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Teague Wars: Phase 1: The Brotherhood
On the streets of Assassin City, Franco Mancini and two fellow orphans struggle to survive. In a city known for taking, they are given little to pilferage to stave off hunger. Their trying times come to an end when Franco and several members from an organization known as the Brotherhood cross paths. He seizes the opportunity to join their ranks and is rescued from his unfortunate upbringing. As he explores his country of Osiren, he is forced to determine the boundaries of his own moral compass while navigating the uncertain waters of his new group.
351 pages, Paperback
Published February 26, 2021
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July 6, 2021
Teague Wars: Phase 1: The Brotherhood by @a_hoy_there Book Review
This is a paid book review, but that in no way impacts my review of this book
QOTD: Which book has the coolest cast of characters?
Summary: On the streets of Assassin City, Franco Mancini and two fellow orphans struggle to survive. In a city known for taking, they are given little to pilferage to stave off hunger. Their trying times come to an end when Franco and several members from an organization known as the Brotherhood cross paths. He seizes the opportunity to join their ranks and is rescued from his unfortunate upbringing. As he explores his country of Osiren, he is forced to determine the boundaries of his own moral compass while navigating the uncertain waters of his new group.
SPOILER FREE REVIEW:
First, I want to thank Brandon Hoy for reaching out to me and sending me a copy of his book.
I want to preface this review by saying I was not expecting this book to have as much of an impact on me as it did..
I typically read about 75+ books in a year and out of the 30ish I've already read so far.. this is in the running to be one of my favorites of the year! To say I LOVED it would be an understatement!
This is definitely something I could see fans of Six of Crows loving.. so if you've read Six of Crows or seen Shadow and Bone.. pickn5hjs book up immediately.. TRUST ME!
Of many areas I think Hoy excelled was with the uniqueness of the story, how immersive and imagistic this story was, and the INCREDIBLE cast of characters!
I've mentioned before in previous reviews that I tend to struggle with envisioning what I am reading. It is something I've struggled with for a while, but I had quite the opposite experience while reading The Brotherhood.
Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed how unique the world was and the CARE that went into the world-building. The best way I can describe this book is that it felt like I was reading a well done book adaptation of a video game.
Other areas where Hoy excelled was in how atmospheric the story was in itself. From the attention to detail in all areas including setting, characters, and objects/foreshadowing.. Hoy both set and maintained a memorable mood for the overall story.
Another area Hoy excelled in is the character description and character development. With the fast-paced nature of the story and the larger cast of characters, I was impressed at how well developed the backstories and motives were and that none of the character felt like side characters.
Every character read as a complex person with their own motives. And despite the large cast.. each character stood on their own from the crowd and were easy to distinguish from the rest.
I would say this is a perfect book for anyone looking for a dark, mysterious, fast paced book with a unique plot and an engaging cast of characters.
Overall, I THOROUGHLY enjoyed the Brotherhood, and I cannot even express how excited I am to see how where Hoy takes the story next.. because that CLIFFHANGER!
Overall rating 5/5
This is a paid book review, but that in no way impacts my review of this book
QOTD: Which book has the coolest cast of characters?
Summary: On the streets of Assassin City, Franco Mancini and two fellow orphans struggle to survive. In a city known for taking, they are given little to pilferage to stave off hunger. Their trying times come to an end when Franco and several members from an organization known as the Brotherhood cross paths. He seizes the opportunity to join their ranks and is rescued from his unfortunate upbringing. As he explores his country of Osiren, he is forced to determine the boundaries of his own moral compass while navigating the uncertain waters of his new group.
SPOILER FREE REVIEW:
First, I want to thank Brandon Hoy for reaching out to me and sending me a copy of his book.
I want to preface this review by saying I was not expecting this book to have as much of an impact on me as it did..
I typically read about 75+ books in a year and out of the 30ish I've already read so far.. this is in the running to be one of my favorites of the year! To say I LOVED it would be an understatement!
This is definitely something I could see fans of Six of Crows loving.. so if you've read Six of Crows or seen Shadow and Bone.. pickn5hjs book up immediately.. TRUST ME!
Of many areas I think Hoy excelled was with the uniqueness of the story, how immersive and imagistic this story was, and the INCREDIBLE cast of characters!
I've mentioned before in previous reviews that I tend to struggle with envisioning what I am reading. It is something I've struggled with for a while, but I had quite the opposite experience while reading The Brotherhood.
Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed how unique the world was and the CARE that went into the world-building. The best way I can describe this book is that it felt like I was reading a well done book adaptation of a video game.
Other areas where Hoy excelled was in how atmospheric the story was in itself. From the attention to detail in all areas including setting, characters, and objects/foreshadowing.. Hoy both set and maintained a memorable mood for the overall story.
Another area Hoy excelled in is the character description and character development. With the fast-paced nature of the story and the larger cast of characters, I was impressed at how well developed the backstories and motives were and that none of the character felt like side characters.
Every character read as a complex person with their own motives. And despite the large cast.. each character stood on their own from the crowd and were easy to distinguish from the rest.
I would say this is a perfect book for anyone looking for a dark, mysterious, fast paced book with a unique plot and an engaging cast of characters.
Overall, I THOROUGHLY enjoyed the Brotherhood, and I cannot even express how excited I am to see how where Hoy takes the story next.. because that CLIFFHANGER!
Overall rating 5/5
August 5, 2023
Actual Rating 3.5 stars
Salt is one of my fav movies and this book was a mix between that and Six of Crows. Perfect for lovers of found family, action, and a diverse cast.
Our main character Franco is a curious one, looking to explore the world of the brotherhood. This take him into a world that he never envision. Franco is part of the streets and he is ready for an adventure or at least something to take him out of the struggles he's encountering in his life.
I always love a good backstory and the author delivered, we learn much about our found family. The development was a bit slow but nothing that stopped me from enjoying the story. There was a lot of mystery between the characters because of the struggles, the world was more than what it seemed. I cant wait to learn more about the world and our characters.
Huge thanks to the author for gifting me an ecopy. All opinions are my own.
Salt is one of my fav movies and this book was a mix between that and Six of Crows. Perfect for lovers of found family, action, and a diverse cast.
Our main character Franco is a curious one, looking to explore the world of the brotherhood. This take him into a world that he never envision. Franco is part of the streets and he is ready for an adventure or at least something to take him out of the struggles he's encountering in his life.
I always love a good backstory and the author delivered, we learn much about our found family. The development was a bit slow but nothing that stopped me from enjoying the story. There was a lot of mystery between the characters because of the struggles, the world was more than what it seemed. I cant wait to learn more about the world and our characters.
Huge thanks to the author for gifting me an ecopy. All opinions are my own.
August 3, 2023
Rating: 3.5 stars
This book gave me all of the found family feels.
Teague Wars was an interesting introduction to the series and its characters, with a plot full of intrigue and action. I thoroughly enjoyed Franco and his found family, which is why the beginning of the book especially was my favorite. The vibes I got from it was sort of Oliver Twist x Six of Crows, with Franco and the others being orphans and alone and finding strength in each other and scraping by to survive.
I was also intrigued by the Brotherhood and felt there was something bigger happening with them once they show their interest in Franco. The characters stood out from each other instead of feeling like one big entity, which is what often happens with these sort of societies. However, because of the feeling I described above, I didn’t feel like I could trust anyone even when they were being nice. I will say I had a soft spot for Harlot (that’s her codename, I’m not being mean I promise), because I felt she was a character that was capable of having hidden depths. Whether or not I was right I can’t say.
The plot was fast-paced, with slower moments that allowed us to get into the character’s heads and dynamics better, leading up to a shocking ending that may or may not have broken my heart.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
This book gave me all of the found family feels.
Teague Wars was an interesting introduction to the series and its characters, with a plot full of intrigue and action. I thoroughly enjoyed Franco and his found family, which is why the beginning of the book especially was my favorite. The vibes I got from it was sort of Oliver Twist x Six of Crows, with Franco and the others being orphans and alone and finding strength in each other and scraping by to survive.
I was also intrigued by the Brotherhood and felt there was something bigger happening with them once they show their interest in Franco. The characters stood out from each other instead of feeling like one big entity, which is what often happens with these sort of societies. However, because of the feeling I described above, I didn’t feel like I could trust anyone even when they were being nice. I will say I had a soft spot for Harlot (that’s her codename, I’m not being mean I promise), because I felt she was a character that was capable of having hidden depths. Whether or not I was right I can’t say.
The plot was fast-paced, with slower moments that allowed us to get into the character’s heads and dynamics better, leading up to a shocking ending that may or may not have broken my heart.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
August 6, 2023
This was such a quick read because the action never let up. Def a page turner! I loved the found family and thought that the Six of Crows meets Oliver Twist vibes were so good. I think my favorite part of this book was the characters. I loved their interactions and really appreciated the slower moments that allowed us to get to know them a little bit better.
After that ending, I’m def curious to see what happens in future books!
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
After that ending, I’m def curious to see what happens in future books!
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 24, 2021
Book Name: Teague Wars: Phase 1: The Brotherhood
Genre: Fiction
Summary: On the streets of Assassin City, Franco Mancini and two fellow orphans struggle to survive. In a city known for taking, they are given little to pilferage to stave off hunger. Their trying times come to an end when Franco and several members from an organization known as the Brotherhood cross paths. He seizes the opportunity to join their ranks and is rescued from his unfortunate upbringing. As he explores his country of Osiren, he is forced to determine the boundaries of his own moral compass while navigating the uncertain waters of his new group.
My Opinion: A book have never been this intresting, it follows the story of Franco along with two fellow companions, this is not just a story of livelihood but it's indeed a great story of survival, when you read it, you get from the scratch and you know Franco is going to take you to places you never knew existed. I am flabbergasted especially by how the world buildings took place and how chapter after chapter you are more glued towards it.
Good and Bad: The best thing for me that worked so well, is world buildings, of course keeping the central characters in mind, I have pre assumed a lot of things but loved how things went a level higher than I thought. I don't think there is something bad about the book, I just cannot find a fault, lol!
My favorites from the book:
It's a very huge book, the one thing that I loved the most was, it's very well crafted and it's very organized so of course if you're a beginner, I'm sure it will not confuse you at all.
Target Audience: It's for 14+ audience for anyone who loves reading books that take you to a new level of imagination with a bit of reality and a whole new level of happenings, the combination is epic.
What to expect: Expect drama, pain, gothic vibes, unique plot and majorly world buildings that will make you wonder about the characters and places and the situations they're going through.
Final verdict: I am highly impressed by the way it went, I couldn't expect more, this is the second time I am reading a book by the author and I see a clear level up. I will for sure suggest it, if you're braver and adventurous with a heart this is for you.
Rating: 5 /5
Genre: Fiction
Summary: On the streets of Assassin City, Franco Mancini and two fellow orphans struggle to survive. In a city known for taking, they are given little to pilferage to stave off hunger. Their trying times come to an end when Franco and several members from an organization known as the Brotherhood cross paths. He seizes the opportunity to join their ranks and is rescued from his unfortunate upbringing. As he explores his country of Osiren, he is forced to determine the boundaries of his own moral compass while navigating the uncertain waters of his new group.
My Opinion: A book have never been this intresting, it follows the story of Franco along with two fellow companions, this is not just a story of livelihood but it's indeed a great story of survival, when you read it, you get from the scratch and you know Franco is going to take you to places you never knew existed. I am flabbergasted especially by how the world buildings took place and how chapter after chapter you are more glued towards it.
Good and Bad: The best thing for me that worked so well, is world buildings, of course keeping the central characters in mind, I have pre assumed a lot of things but loved how things went a level higher than I thought. I don't think there is something bad about the book, I just cannot find a fault, lol!
My favorites from the book:
It's a very huge book, the one thing that I loved the most was, it's very well crafted and it's very organized so of course if you're a beginner, I'm sure it will not confuse you at all.
Target Audience: It's for 14+ audience for anyone who loves reading books that take you to a new level of imagination with a bit of reality and a whole new level of happenings, the combination is epic.
What to expect: Expect drama, pain, gothic vibes, unique plot and majorly world buildings that will make you wonder about the characters and places and the situations they're going through.
Final verdict: I am highly impressed by the way it went, I couldn't expect more, this is the second time I am reading a book by the author and I see a clear level up. I will for sure suggest it, if you're braver and adventurous with a heart this is for you.
Rating: 5 /5
April 15, 2021
🍒Hands down, because I'm sure this book is going to take you on a very intense adventure, the best thing about Brandon's writing is, it's not so complex yet it's so deep, what I mean is, there is this actual story that's going in the book and on the other hand there is another parallell story that goes in your head and you know they're connected and you also know he created both of them! This book follows up of a story of survival and breaking in and out the boundaries that surround humans, not just the physical ones but the mental ones!
He is got more and more better in descriptions, I bet you guys can't resist reading one more once you start it, it's actually tempting, not just because of the plotline but because of his writing, if he describing a place, you feel you're already there! Talking about the content, it's extraordinary, touches the lives of extraordinary characters actually who have different circumstances than normal people has which is so amazing.
.
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Best thing is, Hoy puts a lot of unique incidents in his story which will surely make you crave for more and more. I will highly recommend it especially if you look books with interesting storyline and big settings with characters who will wrench and feed your heart at once! Go for it.
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Rating: 4.5⭐️
August 16, 2023
I previously read Emerald X by this author, and was convinced that this book could not be better than that work. When I started reading The Brotherhood, I was immediately invested. When I reached page 100, I found myself struggling to put the book down to do my day to day activities.
Boy was I wrong about liking Emerald X more. I LOVED this book. I was connected to the characters, the plot, and fully invested in the story. I found myself saying “okay only one more chapter” several times. I would highly recommend if you want a book that is action packed, and keeps you intrigued in the plot the whole time. Each time I thought I knew what was happening, I was thrown for a loop with shocking twists, and I loved every part.
I am eager to read another book by Brandon Hoy. He has really impressed me with both books so far! I usually can find a reason not to give a 5 star rating, but every star here was earned.
Boy was I wrong about liking Emerald X more. I LOVED this book. I was connected to the characters, the plot, and fully invested in the story. I found myself saying “okay only one more chapter” several times. I would highly recommend if you want a book that is action packed, and keeps you intrigued in the plot the whole time. Each time I thought I knew what was happening, I was thrown for a loop with shocking twists, and I loved every part.
I am eager to read another book by Brandon Hoy. He has really impressed me with both books so far! I usually can find a reason not to give a 5 star rating, but every star here was earned.
January 12, 2023
I loved the second entry into the series! The action sequences are so well written that I actually understand what’s happening in the scene and feel the weight of every punch or hit. But beyond the action, the story is what gets you hooked. The opening chapter sets a the stage for a mystery that Franco becomes entangled in, and as you learn more information you just want to keep reading to see how everything plays out. The author does a great job of creating another set of fun characters, and I especially enjoyed the interactions between the friends that made it feel like my family.
It was interesting to also see how the plot intertwined with Emerald X too, and I’m looking forward to reading more about the story of the continent and the people within it.
It was interesting to also see how the plot intertwined with Emerald X too, and I’m looking forward to reading more about the story of the continent and the people within it.
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June 1, 2024“There are a billion what if’s, but not enough reality.”
The Brotherhood is the the second book released in the Teague War connected universe. I loved Emerald X, and The Brotherhood held up.
It took about 70 pages for me to get into this book, but after that, I was sucked into the world and the characters lives. Which meant at the end - OMG! That ending! - I cried, I yelled, I might have even considered throwing the book across the room.
This is a fantasy book without romance (there’s maybe a light kiss or two), so it’s perfect for all readers.
The Teague Wars series is an interconnected series that can be read in any order.
The Brotherhood is the the second book released in the Teague War connected universe. I loved Emerald X, and The Brotherhood held up.
It took about 70 pages for me to get into this book, but after that, I was sucked into the world and the characters lives. Which meant at the end - OMG! That ending! - I cried, I yelled, I might have even considered throwing the book across the room.
This is a fantasy book without romance (there’s maybe a light kiss or two), so it’s perfect for all readers.
The Teague Wars series is an interconnected series that can be read in any order.
September 5, 2025
Brotherhood hooked me from the start! The world building is rich, the character dynamics are engaging. I loved watching Franco’s journey unfold. Nothing is quite as it seems, and that kept me wanting more of the story. A great mix of action and adventure. I would highly recommend! Looking forward to the next book from this saga.
April 18, 2023
A really fun, interesting, and clever genre bender (part sci-fi, part Game of Thrones, and a little touch of spy thriller a la The Bourne Identity). Highly recommended to anyone looking to scratch any of those itches.
August 4, 2023
This is not my usual genre, but I still found that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The biggest selling factor for me was the found family aspect that Hoy creates. That coupled with his great writing and intricate world building, this book was an interesting read!
December 30, 2021
Very well written and is extremely hard to put down! I was immediately pulled into the characters lives and was so invested in the story very early on. Would recommend this series to anyone!
September 28, 2024
Loved the action!
November 24, 2022
This is the first book I picked up of Brandon’s, and I was immediately impressed by the vibrant world and diverse cast of characters. The battles are visual and alive, and you can feel the tension build. I blew through the last 100 pages and can’t wait to follow the Teague Wars as it progresses!
September 30, 2023
Rating: 3.5 stars
TEAGUE WARS is perfect for those readers who love found family, action-packed heists and intrigue. First book in a dystopian science fiction setting, the book mainly follows Franco and his adoptive siblings Kaden and Serenity as they struggle to survive on the margins of Assassin’s City. The introduction read like a love child between Six of Crows and Oliver Twist. Found family never fails to hit me right in the feels.
However, I was most intrigued with the plot once the Brotherhood assumed a more prominent role and changed Franco’s life. For better or for worse? That was what I kept asking myself the more we spent time with these people. They’re assassins, so their secrecy wasn’t a shocker, yet the author did an excellent job at sneaking that sense of wariness on the page slowly but surely, making you wonder the entire time if Franco could really trust these people. Barbarian and Harlot were my favorites for entirely different reasons—him because of his friendliness, her because she struck me as the most layered of the group. What I enjoyed most about this part was how the world seemed to expand even further, which coupled with the shocking ending leaves great room for the following books in the series to grow.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
TEAGUE WARS is perfect for those readers who love found family, action-packed heists and intrigue. First book in a dystopian science fiction setting, the book mainly follows Franco and his adoptive siblings Kaden and Serenity as they struggle to survive on the margins of Assassin’s City. The introduction read like a love child between Six of Crows and Oliver Twist. Found family never fails to hit me right in the feels.
However, I was most intrigued with the plot once the Brotherhood assumed a more prominent role and changed Franco’s life. For better or for worse? That was what I kept asking myself the more we spent time with these people. They’re assassins, so their secrecy wasn’t a shocker, yet the author did an excellent job at sneaking that sense of wariness on the page slowly but surely, making you wonder the entire time if Franco could really trust these people. Barbarian and Harlot were my favorites for entirely different reasons—him because of his friendliness, her because she struck me as the most layered of the group. What I enjoyed most about this part was how the world seemed to expand even further, which coupled with the shocking ending leaves great room for the following books in the series to grow.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews