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Destroyer's Blood
Destroyer's Blood – Book 1 of The Blood Series: A Fantasy Novel by Michael Lynes
Dev shook his head, spitting out dust and rock chips. The last rays of the setting sun stained the ground crimson. "Betrayer," he murmured, ears still ringing from the terrific explosion, "we have a problem."
The cryptic message from Olympus changes everything... One moment Devcalion and Betrayer are free, climbing up Half Dome without a care in the world, the next they are dragged into battle with the Destroyer, Zeus's ancient foe.
The Dark Power is merciless, and time is running out. It's up to Dev and Tray to try to stop him, or the world of men and gods is doomed.
Book One of the Blood Series – Destroyer's Blood by award-winning author - Michael Lynes
- GenresFantasy
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2018
10 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Michael Lynes
30 books179 followersMICHAEL LYNES is the Award-Winning Author of The Blood Series. To date, the series has won the New Apply Literary, Indie BRAG Medallion, Readers Favorite for FANTASY and most recently the IAN Book of the Year Selection for Fantasy.
It begins with the novella "It's in the Blood". Continues with Destroyer's Blood and the NEW release Book Two - FIRST BLOOD is due out on November 1st 2019.
Book One - "Destroyer's Blood"
Reviewed By Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Destroyer's Blood: The Adventures of Devcalion is the first entry in The Blood Series by Michael Lynes, a gripping fantasy with strong hints of Greek mythology. Meet Devcalion, "Dev," a demigod, son of Prometheus and nephew of Zeus. He has a telepathic sword and a very close friend called Betrayer, "Tray". When we encounter Dev, he and his friend are climbing up Half Dome. An encounter with Hermes changes everything, driving Dev to the last place he wants to be -- Mt. Olympus. Dev and Tray are pulled into a war they never bargained for, a war against the greatest enemy of Zeus. With the darkest power in the universe bent on wreaking havoc, do they have any chance of surviving?
Destroyer's Blood has been awarded the Silver Medal for Fantasy in the Readers Favorite Awards for 2019 and has won an Indie B.R.A.G. Medallion for Fantasy. It also won the Solo Medalist in the New Apple Summer eBook Awards for 2019. Book Two - "First Blood" will be released in November of 2019.
His short story collection, "The Fat Man Gets Out of Bed", was chosen solo Medalist Winner in the 2017 New Apple Summer Indie Book awards.
His memoir, "There Is A Reaper: Losing a Child to Cancer", was an Indie B.R.A.G. Gold Medallion Honoree in January 2017, a silver-medal winner of the 2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards for Memoir, a medalist in the 2015 New Apple Book Awards for Memoir, a winner of the 2015 TISBA (The Indie Spiritual Book Awards), and a finalist in both the Independent Author Network 2015 Book of the Year award and the Beverly Hills Book Awards for 2015.
Most recently Mr. Lynes has been a Contributing Author to the 2019 Ghostly Rites Anthology.
Mr. Lynes was awarded a BSEE degree in Electrical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology and currently works as an embedded software engineer. He has four sons, has been married for over thirty years, and currently lives with his wife and youngest son in the beautiful secluded hills of Sussex County, New Jersey.
It begins with the novella "It's in the Blood". Continues with Destroyer's Blood and the NEW release Book Two - FIRST BLOOD is due out on November 1st 2019.
Book One - "Destroyer's Blood"
Reviewed By Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Destroyer's Blood: The Adventures of Devcalion is the first entry in The Blood Series by Michael Lynes, a gripping fantasy with strong hints of Greek mythology. Meet Devcalion, "Dev," a demigod, son of Prometheus and nephew of Zeus. He has a telepathic sword and a very close friend called Betrayer, "Tray". When we encounter Dev, he and his friend are climbing up Half Dome. An encounter with Hermes changes everything, driving Dev to the last place he wants to be -- Mt. Olympus. Dev and Tray are pulled into a war they never bargained for, a war against the greatest enemy of Zeus. With the darkest power in the universe bent on wreaking havoc, do they have any chance of surviving?
Destroyer's Blood has been awarded the Silver Medal for Fantasy in the Readers Favorite Awards for 2019 and has won an Indie B.R.A.G. Medallion for Fantasy. It also won the Solo Medalist in the New Apple Summer eBook Awards for 2019. Book Two - "First Blood" will be released in November of 2019.
His short story collection, "The Fat Man Gets Out of Bed", was chosen solo Medalist Winner in the 2017 New Apple Summer Indie Book awards.
His memoir, "There Is A Reaper: Losing a Child to Cancer", was an Indie B.R.A.G. Gold Medallion Honoree in January 2017, a silver-medal winner of the 2016 Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards for Memoir, a medalist in the 2015 New Apple Book Awards for Memoir, a winner of the 2015 TISBA (The Indie Spiritual Book Awards), and a finalist in both the Independent Author Network 2015 Book of the Year award and the Beverly Hills Book Awards for 2015.
Most recently Mr. Lynes has been a Contributing Author to the 2019 Ghostly Rites Anthology.
Mr. Lynes was awarded a BSEE degree in Electrical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology and currently works as an embedded software engineer. He has four sons, has been married for over thirty years, and currently lives with his wife and youngest son in the beautiful secluded hills of Sussex County, New Jersey.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 23, 2019
A demi-god and his sword…
I highly recommend Michael Lynes The Blood Series, starting with It’s In the Blood and following with Destroyer’s Blood. If you are into Mythology/Gods, this is the series for you. Sometimes when you’ve read/listen to books in the same genre it’s difficult to find something new/keep interest, but this is not the case with The Blood Series.
Both books kept me engaged from start to finish. They are fast-paced, with great characters, awesome narration, and fun banter between Devcalion “Dev” (the MC) and Betrayer “Tray” (his sword). I devoured It’s In the Blood in one listen and would have done the same with Destroyer’s Blood had it not been for life responsibilities calling…
Some things to expect: Gods such as Zeus, Typhon, Adrestia, Prometheus, Gaia (and more), loyalty, fighting, sarcastic humor between Dev and Tray, great world building/characters/dialogue, samurai influences. There is an echo type sound effect added when certain Gods are talking, so if this isn’t your thing, consider listening to a sample before purchasing.
The narrator, David Bosco, was fantastic! He definitely helped make these books fun and added to the story. He’s one to watch out for to do great things with narration.
I am looking forward to more books in this series. The author and narrator make a perfect team.
Overall, I recommend and will not say much more due to spoilers. Your safe bet is to try the short story, It’s In the Blood, and if you enjoy that, you will enjoy Destroyer’s Blood.
Parental guidance/trigger warnings: whore used once (in first book), hell (Hell’s Kitchen referenced a couple times), breast is mentioned numerous times (grief rose in my breast/I could feel the softness of her breast/his chin slumped onto his breast/mostly non-sexual usage of word), death, fighting, weapons such as swords/knives, engagement to another God that was forced and didn’t work out, a mention of an unclothed woman (not in detail), mention of a kiss (not in detail- “our lips met”). Considering the content, they are fairly clean books.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
I highly recommend Michael Lynes The Blood Series, starting with It’s In the Blood and following with Destroyer’s Blood. If you are into Mythology/Gods, this is the series for you. Sometimes when you’ve read/listen to books in the same genre it’s difficult to find something new/keep interest, but this is not the case with The Blood Series.
Both books kept me engaged from start to finish. They are fast-paced, with great characters, awesome narration, and fun banter between Devcalion “Dev” (the MC) and Betrayer “Tray” (his sword). I devoured It’s In the Blood in one listen and would have done the same with Destroyer’s Blood had it not been for life responsibilities calling…
Some things to expect: Gods such as Zeus, Typhon, Adrestia, Prometheus, Gaia (and more), loyalty, fighting, sarcastic humor between Dev and Tray, great world building/characters/dialogue, samurai influences. There is an echo type sound effect added when certain Gods are talking, so if this isn’t your thing, consider listening to a sample before purchasing.
The narrator, David Bosco, was fantastic! He definitely helped make these books fun and added to the story. He’s one to watch out for to do great things with narration.
I am looking forward to more books in this series. The author and narrator make a perfect team.
Overall, I recommend and will not say much more due to spoilers. Your safe bet is to try the short story, It’s In the Blood, and if you enjoy that, you will enjoy Destroyer’s Blood.
Parental guidance/trigger warnings: whore used once (in first book), hell (Hell’s Kitchen referenced a couple times), breast is mentioned numerous times (grief rose in my breast/I could feel the softness of her breast/his chin slumped onto his breast/mostly non-sexual usage of word), death, fighting, weapons such as swords/knives, engagement to another God that was forced and didn’t work out, a mention of an unclothed woman (not in detail), mention of a kiss (not in detail- “our lips met”). Considering the content, they are fairly clean books.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
July 28, 2019
I listened to a short story with these characters from this author and narrator earlier this year. This is a great continuation. The take on Greek mythology is very interesting. The story is non stop action and very entertaining. I highly recommend this author and this narrator.
David Bosco is an excellent narrator and brings life to every character.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
David Bosco is an excellent narrator and brings life to every character.
I was voluntarily provided this review copy at no charge by the author, publisher and or narrator.
June 22, 2020
Destroyer's Blood is a great read, especially if you love Greek Mythology. The relationship between Dev and his sword keeps the book moving forward and his relationship to the rest of the pantheon was well-worked. It's an incredible journey and I'm anxious to read more. Sarcasm and swordplay, Gods and romance...there's a little of everything in here...well done.
January 14, 2019
My Review
Okay, so the Greek gods and goddesses have always fascinated me, it might be because I would like to be immortal and have some cool powers, I don't know, I'm just saying. Throughout the book we meet some of the famous Greek gods and goddesses, there's Zeus, Prometheus, Gaia, and Hades.
Within the pages of this book, we meet many mythical creatures, gods, demi-gods, Titans, some icky harpies, a gorgon. Well, we're talking about Olympus after all so be prepared to meet quite a few interesting characters.
There are some cool Samurai/sword fighting, which I love. Lynes actually mentioned some of the sword fighting moves/stance that is being used, some of which I had to look up to get the visual in my mind. Here's an example ko-gasumi no kamae stance. Some famous Samurais are referenced as well as the weapon's used by Dev.
"Faster than the eye, I drew her forth, assuming a ko-gasumi no kamae stance, my arms extended, her razor-sharp edge held crosswise before me."
Destroyer's Blood is a fantastic story to be sure told by Protagonist Devcalion, a Demi-god, chosen by his father as Guardians of men and the Defender of the Light and son of Prometheus. Devcalion and his sentient magical sword Betrayer, yes Betrayer, that is her name. I love Betrayer, she is one complete badass, I wish I could say more about her, but I don't want to spoil anything. I also love Hermes, he had me LOL a few times, especially when I first met him, okay I'm not saying anything else here either. Then there's Adrestia, Devcalion's betrothed, another total badass.
The world building was well developed and I enjoyed the flips between our world and Olympia. The prose flows well and the story is absolutely amazing. Let me tell the view of Tartarus is scary as hell (pun intended). The language is good or should I say languages, there's also a little bit of French and Latin. A couple of accents as well, when I met Hephaestus, I was like what's he saying lol, but only for a moment. I just had to pay attention to what he's saying and then I was good. Hephaestus is such an awesome character.
There is an evil driven to destroy not only Olympia but also Earth. Zeus the all-god must choose a champion(s) to destroy this evil. Can the evil be stopped? Already, it's taken the lives of gods.
The pace of the book is nice and steady when the action comes, it's worth it. I mean hello, we're talking about gods and demi-gods fighting here, of course, it's awesome. As we already know, when it comes to the gods, there's always fighting amongst themselves, here it's no different. We will witness an unflinching betrayal(s) that may or may not come as a surprise, for when one holds power some always want to possess more and until all is destroyed.
