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Heart Of Fire #1
Until All Curses Are Lifted
The laws are enforced by magic.
If you break the law, you’re cursed.
But the rich and powerful twisted the laws to allow for… exceptions.
Marshal has been cursed since birth for his unknown father’s crimes. When he discovers he’s also heir to immense magical power, he must flee for his life. His half-brother wants the power for himself and has hired an assassin to pursue Marshal and his mother. No one has ever escaped from a curse, but it’s the only way for Marshal to be truly safe.
Seri wants to become the most powerful mage in history. But the magic that holds the world together is failing and no one knows why. While the ground itself shakes, someone begins murdering mages. In danger from all directions, Seri must learn how to use her unique abilities before everything falls apart.
Neither of them know they are being watched from another realm…
If you break the law, you’re cursed.
But the rich and powerful twisted the laws to allow for… exceptions.
Marshal has been cursed since birth for his unknown father’s crimes. When he discovers he’s also heir to immense magical power, he must flee for his life. His half-brother wants the power for himself and has hired an assassin to pursue Marshal and his mother. No one has ever escaped from a curse, but it’s the only way for Marshal to be truly safe.
Seri wants to become the most powerful mage in history. But the magic that holds the world together is failing and no one knows why. While the ground itself shakes, someone begins murdering mages. In danger from all directions, Seri must learn how to use her unique abilities before everything falls apart.
Neither of them know they are being watched from another realm…
- GenresFantasyYoung AdultMagic
417 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2019
28 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Tim Frankovich
19 books58 followersTim Frankovich has been exploring fantastic worlds since third grade, when he cut up a grocery sack and drew a Godzilla-meets-superheroes story. Since then, he's gotten a little bit better at the writing part (not so much with the drawing).
His goal as a writer is to transport readers to another world, make them care deeply about characters in dire situations, and guide them deeper into life itself.
At the moment, he is probably suitably conscious somewhere in Texas with his beloved wife, awesome kids, and a fool of a pup named Pippin.
His goal as a writer is to transport readers to another world, make them care deeply about characters in dire situations, and guide them deeper into life itself.
At the moment, he is probably suitably conscious somewhere in Texas with his beloved wife, awesome kids, and a fool of a pup named Pippin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 17, 2020
2.5/5 stars
This book is a glorious winged beast leaping from the nest before it is quite ready to fly.
In short ... underdeveloped.
This story was every bit of promising, every element that makes up an incredible story was present ... almost. Where this book fell short was in the writing. I honestly fell like this is a problem with not enough revisions, not enough editing, and not enough people being critical with their reviews. Which is actually quite tragic ... because this story, this world, these characters ... are all incredible. Not to mention a unique magic system which is hard to come by in this day and age.
You have Marshal and you have Seri. Basic chosen one scenario on both ends. Mashal is cursed through no fault of his own and has a back-story that I'm sure we can all pretty early on guesstimate. Seri wants to be a mage ... the first female mage ... the first female master mage ... but we don't every really get much about her as to why ... or as to why she was chosen as an acolyte. All of these things are just expecting the reader to accept and move on ... which I do not like. But we will begin with some positives.
What I liked
Unique, whimsical, intriguing.
I enjoyed reading this book, although I had to turn off the critical reader parts of myself in order to do so. Surface level, this is a wonderful story. Extremely enjoyable even with all of it's flaws. I cared about the characters ... even though I felt like their stories were underdeveloped. I enjoyed this world, even though it lacked spacial descriptions to set the atmosphere.
I will say that the one thing that was not lacking was the magic system. Extremely unique and very well explained. I thoroughly enjoyed this aspect of the story.
What I did not like
As I mentioned, this book lacked something in almost every aspect of the writing. It was doomed to be always "almost". The dialog was not great, with much of it being unnecessary and even cringe-worth at times. The characters could have been pushed a little more, especially supporting characters, all of which fell extremely flat. Because the secondary and supporting characters were underdeveloped, the relationships between the characters felt flat as well.
I think Marshall's side of the story was a little more successful over-all. Seri's story had a lot of plot holes that, again, I feel could have benefited from letting this whimsical story marinate a while longer before publishing.
Over-all
I enjoyed the world and the story, but I am saddened by the potential this book had and did not achieve.
This book is a glorious winged beast leaping from the nest before it is quite ready to fly.
In short ... underdeveloped.
This story was every bit of promising, every element that makes up an incredible story was present ... almost. Where this book fell short was in the writing. I honestly fell like this is a problem with not enough revisions, not enough editing, and not enough people being critical with their reviews. Which is actually quite tragic ... because this story, this world, these characters ... are all incredible. Not to mention a unique magic system which is hard to come by in this day and age.
You have Marshal and you have Seri. Basic chosen one scenario on both ends. Mashal is cursed through no fault of his own and has a back-story that I'm sure we can all pretty early on guesstimate. Seri wants to be a mage ... the first female mage ... the first female master mage ... but we don't every really get much about her as to why ... or as to why she was chosen as an acolyte. All of these things are just expecting the reader to accept and move on ... which I do not like. But we will begin with some positives.
What I liked
Unique, whimsical, intriguing.
I enjoyed reading this book, although I had to turn off the critical reader parts of myself in order to do so. Surface level, this is a wonderful story. Extremely enjoyable even with all of it's flaws. I cared about the characters ... even though I felt like their stories were underdeveloped. I enjoyed this world, even though it lacked spacial descriptions to set the atmosphere.
I will say that the one thing that was not lacking was the magic system. Extremely unique and very well explained. I thoroughly enjoyed this aspect of the story.
What I did not like
As I mentioned, this book lacked something in almost every aspect of the writing. It was doomed to be always "almost". The dialog was not great, with much of it being unnecessary and even cringe-worth at times. The characters could have been pushed a little more, especially supporting characters, all of which fell extremely flat. Because the secondary and supporting characters were underdeveloped, the relationships between the characters felt flat as well.
I think Marshall's side of the story was a little more successful over-all. Seri's story had a lot of plot holes that, again, I feel could have benefited from letting this whimsical story marinate a while longer before publishing.
Over-all
I enjoyed the world and the story, but I am saddened by the potential this book had and did not achieve.
November 28, 2019
Welcome to Whimsical Wednesday my Fellow Book Dragons, where all things Odd, Weird, Fantastical or Otherwise come to roost. Happy Thanksgiving Eve to my Fellow Book Dragons from the US of A. Our Gem this evening is perfectly round, crystal clear, perfect in it’s aspect. It’s light comes from within. It resembles the Crystal Balls of that other race, the Mage, and for good reason. This is from whence it comes. Isn’t it beautiful? The Mage it came from is Tim Frankovich. If you look into it’s center it will show you a fantastical world where grand and terrible things happen. “Until All Curses Are Lifted” is the tale of some of them.
This is the story of Marshal. Marshal is an unfortunate child. Cursed because his father harmed another. In Marshal’s world, One is cursed because One’s parent harmed another being. Marshal cannot communicate. He knows no sign language except yes and no and only if he can remember how to make them. He cannot speak. He cannot write. Everyone hates him because he is cursed, except for his mother, who tells him he is loved and his destiny is great. His brother not only hates him, he covets. And what is it he could so covet from poor Marshal? He covets his curse. And so he hires an assassin.. but not just any assassin.. he hires a Leper Assassin. See? I told you this world was fantastical. This world is set in ‘The Six Lands of the Antises’. There is much to explore now that this game is afoot…
But this is also the story of Seri. She wants to become the first female Mage. She wants to become the most powerful mage that has ever lived. But will she live to make that happen?
And lastly this is also the story of a vast array of characters. Take your time at first, because you will definitely want to get to know them. They will get under your skin. Clear your calendar for a few hours. Put on the teapot or fill up the coffeepot. Grab the holiday cookies. Lock the door. You need time to get to know these new friends and enemies.
I loved this book. It world is filled with characters who are highly imaginative and yet, undeniably realistic in that they can be sympathized with and related to. Odd, isn’t it. This is a land I would love to visit (wouldn’t want to live there, mind you). Frankovich has given the world a new series to sink our fangs and claws into and I, for one, plan to. This first book is very reasonably price and would make a lovely Christmas gift for fans of Lord of the Rings, Narnia, Grimm’s Fairy Tales and so on. I did appreciate that while there is quite a bit of good, old fashioned violence (there is a lot of hate, and assassination attempts, etc after all), there was very little sex and no language that would cause One to grit ones molars. I do believe Frankovich’s ‘The Six Lands of Antises’ will be the next addition to the list on that question “If you could go to any imaginary land where would you go?”
Grab a copy and see what I mean. If I were you, I would grab a copy for myself and slide it in the old stocking..why risk it? And then grab a copy of your reading buddy, because you will definitely want someone to discuss this one with!
Until tomorrow I remain, your humble Book Dragon, Drakon T. Longwitten
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of Marshal. Marshal is an unfortunate child. Cursed because his father harmed another. In Marshal’s world, One is cursed because One’s parent harmed another being. Marshal cannot communicate. He knows no sign language except yes and no and only if he can remember how to make them. He cannot speak. He cannot write. Everyone hates him because he is cursed, except for his mother, who tells him he is loved and his destiny is great. His brother not only hates him, he covets. And what is it he could so covet from poor Marshal? He covets his curse. And so he hires an assassin.. but not just any assassin.. he hires a Leper Assassin. See? I told you this world was fantastical. This world is set in ‘The Six Lands of the Antises’. There is much to explore now that this game is afoot…
But this is also the story of Seri. She wants to become the first female Mage. She wants to become the most powerful mage that has ever lived. But will she live to make that happen?
And lastly this is also the story of a vast array of characters. Take your time at first, because you will definitely want to get to know them. They will get under your skin. Clear your calendar for a few hours. Put on the teapot or fill up the coffeepot. Grab the holiday cookies. Lock the door. You need time to get to know these new friends and enemies.
I loved this book. It world is filled with characters who are highly imaginative and yet, undeniably realistic in that they can be sympathized with and related to. Odd, isn’t it. This is a land I would love to visit (wouldn’t want to live there, mind you). Frankovich has given the world a new series to sink our fangs and claws into and I, for one, plan to. This first book is very reasonably price and would make a lovely Christmas gift for fans of Lord of the Rings, Narnia, Grimm’s Fairy Tales and so on. I did appreciate that while there is quite a bit of good, old fashioned violence (there is a lot of hate, and assassination attempts, etc after all), there was very little sex and no language that would cause One to grit ones molars. I do believe Frankovich’s ‘The Six Lands of Antises’ will be the next addition to the list on that question “If you could go to any imaginary land where would you go?”
Grab a copy and see what I mean. If I were you, I would grab a copy for myself and slide it in the old stocking..why risk it? And then grab a copy of your reading buddy, because you will definitely want someone to discuss this one with!
Until tomorrow I remain, your humble Book Dragon, Drakon T. Longwitten
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2020
I have high expectations for this author, his writing will improve and I look forward to the next book in the series. This book would have been so much better with a little editing; the world, the characters and the horribly flawed magic system is great. However, the journey that was undertaken was so long even if it did allow some of the characters to grow tremendously.
Curses are put upon the innocent for crimes committed by their father; the High Lords of the lands did this so they wouldn’t have to face the consequences of their actions and then so they don’t curse their heir or legitimate children they have many illegitimate since it’s the first-born that is cursed. (It’s never explained that is the first-born dies if the next in birth order is then cursed, but I thought it was implied at one point). Marshall (Marsh) is the cursed first born of a powerful Lord, a man who not only raped his mother, he also killed her father who tried to protect her. He’s mute, cannot learn any signs except “nod is yes and shake is no.’ Every day of his life she tells him “you are loved, you are valuable and you have a purpose.” After each statement she asks, “Do you believe me?” He always nods, but he really doesn’t. They live a very simple life in a small village where his mother is a healer, with Victor, a young man that Marsh saved and is now bound to him until he saves Marsh’s life. To say that he’s resentful is an understatement.
When Marsh’s younger brother, Lord Volrag, the oldest legitimate heir comes looking for him his mother puts a plan in action that she always intended, she was just putting it off for as long as she could. There are many reasons for this, one is that Victor must come with them because of the binding, there’s also a binding that ties you to your area and there’s another reason that you must discover on your own.
His mother does not know and there is no way that Marsh can tell her that Volrag gave Marsh an expensive dagger and urged him to kill himself, otherwise he will send an assassin after him and have him kill his mother and Victor. Since he was a very young child his mother has been instructing him in the use a sword, and Victor has dreams of being a soldier and has been practicing with an old, rusted flail; this comes in handy when they are attacked by at the beginning of their journey. Marsh all has been contemplating killing himself and after the attack he thinks it’s the right thing to do and he’s waiting to find the right opportunity, but he wants to be with his mother as long as possible. They are soon joined by Talinir, an Eldanim warden who knew Marsh’s grandfather and mother for many years he begins instructing both young men. They will need all the skill they can gain because Volrag has sent Kishin, a leprous assassin to kill his brother.
Then there’s the secondary story, set on the island of Zes Sivas, the only place in the land of Antises where magic can be practiced freely, providing you don’t have a curse. Seri is a female acolyte; she is one a the very few females chosen to attend the Conclave on the island and she is determined to become a Mage and then the first female High Master. There are six Masters on the island, one for each land and one acolyte from each land (that’s not really spelled out but it’s the impression I got, although there are other older, more advanced students that the Maters of each land are also responsible for). Seri quickly becomes friends with Dravid from Kuktarma and Jamana from Mandiata and as they begin the studies Masters are being murdered and no one knows who’s behind it or why. Suri and her friends will be an important as the story progresses for different reasons.
This is where the book starts dragging, the journey seems so long and while there is action during this journey there are also long periods where nothing really moves except the weary travelers. The situation on the island seems a little slow also. Towards the end the pace picks, then goes somewhere I really wasn’t expecting, introducing a character that had me changing what I already believed (although I may be somewhat correct in my assumption). Editing would have helped this area greatly, but as I said earlier this is the author’s first full length novel and as he continues the story I believe each book will het better (I just wish that he wasn’t waiting a year to release the next one, fortunately the 2nd book will released in August. Since is probably a trilogy it’ll be 2021 before the 3rd book is out and by that time, I’ll have read between 250-350 other books making it hard to remember the storyline without a recap if available or having to do a reread).
2.75/5 STARS: I received a free digital ARC through Netgalley in exchange for a honest, unbiased review. I sincerely thank Netgalley, author and/or publisher for giving me this opportunity.**
Curses are put upon the innocent for crimes committed by their father; the High Lords of the lands did this so they wouldn’t have to face the consequences of their actions and then so they don’t curse their heir or legitimate children they have many illegitimate since it’s the first-born that is cursed. (It’s never explained that is the first-born dies if the next in birth order is then cursed, but I thought it was implied at one point). Marshall (Marsh) is the cursed first born of a powerful Lord, a man who not only raped his mother, he also killed her father who tried to protect her. He’s mute, cannot learn any signs except “nod is yes and shake is no.’ Every day of his life she tells him “you are loved, you are valuable and you have a purpose.” After each statement she asks, “Do you believe me?” He always nods, but he really doesn’t. They live a very simple life in a small village where his mother is a healer, with Victor, a young man that Marsh saved and is now bound to him until he saves Marsh’s life. To say that he’s resentful is an understatement.
When Marsh’s younger brother, Lord Volrag, the oldest legitimate heir comes looking for him his mother puts a plan in action that she always intended, she was just putting it off for as long as she could. There are many reasons for this, one is that Victor must come with them because of the binding, there’s also a binding that ties you to your area and there’s another reason that you must discover on your own.
His mother does not know and there is no way that Marsh can tell her that Volrag gave Marsh an expensive dagger and urged him to kill himself, otherwise he will send an assassin after him and have him kill his mother and Victor. Since he was a very young child his mother has been instructing him in the use a sword, and Victor has dreams of being a soldier and has been practicing with an old, rusted flail; this comes in handy when they are attacked by at the beginning of their journey. Marsh all has been contemplating killing himself and after the attack he thinks it’s the right thing to do and he’s waiting to find the right opportunity, but he wants to be with his mother as long as possible. They are soon joined by Talinir, an Eldanim warden who knew Marsh’s grandfather and mother for many years he begins instructing both young men. They will need all the skill they can gain because Volrag has sent Kishin, a leprous assassin to kill his brother.
Then there’s the secondary story, set on the island of Zes Sivas, the only place in the land of Antises where magic can be practiced freely, providing you don’t have a curse. Seri is a female acolyte; she is one a the very few females chosen to attend the Conclave on the island and she is determined to become a Mage and then the first female High Master. There are six Masters on the island, one for each land and one acolyte from each land (that’s not really spelled out but it’s the impression I got, although there are other older, more advanced students that the Maters of each land are also responsible for). Seri quickly becomes friends with Dravid from Kuktarma and Jamana from Mandiata and as they begin the studies Masters are being murdered and no one knows who’s behind it or why. Suri and her friends will be an important as the story progresses for different reasons.
This is where the book starts dragging, the journey seems so long and while there is action during this journey there are also long periods where nothing really moves except the weary travelers. The situation on the island seems a little slow also. Towards the end the pace picks, then goes somewhere I really wasn’t expecting, introducing a character that had me changing what I already believed (although I may be somewhat correct in my assumption). Editing would have helped this area greatly, but as I said earlier this is the author’s first full length novel and as he continues the story I believe each book will het better (I just wish that he wasn’t waiting a year to release the next one, fortunately the 2nd book will released in August. Since is probably a trilogy it’ll be 2021 before the 3rd book is out and by that time, I’ll have read between 250-350 other books making it hard to remember the storyline without a recap if available or having to do a reread).
2.75/5 STARS: I received a free digital ARC through Netgalley in exchange for a honest, unbiased review. I sincerely thank Netgalley, author and/or publisher for giving me this opportunity.**
July 15, 2023
Absolutely spectacular! After reading the blurb, I expected an interesting read but nothing prepared me for such a spectacular epic saga! Like a Mozart symphony, it started off slowly, building the characters and the world around them, giving a wonderful descriptive insight into all. It just builds and builds and the crescendo is earth shattering! The story of Marshall, his mother and Victor took me on an unparalleled journey, immersing me entirely and thoroughly. The emotions, oh lordie, the emotions are unprecedented! He's bullied, he's ostracised, he's mocked and loathed for being cursed, which he had no hand in. The sins of the father rear their ugly head, and fall squarely on an innocent child, who has to bear it, and not the perpetrators. Highly unfair! No friends, no ability to communicate, no ability to retain anything, sheez, how can one not want to shed a tear or two! His mom keeps telling him he's special but that's a hard sell for Marshall. He saves Victor and now a very disagreeable, angry and rather moody Victor is bonded to Marshall, according to their customs, until his debt is paid. As if that's not bad enough, his half brother wants him dead! Yeah, except he can't do it himself, he'd be cursed so an assassin is the answer. Tugging your heartstrings yet?
And then there's Seri, who sets off to become the most powerful mage. But there are no female mages, she aims to be the first, with all the decks stacked against her. Her determination and her thirst for knowledge is a joy to behold. I loved how strong willed she is, her conviction that she will succeed. She's an extraordinary character but Marshall is something special. Each and every character is so brilliantly depicted, complex yet with a strong conviction and thoroughly convincing. The various worlds are so well portrayed, I felt like I was actually in them! The magic is awesome, the scheming astounding, an entirely worthy read!
And then there's Seri, who sets off to become the most powerful mage. But there are no female mages, she aims to be the first, with all the decks stacked against her. Her determination and her thirst for knowledge is a joy to behold. I loved how strong willed she is, her conviction that she will succeed. She's an extraordinary character but Marshall is something special. Each and every character is so brilliantly depicted, complex yet with a strong conviction and thoroughly convincing. The various worlds are so well portrayed, I felt like I was actually in them! The magic is awesome, the scheming astounding, an entirely worthy read!
May 3, 2020
4.5 stars
I really loved reading this. The characters were interesting to follow in equal measure. It has good pacing. The magic is tied to the laws so when one commits a crime, they get cursed in punishment. There were various implications of this explored. The magic system is interesting and different from what I've read. It has an interesting world that will hold your attention. There is also the theme of disability so there are certain relevant conversations discussed. It was just the thing to get me out of my reading slump.
It does seem that there could have been more on the other characters but given the relatively large cast of characters; I didn't mind it. It kept the story comprehensive since high fantasy (not connected in any way to our history) difficult to get into sometimes. I mostly was just excited over the world-building. I usually read series so I can wait to really learn the backstories of the characters.
One element to the book was the curses that are inflicted on people as punishment. One of the main characters cannot communicate. The book brings up the struggles of people with certain disabilities, but also disability in general when faced with having to communicate with an able-bodied person. In this book part of that is people who get cursed for committing crimes (though the main character is not cursed for his own actions). It is fantasy, so the discussion is not always straightforward (like with those born with disabilities versus those that were cursed. Also the quest to cure Marshal). Nonetheless, the theme is something to pay attention to.
I've seen a few people complain about an ableist plot in the Witcher TV show, so those that don't like those types of themes might not like this book as much. The whole quest of his does center around his mom trying to get his curse lifted. Marshal's mother, though, does repeatedly try to remind/ask him that he is loved, valued and has a purpose in life. To me, it's really touching how the mother actually understands the types of things her son would be struggling with in such a world with curses.
There are a few awkward sentences that could have been smoother. Some examples: the use of 'I believe' 'I am thinking'. To me, it sounded a bit awkward and odd at first. I thinking it might have been because the setting requires more formal language.
There was a case where I thought the timeline wasn't quite right. For example, . The non-spoiler version: an event was supposed to take place ahead of schedule yet it was implied that it happened on the usual day, so either they lost track of time or the messenger someone let all the peasants know or there is a bit of a pothole).
Overall I really enjoyed reading this book. It read easily, it pulls the reader along. It had a very interesting concept that is very old historically, yet is new in fantasy. It was refreshing to read. I'm planning to read the rest of the series.
***I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.***
I really loved reading this. The characters were interesting to follow in equal measure. It has good pacing. The magic is tied to the laws so when one commits a crime, they get cursed in punishment. There were various implications of this explored. The magic system is interesting and different from what I've read. It has an interesting world that will hold your attention. There is also the theme of disability so there are certain relevant conversations discussed. It was just the thing to get me out of my reading slump.
It does seem that there could have been more on the other characters but given the relatively large cast of characters; I didn't mind it. It kept the story comprehensive since high fantasy (not connected in any way to our history) difficult to get into sometimes. I mostly was just excited over the world-building. I usually read series so I can wait to really learn the backstories of the characters.
One element to the book was the curses that are inflicted on people as punishment. One of the main characters cannot communicate. The book brings up the struggles of people with certain disabilities, but also disability in general when faced with having to communicate with an able-bodied person. In this book part of that is people who get cursed for committing crimes (though the main character is not cursed for his own actions). It is fantasy, so the discussion is not always straightforward (like with those born with disabilities versus those that were cursed. Also the quest to cure Marshal). Nonetheless, the theme is something to pay attention to.
I've seen a few people complain about an ableist plot in the Witcher TV show, so those that don't like those types of themes might not like this book as much. The whole quest of his does center around his mom trying to get his curse lifted. Marshal's mother, though, does repeatedly try to remind/ask him that he is loved, valued and has a purpose in life. To me, it's really touching how the mother actually understands the types of things her son would be struggling with in such a world with curses.
There are a few awkward sentences that could have been smoother. Some examples: the use of 'I believe' 'I am thinking'. To me, it sounded a bit awkward and odd at first. I thinking it might have been because the setting requires more formal language.
There was a case where I thought the timeline wasn't quite right. For example, . The non-spoiler version: an event was supposed to take place ahead of schedule yet it was implied that it happened on the usual day, so either they lost track of time or the messenger someone let all the peasants know or there is a bit of a pothole).
Overall I really enjoyed reading this book. It read easily, it pulls the reader along. It had a very interesting concept that is very old historically, yet is new in fantasy. It was refreshing to read. I'm planning to read the rest of the series.
***I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.***
April 28, 2021
This is a world where all crimes have real and debilitating consequences. The laws of the land ties in with a system of Curses and Bindings. When a person commits a crime, the land curses them. These curses are anything from impotency to malformed limbs. But, the Lords believe themselves above such a system. So they designed a loophole so that all curses that should land on them land on their children instead.
Enter our main character, Marshal. He has been cursed with the inability to communicate. No speech, no sign language, no writing. He is the bastard son of a Lord and pays for his father's crimes.
Unfortunately, the communication issues prevented me from warming up to the character immediately. Only once Marshal interacted more with the members of their party and we heard more of his internal dialogue did I become invested in him.
The story starts with Marshal's half-brother visiting. The brother wants to inherit the power of the Lords and needs Marshal to die for that to happen. But the brother cannot kill Marshal himself without getting a curse.
Marshal and his mom flee their town and go on an adventure to free Marshal of his father’s curse. On the way, Marshal learns about the powers bleeding through to him from his father and learns to fight.
Along with them is Victor who is Bound to Marshal until he can pay back the debt of Marshal saving his life as a child. Victor has always been popular and successful in their town. Yet now he is on an adventure with the 'chosen one' who has powers and is becoming stronger than him. It created an interesting relationship dynamic between them.
In the other half of the story we have Seri, an ambitious woman who wants to become the first female Master Mage. However, some of the mages are getting murdered, magic is going out of control and there is a new visitor who seems suspicious. I liked Seri, but felt her character could have been more developed. The friendships she made with her friends were sweet and I enjoyed their interactions.
Both characters had the chosen one trope, but the plot felt drawn out to get them to the final destination. I also feel like some concepts were interesting but not developed to their full potential. The idea of living in a perfect society or allowing people to have free will to make their own bad choices is fascinating.
I also liked the idea of another world overlapped with the main world, and that a handful of people can experience both at the same time.
This was an interesting read with a fascinating concept. I am keen to see how this author develops in further stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Enter our main character, Marshal. He has been cursed with the inability to communicate. No speech, no sign language, no writing. He is the bastard son of a Lord and pays for his father's crimes.
Unfortunately, the communication issues prevented me from warming up to the character immediately. Only once Marshal interacted more with the members of their party and we heard more of his internal dialogue did I become invested in him.
The story starts with Marshal's half-brother visiting. The brother wants to inherit the power of the Lords and needs Marshal to die for that to happen. But the brother cannot kill Marshal himself without getting a curse.
Marshal and his mom flee their town and go on an adventure to free Marshal of his father’s curse. On the way, Marshal learns about the powers bleeding through to him from his father and learns to fight.
Along with them is Victor who is Bound to Marshal until he can pay back the debt of Marshal saving his life as a child. Victor has always been popular and successful in their town. Yet now he is on an adventure with the 'chosen one' who has powers and is becoming stronger than him. It created an interesting relationship dynamic between them.
In the other half of the story we have Seri, an ambitious woman who wants to become the first female Master Mage. However, some of the mages are getting murdered, magic is going out of control and there is a new visitor who seems suspicious. I liked Seri, but felt her character could have been more developed. The friendships she made with her friends were sweet and I enjoyed their interactions.
Both characters had the chosen one trope, but the plot felt drawn out to get them to the final destination. I also feel like some concepts were interesting but not developed to their full potential. The idea of living in a perfect society or allowing people to have free will to make their own bad choices is fascinating.
I also liked the idea of another world overlapped with the main world, and that a handful of people can experience both at the same time.
This was an interesting read with a fascinating concept. I am keen to see how this author develops in further stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 6, 2020
Until All curses are lifted is an amazing story. When lords can twist the horrible curses they put on people however catch is it effects their children. When Aelia Marshal's Mom local town healer was forced against her will by a Noble and cursed however the curse went to her child. It is one special unique kind. He is mute, whatever is taught to him he can't remember after a while especially communication. Marshall is also bullied a lot and can't back himself up.
However he can remember responses like yes and no. He has someone bound to him name Victor who is not very happy about it especially the circumstances. He is with someone who is cursed a unique one can't talk makes for horrible companionship. Victor finds this situation especially annoying because Marshal saved himself so Victor is bound until Victor can pay in return in kind. Although Marshal most likely did this out of kindness not knowing that the repercussion would be a binding.
Seri-Belit Wants to be the greatest mage there is in history. She is a bit snooty but makes alot of friends. She is the only women on the island of zes sivas ( island of mages) A place to study magic and one day be a successful mage and master it. She is an acolyte with two others hoping a similar dream and quickly makes friendships.
Talinar is an Eldanim warden who is won to protect Marshal, his mom and victor who is bound to him.
Kishin- An Assassin who is cursed and seems to have no morals. His curse is leperosy. He is quite interested in Marshal for complex reasons having to do with his curse and his unique set of friends.
I haven't read a good book lately and this book WOW. I cried happy sad tears. this was also a tearjerker. I mean wow I'm still recovering from what happened because the events were so close together. I hope this is a series or possibly because that's an investment.
I received an advanced review copy for free by book sirens and I am glad leaving this review voluntarily and thank you so much!!!
However he can remember responses like yes and no. He has someone bound to him name Victor who is not very happy about it especially the circumstances. He is with someone who is cursed a unique one can't talk makes for horrible companionship. Victor finds this situation especially annoying because Marshal saved himself so Victor is bound until Victor can pay in return in kind. Although Marshal most likely did this out of kindness not knowing that the repercussion would be a binding.
Seri-Belit Wants to be the greatest mage there is in history. She is a bit snooty but makes alot of friends. She is the only women on the island of zes sivas ( island of mages) A place to study magic and one day be a successful mage and master it. She is an acolyte with two others hoping a similar dream and quickly makes friendships.
Talinar is an Eldanim warden who is won to protect Marshal, his mom and victor who is bound to him.
Kishin- An Assassin who is cursed and seems to have no morals. His curse is leperosy. He is quite interested in Marshal for complex reasons having to do with his curse and his unique set of friends.
I haven't read a good book lately and this book WOW. I cried happy sad tears. this was also a tearjerker. I mean wow I'm still recovering from what happened because the events were so close together. I hope this is a series or possibly because that's an investment.
I received an advanced review copy for free by book sirens and I am glad leaving this review voluntarily and thank you so much!!!
April 14, 2021
It took me some time to finish reading this book, but it was because this was one of those books that had the potential to be a magnificent dragon, but the egg cracked. And what we got was a broken-winged Nemo dragon.
Throughout the book, I kept cursing, “What in all Hell?” I kept saying, “Why didn’t you spend more time developing this character? I love him, but is sounds constipated?” The world felt real, but the characters in parts were so well-crafted to fall short in other parts. Oh, but I loved the plot. I had to not pay any attention the all the ups and downs with the crazy writing bumps to enjoy the plot, but I loved the plot.
The book needed so much help in the writing of the story itself. It needed the tender loving hand of an editor. Having said that, I know that for self-published authors, funds for editors are hard to come by, but they are so needed and worth every penny when you find a good one.
This book has a great plot, a unique magic system, and relatable characters. However, I felt some characters needed to be developed a little more. The dialogue needed some revisions; some of it was unpolished. The supporting characters were flat, which was a bloody shame because some could have been made exciting to read if polished and rewritten a little. The main problem with this book I find was the characterization. The communication between the characters didn’t feel right. It felt tight in so many places; almost like the characters had constipation when they talked to each other, not all but some.
When books have this kind of reaction in me, I leave them aside for a few days, and then I return to them. I like to give them the benefit of the doubt.
My Opinion stands, this book needed lots of revisions and a round of editing before publishing. If done, both Marshal and Seri would have benefited from the results. This book had so much potential.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Throughout the book, I kept cursing, “What in all Hell?” I kept saying, “Why didn’t you spend more time developing this character? I love him, but is sounds constipated?” The world felt real, but the characters in parts were so well-crafted to fall short in other parts. Oh, but I loved the plot. I had to not pay any attention the all the ups and downs with the crazy writing bumps to enjoy the plot, but I loved the plot.
The book needed so much help in the writing of the story itself. It needed the tender loving hand of an editor. Having said that, I know that for self-published authors, funds for editors are hard to come by, but they are so needed and worth every penny when you find a good one.
This book has a great plot, a unique magic system, and relatable characters. However, I felt some characters needed to be developed a little more. The dialogue needed some revisions; some of it was unpolished. The supporting characters were flat, which was a bloody shame because some could have been made exciting to read if polished and rewritten a little. The main problem with this book I find was the characterization. The communication between the characters didn’t feel right. It felt tight in so many places; almost like the characters had constipation when they talked to each other, not all but some.
When books have this kind of reaction in me, I leave them aside for a few days, and then I return to them. I like to give them the benefit of the doubt.
My Opinion stands, this book needed lots of revisions and a round of editing before publishing. If done, both Marshal and Seri would have benefited from the results. This book had so much potential.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 17, 2021
Wow, what an action packed story. Sometimes it was hard to tell the bad guys from the good guys in this story, but eventually it all becomes clear.
Marshall is cursed because of something his "noble" (nothing noble about the man, just his position in life) father did, and now he goes through life mute and struggling to catch on to some things mentally (like having to remind himself that shaking your head means no and nodding means yes [which I wish some authors would grab hold of since they use shake for nod and it really is confusing - okay, enough soap-boxing]). Marshall's mother has a plan to lift his curse but it means a journey to the capital where the temple is (OT correlation?) and something that Marshall has no notion about until quite late in the story. On the journey with Marshall is the man bound to him because he saved Marshall's life and that causes a binding. Now Marshall must save his friend's life to lift that binding - so he has to go along because people bound to one another cannot be separated by distance. The fourth person (well, angel?) is there to protect Marshall as well because Marshall's half brother has sent an assassin after him so that when his father dies his power won't go to Marshall but rather to himself! Tangled, huh???
There are two stories in this story and Seri's is the second story. She is a teen who has entered the Mage school and finds that she has special powers and attributes that not all mages have. She is trying to change the unfairness in her world which is really the world that Marshall lives in, one of curses and bindings.
It isn't until the end of the story that Seri's world and Marshall's world collide!
This is a clean read.
Marshall is cursed because of something his "noble" (nothing noble about the man, just his position in life) father did, and now he goes through life mute and struggling to catch on to some things mentally (like having to remind himself that shaking your head means no and nodding means yes [which I wish some authors would grab hold of since they use shake for nod and it really is confusing - okay, enough soap-boxing]). Marshall's mother has a plan to lift his curse but it means a journey to the capital where the temple is (OT correlation?) and something that Marshall has no notion about until quite late in the story. On the journey with Marshall is the man bound to him because he saved Marshall's life and that causes a binding. Now Marshall must save his friend's life to lift that binding - so he has to go along because people bound to one another cannot be separated by distance. The fourth person (well, angel?) is there to protect Marshall as well because Marshall's half brother has sent an assassin after him so that when his father dies his power won't go to Marshall but rather to himself! Tangled, huh???
There are two stories in this story and Seri's is the second story. She is a teen who has entered the Mage school and finds that she has special powers and attributes that not all mages have. She is trying to change the unfairness in her world which is really the world that Marshall lives in, one of curses and bindings.
It isn't until the end of the story that Seri's world and Marshall's world collide!
This is a clean read.
April 7, 2020
This is such a good *light* epic fantasy! The magic system is incredibly intricate, with both pros and cons that really define each character and/or define the relationships between them.
The great Lords of the land figured out a workaround to the Magic consequence so they are free to do wrongs but others pay the price. Crimes committed against others result in a "curse" but, in contrast, any good deed resulting in saving another results in a 'bind,' which, can be good or bad depending on the situation. We're introduced to Marshal who is 'cursed' through no fault of his own but just so happens to be the illegitimate heir to the power of his unknown father. His legitimate half brother seeks him out because he wants the power for himself and ends up sending a most....disgusting assassin after him. Those magic 'curse' rules? They apply in a really cool way here. Thus, Marshal's mother is forced to take her son and his bound friend fleeing across the land in search of a way to break his curse. Lots of cool creatures and an introduction to an Otherworld slowly unfold during their journey.
Another story is developing parallel to this one. Seri wants to be a mage and is accepted into the training academy. Once a visitor from another realm turns up, bad things start happening and Seri, with her odd affinity for the magic, might be the only one able to save the academy, and all Magic, from destruction.
Good character development here and they all have their own strong voices. There're a lot of interesting aspects of the magic system that Frankovich is playing around with here so hope to see that expanded in the sequel!
The great Lords of the land figured out a workaround to the Magic consequence so they are free to do wrongs but others pay the price. Crimes committed against others result in a "curse" but, in contrast, any good deed resulting in saving another results in a 'bind,' which, can be good or bad depending on the situation. We're introduced to Marshal who is 'cursed' through no fault of his own but just so happens to be the illegitimate heir to the power of his unknown father. His legitimate half brother seeks him out because he wants the power for himself and ends up sending a most....disgusting assassin after him. Those magic 'curse' rules? They apply in a really cool way here. Thus, Marshal's mother is forced to take her son and his bound friend fleeing across the land in search of a way to break his curse. Lots of cool creatures and an introduction to an Otherworld slowly unfold during their journey.
Another story is developing parallel to this one. Seri wants to be a mage and is accepted into the training academy. Once a visitor from another realm turns up, bad things start happening and Seri, with her odd affinity for the magic, might be the only one able to save the academy, and all Magic, from destruction.
Good character development here and they all have their own strong voices. There're a lot of interesting aspects of the magic system that Frankovich is playing around with here so hope to see that expanded in the sequel!
September 26, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As said before, a lot of reviews already review the plot of this epic fantasy. Marshal who is cursed because his mother was raped by one of the Lord of the lands, that manipulated the magical system to their hands. The Lords can do whatever they want because the curses falls onto the victims. I really like the world building and the system of Bonding and Curses. But tying the magic into the Lord of the Lands have consequences for everyone else, even as subtle to be bonded to your place of birth.
It’s a man’s world but the book has powerful female characters who are biding their time of changes. But Seri-Belit is not going down without a fight to set this right, even though wild magic is looked upon as just a rest magic that was left over after binding it. But now the world is going to change when strange things are happening, and master mages are found dead. Seri-Belit encounters the otherworld, that looks nothing like her world.
As we follow the journey of Seri and Marshal, they have their own struggles and prejudices to overcome. When a mother is going to sacrifice herself so that Marshal can have a better life. When both encounter beings from the otherworld things go in to a fast track. Will Marshal survive the murder attempts of an assassin sent by his half brother?
I was taken for a ride and what a ride, you just want to keep on reading of what will happen. But I was more attracted to Seri's journey when she discovers she has an ability no one has. But nevertheless it felt like an epic journey.
As said before, a lot of reviews already review the plot of this epic fantasy. Marshal who is cursed because his mother was raped by one of the Lord of the lands, that manipulated the magical system to their hands. The Lords can do whatever they want because the curses falls onto the victims. I really like the world building and the system of Bonding and Curses. But tying the magic into the Lord of the Lands have consequences for everyone else, even as subtle to be bonded to your place of birth.
It’s a man’s world but the book has powerful female characters who are biding their time of changes. But Seri-Belit is not going down without a fight to set this right, even though wild magic is looked upon as just a rest magic that was left over after binding it. But now the world is going to change when strange things are happening, and master mages are found dead. Seri-Belit encounters the otherworld, that looks nothing like her world.
As we follow the journey of Seri and Marshal, they have their own struggles and prejudices to overcome. When a mother is going to sacrifice herself so that Marshal can have a better life. When both encounter beings from the otherworld things go in to a fast track. Will Marshal survive the murder attempts of an assassin sent by his half brother?
I was taken for a ride and what a ride, you just want to keep on reading of what will happen. But I was more attracted to Seri's journey when she discovers she has an ability no one has. But nevertheless it felt like an epic journey.
July 1, 2020
ARC from NetGalley
4.5 stars
Well. I've just finished the book, and I'm buzzing. I had to pee so bad, but I couldn't put it down. The beginning of this book was a bit slow, it took me at least 50% to get really into it. From probably about 70% to the finish it was absolutely excellent.
Marshal, man the crap you've gone through. I hope you get some joy in the next book. You deserve it.
Seri, seeing your powers grow gave me this strong female thrill like, yeah this chick kicks ass. Yes she will hand your ass to you.
I tend not to give a rundown of the book in my reviews because there are already enough of those. I don't read reviews to learn about the plot, I read reviews to learn whether or not the book was enjoyable and if so, why. There's just so much satisfying action in this book. So many things that were so wrong for so long become every so slightly right and it just moved through me like wave after wave of energy. Sorry, that's vague. I don't want to spoil anything. Just know that there is a bit of a slow start putting all the Jenga pieces in place so that Tim Frankovich could eventually punch the carefully constructed tower right in the face and send all those pieces flying, much to my delight. I'm really looking forward to the next book. This book doesn't end on a cliff hanger, but it does end on an "OMFG I MUST KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT" note. You should read it.
4.5 stars
Well. I've just finished the book, and I'm buzzing. I had to pee so bad, but I couldn't put it down. The beginning of this book was a bit slow, it took me at least 50% to get really into it. From probably about 70% to the finish it was absolutely excellent.
Marshal, man the crap you've gone through. I hope you get some joy in the next book. You deserve it.
Seri, seeing your powers grow gave me this strong female thrill like, yeah this chick kicks ass. Yes she will hand your ass to you.
I tend not to give a rundown of the book in my reviews because there are already enough of those. I don't read reviews to learn about the plot, I read reviews to learn whether or not the book was enjoyable and if so, why. There's just so much satisfying action in this book. So many things that were so wrong for so long become every so slightly right and it just moved through me like wave after wave of energy. Sorry, that's vague. I don't want to spoil anything. Just know that there is a bit of a slow start putting all the Jenga pieces in place so that Tim Frankovich could eventually punch the carefully constructed tower right in the face and send all those pieces flying, much to my delight. I'm really looking forward to the next book. This book doesn't end on a cliff hanger, but it does end on an "OMFG I MUST KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT" note. You should read it.
June 18, 2025
A story of two halves with two protagonists each with a part to play. Each has a journey, and much to learn, though what their purpose is, we will have to wait and see.
An interesting world, with an unusual magic system, where magic has been usurped and twisted unnaturally, destroying one realm, and placing the other under stress. Crimes are paid for in curses, only the curses are placed on their first born, not on the perpetrator. And if you save a life, then you become bound to that person until they repay the debt.
Marshal is cursed. He has no voice, no way to communicate, and when he saves Victor's life, Victor is bound to him. They join Aelia, Marshal's mother on a journey to find a way to get Marshal's curse lifted. Marshal is on a quest he doesn't understand. Victor has no choice but to follow due to the binding, and his growth arc is one of the gems in this book.
Seri travels to the island of Zes Sivas, the home of the high mages, intent on learning how to become a mage herself. But the island is collapsing, earth tremors are destroying the land, and now master mages are being killed. Seri has a mystery to solve while learning the skills of the mage.
Both have much to learn, not only about magic, but also about the world around them. Plenty of twist and turns, complex political machinations, along with sword fights, and magical confrontations. A truly epic tale to draw you in and keep you turning the pages.
An interesting world, with an unusual magic system, where magic has been usurped and twisted unnaturally, destroying one realm, and placing the other under stress. Crimes are paid for in curses, only the curses are placed on their first born, not on the perpetrator. And if you save a life, then you become bound to that person until they repay the debt.
Marshal is cursed. He has no voice, no way to communicate, and when he saves Victor's life, Victor is bound to him. They join Aelia, Marshal's mother on a journey to find a way to get Marshal's curse lifted. Marshal is on a quest he doesn't understand. Victor has no choice but to follow due to the binding, and his growth arc is one of the gems in this book.
Seri travels to the island of Zes Sivas, the home of the high mages, intent on learning how to become a mage herself. But the island is collapsing, earth tremors are destroying the land, and now master mages are being killed. Seri has a mystery to solve while learning the skills of the mage.
Both have much to learn, not only about magic, but also about the world around them. Plenty of twist and turns, complex political machinations, along with sword fights, and magical confrontations. A truly epic tale to draw you in and keep you turning the pages.
January 5, 2021
This book transported me to a world of magic, deception, curses, assassins, devotion and true love. The story is told from two perspectives, at times a third is added, both leading to major roles for this book.
We are led on a journey led by a young man and his accomplices to find a cure for curses. He runs into obstacles along the way and finds a mystery to his life he wasn't aware of. At every turn there is some sort of trial or tribulation for this young man and his strength is tested time and again. His character and moral compass are revealed. Tragedy strikes and his world is changed leaving him on a course he has no idea how to navigate. What will happen in book two? Will he make it?
The other journey is of a young girl in a magical world. Mystery surrounds her a well. On a quest to become a mage she discovers something about herself that changes the game. Lies and deceit make her skeptical and she faces challenges no one should have to face. She must learn who she can trust and continue her mage quest. Will she make it? Can she be the mage she needs to be? Will she find what she's searching for?
Only way to know is to keep going and read book two! I recommend you get to it! Happy reading!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We are led on a journey led by a young man and his accomplices to find a cure for curses. He runs into obstacles along the way and finds a mystery to his life he wasn't aware of. At every turn there is some sort of trial or tribulation for this young man and his strength is tested time and again. His character and moral compass are revealed. Tragedy strikes and his world is changed leaving him on a course he has no idea how to navigate. What will happen in book two? Will he make it?
The other journey is of a young girl in a magical world. Mystery surrounds her a well. On a quest to become a mage she discovers something about herself that changes the game. Lies and deceit make her skeptical and she faces challenges no one should have to face. She must learn who she can trust and continue her mage quest. Will she make it? Can she be the mage she needs to be? Will she find what she's searching for?
Only way to know is to keep going and read book two! I recommend you get to it! Happy reading!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 28, 2020
I recieved a free copy of this book booksirens in exchange for an honest review.
I found this really interesting book. I had no idea where it was going and loved it! It did not fall under any usual rules and was nothing like I had every read before. The concept of people being cursed when commiting a crime, was very clever, it was interesting how people treated each other with this hanging over their heads. There was also bindings which happened if you saved someone's life or helped them in a significant way, you were bound to them until they managed to repay the favour. The bindings seemed almost as cruel as the curses since they could not go too far from the person who saved them.
Marshal was a great character, it was interesting reading about a character who can not communicate in almost anyway. But since you see his POV you can see he is a smart person, which I found very good. It was fun to see how people treated him but he was still a great person and didn't hold it against anyone.
Siri was fun to read about, she loved learning and discovering mysteries. I loved her new type of magic. I am looking forward to seeing where her story goes in the next book.
THere is plenty of places this can go and I cannot wait to read the next book.
4 out of 5 stars
I found this really interesting book. I had no idea where it was going and loved it! It did not fall under any usual rules and was nothing like I had every read before. The concept of people being cursed when commiting a crime, was very clever, it was interesting how people treated each other with this hanging over their heads. There was also bindings which happened if you saved someone's life or helped them in a significant way, you were bound to them until they managed to repay the favour. The bindings seemed almost as cruel as the curses since they could not go too far from the person who saved them.
Marshal was a great character, it was interesting reading about a character who can not communicate in almost anyway. But since you see his POV you can see he is a smart person, which I found very good. It was fun to see how people treated him but he was still a great person and didn't hold it against anyone.
Siri was fun to read about, she loved learning and discovering mysteries. I loved her new type of magic. I am looking forward to seeing where her story goes in the next book.
THere is plenty of places this can go and I cannot wait to read the next book.
4 out of 5 stars
June 12, 2020
This is the first book I have read by Tim Frankovich, but it certainly won't be the last.
I have given Until All Curses Are Lifted (Heart of Fire Book 1) only a 4 Star rating because of the secondary storyline, as up until the last few chapters in the book, it felt like I was reading two different books at once.
Where I did enjoy the book enough to purchase Until All Bonds Are Broken (Heart of Fire Book 2), I must admit to becoming annoyed when Marshal's story was really ramping up to suddenly be back at Seri's story and vise a versa.
Both storylines have strong characters and it's interesting to see how Marshal and Seri both discover their powers and how to control them. Both characters are so different, Marshal having been outcast all his life for the curses bestowed on him for his father's sins and Seri, wanting so badly to be the first female Mage.
Travel with them while they both learn their true potential and their purpose in life. Happy reading. Annemarie
I received a free copy of Until All Curses Are Broken (Heart of Fire Book 1) through BookSirens and have chosen to leave a review.
I have given Until All Curses Are Lifted (Heart of Fire Book 1) only a 4 Star rating because of the secondary storyline, as up until the last few chapters in the book, it felt like I was reading two different books at once.
Where I did enjoy the book enough to purchase Until All Bonds Are Broken (Heart of Fire Book 2), I must admit to becoming annoyed when Marshal's story was really ramping up to suddenly be back at Seri's story and vise a versa.
Both storylines have strong characters and it's interesting to see how Marshal and Seri both discover their powers and how to control them. Both characters are so different, Marshal having been outcast all his life for the curses bestowed on him for his father's sins and Seri, wanting so badly to be the first female Mage.
Travel with them while they both learn their true potential and their purpose in life. Happy reading. Annemarie
I received a free copy of Until All Curses Are Broken (Heart of Fire Book 1) through BookSirens and have chosen to leave a review.
April 13, 2021
When this book was recommended to me, I expected it to be good. What I didn't expect was for it to be brilliant!
Epic fantasy at its best, this is the first in a series that should win author Tim Frankovich a loyal following. From the map at the front of the book, to the assortment of characters coming together in a fellowship, to very specific magical and theological rules, all of the traditional epic fantasy elements are immediately apparent in Until All Curses Are Lifted. Frankovich, however, takes them down his own unique paths, creating a world that is completely unique.
The characters are surprisingly modern, considering their setting, and are faced with a number of real difficulties despite the fantasy context. From bullying to rape, they touch on issues far too common in the real world, without bogging the story down in self pity.
As well written as the characters are, though, the real highlight is the way Frankovich imagines the different races, gods and magic of the world. Combined, all of these elements create an evocative, immersive epic fantasy experience that leaves you wanting to know more.
I am really looking forward to the next one!
Epic fantasy at its best, this is the first in a series that should win author Tim Frankovich a loyal following. From the map at the front of the book, to the assortment of characters coming together in a fellowship, to very specific magical and theological rules, all of the traditional epic fantasy elements are immediately apparent in Until All Curses Are Lifted. Frankovich, however, takes them down his own unique paths, creating a world that is completely unique.
The characters are surprisingly modern, considering their setting, and are faced with a number of real difficulties despite the fantasy context. From bullying to rape, they touch on issues far too common in the real world, without bogging the story down in self pity.
As well written as the characters are, though, the real highlight is the way Frankovich imagines the different races, gods and magic of the world. Combined, all of these elements create an evocative, immersive epic fantasy experience that leaves you wanting to know more.
I am really looking forward to the next one!
May 11, 2020
When I read the description I was excited to maybe find my next great epic fantasy read. This book did not disappoint! It took me a little longer than normal to get into it but once I was I couldn’t put it down!
The laws are enforced by magic.
If you break the law, you’re cursed.
But the rich and powerful twisted the laws to allow for… exceptions.
Marshal has been cursed since birth for his unknown father’s crimes. When he discovers he’s also heir to immense magical power, he must flee for his life. His half-brother wants the power for himself and has hired an assassin to pursue Marshal and his mother. No one has ever escaped from a curse, but it’s the only way for Marshal to be truly safe.
Seri wants to become the most powerful mage in history. But the magic that holds the world together is failing and no one knows why. While the ground itself shakes, someone begins murdering mages. In danger from all directions, Seri must learn how to use her unique abilities before everything falls apart.
Neither of them know they are being watched from another realm…
The laws are enforced by magic.
If you break the law, you’re cursed.
But the rich and powerful twisted the laws to allow for… exceptions.
Marshal has been cursed since birth for his unknown father’s crimes. When he discovers he’s also heir to immense magical power, he must flee for his life. His half-brother wants the power for himself and has hired an assassin to pursue Marshal and his mother. No one has ever escaped from a curse, but it’s the only way for Marshal to be truly safe.
Seri wants to become the most powerful mage in history. But the magic that holds the world together is failing and no one knows why. While the ground itself shakes, someone begins murdering mages. In danger from all directions, Seri must learn how to use her unique abilities before everything falls apart.
Neither of them know they are being watched from another realm…
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September 28, 2021What a phenomenal storyline. A protagonist who is cursed for his father’s sins and left without a voice. He lives in magically-enforced silence, unable to communicate with those around him. He discovers that he is the heir to an immense magical power, but has a half brother who will stop at nothing to take it away from him. A second protagonist Seri wants to be the most powerful mag in the world, but the magic that holds the world together is failing, and the combined power of all the mages is not enough to save it. And then someone begins murdering mages. A complicated, intricate storyline, kept me captivated page by page. This is the first novel I have read by Tim Frankovich and I found that he has a way of crafting his story, masterfully interwoven with progressive world building, action, and delving deeply into his characters persona without overdoing one thing or another. I can’t wait to get my hands on his next novel. I gave this honest, voluntary review after being given a free copy of the book.
June 19, 2021
Upon opening this book, you immerse yourself in a world filled with adventure, magic and curses. The author has done well with building this world of his imagination so you can travel along with the characters journeys.
Character development could have been a littler deeper. There are so many different characters introduced during the course of this adventure it would have been nice to understand them a bit more.
Marshal has been cursed since birth. For the love of her child a mother is most willing to do whatever it takes to lift the curse he has been dealt through no fault of his own. Even the ultimate sacrifice.
With that being said, I did really enjoy this book and look forward to the next in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Character development could have been a littler deeper. There are so many different characters introduced during the course of this adventure it would have been nice to understand them a bit more.
Marshal has been cursed since birth. For the love of her child a mother is most willing to do whatever it takes to lift the curse he has been dealt through no fault of his own. Even the ultimate sacrifice.
With that being said, I did really enjoy this book and look forward to the next in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 5, 2021
Until all curses are lifted was a great adventure novel. I was particularly intrigued by the world and its governing principles. This is a world built around the principle of retribution or what we may even call karma. Basically, you reap what you sow. And obviously, to make things more interesting there are still people who managed to go around this governing principle.
While le world building was great, I was still a bit more disappointed with the character development which felt a bit lacking.
Yet I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed this first volume and hope for further character development in the second.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While le world building was great, I was still a bit more disappointed with the character development which felt a bit lacking.
Yet I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed this first volume and hope for further character development in the second.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 6, 2024
Until all Curses are Lifted by Tim Frankovich
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The first book in a fantasy series, Marshal has been cursed since he was born for a crime he didn’t commit. When he learns that he is actually the heir to magic he is swept on a quest to break his curse and take his rightful place.
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What I liked:
-This was a very interesting world started here. I was really captivated by Marhsal’s plight and wanted to see his curse broken.
-The school for mages was fun to read about. And then once all the Lords areived it was quite stressful. Lots of great suspense in the last quarter.
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3⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this story but it felt not as lively as I wanted it to be. I would have liked to see the characters fleshed out a bit more.
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The first book in a fantasy series, Marshal has been cursed since he was born for a crime he didn’t commit. When he learns that he is actually the heir to magic he is swept on a quest to break his curse and take his rightful place.
.
What I liked:
-This was a very interesting world started here. I was really captivated by Marhsal’s plight and wanted to see his curse broken.
-The school for mages was fun to read about. And then once all the Lords areived it was quite stressful. Lots of great suspense in the last quarter.
.
3⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this story but it felt not as lively as I wanted it to be. I would have liked to see the characters fleshed out a bit more.
February 19, 2020
Reasonably interesting fantasy novel. Is it YA?
This partly original tale revolves around two main characters: Marshal, who is cursed, and Seri training to be a mage. Their parallel stories develop throughout the plot as they both encounter interesting characters who join them in their journey, physical and magical. Political machinations and power struggles also feature and there are also otherworldly beings getting involved. I didn’t find the last part of the book very satisfying which has clouded my enthusiasm. There’s evidently more to come but I’m not sure that I’m bothered enough to continue with it. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This partly original tale revolves around two main characters: Marshal, who is cursed, and Seri training to be a mage. Their parallel stories develop throughout the plot as they both encounter interesting characters who join them in their journey, physical and magical. Political machinations and power struggles also feature and there are also otherworldly beings getting involved. I didn’t find the last part of the book very satisfying which has clouded my enthusiasm. There’s evidently more to come but I’m not sure that I’m bothered enough to continue with it. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2020
This story grabbed me from the beginning with the plight of Marshall. The story has an intricate cast of characters that are well developed. The pacing is just right. It gives me a sense of the mystery and adventure while giving me little crumbs to figure it out.
Now that I have come to the conclusion, I know that I will be in mourning from the loss of my new friends and crave their return as many craved the Starshine.
If you’ve read Kristin Cashore’s Graceling series, Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, or Lewis’ stories of Narnia, you would enjoy this magical coming of age adventure.
This is a clean, coming of age story filled with magic and adventure. A must read!
Now that I have come to the conclusion, I know that I will be in mourning from the loss of my new friends and crave their return as many craved the Starshine.
If you’ve read Kristin Cashore’s Graceling series, Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, or Lewis’ stories of Narnia, you would enjoy this magical coming of age adventure.
This is a clean, coming of age story filled with magic and adventure. A must read!
March 5, 2020
Until All Curses Are Lifted is a solid epic YA fantasy. The characters are well-written, the world is fascinating and the story is refreshing. I look forward to seeing more of it in the sequel when it’s released. I would recommend it to any epic fantasy fan, both teenagers and adults. It would be especially enjoyable for readers that like hybrid magic systems.
My full review can be found here
My full review can be found here
August 24, 2020
This author was new to me and to be honest I did not expect a lot, but I was pleasantly surprised! From the very beginning the story grabs your attention and does not let you put the book away until you finish it. I loved the adventures the main characters went through. The magic laws were very interesting, too. I loved the book and looking forward to read what happens next!
December 20, 2020
Until All Curses Are Lifted is an epic high fantasy tale with sci-fi over-tones.
Both the Six Lands of Antises and the Otherworld are very detailed and well crafted. The world building here is quite good. I love the complex magic system. It is thoroughly explained but leaves enough for growth and mystery.
The characters are just as complex and relatable. I connected with nearly everyone in this book. I did get a little confused with the different Otherworld folks. There seem to be a lot of them.
The book feels like a curious blend of sci-fi and fantasy. Like with the 'shifting' of the City I swear I hear LT Commander Data in my head saying, "shift in two... one... now."
The plot is twisty enough to keep you thoroughly engaged. The ending provides enough of a cliffhanger that we are impatient for the next book. I enjoyed it immensely and am looking forward to the next one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Both the Six Lands of Antises and the Otherworld are very detailed and well crafted. The world building here is quite good. I love the complex magic system. It is thoroughly explained but leaves enough for growth and mystery.
The characters are just as complex and relatable. I connected with nearly everyone in this book. I did get a little confused with the different Otherworld folks. There seem to be a lot of them.
The book feels like a curious blend of sci-fi and fantasy. Like with the 'shifting' of the City I swear I hear LT Commander Data in my head saying, "shift in two... one... now."
The plot is twisty enough to keep you thoroughly engaged. The ending provides enough of a cliffhanger that we are impatient for the next book. I enjoyed it immensely and am looking forward to the next one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2021
I know who you serve.
Would have been a great story if I was not aware of individuals like this author, who find ways to spew their anger at the true faith though camouflaged words. Who find ways to signal those foul souls in the world in hopes of being seen and advertised thereby. I see you, someone in world read your rantings and mentioned you to He Who sees all things.
Would have been a great story if I was not aware of individuals like this author, who find ways to spew their anger at the true faith though camouflaged words. Who find ways to signal those foul souls in the world in hopes of being seen and advertised thereby. I see you, someone in world read your rantings and mentioned you to He Who sees all things.
April 19, 2020
A well written young adult fantasy novel that kept my interest thought the book. The world that the author created was very enjoyable and the two story lines kept me picking up the book every night. I am ready to read the next book in the series.
September 2, 2020
This was an epic book .
I will read more from this Author.
Good story with fine detail and great characters.
Hard to put down as the book draws you in .....
It made me feel like i was in the story as the main character .
cannot wait for more.
I will read more from this Author.
Good story with fine detail and great characters.
Hard to put down as the book draws you in .....
It made me feel like i was in the story as the main character .
cannot wait for more.
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