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The Life Siphon #1
The Life Siphon
A magical energy drain is siphoning life from the land and leaving a twisted, decaying wasteland in its wake.
Safely isolated in his forest home, Tatsu wants nothing to do with the drain or the other citizens in the kingdom of Chayd. The only people he cares about are his childhood friend and her strangely prophetic sister, but there’s no avoiding the threat once Tatsu is arrested and taken to the capital. The Queen of Chayd offers Tatsu his freedom—but only in exchange for sneaking into the neighboring kingdom of Runon and stealing whatever is powering the siphon.
Ravenous trees and corrupted predators lie between Tatsu’s team and their prize, but the drain’s destruction is nothing compared to Runon’s high mages, determined to protect their weapon. As the truth of the siphon’s power reveals itself, Tatsu faces an impossible question: how much is he willing to sacrifice to save one man’s life?
What if that one man could destroy everything?
(This revision includes an important new first chapter, previously unreleased.)
Safely isolated in his forest home, Tatsu wants nothing to do with the drain or the other citizens in the kingdom of Chayd. The only people he cares about are his childhood friend and her strangely prophetic sister, but there’s no avoiding the threat once Tatsu is arrested and taken to the capital. The Queen of Chayd offers Tatsu his freedom—but only in exchange for sneaking into the neighboring kingdom of Runon and stealing whatever is powering the siphon.
Ravenous trees and corrupted predators lie between Tatsu’s team and their prize, but the drain’s destruction is nothing compared to Runon’s high mages, determined to protect their weapon. As the truth of the siphon’s power reveals itself, Tatsu faces an impossible question: how much is he willing to sacrifice to save one man’s life?
What if that one man could destroy everything?
(This revision includes an important new first chapter, previously unreleased.)
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First published March 10, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 15, 2018
This caught my eye and made me reach for the request button on NetGalley. It is my first book by Kathryn Sommerlot and I was really enchanted by everything about it. I found it very compelling which is what kept me flipping the pages late into the night and into the early morning!
The Life Siphon is well written, features great characters and is dramatic in parts. The characters were rather unlikeable and there were times I called into question their motives. Despite this I still connected with them and enjoyed their journeys - I often appreciate the unlikable characters in a novel more than likeable ones as they can often be more intriguing and make you think about their motives and morals.
There is also plenty of action throughout the book which is what keeps the book moving at a decent pace and there are plenty of twists in store. It manages successfully to be pretty detailed but not to bog down the narrative which unfortunately spoils a great deal of books. Another aspect I enjoyed was the fact that the story isn't just a straighforward fantasy novel but part mystery too - and as it is one of my favourite genres I loved that it was a mixture of different genres all of which I read regularly.
This was a fairly quick read and the story sucked me in from the first chapter and continued to be engaging for me until the end. My only criticism would be that it may benefit from a tighter plot achieved by some more editing as there were some pages where some of the descriptions went a little overboard. If this could be remedied I feel it would increase the readers enjoyment. I would've awarded 5 stars but for this issue.
It is the first novel in a duology, I will be looking out for the sequel and in the meantime I have a copy of Sommerlot's lastest book, another fantasy novel - Ibuki - due out on the 29th January 2018 - I hope I'll love it as much as The Life Siphon.
I would like to thank Kathryn Sommerlot, Amazon Direct Services and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
The Life Siphon is well written, features great characters and is dramatic in parts. The characters were rather unlikeable and there were times I called into question their motives. Despite this I still connected with them and enjoyed their journeys - I often appreciate the unlikable characters in a novel more than likeable ones as they can often be more intriguing and make you think about their motives and morals.
There is also plenty of action throughout the book which is what keeps the book moving at a decent pace and there are plenty of twists in store. It manages successfully to be pretty detailed but not to bog down the narrative which unfortunately spoils a great deal of books. Another aspect I enjoyed was the fact that the story isn't just a straighforward fantasy novel but part mystery too - and as it is one of my favourite genres I loved that it was a mixture of different genres all of which I read regularly.
This was a fairly quick read and the story sucked me in from the first chapter and continued to be engaging for me until the end. My only criticism would be that it may benefit from a tighter plot achieved by some more editing as there were some pages where some of the descriptions went a little overboard. If this could be remedied I feel it would increase the readers enjoyment. I would've awarded 5 stars but for this issue.
It is the first novel in a duology, I will be looking out for the sequel and in the meantime I have a copy of Sommerlot's lastest book, another fantasy novel - Ibuki - due out on the 29th January 2018 - I hope I'll love it as much as The Life Siphon.
I would like to thank Kathryn Sommerlot, Amazon Direct Services and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2017
A Fantasy Road Trip to Save the World From a Blight.
'During their journey, he had been so focused on Runon as the enemy that he forgot to think of Runon as its people."
Tatsu lives in the woods and off the land beyond the outskirts of the city of Dradela, his racial origins make it hard for him to fit in with his community even if he wanted to. Since his father's death he has lived there alone. Alesh is a thief and her sister Ral was affected by an illness and left less than fully capable of dealing with the issues of life. The three have their lives turned upside down when Alesh and Tatsu are forced into performing an act of espionage for their Queen. Together with the mage, Leil, they have to enter the citadel of the enemy and steal a magical device which is sucking the very life from the land leaving blackened forests and fields in its wake.
I really enjoyed the opening of the book and was quickly drawn into the story. This is a classic fantasy 'road trip' story in many ways, with a brave party of heroes setting out to save the world from a deadly blight. But things do not turn out quite as those heroes anticipate on many levels and it is that which gives this book its interest and difference.
"Blood doesn't dictate who you are."
The story is a lot about friendship and I loved that aspect of it. Showing how people will go out on a limb for those they care about. The world building is quite deep but very narrow, then it is viewed from the perspective of a man who only knows his own neck of the woods, pretty literally. The supporting cast of characters are all very engaging and as a reader, you come to take an interest in them all, even in the one who behaves like a spoilt brat.
The protagonist Tatsu is well drawn. He is a man with a lot of baggage and given to a lot of introspection which is not surprising as he lives alone in the woods. He is a seeker of a simple life who finds the perils of the world suddenly lapping to his doorstep leaving him no choice but to deal. In the process he becomes very changed and makes discoveries about who himself and why he was caught up in the events.
'Yet, somehow, in an agonizingly slow fashion, they made it down the hallway without incident.'
But a lot of the same things that give this book its good points also provide the root of its weaknesses. The major flaw is pace. The fact it is mostly a 'road trip' means the pace is sluggish in and of itself, with events needing to happen to fill the time of the journey. But even before that the pace is much too slow, it takes the best part of a chapter just to travel from Tatsu's cottage to the palace, for example. More pace slowing comes in that at almost every major plot event, Tatsu is thrown into ever more introspection to remind us why he is doing what he is doing and the consequences of it all if he doesn't do it, in case we've forgotten.
The other major failing that broke my immersion over and over again was what I felt was the unbelievable naivety of the characters. Standing in the heart of a dark mage's lair one character (one with a criminal background no less) is shocked to find illegal poisons are there. There are a fair few such examples, to go into them would be spoiler territory, but they made no sense to me. The result is that the characters come over as modern day people, with modern day moralities and expectations, not at all the product of the world which the author describes, However, whilst for me this was highly irritating and ruined my immersion in the story, I fully accept that is something another reader might regard as desirable and a strength, so can't bring myself to deduct a whole star for it.
If half stars existed this book would be a solid 3.5 for me, but they don't so I will round up to 4.
If you enjoy slowly developing 'road trip' fantasy stories and a deep thinking hero, then this will really appeal to you, it has a very different twist on those themes and a lot of inventive ideas, as well as characters who are very likable companions for your journey.
'During their journey, he had been so focused on Runon as the enemy that he forgot to think of Runon as its people."
Tatsu lives in the woods and off the land beyond the outskirts of the city of Dradela, his racial origins make it hard for him to fit in with his community even if he wanted to. Since his father's death he has lived there alone. Alesh is a thief and her sister Ral was affected by an illness and left less than fully capable of dealing with the issues of life. The three have their lives turned upside down when Alesh and Tatsu are forced into performing an act of espionage for their Queen. Together with the mage, Leil, they have to enter the citadel of the enemy and steal a magical device which is sucking the very life from the land leaving blackened forests and fields in its wake.
I really enjoyed the opening of the book and was quickly drawn into the story. This is a classic fantasy 'road trip' story in many ways, with a brave party of heroes setting out to save the world from a deadly blight. But things do not turn out quite as those heroes anticipate on many levels and it is that which gives this book its interest and difference.
"Blood doesn't dictate who you are."
The story is a lot about friendship and I loved that aspect of it. Showing how people will go out on a limb for those they care about. The world building is quite deep but very narrow, then it is viewed from the perspective of a man who only knows his own neck of the woods, pretty literally. The supporting cast of characters are all very engaging and as a reader, you come to take an interest in them all, even in the one who behaves like a spoilt brat.
The protagonist Tatsu is well drawn. He is a man with a lot of baggage and given to a lot of introspection which is not surprising as he lives alone in the woods. He is a seeker of a simple life who finds the perils of the world suddenly lapping to his doorstep leaving him no choice but to deal. In the process he becomes very changed and makes discoveries about who himself and why he was caught up in the events.
'Yet, somehow, in an agonizingly slow fashion, they made it down the hallway without incident.'
But a lot of the same things that give this book its good points also provide the root of its weaknesses. The major flaw is pace. The fact it is mostly a 'road trip' means the pace is sluggish in and of itself, with events needing to happen to fill the time of the journey. But even before that the pace is much too slow, it takes the best part of a chapter just to travel from Tatsu's cottage to the palace, for example. More pace slowing comes in that at almost every major plot event, Tatsu is thrown into ever more introspection to remind us why he is doing what he is doing and the consequences of it all if he doesn't do it, in case we've forgotten.
The other major failing that broke my immersion over and over again was what I felt was the unbelievable naivety of the characters. Standing in the heart of a dark mage's lair one character (one with a criminal background no less) is shocked to find illegal poisons are there. There are a fair few such examples, to go into them would be spoiler territory, but they made no sense to me. The result is that the characters come over as modern day people, with modern day moralities and expectations, not at all the product of the world which the author describes, However, whilst for me this was highly irritating and ruined my immersion in the story, I fully accept that is something another reader might regard as desirable and a strength, so can't bring myself to deduct a whole star for it.
If half stars existed this book would be a solid 3.5 for me, but they don't so I will round up to 4.
If you enjoy slowly developing 'road trip' fantasy stories and a deep thinking hero, then this will really appeal to you, it has a very different twist on those themes and a lot of inventive ideas, as well as characters who are very likable companions for your journey.
February 1, 2018
Before I requested this book on NetGalley, I had never heard of it. Not even an inkling. I was a bit hesitant to put off my monster of a TBR pile to dive into something that was a year old and hadn’t hit my radar, but the synopsis was compelling, so I went for it.
The Life Siphon follows Tatsu from his lone existence living in his deceased father’s cabin in the woods through a journey across neighboring countries to stop a terrible force from taking over and killing the world around him. What he learns on that journey about himself, his history, and the kingdoms he hails from, forces him to come to terms with a life he never knew but one that haunts him every day.
There are so many unique elements to this book that I think deserve attention, but I don’t want to give away too much. I’m going to choose some of my favorites, and the rest you guys have to discover for yourselves. Ha!
First and foremost, the magic. HOLY CRAP, Y’ALL. It starts out simply, something we’ve all read before - not everyone is gifted, there are different types of mages, and each kingdom utilizes each power differently to suit their needs. Basic, right? WRONG. Though I’m not going to tell what the siphon ends up being or how it’s powered, it’s so much bigger than that. The reader is lead to believe that the highest form of mage holds enough power to manipulate organisms as complex as human beings, when in reality, the highest form is not even defined in this first book. I would have to say that is the thing I’m most excited to find out going into the second book of the duology.
Second, personal relationships take a back burner in this book. There is a secondary character, Alesh, and she clearly has a history with Tatsu. We don’t find out until the very end, though it is alluded to, what their relationship is. They were both arrested, they were offered the same deal for their freedom, and though their motivations for following through are vastly different, they are in it to be free. Not to spend time together, not to hint at what could be, not to make gooey eyes at each other when there are battles to be fought - they are on a mission, and they are going to complete it. It was so refreshing for an author not to take a five page break to have their main characters throw down in the middle of an otherwise tense and dangerous situation.
And third. The thing that is hardest for me to put into words, but something I think is important. Tatsu is a deeply unlikable character. He is a loner, he has no patience for other people, he has been outcast his entire life, and he has shockingly little sympathy for Alesh despite the fact that she, and her sister, Ral, seem to be the only people he knows or cares about. All of that being said, he is magnificent. Throughout the course of this book, he goes from being a lone hunter to a convicted criminal to a glorified pack mule to a daring hero, and he takes it all in stride. And as he does, the reader is shown how much he cares for everyone in his circle, whether or not he’s good at showing it. He would die for them, and he wants their freedom and safety for them as much as he wants his own. I think that’s admirable, and I like that he was written as someone the reader needed to learn to love instead of someone the reader was told should be loved because he was OH MY GOD SO AWESOME.
The final item, or rather final person, I would like to mention is Ral. She is Alesh’s younger sister, and she is sick. Or at least that’s what we’re told. She was not arrested when Tatsu and Alesh were, so she was not offered a bargain for her freedom, but somehow, she’s everywhere. Ral is a mysterious form of other that’s not explained in this first book. All I know is that she is so much more than what we’ve been lead to believe. She appears when needed. She has an uncanny ability to sense what’s troubling you. She gives advice despite barely being able to speak. And she has an uncanny ability to sense anything and everything happening around her. If magic is the thing I’m most excited to find more out about, Ral is a very, VERY close second. If the role she plays in this world ends up being smaller than I think it will be, I accept that, but I hope we find out what it is that’s made her into the woman we meet reading this book.
Rating this one was tough. You might not think so given all the gushing I’ve done about it, but I promise it was. Conceptually, I adored it. I had never read anything like it, and I doubt I will in the future. But it was lacking something, too. It moved so quickly. It’s rare that I think a series needs to be made longer, but I think this story might be better served as a trilogy instead of a duology. Once Tatsu started his journey, there was no stopping or exposition or change of pace. He, and consequently the reader, were just GOING from that point forward. That being said, it was published via Kindle Direct Publishing, and for something self-published, I think it’s amazing. Even if it wasn’t, I’d say it is well above average. Originally, I gave it a solid 3.5 stars on Goodreads, but I think I’m going to bump it to a 4. The more time I spend mulling it over, the more I realize how nuanced and original it was, and I think that trumps a lot of my complaints.
I hope you guys check this one out. It’s only $2.99 on Kindle, and I would be willing to pay full price for it. The sequel comes out this spring, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for it. As of this posting, I can’t find the title or release date information on the author's website, but the title and cover reveal are slated for this Thursday, February 1!
I was given access to this ebook by NetGalley and Kindle Direct Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
http://aconjuringoflit.com/2018/01/30...
****UPDATE****
The sequel to this was just announced this morning! The Mage Heir will be available 3/15!
The Life Siphon follows Tatsu from his lone existence living in his deceased father’s cabin in the woods through a journey across neighboring countries to stop a terrible force from taking over and killing the world around him. What he learns on that journey about himself, his history, and the kingdoms he hails from, forces him to come to terms with a life he never knew but one that haunts him every day.
There are so many unique elements to this book that I think deserve attention, but I don’t want to give away too much. I’m going to choose some of my favorites, and the rest you guys have to discover for yourselves. Ha!
First and foremost, the magic. HOLY CRAP, Y’ALL. It starts out simply, something we’ve all read before - not everyone is gifted, there are different types of mages, and each kingdom utilizes each power differently to suit their needs. Basic, right? WRONG. Though I’m not going to tell what the siphon ends up being or how it’s powered, it’s so much bigger than that. The reader is lead to believe that the highest form of mage holds enough power to manipulate organisms as complex as human beings, when in reality, the highest form is not even defined in this first book. I would have to say that is the thing I’m most excited to find out going into the second book of the duology.
Second, personal relationships take a back burner in this book. There is a secondary character, Alesh, and she clearly has a history with Tatsu. We don’t find out until the very end, though it is alluded to, what their relationship is. They were both arrested, they were offered the same deal for their freedom, and though their motivations for following through are vastly different, they are in it to be free. Not to spend time together, not to hint at what could be, not to make gooey eyes at each other when there are battles to be fought - they are on a mission, and they are going to complete it. It was so refreshing for an author not to take a five page break to have their main characters throw down in the middle of an otherwise tense and dangerous situation.
And third. The thing that is hardest for me to put into words, but something I think is important. Tatsu is a deeply unlikable character. He is a loner, he has no patience for other people, he has been outcast his entire life, and he has shockingly little sympathy for Alesh despite the fact that she, and her sister, Ral, seem to be the only people he knows or cares about. All of that being said, he is magnificent. Throughout the course of this book, he goes from being a lone hunter to a convicted criminal to a glorified pack mule to a daring hero, and he takes it all in stride. And as he does, the reader is shown how much he cares for everyone in his circle, whether or not he’s good at showing it. He would die for them, and he wants their freedom and safety for them as much as he wants his own. I think that’s admirable, and I like that he was written as someone the reader needed to learn to love instead of someone the reader was told should be loved because he was OH MY GOD SO AWESOME.
The final item, or rather final person, I would like to mention is Ral. She is Alesh’s younger sister, and she is sick. Or at least that’s what we’re told. She was not arrested when Tatsu and Alesh were, so she was not offered a bargain for her freedom, but somehow, she’s everywhere. Ral is a mysterious form of other that’s not explained in this first book. All I know is that she is so much more than what we’ve been lead to believe. She appears when needed. She has an uncanny ability to sense what’s troubling you. She gives advice despite barely being able to speak. And she has an uncanny ability to sense anything and everything happening around her. If magic is the thing I’m most excited to find more out about, Ral is a very, VERY close second. If the role she plays in this world ends up being smaller than I think it will be, I accept that, but I hope we find out what it is that’s made her into the woman we meet reading this book.
Rating this one was tough. You might not think so given all the gushing I’ve done about it, but I promise it was. Conceptually, I adored it. I had never read anything like it, and I doubt I will in the future. But it was lacking something, too. It moved so quickly. It’s rare that I think a series needs to be made longer, but I think this story might be better served as a trilogy instead of a duology. Once Tatsu started his journey, there was no stopping or exposition or change of pace. He, and consequently the reader, were just GOING from that point forward. That being said, it was published via Kindle Direct Publishing, and for something self-published, I think it’s amazing. Even if it wasn’t, I’d say it is well above average. Originally, I gave it a solid 3.5 stars on Goodreads, but I think I’m going to bump it to a 4. The more time I spend mulling it over, the more I realize how nuanced and original it was, and I think that trumps a lot of my complaints.
I hope you guys check this one out. It’s only $2.99 on Kindle, and I would be willing to pay full price for it. The sequel comes out this spring, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for it. As of this posting, I can’t find the title or release date information on the author's website, but the title and cover reveal are slated for this Thursday, February 1!
I was given access to this ebook by NetGalley and Kindle Direct Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
http://aconjuringoflit.com/2018/01/30...
****UPDATE****
The sequel to this was just announced this morning! The Mage Heir will be available 3/15!
April 19, 2017
A Reluctant Hero, Battling Evil Magic…and Himself
The Life Siphon is the first book of a duology. It tells the story of Tatsu, a reclusive woodsman who is reluctantly drawn into a conflict with a neighboring kingdom. To save the day, he must stop a magical energy that siphons the life force from every living thing it encounters.
Overall, the story flows well. With the book’s length – 363 pages – and a tendency by the author to repeat some thoughts for emphasis, I wasn’t necessarily expecting that. But it was a quick read that easily held my attention, attesting to the author’s skill. There is also plenty of action, which obviously helps with the pace. A few action scenes seem a bit well-worn in the fantasy genre, but those are well done. And there are enough twists in the plot to keep you wondering.
Other than Tatsu, the characters come and go throughout the story, making them feel a bit under-developed…and often a bit mysterious. There is, however, enough detail in their portrayals to flesh out a supporting cast. Tatsu, on the other hand, is well developed as the reluctant hero. He is (for the most part) happy in his isolated life in the woods. But when he’s implicated in a crime against his homeland, the scene is set for him to be forced into service for the crown.
Apart from the action, a great deal of the book is spent exploring the angst of the reluctant hero. And for me, this is where the book became a bit muddled. Sometimes I could not reconcile how Tatsu was acting with what he was feeling (according to our third person perspective or his nonverbal cues). Or I wasn’t sure what in the story had elicited his emotional response or his change in feelings. Toward the end, for example, Tatsu becomes overwhelmed with, let’s say, ‘family issues’ to avoid a spoiler. Yet, in the midst of this, he agrees with the statement that ‘blood doesn’t dictate who you are.’ Admittedly, recounting the doubts and misgivings of a reluctant hero is a way to add tension to a fantasy, but I couldn’t quite make sense of some of Tatsu’s reactions and emotional swings.
Overall, if you are a fan of fantasies, particularly ones with a somewhat conflicted and anxious reluctant hero, The Life Siphon will make a great addition to your shelf.
The Life Siphon is the first book of a duology. It tells the story of Tatsu, a reclusive woodsman who is reluctantly drawn into a conflict with a neighboring kingdom. To save the day, he must stop a magical energy that siphons the life force from every living thing it encounters.
Overall, the story flows well. With the book’s length – 363 pages – and a tendency by the author to repeat some thoughts for emphasis, I wasn’t necessarily expecting that. But it was a quick read that easily held my attention, attesting to the author’s skill. There is also plenty of action, which obviously helps with the pace. A few action scenes seem a bit well-worn in the fantasy genre, but those are well done. And there are enough twists in the plot to keep you wondering.
Other than Tatsu, the characters come and go throughout the story, making them feel a bit under-developed…and often a bit mysterious. There is, however, enough detail in their portrayals to flesh out a supporting cast. Tatsu, on the other hand, is well developed as the reluctant hero. He is (for the most part) happy in his isolated life in the woods. But when he’s implicated in a crime against his homeland, the scene is set for him to be forced into service for the crown.
Apart from the action, a great deal of the book is spent exploring the angst of the reluctant hero. And for me, this is where the book became a bit muddled. Sometimes I could not reconcile how Tatsu was acting with what he was feeling (according to our third person perspective or his nonverbal cues). Or I wasn’t sure what in the story had elicited his emotional response or his change in feelings. Toward the end, for example, Tatsu becomes overwhelmed with, let’s say, ‘family issues’ to avoid a spoiler. Yet, in the midst of this, he agrees with the statement that ‘blood doesn’t dictate who you are.’ Admittedly, recounting the doubts and misgivings of a reluctant hero is a way to add tension to a fantasy, but I couldn’t quite make sense of some of Tatsu’s reactions and emotional swings.
Overall, if you are a fan of fantasies, particularly ones with a somewhat conflicted and anxious reluctant hero, The Life Siphon will make a great addition to your shelf.
February 16, 2017
A book about magic and epic quests? Sounds like my kind of book!
In my opinion, The Life Siphon reminds me of the sort of plot one might find in a Final Fantasy video game, except everything actually made sense in the end. There's rangers, mages of all sorts, urchins, and royals all intermingling to figure out the mystery of the terrible life siphon that is killing the countryside. It's certainly not a job for the faint of heart, not when the countryside isn't just being drained, it's being turned into something straight from a horror film. The Life Siphon really take the man vs. environment conflict to another level with the siren trees that have a taste for living flesh.
The plot is a solid 'unintentional hero goes on an unexpected quest' sort of plot, but it's the details and the twists that really make it. For instance, there's the character of Ral: supposedly brain-damaged from a young age from a fever, she shows up in the most unexpected of places and remains a mystery for much of the story. It was easy to move from one chapter to another because of wanting to know what was going to happen next to Tatsu and his group of travelers.
Once the story gets started, it really doesn't let up; the pacing is fast and, unlike most books where I wish things moved faster, I actually found myself wishing at times that the plot moved a little slower. I would have loved to gotten to know the supporting characters even more, especially Alesh and Leil. The fast pacing is actually the biggest detractor for me, as it didn't allow me to linger and savor the story in all of the ways that I wanted to and some of the plot developments seemed to just suddenly happen (the romance between Tatsu and Yudai unfortunately being one of those things).
On the whole: would recommend to anyone who likes fantasy and questing stories with a healthy dose of mysterious friends, angsting & self-discovery, and murderous flora.
In my opinion, The Life Siphon reminds me of the sort of plot one might find in a Final Fantasy video game, except everything actually made sense in the end. There's rangers, mages of all sorts, urchins, and royals all intermingling to figure out the mystery of the terrible life siphon that is killing the countryside. It's certainly not a job for the faint of heart, not when the countryside isn't just being drained, it's being turned into something straight from a horror film. The Life Siphon really take the man vs. environment conflict to another level with the siren trees that have a taste for living flesh.
The plot is a solid 'unintentional hero goes on an unexpected quest' sort of plot, but it's the details and the twists that really make it. For instance, there's the character of Ral: supposedly brain-damaged from a young age from a fever, she shows up in the most unexpected of places and remains a mystery for much of the story. It was easy to move from one chapter to another because of wanting to know what was going to happen next to Tatsu and his group of travelers.
Once the story gets started, it really doesn't let up; the pacing is fast and, unlike most books where I wish things moved faster, I actually found myself wishing at times that the plot moved a little slower. I would have loved to gotten to know the supporting characters even more, especially Alesh and Leil. The fast pacing is actually the biggest detractor for me, as it didn't allow me to linger and savor the story in all of the ways that I wanted to and some of the plot developments seemed to just suddenly happen (the romance between Tatsu and Yudai unfortunately being one of those things).
On the whole: would recommend to anyone who likes fantasy and questing stories with a healthy dose of mysterious friends, angsting & self-discovery, and murderous flora.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2019
In the vast woods of Chayd, Tatsu is enjoying the comforts of the forest around him--the quiet, nature--when Alesh and her little sister come banging on his door, looking to seek shelter. Tatsu doesn't think twice about letting them in, but little does he realize that the two girls will pull him into lots of danger. Soldiers come a few days later and bring the trio to the royal palace, where Tatsu is offered a choice, a full life of prison, or a dangerous quest across the land against a political threat. And before he knows it, Tatsu is thrust into a complex plot to save the land.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was very stressed at the beginning of this book, having to read/review this by a certain date, so I had a negative view of the book. But once I said, "hey, don't worry about it," I really started to enjoy the intricate plot that Kathryn Sommerlot created. I find myself reading so many adventurous books across fantastical lands, and "The Life Siphon" did not fall short.
I fell in love with the characters from the beginning--especially Tatsu and Alesh. Their relationship was so interesting to me, but certain plot points in this book twisted and turned the story around and all of the characters' relationships changed throughout. The author did great work of the characters, including lots of emotional ticks and quirks in each one.
The story was sort of slow at times, but overall there was a smooth rhythm to the book. I found myself really excited at certain parts when they were really big and epic, and would change the shape of the story. I just found the adventure through the lands very appealing and satisfying, this book did well to satisfy my want and desire for an amazing fantasy-adventure story.
But overall, this book was definitely one of my favorites of this month, and I hope I can read the next books when they come out!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was very stressed at the beginning of this book, having to read/review this by a certain date, so I had a negative view of the book. But once I said, "hey, don't worry about it," I really started to enjoy the intricate plot that Kathryn Sommerlot created. I find myself reading so many adventurous books across fantastical lands, and "The Life Siphon" did not fall short.
I fell in love with the characters from the beginning--especially Tatsu and Alesh. Their relationship was so interesting to me, but certain plot points in this book twisted and turned the story around and all of the characters' relationships changed throughout. The author did great work of the characters, including lots of emotional ticks and quirks in each one.
The story was sort of slow at times, but overall there was a smooth rhythm to the book. I found myself really excited at certain parts when they were really big and epic, and would change the shape of the story. I just found the adventure through the lands very appealing and satisfying, this book did well to satisfy my want and desire for an amazing fantasy-adventure story.
But overall, this book was definitely one of my favorites of this month, and I hope I can read the next books when they come out!
March 11, 2018
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
I really wanted to love this story based off the synopsis, the idea of a heroic quest to save the world being carried out by a criminal (hence giving me Suicide Squad ideas for what the story would be like) was too interesting to turn down.
However, the first way in which this fell flat for me is the way that the story itself isn't that believable, everything is down to mere chance. Tatsu himself is a simple guy who keeps to himself in the forest, he isn't by any means a criminal just someone who was caring for his friend Alesh who was a criminal. By chance, some guards arrest Alesh and Tatsu and they take them to see the Queen who says they'd been chosen as they were perfect for the quest along with one other. Alesh herself has some very bad injuries when they're captured but these seem to be brushed over.
I really liked the idea of mages with differing capabilities in terms of magic, and the use of a mage on the quest was intriguing but then ultimately the mage Leil seems to just disappear when she'd be most useful? There was another on the quest with them also, chosen for brute strength. Much like in the film Suicide Squad as well this character seemed to have been introduced to be killed off as soon as possible.
Ral was probably my favourite character as she had a little more to her than the others, she was a mysterious character throughout but things didn't really get explained when they happened which was strange.
I did really enjoy the world building having said the above - the detail that the author puts into it is great but the characters and the way the story unfolds just didn't match up to the standard of the world building for me.
I really wanted to love this story based off the synopsis, the idea of a heroic quest to save the world being carried out by a criminal (hence giving me Suicide Squad ideas for what the story would be like) was too interesting to turn down.
However, the first way in which this fell flat for me is the way that the story itself isn't that believable, everything is down to mere chance. Tatsu himself is a simple guy who keeps to himself in the forest, he isn't by any means a criminal just someone who was caring for his friend Alesh who was a criminal. By chance, some guards arrest Alesh and Tatsu and they take them to see the Queen who says they'd been chosen as they were perfect for the quest along with one other. Alesh herself has some very bad injuries when they're captured but these seem to be brushed over.
I really liked the idea of mages with differing capabilities in terms of magic, and the use of a mage on the quest was intriguing but then ultimately the mage Leil seems to just disappear when she'd be most useful? There was another on the quest with them also, chosen for brute strength. Much like in the film Suicide Squad as well this character seemed to have been introduced to be killed off as soon as possible.
Ral was probably my favourite character as she had a little more to her than the others, she was a mysterious character throughout but things didn't really get explained when they happened which was strange.
I did really enjoy the world building having said the above - the detail that the author puts into it is great but the characters and the way the story unfolds just didn't match up to the standard of the world building for me.
May 30, 2017
This is more like 3.5 stars, rounded up.
The story is an intriguing tale, part mystery (what is causing the countryside to die?), part travelling adventure, part coming of age. The characters are well drawn, and there is an unusual inclusion of a woman who operates on a child like level. The background details mostly emerge naturally, during the course of the tale, and there is a refreshing lack of the type of infodump which mars many a good fantasy. POV is solid and remains with the main character. I particularly liked the developing friendship between Tatsu and Yudai, which grew organically over the course of their time together.
The writing is good and descriptive. The section set in the Weeping Forest was drew me in and I found myself shivering as much as the characters. The author is also bold enough to kill off someone who, in another’s hands, would have survived to continue in the narrative.
Sometimes writing is sometimes far too descriptive. Sections of dialogue go on for longer than necessary, as do ruminations by the main character. This slows down the plot to the detriment of the story. A bit of editing would tighten everything up and improve the pace of the good plot.
The story is an intriguing tale, part mystery (what is causing the countryside to die?), part travelling adventure, part coming of age. The characters are well drawn, and there is an unusual inclusion of a woman who operates on a child like level. The background details mostly emerge naturally, during the course of the tale, and there is a refreshing lack of the type of infodump which mars many a good fantasy. POV is solid and remains with the main character. I particularly liked the developing friendship between Tatsu and Yudai, which grew organically over the course of their time together.
The writing is good and descriptive. The section set in the Weeping Forest was drew me in and I found myself shivering as much as the characters. The author is also bold enough to kill off someone who, in another’s hands, would have survived to continue in the narrative.
Sometimes writing is sometimes far too descriptive. Sections of dialogue go on for longer than necessary, as do ruminations by the main character. This slows down the plot to the detriment of the story. A bit of editing would tighten everything up and improve the pace of the good plot.
January 15, 2018
I had a hard time putting this book down. The story just flows perfectly and slowly draws you into the world until you are completely immersed. If you are not new to the fantasy genre, then you will find several moments to be a little predictable. I also found it a little annoying how little information was given about pretty much all of the female characters. I understand that the two main characters are male...but we don't even get much information on them either. Many characters came off as useless or unneeded to the story, and I believe that if there had been more of a background given, that may have helped with this problem. Regardless of these issues, I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
I am a little frustrated at how it ended though. See, I have a habit of going into books blind, completely unaware if it is part of a series, and once again that habit has destroyed my life. You can not just end the book with "continues in book two". I don't want to wait for book two...I NEED it now. Why must authors make me suffer?
*I received a free copy of this book from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
I am a little frustrated at how it ended though. See, I have a habit of going into books blind, completely unaware if it is part of a series, and once again that habit has destroyed my life. You can not just end the book with "continues in book two". I don't want to wait for book two...I NEED it now. Why must authors make me suffer?
*I received a free copy of this book from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2017
This is a really fun and engaging read. I don't often read fantasy because a lot of the heavy-hitters have the kind of intensely detailed plodding pace that I don't have the stamina for, but The Life Siphon is both detailed and fast-paced with engaging characters and relationships that reveal themselves in greater complexity over time. Great adventure!
February 9, 2020
*I received this novel for free in exchange for an honest review*
When circumstances and rash decisions uproot Tatsu from his self-imposed isolation he finds himself with a choice; agree to the terms of the Queen and save the Kingdom or face life imprisonment for his crime. All chosen for their different skillsets, friends and strangers must work together to travel through dangerous lands in order to steal the Life Siphon that is threatening their world.
The Life Siphon is the first novel of the duology. I really enjoyed the author’s style of writing and how the events flowed together in a way that kept me fully engaged and not wanting to put the book down. Tatsu is a reluctant and unlikely hero whose standoffish mannerisms pick at the nerves of his companions to begin with. However as the truth around the Life Siphon and the personal implications for Tatsu reveal themselves, he finds something to fight for. I think it was this aspect of the novel that I enjoyed the most. Tatsu is a reluctant and unlikely hero and I look forward to seeing how his character and story develops further in the second novel.
When circumstances and rash decisions uproot Tatsu from his self-imposed isolation he finds himself with a choice; agree to the terms of the Queen and save the Kingdom or face life imprisonment for his crime. All chosen for their different skillsets, friends and strangers must work together to travel through dangerous lands in order to steal the Life Siphon that is threatening their world.
The Life Siphon is the first novel of the duology. I really enjoyed the author’s style of writing and how the events flowed together in a way that kept me fully engaged and not wanting to put the book down. Tatsu is a reluctant and unlikely hero whose standoffish mannerisms pick at the nerves of his companions to begin with. However as the truth around the Life Siphon and the personal implications for Tatsu reveal themselves, he finds something to fight for. I think it was this aspect of the novel that I enjoyed the most. Tatsu is a reluctant and unlikely hero and I look forward to seeing how his character and story develops further in the second novel.
January 7, 2020
As the first instalment of a duo-logy, Sommerlot offers a enchanting and well composed novel which contains great characters, and dramatically composed plot-lines. By offering MC's that are not infallible, the reader is able to question the content they're reading and therefore engages a lot better with the story.
September 19, 2019
DNF at 25%
Things I liked: The pleasant and fairly likable main character. His complicated history with the other main character and her mysterious background. Good writing skills as far as technical correctness.
Other things: I could barely get through the first chapter/prologue. Ug. The MC was so unlikeable and it was just such a trope of every dissatisfied/misunderstood teenaged royal ever. I almost gave up on the book then and there. After reading some reviews I realized that this character wasn't the MC so I kept reading.
Unfortunately, it's a pretty shallow story. The main characters are very lightly developed, lacking in interesting traits or unique perspectives. They're not quite deep enough to seem real. The world-building is the same. Very surface-level development, everything exactly as you would expect it. The result is that it all seemed so predictable, hum-drum, and ultimately boring. A major side character dies around the 25% point and it really didn't matter at all, and that made me realize how little I cared to keep reading.
Things I liked: The pleasant and fairly likable main character. His complicated history with the other main character and her mysterious background. Good writing skills as far as technical correctness.
Other things: I could barely get through the first chapter/prologue. Ug. The MC was so unlikeable and it was just such a trope of every dissatisfied/misunderstood teenaged royal ever. I almost gave up on the book then and there. After reading some reviews I realized that this character wasn't the MC so I kept reading.
Unfortunately, it's a pretty shallow story. The main characters are very lightly developed, lacking in interesting traits or unique perspectives. They're not quite deep enough to seem real. The world-building is the same. Very surface-level development, everything exactly as you would expect it. The result is that it all seemed so predictable, hum-drum, and ultimately boring. A major side character dies around the 25% point and it really didn't matter at all, and that made me realize how little I cared to keep reading.
April 24, 2017
This book is well-written, with soaring prose when occasion calls, and some of the special effects were chilling (look out for an extraordinary tree in one of the chapters) yet some of the book felt a little off for me, a feeling I can't quite put my finger on.
The magic was compelling throughout this book, and is what kept me glued to the story, although it is sometimes sparingly used (probably wisely so) so I had to be patient during the "road trip" which takes place during medieval fantasy times (more accurately described as a long hike) but when the outbursts occurred, I was amply rewarded.
The characters were the ones I had a little bit of trouble deciphering. None of them are particularly relatable. A character doesn't have to be likeable to be compelling, but I wondered uneasily about the motives of each of the characters and why they were in the story.
For example, Ral. She's a pretty silent character, due to some development struggle with her mental capacity when she became of age. There have been some fascinating silent characters in literary history (i.e. Gollum in The Lord of the Rings) but Ral was, well, an enigma. I wasn't sure if her limited communication was supposed to enhance the story, but I didn't think it did.
The two main characters, Alesh and Tatsu, have a strange relationship. They have a history, as platonic friends, who needed each other in the past. However, their relationship is strained, and they're called upon once again at the beginning of the story to help each other, which is really where this book begins. Tatsu literally gives up everything he's ever had to help Alesh (maybe not willingly at first and under very unfair treatment under the authorities, but in effect that's what happens) yet Alesh seems ungrateful throughout most of the book. At the ending, Alesh's callous treatment of Tatsu, (although they've always been allies to the very end) after everything he's suffered and done for her, as well as for the mission, really took my breath away. I simply couldn't believe how cold-hearted and, well, maybe a little evil, she was for her shocking (and I suggest, very wrong) perception of him.
As for Tatsu, I didn't feel he had a sense of "self". An unsure character searching for his identity throughout a book can work well, but it's hard to make him a hero that has to endure very demanding feats of stamina and strength, because he must believe in something in order to overcome. If he doesn't believe in himself, how does he continue?
The physical endurance of Tatsu for the second half of the book seemed a little far-fetched. Carrying over a hundred pounds of dead weight on a hobbled ankle, throughout thick forest and snow-covered plains for days at a time, seemed implausible. I know the instinct for survival is overpowering, but this seemed a bit over the top. I don't think this is a spoiler, but I'm not sure how one can effectively use magic of an unwilling person for such a devastating outcome, but I accept this as simply a possible use of magic that's possible because, well, it's magic.
There are excellent parts of the book, too. The fight between sorcerers was dramatic, and there is a dramatic twist around that part of the book. As well, the cool scene with the wicked tree (I won't say more). The queen is a great secondary character with very limited screen time in the book but used to such powerful effect; you can practically feel her power all throughout the story even if she's not on scene.
Although I'm not a big fan of "the long hike" by a "team of renegades" on the way "fighting magic" that is common to many medieval fantasy novels, this one was very distinct, with excellent writing prose, so I give this book a thumbs-up. If only the characters were perhaps different... I think a new cast (but with the same roles handed down by fate and following the same mission) would be in order.
The magic was compelling throughout this book, and is what kept me glued to the story, although it is sometimes sparingly used (probably wisely so) so I had to be patient during the "road trip" which takes place during medieval fantasy times (more accurately described as a long hike) but when the outbursts occurred, I was amply rewarded.
The characters were the ones I had a little bit of trouble deciphering. None of them are particularly relatable. A character doesn't have to be likeable to be compelling, but I wondered uneasily about the motives of each of the characters and why they were in the story.
For example, Ral. She's a pretty silent character, due to some development struggle with her mental capacity when she became of age. There have been some fascinating silent characters in literary history (i.e. Gollum in The Lord of the Rings) but Ral was, well, an enigma. I wasn't sure if her limited communication was supposed to enhance the story, but I didn't think it did.
The two main characters, Alesh and Tatsu, have a strange relationship. They have a history, as platonic friends, who needed each other in the past. However, their relationship is strained, and they're called upon once again at the beginning of the story to help each other, which is really where this book begins. Tatsu literally gives up everything he's ever had to help Alesh (maybe not willingly at first and under very unfair treatment under the authorities, but in effect that's what happens) yet Alesh seems ungrateful throughout most of the book. At the ending, Alesh's callous treatment of Tatsu, (although they've always been allies to the very end) after everything he's suffered and done for her, as well as for the mission, really took my breath away. I simply couldn't believe how cold-hearted and, well, maybe a little evil, she was for her shocking (and I suggest, very wrong) perception of him.
As for Tatsu, I didn't feel he had a sense of "self". An unsure character searching for his identity throughout a book can work well, but it's hard to make him a hero that has to endure very demanding feats of stamina and strength, because he must believe in something in order to overcome. If he doesn't believe in himself, how does he continue?
The physical endurance of Tatsu for the second half of the book seemed a little far-fetched. Carrying over a hundred pounds of dead weight on a hobbled ankle, throughout thick forest and snow-covered plains for days at a time, seemed implausible. I know the instinct for survival is overpowering, but this seemed a bit over the top. I don't think this is a spoiler, but I'm not sure how one can effectively use magic of an unwilling person for such a devastating outcome, but I accept this as simply a possible use of magic that's possible because, well, it's magic.
There are excellent parts of the book, too. The fight between sorcerers was dramatic, and there is a dramatic twist around that part of the book. As well, the cool scene with the wicked tree (I won't say more). The queen is a great secondary character with very limited screen time in the book but used to such powerful effect; you can practically feel her power all throughout the story even if she's not on scene.
Although I'm not a big fan of "the long hike" by a "team of renegades" on the way "fighting magic" that is common to many medieval fantasy novels, this one was very distinct, with excellent writing prose, so I give this book a thumbs-up. If only the characters were perhaps different... I think a new cast (but with the same roles handed down by fate and following the same mission) would be in order.
May 9, 2019
More accurately, it's 4.1 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews (which you might want to check out), and the star-notation system I refer to is that if the Gay Book Reviews-site.
Kathryn Sommerlot—with a name like that, how can one not write good fantasy fiction? This novel makes us enter a world where smallish, neighbouring kingdoms that remind of fiefdom-riddled Europe in the very early Middle Ages seem to live more or less peacefully (for the moment, that is) on a strip of land wedged between the sea and long, high mountain ranges. Chayd, which I gather lies to the south, is ruled by a queen (unmarried, it seems) struggling to prove she’s just as capable as a king could be. To the north, without access to the sea and isolated in the mountains and valleys, Tunon is ruled by a ruthless king, who’s assisted by an even more ruthless high mage and her son. We briefly encounter the king’s gay son Yudai in the first chapter, where he proves to be even more powerful than those high mages. But then he’s captured and drugged, and with a cliffhanger we’re left wondering what’ll become of him (no worries, the author brings him back into the plot a bit later).
Tatsu is a young man living a secluded and event-less life on the outskirt forests of Chayd. But one day, his childhood friend and former lover Alesh comes knocking on his door with her mentally impaired sister Ral in the tow. As she has a stealthy mission to accomplish, he asks him to look after the girl. Grudgingly he accepts. And he shouldn’t. For when she comes back, she’s wounded, and the queen’s guards are close on her heels, arresting both her and Tatsu. Brought before the queen, they are offered their freedom if they accept to sneak into Runon, where a strange magical weapon is slowly sucking the life out of Chayd, killing forests, beasts, and crops alike in the process. Having no other choice, they set out on their quest, accompanied by one of the queen’s mages. Little do they know what the secret Runonan weapon holds in store for them, but they get a first glimpse when they enter the Weeping Forest, until recently a lush woodland, but now creepily dead/undead…
I do declare, this is quite an accomplished fantasy novel I read here! Pitch-perfect world-building, fluid and clear prose, great pace, suspense and intrigues, believable, likeable characters… As for the romantic entanglement, it is such a slow burner that we don’t even get a first kiss, however. If you really need sex scenes and sizzling chemistry, you will be sorely disappointed. There are hints that we might get more of that in a follow-up novel (maybe the whole thing is even a series consisting of more books?). I for one didn’t mind at all—when a story is good, I can live without gasps and groans and the exchange of body fluids. Alas, as chemistry is one of the criteria to note books on this site, that takes off some points, so I wish to stress the fact that for me, the book deserves at least 4.5 stars. Kathryn Sommerlot knows how to write, in any case (and she damn well knows how to put her commas—that’s so rare I feel the need to point it out, not one comma missing or placed in the wrong place). I’m now waiting impatiently for the next book as there are several threads left open. Don’t misunderstand, this can be read as a stand-alone novel, but you’re sufficiently kept wondering about some secondary characters and their roles as to make you curious where Ms Sommerlot will take you from there in the follow-up(s).
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews (which you might want to check out), and the star-notation system I refer to is that if the Gay Book Reviews-site.
Kathryn Sommerlot—with a name like that, how can one not write good fantasy fiction? This novel makes us enter a world where smallish, neighbouring kingdoms that remind of fiefdom-riddled Europe in the very early Middle Ages seem to live more or less peacefully (for the moment, that is) on a strip of land wedged between the sea and long, high mountain ranges. Chayd, which I gather lies to the south, is ruled by a queen (unmarried, it seems) struggling to prove she’s just as capable as a king could be. To the north, without access to the sea and isolated in the mountains and valleys, Tunon is ruled by a ruthless king, who’s assisted by an even more ruthless high mage and her son. We briefly encounter the king’s gay son Yudai in the first chapter, where he proves to be even more powerful than those high mages. But then he’s captured and drugged, and with a cliffhanger we’re left wondering what’ll become of him (no worries, the author brings him back into the plot a bit later).
Tatsu is a young man living a secluded and event-less life on the outskirt forests of Chayd. But one day, his childhood friend and former lover Alesh comes knocking on his door with her mentally impaired sister Ral in the tow. As she has a stealthy mission to accomplish, he asks him to look after the girl. Grudgingly he accepts. And he shouldn’t. For when she comes back, she’s wounded, and the queen’s guards are close on her heels, arresting both her and Tatsu. Brought before the queen, they are offered their freedom if they accept to sneak into Runon, where a strange magical weapon is slowly sucking the life out of Chayd, killing forests, beasts, and crops alike in the process. Having no other choice, they set out on their quest, accompanied by one of the queen’s mages. Little do they know what the secret Runonan weapon holds in store for them, but they get a first glimpse when they enter the Weeping Forest, until recently a lush woodland, but now creepily dead/undead…
I do declare, this is quite an accomplished fantasy novel I read here! Pitch-perfect world-building, fluid and clear prose, great pace, suspense and intrigues, believable, likeable characters… As for the romantic entanglement, it is such a slow burner that we don’t even get a first kiss, however. If you really need sex scenes and sizzling chemistry, you will be sorely disappointed. There are hints that we might get more of that in a follow-up novel (maybe the whole thing is even a series consisting of more books?). I for one didn’t mind at all—when a story is good, I can live without gasps and groans and the exchange of body fluids. Alas, as chemistry is one of the criteria to note books on this site, that takes off some points, so I wish to stress the fact that for me, the book deserves at least 4.5 stars. Kathryn Sommerlot knows how to write, in any case (and she damn well knows how to put her commas—that’s so rare I feel the need to point it out, not one comma missing or placed in the wrong place). I’m now waiting impatiently for the next book as there are several threads left open. Don’t misunderstand, this can be read as a stand-alone novel, but you’re sufficiently kept wondering about some secondary characters and their roles as to make you curious where Ms Sommerlot will take you from there in the follow-up(s).
February 28, 2018
I received an eARC free via NetGalley.
I was really intrigued by the blurb of The Life Siphon, and I really enjoyed reading it. I found that it did take me a little while to get in to the flow of the book. I am not sure if it was because of the format, I tend to enjoy reading more when I am reading an actual book rather than an eBook or if it was Tatsu I had issues with at the beginning of the book.
I am really sad to say that I didn't like Tatsu to begin with, maybe because I have been reading a lot of books lately with female protagonists and changing over to a male 'voice' took me a little bit of time, or if it was actually Tatsu. I am not completely sure. I found myself liking the other characters more, Ral and Yudai especially.
After a bit of a rocky start, I found that once I hit about a third of the way in to the book, things really started to pick up. I actually ended up reading from 44% to the end in one go, because I didn't want to put the book down. I did find Tatsu a little bit annoying all the way through the book but he did grow on me in the end. I do wish that we could have had more of Alesh's story and maybe some of her point of view as I found her really interesting and found myself wanting to know more about her journey.
This book is a 'road trip' fantasy book, in that most of the book follows Tatsu and a small group of characters on a journey Runon and back again. I know this kind of book isn't for everyone but I do like books like this and I think that The Life Siphon is a really good example of a 'road trip' fantasy.
I found the magic system really interesting, though I would have preferred a little more detail about it. I want to know more about the different types of mages and their powers. I really hope that we will get to know more about mages their magic in the sequel. And I am hoping we will get to know more about the mage Nota in the sequel too.
I don't want to say too much about the plot in case I spoil things, but The Life Siphon was an enjoyable read. The pace of the book was great, for the last two thirds of the book, though I did find the first third a little too slow. The character development was good, as was the world building. There were just a few instances, where I found myself needing more details. The main issue was Ral. I wanted to know more about her, and for me, a childhood virus felt too vague, I need to know more!
I am hoping that we get some more answers/details in the second book, more about the mages, more about Ral and maybe some parts of the book from Yudai's point of view too. As you might expect as a duology the book does indeed end on a cliffhanger, so if you want to read both books together you are in luck as you only have to wait until the 15th March 2018 when The Mage Heir will be published. I really enjoyed reading The Life Siphon and The Mage Heir is definitely on my TBR list.
I was really intrigued by the blurb of The Life Siphon, and I really enjoyed reading it. I found that it did take me a little while to get in to the flow of the book. I am not sure if it was because of the format, I tend to enjoy reading more when I am reading an actual book rather than an eBook or if it was Tatsu I had issues with at the beginning of the book.
I am really sad to say that I didn't like Tatsu to begin with, maybe because I have been reading a lot of books lately with female protagonists and changing over to a male 'voice' took me a little bit of time, or if it was actually Tatsu. I am not completely sure. I found myself liking the other characters more, Ral and Yudai especially.
After a bit of a rocky start, I found that once I hit about a third of the way in to the book, things really started to pick up. I actually ended up reading from 44% to the end in one go, because I didn't want to put the book down. I did find Tatsu a little bit annoying all the way through the book but he did grow on me in the end. I do wish that we could have had more of Alesh's story and maybe some of her point of view as I found her really interesting and found myself wanting to know more about her journey.
This book is a 'road trip' fantasy book, in that most of the book follows Tatsu and a small group of characters on a journey Runon and back again. I know this kind of book isn't for everyone but I do like books like this and I think that The Life Siphon is a really good example of a 'road trip' fantasy.
I found the magic system really interesting, though I would have preferred a little more detail about it. I want to know more about the different types of mages and their powers. I really hope that we will get to know more about mages their magic in the sequel. And I am hoping we will get to know more about the mage Nota in the sequel too.
I don't want to say too much about the plot in case I spoil things, but The Life Siphon was an enjoyable read. The pace of the book was great, for the last two thirds of the book, though I did find the first third a little too slow. The character development was good, as was the world building. There were just a few instances, where I found myself needing more details. The main issue was Ral. I wanted to know more about her, and for me, a childhood virus felt too vague, I need to know more!
I am hoping that we get some more answers/details in the second book, more about the mages, more about Ral and maybe some parts of the book from Yudai's point of view too. As you might expect as a duology the book does indeed end on a cliffhanger, so if you want to read both books together you are in luck as you only have to wait until the 15th March 2018 when The Mage Heir will be published. I really enjoyed reading The Life Siphon and The Mage Heir is definitely on my TBR list.
July 12, 2019
Read more reviews - www.thebookbloglife.com
I have been on such a good run with my Netgalley requests this month. The Life Siphon was a brilliant read, I really enjoyed the character development and the magic system. I did think there were parts of the story that were definitely underplayed and seemed to have a lot of potential that wasn’t really tapped into. I would have really liked to have given this story 5 stars but this really hindered the way the story flowed. I think the way the plot ends up playing out was definitely different from what I was expecting. The ending was a little cliche but extremely satisfying, I think I’ll definitely be picking up the second in the series. Fingers crossed it holds up against this one.
I think the range of characters within The Life Siphon is my favourite part of the book. My only wish was that there had been more about each of them. I would have loved an in-depth back story for each of them especially as they are spending so much time travelling with each of them. I do think that the way the sexuality of the characters was handled was forced, I would have liked for things to have progressed naturally without the explanations. My favourite character was definitely Ral, I loved her involvement in the story and I’m so intrigued to see where her storyline ends up.
Watching the group walking through the Weeping Forest was one of my best bits. I loved the description about the absence of life and the trees hunger. It was really cleverly done and I would have loved for there to have been more based around that. My other best bits are any that involve Tatsu and Ral, I loved their relationship, especially the amount of patience he has for her and the time he takes to teach her about day-to-day things. It was not only heartwarming to see but also a realistic depiction of life. I don’t want to spoil The Life Siphon for anyone but the big battle was one of my favourites.
These are the reasons why The Life Siphon did not get a 5-star rating… the first one being that I had sussed the twist from the prologue. There was a moment where I thought I had it wrong but alas no. I also mentioned sexuality in this book and how I thought it was a little forced, it was almost like a disclaimer and kinda ruined the rest of the book, I feel like there was no need for the conversation to happen and it didn’t really fit in with the rest of the book. I wanted it to be natural and occur because of chemistry.
I would recommend The Life Siphon, definitely. The story held my attention and the characters were interesting and well rounded. I really want to pick up the next one to find out where they all end up and how everything works itself out. I have my theories but we will have to wait and see.
Read more reviews - www.thebookbloglife.com
I have been on such a good run with my Netgalley requests this month. The Life Siphon was a brilliant read, I really enjoyed the character development and the magic system. I did think there were parts of the story that were definitely underplayed and seemed to have a lot of potential that wasn’t really tapped into. I would have really liked to have given this story 5 stars but this really hindered the way the story flowed. I think the way the plot ends up playing out was definitely different from what I was expecting. The ending was a little cliche but extremely satisfying, I think I’ll definitely be picking up the second in the series. Fingers crossed it holds up against this one.
I think the range of characters within The Life Siphon is my favourite part of the book. My only wish was that there had been more about each of them. I would have loved an in-depth back story for each of them especially as they are spending so much time travelling with each of them. I do think that the way the sexuality of the characters was handled was forced, I would have liked for things to have progressed naturally without the explanations. My favourite character was definitely Ral, I loved her involvement in the story and I’m so intrigued to see where her storyline ends up.
Watching the group walking through the Weeping Forest was one of my best bits. I loved the description about the absence of life and the trees hunger. It was really cleverly done and I would have loved for there to have been more based around that. My other best bits are any that involve Tatsu and Ral, I loved their relationship, especially the amount of patience he has for her and the time he takes to teach her about day-to-day things. It was not only heartwarming to see but also a realistic depiction of life. I don’t want to spoil The Life Siphon for anyone but the big battle was one of my favourites.
These are the reasons why The Life Siphon did not get a 5-star rating… the first one being that I had sussed the twist from the prologue. There was a moment where I thought I had it wrong but alas no. I also mentioned sexuality in this book and how I thought it was a little forced, it was almost like a disclaimer and kinda ruined the rest of the book, I feel like there was no need for the conversation to happen and it didn’t really fit in with the rest of the book. I wanted it to be natural and occur because of chemistry.
I would recommend The Life Siphon, definitely. The story held my attention and the characters were interesting and well rounded. I really want to pick up the next one to find out where they all end up and how everything works itself out. I have my theories but we will have to wait and see.
Read more reviews - www.thebookbloglife.com
April 27, 2018
Actual rating 2.5 stars
Thoughts and Plot
Poor Tatsu is really just a guy who mostly keeps to himself in the forest. His friend, Alesh, just so happens to be a criminal who comes to him rather severely injured for aid. In doing this she gets them both arrested by the guards and dragged in front of the Queen. The Queen gives them a quest, go to the neighboring country and steal whatever is leeching the earth of its energy and all will be forgiven.
Now already I had some grievances. Tatsu is arrested just for being with Alesh, basically. Somehow these mere criminals manage to get dragged in front of a QUEEN. Usually such riffraff would be talked to by a representative of the Queen or maybe the Captain of the Guard? Anyhow, whatever. Just saying.
Tatsu and Alesh team up with a mage named Leil in order to steal said magical device that is killing the earth. There are things I actually liked about this book. I always enjoy a good fantasy adventure with a cast filled by people who have to work together in order to save the world from a deadly….whatever.
That said, I am focusing a lot of the negative because I feel like these things could be improved upon, or at the very least, you should be warned. I do feel like this book would have benefitted from a little more editing…and I mostly mean by cutting various things out to tighten up the plot. It was a touch laggy in some places do to some pretty long descriptions of things. The pacing is a bit off, probably because a large part of the book is the actual journey to the location of the magical drain and Tatsu reflecting about things we already know. These little bits could be edited down to quicken the pacing ever so slightly.
I also found it funny, in a non-haha sort of way, that the criminal of the group is shocked by the illegal things they find in the ‘villain’s’ lair. It makes sense the Tatsu is naïve, because I feel like his original goal in life was to live a simple life away from most other people and the world’s problems. However, a person who takes part in criminal activities should know that villains use poisons and what not to achieve their evil goals. (I use this as an example because I don’t want to spoil other naivety scenes for you and others have used this example already).
In Conclusion
Because of the pacing and unbelieve innocent thinking of the heroes (as well as the unbelieve series of events I mentioned earlier), this book went from a 3.5 rating down to a 2.5 rating. I won’t be actively tooting this book’s horn, but if someone fits the bill as someone who would like to read this book, I will be recommending it to them. I may or may not pick up the second book if it floats into my general area.
September 6, 2019
4.5 Stars
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
June 21, 2018
Tatsu has been spent his life in the forest and on the outskirts of Chayd. As an outsider, it’s where he has become most comfortable. It all starts when his childhood friend Alesh winds up on his doorstep, bloodied and exhausted from an illegal venture to earn money. It doesn’t take long before the crown finds her at Tatsu’s house and they both end up imprisoned. The queen offers them a deal in order to retain their freedom: steal the siphon that’s killing the environment and bring it back to Chayd.
They never expected the siphon to turn out to be what it was.
As you track their journey to Runon to acquire the siphon then getting back to the queen, you learn more and more about the kingdoms, characters and the magic of the realm.
One of the things I enjoyed was the fact that I could see their progress in my mind like a movie as I read. The settings and character reactions are extremely vivid from page one. I would love to be able to visit a place as rich as Chayd and Runon are. And the settings were just there in the background. Each setting was a character as well. What I will never forget is how menacing and horrifying the dead forest to be. It still gives me the creeps.
The pacing of this book was a little slow in parts but I found that it didn’t bother me. In fact I was thankful for all the little details I picked up when the rush of an ending hit. Do your self a favor and have The Mage Heir ready. Because that ending, WOW! I stayed up late to finish reading and when I was? It took a bit to calm down enough to fall asleep.
Tatsu was a character that I could really relate to. He is an outsider and isn’t exactly what the rest of his community of Chayd was. He was different and there was so much more to him then what you could see upon first glance. I think that was probably true for all of the characters but I understood Tatsu in a why I didn’t expect to.
Alesh and Ral, a sibling relationship that goes to show you how far you would go to take care of your family. Alesh, she was stubborn to the core but when it came to Ral, she’d do whatever in order to make sure her sister was happy and safe. Ral was enchanting. I knew from the moment we were introduced to her, there was something special about her. I couldn’t wait to figure out who she truly would end up being.
Now, for those of you looking for the M/M romance. It doesn’t appear in The Life Siphon buuuuut there’s book two, The Mage Heir. All that tension has to lead to something, right? If you like fantasy, a journey with a heavy task guiding it, then grab this book. There’s something about the writing that drew me in and made me want to be next to Tatsu, Alesh and Ral.
They never expected the siphon to turn out to be what it was.
As you track their journey to Runon to acquire the siphon then getting back to the queen, you learn more and more about the kingdoms, characters and the magic of the realm.
One of the things I enjoyed was the fact that I could see their progress in my mind like a movie as I read. The settings and character reactions are extremely vivid from page one. I would love to be able to visit a place as rich as Chayd and Runon are. And the settings were just there in the background. Each setting was a character as well. What I will never forget is how menacing and horrifying the dead forest to be. It still gives me the creeps.
The pacing of this book was a little slow in parts but I found that it didn’t bother me. In fact I was thankful for all the little details I picked up when the rush of an ending hit. Do your self a favor and have The Mage Heir ready. Because that ending, WOW! I stayed up late to finish reading and when I was? It took a bit to calm down enough to fall asleep.
Tatsu was a character that I could really relate to. He is an outsider and isn’t exactly what the rest of his community of Chayd was. He was different and there was so much more to him then what you could see upon first glance. I think that was probably true for all of the characters but I understood Tatsu in a why I didn’t expect to.
Alesh and Ral, a sibling relationship that goes to show you how far you would go to take care of your family. Alesh, she was stubborn to the core but when it came to Ral, she’d do whatever in order to make sure her sister was happy and safe. Ral was enchanting. I knew from the moment we were introduced to her, there was something special about her. I couldn’t wait to figure out who she truly would end up being.
Now, for those of you looking for the M/M romance. It doesn’t appear in The Life Siphon buuuuut there’s book two, The Mage Heir. All that tension has to lead to something, right? If you like fantasy, a journey with a heavy task guiding it, then grab this book. There’s something about the writing that drew me in and made me want to be next to Tatsu, Alesh and Ral.
August 20, 2018
(Originally reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews.)
When we first meet the main character of the story, Tatsu, he is a man living on his own in a deep forest. He avoids human contact and ventures into the capital city very rarely. Suddenly a knock comes on his front door, and Alesh, a friend from the past, shows up needing him to watch her sister Ral while she goes and does something. Ral is portrayed as a simple minded woman, whose brain was affected by some sort of fever as a child.
While Alesh is gone, Ral and Tatsu discover a huge blight on the forest very close to his home. It is as if the very life has been drained from the land. All the trees and grass are dead. There isn’t much time to focus on it though, as Alesh comes back suddenly, followed by the Queen’s guardsmen. Alesh and Tatsu are arrested and thrown in the dreaded prison in the capital. It is a prison that suffers massive overpopulation issues, and the guards let the surplus population be culled by the more vicious prisoners. Tatsu has no idea why he would have been arrested and labeled as treasonous.
The two are offered a way out when they meet the Queen and her mages. If they travel to the bordering country of Runon and steal something called the life syphon, which it turns out is responsible for the dead lands near Tatsu’s home, then they will be freed and their crimes forgiven.
There begins their story. There are some surprises along the way…like the weeping forest section that is totally creepy, and the life syphon itself. Tatsu will be tasked with much more than he thought originally.
I really liked the story. I’ll be honest and say it grew on me as it progressed. The beginning was a little slow and I was wondering why I blindly accepted two books to review at the same time without reading anything else by the author. After I got into the book a little further, I was glad I did because I was drawn in. I’m glad I read it after the second book was already out though, since in my opinion the story was incomplete and needed the continuation. I liked the author’s writing style and it kept me interested and reading along.
When we first meet the main character of the story, Tatsu, he is a man living on his own in a deep forest. He avoids human contact and ventures into the capital city very rarely. Suddenly a knock comes on his front door, and Alesh, a friend from the past, shows up needing him to watch her sister Ral while she goes and does something. Ral is portrayed as a simple minded woman, whose brain was affected by some sort of fever as a child.
While Alesh is gone, Ral and Tatsu discover a huge blight on the forest very close to his home. It is as if the very life has been drained from the land. All the trees and grass are dead. There isn’t much time to focus on it though, as Alesh comes back suddenly, followed by the Queen’s guardsmen. Alesh and Tatsu are arrested and thrown in the dreaded prison in the capital. It is a prison that suffers massive overpopulation issues, and the guards let the surplus population be culled by the more vicious prisoners. Tatsu has no idea why he would have been arrested and labeled as treasonous.
The two are offered a way out when they meet the Queen and her mages. If they travel to the bordering country of Runon and steal something called the life syphon, which it turns out is responsible for the dead lands near Tatsu’s home, then they will be freed and their crimes forgiven.
There begins their story. There are some surprises along the way…like the weeping forest section that is totally creepy, and the life syphon itself. Tatsu will be tasked with much more than he thought originally.
I really liked the story. I’ll be honest and say it grew on me as it progressed. The beginning was a little slow and I was wondering why I blindly accepted two books to review at the same time without reading anything else by the author. After I got into the book a little further, I was glad I did because I was drawn in. I’m glad I read it after the second book was already out though, since in my opinion the story was incomplete and needed the continuation. I liked the author’s writing style and it kept me interested and reading along.
December 8, 2017
An engaging and immersive fantasy adventure story, told well!
Though packed with action and threat, this is a novel that takes its time unfolding, and on the way, immerses the reader in the central character Tatsu’s internal struggles. Hiding away in the woods, Tatsu is gifted with an extraordinary talent that allows him to sense the energies of the creatures and landscape around him. He is only comfortable in these pastoral settings, seldom journeying to the busy streets of Dradela, the capital of Chayd. One of the few people who knows him well is Alesh, a woman who has taken to thievery and smuggling to allow her to survive and support her sister Ral, an adult with the playful mind of a child.
Alesh’s vocational choice has pushed Tatsu and Alesh apart, but they still maintain a fragile friendship, enough that, when asked, Tatsu will reluctantly care for Ral while Alesh engages in her nefarious activities. On one such occasion, when Alesh staggers to his front door injured, Tatsu offers assistance. But when the Queen’s guard arrive in pursuit of Alesh, Tatsu is taken into custody for aiding a fugitive. Imprisoned and with little hope for the future, the Queen of Chayd offers him and Alesh their freedom if he will accompany Alesh on a mission to steal a magical artefact from a neighbouring kingdom. To reveal more would spoil the story’s unfolding.
Many readers will enjoy sharing the depths of Tatsu’s internal journey, but this made the story just a little slow for my tastes. Not enough to spoil the tale, but enough for me to be itching to move forward to the next vividly described scene, unusual event and unexpected twist in the plot.
Though packed with action and threat, this is a novel that takes its time unfolding, and on the way, immerses the reader in the central character Tatsu’s internal struggles. Hiding away in the woods, Tatsu is gifted with an extraordinary talent that allows him to sense the energies of the creatures and landscape around him. He is only comfortable in these pastoral settings, seldom journeying to the busy streets of Dradela, the capital of Chayd. One of the few people who knows him well is Alesh, a woman who has taken to thievery and smuggling to allow her to survive and support her sister Ral, an adult with the playful mind of a child.
Alesh’s vocational choice has pushed Tatsu and Alesh apart, but they still maintain a fragile friendship, enough that, when asked, Tatsu will reluctantly care for Ral while Alesh engages in her nefarious activities. On one such occasion, when Alesh staggers to his front door injured, Tatsu offers assistance. But when the Queen’s guard arrive in pursuit of Alesh, Tatsu is taken into custody for aiding a fugitive. Imprisoned and with little hope for the future, the Queen of Chayd offers him and Alesh their freedom if he will accompany Alesh on a mission to steal a magical artefact from a neighbouring kingdom. To reveal more would spoil the story’s unfolding.
Many readers will enjoy sharing the depths of Tatsu’s internal journey, but this made the story just a little slow for my tastes. Not enough to spoil the tale, but enough for me to be itching to move forward to the next vividly described scene, unusual event and unexpected twist in the plot.
June 4, 2019
For me the cover looks really inviting and magical. I like the roots of the trees and also the writing of the title. The small palace on the top is also a nice detail.
The writing style was fluent and simple. The book is written from the third-person-perspective, but manly focused on the main character Tatsu.
Unfortunatly, I had great issues at the beginning of the book. I was not getting warm with the characters and the story. Somehow, I didn't see the red thread in the story and was a little confused. What also disturbed me a little, that there was the feeling that Alesh and Tatsu might have a important past together, but too little information to understand their relationship to each other.
Tatsu was a nice character, living alone in the woods and content with his life. But through some incidents, he was thrown in quite an adventure. It observable, that he had some troubles, finding his role in this story. But at the end he made some nice character developments, warming me a little to his person. Nearly the other characteres (I have one small exception, I do not want to mention in person for spoiler reasons) in the story felt a little bit lifless. I never really got a feeling for them.
I also hardly got a feeling for the story. After my troubles at the beginning, I still had issues and no real clue, where the story would lead. However, I really liked the surprise, what the life siphon is. From then on the story was becoming more interesting. Also it still felt unclear, what the purpose of all this is.
Conclusion:
Nice characters, surprising discovery, but for me no red thread was traceable - therefore I give the book 3 out of 5 stars :)
The writing style was fluent and simple. The book is written from the third-person-perspective, but manly focused on the main character Tatsu.
Unfortunatly, I had great issues at the beginning of the book. I was not getting warm with the characters and the story. Somehow, I didn't see the red thread in the story and was a little confused. What also disturbed me a little, that there was the feeling that Alesh and Tatsu might have a important past together, but too little information to understand their relationship to each other.
Tatsu was a nice character, living alone in the woods and content with his life. But through some incidents, he was thrown in quite an adventure. It observable, that he had some troubles, finding his role in this story. But at the end he made some nice character developments, warming me a little to his person. Nearly the other characteres (I have one small exception, I do not want to mention in person for spoiler reasons) in the story felt a little bit lifless. I never really got a feeling for them.
I also hardly got a feeling for the story. After my troubles at the beginning, I still had issues and no real clue, where the story would lead. However, I really liked the surprise, what the life siphon is. From then on the story was becoming more interesting. Also it still felt unclear, what the purpose of all this is.
Conclusion:
Nice characters, surprising discovery, but for me no red thread was traceable - therefore I give the book 3 out of 5 stars :)
April 9, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
The mountains are dying. Tatsu can see the clear demarcation between the green grass and lush trees of his forest to the blight beyond, but he can’t understand why. When asked by his ex-lover, Alesh, to watch her sister Ral, Tatsu can’t find it in himself to refuse. And if it weren’t for Ral wandering into the woods one afternoon, Tatsu wouldn’t have seen the horrible devastation beyond his forest, the same woodlands he’d lived in all his life. Things only get worse when Alesh returns from her mysterious mission bloodied and frightened and with the royal guard hot on her heels.
Tatsu never approved of Alesh’s smuggling and thieving lifestyle, and he disapproves even more now that he’s been beaten and thrown into prison for the treasonous act of harboring a fugitive. At their sentencing, the queen offers Alesh, Tatsu, and a warrior named Brund a chance to redeem themselves. The neighboring kingdom of Runon has a magical device that has been killing the land of Chayd, destroying crop lands, woods, even villages full of people in order to weaken them and, in the end, conquer them. If Alesh, Tatsu, and the others can find and steal this device, bringing it back to Chayd, she will pardon them of all crimes.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
The mountains are dying. Tatsu can see the clear demarcation between the green grass and lush trees of his forest to the blight beyond, but he can’t understand why. When asked by his ex-lover, Alesh, to watch her sister Ral, Tatsu can’t find it in himself to refuse. And if it weren’t for Ral wandering into the woods one afternoon, Tatsu wouldn’t have seen the horrible devastation beyond his forest, the same woodlands he’d lived in all his life. Things only get worse when Alesh returns from her mysterious mission bloodied and frightened and with the royal guard hot on her heels.
Tatsu never approved of Alesh’s smuggling and thieving lifestyle, and he disapproves even more now that he’s been beaten and thrown into prison for the treasonous act of harboring a fugitive. At their sentencing, the queen offers Alesh, Tatsu, and a warrior named Brund a chance to redeem themselves. The neighboring kingdom of Runon has a magical device that has been killing the land of Chayd, destroying crop lands, woods, even villages full of people in order to weaken them and, in the end, conquer them. If Alesh, Tatsu, and the others can find and steal this device, bringing it back to Chayd, she will pardon them of all crimes.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
February 18, 2018
Interesting concept, but I found that parts of the book dragged on. I think this book could have benefited from a different editor.
Parts of the plot dragged on or were just plain strange. Why introduce the mage character and have There were some points I think could have been improved.. for instance
The third act was where things picked up, and I found the
I got a copy of this book from Netgalley.
Parts of the plot dragged on or were just plain strange. Why introduce the mage character and have There were some points I think could have been improved.. for instance
The third act was where things picked up, and I found the
I got a copy of this book from Netgalley.
March 2, 2018
This was a nice quick read, mainly due to the steady pace of this book. I was engaged and hooked from the first few pages and got swept up in the story quickly, which meant it was over before I even had time to think about it. The world building in this book is very good and I really enjoyed the detailed sensory experience of the drained forest scenes. I could almost feel the energy coming off of the trees through the pages. There were some very good elements to this book. Obviously, there is more to this story as this is book 1 and I do hope we get more answers in the follow-up. For if I had one grip it would be that things felt unfinished. In other words, I would not have enjoyed this book as much if I thought it was a stand-alone novel. It reads like an introduction and doesn't really wrap things up at the end. So if you are someone who doesn't like to get invested in a series until all the books are written maybe you want to wait until the second instalment is out in the world.
If you like magical fantasy created in well-written worlds then I would recommend you give this book a try.
If you like magical fantasy created in well-written worlds then I would recommend you give this book a try.
December 14, 2017
The life siphon is a good story, and well written, but it took a while to really hook me into the story. This is largely because I never really connected with the initial group of protagonists, besides one member. Even the main character failed to spark my interest at first as he lacked backbone for a while. It only at about the half-way point where I became honestly invested in the characters, because the story shifted to focus on a small group of character I found compelling and the main character changed subtly to someone who actually fought.
None of this is to say that's the first half of the story is bad, it just didn't have the life that the second half had in my opinion.
The second half of the story, in contrast, was excellent. It progressed quickly, presented meaningful challenges and offered a wealth of character progression, some of which was prepared in the first half. The story itself takes some welcome changes from route expectation, nothing shocking but it nevertheless makes the story feel alive, and ends on a high note with the promise of an excellent sequel.
None of this is to say that's the first half of the story is bad, it just didn't have the life that the second half had in my opinion.
The second half of the story, in contrast, was excellent. It progressed quickly, presented meaningful challenges and offered a wealth of character progression, some of which was prepared in the first half. The story itself takes some welcome changes from route expectation, nothing shocking but it nevertheless makes the story feel alive, and ends on a high note with the promise of an excellent sequel.
January 20, 2018
Just finished reading this book after receiving a copy from NetGalley for my review. I like all kinds of books but especially fantasy. This book features an interesting premise in which one kingdom, Runon, has a life siphon and is literally draining the life from another kingdom, Chayd. The story involves some interesting characters from Chayd, who travel to Runon to try and obtain " the life siphon". I really enjoyed the concept and the story was well written with characters that I found believable and I cared about. There is to be one more book in this duology and I am looking forward to reading it!
July 24, 2019
Admittedly, when I started the book I felt like I walked in the middle of an episode of something that I should wait and watch from the beginning, but I was quickly immersed into a new world with new concepts and political systems. One of the characters was a little too much of a Deux ex Machina for me in the beginning but not too distracting to the storyline. I don't want to spoil anything but I definitely DESIRED the second book and loved the world-building. (Note to the author, I have reviewed both the re-released book and this original listing and given one less star on the original because I love the new cover.)
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