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Tales of the Seventh #3
A Dark Foretoken
The best-selling, award-winning author of Stiger's Tigers delivers the next action-packed installment in the Tales of the Seventh series.Where a Stiger goes, death follows…Stiger has survived the brutal ordeal at Fort Covenant, which saw his company shattered and an enemy army destroyed. The campaign season has finally drawn to a close, and Stiger is looking forward to the relatively quiet months ahead as the snow falls across the land and his company regains its strength.Stiger is slowly being accepted into the legion. There are still some who seek to make him feel like an outcast. Can he ever prove himself, or will he bear the shame of dishonor to the end of his days?Unexpectedly, he finds himself summoned to see the general. Stiger is dispatched on a critical mission for the empire. He must travel to the island kingdom of Thresh to deliver a message and a large quantity of gold. Despite the mission’s importance, it seems like an easy a march through friendly territory well away from the enemy and a short journey by sea aboard an imperial warship. He brings only a handful of men, including an elven ranger and a paladin of the High Father.But before Stiger can even make it to Thresh, he stumbles upon a horrifying evil that has the potential to threaten everything, including the legion’s survival. Trapped and cut off from help, he must face this insidious darkness or die in the attempt.Set amidst the backdrop of an epic war, there are greater forces at work than the young Stiger can begin to imagine, and he must confront them or all will be lost.His path down the long road to destiny has begun.A Dark Foretoken is set in the Stiger Chronicles universe.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2019
453 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Marc Alan Edelheit
49 books866 followersBestselling author Marc Edelheit has traveled the world, from Asia to Europe, at one point crossing the border at Check Point Charlie in Berlin toward the end of the Cold War.
Marc is the ultimate history fan and incorporates much of that passion into his work to bring greater realism to his fans. He is also an avid reader, devouring several books per week, ranging from history to science fiction and fantasy.
Marc is the ultimate history fan and incorporates much of that passion into his work to bring greater realism to his fans. He is also an avid reader, devouring several books per week, ranging from history to science fiction and fantasy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 7, 2022
A dark foretoken indeed
This story of Captain Stiger, the Elven ranger Eli and the Palladin Father Griggs is truly a dark foretoken of what the future holds for them, the empire and the world of Tannis. On the way to a city named Thresh with a gift of gold to begin diplomatic maneuvers, the companions clash with corrupt officers of their own government and army. Unexpectedly, the problem rapidly grows into an armed conflict and an eventual confrontation with pure evil. They never do get to Thresh in this volume.
My favorite quote from the book: "No one is perfect. We all sin, in big ways or small, in thought or by deed."
My only problem with Marc Alan Edelheit is that I read much faster than he can write. I do, however, value quality over quantity and Mr. Edelheit consistently delivers quality.
This story of Captain Stiger, the Elven ranger Eli and the Palladin Father Griggs is truly a dark foretoken of what the future holds for them, the empire and the world of Tannis. On the way to a city named Thresh with a gift of gold to begin diplomatic maneuvers, the companions clash with corrupt officers of their own government and army. Unexpectedly, the problem rapidly grows into an armed conflict and an eventual confrontation with pure evil. They never do get to Thresh in this volume.
My favorite quote from the book: "No one is perfect. We all sin, in big ways or small, in thought or by deed."
My only problem with Marc Alan Edelheit is that I read much faster than he can write. I do, however, value quality over quantity and Mr. Edelheit consistently delivers quality.
March 8, 2022
Thoroughly enjoy these Stiger books. The combination of Stiger, Eli, Sgt. Tiro, and Father Griggs are so well written that I feel I know these entertaining characters and always look forward to another adventure. Steven Brand does an excellent job of narration.
July 1, 2019
What a great story! Boy, are you in for a ride if you read this! For some context, I read MAE's (The author's initials) Chronicles of an Imperial Legionary Officer book 3, and am currently on book 4. I also have the Karus Saga in my TBR. If you haven't read the Chronicles, you can start with this series, as this series is the prequel series to the Chronicles series. But if you start with Chronicles, and start this series like I did, that's fine too. It won't ruin much at all, as MAE wrote the Chronicles series first.
If you liked Eragon and Lord of the Rings, you will like this. This author is one of the best fantasy authors out there, and his books are thrilling. The plot, strategies, enemies, and so on didn't feel recycled at all. There's a war going on, so even if there was some repetition, it wouldn't be that bad. There are only two general outcomes to a fight anyways. You win, or you lose. Fights are simple. Shield wall, repel enemy, archers, etc. But despite the protracted nature of battle, this series hasn't failed to amaze me.
You'd think nothing bad would happen to the MC, seeing as how the mission is a simple one. But something bad indeed, does happen. I won't spoil it for you, but it all feels very real, and if you are looking for action-packed fighting, without unnecessary descriptions, then this book is for you.
If you liked Eragon and Lord of the Rings, you will like this. This author is one of the best fantasy authors out there, and his books are thrilling. The plot, strategies, enemies, and so on didn't feel recycled at all. There's a war going on, so even if there was some repetition, it wouldn't be that bad. There are only two general outcomes to a fight anyways. You win, or you lose. Fights are simple. Shield wall, repel enemy, archers, etc. But despite the protracted nature of battle, this series hasn't failed to amaze me.
You'd think nothing bad would happen to the MC, seeing as how the mission is a simple one. But something bad indeed, does happen. I won't spoil it for you, but it all feels very real, and if you are looking for action-packed fighting, without unnecessary descriptions, then this book is for you.
April 29, 2019
"Where paladins went, death usually travelled as a close companion "
Fresh off the devastating loss at Fort Covenant, Stiger is ready for some down time. Tactical genius, General Triem has other plans for Stiger. Stiger and a group of select few are ordered to depart on a critically sensitive mission for the empire. It's strictly "hush hush" as there are spies about. Stiger's group consists of about 26 people, including himself, Tiro, and the elf Eli. Before departing, Father Griggs confesses that he too has felt the call to join this mission. We all know by now that nothing good comes from a Paladin on quest..... As they travel they find that something is wrong, very wrong....
Dark Foretoken has it all: suspense, action, comedy, friendship, hate, and magic
A Dark Foretoken is a great read. It's been a pleasure reading this book as it was written online. Minus the conclusion of course. I'm glad there was an explanation for why the name was changed. This one fits the story better.
Fresh off the devastating loss at Fort Covenant, Stiger is ready for some down time. Tactical genius, General Triem has other plans for Stiger. Stiger and a group of select few are ordered to depart on a critically sensitive mission for the empire. It's strictly "hush hush" as there are spies about. Stiger's group consists of about 26 people, including himself, Tiro, and the elf Eli. Before departing, Father Griggs confesses that he too has felt the call to join this mission. We all know by now that nothing good comes from a Paladin on quest..... As they travel they find that something is wrong, very wrong....
Dark Foretoken has it all: suspense, action, comedy, friendship, hate, and magic
A Dark Foretoken is a great read. It's been a pleasure reading this book as it was written online. Minus the conclusion of course. I'm glad there was an explanation for why the name was changed. This one fits the story better.
April 29, 2019
After his success at the defense of Fort Covenant, young Ben Stiger is dispatched to deliver a message (and a bribe) to a costal kingdom. The catch? He's being joined by a Father Griggs, who just happens to be a Paladin that felt a 'calling' to join the group, and his newest acquaintance Eli'far, an Elf who tags along for the fun of it.
Between his duty to the Empire, and doing what's right, Stiger is sure to be in for an interesting time.
I'm very pleased that Stiger as a young officer continues to learn from the senior enlisted around him. Some lessons are more subtle than others, but it all gets filed away for later use. I do truly hope that this series winds up on the Commandant's reading list someday.
Between his duty to the Empire, and doing what's right, Stiger is sure to be in for an interesting time.
I'm very pleased that Stiger as a young officer continues to learn from the senior enlisted around him. Some lessons are more subtle than others, but it all gets filed away for later use. I do truly hope that this series winds up on the Commandant's reading list someday.
June 10, 2019
Yep, Roman but not
Legions, small companies, military action, magic, disgraced families and their scions, an interesting group of enemies, and battles, conflict, etc. And he loses soldiers, and bridges over it. Read virtually any memo or book where you have small units, and you begin to understand the challenge of both loving and potentially losing men or women in combat.
This is a good series, and I now remember reading most of not all of the earlier Stiger's Tigers, and nothing similar themes, etc.
Try this one, you'll probably enjoy it.👍👍
Legions, small companies, military action, magic, disgraced families and their scions, an interesting group of enemies, and battles, conflict, etc. And he loses soldiers, and bridges over it. Read virtually any memo or book where you have small units, and you begin to understand the challenge of both loving and potentially losing men or women in combat.
This is a good series, and I now remember reading most of not all of the earlier Stiger's Tigers, and nothing similar themes, etc.
Try this one, you'll probably enjoy it.👍👍
April 30, 2019
Another in the great tale of legions very far from Rome
There are very few authors I give 5 stars to (Bujold, Drake, Weber, Lackey to name some current greats), and Edelheit meets my criteria to join them! The Stiger tales took my interest with the first book, as have the others elsewhere in this author's universe. Great story telling, outstanding production values, wonderful character development - all lead to highly enjoyable reading. Can't wait for the next!
There are very few authors I give 5 stars to (Bujold, Drake, Weber, Lackey to name some current greats), and Edelheit meets my criteria to join them! The Stiger tales took my interest with the first book, as have the others elsewhere in this author's universe. Great story telling, outstanding production values, wonderful character development - all lead to highly enjoyable reading. Can't wait for the next!
April 27, 2019
Another piece of the puzzle
As expected MAE delivers another piece of the Stiger tale. Also as expected it is well conceived, written and edited. Chef MAE serves a tantalizing appetizer which will have you begging for the main course. Personally I am starving for Chronicles #5. Well done again.
As expected MAE delivers another piece of the Stiger tale. Also as expected it is well conceived, written and edited. Chef MAE serves a tantalizing appetizer which will have you begging for the main course. Personally I am starving for Chronicles #5. Well done again.
April 30, 2019
Something Is Very Very Wrong
Stiger is summoned by the General to undertake a secret mission. Accompanying him are Eli an elf ranger, the Paladin Father Griggs, and Tiro the veteran sergeant. As they march to the coast, they find their surroundings to be more and more strange. I like the action, humor and military strategy. I particularly like the connection to the Roman Empire. I look forward to the next book.
Stiger is summoned by the General to undertake a secret mission. Accompanying him are Eli an elf ranger, the Paladin Father Griggs, and Tiro the veteran sergeant. As they march to the coast, they find their surroundings to be more and more strange. I like the action, humor and military strategy. I particularly like the connection to the Roman Empire. I look forward to the next book.
May 14, 2019
Not a bad tale!
The Tales of the Seventh saga is a good and entertaining read. My only complaint is why Captain Stiger, who must be one of the most accomplished middle ranking officers in the Legion, is held in such contempt by his contemporaries. True, his father did pick the wrong side in a failed rebellion but that is no reason to constantly despise and show only hatred towards one of their own super heroes. It just doesn't ring true to me.
The Tales of the Seventh saga is a good and entertaining read. My only complaint is why Captain Stiger, who must be one of the most accomplished middle ranking officers in the Legion, is held in such contempt by his contemporaries. True, his father did pick the wrong side in a failed rebellion but that is no reason to constantly despise and show only hatred towards one of their own super heroes. It just doesn't ring true to me.
April 30, 2019
Great read
If you enjoy historical novel with some fantasy tossed in for good measure, the novels of MAE is a great place for you. The Novels have a base of the Roman Legions there structure and fighting style. Marc is very good writer spins a great engaging yarn. Once you start reading his books I doubt you will ever stop.
If you enjoy historical novel with some fantasy tossed in for good measure, the novels of MAE is a great place for you. The Novels have a base of the Roman Legions there structure and fighting style. Marc is very good writer spins a great engaging yarn. Once you start reading his books I doubt you will ever stop.
May 6, 2019
Newly promoted Ben Stiger, with command of a seriously understrength company is given an important mission by his General. As usual he ends up running into trouble along the way and forced to fight evil to keep a town safe. The author weaves interesting and engaging tales to keep the pages turning. I find these books go way to fast. Some truly great fantasy writing.
May 21, 2019
Don't miss this
Marc has become a major author & has produced one the best series available. Perfectly written, not to be missed. Nice balance of historical accurate sword play and fantasy. I'm a big fan of historical fiction and I'm ok with some fantasy. Marc nails the sweet spot for me.
Marc has become a major author & has produced one the best series available. Perfectly written, not to be missed. Nice balance of historical accurate sword play and fantasy. I'm a big fan of historical fiction and I'm ok with some fantasy. Marc nails the sweet spot for me.
June 17, 2019
Excellent series and worth following
This series has excellent writing, storyline and great characters. Mr. Delbert kept the story flowing without weighing the reader down with wording or information just to increase word count. Looking forward to reading more about the characters and where they go next.
This series has excellent writing, storyline and great characters. Mr. Delbert kept the story flowing without weighing the reader down with wording or information just to increase word count. Looking forward to reading more about the characters and where they go next.
May 24, 2019
Wonderful book in a series of wonderful books.
Nicely written, as I have read all of the previous books. This gave the backstory but certainly not all of it to Eli companion, friend and Brother to Steger.
Nicely written, as I have read all of the previous books. This gave the backstory but certainly not all of it to Eli companion, friend and Brother to Steger.
June 12, 2019
I like the other books with Steiger as the main character really enjoyed this book. He has to be one of the unluckiest officers in the legions. Even making a delivering run of Gold and he stumbles upon a small conspiracy. I wish the story went longer and hope there is a part 2.
April 28, 2019
Great Read
Great read couldn't put it down. Now waiting for the next in all three of the series, strongly recommend for all.
Great read couldn't put it down. Now waiting for the next in all three of the series, strongly recommend for all.
April 29, 2019
Good
I enjoy these stories better than the other ones about Stiger. Except for the first they are too complex. Reminds me of David Drake.
I enjoy these stories better than the other ones about Stiger. Except for the first they are too complex. Reminds me of David Drake.
April 30, 2019
Marc, you bastard, this book should have been twice as long and three times as expensive! Another amazing read, I await your next efforts with great eagerness. Rob
May 1, 2019
Quality books
I recommend all of the books in this universe. The tales keep you engaged and entertained. Also gives a Roman fix to those who enjoy the history.
I recommend all of the books in this universe. The tales keep you engaged and entertained. Also gives a Roman fix to those who enjoy the history.
May 4, 2019
Excellent story
Very well written story that adds to the series. I enjoyed Stiger & Eli's interactions very much, while learning how they became such good friends.
Very well written story that adds to the series. I enjoyed Stiger & Eli's interactions very much, while learning how they became such good friends.
February 7, 2020
Another superb installment of the Stiger saga.
June 6, 2019
Never fails to entertain.
As an avid reader of Historical fiction and alternate History particularly Rome, these books push all the buttons
Can't 're commend highly enough.
As an avid reader of Historical fiction and alternate History particularly Rome, these books push all the buttons
Can't 're commend highly enough.
June 15, 2019
Great
Another Stiger's tale. A little less action than others but quite enjoyable. And Eli is fantastic I say with a teethy grin.
Another Stiger's tale. A little less action than others but quite enjoyable. And Eli is fantastic I say with a teethy grin.
May 6, 2019
A great continuation of the early Stiger chronicles - Tales of the Seventh. Follows on nicely from the events of Fort Covenant and continues to build on the relationship between Stiger and Eli the Elf. Without wishing to go into anything that would spoil the tale for future readers it also introduces the start of the dark gods that come to prevalence in the later tales at Castle Vell as well as introducing more of the abilities of a Paladin - Father Griggs in this case.
Overall another wonderful tale of Stiger and his men spun by the author - I look forwards immensely to reading the next one. My only complaint, shared I think by many, is that the Tales of the Seventh are short compared to those of Stigers Tigers!! :)
Overall another wonderful tale of Stiger and his men spun by the author - I look forwards immensely to reading the next one. My only complaint, shared I think by many, is that the Tales of the Seventh are short compared to those of Stigers Tigers!! :)
June 8, 2020
Love the characters and main story. This one is fair
story is a not predictable, especially with the foreshadowing in the original series. This is a light version of the initial plot framework of the first Stiger book.
This is Stigers Tigers Light..... Even if it does further the character development and further illustrates the importance of a (particular favorite of mine) sergeant.
The bittersweet thing is we know how he/it ends years later. NOW it would make the dramatic sacrifice a LOT more impactful. As written..... We know we are SUPPOSED TO feel like it was a big deal.... But we just don't have the connection or story "mileage" with the person. These are those critical miles.
story is a not predictable, especially with the foreshadowing in the original series. This is a light version of the initial plot framework of the first Stiger book.
This is Stigers Tigers Light..... Even if it does further the character development and further illustrates the importance of a (particular favorite of mine) sergeant.
The bittersweet thing is we know how he/it ends years later. NOW it would make the dramatic sacrifice a LOT more impactful. As written..... We know we are SUPPOSED TO feel like it was a big deal.... But we just don't have the connection or story "mileage" with the person. These are those critical miles.
May 25, 2019
I’ve now read all of the Stiger books. The characters are well drawn, and the military detail largely appropriate. Cumulatively, however, the farther you read in the series , the more that you realize the author draws upon a small number of “out-of-the-box” plot elements. It is not much fun to be just a few chapters into a new book, and understand that the next few pages are the setup to introduce the bad guys! And, why are the bad troops sloppy and unshaven? Why not sharp and well-turned-out villains? More imagination needed. A few more elements where the reader says: “I didn’t see that coming”
May 1, 2019
One you can skip
Firstly I agree it should not have been named eli. This short story had banter,which I love in these books but apart from that nothing stood out for me as special in this book. It's one book you could skip and it won't make much difference. I understand this is a short story however as a reader I would of preferred to read a full book with the mission being completed and that is also why the rating gets a 2, something important or shocking could happen in the next part but this book is lacking.
Firstly I agree it should not have been named eli. This short story had banter,which I love in these books but apart from that nothing stood out for me as special in this book. It's one book you could skip and it won't make much difference. I understand this is a short story however as a reader I would of preferred to read a full book with the mission being completed and that is also why the rating gets a 2, something important or shocking could happen in the next part but this book is lacking.
June 13, 2021
Dark evil lurks along the path and only hard fighting and advance notice bring success
The mission is to bring a large gold down payment to help ensure alliances but greed and cruelty along the way bring an unexpected but very necessary diversion to help avoid a citizen revolt. Excellent characters, page-turning action, and unexpected twists make this another excellent read in this series. Well worth the time.
The mission is to bring a large gold down payment to help ensure alliances but greed and cruelty along the way bring an unexpected but very necessary diversion to help avoid a citizen revolt. Excellent characters, page-turning action, and unexpected twists make this another excellent read in this series. Well worth the time.
September 28, 2019
A thrilling adventure
Loved this book and I can't wait for the next installment.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action and adventure. Join the legion and travel the empire. All the glamour of mud and blood included.. March till exhaustion the fight at the end.😀
Loved this book and I can't wait for the next installment.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action and adventure. Join the legion and travel the empire. All the glamour of mud and blood included.. March till exhaustion the fight at the end.😀
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews