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Kingdom of Engines #1
Sword Fight
What happens when a girl with nothing left to lose defies a family that will do anything to win?
Valerie was born with one foot on the accelerator.
Raised in a family of renowned swordsmen, her need for speed sets her apart. But when a tragic murder casts her out of the noble society she’s relied on to protect her, she has to master the way of the sword to fight her way back.
The king is searching for the next knight to sit at the Round Table, but Valerie only wants justice. To get it, she’ll enter his tournament and face road warriors from all over the kingdom.
Outmatched and unknown, her only hope for survival is a brooding swordsman mentor, a blade with no name, and one legendary car.
If you like epic tales of bravery, romance, and revenge, you'll love this high-octane, swashbuckling adventure.
Valerie was born with one foot on the accelerator.
Raised in a family of renowned swordsmen, her need for speed sets her apart. But when a tragic murder casts her out of the noble society she’s relied on to protect her, she has to master the way of the sword to fight her way back.
The king is searching for the next knight to sit at the Round Table, but Valerie only wants justice. To get it, she’ll enter his tournament and face road warriors from all over the kingdom.
Outmatched and unknown, her only hope for survival is a brooding swordsman mentor, a blade with no name, and one legendary car.
If you like epic tales of bravery, romance, and revenge, you'll love this high-octane, swashbuckling adventure.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2019
221 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
Nathan Van Coops
28 books505 followersNathan Van Coops lives in St. Petersburg, Florida on a diet comprised mainly of tacos. When not tinkering on old airplanes, he writes heroic adventure stories that explore imaginative new worlds. He is the author of the time travel adventure series In Times Like These, the time travel detective series Paradox PI, and The Skylighter Adventures. His recent series, Kingdom of Engines explores a swashbuckling alternate history where the modern and medieval collide. He also writes aviation mystery thrillers under the name Nate Van Coops. Learn more at www.nathanvancoops.com or www.natevancoops.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 9, 2019
Swords and war cars; a combination that I never knew I needed until I read this book. Nathan Van Coops' usual mastery of unique world-building sets him apart once again in a novel that is probably his best work yet. In a world where guns don't exist, swords and similar tools of combat have become the primary weapon of choice for protection as well as justice. Medieval castles and battle tournaments meet powerful cars and instruments of war as Valerie works towards vengeance for her family and her name. From the grounded and likeable heroine, her dynamic and memorable new circle of friends and foes, to the perfectly cold villain, the characters are vibrant and well-developed. The plot is fast-paced and unpredictable, drawing from the past and the future to create an unforgettable adventure that I struggled to put down. Sword Fight is epic and refreshing, managing a perfect balance between intrigue, action and humour throughout the narrative. It is a visual masterpiece that will appeal to any reader who appreciates excellent writing and an excitingly dangerous storyline.
January 30, 2020
Another excellent story
The whole concept of this story jarred with me. As a scientist I found the time travel stories and different planet story easier to accept. But Nathan is an exceptional story teller and by halfway I couldn't put this book down. The training scenes reminded me of Rocky and the tournament of Mad Max and The hunger games. Like all his other books, I look forward to someone buying the film rights and making a blockbuster movie.
The whole concept of this story jarred with me. As a scientist I found the time travel stories and different planet story easier to accept. But Nathan is an exceptional story teller and by halfway I couldn't put this book down. The training scenes reminded me of Rocky and the tournament of Mad Max and The hunger games. Like all his other books, I look forward to someone buying the film rights and making a blockbuster movie.
November 21, 2019
Suspend disbelief and enter a whole new world - a grand ride!
Amazing book! What impressed me the most is that I'd be in this medieval world with souped-up war cars and I'd read something that added a new level of detail to my mental picture of this world. And that detail worked! It fit! Over and over. Pay attention to the little details that will feed your perception of this layered world.
Her father died and her stepmother became romantically involved with an enemy of the family. She and her brother persevered through it all - until that was no longer possible. Once she had lost her name and her previous life of ease and privilege, she had to either get serious or give up. She did not give up.
Recommended wholeheartedly.
Amazing book! What impressed me the most is that I'd be in this medieval world with souped-up war cars and I'd read something that added a new level of detail to my mental picture of this world. And that detail worked! It fit! Over and over. Pay attention to the little details that will feed your perception of this layered world.
Her father died and her stepmother became romantically involved with an enemy of the family. She and her brother persevered through it all - until that was no longer possible. Once she had lost her name and her previous life of ease and privilege, she had to either get serious or give up. She did not give up.
Recommended wholeheartedly.
November 5, 2019
Peril, Peril, Peril
What more could I want? Cars, swords, action, and romance. The heroin is in constant peril as the action flows through the plot. The romance has its challenges as suspicions arise. Valerie has everything taken from her. How will she get justice? Everything is stacked against her. The action builds in a crescendo through the end of the book I look forward to the next book.
What more could I want? Cars, swords, action, and romance. The heroin is in constant peril as the action flows through the plot. The romance has its challenges as suspicions arise. Valerie has everything taken from her. How will she get justice? Everything is stacked against her. The action builds in a crescendo through the end of the book I look forward to the next book.
December 31, 2019
The classic underdog revenge fantasy. There is really no part of this book that is unexpected, but I enjoyed it thoroughly nonetheless.
March 18, 2020
This is a wonderful start to a series. I loved all the characters and the story flowed with ease. Looking forward to the next in the series.
December 20, 2020
Ahoy there me mateys! Sometimes ye just need a fun, silly, and delightful novel. I heard about this book from Matey Dan @ onemanbookclub who reviewed the second book, war car, and said:
King Arthur's court meets race cars. It sounded so quirky that I had to give this series a shot. So I picked up the first book and dang was it fun. I have to admit that I am not a car person (give me a ship any day) but I was so absorbed by Valerie and her fight for justice. I loved the world building and the characters but the story was excellent too. The rich girl dumped into the poor world plot seemed like it would tread old ground but there were enough unexpected circumstances to keep me guessing. Aye, the premise be absurd but I suspended me disbelief and absolutely fell in love. It was heart warming and happy and good overcomes evil. I can't really do this romp justice but if ye want something that lightens yer spirits and transports ye away for an evening then pick this one up. I will be reading the sequel and the short story set in this world at some point. Arrrr!
Side note: the author has written a standalone book with sky ships and pirates. Arrr!
War Car is fast paced and a ton of fun. I loved that I could check out, sit back, and get lost in the absurdness of modern-day knights who fight with legendary swords and drive blazing-fast sports cars reinforced with James Bond style gadgets! There’s an interesting story that pulled me along, friendships that gave me things to root for, creepy bag guys who deserved what they got, and a ton of car racing, crashing, sword fighting, and stabbing! Give it a try, I bet you’ll have as much fun as I did!
King Arthur's court meets race cars. It sounded so quirky that I had to give this series a shot. So I picked up the first book and dang was it fun. I have to admit that I am not a car person (give me a ship any day) but I was so absorbed by Valerie and her fight for justice. I loved the world building and the characters but the story was excellent too. The rich girl dumped into the poor world plot seemed like it would tread old ground but there were enough unexpected circumstances to keep me guessing. Aye, the premise be absurd but I suspended me disbelief and absolutely fell in love. It was heart warming and happy and good overcomes evil. I can't really do this romp justice but if ye want something that lightens yer spirits and transports ye away for an evening then pick this one up. I will be reading the sequel and the short story set in this world at some point. Arrrr!
Side note: the author has written a standalone book with sky ships and pirates. Arrr!
August 20, 2020
Valerie has always loved war cars and has been driving as long as she could reach the pedals. When her brother is tragically murdered in front of her, she's determined to bring the murderer to justice, no matter that he is from one of the most wealthy and powerful families. The only way she can do this is to somehow gain an audience with the King, and to do that she must enter the most dangerous tournament and win.
This is a medieval world of sword-fighting and war car racing. The start of this book actually made me think of a kind of grown up, evil, Wacky Races. But it was no where near as light-hearted! The story was gripping, I really wanted Valerie to get justice from the horrible Jasper, he was just so smarmy and irritating. I think the chapter headings definitely give too much away as I often knew the outcomes just from those. I loved Rico, he was the best character and I don't know what Valerie would have done without him.
I did think the book was let down a little bit by the narration. It got a bit tiring as the reading sounded constantly dramatic and desperate, even when just saying normal things.
This is a medieval world of sword-fighting and war car racing. The start of this book actually made me think of a kind of grown up, evil, Wacky Races. But it was no where near as light-hearted! The story was gripping, I really wanted Valerie to get justice from the horrible Jasper, he was just so smarmy and irritating. I think the chapter headings definitely give too much away as I often knew the outcomes just from those. I loved Rico, he was the best character and I don't know what Valerie would have done without him.
I did think the book was let down a little bit by the narration. It got a bit tiring as the reading sounded constantly dramatic and desperate, even when just saying normal things.
October 11, 2020
I finished “Sword Fight”, the first book of the Kingdom of Engines series by Nathan Van Coops. Van Coops is the author of the “In Times Like These” time travel series I’ve reviewed previously and enjoyed so much.
The book takes place in a fictional North American country called New Avalon. In this alternate reality, gunpowder was never invented so guns and artillery as we know them do not exist. As a result, medieval society exists to the present day, with kings, knights, and peasantry. Knights do battle with swords as we have come to know from our own history. Additionally, knights do battle with “war cars”, armored and be-weaponed vehicles of war.
The book is full of surprises so I don’t wish to give too much of the plot away. The main premise is that Valerie and her brother Henry are the progeny of a famed member of the nobility who has passed away. Their stepmother has mismanaged the estate, leaving it susceptible to acquisition by the evil Sterling family through unethical means. The book follows Valerie’s adventures as she seeks to regain her family’s assets through car battles and sword fights.
That brief synopsis does not really do the book justice, but again I don’t want to spoil the plot. The plot moves along quickly, the writing is easy to read and follow, and the even though the subject matter is a little dark at times, it’s not too dark – I had a number of literal laugh-out-loud moments. While the book sounds like a fantasy novel, that is just the setting. The book is actually about a woman’s journey to improve herself as she seeks justice for her family.
I plan to read the next book in the series. One thing I like about this book and others by Nathan Van Coops is the author is accessible. I am in a couple Facebook groups he started and he is very active in both of them, answering questions and even asking for help in his writing at times.
The book takes place in a fictional North American country called New Avalon. In this alternate reality, gunpowder was never invented so guns and artillery as we know them do not exist. As a result, medieval society exists to the present day, with kings, knights, and peasantry. Knights do battle with swords as we have come to know from our own history. Additionally, knights do battle with “war cars”, armored and be-weaponed vehicles of war.
The book is full of surprises so I don’t wish to give too much of the plot away. The main premise is that Valerie and her brother Henry are the progeny of a famed member of the nobility who has passed away. Their stepmother has mismanaged the estate, leaving it susceptible to acquisition by the evil Sterling family through unethical means. The book follows Valerie’s adventures as she seeks to regain her family’s assets through car battles and sword fights.
That brief synopsis does not really do the book justice, but again I don’t want to spoil the plot. The plot moves along quickly, the writing is easy to read and follow, and the even though the subject matter is a little dark at times, it’s not too dark – I had a number of literal laugh-out-loud moments. While the book sounds like a fantasy novel, that is just the setting. The book is actually about a woman’s journey to improve herself as she seeks justice for her family.
I plan to read the next book in the series. One thing I like about this book and others by Nathan Van Coops is the author is accessible. I am in a couple Facebook groups he started and he is very active in both of them, answering questions and even asking for help in his writing at times.
July 25, 2023
Great characters- check
Awesome Sword fights- check!
Fast and furious car racing- check
“Because family 😎” -vin diesel probably
Hot teacher- 👀👀👀 no comment
Revenge- check on that later.. no spoilers!!
Awesome Sword fights- check!
Fast and furious car racing- check
“Because family 😎” -vin diesel probably
Hot teacher- 👀👀👀 no comment
Revenge- check on that later.. no spoilers!!
August 25, 2020
Me gusta mucho la serie de viaje en el tiempo del autor, de manera que no dudé en darle la oportunidad a su nueva serie.
La premisa no es muy original, pero si bastante cool: La sociedad del Rey Arturo, pero en un mundo con la tecnología de hoy en día, en particular con automóviles. Por lo tanto, hay nobles y plebeyos, caballeros de la mesa redonda, espadas, duelos a muerte, torneos ... y autos :)
Van Coops es muy bueno para la aventura, personajes divertidos, y para explotar los clichés adecuadamente. La verdad es que, sin ser extraordinarios o profundos o complejos, sus libros son muy entretenidos, se van como agua y no son tan predecibles como pudiera sonar.
Sin duda terminaré de leer la saga.
La premisa no es muy original, pero si bastante cool: La sociedad del Rey Arturo, pero en un mundo con la tecnología de hoy en día, en particular con automóviles. Por lo tanto, hay nobles y plebeyos, caballeros de la mesa redonda, espadas, duelos a muerte, torneos ... y autos :)
Van Coops es muy bueno para la aventura, personajes divertidos, y para explotar los clichés adecuadamente. La verdad es que, sin ser extraordinarios o profundos o complejos, sus libros son muy entretenidos, se van como agua y no son tan predecibles como pudiera sonar.
Sin duda terminaré de leer la saga.
August 11, 2020
Check out www.onemanbookclub.com for more content-aware book reviews and recommendations!
The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained
Nathan Van Coops, time-travel extraordinaire, has changed gears with his latest--Sword Fight: Kingdom of Engines. It was the perfect summer popcorn read, and I had a blast with it.
What’s a popcorn read, you ask? Same thing as a popcorn movie—it doesn’t try to make you think, it never gets too deep, and it doesn’t have an agenda. It’s just entertainment: sit back, eat some popcorn, and enjoy the show! A popcorn read!
Sword Fight: Kingdom of Engines is Mad Max plus King Arthur plus a little bit Beverly Hills 90210/Dawson’s Creek/One Tree Hill/Riverdale (depending on when you were 17!) It’s a mashup I loved and didn’t even know I needed.
Imagine a modern world where Kings still rule by the sword, a duel can settle any disagreement, the rich families own the land, and the peasants are poor and looked down upon, and the knights drive War Cars instead of horses. Sounds fun, right? Yes it does!
It took a little bit to overcome disbelief enough to let my mind accept this unconventional reality. But once I got there, I found myself thrilled by the Mad-Max-war-car style battle races, enamored by the cool swords, and happy to follow along with the protagonist on her top-to-bottom-to-top journey toward redemption, righting all the wrongs, and winning back her family’s good name. If you can suspend disbelief a little further, there’s even a popcorn-book, snuggly romance to enjoy in between the races and the sword fights. The whole story was so much fun I didn’t even care when I saw the “big twist” coming from miles away!
Parents may want to know there is some PG language (none of the “big” 4-letter words), heterosexual romance (just kissing), and violence (lots of stabbing and getting stabbed). There is a same-gender married couple and a stereotypical best-friend-gay-guy who never actually says he’s gay but dresses in drag when he's not working on cars.
I enjoyed checking out with Sword Fight: Kingdom of Engines immensely and can’t wait to start book two!
Best for 14 and up.
Happy Reading!
The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained
Nathan Van Coops, time-travel extraordinaire, has changed gears with his latest--Sword Fight: Kingdom of Engines. It was the perfect summer popcorn read, and I had a blast with it.
What’s a popcorn read, you ask? Same thing as a popcorn movie—it doesn’t try to make you think, it never gets too deep, and it doesn’t have an agenda. It’s just entertainment: sit back, eat some popcorn, and enjoy the show! A popcorn read!
Sword Fight: Kingdom of Engines is Mad Max plus King Arthur plus a little bit Beverly Hills 90210/Dawson’s Creek/One Tree Hill/Riverdale (depending on when you were 17!) It’s a mashup I loved and didn’t even know I needed.
Imagine a modern world where Kings still rule by the sword, a duel can settle any disagreement, the rich families own the land, and the peasants are poor and looked down upon, and the knights drive War Cars instead of horses. Sounds fun, right? Yes it does!
It took a little bit to overcome disbelief enough to let my mind accept this unconventional reality. But once I got there, I found myself thrilled by the Mad-Max-war-car style battle races, enamored by the cool swords, and happy to follow along with the protagonist on her top-to-bottom-to-top journey toward redemption, righting all the wrongs, and winning back her family’s good name. If you can suspend disbelief a little further, there’s even a popcorn-book, snuggly romance to enjoy in between the races and the sword fights. The whole story was so much fun I didn’t even care when I saw the “big twist” coming from miles away!
Parents may want to know there is some PG language (none of the “big” 4-letter words), heterosexual romance (just kissing), and violence (lots of stabbing and getting stabbed). There is a same-gender married couple and a stereotypical best-friend-gay-guy who never actually says he’s gay but dresses in drag when he's not working on cars.
I enjoyed checking out with Sword Fight: Kingdom of Engines immensely and can’t wait to start book two!
Best for 14 and up.
Happy Reading!
November 22, 2019
I feel bad giving the book 3 stars, but I don't think it quite ranks a 4th... I love the author's In Times Like These books, so I wanted to love this one too. But, I didn't. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
The first third-ish of the book was difficult for me. I didn't find the main character likable, I felt like too much bad was happening, and I didn't think the writing was the author's best. But, the rest of the book was pretty good. I think the twists were predictable, but it didn't take away too much.
I'd give the book a good 4 out of 6 stars, since I enjoyed 2/3 of it. And, I do intend to check out the next book in the series next year. Hopefully, it will continue to improve.
The first third-ish of the book was difficult for me. I didn't find the main character likable, I felt like too much bad was happening, and I didn't think the writing was the author's best. But, the rest of the book was pretty good. I think the twists were predictable, but it didn't take away too much.
I'd give the book a good 4 out of 6 stars, since I enjoyed 2/3 of it. And, I do intend to check out the next book in the series next year. Hopefully, it will continue to improve.
November 6, 2019
Oh, how I love strong female protagonists, and Nathan Van Coops has created an excellent one - a woman of determination, morale and integrity, not to mention quick wits and amazing driving skills. And of course there are colourful villains, nerve-wracking fight scenes, blossoming romance and unexpected plot twists. This adventure swept me away from page one and hold a firm grip on me until the end. I'll be waiting for the second book in the series.
July 4, 2020
I love IT. I have read ALL of the authors books, but this one is different. It's full of action, women, hot cars, and when you mix all of this together, it's explosive!!!
I have never been disappointed with this author, but I didn't think he could write better than he has done before...but he did.
Read and judge for yourself.
I have never been disappointed with this author, but I didn't think he could write better than he has done before...but he did.
Read and judge for yourself.
August 3, 2020
Mad “Max(ine)” And Medieval Justice
A woman’s tale of revenge, romance and rewards, with strength and guts to see it through. Fast cars, swords, and bad guys, all get what they deserve; a good story.
The available audio book tells the story quite well if you’d rather listen to it.
A woman’s tale of revenge, romance and rewards, with strength and guts to see it through. Fast cars, swords, and bad guys, all get what they deserve; a good story.
The available audio book tells the story quite well if you’d rather listen to it.
July 6, 2020
Mad Max
I have a love of fast and furious cars. The meaner the better. Sword fighting I know nothing about but the author managed to merge the two into one neck of a great read. It was certainly a page turner with a cast of the best characters ever. Very pleasant surprise!
I have a love of fast and furious cars. The meaner the better. Sword fighting I know nothing about but the author managed to merge the two into one neck of a great read. It was certainly a page turner with a cast of the best characters ever. Very pleasant surprise!
November 6, 2019
Best by Nathan Van Coops by far
I really enjoyed this book. Nathan has a winner here with this new series! Looking forward to the next book!
I really enjoyed this book. Nathan has a winner here with this new series! Looking forward to the next book!
Read
December 3, 2019A entertaining read, I liked it for its simplesity
Iliked the book but I do not enjoy the reviewing. I will read damn near any thing, this was a easy read. PAINLESS!!!!!!!!!
Iliked the book but I do not enjoy the reviewing. I will read damn near any thing, this was a easy read. PAINLESS!!!!!!!!!
November 28, 2023
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring by more than 0.50 of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
Interesting world idea.
DNF
I just couldn't get into the book because the main plot point lost me because IMHO it makes no sense in the world described. That completely took me out of the story because it made no sense in the setting.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No
Would you recommend?: No
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
Interesting world idea.
DNF
I just couldn't get into the book because the main plot point lost me because IMHO it makes no sense in the world described. That completely took me out of the story because it made no sense in the setting.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No
Would you recommend?: No
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
March 2, 2021
This is a well-written speculative fantasy with a great premise, exciting action, detestable villains, and a variety of likeable characters. In particular, the author did a good job of creating an initially immature but sympathetic heroine who improves, physically and mentally, as the story progresses.
However, there were some things that didn't sit quite right with me and hindered my enjoyment to a certain extent. For example, and this is perhaps insignificant, but it bothered me when Val and Henry left Thea at the house. A slurring drunk 17-year-old being left with a group of men who'd been flocking around her in the pool, and Henry's blithe "she'll be all right" made me wince inwardly. I thought it a pity that Henry, a character aspiring to be a chivalrous Knight of the Round Table, didn’t take the opportunity here to show some concern for a young lady’s welfare. Later on, Val, apparently unironically, complains that Thea has abandoned her! These were the types of things that took me out of the story from time to time and left me chewing the cud. I’m also not sure I was totally onboard with the romance, and I don’t think Val turning 18 made it more palatable to me.
Still, I enjoyed so much about the book. Swords and war cars are a fun combination, and the demolition derby scenes were especially heart stopping. And, despite my criticisms, I'm invested in the characters and intend to read book 2.
However, there were some things that didn't sit quite right with me and hindered my enjoyment to a certain extent. For example, and this is perhaps insignificant, but it bothered me when Val and Henry left Thea at the house. A slurring drunk 17-year-old being left with a group of men who'd been flocking around her in the pool, and Henry's blithe "she'll be all right" made me wince inwardly. I thought it a pity that Henry, a character aspiring to be a chivalrous Knight of the Round Table, didn’t take the opportunity here to show some concern for a young lady’s welfare. Later on, Val, apparently unironically, complains that Thea has abandoned her! These were the types of things that took me out of the story from time to time and left me chewing the cud. I’m also not sure I was totally onboard with the romance, and I don’t think Val turning 18 made it more palatable to me.
Still, I enjoyed so much about the book. Swords and war cars are a fun combination, and the demolition derby scenes were especially heart stopping. And, despite my criticisms, I'm invested in the characters and intend to read book 2.
July 8, 2022
I felt palpable disappointment reading this. If you like the standard YA book format: the problematic bae, disposable gays and obviously evil POV character who's far more compelling a narrator... then, I guess I would recommend it. Bear in mind though, this is one of the soulless books I've ever had the displeasure to read.
The one thing that makes this worse is the enthusiasm that spills in occasionally. Not in the Arthurian modern AU shenanigans, definitely not in the alternate history, but in the cars. They're described so wonderfully - in a way only an enthusiast could pen - and frankly it's a shame. The only occasions I found something to dislike about it was when he shoehorned "medieval fantasy but make it modern" reared its ugly head.
It really feels like a misplaced passion project, or an idle idea, that too many people said "that sounds fun" without thinking about the consequences. I would beg this author to consider writing about cars in an actual modern setting, or in space, or if he attempts it again - for the love of all that is dark ages - please do research. You can't band-aid this by saying gunpowder wasn't invented because reasons. (Yes, I'm still annoyed by that decision.)
A sad project, it really could have been something inspiring.
The one thing that makes this worse is the enthusiasm that spills in occasionally. Not in the Arthurian modern AU shenanigans, definitely not in the alternate history, but in the cars. They're described so wonderfully - in a way only an enthusiast could pen - and frankly it's a shame. The only occasions I found something to dislike about it was when he shoehorned "medieval fantasy but make it modern" reared its ugly head.
It really feels like a misplaced passion project, or an idle idea, that too many people said "that sounds fun" without thinking about the consequences. I would beg this author to consider writing about cars in an actual modern setting, or in space, or if he attempts it again - for the love of all that is dark ages - please do research. You can't band-aid this by saying gunpowder wasn't invented because reasons. (Yes, I'm still annoyed by that decision.)
A sad project, it really could have been something inspiring.
July 15, 2023
An interesting start to a new series
I originally started reading Nathan’s work through his time travel stories and enjoyed them greatly, so when this series premiered I decided to give it a try. Based on the brief description, I kind of expected a steampunkish Car Wars-based combat action novel with medieval overtures. And it was all that, with a fair amount of royal intrigue, greedy nobles, and a solid revenge and retribution theme throughout. Nice ensemble cast to call upon, and a good foundation to carry a “roving troubleshooter for the crown” kind of thing. Sort of a female Lord Vorkosigan with a war car instead of a space ship. Mr. Van Coops should talk to Steve Jackson Games about a custom branded version of Car Wars (or at least a supplement) to go along with this series. Predominantly fun read, with a couple of tugs on the ol’ heartstrings. Recommended.
I originally started reading Nathan’s work through his time travel stories and enjoyed them greatly, so when this series premiered I decided to give it a try. Based on the brief description, I kind of expected a steampunkish Car Wars-based combat action novel with medieval overtures. And it was all that, with a fair amount of royal intrigue, greedy nobles, and a solid revenge and retribution theme throughout. Nice ensemble cast to call upon, and a good foundation to carry a “roving troubleshooter for the crown” kind of thing. Sort of a female Lord Vorkosigan with a war car instead of a space ship. Mr. Van Coops should talk to Steve Jackson Games about a custom branded version of Car Wars (or at least a supplement) to go along with this series. Predominantly fun read, with a couple of tugs on the ol’ heartstrings. Recommended.
November 6, 2019
This was a great book and I cannot wait for the next one.
Valerie has a great fairy tale life, complete with wicked stepmother, but one day is all it takes for the walls of that castle to crumble. Faced with an uphill climb against the most powerful family in the west, Valerie's plan for justice continues to kick her while she is down. Without any family and abandoned by her "friends" she creates new reality out of the poor village where she has landed. And when that reality is threatened, Valerie realizes that she can lay down and accept everything, or she can fight.
And fight she does.
I loved the fast-paced action and the character development. This is a well-developed AU and I cannot wait to see more of it! Bring on "War Car!"
Valerie has a great fairy tale life, complete with wicked stepmother, but one day is all it takes for the walls of that castle to crumble. Faced with an uphill climb against the most powerful family in the west, Valerie's plan for justice continues to kick her while she is down. Without any family and abandoned by her "friends" she creates new reality out of the poor village where she has landed. And when that reality is threatened, Valerie realizes that she can lay down and accept everything, or she can fight.
And fight she does.
I loved the fast-paced action and the character development. This is a well-developed AU and I cannot wait to see more of it! Bring on "War Car!"
September 8, 2021
Imagine a world were instead of horses originally used to transport people someone invented the automobile. Yes its a medieval type setting although it is contemporary and I had to suspend my disbelief and just go with the flow.
Who knew that a story with swords and I suppose you could say souped up muscle cars would be so entertaining not to mention violent. Yes its an underdog tale but told convincingly with heart. Having been a reader of romance and suspense for so long something was glaringly obvious to me but I felt the author did an excellent job of telling a story that kept me happily turning the pages.
Who knew that a story with swords and I suppose you could say souped up muscle cars would be so entertaining not to mention violent. Yes its an underdog tale but told convincingly with heart. Having been a reader of romance and suspense for so long something was glaringly obvious to me but I felt the author did an excellent job of telling a story that kept me happily turning the pages.
July 7, 2020
It’s good
A lot of quality writing. Strong characters, a rich world, deeply layer plot. A fun read.
My only complaint is that the story pushed my sense of credulity to the breaking point. The MC was *so* naive, the set up was obvious, and the idiotic hijinks were just a little too much. Foreshadowing was done with a 10lb sledge hammer. Nothing subtle here.
Still gonna read the next book. It’s an interesting world.
A lot of quality writing. Strong characters, a rich world, deeply layer plot. A fun read.
My only complaint is that the story pushed my sense of credulity to the breaking point. The MC was *so* naive, the set up was obvious, and the idiotic hijinks were just a little too much. Foreshadowing was done with a 10lb sledge hammer. Nothing subtle here.
Still gonna read the next book. It’s an interesting world.
July 8, 2020
Wow...which is an understatement
I loved this story. The storyline was so different and original that I was drawn into this different world. At one point, I was so stressed out that I had to put it down so I could breathe. I feel like reading this was like watching a racing game merged with tekken. I was completely and vividly drawn into this story and along with Nathan's other books, I would highly recommend this one as well.
I loved this story. The storyline was so different and original that I was drawn into this different world. At one point, I was so stressed out that I had to put it down so I could breathe. I feel like reading this was like watching a racing game merged with tekken. I was completely and vividly drawn into this story and along with Nathan's other books, I would highly recommend this one as well.
August 2, 2020
Fantastic. I just wanted to keep reading, the ends of the chapters left you wanting more. Nathan writes about strong family ties and loyal friendships. There is a romantic element too that I enjoyed reading. The writing is excellent and the visuals put you right in the heart of the action. I wasn’t sure at first what this story was about, but as I read, I absolutely loved it. I have since read the sequel and it is wonderful too. Lots of action and plenty of villains to hate.
December 28, 2020
I'm a big fan of Nathan Van Coops time travel books and was a curious to discover this change of pace, I'll be honest I wasn't entirely sure about the concept, chivalry, sword fights, knights of the round table but with cars rather than on horse back seemed a little odd. I placed my faith in the author and I'm really glad I did. This is a story of betrayal, lost family, friendship and discovery with the bonus of swordfights and fancy cars. Excellent and highly enjoyable from start to finish
March 16, 2021
Incredibly Awesome!
Can someone please give this author a movie deal already??? I have not enjoyed any series of sci-fi or fantasy this much since the Bantam Spectra Star Wars books. It's as if I'm living within his pages! If this author ever decide to accept movie deals I pray he chooses a team that will bring his vision to life on screen with the respect and attention to detail ALL his books deserves! Mr Van Coop's is an incredible author.
Can someone please give this author a movie deal already??? I have not enjoyed any series of sci-fi or fantasy this much since the Bantam Spectra Star Wars books. It's as if I'm living within his pages! If this author ever decide to accept movie deals I pray he chooses a team that will bring his vision to life on screen with the respect and attention to detail ALL his books deserves! Mr Van Coop's is an incredible author.
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