The Shaman's Apprentice

Jovai #1

by B. Muze

Her master calls her shaman.
Her people call her witch.
Gods, spirits, and demons won't stop calling.

In this first book of B. Muze's epic primitive fantasy, Yaku Shaman believes he has at last found his apprentice—a girl who talks with ghosts, spirits and gods with equal ease. Unfortunately, his people refuse to accept her. The shaman forces Jovai to sacrifice every hope of a normal life, until the people, unaware of the dangers threatening them, revolt.

404 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 30, 2017

Reviews

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully crafted story of a female child who is apprenticed to her tribe's shaman (even though no shaman was ever female). Her village was not accepting of a female being trained as a shaman - they felt the most females could be were healers. This apprenticeship marks the beginning of a magical and spiritual journey as well as many trials and tributions for Jovai as the story follows her life. I found the book absolutely fascinating. Jovai communicates with the spirits and with the dead through song, joy, and compassion.

Muze is a new author for me and I look forward to more. I love the way she developed her characters and I developed an emotional attachment to several as the story unfolded. Her world-building was unobtrusive but realistic. What an imagination! I can't wait for the next book in the series.

Thanks to B. Muze and Wittily Writ Publishing through Netgalley for an advance copy.

[Melinda Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating, Amazing, Enjoyable, and Thrilling

I chose this rating because this book was absolutely wonderful. I truly loved it and everything about it. It was full of surprises and kept me guessing about what would happen next. It was well-written and quite entertaining. I feel as though I learned a lot about other cultures and worlds. I enjoyed the connection with life, death, and the spirits. I liked how they lived off the land and the beautiful descriptions that pulled me into their lives. I loved the characters and want to read the other books. I am definitely a fan. I want to continue the journey with Jovai and cheer her on. I recommend this book for anyone who loves an adventure to another world.

[Pavel Grigar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have received this book as a gift from the editor, and while it took me a while to start reading because of other obligations, when I did I gobbled up the book in a week. I was surprised by how much I liked it, as it was quite different from the "sword and sorcery" type of fantasy I usually prefer. The plot moves at various paces, and at times can be slightly predictable, but also often takes you by complete surprise. The characters are very well written, and I liked how "grey" most of them felt, not just purely good or bad. By the end I was very hungry for more, and will definitely keep a lookout for the sequels.

[Ashley A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the epitome of a spiritually magical fantasy book. You just want keep reading and not stop until the end, but once read you'll definitely want more. The characters are each impeccably unique in their own ways. I could feel I related to some of them in different ways. You won't regret picking this one up! :)

[Charlie Vasquez · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just finished “The Shaman’s Apprentice (Jovai Book 1)” by B. Muze. Good book. I was impressed not only with the author’s narrative skills, but combined with a vivid imagination, a profound wisdom of love, hate, and human nature, fantasy and romance/friendship/enemies… and you have a truly unforgettable book that surpassed my expectations. While I found this to be erratic in terms of pacing and overall tightness of prose, I never felt myself wandering away from the story, but was invested all the way through, which is pretty amazing considering the length. The character development was fantastic and detailed, and I appreciate the well-roundedness of the players – no one felt flatly “good” or “bad” (even when they are supposed to be), and we see their strengths and weaknesses throughout. I wish the ending had more closure, even for being the first in a series. But definitely a compelling read, one I would recommend for fans of epic fantasy that is unlike anything you’ve ever read before.

[Reader Views · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Keshia Mcclantoc for Reader Views (5/27)

“The Shaman’s Apprentice,” by B Muze, tells the story of young Jovai, a girl who encounters her fair share of hardships, spirits, and war. This novel takes place in a seemingly primitive world where people still live nomadic lifestyles and go to war with each other just for something to do. In this same world, people also rely on and listen to spirits, living on only because of the gifts the spirits grant them. The shaman communicates with these spirits and it is when Jovai is chosen to be the shaman’s apprentice that the story begins.

Muze succeeds in many different ways with this novel, but none so prominent as the intensive and fascinating world that this story takes place in. Jovai’s world is complex, layered with traditions, history, and magics that weave an immersive narrative. Muze strikes the perfect balance of giving enough of this world to the reader without overloading the narrative. Despite having a seemingly slow and simple start, Jovai’s journey soon follows an intricately laid and well-thought out plot, proving Muze’s ability to craft a narrative that pulls the reader in with every page they read.

Not only is this novel rich with fantastical elements, but it is also ripe with real world allegories. Primarily, it tackled the patriarchal conditions that both removed Jovai from her life, and rejected her as shaman’s apprentice. It is the same bias, and complicated interactions with other cultures, that eventually drives Jovai’s people to rebel and push her out. Once on her own, Jovai’s real journey begins, one where she finds her inner strength and tries to understand the intricate world around her. At its core, Jovai’s story is a about a young woman trying to find herself in a world that seems to have no place for her. It is her journey and the hope that she clings to along the way that made Jovai such an endearing and well-written character.

Despite the young person coming-of-age being a common trope within fantasy, Muze’s story seemed refreshing. Though some elements of the story were influenced by genre, the novel felt wholly unique in its conception.

If anything lacked in this novel it would be that it was almost too much to take in. I loved the complexities of the world but felt that I was reading several small novels rather than a single novel. It’s interesting that this is the first in the series, as the full story told within this novel felt like a series itself. I enjoyed reading it, but was amazed and perhaps overwhelmed by just how much happened within just under 400 pages. As a fan of fantasy, the breadth of the work was okay with me, but it’s easy to see a lesser-read or fantasy novice getting overwhelmed by all that happens within this opening novel.

As such, I would say that B. Muze’s “The Shaman’s Apprentice” would be perfect for anyone wanting to fully immerse themselves in a complicated and spiritual world. Overall, it succeeds in being a tale of a young woman finding her strength in a world that otherwise rejects her. The story feels simultaneously timeless and refreshing, relying heavily on the beautifully crafted world to see it through. I’m looking forward to continued work in this series and seeing how Muze can continue to make this world shine.

[Marisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was delighted with 3/4 of this book. As an avid reader and student of history it was fun to watch the author weave together history and mythology from many recognizable sources. The book started fun and light as a tale of a strong woman coming in to her own and making her way in what is traditionally a man's world and job. I felt uplifted and empowered by the character who was fighting hard to be what her people needed.
As I said, the history and mythology created by the author is magical. There is a whole unseen spirit world opened up by the character that feels complete and genuine.
I began to disconnect from the book toward the end. The character finds herself among a people that value obedience. She is told constantly what to do and be, whether she likes it or not (especially if she doesn't like it), and she and her friends are punished if she does not do as she is told.
There was one scene that really upset and felt out of place especially given what is currently happening in society today. (Warning: mild spoiler) One of the characters starts to suspect that the character that has dressed as a boy might actually be a girl. So he waits until she is bathing and then assaults her. He pulls her under the water and allows her up, fighting and kicking to get away, and "groping at her chest and working its way down her body and between her legs." I'm sorry, when a woman is kicking and scrambling to get away that is NOT EVER OK FOR ANY REASON. In the next paragraph her fondles her breasts again.
To make matters worse, later when she "thought of his 'attack' on her at the pool, but could think of no fair way to speak of it that would make it sound like a harmless game." Notice the word 'attack' is in quotes. As if grabbing a woman and fondling her against her will would ever be anything except an attack. As if any woman should believe such a thing is part of a harmless game.
Later the character again begins touching her against her will because he has to teach her how to be a wife and get used to being touched.
For me it was too degrading. I wouldn't allow any impressionable child of mine to read this book and get the idea that it's okay for a boy to touch you intimately against your will for any reason. For me the author crossed a line.
When first reading the book I was looking forward to reading the next book. Now I have no interest in reading anything els

[Cale · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
this book was great, although I admit at first I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it. The beginning is a little slow and confusing, but as the story revealed itself, I was impressed with the vivid descriptions and a well-crafted and ORIGINAL plot – so hard for this genre! I admit at first I was confused as to what was going on…it feels kind of vague and highly abstract feeling at first (we don’t even know Jovai’s name until almost 20% in) and this is the type of book so there was a lot of world building that needed to happen for me to start understanding the whole thing. Seemed to lack much tension or any real inciting incident for quite some time. Some dense narrative for long spells, and on occasion the dialogue felt like filler that didn’t really add to the plotline. But the characters were really interesting (loved Jovai) and liked watching her and Yaku Shaman’s dynamic unfold, and thought it was clever how there are so many ‘real world’ issues weaved in through the plot to make it a nice blend of gritty reality and fantasy. I think this book is actually pretty hard to categorize, or even compare it to other books because I honestly can’t think of others like it… as it encompasses so many elements, from spirits to philosophy to action and drama, fight for freedom and battles to survive and be accepted, finding strength and powers, love and betrayal, The MC Jovai is young girl but the focus isn’t squarely on her, but there is also a large cast of other characters as well. So even though for me the beginning was kind of slow, once I really got into it I couldn’t put it down! Definitely recommend, even if the beginning seems a little confusing just keep going because it will all make sense soon. Best recommended for ages 15 on up and will appeal to adults as well. Would be interested in reading part 2 of the series when available.

[Gordon Long · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story about the constant battle for those who are different to cope with the prejudices of their society. It takes place against the background of a deep and carefully created mythology and metaphysical world. I take that back: metaphysical worlds. The main character moves from one tribe to another, and we learn a whole new set of myths for each people she meets.

It is a beautiful device to start the story when the main character is only five years old and reacts in such an innocent and realistic fashion to her problems. Once she grows up, that innocence disappears, and she acts like most other conflicted teenagers.

Unfortunately, the story gets hung up on the original conflict, and while Jovai progresses through her adventures, in each group she meets she comes up against the same prejudices which prevent her from realizing her potential, like a fly buzzing around a room, banging into one different window after another but getting nowhere.

So at the usual danger point about two-thirds of the way through, when the reader needs a lift to the tension, this book settles. Instead of a new approach to the conflict, we are bogged down in the same old problems of her gender identity and her ally’s distrust of everyone and everything, slowed by a long description of the creation myth of the new tribe she is joining.

After this point the story becomes episodic: good action sequences interspersed with long discussions of philosophy and flashes of personal development, culminating in a love story which is not resolved.
This is the first book in a series, and it ends on a cliffhanger, leaving us with only the suggestion of a solution.

A novel that starts out beautifully but fades in the stretch.

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Shaman's Apprentice
Author: B. Muze

Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 21
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 21 readers:
20 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
21 felt it was easy to follow.
21 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
10 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
11 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
19 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
21 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.

Readers’ Comments
‘Crisp writing and very imaginative.’ Male reader, aged 42
‘An outstanding fantasy novel. The world the author has planned is multi-layered and fits perfectly with the complex plot. The characters ‘feel’ real! You just want to jump into the story and hug them. Well, not all of them. Loved it.’ Female reader, aged 52
‘A magical fantasy adventure with an interesting cast of characters. The plot is very cleverly put together; I can honestly say, I never guessed what was going to happen next.’ Female reader, aged 49
‘Jovai is a marvelous character: warm, brave, clever, slightly vulnerable. This is a very enjoyable fantasy novel. The setting is ‘different’ and always well-described. A fast moving plot, I think this is the start of a great set of book.’ Male reader, aged 47
‘It’s the unforgettable characters that made it for me. Gripping stuff.’ Male reader (publisher), aged 54

To Sum It Up:
‘A gripping historical novel populated by interesting characters. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

[Denial · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me a lot of the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness. They both have a protagonist who is an outcast (though for different reasons) and they are both a telling of how the person grows and becomes 'a person'. In this tale perhaps a bit more literally than in the other but in both cases it's an extraordinary tale.

Overall I really like stories like this that deal with real and relatable issues. One of these was how Polisa's youngest won't be accepted because she is a girl and that is an issue that still occurs today. Not only the actual “you can't because you're a girl” but more “others not being able to see past some sort of prejudice or tradition“ even if doing so would ultimately be beneficial. This story deals with several issues that call for similar reflections, another example would be how different “tribes” deal with each other.
I think that's why tales like this one are compelling. Even if the setting is suppose to be in the past it has lessons that are timeless. Which is why I really enjoyed this book. I found it had deeper themes, it was interesting, well written, thoroughly descriptive and easy to read.

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes tales of ancient spirit magic and coming of age stories. If you liked Chronicles of Ancient Darkness I especially would recommend this to you. If you don't like fantasy or stories that involve magic, then this probably isn't for you.

[Ola Adamska · Rating 5 out of 5]

This read was really magically crafted to the most detailed thing here.
During the reading, I was able to imagine everything and the style of the book made it somehow lyrical (I think that would be a good name to the way I felt.

Plot
The plot was intriguing and gave the author a lot of possibilities to make this story from most basic ones to this read where everything can happen and for sure I had not expected what will happen there!
There is a child with no name, a girl, and she can speak to and with the ghosts. This only can do shamas! AND NEVER EVER there was a female shaman! Her village is really patriarchal. That's all I'm going to say. There will be a lot of obstacles and coming-of-age for the girl (nameless at the beginning)

Characters
There are a lot f them, but only the most important are concentrated on. They are different and loveable mostly. Characters were doing great in that variable plot. The girl is a character that changed the most from little nameless girl to almost a woman knowing some parts of life yet still clueless when it comes to some parts!

I devoured that read and I'm still in AWE. I hope book 2 will be out SOON!

[Toni Babuchiwski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved reading this novel. As an avid fan of fantasy books, this one kept me engaged, captivated, and rooting for Javai every step of the way.

Style: While this is not necessarily a young adult novel, it does not have the complexities found in George R. R. Martin, Tolkien, or Robert Jordan novels. However, it is far superior to the childish Twilight-like writing popular today. I found it to be an easy to read, but engrossing book filled with fully developed characters and well-defined roles.

Plot: At no point was I bored with this story. From the initial meeting between Javai and the Shaman, through all of her adventures, I found each page worthwhile. I found the twists to be fresh, and not nearly as predictable as the simple writing would have me believe. The author definitely delivered a tale worth picking up and I found myself unable to put it down.

Would I recommend this to a friend? Absolutely! I cannot wait to read more by B. Muze if this book is an indication of what I should expect.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is more than a normal fantasy book. This one is going down through history as a classic. Beautiful writing with a unique, wonderful voice. Amazing characters who seem so real! Lots of action - a page turner from beginning to end. Loved the romance at the end. Captured the sweetness and silliness of young love. The ending gave me a better high than anything I'd felt through reading before. Pure joy.

[DanielATKingoutlook.Com · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story was awesome. It kept me entertained and hooked throughout the whole book. The character development was especially good. I felt like I knew the characters all personally. It’s not your typical fantasy. It has no dragons or elves or anything like that, but it was exciting, fun, sometimes funny, and addictive. I can’t wait to read the next book.

[A Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover for this book almost stopped me from reading it - but I'm so glad it didn't! This work is an amazing work of fiction set in a pseudo Native American culture. The cultures were well-written and fascinating, from their mythology, spiritual beliefs, and traditions. The characters were engaging and varied, and it was easy to become invested in what happened to them. HIGHLY RECOMMEND for Young Adults and Adults!
I received a complimentary copy of this work through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Kassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

i enjoyed the book and can't wait for the second. it isn't like most fantasy books I've read. there aren't any dragons or unicorns, which is kinda sad, but i loved it and really like the powers she has. it is a fantastic adventure and well written i will definitely get the next book.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm captivated by this book. This is a powerful story about the journey in the life of a native, the spirit world and living in the material world. I can't wait until the next chapter is Jovai's story is available. #TheShaman'sApprentice #NetGalley

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good and fascinating book. It's an interesting travel into acceptance and self-discovery.
I loved the description of the people and their way.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Wittily Writ Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC

[Andrea Sauve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and entertaining!

[Nancy Oyula · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mystery, mythical tales and a world full of adventure is what the author has in store. I particularly loved Jovai as a character. Good read for fantasy lovers.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!

I left a review on the outstanding story on the Kindle version for this book, but I wanted to add that I bought the print book to read and reread. It cost more than I like to spend on paperbacks but I was happy with the purchase. Its beautiful. High quality, durable (for a paperback), and nice size. It uses an easy to read but kind of different font that I really liked. I might have asked for bigger margins but, as it was, the book was over 400 pages, so the narrow margins were probably a good choice. Hard to believe this book is actually that long. It went too quickly! Can't wait for the next book in the series.