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Familiar and the Mage #1
The Human Familiar
While Bannen had every intention of finding adventure, being yanked through a magical portal two continents away isn’t quite what he imagined happening. For that matter, being magically bound to a mage-in-training hadn’t ever crossed his mind. Being the first human familiar ever summoned in Corcoran? Not on his to-do list. Rena certainly needs all of the help that she can get, as her magic is very different, inhibiting her of the normal shields and protections. Everyone says her summoning a human familiar is a mistake, that she needs to break the bond and send Bannen back. But Bannen doesn’t like this idea, not one iota. Renata Rocci has the magic of a Grim Reaper, the heart of a lion, and a body too frail to keep up with either. She can face assassins; meddlesome mages; politicians; and legendary, nightmarish monsters without flinching. Without losing and that’s sexy as sin. This is definitely not the adventure he signed up for. It’s far, far better.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2017
546 people are currently reading
1078 people want to read
About the author
Honor Raconteur
62 books841 followersEver since I was a toddler, I have been making up stories. I’d entertain anyone willing to listen to my wild fantasies about unicorns and gargoyles and amazing people. At 13, I started writing the stories down. At 23, I finished the first book that was, in my opinion, good enough to publish.
I spent three years trying to publish my book, Jaunten, the old fashioned way. The problem was my story was outside of the norm for young adult fantasy – it didn’t have vampires or the supernatural in it, it was clean enough to earn a PG rating, and there wasn’t any dark overlord to defeat. No literary agent would pick it up because it didn’t fit the “fantasy formula” that all of the popular books did.
I put the idea of having my book published off to the side for a while as I finished a Bachelors in English at Middle Tennessee State University. But as I worked on my third degree, the idea of being published came back to me. This time, while working as a paralegal, I had a better grasp of the laws involved of doing self-publishing. For six months, I did a great deal of research in how to do self-publishing the debt-free way.
It was hard. I was working full time, going to school full time, and living on my own. I never really had a break. I was always working on something. At times I felt like my brain would just go into meltdown from having to learn so many different things to make my idea work.
After six months, I thought I knew enough to publish myself. I put Jaunten out as an ebook, created a website and forum so that fans could communicate with me, and spread the word as best I could. Within three months, I was selling internationally. Within six months, I was making enough to quit my day job and sit at home, writing full time.
After six months of writing, publishing, and building up a reputation, I started to be approached by other people wanting to emulate what I did. I soon realized that there was a niche out there waiting for me to fill it—a place where original fiction could be published and released into the world. As of February 2012, I started my own publishing house, called Raconteur House. Since that point I have signed on four additional authors (not including yours truly) and am attracting more in a steady stream.
I have continued to write and publish the rest of the series through my House. When I’m not writing or editing, I like to go out into the community and give presentations of how to be an author. It’s actually really fun to talk to all of these people who want to be authors. Most people think that you can’t make any money being an author—actually, you can. And you can do quite well. It’s just a matter of working really hard, having a little talent, and knowing how to market your books. All I’m doing with these presentations is giving people the know-how to make their dreams come true.
While it’s true that you don’t need a college education to be an author, I encourage everyone to be as educated as possible. I have a lot of experience and education that most people don’t, and that’s what gives me an edge in writing. I’ve lived in places as obscure as Tehachapi, California and other places as large as Salt Lake City, Utah. I hold three different college degrees. I practice two different martial arts. I think I’ve tried every life experience that came my direction. All of that is incorporated into my books, and that’s what gives reality to my worlds and characters.
Even if I abruptly stop selling books tomorrow—which I don’t see happening—I would still continue to write. Creating characters and worlds is that much fun. Once you start, you become quickly addicted.
I spent three years trying to publish my book, Jaunten, the old fashioned way. The problem was my story was outside of the norm for young adult fantasy – it didn’t have vampires or the supernatural in it, it was clean enough to earn a PG rating, and there wasn’t any dark overlord to defeat. No literary agent would pick it up because it didn’t fit the “fantasy formula” that all of the popular books did.
I put the idea of having my book published off to the side for a while as I finished a Bachelors in English at Middle Tennessee State University. But as I worked on my third degree, the idea of being published came back to me. This time, while working as a paralegal, I had a better grasp of the laws involved of doing self-publishing. For six months, I did a great deal of research in how to do self-publishing the debt-free way.
It was hard. I was working full time, going to school full time, and living on my own. I never really had a break. I was always working on something. At times I felt like my brain would just go into meltdown from having to learn so many different things to make my idea work.
After six months, I thought I knew enough to publish myself. I put Jaunten out as an ebook, created a website and forum so that fans could communicate with me, and spread the word as best I could. Within three months, I was selling internationally. Within six months, I was making enough to quit my day job and sit at home, writing full time.
After six months of writing, publishing, and building up a reputation, I started to be approached by other people wanting to emulate what I did. I soon realized that there was a niche out there waiting for me to fill it—a place where original fiction could be published and released into the world. As of February 2012, I started my own publishing house, called Raconteur House. Since that point I have signed on four additional authors (not including yours truly) and am attracting more in a steady stream.
I have continued to write and publish the rest of the series through my House. When I’m not writing or editing, I like to go out into the community and give presentations of how to be an author. It’s actually really fun to talk to all of these people who want to be authors. Most people think that you can’t make any money being an author—actually, you can. And you can do quite well. It’s just a matter of working really hard, having a little talent, and knowing how to market your books. All I’m doing with these presentations is giving people the know-how to make their dreams come true.
While it’s true that you don’t need a college education to be an author, I encourage everyone to be as educated as possible. I have a lot of experience and education that most people don’t, and that’s what gives me an edge in writing. I’ve lived in places as obscure as Tehachapi, California and other places as large as Salt Lake City, Utah. I hold three different college degrees. I practice two different martial arts. I think I’ve tried every life experience that came my direction. All of that is incorporated into my books, and that’s what gives reality to my worlds and characters.
Even if I abruptly stop selling books tomorrow—which I don’t see happening—I would still continue to write. Creating characters and worlds is that much fun. Once you start, you become quickly addicted.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
August 21, 2020
Fantasy. Hard to put down! Two POV characters, written in first person which is a bit confusing at times. It does not end on a cliffhanger but I want to read the sequel NOW!
Seems to be written for YA. Main characters are 19 and 16 yo, each rather unbelievably competent at something. There's a lot of affectionate touching and hugging but no sexual overtones, yet.
Seems to be written for YA. Main characters are 19 and 16 yo, each rather unbelievably competent at something. There's a lot of affectionate touching and hugging but no sexual overtones, yet.
February 6, 2018
Ok, this was a fun book. I loved how Ban and Rin act towards each other. I also love all the supporting characters in this book. As I'm writing this I'm in the process of buying the next book because it ended in a way that has me looking forward to what's about to happen next
I'm going to put it to you like this. This is a classically and well done book. I'd go as far as to say that I'd like to see this as a TV show one day (not a movie...they'd mess it up.) Because there is a LOT to unpack in this book. The world building is meh at best. But that's not what's important. This book is all about the interaction between the two main characters.
Also, if you want a book with a strong male and female lead. Check. You want a book where the male lead isn't an asshole. check. You want a book where female lead physically as well as mentally grows without the direct support of male character. Check. You want a book that has both of the MC's sharing about the same amount of screen time and both are capable people in their own right? Check.
Not gonna lie to you. There is a bit of a love story in here and it's cute af. No seriously. They are two people who have ZERO idea that they are madly in love with each other and they are the only one's that don't see it. So there's no confusing love triangle, the plot is solid (not original, but as solid as Ron Jeremy in his prime.) There is a lot of witty banter back and forth, and there are straight up moments of chaos where you don't know the outcome until the last possible second.
All in all. a great book.
and no this book doesn't have sex in it....
and yes, I can read a book that doesn't have a guy trying to shit a girls lungs out of place.....
jeez....don't judge me...
I'm going to put it to you like this. This is a classically and well done book. I'd go as far as to say that I'd like to see this as a TV show one day (not a movie...they'd mess it up.) Because there is a LOT to unpack in this book. The world building is meh at best. But that's not what's important. This book is all about the interaction between the two main characters.
Also, if you want a book with a strong male and female lead. Check. You want a book where the male lead isn't an asshole. check. You want a book where female lead physically as well as mentally grows without the direct support of male character. Check. You want a book that has both of the MC's sharing about the same amount of screen time and both are capable people in their own right? Check.
Not gonna lie to you. There is a bit of a love story in here and it's cute af. No seriously. They are two people who have ZERO idea that they are madly in love with each other and they are the only one's that don't see it. So there's no confusing love triangle, the plot is solid (not original, but as solid as Ron Jeremy in his prime.) There is a lot of witty banter back and forth, and there are straight up moments of chaos where you don't know the outcome until the last possible second.
All in all. a great book.
and no this book doesn't have sex in it....
and yes, I can read a book that doesn't have a guy trying to shit a girls lungs out of place.....
jeez....don't judge me...
November 26, 2019
Well, there was never a dull moment! :D
I seriously am having a lot of fun reading Honor Raconteur's books, so far, it's only my second serie after all but I'm having the same kind of feeling reading this than I had when I read Magic and the Shinigami Detective. Really, I can't put it down and my cheeks almost hurt from smiling at the sweet, sweet banter between the 2 MCs.
Renata has to summon a familiar in order to become an official mage (it's one of many "tests" she has to go through), but her magic is a quirky little thing that knows better than her what she needs and here pops up Bannen, a human. So, yes, the issue here is that familiar are usually animals or even sentient objects but never humans and there are laws against it, the most important I think is that the "familiar" bond can be compared to slavery, so not really so good.
So plenty of things happened, like I said never a dull moment. The world-building is a little shaky, I could have used more informations here but it didn't bother too much in the end, the most important here are Bannen and Renata and they are so great and so cute!!!
So, I don't want to spoil to much for anyone who would read this, so I'm gonna stop here but I love them soooo much and I think I'm gonna read this whole serie really fast!
And now I'm onto book 2, The Void Mage! :)
I seriously am having a lot of fun reading Honor Raconteur's books, so far, it's only my second serie after all but I'm having the same kind of feeling reading this than I had when I read Magic and the Shinigami Detective. Really, I can't put it down and my cheeks almost hurt from smiling at the sweet, sweet banter between the 2 MCs.
Renata has to summon a familiar in order to become an official mage (it's one of many "tests" she has to go through), but her magic is a quirky little thing that knows better than her what she needs and here pops up Bannen, a human. So, yes, the issue here is that familiar are usually animals or even sentient objects but never humans and there are laws against it, the most important I think is that the "familiar" bond can be compared to slavery, so not really so good.
So plenty of things happened, like I said never a dull moment. The world-building is a little shaky, I could have used more informations here but it didn't bother too much in the end, the most important here are Bannen and Renata and they are so great and so cute!!!
So, I don't want to spoil to much for anyone who would read this, so I'm gonna stop here but I love them soooo much and I think I'm gonna read this whole serie really fast!
And now I'm onto book 2, The Void Mage! :)
July 2, 2021
Ooh, Nelly. I've basically sworn off all things YA, but if anyone can write a YA story that doesn't make me want to scream in frustration or sigh in annoyance, it just might be Honor Raconteur. I just really like all the characters she's written so far...
Upon finishing, I have to say that I enjoyed it. Were the characters very mature? Not really. But hopefully the author will age them up a little by the beginning of the second book and make them more ready to be compatible. :)
The magic was interesting, but let's be honest...I read this for the relationship between the MCs. I'm curious and excited in equal measure to see how the author is going to develop things between these two.
Upon finishing, I have to say that I enjoyed it. Were the characters very mature? Not really. But hopefully the author will age them up a little by the beginning of the second book and make them more ready to be compatible. :)
The magic was interesting, but let's be honest...I read this for the relationship between the MCs. I'm curious and excited in equal measure to see how the author is going to develop things between these two.
May 10, 2018
This book suffered horribly from the male protagonist being an obvious Gary Stu. His actions and the skills and knowledge he has makes absolutely no sense for someone as young as he is supposed to be, his only real personality trait is being super good at everything he tries and being instantly liked by every character who isn't obviously evil.
The heroine is very poorly developed as well, though not quite to the same degree.
The heroine is very poorly developed as well, though not quite to the same degree.
November 29, 2017
Good Start
Nice opening to a new series. I adore Bannen and Rena. I'm looking forward to the development of romance in book two which just came out. I plan to start it soon.
Nice opening to a new series. I adore Bannen and Rena. I'm looking forward to the development of romance in book two which just came out. I plan to start it soon.
February 6, 2018
This should be renamed “Fantasy hug-fest”
Semi-relevant tangent on me and hugging, under spoiler.
This book has a lot of hugging and nothing more than hugging. Well, there are also a few forehead kisses and a plot humming in the background, but I really couldn’t be bothered with it. Fine, fine, I guess I could spare a couple of paragraphs on the petty concerns of the feeble-minded.
It’s like the author watched the anime “Zero’s familiar” and decided to do the same thing, only better. First, the familiar, Bannen, is whisked away from another continent (not another world) and has just left his parents to find his calling or whatever. So him staying with his master, Rena, isn’t a problem, because he has no attachments (+ he can contact his parents via magic skype), unlike in “Zero’s familiar” where the guy accepts never seeing his family again pretty easily because LOVE or some shit. Secondly, “Human familiar” adds the soul-bond trope to the equation, which makes the love story more complex. If you read fanfiction then you might be throwing up right about now, but it’s done pretty well here: for one, moral and legal ramifications of a human familiar are considered, then there is a decent exploration of how the bond manipulates your feelings and behavior and how much of them are truly yours. There is a small plot twist, but even I predicted it. We have some monster-fighting, bully-fighting and assassin-fighting and info-dumpy conversations, but I just had no fucks to give at all - I read three words a page until the next hug-scene.
The characters are nothing to write home about. They’re not completely bland, they exhibit signs of budding personality, but just barely. Bannen is the cocky, protective fighter, Rena is… compassionate and thoughtful with a bit of snark. Neither appears to be dumb, and I guess thank you for not making Rena a raging loli tsundere?
The dialogue is passable at best. The writing was fine except for several anachronistic words like “ditto”.
Now I wish I could gush about all the rampant hugging, but I just don’t know what to say about it. It’s cute? Heartwarming? There’s also handholding and cuddling.
And so, all hugged-out, I am fully ready for all those other bases, some of which our couple will surely reach in the second book…
Semi-relevant tangent on me and hugging, under spoiler.
This book has a lot of hugging and nothing more than hugging. Well, there are also a few forehead kisses and a plot humming in the background, but I really couldn’t be bothered with it. Fine, fine, I guess I could spare a couple of paragraphs on the petty concerns of the feeble-minded.
It’s like the author watched the anime “Zero’s familiar” and decided to do the same thing, only better. First, the familiar, Bannen, is whisked away from another continent (not another world) and has just left his parents to find his calling or whatever. So him staying with his master, Rena, isn’t a problem, because he has no attachments (+ he can contact his parents via magic skype), unlike in “Zero’s familiar” where the guy accepts never seeing his family again pretty easily because LOVE or some shit. Secondly, “Human familiar” adds the soul-bond trope to the equation, which makes the love story more complex. If you read fanfiction then you might be throwing up right about now, but it’s done pretty well here: for one, moral and legal ramifications of a human familiar are considered, then there is a decent exploration of how the bond manipulates your feelings and behavior and how much of them are truly yours. There is a small plot twist, but even I predicted it. We have some monster-fighting, bully-fighting and assassin-fighting and info-dumpy conversations, but I just had no fucks to give at all - I read three words a page until the next hug-scene.
The characters are nothing to write home about. They’re not completely bland, they exhibit signs of budding personality, but just barely. Bannen is the cocky, protective fighter, Rena is… compassionate and thoughtful with a bit of snark. Neither appears to be dumb, and I guess thank you for not making Rena a raging loli tsundere?
The dialogue is passable at best. The writing was fine except for several anachronistic words like “ditto”.
Now I wish I could gush about all the rampant hugging, but I just don’t know what to say about it. It’s cute? Heartwarming? There’s also handholding and cuddling.
And so, all hugged-out, I am fully ready for all those other bases, some of which our couple will surely reach in the second book…
December 29, 2023
Nice twist on a theme.
The nonsensical curse terms do remind me Sherwood Smith though (not the plot or characters though -- just the 'fopdoodles').
The nonsensical curse terms do remind me Sherwood Smith though (not the plot or characters though -- just the 'fopdoodles').
Read
December 15, 2021DNF at 50%
I got to the 50% mark and decided to DNF. The writing is too amateur and the story is too YA for me. Pity. I wanted to like this one. The premise was so-o-o good.
I got to the 50% mark and decided to DNF. The writing is too amateur and the story is too YA for me. Pity. I wanted to like this one. The premise was so-o-o good.
March 31, 2020
This was hard book to put down. A very compelling high fantasy story and magic system, funny and fast paced.
To sum, the impossible happens when Rena summons a human familiar, Bannen, across two continents, and while he was looking for adventure he wasn’t expecting this. Nevertheless, the bond between them seems unbreakable and they find each other liking one another a lot. (I’m betting the bond between Rena and Bannen will brew some romance but it’s not leading the story on this one.)
However, their bond is deemed unnatural by the Magic Council and many seem intent on breaking it or breaking them. But Rena’s magic is also unnatural and different or so they say. But is it? Is the bond with a human familiar unheard off? Or are they hiding something? I guess I’ll need to wait for some of these questions to be answered in the next instalment.
On the minus note, I had some issues with the editing. Some sentences made little sense to me. Also, Fauna is for animals and Flora for vegetation, but the author insisted on the opposite.
Anyway, I really found it hard to put down and truly liked it, even cried a bit. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
To sum, the impossible happens when Rena summons a human familiar, Bannen, across two continents, and while he was looking for adventure he wasn’t expecting this. Nevertheless, the bond between them seems unbreakable and they find each other liking one another a lot. (I’m betting the bond between Rena and Bannen will brew some romance but it’s not leading the story on this one.)
However, their bond is deemed unnatural by the Magic Council and many seem intent on breaking it or breaking them. But Rena’s magic is also unnatural and different or so they say. But is it? Is the bond with a human familiar unheard off? Or are they hiding something? I guess I’ll need to wait for some of these questions to be answered in the next instalment.
On the minus note, I had some issues with the editing. Some sentences made little sense to me. Also, Fauna is for animals and Flora for vegetation, but the author insisted on the opposite.
Anyway, I really found it hard to put down and truly liked it, even cried a bit. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 8, 2023
5 stars // read June 2023
I was cautiously optimistic about this book, as the premise sounded intriguing but also like one that could go in a very weird direction.
The beginning felt very rushed and sort of clumsy, but as the book continued and I got to know the characters more, the pacing evened out. I'm a sucker for a good "magical bond" story, and that particular trope was front and center, so I enjoyed that quite a bit.
Overall, if you're looking for something deep and philosophical, this isn't for you. If you want a portal fantasy that has a light and sweet romance with interesting magical powers in the mix, then definitely check this one out.
Content: Overall, pretty clean. Several uses of language with frequently used made-up words ("sards/sarding" is used frequently as a curse word, for example). As you might guess by the title, familiars play a significant role- in this story, they are sentient animals/objects (or in Bannen's case, humans) that act as assistants to the mage they are bonded to; Bannen basically acts as Rena's bodyguard.
I was cautiously optimistic about this book, as the premise sounded intriguing but also like one that could go in a very weird direction.
The beginning felt very rushed and sort of clumsy, but as the book continued and I got to know the characters more, the pacing evened out. I'm a sucker for a good "magical bond" story, and that particular trope was front and center, so I enjoyed that quite a bit.
Overall, if you're looking for something deep and philosophical, this isn't for you. If you want a portal fantasy that has a light and sweet romance with interesting magical powers in the mix, then definitely check this one out.
Content: Overall, pretty clean. Several uses of language with frequently used made-up words ("sards/sarding" is used frequently as a curse word, for example). As you might guess by the title, familiars play a significant role- in this story, they are sentient animals/objects (or in Bannen's case, humans) that act as assistants to the mage they are bonded to; Bannen basically acts as Rena's bodyguard.
August 24, 2021
There are few YA books that I actually like- this will be one of them. The story is unique, Rena is training to be a Mage and one of the tests is to call a familiar to her. She calls a young, handsome man as her familiar (unplanned) and chaos ensues.
They don't know her magic type or why her health is failing so badly, but its all explained as the book unfolds. Bannen is a sweetheart and fiercely protective of Rena, and I enjoy his sarcasm as well.
The story ends with them in a new place and finally with someone who can explain what they are together, which springboards into the next book of the series. Its unique magic, VOID Mage, and I like where these stories are heading. The affection between the characters warms the heart -like the Forthright series does to me. Highly recommended if you are looking for a good adventure story that is slow burn.
They don't know her magic type or why her health is failing so badly, but its all explained as the book unfolds. Bannen is a sweetheart and fiercely protective of Rena, and I enjoy his sarcasm as well.
The story ends with them in a new place and finally with someone who can explain what they are together, which springboards into the next book of the series. Its unique magic, VOID Mage, and I like where these stories are heading. The affection between the characters warms the heart -like the Forthright series does to me. Highly recommended if you are looking for a good adventure story that is slow burn.
September 19, 2023
Fantastic Recommendation
Amazon recommended this book to me after another Fantasy story but I wasn't expecting a YA. I wasn't disappointed though. This was so fun and addictive. Bannon and Rena chemistry was lovely and I can't wait to see what they get up to next on their journey.
Amazon recommended this book to me after another Fantasy story but I wasn't expecting a YA. I wasn't disappointed though. This was so fun and addictive. Bannon and Rena chemistry was lovely and I can't wait to see what they get up to next on their journey.
July 14, 2020
I CAN’T GUSH ABOUT THIS BOOK ENOUGH!!! okay, first things first: the overview. Basically, this story is about a 19-year-old boy (sorry, MAN) who is summoned by a 16-year old girl/apprentice mage to have as her familiar. It just so happens that mages are not allowed to have humans as their familiars–slavery and all that jazz–and so Renata (aka Rena) and Bannen are forced to await a decision by the Mage Council about what to do with their familiar bond. In the meantime, Bannen acts as her stand-in familiar, following her on jobs, her training, and learning all about this girl and unfamiliar country (because, by the way, he was summoned from 2 continents over). As they spend more and more time together, their familiar bond strengthens as does their friendship. Bannen also becomes privy to just how strange Rena is in the magical world, as her magic has a tendency to deconstruct, whereas all other magic constructs. To top it all off, Rena is afflicted with a mysterious illness that neither magic nor science has any explanation for, let alone any hope for a cure. Do Bannen and Rena get to keep their familiar bond intact? Do they both even want to keep it?
Sprinkled with modern slang and a dash of technology, reading this story was slightly jarring at first. I was unsure as to what time period it was set it, because it gave off a pretty medieval vibe… Excepting for terms such as “sexy” and the like that Bannen enjoys throwing around. There is also some technology, such as Trolleys in the city and a train… I am unsure if these are real, modern-technological advances, or if they run on magic, so I am still not sure what time period to categorize this book in, because they definitely do not have cars, telephones, or the like… However, after I got into the book, I became accustomed to this juxtaposition of medieval and modern, and it actually enhanced the story to provide a further layer of mystery and magic on my own reading experience.
The thing that kept bringing me in, again and again, so that I could scarcely put the book down before picking it right back up after a few minutes (definitely decreased my productivity on important matters, like oh, I dunno, grad school homework!) was the character building. I absolutely loved the characters in this book, and not only Rena and Bannen, though they were admittedly my favorite, probably in part because the story alternated between their first-person POVs. Bannen is an overprotective gentleman and a fighter to the core. Rena is an ambitious, bright, and occasionally shy mage-to-be, who has the potential to become something amazing. Tarkington plays the part of an overbearing father, but really is a sweetheart on the inside, while Vonda plays his perfect double. Each character, no matter how small their influence in the novel, had such a unique set of character traits and humor/dialogue that I found this novel absolutely fascinating. Not to mention Bannen/Rena’s wit! I literally found myself laughing, out loud, while reading this novel. So be forewarned, you may want to read it in a more private area than a coffee shop, or people may start to look at you funny… Hypothetically of course, nothing like that happened to me…
With the amazing characterizations of the characters, my emotions were fully invested in the story. And there was quite a range of emotions that I went through! I laughed (obviously, see above), I teared up, I became frustrated with a character (mirroring the M.C.s), and even found myself yelling at them at one point. As if they could hear me all the way here on Earth. I’d need Tarkington to set me up with a communication spell first! Really, though. This book was amazing. It completely stole my mind away from wherever and whatever I was doing in real life, and transported me to this magical world where I felt the stakes. I was inspired to enact change in the Mage Council, and was even drafting up arguments/protests in my head! That’s how invested I was in this book.
So, I’ve talked a lot about characters and dialogue and setting, but what about plot? Well, lemme tell you, the plot was SO GOOD. Can you tell I love this book? I love this book. So not only does our heroine and her sidekick follow the traditional fantasy arc of meeting, building up to the climax of a problem, and finally the resolution of that problem, but the story continues even after that. I thought the book was about to end, but then looked down and saw I still had 25% left! Gotta admit, I may have jumped up and down a little bit. Even after the main obstacle in our protagonists’ way is overcome (either positively or negatively, I will not spoil!), we still get to follow our characters (because yes, they are now ours–the readers’–no longer the author’s. I especially claim ownership! I want them in my life!) into another climax and resolution. And this is the one that really tugs on our heartstrings. I love it.
The novel ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, or perhaps just more a feeling of adventure-yet-to-come. Since this is part of a series, Familiar and Mage, you can bet your bottom dollar (and more!) that I will be getting the next book ASAP. I cannot wait to continue this journey!
Sprinkled with modern slang and a dash of technology, reading this story was slightly jarring at first. I was unsure as to what time period it was set it, because it gave off a pretty medieval vibe… Excepting for terms such as “sexy” and the like that Bannen enjoys throwing around. There is also some technology, such as Trolleys in the city and a train… I am unsure if these are real, modern-technological advances, or if they run on magic, so I am still not sure what time period to categorize this book in, because they definitely do not have cars, telephones, or the like… However, after I got into the book, I became accustomed to this juxtaposition of medieval and modern, and it actually enhanced the story to provide a further layer of mystery and magic on my own reading experience.
The thing that kept bringing me in, again and again, so that I could scarcely put the book down before picking it right back up after a few minutes (definitely decreased my productivity on important matters, like oh, I dunno, grad school homework!) was the character building. I absolutely loved the characters in this book, and not only Rena and Bannen, though they were admittedly my favorite, probably in part because the story alternated between their first-person POVs. Bannen is an overprotective gentleman and a fighter to the core. Rena is an ambitious, bright, and occasionally shy mage-to-be, who has the potential to become something amazing. Tarkington plays the part of an overbearing father, but really is a sweetheart on the inside, while Vonda plays his perfect double. Each character, no matter how small their influence in the novel, had such a unique set of character traits and humor/dialogue that I found this novel absolutely fascinating. Not to mention Bannen/Rena’s wit! I literally found myself laughing, out loud, while reading this novel. So be forewarned, you may want to read it in a more private area than a coffee shop, or people may start to look at you funny… Hypothetically of course, nothing like that happened to me…
With the amazing characterizations of the characters, my emotions were fully invested in the story. And there was quite a range of emotions that I went through! I laughed (obviously, see above), I teared up, I became frustrated with a character (mirroring the M.C.s), and even found myself yelling at them at one point. As if they could hear me all the way here on Earth. I’d need Tarkington to set me up with a communication spell first! Really, though. This book was amazing. It completely stole my mind away from wherever and whatever I was doing in real life, and transported me to this magical world where I felt the stakes. I was inspired to enact change in the Mage Council, and was even drafting up arguments/protests in my head! That’s how invested I was in this book.
So, I’ve talked a lot about characters and dialogue and setting, but what about plot? Well, lemme tell you, the plot was SO GOOD. Can you tell I love this book? I love this book. So not only does our heroine and her sidekick follow the traditional fantasy arc of meeting, building up to the climax of a problem, and finally the resolution of that problem, but the story continues even after that. I thought the book was about to end, but then looked down and saw I still had 25% left! Gotta admit, I may have jumped up and down a little bit. Even after the main obstacle in our protagonists’ way is overcome (either positively or negatively, I will not spoil!), we still get to follow our characters (because yes, they are now ours–the readers’–no longer the author’s. I especially claim ownership! I want them in my life!) into another climax and resolution. And this is the one that really tugs on our heartstrings. I love it.
The novel ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, or perhaps just more a feeling of adventure-yet-to-come. Since this is part of a series, Familiar and Mage, you can bet your bottom dollar (and more!) that I will be getting the next book ASAP. I cannot wait to continue this journey!
January 24, 2022
fun magical fantasy
I thoroughly enjoyed this magical fantasy. Rena is a sickly mage’s apprentice with an unusual magic talent, who accidentally summons a human as her familiar. Bannen is a young warrior from the other side of the world. They navigate the unusualness of having a familiar bond, her strange magic, and the politics of the ruling council.
I thoroughly enjoyed this magical fantasy. Rena is a sickly mage’s apprentice with an unusual magic talent, who accidentally summons a human as her familiar. Bannen is a young warrior from the other side of the world. They navigate the unusualness of having a familiar bond, her strange magic, and the politics of the ruling council.
October 14, 2021
This was a fantastic read, loved this world and these characters and the snark! Can't wait to see where the series goes from here!
November 27, 2017
Cute, and Not “The Familiar of Zero”
So the story does indeed have some strong similarities to the mentioned anime, but it has strong differences as well, then it heads out on its own. The characters are quite good, the editing and dialogue are excellent, and overall it’s a fun little romp. Nice POV changes too, though a little confusing sometimes. With introductions done, book #2 should be quite interesting. A nice read.
So the story does indeed have some strong similarities to the mentioned anime, but it has strong differences as well, then it heads out on its own. The characters are quite good, the editing and dialogue are excellent, and overall it’s a fun little romp. Nice POV changes too, though a little confusing sometimes. With introductions done, book #2 should be quite interesting. A nice read.
October 7, 2017
Loved the characters
The author has done a great job with the plot and characters, if there was a sequel I would have already purchased it. There was something missing, or I would have given it 5 stars . The town and the motives just didn't ring true....it felt like that was sacrificed to advancing the plot quickly.
The author has done a great job with the plot and characters, if there was a sequel I would have already purchased it. There was something missing, or I would have given it 5 stars . The town and the motives just didn't ring true....it felt like that was sacrificed to advancing the plot quickly.
January 19, 2019
https://myanimelist.net/anime/1195/Ze...
Can't even try to hide the plagiarism
Can't even try to hide the plagiarism
February 27, 2022
rereading. I love this author
October 26, 2023
Enjoyable read with lighthearted depth
The story is of a young 16 yr old female mage & her 19 yr old male familiar. Initial when summoned it is believed throughout the magic world it is wrong. A familial bond that strong can be twisted into a form of slavery.
This world exists with very old world industrialism. No real phones, indoor heating or plumbing that doesn’t rely on magic. Magic progresses science catches up.
The story itself is well written with the chapters for both main characters. Hence the depth in which the reader gets to know the story first hand. The interactions of lightheartedness stem mainly from Bannen Hach the protector. Though a well trained beast of a fighter he infects everyone with his humor and bravado.
*SPOILERS* kinda
The weird mage magic of Renata (Rena) Rocci is destructive in nature. It makes for slow learning but interesting study. This is the crux of the larger theme. The novel ends with her inadvertently being thrust into a location that provides her with guidance in Void magic. In addition the book ends with Bannen also preparing for new training to protect this special 1 pet generation mage.
I loathe cliffhanger novels but this book actually closes out 4 storylines (all related) (Mage council court / a bad guy and later assassins / a magical chaos of epic proportions solved / & the Ws of Rena’s magical questions are answered) before continuing seamlessly with the overall story. As a result I’m left curious rather than duped. I will continue the series but I could stop here and feel satisfied with the happy for now conclusion.
However a world without tech and easy solutions fascinates me enough to follow along and see what’s in store.
The story is of a young 16 yr old female mage & her 19 yr old male familiar. Initial when summoned it is believed throughout the magic world it is wrong. A familial bond that strong can be twisted into a form of slavery.
This world exists with very old world industrialism. No real phones, indoor heating or plumbing that doesn’t rely on magic. Magic progresses science catches up.
The story itself is well written with the chapters for both main characters. Hence the depth in which the reader gets to know the story first hand. The interactions of lightheartedness stem mainly from Bannen Hach the protector. Though a well trained beast of a fighter he infects everyone with his humor and bravado.
*SPOILERS* kinda
The weird mage magic of Renata (Rena) Rocci is destructive in nature. It makes for slow learning but interesting study. This is the crux of the larger theme. The novel ends with her inadvertently being thrust into a location that provides her with guidance in Void magic. In addition the book ends with Bannen also preparing for new training to protect this special 1 pet generation mage.
I loathe cliffhanger novels but this book actually closes out 4 storylines (all related) (Mage council court / a bad guy and later assassins / a magical chaos of epic proportions solved / & the Ws of Rena’s magical questions are answered) before continuing seamlessly with the overall story. As a result I’m left curious rather than duped. I will continue the series but I could stop here and feel satisfied with the happy for now conclusion.
However a world without tech and easy solutions fascinates me enough to follow along and see what’s in store.
May 5, 2019
A world that can be so much, but with a narration with so little.
World building is easily one of my favorite aspects of stories and why I love fantasy. Honor Raconteur creates amazing worlds with many different countries and cultures in each series. They add a layer of depth that many series are missing (or come later as the author matures). This book is no different and seeing the hints of Bannen's homeland, Rena's places, and a couple other countries leaves so much to explore.
That's about where that positive world building here ends. One of my favorite world device is magic systems and this one is just meh and told in a meh fashion. There's a mix and hint of academics and thought as well as sentience, but it's all filtered down (usually by Bannen not caring) to "it just does it's thing". Logic has axioms and sentience has motives, but neither are really expressed at all and it's frustratingly boring because of this choice.
The characters started off great but ended up tending towards flat, single-plot-use people (with a few exceptions). I like Rena and Bannen at first, but the more they interacted and we got to see their views the more random children acting for no real reason they became. Magically everything is ok even with poor decisions.
Even Toh’sellor feels like a purely plot created device so far. It exists and it does stuff and no one can defeat it except the chosen-one, even though others can, but just haven't tried. Somehow it's a myth in some countries, but has been a systematic enemy for generations... wat.
This feels like my least favorite Raconteur book so far and I hope the rest of the series recovers.
World building is easily one of my favorite aspects of stories and why I love fantasy. Honor Raconteur creates amazing worlds with many different countries and cultures in each series. They add a layer of depth that many series are missing (or come later as the author matures). This book is no different and seeing the hints of Bannen's homeland, Rena's places, and a couple other countries leaves so much to explore.
That's about where that positive world building here ends. One of my favorite world device is magic systems and this one is just meh and told in a meh fashion. There's a mix and hint of academics and thought as well as sentience, but it's all filtered down (usually by Bannen not caring) to "it just does it's thing". Logic has axioms and sentience has motives, but neither are really expressed at all and it's frustratingly boring because of this choice.
The characters started off great but ended up tending towards flat, single-plot-use people (with a few exceptions). I like Rena and Bannen at first, but the more they interacted and we got to see their views the more random children acting for no real reason they became. Magically everything is ok even with poor decisions.
Even Toh’sellor feels like a purely plot created device so far. It exists and it does stuff and no one can defeat it except the chosen-one, even though others can, but just haven't tried. Somehow it's a myth in some countries, but has been a systematic enemy for generations... wat.
This feels like my least favorite Raconteur book so far and I hope the rest of the series recovers.
April 12, 2022
After reading The Henri Davenforth series and adoring it, I was pretty excited to enter another series from Honor Raconteur.
I had a lot of fun getting to know Bannen and Rena. Bannen is the basic good natured character that gets along with everyone except for the people that nobody likes. cough...Derek...cough. Rena is less sure of herself due to her weirdo magic and people side-eying her for it. But once Bannen enters the picture, you can see these two were made for each other, which made me rub my hands together in reader glee.
While I heartily enjoyed the story, it does have issues. The story is more a sort of ambling ramble with many beginnings, catalysts, and denouements in one book. It was enough to make me furrow my eyebrows, but not enough to detract from my enjoyment and finishing the book.
My only real problem with the series is the whole familiar bond. It emotionally attaches the familiar and his mage and it straddles the line for me of being manipulative and weird for the relationship of the two protagonists. Major spoiler: The codependency of the two in the story makes me uneasy, and does hamper my enjoyment of the story. I'm halfway through book two at the moment, and I'm just not sure if I can keep going and ignore this almost-toxic relationship. It just sits on this fence in my brain of being morally wrong. I dunno. I wish they were together because of choice not just the familiar bond's emotional magic-ness.
Content: violence, there are fights, broken bones, some blood. Nothing gratuitous. Language: None, just some made up swear words like you see sometimes in fantasy novels. i.e.: Fopdoodle. Sensuality: Bannen and Rena are very affectionate, but only in like hugs and sitting close, head on shoulder, Bannen carries her around. It's pretty innocent.
I had a lot of fun getting to know Bannen and Rena. Bannen is the basic good natured character that gets along with everyone except for the people that nobody likes. cough...Derek...cough. Rena is less sure of herself due to her weirdo magic and people side-eying her for it. But once Bannen enters the picture, you can see these two were made for each other, which made me rub my hands together in reader glee.
While I heartily enjoyed the story, it does have issues. The story is more a sort of ambling ramble with many beginnings, catalysts, and denouements in one book. It was enough to make me furrow my eyebrows, but not enough to detract from my enjoyment and finishing the book.
My only real problem with the series is the whole familiar bond. It emotionally attaches the familiar and his mage and it straddles the line for me of being manipulative and weird for the relationship of the two protagonists. Major spoiler: The codependency of the two in the story makes me uneasy, and does hamper my enjoyment of the story. I'm halfway through book two at the moment, and I'm just not sure if I can keep going and ignore this almost-toxic relationship. It just sits on this fence in my brain of being morally wrong. I dunno. I wish they were together because of choice not just the familiar bond's emotional magic-ness.
Content: violence, there are fights, broken bones, some blood. Nothing gratuitous. Language: None, just some made up swear words like you see sometimes in fantasy novels. i.e.: Fopdoodle. Sensuality: Bannen and Rena are very affectionate, but only in like hugs and sitting close, head on shoulder, Bannen carries her around. It's pretty innocent.
April 10, 2022
5 Unfortunate Reflexes That Slice People Up First And Send Flowers Later Stars
The Human Familiar is the first book in the Familiar and Mage series by Honor Raconteur.
This book is so unbelievably enjoyable. I'll be honest, in admitting how many misunderstood protagonists I've come across that possess a form of magic easily vilified. But the main enjoyment to be found is this work is between the characters. Of course, Bannen and Rena stand at the forefront of witty dialogue and entertaining shenanigans. But, there is a consortium of side characters to further enrich the experience for the reader. Honor Raconteur did such a marvelous job with the character structuring. I can not find want of any aspect in the balance either.
Surprisingly enough the world building, and system of magical theory do not fall short of the bar set by the character development. I greatly enjoy the structure the magic takes one. In much the same fashion as an equation is so concisely utilized to ascertain a solution to any problem. That is perhaps my organizational tendencies tending heavily towards structure itself. Oops?
Isn't it the trend of many books in this vein, especially when pertaining to magic theory, that balance is key? That nobody saw fit to correlate the completely different and restructuring style of magic our protag is capable of as a tool to counteract the great devastation that the Toh'sellor is befuddles me. Even when we meet Mary, a veritable font of information when it comes to Ren-ren's brand of magic, there is no innate understanding as to the obvious (to me) correlation between them.
The Human Familiar is the first book in the Familiar and Mage series by Honor Raconteur.
This book is so unbelievably enjoyable. I'll be honest, in admitting how many misunderstood protagonists I've come across that possess a form of magic easily vilified. But the main enjoyment to be found is this work is between the characters. Of course, Bannen and Rena stand at the forefront of witty dialogue and entertaining shenanigans. But, there is a consortium of side characters to further enrich the experience for the reader. Honor Raconteur did such a marvelous job with the character structuring. I can not find want of any aspect in the balance either.
Surprisingly enough the world building, and system of magical theory do not fall short of the bar set by the character development. I greatly enjoy the structure the magic takes one. In much the same fashion as an equation is so concisely utilized to ascertain a solution to any problem. That is perhaps my organizational tendencies tending heavily towards structure itself. Oops?
Isn't it the trend of many books in this vein, especially when pertaining to magic theory, that balance is key? That nobody saw fit to correlate the completely different and restructuring style of magic our protag is capable of as a tool to counteract the great devastation that the Toh'sellor is befuddles me. Even when we meet Mary, a veritable font of information when it comes to Ren-ren's brand of magic, there is no innate understanding as to the obvious (to me) correlation between them.
May 13, 2024
I've read other series by this author and enjoyed them so I thought I'd give this one a try. As usual, magic is an important element in the world they've created, and the focus is on specific magic users. In this case, it's Rena, a16 year old Mage apprentice who's magic doesn't work like anyone else's. But she's due to take her Tests to become a full fledged Mage so must call a familiar. And she gets Bannen.
But wait: the spell is not supposed to call humans -- especially not one from halfway around the world. There are laws against slavery. But the bond is there -- even though she did not complete the spell so the Magician Council must be advised. While waiting to learn what's to happen, Rena and Bannen become ever more closely bonded and it soon becomes clear that there is an enemy intent on breaking the pair up -- and killing one or both would be a fine way to do it.
As is the case with this author, the primary characters and their nearest circle are considerate and generally good people who treat each other with respect. I appreciate that though I realize some might find it all a bit "nice". Within a few pages of meeting a new character, it's dead clear who's side they're on so you don't have to stress a lot trying to figure out if you're meant to like them or not. Good for a relaxing read.
The chapters are clearly marked as from Rena's or Bannen's point of view -- which is good, because even with this reminder, it's sometimes hard to tell since their 'voices' are not all that different. This book is self contained but does end with Rena and Bannen in a new situation that is clearly where the plot of the next book picks up. I've already borrowed it from KU.
But wait: the spell is not supposed to call humans -- especially not one from halfway around the world. There are laws against slavery. But the bond is there -- even though she did not complete the spell so the Magician Council must be advised. While waiting to learn what's to happen, Rena and Bannen become ever more closely bonded and it soon becomes clear that there is an enemy intent on breaking the pair up -- and killing one or both would be a fine way to do it.
As is the case with this author, the primary characters and their nearest circle are considerate and generally good people who treat each other with respect. I appreciate that though I realize some might find it all a bit "nice". Within a few pages of meeting a new character, it's dead clear who's side they're on so you don't have to stress a lot trying to figure out if you're meant to like them or not. Good for a relaxing read.
The chapters are clearly marked as from Rena's or Bannen's point of view -- which is good, because even with this reminder, it's sometimes hard to tell since their 'voices' are not all that different. This book is self contained but does end with Rena and Bannen in a new situation that is clearly where the plot of the next book picks up. I've already borrowed it from KU.
July 15, 2024
More action/adventure than romance
It’s pretty obvious that Rena and Bannen are meant for each other, but there’s basically no romance in this first book. Some light flirting. Some chaste kisses. But not much more than that. Slow rolling their relationship is probably a good idea though. Both characters are adults by the standards of their cultures, but Rena is only 16 and Bannen only 19. I expect a time jump between books that will result in them being two years older. This will make their ages more acceptable for romance in the eyes of readers.
To be clear, I didn’t feel that the innocent love/friendship between them was in anyway a flaw. Bannen starts out flirting with Rena, but realizes that she doesn’t understand that he’s flirting, so she must be inexperienced. He then backs off from anything even remotely sexual, which I felt was a sensitive choice on his part. Rena had too much to deal with to add “new boyfriend” to the mix.
I was a little frustrated because people kept saying that Rena had broken (at least) three laws. But when the laws were listed, she’d clearly only broken one. And there was room to argue that Bannen had agreed to serve as her familiar prior to the bond being in place, therefore he agreed without duress. Meaning she broke no laws. I would have preferred if that argument had been properly made at some point, but Honor went in a different direction.
This was a lot of fun and I’m going to go grab book 2.
It’s pretty obvious that Rena and Bannen are meant for each other, but there’s basically no romance in this first book. Some light flirting. Some chaste kisses. But not much more than that. Slow rolling their relationship is probably a good idea though. Both characters are adults by the standards of their cultures, but Rena is only 16 and Bannen only 19. I expect a time jump between books that will result in them being two years older. This will make their ages more acceptable for romance in the eyes of readers.
To be clear, I didn’t feel that the innocent love/friendship between them was in anyway a flaw. Bannen starts out flirting with Rena, but realizes that she doesn’t understand that he’s flirting, so she must be inexperienced. He then backs off from anything even remotely sexual, which I felt was a sensitive choice on his part. Rena had too much to deal with to add “new boyfriend” to the mix.
I was a little frustrated because people kept saying that Rena had broken (at least) three laws. But when the laws were listed, she’d clearly only broken one. And there was room to argue that Bannen had agreed to serve as her familiar prior to the bond being in place, therefore he agreed without duress. Meaning she broke no laws. I would have preferred if that argument had been properly made at some point, but Honor went in a different direction.
This was a lot of fun and I’m going to go grab book 2.
July 17, 2018
I thought was well written and the characters are very likable. What kept me from really liking it and this giving it four stars was that the plot seemed a little unfocused.
A mage’s apprentice summons a 19-year-old boy as her human familiar. So at first, they try to figure out what is wrong, while also awaiting the decision of the council as enslaving a human being and the link between mage and familiar can be construed as such. While they await that decision the mage and her familiar do day to day chores. Then they and a few others from her school send on a mission. A mystical magical power is affecting the fauna and flora in a nearby area making it attack humans. We learn that this phenomenon had already been witnessed in prior years on another continent. For years mages have fought to contain this phenomenon as they couldn't fix it. With her unusual magic, the girl is able to defeat this smaller version. Now, you would think that this kicks off the actual plot, since her being to defeat it was kind of a big deal. Instead, the book returns to daily routines, worrying about the council separating the two, a scientist looking her into her magic etc.
In short, the plot just ambled along without a clear direction. But, I am hopeful that the events at the end will lead to a more focused storytelling in the second book and therefore am open reading it.
A mage’s apprentice summons a 19-year-old boy as her human familiar. So at first, they try to figure out what is wrong, while also awaiting the decision of the council as enslaving a human being and the link between mage and familiar can be construed as such. While they await that decision the mage and her familiar do day to day chores. Then they and a few others from her school send on a mission. A mystical magical power is affecting the fauna and flora in a nearby area making it attack humans. We learn that this phenomenon had already been witnessed in prior years on another continent. For years mages have fought to contain this phenomenon as they couldn't fix it. With her unusual magic, the girl is able to defeat this smaller version. Now, you would think that this kicks off the actual plot, since her being to defeat it was kind of a big deal. Instead, the book returns to daily routines, worrying about the council separating the two, a scientist looking her into her magic etc.
In short, the plot just ambled along without a clear direction. But, I am hopeful that the events at the end will lead to a more focused storytelling in the second book and therefore am open reading it.
August 27, 2022
Honor Raconteur was recommended to me by a friend, as a serviceable author whose series are gentle fun with nothing objectionable. The first book in *The Familiar and the Mage* series is exactly that. Despite being definitely geared towards the younger set, I still enjoyed the main characters Bannen (the Familiar), a roguish fighter eager for adventure and independence, and Rena (the Mage), a teenage female apprentice working towards full mage-acity. Her magical powers are drastically different than every other mage and apprentice, and while casting her first Summon Familiar spell, she pulls Bannen from his hometown on the opposite side of the world, and the adventure is underway.
Written in first person, with chapters either from Rena's or Bannen's perspective, their relationship strengthens throughout the tale, completely chaste and innocent. Points for that. Secondary characters were a bit one dimensional, but that's okay - this is purely focused on Rena and Bannen, and while there aren't any crazy twists or subversions of expectations, the subsequent reveals are nicely done and sensical.
Debating on whether I'll continue the series - I will dip into other series from this author though.
Written in first person, with chapters either from Rena's or Bannen's perspective, their relationship strengthens throughout the tale, completely chaste and innocent. Points for that. Secondary characters were a bit one dimensional, but that's okay - this is purely focused on Rena and Bannen, and while there aren't any crazy twists or subversions of expectations, the subsequent reveals are nicely done and sensical.
Debating on whether I'll continue the series - I will dip into other series from this author though.
February 3, 2023
A delightful fantasy romp. Told from different viewpoints this book is highly entertaining. I simply couldn't put it down. Bannon, an Asian-esque warrior (no that's not his birth name) is accidentally on purpose summoned from half a world away to be Renata Rocci's familiar. The catch of course is that human familiars aren't supposed to happen and more to the point using even similar magic is against the laws of the local Council of Magic.
Of course, magic has a mind of its own and a rather good one apparently for Bannon is just what Renata needs. A bodyguard, friend, or potential romantic partner who is highly protective without the familiar bond. Together they face her strange destructive magic, ferret monkeys, assassins, the local Council of magic, and worse.
I'm rather delighted with this book and because I borrowed it using Kindle Prime will be purchasing it shortly. Owning a copy is for me one of the major ways I show love for books. If you like odd but kind couples, magic, and fun you should read this book.
Of course, magic has a mind of its own and a rather good one apparently for Bannon is just what Renata needs. A bodyguard, friend, or potential romantic partner who is highly protective without the familiar bond. Together they face her strange destructive magic, ferret monkeys, assassins, the local Council of magic, and worse.
I'm rather delighted with this book and because I borrowed it using Kindle Prime will be purchasing it shortly. Owning a copy is for me one of the major ways I show love for books. If you like odd but kind couples, magic, and fun you should read this book.
October 22, 2017
Ultimate Bond
What a great book! I like the humor, action, and characters. Snarky dialogue is a favorite of mine. The hero Bannen always had adventurous and protective proclivities. Running off to seek adventure, he is magically pulled into the grandest adventure that he could never imagine and the ultimate bond with Rena, a young mage with complex magic. The characters are well written, competent and compelling. I very much enjoyed the maturation of the bond between Bannen and Rena. I like when good whomps evil. I like to watch the heroes struggle, using all of their capabilities to overcome evil. While I enjoy watching the characters overcome adversity, unlike your editor I don't like watching favorite characters severely injured. Will the bond between Bannen and Rena, which exists on at least two levels, manifest on an even stronger level? I am ready for the next book "Void Mage".
What a great book! I like the humor, action, and characters. Snarky dialogue is a favorite of mine. The hero Bannen always had adventurous and protective proclivities. Running off to seek adventure, he is magically pulled into the grandest adventure that he could never imagine and the ultimate bond with Rena, a young mage with complex magic. The characters are well written, competent and compelling. I very much enjoyed the maturation of the bond between Bannen and Rena. I like when good whomps evil. I like to watch the heroes struggle, using all of their capabilities to overcome evil. While I enjoy watching the characters overcome adversity, unlike your editor I don't like watching favorite characters severely injured. Will the bond between Bannen and Rena, which exists on at least two levels, manifest on an even stronger level? I am ready for the next book "Void Mage".
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