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TO FORGE A KING: The Chronicles Of Ellorhim
If you enjoy epic fantasy or swords & sorcery then you will like this new series, the Chronicles of Ellorhim. This is an exciting new coming of age story with detailed world building and gritty action and fight scenes. The backstory has Norse or Scandinavian cultural and spiritual influences and overtones. What Amazon customers are saying about To Forge A "This is probably the best new entry into a fantasy series which I have read over the past few years. Powerful, Rich, Entertaining and Captivating. From start to finish I was enthralled by the in-depth world building and superbly written characters." "Not your Typical Coming of Age Story" "I took a chance and boy was I treated to a great book. This tale is excellent and I highly recommend it." Updated new version. His past was lost, only faded dreams and echoes of happier times remained. Sometimes he had a flash, a quick fleeting glimpse of a better place with friends, warmth and cheer below a silver sun in a twilight land. Those were rare though. Now, there is only the harsh brutal present, sweat stinging the eye and blood flowing from cracked bruised knuckles, a sword in his filthy callused hand and the hoarse shouts of the Sword Masters ringing in his ears. Exhaustion paints his partner's face like cheap mask. No doubt his own face looks just as bad. It is a never ending struggle, up before the sun, running, jumping, lifting and fighting, each day full of pain and injury. Training, always training, His country, Vesfalruk, needs warriors to defend their land and homes. And, this place makes the best warriors. There are none better with sword or ax in all the world. But there is a power and a sense of belonging in this place, this ancient Guild Hall and fortress lying in the shadow of the Eastern White Mountains. Being here comforts him in ways he does not understand and the cold winter winds are somehow less chill. His sword calls and he takes it up and trots out into the yard. Vesfalruk is a besieged place, an isolated mountainous land that has struggled against numerous foes and invaders, the Erhand. It is a land with a violent and bloody history and a kingdom without a king. There has been no king for over two-hundred years and relative peace, if it can be called that, has been the norm for most of that time. So trade flourishes, peace reigns and ancient traditions are openly questioned and sometimes mocked. Vesfalruk warriors are still renowned throughout Ellorhim and the Guild Halls continue to train them, against a rising popular opinion. Old enemies are stirring again, their armies gather, swelling and massing for another round of invasion and conquest. And, that is fine with him and it if the same for those he has grown up with in this Guild Hall. Let them come again. We will be ready. He vows this, to himself and to others.
- GenresFantasy
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 26, 2020
Fridya is the youngest daughter of Chancellor Rumborg, who protects their realm, Vesfalruk, from the forces who are constantly invading. Fridya finds herself different from her sisters in that she is not interested in gowns, parties, or husbands. Rather, she wants more than anything to wield a sword and protect her homeland. Instead of sending her to the ancestral guild for training knights, her father instead decides to send her to Reave Hall, which has much more brutal and intense training regiments. He wants her to be his eyes and ears and keep on the lookout for any exceptionally talented young men who might also be able to wield Archania, a type of magic that is generally looked down upon throughout the kingdom. Because of an ancient prophecy, the Chancellor believes the next hero of the realm will be found at this place. Elsewhere, a young boy wakes up in the middle of a road outside of Reave Hall with no memory of who he is. He has a large, old sword with him and not much else, but no recollection as to why or where it (and he) came from. He ends up staying and training at Reave Hall after villagers turned him in to the warden for trespassing. As this young boy grows up within the confines of Reave Hall, he discovers a well of strength and determination that he never dreamed of having. When he and Fridya become close friends, they find themselves amidst a bigger and more dangerous situation than either of them could have imagined.
I really loved this book. Primarily, it made me contemplate why I have always loved the fantasy genre so much. To Forge a King has a very old school fantasy vibe, reminiscent of Tad Williams, Robert Jordan, and Terry Brooks. The worldbuilding is the most enjoyable aspect of this tale. The story starts off slow (as many fantasy books do) which allows the reader to acclimate themselves to the world and the characters. Each chapter opens with a snippet from a song or poem which adds even further to the depth of the worldbuilding. I also loved the beautiful physical descriptions of the landscapes, which is another one of my favorite aspects about this genre. My only complaint about this story is that there are some minor editing issues scattered throughout the text. However, while slightly irksome, these did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy fantasy, specifically epic fantasy. It will sweep you off your feet and transport you into another realm of magic, swordplay, kings, and druids.
I was given an early access copy of this book through Reedsy Discovery. This review can also be found on their website: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/to-...
I really loved this book. Primarily, it made me contemplate why I have always loved the fantasy genre so much. To Forge a King has a very old school fantasy vibe, reminiscent of Tad Williams, Robert Jordan, and Terry Brooks. The worldbuilding is the most enjoyable aspect of this tale. The story starts off slow (as many fantasy books do) which allows the reader to acclimate themselves to the world and the characters. Each chapter opens with a snippet from a song or poem which adds even further to the depth of the worldbuilding. I also loved the beautiful physical descriptions of the landscapes, which is another one of my favorite aspects about this genre. My only complaint about this story is that there are some minor editing issues scattered throughout the text. However, while slightly irksome, these did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy fantasy, specifically epic fantasy. It will sweep you off your feet and transport you into another realm of magic, swordplay, kings, and druids.
I was given an early access copy of this book through Reedsy Discovery. This review can also be found on their website: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/to-...
March 8, 2020
Great storyline, engaging characters
I can't wait for the next book and hope it comes soon. The hero, though young, came across as smart, honorable and not easily led. The backstory of his relationship with his childhood friend was hilarious. The joy she took in tormenting him (not in a mean way) was so funny. There was some bullying but not over the top. (Robin Hobb's series Assassin's Apprentice might lead some to need therapy). There were some typos in this story but not enough to detract materially from the story. I liked the pacing because it allowed yime to get to know the characters.The hero reminded me a bit of what I imagine Aragon (LOTR) might have been like as a child/young adult. Happy to have a new author to follow.
I can't wait for the next book and hope it comes soon. The hero, though young, came across as smart, honorable and not easily led. The backstory of his relationship with his childhood friend was hilarious. The joy she took in tormenting him (not in a mean way) was so funny. There was some bullying but not over the top. (Robin Hobb's series Assassin's Apprentice might lead some to need therapy). There were some typos in this story but not enough to detract materially from the story. I liked the pacing because it allowed yime to get to know the characters.The hero reminded me a bit of what I imagine Aragon (LOTR) might have been like as a child/young adult. Happy to have a new author to follow.
April 18, 2020
Very Very Good
Fantastic!! GREAT begining. The weaving of the story around the main character Brandt is great. Watching him grow and become a man is good.
Fantastic!! GREAT begining. The weaving of the story around the main character Brandt is great. Watching him grow and become a man is good.
April 15, 2020
Excellent Read.
I enjoyed the story and characters but would have enjoyed it more if final edits had been done for some badly needed corrections. These errors made it difficult to read and undermined a great story.
I enjoyed the story and characters but would have enjoyed it more if final edits had been done for some badly needed corrections. These errors made it difficult to read and undermined a great story.
February 5, 2020
Realistic timeline, good character development, author does a good job with developing scenes. The romantic scenes are dull, as the relationship is so far developed, but at least it is only a minor plot and things are happening. It is almost too good to be true that all in his band are happy and of one accord, but it’s a nice change from the childhood bully that grows to be the arch villain and is always evil and bad. Most people are a mix of good, bad and lukewarm, but it’s hard to develop characters that way. I like the tea
does a good job with developing scenes. The romantic scenes are dull, as the relationship is so far developed, but at least it is only a minor plot and things are happening. It is almost too good to be true that all in his band are happy and of one accord, but it’s a nice change from the childhood bully that grows to be the arch villain and is always evil and bad. Most people are a mix of good, bad and lukewarm, but it’s hard to develop characters that way. I like the timeline as the protagonist does turn into Superman overnight, although he is so perfect that it makes him more 2 dimensional
does a good job with developing scenes. The romantic scenes are dull, as the relationship is so far developed, but at least it is only a minor plot and things are happening. It is almost too good to be true that all in his band are happy and of one accord, but it’s a nice change from the childhood bully that grows to be the arch villain and is always evil and bad. Most people are a mix of good, bad and lukewarm, but it’s hard to develop characters that way. I like the timeline as the protagonist does turn into Superman overnight, although he is so perfect that it makes him more 2 dimensional
December 23, 2019
Not your Typical Coming of Age Story
Most coming of age stories start out with the main character finds out he is adopted either right before or right after his parents are horribly murdered. This story is not like that. The main character has amnesia and has no idea of anything prior to the start of the book. I can't wait for the next book!
Most coming of age stories start out with the main character finds out he is adopted either right before or right after his parents are horribly murdered. This story is not like that. The main character has amnesia and has no idea of anything prior to the start of the book. I can't wait for the next book!
February 4, 2020
I'm speechless and honestly left wanting.
This is probably the best new entry into a fantasy series which I have read over the past few years. Powerful, Rich, Entertaining and Captivating. From start to finish I was enthralled by the in-depth world building and superbly written characters.
This is probably the best new entry into a fantasy series which I have read over the past few years. Powerful, Rich, Entertaining and Captivating. From start to finish I was enthralled by the in-depth world building and superbly written characters.
March 2, 2020
Fun read, good story
This is a good story with vastly different characters in support of the protagonist. The author could better describe or define the darkness and it’s origins, however, I enjoyed this first installment.
This is a good story with vastly different characters in support of the protagonist. The author could better describe or define the darkness and it’s origins, however, I enjoyed this first installment.
January 10, 2020
Fantastic book!
I took a chance and boy was I treated to a great book. This tale is excellent and I highly recommend it.
I took a chance and boy was I treated to a great book. This tale is excellent and I highly recommend it.
February 28, 2020
Good book
Was a good read. Nice story can't wait for the second book to come out. You should read this book
Was a good read. Nice story can't wait for the second book to come out. You should read this book
March 4, 2020
Finished this book in two days
It is not often that a book can keep my attention from beginning to the end, and left me wanting more.
It is not often that a book can keep my attention from beginning to the end, and left me wanting more.
March 18, 2020
More don't leave me hanging
Enjoyed this tale immensely. Great story, characters and wonderful new world. I have a weakness for ancient lore and hero's this book has it all.
Enjoyed this tale immensely. Great story, characters and wonderful new world. I have a weakness for ancient lore and hero's this book has it all.
May 27, 2020
Decent Read
Not the most original in terms of story or characters but a good job of
writing a "readworthy" story that will encourage me to look forward to the next book in this series. Enough action, evil folk and monsters, beautiful women and handsome men, nefarious plots, twisted plans and goals to keep me interested and entertained. A good read until it's time to turn off the reading lamp.
Not the most original in terms of story or characters but a good job of
writing a "readworthy" story that will encourage me to look forward to the next book in this series. Enough action, evil folk and monsters, beautiful women and handsome men, nefarious plots, twisted plans and goals to keep me interested and entertained. A good read until it's time to turn off the reading lamp.
May 28, 2020
Best read this year
I cannot wait for the saga to continue. An epic best seller series in waiting. This author is now a favourite.
I cannot wait for the saga to continue. An epic best seller series in waiting. This author is now a favourite.
May 10, 2020
Enjoyed the book
The main character was solid, not overly whiny or full of himself. World building was good, wished there was more. Thank god it’s not a romance novel masquerading as epic fiction, although there is a love interest it is not the over riding theme. I feel this first book is the foundation for all that will follow, its the big lead up to an epic fight.
Can’t wait for the next book to come out!!
The main character was solid, not overly whiny or full of himself. World building was good, wished there was more. Thank god it’s not a romance novel masquerading as epic fiction, although there is a love interest it is not the over riding theme. I feel this first book is the foundation for all that will follow, its the big lead up to an epic fight.
Can’t wait for the next book to come out!!
May 16, 2020
Engrossing
I love everything about this book. Main characters are likable and relatable. Can’t wait for the next installment. Highly recommended.
I love everything about this book. Main characters are likable and relatable. Can’t wait for the next installment. Highly recommended.
May 15, 2020
Great read
A fast moving adventure that has a few twist ,along the way we have a few characters that pop in
A fast moving adventure that has a few twist ,along the way we have a few characters that pop in
March 12, 2020
Pretty good book.
This book was a good tale. A little on the dark side.
Only one typo and two grammar errors which is good for
a self published book. I liked this well enough that I will
read more of this author.
This book was a good tale. A little on the dark side.
Only one typo and two grammar errors which is good for
a self published book. I liked this well enough that I will
read more of this author.
December 31, 2019
Good Read
To Forgev a King was a good read if you can dismiss the many typos or grammatical errors. Author really needs to have someone proofread.
To Forgev a King was a good read if you can dismiss the many typos or grammatical errors. Author really needs to have someone proofread.
March 6, 2020
Excellent. Worth reading
July 13, 2020
Heavy on the military doctrine, light on the plot
Primarily a vehicle for the authors detailed philosophy on leadership and military doctrine on every aspect of weaponry, fortifications, training and strategy in an imaginary world. In novel form. The world building and plotting and action are uneven. Some duels are detailed stroke by stroke. Yet an entire palace coup and slaughter of an Emperor is described in a single sentence. Some chapters read like outlines waiting to be written in full. The proofreading is terrible. Few pages without a mistake. Many which change the meaning. Assignation instead of assassination for example. It has promise but reads like an early effort. A Germanic return of the king fantasy that offers little not done before. The only nice twist is the exceptionally active role given to female characters.
Primarily a vehicle for the authors detailed philosophy on leadership and military doctrine on every aspect of weaponry, fortifications, training and strategy in an imaginary world. In novel form. The world building and plotting and action are uneven. Some duels are detailed stroke by stroke. Yet an entire palace coup and slaughter of an Emperor is described in a single sentence. Some chapters read like outlines waiting to be written in full. The proofreading is terrible. Few pages without a mistake. Many which change the meaning. Assignation instead of assassination for example. It has promise but reads like an early effort. A Germanic return of the king fantasy that offers little not done before. The only nice twist is the exceptionally active role given to female characters.
April 20, 2020
Proofreading helps
The storyline deserves proofreading. There were incorrect words, ex. though instead of thought. At one point an incorrect name was used; Yfiria instead of Friyda. It was hard to immerse myself in the story with lack of proofreading. I would enjoy it with mistakes fixed.
The storyline deserves proofreading. There were incorrect words, ex. though instead of thought. At one point an incorrect name was used; Yfiria instead of Friyda. It was hard to immerse myself in the story with lack of proofreading. I would enjoy it with mistakes fixed.
July 14, 2020
I did not finish this book. I read the first half pushing to continue and finally determined that even if the book got much better I did not care to complete it. This is one book that could do with some re-editing to shorten the book and character renaming as the females character's names are very close.
June 14, 2020
''If you enjoy epic fantasy or swords & sorcery like THE SONG OF FIRE AND ICE, THE LORD OF THE RINGS, BLOOD SONG...'' No. You will be shortly disappointed. I'm sorry but it is the truth, nothing like some epic fantasy.
February 7, 2021
So similar but so very different
You've created a solid work that is enjoyable to read. I had a difficult time setting aside my kindle . I am looking forward to your next installment. Thanks.
You've created a solid work that is enjoyable to read. I had a difficult time setting aside my kindle . I am looking forward to your next installment. Thanks.
February 26, 2020
Good story
Well written and well thought out. The author has created an original, interesting and well thought story and I look forward to reading the next book in the series
Well written and well thought out. The author has created an original, interesting and well thought story and I look forward to reading the next book in the series
July 2, 2020
Enjoyed
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The detail, the story, and the action. Awesome! I cannot wait for the next one. Good Job!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The detail, the story, and the action. Awesome! I cannot wait for the next one. Good Job!
August 31, 2020
To Forge a King.
This is a very interesting book. I enjoy stories like this one where the main character starts of weak and then improves. I look forward to the next book
This is a very interesting book. I enjoy stories like this one where the main character starts of weak and then improves. I look forward to the next book
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews