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The Cartographer #2
Steel
The fate of empire is to crumble from within. Do not ask when, ask who.
522 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2019
315 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
A.C. Cobble
31 books634 followersAC Cobble is the author of Wahrheit, The King's Ranger, Benjamin Ashwood, and The Cartographer series. Signed print copies of all of his books are available at Merrick Bookshop:
https://merrickbookshop.com/collectio...
Wahrheit is a classic epic fantasy adventure. It is packed full of political intrigue, epic battles, spies & assassins, ancient magic, a little humor, a young man and woman against impossible odds, and dragons. If you liked AC Cobble's other books, you will love this series.
The King's Ranger is a clean, action-packed adventure. Rew, the titular ranger, wants only to manage the wilderness he is responsible for, but the arrival of three youths in his jail cell force him to embark on an epic journey. To protect the youths, he's forced to confront a darkness in his past and join a swirling conflict that will envelope the entire kingdom.
Benjamin Ashwood is AC's take on the classic farm boy with a sword fantasy story. It starts much like they all do, but in Ben's world like the real world, heroes are made not born, and the good guys don't always win. Try it today and find out why this series has sold hundreds of thousands of copies!
The Cartographer is a little sexier and a little darker, but has the same sense of fun and adventure as Benjamin Ashwood. Think world spanning travel and exploration, occult rituals, dark seductresses, bodies dropping like flies, and bar fights. Fans of Rhys will love Oliver and Sam. Join the adventure today!
For series artwork, maps, the newsletter signup, the blog, and more, head over to: https://accobble.com/.
https://merrickbookshop.com/collectio...
Wahrheit is a classic epic fantasy adventure. It is packed full of political intrigue, epic battles, spies & assassins, ancient magic, a little humor, a young man and woman against impossible odds, and dragons. If you liked AC Cobble's other books, you will love this series.
The King's Ranger is a clean, action-packed adventure. Rew, the titular ranger, wants only to manage the wilderness he is responsible for, but the arrival of three youths in his jail cell force him to embark on an epic journey. To protect the youths, he's forced to confront a darkness in his past and join a swirling conflict that will envelope the entire kingdom.
Benjamin Ashwood is AC's take on the classic farm boy with a sword fantasy story. It starts much like they all do, but in Ben's world like the real world, heroes are made not born, and the good guys don't always win. Try it today and find out why this series has sold hundreds of thousands of copies!
The Cartographer is a little sexier and a little darker, but has the same sense of fun and adventure as Benjamin Ashwood. Think world spanning travel and exploration, occult rituals, dark seductresses, bodies dropping like flies, and bar fights. Fans of Rhys will love Oliver and Sam. Join the adventure today!
For series artwork, maps, the newsletter signup, the blog, and more, head over to: https://accobble.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 30, 2019
Steel is an excellent follow-up to Quill - it has all the strengths of Quill while having none of its weaknesses.
I will be comparing this Quill in terms of the changes (you can read the Quill review on my site Digital Amrit)
The strengths first. I liked Quill for its feel, its pacing as well as its world building. Steel shares all of these attributes. In fact, I think Steel does a slightly better job of immersing its readers than Quill does (since the basic foundation is already in place). We get to see more of the world and understand a bit more about what is happening outside of Enhover. I also feel that the action here is a tad better than in the earlier one too. The feel continues to be same but Steel has less detection than Quill.
I had disliked the whole colonial aspect of Quill and its treatment, as well as how the women characters were constructed. Both of these have been addressed in Steel. in Steel, the impact of colonialism is explored with a hard look at how the people in colonies are treated by the colonizers (at least in terms of mind-set). I also greatly appreciated the fact that Samantha is a less of a nymphomaniac this time. As are the other women characters. They actually have real motivations
- which Quill did too but much of it was drowned in the noise around sex.
The story has progressed quite a lot too - much more than I expected. There is a lot of stuff happening in this book and it ends on an intriguing note.
Overall, I love Steel and I read it in one sitting. I would recommend this series to fantasy/steampunk readers.
I will be comparing this Quill in terms of the changes (you can read the Quill review on my site Digital Amrit)
The strengths first. I liked Quill for its feel, its pacing as well as its world building. Steel shares all of these attributes. In fact, I think Steel does a slightly better job of immersing its readers than Quill does (since the basic foundation is already in place). We get to see more of the world and understand a bit more about what is happening outside of Enhover. I also feel that the action here is a tad better than in the earlier one too. The feel continues to be same but Steel has less detection than Quill.
I had disliked the whole colonial aspect of Quill and its treatment, as well as how the women characters were constructed. Both of these have been addressed in Steel. in Steel, the impact of colonialism is explored with a hard look at how the people in colonies are treated by the colonizers (at least in terms of mind-set). I also greatly appreciated the fact that Samantha is a less of a nymphomaniac this time. As are the other women characters. They actually have real motivations
- which Quill did too but much of it was drowned in the noise around sex.
The story has progressed quite a lot too - much more than I expected. There is a lot of stuff happening in this book and it ends on an intriguing note.
Overall, I love Steel and I read it in one sitting. I would recommend this series to fantasy/steampunk readers.
December 7, 2019
A.C. Cobble continues to deliver in this absolutely stunning and captivating, book two of The Cartographer series, which I hope, and think promises to continue, well past three books. This is why I read, simmering, pulsating sexual tension between the two leads, intense, thrilling, page turner action, that does not stop. Refreshingly, a seamless transition and immersion into book two, questions get answered, more arise, the losses and gains are tragic, and heartfelt. Rare storytelling, at its best, A.C. Cobble, this all encompassing epic tale of family bonds, personal drive, sheer will and determination easily vaults this series into the rarified air, of my favorites this year. Well met, well done, Mr. Cobble, please produce more asap! Thank you.
August 9, 2020
This second book of The Cartographer series is stronger than the first book. This is often the case, since the characters already have some development. But in the first book, the development of Oliver and Sam starts off in a somewhat false direction. In book two, their continued development is true to themselves -- Oliver the bold, headstrong adventurer, and Sam the asocial assassin. The plot is strong, as the evil sorcerers and their plan is slowly revealed, while also setting the stage for the third book. If I were to complain, it would be that the main characters are trending toward that "bigger than life" style, where you start to feel like they are superhuman. In addition, the villains felt a bit ham-handed toward the end.
Overall, a fun read -- I look forward to reading book three.
Overall, a fun read -- I look forward to reading book three.
January 2, 2020
Not as good as the first, but readable
The world is great but the characters are unlikeable. There’s a lot going on in this series, and the resolution is satisfactory, but I just can’t get into it. There’s no one to root for. But it’s the second book, and I don’t want to give up on this author so I had to slog through it. If you feel the same way, be prepared, the first third is really boring. A lot of talking, not much action. One thing I really liked about the Benjamin Ashwood books is the nobility of the characters, in a High Fantasy kind of way. These books are nothing like that. This story is nothing like that. But I’m invested in it now so I’ll see it through. You may like a rougher world with more ruthless characters.
The world is great but the characters are unlikeable. There’s a lot going on in this series, and the resolution is satisfactory, but I just can’t get into it. There’s no one to root for. But it’s the second book, and I don’t want to give up on this author so I had to slog through it. If you feel the same way, be prepared, the first third is really boring. A lot of talking, not much action. One thing I really liked about the Benjamin Ashwood books is the nobility of the characters, in a High Fantasy kind of way. These books are nothing like that. This story is nothing like that. But I’m invested in it now so I’ll see it through. You may like a rougher world with more ruthless characters.
January 12, 2022
It took me 2 full books to realize why Im having a hard time getting into this series. It's because it is absolutely plot driven, with very little devoted to character development. We know the basics about the main characters, and that's it. I need more than an interesting world, and complicated plot. I need to know the people who are fighting. I need to be invested in them. I need to know *why* they're fighting. What drives them? Their past, their triumphs, their heartbreak. That is missing, here. Once I gave up on wanting more, and just appreciated what I do know, rather than wondering about the missing details, I was able to get into it a bit more. It's disappointing, but probably an awesome series for someone else.
June 12, 2020
I made it through the first in this series but I am not finishing this. I am not a fan of how much of the bad guys info was just spoon fed to you in the first book and I am not really a fan of the MC. You may think "the cartographer" is the MC based on the series name but I am of the opinion the Priestess gets far more attention. Which wouldn't be bad... If I could stand her. I dislike her apparent motivations and morality. Which is a shame. Otherwise she is a badass.... But for my tastes a dislikable badass.
May 7, 2020
In my opinion the author does a good job writing for many age groups. The author adds some mystery where the reader gets to do some detective work. Pretty easy to figure out and I don't think the author meant to make it hard to figure out but it is nice to see an author using this technique, its more fun when engaged in the book. This is my second series by A.C. Cobble and so far I have enjoyed the books. I will continue to read books by this author.
February 26, 2020
Cracking good read - totally recommended
I loved this book even more than its predecessor. I loved the women, and their agency; I loved the character developments and the growing complexities; I loved the world building and the plot and am waiting with no patience whatsoever for the next one.
I loved this book even more than its predecessor. I loved the women, and their agency; I loved the character developments and the growing complexities; I loved the world building and the plot and am waiting with no patience whatsoever for the next one.
March 27, 2020
Steel was a good follow on from book 1. The mystery continues with some surprising and some expected turns. Different for a fantasy series the plot revolves around an investigation into occult sorcery by the main character and companion(s). I think it’s well done and look forward to reading the next installment.
April 18, 2020
It just gets better
This series is just brilliant, can’t get enough (can’t stop reading it either- practically inhaling these books). Already talked about quality of plot and characters in review of ‘Quill’ - it only improves. Shame there is only 1 book left, oh well- I’d better read it.
This series is just brilliant, can’t get enough (can’t stop reading it either- practically inhaling these books). Already talked about quality of plot and characters in review of ‘Quill’ - it only improves. Shame there is only 1 book left, oh well- I’d better read it.
October 25, 2020
Its not believable and alot doesn't make sense. The author tries to make it Dark and gritty by making every character betray everyone and lusting for anything. Even adds the other partner the main MCs have, while not building on their relation or even their own developement. There is no real feeling. It gives nothing to the story. Its just annoying.
December 30, 2023
Loving this series. I even enjoyed book two more than book one. So glad I found this author (found his works through his kickstarter for another series). I love the odd mix of genres in this series. It feels like fantasy, historical fiction and paranormal occult mystery, all wrapped up in one. Highly recommend!
April 30, 2020
Excellent
I usually don’t like this genre of fantasy but since I enjoyed the Ashwood series I gave this a try. I liked it so much I read the second book and anxiously wait to see how this all will end in the third book.
I usually don’t like this genre of fantasy but since I enjoyed the Ashwood series I gave this a try. I liked it so much I read the second book and anxiously wait to see how this all will end in the third book.
August 13, 2020
This was sooo much better than the first book in the Cartographer trilogy. I loved the political intrigue and the sorcery and the way the relationship between the two main characters developed. The prose and the world building were way better than the first book as well.
March 11, 2020
well done fanciful for sure.A compelling read.I hope to read the rest of the story.
March 14, 2020
Entertaining premise.
I enjoyed the characters, their development building well. The premise is good and I like the handling of the supernatural elements.
I enjoyed the characters, their development building well. The premise is good and I like the handling of the supernatural elements.
May 28, 2020
Nice read
Nice read fast paced. Just enough action not to get boring. Throw in magic can’t go wrong. Anxious to read third book
Nice read fast paced. Just enough action not to get boring. Throw in magic can’t go wrong. Anxious to read third book
August 26, 2020
A good read for fantasy fans. Combines mystery with fantasy. It really fleshes out the story begun in the fist volume.
September 8, 2020
Ready for a walk in the Darklands.
January 28, 2021
The mystery deepens
March 16, 2021
Much better than Quill. It's still very confusing. Again, all the chapters are POV (ala GRRM).
March 28, 2021
The fun doesn't stop
It was so much action, I loved it. So much plotting. Plots within plots and a mystery to boot in a fantasy land. Onto the next book now.
It was so much action, I loved it. So much plotting. Plots within plots and a mystery to boot in a fantasy land. Onto the next book now.
May 15, 2022
the beat goes on
I admire Mr. Cobbles’ exceptional imagination, feel for human nature, and balance of humor with action. He is a writer and damn good at his craft.
I admire Mr. Cobbles’ exceptional imagination, feel for human nature, and balance of humor with action. He is a writer and damn good at his craft.
November 9, 2024
Decent story
January 4, 2025
Awesome
After finishing I have to think there will be a third. Compelling read I couldn’t stop reading.
Read this book
After finishing I have to think there will be a third. Compelling read I couldn’t stop reading.
Read this book
October 14, 2020
Listened/read on kindle w/ whispersync.
Excellent follow up to Quill.
Great story and great build up with exciting detailed fight scenes.
The narrator does an excellent job with his voices and the emotions he portrays helping you feel what the characters are going through.
Best thing you can have with an audiobook is a terrific narrator, and he is top notch!
Can’t wait to read/listen to book 3 and see how this great series finishes
Excellent follow up to Quill.
Great story and great build up with exciting detailed fight scenes.
The narrator does an excellent job with his voices and the emotions he portrays helping you feel what the characters are going through.
Best thing you can have with an audiobook is a terrific narrator, and he is top notch!
Can’t wait to read/listen to book 3 and see how this great series finishes
February 11, 2020
I am really enjoying this series, I hope the adventures continue soon!
February 10, 2020
Fun read!
Enjoying this series very much! Keep them coming! Thank for the fun escape! Definitely draws you in, an easy read from there.
Enjoying this series very much! Keep them coming! Thank for the fun escape! Definitely draws you in, an easy read from there.
January 24, 2020
Awesome book
Characters keep to their personalities. No plot holes that stay open. Very entertaining and even humorous at times. I keep expecting the story to end soon but the plot always gets more complicated. A great read!
Characters keep to their personalities. No plot holes that stay open. Very entertaining and even humorous at times. I keep expecting the story to end soon but the plot always gets more complicated. A great read!
January 12, 2020
I liked the book and am looking forward to the third in the series. A.C. Cobble is one of my favorite authors.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews