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The Last Empath of Doctsland
A kingdom in danger. A royal family divided by greed. A warrior combining strength with magic.
Lisalya Manyeo is the only known empath left in the small seafaring country of Doctsland, so when they are threatened by their much stronger neighbor, Prince Viktor recruits her help. On their way, he trains her to fight.
Working together despite their very obvious differences, they go behind enemy lines to stir up a rebellion against his step-brother’s tyrannical rule. After initial success in recruiting people to join them, they are captured. Lisalya is gravely injured during interrogation, but Viktor nurses her back to life.
A final battle will determine who will rule, but sacrifices have to be made to defeat the enemy.
Will Lisalya and Viktor be able to overcome the odds stacked against them to save their country from certain destruction?
Lisalya Manyeo is the only known empath left in the small seafaring country of Doctsland, so when they are threatened by their much stronger neighbor, Prince Viktor recruits her help. On their way, he trains her to fight.
Working together despite their very obvious differences, they go behind enemy lines to stir up a rebellion against his step-brother’s tyrannical rule. After initial success in recruiting people to join them, they are captured. Lisalya is gravely injured during interrogation, but Viktor nurses her back to life.
A final battle will determine who will rule, but sacrifices have to be made to defeat the enemy.
Will Lisalya and Viktor be able to overcome the odds stacked against them to save their country from certain destruction?
- GenresFantasy
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2020
6 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 23, 2021
The Queen has died!
The citizens are a buzz, and the prince is worried.
War is coming.
His right to the throne is being challenged!
The countries of Bushland and Doctsland came together peacefully with the marriage of Prince Viktors father, the King of Doctsland to his step mother, a princess of Bushland. This union forming a temporary truce. The King has been dead for sometime and now the Queen has died. With her death the Prince fears that there could a be a battle for the throne. A fear that is warranted because the Queen's son, the current King of Bushland, is a tyrant and is making a claim for Doctsland.
There are rumors of a empath in a village outside of the capital, if these rumors are true an empath could help Viktor and Doctsland secure throne and country, while also saving the people of Bushland. So with two of his very best, Prince Viktor sails off in search of her.
Lisalya comes from long line of healers & ancient witches, her bloodline is powerful and she is the first empath in hundreds of years. She can sense emotions, find people, and physically feel other's pain. A cut on someone's leg, is felt as if she her self had been cut.
The Prince hopes she will help aid him as he travels to Busland to see if the people of that country will side with him to help over throw it's King before the King can destroy even more of Busland and do the same to Doctsland.
The Last Empath of Doctsland is a debut fantasy novel that could be marketed to both adult and young adult readers. It's a quick read, as it's a shorter read but it is also a fast moving book story wise. The events take place over a handful of months and they move quickly from one event to an other with not a lot of downtime. With that being said we still see moments of bonding and friendship. The story is very character driven and with less emphases on world building. Which given that it isn't an overly big book makes sense. I really like the friendships in this story, I also love that there is LGTBQ+ rep as well. I won't lie there were moments when I felt things were a little rushed in certain parts, and I felt that a certain character shouldn't have been able to do certain things, which why the rating is 3.5 rather than 4.
Keep in mind reading is subjective and what works for one person might not for the other and vice versa.
BUT with that being said over all I liked the book, both plot and characters and I would read more works written by this author.
I was part of the Book Tour for this book
Check out my The Last Empath of Doctsland blog post post for more information regarding the author and to find out about other stops.
February 22, 2021
The Last Empath of Doctsland by Leah Putz is an awesome adventure. The world building is absolutely phenomenal. It’s everything I’d hoped for when I picked this book up, and then some! This is the perfect escapist read. Once I was reading, there was no putting this down.
And as beautiful as the world is, the characters are what really make this novel shine. I am so impressed with how vastly unique and realistic they are. I loved following their journey.
Epic battle of good and evil paired with some romance, beautiful writing, and awesome characters, The Last Empath of Doctsland by Leah Putz is easily a five star read that I highly recommend!
*I received a free copy of this book from Damppebbles Blog Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
And as beautiful as the world is, the characters are what really make this novel shine. I am so impressed with how vastly unique and realistic they are. I loved following their journey.
Epic battle of good and evil paired with some romance, beautiful writing, and awesome characters, The Last Empath of Doctsland by Leah Putz is easily a five star read that I highly recommend!
*I received a free copy of this book from Damppebbles Blog Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
November 27, 2020
This adventure is set in a world of old magic, where sorcery exists although it is not a common occurrence. Lisalya has been born into The Manyeo family whose women have descended from a long line of witches. The family command respect in the village of Loch; Lisalya’s grandmother is a Healer and she recognises her granddaughter has the power of healing within her too, but it needs to be nurtured. I love the fact that there is a melody to sing whilst mending bones!
Lisalya, herself, has been gifted with the power of an empath which is very unusual, and a skill which is hard to bear; her hair has a streak of white in it, probably due to the stress of feeling everyone else’s pain. The poor young woman can constantly hear other people’s feelings which she can only block by learning to build walls in her mind (and drinking alcohol doesn’t help!).
When the Queen of Doctsland dies, Viktor, her stepson is challenged to the throne by his stepbrother, Siglind, the ruler of Bushand. Viktor knows he will need Lisalya’s help if they are to infiltrate Bushand and stage a coup. Viktor, the new king, doesn’t have the best of reputations and Lisalya isn’t keen to being press-ganged into leaving her homeland, although, her wise grandmother makes her see it is for the best – she has a duty to Doctsland and not just her village of Loch. I love the interaction and humour Putz shows between Viktor’s closest advisors; watching Viktor try to avoid meetings about his coronation and his bout of seasickness are entertaining. From the offset there is huge chemistry between Viktor and Lisalya and they are quick to snap at each other because they are both stubborn. Lisalya is furious when Viktor doesn’t listen to her warning, but the next minute she is overwhelmed by his tenderness. This tension is upheld throughout the novel and there is a healing scene which fizzes with romance.
Putz’s description of Bushand is stunning – I could visualise the bright green jungle, turquoise sea and curious jade sand. But there is a darkness to the story, encapsulated with a brutal incident involving a vile character called Captain Carthoc. This event, as well as being startling, introduces the idea that they might not be the only ones with magic on their side. The danger within the narrative heightens, as does the threat of an epic battle where the cobblestones swim with blood.
The characters, especially the sensible Siofra and Vik’s amusing childhood friend, Jion, are great at giving insight and background into Viktor’s complex character. Lisalya’s own learning curve is huge – she is taught how to use a sword (belonging to Viktor’s beloved mother) and throughout the journey learns; how to hone her skills as an empath; to trust her instincts; and that the ability to heal is within her. The end of the novel is moving as Lisalya returns to Loch with difficult decisions to make – can she go back to her original life after all she has witnessed? Viktor, meanwhile, learns that duty to his people is the most important thing, but there is no need for him to do it alone – he is loved.
This is a great fantasy adventure and a delicious will-they-won’t-they romance, offset with plenty of dark, mysterious undertones. A great read, but boy, does being an empath sound exhausting!
Lisalya, herself, has been gifted with the power of an empath which is very unusual, and a skill which is hard to bear; her hair has a streak of white in it, probably due to the stress of feeling everyone else’s pain. The poor young woman can constantly hear other people’s feelings which she can only block by learning to build walls in her mind (and drinking alcohol doesn’t help!).
When the Queen of Doctsland dies, Viktor, her stepson is challenged to the throne by his stepbrother, Siglind, the ruler of Bushand. Viktor knows he will need Lisalya’s help if they are to infiltrate Bushand and stage a coup. Viktor, the new king, doesn’t have the best of reputations and Lisalya isn’t keen to being press-ganged into leaving her homeland, although, her wise grandmother makes her see it is for the best – she has a duty to Doctsland and not just her village of Loch. I love the interaction and humour Putz shows between Viktor’s closest advisors; watching Viktor try to avoid meetings about his coronation and his bout of seasickness are entertaining. From the offset there is huge chemistry between Viktor and Lisalya and they are quick to snap at each other because they are both stubborn. Lisalya is furious when Viktor doesn’t listen to her warning, but the next minute she is overwhelmed by his tenderness. This tension is upheld throughout the novel and there is a healing scene which fizzes with romance.
Putz’s description of Bushand is stunning – I could visualise the bright green jungle, turquoise sea and curious jade sand. But there is a darkness to the story, encapsulated with a brutal incident involving a vile character called Captain Carthoc. This event, as well as being startling, introduces the idea that they might not be the only ones with magic on their side. The danger within the narrative heightens, as does the threat of an epic battle where the cobblestones swim with blood.
The characters, especially the sensible Siofra and Vik’s amusing childhood friend, Jion, are great at giving insight and background into Viktor’s complex character. Lisalya’s own learning curve is huge – she is taught how to use a sword (belonging to Viktor’s beloved mother) and throughout the journey learns; how to hone her skills as an empath; to trust her instincts; and that the ability to heal is within her. The end of the novel is moving as Lisalya returns to Loch with difficult decisions to make – can she go back to her original life after all she has witnessed? Viktor, meanwhile, learns that duty to his people is the most important thing, but there is no need for him to do it alone – he is loved.
This is a great fantasy adventure and a delicious will-they-won’t-they romance, offset with plenty of dark, mysterious undertones. A great read, but boy, does being an empath sound exhausting!
November 11, 2020
Leah Putz dazzles in her debut novel. It’s a story of well-rounded, likable characters coming together to defeat a common enemy. A strong heroine, a charismatic prince, a hilarious sidekick (whose husband steals the novel in his small segment), and an admirable warrior on a quest for justice. Putz creates a world easily visible in the minds eye, and delivers a solid story that left this reader wondering what is going to happen next.
February 21, 2021
Fantasy, romance, adventure... Why wasn't this book around when I was a young teen?! Oh well, I think I enjoyed it just as much as an adult! There is some lovely writing to be found in "The Last Empath of Doctsland", great and well-rounded characters, and a spell-binding plot to keep you reading past your bedtime. I hope to read a lot more from Leah Putz in the future.
This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion. My thanks to damppebblesblogtours
This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion. My thanks to damppebblesblogtours
February 20, 2021
This book was so entertaining and engaging, I really didn’t want to put it down. I’m hardly an expert in fantasy, but often I struggle with long books that spend a lot of time describing a new and exciting world as nothing much seems to happen. However, I was very happy that the world building of this book was done extremely well, and yet it still managed to move along at a fast pace that helped the story develop in a way that kept you hooked on every sentence.
Although fantasy, the events of the story didn’t seem too far-fetched – there were serious consequences and difficult choices to be made, as well as dynamic relationships between the different characters. I loved the range of strong, yet fully formed, female characters. There were no damsels-in-distress and instead it was Lisalya that goes on her own personal journey as she helps Viktor.
A great fantasy adventure with a dark edge and overall heart-warming feel, I can easily see myself reading this story again and again whenever I need some escapism and a little pick-me-up.
Although fantasy, the events of the story didn’t seem too far-fetched – there were serious consequences and difficult choices to be made, as well as dynamic relationships between the different characters. I loved the range of strong, yet fully formed, female characters. There were no damsels-in-distress and instead it was Lisalya that goes on her own personal journey as she helps Viktor.
A great fantasy adventure with a dark edge and overall heart-warming feel, I can easily see myself reading this story again and again whenever I need some escapism and a little pick-me-up.
December 31, 2020
This was a great read for someone like me who loves fantasy, political heroism, and a healthy dash of romance. The events of the novel felt very real-world, with hard life consequences and loss for the character's choices. I also appreciated the culture of natural magic in Lisalya's family and the different perspectives of the two main characters all along their journey. I found myself really cheering for the heroes towards the end and definitely loathing a few others. A wonderful story I'm happy to have picked up!
December 26, 2020
This was a lovely read! I really couldn’t put it down (the only reason I stopped is because I fell asleep lol). A beautiful and heartwarming story.
December 21, 2020
The Last Empath of Doctsland is a stunning debut novel from Leah Putz.
The character of Lisalya is intriguing from the first page of the book. She is a young woman with a heavy burden to bear but she has a strong heart and an even stronger family. The chemistry and love shown through Lisalya's family was heartwarming and breaks away from the common YA trope of 'parents meanORmurdered' backstory.
The other characters in Putz's work are equally as well rounded. There is witty banter between them and dynamic, realistic relationships. The story is fast paced and a quick read.
If you love a novel filled with a unique magic system, a high tension almost-romance and strong, diverse characters this book is for you!
The character of Lisalya is intriguing from the first page of the book. She is a young woman with a heavy burden to bear but she has a strong heart and an even stronger family. The chemistry and love shown through Lisalya's family was heartwarming and breaks away from the common YA trope of 'parents meanORmurdered' backstory.
The other characters in Putz's work are equally as well rounded. There is witty banter between them and dynamic, realistic relationships. The story is fast paced and a quick read.
If you love a novel filled with a unique magic system, a high tension almost-romance and strong, diverse characters this book is for you!
March 1, 2021
The Last Empath of Doctsland was a lovely debut, and a much-needed escape into a book that was a little lighter than some of the other books I’ve been reading lately, although still with the tension and action that I love in fantasy. It is a quick read in terms of length, and also because it is paced on the quicker side with a lot of events and action happening within its pages, and while there were a few places here and there that I felt could have been expanded on, it is one of those stories that sweeps you up and away and even with the fast pace, Putz takes the time to have some wonderful moments of bonding and friendship between the characters.
While this was very much a character-driven fantasy, which alongside the length meant that was a little less focus on worldbuilding, Putz has created a wonderful, multi-faceted world. I liked the feeling of old magic that permeated the book, although magic itself is not so common, as well as the idea of the main character being born into a bloodline, descended from witches (it’s one of those concepts that I just love). Even within that, the power of an Empath is very rare, and I have to say after reading the book it’s not a power I would ever want because it is so hard to block out everyone else. Beyond the magic, there were some truly beautiful descriptions of the world around the characters and events, and it was so easy to visualise the settings because of the way they were written.
The characters undoubtedly carried the book though, and what I particularly enjoyed was the growth that the two main characters especially underwent throughout the events of the book. From the beginning Lisalya and Viktor were strong, well-written characters, each facing their own choices and challenges, and the conflict of learning to work together against the backdrop of larger, more dangerous conflicts. While there is instant chemistry between them, the relationship was well-written and developed quite naturally through shared experiences and adversity, and I did enjoy watching it blossom. The secondary characters were just as well-written, with unique viewpoints and voices, and I would love to have spent more time with Jion and Siofra in particular.
Putz did a wonderful job of creating a real sense of consequence throughout the entire book, from the darkness and danger facing the characters in their attempt to start a rebellion, with all the risks that are involved from a personal level upwards. To the feeling that the characters were facing choices that held considerable impact, and watching as they grew into their roles, and learned to trust themselves and others with the weight of that possibility of making the wrong choice. There was plenty of tension and action, and it really was a page-turner as you find yourself caring for the characters and needing to know what is going to happen next.
A delightful read, with just the right edge of darkness. I would recommend to anyone looking for an engaging, quicker paced fantasy read, especially if you enjoy romance in your fantasy.
While this was very much a character-driven fantasy, which alongside the length meant that was a little less focus on worldbuilding, Putz has created a wonderful, multi-faceted world. I liked the feeling of old magic that permeated the book, although magic itself is not so common, as well as the idea of the main character being born into a bloodline, descended from witches (it’s one of those concepts that I just love). Even within that, the power of an Empath is very rare, and I have to say after reading the book it’s not a power I would ever want because it is so hard to block out everyone else. Beyond the magic, there were some truly beautiful descriptions of the world around the characters and events, and it was so easy to visualise the settings because of the way they were written.
The characters undoubtedly carried the book though, and what I particularly enjoyed was the growth that the two main characters especially underwent throughout the events of the book. From the beginning Lisalya and Viktor were strong, well-written characters, each facing their own choices and challenges, and the conflict of learning to work together against the backdrop of larger, more dangerous conflicts. While there is instant chemistry between them, the relationship was well-written and developed quite naturally through shared experiences and adversity, and I did enjoy watching it blossom. The secondary characters were just as well-written, with unique viewpoints and voices, and I would love to have spent more time with Jion and Siofra in particular.
Putz did a wonderful job of creating a real sense of consequence throughout the entire book, from the darkness and danger facing the characters in their attempt to start a rebellion, with all the risks that are involved from a personal level upwards. To the feeling that the characters were facing choices that held considerable impact, and watching as they grew into their roles, and learned to trust themselves and others with the weight of that possibility of making the wrong choice. There was plenty of tension and action, and it really was a page-turner as you find yourself caring for the characters and needing to know what is going to happen next.
A delightful read, with just the right edge of darkness. I would recommend to anyone looking for an engaging, quicker paced fantasy read, especially if you enjoy romance in your fantasy.
February 27, 2021
The Last Empath Of Doctsland by Leah Putz is a book that combines fantasy, adventure and even romance. This is the first time I have read any of Leah Putz's work and I must say I had such a good time reading about The Last Empath Of Doctsland.
This adventure is set in a world of magic. Lisalya has been born into a family whose women have descended from witches. Her grandmother is a Healer and she sees that Lisalya too has the potential but it needs to be brought out.
Lisalya is an empath and due to the stress of dealing with this unusual abilility her hair has a streak of white through it. She has yet to learn the ability to close her mind off by building walls within. The Queen of Doctsland dies and her stepson, Viktor, is challenged for the throne. He asks Lisalya for help as he knows without her all is lost. She feels like she is being pressured to leave, but her grandmother impresses upon her that she has a duty to her homeland as well as her village, so they set of on their adventure but will they manage to overcome everything to save their homeland?
This book is packed to the brim with action, magic and rich characters too. Leah Putz's descriptions of the world such as Bushand are literally amazing. I wished I was actually there it sounded beautiful with the curious jade sand and stunning turquoise sea made me jealous in the lock down we are currently experiencing here in the U.K.
I enjoyed getting to know Lisalya and Viktor along with Siofra and Jion. Jion is Viktors friend from his childhood and we get to know more about Viktor, his background and what he is really like. Lisalya's journey is one which gives her the biggest challenges to overcome. She learns how to hone her empath skills, realise she has the ability to heal and also how to trust her instincts. We see the difficult decisions she has as the story ends and Viktors realisations are nice to read.
A fantastic fantasy adventure that shows us not everything is easy and we can experience dark times but with courage and perserverance we can get through. I loved my time with Lisalya and Viktor and found the book made time fly by!
Thanks to Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Leah Putz for the copy of the book and my place on the final day of the tour.
This adventure is set in a world of magic. Lisalya has been born into a family whose women have descended from witches. Her grandmother is a Healer and she sees that Lisalya too has the potential but it needs to be brought out.
Lisalya is an empath and due to the stress of dealing with this unusual abilility her hair has a streak of white through it. She has yet to learn the ability to close her mind off by building walls within. The Queen of Doctsland dies and her stepson, Viktor, is challenged for the throne. He asks Lisalya for help as he knows without her all is lost. She feels like she is being pressured to leave, but her grandmother impresses upon her that she has a duty to her homeland as well as her village, so they set of on their adventure but will they manage to overcome everything to save their homeland?
This book is packed to the brim with action, magic and rich characters too. Leah Putz's descriptions of the world such as Bushand are literally amazing. I wished I was actually there it sounded beautiful with the curious jade sand and stunning turquoise sea made me jealous in the lock down we are currently experiencing here in the U.K.
I enjoyed getting to know Lisalya and Viktor along with Siofra and Jion. Jion is Viktors friend from his childhood and we get to know more about Viktor, his background and what he is really like. Lisalya's journey is one which gives her the biggest challenges to overcome. She learns how to hone her empath skills, realise she has the ability to heal and also how to trust her instincts. We see the difficult decisions she has as the story ends and Viktors realisations are nice to read.
A fantastic fantasy adventure that shows us not everything is easy and we can experience dark times but with courage and perserverance we can get through. I loved my time with Lisalya and Viktor and found the book made time fly by!
Thanks to Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Leah Putz for the copy of the book and my place on the final day of the tour.
February 27, 2021
Many thanks to Damppebbles Blog Tours, Leah Putz, and Darkstroke Books for providing me with a digital copy of The Last Empath of Doctsland with a request for an honest review.
I adore novels about medieval royals that include magic. The Last Empath of Doctsland didn’t disappoint. I loved this book so much, and I am still suffering a bit of a hangover. Leah Putz did a fantastic job writing an exciting fantasy. I hope there is more to come for Lisalya and Viktor.
Putz does it right with her arrogant king-to-be. Lisalya is sweet as they come, and I couldn’t help but love her. Jion and Siofra are Viktor’s best friends who make the best guards. The diversity in these characters is wonderful too. Usually, medieval fantasy is white as snow, but this novel includes a gay guard and a black heroine. It is great to see more authors beginning to branch out.
One thing that tends to turn me off about the fantasy genre is that they are very long and a bit of a drag. But, The Last Empath of Doctsland is the perfect length, and the action moves well. I was never bored and ready to jump ahead. To be honest, I could have stood with a little more. That is why I hope there is a sequel. I want to know more!
This story deserves 5 stars, thus I am awarding it 5 out of 5 stars for the glee I felt while reading. I can wholeheartedly recommend this novel to any fantasy lovers out there. There are no dragons, but the sword fighting and the magic are outstanding.
I adore novels about medieval royals that include magic. The Last Empath of Doctsland didn’t disappoint. I loved this book so much, and I am still suffering a bit of a hangover. Leah Putz did a fantastic job writing an exciting fantasy. I hope there is more to come for Lisalya and Viktor.
Putz does it right with her arrogant king-to-be. Lisalya is sweet as they come, and I couldn’t help but love her. Jion and Siofra are Viktor’s best friends who make the best guards. The diversity in these characters is wonderful too. Usually, medieval fantasy is white as snow, but this novel includes a gay guard and a black heroine. It is great to see more authors beginning to branch out.
One thing that tends to turn me off about the fantasy genre is that they are very long and a bit of a drag. But, The Last Empath of Doctsland is the perfect length, and the action moves well. I was never bored and ready to jump ahead. To be honest, I could have stood with a little more. That is why I hope there is a sequel. I want to know more!
This story deserves 5 stars, thus I am awarding it 5 out of 5 stars for the glee I felt while reading. I can wholeheartedly recommend this novel to any fantasy lovers out there. There are no dragons, but the sword fighting and the magic are outstanding.
October 12, 2020
Was lucky enough to get my hands on this book early and all I can say is that this was a major page-turner. Royalty, travel, battles, torture, war, and a love story - need I say more? This book was a joy to read, and it kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Miss Putz gets major bonus points for her inclusivity as well. LGBTQ+ characters are prominent in the book and their relationships are completely normalized and totally free from homophobia and homophobic ideals. From cover to cover this was a heart-warming adventure filled with laughter and a couple tears. Can't wait to read what Leah Putz writes next!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews