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The First Argentines #1
Knight's Ransom
“Jeff Wheeler has always been one of our more dependable storytellers. Knight’s Ransom adds to his reputation. A fine page-turner.” —Terry Brooks, New York Times bestselling author.
From Jeff Wheeler, the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Kingfountain novels, comes an epic new series of warring kingdoms, deadly family rivalries, and fearless loyalty.
Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown. A brutal war of succession has plunged the court of Kingfountain into a power struggle between a charitable king who took the crown unlawfully and his ambitious rival, Devon Argentine. The balance of power between the two men hinges on the fate of a young boy ensnared in this courtly intrigue. A boy befittingly nicknamed Ransom.
When the Argentine family finally rules, Ransom must make his own way in the world. Opportunities open and shut before him as he journeys along the path to knighthood, blind to a shadowy conspiracy of jealousy and revenge. Securing his place will not be easy, nor will winning the affection of Lady Claire de Murrow, a fiery young heiress from an unpredictably mad kingdom.
Ransom interrupts an abduction plot targeting the Queen of Ceredigion and earns a position in service to her son, the firstborn of the new Argentine dynasty. But conflict and treachery threaten the family, and Ransom must also come to understand and hone his burgeoning powers—abilities that involve more than his mastery with a blade and that make him as much a target as his lord.
From Jeff Wheeler, the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Kingfountain novels, comes an epic new series of warring kingdoms, deadly family rivalries, and fearless loyalty.
Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown. A brutal war of succession has plunged the court of Kingfountain into a power struggle between a charitable king who took the crown unlawfully and his ambitious rival, Devon Argentine. The balance of power between the two men hinges on the fate of a young boy ensnared in this courtly intrigue. A boy befittingly nicknamed Ransom.
When the Argentine family finally rules, Ransom must make his own way in the world. Opportunities open and shut before him as he journeys along the path to knighthood, blind to a shadowy conspiracy of jealousy and revenge. Securing his place will not be easy, nor will winning the affection of Lady Claire de Murrow, a fiery young heiress from an unpredictably mad kingdom.
Ransom interrupts an abduction plot targeting the Queen of Ceredigion and earns a position in service to her son, the firstborn of the new Argentine dynasty. But conflict and treachery threaten the family, and Ransom must also come to understand and hone his burgeoning powers—abilities that involve more than his mastery with a blade and that make him as much a target as his lord.
431 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2021
3215 people are currently reading
10762 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
126 books5,217 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 503 reviews
December 21, 2020
*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital copy of this book
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
January 27, 2021
Thank you so much to 47North via NetGalley for my digital arc of Knight's Ransom!!
Wheeler has finally done it! It seems like he took every little bit of constructive criticism from the first Kingfountain trilogies, chewed it over while he wrote something different, then came back and wrote an absolutely amazing first novel in this new series!
I just freaking love the world of Kingfountain and it's lore and magic, and was so psyched to read this as an ARC (before obviously preordering it) heheh. I have read them all, including the books following Ankorette, but don't think it's necessary to read them in order to start here, although you'll miss some Easter Eggs.
This is such a hard review to write because I just want to gush, I mean I had over a page of notes and highlights 😂
Ransom and Claire remind me so much of Owen and Evie, except they're more age appropriate and Claire is an absolute firecracker. They are better childhood characters as well, because Wheeler finally admits that he can't write age appropriate kids so they grow up pretty quickly, with the book occuring mainly in Ransom's 20s.
So Polidoro Urbini is back, telling the history of the first Argentine kings. He finds Claire de Murrow's journal and it becomes the framework of the story, then fleshed out by current events.
When Devon Argentine takes the throne of Ceredigion, the child hostages of the prior ruler get to go home. For Ransom, that means trying to become a Knight in his uncle's household. Training and warhorses and tournaments, poor choices and hard life lessons including naivety and betrayal mark Ransom's path to Knighthood.
Could he possibly be Fountain Blessed? I found it shocking that he hadn't heard enough legends to put two and two together, but his fighting prowess in unbelievable and it makes him a target.
Without spending hours gushing about individual battles, defeats, more hard lessons, and Ransom's resilience ... He eventually ends up in the service of Argentine's heir, which is a mixed blessing and curse.
There is an absolutely absorbing plot to overthrow Devon the Elder, and more poor life choices which eventually leads Ransom to, I assume, in book 2 take the pilgrimage to find out if he is indeed blessed by the lady of the fountain.
There is a fountain blessed assassin out and about as well, and it's crazy because we have no idea who she is or who she is working for. The line of poisoners is a pretty heavy storyline in the Kingfountain books so she'll have a bigger part in the coming books.
Pulling from Merlin and Arthur and the Lady of the Lake, Kingfountain takes some of it's magic and lore from those ancient tales. Of course there is one magic Wizr board in the story, plus all the legends and lore of Kingfountain (and now Legault, thanks to Claire), that make Wheeler's world feel so real and immersive.
The characters make it feel real too, take the Argentines: yes they are the royal family but they love and bicker and break like anyone else. Ransoms Uncle and all the wiser, older lords and commanders, I can't even list all the great characters. It feels even realer too that Ransom has such a high standard of Knight's honor, so the courtship with Claire becomes a side story that he doesn't think is achievable.
But it's so sweet how he tiptoes. Who knows if Wheeler will ever put them together or not, he is 50/50 with OTP pairings and Kingfountain never seems to work that way.
Layers upon layers of betrayals and intrigue and lore make Kingfountain what it is. I have to mention the Queen's exile to her tower too, since it becomes such an important landmark in the later books and I loved seeing some of the origins.
Yes please sign me up for more riding alongside Ransom, now one of the richest men in the country after multiple knight's tournament wins. I can't wait to jump into his pilgrimage next and then see where the world takes us ❤
Let me say one more time too - WHEELER WRITES CLEAN FANTASY!! Language and sexual situations (both rare in his books) are kept G-rated, with some sad deaths and some knightly battles but I would happily hand any one of his books to a reader of any age group
Out 1/26 from 47North, thank you again for my early read!
Wheeler has finally done it! It seems like he took every little bit of constructive criticism from the first Kingfountain trilogies, chewed it over while he wrote something different, then came back and wrote an absolutely amazing first novel in this new series!
I just freaking love the world of Kingfountain and it's lore and magic, and was so psyched to read this as an ARC (before obviously preordering it) heheh. I have read them all, including the books following Ankorette, but don't think it's necessary to read them in order to start here, although you'll miss some Easter Eggs.
This is such a hard review to write because I just want to gush, I mean I had over a page of notes and highlights 😂
Ransom and Claire remind me so much of Owen and Evie, except they're more age appropriate and Claire is an absolute firecracker. They are better childhood characters as well, because Wheeler finally admits that he can't write age appropriate kids so they grow up pretty quickly, with the book occuring mainly in Ransom's 20s.
So Polidoro Urbini is back, telling the history of the first Argentine kings. He finds Claire de Murrow's journal and it becomes the framework of the story, then fleshed out by current events.
When Devon Argentine takes the throne of Ceredigion, the child hostages of the prior ruler get to go home. For Ransom, that means trying to become a Knight in his uncle's household. Training and warhorses and tournaments, poor choices and hard life lessons including naivety and betrayal mark Ransom's path to Knighthood.
