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Apprentice to Master #1
Foundling Wizard
Magic is just one more thing to be stolen...
For over a hundred years, the Temple of Ran has been sacrificing young wizards in order to steal their power. When Lorit discovers that he holds the rare ability to use magic, he becomes their next target.
At first, he runs, working to master his abilities on the move so that one day he might be able to resist them. But that was before the Temple targets his beloved sister, Onult. In order to save her life, he infuses her with his own power.
Now, they're both targets.
Together, they'll battle to make the world safe for magicians everywhere... if they can survive the temple's power-hungry priests. If they can't, their enemy will absorb their magic and become unstoppable.
Experience the start of an Epic Fantasy Series filled with dark magic, sinister villains, and non-stop adventure. It's perfect for fans of D.K. Holmberg, Will Wight, and K.F. Breene.
For over a hundred years, the Temple of Ran has been sacrificing young wizards in order to steal their power. When Lorit discovers that he holds the rare ability to use magic, he becomes their next target.
At first, he runs, working to master his abilities on the move so that one day he might be able to resist them. But that was before the Temple targets his beloved sister, Onult. In order to save her life, he infuses her with his own power.
Now, they're both targets.
Together, they'll battle to make the world safe for magicians everywhere... if they can survive the temple's power-hungry priests. If they can't, their enemy will absorb their magic and become unstoppable.
Experience the start of an Epic Fantasy Series filled with dark magic, sinister villains, and non-stop adventure. It's perfect for fans of D.K. Holmberg, Will Wight, and K.F. Breene.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2012
770 people are currently reading
485 people want to read
About the author
James A. Eggebeen
11 books103 followersJames Eggebeen is a serial masochist repeatedly taking high tech companies through the growing pains of converting from a garage shop into a sustainable and profitable mature business.
He learned the value of hard work by being raised on a farm in Wisconsin where he learned auto mechanics from his saintly grandfather who patiently tolerated him and his siblings always under foot. His most frequent comment growing up was "Why did you people settle here when there are much warmer places to live?"
He confounded his teachers and most grown ups at a young age writing incredibly powerful algorithms for phenomenally underpowered computers at the dawn of the computer age. This is a skill he has employed throughout his professional career and still take great pride in (the confounding part mostly).
At 17 years of age he made a deal with the US Navy "Teach me about airplanes and computers. Take me anywhere it doesn't snow and I'm all yours." They kept the bargain and started him on a world traveling adventure that has continued far beyond his six-year enlistment.
He continued his world traveling adventures as a businessman frequently logging one fourth of his time out of he country. He feels as comfortable abroad as he does at home and has developed an appreciation for a wide range of cultures and cuisines.
He settled in Southern California after his service was complete and studied Engineering, Business and Finance at night while working at a series of start-up firms by day. He claims that growing up on the farm and the Navy have ruined his ability to sleep late and habitually gets up well before the sane portion of population starts their day.
He learned the value of hard work by being raised on a farm in Wisconsin where he learned auto mechanics from his saintly grandfather who patiently tolerated him and his siblings always under foot. His most frequent comment growing up was "Why did you people settle here when there are much warmer places to live?"
He confounded his teachers and most grown ups at a young age writing incredibly powerful algorithms for phenomenally underpowered computers at the dawn of the computer age. This is a skill he has employed throughout his professional career and still take great pride in (the confounding part mostly).
At 17 years of age he made a deal with the US Navy "Teach me about airplanes and computers. Take me anywhere it doesn't snow and I'm all yours." They kept the bargain and started him on a world traveling adventure that has continued far beyond his six-year enlistment.
He continued his world traveling adventures as a businessman frequently logging one fourth of his time out of he country. He feels as comfortable abroad as he does at home and has developed an appreciation for a wide range of cultures and cuisines.
He settled in Southern California after his service was complete and studied Engineering, Business and Finance at night while working at a series of start-up firms by day. He claims that growing up on the farm and the Navy have ruined his ability to sleep late and habitually gets up well before the sane portion of population starts their day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 20, 2012
Foundling Wizard is the first book in an epic fantasy series. It follows the journey of young Lorit as he discovers his wizard powers and begins his daring journey to reach the Master Wizards who can help him develop into his full potential.
Along the way, Lorit has to avoid falling into the hands of the Priests of the Temple of Ran, save other wizards from the same fate, learn as much as possible on the go and continue to his destination, taking his charges along with him. Things become more complicated when he becomes ‘paired’ with Chihon, a young sorceress, and therefore responsible not just for his own life, but hers, too.
Set in a world where every member of a family had specific tasks to complete, reminiscent of a medieval society, the descriptions are perfect for giving a background image against which to set the action. I followed Lorit’s journey in my mind’s eye and, when I found – to my surprise – a map at the end of the book, I realised my mind map fitted the author’s map almost exactly right. That is a sign of good description.
James Eggebeen’s characterization is another strong point of this book. From the main characters to the secondary ones, and even the odd market stall holder – each and every one of them has their own voice, mannerisms and look. I especially enjoyed the scenes where Lorit was at sea and those where he was crossing the Plains of Grass. Different characters, perfect descriptions. Lorit’s ‘growth’ and development is also very well thought out, as are Chihon’s. There are enough hooks in the text to hint at trouble ahead and also at hidden motivations of people Lorit depends on to continue his quest. More than once I thought Zhimosom was not sharing everything he knew, and as he matures and becomes more experienced, Lorit learns not to rely on him as much as before. The budding affection between Chihon and Lorit is a nice addition to the story.
The plot – again, one of the best features – couldn’t have been more complex, yet stays easy to follow. There is a battle between good and evil, there is a race against time, a touch of revenge, secondary strands of friendship and even closer relationships. Since all characters are so well thought out and come complete with their own histories, there are secondary plots developing from there, too. Sometimes, these plots are strong enough to mingle into the main thread of the story, as is the case with Gareb and Yerlow. No questions remain unanswered, and several twists towards the end of the book were totally unexpected.
Who would enjoy this read? Any fantasy reader, of any age. If you like wizards and a touch of magic, fantasy lands and out-of-the-ordinary creatures, you’ll enjoy this book. There is no sex or gruesome violence, so younger readers that would perhaps read the Harry Potter series would happily be able to read Founding Wizard.
I enjoyed reading this book, though I was sceptical at first – I have read and enjoyed the Harry Potter series, often read it out loud to my children, and could not imagine another wizard story that could rival it. Well, I’m pleased to say Foundling Wizard is giving Harry Potter a run for his money. I would love to read the next book in the series, as it is clear Lorit’s journey is not yet complete.
This is a good story, very well written. Well worth the time and money. I recommend it. It gets five stars from me.
Along the way, Lorit has to avoid falling into the hands of the Priests of the Temple of Ran, save other wizards from the same fate, learn as much as possible on the go and continue to his destination, taking his charges along with him. Things become more complicated when he becomes ‘paired’ with Chihon, a young sorceress, and therefore responsible not just for his own life, but hers, too.
Set in a world where every member of a family had specific tasks to complete, reminiscent of a medieval society, the descriptions are perfect for giving a background image against which to set the action. I followed Lorit’s journey in my mind’s eye and, when I found – to my surprise – a map at the end of the book, I realised my mind map fitted the author’s map almost exactly right. That is a sign of good description.
James Eggebeen’s characterization is another strong point of this book. From the main characters to the secondary ones, and even the odd market stall holder – each and every one of them has their own voice, mannerisms and look. I especially enjoyed the scenes where Lorit was at sea and those where he was crossing the Plains of Grass. Different characters, perfect descriptions. Lorit’s ‘growth’ and development is also very well thought out, as are Chihon’s. There are enough hooks in the text to hint at trouble ahead and also at hidden motivations of people Lorit depends on to continue his quest. More than once I thought Zhimosom was not sharing everything he knew, and as he matures and becomes more experienced, Lorit learns not to rely on him as much as before. The budding affection between Chihon and Lorit is a nice addition to the story.
The plot – again, one of the best features – couldn’t have been more complex, yet stays easy to follow. There is a battle between good and evil, there is a race against time, a touch of revenge, secondary strands of friendship and even closer relationships. Since all characters are so well thought out and come complete with their own histories, there are secondary plots developing from there, too. Sometimes, these plots are strong enough to mingle into the main thread of the story, as is the case with Gareb and Yerlow. No questions remain unanswered, and several twists towards the end of the book were totally unexpected.
Who would enjoy this read? Any fantasy reader, of any age. If you like wizards and a touch of magic, fantasy lands and out-of-the-ordinary creatures, you’ll enjoy this book. There is no sex or gruesome violence, so younger readers that would perhaps read the Harry Potter series would happily be able to read Founding Wizard.
I enjoyed reading this book, though I was sceptical at first – I have read and enjoyed the Harry Potter series, often read it out loud to my children, and could not imagine another wizard story that could rival it. Well, I’m pleased to say Foundling Wizard is giving Harry Potter a run for his money. I would love to read the next book in the series, as it is clear Lorit’s journey is not yet complete.
This is a good story, very well written. Well worth the time and money. I recommend it. It gets five stars from me.
March 15, 2013
3.5 stars.
An interesting fantasy story, with a relatively easy to follow plot. The author presents a very interesting magic and it is well described and the 2 mages powers build steadily. The characters interact well and the two main young characters have an unusual relationship which builds and changes and makes me want to see how it continues.
A twist later in the book is unforeseen (or would have been had I not read a spoiler review) and a nice touch. I did like the way the older mages gave info but did not directly help or overly influence. There is quite a lot of dark themes but and well handled and not overpowering. This would appeal to fantasy readers of any age, not just adults.
Why 3.5 stars? There were a lot of editing issues and in places there were slightly implausible scenarios (like being entombed for 3 weeks when it is not stated if the victim was fed.) There were a lot of rescues which were similar in character. Overall a good story and worth the read. I will look out for the follow ups.
An interesting fantasy story, with a relatively easy to follow plot. The author presents a very interesting magic and it is well described and the 2 mages powers build steadily. The characters interact well and the two main young characters have an unusual relationship which builds and changes and makes me want to see how it continues.
A twist later in the book is unforeseen (or would have been had I not read a spoiler review) and a nice touch. I did like the way the older mages gave info but did not directly help or overly influence. There is quite a lot of dark themes but and well handled and not overpowering. This would appeal to fantasy readers of any age, not just adults.
Why 3.5 stars? There were a lot of editing issues and in places there were slightly implausible scenarios (like being entombed for 3 weeks when it is not stated if the victim was fed.) There were a lot of rescues which were similar in character. Overall a good story and worth the read. I will look out for the follow ups.
October 21, 2015
I liked some of the ideas of magic in this book, but the story line felt a bit inconsistent - for instance it seemed to be that wizards were very rare, but the main character seemed to run into them everywhere. I found some hurdles were overcome a bit too easily and sometimes the same mechanism seemed to be used a couple times and then never mentioned again. Also it seems to be more-or-less a Young Adult book, but there are some very dark moments.
April 17, 2019
I haven’t written a review in a while, but for some reason I felt inspired to comment on James Eggebeen’s debut novel. Having read and reviewed Eggebeen’s thought provoking dark masterpiece Indentured Magic, and being fully aware of the power of the man’s writing, I thought it necessary to comment on something far less controversial, Eggebeen’s early days, with Foundling Wizard, the debut of his Apprentice to Master series.
Basically, this is a pretty typical epic fantasy quest story. It features just about every Jordanesque trope one can imagine, including the farmboy with magic powers coming to grips with his gift, honing his wizarding skills with the help of a coven of Wizards and a Sorceress, (the wizards all have long white beards and stereotypical Wizard names) and a villainous religious priesthood that can scope out new wizards and are determined to enlist them in their evil schemes. There’s cute romance, some epic magic based action scenes and some well choreographed swordplay, but in essence Foundling Wizard “can” be viewed as Fantasy 101.
So why was this book so bloody phenomenal? For one thing, James Eggebeen is a wonderful writer. His prose is fluid, and sweeping and rarely, if ever feels disjointed. He writes with enthusiasm for his characters, his influences and the genre itself. It is a debut that promises progression. With such a well written debut, there’s no doubt that the author’s plans for the series and its world are massive in scope, and he does a great job of detailing the workings of his expansive (yet not overly complicated) world.
Anyone that has ever read the books of L.E. Modesitt, specifically The Saga Of Recluce, will find some obvious homages in Eggebeen’s book. He does spend a great deal of time on conversations about real life situations, often over some detailed meal descriptions. There are some very scenic depictions of roads and towns, and there is often an inn, with a Wizard waiting to outline the science of his magic system, and while some might suggest that Eggebeen is often derivative to an extreme, I say if you can do it as well as he does, why not? He also manages to break up the Modesittesque quiet, with some epic battles and huge action that wouldn’t be out of place in a Sanderson or Brent Weeks novel.
I had a great deal of fun reading this lengthy novel. It was a joy to see a gifted new author swim so expertly through the seas of his immensely talented and successful influences, all the while finding his own voice in the process.
Basically, this is a pretty typical epic fantasy quest story. It features just about every Jordanesque trope one can imagine, including the farmboy with magic powers coming to grips with his gift, honing his wizarding skills with the help of a coven of Wizards and a Sorceress, (the wizards all have long white beards and stereotypical Wizard names) and a villainous religious priesthood that can scope out new wizards and are determined to enlist them in their evil schemes. There’s cute romance, some epic magic based action scenes and some well choreographed swordplay, but in essence Foundling Wizard “can” be viewed as Fantasy 101.
So why was this book so bloody phenomenal? For one thing, James Eggebeen is a wonderful writer. His prose is fluid, and sweeping and rarely, if ever feels disjointed. He writes with enthusiasm for his characters, his influences and the genre itself. It is a debut that promises progression. With such a well written debut, there’s no doubt that the author’s plans for the series and its world are massive in scope, and he does a great job of detailing the workings of his expansive (yet not overly complicated) world.
Anyone that has ever read the books of L.E. Modesitt, specifically The Saga Of Recluce, will find some obvious homages in Eggebeen’s book. He does spend a great deal of time on conversations about real life situations, often over some detailed meal descriptions. There are some very scenic depictions of roads and towns, and there is often an inn, with a Wizard waiting to outline the science of his magic system, and while some might suggest that Eggebeen is often derivative to an extreme, I say if you can do it as well as he does, why not? He also manages to break up the Modesittesque quiet, with some epic battles and huge action that wouldn’t be out of place in a Sanderson or Brent Weeks novel.
I had a great deal of fun reading this lengthy novel. It was a joy to see a gifted new author swim so expertly through the seas of his immensely talented and successful influences, all the while finding his own voice in the process.
Read
October 3, 2024James Eggebeen has created an awesome magic system and has some great world building in this story. It’s a fun fantasy world and the story kept me guessing. I really liked the differences between the priests and the wizards and how they use their power. Very clever. Joe Hempels narration was great and really helped enhance the story. If you like an emphasis on magic in your fantasy books I’d recommend checking this book out!
February 15, 2020
Apples get men in trouble.
Lorit and his sister are counting the kine when he takes an apple from his pack. lt is sour. With his eyes closed he pictures a juicy red apple that would taste good. Onolt asks what he is doing and what is happening. There before them is an apple just as he had imagined. Onolt thinks he is a wizard and needs to go to the priest at the temple of Ran. When they arrive home his mother tells them a priest had been there. When his mother finds out what happened she prepares a pack and sends him off to either go to the temple or get as far away from them as he can.
Lorit goes to the next town where he finds shelter. He conjures some bread and an apple for the morning and then sleeps. While he sleeps Zhimoson, a senior wizard comes to him and teaches him to shield his power so the priests can't find him. He is told to go to Amedon where Zhimoson can teach him more but to beware as the local priest sensed him. He is to figure how to get there on his own. In the morning the priest is looking for him and with the patrollers scares a lot of boys and one gets captured.
Zhimoson comes to him again and asks him to rescue the captured boy and shows him how to do it. Lorit rescues Chedel. They leave town and travel on with some adventure along the way to Ryeren Glen where they will meet Rotiaqua, a sorceress. They meet and then part ways with Lorit going north to and Rotiaqua and Chedel east. Before parting Rotiaqua gives a walking stick to him. It is a wizard staff from Zhimoson.
Lorit meets Enad who leads him into trouble. Lorit gets captured by a priest is taken to the temple where he is tortured and then manages to escape and continues on to Bebrook.
After securing a ride on a barge he meets the family of the barge owner. During their first night of travel some men board the barge tie everyone up and try to take Ardser the eldest son who has been hiding from the priests because he also has magic.
In Bebrook Lorit meets a girl that when her hand touches his causes it to tingle. She says she will meet him in an inn at the end of the day. While he and Ardser are eating dinner the girl, Chihon, comes in and joins them. Lorit tells her that Zhimoson had sent him to get her and he picked up Ardser on the way. Zhimoson tells Lorit he needs to take them all to Trickby next.
The next morning Lorit, Ardser and Chihon go to tell her grandmother good-by in the market when a whistle blows and they all scatter as the patrollers appear. Chihon's grandmother tells them that two bodies, bounty hunters, were found in the river, Ardser's father was taken to the jail and Ardsen was taken also. Lorit testifies on behalf of Ardser's father and he is aquitted.
That evening during temple prayers Lorit goes to rescue Ardser and finds the priests have killed him. Lorit is devistated.
Lorit and Chihon leave Bebrook and camp overnight in the morning Lorit is missing. Rotiaqua appears in the campfire smoke to say that the connection between Lorit and Zhimoson was suddenly broken during the night and Lorit couldn't be sensed anywhere. Rotiaqua and Zhimoson think he might be dead but Chihon says she knows he is alive. She feels a thin connection to Lorit and tells Zhimoson what she feels. He tells her she is becoming connected to Lorit as he is. She is to go on to Trickby and find Gareb who will help her. Chihon finds and stays with Gareb and his wife learning about magic.
From this point the story has an interesting trek to the end of the book which will hold your interes with a few surprises along the way.
Lorit and his sister are counting the kine when he takes an apple from his pack. lt is sour. With his eyes closed he pictures a juicy red apple that would taste good. Onolt asks what he is doing and what is happening. There before them is an apple just as he had imagined. Onolt thinks he is a wizard and needs to go to the priest at the temple of Ran. When they arrive home his mother tells them a priest had been there. When his mother finds out what happened she prepares a pack and sends him off to either go to the temple or get as far away from them as he can.
Lorit goes to the next town where he finds shelter. He conjures some bread and an apple for the morning and then sleeps. While he sleeps Zhimoson, a senior wizard comes to him and teaches him to shield his power so the priests can't find him. He is told to go to Amedon where Zhimoson can teach him more but to beware as the local priest sensed him. He is to figure how to get there on his own. In the morning the priest is looking for him and with the patrollers scares a lot of boys and one gets captured.
Zhimoson comes to him again and asks him to rescue the captured boy and shows him how to do it. Lorit rescues Chedel. They leave town and travel on with some adventure along the way to Ryeren Glen where they will meet Rotiaqua, a sorceress. They meet and then part ways with Lorit going north to and Rotiaqua and Chedel east. Before parting Rotiaqua gives a walking stick to him. It is a wizard staff from Zhimoson.
Lorit meets Enad who leads him into trouble. Lorit gets captured by a priest is taken to the temple where he is tortured and then manages to escape and continues on to Bebrook.
After securing a ride on a barge he meets the family of the barge owner. During their first night of travel some men board the barge tie everyone up and try to take Ardser the eldest son who has been hiding from the priests because he also has magic.
In Bebrook Lorit meets a girl that when her hand touches his causes it to tingle. She says she will meet him in an inn at the end of the day. While he and Ardser are eating dinner the girl, Chihon, comes in and joins them. Lorit tells her that Zhimoson had sent him to get her and he picked up Ardser on the way. Zhimoson tells Lorit he needs to take them all to Trickby next.
The next morning Lorit, Ardser and Chihon go to tell her grandmother good-by in the market when a whistle blows and they all scatter as the patrollers appear. Chihon's grandmother tells them that two bodies, bounty hunters, were found in the river, Ardser's father was taken to the jail and Ardsen was taken also. Lorit testifies on behalf of Ardser's father and he is aquitted.
That evening during temple prayers Lorit goes to rescue Ardser and finds the priests have killed him. Lorit is devistated.
Lorit and Chihon leave Bebrook and camp overnight in the morning Lorit is missing. Rotiaqua appears in the campfire smoke to say that the connection between Lorit and Zhimoson was suddenly broken during the night and Lorit couldn't be sensed anywhere. Rotiaqua and Zhimoson think he might be dead but Chihon says she knows he is alive. She feels a thin connection to Lorit and tells Zhimoson what she feels. He tells her she is becoming connected to Lorit as he is. She is to go on to Trickby and find Gareb who will help her. Chihon finds and stays with Gareb and his wife learning about magic.
From this point the story has an interesting trek to the end of the book which will hold your interes with a few surprises along the way.
December 13, 2019
Review originally published at: https://www.lomeraniel.com/audiobookr...
Lorit, an 18-year old boy from a modest family in the countryside, discovers one day that he has magic powers. Contrary to this being good news, Lorit has to face now a dangerous fate. He has to leave his home and his family to avoid being caught by the priests of the Temple of Ran, who are always on the lookout for new mages in order to capture their magic through torture.
This was an entertaining listen! The book is mainly aimed at young adult readers, as the main characters are around this age. There are some adult characters, expert mages or sorcerers but they just lead Lorit and his friend from a distance, and are only indirectly involved in the story. The characters are interesting enough for this kind of book, their relationships are fresh and the dialogs seem natural. I would have liked a bit more character development but it is just a personal preference. As I have said, the character development is akin to similar books (young adult fantasy).
There are very dark moments in the story, and some unexpected deaths. This made the story more realistic, as it did not feel sugar-coated for younger readers. I wish I was able to connect with the characters better than I did, as some of these events are quite crude, but I was not able to feel “enough” for the deceased and suffering characters.
I also would have liked some more world-building. It is true that some aspects of this world we are only discovering them along with Lorit, but I think some aspects could have had some more depth. We will probably know more in future installments.
Joe Hempel delivered an excellent and top-notch narration, as always. He is able to bring the characters to life in a unique way, transmitting their emotions but being subtle about it at the same time. It was definitely like listening to real people! All characters were easily recognizable thanks to subtle differences in style and voice. This was definitely an easy listen.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Lorit, an 18-year old boy from a modest family in the countryside, discovers one day that he has magic powers. Contrary to this being good news, Lorit has to face now a dangerous fate. He has to leave his home and his family to avoid being caught by the priests of the Temple of Ran, who are always on the lookout for new mages in order to capture their magic through torture.
This was an entertaining listen! The book is mainly aimed at young adult readers, as the main characters are around this age. There are some adult characters, expert mages or sorcerers but they just lead Lorit and his friend from a distance, and are only indirectly involved in the story. The characters are interesting enough for this kind of book, their relationships are fresh and the dialogs seem natural. I would have liked a bit more character development but it is just a personal preference. As I have said, the character development is akin to similar books (young adult fantasy).
There are very dark moments in the story, and some unexpected deaths. This made the story more realistic, as it did not feel sugar-coated for younger readers. I wish I was able to connect with the characters better than I did, as some of these events are quite crude, but I was not able to feel “enough” for the deceased and suffering characters.
I also would have liked some more world-building. It is true that some aspects of this world we are only discovering them along with Lorit, but I think some aspects could have had some more depth. We will probably know more in future installments.
Joe Hempel delivered an excellent and top-notch narration, as always. He is able to bring the characters to life in a unique way, transmitting their emotions but being subtle about it at the same time. It was definitely like listening to real people! All characters were easily recognizable thanks to subtle differences in style and voice. This was definitely an easy listen.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 31, 2020
Rather trite
Quite a disappointment to read something, where one expects a little worldwise views, judging from the age of the author....and gets a silly boy who stumbles from one problem into another...and always this crazy naive stuff, no revenge...even after knowing other person killed own sister...all in a world where powermongers sacrifice humans to gain more power for themselves....(first page so not a real spoiler)....last but not least actions are NOT flowing...boy ends up in same dangerous situation again and again, while NOT preparing ANY worthwhile attack....the typical blonde from slasher movies comes to mind, who walks down a dark alley and the last one hears is a scream...once is good to get going....but moving down this alley again and again, without valid preparation...and supposedly this talented boy is guided by a wise person.....all in all NOT a pleasurable experience for me, I even skipped most of the second half....
Quite a disappointment to read something, where one expects a little worldwise views, judging from the age of the author....and gets a silly boy who stumbles from one problem into another...and always this crazy naive stuff, no revenge...even after knowing other person killed own sister...all in a world where powermongers sacrifice humans to gain more power for themselves....(first page so not a real spoiler)....last but not least actions are NOT flowing...boy ends up in same dangerous situation again and again, while NOT preparing ANY worthwhile attack....the typical blonde from slasher movies comes to mind, who walks down a dark alley and the last one hears is a scream...once is good to get going....but moving down this alley again and again, without valid preparation...and supposedly this talented boy is guided by a wise person.....all in all NOT a pleasurable experience for me, I even skipped most of the second half....
July 21, 2020
7/10
This is a spoiler-free review.
It's a nice book. A little bit rushed in my opinion, I would have liked more explanation about the magic systems and lore of the world, but very entertaining none the less.
The characters were a little bit plain, without clear changes in their behavior apart from what is noted from other characters. Apart from that, they are very likable and fitting for the story.
It's not a new genre, nor it makes any incredible changes in the way these books usually go, but it's well done, entertaining and as the future of the main character is a bit unclear, it keeps you reading just to know where the story is going.
It's a good book to chill with, you don't really need a masterpiece every time you read, and I think it fulfills perfectly its role as a fantasy medieval book. I would recommend it.
This is a spoiler-free review.
It's a nice book. A little bit rushed in my opinion, I would have liked more explanation about the magic systems and lore of the world, but very entertaining none the less.
The characters were a little bit plain, without clear changes in their behavior apart from what is noted from other characters. Apart from that, they are very likable and fitting for the story.
It's not a new genre, nor it makes any incredible changes in the way these books usually go, but it's well done, entertaining and as the future of the main character is a bit unclear, it keeps you reading just to know where the story is going.
It's a good book to chill with, you don't really need a masterpiece every time you read, and I think it fulfills perfectly its role as a fantasy medieval book. I would recommend it.
April 7, 2021
A very average fantasy/magic book. Not much stands out. The magic system is your typical "anything you can imagine" system, the main protagonists grow over time as they explore their powers, but they only really ever explore those powers when they need to solve a problem, so the magic feels relagated to being a plot device. One that rarely seems to fail.
Nothing in this book is really special. The protagonists are generic kids who act quite a bit younger than 18, the bad guys are a generic order of priests who have been corrupted by their lust for power, the mentor is your typical powerful mage who doesn't ACTUALLY seem to care about his apprentice except he secretly does... Because, tough love, or something.
Long story short, it's a good story if you're interested in the genre, but it's not going to draw you in and keep you on the edge of your seat.
Nothing in this book is really special. The protagonists are generic kids who act quite a bit younger than 18, the bad guys are a generic order of priests who have been corrupted by their lust for power, the mentor is your typical powerful mage who doesn't ACTUALLY seem to care about his apprentice except he secretly does... Because, tough love, or something.
Long story short, it's a good story if you're interested in the genre, but it's not going to draw you in and keep you on the edge of your seat.
October 28, 2023
Help me read more books
Interesting story (well, up to the last chapter anyway), and one I'll probably try to read more in the series, since I liked this first one. The last chapter seemed a bit dull, maybe because it was rushed, maybe because the author didn't know where to go, or maybe I was just bored with the story, take your pick, but minus the last chapter, the story is still a good one, and it won't prevent me from reading more in the series if I can obtain them.
Fantasy readers should enjoy this offering.
Interesting story (well, up to the last chapter anyway), and one I'll probably try to read more in the series, since I liked this first one. The last chapter seemed a bit dull, maybe because it was rushed, maybe because the author didn't know where to go, or maybe I was just bored with the story, take your pick, but minus the last chapter, the story is still a good one, and it won't prevent me from reading more in the series if I can obtain them.
Fantasy readers should enjoy this offering.
March 14, 2020
This story is really fast and furious. The beginning of a new level of energy.
I really enjoyed the story as it started with the development of the main characters and gave them from and substance.
The saga of our hero is masked by the way it moves through everything while leaving just enough out to keep everything clean. There is one thing the "bad guys"' seem to forget. That strand might be their undoing.
Now, on to the second book. Hope you like this one as much as I did.
I really enjoyed the story as it started with the development of the main characters and gave them from and substance.
The saga of our hero is masked by the way it moves through everything while leaving just enough out to keep everything clean. There is one thing the "bad guys"' seem to forget. That strand might be their undoing.
Now, on to the second book. Hope you like this one as much as I did.
June 23, 2020
A competent story, a bit formulaic and simplistic but with moments of novelty. Writing was competent with only a few editing errors. Two main characters are likeable. I wasn’t sure I understood the magic system. Some character behaviour was slightly puzzling, but maybe the reasons will become clear in later books. I enjoyed it, but I don’t know how much I’ll remember in a month. Probably will try other books by this author.
December 19, 2019
Yet another miserable book. In my opinion it's just poor writing. Almost everyone the main characters meet is either directly connected to them or is absolutely evil. Either the writer is doing an absolutely terrible job of representing this fictional world... Or it's a world that would in no way work. Unless you get off on misery I would suggest you avoid this book.
January 24, 2020
3.5
My apologies to the author but I have found myself slipping into the habit of automatically giving a 4 to any story I enjoy so as to not spoil their ratings. A 3 is an average story that I enjoyed but probably wouldn’t reread. I plan to read the next book in this series so it wasn’t a waste of time. What it was was an enjoyable read.
My apologies to the author but I have found myself slipping into the habit of automatically giving a 4 to any story I enjoy so as to not spoil their ratings. A 3 is an average story that I enjoyed but probably wouldn’t reread. I plan to read the next book in this series so it wasn’t a waste of time. What it was was an enjoyable read.
April 10, 2020
A good read
Was torn between 4 and 5 stars...wish that 4.5 was a viable option. This was entertaining to read but there we're a few places where I felt like the plot was a bit weak and disjointed. The overall strength of the story led me to overlook the occasional weaknesses of the plot and give the book a 5* rating.
Was torn between 4 and 5 stars...wish that 4.5 was a viable option. This was entertaining to read but there we're a few places where I felt like the plot was a bit weak and disjointed. The overall strength of the story led me to overlook the occasional weaknesses of the plot and give the book a 5* rating.
March 9, 2022
Another Sleep Aid
I found myself falling asleep every few paragraphs. Descriptions were blasé. Characters were meh. Wizard battles were snoozefests. Plot progression was plodding. The barebones of this story seems decent, but it needs a lot more effort to be put into the crafting of the tale to make it worthwhile.
I found myself falling asleep every few paragraphs. Descriptions were blasé. Characters were meh. Wizard battles were snoozefests. Plot progression was plodding. The barebones of this story seems decent, but it needs a lot more effort to be put into the crafting of the tale to make it worthwhile.
January 2, 2020
If the next books in series are just as good or better will be one heck of a Great Series!
The Narrator did a very good job of bringing to life these characters. I really enjoyed the different peoples in this story and the wide variety of characters. I highly recommend this book!!
The Narrator did a very good job of bringing to life these characters. I really enjoyed the different peoples in this story and the wide variety of characters. I highly recommend this book!!
January 9, 2020
Good story
An enjoyable story. Better than many I have read recently.
While I believe the author tried to give the characters some depth for the reader to connect, it still was a bit shallow. Well written and worth a read, just not a prize winner.
An enjoyable story. Better than many I have read recently.
While I believe the author tried to give the characters some depth for the reader to connect, it still was a bit shallow. Well written and worth a read, just not a prize winner.
January 24, 2020
Not a good read
I found my self skipping entire paragraphs and pages at times as it constantly felt like things were too suddenly this suddenly that, writing just seems sloopy and non imaginative
I found my self skipping entire paragraphs and pages at times as it constantly felt like things were too suddenly this suddenly that, writing just seems sloopy and non imaginative
February 22, 2020
A few flashes of depth and thoughtful writing
Early on there were a few moments of character development and foreshadowing. For the most part lacking cohesion and control of timeline.
Early on there were a few moments of character development and foreshadowing. For the most part lacking cohesion and control of timeline.
June 18, 2020
A great start to a new series!
Although slow to start, this book builds to a crescendo with great characters along the way as a swineherd cones to terms with his burgeoning abilities and his destiny
Although slow to start, this book builds to a crescendo with great characters along the way as a swineherd cones to terms with his burgeoning abilities and his destiny
February 13, 2020
Interesting
Interesting storyline read with movement of unexpected events and outcomes as magic is intertwined throughout the tale as the two begin pairing
Interesting storyline read with movement of unexpected events and outcomes as magic is intertwined throughout the tale as the two begin pairing
March 15, 2020
Awful book. I read about 60 pages and gave up as I value my time. Poorly written with characters that are not at all interesting.
March 28, 2020
Great read
I am starting on the next one in series as soon as finish this review. Highly recommended this book...happy reading to all.
I am starting on the next one in series as soon as finish this review. Highly recommended this book...happy reading to all.
June 2, 2020
Great
Good book to tree read. Great characters good story line.my sort of book.easy to read and great place to eacape
Good book to tree read. Great characters good story line.my sort of book.easy to read and great place to eacape
June 16, 2020
I found the characters quite bland and uninteresting. I kind of wanted to see what happened so I kept skipping ahead, but in the end I just gave up. Oh well.
March 11, 2021
Sorta blah magic. Only redeeming aspect is the MC is naturally gifted but still has to learn how to use his magic.
April 25, 2021
A great fantasy read
This is a coming of age, young adult fantasy story but everyone can enjoy it, it's just that good 😊
This is a coming of age, young adult fantasy story but everyone can enjoy it, it's just that good 😊
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