What do you think?
Rate this book
The Riven Gates #2
The Severed Realm
Only a fool threatens those a Thornbear protects. Mordecai’s shattered family is in chaos, but the world won’t wait for them to recover. Trapped by a fiendish plot he didn’t foresee, Mordecai finds himself powerless to redeem himself or defend his family. Alone and surrounded by enemies, Lady Rose has only her wits to protect those she loves. Though every hand turns against her, Rose Thornbear refuses to give up, and she will sacrifice whatever is necessary to save Penny’s family, whether the price is her rank, dignity, or even her life.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2018
397 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
About the author
Michael G. Manning
30 books2,094 followersMichael Manning was born in Cleveland, Texas and spent his formative years there, reading fantasy and science fiction, concocting home grown experiments in his backyard, and generally avoiding schoolwork.
Eventually he went to college, starting at Sam Houston State University, where his love of beer blossomed and his obsession with playing role-playing games led him to what he calls 'his best year ever' and what most of his family calls 'the lost year'.
Several years and a few crappy jobs later, he decided to pursue college again and was somehow accepted into the University of Houston Honors program (we won't get into the particulars of that miracle). This led to a degree in pharmacy and it followed from there that he wound up with a license to practice said profession.
Unfortunately, Michael was not a very good pharmacist. Being relatively lawless and free spirited were not particularly good traits to possess in a career focused on perfection, patient safety, and the letter-of-the-law. Nevertheless, he persisted and after a stint as a hospital pharmacy manager wound up as a pharmacist working in correctional managed care for the State of Texas.
He gave drugs to prisoners.
After a year or two at UTMB he became bored and taught himself entirely too much about networking, programming, and database design and administration. At first his supervisors warned him (repeatedly) to do his assigned tasks and stop designing programs to help his coworkers do theirs, but eventually they gave up and just let him do whatever he liked since it seemed to be generally working out well for them.
Ten or eleven years later and he got bored with that too. So he wrote a book. We won't talk about where he was when he wrote 'The Blacksmith's Son', but let's just assume he was probably supposed to be doing something else at the time.
Some people liked the book and told other people. Now they won't leave him alone.
After another year or two, he decided to just give up and stop pretending to be a pharmacist/programmer, much to the chagrin of his mother (who had only ever wanted him to grow up to be a doctor and had finally become content with the fact that he had settled on pharmacy instead).
Michael's wife supported his decision, even as she stubbornly refused to believe he would make any money at it. It turned out later that she was just telling him this because she knew that nothing made Michael more contrary than his never ending desire to prove her wrong. Once he was able to prove said fact she promptly admitted her tricky ruse and he has since given up on trying to win.
Today he lives at home with his stubborn wife, teenage twins, a giant moose-poodle, two yorkies, a green-cheeked conure, a massive prehistoric tortoise, and a head full of imaginary people. There are also some fish, but he refuses to talk about them.
Sign Up for Email Updates!
Eventually he went to college, starting at Sam Houston State University, where his love of beer blossomed and his obsession with playing role-playing games led him to what he calls 'his best year ever' and what most of his family calls 'the lost year'.
Several years and a few crappy jobs later, he decided to pursue college again and was somehow accepted into the University of Houston Honors program (we won't get into the particulars of that miracle). This led to a degree in pharmacy and it followed from there that he wound up with a license to practice said profession.
Unfortunately, Michael was not a very good pharmacist. Being relatively lawless and free spirited were not particularly good traits to possess in a career focused on perfection, patient safety, and the letter-of-the-law. Nevertheless, he persisted and after a stint as a hospital pharmacy manager wound up as a pharmacist working in correctional managed care for the State of Texas.
He gave drugs to prisoners.
After a year or two at UTMB he became bored and taught himself entirely too much about networking, programming, and database design and administration. At first his supervisors warned him (repeatedly) to do his assigned tasks and stop designing programs to help his coworkers do theirs, but eventually they gave up and just let him do whatever he liked since it seemed to be generally working out well for them.
Ten or eleven years later and he got bored with that too. So he wrote a book. We won't talk about where he was when he wrote 'The Blacksmith's Son', but let's just assume he was probably supposed to be doing something else at the time.
Some people liked the book and told other people. Now they won't leave him alone.
After another year or two, he decided to just give up and stop pretending to be a pharmacist/programmer, much to the chagrin of his mother (who had only ever wanted him to grow up to be a doctor and had finally become content with the fact that he had settled on pharmacy instead).
Michael's wife supported his decision, even as she stubbornly refused to believe he would make any money at it. It turned out later that she was just telling him this because she knew that nothing made Michael more contrary than his never ending desire to prove her wrong. Once he was able to prove said fact she promptly admitted her tricky ruse and he has since given up on trying to win.
Today he lives at home with his stubborn wife, teenage twins, a giant moose-poodle, two yorkies, a green-cheeked conure, a massive prehistoric tortoise, and a head full of imaginary people. There are also some fish, but he refuses to talk about them.
Sign Up for Email Updates!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 22, 2018
Things are rapidly changing for the entire Illeniel family and all residents of Albamarl and outlying areas in this book. It's amazing the way Manning is able to totally uproot you in the previous book and then make you cheer for the aftermath in the next. How is that humanly possible? I don't think it is, but somehow Manning is able to do just that.
The whole world seems to be in chaos as the title suggests yet through out the entire story, a thread of hope is being sown and you can't help but feel it's pull. I can not wait to see where the next episode takes the Illeniel family and me vicariously.
The whole world seems to be in chaos as the title suggests yet through out the entire story, a thread of hope is being sown and you can't help but feel it's pull. I can not wait to see where the next episode takes the Illeniel family and me vicariously.
May 24, 2018
I was really in shock the entire time reading this book. I know Mordecai was the one who was mourning the loss of Penny throughout, but there was so much going on, and so many characters in motion, there really wasn't a page where I wasn't riveted, and wondering "what in the hell could possibly happen next?" In many of the past books in the series, there was character and world growth, but this one expanded on the previous to the nth degree. I just wished this book had 1,000 more pages, but I guess that's why he writes sequels...like the proverbial chicken, he's just trying to get to the other side of the (dimensional) road. Keep up the writing!!!! Looking forward to the next book....August 2018?
September 2, 2018
I finished this in 1 day in July. I've checked every. single. day for the release of Transcendence and Rebellion. That ending though! 13 books in and this cliff hanger is nothing like any other. ROSE! He just... flew away?!!!! Please please please give us the next book!
June 3, 2018
This story is an intense nail-biting, teeth grinding, gut wrenching page turner with an ending that makes you want the next book ASAP! Mordecai, as usual, rushes to do the right thing and is caught in a web of deceit. His own son is used against him. His only support is Rose Thornbear.
This is the forth part series in the continuing Illeniel family saga. The first series is Mageborn. The second, Embers of Illeniel. The third, Champions of the Dawning Dragons. The books keep getting better and better. The plot of each series intertwine into one and I sense an epic conclusion in the making.
This is the forth part series in the continuing Illeniel family saga. The first series is Mageborn. The second, Embers of Illeniel. The third, Champions of the Dawning Dragons. The books keep getting better and better. The plot of each series intertwine into one and I sense an epic conclusion in the making.
May 25, 2018
Another tip-top adventure.
Wowsers.
Brilliant.
Fantastic.
Rollercoaster.
Inspiring.
Entertaining.
Page turner.
Emotional.
Shock.
Running out of superlatives, again thank you Mr Michael Manning.
Wowsers.
Brilliant.
Fantastic.
Rollercoaster.
Inspiring.
Entertaining.
Page turner.
Emotional.
Shock.
Running out of superlatives, again thank you Mr Michael Manning.
May 7, 2019
This is a great addition to the series. I don't think it's up there with the top ones, but it's exciting, and it has great drama.
A full review will appear on my blog in time.
A full review will appear on my blog in time.
May 23, 2018
Another great read
Manning doesnt disapoint with the latest tale The Servered realm. With a refreshig pace after the quick nature of the past few novels, allowing some great cameos from players putside the main family this was a great read. Looming forward to the next chapter, i only hope he can push it out as quickly as this one.
Manning doesnt disapoint with the latest tale The Servered realm. With a refreshig pace after the quick nature of the past few novels, allowing some great cameos from players putside the main family this was a great read. Looming forward to the next chapter, i only hope he can push it out as quickly as this one.
May 23, 2018
Awesome as usual!
This is a series you can't help but like. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is even remotely interested in fantasy.
This is a series you can't help but like. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is even remotely interested in fantasy.
May 24, 2018
Amazing as always
Another great book by Michael! Takes you into the world and keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole book!
Another great book by Michael! Takes you into the world and keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole book!
May 22, 2018
Another amazing story
I have no idea how this Author can write this well, this quickly, but I am thankful. He is weaving another exceptional tale, just when I thought he was at the end of this universe he has created. Go back and read The Blacksmith’s Son if you haven’t already.
I have no idea how this Author can write this well, this quickly, but I am thankful. He is weaving another exceptional tale, just when I thought he was at the end of this universe he has created. Go back and read The Blacksmith’s Son if you haven’t already.
May 23, 2018
Awesome
Love all the books anD this one is no exception can't wait for the next one
saint wait to see what happens next with the illenials
Love all the books anD this one is no exception can't wait for the next one
saint wait to see what happens next with the illenials
June 2, 2018
Dark
Again this series is much darker than previous. Tyrion is much more of a bastard than was portrayed in his series
Again this series is much darker than previous. Tyrion is much more of a bastard than was portrayed in his series
August 26, 2018
Another Awesome book
Wow. Poor Mordecai. He can’t keep himself out of trouble. Here again, the queen sits back and lets things fall where they will, then actually trusting others ahead of him after all he’s done for them?!?! Then he gets accused of something else he didn’t do. What is wrong with her? Clearly she listens to the wrong people. Not cool. I don’t believe the late James Lancaster...her father would ever approve of her treatment of Mort. I think I’d stay away from the Capitol...period. Cousin or not. I’m with Rose, if she had done the dirty work of taking care of her husband and his dirty deeds in the first place, no one else would have had to step in. She knew he was up to no good. Great read, tear jerker sometimes. You have to pick up this and read it. Loved it!!!
Wow. Poor Mordecai. He can’t keep himself out of trouble. Here again, the queen sits back and lets things fall where they will, then actually trusting others ahead of him after all he’s done for them?!?! Then he gets accused of something else he didn’t do. What is wrong with her? Clearly she listens to the wrong people. Not cool. I don’t believe the late James Lancaster...her father would ever approve of her treatment of Mort. I think I’d stay away from the Capitol...period. Cousin or not. I’m with Rose, if she had done the dirty work of taking care of her husband and his dirty deeds in the first place, no one else would have had to step in. She knew he was up to no good. Great read, tear jerker sometimes. You have to pick up this and read it. Loved it!!!
September 12, 2018
And again, you break my heart a little more...
Occasionally you come across an author that has the ability to completely draw not just your imagination but your emotions into a story. The characters become a vested part of you. Since the beginning I’ve always had a special place for Mordecai. As the series continues I find myself both elated and heartbroken all at once. The relatable problems you give each character is absolutely amazing. Your story (albeit fantasy) allows the reader to connect to the characters on a different level. Their joys, become our joys. Their triumphs, ours triumphs. Their pain, our pain. With each new book the depth of the characters only continue to grow. I recommend this series to anyone who wishes to totally immerse themselves into a different time. Enjoy the ride.
Occasionally you come across an author that has the ability to completely draw not just your imagination but your emotions into a story. The characters become a vested part of you. Since the beginning I’ve always had a special place for Mordecai. As the series continues I find myself both elated and heartbroken all at once. The relatable problems you give each character is absolutely amazing. Your story (albeit fantasy) allows the reader to connect to the characters on a different level. Their joys, become our joys. Their triumphs, ours triumphs. Their pain, our pain. With each new book the depth of the characters only continue to grow. I recommend this series to anyone who wishes to totally immerse themselves into a different time. Enjoy the ride.
October 10, 2018
4 to 4.5 stars, This book is very good and I like almost all of this authors books. This author creates the kind of books that I love to read. This is more of a transition book from book 1 to book 3 but it is still very good and well worth the read. The author has a way of connecting you to the characters directly and you can't help but feel their pain and frustration. I find myself constantly thinking about what I would do in there situation. The author's books have become darker and darker with each telling. I still love the characters but can't help but be constantly frustrated at their situation. This author is very talented and I am so invested in the story that I can't help but continue.
June 8, 2018
Another Captivating Page Turner by MgM
I have yet to ever find any of Michael G Manning’s books to be anything but what I’ve come to expect, perfect.
As a protagonist, Mordecai is my favorite. He’s flawed.. full of humor and knows how to hand out some serious hurt!
This one was a bit of a cliffhanger, so I wait eagerly for the conclusion to this series.
Thanks Michael. You never disappoint!
I have yet to ever find any of Michael G Manning’s books to be anything but what I’ve come to expect, perfect.
As a protagonist, Mordecai is my favorite. He’s flawed.. full of humor and knows how to hand out some serious hurt!
This one was a bit of a cliffhanger, so I wait eagerly for the conclusion to this series.
Thanks Michael. You never disappoint!
June 21, 2019
ever the savior
Mordicai mourns Penny and finds it hard to deal with castle life until Lancaster disappears. it becomes apparent, then, that something it translating Lothian and replacing it with places filled with ANSIS invaders. Gary and Matt begin to track them down. Mortgage has more than that to deal with. whispers about his cousin have reached him and his sense of protection begins to rise.
Mordicai mourns Penny and finds it hard to deal with castle life until Lancaster disappears. it becomes apparent, then, that something it translating Lothian and replacing it with places filled with ANSIS invaders. Gary and Matt begin to track them down. Mortgage has more than that to deal with. whispers about his cousin have reached him and his sense of protection begins to rise.
January 11, 2023
Severed Realm #2 - Mageborn #13
Mort gets himself into serious trouble while trying to be helpful, again. It will take family, friends, and every favor to avoid the hangman’s noose. Meanwhile, the real threat to mankind is still at large.
This book spends considerable time with one of my favorite characters in the series, Rose, as she plots Mort’s freedom. While the ending is very climactic, the epilogue is truly delicious!
Mort gets himself into serious trouble while trying to be helpful, again. It will take family, friends, and every favor to avoid the hangman’s noose. Meanwhile, the real threat to mankind is still at large.
This book spends considerable time with one of my favorite characters in the series, Rose, as she plots Mort’s freedom. While the ending is very climactic, the epilogue is truly delicious!
May 28, 2018
Another Great read.
Once again I was totally with the characters and feeling exactly what they felt. Michael has a real talent for bring you into the story and making you laugh, cry and grown at the characters. I can really imagine Mort playing with his beard and making up bad puns. As always looking forward to the next instalment.
Once again I was totally with the characters and feeling exactly what they felt. Michael has a real talent for bring you into the story and making you laugh, cry and grown at the characters. I can really imagine Mort playing with his beard and making up bad puns. As always looking forward to the next instalment.
October 12, 2018
MgM Baby! You have outdone yourself here my fine sir! This was very well done. And that ending! Simply masterful. I was introduced to this series with Book 1 of Embers of Illeniel and I have since devoured every book written by Mr. Manning with the exception of “Thomas” which I will now read as I wait for the next book.
March 29, 2020
Reading this book made me angry. Not in a good way, like 'omg I need to see this a**hole be punished' kind of angry, but more like 'why are all the powerful characters 100% p*ssies now' angry. Kingmaker bowing to a useless child queen? Come on! The Void is the only means to show spine left in the Illeniel family? Absolute dissapointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2020
Sooo I am torn, the overall story is still very good but it has the same issues as many of the other books where there is just a crap ton of plot holes! On top of that it feels like the author completely forgets what he has previously written! He is constantly contradicting things that have happened or almost forgets that they did happen!!! But overall the story is still great!
June 4, 2018
❤❤❤
LOVE this one. I've always admired Rose, and happily we spend a lot of time with her here. Michael introduced more layers of his "world", building on the plots within the plot.
LOVE this one. I've always admired Rose, and happily we spend a lot of time with her here. Michael introduced more layers of his "world", building on the plots within the plot.
June 5, 2018
Michael Manning is an engaging writer who always manages to snare me within a few pages of his books. A mix of humor & humanity in this series has kept me reading, & yearning for the next book. I’ll be very sad to read the finale, but will also eagerly await his next series, too.
June 6, 2018
WOW!! What can I say that hasn't already been said. I waited so long for Severed Realms to arrive and then I devour the book in 2 days. The first day I read slowly, I didn't do so well the second day, I couldn't put it down. Now I have to wait again. Micheal Manning you are a genius.
June 26, 2018
Good story and well written character
As always this series is wonderful. I am fascinated to see where it goes from here. Mort and company are an interesting and thought provoking cast of characters
As always this series is wonderful. I am fascinated to see where it goes from here. Mort and company are an interesting and thought provoking cast of characters
July 4, 2018
Fantastic
Another wonderful story from mr. Manning! Death and desire. Political intrigue and death by Brute Force. Parts will make you laugh out loud and others will make You Weep. Can't wait for the next installment!
Another wonderful story from mr. Manning! Death and desire. Political intrigue and death by Brute Force. Parts will make you laugh out loud and others will make You Weep. Can't wait for the next installment!
July 23, 2018
Unexpected developments
You think it's over, and then a new dimension is reviled within chapters of the series. It might just give you hope there is more to come than just the obvious
You think it's over, and then a new dimension is reviled within chapters of the series. It might just give you hope there is more to come than just the obvious
August 8, 2018
I love the story and have read all his books, but low rating is for excessive swearing. His first books had little use for the "F" word but now it seems to be wide spread in his novels. Too bad for now I can no longer hand recommend his books to friends and family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews