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The Missing Shield #1
A Change Of Rules
Adult epic fantasy.
By the time the Maker’s Guardians awaken anew from their 1000 year cycle to face the threat against the Veils of Time and the races of the world Dallancea, much has changed. Disaster has made an impact on their existence and it soon becomes apparent that they can no longer rely upon the power and skills they once possessed.
It now falls to their Commander Malandar Denarlin to travel forth into the Human realm of Ostravah to seek out the fated twins that must be made to embrace their destiny in fighting the Maker’s first children, the mad self-proclaimed Gods and their fey magic-thirsty, blood-craving creations. However, with the Guardian legacy forgotten, can Malandar circumvent ignorance and multiple threats to pick up a link to the Twins before they are discovered by agents of chaos? And with the magic flows torn and the ancient artefact known as ‘the Astrolabe’ sundered and missing, will he decide to go claim the one remaining pure ‘well’ of magic that promises both hope and power? To do so would entail personal damnation and eventual punishment for the breaking of oaths and laws that bind him, but with venom in his soul and old dues to be paid, will it much matter?
Meanwhile, Solancei – Shield and handmaiden to the crown heiress, Iambre – finds her world tripped upside-down as a bit of unusual sport lands her at the sudden mercy of an unpredictable, merciless Knight who harbours plans for the future that will most assuredly not only tip the realm into war, but also endanger Princess Iambre. Her only hope of preventing this, is to bring warning, but as demise lurks on every breath, so rears an ancient curse to life within her soul and it will no longer be denied.
Will Solancei be able to fulfil her own desperate demand before too late, and as Iambre’s fear for her Shield grows, how much will a noble lady stand prepared to sacrifice in the name of friendship? A millennia-old war is about to ignite, dangerous foes are afoot; unless careful, both women could become embroiled in a quest of deadly hide-and-seek – an unexpected development, where the success of their dance along the path of a dangerous new calling could prove all the difference between peace and the eternal ruin of Dallancea.
By the time the Maker’s Guardians awaken anew from their 1000 year cycle to face the threat against the Veils of Time and the races of the world Dallancea, much has changed. Disaster has made an impact on their existence and it soon becomes apparent that they can no longer rely upon the power and skills they once possessed.
It now falls to their Commander Malandar Denarlin to travel forth into the Human realm of Ostravah to seek out the fated twins that must be made to embrace their destiny in fighting the Maker’s first children, the mad self-proclaimed Gods and their fey magic-thirsty, blood-craving creations. However, with the Guardian legacy forgotten, can Malandar circumvent ignorance and multiple threats to pick up a link to the Twins before they are discovered by agents of chaos? And with the magic flows torn and the ancient artefact known as ‘the Astrolabe’ sundered and missing, will he decide to go claim the one remaining pure ‘well’ of magic that promises both hope and power? To do so would entail personal damnation and eventual punishment for the breaking of oaths and laws that bind him, but with venom in his soul and old dues to be paid, will it much matter?
Meanwhile, Solancei – Shield and handmaiden to the crown heiress, Iambre – finds her world tripped upside-down as a bit of unusual sport lands her at the sudden mercy of an unpredictable, merciless Knight who harbours plans for the future that will most assuredly not only tip the realm into war, but also endanger Princess Iambre. Her only hope of preventing this, is to bring warning, but as demise lurks on every breath, so rears an ancient curse to life within her soul and it will no longer be denied.
Will Solancei be able to fulfil her own desperate demand before too late, and as Iambre’s fear for her Shield grows, how much will a noble lady stand prepared to sacrifice in the name of friendship? A millennia-old war is about to ignite, dangerous foes are afoot; unless careful, both women could become embroiled in a quest of deadly hide-and-seek – an unexpected development, where the success of their dance along the path of a dangerous new calling could prove all the difference between peace and the eternal ruin of Dallancea.
- GenresFantasy
229 pages, Paperback
First published March 30, 2018
14 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 8, 2019
This book follows the more traditional method of storytelling through poetry. It is multi-layered, rich in description, characters and world-building. The manipulations, psychology, incentives and motivations of each character is described in detail. I enjoyed and was continuously impressed by the beautiful line by line poetry and imagery. Every sentence was a work of art.
This is not a ‘beach read’ more a completely immersive high fantasy world which is well worth the investment, commitment and concentration required. However every reader will gain something different from this tale an offering which will extend one's own thinking and imagination as good art always will. Recommended for those who want something deeper and more enriching.
This is not a ‘beach read’ more a completely immersive high fantasy world which is well worth the investment, commitment and concentration required. However every reader will gain something different from this tale an offering which will extend one's own thinking and imagination as good art always will. Recommended for those who want something deeper and more enriching.
August 23, 2019
Excellent worldbuilding
L.L. Thomsen does an excellent job with building up this world where everything is changing. The book follows two story lines through three different point of views. First the Guardians, in which the POV changes between a few of them. Giving us insight into how the world and the rules are changing as well as bringing awareness to a bigger threat. Second Solancie, who is fighting in an illegal jackal fight, as well as a look into her past in the form of a memoir. Third Princess Iambre, who Solancie is sworn shield of.
Though short it is definitely not a light read and is very well written. I recommend A Change of Rules for any of those that love richly developed worlds and high fantasy.
L.L. Thomsen does an excellent job with building up this world where everything is changing. The book follows two story lines through three different point of views. First the Guardians, in which the POV changes between a few of them. Giving us insight into how the world and the rules are changing as well as bringing awareness to a bigger threat. Second Solancie, who is fighting in an illegal jackal fight, as well as a look into her past in the form of a memoir. Third Princess Iambre, who Solancie is sworn shield of.
Though short it is definitely not a light read and is very well written. I recommend A Change of Rules for any of those that love richly developed worlds and high fantasy.
December 29, 2019
Interesting story
I don’t usually read this genre. But I liked it interesting and fresh to read. I would like to read more of this.
I don’t usually read this genre. But I liked it interesting and fresh to read. I would like to read more of this.
September 20, 2018
Prepare for a Deep Emersion into Another Realm
What initially drew me to this book was the fabulous promise of a fantastic new realm – a world in flux desperately in need of heroes.
A Change of Rules operates as an introduction to the world of Ostrava as it eases the reader into the serious matter at hand. With incredibly deep points of view, from a wide range of characters, I found myself submersed inside thoughts, emotions, and motivations. As a former high school teacher, I immediately picked up on the exceptionally subtle interplay and juxtaposition between the situation the Guardians faced and the one Solancei, one of the Shield’s, faced as both were caught in a waiting game with the highest of stakes on the line.
Thomsen follows a literary style that works to bridge genre-centric themes and plots with the craft of literary fiction. Her character driven scenes dissect motivation and perception down to a microscopic level.
Readers who enjoy epic and episodic fiction will gravitate toward Thomsen’s style without pause. I, however, am not such a reader.
What initially drew me to this book was the fabulous promise of a fantastic new realm – a world in flux desperately in need of heroes.
A Change of Rules operates as an introduction to the world of Ostrava as it eases the reader into the serious matter at hand. With incredibly deep points of view, from a wide range of characters, I found myself submersed inside thoughts, emotions, and motivations. As a former high school teacher, I immediately picked up on the exceptionally subtle interplay and juxtaposition between the situation the Guardians faced and the one Solancei, one of the Shield’s, faced as both were caught in a waiting game with the highest of stakes on the line.
Thomsen follows a literary style that works to bridge genre-centric themes and plots with the craft of literary fiction. Her character driven scenes dissect motivation and perception down to a microscopic level.
Readers who enjoy epic and episodic fiction will gravitate toward Thomsen’s style without pause. I, however, am not such a reader.
October 23, 2018
When the reader is introduced into the story, we see a Change of Rules unfolding which leaves all the characters in the opening scene uneasy. As the story advances, we are thrusted between the discussions of the Guardians and the memoirs of one of the characters named Solancei. Occasionally, we also see Solancei in real time. The constantly shifting viewpoint keeps the story sharp and interesting with every page. All the characters have their own unique backgrounds and while it seemed as if there was more to the history of this world that went unexplained, I have a feeling we’ll learn more as the series continues. The author did a wonderful job of creating an air of mystery while at the same time building a world that’s both interesting and still holds secrets for the readers to discover later on.
July 3, 2019
Solancei is the handmaiden and sworn protector of Princess Iambre. She has been trained to be a magnificent weapon. To hone her skills, she is disguised and takes part in contests with other warriors. Her current challenger has decided to change the rules! She needs to get back to the Princess but he will not allow the contest to end! Will she make it back to her friend and charge?
Meanwhile, the princess is getting worried. Some truths are revealed as she waits, like the fact that everyone considers Solancei's life unimportant!
This is a book which sets the stage for a series of high fantasy! It is well written and it begs you to keep turning the pages. I found myself engaged and attached to each of the characters.
Loved it.
Meanwhile, the princess is getting worried. Some truths are revealed as she waits, like the fact that everyone considers Solancei's life unimportant!
This is a book which sets the stage for a series of high fantasy! It is well written and it begs you to keep turning the pages. I found myself engaged and attached to each of the characters.
Loved it.
May 18, 2020
This epic fantasy left me wanting more! I'm not one who normally reads high fantasy as I sometimes have a harder time picturing myself in an unfamiliar world but I am so glad I took a chance on this. L.L. Thomsen did such an amazing job with world building, character development, and storytelling. It is easy flowing but not to be read to quickly! This is not the type of story you skim as you will miss too much. I found myself having to go back and reread sections because I'd get too excited and try to read faster than I should. This jumps back and forth between views and was so beautifully written. I absolutely that this series is written like a "tv series"; reading this is like binge watching a season and NOT having to wait for the second season!
Overall this story was beautifully written, completely immersive, and leaves you breathless for what comes next. Excited to jump into the next "season".
Overall this story was beautifully written, completely immersive, and leaves you breathless for what comes next. Excited to jump into the next "season".
April 20, 2019
This is an episodic high fantasy where the synopsis sounded like my kind of book. The author throws into the story and you have to be patient as it unfolds. It is a slow burn of a story which picks up at the 60% mark. Unfortunately it took me a while to get into the literary style of writing, and that is unusual for me. I am willing to chalk it up to the format rather than the story. That being said, there are strong female characters in the plot so far. This includes Solancei, who seems to be a major character along with Thessalia Emara.
What is the story about? Unfortunately this book is all set up with not much context. The synopsis tells you more than the contents revealed. The focus here is on characters with lots of internal dialogue. Normally I would have DNF this book, but Solancei’s arc was intriguing enough to keep me reading.
I am undecided about continuing read these episodes. Hopefully The is better context and the story progresses a bit quicker.
I want to that the author and a Goodreads group-Shut up and Read for the opportunity to read this introduction to a new fantasy indie series.
What is the story about? Unfortunately this book is all set up with not much context. The synopsis tells you more than the contents revealed. The focus here is on characters with lots of internal dialogue. Normally I would have DNF this book, but Solancei’s arc was intriguing enough to keep me reading.
I am undecided about continuing read these episodes. Hopefully The is better context and the story progresses a bit quicker.
I want to that the author and a Goodreads group-Shut up and Read for the opportunity to read this introduction to a new fantasy indie series.
March 11, 2019
A great intro into a High fantasy world. A change of Rules was a great introduction to a world rife with colourful characters. I look forward to reading more.
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September 18, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (9/18/18)!💝
January 3, 2019
I’m usually not a big fantasy fan but I loved the premise of a synopsis and was immediately hooked from page one! I love stories with alternating timelines and points of view, and “A Change of Rules” was just a perfect choice in this case. I particularly enjoyed Solancei’s memoir (which was tragic at times but so very riveting!) which helped me better understand her present scenes and instantly connect with her as a heroine. The world building was really impressive; half of the time I wondered how much time it took the author to so thoroughly outline each separate story. Masterfully done! Another thing I’d like to comment on is the beautiful prose, which I always enjoy in the narration and which is, unfortunately, lacking nowadays from most stories. Strong, interesting characters; an intricately-crafted world with its gods and mortals; power struggles and intrigues - all this makes “A Change of Rules” a positively fascinating read! Five stars.
December 8, 2018
This is a solid first entry to a larger series. The world building is established and the characterizations let you get to know main players. The plot flows smoothly and there is a lyricism to the writing and dialogue that makes it a quite enjoyable read. I do wonder where the rest of the series is going because the this book did pique my interest in the rest of the series. It's listed as Episode 1 instead of book 1, like it's intended to be a serial. I hope that means it will be a long serial because the first book shows promise for later books
March 20, 2019
There are basically two plot lines (maybe 2.5) within this book. They are related but come at the story from different angles. The High Circle storyline didn’t captivate me though I could tell it was important. Precisely how it interwove with the Solancei story was unclear. I enjoyed this young woman’s tale (Solancei) and it was the reason I kept turning pages. An interesting beginning.
October 17, 2019
This novel is the first introduction to the Nine Realms of Dallancea, the overseeing god-like Guardians that have been given mystical powers and extended lives near immortality to hold the “mad ones” and ensuing chaos at bay, Solancei, a bodyguard “shield” maiden in training, and the petulant and spoiled princess Iambre that our shield is dedicated to protect. The book builds a tapestry of nuanced description of guardian political machinations and provides insight into the tragedies of Solancei’s past through personal memoirs, while engaging the reader in the “no holds barred” action of an underground gladiator combat, complete with illegal gambling, double crosses, and sword play.
The writer’s style is literary, with an expansive vocabulary and masterful sentence structure, in a way befitting the eons old parliament of Guardians where human passions and rivalries seem to lurk underneath their cool veneers.
The chapter “First Touch,” our first glimpse into the realistic “jackal” battle where the shieldmaiden practices with local thugs to test her mettle, is fast paced and reflects the quick-witted heroine. This chapter grabbed my attention and drew me into the story more than the high court maneuvering of the Guardians. The chapters on Princess Iambre displayed a shallow haughty and naïve young lady, over her head in a nuanced political situation and unable to grasp the significance of either her position or the expediency of the “jackal games” for training an up and coming shield. One hopes that her character grows in the later books of the series. The action of this first novel in the series seemed to take place over a single day, with memoirs providing background material, and the political wrangling of the Guardians providing additional understanding of the unique world created by L.L. Thomsen.
For me, Solacei’s memoirs broke up the story pace and while each seemed to extend our understanding of the main character and her past, and clearly each installment provided small details that deepened our empathy, they tended to slow the story down for me. The novel seems an introduction that sets the stage for future books in the series, ending with the disappearance of the “missing shield” rather than a resolution to a story problem. If you like a high literary style and nuanced descriptions, you will find this first novel in this Epic fantasy a compelling and interesting start to a wider adventure.
The writer’s style is literary, with an expansive vocabulary and masterful sentence structure, in a way befitting the eons old parliament of Guardians where human passions and rivalries seem to lurk underneath their cool veneers.
The chapter “First Touch,” our first glimpse into the realistic “jackal” battle where the shieldmaiden practices with local thugs to test her mettle, is fast paced and reflects the quick-witted heroine. This chapter grabbed my attention and drew me into the story more than the high court maneuvering of the Guardians. The chapters on Princess Iambre displayed a shallow haughty and naïve young lady, over her head in a nuanced political situation and unable to grasp the significance of either her position or the expediency of the “jackal games” for training an up and coming shield. One hopes that her character grows in the later books of the series. The action of this first novel in the series seemed to take place over a single day, with memoirs providing background material, and the political wrangling of the Guardians providing additional understanding of the unique world created by L.L. Thomsen.
For me, Solacei’s memoirs broke up the story pace and while each seemed to extend our understanding of the main character and her past, and clearly each installment provided small details that deepened our empathy, they tended to slow the story down for me. The novel seems an introduction that sets the stage for future books in the series, ending with the disappearance of the “missing shield” rather than a resolution to a story problem. If you like a high literary style and nuanced descriptions, you will find this first novel in this Epic fantasy a compelling and interesting start to a wider adventure.
August 10, 2019
The novel, A Change of the Rules: The Missing Shield, Episode 1, by L.L. Thomsen is an Epic, High Fantasy. This fact is mirrored in the religious, social, cultural and political aspects of the world the author created. The tone of the book had a ring of high fantasy to it, even when describing a jackal fight. The diction was elaborate and flowing – though perhaps a bit too verbose as the reader also had to contend with the new world terminology. Overall, though, the intertwining narratives of the divine council, Solancei's memoir, Iambre and Solancei herself introduce the reader to the vibrant, richly textured kingdom of Ostravah. If you're looking for complex high fantasy (and don't mind learning new terms), then this is the book for you.
November 17, 2019
"The Missing Shield" is a gripping story of love, death, duty and magic. It's delivered in instalments, and is easy to follow, because each begins with a summary of the story so far. "A Change of Rules", the first episode sets the scene brilliantly.
The tale operates on two levels. In the bigger picture, the land of Ostravah has known peace for 1,000 years. Before that, the Chaos Wars invoked heavy bloodshed, but the mystical Guardians of the Veils were finally able to vanquish the evil gods and magic-users who had tried to take over the realm. Their work done, the Guardians fell into a long sleep. Now, they have suddenly reawakened as a result of evil magic re-entering the land.
On a more personal level, Princess Iambre has travelled to Zanzier on a state visit. Her cousin and protection officer, Solancei, has taken part in an illegal jackal fight to hone her combat skills. This is beginning to look like a big mistake...
As with every episode in the series, there is a nail-biting tension and a massive cliffhanger at the end.
The tale operates on two levels. In the bigger picture, the land of Ostravah has known peace for 1,000 years. Before that, the Chaos Wars invoked heavy bloodshed, but the mystical Guardians of the Veils were finally able to vanquish the evil gods and magic-users who had tried to take over the realm. Their work done, the Guardians fell into a long sleep. Now, they have suddenly reawakened as a result of evil magic re-entering the land.
On a more personal level, Princess Iambre has travelled to Zanzier on a state visit. Her cousin and protection officer, Solancei, has taken part in an illegal jackal fight to hone her combat skills. This is beginning to look like a big mistake...
As with every episode in the series, there is a nail-biting tension and a massive cliffhanger at the end.
May 13, 2018
This story is not for the faint hearted, it is a weighty read that is meticulously and poetically written. Readers who love high fantasy and stories where the world has been intricately drawn will appreciate this book. It is not a quick read and, as this it just the first episode of eleven, it promises to become a vast epic that hardened fantasy readers can totally submerge themselves in.
November 20, 2018
The Missing Shield by L.L. Thomsen is a multi-episode fantasy series full of strange mystery and adventure - all exquisitely braided together with magically lyrical prose. I just finished reading Book 1 – A Change of Rules which introduced me to some fascinating demi-gods who are on the verge of losing their omniscience. I also became intimately acquainted with some fearless mortals who seem to have forgotten that their immortal Guardians were ever real. I want to know more about all of these meticulously written characters who appear to be merging together for a life and death battle against the Mad Ones. This lushly written story has it all – heroes, villains, gods and monsters and so much more. It is a richly woven tapestry which die-hard lovers of epic fantasy will surely want to immerse themselves in.
July 11, 2019
A Change of Rules – episode 1 is a fast read, but perhaps not as light as I’d expect it to be for Fantasy. With different timelines, alternating between Solancei’s memories and present time, it requires quite a bit of attention, so you won’t get lost in this new universe.
May 31, 2021
This is a wonderful novel with great world building and well made characters.
Unfortunately, the very slow build of the storyline as well as the episodic tale kept me from enjoying this novel as much as I’d hoped to.
Unfortunately, the very slow build of the storyline as well as the episodic tale kept me from enjoying this novel as much as I’d hoped to.
May 3, 2018
Get ready to be fully immersed in this new world. The attention to detail is splendid. Everything from characterization and world building, to pacing and word flow was perfect. There really are some beautiful passages with a lovely tempo. Either there was a great deal of attention to word choice or this author just has a natural ear for beautiful prose. Overall it was a joy to read. The shining parts for me were in the action/fighting scenes. The tempo was perfect and tense and thrilling. Characters came to life, adding to the intensity of the read and depth of the world. Since this is only episode one, I have a lot of questions and I’m so excited to see where this story will take me in future installments. 😊 Jump in now. This is a world you can get lost in and won’t want to leave.
July 17, 2019
I found this book quite entertaining and very intriguing. The way the author laid out the story for the reader is definitely unique - it jumps between the characters in a third-person POV (which I love), but also includes a first-person POV in the manner of a diary/memoir of the main character, which gave me more personal insight into the character. I especially adored the Princess Iambre. She was by far my favorite! I look forward to reading the next book!
November 13, 2019
A brilliant start to what is clearly going to be an epic series. The story jumps right in and gathers pace throughout. There's a bit of everything in this book. A princess, a hero, spellweavers, and a fabulous quest. There's nothing not to like in this otherworldly read.
The descriptions are as fabulous as the concept of the book and the characters grow at a really nice pace, giving the reader time to get to know them. Going to enjoy reading the rest of the series.
The descriptions are as fabulous as the concept of the book and the characters grow at a really nice pace, giving the reader time to get to know them. Going to enjoy reading the rest of the series.
September 7, 2018
An interesting and unusual mix using some chapters for memories and others for events as they happen. This novel, however is not for easy reading. This is high-fantasy lovers. I admit I prefer low-fantasy tales, but this one managed to hold my interest in the way it was written. It is also one the first of many books in the series.
The descriptions and writing style flow beautifully making an enjoyable read.
The descriptions and writing style flow beautifully making an enjoyable read.
October 29, 2018
Wow!
Talk about an in-depth, fascinating read! There is a lot going on in this story, and it makes you slow down and enjoy every bit of it! Each character has their own back story and the way the characters intertwine is flawless.
I highly recommend this novel! Its like nothing like I have read before! I look forward to the next!
Talk about an in-depth, fascinating read! There is a lot going on in this story, and it makes you slow down and enjoy every bit of it! Each character has their own back story and the way the characters intertwine is flawless.
I highly recommend this novel! Its like nothing like I have read before! I look forward to the next!
May 25, 2019
A Change of Rules: The Missing Shield was a different book then what I would usually read. Nevertheless, a good one as the story line unfolded. The author has a unique way of writing and created a very enjoyable book.
If you're looking for a read to take along with you this weekend, you may want to look at this book.
If you're looking for a read to take along with you this weekend, you may want to look at this book.
December 24, 2018
The Missing Shield is the first episode in L.L. Thomsen’s saga, A Change of Rules. And make no mistake — this is a high fantasy saga with this first episode being the introduction to the intricate world Thomsen has created.
While this is Solancei’s story — the missing shield in the episode’s title — it’s way more than that. There are three different plots running as the story starts, with a fourth thread featuring the realm’s princess, and Solancei’s best friend/cousin, Iambre. As the episode draws to its conclusion, the readers sees how all of these threads are woven together to lead right into the next part.
Because this is only the beginning and the world is so intricately detailed, it might seem a little slow for some readers. There is a lot of information being given that draws you in and makes you think it’s its own fantastical world, but the writing is so poetic that you feel swept away by it all.
Because of its design, this episode leaves on a cliffhanger that left me wanting to know so much more about what was going on, and what’s going to happen next!
While this is Solancei’s story — the missing shield in the episode’s title — it’s way more than that. There are three different plots running as the story starts, with a fourth thread featuring the realm’s princess, and Solancei’s best friend/cousin, Iambre. As the episode draws to its conclusion, the readers sees how all of these threads are woven together to lead right into the next part.
Because this is only the beginning and the world is so intricately detailed, it might seem a little slow for some readers. There is a lot of information being given that draws you in and makes you think it’s its own fantastical world, but the writing is so poetic that you feel swept away by it all.
Because of its design, this episode leaves on a cliffhanger that left me wanting to know so much more about what was going on, and what’s going to happen next!
May 9, 2019
A Change of Rules: The Missing Shield, Episode 1 is basically a multi-point of view story-line from different characters from different realms.
In a world beyond the Veils that protect the Realms of Dallancea against the return of Mad Gods, the Maker’s chosen Avatars - all-powerful Guardians, have awoken to face the lingering repercussions of a betrayal. Guardian and Spell-weaver of the highest tier, Malandar is not prepared to surrender the Realms to the old Enemy of Life without a fight, he must start his new journey a quest to protect the Realms as a mere mortal.
At the same time a royal protector-come-handmaiden Solancei – learns her craft to protect her friend and cousin, the Princess Iambre. Only to find herself in trouble when a training session goes wrong.
Princess Iambre is beyond angry when her hand maiden Solancei fails to return to their rooms, only for the Head of security - Eso informs the Princess - Solancei has gone missing and they don’t know where she is.
Friendships are strained and pushed to their limits in this first book in the series. The author has done a great job in creating the interesting storyline and characters, captures the imagination. I prefer the character Solancei.
In a world beyond the Veils that protect the Realms of Dallancea against the return of Mad Gods, the Maker’s chosen Avatars - all-powerful Guardians, have awoken to face the lingering repercussions of a betrayal. Guardian and Spell-weaver of the highest tier, Malandar is not prepared to surrender the Realms to the old Enemy of Life without a fight, he must start his new journey a quest to protect the Realms as a mere mortal.
At the same time a royal protector-come-handmaiden Solancei – learns her craft to protect her friend and cousin, the Princess Iambre. Only to find herself in trouble when a training session goes wrong.
Princess Iambre is beyond angry when her hand maiden Solancei fails to return to their rooms, only for the Head of security - Eso informs the Princess - Solancei has gone missing and they don’t know where she is.
Friendships are strained and pushed to their limits in this first book in the series. The author has done a great job in creating the interesting storyline and characters, captures the imagination. I prefer the character Solancei.
July 14, 2018
Losing Sight of the Future
A Change of Rules drops the reader into an already moving story following several storylines simultaneously. The first is the demi-gods who have been given charge of the world’s magic and the impossible position they have found themselves in as one of their members have died and they have lost their Sight of future events. Even as they work toward figuring out how to mend the tear in their fabric, the dissention in their numbers keeps them from solving any real issues beyond their personal grudges. Second, Solancei shares the most tragic part of her past, the death of her parents. She views this moment in time as a turning point in her life because it has allowed her to find the State of Veranto which instills powers of presence of mind as well as strength and speed. Yet something has changed for her, she can no longer access this state which causes much consternation as her life might depend on it. And finally, the third character is Iambre who is both friend and cousin to Solancei. She has issues of her own, yet she struggles to find her way without the constant guidance of her cousin.
There is so much back story which is hinted at, yet left unexplained, it’s clear this author has spent a considerable amount of time creating intricate stories for each character and where they will ultimately end up in their place in history.
A Change of Rules drops the reader into an already moving story following several storylines simultaneously. The first is the demi-gods who have been given charge of the world’s magic and the impossible position they have found themselves in as one of their members have died and they have lost their Sight of future events. Even as they work toward figuring out how to mend the tear in their fabric, the dissention in their numbers keeps them from solving any real issues beyond their personal grudges. Second, Solancei shares the most tragic part of her past, the death of her parents. She views this moment in time as a turning point in her life because it has allowed her to find the State of Veranto which instills powers of presence of mind as well as strength and speed. Yet something has changed for her, she can no longer access this state which causes much consternation as her life might depend on it. And finally, the third character is Iambre who is both friend and cousin to Solancei. She has issues of her own, yet she struggles to find her way without the constant guidance of her cousin.
There is so much back story which is hinted at, yet left unexplained, it’s clear this author has spent a considerable amount of time creating intricate stories for each character and where they will ultimately end up in their place in history.
December 21, 2018
A Change of Rules opens up a new fantasy universe, with ancient guardians watching over it and keeping a terrifying threat at bay. This novel weaves two stories, one political at the highest level, where the guardians debate on what to do in light of recent, disturbing events. The second is a story of noble girl who exists both as a fighter and lady of the court. Her worlds collide when she takes on a stranger in a practise fight.
It’s always great to read new and unusual fantasy worlds. This novel has a great blend of action and palace intrigue. While it is a little slow to start, there’s plenty of sparks of interest and it’s clear that it’s building a complex, interesting story with characters rarely seen in fantasy fiction.
It’s always great to read new and unusual fantasy worlds. This novel has a great blend of action and palace intrigue. While it is a little slow to start, there’s plenty of sparks of interest and it’s clear that it’s building a complex, interesting story with characters rarely seen in fantasy fiction.
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