of the Western Oracle's prophecies and the origins of the fatemarked.
As always, Bane is lurking in the shadows with his new partner, Chavos the plaguemarked, plotting how to destroy those who would stand in the path of peace.
783 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 29, 2017
3273 people are currently reading
1004 people want to read
About the author
David Estes
80 books2,673 followersGet a FREE short story from David Estes' #1 Amazon bestselling epic fantasy series, Fatemarked, when you sign up for his mailing list: https://www.subscribepage.com/b2v6v3
David Estes has written more than 40 science fiction and fantasy books. He loves chatting with his readers, all of whom he considers to be his friends. David lives in Hawaii with his beautiful Aussie wife, Adele, his moody cats, Bailey and Luna, and his rambunctious sons, Beau and Brody.
Join 3,000+ David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite in David Estes' official fan group at:
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
Books by David Estes:
-The Fatemarked Epic- For fans of A Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and The Way of Kings! Four kingdoms. A century-old war. One ancient prophecy that could change everything.
-The Kingfall Histories- a follow up series to the #1 Amazon bestselling series, The Fatemarked Epic
-Strings- “A wonderful retelling of the Pinocchio story…I simply couldn’t put this book down.”—Rysa Walker, bestselling author of TIMEBOUND
-The Dwellers Saga and the Country Saga. Voted books to read if you enjoyed the Hunger Games on Buzzfeed and Listopia.
-Salem's Revenge trilogy- the witch apocalypse begins!
-Slip Trilogy- "Someone must die before another can be born..."
-The Adventures of Nikki Powergloves- Kid superheroes? 'Nuff said.
David Estes has written more than 40 science fiction and fantasy books. He loves chatting with his readers, all of whom he considers to be his friends. David lives in Hawaii with his beautiful Aussie wife, Adele, his moody cats, Bailey and Luna, and his rambunctious sons, Beau and Brody.
Join 3,000+ David Estes Fans and YA Book Lovers Unite in David Estes' official fan group at:
http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
Books by David Estes:
-The Fatemarked Epic- For fans of A Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and The Way of Kings! Four kingdoms. A century-old war. One ancient prophecy that could change everything.
-The Kingfall Histories- a follow up series to the #1 Amazon bestselling series, The Fatemarked Epic
-Strings- “A wonderful retelling of the Pinocchio story…I simply couldn’t put this book down.”—Rysa Walker, bestselling author of TIMEBOUND
-The Dwellers Saga and the Country Saga. Voted books to read if you enjoyed the Hunger Games on Buzzfeed and Listopia.
-Salem's Revenge trilogy- the witch apocalypse begins!
-Slip Trilogy- "Someone must die before another can be born..."
-The Adventures of Nikki Powergloves- Kid superheroes? 'Nuff said.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
August 26, 2022
4.75/5
“You pushed the light away from you, so why does it surprise you when you’re left alone in the dark?”
I feel like Michael Corleone in The Godfather Part III when he says “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.” Estes keeps pulling me back in with this series, making me forget all the other books I’m currently in the middle of.
Soulmarked begins in the north, following Annise as she ventures into the Hinterlands to find The Sleeping Knights. Meanwhile, Tarin journeys to Darrin to serve his queen in the only way he knows how, with mace and blood. In the west, Rhea seeks to ransom her prisoners in a last bid for control. Far into the sea, Grey and his sister Shae sail closer to the Pirate Isles to discover the truth of her Fatemark. In the Southern empire, Jai vows to destroy the emperor, but the man is not who he seems. Raven’s dragonia are growing and the call to war has been made; but Roan, seeking the truth of the Western Oracle and the origins of the Fatemarked, hopes to stop it. Bane, always in the shadows, plots to destroy all those who stand in his way of peace.
This book had no right to bend my will to its fast pace and mind-numbing chapter cliffhangers. As always, Estes makes it impossible to put his books down. Every time, without fail, I am anchored into the story! Tumbling and reaching for the surface in the hope of fresh air. So far, Soulmarked is Estes best entry in the Fatemarked Epic. I was entirely gripped by this book in so many ways.
First, of course the characters. This is what I keep coming back to time and time again. I love Este’s characters! Their growths and struggles, their thoughts and worries, their never-failing ability to make my heart stop when in dangerous situations! We get to follow our old favorites and discover some new ones. A new character I felt drawn to was Lisbeth, a blind girl with the ability to see the souls of others. She is fascinating! I loved the role she played in the story and how twisted the plot became with her presence. Of course, my girl Annise had the most thrilling plotline. Her and Tarin are responsible for the new strands of grey hair sprouting on my head. All of Estes characters are in a constant state of growth, forever changing in their struggles. Even if I am not particularly invested in a certain point of view, I’m never bored.
It’s a writer’s goal to make their characters sympathetic, but their villains? There are a few antagonists in this series, but the one who everyone is watching out for is Bane. Following his arc from book one is brutal. It’s rare that I come across a villain I am so empathic towards. Do I agree with what he is doing? No. Do I think he needs to be stopped? Yes. Will it crush my soul if his death should occur? Yes. I will be crushed. His development is sinking further and further from where he started from, and it is heartbreaking to watch it unfold. I love how Estes has handled his character and I’m so eager to know what will happen to Bane throughout the rest of the series.
There are so many heart stopping moments in this book, it’s hard to pick and choose. Characters are finally growing into their powers and the plot is speeding ahead for that end-of-the-world feeling that’s so common within fantasy. The whispers of the HORDE is forcing me to face a corner and pretend like everything will work out. It’s been a steady progression that presently leaves me scared that there are still two books left in this series for me to read. I keep wondering with the start of each book, how much further can this story go? Estes consistent answer is “Much further than you think.” There are some great callbacks to classic fantasy in scenes that include some dead marshes and epic dragon battles. The fight scenes are emotionally charged as well as thrilling and further prove my point that this series will not let me stop reading.
While I do think this is Estes best entry into the series, I do have to mention the change of structure in this book. With Estes’s previous entries, the character perspectives were mixed throughout the book, giving the reader an even feel for each point of view. With Soulmarked there are entire sections that completely leave out certain perspectives. For example, in part one we follow all of our northern characters such as Annise, Tarin and a few others including Rhea, Gwen and Gareth, leaving out main characters like Roan, Grey, and Jai for nearly half of the book. This wasn’t an issue for me until I read the later half of the book, which completely leaves out Annise, Tarin, and a few other characters we had in part one. The first half of the book was a bonfire of thrilling events that left me emotionally whiplashed! It felt like a book all by itself, creating a timeline that the next half of the book had to catch up with using the remaining characters.
Part one ended with an event that came to fruition at the end of the book, leaving the reader in suspense as to how these events happened. I discovered the oncoming twist of this event quite early after finishing part one, so the impact of its tension was lacking for me. However, it was saved by a great battle sequence! I won’t lie and say I wasn’t disappointed a little by the predictability of the climax, but the action was so good I had a hard time remembering why I was let down in the first place. If the perspectives had been mixed like the previous books, you would’ve found me collapsed due to heart spasms. I see what Estes was trying to accomplish by separating them, but for me it didn’t work as well as I would’ve hoped. Still the best book by Estes so far! Loved it! I only wished it was structured as the previous ones were.
The stakes have never been higher than in Soulmarked! Questions are finally being answered and these characters are becoming who they were always meant to be. The purpose of their lives is making itself known and it continues to be a painful process for everyone involved. I cannot believe I still have two more books to read in this series, and with the next book titled Deathmarked, I’m entirely frightened by how much potential it has to hurt me.
“You pushed the light away from you, so why does it surprise you when you’re left alone in the dark?”
I feel like Michael Corleone in The Godfather Part III when he says “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in.” Estes keeps pulling me back in with this series, making me forget all the other books I’m currently in the middle of.
Soulmarked begins in the north, following Annise as she ventures into the Hinterlands to find The Sleeping Knights. Meanwhile, Tarin journeys to Darrin to serve his queen in the only way he knows how, with mace and blood. In the west, Rhea seeks to ransom her prisoners in a last bid for control. Far into the sea, Grey and his sister Shae sail closer to the Pirate Isles to discover the truth of her Fatemark. In the Southern empire, Jai vows to destroy the emperor, but the man is not who he seems. Raven’s dragonia are growing and the call to war has been made; but Roan, seeking the truth of the Western Oracle and the origins of the Fatemarked, hopes to stop it. Bane, always in the shadows, plots to destroy all those who stand in his way of peace.
This book had no right to bend my will to its fast pace and mind-numbing chapter cliffhangers. As always, Estes makes it impossible to put his books down. Every time, without fail, I am anchored into the story! Tumbling and reaching for the surface in the hope of fresh air. So far, Soulmarked is Estes best entry in the Fatemarked Epic. I was entirely gripped by this book in so many ways.
First, of course the characters. This is what I keep coming back to time and time again. I love Este’s characters! Their growths and struggles, their thoughts and worries, their never-failing ability to make my heart stop when in dangerous situations! We get to follow our old favorites and discover some new ones. A new character I felt drawn to was Lisbeth, a blind girl with the ability to see the souls of others. She is fascinating! I loved the role she played in the story and how twisted the plot became with her presence. Of course, my girl Annise had the most thrilling plotline. Her and Tarin are responsible for the new strands of grey hair sprouting on my head. All of Estes characters are in a constant state of growth, forever changing in their struggles. Even if I am not particularly invested in a certain point of view, I’m never bored.
It’s a writer’s goal to make their characters sympathetic, but their villains? There are a few antagonists in this series, but the one who everyone is watching out for is Bane. Following his arc from book one is brutal. It’s rare that I come across a villain I am so empathic towards. Do I agree with what he is doing? No. Do I think he needs to be stopped? Yes. Will it crush my soul if his death should occur? Yes. I will be crushed. His development is sinking further and further from where he started from, and it is heartbreaking to watch it unfold. I love how Estes has handled his character and I’m so eager to know what will happen to Bane throughout the rest of the series.
There are so many heart stopping moments in this book, it’s hard to pick and choose. Characters are finally growing into their powers and the plot is speeding ahead for that end-of-the-world feeling that’s so common within fantasy. The whispers of the HORDE is forcing me to face a corner and pretend like everything will work out. It’s been a steady progression that presently leaves me scared that there are still two books left in this series for me to read. I keep wondering with the start of each book, how much further can this story go? Estes consistent answer is “Much further than you think.” There are some great callbacks to classic fantasy in scenes that include some dead marshes and epic dragon battles. The fight scenes are emotionally charged as well as thrilling and further prove my point that this series will not let me stop reading.
While I do think this is Estes best entry into the series, I do have to mention the change of structure in this book. With Estes’s previous entries, the character perspectives were mixed throughout the book, giving the reader an even feel for each point of view. With Soulmarked there are entire sections that completely leave out certain perspectives. For example, in part one we follow all of our northern characters such as Annise, Tarin and a few others including Rhea, Gwen and Gareth, leaving out main characters like Roan, Grey, and Jai for nearly half of the book. This wasn’t an issue for me until I read the later half of the book, which completely leaves out Annise, Tarin, and a few other characters we had in part one. The first half of the book was a bonfire of thrilling events that left me emotionally whiplashed! It felt like a book all by itself, creating a timeline that the next half of the book had to catch up with using the remaining characters.
Part one ended with an event that came to fruition at the end of the book, leaving the reader in suspense as to how these events happened. I discovered the oncoming twist of this event quite early after finishing part one, so the impact of its tension was lacking for me. However, it was saved by a great battle sequence! I won’t lie and say I wasn’t disappointed a little by the predictability of the climax, but the action was so good I had a hard time remembering why I was let down in the first place. If the perspectives had been mixed like the previous books, you would’ve found me collapsed due to heart spasms. I see what Estes was trying to accomplish by separating them, but for me it didn’t work as well as I would’ve hoped. Still the best book by Estes so far! Loved it! I only wished it was structured as the previous ones were.
The stakes have never been higher than in Soulmarked! Questions are finally being answered and these characters are becoming who they were always meant to be. The purpose of their lives is making itself known and it continues to be a painful process for everyone involved. I cannot believe I still have two more books to read in this series, and with the next book titled Deathmarked, I’m entirely frightened by how much potential it has to hurt me.
Read
April 1, 2017The third full-length novel in The Fatemarked Epic is now available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited! It's my longest book ever, at more than 750 paperback pages, and contains more world-building, action, and DRAGONS than any of the previous books. Who will Bane kill this time? And will Gwen and Gareth find away to escape Queen Rhea's dungeons? And will Annise find a way to reunite with Tarin, or are the wounds between them too deep? I hope you enjoy the third installment in the bestselling Fatemarked Epic. Happy reading!
http://amzn.to/2kEnKcN
http://amzn.to/2kEnKcN
October 17, 2024
This one was a bit of a step-back for me. Felt like this book wasn't as thought-through and organized as the others. There were some layout choices that didn't seem to gel with me and kind of took away from some anticipation and suspense. This book also seemed to borrow heavily from some concepts from other well-known fantasy series. While not out-right blatant, there were times were it landed on the bad side of the line for me.
As with the others in this series, the characters are the most important part. We were introduced to a wider range of POV characters, as new characters were introduced and some side characters took more of the spotlight. All of them were a hit with me, save one. They are a character that I am not so big on in general, so being in their headspace wasn't ideal for me. Character arcs/growth were hit or miss for me in this one. A lot of it felt like a bridge or set-up to the last two books in this series. I did like how the book was split into two parts, giving all the POV characters a set block of space to themselves.
I mentioned this in my review for book one - Estes' writing skirts that line of YA and romantasy. This is epic fantasy, yes, but it's told in a lighter fashion. I love me some grit, love me riding along those shades of grey, but sometimes it's nice to spend time with a lighter take. I think he deserves to be in the self pub pantheon. He does what he does, and he does it at a very good level.
As with the others in this series, the characters are the most important part. We were introduced to a wider range of POV characters, as new characters were introduced and some side characters took more of the spotlight. All of them were a hit with me, save one. They are a character that I am not so big on in general, so being in their headspace wasn't ideal for me. Character arcs/growth were hit or miss for me in this one. A lot of it felt like a bridge or set-up to the last two books in this series. I did like how the book was split into two parts, giving all the POV characters a set block of space to themselves.
I mentioned this in my review for book one - Estes' writing skirts that line of YA and romantasy. This is epic fantasy, yes, but it's told in a lighter fashion. I love me some grit, love me riding along those shades of grey, but sometimes it's nice to spend time with a lighter take. I think he deserves to be in the self pub pantheon. He does what he does, and he does it at a very good level.
March 9, 2025
The Fatemarked Epic pasaule ir uz vēl lielāku pārmaiņu un to izraisītu notikumu virpuļa sliekšņa nekā līdz šim tā pieredzējusi. Jau vairāk nekā simts gadus četras karalistes (ar izdomu nosauktas debesvirzienu nosaukumus kā Ziemeļu vai Dienvidu karaliste) savā starpā aktīvi karo, kaut gan rodas iespaids, ka arī pirms tam lielāki vai mazāki militāri konflikti nav bijuši retums, un dažs labs tēls, kā Beins, ir gatavs uzņemties to smago pienākumu, lai censtos realizēt jau par mītu un leģendu kļuvušu Rietumu orākules pareģojumu, ka, nogalinot astoņus valdniekus, būtu iespējams panākt mieru pasaulē.
https://poseidons99.com/2025/03/09/da...
https://poseidons99.com/2025/03/09/da...
March 19, 2017
I read this as a beta read and loved it. Will do a full review when I get a chance to read the final copy.
Wow!! This cover!! Here there be dragons!
Wow!! This cover!! Here there be dragons!
June 28, 2017
I am eagerly awaiting more books. I hope its lots of books. Lots of books with lots of pages. Oh so many pages. Mountains of pages.
This is seriously one of the best series I have read in a long time. I read a lot. I devour books. Sadly many of them are not good.
What makes a good book? If you can read it more than once its a good book. If you still enjoy it the 3rd and 4th time and take away something new, some connection you didn't make the first time, then its a great book.
This was a great book. I will read this over and over again.
I don't do spoilers. I won't tell you what happens or where. I'll tell you there are dragons and heroes and villains and one of the most intriguing magic systems I've read since Sanderson and Weeks. I'll tell you that its a diverse cast of characters that you Want to know and the end of each chapter leaves you wanting MORE.
And read the short story collections!
I often say that this is just my opinion and that you should never base whether you will read something on a random strangers opinion...I haven't added that for this series because GO READ IT!
This is seriously one of the best series I have read in a long time. I read a lot. I devour books. Sadly many of them are not good.
What makes a good book? If you can read it more than once its a good book. If you still enjoy it the 3rd and 4th time and take away something new, some connection you didn't make the first time, then its a great book.
This was a great book. I will read this over and over again.
I don't do spoilers. I won't tell you what happens or where. I'll tell you there are dragons and heroes and villains and one of the most intriguing magic systems I've read since Sanderson and Weeks. I'll tell you that its a diverse cast of characters that you Want to know and the end of each chapter leaves you wanting MORE.
And read the short story collections!
I often say that this is just my opinion and that you should never base whether you will read something on a random strangers opinion...I haven't added that for this series because GO READ IT!
August 18, 2017
Excellent
As the saga continues, the action does not lessen. We are drawn further and further into the lives of characters I have grown to care for deeply. This is truly an epic in the grand tradition of Tolkien. Others have commented on the large cast of players in the story line; yet each of them is defined clearly, making it easy to remember each one. For me, book 3 moved even faster than the second book, although it is a bit longer. Although other authors sell short stories to fill in gaps of a series that didn't cleanly fit into the main story line; David Estes provides these stories at the end of each book. They broaden our understanding of each character and are written with the same flair as the fantasy itself. Thanks to the author for that. I appreciate it greatly and love those stories.
As the saga continues, the action does not lessen. We are drawn further and further into the lives of characters I have grown to care for deeply. This is truly an epic in the grand tradition of Tolkien. Others have commented on the large cast of players in the story line; yet each of them is defined clearly, making it easy to remember each one. For me, book 3 moved even faster than the second book, although it is a bit longer. Although other authors sell short stories to fill in gaps of a series that didn't cleanly fit into the main story line; David Estes provides these stories at the end of each book. They broaden our understanding of each character and are written with the same flair as the fantasy itself. Thanks to the author for that. I appreciate it greatly and love those stories.
May 31, 2017
Absolutely awesome read! This book has everything you could ask for in a fantasy, the plot is excellent, and seeing the relationships between the characters - as well as the characters themselves - grow and develop is great. A must read for all fantasy lovers!
April 10, 2017
David Estes's series "The Fatemarked" is not be be missed!
This is an AWESOME series! I would recommend it to all, especially Game of Thrones fans, as, much to my reading pleasure, it highly resembles! But, yet, it is also in a league of its own. If you're never read any books by this author, do not delay any further!!! You won't be disappointed!
This is an AWESOME series! I would recommend it to all, especially Game of Thrones fans, as, much to my reading pleasure, it highly resembles! But, yet, it is also in a league of its own. If you're never read any books by this author, do not delay any further!!! You won't be disappointed!
March 20, 2020
Best fantasy series I’ve read on kindle in a long time. Really enjoying it!
November 15, 2020
I am super hooked on these, they are super immersive and the added content at the end of each just helps get to know the characters even better.
February 23, 2021
Wow!
An impeccable story and deep with engaging and captivating characters. I never feel bored while read this series. It could go on forever as far as I am concerned.
An impeccable story and deep with engaging and captivating characters. I never feel bored while read this series. It could go on forever as far as I am concerned.
July 13, 2017
Book three and they continue to thrill! Now I am impatiently waiting for the next installment. Great writing and what an epic adventure. I loved it. Five stars. I can recommend for teens and up.
Read
July 5, 2017As with all of David Estes' books, this was perfect: characters who grow and who are real with complicated pasts and presents. It's as much the relationships in the books as the plotlines and conflicts themselves that drive the stories forward. I haven't been let down yet by one of his novels, and I've read several different series by him.
June 30, 2017
Yet another enjoyable read by Estes.
I very much enjoyed this latest installment to this series. The characters actions and plots were certainly similar to the previous books, But still very entertaining. Again I want to mention that I really appreciate the longer books. I am really tired of the one day wonders pumped out by so many of the Kindle unlimited writers. Estes has become one of my favorite writers in this genre and I look forward to reading more of his books.I highly recommend this writer.
I very much enjoyed this latest installment to this series. The characters actions and plots were certainly similar to the previous books, But still very entertaining. Again I want to mention that I really appreciate the longer books. I am really tired of the one day wonders pumped out by so many of the Kindle unlimited writers. Estes has become one of my favorite writers in this genre and I look forward to reading more of his books.I highly recommend this writer.
December 17, 2017
EPIC. AWESOME. WORTH-IT.
Fantasy is my favorite genre, so obviously I have read too many books that fall into this category. I did not pay a cent for this book and had access to it for free using my Kindle Unlimited account. Hands down this series was better than all the fantasy I have purchased in the last year.
Why I absolutely adore this series:
1.The worldbuilding is intricate and thorough.
2. The plot is fast-paced and action packed.
3. I usually hate too many POVs and quick POV switches and this book was the perfect example of what I absolutely hate in a book. But wait. The fantastic cast of characters made me care for each and every one of them.
4. Nobody was back or white. Plenty of grey, immoral characters.
I recommend this series to anyone who loves epic-fantasy or has the time to read a good book!
Fantasy is my favorite genre, so obviously I have read too many books that fall into this category. I did not pay a cent for this book and had access to it for free using my Kindle Unlimited account. Hands down this series was better than all the fantasy I have purchased in the last year.
Why I absolutely adore this series:
1.The worldbuilding is intricate and thorough.
2. The plot is fast-paced and action packed.
3. I usually hate too many POVs and quick POV switches and this book was the perfect example of what I absolutely hate in a book. But wait. The fantastic cast of characters made me care for each and every one of them.
4. Nobody was back or white. Plenty of grey, immoral characters.
I recommend this series to anyone who loves epic-fantasy or has the time to read a good book!
January 4, 2018
I can't stop reading.
Everything a fantasy epoch should be. Dragons and damsels, though not the distressed kind, kings and knights, magic and physical prowess. I have found a new favorite!
Everything a fantasy epoch should be. Dragons and damsels, though not the distressed kind, kings and knights, magic and physical prowess. I have found a new favorite!
March 28, 2018
Woohoo these books heat up fast...
and stay hot the whole time. I really enjoy this series and recommend it to anyone prefers their fantasy novels to be fast-paced. I’m marathoning these like a Netflix Series during a snow-in.
and stay hot the whole time. I really enjoy this series and recommend it to anyone prefers their fantasy novels to be fast-paced. I’m marathoning these like a Netflix Series during a snow-in.
April 11, 2021
David Estes continues to amaze with this series. The prose is strong, the characters are varied, believable, and interesting, and there are no slow or dull moments. This has quickly become my new favorite fantasy series. I highly recommend these books!
November 10, 2017
Great 3rd book
Didn't drop off at all like most series do. Enjoyed all of it. Great read. In fact the whole series is awesome.
Didn't drop off at all like most series do. Enjoyed all of it. Great read. In fact the whole series is awesome.
April 15, 2018
Gets better
A better sequel to the last. The story now moving forward at an accelerated rate. Interesting to see how it develops
A better sequel to the last. The story now moving forward at an accelerated rate. Interesting to see how it develops
April 26, 2018
awesome really isn't appropriate amazing fantastic
bring on the final book!!
bring on the final book!!
June 12, 2020
More like 3.5 stars
Soulmarked by David Estes is book three of five in his Fatemarked epic series. I’m glad in a way to make it past the halfway mark of this series. With two more books to go, things are bound to get more hectic and Soulmarked delivers a nice calm before the storm moment. There’s definitely cracks in the armor but I’m determined to see things through to the end at this point. There’s no turning back now! What I found concerning in book three is how little I cared about characters on one side of the story vs the other. Although there are a lot of characters the author has to juggle with, it seems very apparent how some just seems more fine tuned than others. This obviously is true for many epic stories where there are many characters that needs keeping track of as a reader but I’m starting to feel a bit fatigued by some of them here.
It really does seem hard to write a review where I’m reading the books in a series one after another. Things basically happen and the story moves a long. Soulmarked and the next two books in the series is a lot longer than the first two. I very wanted to see how the author would handle this task of what I’d assume is “extra work”. Being the title is Soulmarked, one would have expected the author to put a little more emphasis on the new fatemarked character. That is not to be however. In a way I’m a little glad because I put Lisbeth in the character pile in which I don’t really care for at the moment. What I found is that I cared less about the first half of the book which involved characters of Tarin, Annise, Lisbeth and Rhea. I felt their magic has started to fizzle out. The author needed to stop reminding us of things that happened in the past every time a character is in the spotlight. For example, we don’t need to be reminded of how Rhea is a “changed” woman each and every single time.
I’ve realized that up until now, I don’t believe I’ve encountered any real plot twister that excited me. Maybe the author isn’t one to rely on these. Maybe he doesn’t feel the need to randomly kill off a character just because he feels like it. There could be a lot of maybe’s but I desperately wanted some moments where the author took the plot or characters and do something that would be unexpected. Something that would catch me off guard and by surprise. I did find some satisfaction though that the story of Grey Arris and his sister Shae finally has time to shine and it was a fairly good one. It’s funny how I didn’t care for them in the first two books but now find myself wanting to read more about them and now not so much caring for the others that I did care about in the beginning. If I didn’t find myself interested in the north and west as much, I was at least more captivated with the story regarding the south and east. The story with Jai, Falcon, Raven and Roan is more interesting at this point than with the other two kingdoms.
What I should be saying is that I’m just ready for all the characters to just meet up and do what they were meant to do. I definitely hope the author wouldn’t hold out until book five. For now, the story chugs along. The characters learn a good deal about themselves along with their worth and those around them. Each will have doubts about what their destiny is meant to be. Each will believe that their actions is just. Each will have their own opinion on whether peace can truly be forged throughout the Four Kingdoms.
Soulmarked by David Estes is book three of five in his Fatemarked epic series. I’m glad in a way to make it past the halfway mark of this series. With two more books to go, things are bound to get more hectic and Soulmarked delivers a nice calm before the storm moment. There’s definitely cracks in the armor but I’m determined to see things through to the end at this point. There’s no turning back now! What I found concerning in book three is how little I cared about characters on one side of the story vs the other. Although there are a lot of characters the author has to juggle with, it seems very apparent how some just seems more fine tuned than others. This obviously is true for many epic stories where there are many characters that needs keeping track of as a reader but I’m starting to feel a bit fatigued by some of them here.
It really does seem hard to write a review where I’m reading the books in a series one after another. Things basically happen and the story moves a long. Soulmarked and the next two books in the series is a lot longer than the first two. I very wanted to see how the author would handle this task of what I’d assume is “extra work”. Being the title is Soulmarked, one would have expected the author to put a little more emphasis on the new fatemarked character. That is not to be however. In a way I’m a little glad because I put Lisbeth in the character pile in which I don’t really care for at the moment. What I found is that I cared less about the first half of the book which involved characters of Tarin, Annise, Lisbeth and Rhea. I felt their magic has started to fizzle out. The author needed to stop reminding us of things that happened in the past every time a character is in the spotlight. For example, we don’t need to be reminded of how Rhea is a “changed” woman each and every single time.
I’ve realized that up until now, I don’t believe I’ve encountered any real plot twister that excited me. Maybe the author isn’t one to rely on these. Maybe he doesn’t feel the need to randomly kill off a character just because he feels like it. There could be a lot of maybe’s but I desperately wanted some moments where the author took the plot or characters and do something that would be unexpected. Something that would catch me off guard and by surprise. I did find some satisfaction though that the story of Grey Arris and his sister Shae finally has time to shine and it was a fairly good one. It’s funny how I didn’t care for them in the first two books but now find myself wanting to read more about them and now not so much caring for the others that I did care about in the beginning. If I didn’t find myself interested in the north and west as much, I was at least more captivated with the story regarding the south and east. The story with Jai, Falcon, Raven and Roan is more interesting at this point than with the other two kingdoms.
What I should be saying is that I’m just ready for all the characters to just meet up and do what they were meant to do. I definitely hope the author wouldn’t hold out until book five. For now, the story chugs along. The characters learn a good deal about themselves along with their worth and those around them. Each will have doubts about what their destiny is meant to be. Each will believe that their actions is just. Each will have their own opinion on whether peace can truly be forged throughout the Four Kingdoms.
July 16, 2020
Rhea seems to be having a change of heart and starting to regret some of her earlier actions. Her pregnancy is enabling her to realize the importance of family and that she may not wish to travel through life alone. Her beloved cousin Ennis helps Gareth and Gwendolyn escape from prison, forcing her to banish him.
Grey and Shae continue their quest to locate the pirate with the other half of the fatemark that she has on her hand. Shae and the pirate discover the power of their joined fatemarks.
Bane recruits Chavos and his ability to spread plague to assist in Bane's elimination of the leaders of the four kingdoms. Chavos seems to acquiesce.
Falcon, as the new Emperor, desires to eliminate slavery. He meets Shanti who helps him reach this decision. Not surprisingly, his two younger brothers disagree and challenge him for the throne.
Jai manages to infiltrate the palace by impersonating one of the other slaves. He discovers another aspect of his fatemark.
Annise goes on a quest to locate the legendary sleeping knights to enlist their aid in recovering her kingdom. Zelda is left in charge of Castle Hill.
A new fatemarked, Lisbeth Loren, is introduced and assists Annise with awakening the sleeping knights. I'm not sure what her relationship is to Rhea and Roan other than the same last name.
Tarin has run away as he fears the monster inside him will force him to hurt Annise. He travels to Darrin to defend against an eastern invasion.
Roan receives permission to research the origin and purpose of the fatemarked at the Citidel, the largest source of knowledge throughout the four kingdoms.
Raven fights back with dragons against King Grian Ironclad of the Eastern kingdom with disastrous results. Her Aunt Viper seizes the throne during her absence.
Grey and Shae continue their quest to locate the pirate with the other half of the fatemark that she has on her hand. Shae and the pirate discover the power of their joined fatemarks.
Bane recruits Chavos and his ability to spread plague to assist in Bane's elimination of the leaders of the four kingdoms. Chavos seems to acquiesce.
Falcon, as the new Emperor, desires to eliminate slavery. He meets Shanti who helps him reach this decision. Not surprisingly, his two younger brothers disagree and challenge him for the throne.
Jai manages to infiltrate the palace by impersonating one of the other slaves. He discovers another aspect of his fatemark.
Annise goes on a quest to locate the legendary sleeping knights to enlist their aid in recovering her kingdom. Zelda is left in charge of Castle Hill.
A new fatemarked, Lisbeth Loren, is introduced and assists Annise with awakening the sleeping knights. I'm not sure what her relationship is to Rhea and Roan other than the same last name.
Tarin has run away as he fears the monster inside him will force him to hurt Annise. He travels to Darrin to defend against an eastern invasion.
Roan receives permission to research the origin and purpose of the fatemarked at the Citidel, the largest source of knowledge throughout the four kingdoms.
Raven fights back with dragons against King Grian Ironclad of the Eastern kingdom with disastrous results. Her Aunt Viper seizes the throne during her absence.
January 19, 2020
The Epic Continues
*****Spoilers*****
Death, war, and hope. The end goal is very much worthwhile but every victory towards that goal seems to be set back by other events, all marching steadily toward the elusive peace. Again with this book in the series there are so many perspectives and scenarios but I must say that Shea's and the pirate's journey may have overtaken Annise's as my favorite with much less exposure to theirs as the keys finally found one another.
Something I don't think I've mentioned in my other reviews is the instant love some of the characters find themselves a victim to. It's eye rolling at times and I wonder what Grey felt for Rhea given he's already moved on to Kyla in so short a time span. Not to mention Roan who loves two, also come about quickly.
I admire Shanti's strength and was pleasantly surprised that Falcon wasn't the monster everyone believed him to be. It also strikes me how young these kings and queens are but groomed to make drastic decisions after succession moves on and on down the line. That several of the rulers at times show a thought other than to warmongering is promising but again, one step forward for several back makes for a long but satisfying read.
I'm ready for the conclusion to the story and hope the kingdoms can achieve that much needed peace.
*****Spoilers*****
Death, war, and hope. The end goal is very much worthwhile but every victory towards that goal seems to be set back by other events, all marching steadily toward the elusive peace. Again with this book in the series there are so many perspectives and scenarios but I must say that Shea's and the pirate's journey may have overtaken Annise's as my favorite with much less exposure to theirs as the keys finally found one another.
Something I don't think I've mentioned in my other reviews is the instant love some of the characters find themselves a victim to. It's eye rolling at times and I wonder what Grey felt for Rhea given he's already moved on to Kyla in so short a time span. Not to mention Roan who loves two, also come about quickly.
I admire Shanti's strength and was pleasantly surprised that Falcon wasn't the monster everyone believed him to be. It also strikes me how young these kings and queens are but groomed to make drastic decisions after succession moves on and on down the line. That several of the rulers at times show a thought other than to warmongering is promising but again, one step forward for several back makes for a long but satisfying read.
I'm ready for the conclusion to the story and hope the kingdoms can achieve that much needed peace.
August 13, 2018
I am happy to report that this series continues to impress me. I not only loved re-connecting with some of my favorite characters, but I found myself softening a bit towards the characters I normally don't like (yes, that means you Rhea!). I appreciate when authors create complex characters that are not all good or all bad. That makes them infinitely more interesting to me.
This installment in the Fatemarked series was a lengthy (700+ pages), wild romp through the Four Kingdoms. I'm not sure how this author is able to throw so many things together (dragons, demons, mermaids, pirates, oracles, sea monsters, kings & queens) and still pull off a completely compelling, believable tale of epic proportions.
At the heart of this story are the sort of over-arching themes that draw me in every time: the battle of good versus evil, the journey to self-realization, the struggle with courage over fear, and the complexities of familial relationships.
I loved every minute of it.
This installment in the Fatemarked series was a lengthy (700+ pages), wild romp through the Four Kingdoms. I'm not sure how this author is able to throw so many things together (dragons, demons, mermaids, pirates, oracles, sea monsters, kings & queens) and still pull off a completely compelling, believable tale of epic proportions.
At the heart of this story are the sort of over-arching themes that draw me in every time: the battle of good versus evil, the journey to self-realization, the struggle with courage over fear, and the complexities of familial relationships.
I loved every minute of it.
June 28, 2020
A book and series of this magnitude are always hard for me to sum up in a review.Especially this series.When i started book one i didn't know what to expect.Sometimes the first book in a series is clearly the best book and as the series goes on you realize your hopes for the series based upon the first book are just way too unrealistic.This series is the exception all three books are equally terrific and i cant help myself im reading the third origin story book then going into the fourth book in the series.I love how this epic touches upon so many themes and is just written so damn well that it basically reads itself.So much has happened so many triumphs and heartbreaks.So many lives lost.These characters and this world have become a part of me and im overwhelmed with emotions as i go into the next chapter in the story.
March 4, 2021
EPIC. AWESOME. WORTH-IT.
Fantasy is my favorite genre, so obviously I have read too many books that fall into this category. I did not pay a cent for this book and had access to it for free using my Kindle Unlimited account. Hands down this series was better than all the fantasy I have purchased in the last year.
Why I absolutely adore this series:
1.The worldbuilding is intricate and thorough.
2. The plot is fast-paced and action packed.
3. I usually hate too many POVs and quick POV switches and this book was the perfect example of what I absolutely hate in a book. But wait. The fantastic cast of characters made me care for each and every one of them.
4. Nobody was back or white. Plenty of grey, immoral characters.
I recommend this series to anyone who loves epic-fantasy or has the time to read a good book!
Fantasy is my favorite genre, so obviously I have read too many books that fall into this category. I did not pay a cent for this book and had access to it for free using my Kindle Unlimited account. Hands down this series was better than all the fantasy I have purchased in the last year.
Why I absolutely adore this series:
1.The worldbuilding is intricate and thorough.
2. The plot is fast-paced and action packed.
3. I usually hate too many POVs and quick POV switches and this book was the perfect example of what I absolutely hate in a book. But wait. The fantastic cast of characters made me care for each and every one of them.
4. Nobody was back or white. Plenty of grey, immoral characters.
I recommend this series to anyone who loves epic-fantasy or has the time to read a good book!
July 27, 2018
I am completely engulfed in this story. There's at least 10 main characters that I'm absolutely in love with and super excited to see how this story ends. Let's face it...I have no clue how it's going to end and isn't that just a breath of fresh air. I love how each character has such an interesting story line but yet the book flips between the stories in a way that keeps the pace of the book going while allowing the plot to build the way an epic fantasy should. I hate when I find myself trying to speed read through fluff to get to the meat of the story.....I don't have to do that with these. I can sit back and read every word with enjoyment. On to the next....
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