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The Rogue War Saga #1
The Curse of the Skyfolk
In the ashes of his fallen Empire, the vestigial Prince of the Landfolk, Zand Feralitor fights to regain his lands from the dreaded Skyfolk conquerors. He will stop at nothing to free his people from slavery and famine. But what is Zand to do if the allies he seeks prove worse than the enemies he wishes to destroy?
Meanwhile, on the Sky kingdoms above, Atlis, a young slave turned Assassin Hunter for a powerful Skylord, grapples with a harrowing discovery about herself that threatens to undermine everything she has worked for. Atlis knows she is dancing into danger, for if the Skyfolk ever discover what she truly is, then it is surely a perilous fate that awaits her.
Meanwhile, on the Sky kingdoms above, Atlis, a young slave turned Assassin Hunter for a powerful Skylord, grapples with a harrowing discovery about herself that threatens to undermine everything she has worked for. Atlis knows she is dancing into danger, for if the Skyfolk ever discover what she truly is, then it is surely a perilous fate that awaits her.
- GenresFantasy
458 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 23, 2018
5 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Rowe
1 book25 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 18, 2019
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
An excellent start to great fantasy series. All the players and characters are now in place. I am looking forward to war on the horizon.
The Skyfolk won the Race Wars, and since then human kind have become little more yhrn their slave. However things are changing. A rebellion is on the rise. Also humans appear with the ability to use the Skyfolks greatest weapons against them.
The characters are great, and so is the character development, none of the characters are who or the way they were at the start of the book.
This book is more setting the Empire build process of this new world, done very well great complex characters with growth. Now that the prices are in place and the first shots fired (internationally or unintentionally), I am definitely looking forward to what happens next.
An excellent start to great fantasy series. All the players and characters are now in place. I am looking forward to war on the horizon.
The Skyfolk won the Race Wars, and since then human kind have become little more yhrn their slave. However things are changing. A rebellion is on the rise. Also humans appear with the ability to use the Skyfolks greatest weapons against them.
The characters are great, and so is the character development, none of the characters are who or the way they were at the start of the book.
This book is more setting the Empire build process of this new world, done very well great complex characters with growth. Now that the prices are in place and the first shots fired (internationally or unintentionally), I am definitely looking forward to what happens next.
April 12, 2019
A word from the author.
The idea for this novel struck me one afternoon at a set of traffic lights. In its infancy it was just a title, but one that quickly took shape into a thriving and enthralling world.
I am an archaeologist by trade and a historian by passion and I have intertwined both of these themes heavily into the novels. When I look at building a world and creating conflict, I like to pinpoint interesting boiling points in history and see how I can bring them to life in another world.
In the Curse of the Skyfolk that historical flashpoint was the Nazi occupation of Europe and the subsequent impact that had on the population. Curse is not directly analogous of this period but it shares similar themes of occupation by a conquering force and other important factors I won’t get into now to avoid spoilers.
Likewise, archaeology has played an important role in the shaping of the peoples who inhabit my world. I wanted to play with moulding magic and human evolution and see where that got me. I had no expectations for this, but I ended up being very happy with the end result.
Thank you to anyone and everyone who takes the time to read or review the Curse of the Skyfolk. I hope it was as much fun to read as it was to write.
Jamie
The idea for this novel struck me one afternoon at a set of traffic lights. In its infancy it was just a title, but one that quickly took shape into a thriving and enthralling world.
I am an archaeologist by trade and a historian by passion and I have intertwined both of these themes heavily into the novels. When I look at building a world and creating conflict, I like to pinpoint interesting boiling points in history and see how I can bring them to life in another world.
In the Curse of the Skyfolk that historical flashpoint was the Nazi occupation of Europe and the subsequent impact that had on the population. Curse is not directly analogous of this period but it shares similar themes of occupation by a conquering force and other important factors I won’t get into now to avoid spoilers.
Likewise, archaeology has played an important role in the shaping of the peoples who inhabit my world. I wanted to play with moulding magic and human evolution and see where that got me. I had no expectations for this, but I ended up being very happy with the end result.
Thank you to anyone and everyone who takes the time to read or review the Curse of the Skyfolk. I hope it was as much fun to read as it was to write.
Jamie
March 21, 2019
An excellent first instalment.
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading The Curse of the Skyfolk, but when I discovered I couldn't put the book down I knew I had found something special.
Where to begin in describing this amazing first instalment? For starters the world building is on point, with a myriad of different cultures and influences spread throughout. I especially loved the descriptions of the Sky Kingdom. Rowe's magic system is simple yet effective, setting its limitations well, and is explained well enough that it is easy to understand how it works. The fight scenes have an excellent flow, and are described so effectively I can picture them in my mind.
The plot is winding and has twists that I did not expect. Rowe certainly steps away from the usual tropes, and has a great grasp of subtlety in his plot hints. The point of view character's stories intertwine enough for the reader to see the overall progression in the plot, while still being separate enough to give each character the room to develop and grow. The story is a dark tale, full of betrayal and greed, showing a world that doesn't hide its grim underbelly and that is a good thing. While there are moments of humour (looking at you Rough-Rocks) this is undeniably a realistic story, with realistic characters fighting for their survival.
Speaking of characters, Rowe has created some uniquely human ones, and I'm not talking specifically about species. Zand, Atlis and Nighman all have human flaws, wants and needs. It's refreshing to see characters that are as relatable in their humanity as these. The characters grow through the book, and I can't wait to see where they end up.
The Curse of the Skyfolk is easily one of the most unique books I have read in recent years, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. My only issue is that I have to wait for the second instalment!
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading The Curse of the Skyfolk, but when I discovered I couldn't put the book down I knew I had found something special.
Where to begin in describing this amazing first instalment? For starters the world building is on point, with a myriad of different cultures and influences spread throughout. I especially loved the descriptions of the Sky Kingdom. Rowe's magic system is simple yet effective, setting its limitations well, and is explained well enough that it is easy to understand how it works. The fight scenes have an excellent flow, and are described so effectively I can picture them in my mind.
The plot is winding and has twists that I did not expect. Rowe certainly steps away from the usual tropes, and has a great grasp of subtlety in his plot hints. The point of view character's stories intertwine enough for the reader to see the overall progression in the plot, while still being separate enough to give each character the room to develop and grow. The story is a dark tale, full of betrayal and greed, showing a world that doesn't hide its grim underbelly and that is a good thing. While there are moments of humour (looking at you Rough-Rocks) this is undeniably a realistic story, with realistic characters fighting for their survival.
Speaking of characters, Rowe has created some uniquely human ones, and I'm not talking specifically about species. Zand, Atlis and Nighman all have human flaws, wants and needs. It's refreshing to see characters that are as relatable in their humanity as these. The characters grow through the book, and I can't wait to see where they end up.
The Curse of the Skyfolk is easily one of the most unique books I have read in recent years, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. My only issue is that I have to wait for the second instalment!
May 30, 2019
The Curse of the Skyfolk is an epic high fantasy novel covering the beginning of an enslaved people’s revolution against their oppressors.
The worldbuilding is detailed and complex, with several different kingdoms and cultures, and races, including those that live in the sky and the sea. There are also different types of magic, which are viewed and used differently by the various peoples. The strange terrains and new lands are introduced organically and consistently, and the world is easy to learn - the only confusion I had was matching the location of the cloud kingdoms to the land kingdoms.
Characters are diverse and strong in this novel, with various motives of various strengths. Main characters the new puppet string trying to cut the strings of those oppressing his people, the slave turned assassin hunter who becomes obsessed when she learns she has been lied to about the abilities of the people she has disconnected from, and an intangible ghost with no memory of his past who basically runs around making a nuisance of himself from boredom. The secondary characters are as consistent and fleshed out as the main ones. I’m especially a fan of the kick-ass women that move the action.
The plot is fairly straight-forward, but with enough actors chasing different ends that the intrigue and conflict keeps things interesting, and this is all paced well throughout the novel.
The writing is straightforward rather than lush or poetic. There are a scattering of malaprops and awkward “telling rather than showing” moments, but these are small speed bumps on the path of the story and easily passed over.
At 40 chapters long and $3 for Kindle, this is worth checking out if you’re into the genre. The sequel is promised for September 2019.
The worldbuilding is detailed and complex, with several different kingdoms and cultures, and races, including those that live in the sky and the sea. There are also different types of magic, which are viewed and used differently by the various peoples. The strange terrains and new lands are introduced organically and consistently, and the world is easy to learn - the only confusion I had was matching the location of the cloud kingdoms to the land kingdoms.
Characters are diverse and strong in this novel, with various motives of various strengths. Main characters the new puppet string trying to cut the strings of those oppressing his people, the slave turned assassin hunter who becomes obsessed when she learns she has been lied to about the abilities of the people she has disconnected from, and an intangible ghost with no memory of his past who basically runs around making a nuisance of himself from boredom. The secondary characters are as consistent and fleshed out as the main ones. I’m especially a fan of the kick-ass women that move the action.
The plot is fairly straight-forward, but with enough actors chasing different ends that the intrigue and conflict keeps things interesting, and this is all paced well throughout the novel.
The writing is straightforward rather than lush or poetic. There are a scattering of malaprops and awkward “telling rather than showing” moments, but these are small speed bumps on the path of the story and easily passed over.
At 40 chapters long and $3 for Kindle, this is worth checking out if you’re into the genre. The sequel is promised for September 2019.
April 8, 2019
Amazing story
I want to start off by saying that I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. In return for my honest thoughts and review. I know that I received this book a while ago. But when you have eye surgery you have a hard time reading anything. This being this first book after surgery. I have to say I really enjoyed this book. I have a hard time getting into fantasy books. And I wasn't disappointed with this one. I loved the characters and the different point of views. I am going to be looking out for book 2.
About book:
Zand is a landfolk Prince who his people are slaves and serve the skyfolk people who live in the sky. Zand is wanting to make things right and free his people. From all of the rulings that his people are going through. And then you have Atlis is a landfolk assassin for the Skylord king. Atls finds out that her king is keeping things from her. These two characters are on two different paths and it's amazing where this story starts and how it ends. I can't wait for book two and find out what is going to happen and will these two characters cross paths in the next book. Amazing book highly recommended if you like fantasy books.
I want to start off by saying that I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. In return for my honest thoughts and review. I know that I received this book a while ago. But when you have eye surgery you have a hard time reading anything. This being this first book after surgery. I have to say I really enjoyed this book. I have a hard time getting into fantasy books. And I wasn't disappointed with this one. I loved the characters and the different point of views. I am going to be looking out for book 2.
About book:
Zand is a landfolk Prince who his people are slaves and serve the skyfolk people who live in the sky. Zand is wanting to make things right and free his people. From all of the rulings that his people are going through. And then you have Atlis is a landfolk assassin for the Skylord king. Atls finds out that her king is keeping things from her. These two characters are on two different paths and it's amazing where this story starts and how it ends. I can't wait for book two and find out what is going to happen and will these two characters cross paths in the next book. Amazing book highly recommended if you like fantasy books.
May 22, 2018
Overall, this is a fun and interesting first book. The beginning is a bit on the slow side for the actual plot itself. There were some noticeable grammar mistakes at times. More troubling was how much sexual abuse against women was in the novel. Misogyny seems like a real problem for everyone.
The plot could have been a bit tighter. A lot of telling and not doing. The epilogue has me worried because Atlis was my favorite character.
Personally, I didn't like Zend--I don't like womanizing characters and he was a bit static. He has tremendous growth that can happen in his future though, so hopefully he rounds up a bit more.
The plot could have been a bit tighter. A lot of telling and not doing. The epilogue has me worried because Atlis was my favorite character.
Personally, I didn't like Zend--I don't like womanizing characters and he was a bit static. He has tremendous growth that can happen in his future though, so hopefully he rounds up a bit more.
December 6, 2018
I started reading The Curse of the Skyfolk because I am friends with the author, however that is definitely NOT why I finished it. Gripping characters that keep you hooked in the story and Jamie paints a very clear picture of his fictitious world. I absolutely love Atlis, she is a fantastic character and I wish there was more of her. I agree that it is a shame that even in fantasy, misogyny is still the norm, however it is nice to see that it isn't accepted and is often called out in The Curse of the Skyfolk. Looking forward to the next instalment!
April 9, 2020
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A fantasy world where the land is ruled by Cloud people that may be elves, may be alien Tall Whites. The regular people live mostly as slaves to the Cloud people, after a war the regular people lost. The King of the land people wants to take back the land, and is raising allies.
Meanwhile, a land woman who lives as a concubine/assassin hunter for a cloud lord is on the hunt for an assassin when she finds out she has magical powers, a capital offense for a land person.
Really kept my interest.
A fantasy world where the land is ruled by Cloud people that may be elves, may be alien Tall Whites. The regular people live mostly as slaves to the Cloud people, after a war the regular people lost. The King of the land people wants to take back the land, and is raising allies.
Meanwhile, a land woman who lives as a concubine/assassin hunter for a cloud lord is on the hunt for an assassin when she finds out she has magical powers, a capital offense for a land person.
Really kept my interest.
May 21, 2019
A novice to fantasy novels this was a fantastic introduction! Full of intrigue and twists and turns, I found myself lost in a magical world which kept me glued to this book til the very end. I am now soundly sold on Fantasy as a genre. I await the second installment with baited breath! A fantastic read, definitely recommend.
November 6, 2018
I really enjoyed this book!
March 5, 2019
Kept my interest throughout
April 8, 2018
Really enjoyed this book, took it on holiday to read, and spent more time with my nose in the book than looking at the views! It was a real page turner! The only disappointment I have is I can’t go on to the sequel yet! Loved the characters how they evolved and lead separate lives and yet start to become entwined. Excellent read
March 6, 2018
Incredible first book of the series! Can't wait for the next instalment. I normally read a different style of fantasy novels but this exceeded my expectations. Great character development (you kind of fall in love with Atlis and Zand) and lots of unexpected twists.
Really cool fantastical world having a kingdom in the clouds, very unique concept and thought provoking. Really enjoyed the ending and am looking forward to the next book!
Really cool fantastical world having a kingdom in the clouds, very unique concept and thought provoking. Really enjoyed the ending and am looking forward to the next book!
December 30, 2018
Wow!
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, however, now after reading it, I am going to have to buy all the rest in the series. Fantastic! Great world building, wonderful story and great build up to the end of this book and foreshadowing for the coming books. I am so excited to see what happens next, enjoy!
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, however, now after reading it, I am going to have to buy all the rest in the series. Fantastic! Great world building, wonderful story and great build up to the end of this book and foreshadowing for the coming books. I am so excited to see what happens next, enjoy!
April 7, 2018
Really enjoyed this book, I can’t wait to find out what is happening next, found the characters very interesting and they evolved more during the story, but still a few mysteries I want to find out about!
March 3, 2018
Lots of unexpected twists
March 3, 2018
I really loved the pace of this book and the way in which it wove together the different worlds...
May 4, 2019
Overall I enjoyed the book and will certainly pick up the sequel. It started off a bit slow but the premise was enough to keep me motivated, I also rather liked the societal state of the world. There is a lot of room for the author to fill it out and I'm excited to see where it goes. The magic system is interesting as well.
January 2, 2019
Just finished The Curse of the Skyfolk, absolutely loved it. I particularly found the magic system really cool, made for some great action scenes. Atlis was my favourite character but Zand was a close second. It was a really fascinating world with great characters overall. Very excited for the next book!
August 11, 2020
I was surprised at how much I liked this book. I honestly didn't think I was ready for a fantasy series just yet considering that I am trying to wean myself into reading again after having to take a break due to personal stuff. I decided to read the first chapter on a whim to see if I thought I would like it after winning the book in a Goodreads giveaway and well, as you can see I didn't stop reading. There are three main narrators Prince Zand of the landfolk, Atlis an Assassin, and Nighman a mysterious entity who cannot remember his past. All three characters were interesting, but I have to say I really liked Atlis's parts mostly because it was a bit more intriguing. Nighman was second best because you really want to help him find out why he is the way he is. Zand was just okay, mostly because while he wants to help the Landfolk come out from under the thumb of the skyfolk he is a bit immature and naive, but throughout the book, he does start to grow and you can see him slowly turning from a skirt-chasing prince to a responsible young man.
This book also really makes you hate the skyfolk. I despised whenever one came into the story. Their culture was also very intriguing and it reminds me a little of how the politics of Game of Thrones is, although not quite as intense. The story is done really well, but it seems more like a second book rather than a beginning. I wish I was able to read about the war that they had in the book that made the skyfolk have so much power. Either way an enjoyable book.
This book also really makes you hate the skyfolk. I despised whenever one came into the story. Their culture was also very intriguing and it reminds me a little of how the politics of Game of Thrones is, although not quite as intense. The story is done really well, but it seems more like a second book rather than a beginning. I wish I was able to read about the war that they had in the book that made the skyfolk have so much power. Either way an enjoyable book.
June 6, 2018
I really loved this book. Nighman is one of my favourite characters I've read for a long time. His mischievous streak makes for some funny scenes and I really like his relationship with the giant Rough Rocks.
I like the dark nature to this story. In a similar vein to A Song of Ice and Fire, it isn't overly sentimental with its characters (which can be a flaw in many fantasy books) and you really feel like no one is safe, which makes for very entertaining reading.
I really liked Zand too and am keen to see how Jamie Rowe explores his character in the next one. I think there is a lot of growth his character can achieve and I can't wait to see him rise to the challenge.
Overall a really great first novel from a new author and I look forward to reading more of his work.
I like the dark nature to this story. In a similar vein to A Song of Ice and Fire, it isn't overly sentimental with its characters (which can be a flaw in many fantasy books) and you really feel like no one is safe, which makes for very entertaining reading.
I really liked Zand too and am keen to see how Jamie Rowe explores his character in the next one. I think there is a lot of growth his character can achieve and I can't wait to see him rise to the challenge.
Overall a really great first novel from a new author and I look forward to reading more of his work.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews