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Alpha Rising #1
Dark Wolf's Awakening
It has been thousands of years since Beast-Kind were united under one banner. The empire encompasses most of the known world, driving out or enslaving the lesser races without mercy. In a state of constant war and conquest, they have perfected the art of battle.
For commoner wolf-kind, Valian, being accepted and trained in a noble house's army was a dream come true. Without wealth or a family, it was his best shot at attaining honor and glory. Until fate intervened.
When, on his graduation day, Valian discovers he's descended from an ancient and long-thought extinct line, everything changes. Now, he'll have to come to terms with his newfound strength while joining a world he has never known. If the threat of his fellow beast-kind wasn't enough, a new danger has awoken on the empire's eastern border.
If Valian doesn't rise to the occasion, more than just his own life may be lost.
Fans of “Throne of Glass” and “Sword of Truth” will enjoy the dynamic combination of magic and action in Evans’ new series, Alpha Rising. “Dark Wolf's Awakening” is the debut novel in the fast-paced epic fantasy series that introduces readers to a savage world ruled by shapeshifters and the beast within.
For commoner wolf-kind, Valian, being accepted and trained in a noble house's army was a dream come true. Without wealth or a family, it was his best shot at attaining honor and glory. Until fate intervened.
When, on his graduation day, Valian discovers he's descended from an ancient and long-thought extinct line, everything changes. Now, he'll have to come to terms with his newfound strength while joining a world he has never known. If the threat of his fellow beast-kind wasn't enough, a new danger has awoken on the empire's eastern border.
If Valian doesn't rise to the occasion, more than just his own life may be lost.
Fans of “Throne of Glass” and “Sword of Truth” will enjoy the dynamic combination of magic and action in Evans’ new series, Alpha Rising. “Dark Wolf's Awakening” is the debut novel in the fast-paced epic fantasy series that introduces readers to a savage world ruled by shapeshifters and the beast within.
269 pages, Paperback
First published March 14, 2019
236 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Evans
2 books79 followersRyan Evans is a husband and father currently living in Arkansas. He has received two degrees: His first from the University of Central Arkansas in exercise science. The second from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in nursing. Between the two he completed a term of service in the United States Army. He has been an avid reader of fantasy literature his entire life and started out reading the Dragonlance series at the age of 10. After reading everything he could get his hands on and imagining countless stories, he decided he wanted to build worlds of his own.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
March 30, 2020
This was a really strong first draft of a debut novel. It has an interesting story and is stuffed with highly enjoyable moments. However...
Saying this was the first draft wasn't a typo, more of an opinion. I would really love to read this book after another couple of passes by the author where he focuses on:
- Fleshing out the side characters to become more three-dimensional -A lot of the characters in this book exist purely to serve the protagonists needs. For example, when the author want's the protagonist to look like a good leader, he inserts an irrationally bad/incompetent leader for him to be compared to. When the author wants to show how strong the protagonist is, a violent antagonist is inserted who seemingly exists just to test the protagonist's strength. Characters basically come and go as and when the protagonist needs them too.
- Making the dialogue a little less clunky
- Polishing up grammar and word choice
- Toning down the Gary Stu elements about the protagonist - I hesitate to admit this because I don't subscribe to the Superman Problem theory (in that you can't make Superman interesting because he is too powerful/perfect and therefore there are no stakes). I'm of the opinion that such a theory is just an excuse for lazy writers who don't want to put in the effort to make these characters interesting. That being said, this main character is a little too over the top, not because he's overpowered, but because everything is gifted to him on a silver platter. It's just all a little too neat because the character is perfect and never has to work for anything, which leads to...
- Potential is not as powerful as Experience - Here I'm talking about the fact that we as readers don't like to be told someone can do something, we like to experience it. Having someone be gifted the ability to be the world's greatest fighter overnight is not as satisfying as seeing a character struggle to become the world's greatest fighter. It doesn't need to be endless pages of progression, but just enough that we feel like that character's new prowess has been earned through experience, and not gifted out of necessity.
Side note: If you want to see an overpowered character done right for the last two points, pick up John Conroe's Demon Accords series. There is no denying that Chris Gordon or even Declan O'Carol are overpowered protagonists, but we experience all the necessary steps of how they get there and the results are so satisfying.
Overall, this book has a lot of potential and really fun, even awesome moments. However, if the content between those moments was polished up, then this book would reach a whole new level.
Saying this was the first draft wasn't a typo, more of an opinion. I would really love to read this book after another couple of passes by the author where he focuses on:
- Fleshing out the side characters to become more three-dimensional -A lot of the characters in this book exist purely to serve the protagonists needs. For example, when the author want's the protagonist to look like a good leader, he inserts an irrationally bad/incompetent leader for him to be compared to. When the author wants to show how strong the protagonist is, a violent antagonist is inserted who seemingly exists just to test the protagonist's strength. Characters basically come and go as and when the protagonist needs them too.
- Making the dialogue a little less clunky
- Polishing up grammar and word choice
- Toning down the Gary Stu elements about the protagonist - I hesitate to admit this because I don't subscribe to the Superman Problem theory (in that you can't make Superman interesting because he is too powerful/perfect and therefore there are no stakes). I'm of the opinion that such a theory is just an excuse for lazy writers who don't want to put in the effort to make these characters interesting. That being said, this main character is a little too over the top, not because he's overpowered, but because everything is gifted to him on a silver platter. It's just all a little too neat because the character is perfect and never has to work for anything, which leads to...
- Potential is not as powerful as Experience - Here I'm talking about the fact that we as readers don't like to be told someone can do something, we like to experience it. Having someone be gifted the ability to be the world's greatest fighter overnight is not as satisfying as seeing a character struggle to become the world's greatest fighter. It doesn't need to be endless pages of progression, but just enough that we feel like that character's new prowess has been earned through experience, and not gifted out of necessity.
Side note: If you want to see an overpowered character done right for the last two points, pick up John Conroe's Demon Accords series. There is no denying that Chris Gordon or even Declan O'Carol are overpowered protagonists, but we experience all the necessary steps of how they get there and the results are so satisfying.
Overall, this book has a lot of potential and really fun, even awesome moments. However, if the content between those moments was polished up, then this book would reach a whole new level.
March 28, 2022
So, I really dislike the MC. He’s arrogant and completely full of himself. He is just really not likable. Of course that’s just my opinion. I also find him power hungry and the way he became so commanding over all of the leaders drove me crazy. I’m going to read the next only cause I’m interested in the elf, Lathian. I like him!
August 10, 2022
Grrrrrowl!!!!!!
When it was suggested that I give this a read I really wasn't expecting much. But Damn it was a fine read. Congratulations Ryan Evans you hit the mark through out the whole of the book. I couldn't put it down. It was exciting to read. Don't lose your momentum for the story. You have it all. Laughter, politics, war, an humans that change into animals. I'm Howling my way to the next read. LOL!!!!! One hell if a read. Thank you Sir. If enjoy shape shifting this is a read for you.
When it was suggested that I give this a read I really wasn't expecting much. But Damn it was a fine read. Congratulations Ryan Evans you hit the mark through out the whole of the book. I couldn't put it down. It was exciting to read. Don't lose your momentum for the story. You have it all. Laughter, politics, war, an humans that change into animals. I'm Howling my way to the next read. LOL!!!!! One hell if a read. Thank you Sir. If enjoy shape shifting this is a read for you.
March 16, 2019
Interesting read
I liked it. Interesting new world. Solid character building. Good political building, both historical and current. A different take on shifters, of various types. The author could have used a good editor to make the story shine better. I look forward to the next book.
I liked it. Interesting new world. Solid character building. Good political building, both historical and current. A different take on shifters, of various types. The author could have used a good editor to make the story shine better. I look forward to the next book.
April 5, 2019
Are you ready for Ryan Evans? Prepare to be a recluse for 2-3 days when you read this book. The gallant main character Valian, struggles to overcome archaic aristocratic structures while battling sinister monsters. Mr. Evans captivates the reader on this journey using uncommon rhetoric such as; shapeshifting, auras, military verbiage and imagery, different races, a caste system, alternate sociological system, and so much more. Dark Wolf’s Awakening flows well and is a quick read. If you want to pull your teenage away from YouTube, this book will do it. I highly recommend you become Awakened by the Dark Wolf!
August 25, 2022
This book make me regret need finish any books I start. I can picture the author editor and publisher in a circle jerk over their main characters, pardon my french.
Everything and everyone is bent to make the main character to be the perfect Gary Sue, a paragon of honor, virtue, wisdom, political acumen and egalitarianism. While every character who isn't ready to get on their knees and lick his feet are nothing but despicable villains who only care about their own selfish asses.
This book needs a power fantasy tag, the setting was interesting but ultimately a disappointment. The Beast people are nothing more than regular knights, Adrian Tchaikovsky's **the Tiger and the Wolf** does a much better job with this premise
Everything and everyone is bent to make the main character to be the perfect Gary Sue, a paragon of honor, virtue, wisdom, political acumen and egalitarianism. While every character who isn't ready to get on their knees and lick his feet are nothing but despicable villains who only care about their own selfish asses.
This book needs a power fantasy tag, the setting was interesting but ultimately a disappointment. The Beast people are nothing more than regular knights, Adrian Tchaikovsky's **the Tiger and the Wolf** does a much better job with this premise
August 6, 2023
Not bad. Definitely an OP MC story
Fast read, lots of action. The MC only really faces one true challenge, and the antagonists are obvious and absolutely inept. A good one to read if you’re just looking for an action story, without much in the way of deception and thriller. Side note: the author mistakenly uses “moral” instead of “morale” in many places. I’m not sure he spelled it properly once. Not a huge issue but obvious and often enough that it stands out. I’d recommend this one for young adult male audiences most likely.
Fast read, lots of action. The MC only really faces one true challenge, and the antagonists are obvious and absolutely inept. A good one to read if you’re just looking for an action story, without much in the way of deception and thriller. Side note: the author mistakenly uses “moral” instead of “morale” in many places. I’m not sure he spelled it properly once. Not a huge issue but obvious and often enough that it stands out. I’d recommend this one for young adult male audiences most likely.
August 21, 2024
The writing style, the first -person narrative and the pace didn't work for me...
March 21, 2019
Wow
I enjoyed the story thoroughly.. a different look into shifters for me and thoroughly exciting.. I can’t wait for the other parts...
I enjoyed the story thoroughly.. a different look into shifters for me and thoroughly exciting.. I can’t wait for the other parts...
February 1, 2020
This book is the Alpha Lupi in a constellation of wolf stars.It shines blood bright in it's brutality as a long dead house of ancient wolf shifters seeks to resurrect itself from extinction.I eagerly anticipate Valian adding more fangs to his trophy necklace.
August 1, 2022
Dark Wolfs Awakening
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3.5
A very war driven book full of shape shifting creatures and clans.
I think if you enjoyed breast quest or similar books when you were younger you would enjoy this - especially teen boys.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3.5
A very war driven book full of shape shifting creatures and clans.
I think if you enjoyed breast quest or similar books when you were younger you would enjoy this - especially teen boys.
September 29, 2020
I have seen many many comments through the years when certain book covers are released or when there is a certain next book in a series that people are waiting on and they do a "book cover reveal" and apparently, that's a big deal. I've seen comment after comment on things like this and honestly never really cared. So, why the info dump about book covers? Well, because for the first time - or at least the first time that I am aware of -I bought a book just because of the book cover.
After buying said book and hitting play, I had a moment of worry and decided that I should at least look up the book description. I went to Goodreads and saw that I should be okay because it had a fairly good rating but I decided not to even read any reviews. Boy, look at me.....living on the edge!
Anyway, apparently this is a first book from this author. It did take me a little while to get into the book and to get used to the cadence and style of writing, but once everything settled in, I really enjoyed it. The world building could have been a bit more solid - there are many questions that I still have - but it was a first book in a series so let's see what book 2 has to offer. I alternated between listening to this on Audible and reading parts of it, and the narrator reminded me of someone that I had heard before but I had no problems with the narration.
So, about the book. The MC of Valian is a pretty likable character with a fairly good moral compass - at least from what we have seen so far. He has been raised as an orphan and knows nothing about his birth parents. After attending a sort of military academy for the past 6 years - he has an event or "awakening" happen to him on the day of graduation. The story takes off from there.
The author does a fairly good job with the character development. The secondary characters are introduced and we start to get a good feel for some of them. Others - not so much. I liked Valian, I liked Lathian and really liked Tristan and Sgt Iglias. Karsum - not quite sure about yet. Those are some of the good guys, or at least those who seem to be helpful to Valian. There are others that are not and those are a little one dimensional. We are not really given reasons for their beliefs or actions, yet it is also pretty obvious that Valian is upsetting to the status quo.
Here is where the world building is lacking. I understood their mission for the most part, but honestly, I need more information on just about everything else. Valian, for just being awakened, goes from being a normal person, to having almost godlike powers overnight - there really is no adjustment timeline. Give him a book (which just happen to be available everywhere - even on a military march) and he is able to speed read information on all pertinent info such a military strategy, nobility rules, court behavior protocols, you name it...AND remember everything he reads.
But, even with all of this - I still was able to root for Valian. Even with the believability factor being a bit "out there" it managed to still stayed within the line. The problem comes with the fact that I'm not sure what the next step is for him. If I understood the "world" a little better, I would have an idea where this is going. As it is, I know that things for Valian are going to continue to venture into the crazy realm. He will DEFINATELY be upsetting the apple cart. And, I am invested enough to want to go along on the journey with him to see where this leads. So, I guess it's onward to book 2. I just wish the audio version was already out.
After buying said book and hitting play, I had a moment of worry and decided that I should at least look up the book description. I went to Goodreads and saw that I should be okay because it had a fairly good rating but I decided not to even read any reviews. Boy, look at me.....living on the edge!
Anyway, apparently this is a first book from this author. It did take me a little while to get into the book and to get used to the cadence and style of writing, but once everything settled in, I really enjoyed it. The world building could have been a bit more solid - there are many questions that I still have - but it was a first book in a series so let's see what book 2 has to offer. I alternated between listening to this on Audible and reading parts of it, and the narrator reminded me of someone that I had heard before but I had no problems with the narration.
So, about the book. The MC of Valian is a pretty likable character with a fairly good moral compass - at least from what we have seen so far. He has been raised as an orphan and knows nothing about his birth parents. After attending a sort of military academy for the past 6 years - he has an event or "awakening" happen to him on the day of graduation. The story takes off from there.
The author does a fairly good job with the character development. The secondary characters are introduced and we start to get a good feel for some of them. Others - not so much. I liked Valian, I liked Lathian and really liked Tristan and Sgt Iglias. Karsum - not quite sure about yet. Those are some of the good guys, or at least those who seem to be helpful to Valian. There are others that are not and those are a little one dimensional. We are not really given reasons for their beliefs or actions, yet it is also pretty obvious that Valian is upsetting to the status quo.
Here is where the world building is lacking. I understood their mission for the most part, but honestly, I need more information on just about everything else. Valian, for just being awakened, goes from being a normal person, to having almost godlike powers overnight - there really is no adjustment timeline. Give him a book (which just happen to be available everywhere - even on a military march) and he is able to speed read information on all pertinent info such a military strategy, nobility rules, court behavior protocols, you name it...AND remember everything he reads.
But, even with all of this - I still was able to root for Valian. Even with the believability factor being a bit "out there" it managed to still stayed within the line. The problem comes with the fact that I'm not sure what the next step is for him. If I understood the "world" a little better, I would have an idea where this is going. As it is, I know that things for Valian are going to continue to venture into the crazy realm. He will DEFINATELY be upsetting the apple cart. And, I am invested enough to want to go along on the journey with him to see where this leads. So, I guess it's onward to book 2. I just wish the audio version was already out.
September 11, 2020
Fantastic
writing is excellent, fresh premise, quality character development. I read a lot of books, and it’s rare for me to feel this way about a new author and series. Please don’t stop at two books!
writing is excellent, fresh premise, quality character development. I read a lot of books, and it’s rare for me to feel this way about a new author and series. Please don’t stop at two books!
April 21, 2025
Ryan Evans has meticulously plotted a story that keeps the reader glued to the book, enthralled by the lead character and the world Mr. Evans has created. The tension between the characters gave the reader a vested interest in the outcome, kept the book steaming forward at full speed, and the action/battles were well scripted. My only complaint is that I could have used a little additional detail about the world, the culture, the population, etc. Most fantasy books give too much detail, but this one gave too little. All in all, I was super impressed with this book; I anxiously await reading the next in the series!
I've listened to this novel three times, and it holds up each time. The sequel was a monumental let-down, spiraling away from everything that made the first novel so compelling. The third novel was substantially better than the second one, but not nearly as good as this premier.
I've listened to this novel three times, and it holds up each time. The sequel was a monumental let-down, spiraling away from everything that made the first novel so compelling. The third novel was substantially better than the second one, but not nearly as good as this premier.
April 18, 2021
An overall pretty decent book. The writing was a bit childish, and felt like it wasn’t sure weather it wanted to be a YA or for grownups.
The plot was interesting and a unique take on shifting.
All the characters were on the flatter side and I didn’t feel much connection with any of them.
If you’re looking for a different kind of book but still want fantasy and shifters, this book might be for you.
The plot was interesting and a unique take on shifting.
All the characters were on the flatter side and I didn’t feel much connection with any of them.
If you’re looking for a different kind of book but still want fantasy and shifters, this book might be for you.
October 13, 2019
Interesting ideas, could be written better
I enjoyed the idea behind the world created by the author, but the book itself was somewhat dissapointing. The entire book takes place in several months, which makes it hard to believe considering everything that is happening. Also, the numbers don't add up when the author discusses about the Empire. I hope the next book will be better thought out, so that the reading journey doesn't get bogged up as in this one.
I enjoyed the idea behind the world created by the author, but the book itself was somewhat dissapointing. The entire book takes place in several months, which makes it hard to believe considering everything that is happening. Also, the numbers don't add up when the author discusses about the Empire. I hope the next book will be better thought out, so that the reading journey doesn't get bogged up as in this one.
October 20, 2020
Like the story but...
One of the first things writers are taught is to show not tell your story. Use the characters and dialog to show the reader the what and how things occur. Unfortunately, as good as the premise and characters were, there was way too much telling in this book. I almost did not finish it after the first few chapters but I liked Valian and other characters. I also liked the supernatural structure of the beast society.
One of the first things writers are taught is to show not tell your story. Use the characters and dialog to show the reader the what and how things occur. Unfortunately, as good as the premise and characters were, there was way too much telling in this book. I almost did not finish it after the first few chapters but I liked Valian and other characters. I also liked the supernatural structure of the beast society.
June 15, 2021
Ooof. DNF @ 42%. I thought I could handle a Gary Stu, but this one was even too much for me. Like most Instagram models, reality itself bends around the protagonist. Actions that should have seen him hung are not only hand-waved away but go on to elevate him in their society! Ridiculous.
Read Gareth's review for a more indepth dive.
Read Gareth's review for a more indepth dive.
December 29, 2019
Ryan Evans. $2.99 for a book. I'm a huge fan of werewolves, shapeshifters, anything in that genre tends to grab my attention rather quickly. I had a limited amount of money at the time I was searching for a new book after finishing another series.
For $3? I would've paid normal cover price for the book. I will express my opinions openly and without benefit to myself.
**LIMITED SPOILER ALERT** -- I'm not gonna ruin the story for you... but there are a few character spoilers in here...
---
OVERVIEW: I enjoyed this book a great deal, to be wholly and completely honest. It was a little short for my tastes as I normally pour through 900 pages in about 3-4 days. As a first book, I found myself rooting for Valian in his new role...
---
PROS: The book is an easy read. Evans is not excessively wordy; as in he describes what needs to be described, and he does it well enough for you to formulate the image of what he is trying to convey with ease. The book reads easily enough that if you are so inclined you can read a chapter a night to your kids, though it is a little bit graphic at times for a pre-teen audience.
The world is well-developed, structured, and comprehensive enough in its explanation that you don't wind up turning back several pages to try and figure out what he meant a few pages forward. The book flows with ease from start to finish.
Valian is a likable character for just about any alpha-male personality. It is easy to relate to his struggles when it comes to the changes that occur from the beginning of the story to the 'hook' of the story's framework. All of us dislike the pompous, entitled, wealthy people who look down their noses at us -- but Valian has the strength to do something about it.
As I said above; the book is an easy read. Easy to pick up and start right off, easy to put it down when life demands your attention, and not try to remember what was happening.
---
CONS: There really aren't many "twists". For as in-depth as the aristocracy is made to seem by definition, they seem to lack something that makes them... dangerous. These are families that run and control the empire. Everything is a little too systematic. There is a strong grasp on the military regime in the book, which from Evans past in the Army makes good sense. But the aristocratic part of the book leaves a little to want. Now, I have this listed as a Con, yes -- but it could also just be leaving room for the "true threats" to rear their ugly head.
Aaryn is a shallow character. She's coin-flat. One side, other side. Done. Not enough depth to her character for me to miss her if she never existed at all. Everything she did could have been flexed onto poster-boy Maxon and still accomplished the same objectivity of the character. I just didn't see any real struggle with her character.
Valian is a Hail Mary. I suppose a better way to word this kibitz, if you will, is that everything goes just a little *too* well for the new guy. Everything comes naturally to him to the extent that throughout the book everything is just... easy, despite him being new to all of it. I understand that Valian is the hero... and he's from a very, very special bloodline... but... little too much to the point that he is a wolf-kind Superman. Not enough struggle with things aside from his aggression and unwarranted arrogance.
That's another kibitz for Valian... He goes from 'no one to someone'. For someone who did it, essentially, in a single instant... It doesn't fit. The character growth and development for him didn't make sense in that regard. Once you get further in and he gets more involved with the soldiers his development picks up and improves significantly -- and makes more sense.
---
FINAL THOUGHTS: I will buy the second book when it comes out. I am interested to see what Valian's choices will cause--for him, and for those who've chosen him. I enjoyed the story enough that I am giving it 5-Stars because it is a new approach to this form of storytelling; it is well written without flaunting an unnecessarily arrogant verbose vocabulary of words that would otherwise disengender you as a reader from the flow of the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a light read, with an interesting story. I eagerly await the second book now to see what becomes of Valian!!
For $3? I would've paid normal cover price for the book. I will express my opinions openly and without benefit to myself.
**LIMITED SPOILER ALERT** -- I'm not gonna ruin the story for you... but there are a few character spoilers in here...
---
OVERVIEW: I enjoyed this book a great deal, to be wholly and completely honest. It was a little short for my tastes as I normally pour through 900 pages in about 3-4 days. As a first book, I found myself rooting for Valian in his new role...
---
PROS: The book is an easy read. Evans is not excessively wordy; as in he describes what needs to be described, and he does it well enough for you to formulate the image of what he is trying to convey with ease. The book reads easily enough that if you are so inclined you can read a chapter a night to your kids, though it is a little bit graphic at times for a pre-teen audience.
The world is well-developed, structured, and comprehensive enough in its explanation that you don't wind up turning back several pages to try and figure out what he meant a few pages forward. The book flows with ease from start to finish.
Valian is a likable character for just about any alpha-male personality. It is easy to relate to his struggles when it comes to the changes that occur from the beginning of the story to the 'hook' of the story's framework. All of us dislike the pompous, entitled, wealthy people who look down their noses at us -- but Valian has the strength to do something about it.
As I said above; the book is an easy read. Easy to pick up and start right off, easy to put it down when life demands your attention, and not try to remember what was happening.
---
CONS: There really aren't many "twists". For as in-depth as the aristocracy is made to seem by definition, they seem to lack something that makes them... dangerous. These are families that run and control the empire. Everything is a little too systematic. There is a strong grasp on the military regime in the book, which from Evans past in the Army makes good sense. But the aristocratic part of the book leaves a little to want. Now, I have this listed as a Con, yes -- but it could also just be leaving room for the "true threats" to rear their ugly head.
Aaryn is a shallow character. She's coin-flat. One side, other side. Done. Not enough depth to her character for me to miss her if she never existed at all. Everything she did could have been flexed onto poster-boy Maxon and still accomplished the same objectivity of the character. I just didn't see any real struggle with her character.
Valian is a Hail Mary. I suppose a better way to word this kibitz, if you will, is that everything goes just a little *too* well for the new guy. Everything comes naturally to him to the extent that throughout the book everything is just... easy, despite him being new to all of it. I understand that Valian is the hero... and he's from a very, very special bloodline... but... little too much to the point that he is a wolf-kind Superman. Not enough struggle with things aside from his aggression and unwarranted arrogance.
That's another kibitz for Valian... He goes from 'no one to someone'. For someone who did it, essentially, in a single instant... It doesn't fit. The character growth and development for him didn't make sense in that regard. Once you get further in and he gets more involved with the soldiers his development picks up and improves significantly -- and makes more sense.
---
FINAL THOUGHTS: I will buy the second book when it comes out. I am interested to see what Valian's choices will cause--for him, and for those who've chosen him. I enjoyed the story enough that I am giving it 5-Stars because it is a new approach to this form of storytelling; it is well written without flaunting an unnecessarily arrogant verbose vocabulary of words that would otherwise disengender you as a reader from the flow of the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a light read, with an interesting story. I eagerly await the second book now to see what becomes of Valian!!
January 4, 2020
This was such an amazing read! The main character, Valian is amazing! I believe I've read the book twice now whilst waiting for the next installment. I have a rundown of some positives and some things future books (in my opinion) need to improve on:
Positive:
- Main character is well developed and the reader quickly becomes emotionally attached to the character(great use of pathos!)
- The addition of auras that certain characters exude in the story really gave the story a new edge that had the reader wanting more.
- Valian's unnaturally quick ascension to greatness really had me going!
- The first person narration of the story gives this fantasy book an aspect that the reader can really enjoy because it helps them relate to the character(also makes me feel a bit like I'm as indomitable as Valian ;) )
Improvements:
- The story is a bit underdeveloped and a lack of history limits the depth of the characters.
- The book was entirely too short and in hopes of keeping the audience wanting more and spending more time reading the book, the story should at least last 400 pages(I know its hard work, I'd rather wait for a really good and long book than have a mediocre one right away). - Finished the book in half a day
- Character's apart from Valian are underdeveloped and lack the depth that many other fantasy series boast.
- Just a nit-picky thing but the typos and some wrong tenses messed up the flow of the story in some instances.
Overall an AMAZING book and a series with a lot of potential! For a first book ever written by Ryan Evans I am thoroughly impressed and undoubtably believe it to be a five star book!
Positive:
- Main character is well developed and the reader quickly becomes emotionally attached to the character(great use of pathos!)
- The addition of auras that certain characters exude in the story really gave the story a new edge that had the reader wanting more.
- Valian's unnaturally quick ascension to greatness really had me going!
- The first person narration of the story gives this fantasy book an aspect that the reader can really enjoy because it helps them relate to the character(also makes me feel a bit like I'm as indomitable as Valian ;) )
Improvements:
- The story is a bit underdeveloped and a lack of history limits the depth of the characters.
- The book was entirely too short and in hopes of keeping the audience wanting more and spending more time reading the book, the story should at least last 400 pages(I know its hard work, I'd rather wait for a really good and long book than have a mediocre one right away). - Finished the book in half a day
- Character's apart from Valian are underdeveloped and lack the depth that many other fantasy series boast.
- Just a nit-picky thing but the typos and some wrong tenses messed up the flow of the story in some instances.
Overall an AMAZING book and a series with a lot of potential! For a first book ever written by Ryan Evans I am thoroughly impressed and undoubtably believe it to be a five star book!
October 31, 2019
An absolute Epic in the making
But four stars as I felt I struggled though the first half and many could not bother
As a rule I have found that male authors have a specific style and their protagonists Really rounded out. But to be absolutely honest the MC could have been male or female, the author writes brilliantly
My only negative with the book is that I found the first half very dry and word consuming, however maybe that it is due to it being the first book of many.
The first part of the book concentrates on the MCs thought and feelings, about where he is and why, the day it's self and what his future brings.
From the second half, it is none stop action, learning about their beasts in general, to learning about his beast and what that means for him, his life and what changes for those.around him,(it's worth noting that there are no werewolves running around on four paws, but half shifted creatures that use their strength in battle) and it was interesting to read about the class, racism, elitism perceived in this beastly world.
You're introduced to villains, other creatures, political intrigue and a corrupt empirical society.
The battles are fantastically written and the quiet chapters are thought provoking, by time I had reached the end of the book I was already envisioning where the MC was going and how it could happen, and wishing the next the book was available.
I received this ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily
But four stars as I felt I struggled though the first half and many could not bother
As a rule I have found that male authors have a specific style and their protagonists Really rounded out. But to be absolutely honest the MC could have been male or female, the author writes brilliantly
My only negative with the book is that I found the first half very dry and word consuming, however maybe that it is due to it being the first book of many.
The first part of the book concentrates on the MCs thought and feelings, about where he is and why, the day it's self and what his future brings.
From the second half, it is none stop action, learning about their beasts in general, to learning about his beast and what that means for him, his life and what changes for those.around him,(it's worth noting that there are no werewolves running around on four paws, but half shifted creatures that use their strength in battle) and it was interesting to read about the class, racism, elitism perceived in this beastly world.
You're introduced to villains, other creatures, political intrigue and a corrupt empirical society.
The battles are fantastically written and the quiet chapters are thought provoking, by time I had reached the end of the book I was already envisioning where the MC was going and how it could happen, and wishing the next the book was available.
I received this ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily
August 11, 2022
Five star idea and world. Beast world people battling lizards, awesome! However, although I normally don't take the side of my former English professors who always said, "Show, don't tell," I finally understand what they are talking about. This is not well written. It feels like 90% internal monologue with the protagonist and 10% him actually showing us what is happening. Too bad. The protagonist is also a jerk for no reason. He is always mansplaining (I guess wolfsplaining) to everyone and acts superior for really quite simple ideas including to seasoned warriors and politicians-ridiculous. Also except for the main bad guy at the very end his battles have all the drama of Mike Tyson in his prime vs a girl scout with her hands tied behind her back. He is just the biggestest, the smartestest, the strongestest one! He makes fun of a nobles' son/bodyguard for an idea after he asks for ideas and then acts all tough, "if he wants to challenge me for being an arse after this is over I look forward to it because I am the best!" Jerk! Also he accuses two nobles of scheming with the imperials and being assassins for hire and then he…assassinates them! What? Double standard much? I wonder if this was edited or if feedback was given and not acted upon. Could have been one of the best books ever, but was average to annoying due to the above. too bad.
August 15, 2022
Ryan Evans accomplishes what many authors struggle with when world-building. He immediately absorbs you into his universe, allowing you to be fully emersed, quickly and thoroughly.
The creative storyline and the author’s military background lend to believably detailed scenes. His strong grasp of military structure conveys through his writing and the societal structure he establishes is comprehensive while remaining clear. I especially enjoyed the relationship he had with his mentor that brought him into his powers and the push-pull interactions he had with Lathian. Unfortunately, the other remaining men and women who surround him were flat and undeveloped enough to impact the storyline emotionally.
I found Valian being an immediate winner in all he does challenging. While I understand this is necessary as the main character, if he had a bit of struggle to manage his newfound powers, even if only psychologically, it would have given him much more depth of character and allowed everyone to root for him. As there was absolutely no learning curve, his leadership trajectory felt rushed and left me less invested in his ultimate success.
Despite some characters requiring more emotional interactions, this is an impressive beginning to a series I’m certain to follow.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 due to the audio version.
The creative storyline and the author’s military background lend to believably detailed scenes. His strong grasp of military structure conveys through his writing and the societal structure he establishes is comprehensive while remaining clear. I especially enjoyed the relationship he had with his mentor that brought him into his powers and the push-pull interactions he had with Lathian. Unfortunately, the other remaining men and women who surround him were flat and undeveloped enough to impact the storyline emotionally.
I found Valian being an immediate winner in all he does challenging. While I understand this is necessary as the main character, if he had a bit of struggle to manage his newfound powers, even if only psychologically, it would have given him much more depth of character and allowed everyone to root for him. As there was absolutely no learning curve, his leadership trajectory felt rushed and left me less invested in his ultimate success.
Despite some characters requiring more emotional interactions, this is an impressive beginning to a series I’m certain to follow.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 due to the audio version.
October 20, 2022
No spoilers, quotes are from first two chapters. What did everyone else read? The best part of this book is the inspiration it will provide new authors. Trust me kids, you can write much better than this. It reads like someone wanted to get an outline down without any art, and accidentally hit publish before starting to write. Exposition is just right on the nose, and comes off like a caveman explaining something he just learned. “This works this way, and that works like that.” “He was faster because he was 5’9” and 170 lbs. but at six feet tall, 225 lbs of solid muscle, I was stronger.” “She was five foot eight , one hundred fifty pounds.” Is the MC measuring people? And how do I have their height and weight, but not even know if we’re inside or outside, or what anything looks like? The savvy officer asks “Can you bring us some type of roast, or other cut of meat?” I have no idea how this was published, much less appreciated. Thinking of starting my career as a writer, if someone could just tell me the name of this guy’s agent.
June 10, 2020
Get ready to do nothing but read this from front to back in one sitting
So....I love you and hate you
(To give you some backstory I live on a farm with my large family and I just read away the entire night and thanks to your wonderful book I'll be dragging my behind for the rest of the day)
I woke up at 12pm(fell asleep at 10pm) and could not go back to sleep so I figured I'd try your book out and.....
I ended up staying up from 12pm to 7 am reading this book
And I'll say I rolled with laugher, yelled in anger with the M.C. and felt like I was in the front lines of the epic battles
And as a mainly shifter story goes this is one of the top 10 without going over the top and only once did I feel like it was boring filler but it was necessary to get information
And I love badass his war horse!
Looking extremely forward to reading the second book, hopefully it will be out soon on Kindle unlimited and that there will be plenty more to read after!!!
So....I love you and hate you
(To give you some backstory I live on a farm with my large family and I just read away the entire night and thanks to your wonderful book I'll be dragging my behind for the rest of the day)
I woke up at 12pm(fell asleep at 10pm) and could not go back to sleep so I figured I'd try your book out and.....
I ended up staying up from 12pm to 7 am reading this book
And I'll say I rolled with laugher, yelled in anger with the M.C. and felt like I was in the front lines of the epic battles
And as a mainly shifter story goes this is one of the top 10 without going over the top and only once did I feel like it was boring filler but it was necessary to get information
And I love badass his war horse!
Looking extremely forward to reading the second book, hopefully it will be out soon on Kindle unlimited and that there will be plenty more to read after!!!
March 11, 2023
It has been thousands of years since Beast-Kind were united under one banner. The empire encompasses most of the known world, driving out or enslaving the lesser races without mercy. In a state of constant war and conquest, they have perfected the art of battle.
For commoner wolf-kind, Valian, being accepted and trained in a noble house's army was a dream come true. Without wealth or a family, it was his best shot at attaining honor and glory. Until fate intervened.
When, on his graduation day, Valian discovers he's descended from an ancient and long-thought extinct line, everything changes. Now, he'll have to come to terms with his newfound strength while joining a world he has never known. If the threat of his fellow beast-kind wasn't enough, a new danger has awoken on the empire's eastern border.
Given a different take on shifters, the story line is good though the characters could be filled out more, still it was a good read, leaving you to want more.
For commoner wolf-kind, Valian, being accepted and trained in a noble house's army was a dream come true. Without wealth or a family, it was his best shot at attaining honor and glory. Until fate intervened.
When, on his graduation day, Valian discovers he's descended from an ancient and long-thought extinct line, everything changes. Now, he'll have to come to terms with his newfound strength while joining a world he has never known. If the threat of his fellow beast-kind wasn't enough, a new danger has awoken on the empire's eastern border.
Given a different take on shifters, the story line is good though the characters could be filled out more, still it was a good read, leaving you to want more.
January 14, 2020
Great read! A different take on wolkind
This was a refreshing look at Wolfkind/shifters/elves, etc. I especially appreciated our hero could think -he had some discernment with respect to the females he has encountered to date. This is usually a weak a spot in these novels, regardless of the author, so I've been pleasantly surprised so far. The battle tactics are interesting and suspenseful. The villains you will despise and long for their comeuppance, and not just the obvious villains. The team has come together and I can't wait to see what they do next. I hope there's more interaction with Elves along the way just because I do love Elves. This is some interesting world building and social structures. Great read!
This was a refreshing look at Wolfkind/shifters/elves, etc. I especially appreciated our hero could think -he had some discernment with respect to the females he has encountered to date. This is usually a weak a spot in these novels, regardless of the author, so I've been pleasantly surprised so far. The battle tactics are interesting and suspenseful. The villains you will despise and long for their comeuppance, and not just the obvious villains. The team has come together and I can't wait to see what they do next. I hope there's more interaction with Elves along the way just because I do love Elves. This is some interesting world building and social structures. Great read!
April 13, 2022
Wow! Such a surprise! If you are looking for your next shifter PNR fix, this is not the book for you. (I love those, too, though!) If you are looking for high fantasy, a world of warrior shifters, where good meets evil with tooth and claw, and wolves meet Orc-like things (Book 1) then The Ori (Book 2. Stargate? Anyone?) in a battle for the honor of their souls, this is the book you want. You know what? If you made it this far in my review, this is the book you want. Seriously good characters and plot development (if you have a literary tolerance for battle scenes). The writing was quite good as well, with the self-published caveat of typos. (Think, “sense” instead of “since.” I listened to the audiobooks for both 1 & 2, so I only noticed them when flipping back to the Kindle version.) Do yourself a favor a just read it already!
April 23, 2022
Welcome to an interesting and somewhat unique fantasy tale where in this world, beast-kind are the apex intelligent predator. The story reminds me of the “Legionnaire Chronicles” series by Gilbert Stack, where the Romans are replaced by the beast-kind. Our MC, Valian is a commoner wolf-kind recruit in the Silvanti noble house army. Upon graduation from the Academy, Valian learned that he is the descendant of a long-believed extinct noble line. The story continues, following Valian Farrow as he learns the pros and cons of being a noble, especially having the Farrow name. It’s not a bad story, rather simplistic, but interesting enough to follow through to the end. Three.point.five for potential.
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