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The Hidden Magic Chronicles #2
Shades Of Dark: Age Of Magic - A Kurtherian Gambit Series
The Truth will set you free, but what happens when the Truth is a Lie?
Rhona and her paladin brother Alastar have left the protection of the Paladin's, and are now hunted by the same group.
Feeling like he can still make a difference for the people, Alastar is looking for his version of the Holy Grail.
The search for the magical Sword of Light takes Rhona and Alastar to an island rumored to be haunted and overrun by remnant.
What they discover there will change the fate of Roneland, but in ways they never would have imagined.
Along the way, Alastar is surrounded by the people he needs, as his belief's start falling to the reality of truth.
When you know the truth about magic... anything is possible.
Set on the foundation laid by the Kurtherian Gambit Series, Shades of Light tells an entirely new story in the Age of Magic--and of the heroes and villains who battle for control of its destiny.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 10, 2017
148 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Justin Sloan
152 books208 followersJUSTIN SLOAN wrote video games before becoming a full-time author, with credits on such games as Game of Thrones, Tales from the Borderlands, Walking Dead, and Marvel and mobile games. Now you can find his military science fiction and space superheroes books on Amazon, KU, and Audible.com. He taught Muay Thai kickboxing and Marine Corps Martial Arts, and can play three songs on the bagpipes. Justin holds advanced degrees in international relations/economics and creative writing. Oh, and he acted in movies for a bit - all small roles though.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 21, 2021
it was a quick read but I enjoyed it.
July 12, 2017
Love it
Book 2 Shades of Dark is definitely an improvement over the first one, we get to see a whole lot more personal interaction with the characters and they have plenty of fun moments which remind us to take our fun where we can get it. Justin proves that he can bring his own writing style into the age of magic and it works out very nicely. Looking forward to book 3.
Book 2 Shades of Dark is definitely an improvement over the first one, we get to see a whole lot more personal interaction with the characters and they have plenty of fun moments which remind us to take our fun where we can get it. Justin proves that he can bring his own writing style into the age of magic and it works out very nicely. Looking forward to book 3.
September 8, 2022
I loved this second book of the series.
In fact, I'm really loving all of these new series that I've been introduced to - but it was only when I finished this book, and started reading the authors' notes, that I realised just WHY I was enjoying them so much!
Justin Sloan said it, when he mentioned how his writing these particular books, was so influenced by the fantasy books he grew up with - and that lightbulb moment hit me!
I, too, grew up on Fantasy books - being born in 1961, meant that I had an amazing choice of reading matter, starting off with SciFi, but then being drawn into the world's of Fantasy, both of which I love equally!
All those many tales that I read, that involved epic journeys, with heroes who don't realise that's what they are, battling against great evil, in order to mete out the justice such evil deserves, and defending those unable to defend themselves, really brought me such hope, despite the awful things happening in the real world, as I figured that, Fantasy notwithstanding, there were surely those who did actually defend the innocent!
Of course, when terrible things happened, we all saw those wonderfully brave men and women doing their utmost to protect those who needed it, and so my love of Fantasy continues up until today.
Reading all of these wonderful tales, that started with a simple premise by one author, that his hero would, despite everything, not suffer injustice if there was something she could do about it - has been enough for me to renew my love of anything Fantasy-led, and so my Kurtherian-based love was born!
I miss you, Bethany!
But, in this second book with Alastar and Rhona, that fight for justice really gets going and, as each of the siblings fight to understand their new powers, they gather together a great group of people who will each, in their own ways, find a way to reap the Justice that their people desperately need!
So, now that I've finished this book, I looked to my reading list, and found that, I'm very pleased to see, I go back to the Storms of Magic series, to read book two: Storm Callers - which fits in beautifully with the ending of Shades of Dark!
I'm so loving this revisit to my childhood style of reading and, as much as The Hobbit, and The Lord of the Rings were my introduction to Fantasy, in 1972, I find myself just as in love with the characters, and places, here in the Kurtherian Universe, along with the many awesome authors, like Justin Sloan, who have made Michael Anderle's World's within worlds just as unforgettable as Tolkien's wonderful Lands!
In fact, I'm really loving all of these new series that I've been introduced to - but it was only when I finished this book, and started reading the authors' notes, that I realised just WHY I was enjoying them so much!
Justin Sloan said it, when he mentioned how his writing these particular books, was so influenced by the fantasy books he grew up with - and that lightbulb moment hit me!
I, too, grew up on Fantasy books - being born in 1961, meant that I had an amazing choice of reading matter, starting off with SciFi, but then being drawn into the world's of Fantasy, both of which I love equally!
All those many tales that I read, that involved epic journeys, with heroes who don't realise that's what they are, battling against great evil, in order to mete out the justice such evil deserves, and defending those unable to defend themselves, really brought me such hope, despite the awful things happening in the real world, as I figured that, Fantasy notwithstanding, there were surely those who did actually defend the innocent!
Of course, when terrible things happened, we all saw those wonderfully brave men and women doing their utmost to protect those who needed it, and so my love of Fantasy continues up until today.
Reading all of these wonderful tales, that started with a simple premise by one author, that his hero would, despite everything, not suffer injustice if there was something she could do about it - has been enough for me to renew my love of anything Fantasy-led, and so my Kurtherian-based love was born!
I miss you, Bethany!
But, in this second book with Alastar and Rhona, that fight for justice really gets going and, as each of the siblings fight to understand their new powers, they gather together a great group of people who will each, in their own ways, find a way to reap the Justice that their people desperately need!
So, now that I've finished this book, I looked to my reading list, and found that, I'm very pleased to see, I go back to the Storms of Magic series, to read book two: Storm Callers - which fits in beautifully with the ending of Shades of Dark!
I'm so loving this revisit to my childhood style of reading and, as much as The Hobbit, and The Lord of the Rings were my introduction to Fantasy, in 1972, I find myself just as in love with the characters, and places, here in the Kurtherian Universe, along with the many awesome authors, like Justin Sloan, who have made Michael Anderle's World's within worlds just as unforgettable as Tolkien's wonderful Lands!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2021
Still weak
But then apparently Sloan is publishing two books a month which means he's not putting any depth into the relentless writing.. this is like reading a draft or something written by a teen, the description is lacking, the conversation hammy and wooden.. there's errors, conclusions reached far too quickly, jumping from one place to the next in a matter of minutes rather than the hours and days it would have taken.. enemies who accept each other almost immediately.. it lacks the infighting that would happen when enemies realise that they need to stand together..
What's more the way the different authors books are supposed to be read becomes a confusing mess when they are sold in box sets that are not in order.. if this series is books 5, 6 and 7 then why were they not in with the books that started the series about Hannah? So instead I have read that as an independent series and consequently read books that apparently happen after this.. they don't interlink.. there's just a mess of series to fumble through trying to read in the most logical order and limited sense in the way they are sold.. don't sell me a set that claims to be the first 8 books when you are then going to tell me I should have read these halfway through..
But then apparently Sloan is publishing two books a month which means he's not putting any depth into the relentless writing.. this is like reading a draft or something written by a teen, the description is lacking, the conversation hammy and wooden.. there's errors, conclusions reached far too quickly, jumping from one place to the next in a matter of minutes rather than the hours and days it would have taken.. enemies who accept each other almost immediately.. it lacks the infighting that would happen when enemies realise that they need to stand together..
What's more the way the different authors books are supposed to be read becomes a confusing mess when they are sold in box sets that are not in order.. if this series is books 5, 6 and 7 then why were they not in with the books that started the series about Hannah? So instead I have read that as an independent series and consequently read books that apparently happen after this.. they don't interlink.. there's just a mess of series to fumble through trying to read in the most logical order and limited sense in the way they are sold.. don't sell me a set that claims to be the first 8 books when you are then going to tell me I should have read these halfway through..
January 29, 2020
3.5
I'm loving this series so far. The characters, the magic, the love, everything is really good. The progression of the story from the first book is nice.
My only complaint is that the last few chapters, 2-4, seems very fast like it was written in a rush. Everything seemed to happen really fast along with the battle at the end which was not as epic as I would've liked; however, it's only the second book so I can't want everything. It sets up for the 3rd book in the series nicely.
So, I will read the 3rd book.
I'm loving this series so far. The characters, the magic, the love, everything is really good. The progression of the story from the first book is nice.
My only complaint is that the last few chapters, 2-4, seems very fast like it was written in a rush. Everything seemed to happen really fast along with the battle at the end which was not as epic as I would've liked; however, it's only the second book so I can't want everything. It sets up for the 3rd book in the series nicely.
So, I will read the 3rd book.
November 6, 2017
Better than # 1
I found this installment's much more exciting and better written than the first book. I was taken along on the travels of this group of strange bedfellows and some new characters which made the experience more fun. Also the side story of Kia and her dad was entertaining , with more new characters. I'm looking forward to next installment.
I found this installment's much more exciting and better written than the first book. I was taken along on the travels of this group of strange bedfellows and some new characters which made the experience more fun. Also the side story of Kia and her dad was entertaining , with more new characters. I'm looking forward to next installment.
July 13, 2017
So much is happening
The Sword of Light is found but it is just a sword. They are trying to unite the clans to fight the good fight. What will happen next well we will have to wait and see.
The Sword of Light is found but it is just a sword. They are trying to unite the clans to fight the good fight. What will happen next well we will have to wait and see.
July 13, 2017
Another great read
Ty for writing a great story. Read entire book in two days. Can't wait for future books. Stumbled upon the K. Series by accident. Best accident that ever happened to me. I'm now hookefd on the whole series and its additions. Lots of good authors
Ty for writing a great story. Read entire book in two days. Can't wait for future books. Stumbled upon the K. Series by accident. Best accident that ever happened to me. I'm now hookefd on the whole series and its additions. Lots of good authors
July 18, 2017
Great continuation
I love the slight foreshadowing in the book . Although I do find what's up wanting more information that seems to be lax . Hoping for it to be in the next book or even in Boca Raton there's plenty of potential for further growth
I love the slight foreshadowing in the book . Although I do find what's up wanting more information that seems to be lax . Hoping for it to be in the next book or even in Boca Raton there's plenty of potential for further growth
July 20, 2017
Loved it!
Can't wait to see where this series goes. I'm looking forward to seeing all the characters really take control of and understand their abilities. Excellent addition to the TKGU.
Can't wait to see where this series goes. I'm looking forward to seeing all the characters really take control of and understand their abilities. Excellent addition to the TKGU.
October 13, 2017
I liked this book better than the last.
I still think the plot is to simple and the characters are not developed enough. I surprised the enemy cannot find them, they just need to follow the trail of trouble.
I still think the plot is to simple and the characters are not developed enough. I surprised the enemy cannot find them, they just need to follow the trail of trouble.
October 31, 2017
Haha you got me again!
This story is so clever! Justin is great at handling a large group of characters and every one is vital. I like that all these groups have to work around their differences and I can't wait to read the next one (like, now!)
This story is so clever! Justin is great at handling a large group of characters and every one is vital. I like that all these groups have to work around their differences and I can't wait to read the next one (like, now!)
March 15, 2018
Duh
My head won't get out if the story. I'm not particularly good at writing reviews, especially when the story kept me so engrossed that I can't seem to leave it. Needless to say I am ready for the next one.
My head won't get out if the story. I'm not particularly good at writing reviews, especially when the story kept me so engrossed that I can't seem to leave it. Needless to say I am ready for the next one.
March 17, 2022
definitely recommend reading
Fantastically written book that pulls you in and holds your attention to the very end. You can just see the pictures in your mind as everything happens, almost like going to the movies! Bring on the next book!
Fantastically written book that pulls you in and holds your attention to the very end. You can just see the pictures in your mind as everything happens, almost like going to the movies! Bring on the next book!
September 1, 2023
Another winner
The challenges the characters face in "Shades of Dark"are scary but show the team slowly becoming more cohesive. They are forced to learn some hard truths about their faith and prejudice. All of this while also battling for their lives. Enjoy!
The challenges the characters face in "Shades of Dark"are scary but show the team slowly becoming more cohesive. They are forced to learn some hard truths about their faith and prejudice. All of this while also battling for their lives. Enjoy!
July 16, 2017
Wonderful
They just keep getting better and better. She opening for the characters. Waiting for Rhona to get the sword and magic happen.
They just keep getting better and better. She opening for the characters. Waiting for Rhona to get the sword and magic happen.
July 27, 2017
:)
Must have more!
Moremoremoremore...
I don't know what else to say, except, I want more, please. And thank you :)
Must have more!
Moremoremoremore...
I don't know what else to say, except, I want more, please. And thank you :)
October 5, 2017
Wonderful cast of characters
This book is fun and a little addicting, but it is also a fun read and you should definitely tell your friends
This book is fun and a little addicting, but it is also a fun read and you should definitely tell your friends
February 27, 2018
Another great book
There are so many books in this world and so far all the ones I have read have been amazing. All I can say is try them you will love them.
There are so many books in this world and so far all the ones I have read have been amazing. All I can say is try them you will love them.
May 9, 2018
Whoosh!
Running action and lots of discoveries. The characters are growing developmentally as well as in number. The plot is revealing a deeper plot within, and it's all very exciting!
Running action and lots of discoveries. The characters are growing developmentally as well as in number. The plot is revealing a deeper plot within, and it's all very exciting!
October 12, 2018
A rolling adventure tale which carries the heroes through a journey of discovery as they look for the truth behind their world, and learn how to use their magical abilities. Thoroughly enjoyable!
November 11, 2018
Book candy.
November 9, 2020
Review
Great book,but what happen to he granddaughters that were left on earth from book #1. Or is thar a different set of books. If so let me know lese.
Great book,but what happen to he granddaughters that were left on earth from book #1. Or is thar a different set of books. If so let me know lese.
July 22, 2017
Kind of dark, it mostly adds to the realism and makes the consequences of actions more relevant. Only complaint is that I felt some scenes were too short and did not fully explain what was happening. It was easy to get over though because you soon get wrapped up in the next exciting thing. I'm looking forward to the next book already.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews