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Speaker of Ma'ila
Inside a dark, dead volcano, the Hkusi military prepares for war. There, Jharroz za Rukh faces an important day in his mage training: the rite of Ya’at khu ma’tika, where he must kill a man to become a weapon just like his father, Khatsik the Finisher. Will Jharroz rise to glory at the right hand of the emperor, or will he heed a different voice, one that is calling him toward another life, another place, and another self? Follow Jharroz on a dark and winding journey, full of adventure, self-discovery, friendship, and love.
Speaker of Ma'ila is the first book in the Speaker Trilogy by Trenton Anthony. Sequels Speakers of Elor and Speaker and the Hataka continue the Za Rukh family's adventures in Ma'ta.
Speaker of Ma'ila is the first book in the Speaker Trilogy by Trenton Anthony. Sequels Speakers of Elor and Speaker and the Hataka continue the Za Rukh family's adventures in Ma'ta.
- GenresFantasy
311 pages, Paperback
Published September 19, 2020
8 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Trenton Anthony
3 books21 followersTrenton Anthony is a writer, artist, and musician originally from Staunton, Virginia. After earning a B.A. in English from Virginia Tech, he moved to Wake Forest, North Carolina, to earn a Master’s in Ethics from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Fantasy fiction has been his constant companion, so he created an adventure of his own in the developing Speaker Trilogy. He hopes that Neu-Ka will fill his readers’ lives with light, now and always.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 13, 2021
It took me a little to get into the flow of this one because in the beginning the names had me stumbling. After I finally got the understanding down, this flowed extremely well and had me hooked.
The world you imagine while reading this is beautiful. If only we all saw in clarity such as this...open, free and inviting.
Just a fantastic story about understanding who you really are and are meant to be. Life over death. Light over dark. Sharing love with all people regardless of color or origins.
A review copy was provided by the publisher. While a written review after reading was not required, I have provided one. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
The world you imagine while reading this is beautiful. If only we all saw in clarity such as this...open, free and inviting.
Just a fantastic story about understanding who you really are and are meant to be. Life over death. Light over dark. Sharing love with all people regardless of color or origins.
A review copy was provided by the publisher. While a written review after reading was not required, I have provided one. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
June 22, 2021
There were a few things that really stood out to me as exceptional regarding the author's vivid painting of this story. The characters were extremely PRESENT, really drinking in moments in a much deeper way than modern books are usually written, with much less chatter and more presence. And the descriptions were gorgeously stunning.
There's a way in which the emphasis on the journey and not the destination, despite traversing both distance and experience, imbues and awakens an innate wisdom in the reader that integrates into the real-life experiences that follow after reading.
The way that the healing work was described was phenomenal- and earns a five-star review from me for it. Really an essential perspective for any Light worker. The author's description of being nourished as a "Speaker" by healing- called forth from "The One" through said "Speaker" and given to others- the nuance of the author's perspective is a must-read for any energy healer.
A beautiful and moving story. Just give the glossary a really good read first and you will be easily immersed in the Light and Love that weaves through this colorful world.
I don't usually review books, but I went out of my way for this one!
There's a way in which the emphasis on the journey and not the destination, despite traversing both distance and experience, imbues and awakens an innate wisdom in the reader that integrates into the real-life experiences that follow after reading.
The way that the healing work was described was phenomenal- and earns a five-star review from me for it. Really an essential perspective for any Light worker. The author's description of being nourished as a "Speaker" by healing- called forth from "The One" through said "Speaker" and given to others- the nuance of the author's perspective is a must-read for any energy healer.
A beautiful and moving story. Just give the glossary a really good read first and you will be easily immersed in the Light and Love that weaves through this colorful world.
I don't usually review books, but I went out of my way for this one!
January 25, 2022
This book reminded me of Lord of The Rings. It is an epic fantasy full of adventure, friendship, and a deep value of life. Although the pace was leisurely, it emphasized the journey and the growth of the characters rather than the destination, which was insightful. The characters were also great!
December 9, 2021
Imaginative and fun world
Speaker of Ma’ila is a highly imaginative work of fiction. There are a great many original ideas the author pursued in this book. The world building was well done! I could clearly tell the differences between people groups based on religions, diet, and mannerisms. This Fantasy adventure also had a wonderful message about leaving the old ways of thinking behind in pursuit of good living. There were some truly touching moments throughout this story, and let me reiterate, this is a good story! If you are looking for an imaginative fantasy world to read with your children with well-developed characters and interesting lore, I recommend Speaker of Ma’ila.
Speaker of Ma’ila is a highly imaginative work of fiction. There are a great many original ideas the author pursued in this book. The world building was well done! I could clearly tell the differences between people groups based on religions, diet, and mannerisms. This Fantasy adventure also had a wonderful message about leaving the old ways of thinking behind in pursuit of good living. There were some truly touching moments throughout this story, and let me reiterate, this is a good story! If you are looking for an imaginative fantasy world to read with your children with well-developed characters and interesting lore, I recommend Speaker of Ma’ila.
October 16, 2020
I love the warmth and joy that comes through in this book. So many beautiful reflections on what it means to love and care for others, to be free, to do what is right. A great adventure story with some interesting new magic for you fantasy-lovers!
November 19, 2020
Exciting start to finish
From start to to finish the Speaker of Ma'ila draws you into its world and lore. A thought provoking and fun story and for Anthony's first book impressive! Sign me up for his next one now.
From start to to finish the Speaker of Ma'ila draws you into its world and lore. A thought provoking and fun story and for Anthony's first book impressive! Sign me up for his next one now.
May 25, 2021
This dad read “Speaker of Ma’ila” by debut author Trenton Anthony, the first in his “Speaker Trilogy”. “Ma’ila” is a fantasy novel based in an imaginative world and focuses on Jharroz, a blue-skinned being whose magical gifts have always required him to take life to utilize them, until he strikes out on his own and discovers the beauty of life and love.
What I enjoyed most about “Speaker of Ma’ila” is that the journey the characters go on is one focused on internal discovery and acceptance. Sure there are action scenes and peril, but instead of focusing on an epic task, Anthony has chosen to focus on one that is relatable to all readers: the quest for one’s inner purpose. Jharroz has been raised to think that his magic powers require him to take life to use them, a practice that ultimately sparks his rebellion from the establishment.
When Jharroz comes into contact with a being with similar (if not even greater) abilities, he learns that she draws from a higher being and ultimately gives him the credit for her abilities. Similar to how the force works in Star Wars, Jharroz comes to understand that power can come from life without causing harm and it’s really all about how he chooses to use his power that really matters. I appreciate how Trenton managed to focus the narrative on spiritual elements without it coming across as some sort of hidden agenda. Readers are ultimately gifted with a peace-filled book that chooses love and light over hate and darkness.
In addition to coming to a deeper understanding of his abilities, Jharroz also comes to know the power of friendship. The physical quest he embarks introduces him to beings from other parts of the world, with different cultures and skin colors than his own. It’s in the cultivating of relationships that Jharroz comes to the realization that life is better when lived in community. He experiences the kindness and love of others and is inspired to do the same.
“Ma’ila” relies on vivid imagery to tell its story and Trenton shines in his description of the peoples of his world (skin/hair/eye colors), the landscapes (land/sea) and elements (fire/water). Having followed the author on Instagram for a while now (@speaker_trilogy) it’s clear that art is one of his creative inspirations – and was one of the main reasons I was anticipating “Ma’ila” so much. While there are shades of inspiration from Avatar and Jim Henson, this world is one that is completely original and a joy to explore.
Like any world-building fantasy, there is some stage-setting to be done. There are unique character names, locations and words that took me a minute to get used to but ultimately didn’t hinder my reading experience.
“Speaker of Ma’ila”‘s imaginative world, image-rich writing and soul-satisfying storyline was a pleasure to read and I recommend for fantasy lovers everywhere.
What I enjoyed most about “Speaker of Ma’ila” is that the journey the characters go on is one focused on internal discovery and acceptance. Sure there are action scenes and peril, but instead of focusing on an epic task, Anthony has chosen to focus on one that is relatable to all readers: the quest for one’s inner purpose. Jharroz has been raised to think that his magic powers require him to take life to use them, a practice that ultimately sparks his rebellion from the establishment.
When Jharroz comes into contact with a being with similar (if not even greater) abilities, he learns that she draws from a higher being and ultimately gives him the credit for her abilities. Similar to how the force works in Star Wars, Jharroz comes to understand that power can come from life without causing harm and it’s really all about how he chooses to use his power that really matters. I appreciate how Trenton managed to focus the narrative on spiritual elements without it coming across as some sort of hidden agenda. Readers are ultimately gifted with a peace-filled book that chooses love and light over hate and darkness.
In addition to coming to a deeper understanding of his abilities, Jharroz also comes to know the power of friendship. The physical quest he embarks introduces him to beings from other parts of the world, with different cultures and skin colors than his own. It’s in the cultivating of relationships that Jharroz comes to the realization that life is better when lived in community. He experiences the kindness and love of others and is inspired to do the same.
“Ma’ila” relies on vivid imagery to tell its story and Trenton shines in his description of the peoples of his world (skin/hair/eye colors), the landscapes (land/sea) and elements (fire/water). Having followed the author on Instagram for a while now (@speaker_trilogy) it’s clear that art is one of his creative inspirations – and was one of the main reasons I was anticipating “Ma’ila” so much. While there are shades of inspiration from Avatar and Jim Henson, this world is one that is completely original and a joy to explore.
Like any world-building fantasy, there is some stage-setting to be done. There are unique character names, locations and words that took me a minute to get used to but ultimately didn’t hinder my reading experience.
“Speaker of Ma’ila”‘s imaginative world, image-rich writing and soul-satisfying storyline was a pleasure to read and I recommend for fantasy lovers everywhere.
July 11, 2021
Deep inside burns a need for change, for a better existence.
@speaker_trilogy story Speaker of Ma'ila explores the heart dissatisfied, seeking a truer sense of purpose.
"Do not dwell in the past, dear boy,...It is gone, and is no longer a proper house to live in." Only a journey can teach the lesson of the past. Only difficult choices made through suffering and sacrifice teach us to let go.
Opening in the heat of a living volcano's belly, we meet Jharroz on the eve of his initiation through the ya'atkhuma'tika in order to become a powerful leader among the Hkusi. Through a singular decision, Jharroz chose not to be "no more than a spear in another man's hand..." He chooses a new path into an unknown world as a fugitive and friendship with the enemy.
Through vivid colors and robust relationships, Botek joins Jharroz on a mission to save his dear friend while finding redemption and strength within the light of Neu-ka.
Speaker of Ma'ila is an adventurous read safe even for younger readers of fantasy. The themes of longing and being lost within yourself are relatable by any aged reader.
@speaker_trilogy story Speaker of Ma'ila explores the heart dissatisfied, seeking a truer sense of purpose.
"Do not dwell in the past, dear boy,...It is gone, and is no longer a proper house to live in." Only a journey can teach the lesson of the past. Only difficult choices made through suffering and sacrifice teach us to let go.
Opening in the heat of a living volcano's belly, we meet Jharroz on the eve of his initiation through the ya'atkhuma'tika in order to become a powerful leader among the Hkusi. Through a singular decision, Jharroz chose not to be "no more than a spear in another man's hand..." He chooses a new path into an unknown world as a fugitive and friendship with the enemy.
Through vivid colors and robust relationships, Botek joins Jharroz on a mission to save his dear friend while finding redemption and strength within the light of Neu-ka.
Speaker of Ma'ila is an adventurous read safe even for younger readers of fantasy. The themes of longing and being lost within yourself are relatable by any aged reader.
August 8, 2022
I'm a bit on the fence about this book. I like the premise. The idea of having three cultures that use magic in very different ways, and how that plays out in their societal structure, is very interesting and, in this case comes with a very deep message about life and the true power of sharing. However, the writing style was totally not for me, and the sheer number of foreign concepts and new terms was overwhelming. If it hadn't been for the brilliant hook at the end of the first chapter, I might very well have put the book down and never picked it up again. Thankfully, I finished, and the ending was really good, pulling my overall rating up from a three to a four, but it was a mighty long slog to get there. It doesn't usually take me over a week to read 300 pages.
September 12, 2022
Incredible! This is a first-time author?
The thought, love and passion that went into creating this work is impressive. If you enjoy Christian fantasy, how could you not enjoy Anthony’s Speaker of Ma’ila?! Within these pages are lessons to be learned as Anthony takes us on a journey into friendship, loyalty, faith teaching us through story how all these things interact in the human spirit. Take some time to give this one a read. Not only will you be glad you did, you'll feel good when you close this book, and dare I say this work may even inspire you to be better.
The thought, love and passion that went into creating this work is impressive. If you enjoy Christian fantasy, how could you not enjoy Anthony’s Speaker of Ma’ila?! Within these pages are lessons to be learned as Anthony takes us on a journey into friendship, loyalty, faith teaching us through story how all these things interact in the human spirit. Take some time to give this one a read. Not only will you be glad you did, you'll feel good when you close this book, and dare I say this work may even inspire you to be better.
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October 26, 2021Trenton Anthony is a superb world builder and storyteller! The depth of his world has blown me away (he has his own language!).
If you love clean, epic fantasy tales rich in culture, religion, and characters seeking to understand and better themselves, you will love Speaker of Ma‘ila. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie and banter amongst the found family main characters.
Anthony deftly weaves profound statements that stay with you long after you read the final page. Two of my favorites are:
“Do not dwell in the past, dear boy . . . It is gone, and is no longer a proper house to live in.”
“Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not known, and here, only, is today.”
Well done!
If you love clean, epic fantasy tales rich in culture, religion, and characters seeking to understand and better themselves, you will love Speaker of Ma‘ila. I especially enjoyed the camaraderie and banter amongst the found family main characters.
Anthony deftly weaves profound statements that stay with you long after you read the final page. Two of my favorites are:
“Do not dwell in the past, dear boy . . . It is gone, and is no longer a proper house to live in.”
“Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not known, and here, only, is today.”
Well done!
March 6, 2022
I started this one because I knew the author but fell in love with it on its own merit.
This book is a beautiful combination of adventure, magic, and friendship wrapped in colorful prose. Though the world is highly imaginative, it’s clear and concrete, swallowing you up in the story.
The created names and places can get confusing, but as a linguist, I really enjoyed it. Plus, there’s a glossary and a map for reference when you inevitably forget words. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it felt like an added puzzle element.
Overall, I finished the book feeling lighter and happier for having read it. Looking forward to the rest of the trilogy.
This book is a beautiful combination of adventure, magic, and friendship wrapped in colorful prose. Though the world is highly imaginative, it’s clear and concrete, swallowing you up in the story.
The created names and places can get confusing, but as a linguist, I really enjoyed it. Plus, there’s a glossary and a map for reference when you inevitably forget words. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it felt like an added puzzle element.
Overall, I finished the book feeling lighter and happier for having read it. Looking forward to the rest of the trilogy.
September 30, 2021
Speaker of Ma’ila is a rich, immersive fantasy story set in a world with three distinct races with their own traditions, religions, and culture. It follows a likeable character, Jharroz, as he struggles with leaving behind everything he ever knew and embracing a new culture and way of life that was previously unknown to him. This sets off a great adventure with the addition of some amazing side characters that the reader will quickly come to love. It is reminiscent of Tolkien’s LOTR in that there are plenty of side missions and time getting to know Jharroz and his band of merry friends.
Anthony is an amazing author and the time he put into world building and developing three distinct cultures and languages only makes the story that much more enthralling. Besides that, it was a fun book to read, and I was rooting for Jharroz and his friends. It had a satisfying ending and set up the second book perfectly. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of fantasy.
Anthony is an amazing author and the time he put into world building and developing three distinct cultures and languages only makes the story that much more enthralling. Besides that, it was a fun book to read, and I was rooting for Jharroz and his friends. It had a satisfying ending and set up the second book perfectly. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of fantasy.
June 25, 2022
This book was a fantastic read! It was beautiful, vivid, and very well written!
April 8, 2021
3.5 stars
This was so imaginative! This started out with a sad sense of darkness. People were killing animals to help their magic. It boosted them and made it effective. Jharroz does not like killing the animals and from the realization and the actions he took to refuse, we are taken on a journey of friendship, freedom, love and the meaning of family.
The characters were lovable and kind and you could feel the warmth from their friendship. Their loyalty and love were admirable.
I loved the beginning and the end but in between, the journey got a bit long. My attention waned and the plot seemed repetitious. There were so many characters that I had a hard time remembering each one. While the language was very fun, I couldn’t tell the difference between a few words and found myself flipping to the glossary many times.
I did love the character development a lot. It was predictable but in the best way. I wanted all the good in the world to come to these characters and I wanted to read their successes.
The content review is on my blog!
Great debut by Trenton Anthony! Thank you for trusting me with your work. He wrote the sweetest note with a copy of the book and I love that.
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2021/04/...
This was so imaginative! This started out with a sad sense of darkness. People were killing animals to help their magic. It boosted them and made it effective. Jharroz does not like killing the animals and from the realization and the actions he took to refuse, we are taken on a journey of friendship, freedom, love and the meaning of family.
The characters were lovable and kind and you could feel the warmth from their friendship. Their loyalty and love were admirable.
I loved the beginning and the end but in between, the journey got a bit long. My attention waned and the plot seemed repetitious. There were so many characters that I had a hard time remembering each one. While the language was very fun, I couldn’t tell the difference between a few words and found myself flipping to the glossary many times.
I did love the character development a lot. It was predictable but in the best way. I wanted all the good in the world to come to these characters and I wanted to read their successes.
The content review is on my blog!
Great debut by Trenton Anthony! Thank you for trusting me with your work. He wrote the sweetest note with a copy of the book and I love that.
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2021/04/...
May 25, 2021
One of the best fantasy books I’ve ever read!
Anthony does an incredible job of world-building that immerses the reader in its beauty. An island world with multiple moons of differing color. Characters from different races, cultures, and religions mingle throughout this fantasy adventure which finds a protagonist struggling with his past and seeking to redeem and rebuild himself into someone he loves and is proud to become.
What was most impressive were the multiple languages which Anthony created for each of the peoples in the story. A mix of what sounds like Hawaiian Pidgin and Arabic melded into beautiful new languages used throughout the book (and a comprehensive translation guide to help along the way). He even created songs which accompany the story, as well as an historical mythology of the people’s of this world.
A thoroughly creative and unique story filled with vibrant imagery and unforgettable characters. I’m hooked on this series and eagerly await the second installment.
Anthony does an incredible job of world-building that immerses the reader in its beauty. An island world with multiple moons of differing color. Characters from different races, cultures, and religions mingle throughout this fantasy adventure which finds a protagonist struggling with his past and seeking to redeem and rebuild himself into someone he loves and is proud to become.
What was most impressive were the multiple languages which Anthony created for each of the peoples in the story. A mix of what sounds like Hawaiian Pidgin and Arabic melded into beautiful new languages used throughout the book (and a comprehensive translation guide to help along the way). He even created songs which accompany the story, as well as an historical mythology of the people’s of this world.
A thoroughly creative and unique story filled with vibrant imagery and unforgettable characters. I’m hooked on this series and eagerly await the second installment.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews