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The Outcast Mage #1
Truthsight
This is an alternate cover edition for B01K505NL0
Doctor Amy spends her nights running a secret clinic for supernatural creatures. When she is forced to use her magic to save the lives of a centaur infant and its mother, she vows never to regret her decision, no matter the consequences. Not even when the Mages capture her, beat her, and condemn her to die.
Before the sentence can be carried out, Amy is abducted by a mysterious being named Rowan, who demands she use her healing abilities to save his father. But when Amy fails to save the ailing man, her actions unintentionally force Rowan into an exile that will soon turn into a death sentence.
Now Rowan and Amy must join forces with the creatures who were once her patients and fight to uncover the one secret that may be powerful enough to save them all.
Doctor Amy spends her nights running a secret clinic for supernatural creatures. When she is forced to use her magic to save the lives of a centaur infant and its mother, she vows never to regret her decision, no matter the consequences. Not even when the Mages capture her, beat her, and condemn her to die.
Before the sentence can be carried out, Amy is abducted by a mysterious being named Rowan, who demands she use her healing abilities to save his father. But when Amy fails to save the ailing man, her actions unintentionally force Rowan into an exile that will soon turn into a death sentence.
Now Rowan and Amy must join forces with the creatures who were once her patients and fight to uncover the one secret that may be powerful enough to save them all.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2016
259 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
About the author
Miriam Greystone
5 books54 followersI write urban fantasy stories filled with magic, romance and the occasional centaur. I generally fuel my creativity with an insatiable appetite for reading and frequent episodes of Doctor Who. (And lots and lots of Diet Coke.) My love for language is expressed, both in my writing, and in my day job as a sign language interpreter. I live just outside of Washington DC with my husband, my kids, and my badly behaved Australian Shepard.
I love to connect with fans, and you can join my Fb group right here: http://www.miriamgreystone.com/FBread...
For early access to my novels and fun giveaways, join my newsletter at: http://www.miriamgreystone.com/connec...
I can't wait to connect with you! :)
I love to connect with fans, and you can join my Fb group right here: http://www.miriamgreystone.com/FBread...
For early access to my novels and fun giveaways, join my newsletter at: http://www.miriamgreystone.com/connec...
I can't wait to connect with you! :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
August 23, 2016
3.75 star rating
Compelling from the get go! I love a fresh perspective in a fantasy world. I think it’s much needed in this massively popular genre.
Truthsight kept the momentum ‘til the very last page; it’s filled with a wide range of characters and worlds combining to make a well thought-out story. My only criticism is that I wanted more. More inner dialogue from the main character, Doctor Amy. I wanted to spend more time in her head, really getting to the heart of who she is and what makes her tick. I also am inclined to say that some of the other characters’ monologues could have been curtailed a bit. There’s nothing that a stronger edit couldn’t fix. Please don’t take this as a negative as it’s not meant to deter the reader. I am truly excited about the potential for a series and can’t wait to see this author’s journey of development and growth.
I especially hope that this will be an ongoing series, as there are so many characters that I simply MUST know more about. I mean who can’t help but fantasize about strong alpha males (especially ones with deep magical powers)?
It’s a fun and mysterious adventure with a great side of mystical beefcake!
*ARC provided by City Owl Press
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Book Babblers
Compelling from the get go! I love a fresh perspective in a fantasy world. I think it’s much needed in this massively popular genre.
Truthsight kept the momentum ‘til the very last page; it’s filled with a wide range of characters and worlds combining to make a well thought-out story. My only criticism is that I wanted more. More inner dialogue from the main character, Doctor Amy. I wanted to spend more time in her head, really getting to the heart of who she is and what makes her tick. I also am inclined to say that some of the other characters’ monologues could have been curtailed a bit. There’s nothing that a stronger edit couldn’t fix. Please don’t take this as a negative as it’s not meant to deter the reader. I am truly excited about the potential for a series and can’t wait to see this author’s journey of development and growth.
I especially hope that this will be an ongoing series, as there are so many characters that I simply MUST know more about. I mean who can’t help but fantasize about strong alpha males (especially ones with deep magical powers)?
It’s a fun and mysterious adventure with a great side of mystical beefcake!
*ARC provided by City Owl Press
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September 3, 2018
Bit of a weird book with uneven pacing and a shaky world building. The heroine came out too often as a martyr, the "yes please kill me for my sins" type. A pity as both she and the book started strong and fresh with a healer as a main character. The "romantic thread" seemed to be an afterthought.
But it's unusual enough if you are looking for something different.
August 19, 2016
Truthsight is very well written and imaginative. It takes you on a journey of mythical creatures from Centaurs, leshies to mages all with different magical powers. They form a bond together to fight bad magic and to save Dr. Amy's life, who has saved many of theirs. Dr. Amy is a healer and is both blessed and cursed with her power of Truthsight. She made a quick decision that helped one, but inadvertently caused the deaths of others so she is being hunted.
I don't want to give any spoilers away. This is a must read to delve into for paranormal book lovers.
This book was given as an ARC for an honest review.
I don't want to give any spoilers away. This is a must read to delve into for paranormal book lovers.
This book was given as an ARC for an honest review.
November 20, 2018
This story begins with Amy helping out at the clinic she has, but when one of her patients may end up dying she uses her powers to help save her. That ends up bringing a world of trouble to her door, and she must do what she can to save those around her.
This book was okay. I liked the over all idea of the story, but I had a hard time connecting with the characters. And I was a bit annoyed with how they skipped from one thing to another, I got lost a little along the way. Other than that, it was interesting, and I did like it.
This book was okay. I liked the over all idea of the story, but I had a hard time connecting with the characters. And I was a bit annoyed with how they skipped from one thing to another, I got lost a little along the way. Other than that, it was interesting, and I did like it.
September 30, 2016
Truthsight by Miriam Greystone
5 Stars
Miriam Greystone weaves an enchanting tale of ancient supernatural creatures. The characters and their stories are so real it's as if you are there beside them. I was intrigued from the moment I started the book and remained enthralled until the very end. I couldn't put the book down, needing to know what would happen next. I loved the fact that she used mythical creatures such as centaurs, pixies and gnomes instead of the usual vampires and werewolves. She even introduced a creature from Slavic folklore which really impressed me. Her research on all the creatures was spot on which added depth to not only the characters but the story as well. I loved the book.
Amy is a doctor who turned her barn into a night clinic for all the creatures that live in the forest. Her patients includes pixies, gnomes, trolls, harpies and even centaurs. Amy is a Mage and healer. She has the power of truthsight which allows her to see the real you. The part which you hide away from the world, your true self. She has been on the run for years with mages hunting her. When she taps into her power to save the foal of a centaur, she knows they will find her.
After being captured, waiting to be executed, a creature rescues her. Hearing about her abilities to heal, he knows she's his only hope of saving his father. Things don't go according to plan and both their lives end up in danger. All creatures must stand together to fight a common enemy and save not only Amy but themselves as well.
5 Stars
Miriam Greystone weaves an enchanting tale of ancient supernatural creatures. The characters and their stories are so real it's as if you are there beside them. I was intrigued from the moment I started the book and remained enthralled until the very end. I couldn't put the book down, needing to know what would happen next. I loved the fact that she used mythical creatures such as centaurs, pixies and gnomes instead of the usual vampires and werewolves. She even introduced a creature from Slavic folklore which really impressed me. Her research on all the creatures was spot on which added depth to not only the characters but the story as well. I loved the book.
Amy is a doctor who turned her barn into a night clinic for all the creatures that live in the forest. Her patients includes pixies, gnomes, trolls, harpies and even centaurs. Amy is a Mage and healer. She has the power of truthsight which allows her to see the real you. The part which you hide away from the world, your true self. She has been on the run for years with mages hunting her. When she taps into her power to save the foal of a centaur, she knows they will find her.
After being captured, waiting to be executed, a creature rescues her. Hearing about her abilities to heal, he knows she's his only hope of saving his father. Things don't go according to plan and both their lives end up in danger. All creatures must stand together to fight a common enemy and save not only Amy but themselves as well.
October 2, 2016
Truthsight By Miriam Greystone
4 Stars * * * *
Truthsight is an enchanting story about Dr Anna or Asa as she is also known who is a Doctor in ER during the day and a Doctor that runs a night clinic for the supernatural. She is forced to use her magic to protect others.
She is captured by mages and condemned to death. Whilst hanging from the tree awaiting for the arrival or her impending death, Rowan comes to Dr Anna’s rescue. Knowing of her abilities he needs her to save his father’s life by healing him even though he knows by intervening he will also surely face death too.
They work together and with Dr Annas patients to try and defeat the mutual enemy.
When I saw the cover I was a bit apprehensive , but as the saying goes “never judge a book by its cover” especially as the contents did not disappoint.
As a supernatural story I was quite surprised on the absence of vampire’s and werewolves and to be honest it made a welcome change! This is a supernatural story of pixies, mages, centaurs, gnomes and trolls. Good vs evil. Magical world.
I liked how the variety of creatures and the different world’s compliment each other. Each chapter went strength to strength. It was a huge emotional roller coaster ride that I didn’t want to get off. Looking forward to the next read in the series.
4 Stars * * * *
Truthsight is an enchanting story about Dr Anna or Asa as she is also known who is a Doctor in ER during the day and a Doctor that runs a night clinic for the supernatural. She is forced to use her magic to protect others.
She is captured by mages and condemned to death. Whilst hanging from the tree awaiting for the arrival or her impending death, Rowan comes to Dr Anna’s rescue. Knowing of her abilities he needs her to save his father’s life by healing him even though he knows by intervening he will also surely face death too.
They work together and with Dr Annas patients to try and defeat the mutual enemy.
When I saw the cover I was a bit apprehensive , but as the saying goes “never judge a book by its cover” especially as the contents did not disappoint.
As a supernatural story I was quite surprised on the absence of vampire’s and werewolves and to be honest it made a welcome change! This is a supernatural story of pixies, mages, centaurs, gnomes and trolls. Good vs evil. Magical world.
I liked how the variety of creatures and the different world’s compliment each other. Each chapter went strength to strength. It was a huge emotional roller coaster ride that I didn’t want to get off. Looking forward to the next read in the series.
April 10, 2018
Wow!
Now THAT was a story! What a freaking amazing book! The world building and details...so intricate. I was in the worst story slump, trying to find a new book...but finding each to be as repetitive as the last. Until this. Thank God!
Now THAT was a story! What a freaking amazing book! The world building and details...so intricate. I was in the worst story slump, trying to find a new book...but finding each to be as repetitive as the last. Until this. Thank God!
July 14, 2016
A unique take on paranormal romance with unexpected creatures in a fully fleshed out world with characters to live for. It's like the love-child of Harrison's Hollows' series and Briggs's Mercy Thompson series. I loved it and can hardly wait to see what else Greystone has in store for us.
January 7, 2017
Truthsight
Author Miriam Greystone
5 Stars
Not normally my type of book but I have to admit as soon as I started reading it couldn’t put it down until it was finished.
Asa who is for now going by the name of Amy is hiding from her mage clan who are trying to find her for being a traitor. She is safe enough if she doesn’t use her Truthsight. Asa currently has a medical clinic at her home for all the species out there that may need her help. She runs the clinic with the help of Jason who all his life thought he was human. He just thinks as a child he was sickly and it wasn’t until he worked with Asa and she did tests did they that he was not human; this had taken twenty seven years to come to light.
At the moment Asa and Jason are fixing the leg of a little pixie boy who was jumping through the trees and fell. Asa is also waiting for a centaur that is pregnant to have her baby. The centaur tribe is starting to get low as no new centaur babies have survived in a while. Everyone including Asa hopes this baby changes things for its tribe. Asa also know as told by the centaur chief if the baby doesn’t survive nor will she, so she has to do all she can in saving this baby. Crinea the pregnant mum started bleeding badly as soon as she went into labor and didn’t look like she was going to make it but the baby was nice and healthy. The baby is born and all are happy. But Crinea is very ill and Asa knows if she uses her truthsight it won’t be long before the mage clan will be after her. Against better judgment she uses her power and now knows she has three days at the most before she is found.
With a brief explanation to Jason she hands him the keys to the house and clinic and asks him to keep it running while she is away. Sitting on a rock she senses the mage clan close and she knows her time is just about over. The leader of the clan Paul looks at her and calls her a traitor and finds it strange that she is sitting there waiting for their arrival. She is tied to a tree and blindfolded so she can’t use her truthsight. She is also told that she is to be executed in the morning. Later that night when is alone she senses that there is someone there, after calling out a couple of times she hears a voice that she doesn’t know asking her who she is and why she is to be killed. She is untied and the blindfold taken off and is told both he and the earth lay claims to her. She has no clue what that means but it doesn’t matter as she will be dead come morning. The stranger with horns that of a ram, blue eyes rimmed with yellow tells her to cling close to him then she feels them both fall, they are not falling as off a cliff but falling beneath the earth. Rowan tells her he needs her to help save his father. She asks Rowan what species he is and he tells her he is a leshy. She is surprised by this as leshys were meant to have been extinct for centuries. Sadly Rowans fathers’ life cannot be saved and now the land must pick a new ruler and the new ruler will not be Rowan but his brother Neven. Rowan must leave the land as soon and find his own land, he knows he has up to two months to do this or he will die.
Rowan also wants to help Asa find her friend and takes her back to her land once getting back she tells him she is never going to travel with him like that again. It does not take long for the mage to know is back and they go hunting for her. In the meantime they are attacked by a centaur. Asa tells them she is Dr Amy and to stop this and go get their Chief. The chief is angry that Rowan and Asa have been attacked for no reason. He tells both Rowan and Asa that he is sorry and his tribe will not do this again.
Asa is worried about two things and they are finding her friend Meri and hoping that Rowan finds land that he can rule soon or he will die. She can’t let this happen as she wants him and can’t imagine what she will do without him, the centaur chief knows who and what Rowan is and knows there is a chance he can wake the land. He comes to Rowan and they discuss if he will be willing to take this chance. Rowan asks the chief if he knows the risk to himself and the chief says yes but without his help the centaurs will need to move on. Rowan feels he has nothing to lose as if he doesn’t find his own land he will die anyway.
Asa when she finds out what could happen if the land does not accept him tells Rowan she does not want him to do this but he tells her it must be done. Rowan offering himself to the land will take place in the morning and the centaur chief puts out a call for as many species as possible be present. That night Rowan and Asa stay together huddled close Rowan doesn’t sleep but Asa sleeps soundly in arms. As the morning arrives Rowan wakes her up and tells her its time.
Will the land be kind to Rowan or will Asa loose him?
Author Miriam Greystone
5 Stars
Not normally my type of book but I have to admit as soon as I started reading it couldn’t put it down until it was finished.
Asa who is for now going by the name of Amy is hiding from her mage clan who are trying to find her for being a traitor. She is safe enough if she doesn’t use her Truthsight. Asa currently has a medical clinic at her home for all the species out there that may need her help. She runs the clinic with the help of Jason who all his life thought he was human. He just thinks as a child he was sickly and it wasn’t until he worked with Asa and she did tests did they that he was not human; this had taken twenty seven years to come to light.
At the moment Asa and Jason are fixing the leg of a little pixie boy who was jumping through the trees and fell. Asa is also waiting for a centaur that is pregnant to have her baby. The centaur tribe is starting to get low as no new centaur babies have survived in a while. Everyone including Asa hopes this baby changes things for its tribe. Asa also know as told by the centaur chief if the baby doesn’t survive nor will she, so she has to do all she can in saving this baby. Crinea the pregnant mum started bleeding badly as soon as she went into labor and didn’t look like she was going to make it but the baby was nice and healthy. The baby is born and all are happy. But Crinea is very ill and Asa knows if she uses her truthsight it won’t be long before the mage clan will be after her. Against better judgment she uses her power and now knows she has three days at the most before she is found.
With a brief explanation to Jason she hands him the keys to the house and clinic and asks him to keep it running while she is away. Sitting on a rock she senses the mage clan close and she knows her time is just about over. The leader of the clan Paul looks at her and calls her a traitor and finds it strange that she is sitting there waiting for their arrival. She is tied to a tree and blindfolded so she can’t use her truthsight. She is also told that she is to be executed in the morning. Later that night when is alone she senses that there is someone there, after calling out a couple of times she hears a voice that she doesn’t know asking her who she is and why she is to be killed. She is untied and the blindfold taken off and is told both he and the earth lay claims to her. She has no clue what that means but it doesn’t matter as she will be dead come morning. The stranger with horns that of a ram, blue eyes rimmed with yellow tells her to cling close to him then she feels them both fall, they are not falling as off a cliff but falling beneath the earth. Rowan tells her he needs her to help save his father. She asks Rowan what species he is and he tells her he is a leshy. She is surprised by this as leshys were meant to have been extinct for centuries. Sadly Rowans fathers’ life cannot be saved and now the land must pick a new ruler and the new ruler will not be Rowan but his brother Neven. Rowan must leave the land as soon and find his own land, he knows he has up to two months to do this or he will die.
Rowan also wants to help Asa find her friend and takes her back to her land once getting back she tells him she is never going to travel with him like that again. It does not take long for the mage to know is back and they go hunting for her. In the meantime they are attacked by a centaur. Asa tells them she is Dr Amy and to stop this and go get their Chief. The chief is angry that Rowan and Asa have been attacked for no reason. He tells both Rowan and Asa that he is sorry and his tribe will not do this again.
Asa is worried about two things and they are finding her friend Meri and hoping that Rowan finds land that he can rule soon or he will die. She can’t let this happen as she wants him and can’t imagine what she will do without him, the centaur chief knows who and what Rowan is and knows there is a chance he can wake the land. He comes to Rowan and they discuss if he will be willing to take this chance. Rowan asks the chief if he knows the risk to himself and the chief says yes but without his help the centaurs will need to move on. Rowan feels he has nothing to lose as if he doesn’t find his own land he will die anyway.
Asa when she finds out what could happen if the land does not accept him tells Rowan she does not want him to do this but he tells her it must be done. Rowan offering himself to the land will take place in the morning and the centaur chief puts out a call for as many species as possible be present. That night Rowan and Asa stay together huddled close Rowan doesn’t sleep but Asa sleeps soundly in arms. As the morning arrives Rowan wakes her up and tells her its time.
Will the land be kind to Rowan or will Asa loose him?
March 15, 2018
This is a story of Asa, a person with magic who escaped her clan and lives among ordinary humans. There is a certain palpable melancholy about her character, which she fights off by helping people during the day in the ER and supernaturnals at night at her own clinic. She is on the run, hiding from her past and her people and assumed name Amy. She is ridden with guilt based partially on incomplete information and partially on ignorance on her part.
The build up is slow and thorough, and we get to know Asa as a person. Moreover, a fascinating hidden world of supernatural creatures emerges. Asa is some kind of human mage and possesses powerful healing magic. Like most of her kind, she possesses the ability to tap into the Source and apply Truthsight. The book gradually explains all magic related matters.
There was a moment when I thought I was going to be overwhelmed with sadness and the tragedy of Asa's situation. The author brilliantly created an atmosphere of despair, sadness, guilt and hopelessness, and on the other hand, hatred, resentment, mistrust and anger. With all of that, there is still an incredible amount of mystery, the author slowly unveils bit by bit. The world building is impressive.
There is conflict and betrayal, there is romance, there are different kinds of magic and there is resolution. There are numerous interesting characters in the story, but Asa is the one that stands out most, and no necessarily in a positive way. Her kindness, compassion and sacrifice know no limits, and all of those nearly killed her many times. Still she persevered. On the one hand, I was impressed with Asa, on the other hand, I was just annoyed. She is a person with such incredibly negative sense of self-worth, and such sense of incredible value of everyone else, it was painful to read at times. This is not my favourite kind of the main character and I did not get attached to her, however, some of the other characters do not suffer from her afflictions, and they are quite amazing.
I will continue reading the series in spite of the main character, and because of other great characters and the incredible world the author created. I can only hope that the next story will provide Asa with less opportunities to sacrifice herself for any random someone that she deemed more important than herself. Actually, I am quite curious to see whether she evolves. The story continues in Winter's Mage.
The build up is slow and thorough, and we get to know Asa as a person. Moreover, a fascinating hidden world of supernatural creatures emerges. Asa is some kind of human mage and possesses powerful healing magic. Like most of her kind, she possesses the ability to tap into the Source and apply Truthsight. The book gradually explains all magic related matters.
There was a moment when I thought I was going to be overwhelmed with sadness and the tragedy of Asa's situation. The author brilliantly created an atmosphere of despair, sadness, guilt and hopelessness, and on the other hand, hatred, resentment, mistrust and anger. With all of that, there is still an incredible amount of mystery, the author slowly unveils bit by bit. The world building is impressive.
There is conflict and betrayal, there is romance, there are different kinds of magic and there is resolution. There are numerous interesting characters in the story, but Asa is the one that stands out most, and no necessarily in a positive way. Her kindness, compassion and sacrifice know no limits, and all of those nearly killed her many times. Still she persevered. On the one hand, I was impressed with Asa, on the other hand, I was just annoyed. She is a person with such incredibly negative sense of self-worth, and such sense of incredible value of everyone else, it was painful to read at times. This is not my favourite kind of the main character and I did not get attached to her, however, some of the other characters do not suffer from her afflictions, and they are quite amazing.
I will continue reading the series in spite of the main character, and because of other great characters and the incredible world the author created. I can only hope that the next story will provide Asa with less opportunities to sacrifice herself for any random someone that she deemed more important than herself. Actually, I am quite curious to see whether she evolves. The story continues in Winter's Mage.
October 2, 2016
Truthsight is a standalone book (as of now) and can be read as such. I have to start off by saying that I REALLY enjoyed this book. The writing was great and the characters were well written. I really liked Asa the mage and the fact that she was a healer who wanted to help everybody and I really liked Rowan and how after just meeting Asa he claimed her and basically protected her. This book has all kinds of creatures and is a super fun fantasy. Asa has a clinic that she helps all the prenaturals in the area. She also has a bit of a past where she makes a decision that ultimately kills some and saves others so she is being hunted by other mages who were once her clan. After accessing her truthsight power she knows that it's only a matter of time before they find her and kill her. After she is captured and is tied up she meets Rowan and he rescues her. From the get go he basically claims her as he sees her true self and the fact that she has a good heart and intentions etc. I was rooting for them way before the book was even close to ending. After they go off on their mission to find a missing mage lots of interesting things happen and the book
Becomes so interesting and enthralling. You really don't want to put it down! I would definitely read other books in this series and I hope I get to!
Becomes so interesting and enthralling. You really don't want to put it down! I would definitely read other books in this series and I hope I get to!
March 23, 2018
So good.
Fantasy. Strong, caring, stubborn, mage healer heroine. Asa is a traitor to her clan. She has been in hiding for years. She works at an ER during the day and runs a clinic for supernaturals at night. While helping with a birth of a centaur, she has to use her mage ability to save both mother and baby. Having clued her clan on her location, she leaves to protect the clinic she built and the people she's helped. The clan captures her to be executed for her betrayal. Hanging in wait, Asa is taken by a lechy in need of a healer. Very sweet story.
Fantasy. Strong, caring, stubborn, mage healer heroine. Asa is a traitor to her clan. She has been in hiding for years. She works at an ER during the day and runs a clinic for supernaturals at night. While helping with a birth of a centaur, she has to use her mage ability to save both mother and baby. Having clued her clan on her location, she leaves to protect the clinic she built and the people she's helped. The clan captures her to be executed for her betrayal. Hanging in wait, Asa is taken by a lechy in need of a healer. Very sweet story.
April 5, 2018
This book has everything I love about reading. A book that you're sad to read to reach the end of....the romance is the only bit that feels a bit disjointed, but I fell in love with the characters and I think that's far more important. The plot twists and turns and branches off without being confusing and everything is tied together in the end (except Tany! I want to know what happened to Tany!). Highly recommend for anyone who likes fantasy.
January 3, 2018
Truthsight was a pleasant surprise-- a unique storyline, imaginative world-building, and characters the reader will root for (and loathe). A new author for me, but I've already added book 2 to my TBR and downloaded another book of a different series. Great author with an engaging writing style.
September 24, 2016
A very nice read. Truthsight has very interesting world building, Fae races and characters. I very much enjoyed the interactions with the earth in the story. I look forward to book 2!
June 29, 2023
Many interesting ideas but this author has no clue how to craft a proper story.
The writing itself is actually pretty good but the book is full of many of the typical rookie storytelling mistakes. It's things like expecting the reader to care about a character enough to endure a 10-page melodrama about a character that had half a page of page time in total.
It's the classic mistake of wanting an emotional payoff without putting in the work of making the reader care first.
Subtlety isn't a strong suit of this author either. I frequently encounter much worse offenders in terms of missing subtlety but it's still not great. You can see most setups from miles away which gave the entire story a very heavy-handed feel which, again, is a mistake typical for amateurish writing.
The book fails to properly convey situations of urgency. I have seen worse examples of this but I still found it very off-putting how characters have these long, drawn-out, and unnecessary conversations in life-or-death situations. Here the audiobook really helped a lot because the narrator did a great job at injecting the missing urgency into her narration voice and I imagine this might be a lot more off-putting in text.
The author seems to have trouble looking at her story from the reader's perspective which can also be a good indicator for unhelpful beta readers.
But even with all these storytelling weaknesses aside, the plot just isn't very deep.
This is one of those rare cases where I think more pages would have made this book quite a bit better.
There are many radically different situations the MC goes through, most of which feel insignificant and kind of pointless because none of them get the page time necessary to get deep enough into any of them for them to feel like more than some sort of plot requirement or an interlude or an introduction or whatever other shortish section of a text you can think of.
I am not quite sure if the lack of depth comes from the attempt of writing a tighter story or because there is actually nothing behind any of it. But it honestly feels like there is more world-building behind at least some of it which was left out in the name of brevity.
Let me give a few concrete examples.
I really loved the introductory setting of her as a doctor in her day job and also for supernaturals at night and the tension from her not being able to use her healing magic because secrecy reasons. This was the first kind of reveal early on in the book but it was incredibly obvious that this is what the author was going for since page one which made the dramatic reveal just feel heavy-handed. I would have loved to have more time getting to know her within this job and the daily struggles of working two jobs like this and the huge variety of things a doctor would have to deal with such a diverse set of clients. Instead, she spills the beans literally in the second case we see her treat ever. And even that this was going to happen in that particular case was obvious from miles away.
And this is the pattern I was trying to describe earlier. A really good setup that on its own would be enough for an entire book, then gets rushed through in a few pages without any subtlety, and off we go to the next wildly different thing. It's not just a scatter-brained idea explosion. It follows a clear story thread but it doesn't stop at the individual stations for long enough. And to be clear, I am a very impatient reader. I like my stories fast-paced (but not necessarily action-packed). This story doesn't feel too fast. It feels too superficial.
The one big final reveal was decently done. It was foreshadowed and I considered it as an option but it was very much not the only one.
Enough ranting which really only serves to reflect and to get my thoughts in order.
The writing itself is actually pretty good but the book is full of many of the typical rookie storytelling mistakes. It's things like expecting the reader to care about a character enough to endure a 10-page melodrama about a character that had half a page of page time in total.
It's the classic mistake of wanting an emotional payoff without putting in the work of making the reader care first.
Subtlety isn't a strong suit of this author either. I frequently encounter much worse offenders in terms of missing subtlety but it's still not great. You can see most setups from miles away which gave the entire story a very heavy-handed feel which, again, is a mistake typical for amateurish writing.
The book fails to properly convey situations of urgency. I have seen worse examples of this but I still found it very off-putting how characters have these long, drawn-out, and unnecessary conversations in life-or-death situations. Here the audiobook really helped a lot because the narrator did a great job at injecting the missing urgency into her narration voice and I imagine this might be a lot more off-putting in text.
The author seems to have trouble looking at her story from the reader's perspective which can also be a good indicator for unhelpful beta readers.
But even with all these storytelling weaknesses aside, the plot just isn't very deep.
This is one of those rare cases where I think more pages would have made this book quite a bit better.
There are many radically different situations the MC goes through, most of which feel insignificant and kind of pointless because none of them get the page time necessary to get deep enough into any of them for them to feel like more than some sort of plot requirement or an interlude or an introduction or whatever other shortish section of a text you can think of.
I am not quite sure if the lack of depth comes from the attempt of writing a tighter story or because there is actually nothing behind any of it. But it honestly feels like there is more world-building behind at least some of it which was left out in the name of brevity.
Let me give a few concrete examples.
I really loved the introductory setting of her as a doctor in her day job and also for supernaturals at night and the tension from her not being able to use her healing magic because secrecy reasons. This was the first kind of reveal early on in the book but it was incredibly obvious that this is what the author was going for since page one which made the dramatic reveal just feel heavy-handed. I would have loved to have more time getting to know her within this job and the daily struggles of working two jobs like this and the huge variety of things a doctor would have to deal with such a diverse set of clients. Instead, she spills the beans literally in the second case we see her treat ever. And even that this was going to happen in that particular case was obvious from miles away.
And this is the pattern I was trying to describe earlier. A really good setup that on its own would be enough for an entire book, then gets rushed through in a few pages without any subtlety, and off we go to the next wildly different thing. It's not just a scatter-brained idea explosion. It follows a clear story thread but it doesn't stop at the individual stations for long enough. And to be clear, I am a very impatient reader. I like my stories fast-paced (but not necessarily action-packed). This story doesn't feel too fast. It feels too superficial.
The one big final reveal was decently done. It was foreshadowed and I considered it as an option but it was very much not the only one.
Enough ranting which really only serves to reflect and to get my thoughts in order.
January 21, 2017
Truthsight is Book One of the Outcast Mage series by Miriam Greystone that I gave 4 out of 5 stars. This is a paranormal romance series that I couldn’t put down! It is written in first person narrative by the main character, Amy. She is a physician in charge of a clinic that treats only the supernatural. She is also a mage with extraordinary healing skills, but the creatures she treats think that she is just a human.
Amy is hiding her powers from the supernatural world relying solely on modern medicine, because she is on the run considered a traitor to her people. To expose her powers would lead the hunters her way. She isn’t ready to face her past, and pay for her crimes. But then a special patient has needs that require more than just regular modern medicine, and the decision is made to use her powers. She comes to terms with her fate when her mage clan comes to take her for sentencing, and that sentence is death. But before her sentence is carried out, she is captured by Rowan who intercedes as he needs her extraordinary healing skills for his dying father. However she is unable to save him, and Rowan is exiled as a result of her failure. Now Amy & Rowan must work together to redeem themselves to the supernatural world.
The author weaves an amazing tale of fantasy and romance. She builds a vividly detailed world of new and old supernatural beings. I loved reading about this world, and following Amy on her journey of self- discovery. This was a fast paced read that was over too soon. I can’t wait to read more in this world of fantastical creatures!
Amy is hiding her powers from the supernatural world relying solely on modern medicine, because she is on the run considered a traitor to her people. To expose her powers would lead the hunters her way. She isn’t ready to face her past, and pay for her crimes. But then a special patient has needs that require more than just regular modern medicine, and the decision is made to use her powers. She comes to terms with her fate when her mage clan comes to take her for sentencing, and that sentence is death. But before her sentence is carried out, she is captured by Rowan who intercedes as he needs her extraordinary healing skills for his dying father. However she is unable to save him, and Rowan is exiled as a result of her failure. Now Amy & Rowan must work together to redeem themselves to the supernatural world.
The author weaves an amazing tale of fantasy and romance. She builds a vividly detailed world of new and old supernatural beings. I loved reading about this world, and following Amy on her journey of self- discovery. This was a fast paced read that was over too soon. I can’t wait to read more in this world of fantastical creatures!
April 8, 2018
Truthsight (Outcast Mage Book 1) by Miriam Greystone is the first book in the series and is great. Miriam's magical world is a unique take on paranormal romance. The creatures are different and wondrous, from mythical creatures such as Centaurs and Leshies, Pixies and Gnomes to Mages and magical powers. Dr. Amy, who is a magical healer and who has the power of Truthsight, helps save the creatures who come for help. But the evil is let loose and she is being hunted. Will she be able to keep all those she cares about safe or will they fall prey to the evil? This book was hard to put down and had me enthralled from start to finish. It is a refreshing change on from the norm of paranormal. Miriam has weaved an amazing tale of fantasy, paranormal and romance..
I am looking forward to the next book in this world.
I am looking forward to the next book in this world.
July 24, 2018
This is not my particular type of book I usually read. I had read another series from this author and thought it was fantastic so I figured I would give this one a try.
This book surprised me. It was so good! I had no idea what some of the mythcial creatures were in this book. (Apparently folklore isn't my strong suit) but by the end of the book I had a pretty good grasp on them. I found this book to be orginal and a breath of fresh air.
There is a bit of romance in this book but it's more about mutual respect and team work. Which I love more than a damsel in distress situation.
All in all this book was another home run for Miriam Greystone!
Oh and the orginal cover would have turned me away from this book entirely. (I know how the saying goes don't judge a book by it's cover, but I do)The new and very much improved cover is so much better!
This book surprised me. It was so good! I had no idea what some of the mythcial creatures were in this book. (Apparently folklore isn't my strong suit) but by the end of the book I had a pretty good grasp on them. I found this book to be orginal and a breath of fresh air.
There is a bit of romance in this book but it's more about mutual respect and team work. Which I love more than a damsel in distress situation.
All in all this book was another home run for Miriam Greystone!
Oh and the orginal cover would have turned me away from this book entirely. (I know how the saying goes don't judge a book by it's cover, but I do)The new and very much improved cover is so much better!
February 4, 2017
Truthsight by Miriam Greystone, brings such a colorful and vast description of mythical creatures in this debut book. Truthsight is a fast paced book that I couldn't put down. Amy is a strong heroine whose kindness leads her into trouble with her distant Clan who she is running from. Rowan is looking for a home to call his own, and the two of them take the reader on a fantastic adventure. I don’t know how she does it, but Miriam brings alive a whole new universe of pixies, centaurs, mage and leshy on a chase to help restore balance in a world that is fading out. This book has good versus evil and conflict in characters, it is an overall great read.
Truly wonderful descriptions and nonstop action leave me hoping the next book comes out soon.
Truly wonderful descriptions and nonstop action leave me hoping the next book comes out soon.
March 16, 2018
I couldn’t put it down. Miriam Greystone has used her extensive skills for rich world building to create an amazing fantastical world with an extensive cast of characters so fascinating that I didn’t want to leave.
The journeys of Amy and Rowan were so interesting each on their own. Putting them together, their challenges mirror each other. I loved the way Amy and Rowan each had to find their own strength. And how for one of them strength was having a friend to fight by your side while for the other strength was believing in yourself.
Miriam Greystone so gracefully intertwined the two journeys to create an amazing story with a fully satisfying ending that had all of the puzzle pieces falling into place. I can’t wait to revisit this world and see where Amy and Rowan will go from here.
The journeys of Amy and Rowan were so interesting each on their own. Putting them together, their challenges mirror each other. I loved the way Amy and Rowan each had to find their own strength. And how for one of them strength was having a friend to fight by your side while for the other strength was believing in yourself.
Miriam Greystone so gracefully intertwined the two journeys to create an amazing story with a fully satisfying ending that had all of the puzzle pieces falling into place. I can’t wait to revisit this world and see where Amy and Rowan will go from here.
October 18, 2018
So original
Loved this. Very unique and creative. There were some aspects of Amy that bugged me a bit, but that’s probably more because the heroines I usually read about are more kickass and aggressive. Amy is a healer, which doesn’t work so well when those you’re wanting to care for are trying to kill you. But it’s true to her nature and her loving and kind soul, so I guess I can forgive her for not being blood thirsty :-) I love Rowan! What an interesting character he is! I don’t want to spoil the surprise of what he is, but it’s awesome. And Truthsight! What a beautiful idea. It seems like it should be obvious, but I’ve not read any other stories with something like it. This really clicked for me. Totally recommend this book.
Loved this. Very unique and creative. There were some aspects of Amy that bugged me a bit, but that’s probably more because the heroines I usually read about are more kickass and aggressive. Amy is a healer, which doesn’t work so well when those you’re wanting to care for are trying to kill you. But it’s true to her nature and her loving and kind soul, so I guess I can forgive her for not being blood thirsty :-) I love Rowan! What an interesting character he is! I don’t want to spoil the surprise of what he is, but it’s awesome. And Truthsight! What a beautiful idea. It seems like it should be obvious, but I’ve not read any other stories with something like it. This really clicked for me. Totally recommend this book.
June 3, 2018
This is a fascinating and powerful story, that has the reader turning the pages. You can't help but cheer for Amy and Rowan, as they face the prejudices and overcome each of the obstacles that stand in their way. As Amy slowly learns the truth about Meri and Shani, she also learns the truth about herself. She is a healer that helps who ever needs help. Even if the mages and other paranormal feel other wise.
October 18, 2018
No spoilers
This book has a great summary but has to be one of the slowest books I've ever written. I'm not a quitter so I finished it but I won't read further into the series. The whole book could have been written in a chapter and been great, stretched out into a book made it a painstaking read. Unless you like being bored to tears don't read this book. Good premise, horrible book
This book has a great summary but has to be one of the slowest books I've ever written. I'm not a quitter so I finished it but I won't read further into the series. The whole book could have been written in a chapter and been great, stretched out into a book made it a painstaking read. Unless you like being bored to tears don't read this book. Good premise, horrible book
May 7, 2018
Finally found a good one
I've been having this phase where I can't seem to find a good book to really connect with. I've read like 3 samples and discarded them not even finishing before I stumbled into this one.
Really interesting premise with all sorts of fae and paranormal characters I haven't encountered before.
Will be reading book 2 now.
I've been having this phase where I can't seem to find a good book to really connect with. I've read like 3 samples and discarded them not even finishing before I stumbled into this one.
Really interesting premise with all sorts of fae and paranormal characters I haven't encountered before.
Will be reading book 2 now.
September 5, 2018
Worth Reading!!!
This is my first book that I have read by this author and I was not disappointed. This story has a very well written world that the author brings to life. The characters personalities are very good and the action scenes can be followed by the reader. Recommend you buy this book. This is a very well written story!
This is my first book that I have read by this author and I was not disappointed. This story has a very well written world that the author brings to life. The characters personalities are very good and the action scenes can be followed by the reader. Recommend you buy this book. This is a very well written story!
November 2, 2020
Very well written story. I have a hard time categorizing it, but I’d say it’s about our impact on the environment and nature as well as the fact that people are complex beyond good and evil. It was a complex and thought-provoking story with a tiny dash of romance that seemed unnecessary or underdeveloped.
March 26, 2018
Truthsight
Wow! A fantastically unique paranormal fantasy that was enchanting! I loved the characters and how selfless and strong hearted they were.
I really enjoyed the mythology and all the different and unique creatures!
I can’t wait for more!!
Wow! A fantastically unique paranormal fantasy that was enchanting! I loved the characters and how selfless and strong hearted they were.
I really enjoyed the mythology and all the different and unique creatures!
I can’t wait for more!!
June 19, 2018
So intriguing
This book really held my attention. The story building and fantasy factors of the world compiled with the great story line made this truly enjoyable.
The author has a way of sucking you in and hanging on to see how everything unfolds b
This book really held my attention. The story building and fantasy factors of the world compiled with the great story line made this truly enjoyable.
The author has a way of sucking you in and hanging on to see how everything unfolds b
September 24, 2018
Captivating
This story was fantastic. The characters were entertaining and engaging and intriguing. The storyline was captivating and interesting. Definitely a series I want to continue.
This story was fantastic. The characters were entertaining and engaging and intriguing. The storyline was captivating and interesting. Definitely a series I want to continue.
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