Could he possibly be Fountain Blessed? I found it shocking that he hadn't heard enough legends to put two and two together, but his fighting prowess in unbelievable and it makes him a target.
Without spending hours gushing about individual battles, defeats, more hard lessons, and Ransom's resilience ... He eventually ends up in the service of Argentine's heir, which is a mixed blessing and curse.
There is an absolutely absorbing plot to overthrow Devon the Elder, and more poor life choices which eventually leads Ransom to, I assume, in book 2 take the pilgrimage to find out if he is indeed blessed by the lady of the fountain.
There is a fountain blessed assassin out and about as well, and it's crazy because we have no idea who she is or who she is working for. The line of poisoners is a pretty heavy storyline in the Kingfountain books so she'll have a bigger part in the coming books.
Pulling from Merlin and Arthur and the Lady of the Lake, Kingfountain takes some of it's magic and lore from those ancient tales. Of course there is one magic Wizr board in the story, plus all the legends and lore of Kingfountain (and now Legault, thanks to Claire), that make Wheeler's world feel so real and immersive.
The characters make it feel real too, take the Argentines: yes they are the royal family but they love and bicker and break like anyone else. Ransoms Uncle and all the wiser, older lords and commanders, I can't even list all the great characters. It feels even realer too that Ransom has such a high standard of Knight's honor, so the courtship with Claire becomes a side story that he doesn't think is achievable.
But it's so sweet how he tiptoes. Who knows if Wheeler will ever put them together or not, he is 50/50 with OTP pairings and Kingfountain never seems to work that way.
Layers upon layers of betrayals and intrigue and lore make Kingfountain what it is. I have to mention the Queen's exile to her tower too, since it becomes such an important landmark in the later books and I loved seeing some of the origins.
Yes please sign me up for more riding alongside Ransom, now one of the richest men in the country after multiple knight's tournament wins. I can't wait to jump into his pilgrimage next and then see where the world takes us ❤
Let me say one more time too - WHEELER WRITES CLEAN FANTASY!! Language and sexual situations (both rare in his books) are kept G-rated, with some sad deaths and some knightly battles but I would happily hand any one of his books to a reader of any age group
Out 1/26 from 47North, thank you again for my early read!
January 6, 2021
The fabulousness of Kingfountain is back!!!! All those like myself who absolutely adored the first series in this creative and addicting universe will be doubly excited that Mr. Wheeler not only brought the world back, but treats everyone to a brand new cast of characters, each just as riveting, diverse and intriguing as any he has written before.
Ransom’s character is one readers will absolutely love. He is everything one looks for in a hero and more. Of course, nothing is as it seems - ever - and the twists and turns keeps the reader eagerly turning the pages only to sigh and wish it wouldn’t end when that final page is closed. Man, it's hard waiting for the next installment!
*While the ending isn’t exactly a cliffhanger, there isn’t any closure either. It just pauses until the next book in the series publishes. So, be forewarned.*
Ransom’s character is one readers will absolutely love. He is everything one looks for in a hero and more. Of course, nothing is as it seems - ever - and the twists and turns keeps the reader eagerly turning the pages only to sigh and wish it wouldn’t end when that final page is closed. Man, it's hard waiting for the next installment!
*While the ending isn’t exactly a cliffhanger, there isn’t any closure either. It just pauses until the next book in the series publishes. So, be forewarned.*
May 30, 2021
Blurb Beware: The blurb gives away the entire plot.
This is part of the Kingfountain world, set in the distant past of the world. I have only read one Kingfountain book, which definitely helped me understand the world, and the author recommends reading the rest of that series (starting with The Queen's Poisoner.)
What makes this book great is the pacing. Young Marshall “Ransom” goes through training to be a knight. The book doesn’t dwell on these scenes longer than necessary while other books often get bogged down with such scenes. Ransom encounters politics and conspiracies, forcing him to adjust his loyalty.
Meanwhile Ransom wonders if he is Fountain-blessed (imbued with a very subtle magic) and he and his childhood friend Claire are crushing on each other while circumstances keep them apart. They are super cute, and a little awkward.
The fantasy elements are nearly non-existent. The focus is on characters and their motivations: greed, power, honor, duty. The book flowed so well and moved quickly, and it was done before I knew it. Very satisfying.
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: Vaguely hinted at
Violence: Battle violence, moderately graphic
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
This is part of the Kingfountain world, set in the distant past of the world. I have only read one Kingfountain book, which definitely helped me understand the world, and the author recommends reading the rest of that series (starting with The Queen's Poisoner.)
What makes this book great is the pacing. Young Marshall “Ransom” goes through training to be a knight. The book doesn’t dwell on these scenes longer than necessary while other books often get bogged down with such scenes. Ransom encounters politics and conspiracies, forcing him to adjust his loyalty.
Meanwhile Ransom wonders if he is Fountain-blessed (imbued with a very subtle magic) and he and his childhood friend Claire are crushing on each other while circumstances keep them apart. They are super cute, and a little awkward.
The fantasy elements are nearly non-existent. The focus is on characters and their motivations: greed, power, honor, duty. The book flowed so well and moved quickly, and it was done before I knew it. Very satisfying.
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: Vaguely hinted at
Violence: Battle violence, moderately graphic
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
March 1, 2022
4.5/5
A well written fantasy novel about Knighthood, friendship, Court politics and Love.
I honestly didn't expect to like this book as much as I did. Everything worked for me... Pacing was fast, Characterisation was really well done, twists and reveals were very effective and made the necessary impact for the overall story.
It did have some minor flaws here and there but overall it's definitely worth a 5 ⭐
Starting the sequel real soon....
A well written fantasy novel about Knighthood, friendship, Court politics and Love.
I honestly didn't expect to like this book as much as I did. Everything worked for me... Pacing was fast, Characterisation was really well done, twists and reveals were very effective and made the necessary impact for the overall story.
It did have some minor flaws here and there but overall it's definitely worth a 5 ⭐
Starting the sequel real soon....
May 23, 2021
4 stars
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a really good first book in a new, exciting fantasy series. We're back in Kingfountain, and I'm so excited! This story revolves around a young man nicknamed Ransom. As a young second son, he is given to the King by his father as hostage to ensure his father behaves and does not side with rival Devon Argentine, who is intent on taking the crown for himself.
When the old King dies and Devon is crowned King, Ransom is told he is free to leave. Ransom goes home, but gets no warm welcome by his father. Forced to make his way in the world on his own, Ransom finds a place in his uncle's house training to become a knight. He dreams of a life loyally serving an honorable lord, preferably with his boyhood crush Lady Claire by his side. Ransom finally becomes a knight, but suffers setbacks along the way. When he grabs the notice of the Queen of Ceredigion, she asks him to join the service of her eldest son, the heir to the King. Ransom must learn to navigate the treachery and conflict surrounding the noble family, while also trying to learn about the mysterious powers he may have that aid his fighting abilities.
I really enjoyed this book. Ransom is a great new lead character. He had to grow up quick and figure out who he is. He is a strong and capable knight, but still has the naivete of the young boy he is. He is clearly fountain-blessed, but since that is considered just an old-time legend and not real, there is no one he can talk with about it or train him. He is a skilled and feared fighter. Therefore, people like him to be on their side, but also fear to be around him. He is used by the nobility for their own purposes, and hasn't had a lot of choice in his own fate. This is obviously frustrating for him.
The budding romance between him and Lady Claire is sweet, but they are kept apart so much that it's a bit frustrating. I would like to see them able to have a little bit of happiness together in the next book. Lady Claire is a fierce, strong-willed young woman that definitely knows her own mind. She is very capable and I hope she gets a bigger part to play in the next book. She's not the shy, retiring type and the fact that she was sidelined so much in the first book is frustrating. It seemed like she would have been a bit more daring.
This is a strong first book and I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and 47North. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a really good first book in a new, exciting fantasy series. We're back in Kingfountain, and I'm so excited! This story revolves around a young man nicknamed Ransom. As a young second son, he is given to the King by his father as hostage to ensure his father behaves and does not side with rival Devon Argentine, who is intent on taking the crown for himself.
When the old King dies and Devon is crowned King, Ransom is told he is free to leave. Ransom goes home, but gets no warm welcome by his father. Forced to make his way in the world on his own, Ransom finds a place in his uncle's house training to become a knight. He dreams of a life loyally serving an honorable lord, preferably with his boyhood crush Lady Claire by his side. Ransom finally becomes a knight, but suffers setbacks along the way. When he grabs the notice of the Queen of Ceredigion, she asks him to join the service of her eldest son, the heir to the King. Ransom must learn to navigate the treachery and conflict surrounding the noble family, while also trying to learn about the mysterious powers he may have that aid his fighting abilities.
I really enjoyed this book. Ransom is a great new lead character. He had to grow up quick and figure out who he is. He is a strong and capable knight, but still has the naivete of the young boy he is. He is clearly fountain-blessed, but since that is considered just an old-time legend and not real, there is no one he can talk with about it or train him. He is a skilled and feared fighter. Therefore, people like him to be on their side, but also fear to be around him. He is used by the nobility for their own purposes, and hasn't had a lot of choice in his own fate. This is obviously frustrating for him.
The budding romance between him and Lady Claire is sweet, but they are kept apart so much that it's a bit frustrating. I would like to see them able to have a little bit of happiness together in the next book. Lady Claire is a fierce, strong-willed young woman that definitely knows her own mind. She is very capable and I hope she gets a bigger part to play in the next book. She's not the shy, retiring type and the fact that she was sidelined so much in the first book is frustrating. It seemed like she would have been a bit more daring.
This is a strong first book and I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and 47North. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 19, 2021
Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown. A brutal war of succession has plunged the court of Kingfountain into a power struggle between a charitable king who took the crown unlawfully and his ambitious rival, Devon Argentine. The balance of power between the two men hinges on the fate of a young boy ensnared in this courtly intrigue. A boy befittingly nicknamed Ransom.
When the Argentine family finally rules, Ransom must make his own way in the world. Opportunities open and shut before him as he journeys along the path to knighthood, blind to a shadowy conspiracy of jealousy and revenge. Securing his place will not be easy, nor will winning the affection of Lady Claire de Murrow, a fiery young heiress from an unpredictably mad kingdom.
Ransom interrupts an abduction plot targeting the Queen of Ceredigion and earns a position in service to her son, the firstborn of the new Argentine dynasty. But conflict and treachery threaten the family, and Ransom must also come to understand and hone his burgeoning powers—abilities that involve more than his mastery with a blade and that make him as much a target as his lord.
3.5 stars.
I was super excited to get to read another book set in the world of Kingfountain. This book is a good addition to the world, and I enjoyed it quite a bit, though not as much as the books in the Kingfountain series, and here's why:
This book repeats the same type of plot pattern as Kingfountain, only it felt more rushed story-wise. Just like in The Queen's Poisoner, this book starts out with a young boy who is being held hostage by the current king. Several things happen that parallel the Kingfountain books, but I don't want to add any spoilers to my review so I won't mention what they are, but the downside of this book is that we don't get to spend any significant time in one place before the story moves on to another. This results in a lack of development for certain characters that I feel we should have spent more time with in the beginning in order to build a foundation for why these characters feel they way they do about each other. This is definitely a problem with the romantic aspect of the story, and causes the romance to feel a bit forced. Needless to say, I did not feel the same connection between Ransom and his love interest that I felt between Owen and Evie in The Queen's Poisoner.
All that being said, I do like other aspects of the book. Ranson is likable, and easy to root for. While I would have liked more time spent on building up the story, the characters are multilayered personality-wise in that they are never black and white and are personally conflicted about the dilemmas they face, and have both good and bad traits. There is still a bit too much telling and not enough showing in this book, just like his others, and I feel like this one was worse in that aspect, but and I am still looking forward to reading the rest of the series as it's published so I can find out what happens next.
Thanks to NetGalley and 47North for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
When the Argentine family finally rules, Ransom must make his own way in the world. Opportunities open and shut before him as he journeys along the path to knighthood, blind to a shadowy conspiracy of jealousy and revenge. Securing his place will not be easy, nor will winning the affection of Lady Claire de Murrow, a fiery young heiress from an unpredictably mad kingdom.
Ransom interrupts an abduction plot targeting the Queen of Ceredigion and earns a position in service to her son, the firstborn of the new Argentine dynasty. But conflict and treachery threaten the family, and Ransom must also come to understand and hone his burgeoning powers—abilities that involve more than his mastery with a blade and that make him as much a target as his lord.
3.5 stars.
I was super excited to get to read another book set in the world of Kingfountain. This book is a good addition to the world, and I enjoyed it quite a bit, though not as much as the books in the Kingfountain series, and here's why:
This book repeats the same type of plot pattern as Kingfountain, only it felt more rushed story-wise. Just like in The Queen's Poisoner, this book starts out with a young boy who is being held hostage by the current king. Several things happen that parallel the Kingfountain books, but I don't want to add any spoilers to my review so I won't mention what they are, but the downside of this book is that we don't get to spend any significant time in one place before the story moves on to another. This results in a lack of development for certain characters that I feel we should have spent more time with in the beginning in order to build a foundation for why these characters feel they way they do about each other. This is definitely a problem with the romantic aspect of the story, and causes the romance to feel a bit forced. Needless to say, I did not feel the same connection between Ransom and his love interest that I felt between Owen and Evie in The Queen's Poisoner.
All that being said, I do like other aspects of the book. Ranson is likable, and easy to root for. While I would have liked more time spent on building up the story, the characters are multilayered personality-wise in that they are never black and white and are personally conflicted about the dilemmas they face, and have both good and bad traits. There is still a bit too much telling and not enough showing in this book, just like his others, and I feel like this one was worse in that aspect, but and I am still looking forward to reading the rest of the series as it's published so I can find out what happens next.
Thanks to NetGalley and 47North for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
November 15, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. This will be available on January 26th.
Reminiscent of Tad Williams’ The Dragonbone Chair, this book is obviously the work of a master. Every sentence, every word, is placed with care and precision. The story woven is a fantastic one, and I couldn’t put the book down.
This book follows Ransom- once a king’s hostage, now a knight hopeful- as he navigates the dangers involved in becoming a knight and in growing up. He finds himself in a very precarious position, in-between warring kingdoms. Threats, both from without the court and within, abound on all sides. One false step and Ransom could lose his sense of honor-or his life.
I loved absolutely everything about this book. The characters were fully developed, complex individuals, each with their own motivations and personalities. The book was told from Ransom’s point of view, interspersed with diary entries from Claire, the recipient of his affection. I loved Ransom, of course. He was often caught between his own sense of morality and the code of honor he swore to follow. It was fascinating and heartbreaking to see him realize that a knightly code of honor does not apply in every situation. His internal battles were just as interesting as his physical battles.
And what battles! They were so vividly painted, it was like being right in the middle of them. They all felt incredibly real. The adrenaline and bloodlust versus fear and even sadness at taking a life- it was all conveyed brilliantly. I often had my heart in my throat (a rather uncomfortable sensation, I might add), reading the fight scenes.
The secret deals and cutthroat politics were engrossing to say the least. Every time I thought I had a character pegged, they would do something completely unexpected. One particular person had me totally fooled. When they made their move, I was absolutely stunned. Even the smallest move can turn a chess game, I guess.
I was fully immersed in the world from page one. It was vast and so well described, I could picture everything perfectly. Honestly, from plot, to characters, to world development, there is nothing that wasn’t done wonderfully. This is an author I’ll be reading more from, I can tell you that.
If you like high fantasy, if you enjoy writers such as Tolkien, Tad Williams, and Sean Russell, if you like stories with a hint of Arthurian themes, you’ll love this book.
Reminiscent of Tad Williams’ The Dragonbone Chair, this book is obviously the work of a master. Every sentence, every word, is placed with care and precision. The story woven is a fantastic one, and I couldn’t put the book down.
This book follows Ransom- once a king’s hostage, now a knight hopeful- as he navigates the dangers involved in becoming a knight and in growing up. He finds himself in a very precarious position, in-between warring kingdoms. Threats, both from without the court and within, abound on all sides. One false step and Ransom could lose his sense of honor-or his life.
I loved absolutely everything about this book. The characters were fully developed, complex individuals, each with their own motivations and personalities. The book was told from Ransom’s point of view, interspersed with diary entries from Claire, the recipient of his affection. I loved Ransom, of course. He was often caught between his own sense of morality and the code of honor he swore to follow. It was fascinating and heartbreaking to see him realize that a knightly code of honor does not apply in every situation. His internal battles were just as interesting as his physical battles.
And what battles! They were so vividly painted, it was like being right in the middle of them. They all felt incredibly real. The adrenaline and bloodlust versus fear and even sadness at taking a life- it was all conveyed brilliantly. I often had my heart in my throat (a rather uncomfortable sensation, I might add), reading the fight scenes.
The secret deals and cutthroat politics were engrossing to say the least. Every time I thought I had a character pegged, they would do something completely unexpected. One particular person had me totally fooled. When they made their move, I was absolutely stunned. Even the smallest move can turn a chess game, I guess.
I was fully immersed in the world from page one. It was vast and so well described, I could picture everything perfectly. Honestly, from plot, to characters, to world development, there is nothing that wasn’t done wonderfully. This is an author I’ll be reading more from, I can tell you that.
If you like high fantasy, if you enjoy writers such as Tolkien, Tad Williams, and Sean Russell, if you like stories with a hint of Arthurian themes, you’ll love this book.
December 25, 2020
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
This is a tale of knights and ladies. A story of the growing pains of a young boy, born the second son of a Lord of a lower house, with no worth except being a ransom to a king. It is also a story of a young lady, who found herself in care of the king, but could never forget her childhood friend.
The young boy grew up to be Knight Ransom, and the young girl Lady Claire. Even though the death of a king separated them, fate would always bring them together.
The tone of the story is a romantic medieval with a young adult overlay. Meaning, it's not brutal, and a very endearing tale.
This is my first Jeff Wheeler novel and I was very impressed with his writing. The flow was easy and addicting. I enjoyed it so much that I had to run out a buy more of his Kingfountain tales.
May 29, 2021
You can find my full review on my blog, The Bookwyrm's Den, here.
Many thanks to 47North and JeanBookNerd for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
I’d never read a Jeff Wheeler book, even though I’ve heard good things about him. So when I saw that he started a new fantasy series, I jumped on the chance to read it. I mean, a dark world full of war and strife is absolutely right up my alley.
Knight’s Ransom is an epic fantasy coming-of-age story. It’s a book about loyalty, wavering and otherwise, and the lengths people are willing to go to in order to get what they want.
I was absolutely glued to these pages. I was actually really mad when I had to put the book down in order to go to work. How dare they! Surely a library would understand my need to finish a book. Ugh. I was even more excited to see two more books in the series on Goodreads … until I realized they come out later this year. I was ready to immediately dive into the next book, and now I have sad because I need to wait. T_T
My Thoughts
- Ransom is a fantastic main character, who’s easy to fall for and exciting to follow. This kid just stole my emotion from the first chapter. His situation is not great, through no fault of his own, and it continues to get worse. The thing about Ransom is that he’s a good person, and it’s always easy to root for good people, especially when bad things happen to them. He’s earnest and trying to do the right thing, loyal to a fault, but over the book, he has to learn how to harness those things as positives. Ransom finds himself at the center of a whole host of unfortunate things, including war and secrets and betrayals, which obviously makes for some good reading. I mean, he is a knight, after all, so maybe that’s to be expected. It’s not exactly a steady 9-5 job, is it? There are several things I loved about this. First, it allows Ransom to have so much growth and a really emotional, detailed arc throughout this book, especially since his actions can result in dire circumstances. Two, it also keeps things exciting, because the life of a knight in the time of war is fraught with unexpected things.
- The love interest in this, Claire, is no wilting flower. She’s a fabulous strong woman trapped in a world ruled by men … the eejits! Claire’s character (and indeed country) seems to have Celtic roots, and it’s in stark contrast to Ransom’s home. Claire and Ransom lived together at Kingfountain for several years, and it’s there we meet her. Guys, I was instantly in love. She’s bold and outspoken with a sharp wit likely to cut down any who defy her. She’s at a natural disadvantage, being a woman given the setting, but she refuses to let others cow her into doing something she doesn’t want. Interestingly, the reader only really gets to know Claire through her diary entries at the beginning of chapters, and yet, she still felt like a well-rounded character to me. I really hope to get to see more of her and know her better in the next books!
- There’s so much character growth and a full coming-of-age story that I was fully invested in these characters and their outcomes. Not necessarily enough to weep for them, per se, but more like a soap opera. I just need to know what’s going to happen next and where these foolish characters will end up. While I can’t say I connected to many of the side characters, I definitely felt Ransom and Claire, and I was interested in the lives of the others, at the very least. What can I say? Like a soap opera. I won’t weep for your death, but goodness knows I will munch popcorn while these characters weave themselves into more and more tangle webs. It’s just so *chef’s kiss*. All the characters had secrets, and several of them had learning experiences throughout the book. Some a little too late, which is a nice way to up the tragedy, of course. I loved the complexities of all the relationships and the way their lives intersect, sometimes in ways they don’t even realize.
- The ways this plot twists and turns and keeps me guessing had me flying through pages, absolutely engrossed. I couldn’t put it down. I’m not going to say there aren’t slower moments or that the story speeds along at break-neck speed. What I am saying is that there were so many twists that I couldn’t even guess how things were going to turn out, to the point where I just had to find out! Books where war is a main plot aren’t normally my thing, because I generally find them kind of dry and boring. Knight’s Ransom, though, had so much more going on, including strategy and character growth, that I never became bored or wanted to set it down. It keeps a fast pace throughout, one that had me grumbling every time I had to set it down.
Many thanks to 47North and JeanBookNerd for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
I’d never read a Jeff Wheeler book, even though I’ve heard good things about him. So when I saw that he started a new fantasy series, I jumped on the chance to read it. I mean, a dark world full of war and strife is absolutely right up my alley.
Knight’s Ransom is an epic fantasy coming-of-age story. It’s a book about loyalty, wavering and otherwise, and the lengths people are willing to go to in order to get what they want.
I was absolutely glued to these pages. I was actually really mad when I had to put the book down in order to go to work. How dare they! Surely a library would understand my need to finish a book. Ugh. I was even more excited to see two more books in the series on Goodreads … until I realized they come out later this year. I was ready to immediately dive into the next book, and now I have sad because I need to wait. T_T
My Thoughts
- Ransom is a fantastic main character, who’s easy to fall for and exciting to follow. This kid just stole my emotion from the first chapter. His situation is not great, through no fault of his own, and it continues to get worse. The thing about Ransom is that he’s a good person, and it’s always easy to root for good people, especially when bad things happen to them. He’s earnest and trying to do the right thing, loyal to a fault, but over the book, he has to learn how to harness those things as positives. Ransom finds himself at the center of a whole host of unfortunate things, including war and secrets and betrayals, which obviously makes for some good reading. I mean, he is a knight, after all, so maybe that’s to be expected. It’s not exactly a steady 9-5 job, is it? There are several things I loved about this. First, it allows Ransom to have so much growth and a really emotional, detailed arc throughout this book, especially since his actions can result in dire circumstances. Two, it also keeps things exciting, because the life of a knight in the time of war is fraught with unexpected things.
The king beamed, striding toward him. “See, Emiloh? I knew he could handle my jests.”
“You didn’t know. You’ve never met him before,” she said with a sigh. “My apologies for my husband’s rude sense of humor.”
“It’s not rude, how dare you suggest that! I’m offended.”
“If you’re offended, then I’m a duckling,” she said.
- The love interest in this, Claire, is no wilting flower. She’s a fabulous strong woman trapped in a world ruled by men … the eejits! Claire’s character (and indeed country) seems to have Celtic roots, and it’s in stark contrast to Ransom’s home. Claire and Ransom lived together at Kingfountain for several years, and it’s there we meet her. Guys, I was instantly in love. She’s bold and outspoken with a sharp wit likely to cut down any who defy her. She’s at a natural disadvantage, being a woman given the setting, but she refuses to let others cow her into doing something she doesn’t want. Interestingly, the reader only really gets to know Claire through her diary entries at the beginning of chapters, and yet, she still felt like a well-rounded character to me. I really hope to get to see more of her and know her better in the next books!
His name is Marshall, but I call him Ransom because I think it annoys him. He kept staring at me hair when we first met, so I nearly clogged him in the head. But he’s not an eejit. Not like the others. After I asked him why he kept bothering about me hair, he said it made him think of autumn leaves when they change color. The other girls laughed at him when he said it. I clogged them instead.
- There’s so much character growth and a full coming-of-age story that I was fully invested in these characters and their outcomes. Not necessarily enough to weep for them, per se, but more like a soap opera. I just need to know what’s going to happen next and where these foolish characters will end up. While I can’t say I connected to many of the side characters, I definitely felt Ransom and Claire, and I was interested in the lives of the others, at the very least. What can I say? Like a soap opera. I won’t weep for your death, but goodness knows I will munch popcorn while these characters weave themselves into more and more tangle webs. It’s just so *chef’s kiss*. All the characters had secrets, and several of them had learning experiences throughout the book. Some a little too late, which is a nice way to up the tragedy, of course. I loved the complexities of all the relationships and the way their lives intersect, sometimes in ways they don’t even realize.
“The collier is a symbol. It is the last blow you will receive without being allowed a reprisal. If any man strikes you hence, you have the freedom to strike back.” He held up his finger, which gleamed in the torchlight. “But while a knight may strike back, a true knight will yield that right. He will resist. It is a token of Virtus to be able to exact revenge and to choose mercy instead.”
- The ways this plot twists and turns and keeps me guessing had me flying through pages, absolutely engrossed. I couldn’t put it down. I’m not going to say there aren’t slower moments or that the story speeds along at break-neck speed. What I am saying is that there were so many twists that I couldn’t even guess how things were going to turn out, to the point where I just had to find out! Books where war is a main plot aren’t normally my thing, because I generally find them kind of dry and boring. Knight’s Ransom, though, had so much more going on, including strategy and character growth, that I never became bored or wanted to set it down. It keeps a fast pace throughout, one that had me grumbling every time I had to set it down.
There’s something about being the second in line, isn’t there?” said Devon with a grunt. “What would you call it, Ransom? Jealousy?”
“Poverty,” Ransom replied.
Read
July 21, 2023It started off well but I feel the series doesn't feel like it's heading anywhere.
I understand we are invested in the Hero's relationship with Claire, but basically it's the shift of power, wars, battles to the next ruler.
I understand we are invested in the Hero's relationship with Claire, but basically it's the shift of power, wars, battles to the next ruler.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2021
This book is not for me. If I were 12 I might like it but there's absolutely nothing exciting going on and I can't see that happening during the whole book. So, at 45% I'm done.
No romance and no swearing.
As for the narration: If there had been anything exciting going on I would have continued with it, because that awesome Kate Rudd was the narrating it. BUT not even she could hold my interest.
No romance and no swearing.
As for the narration: If there had been anything exciting going on I would have continued with it, because that awesome Kate Rudd was the narrating it. BUT not even she could hold my interest.
January 18, 2021
Knight's Ransom is the first book in The First Argentines series by Jeff Wheeler. The Fist Argentines series is an epic fantasy series that is set in the same world as Jeff Wheeler's Fountainhead series, but you do not need to read the Kingfountain series in order to be able to enjoy and understand this book. I loved Knight's Ransom. It has a classic fantasy feel with a big sweep world, fascinating plot and great well developed characters. It has made me even more excited to read the Kingfountain series, which has been on my TBR wishlist for forever! I can't wait to continue on with The First Argentine's series, and read more by Jeff Wheeler. He is a fantastic classic fantasy writer.
In Knight's Ransom, we meet our main character Ransom who is trying to become a knight. I loved Ransom. He is a fantastic main character because I felt like I really got to know him, and I I could feel everything he was going through. Jeff Wheeler is a master storyteller. I can tell that this story is really planned and thought out because everything felt purposeful, which is one of my favorite things to find in an epic fantasy! I am dying to get my hands on the next book in the series because I have so many questions! So many! We join Ransom as he discovers a plan to overthrow the Queen. He ends up as one of her bodyguards, and finds himself in the middle of some crazy world politics. I love a vast fantasy world and I think that is where Jeff Wheeler excels the most. HIs world feels epic and it is filled with twists, turns and surprises that are sure to genuinely shock you. (I know they did for me!) I don't want to spoil too much of the plot, so just know that this book is fantastically crafted and it held my attention from page one to the end!
I also really enjoyed the romance between Ransom and Lady Claire. It was super sweet, and I was happy to see a romance subplot present in the story. I hope it continues in the future books! Bottom line: If you are a fan of epic fantasies with fantastic characters, wonderful world building, complex politics and secrets galore, then The First Argentines series is one that you do not want to miss. I loved this book and can't wait for the sequel!
In Knight's Ransom, we meet our main character Ransom who is trying to become a knight. I loved Ransom. He is a fantastic main character because I felt like I really got to know him, and I I could feel everything he was going through. Jeff Wheeler is a master storyteller. I can tell that this story is really planned and thought out because everything felt purposeful, which is one of my favorite things to find in an epic fantasy! I am dying to get my hands on the next book in the series because I have so many questions! So many! We join Ransom as he discovers a plan to overthrow the Queen. He ends up as one of her bodyguards, and finds himself in the middle of some crazy world politics. I love a vast fantasy world and I think that is where Jeff Wheeler excels the most. HIs world feels epic and it is filled with twists, turns and surprises that are sure to genuinely shock you. (I know they did for me!) I don't want to spoil too much of the plot, so just know that this book is fantastically crafted and it held my attention from page one to the end!
I also really enjoyed the romance between Ransom and Lady Claire. It was super sweet, and I was happy to see a romance subplot present in the story. I hope it continues in the future books! Bottom line: If you are a fan of epic fantasies with fantastic characters, wonderful world building, complex politics and secrets galore, then The First Argentines series is one that you do not want to miss. I loved this book and can't wait for the sequel!
June 26, 2022
Rating 7/10
I honestly had no idea what this book was about before I started it. I simply listened to it on a road trip because it was the only audiobook I had in my Kindle unlimited library.
I was pleasantly surprised, however, by the simple yet engaging story! I love the medieval atmosphere, and I don’t think i have ever read a book of this setting before. I enjoy the very subtle fantasy aspects and fast paced action. Sometimes, I wish the details were elaborated upon more, but I do appreciate how fast the story moves. Another thing I wish there was more of was sheer character development. There are a lot of characters for how short the book is which makes it hard to find noticeable differences in the personas of all of them.
Moving forward in the series, I hope the fantasy aspects are delved into more, but I am very excited to see the direction it goes! I also am excited to see Ransom’s development as he moves beyond just someone who is loyal above everything else.
I honestly had no idea what this book was about before I started it. I simply listened to it on a road trip because it was the only audiobook I had in my Kindle unlimited library.
I was pleasantly surprised, however, by the simple yet engaging story! I love the medieval atmosphere, and I don’t think i have ever read a book of this setting before. I enjoy the very subtle fantasy aspects and fast paced action. Sometimes, I wish the details were elaborated upon more, but I do appreciate how fast the story moves. Another thing I wish there was more of was sheer character development. There are a lot of characters for how short the book is which makes it hard to find noticeable differences in the personas of all of them.
Moving forward in the series, I hope the fantasy aspects are delved into more, but I am very excited to see the direction it goes! I also am excited to see Ransom’s development as he moves beyond just someone who is loyal above everything else.
June 16, 2022
Note: I don’t usually read books like this
I did thoroughly enjoy it, it was a very good book, well written. Personally for me I would’ve enjoyed more romance and more of a plot line. There isn’t really story, or a goal, it’s more just Ransoms life story from when he was 12-22. But I imagine if I did read these books a lot that I’d have enjoyed it more.
I did thoroughly enjoy it, it was a very good book, well written. Personally for me I would’ve enjoyed more romance and more of a plot line. There isn’t really story, or a goal, it’s more just Ransoms life story from when he was 12-22. But I imagine if I did read these books a lot that I’d have enjoyed it more.
May 1, 2022
I love Jeff Wheeler’s writing of King Fountain. Will be starting #2 this week. What a great series!
May 18, 2021
4.5 Stars
KNIGHT'S RANSOM is a story set in an Arthurian fantasy world with likable characters and an engaging plot. The author does a fabulous job of slowly unravelling this story so both old and new fans are pulled right in and easily fall in love with these characters. Definitely recommended to fantasy fans!
This story reminded me so much of some older classics, like Robin Hood by Paul Creswich, The Black Arrow by Robert Louis Stevenson and The Boy's King Arthur by Sidney Lanier. It's honestly one of the best compliments I can give. The time period is comparable and the writing is also paced similarly, but much less wordy and easier to read.
This first book in the series is very character driven and I loved these characters! Marshall or "Ransom" begins the story as a young boy, as does Claire who has journal entries at the beginning of each chapter. It was fun to see them both grow up and come into their own. At the end they have both endured great loss, challenges and have had to come to terms with different futures than what they had originally hoped for. Their journeys are both continuing on as there are two more books in the series and this was really just the start.
The plot itself is intriguing from beginning to end. There is this mysterious magic that the reader learns about right along with the characters. Ransom still has a ways to go before he understands it and what his final role will be. There are different villains and I was never quite sure who Ransom should be loyal to. It is very much like a Medieval time period where lords and ladies are vying for favors and power plays, and where battle is constant even amongst families. I'm definitely curious to see where the story goes next, especially as Ransom is an easy hero to cheer on. May can't come too soon with book two!
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and plan on picking up the second and third books as soon as they release. There is so much I want to know about the magical system, if one country will be able to defend itself against another, if these characters will find their happily-ever-afters (Ransom so deserves some happiness!). If you enjoy sweeping fantasy that is character driven, with plenty of action and a sweet romance, then definitely grab this one!
Content: Some war violence (not too gory) and innuendo, but would consider this clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publicist, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
KNIGHT'S RANSOM is a story set in an Arthurian fantasy world with likable characters and an engaging plot. The author does a fabulous job of slowly unravelling this story so both old and new fans are pulled right in and easily fall in love with these characters. Definitely recommended to fantasy fans!
This story reminded me so much of some older classics, like Robin Hood by Paul Creswich, The Black Arrow by Robert Louis Stevenson and The Boy's King Arthur by Sidney Lanier. It's honestly one of the best compliments I can give. The time period is comparable and the writing is also paced similarly, but much less wordy and easier to read.
This first book in the series is very character driven and I loved these characters! Marshall or "Ransom" begins the story as a young boy, as does Claire who has journal entries at the beginning of each chapter. It was fun to see them both grow up and come into their own. At the end they have both endured great loss, challenges and have had to come to terms with different futures than what they had originally hoped for. Their journeys are both continuing on as there are two more books in the series and this was really just the start.
The plot itself is intriguing from beginning to end. There is this mysterious magic that the reader learns about right along with the characters. Ransom still has a ways to go before he understands it and what his final role will be. There are different villains and I was never quite sure who Ransom should be loyal to. It is very much like a Medieval time period where lords and ladies are vying for favors and power plays, and where battle is constant even amongst families. I'm definitely curious to see where the story goes next, especially as Ransom is an easy hero to cheer on. May can't come too soon with book two!
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and plan on picking up the second and third books as soon as they release. There is so much I want to know about the magical system, if one country will be able to defend itself against another, if these characters will find their happily-ever-afters (Ransom so deserves some happiness!). If you enjoy sweeping fantasy that is character driven, with plenty of action and a sweet romance, then definitely grab this one!
Content: Some war violence (not too gory) and innuendo, but would consider this clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publicist, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
January 28, 2021
Knight’s Ransom by Jeff Wheeler is my introduction to his writing and I am so happy to have met him and his characters. I loved the book and look forward to reading more of his work. I think I waited to long after reading Knight’s Ransom to write the review, because I don’t feel it reflects how I truly felt.
Ransom had been taken hostage by King Gervase. Now, the king is dead and he’s going home. He had met Claire while he was a hostage and she is the one who gave him his name, Ransom. The king had raised them both as if they were his own. Claire is very outspoken and I think Ransom will have his hands full with her. Will they become a couple. I don’t know yet, but I am going to find out.
The point of views bounce back and forth between Ransom and Claire.
Ransom wants to become a knight and leader, but the path will be fraught with danger and intrigue.
There is something special about Ransom and when he is at his lowest, something good comes his way.
So much betrayal, political machinations, kings fighting, always fighting. Seems to me they need to find something else to do. Maybe they have too much spare time and desire to dominate.
Ransom makes difficult choices, but his loyalty can never be questioned. He is caught in the courtly machinations going on, young royals being easily manipulated, then betrayed, sons going to war to depose their father as king, brothers fighting each other.
There are many characters and not all will survive, but this is Ransom’s story and it will be told over several books. I do like when an author is not afraid to kill off his characters, though some will be missed, others I will be glad are gone.
Medieval history is stretched and twisted in this brutal world, brilliantly spelled out through Jeff’s words. I am hooked and can hardly wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of Knight’s Ransom by Jeff Wheeler.
See more at fundinmental
Ransom had been taken hostage by King Gervase. Now, the king is dead and he’s going home. He had met Claire while he was a hostage and she is the one who gave him his name, Ransom. The king had raised them both as if they were his own. Claire is very outspoken and I think Ransom will have his hands full with her. Will they become a couple. I don’t know yet, but I am going to find out.
The point of views bounce back and forth between Ransom and Claire.
Ransom wants to become a knight and leader, but the path will be fraught with danger and intrigue.
There is something special about Ransom and when he is at his lowest, something good comes his way.
So much betrayal, political machinations, kings fighting, always fighting. Seems to me they need to find something else to do. Maybe they have too much spare time and desire to dominate.
Ransom makes difficult choices, but his loyalty can never be questioned. He is caught in the courtly machinations going on, young royals being easily manipulated, then betrayed, sons going to war to depose their father as king, brothers fighting each other.
There are many characters and not all will survive, but this is Ransom’s story and it will be told over several books. I do like when an author is not afraid to kill off his characters, though some will be missed, others I will be glad are gone.
Medieval history is stretched and twisted in this brutal world, brilliantly spelled out through Jeff’s words. I am hooked and can hardly wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of Knight’s Ransom by Jeff Wheeler.
See more at fundinmental
December 14, 2021
Phenomenal. Well-written, thoroughly interesting high fantasy tale strewn with swords, battle, intruige, and hardship. Ransom has striven to be loyal and good and stand for all that is true his whole life, and I adore him for it. He's gone through so much, and I feel like the tale is just beginning. Incredible. Can't wait for more. And Claire!! She reminds me of Merida from Brave... full of passion and life and fiery will... beautiful character, and she matches him flawlessly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2022
The plot is totally stupid. The only character who had more than two brain cells was claire. Ransom was like "Take my loyalty, I would totally support you in any harebrained idiocy you come up with cos I am loyal. Anyone...?". The rest of the nobles all are overprivileged idiots. As claire would say all of 'em are eejits. Felt like all the characters had a combined IQ of 80.
January 28, 2021
9/10
(Originally posted on The Nerd Daily)
I could probably end up talking all day about this book. There were so, so many feels involved in the reading process! This book made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me somewhat confused, and it made me want to throw it across the room and hug it at the same time.
Knight’s Ransom isn’t really written like other books. While the main character is Marshall Barton, also known as Ransom, the storytelling style was very much like that of classics in that it was a bit omniscient and more withdrawn from the character’s inner thoughts and feelings. It kept me from immediately connecting with the characters and I found that somewhat disappointing, as I love being deep inside a character’s head. However, this also gave the book a very Medieval feel, which was perfect, as it centers around knights, castles, scandals, tournaments, and, of course, a little bit romance. It took me a little bit to get used to it, but after a while I was hooked.
Ransom is quite the interesting character. While he might not be considered dynamic to some, as he had a very high moral code, his serious nature and dedication to the knight’s code balance him out. He reminded me almost of Lancelot from the BBC show, Merlin. Ransom goes from a somewhat petulant child to a very mature adult. His character arc felt very organic and was much appreciated. I mean, there were many things he did that were a bit foolish and had me shaking my head but still, he grew on me. I came to care very much for him. He goes through many a foul situation, which led me to be very indignant. There were a lot of characters that stuck out to me in that way. Claire de Murrow, Sir William, Lord Kinghorn. All of them were such fascinating and dynamic characters whom I enjoyed. Claire, though, will always be my favourite, besides Ransom of course, because of her spunky nature and somewhat shamelessly dramatic personality. And she made me laugh.
There were also characters I very much loathed, like the petulant Sir James. James came across as a very jealous and whiny boy who never learned to grow up. And for some reason just really didn’t like Ransom. If there was one character that made me angry, it was him. There was also Noemie and the assassin, though for the sake of not spoiling the plot, I won’t say anymore, even though there are many choice words I would use to describe James. He got on my nerves that much.
Wheeler’s very large cast of characters sometimes made it hard to differentiate who was who, but eventually I got the hang of it, even though there were two characters with the same name. Thankfully, Wheeler was very clever in his descriptions and character development to keep the two from being mistaken for the other.
The plot of Knight’s Ransom was the most surprising one I’ve read in a long time. It twisted and turned and sometimes even circled back in a way that left me guessing just what would happen next. There were many subtle plot points dropped into the narrative that resolved in an explosion of secrets and intrigue. And then ending! I can’t say what exactly happened, but it left me frustrated, happy, sad, angry and needing more all at the same time. Jeff Wheeler did an amazing job at ending this book with a punch.
I’m giving Knight’s Ransom a solid 9/10 for being a book full of surprise, heartbreak, intrigue and knightliness, and for being a great start to what feels like a solid series!
(Originally posted on The Nerd Daily)
I could probably end up talking all day about this book. There were so, so many feels involved in the reading process! This book made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me somewhat confused, and it made me want to throw it across the room and hug it at the same time.
Knight’s Ransom isn’t really written like other books. While the main character is Marshall Barton, also known as Ransom, the storytelling style was very much like that of classics in that it was a bit omniscient and more withdrawn from the character’s inner thoughts and feelings. It kept me from immediately connecting with the characters and I found that somewhat disappointing, as I love being deep inside a character’s head. However, this also gave the book a very Medieval feel, which was perfect, as it centers around knights, castles, scandals, tournaments, and, of course, a little bit romance. It took me a little bit to get used to it, but after a while I was hooked.
Ransom is quite the interesting character. While he might not be considered dynamic to some, as he had a very high moral code, his serious nature and dedication to the knight’s code balance him out. He reminded me almost of Lancelot from the BBC show, Merlin. Ransom goes from a somewhat petulant child to a very mature adult. His character arc felt very organic and was much appreciated. I mean, there were many things he did that were a bit foolish and had me shaking my head but still, he grew on me. I came to care very much for him. He goes through many a foul situation, which led me to be very indignant. There were a lot of characters that stuck out to me in that way. Claire de Murrow, Sir William, Lord Kinghorn. All of them were such fascinating and dynamic characters whom I enjoyed. Claire, though, will always be my favourite, besides Ransom of course, because of her spunky nature and somewhat shamelessly dramatic personality. And she made me laugh.
There were also characters I very much loathed, like the petulant Sir James. James came across as a very jealous and whiny boy who never learned to grow up. And for some reason just really didn’t like Ransom. If there was one character that made me angry, it was him. There was also Noemie and the assassin, though for the sake of not spoiling the plot, I won’t say anymore, even though there are many choice words I would use to describe James. He got on my nerves that much.
Wheeler’s very large cast of characters sometimes made it hard to differentiate who was who, but eventually I got the hang of it, even though there were two characters with the same name. Thankfully, Wheeler was very clever in his descriptions and character development to keep the two from being mistaken for the other.
The plot of Knight’s Ransom was the most surprising one I’ve read in a long time. It twisted and turned and sometimes even circled back in a way that left me guessing just what would happen next. There were many subtle plot points dropped into the narrative that resolved in an explosion of secrets and intrigue. And then ending! I can’t say what exactly happened, but it left me frustrated, happy, sad, angry and needing more all at the same time. Jeff Wheeler did an amazing job at ending this book with a punch.
I’m giving Knight’s Ransom a solid 9/10 for being a book full of surprise, heartbreak, intrigue and knightliness, and for being a great start to what feels like a solid series!
January 26, 2021
This is a great read! I will admit that I am a huge fan of everything that Jeff writes, but that is for good reason. The stories are engaging and appropriate for all ages. This book continues in that vein.
I have enjoyed getting the background of the Kingfountain series. If you did not know, most all of Jeff's worlds are interrelated. I will not give away any of the spoilers from any series, just understand they all intersect at some point. So technically, this book provides background, not only for Kingfountain, but indirectly the others.
This story is easy to read, not only because of Jeff's storytelling style, but also because it drew me in. I enjoy the strong female characters in Jeff's other books. but I was excited to see that the protagonist of this story was a young man. I have recommended Jeff's books to teachers, and their only complaint was that the boys did not get into some of them. I think this one will get and hold their attention.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. This series will continue Jeff's hold on my free time, as I always turn off the television and put other books on hold when another Wheeler Wonder is available to read! :) Do yourself a favor and ready this book!
I have enjoyed getting the background of the Kingfountain series. If you did not know, most all of Jeff's worlds are interrelated. I will not give away any of the spoilers from any series, just understand they all intersect at some point. So technically, this book provides background, not only for Kingfountain, but indirectly the others.
This story is easy to read, not only because of Jeff's storytelling style, but also because it drew me in. I enjoy the strong female characters in Jeff's other books. but I was excited to see that the protagonist of this story was a young man. I have recommended Jeff's books to teachers, and their only complaint was that the boys did not get into some of them. I think this one will get and hold their attention.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. This series will continue Jeff's hold on my free time, as I always turn off the television and put other books on hold when another Wheeler Wonder is available to read! :) Do yourself a favor and ready this book!
February 5, 2022
i FULLY spite read this because a review on Amazon said that "the body count and level of violence are both beyond tolerable levels." aight bet
there are like 3 or 4 skirmishes that Ransom is a part of (one is literally him just getting ambushed). and yeah, he kills pretty much everyone single-handedly. but my dude, WE ARE AT WAR MAN. i'm pretty sure there was more of a body count in Lord of the Rings. he does fully chop a dude's arm off in a tournament that was pretty sick.
also Ransom has like magic that gives him the ability to sense attacks and figure out people's weaknesses or something...it's honestly not shown very well.
that being said, Knight's Ransom seemed to focus primarily on the politic aspect of the kingdoms involved, with Ransom bouncing between lords and loyalty. it gave me the vibe of like A Feast for Crows but only if it was only told from Jamie Lannister's perspective. i hope that makes sense.
Not a terrible book, just not for me.
there are like 3 or 4 skirmishes that Ransom is a part of (one is literally him just getting ambushed). and yeah, he kills pretty much everyone single-handedly. but my dude, WE ARE AT WAR MAN. i'm pretty sure there was more of a body count in Lord of the Rings. he does fully chop a dude's arm off in a tournament that was pretty sick.
also Ransom has like magic that gives him the ability to sense attacks and figure out people's weaknesses or something...it's honestly not shown very well.
that being said, Knight's Ransom seemed to focus primarily on the politic aspect of the kingdoms involved, with Ransom bouncing between lords and loyalty. it gave me the vibe of like A Feast for Crows but only if it was only told from Jamie Lannister's perspective. i hope that makes sense.
Not a terrible book, just not for me.
February 1, 2021
This was one epic fantasy! The story does a wonderful job at introducing us to this world and characters. I have to say that he did it much better than a lot of authors out there. I was not confused and I understood everything in the first go. The romance was great and I think that the added ideas of King Arthur was perfect. Those those who love fantasy this one will be a hit for any reader.
November 2, 2021
I devoured this book in 3 short days. I have not read a book like this for a while, that I simply could not put down! Once again Wheeler’s character development shines in this new series. I love Ransom’s humble and noble character and I look forward to seeing how far he goes in the next books. Also the concept and magic of “The Fountain” is a beautiful metaphorical magic system.
January 3, 2022
It was a hard thing to have to put the book down to get some sleep knowing I would not be able to get back to it for two days. The book sucks you in and keeps you in a world of knights and honor. There are many in the world who do not have honor and hide their ambitions.
Ransom is a very likable character who makes the reader want him to succeed. I can’t wait to get back into his world.
Ransom is a very likable character who makes the reader want him to succeed. I can’t wait to get back into his world.
May 2, 2022
Wheeler’s writing is superb. The Kingfountain series is one of my favorites, and this offshoot does not disappoint. It’s clean, adventurous, complex enough to stay interesting but still easy to follow, and the characters are endearing and hateful with equal measure. Good, solid fantasy, and very enjoyable reading.
January 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It has some really interesting themes, some really sweet moments, a d great characters. This is one of the only male authors I've read who does a good job with female characters, and I really liked Claire.
It was also really sad. Hopefully the next book will have a happier ending.
It was also really sad. Hopefully the next book will have a happier ending.
March 23, 2022
Great book
This book is about Sir Ransom and his troubles and travels through the lands. He is trying to find out if he is Fountain blessed with greater abilities to survive the wars between the different kings of the lands.
This book is about Sir Ransom and his troubles and travels through the lands. He is trying to find out if he is Fountain blessed with greater abilities to survive the wars between the different kings of the lands.
November 12, 2025
I’ve never read any other books by this author, but this won’t be the last! Great story set in a medieval time period, in a slightly different world than ours. The story and descriptions and characters are all incredible, with traitors and secrets and also a wonderful loyal knight, even through all his trials. This has war and battles and betrayal. This is a great epic tale.
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