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The Portal Wars Saga #1
The Hidden Tower
Otto Shenk is the youngest son of a minor baron.
He's also a wizard.
Abused by his family and considered less than human by his kingdom, Otto does his best to survive.
But everything changes when Otto stumbles across a tower hidden deep in a dark part of the forest near his home.
A tower that was once the home of an Arcane Lord, the immortal wizards that long ago ruled the world.
Otto’s life will be changed forever.
And so will the world.
He's also a wizard.
Abused by his family and considered less than human by his kingdom, Otto does his best to survive.
But everything changes when Otto stumbles across a tower hidden deep in a dark part of the forest near his home.
A tower that was once the home of an Arcane Lord, the immortal wizards that long ago ruled the world.
Otto’s life will be changed forever.
And so will the world.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2020
863 people are currently reading
1802 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
August 12, 2020
Rating 1.0 stars
I hated this book. I might of liked it except for one thing that I hated so much nothing else matters and that is the affair The rest of the book might have been good but once that happened nothing else mattered for me. I hated it.
I hated this book. I might of liked it except for one thing that I hated so much nothing else matters and that is the affair The rest of the book might have been good but once that happened nothing else mattered for me. I hated it.
October 20, 2020
Most well written book i've ever hated
Every single character in this book is completely unsympathetic. I think the author was aiming for gritting political drama but it honestly just came off as a pit of idiots and snakes with no redeeming features among them.
Every single character in this book is completely unsympathetic. I think the author was aiming for gritting political drama but it honestly just came off as a pit of idiots and snakes with no redeeming features among them.
March 9, 2024
It is not often that I get engrossed in reading a book series that spans over as many volumes as James E. Wisher’s Portal Wars. All too frequently would I lose interest once I get past the second, third, perhaps fourth installment of any series.
Now, having finished volume 7 of 8, this is all the more intriguing for on reflection Portal Wars’ plot is rather simple, and its characters behaftet (tainted) by cliches – what else would you call it if the Lady of the dead who dresses top to bottom in black introduces herself as Lady White – are at best moderately rounded and developed. Hell, and even the protagonist makes me more hate than love him, after all, amongst other horrors, he causes a holocaust on an island result in the horrific death of all its inhabitants.
The premediated murder of 50,000 innocents does not exactly endear him to me; that the name of the mass murderer is Otto Schenk doesn’t help either. Blame me if you are so inclined if I am going a bit ad hominem here but that name reminds me a bit too much on one of them German concentrations camp commanders of WW2. And yet, despite it all, I just can’t bring myself about to completely and utterly detest the man. You see he always manages, if just barely, to justify his even largest scale, cold-blooded murders. I must admit his reasoning and justifications works on you until finally, well, I have to admit you got to give him the benefit of doubt. He might, just might be right.
Some of you readers might judge Otto Schenk a bit harsher and perhaps feel so offput by the protagonist that you just throw the book(s) or phone (as in audiobook) in the next river – completely understandable.
However, if you decide otherwise you might just be in for a treat. There is challenge and exploration that even the great Odysseus would appreciate. Intriguing questions about human nature are tackled, if only tangentially, and there is Empire-making on a grand scale.
Otto Schenk’s world is one of medieval cruelty but equally so of the wonders of magic. If you got the stomach for it you might very well be in for a treat.
Now, having finished volume 7 of 8, this is all the more intriguing for on reflection Portal Wars’ plot is rather simple, and its characters behaftet (tainted) by cliches – what else would you call it if the Lady of the dead who dresses top to bottom in black introduces herself as Lady White – are at best moderately rounded and developed. Hell, and even the protagonist makes me more hate than love him, after all, amongst other horrors, he causes a holocaust on an island result in the horrific death of all its inhabitants.
The premediated murder of 50,000 innocents does not exactly endear him to me; that the name of the mass murderer is Otto Schenk doesn’t help either. Blame me if you are so inclined if I am going a bit ad hominem here but that name reminds me a bit too much on one of them German concentrations camp commanders of WW2. And yet, despite it all, I just can’t bring myself about to completely and utterly detest the man. You see he always manages, if just barely, to justify his even largest scale, cold-blooded murders. I must admit his reasoning and justifications works on you until finally, well, I have to admit you got to give him the benefit of doubt. He might, just might be right.
Some of you readers might judge Otto Schenk a bit harsher and perhaps feel so offput by the protagonist that you just throw the book(s) or phone (as in audiobook) in the next river – completely understandable.
However, if you decide otherwise you might just be in for a treat. There is challenge and exploration that even the great Odysseus would appreciate. Intriguing questions about human nature are tackled, if only tangentially, and there is Empire-making on a grand scale.
Otto Schenk’s world is one of medieval cruelty but equally so of the wonders of magic. If you got the stomach for it you might very well be in for a treat.
March 4, 2021
Can’t decide
It *is* well written. The prose is clean, the characters are well defined and consistent, and the narrative has sufficient complexity and movement to keep your interest.
But. The logic fails.
For all the history of the world, the kingdom has no spymaster? No plans for dealing with threats? There are border forts, but they seem utterly incapable of defending themselves. The king is completely incompetent, even though he is portrayed as a good ruler.
The magic is only present to give them MC sufficient power to make the next plot point work.
And the soap opera sub-plot is both too and not adult.
The whole thing left me a bit...meh. The plot is forced along with all of the pieces placed correctly, but it doesn’t really have feeling. The MC ends up being a bad guy!!
I won’t be continuing this series.
It *is* well written. The prose is clean, the characters are well defined and consistent, and the narrative has sufficient complexity and movement to keep your interest.
But. The logic fails.
For all the history of the world, the kingdom has no spymaster? No plans for dealing with threats? There are border forts, but they seem utterly incapable of defending themselves. The king is completely incompetent, even though he is portrayed as a good ruler.
The magic is only present to give them MC sufficient power to make the next plot point work.
And the soap opera sub-plot is both too and not adult.
The whole thing left me a bit...meh. The plot is forced along with all of the pieces placed correctly, but it doesn’t really have feeling. The MC ends up being a bad guy!!
I won’t be continuing this series.
September 8, 2020
The plot thickens
I almost feel like we were reading in origin story for a villain. The world building is interesting and the characters are well written but what really makes the story so unique and engaging is the plot itself. Do you have the political intrigue of a medieval fantasy novel coupled with the strategy, espionage, and cunning that would make a Marvel or DC comic book writer proud. The MC starts out as a naive child and ends with a mustache twirling, mad villain laughing, dastardly dude that feels like he’s be right at home in Game of Thrones. This is my first time reading from this author and I am thoroughly impressed. Will be picking up book two next!
I almost feel like we were reading in origin story for a villain. The world building is interesting and the characters are well written but what really makes the story so unique and engaging is the plot itself. Do you have the political intrigue of a medieval fantasy novel coupled with the strategy, espionage, and cunning that would make a Marvel or DC comic book writer proud. The MC starts out as a naive child and ends with a mustache twirling, mad villain laughing, dastardly dude that feels like he’s be right at home in Game of Thrones. This is my first time reading from this author and I am thoroughly impressed. Will be picking up book two next!
April 24, 2021
More and less than I expected.
The magic was great. Well explained, and inserted into the story well. What I disliked about this story was how the main character changed his morals quite rapidly. At the beginning of the story he is positive, bright, and there is hope that he's going to become a instrument of good. As the story progresses he's steadily becomes more sociopathic. All he cares about is magic. All he cares about is power. He manipulates. He murders. He's vindictive and he breaks trust with his friend the prince. In the end I was very disappointed. I was quite sickened with his character. I did not want to continue to reading about his adventures. The boy I had come to like at the beginning of the story had become a power-hungry abuser of his gifts. I honestly feel like the author broke the main character. I will not be continuing with the series. Read the first book. If the changes don't matter to you let me not stand in your way. If you appreciate solid main characters and a clear main story then don't read this book.
The magic was great. Well explained, and inserted into the story well. What I disliked about this story was how the main character changed his morals quite rapidly. At the beginning of the story he is positive, bright, and there is hope that he's going to become a instrument of good. As the story progresses he's steadily becomes more sociopathic. All he cares about is magic. All he cares about is power. He manipulates. He murders. He's vindictive and he breaks trust with his friend the prince. In the end I was very disappointed. I was quite sickened with his character. I did not want to continue to reading about his adventures. The boy I had come to like at the beginning of the story had become a power-hungry abuser of his gifts. I honestly feel like the author broke the main character. I will not be continuing with the series. Read the first book. If the changes don't matter to you let me not stand in your way. If you appreciate solid main characters and a clear main story then don't read this book.
June 19, 2020
I think its great and very well written. I'm not sure what the 1 star review hated so much.
The novel does have an arranged marriage and what may appear to be a bit of a goody goody MC. But oh man does it take a turn. I absolutely loved the ending. They think he is clueless and you'll know what i mean when you get there. But he surely gets his revenge in a wonderful way. I can't wait for the next book!
I recommend some of us go on amazon and review there as well because he got an unfair start there.
*disclaimer: I don't know this author and this is the first book of his i have read.
The novel does have an arranged marriage and what may appear to be a bit of a goody goody MC. But oh man does it take a turn. I absolutely loved the ending. They think he is clueless and you'll know what i mean when you get there. But he surely gets his revenge in a wonderful way. I can't wait for the next book!
I recommend some of us go on amazon and review there as well because he got an unfair start there.
*disclaimer: I don't know this author and this is the first book of his i have read.
August 18, 2022
SPOILER REVIEW
This book was a lot to decide whether I liked. Objectively well written. But no characters are sympathetic. Now a dark gritty fantasy with morally grey characters can work. The most iconic example being A Song of Ice and Fire. But the way it’s written it’s clear there are some characters we’re supposed to sympathize with and root for. Specifically I’m talking about the main character, Otto. It sets Otto up as a kind gentle hearted noble who’s “not like the others”. Raised by an abusive father and brother to two brothers (one of which known for raping townspeople). Otto helps too people find their lost sister, saves lives, and OH GET THIS doesn’t rape his wife on their wedding night (OH MY SUCH A GENTLEMEN). I liked Otto for the first half, but the characterization of him is inconsistent. You want a blood thirsty magician who kills hundreds and methodically plot the kidnapping and framing of the man is cheating on him with? Cool, love a heartless protagonist. But you just spent the entire first quarter of the book detailing Otto has a weak soft hearted boy. Otto has no strong character traits to make him feel three dimensional. I cannot find the words to describe it but by the end of the story Otto had killed and turned into an evil ugly thing who had betrayed his own best friend, murdered men with no remorse and gushed about it inside. There was no transition. I’m all for dark protagonists but their unhinged moral nature has to be earned. Yes, allegedly Otto was abused by his father (and that cruelty can surely create a cruel person) but again and again we’re continually TOLD by characters how kind, gentle, and level headed Otto is, instead of SHOWN it from his actions. To be clear Otto commits three “acts of kindness” which can hardly be seen as such. One was helping two boys find his sister (done early in the book with no internal dialogue showing why Otto was motivated to help other than basic manners and being the Lord of the land), not raping his wife on the first night of their marriage (SEE GUYS HES NOT A RAPIST ISNT THAT SO NOBLE? And I’ll get to why this kindness is completely retconned later in the story), and letting the lover of his fiancé live after threatening him (an act Otto admits was because offensive magic is illegal and he didn’t want his future wife to be sour on him). Each instance is done early on and I supposed the author just assumed this alone was enough to carry Otto as a character through the narrative but honestly he’s boring and he’s switch to cold and heartless wizard committing acts of violence (even against those who deserve it) felt unearned and out of nowhere. The worst part is I’m pretty sure it was written that his descent wasn’t even that bad and that he’s in the right. Yes, he’s free the second class citizens of Magic users and attacking enemy forces in a war. But because we never get to see him struggle it’s hollow. We never see Otto seriously affected by the laws against magic it’s exhibited in third party characters (for example one of his magic teachers having to flee or talk of all magic users in neighboring lands being killed as children) but Otto himself doesn’t interact with any legal handicaps made even more apparent when he becomes friends with the Prince. The hunger in him to want to be powerful is understandable because of everyone in his life looking at him as weak for most of his childhood BUT his other actions to free magic users from slavery is his masters want projected onto him (Otto makes it clear he just wants her approval and is passionless in that regard). It made worse as he travels into the ghetto and emotionlessly regards the poverty in a manner so heartless it reckons all other “kind acts”. This is done repeatedly, Otto remarks of his brothers rapes of women in town as an unconvinced as if it’s someone as trivial as his brother having a bad haircut. Furthermore later in the book Otto tells his cheating wife (who had earlier in the story suffered an attempted rape by said brother) that he “should’ve let my brother have his way with you,”. Yes his wife cheated, but to remark he wish she’d be raped? If he kind or not. No, the author tells us he’s kind and that his evil is justified bc he’s been hurt or whatever but its sudden, inconsistent, and poorly written. Then we have Otto manipulating the prince into agreeing to assassinating his own father, and when the prince gets cold feet (please keep in mind this is the man who has been the protagonist best friend for the entirety of the book and has shown the protagonist nothing but kindness) secretly does it anyways. I think the author wanted to be be edgy but honestly neither action felt earned by what the protagonist has been through. Otto remarks that he was betrayed by his wife and felt weak his whole life but we don’t see enough of either to make this feel true. as an audience we are supposed to care but in all honestly I don’t. Otto is in such a place of privilege as a man in this setting all complaints are trivial. He stand to inherit an empire that his wife built but is a women so can’t control simply bc he married into it. He DOES NOT ONCE come in contact with the rules or process I’ve forces we’re told ALL OTHER MAGUC USERS in this world have to deal with bc of luck. Literally multiple times Otto is breaking the law or close to it and simply remarks “Glad no one saw that” “If I take it further I would’ve been hung” “Good thing my bestie the prince gave me permission”. Oh and I forgot he stumbles upon the ghost of the most powerful arcane magic user to ever exist bc if LUCK and she’s ofc takes him as an apprentice. Otto faces little to no opposition in the entire story so try as I might to root for his leaps in magic ability and triumphs I cannot. Otto works best in his homeland as we got to witness him repeatedly be demeaned and mistreated by his own family so him disproving their doubts with magic was good to read, but that’s a small portion of the book. After he left everyone was either awed, curious, or indifferent to his magic use. If the author was trying flush out a world of magical opression thats lasted over centuries it was poor, even if the kingdom this takes place is allegedly “more kind than the others to wizards”. Oh and we’re supposed to believe the ENTIRE CONTINENT was ruled by a female wizard before the war and now women can’t even own land or Inherit titles? Sorry but I find that a little unrealistic even if the war was a couple hundred years ago. Especially since it’s simply mentioned off handedly and never given an explanation.
Finally I’ll back track to other structure issues in the story. Otto is pretty dull to follow but his brother Axel’s chapters was like watched paint dry, he has no personality other than “kind soldier” and even with the few attempts to add witty banter in his unit it still fell flat. It was a great relief when we started following a lower ranked man Colton, his journey was the best part of the book I dare say. I was rooting for him and his characterization was strong.
August 24, 2022
4 stars- English audiobook
Otto Shenk is the youngest son of a minor baron.He's also a wizard.Abused by his father and oldest brother, and considered less than human by his kingdomfor he is a Wizard, Otto does his best to survive.
But everything changes when Otto stumbles across a tower hidden deep in a dark part of the forest near his home.
Looking for a girl gone missing.
A tower that was once the home of an Arcane Lord, the immortal wizards that long ago ruled the world. By this meeting Otto’s life will be changed forever.And so will the world.
It really bugged me a bit, for a while, that Otto never once asked or even wondered about Karonin's motive for teaching him. The Arcane Lord.
He merely asked her to teach him, she agreed and that was it. Even if he's as power-hungry as he's shown to be, it should be even more natural for him to wonder about her endgame, it has to go beyond just boredom.
The king, in my oppinion, is made absolutely unreasonable about even basic stuff like protecting his own people. I mean, I think it's not impossible for someone to be so paralyzed by fear.
is it maybe that it conveniently allows Otto rise quickly, wrapping it all up in a neat little bow.
Prince Wolfric needs more agency, he should be way more suspicious of his friend who so eagerly helped him "wound" his father, and now requests that wizards be allowed the same rights they used to have, while insisting they're no danger since they no longer have the incredible power they used to.
I have mixed feelings about the revenge plot. It didn't help that I could easily see his wife's point of view about being forced not only to marry him, and also depend on him for everything for the rest of her life.
But I can also see where Otto's fury comes from, at being betrayed and made a fool of, despite how good he'd been to her.
Up to the next audiobook in the series.
Otto Shenk is the youngest son of a minor baron.He's also a wizard.Abused by his father and oldest brother, and considered less than human by his kingdomfor he is a Wizard, Otto does his best to survive.
But everything changes when Otto stumbles across a tower hidden deep in a dark part of the forest near his home.
Looking for a girl gone missing.
A tower that was once the home of an Arcane Lord, the immortal wizards that long ago ruled the world. By this meeting Otto’s life will be changed forever.And so will the world.
It really bugged me a bit, for a while, that Otto never once asked or even wondered about Karonin's motive for teaching him. The Arcane Lord.
He merely asked her to teach him, she agreed and that was it. Even if he's as power-hungry as he's shown to be, it should be even more natural for him to wonder about her endgame, it has to go beyond just boredom.
The king, in my oppinion, is made absolutely unreasonable about even basic stuff like protecting his own people. I mean, I think it's not impossible for someone to be so paralyzed by fear.
is it maybe that it conveniently allows Otto rise quickly, wrapping it all up in a neat little bow.
Prince Wolfric needs more agency, he should be way more suspicious of his friend who so eagerly helped him "wound" his father, and now requests that wizards be allowed the same rights they used to have, while insisting they're no danger since they no longer have the incredible power they used to.
I have mixed feelings about the revenge plot. It didn't help that I could easily see his wife's point of view about being forced not only to marry him, and also depend on him for everything for the rest of her life.
But I can also see where Otto's fury comes from, at being betrayed and made a fool of, despite how good he'd been to her.
Up to the next audiobook in the series.
March 9, 2021
I have to thank previous reviews for sparing me the surprises in this read, despite of them I did like this book a good bit, as someone already mentioned this is like the raising of a future villain or at least a neutral evil. I like that MC is what the author intends to deliver, the only thing that felt lacking for me is how he dealt a punishment to the slight he suffered even so the development of his character was interesting to follow up.
August 29, 2022
3.5 Stars
This was my first experience going through an entire audiobook. I can see where this approach is advantageous when on a busy schedule and unable to pick up a physical book.
This was a pretty good read. I would not say it's the greatest as it was lacking a little depth in regards to the imagery (I'm learning that this is a big thing for me). I just didn't feel very attached to any of the characters. I'm not quite sure how I feel about our supposed protagonist as yet and I guess I failed to see exactly who or what forces he was going against except to feed his desire for knowledge and power. The plot was really good and I enjoyed the story itself. It was a mixture of emotions for me and a bit of a roller coaster but I enjoyed listening to it nonetheless. I will be moving on to the next audiobook in the series shortly and must admit I'm interested to see how this plot plays out in the long run.
This was my first experience going through an entire audiobook. I can see where this approach is advantageous when on a busy schedule and unable to pick up a physical book.
This was a pretty good read. I would not say it's the greatest as it was lacking a little depth in regards to the imagery (I'm learning that this is a big thing for me). I just didn't feel very attached to any of the characters. I'm not quite sure how I feel about our supposed protagonist as yet and I guess I failed to see exactly who or what forces he was going against except to feed his desire for knowledge and power. The plot was really good and I enjoyed the story itself. It was a mixture of emotions for me and a bit of a roller coaster but I enjoyed listening to it nonetheless. I will be moving on to the next audiobook in the series shortly and must admit I'm interested to see how this plot plays out in the long run.
April 19, 2021
Well, I be damned...
I stand corrected. I binged it like a madman. I don't normally do that. 😅
It's simple. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I am totally invested in the fortunes of Otto. I wholeheartedly support his conquest and I hope he destroys his enemies, just as he unwittingly sows the seeds of his own destruction in his backyard. This is another example that a nice villain origin story can be just as riveting as a hero's journey.
Let's be clear. The book is not perfect. There are a lot of useless POVs. We jump around a lot. There's not enough attention to detail in the whole buildup of momentous events, so most of them fall flat narratively.
BUT, I enjoyed the political and military intrigue, a lot! I totally disagree with the other reviewers over-stressing the cheating. That moment is really inconsequential in the whole scheme of things, a mere catalyst for the real action to start. A footnote... for now (but I am willing to bet it will play a bigger role later). I hope Otto starts facing more and more hardships, starts building a clan, faces powerful and cunning antagonists . I hope he prevails in ways that are worth reading, be it through might or mischief. I hope his other family members are brought back into the story somehow, either for or against him (against would be better). Because ultimately, this is not about "the right thing", this is about power. This is realpolitik and I love it.
I'm off to get the next one!
I am stoked.
4 stars. Unabashedly.
I stand corrected. I binged it like a madman. I don't normally do that. 😅
It's simple. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I am totally invested in the fortunes of Otto. I wholeheartedly support his conquest and I hope he destroys his enemies, just as he unwittingly sows the seeds of his own destruction in his backyard. This is another example that a nice villain origin story can be just as riveting as a hero's journey.
Let's be clear. The book is not perfect. There are a lot of useless POVs. We jump around a lot. There's not enough attention to detail in the whole buildup of momentous events, so most of them fall flat narratively.
BUT, I enjoyed the political and military intrigue, a lot! I totally disagree with the other reviewers over-stressing the cheating. That moment is really inconsequential in the whole scheme of things, a mere catalyst for the real action to start. A footnote... for now (but I am willing to bet it will play a bigger role later). I hope Otto starts facing more and more hardships, starts building a clan, faces powerful and cunning antagonists . I hope he prevails in ways that are worth reading, be it through might or mischief. I hope his other family members are brought back into the story somehow, either for or against him (against would be better). Because ultimately, this is not about "the right thing", this is about power. This is realpolitik and I love it.
I'm off to get the next one!
I am stoked.
4 stars. Unabashedly.
June 20, 2020
Dark, infuriating, but promising
I saw other bad reviews for this book. I understand them completely. The main character of this book is betrayed by his wife in the single worst way a woman can betray a man.
This dynamic is gut wrenching, but is necessary to the origin story of Otto, who I anticipate will not be a hero, but an anti-hero bordering on a villain in the books to come.
Accordingly, I am going to give this book 5 stars because I’ve liked this author’s other works, and I know that publishing on Amazon lives and dies by the star system.
However, I’ll offer some advice to the author. Otto needs more vengeance on those that have betrayed him or abused him in the past. This type of fiction is all about power fantasy. If his wife does not suffer additional consequences, I think you might lose me and others.
So as I said. Five stars, and I look forward to Otto’s decent into the moral grey area life has forced him down into.
I saw other bad reviews for this book. I understand them completely. The main character of this book is betrayed by his wife in the single worst way a woman can betray a man.
This dynamic is gut wrenching, but is necessary to the origin story of Otto, who I anticipate will not be a hero, but an anti-hero bordering on a villain in the books to come.
Accordingly, I am going to give this book 5 stars because I’ve liked this author’s other works, and I know that publishing on Amazon lives and dies by the star system.
However, I’ll offer some advice to the author. Otto needs more vengeance on those that have betrayed him or abused him in the past. This type of fiction is all about power fantasy. If his wife does not suffer additional consequences, I think you might lose me and others.
So as I said. Five stars, and I look forward to Otto’s decent into the moral grey area life has forced him down into.
June 19, 2020
Waist of money
Wow it's getting real hard to find a good book to read on Kindle.If I had known how bad this one was I would have not wasted my money!!! At one point I liked the writers books but he got very bad in some of his series This one is more of a romance deception type of book,not what I like it want it want to read..I have lost patience with bad books not only do they waist my money but more importantly my time!!
Wow it's getting real hard to find a good book to read on Kindle.If I had known how bad this one was I would have not wasted my money!!! At one point I liked the writers books but he got very bad in some of his series This one is more of a romance deception type of book,not what I like it want it want to read..I have lost patience with bad books not only do they waist my money but more importantly my time!!
September 15, 2023
I think the MC is kinda a villain 🤔
November 24, 2021
3.5 United In Pain And Hate Stars
The Hidden Tower is the first book in The Portal Wars Saga book series by James E. Wisher.
This is such an interesting concept. Not too terribly contrasting against what is already prevalent in the genre. Rather an amalgamation plucked from throughout the broad span of vaguely similar reads. Poor oppressed wizards, forced to strangle their own power and growth so that they may live at all, and yet only in one kingdom. Ironic that the same soft King who granted them leniency in their restricted lives, after the fall of the Arch Lords, is the same King whose death has freed them.
The plot:
While Otto worked his way towards a future of free and powerful wizards, there was an utter lack of foreshadowing leading up to his abrupt change in demeanor. Mostly this story focuses on the prevalent friction roiling along the Garenlen and Straven border. As the barbaric Ulfric of Straven shifts the other council members to discard Garenlen and sets this lonely Kingdom to its ultimate ruin.
Character development:
For Otto, as previously mentioned, his persona not so subtly shifts. Perhaps it was at the moment of Annamaria's betrayal, or a deeply seeded aspect of himself leftover from his upbringing, and Stephan's actions verily had an impact on this wildly unexpected change occurring. I think the most decisive factor in such a complete contrast in character will ultimately lie at the feet of Karonin. Whom, I atleast, do not think Otto should have so blindly trusted.
The world building:
Intriguing, I'll give Wisher that. However, not too terribly outstanding compared to what else it may be compared to in its own genre.
The Hidden Tower is the first book in The Portal Wars Saga book series by James E. Wisher.
This is such an interesting concept. Not too terribly contrasting against what is already prevalent in the genre. Rather an amalgamation plucked from throughout the broad span of vaguely similar reads. Poor oppressed wizards, forced to strangle their own power and growth so that they may live at all, and yet only in one kingdom. Ironic that the same soft King who granted them leniency in their restricted lives, after the fall of the Arch Lords, is the same King whose death has freed them.
The plot:
While Otto worked his way towards a future of free and powerful wizards, there was an utter lack of foreshadowing leading up to his abrupt change in demeanor. Mostly this story focuses on the prevalent friction roiling along the Garenlen and Straven border. As the barbaric Ulfric of Straven shifts the other council members to discard Garenlen and sets this lonely Kingdom to its ultimate ruin.
Character development:
For Otto, as previously mentioned, his persona not so subtly shifts. Perhaps it was at the moment of Annamaria's betrayal, or a deeply seeded aspect of himself leftover from his upbringing, and Stephan's actions verily had an impact on this wildly unexpected change occurring. I think the most decisive factor in such a complete contrast in character will ultimately lie at the feet of Karonin. Whom, I atleast, do not think Otto should have so blindly trusted.
The world building:
Intriguing, I'll give Wisher that. However, not too terribly outstanding compared to what else it may be compared to in its own genre.
August 12, 2020
This book was great. Almost perfect.
There's nothing quite as satisfying as a good revenge story. I admit I almost dropped the book about 1/3 of the way, in the set-up. But I'm glad I read through it. It changes genre a bit, it starts as a coming of age fantasy, then goes to some kind of romance book, and about half-way through it settles for military fantasy. I'll probably read the next, but honestly I'm satisfied with just this one as well. Mostly because I fear the author will take the next books in a darker direction, but hopefully I'm wrong and it won't be all suffering and military scenes (I'm not a fan). We'll see.
The only thing missing was the cathartic ending. The girl got off easy. Seriously.
There's nothing quite as satisfying as a good revenge story. I admit I almost dropped the book about 1/3 of the way, in the set-up. But I'm glad I read through it. It changes genre a bit, it starts as a coming of age fantasy, then goes to some kind of romance book, and about half-way through it settles for military fantasy. I'll probably read the next, but honestly I'm satisfied with just this one as well. Mostly because I fear the author will take the next books in a darker direction, but hopefully I'm wrong and it won't be all suffering and military scenes (I'm not a fan). We'll see.
The only thing missing was the cathartic ending. The girl got off easy. Seriously.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2020
Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely
Very interesting and refreshing to see a story with a main character who starts off relatively on the "good" end of the moral spectrum, and their slow descent into moral ambiguity if not outright corruption (yet) when tempted with power.
My only concern was that there were a few points where the protagonist suddenly gained new understanding and powers with no explanation or anything showing how he'd gained them. That was a little jarring.
Otherwise this was a delightfully dark and delicious look into an ambitious psyche. I can't wait to read the next one.
Very interesting and refreshing to see a story with a main character who starts off relatively on the "good" end of the moral spectrum, and their slow descent into moral ambiguity if not outright corruption (yet) when tempted with power.
My only concern was that there were a few points where the protagonist suddenly gained new understanding and powers with no explanation or anything showing how he'd gained them. That was a little jarring.
Otherwise this was a delightfully dark and delicious look into an ambitious psyche. I can't wait to read the next one.
February 17, 2021
A main character with backbone
As I began reading this book, I expected Otto to be a cookie cutter MC. He played similar to those light novel characters that have great power fall into their hands and having it not change them. Of course he got a perfect wife, a rich and influential father in law, and became best friends with the Prince. Then everything changed. In betrayal, we saw his anger emerge. In the dark light of an emerging war, he seized opportunities most would flinch at. Finally, he conspired to assassination to push his own agenda and get the power he desires. I'm looking forward to continue reading Otto's rise to power.
As I began reading this book, I expected Otto to be a cookie cutter MC. He played similar to those light novel characters that have great power fall into their hands and having it not change them. Of course he got a perfect wife, a rich and influential father in law, and became best friends with the Prince. Then everything changed. In betrayal, we saw his anger emerge. In the dark light of an emerging war, he seized opportunities most would flinch at. Finally, he conspired to assassination to push his own agenda and get the power he desires. I'm looking forward to continue reading Otto's rise to power.
February 24, 2021
I can’t decide how I feel about this book. It wasn’t poorly written but it was also immensely disturbing to watch the main character spiral into a mindless, power hungry, revenge seeking villain. He was the epitome of a “nice guy” in the worst way and the whole thing was a little too... real, for my tastes. Parts of it felt very much like gratuitous wish fulfillment in the parts revolving around revenge which was especially disturbing considering the main characters lack of attachment to his wife up until this point and his drastic reaction. Overall, I will not be continuing the series to watch out m/c further fall into his role as the villain.
July 16, 2021
It's not an awful book. It's a decent opener but the way he writes women REALLY sucks. It's almost distracting. Also, the main character's life is so bleak it's not believable. The reason why harry bleak life worked is because he got bailed out at about 13ish. This guy is almost 20 and he's been living in hell this whole time and he's supposedly "decent human being" his mom has 0 power and his older brother is creepy mean hateful being. With no bright spots no friends no real connection so ya.......... not believable. Almost distracting. Overall it isn't bad. --- THE POV switching is freakin skipping around just a bit much.
May 23, 2021
I think the story is good but it’s not well-written. The main character turns from a little weakling to a confident semi-evil or rather cruel war lord within minutes. The whole character development part is missing. The part where he becomes one with the ether also happened too fast, yet the way he used Lothair was way too dragged out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2021
This could have been a really good story. Unfortunately the main character is a budding supervillain that is played as a genuinely good guy, just one that would casually manipulate his best friend, deliberately brainwash someone, and even murder a benevolent king for not going to war. There are some other things that bothered me, but they pale compared to this.
May 4, 2021
3.5 Stars
I'd rate this higher except it's becoming clear this is a story of a good man being corrupted. How far down that spiral Otto goes will determine how long I stay with the series. I need to feel empathy toward the protagonist for a story to hold me.
I'd rate this higher except it's becoming clear this is a story of a good man being corrupted. How far down that spiral Otto goes will determine how long I stay with the series. I need to feel empathy toward the protagonist for a story to hold me.
December 30, 2021
Where to start, i struggled to finish this book, THe characters are completely out of touch, with what seems like no humanity in them at all. the Series has potential but after reading the first book, I won't be finishing the series.
April 7, 2024
The beginning and the end were quite good, but at some point in the middle I got lost and bored, and I didn’t like Otto’s development… I won’t read the rest of the series, but enjoyed parts of this one.
March 24, 2025
Started good. Lost me by the end.
MC starts off as a somewhat likable character, but by the end has pretty much gone full-chaotic-evil. Not my cup of tea. I’m out.
MC starts off as a somewhat likable character, but by the end has pretty much gone full-chaotic-evil. Not my cup of tea. I’m out.
November 15, 2021
I don't like stories where the MC gets Cucked.
March 2, 2024
I don't often feel thankful for Facebook, but this is one of those times. Otherwise, I might never have discovered The Portal Wars Saga. That would have been a shame.
This is a rip-roaring sword and sorcery spellbinder with lots of characters to cheer for or against set against a vivid background populated with lots of interesting characters and rules.
This first part of the series explains (without resorting to pages and pages of narrative, thank goodness!) how it came to be that in this world, wizards are tolerated but not generally valued. In some countries, they are slaves.
Otto, the third son of an overbearing Barron, is being taught magic by the family wizard. He has some aptitude. Then he makes a discovery that sets him on the road to power, wealth, peril, and international intrigue.
This is a voyage of discovery for Otto, whose father despises him as the useless son. Once he finds the hidden tower, however, he begins to find the means to forge his own path with or without his father's support. Along the way he makes friends and enemies. He has adventures and narrow escapes.
I highly recommend this book and the rest of the series. Give yourself some time because once you pick up this first book you won't want to stop reading until you've read all of them.
This is a rip-roaring sword and sorcery spellbinder with lots of characters to cheer for or against set against a vivid background populated with lots of interesting characters and rules.
This first part of the series explains (without resorting to pages and pages of narrative, thank goodness!) how it came to be that in this world, wizards are tolerated but not generally valued. In some countries, they are slaves.
Otto, the third son of an overbearing Barron, is being taught magic by the family wizard. He has some aptitude. Then he makes a discovery that sets him on the road to power, wealth, peril, and international intrigue.
This is a voyage of discovery for Otto, whose father despises him as the useless son. Once he finds the hidden tower, however, he begins to find the means to forge his own path with or without his father's support. Along the way he makes friends and enemies. He has adventures and narrow escapes.
I highly recommend this book and the rest of the series. Give yourself some time because once you pick up this first book you won't want to stop reading until you've read all of them.
April 14, 2025
Progression fantasy, where the main character is constantly powering up, is often simple, episodic, and cliché. The Hidden Tower has each of these, but not in a way that spoils the whole thing. Probably the healthiest mix you can get of these elements, while still having them.
Every part of James E Wishers writing is inoffensive, and dialog and description aren't memorable, but they aren't bad: much like Brandon Sanderson.
However, unlike great books in the space, The Hidden Tower lacks a compelling element. It's magic, a core focus of the "Progression" of the genre, is undefined and vague. It's characters are underexplored. It's world seems mostly flat. It doesn't have a climax to the scene it sets, but each scene feels important enough. The closest it gets is seeing the main character become what I would call "evil" (although the story doesn't punish him for it, yet), and the politics involved are just starting to get compelling when the story ends.
Overall, 3 out of 5.
Every part of James E Wishers writing is inoffensive, and dialog and description aren't memorable, but they aren't bad: much like Brandon Sanderson.
However, unlike great books in the space, The Hidden Tower lacks a compelling element. It's magic, a core focus of the "Progression" of the genre, is undefined and vague. It's characters are underexplored. It's world seems mostly flat. It doesn't have a climax to the scene it sets, but each scene feels important enough. The closest it gets is seeing the main character become what I would call "evil" (although the story doesn't punish him for it, yet), and the politics involved are just starting to get compelling when the story ends.
Overall, 3 out of 5.
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