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Spellmonger Cadet #2
Hawklady
Hawklady!
When Lenodara the Hawkmaiden – Dara, to her friends – was made an apprentice to the foremost wizard in the world, Minalan the Spellmonger, Magelord of her native land of Sevendor, she thought that the adventurous life was behind her. She looked forward to a long, boring career of learning how to read and taking magic lessons . . . but Dara’s life as the Spellmonger’s new apprentice is anything but boring! Within days of assuming her new duties, a goblin invasion in the distant land of Gilmora compels Minalan to gather his forces to repel it . . . and that means Dara, too. Her unique ability to use the ancient Alka Alon weapon, the Thoughtful Knife, may be the only way to thwart the invasion – and combat the dragons that have ravaged the castles of the land. But the battlefield is just the beginning of her new adventure, and she finds the aristocracy of the city of Barrowbell is as challenging as a goblin attack. But new adventures lead Dara to new friends in the unlikeliest of places on her way to becoming the Hawklady!
When Lenodara the Hawkmaiden – Dara, to her friends – was made an apprentice to the foremost wizard in the world, Minalan the Spellmonger, Magelord of her native land of Sevendor, she thought that the adventurous life was behind her. She looked forward to a long, boring career of learning how to read and taking magic lessons . . . but Dara’s life as the Spellmonger’s new apprentice is anything but boring! Within days of assuming her new duties, a goblin invasion in the distant land of Gilmora compels Minalan to gather his forces to repel it . . . and that means Dara, too. Her unique ability to use the ancient Alka Alon weapon, the Thoughtful Knife, may be the only way to thwart the invasion – and combat the dragons that have ravaged the castles of the land. But the battlefield is just the beginning of her new adventure, and she finds the aristocracy of the city of Barrowbell is as challenging as a goblin attack. But new adventures lead Dara to new friends in the unlikeliest of places on her way to becoming the Hawklady!
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2017
114 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
Terry Mancour
42 books1,174 followersTerry Mancour is a New York Times Best-Selling Author who has written more than 30 books, under his own name and pseudonyms, including Star Trek: The Next Generation #20, Spartacus, the Spellmonger Series (more than 11 books and growing), among other works.
He was born in Flint, Michigan in 1968 (according to his mother) and wisely relocated to North Carolina in 1978 where he embraced Southern culture and its dedication to compelling narratives and intriguing characterizations. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he majored in Religious Studies.
Terry, his beautiful wife and three children live just outside of Durham, N.C. atop Red Mountain. He was nominated for the 2018 Audie Award for Best Fantasy for the audiobook for Spellmonger (narrated by John Lee), the first book in his Spellmonger Series.
He has plotted the Spellmonger Series for at least thirty books, in addition to his Spellmonger Cadet (young adult) series, stand-alone novels, short stories and novellas set within the Spellmonger Universe, all of which will be published by Podium as audiobooks. He is also the author of a series of sequels to Golden Age sci-fi master H. Beam Piper's novel, Space Viking, as well as original sci-fi novels.
He was born in Flint, Michigan in 1968 (according to his mother) and wisely relocated to North Carolina in 1978 where he embraced Southern culture and its dedication to compelling narratives and intriguing characterizations. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he majored in Religious Studies.
Terry, his beautiful wife and three children live just outside of Durham, N.C. atop Red Mountain. He was nominated for the 2018 Audie Award for Best Fantasy for the audiobook for Spellmonger (narrated by John Lee), the first book in his Spellmonger Series.
He has plotted the Spellmonger Series for at least thirty books, in addition to his Spellmonger Cadet (young adult) series, stand-alone novels, short stories and novellas set within the Spellmonger Universe, all of which will be published by Podium as audiobooks. He is also the author of a series of sequels to Golden Age sci-fi master H. Beam Piper's novel, Space Viking, as well as original sci-fi novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 30, 2020
General Overview
The second instalment of Terry Mancour’s Spellmonger Cadet series, Hawklady see our heroine Dara, faces down dangerous monsters, and even more deadly ladies of court. Another exciting read, for readers of all ages.
Style
Mr Mancour’s writing style remains as engaging as ever. He also continues with the unnecessary repetition of parts of his book, which have been a personal bugbear of mine for his series. ( See my previous reviews for more on this)
He does however deliver again with another book to this spin off series, by really capturing the different character of Dara to Minalan. Hawklady feels very much of the genre of young adult/child fiction. The second half most certainly felt like a Harry Potter book, in style if not setting. This is of credit to the author, who despite having some faults as a writer, can deliver interesting and engaging narratives, regardless of the setting or type of novel.
Story
Dara is now an apprentice of the famous Spellmonger. The story of Hawkmaiden is carried on well in Hawklady, adding an extra level of detail to the story as established in the Spellmonger main series.
Set between the events of Magelord and Knights Magi, we see Dara take to the field of battle, showing how her unique magics can be used to best effect in the ever encroaching war against the goblins. This is standard fair for the Spellmonger serious however.
Where this book truly stands out is in the area of espionage and spy craft, which takes up a great part of the second half of this book. This is a natural role for Dara to take, and feels great for her as a character, and is a delight to read.
Final Thoughts
A fine addition to the ever expanding world of the Spellmonger series, Hawklady once again impresses with its strong characters, and engaging plot, whilst also standing out for the different feel of the novel to the main series. A great intro to younger readers of fantasy.
The second instalment of Terry Mancour’s Spellmonger Cadet series, Hawklady see our heroine Dara, faces down dangerous monsters, and even more deadly ladies of court. Another exciting read, for readers of all ages.
Style
Mr Mancour’s writing style remains as engaging as ever. He also continues with the unnecessary repetition of parts of his book, which have been a personal bugbear of mine for his series. ( See my previous reviews for more on this)
He does however deliver again with another book to this spin off series, by really capturing the different character of Dara to Minalan. Hawklady feels very much of the genre of young adult/child fiction. The second half most certainly felt like a Harry Potter book, in style if not setting. This is of credit to the author, who despite having some faults as a writer, can deliver interesting and engaging narratives, regardless of the setting or type of novel.
Story
Dara is now an apprentice of the famous Spellmonger. The story of Hawkmaiden is carried on well in Hawklady, adding an extra level of detail to the story as established in the Spellmonger main series.
Set between the events of Magelord and Knights Magi, we see Dara take to the field of battle, showing how her unique magics can be used to best effect in the ever encroaching war against the goblins. This is standard fair for the Spellmonger serious however.
Where this book truly stands out is in the area of espionage and spy craft, which takes up a great part of the second half of this book. This is a natural role for Dara to take, and feels great for her as a character, and is a delight to read.
Final Thoughts
A fine addition to the ever expanding world of the Spellmonger series, Hawklady once again impresses with its strong characters, and engaging plot, whilst also standing out for the different feel of the novel to the main series. A great intro to younger readers of fantasy.
February 13, 2020
It's Terry Mancour, so, always a win.
This part of the series hits around (it's been a while) the Journey Mage or Knight's Magi timeframe of the Spellmonger series.
I thought it would have been a great idea to delve into the talents of Dara then, and it's been a pretty good ride, considering you're revisiting what's now considered history in the timeline of Sevendor.
The book delivers, and, to my surprise, I love the tie-ins from Dara's point of view on subjects addressed in the nine books I've read in the same universe.
So, what can I say? I'm Terry's little reading bitch, and I proudly raise my ale in a toast to another beautiful addition to the world of Sevendor. Great job.
This part of the series hits around (it's been a while) the Journey Mage or Knight's Magi timeframe of the Spellmonger series.
I thought it would have been a great idea to delve into the talents of Dara then, and it's been a pretty good ride, considering you're revisiting what's now considered history in the timeline of Sevendor.
The book delivers, and, to my surprise, I love the tie-ins from Dara's point of view on subjects addressed in the nine books I've read in the same universe.
So, what can I say? I'm Terry's little reading bitch, and I proudly raise my ale in a toast to another beautiful addition to the world of Sevendor. Great job.
December 1, 2017
I love this series!
I have now read every book in this series and I have to say I want more!!! The world created by Mr. Mancour is so real! The books so well written that you lose yourself in the stories! Lady Dara is so well written that I would love to meet her and her bird frightful! I have been a avid reader of fantasy novels and I have to say that the spellmonger series ranks with the very best of the fantasy elite! I would love to see movies made of this world but I honestly question if anyone would be talented enough to do them justice! Please keep them coming!
I have now read every book in this series and I have to say I want more!!! The world created by Mr. Mancour is so real! The books so well written that you lose yourself in the stories! Lady Dara is so well written that I would love to meet her and her bird frightful! I have been a avid reader of fantasy novels and I have to say that the spellmonger series ranks with the very best of the fantasy elite! I would love to see movies made of this world but I honestly question if anyone would be talented enough to do them justice! Please keep them coming!
March 11, 2021
Another fun adventure for the Hawkmaiden
This continues the adventures of Lenodora. It's pretty fun, though it dips into politics a little (not too much). The action is pretty well done, and it's always fun to see the heroine get recognized. This did cover events from the main Spellmonger series, just from a different perspective. I found it fun and refreshing. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
This continues the adventures of Lenodora. It's pretty fun, though it dips into politics a little (not too much). The action is pretty well done, and it's always fun to see the heroine get recognized. This did cover events from the main Spellmonger series, just from a different perspective. I found it fun and refreshing. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
March 6, 2021
Really good book. I’m liking Dora a lot more than a lot of the characters in this series. She is a lot more innocent and not as corrupted as a lot of the other characters. This brings a fresh perspective to the books. Once again I wonder what my thoughts would be if I didn’t know what was going to happen because of other books.
May 9, 2017
Another wonderful addition to the Spellmonger series.
I find the retelling of events from the mainline story thru young Dara's eyes very entertaining reading. The tone of the Hawklady books is generally light and entertaining, making for a fun fast read.
I find the retelling of events from the mainline story thru young Dara's eyes very entertaining reading. The tone of the Hawklady books is generally light and entertaining, making for a fun fast read.
May 10, 2017
Slow (I wanted more)
I liked it, I really did. But the thing is I wanted more. Took 2 books to tell somethings thate were in few chapters in the third book. I think my critisism is not really one. I just wanted more.
I liked it, I really did. But the thing is I wanted more. Took 2 books to tell somethings thate were in few chapters in the third book. I think my critisism is not really one. I just wanted more.
May 14, 2017
Needs proofreading
Far too many obvious errors, to include sentences that are little more than word-salad.
Still readable. It was interesting viewing the battle from a different perspective.
Far too many obvious errors, to include sentences that are little more than word-salad.
Still readable. It was interesting viewing the battle from a different perspective.
December 20, 2018
Another fine addition to the Spellmonger Universe
A short but worthwhile and enjoyable dive into the Spellmonger Universe so adeptably constructed by Mancour. Enjoyed the new perspective from Min's new apprentice.
A short but worthwhile and enjoyable dive into the Spellmonger Universe so adeptably constructed by Mancour. Enjoyed the new perspective from Min's new apprentice.
June 15, 2019
Fun Read
Sometimes it is fun to just read to expand on a story you are already in. These books expand on the themes I have already read. Good read, just for fun. Enjoyed it and recommend it to all, no matter your age.
Sometimes it is fun to just read to expand on a story you are already in. These books expand on the themes I have already read. Good read, just for fun. Enjoyed it and recommend it to all, no matter your age.
August 7, 2019
Further Insight into Spellmonger Continuum
Dara character shown in development across the storyline which is consistent with the main novels. It did add some texture to my understanding of society here and as usual is well crafted and written.
Dara character shown in development across the storyline which is consistent with the main novels. It did add some texture to my understanding of society here and as usual is well crafted and written.
September 26, 2021
I was already a little irritated with Dara due to some of her decisions in The Spellmonger series, and this book brought about more questionable decisions. Now, I liked the book, I really did. But 14 year olds (ie Dara) sometimes make really silly decisions.
December 2, 2024
Brilliant Read ** NO SPOILERS **
Although this is intended as a YA read it really doesn’t come across like that at all.
This is another look at The Spellmonger Series but taken from Dara’s (aka Lenodara of The Westwood) perspective. A great addition to the overall series.
Although this is intended as a YA read it really doesn’t come across like that at all.
This is another look at The Spellmonger Series but taken from Dara’s (aka Lenodara of The Westwood) perspective. A great addition to the overall series.
May 17, 2017
Not as good as the first.
May 18, 2017
Great short story
Lovely novel from Dara's perspective. Goes into way more detail then Magelord on after the dragonfall. Can't wait for more!
Lovely novel from Dara's perspective. Goes into way more detail then Magelord on after the dragonfall. Can't wait for more!
October 26, 2018
Good Read.
The young adult novel of the hawkmaiden that becomes the hawklady. The story continues, but from a different view with new happenings that the reader was not aware of.
The young adult novel of the hawkmaiden that becomes the hawklady. The story continues, but from a different view with new happenings that the reader was not aware of.
November 16, 2019
Awesome
Awesome read as Dara continues to develop her magic talent while helping to save the realm from the unleashed goblins and assassination attemot.
Awesome read as Dara continues to develop her magic talent while helping to save the realm from the unleashed goblins and assassination attemot.
Read
January 6, 2020Excellent sevond installment to this series.
March 17, 2020
Love these books. I'm really enjoying this cadet series.
June 15, 2020
Fun!
An entertaining tale worthy of the Spellmonger series. This series has gotten to be among my all time favorites. Highly recommended!
An entertaining tale worthy of the Spellmonger series. This series has gotten to be among my all time favorites. Highly recommended!
September 8, 2021
First book had a good story meant for younger readers..this book was action packed.
November 13, 2021
Another excellent read. I have enjoyed all of Terry's books and I am looking forward to #3. The Hawklady Dara is a great character.
November 30, 2021
The book is written nice. But the story feels like just fill up to the main Spellmonger book. If I wouldn't read the main books, I doubt this book would be interesting at all.
June 29, 2022
Great story and provides more background on the characters in the Spellmonger series. I really enjoy the series and this was a fun addition to it.
April 2, 2024
4.5 / 5
January 6, 2025
Better than I thought it would be. I haven't loved the treating Dara throughout the main series but this look at Dara with her inner monologue is much better.
January 12, 2025
Good pace. Great character development.
January 2, 2026
4.5 🌟 Completed book Hawklady (Spellmonger Cadet, #2) by Terry Mancour.
Very excited to read the next book.
HOOPLA BONUS BORROW
SERIES WORTHY
Very excited to read the next book.
HOOPLA BONUS BORROW
SERIES WORTHY
March 27, 2021
Fantastic follow up to Hawkmaiden. Such an enjoyable ride. The narrator on audible is amazing.
September 15, 2019
I bought the Audible version when I read that it was on the "New Release" list and then realized once I started listening that I had already read this. So - I went ahead and read it and listened to it again and enjoyed it just as much as before. It is always nice to go back into the world of the Spellmonger and it is doubly so because the events in this novella take place right in the middle of the current plot (after some major events, yet before others). This takes me back to when Dara was younger and still so naive and it is great to see the younger versions of Rondal and Tyndal.
I also realized that Sky Cadet had come out and I had not read that one yet, so it gave me another book for my TBR list.
I also realized that Sky Cadet had come out and I had not read that one yet, so it gave me another book for my TBR list.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews