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The Shadow of His Hand: Book One of the Markulian Prophecies
For centuries the oft-forgotten Unseen God has seemed distant and uncaring, but when the Realm is threatened by the all-conquering armies from Jerika, an ancient oracle is triggered. Now this foretelling is the only hope of salvation and its fulfilment lies in the trembling hands of a reluctant soldier, a princess and an infant marked by prophecy.
Set in a vivid medieval world, The Shadow of His Hand begins an epic struggle between good and evil, full of danger, romance and despair. Those caught in the grip of destiny will be required to sacrifice all, but even that may not be enough.
Set in a vivid medieval world, The Shadow of His Hand begins an epic struggle between good and evil, full of danger, romance and despair. Those caught in the grip of destiny will be required to sacrifice all, but even that may not be enough.
464 pages, Paperback
Published June 12, 2017
3 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
Benjamin Patterson
4 books72 followers2018 Global Ebook Award winner, Benjamin Patterson lives in North Queensland, Australia with his wife and four children. When not writing, he works as an Air Traffic Controller, then he hurries back home to write again.
The final book of his first trilogy, the Markulian Prophecies, was published in October 2024. Read the reviews. They are rave!
The final book of his first trilogy, the Markulian Prophecies, was published in October 2024. Read the reviews. They are rave!
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 31, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Shock factor and tears always result in a high rating. This book accomplished both for me.
I knew I would enjoy this writing because I found the author on threads and really enjoyed his wit. This led to me purchasing the book. I’m now hooked by the first in the trilogy and will be continuing the series.
I am in love with these characters. Fredrick never fully understands his value, Kathryn is the epitome of humble strength and beauty. The high king is so blinded by duty the high queen is determined to love him into flexibility. There were a handful I’m still getting to know in this book that I’m unsure what their bigger purpose is but look forward to learning more about them in the books to follow.
I really enjoyed the faith themes tied into this one. I thought it was tasteful and engaging.
Well done!
🫑 minimal romance, no spice
🫢 mild, very infrequent, language
CW/TW: slavery, imprisonment, detailed abuse, death, violence, some descriptive gore
Shock factor and tears always result in a high rating. This book accomplished both for me.
I knew I would enjoy this writing because I found the author on threads and really enjoyed his wit. This led to me purchasing the book. I’m now hooked by the first in the trilogy and will be continuing the series.
I am in love with these characters. Fredrick never fully understands his value, Kathryn is the epitome of humble strength and beauty. The high king is so blinded by duty the high queen is determined to love him into flexibility. There were a handful I’m still getting to know in this book that I’m unsure what their bigger purpose is but look forward to learning more about them in the books to follow.
I really enjoyed the faith themes tied into this one. I thought it was tasteful and engaging.
Well done!
🫑 minimal romance, no spice
🫢 mild, very infrequent, language
CW/TW: slavery, imprisonment, detailed abuse, death, violence, some descriptive gore
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2017
The Shadow of His Hand is the debut book by Benjamin Patterson. Set in a low fantasy world, Book One moves at an excellent pace from start to finish, with a collection of memorable characters who are vivid and likable. Initially I was surprised by the amount of character POV's (point-of-views). Sometimes in a book you find yourself wanting to skip over a character you don't quite click with, so I was pleased not to want to do that here. Often stories set in a big new world have almost too much to offer, but the storylines in Book One are compact and satisfying, leaving enough of a thread to want to check on Book Two's progress. The author frequently asks questions of the characters and really puts them through the wringer, leaving the reader emotionally dragged along right beside them through their ups and downs, they truly are the heart of the story. After reading Book One I'm very excited to see where the series goes from here, and will be keeping tabs on the next release.
May 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Wow!
It took me half way into the book to get into the story. Such is the ways of any fantasy; with world and character building.
Then it took off with incredible action.
How do I know when a book is a good book?
When my heart is racing, and I’m frantic at midnight to know what will happen to the characters I have grown to adore.
I cannot wait to read the next two books where I’m sure more panic rising moments will occur.
If you feel that the beginning is taking a bit to get into- don’t give up!
It’s well worth the wait!
Edit:
Two days later and I cannot stop thinking about the characters in this book. So I dug deeper into those emotions. I think the character building is actually genius, because when the action picked up, my devastation of emotions that ensued from what the characters endured were raw and real that it felt like I was there. It’s genius! Thus, I switched to 5 ⭐️.
ALSO!
How dare you write about dolphins that way!? 😂😂
Wow!
It took me half way into the book to get into the story. Such is the ways of any fantasy; with world and character building.
Then it took off with incredible action.
How do I know when a book is a good book?
When my heart is racing, and I’m frantic at midnight to know what will happen to the characters I have grown to adore.
I cannot wait to read the next two books where I’m sure more panic rising moments will occur.
If you feel that the beginning is taking a bit to get into- don’t give up!
It’s well worth the wait!
Edit:
Two days later and I cannot stop thinking about the characters in this book. So I dug deeper into those emotions. I think the character building is actually genius, because when the action picked up, my devastation of emotions that ensued from what the characters endured were raw and real that it felt like I was there. It’s genius! Thus, I switched to 5 ⭐️.
ALSO!
How dare you write about dolphins that way!? 😂😂
July 5, 2017
Enthralling read!
This book held me from start to finish. No lagging plotlines that keep you from enjoying the flow. Fleshed out characters you find yourself becoming attached to, eager to know more about them! Great read, cannot wait for the next one!
This book held me from start to finish. No lagging plotlines that keep you from enjoying the flow. Fleshed out characters you find yourself becoming attached to, eager to know more about them! Great read, cannot wait for the next one!
July 8, 2017
Reading ‘The Shadow of his Hand’ was an unexpected pleasure - it’s rare to find a first novel that can pull me into the story so capably.
In this epic fantasy, the Jerikan armies are camped on the border of the allied kingdoms and war seems inevitable. When a baby is born with a prophesied mark, the young King Eldilin dares not defy the Unseen God but must send his sister and the babe on a dangerous quest.
Fredrick is a directionless young man who enlisted as a soldier because it “seemed like the right thing to do”. With his uncanny ability to calm the screaming child, he’s an unlikely and reluctant addition to Princess Kathryn’s company. Can they beat the odds and complete the prophecy?
For the genre, I thought the plot proceeded at a fast pace, with never a dull moment, and the world-building was quietly effective (if hazy on the geographical details). The stand-out for me, though, was the characters. There was something appealing in Fredrick’s assessment of himself as an ordinary man out of his depth, and honesty and humour in the way he coped as fate stretched him to his limits and beyond.
Shifts of point of view from the main protagonists to other plot threads were also effectively managed, maintaining my attention. In particular, I became quite absorbed in the secondary plot revolving around the King and his unexpected bride, a meeting of singularly unusual personalities.
Overall, this was a diverting read. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment, though less to see how the war will proceed than to be involved in the developing relationships between the characters.
In this epic fantasy, the Jerikan armies are camped on the border of the allied kingdoms and war seems inevitable. When a baby is born with a prophesied mark, the young King Eldilin dares not defy the Unseen God but must send his sister and the babe on a dangerous quest.
Fredrick is a directionless young man who enlisted as a soldier because it “seemed like the right thing to do”. With his uncanny ability to calm the screaming child, he’s an unlikely and reluctant addition to Princess Kathryn’s company. Can they beat the odds and complete the prophecy?
For the genre, I thought the plot proceeded at a fast pace, with never a dull moment, and the world-building was quietly effective (if hazy on the geographical details). The stand-out for me, though, was the characters. There was something appealing in Fredrick’s assessment of himself as an ordinary man out of his depth, and honesty and humour in the way he coped as fate stretched him to his limits and beyond.
Shifts of point of view from the main protagonists to other plot threads were also effectively managed, maintaining my attention. In particular, I became quite absorbed in the secondary plot revolving around the King and his unexpected bride, a meeting of singularly unusual personalities.
Overall, this was a diverting read. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment, though less to see how the war will proceed than to be involved in the developing relationships between the characters.
December 29, 2024
Holy... oh my Elan!
Truly, an exceptional work of art!
*Disclaimer: I am in no way paid or convinced to write this review, whilst I frequently interact with Benjamin online, I used my own resources and money to obtain a copy of his work and read at my own pace with the same standard of expectations I use with every book I read. Those Expectation being 'Make me feel anything & make me want to keep reading.'
This review does not contain spoilers but merely a hint at some of the storyline, if you don't like any clues at all, don't continue reading past paragraph 5.*
You know when they say it's not a good idea to purchase the entire series in one go? This series is possibly the only one that defies that statement. Whilst the book is not left entirely on a cliff-hanger, it very much leaves the audience wanting to jump off the edge of the cliff and trudge through more adventures alongside the characters Benjamin has so beautifully crafted.
Don't be a fool like me and only buy the first book, buy the entire damn series so that you don't have to wait 6/7 days for delivery and cry like a toddler because you can't continue your journey alongside your newly loved fictional friends.
Throughout this read, I discovered a love for many more fictional characters and potentially a love for discovering more in the world of fantasy books. If you look at the list of things I have read over the past 6ish months, I'd say damn near 99% of those books are romance. I'm a sucker for a romance novel, but more than that, I am a sucker for literature that blows my socks off. I am a sucker for a book that takes me on a journey, that makes me cry, makes me laugh, makes me feel. And that's exactly what Benjamin did with his book The Shadow of His Hand. He sure as hell made me feel, so much so, I fear my therapist and I will spend my next one hour session going through all the emotions I felt whilst reading this book.
If you aren't a lover of fantasy books, this is for you. If you are a lover of fantasy books, you're equally as lucky, because this book is also for you. For the romance lovers, we see a little forced proximity & arranged marriage trope peek through. For the fantasy lovers, we see a little magic & a little of the 'God' or spiritual realm. For the action and suspense lovers, you're especially in luck, because we see this throughout the entire story.
Each chapter is an enthralling action tale after action tale that leaves you gritting your teeth in anticipation, sitting on the edge of your chair as the suspense builds and groaning at every minor interruption that reminds you that real life exists past the pages of Benjamin's book. I kid you not, I became an irritable oaf every time I was reminded life continues to exist past the words in my book. If I get so lost in the ink on pages that it blurs the lines between my reality and imagination, then I know this book is so damn worth it. Worth any rewards, praises and reviews it receives. Worth all the tiresome blood, sweat and tears I know this author would have poured into his manuscript.
For those who struggle with 3rd person POV, welcome to the club, but most of all, know that this gem is worth the struggle! Even in third person POV, as a reader, I was able to emerge myself into every one of the main characters thoughts and feelings, thus allowing more than just one or two main characters to tug at my heart strings. Let this be a warning to those who easily fall in love with fictional characters, to pack those damn tissues! To those who fall in love with the tiny human named Emerald, I am here for you when you finish the book!
Thanks to Christmas, I took longer than I would have liked to have finished the book, but for the majority of my reading, I managed to squeeze it into one day. Let me just say, that one day I spent ignoring the universe and palming off my parenting responsibilities to my in-laws whilst I read on their couch all day. Take this as your warning to hire or find a babysitter if you need one, collect your snacks, beverages, and tissues, and set up camp for the day whilst you read in you're most desired location. You won't want to be getting up half-way through the magical work of art that transports you through more feelings than a tab of illicit substances do.
As an author myself, I especially enjoyed spotting unique lines that inspired my own sense of creativity when writing. I appreciated the odd word that was not usually spotted often in basic books and the fact that no word was once overused... okay, so maybe 'raucous' appeared more often than not, but how else does one describe such loud noises without saying 'loud' too much? So, there are a few options like, clangourous/clamorous or a tumultuous sound, but raucous fit the story brilliantly, so really why am I complaining? Because, I can't find another damn thing to complain about so I had to come up with at least one con!
I cannot express how much I truly loved this read other than saying, I pulled out my laptop to write this review, and it's not often that I do that!
If you need a book that helps you feel, takes you on a journey with action packed suspense at every turn of the page, then pick up a copy of The Shadow of His Hand on Amazon, like... right this second!
And whilst you're at it, get number 2 & 3 as well, so that you're not left sobbing when you have no more pages to get lost into whilst you wait on the mailman to deliver the rest of the series.
In summary, the pros for this book are:
- Anyone will LOVE it.
- It's a beautiful read.
- It will make you feel.
- It is not super heavy on the fantasy genre and is a perfect place to start for those who want to dip their toes into the fantasy genre.
- It still incorporates genres into the storyline.
- It will take you on a journey through so large, you will forget reality exists.
The cons are:
- It will take you on a journey through so large, you will forget reality exists.
- You can't just buy book one, unless you are willing to sob whilst you wait for book 2 to be delivered.
- It's hard to not give 5 stars to!
- You will cry and you will feel! HEAVILY!
- You won't want it to end.
Truly, an exceptional work of art!
*Disclaimer: I am in no way paid or convinced to write this review, whilst I frequently interact with Benjamin online, I used my own resources and money to obtain a copy of his work and read at my own pace with the same standard of expectations I use with every book I read. Those Expectation being 'Make me feel anything & make me want to keep reading.'
This review does not contain spoilers but merely a hint at some of the storyline, if you don't like any clues at all, don't continue reading past paragraph 5.*
You know when they say it's not a good idea to purchase the entire series in one go? This series is possibly the only one that defies that statement. Whilst the book is not left entirely on a cliff-hanger, it very much leaves the audience wanting to jump off the edge of the cliff and trudge through more adventures alongside the characters Benjamin has so beautifully crafted.
Don't be a fool like me and only buy the first book, buy the entire damn series so that you don't have to wait 6/7 days for delivery and cry like a toddler because you can't continue your journey alongside your newly loved fictional friends.
Throughout this read, I discovered a love for many more fictional characters and potentially a love for discovering more in the world of fantasy books. If you look at the list of things I have read over the past 6ish months, I'd say damn near 99% of those books are romance. I'm a sucker for a romance novel, but more than that, I am a sucker for literature that blows my socks off. I am a sucker for a book that takes me on a journey, that makes me cry, makes me laugh, makes me feel. And that's exactly what Benjamin did with his book The Shadow of His Hand. He sure as hell made me feel, so much so, I fear my therapist and I will spend my next one hour session going through all the emotions I felt whilst reading this book.
If you aren't a lover of fantasy books, this is for you. If you are a lover of fantasy books, you're equally as lucky, because this book is also for you. For the romance lovers, we see a little forced proximity & arranged marriage trope peek through. For the fantasy lovers, we see a little magic & a little of the 'God' or spiritual realm. For the action and suspense lovers, you're especially in luck, because we see this throughout the entire story.
Each chapter is an enthralling action tale after action tale that leaves you gritting your teeth in anticipation, sitting on the edge of your chair as the suspense builds and groaning at every minor interruption that reminds you that real life exists past the pages of Benjamin's book. I kid you not, I became an irritable oaf every time I was reminded life continues to exist past the words in my book. If I get so lost in the ink on pages that it blurs the lines between my reality and imagination, then I know this book is so damn worth it. Worth any rewards, praises and reviews it receives. Worth all the tiresome blood, sweat and tears I know this author would have poured into his manuscript.
For those who struggle with 3rd person POV, welcome to the club, but most of all, know that this gem is worth the struggle! Even in third person POV, as a reader, I was able to emerge myself into every one of the main characters thoughts and feelings, thus allowing more than just one or two main characters to tug at my heart strings. Let this be a warning to those who easily fall in love with fictional characters, to pack those damn tissues! To those who fall in love with the tiny human named Emerald, I am here for you when you finish the book!
Thanks to Christmas, I took longer than I would have liked to have finished the book, but for the majority of my reading, I managed to squeeze it into one day. Let me just say, that one day I spent ignoring the universe and palming off my parenting responsibilities to my in-laws whilst I read on their couch all day. Take this as your warning to hire or find a babysitter if you need one, collect your snacks, beverages, and tissues, and set up camp for the day whilst you read in you're most desired location. You won't want to be getting up half-way through the magical work of art that transports you through more feelings than a tab of illicit substances do.
As an author myself, I especially enjoyed spotting unique lines that inspired my own sense of creativity when writing. I appreciated the odd word that was not usually spotted often in basic books and the fact that no word was once overused... okay, so maybe 'raucous' appeared more often than not, but how else does one describe such loud noises without saying 'loud' too much? So, there are a few options like, clangourous/clamorous or a tumultuous sound, but raucous fit the story brilliantly, so really why am I complaining? Because, I can't find another damn thing to complain about so I had to come up with at least one con!
I cannot express how much I truly loved this read other than saying, I pulled out my laptop to write this review, and it's not often that I do that!
If you need a book that helps you feel, takes you on a journey with action packed suspense at every turn of the page, then pick up a copy of The Shadow of His Hand on Amazon, like... right this second!
And whilst you're at it, get number 2 & 3 as well, so that you're not left sobbing when you have no more pages to get lost into whilst you wait on the mailman to deliver the rest of the series.
In summary, the pros for this book are:
- Anyone will LOVE it.
- It's a beautiful read.
- It will make you feel.
- It is not super heavy on the fantasy genre and is a perfect place to start for those who want to dip their toes into the fantasy genre.
- It still incorporates genres into the storyline.
- It will take you on a journey through so large, you will forget reality exists.
The cons are:
- It will take you on a journey through so large, you will forget reality exists.
- You can't just buy book one, unless you are willing to sob whilst you wait for book 2 to be delivered.
- It's hard to not give 5 stars to!
- You will cry and you will feel! HEAVILY!
- You won't want it to end.
July 31, 2017
As much as I sincerely love reading, I rarely if ever give myself permission to put down all my obligations, curl up with a novel and get lost in a story. It’s a rare book that can part me from my constant need to justify my use of time. The Shadow of His Hand stole me and didn’t give me back to my family for days.
It sneaks up on you when you first start reading, that somewhere, who knows how many pages back, you began to care deeply about these characters. You realise it right at the moment that something goes horribly wrong, but of course it’s too late then.
If you were destined to be a character in a novel, you’d want to pray hard it wasn’t this one. If that prayer went unanswered, at every page turn you would feel like yelling at the author that things couldn’t possibly get any worse for you right now... But don’t, because he will take it as a challenge. Things will get far, far worse, and then some.
This book toys with its readers with all the indolence of a cat who knows its prey can’t escape. Its plot is laced with something highly addictive, delivering a tantalising hit at just the right potency with every plot twist and change of scene. Each story thread is cut off and returned to at precisely the right moment, the pace never slackens for more than a breather, and every trap the characters run into feels inescapable even as they escape.
Benjamin Patterson is a gifted storyteller, and his first novel carries itself with the confidence of a bestseller. You get the impression that the story found him and compelled him to tell it. I’m impatient already for the next instalment.
It sneaks up on you when you first start reading, that somewhere, who knows how many pages back, you began to care deeply about these characters. You realise it right at the moment that something goes horribly wrong, but of course it’s too late then.
If you were destined to be a character in a novel, you’d want to pray hard it wasn’t this one. If that prayer went unanswered, at every page turn you would feel like yelling at the author that things couldn’t possibly get any worse for you right now... But don’t, because he will take it as a challenge. Things will get far, far worse, and then some.
This book toys with its readers with all the indolence of a cat who knows its prey can’t escape. Its plot is laced with something highly addictive, delivering a tantalising hit at just the right potency with every plot twist and change of scene. Each story thread is cut off and returned to at precisely the right moment, the pace never slackens for more than a breather, and every trap the characters run into feels inescapable even as they escape.
Benjamin Patterson is a gifted storyteller, and his first novel carries itself with the confidence of a bestseller. You get the impression that the story found him and compelled him to tell it. I’m impatient already for the next instalment.
July 20, 2017
The Shadow of His Hand has all the elements you would expect from your standard fantasy novel. We have the reluctant hero, the princess, the prophecy, the epic quest through enemy territory... etc etc. there are probably enough tropes in the blurb alone to make many people wary of picking up this book.
OK, so this is not groundbreaking-turn-the-genre-on-its-head fantasy, this is (so far anyway, it's only book one after all) formula fantasy. It's also really, really good.
The best way I can think of to describe this book is with an analogy from the movie 'ratatouille' - you know the bit where the critic comes to the restaurant and the humans are all like 'oh no! What are we gonna feed him?!' And the rat wants to make him ratatouille but the humans are like 'but that's too simple!' But they make him the ratatouille and when the critic eats it he is overcome with warmth and emotion, so much so that he doesn't even care that it was made by a rat? Yeah, this book is like that.
So if the blurb makes you wary, (or maybe it's just me) I urge you to give The Shadow of His Hand a chance anyhow. Trust me, it really does get better with every page. I went from 'meh' to 'holy! This book Sooooo good!' in the space of a few chapters. I do wish there had been more time to get to know some of the characters better but oh well I'll just have to wait for the next book!
OK, so this is not groundbreaking-turn-the-genre-on-its-head fantasy, this is (so far anyway, it's only book one after all) formula fantasy. It's also really, really good.
The best way I can think of to describe this book is with an analogy from the movie 'ratatouille' - you know the bit where the critic comes to the restaurant and the humans are all like 'oh no! What are we gonna feed him?!' And the rat wants to make him ratatouille but the humans are like 'but that's too simple!' But they make him the ratatouille and when the critic eats it he is overcome with warmth and emotion, so much so that he doesn't even care that it was made by a rat? Yeah, this book is like that.
So if the blurb makes you wary, (or maybe it's just me) I urge you to give The Shadow of His Hand a chance anyhow. Trust me, it really does get better with every page. I went from 'meh' to 'holy! This book Sooooo good!' in the space of a few chapters. I do wish there had been more time to get to know some of the characters better but oh well I'll just have to wait for the next book!
August 9, 2022
I loved this book! The plot was well thought out and introduced characters seamlessly along the way. I found myself laughing out loud at times to being on the edge of my seat at other times. At some points I thought all hope was lost.
I deeply cared about all the characters and their quirks. The scenes were described so vividly that I could imagine being in each character’s shoes. Fredrick, the reluctant hero with a dash of sarcasm, went through many difficult trials. Every time something happened, I was praying that he’d make it through unscathed. He was tested to the absolute limit, and it was inspiring seeing a character push on. Alongside him in his journey was brave, determined princess and an adorable, unforgettable baby girl Emerald. Another favourite character of mine was Jaithe who fell in love with the High King. I find the dialogue between the two really enjoyable and hope to read more in the next book how it’ll progress.
Benjamin has a gift for storytelling and I can’t wait to read the next book.
I deeply cared about all the characters and their quirks. The scenes were described so vividly that I could imagine being in each character’s shoes. Fredrick, the reluctant hero with a dash of sarcasm, went through many difficult trials. Every time something happened, I was praying that he’d make it through unscathed. He was tested to the absolute limit, and it was inspiring seeing a character push on. Alongside him in his journey was brave, determined princess and an adorable, unforgettable baby girl Emerald. Another favourite character of mine was Jaithe who fell in love with the High King. I find the dialogue between the two really enjoyable and hope to read more in the next book how it’ll progress.
Benjamin has a gift for storytelling and I can’t wait to read the next book.
June 8, 2017
In The Shadow of His Hand, this new author (Benjamin Patterson) has taken a leap into the literary deep end with an impressive series opener.
The main characters are an unlikely array, full of personality and vulnerabilities, ... and what is with that baby?! Together they must undertake an urgent mission against all odds. Their enemies are both natural and other-worldly and the perils are enormous. Failure spells doom for kingdoms and realms.
I had to strap myself in for some edge-of-the-seat action, enjoying the evocative descriptions and almost flinching in pain on behalf of those suffering it at times. The narrative is compelling and the setting varied along the way.
There is a satisfying finale to the tale, but with a twist that leaves me impatient to see where the next volume will take me.
It is an ambitious effort for a first novel and Patterson has pulled it off in grand style.
The main characters are an unlikely array, full of personality and vulnerabilities, ... and what is with that baby?! Together they must undertake an urgent mission against all odds. Their enemies are both natural and other-worldly and the perils are enormous. Failure spells doom for kingdoms and realms.
I had to strap myself in for some edge-of-the-seat action, enjoying the evocative descriptions and almost flinching in pain on behalf of those suffering it at times. The narrative is compelling and the setting varied along the way.
There is a satisfying finale to the tale, but with a twist that leaves me impatient to see where the next volume will take me.
It is an ambitious effort for a first novel and Patterson has pulled it off in grand style.
May 19, 2017
I don't claim to be a fantasy fan at all but I really enjoyed the story. Multiple different storylines to keep the interest but not so much I can't keep track, and keeps you waiting to see how they all link together.
Frederick is a strangely likeable character, with just enough humour and sarcasm to keep it lighthearted - although his many adventures were enough to get the adrenaline pumping in places. His rather unusual predicament or mission tugs on the heartstrings. (Yes, I even cried).
I wouldn't normally choose to read much of the political posturing and kingdoms fighting elements, but it's not too heavy. Just enough to set the scene and provide relevant context.
Read it twice, now keen for book two.
Frederick is a strangely likeable character, with just enough humour and sarcasm to keep it lighthearted - although his many adventures were enough to get the adrenaline pumping in places. His rather unusual predicament or mission tugs on the heartstrings. (Yes, I even cried).
I wouldn't normally choose to read much of the political posturing and kingdoms fighting elements, but it's not too heavy. Just enough to set the scene and provide relevant context.
Read it twice, now keen for book two.
June 17, 2017
What a page turner.
I was captivated from the first page and could not wait to see how each successive page unfolded.
From Fredrick’s unheroic entrance and sometimes bumbling ways, the reader is drawn into the story, willing him on.
Each page pulling at my emotions by the authors evocative writing as I shared in the adventure.
The author effortlessly weaves multiple stories together gently revealing sub plots against the expanse of a much larger picture.
It is with eager anticipation I wait for book 2 to be published.
I was captivated from the first page and could not wait to see how each successive page unfolded.
From Fredrick’s unheroic entrance and sometimes bumbling ways, the reader is drawn into the story, willing him on.
Each page pulling at my emotions by the authors evocative writing as I shared in the adventure.
The author effortlessly weaves multiple stories together gently revealing sub plots against the expanse of a much larger picture.
It is with eager anticipation I wait for book 2 to be published.
October 6, 2018
A story brimming with detail and a well thought out fantasy world. An unlikely soldier, a princess with something to prove, and a baby that draws the characters out into unknown and frightening territory. An enjoyable read and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
P.S. My favourite characters weren't even the main protagonists - such a provoking relationship that the author slowly prods into something more than simple duty. This reader would be love to learn more in the next installment.
P.S. My favourite characters weren't even the main protagonists - such a provoking relationship that the author slowly prods into something more than simple duty. This reader would be love to learn more in the next installment.
July 31, 2017
A genuine 5-Star rating
Its been a little while since I enjoyed a good read. In his book, The Shadow of His Hand, Benjamin takes you on a journey through various emotions, feels and paces. Every character has a specific role and is clearly defined allowing the plot to maintain its hidden nature but at the same time creating space to guess what could come next. I particularly enjoy that every scene makes you feel like youre in it, watching over the shoulder of the main character. I am very excited for the next book.
Its been a little while since I enjoyed a good read. In his book, The Shadow of His Hand, Benjamin takes you on a journey through various emotions, feels and paces. Every character has a specific role and is clearly defined allowing the plot to maintain its hidden nature but at the same time creating space to guess what could come next. I particularly enjoy that every scene makes you feel like youre in it, watching over the shoulder of the main character. I am very excited for the next book.
July 3, 2017
Good read
This is a solid first effort by the author. Good depth to the flawed characters, nearly the antithesis of heroic. The plot is different enough not to be familiar and the editing and pacing were good. The author admits, and it is obvious, the story lacks any world building from geography to back story. It suffers but not enough that I lost interest. I will read the next book.
This is a solid first effort by the author. Good depth to the flawed characters, nearly the antithesis of heroic. The plot is different enough not to be familiar and the editing and pacing were good. The author admits, and it is obvious, the story lacks any world building from geography to back story. It suffers but not enough that I lost interest. I will read the next book.
July 7, 2017
This book is hard to put down. From start to finish I was taken on an epic adventure filled with many twists and turns. It had everything from romance to swords fights and was written with so much detail that I knew exactly what the characters were thinking and feeling and wanted them to succeed. Everyone loves an underdog and the main character Fredrick is such an unlikely hero and this makes the story so engaging. I can't wait to read the next book.
August 10, 2017
While this started as a easy to pick up, somewhat predictable book. It quickly turned into a twisting adventure I found myself buried in till 3 in the morning when I had a 6am alarm set. As a first novel in a set I'm eagerly awaiting the next instalment. There is a not so subtle humour across the whole book and a brilliant consistency of rhythm. The sad thing is that it was over to fast.. bring on the next book (or 12 )
June 15, 2017
I am not usually a reader of novels. However, I must say Benjamin's first book captured and held my attention for days, as I devoted all my spare time to complete the book. He is a craftsman with words, profoundly capturing the emotion, pain and experience of the characters in this incredible medieval story.
April 1, 2025
Shadow of His Hand is a captivating read—complex yet effortless to follow. Patterson weaves adventure, mystery, and deep character development, keeping the pages turning. The world-building is immersive, the twists are well-earned, and the themes of destiny and resilience add depth. A thrilling and engaging novel and I can't wait to read the next one —highly recommended!
January 27, 2022
If you are a good imaginer then this is one of those books where you can lost in your imagined world with a great story to guide your tracks too...
WAITING for part II...
WAITING for part II...
December 23, 2024
This is a perfect book for those who love epic fantasy but don't necessarily want to read 1000 pages (this book is approximately 450 pages). Although I found the main character, Fredrich, somewhat annoying in the beginning, he has a great arch, and I really liked him in the end. I also think the book had a great ending! Exited to read book two :)
July 30, 2017
I highly recommend this book. shadow of His Hand is a great read and I could not put it down. Loved the twist at the end and cannot wait for the next book.
September 24, 2017
It grows on you
Belonging to the same writing organisation I was happy to purchase this book and give an honest review. Though it lacked excitement at the start, in progressing with the reading of the story and adjusting to the characters and the complex shifting from one set of people to another, I got caught up in both characters and plot and my initial reaction began to grow into real fascination. I had already guessed the final outcome but still I wanted to read to get there. To me this is an important aspect of any book - the wanting to continue even when it's not your normal read.
Overall quite fresh and original in approach this series may prove more interesting with each coming book.
Belonging to the same writing organisation I was happy to purchase this book and give an honest review. Though it lacked excitement at the start, in progressing with the reading of the story and adjusting to the characters and the complex shifting from one set of people to another, I got caught up in both characters and plot and my initial reaction began to grow into real fascination. I had already guessed the final outcome but still I wanted to read to get there. To me this is an important aspect of any book - the wanting to continue even when it's not your normal read.
Overall quite fresh and original in approach this series may prove more interesting with each coming book.
March 12, 2020
A book that has action, suspense, romance and humour, I don't know what more a guy could want.
I really enjoyed reading this book because it has a good plot that slowly unravels and becomes more and more epic, and all of the characters are very relate-able and have depth. The dialogue is very interesting between the characters written with great emotional intelligent and detail. I won't write about the plot, because it is hard to say anything without spoiling it.
I highly recommend this book anybody who loves action with a dash of romance and good doses of humour. I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
I really enjoyed reading this book because it has a good plot that slowly unravels and becomes more and more epic, and all of the characters are very relate-able and have depth. The dialogue is very interesting between the characters written with great emotional intelligent and detail. I won't write about the plot, because it is hard to say anything without spoiling it.
I highly recommend this book anybody who loves action with a dash of romance and good doses of humour. I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
June 5, 2017
Everything about this book seemed rich. It was rich is detail, rich in character, rich in meaning, and rich in simple acts of love and kindness. The Shadow of His Hand is an extraordinary read. It is beautifully written, a story of many adventures, and full of danger, excitement, and hope.
Getting to know the characters and experience their world is one of the things I enjoy most about reading a book. In this book, with scenes and characters described so vividly, I often found myself wishing they were real, and that I was there on the adventure with them. The main character, Frederick, was my favourite. Struggling to find his place, and curious of life’s meaning, his perseverance and humility throughout the good and the bad was captivating.
I experienced many emotions while reading. I laughed (quite a lot) and giggled, grieved and sighed, but no matter what chapter I was up to, and no matter how I was feeling about the scene or the characters, or even the story line, I just couldn’t stop turning the pages. Frederick was on a journey, and so was I!
If you’re looking for intense adventure, beautiful fantasy, and a good laugh, I would HIGHLY recommend The Shadow of His Hand. This book is just the beginning of what I’m positive is going to be an epic series!
Getting to know the characters and experience their world is one of the things I enjoy most about reading a book. In this book, with scenes and characters described so vividly, I often found myself wishing they were real, and that I was there on the adventure with them. The main character, Frederick, was my favourite. Struggling to find his place, and curious of life’s meaning, his perseverance and humility throughout the good and the bad was captivating.
I experienced many emotions while reading. I laughed (quite a lot) and giggled, grieved and sighed, but no matter what chapter I was up to, and no matter how I was feeling about the scene or the characters, or even the story line, I just couldn’t stop turning the pages. Frederick was on a journey, and so was I!
If you’re looking for intense adventure, beautiful fantasy, and a good laugh, I would HIGHLY recommend The Shadow of His Hand. This book is just the beginning of what I’m positive is going to be an epic series!
July 21, 2017
Gotta love a story where all responsibility is placed on the unqualified underdog to save the day. It's a thrilling read! Get into it!
July 30, 2017
A fascinating first entry into a potentially epic fantasy series. The Shadow of His Hand is the perfect mix of world building, character development, mystery and action. Benjamin Patterson’s writing style and storytelling abilities are well developed considering this is his first published book. The story has surprising twists that kept me curious and interested. The range of characters are well developed and their actions feel realistic. Overall, I would thoroughly recommend this to anyone interested in fantasy and can’t wait for the next entry.
July 31, 2017
I really enjoyed this read! Likeable characters, unexpected plot twists, action, adventure...it's got it all! Look forward to the next installment �
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