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All the Queen's Men #1
Of Slaves and Exiles
What happens when the person you were counting on to help you save the world is a drug addict?From the point of view of Ewan Inathius, heir to the throne of the Curae, nothing could be worse than spending his life in hiding from the evil magical despot, Ischis, High King of Verdania. When Ewan asks for help from Constance Neethe, heir to the throne of Men, it is with the hope that she wants the same. After all, it is Constance’s people who have been put into slavery while the immortal Curae lord it over them.But Constance is an immature girl of twenty, content in her safety under the protection of her Cura guardian. Moreover, no one knows about her addiction to temeo, a powerful drug and a key ingredient in magical spells. How can she fight against a world where all humans are slaves and her addiction makes her susceptible to every evil enchantment?
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2020
1 person is currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Gaffney
2 books45 followersHello all! My name is Margaret Gaffney, and I am a new adult fantasy author with the goal of bringing more of the True the Good, and the Beautiful into the world through story. Unsurprisingly, I'm also an avid reader, and I love diving headfirst into books and getting hopelessly entangled until the inevitable last chapter.
I juggle my time between my the business of life, spending time with my enormous family, and creating worlds out of my head.
There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.
-C.S. Lewis
I juggle my time between my the business of life, spending time with my enormous family, and creating worlds out of my head.
There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.
-C.S. Lewis
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
January 5, 2021
Margaret Gaffney builds a really cool magical mythology and plunges us into a fantasy uprising in Of Slaves and Exiles! Ewan, heir to the throne of the magical Curae, seeks help in defeating the High King of Verdania. He finds this in the unlikely ally of Constance, heiress to the throne of Men, the same people enslaved by the Curae. Unfortunately, Constance must battle with her own demons, including her addiction to a magical drug, before she has any hope of helping Ewan. Ewan and Constance are both complicated characters and I loved all the depth Gaffney put into them and her world! It was fun exploring Verdania and the history of the struggle between humanity and the Curae, and seeing how all that laced itself into Ewan and Constance’s struggle. If you love slightly darker fantasy with thoughtful characters and in depth lore, come fix your addiction with Of Slaves and Exiles!
December 27, 2021
Compelling Fantasy!
Of Slaves and Exiles: All the Queen's Men is the most convincing "reluctant chosen one" I have read. Though written in the third person omniscient POV, the narrative focuses mainly on Constance, the only living heir to the Neethe throne, who has been in hiding with her guardian, Anastasia, for twenty years. Ewan, Prince of the Curae, seeks her out, telling her she is needed to help lead a rebellion against the evil sorcerer responsible for the deaths of their parents. There is only one problem: Constance is addicted to Temeo.
The premise of a heroine who is hooked on drugs was a new one for me, but it was extremely well done. I had sympathy for her, and though her choices were frustrating, they made sense. The unique role of the drug as a villain in a fantasy story worked amazingly well. Constance wants to free her people, but is hindered by her need, and the reader roots for the seemingly impossible hope that she will become free herself.
For most of the book, the characters are on a journey. Magic lurks in the background, playing a minor role, although there are a couple of magical creatures, one of whom I expected to see more of--maybe in a later novel. Ewan, an almost perfect hero whose only fault is extreme optimism, leads the party, garnering immediate respect due to his birthright but earning it through feats of skill and endurance, loyalty, and fearless friendship--the kind that will tell you the truth even if you don't want to hear it. Gaffney excels at dialoge. I especially enjoyed the interactions between Anastasia and Gabriel, Ewan's servant. The intense action sequences balanced emotion and movement perfectly.
A map would be nice, but otherwise the world-building was great! The reader fully visualizes the setting through the experiences of the characters without being slowed down by unnecessary details. I would have liked a clearer physical distinction between humans and Curae--it was mostly based on clothing or circumstances and felt like it was supposed to be obvious except when it wasn't.
The ending is not a cliffhanger, but is definitely "to be continued", so hopefully book 2 will be out soon! A compelling story!
No explicit language or sexual content.
Of Slaves and Exiles: All the Queen's Men is the most convincing "reluctant chosen one" I have read. Though written in the third person omniscient POV, the narrative focuses mainly on Constance, the only living heir to the Neethe throne, who has been in hiding with her guardian, Anastasia, for twenty years. Ewan, Prince of the Curae, seeks her out, telling her she is needed to help lead a rebellion against the evil sorcerer responsible for the deaths of their parents. There is only one problem: Constance is addicted to Temeo.
The premise of a heroine who is hooked on drugs was a new one for me, but it was extremely well done. I had sympathy for her, and though her choices were frustrating, they made sense. The unique role of the drug as a villain in a fantasy story worked amazingly well. Constance wants to free her people, but is hindered by her need, and the reader roots for the seemingly impossible hope that she will become free herself.
For most of the book, the characters are on a journey. Magic lurks in the background, playing a minor role, although there are a couple of magical creatures, one of whom I expected to see more of--maybe in a later novel. Ewan, an almost perfect hero whose only fault is extreme optimism, leads the party, garnering immediate respect due to his birthright but earning it through feats of skill and endurance, loyalty, and fearless friendship--the kind that will tell you the truth even if you don't want to hear it. Gaffney excels at dialoge. I especially enjoyed the interactions between Anastasia and Gabriel, Ewan's servant. The intense action sequences balanced emotion and movement perfectly.
A map would be nice, but otherwise the world-building was great! The reader fully visualizes the setting through the experiences of the characters without being slowed down by unnecessary details. I would have liked a clearer physical distinction between humans and Curae--it was mostly based on clothing or circumstances and felt like it was supposed to be obvious except when it wasn't.
The ending is not a cliffhanger, but is definitely "to be continued", so hopefully book 2 will be out soon! A compelling story!
No explicit language or sexual content.
October 30, 2020
What a great introduction to a series! I love reading stories with a flawed protagonist, and Constance fits the bill. She is messy and real, and even when she makes decisions you disagree with, you can't help but root for her. I'll be keeping an eye out for the sequel.
December 8, 2020
Brilliant author that creates a magical world
Margaret is a brilliant mind that captures the reader into her world. I immediately loathed and loved Constance. I cannot wait to see how her story develops in the next book.
Margaret is a brilliant mind that captures the reader into her world. I immediately loathed and loved Constance. I cannot wait to see how her story develops in the next book.
March 19, 2021
An excellent first novel!
Gaffney writes an enjoyable YA tale that is both light and deals with dark themes that give the plot weight without dragging it down. Her style is readable but not juvenile, though there are a few typos here and there.
I can't wait for the next in the series and hope this author goes on to greater things!
Gaffney writes an enjoyable YA tale that is both light and deals with dark themes that give the plot weight without dragging it down. Her style is readable but not juvenile, though there are a few typos here and there.
I can't wait for the next in the series and hope this author goes on to greater things!
August 23, 2021
I’m not a big reader of fantasy but picked up Of Slaves and Exiles on the advise of a friend who was. I was pleasantly surprised to find it similar to a contemporary coming-of-age novel, full of identity crisis, fear of failure, and a host of vices so typical of the genre.
Constance Neeth, lost princess to the throne of Men, is introduced to the reader incognito as Deidre, a slave and kick-ass tavern card shark who gets into a scrape after winning a card game. She handles herself admirably but is assisted by Ewan Inathius. Ewan is himself searching to secure his birthright as heir to the Curae throne which was years ago taken by force by Ischis, King of Verdania, the kingdom once ruled by Ewan’s murdered father, Alexander. It was Alexander’s benevolence that united the human race and the Curae race. The Curae, a powerful people of magic and strength, were to serve as protectorates of humans. The rule of the evil Ischis has changed all that.
Ewan needs Constance to train and lead an army of Curae and humans to restore his father’s vision for humankind. He is older than Constance, wiser, more dedicated and purposeful. His mission will not accept nor tolerate any delays or miscalculations. But Constance, a mere twenty years old and in constant fear and hiding with Anastasia, her guardian, has no such pre-conceived notions of glory. Reclamation of the throne is a fairy tale never worthy of thought.
It takes Ewan time to coax her from her sheep’s clothing. She must transform into that warrior needed for the upcoming battle. She must train for the task, study the magic of the Curae, learn to be a leader, and most of all, believe in herself.
But she is still childlike which is what makes her journey that much more intriguing. Most of her life has been in hiding as a slave, keeping her safe in the lands held by slave owners. There, she received room and board and tokens for which to play card games in the tavern owned by the slave owners. Her only real worry, not being found out as a princess, a task that falls on the shoulders of Anastasia. Besides her self-doubt and fears, she is heavily addicted to the drug, temeo.
Throughout the book Ewan and the recruits he has collected work with Constance who shows promise and skill but cannot get over the hurdles to become the leader the cause needs. Ewan grows angry and frustrated over her progress. He tells Anastasia, herself a Curae warrior, that she must work harder. But the temeo addiction, which is to this point unknown to the others, proves a difficult adversary. Making it worse for the newly form assemblage, Constance has learned a secret; Anastasia was the warrior who killed her parents during the great battle led by Ischis. Unknown to Constance, though, is Anastasia presence in her life is not nefarious. Finding the baby Constance after her parents death, Anastasia vows to be her protectorate for all her days.
To those tired of fantasy worlds of great imagination but lacking in human touch and emotion, Of Slave and Exiles will be a welcome. Who can really identify with immature, inexperienced youth handling the pressures of world-wide destruction? The author, Margaret Gaffney, is able to relate to the reader how such a dramatic change can occur. Such heart-wrenching decisions and hard choices are made by each of us based upon what our daily lives have given us. That includes issues of self-doubt, anger, fear, addictions. Overcoming all this will be a task for Constance and her group. Maintaining it will a still greater one. And that is the reality to this fantasy.
Now, I did state that I am not a fantasy enthusiast. That said, I wished there was more magic demonstrated. The Curae do have a way to transport themselves through space. But this really cool trick is mainly talked about and only occasionally used in undramatic fashion. I am thinking and hoping that the sequels will exploit these strengths and magics of the Curae. And maybe rub off on Constance and the human race.
Also, we know that Ischis is evil. Gaffney tells us such. But the reader is left to wonder about the evil empire he has created in lieu of the united universe of Alexander. Again, a few chapters in the sequels dedicated to Ischis and his regime will be a great backdrop to the sure victory(?) Ewan and Constance will forge.
Constance Neeth, lost princess to the throne of Men, is introduced to the reader incognito as Deidre, a slave and kick-ass tavern card shark who gets into a scrape after winning a card game. She handles herself admirably but is assisted by Ewan Inathius. Ewan is himself searching to secure his birthright as heir to the Curae throne which was years ago taken by force by Ischis, King of Verdania, the kingdom once ruled by Ewan’s murdered father, Alexander. It was Alexander’s benevolence that united the human race and the Curae race. The Curae, a powerful people of magic and strength, were to serve as protectorates of humans. The rule of the evil Ischis has changed all that.
Ewan needs Constance to train and lead an army of Curae and humans to restore his father’s vision for humankind. He is older than Constance, wiser, more dedicated and purposeful. His mission will not accept nor tolerate any delays or miscalculations. But Constance, a mere twenty years old and in constant fear and hiding with Anastasia, her guardian, has no such pre-conceived notions of glory. Reclamation of the throne is a fairy tale never worthy of thought.
It takes Ewan time to coax her from her sheep’s clothing. She must transform into that warrior needed for the upcoming battle. She must train for the task, study the magic of the Curae, learn to be a leader, and most of all, believe in herself.
But she is still childlike which is what makes her journey that much more intriguing. Most of her life has been in hiding as a slave, keeping her safe in the lands held by slave owners. There, she received room and board and tokens for which to play card games in the tavern owned by the slave owners. Her only real worry, not being found out as a princess, a task that falls on the shoulders of Anastasia. Besides her self-doubt and fears, she is heavily addicted to the drug, temeo.
Throughout the book Ewan and the recruits he has collected work with Constance who shows promise and skill but cannot get over the hurdles to become the leader the cause needs. Ewan grows angry and frustrated over her progress. He tells Anastasia, herself a Curae warrior, that she must work harder. But the temeo addiction, which is to this point unknown to the others, proves a difficult adversary. Making it worse for the newly form assemblage, Constance has learned a secret; Anastasia was the warrior who killed her parents during the great battle led by Ischis. Unknown to Constance, though, is Anastasia presence in her life is not nefarious. Finding the baby Constance after her parents death, Anastasia vows to be her protectorate for all her days.
To those tired of fantasy worlds of great imagination but lacking in human touch and emotion, Of Slave and Exiles will be a welcome. Who can really identify with immature, inexperienced youth handling the pressures of world-wide destruction? The author, Margaret Gaffney, is able to relate to the reader how such a dramatic change can occur. Such heart-wrenching decisions and hard choices are made by each of us based upon what our daily lives have given us. That includes issues of self-doubt, anger, fear, addictions. Overcoming all this will be a task for Constance and her group. Maintaining it will a still greater one. And that is the reality to this fantasy.
Now, I did state that I am not a fantasy enthusiast. That said, I wished there was more magic demonstrated. The Curae do have a way to transport themselves through space. But this really cool trick is mainly talked about and only occasionally used in undramatic fashion. I am thinking and hoping that the sequels will exploit these strengths and magics of the Curae. And maybe rub off on Constance and the human race.
Also, we know that Ischis is evil. Gaffney tells us such. But the reader is left to wonder about the evil empire he has created in lieu of the united universe of Alexander. Again, a few chapters in the sequels dedicated to Ischis and his regime will be a great backdrop to the sure victory(?) Ewan and Constance will forge.
January 20, 2021
Ratings - 4.7
I have read and watched many tales or thrones but that's one type which never bores me because each tale has something unique to offer. I love the experience these tales take me through and I am sure you guys too. I have bought you guys a book which is not exactly the tale of thrones but definitely takes you to a world you you never want to come back. It's called "Of Slaves and Exiles".
Starting with the title of the book "Of Slaves and Exiles". Generally these types of stories have a title that consists of fancy one liners unlike this one. It gives a different vibe and also different attracts readers towards it. Whereas the cover of the book completes it. Overall outer appearance makes a a really attractive book which definitely grabs viewers attention. So I would say the outer appearance of the book is appealing and I would rate it as 2/2.
Talking about the plot of the book. The word created by author is a very beautiful one. I just loved the journey I experienced reading this 300 page story. Although I can't wait to read the sequel but I'll have to wait. The best part of the book is the characters and the way plot is designed. The characters of the book are so realistic that one gets a connection to it. However the starting of the story was slow which was followed by a normal length prologue. The story of the book is very unique and I feel is the one which plays with your head and being a reader that's the best thing s book can do. To be very honest being an avid reader I crave for books like these to cross my path. The blend which story gave while talking about drug and magical spell was something really unexpected before starting the story. However I feel the story was slow beginning because it takes time to establish the plot like this one but once it was done I could barely distract myself and which was only possible because of the language used, the choice of words and the editing. I would highly recommend it to all my fellow readers to give it a try and I am sure you guys are going to love it because I completely enjoyed reading it. I would like to thank the author for giving me such an experience through the book and trust me when I say I am definitely going to read next book. I am eagerly waiting to hear what is the story holding next. For the content and storyline I would give it a 1.7/2. Whereas for the editing and difficulty in reading I would give it a 1/1. Which makes the total 4.7/5 and that a just highly recommended. So if you haven't read it yet what are you guys waiting for go grab your copy fast.
I have read and watched many tales or thrones but that's one type which never bores me because each tale has something unique to offer. I love the experience these tales take me through and I am sure you guys too. I have bought you guys a book which is not exactly the tale of thrones but definitely takes you to a world you you never want to come back. It's called "Of Slaves and Exiles".
Starting with the title of the book "Of Slaves and Exiles". Generally these types of stories have a title that consists of fancy one liners unlike this one. It gives a different vibe and also different attracts readers towards it. Whereas the cover of the book completes it. Overall outer appearance makes a a really attractive book which definitely grabs viewers attention. So I would say the outer appearance of the book is appealing and I would rate it as 2/2.
Talking about the plot of the book. The word created by author is a very beautiful one. I just loved the journey I experienced reading this 300 page story. Although I can't wait to read the sequel but I'll have to wait. The best part of the book is the characters and the way plot is designed. The characters of the book are so realistic that one gets a connection to it. However the starting of the story was slow which was followed by a normal length prologue. The story of the book is very unique and I feel is the one which plays with your head and being a reader that's the best thing s book can do. To be very honest being an avid reader I crave for books like these to cross my path. The blend which story gave while talking about drug and magical spell was something really unexpected before starting the story. However I feel the story was slow beginning because it takes time to establish the plot like this one but once it was done I could barely distract myself and which was only possible because of the language used, the choice of words and the editing. I would highly recommend it to all my fellow readers to give it a try and I am sure you guys are going to love it because I completely enjoyed reading it. I would like to thank the author for giving me such an experience through the book and trust me when I say I am definitely going to read next book. I am eagerly waiting to hear what is the story holding next. For the content and storyline I would give it a 1.7/2. Whereas for the editing and difficulty in reading I would give it a 1/1. Which makes the total 4.7/5 and that a just highly recommended. So if you haven't read it yet what are you guys waiting for go grab your copy fast.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews