The Treasure of Capric

The King of The Caves #1

by Brandon M. Wilborn

A fabled treasure disappears.
Can a failing order of warrior-monks stop a tyrant from gaining ultimate power?

When he was seven years old, Kurian Abramson entered training with the legendary Capric Monks, vowing to protect the Capric Treasure with his life. But he doesn’t know what he’s guarding. The treasure veiled in prophecy is a mystery even to the monks.

Every day of Kurian’s youth swings between brutal combat training and quiet study of the Order’s religious teaching. He knows the withering monastery doesn’t live up to the heroic legends he heard as a boy. But he longs to prove he’s worthy of the honor that protecting the treasure still affords.
But when an ambitious, tyrannical noble razes the monastery, they discover that the treasure is missing. Kurian must get it back or lose everything he trained for.

The only clue points to an outlaw known as the King of the Caves.

Guided by a female spy with a secret and hunted by the noble’s top officer, Kurian's journey becomes a race that pits him against soldiers, witches, and deadly mythical creatures. His quest will test his training, friendships, and faith.

Can Kurian restore the treasure? Or will his world fall under the curse of 1,000 years of darkness?
Brandon M. Wilborn’s debut novel combines the high epic fantasy of JRR Tolkien with the deep allegory of C.S. Lewis to craft a compelling new coming of age fantasy full of adventure and steeped in values of enduring friendship and rediscovering purpose.

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From the publisher:

The Treasure of Capric is a new, clean epic fantasy novel rich enough for adult fantasy readers, and clean enough for ya or teen fantasy audiences.

Readers have likened it to the epic heroes quest of JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, and the magical sword and sorcery of Terry Brooks’ Sword of Shannara Trilogy or The Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson.

Genres: Fantasy

476 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 13, 2019

Reviews

[Troy_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brandon M. Wilborn transports me to a whole new world in his excellent work, The Treasure of Capric. I love the medieval feel to this world, the old culture, and all the spiritualness that his book holds. Immediately from the start of this book, I am writing notes about how I love the culture of these people and all of their traditions. I like the concept of the treasure and the philosophy that if it isn’t protected, the world will fall, it’s very original and fun. So, these people need to protect the treasure with their lives!

But when the treasure is stolen, Kurian and two of his friends, Tobin and Rhys, are thrust into an amazing journey across the land to take back the treasure for his order.

The development in all the characters was huge in this book. Kurian changed so much as he went on his journey, as well as his friends. I liked to see how he dealt with his problems and his general emotions because Kurian was somewhat of a complicated character; it took me a while to get to know him. But when I did, I really enjoyed his perspective on the world.

Now, for the plot. The plot is something I evaluate majority in a book, it will make or break my opinion on it. I went into this, thinking it would be slow… but it was actually amazing! There was such good flow between all the major events, and really, all the events in this book were major. As I just said, there was a constant flow and rhythm to the story, and it was just so cool to read. The aspect of the “chase” really kept me on my toes to see if they would actually escape or get caught. Overall, there weren’t many slow parts, except for the beginning, but only a very experienced author can make the beginning have a good flow. So in general, the plot structure was amazing.

And the entertainment was also amazing. I felt satisfied the whole way through, it wasn’t like I was searching for more, having to read another chapter so that I could get excited about the book. Again, the chase of Kurian and his trio from the conflict always kept me excited to see how they faired.

But in general, I loved this book! An intricate plot set in an amazing medieval-feeling world, I really hope Brandon M. Wilborn continues this story, because The Treasure of Capric is something you won’t want to miss.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dennis Wilborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's 2 AM on a Tuesday night ... er .. Wednesday Morning. I should be in bed. Instead, I just spend several hours re-reading "The Treasure of Capric" again. I was up until 5 AM yesterday doing the same. This is a story that draws you in, like a mystery novel. Though it's cloaked in the fantasy realm, it reads like a puzzle that must be solved. With each new clue that's discovered, another part of our hero's world is shattered. Much like life, we find that what we think we know is really only an elaborate illusion. The beauty of reading this book is that you can see this illusion woven through the story and watch as it slowly unravels to reveal the truth. And with each reading, you find even more!

This novel is such a great allegory for Christians who may have lost their faith. Much like C.S. Lewis' masterpieces, this book draws parallels to the spiritual life that many might miss. If you've ever spent any time in church, or even spent any time speaking with "church-folk" you're going to recognize the challenges that these characters are dealing with. Where some books fail, or become too "preachy," this book's characters and themes will touch a piece of nearly everyone's life. I'm sure you'll find yourself somewhere in this beautiful tale.

I can't wait until the next book to see what happens to Kurian and his band of brothers from Capric.

[MoonGarden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic adventure for teen readers

Although geared toward teenagers, this book can be read and enjoyed by anyone. Excellent fantasy adventure, with gospel/moral overtones similar to Narnia (as others have also noted).

I liked that the characters were all unique and interesting. Although all on the same quest, they each had their own strengths and challenges.

Also, I love books with maps, always have. I think they make the whole thing feel more... adventurous. I was constantly checking back and forth between the story and the map. It is a lot harder to do on a kindle than in a traditional print book, but I still did it, lol.

I'm looking forward to the next book in the adventure.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kendra Lowry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun fantasy read! Wilborn has created a fantasy world in the tradition of Tokein that struggles to purge evil. It has magic, miracles, witches, knights, and fantastic creatures; what's not to love? The country of Pallingham is somewhat reminiscent of Tokein's Middle Earth. Three young Capric monks are challenged in their pursuit of the treasure by evil forces that pervade the land. They are confronted with inner battles that challenge their ideas on what is right and true as well as some very intense physical battles. The Treasure of Capric is layered with battles in the physical realm as well as the inner spiritual realm, mirroring the struggles we all face in life. This is a fun read that will leave you with some thought provoking ideas.
The Treasure of Capric

[C.S. Wachter · Rating 5 out of 5]

When their monastery is destroyed and their ancient treasure stolen, Kurian and his friends, Rhys and Tobin, are tasked with the challenge of retrieving their treasure which puts them on a collision course with the despot, Lord Evasius, and his right hand man, Captain Fallon.

As the story progresses, the three meet the King of the Caves and the Christian underpinnings of the story come clear. Though they expect the King of the Caves to be a bandit, they find something entirely different.

The pacing is smooth, and the characters rounded. Elements of miracles are juxtaposed against a background of dark magic and witchcraft and a few gruesome moments.

I enjoyed the way Kurian’s character matured and grew while maintaining a humble, compassionate nature. If you like your fantasy with a generous dose of Christian imagery, this book should be a delight. And even if you don’t seek out the Christian elements, this is an exciting story and a good read.

[Michele Wilborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a tale I couldn’t put down. The writing placed images in my mind as if I was actually there and I found myself checking the map in the book to see where I was on my journey! The main character, Kurian, I was drawn to immediately. He had an inner strength and resolve that grew in his search for truth, and I wanted to be on his side. The novel is filled with mystery, suspense, excitement, caution, fear, romance and hope. It will leave you contemplating how it fits into real life. I’m still thinking about it all.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love clean and wholesome medieval books. This one doesn't disappoint.
It's full of adventure!
I enjoyed reading it, and it held my interest!
Looking forward to the next book!

[Jennifer Coyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend Brandon Wilborn’s first Epic Fantasy novel The Treasure of Capric. The book introduces a new world ripe with magic, mystery and strife. Three young monks’ world is turned upside down as a vicious attack on their order leaves them alone to fulfill their vows to protect their most valuable treasure. Along with these compelling young men, Brandon weaves numerous interesting support characters through his novel that I hope we can learn more about as the series progresses.

This book was easy to read and kept me coming back to check on what the characters would be doing next. It would be a great summer read for fantasy enthusiasts and young adults. I received an advance copy of this book, but I will be purchasing the official release as well.

[Melanie Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never completed a fantasy novel until now. The Treasure of Capric had me from the first chapter and I could hardly put it down. This adventure story of seeking, searching and learning from the eyes of a young monk in training, Kurian Abramson, reminded me a bit of Santiago in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. This story however I found filled with self-discovery of life lessons that can parallel a spiritual life in search of truth and of the ultimate King.

I received an advanced copy of this book and look forward to purchasing it once released. I highly recommend this book for young and old; it’s thought provoking and just fun to read. I look forward to Brandon Wilborn’s next book.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author to me and the type of book I would not have read before, I saw this and thought why not try something different and am I glad I did. Once I started this book I was not putting it down. This story held my interest from the first page, the story-line is well written and the pages flow smoothly from page to page. I will be reading more of this Authors books. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Liza Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved the suspense, fast pace and intense characters. I couldn't put this book down. Loved the religious theme to the book. Not your normal fantasy characters, twists and turns leaving you not knowing what to expect next! Can't wait to read the next book. This is a must read for all ages!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pat Eroh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very wonderful, clean read. This story involved adventures that take us on a quest that is equally adventure and learning. I am new to this author but I loved the book so much that I will be watching for more by this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast and enjoyable story. Plenty of action and plenty of plot twists.

[Janene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 stars

This is a young adult adventure with undertones that reminded me of C. S. Lewis. It is a clean read with no swearing or sex, which I appreciate. I am writing this review from the point of an adult who likes to read a variety of clean genres.

What I liked:
• The premise of a group of three young monks on the quest to return the sacred treasure of Capric to it's rightful place.
• That the three monks had different personalities and characteristics. Rhys was tall, large framed, amazingly strong, self centered, and impulsive. He was always ready for a fight. Kurian was medium height, the diplomatic speaker, and a critical planner and natural leader. He lacked strength, but was a quick fighter. Tobin was small, the youngest teen, a timid, hesitant fighter and the brains of the group. Kurian turns to Tobin for wisdom and advice.
• The evil characters of Lord Evasius and Captain Fallon were perfect to hate.
• Just a small amount of witchcraft and was a part of this medieval realm. Nothing way out there.
• The belief in a benevolent god. Who is patterned after our God.
• The battle between good and evil.
• Alden, Louise, Xander, and Noeman were wonderful supporting characters.
• The physical descriptions were expertly done and I could picture Pallingham clearly.
• This is the beginning novel to a new series. The author did a great job of building his realm and describing his characters.
• Good editing and writing.

I received an ARC of this book. My review was freely given and my opinions were my own. I recommend this book to all young at heart.

[Rachel Schoenberger · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting fantasy read set in a medieval Europe-like fictional world. The fantasy elements are done well and there are good characters too. One thing that really bothered me was the whole Bible allegory thing that this book had going. I mean, the author takes Bible verses and makes them into prophecies in this story, which I think is honestly lazy writing. There is mention of a musician-warrior king (obviously meant to be David), one of his descendants who was killed (obviously meant to be Jesus) and even some guy named Gideon who won a battle with only 300 fighters. In all honesty, I wish that authors would stop trying to make their books into some sort of Christian allegory. In a series like Narnia, it's easier to ignore the allegorical elements of the story, however, this book makes it SO OBVIOUS. You can write a story with Christian themes without having a character based on Jesus, okay? Nevertheless, I did enjoy reading this book despite the frustrations recounted above.

[Adriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Big thumbs up for the writing style, I love a novel where the story just flows naturaly and this was the case with "The Treasure of Capric". It's an inspiring initiation journey which will appeal to young and old. The plot unfolds as you follow the journey of young Capric monk Kurian and his "sidekicks" and slowly wraps you in layers of magic, forgotten history and mystery as the characters evolve. I really enjoyed it and recommend this reading weather you are young or old, into fantasy or not, there is an innocence to the characters which is beguiling and bringing back childhood memories.


I've received an advance copy of this book and have also purchased it, as it's a great addition to any Fantasy library. (Spoiler alert!) Don't miss out the spin-off about the Captain & the Syrens :).

[Janet Mahlum · Rating 2 out of 5]

I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway and this is my honest review. I was surprised to see I had this book on my want-to-read list, but since I did and I won a copy, I read it. I was very surprised to think a 21st author would attempt to take on both C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien The poor pitiful three monks didn't stand a chance standing in the shadow of 4 children and a band of hobbits. The King of the Cave could not hold a candle to Aslan, and, from the LOTR, and this may suprise you, gentle and humble Samwise Gamgee. (and just an aside here, I think the casting of Sean Astin in that role was nothing less than shere brillance.) Having read the Chronicles of Narnia and the Lord of the Rings several times and seeing at least 2 movie versions of both, this book was a pale, insipid story. At the writing of this review Book 2 is out and so is a side story, neither of which I have any desire to pursue. If you have never read C.S. Lewis or J.R.R. Tolkien, you might give this 3 stars, but 2 was the very best I could muster. And if you haven't read Narnia or LOTR, I would recommend both of them in lieu of this.

[Kez Sharrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Warrior monks guarding a treasure, a quest, found family. Count me in!While I didn’t always love the main characters, and some of the scenes felt a bit wandering, I kept reading for the King of the Caves. His impact on other characters made me curious. I was actually pretty skeptical if encountering him would live up to the anticipation. It did. I was drawn to him even more in the scenes directly involving him—his power veiled for a long-term purpose, the way he dealt with people one-on-one. Partway through, I discovered this is a GOOD book—one that is drawing me toward what is good. I loved the hidden community under attack, the treasure that was tales of a different way of life, the light, the armor. Definitely going to read the sequel.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: This was my first experience with this author's work, and I was captivated by the story. I was amazed by the worldbuilding. I liked the three young initiates who were preparing to join the warrior-monks order, and I admired their strong relationships which had been forged through their shared experiences and training. I appreciated the tales within the story which portrayed the good versus evil theme. I thought Brandon M Wilborn's narration was great, and his performance enhanced the entertainment of his story. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.

[Randy Green · Rating 2 out of 5]

I knew for sure when you introduced the locusts

To all potential readers, this author is a novice art the art of protection. I firmly believe he tries to communicate his allegiance to the order of Nymrod in hopes of gaining success like Robert Jordan. He's a deceiver like Sanderson, he made his intents obvious when he described the evil locusts in his story as looking almost identical to the locusts God uses to judge the wicket in the book of revelation. Look at his profile picture and ask God to show you his essence.

[S · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book via Goodreads giveaway.
I liked it. I enjoyed the concept - I think it was well written and fleshed out. The metaphors, descriptions, and story were enjoyable.
I felt that Kurian’s assumed responsibilities and basically the entire story after that was too fast. I didn’t feel immersed or invested in the latter third of the book as compared to the beginning. I would be totally down to read the story about Capt Bacchus though.
Overall, a good story.

[Shirley Boberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

I loved this book! The story, characters, and tension all add up to a fabulous book. Highly recommend!
If you enjoy a book that has action and yet lifts your spirit, read this book.

[Priscilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

An author along the lines of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien

[Book Lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Treasure of Capric feels like a love letter to classic epic fantasy. Kurian’s journey—from a boy raised in a crumbling order of warrior-monks to a young man forced to confront faith, loss, and destiny is compelling and emotionally grounded.
The Capric Monks are fascinating, the mystery of the treasure keeps the tension high, and the worldbuilding has a timeless quality reminiscent of Tolkien and early Brooks. I especially appreciated the clean storytelling and strong moral core without it ever feeling preachy. A fantastic debut and a great choice for readers who want epic fantasy with depth and hope.

[Mat · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Treasure of Capric was quite the interesting read. It was a book that I really had no idea what it would be about coming into it. The story was engaging and very fit for many audiences. It is a story that could be read by just about any age (12+).

Very quickly you are thrust into a familiar world. I really got a feeling that I was in a world akin to Elan from Michael J Sullivan's Riyria books. This world, however, is very bleak and grey. There is no sunlight, the fields are fallow, the people are lost, old, and without hope. The author paints a beautiful picture of what life is like when people fall out of faith and feel there is nothing left for them. They drudge on in life with no purpose and wither away.

The story follows three monks who are dubbed, the Deer, the Brute, and the Princely Son. These three embark on a journey to recover a stolen treasure that their Order is supposed to have been guarding for centuries but has somehow been stolen. They've never seen the treasure or know what it is about, they just know, as they've been told, that it is important and what their mission in the Order is all about. The three monks are expertly complimentary of each other and fit in like puzzle pieces. Kurian is the all around character with characteristics that you love, Rhys is the big brute, all about fighting and protecting those he loves and thinks diplomacy is something best dealt with by the sword, and then there's Tobin who is a critical thinker, one who has the answers to everything and acts as more of a counselor. Each character goes through a discovery process on their own through their faith. I really got the sense that this was not just a journey to find the treasure but a journey of faith.

The one and only part of this book that I didn't like was the treasure. It felt like something was missing. I didn't think the treasure would be something of immense monetary value like a golden crown or a pot of gold, however, to find out what the treasure actually was left me disappointed. Maybe it is because I'm used to other fantasy novels having something that felt immensely important to the story but this just did not leave me with that feeling.

Even still with that one part I did not care for I highly enjoyed the book. I would move on to the second in the series whenever it gets released. I think the story arc has a lot going for it and if the author plays his cards correctly we could end up with a really great series.

I received this book as a ARC. I decided independently to leave an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

[Silver Surfer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, I didn’t expect too much from this book, but I have to say it was a lot better than I thought it would be. Also it gets better as you read through the book. It’s certainly different to what you would think. Give it a try, you never know. Recommended.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kurian, Rhys and Tobin are sent into town for punishment, but then things go horribly wrong and they get sent on an important errand. These three compliment each other well, and the other characters are wonderfully written as well.
I look forward to seeing where this leads in the next book.

[Daniel Rowell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun read! Classic good vs evil story, well told and an interesting world.