I enjoyed reading this book, and recommend it to all, it's a true journey to Olympia, a wonderful blend of fantasy and mythology. If you enjoy Greek mythology, magic, realism, telepathic abilities and so much more, then give this book a go.
This is book 1 of a trilogy, I look forward to reading the other two. Read the Prequel to Destroyer's blood. It's in the Blood.
Okay, so the Greek gods and goddesses have always fascinated me, it might be because I would like to be immortal and have some cool powers, I don't know, I'm just saying. Throughout the book we meet some of the famous Greek gods and goddesses, there's Zeus, Prometheus, Gaia, and Hades.
Within the pages of this book, we meet many mythical creatures, gods, demi-gods, Titans, some icky harpies, a gorgon. Well, we're talking about Olympus after all so be prepared to meet quite a few interesting characters.
There are some cool Samurai/sword fighting, which I love. Lynes actually mentioned some of the sword fighting moves/stance that is being used, some of which I had to look up to get the visual in my mind. Here's an example ko-gasumi no kamae stance. Some famous Samurais are referenced as well as the weapon's used by Dev.
"Faster than the eye, I drew her forth, assuming a ko-gasumi no kamae stance, my arms extended, her razor-sharp edge held crosswise before me."
Destroyer's Blood is a fantastic story to be sure told by Protagonist Devcalion, a Demi-god, chosen by his father as Guardians of men and the Defender of the Light and son of Prometheus. Devcalion and his sentient magical sword Betrayer, yes Betrayer, that is her name. I love Betrayer, she is one complete badass, I wish I could say more about her, but I don't want to spoil anything. I also love Hermes, he had me LOL a few times, especially when I first met him, okay I'm not saying anything else here either. Then there's Adrestia, Devcalion's betrothed, another total badass.
The world building was well developed and I enjoyed the flips between our world and Olympia. The prose flows well and the story is absolutely amazing. Let me tell the view of Tartarus is scary as hell (pun intended). The language is good or should I say languages, there's also a little bit of French and Latin. A couple of accents as well, when I met Hephaestus, I was like what's he saying lol, but only for a moment. I just had to pay attention to what he's saying and then I was good. Hephaestus is such an awesome character.
There is an evil driven to destroy not only Olympia but also Earth. Zeus the all-god must choose a champion(s) to destroy this evil. Can the evil be stopped? Already, it's taken the lives of gods.
The pace of the book is nice and steady when the action comes, it's worth it. I mean hello, we're talking about gods and demi-gods fighting here, of course, it's awesome. As we already know, when it comes to the gods, there's always fighting amongst themselves, here it's no different. We will witness an unflinching betrayal(s) that may or may not come as a surprise, for when one holds power some always want to possess more and until all is destroyed.
I enjoyed reading this book, and recommend it to all, it's a true journey to Olympia, a wonderful blend of fantasy and mythology. If you enjoy Greek mythology, magic, realism, telepathic abilities and so much more, then give this book a go.
This is book 1 of a trilogy, I look forward to reading the other two. Read the Prequel to Destroyer's blood. It's in the Blood.
January 19, 2019
*Book provided by the author in exchange of an honest review*
PLOT/STORYLINE
Destroyer's world provides a new dimension to the world of Greek mythology where we see an action-packed adventure throughout the journey of Dev, the protagonist. This book gave me a lot of vibes similar to that of Percy Jackson, but the plot was unique, well built, and with lots of sword fighting between some kick-ass characters. There were a lot of varying elements like realism, magic as well some bits of languages like French and Latin. Samurai was also depicted withing this book. It was really refreshing to see such vivid and diverse elements present in a story. Usually, fantasy books are HUGE. And maybe that is the reason I stay at an arm's distance from them, but Destroyer's blood is of only 350 pages, with descriptions that actually matter. It was a quick read and some of the surprises or plot twists were mind-blowing.
CHARACTERS / RELATIONSHIPS
Before I talk about Dev and Betrayer (Yes, that's the name of a sword.) , there were other characters that I think were very well crafted. Like Adrestia and Hades. Some had me laughing and some had me on the edge of my seat, but I felt nothing but love towards tray and Dev. Betrayer is Dev's sword (my favorite tbh) and they can communicate through thoughts (Nevernight feels ahh) I loved the relationship between them and I loved how she was a constant support to Dev..and the ending in relevance to their relationship...IamsorrybutIcannotsay. The Character dimension of Hades was sort of different in this book compared to his character in others, which was quite intriguing.
WRITING
While I do agree that some of the passages and instances in the story were written brilliantly in such a way that it made the story more riveting and rich but the overall writing could have been better. There were a lot of descriptions and like action scenes which is fine and good But I personally prefer more dialogues. Another issue I had was that the chapters end at a certain point and the next chapter's scene takes place hours after the last one, and the author describes what has happened in those time lapses instead of showing it.
OVERALL
I really liked Destroyer's blood and I cannot wait for the next part. Fantasy is not exactly my cup of tea, so I don't read a lot of those but I don't at all regret delving into the exciting world of olympus, gods, and demi-gods. Destroyer's blood is a tale that sticks with you as you find yourself rooting for the end of evil in the book. a Must read for ALL.
PLOT/STORYLINE
Destroyer's world provides a new dimension to the world of Greek mythology where we see an action-packed adventure throughout the journey of Dev, the protagonist. This book gave me a lot of vibes similar to that of Percy Jackson, but the plot was unique, well built, and with lots of sword fighting between some kick-ass characters. There were a lot of varying elements like realism, magic as well some bits of languages like French and Latin. Samurai was also depicted withing this book. It was really refreshing to see such vivid and diverse elements present in a story. Usually, fantasy books are HUGE. And maybe that is the reason I stay at an arm's distance from them, but Destroyer's blood is of only 350 pages, with descriptions that actually matter. It was a quick read and some of the surprises or plot twists were mind-blowing.
CHARACTERS / RELATIONSHIPS
Before I talk about Dev and Betrayer (Yes, that's the name of a sword.) , there were other characters that I think were very well crafted. Like Adrestia and Hades. Some had me laughing and some had me on the edge of my seat, but I felt nothing but love towards tray and Dev. Betrayer is Dev's sword (my favorite tbh) and they can communicate through thoughts (Nevernight feels ahh) I loved the relationship between them and I loved how she was a constant support to Dev..and the ending in relevance to their relationship...IamsorrybutIcannotsay. The Character dimension of Hades was sort of different in this book compared to his character in others, which was quite intriguing.
WRITING
While I do agree that some of the passages and instances in the story were written brilliantly in such a way that it made the story more riveting and rich but the overall writing could have been better. There were a lot of descriptions and like action scenes which is fine and good But I personally prefer more dialogues. Another issue I had was that the chapters end at a certain point and the next chapter's scene takes place hours after the last one, and the author describes what has happened in those time lapses instead of showing it.
OVERALL
I really liked Destroyer's blood and I cannot wait for the next part. Fantasy is not exactly my cup of tea, so I don't read a lot of those but I don't at all regret delving into the exciting world of olympus, gods, and demi-gods. Destroyer's blood is a tale that sticks with you as you find yourself rooting for the end of evil in the book. a Must read for ALL.
October 16, 2023
I've had my eye on Destroyer's Blood (Blood Series, #1) by Michael Lynes for a while, and it finally percolated up to the top of my TBR. Read on for my thoughts on this multiple award-winning and intriguing take on Greek mythology!
Synopsis (from the author):
Blood is mightier than the Sword.
Dev is a Master Thief, the son of Prometheus, and a bad-boy with a talking magic sword called Betrayer.
Newly named the Protector of Men by his Titan father, he and Tray prefer to stay far away from Olympus and the squabbles of the Gods. That is until Hermes interrupts them as they climb up Half-Dome with an urgent summons from Zeus.
Before he can finish, his body is torn to shreds by their Enemy. . .the DESTROYER.
Dev shook his head, spitting out dust and rock chips. The last rays of the setting sun stained the ground crimson. "Betrayer," he murmured, ears still ringing from the terrific explosion, "we have a problem."
The cryptic message from Olympus changes everything... One moment Devcalion and Betrayer are free, climbing up Half Dome without a care in the world, the next they are dragged into battle with the Destroyer, Zeus's ancient foe.
The Dark Power is merciless, and time is running out. It's up to Dev and Tray to try to stop him, or the world of men and gods is doomed.
What I liked about Destroyer's Blood (Blood Series, #1):
I really enjoyed the twist on Greek mythology. Dev and Betrayer and their snarky dialogue was fun. The plot moved along nicely, and the story had plenty of action and twists and turns. The ending was unexpected and satisfying. Overall, a fun and interesting read!
What I didn't like about Destroyer's Blood (Blood Series, #1)
There were a couple of strange transitions when changing POVs, and a few scenes took too long to develop. Other than that, no complaints!
Overall impression of Destroyer's Blood (Blood Series, #1)
Destroyer's Blood was a fun, action-packed book. With a neat twist on Greek mythology and snarky heroes, it kept me turning the pages. If you like Greek mythology and some excellent fantasy elements, read this one!
My rating:
4.5 Stars (rounded to 5 Stars)
Synopsis (from the author):
Blood is mightier than the Sword.
Dev is a Master Thief, the son of Prometheus, and a bad-boy with a talking magic sword called Betrayer.
Newly named the Protector of Men by his Titan father, he and Tray prefer to stay far away from Olympus and the squabbles of the Gods. That is until Hermes interrupts them as they climb up Half-Dome with an urgent summons from Zeus.
Before he can finish, his body is torn to shreds by their Enemy. . .the DESTROYER.
Dev shook his head, spitting out dust and rock chips. The last rays of the setting sun stained the ground crimson. "Betrayer," he murmured, ears still ringing from the terrific explosion, "we have a problem."
The cryptic message from Olympus changes everything... One moment Devcalion and Betrayer are free, climbing up Half Dome without a care in the world, the next they are dragged into battle with the Destroyer, Zeus's ancient foe.
The Dark Power is merciless, and time is running out. It's up to Dev and Tray to try to stop him, or the world of men and gods is doomed.
What I liked about Destroyer's Blood (Blood Series, #1):
I really enjoyed the twist on Greek mythology. Dev and Betrayer and their snarky dialogue was fun. The plot moved along nicely, and the story had plenty of action and twists and turns. The ending was unexpected and satisfying. Overall, a fun and interesting read!
What I didn't like about Destroyer's Blood (Blood Series, #1)
There were a couple of strange transitions when changing POVs, and a few scenes took too long to develop. Other than that, no complaints!
Overall impression of Destroyer's Blood (Blood Series, #1)
Destroyer's Blood was a fun, action-packed book. With a neat twist on Greek mythology and snarky heroes, it kept me turning the pages. If you like Greek mythology and some excellent fantasy elements, read this one!
My rating:
4.5 Stars (rounded to 5 Stars)
March 1, 2020
This is the second book I’ve read/listened to by this author and I would gladly listen to another. This book is a continuation of a short story in his The Fat Man Gets Out Of Bed compilation. I like the interpretation of the Greek Gods and the subtle insertion of the tale into modern times.
This is the eighth book I’ve listened to by this narrator ( David Bosco ). The first book of his I listened to, I really did not like. His narration was okay, but I couldn’t get into the story and the God’s voices were done in a loud, echoing effect that did not appeal to me at all. I probably would not have picked up another except he contacted me offering me two more books to give things another try. I’m glad he did! I’ve enjoyed everything since. This book also has ‘God’ voices with an effect to them and also an effect for when the character is speaking telepathically. These were much better done and did not have the long echo and were also not overpowering in volume.
I’ve gotten a much better respect for his performance capabilities as well. Due to the number of characters in this book, he brings out several new (to me) voices and his ability to impart personality and differentiation to each was impressive. His use of accents was also well done.
There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review.
Please feel free to comment on whether you found my review helpful.
Story 4/5
Narration 5/5
This is the eighth book I’ve listened to by this narrator ( David Bosco ). The first book of his I listened to, I really did not like. His narration was okay, but I couldn’t get into the story and the God’s voices were done in a loud, echoing effect that did not appeal to me at all. I probably would not have picked up another except he contacted me offering me two more books to give things another try. I’m glad he did! I’ve enjoyed everything since. This book also has ‘God’ voices with an effect to them and also an effect for when the character is speaking telepathically. These were much better done and did not have the long echo and were also not overpowering in volume.
I’ve gotten a much better respect for his performance capabilities as well. Due to the number of characters in this book, he brings out several new (to me) voices and his ability to impart personality and differentiation to each was impressive. His use of accents was also well done.
There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review.
Please feel free to comment on whether you found my review helpful.
Story 4/5
Narration 5/5
November 10, 2018
This is a fantasy about a young Greek demi-god Devcalion “Dev” and his sword, and closest friend, the Betrayer “Tray”. Although his father is Prometheus and uncle is Zeus, it starts out with Dev doing a normal human activity climbing half-dome, with his telepathic sword after several months of hiking. Dev runs into a relative during a fall, Hermes, who has a warning for him. This message changes Dev’s carefree life and leads him back to Mt. Olympus—or a place he hates. Here things happen quickly that could throw him into a task with someone he’d rather avoid. The characters pulled me into the story. I really enjoyed the relationship between Dev and Tray including their inner communications and battles. There were a lot of details, so you could easily imagine his god-filled world. I don’t want to give away any of the surprises in the story, but some of the descriptions had me wanting to take a long shower after reading them. This is a well-written story of a complicated relationship between not only a young man and his father and uncle, but someone who considers himself an outsider. Dev had to learn what he, and others, were capable of, besides learning what was important to him. If you love fantasy with lots of intrigue and plenty of action this is the book for you. I eagerly await the second book in this series.
March 21, 2019
Devcalion; the illegitimate son of Prometheus, has inherited the glorious titles of his father. Prometheus; Defender of the Flame, Guardian of Men, Bestowal of Fire, Father of Man, Stewart of the Earth, and Defender of Men. So many titles attributed to one god. This has not gone without notice of the other citizens of Olympus and beyond. Something or someone is possessing and corrupting the gods of Olympus, forcing them to attack the other gods. Typhon, Father of All Monsters, has been accused in the ages-old feud between Typhon and Zeus for control of Olympus. We are presented with Olympian treachery and politics. Can Devcalion be named Champion and stop the madness? This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.
December 10, 2018
It was amazing how quickly I was draw into the world of Dev the demi-god protagonist in Destroyer’s Blood. Dev having a telepathic conversation with his magical sword while rock climbing immediately felt as commonplace as someone brushing their teeth. Similarly, listening to conversations between two gods seemed instantly familiar. And yet this tale is clearly set in the present as indicated by references to an iPhone! The author’s ability to set the scene really makes you feel you are in the heart of the action here and there’s plenty of that! I heartily recommend this book for its ability to quickly engage the reader fully and carry you away!
May 19, 2019
This is a fantasy story about a young Greek demi-god, Devcalion, who is the illegitimate son of Prometheus and has a special relationship with his sword. It all stars quite normal but then a series of discoveries and choices will put him on the spotlight.
A well-written book, full of action and with high doses of Greek mythology, this one is a solid story.
My problem is that I'm having a hard time enjoying fantasy books, despite how good they are written. However, I think that fantasy lovers and those who are into Greek gods and goddesses will enjoy this one.
*** I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
A well-written book, full of action and with high doses of Greek mythology, this one is a solid story.
My problem is that I'm having a hard time enjoying fantasy books, despite how good they are written. However, I think that fantasy lovers and those who are into Greek gods and goddesses will enjoy this one.
*** I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
November 11, 2019
A rattling good yarn which brings the world of ancient Greek mythology to life with a modern twist that's sees a young Demi-God of a hero accompanied by the best side kick of a weapon since Elric of Melniboné. Tray is entirely believable and a superb foil to our hero Devcalion.
The modern idioms and speech patterns fit brilliantly well alongside fleshed out, well explored Godly realms inhabited by names well and lesser known.
This book is great fun and I cant wait to read more in the promised forthcoming series.
The modern idioms and speech patterns fit brilliantly well alongside fleshed out, well explored Godly realms inhabited by names well and lesser known.
This book is great fun and I cant wait to read more in the promised forthcoming series.
March 11, 2019
Full review here:
https://bookstoldmeso.blogspot.com/20...
A few good things, like the traditional scheming of the gods and the mythology backing it all up. But then the narrative and plot lost flow-moment soon after the beginning, which put me off efficiently.
https://bookstoldmeso.blogspot.com/20...
A few good things, like the traditional scheming of the gods and the mythology backing it all up. But then the narrative and plot lost flow-moment soon after the beginning, which put me off efficiently.
May 13, 2019
We are proud to announce that DESTROYER'S BLOOD by Michael Lynes is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!
June 13, 2020
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Destroyer's Blood – Book 1 of The Blood Series
Author: Michael Lynes
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 16
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 16 readers:
16 would read another book by this author.
15 thought the cover was good or excellent.
16 felt it was easy to follow.
16 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 9 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
16 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘Complex, might character set in a cleverly imagined mythical world. Very enjoyable.’ Male reader, aged 53
‘Myths and legends packed int a solid adventure story. Tons happening all of the time, this is a gem of a read. Fans of fantasy adventure will find this book thrilling.’ Female reader, aged 36
‘Loved all the gods and the swordplay. The author knows how to keep up the pacing. Possibly a little too much telling and not showing but, other than that, this is perfect fodder for the fantasy lover. A little romance, a lot of fighting and plenty of intrigue.’ Female reader, aged 41
‘This author is pretty talented. He works particularly well with speech, keeping it short, snappy, and often rather funny. Good balance between character development and gung-ho adventure. Loved the talking sword, Betrayer. Very dark!!!’ Female reader, aged 63
To Sum It Up:
‘A gripping mythical adventure fantasy fans will love. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Destroyer's Blood – Book 1 of The Blood Series
Author: Michael Lynes
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 16
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 9/10
Of the 16 readers:
16 would read another book by this author.
15 thought the cover was good or excellent.
16 felt it was easy to follow.
16 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 9 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
16 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘Complex, might character set in a cleverly imagined mythical world. Very enjoyable.’ Male reader, aged 53
‘Myths and legends packed int a solid adventure story. Tons happening all of the time, this is a gem of a read. Fans of fantasy adventure will find this book thrilling.’ Female reader, aged 36
‘Loved all the gods and the swordplay. The author knows how to keep up the pacing. Possibly a little too much telling and not showing but, other than that, this is perfect fodder for the fantasy lover. A little romance, a lot of fighting and plenty of intrigue.’ Female reader, aged 41
‘This author is pretty talented. He works particularly well with speech, keeping it short, snappy, and often rather funny. Good balance between character development and gung-ho adventure. Loved the talking sword, Betrayer. Very dark!!!’ Female reader, aged 63
To Sum It Up:
‘A gripping mythical adventure fantasy fans will love. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
October 24, 2019
Sword In Hand
The Titans and the gods of Olympus are not dead and gone, they just operate in the background these days. But the balance of power has shifted and the future of mankind is on the line. David Bosco clearly had a wonderful time voicing the characters for the audio as they swashbuckle through history and move through dimensions. I regret I am not sufficiently conversant in Greek mythology to know how much is a dramatic retelling and how much is pure imagination based on the ancient tales, but I fully enjoyed the story!
The Titans and the gods of Olympus are not dead and gone, they just operate in the background these days. But the balance of power has shifted and the future of mankind is on the line. David Bosco clearly had a wonderful time voicing the characters for the audio as they swashbuckle through history and move through dimensions. I regret I am not sufficiently conversant in Greek mythology to know how much is a dramatic retelling and how much is pure imagination based on the ancient tales, but I fully enjoyed the story!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews