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Tales of the Outlaw Mages #1
Breaker
Unless this outlaw mage tames his magic, everyone he cares about will be crushed by the enemy.
Blaise Hawthorne fears that all he’ll ever be is an outcast, stuck living with his parents for the rest of his days and unable to realize his dream of working in a bakery. Born a Breaker, his unbridled magic wreaks havoc with a touch of his hands. When an enemy Commander storms into his town in a cloud of dust hunting for spellcasters, Blaise escapes and flees the only life he’s ever known.
While on the run, Blaise’s chance encounters with a pegasus and a surly gunslinger set him on the path to a new life where he’s accepted for who he is. But things go awry in his new town and Blaise is suspected, forcing the terrible choice between taking the blame or running from the only people who embraced him. When his chosen family is threatened by the Commander he thwarted, can Blaise find the grit to harness his volatile magic into a saving grace, or will his most dangerous challenge be his last?
Blaise Hawthorne fears that all he’ll ever be is an outcast, stuck living with his parents for the rest of his days and unable to realize his dream of working in a bakery. Born a Breaker, his unbridled magic wreaks havoc with a touch of his hands. When an enemy Commander storms into his town in a cloud of dust hunting for spellcasters, Blaise escapes and flees the only life he’s ever known.
While on the run, Blaise’s chance encounters with a pegasus and a surly gunslinger set him on the path to a new life where he’s accepted for who he is. But things go awry in his new town and Blaise is suspected, forcing the terrible choice between taking the blame or running from the only people who embraced him. When his chosen family is threatened by the Commander he thwarted, can Blaise find the grit to harness his volatile magic into a saving grace, or will his most dangerous challenge be his last?
488 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2021
355 people are currently reading
835 people want to read
About the author
Amy Campbell
14 books130 followersAmy Campbell is an independent author and librarian. She grew up in Houston, which she still calls home. Amy writes epic fantasy novels about men and women who are unapologetically true to themselves (and throws in the occasional pegasus or chupacabra to keep it interesting). When not working at the library or writing, Amy is chasing after her two busy young boys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
July 4, 2025
Entretenido, diferente, emocionante
Blaise siempre ha sido diferente. Su magia impredecible. Nunca has tenido amigos y siempre lo han rechazado. Sin embargo, cuando consigue apoyo en un pueblo de fugitivos, se da cuenta que su vida puede ser mucho más, y que su magia no lo define. Ahora luchará con todo lo que tenga para defenderlos así tengas que sacrificarse por ellos.
Una muy bonita historia en un mundo casi steampunk, dónde la magia, las pistolas y los seres fantásticos todos existen en armonía. Dónde los magos son encerrados y re educados para beneficio de la república, y dónde solo los más valientes son capaces de sobrevivir en libertad.
Por supuesto, tenemos un prota que viene de abajo, inocente y crece poco a poco hasta convertirse en el héroe.
Ahora, confunde un poco la doble narración, por qué asumes que el otro narrador va a ser el interés amoroso, y viendo no lo es, te cambia la visión de lo que estás leyendo.
Sin embargo, resulta entretenido y emocionante de leer, seguro que continuaré con la saga más adelante.
Blaise siempre ha sido diferente. Su magia impredecible. Nunca has tenido amigos y siempre lo han rechazado. Sin embargo, cuando consigue apoyo en un pueblo de fugitivos, se da cuenta que su vida puede ser mucho más, y que su magia no lo define. Ahora luchará con todo lo que tenga para defenderlos así tengas que sacrificarse por ellos.
Una muy bonita historia en un mundo casi steampunk, dónde la magia, las pistolas y los seres fantásticos todos existen en armonía. Dónde los magos son encerrados y re educados para beneficio de la república, y dónde solo los más valientes son capaces de sobrevivir en libertad.
Por supuesto, tenemos un prota que viene de abajo, inocente y crece poco a poco hasta convertirse en el héroe.
Ahora, confunde un poco la doble narración, por qué asumes que el otro narrador va a ser el interés amoroso, y viendo no lo es, te cambia la visión de lo que estás leyendo.
Sin embargo, resulta entretenido y emocionante de leer, seguro que continuaré con la saga más adelante.
November 28, 2023
Old west inspired fantasy with queer ace rep
Wow, what a fun book! I loved the fantastical old west inspired setting, queer ace main character, queer side characters, no homophobia, sentient telepathic Pegasi, non-human characters, magic, and a plot full of adventure. I wouldn’t say there’s really a romance in the book, but I didn’t miss it. I enjoyed reading Breaker and have pre-ordered book 2! I need more outlaw mages in my life! Highly recommend to anyone that likes fantasy.
Edit to add that after reading books 2 and 3 there is more romance in the rest of the series.
Wow, what a fun book! I loved the fantastical old west inspired setting, queer ace main character, queer side characters, no homophobia, sentient telepathic Pegasi, non-human characters, magic, and a plot full of adventure. I wouldn’t say there’s really a romance in the book, but I didn’t miss it. I enjoyed reading Breaker and have pre-ordered book 2! I need more outlaw mages in my life! Highly recommend to anyone that likes fantasy.
Edit to add that after reading books 2 and 3 there is more romance in the rest of the series.
June 29, 2022
Oh my goodness, where do I even begin?? I absolutely adored this story, this is seriously one of the best fantasy books I have read in a long, long time!
Breaker is a brilliantly written, well-woven blend of High fantasy and Wild Western fiction, jam packed with lore, adventure, and an intriguing magic system.
I loved the colourful, diverse cast of characters that we're introduced to in Breaker, my favourites of the bunch being:
- Blaise Hawthorne, the titular Breaker whose chaotic magic has the power to weave much havoc. But don't judge him on that! He's a precious boy who would rather be baking instead.
- Wildfire Jack, a fellow Outlaw who's got some major anger issues. Rest assured, his bad temper is completely justified (he's been through a lot!)
- Emmaline, Jack's teenage daughter. She's friendly, brave, and fierce, with a solid head on her shoulders. Nothing "damsel in distress"y about this one!
Oh, and talking Pegasi! A few of them in Breaker too, each with lots of character and sass.
I highly, highly, highly recommend giving Breaker a read! I honestly can't rave about it enough, I eagerly wait for the second book's release!
Breaker is a brilliantly written, well-woven blend of High fantasy and Wild Western fiction, jam packed with lore, adventure, and an intriguing magic system.
I loved the colourful, diverse cast of characters that we're introduced to in Breaker, my favourites of the bunch being:
- Blaise Hawthorne, the titular Breaker whose chaotic magic has the power to weave much havoc. But don't judge him on that! He's a precious boy who would rather be baking instead.
- Wildfire Jack, a fellow Outlaw who's got some major anger issues. Rest assured, his bad temper is completely justified (he's been through a lot!)
- Emmaline, Jack's teenage daughter. She's friendly, brave, and fierce, with a solid head on her shoulders. Nothing "damsel in distress"y about this one!
Oh, and talking Pegasi! A few of them in Breaker too, each with lots of character and sass.
I highly, highly, highly recommend giving Breaker a read! I honestly can't rave about it enough, I eagerly wait for the second book's release!
April 30, 2021
Combining a solid wild west setting and interesting magic with a nuanced portrayal of how lifelong distrust can affect people’s characters, Campbell creates a character-driven fantasy where you can taste the dust.
Blaise was born with the power to literally destroy whatever he touches, a power he can’t control, a power that makes him at best disliked by his neighbours. So, when his home joins the Salt-Iron Confederation, a union that treats many mages as virtual slaves, and soldiers arrive to register the inhabitants, he sees no choice other than to flee into the badlands. A chance encounter leads him to a sanctuary for outlaw mages. Unfortunately, one of the ruling council is determined not to allow spies or other dangers to threaten the town; and has already seen the effects of Blaise’s uncontrolled destruction.
Campbell’s story is set in an analogue of the Wild West with a dusting of magic, fantasy creatures, and alternative technology giving the novel a strong weird western feel. The evocation of frontier life is strong and coherent, integrating the differences magic might make while retaining the fundamental sense of hardy folk striving to cleave out a place to live free in the face of invading civilisation.
While Campbell does include sentient non-human races, these are not—in contrast to many stories based on the Wild West—metaphors for Native American tribes; there are non-humans among the outlaws but there are also non-humans among the Salt-Iron Confederacy who (from what the reader sees) face no prejudice.
While those with unusual abilities are called mages, they are limited to a single mystical power rather than being akin to fantasy wizards. These powers run from the classic healing magic or control of people through attuned dolls to more obscure powers such as the ability to teleport from one succulent plant to any other within a considerable range. While the boundaries of powers are somewhat affected by what the mage thinks they can do, they are still narrow allowing them to be obviously powerful defiance of reality without turning the book into a magical arms race or making it implausible mages do not rule the world. This sense of otherness is enhanced by Blaise having been mostly isolated from others until the start of the book, so the reader sees it through the eyes of someone not used to it.
Where some readers might find the magic system less smoothly portrayed is in Blaise’s own powers: he seems to destroy some things almost immediately while extended contact with other things only makes them seem worn; this dichotomy is clearest in the leather gloves he wears to stop his power affecting things he touches. While there is some explanation for why this might happen later, Blaise’s apparent lack of theories might seem odd for someone who clearly goes out of their way to avoid potential trouble from his power.
In parallel with Blaise’s search for a place he is accepted, the advance of the Salt-Iron Confederacy into new territory poses a new threat to the entire town. While this includes a clear military threat, the survival of the town requires ongoing contact with the wider world for information and supplies, meaning both visitors and those residents with outside contacts might be spies. Thus the novel is woven from a mix of interpersonal drama, fast-paced action, and paranoia.
The impact of both the interpersonal drama and the potential espionage threat is amplified by Campbell’s use of Wildfire Jack, the outlaw who already distrusts Blaise, as a second PoV. Thus, in addition to seeing how Blaise’s actions could be misinterpreted as malice, the reader learns things Blaise doesn’t know, casting the motives of those who appear to support Blaise into doubt.
This is especially true of the romance subplot involving Blaise and a surveyor from the Confederacy. The surveyor claims to be here only for mutual profit, acts like he doesn’t share the common prejudice against mages, and behaves like he more than likes Blaise; but some of the things Jack notices make it seem very likely the surveyor is a flawless manipulator.
The romance is homosexual; however, there is no sign that same sex relationships are regarded as abnormal or sinful in Campbell’s world so this introduces no additional complications to the issue of someone who is used to being shunned coping with being cared for. While it might not be a deliberate choice by Campbell, the ongoing distrust by some mages for others (and thus the immediate creation of a new “family” among mages) also avoids the impression that Blaise’s shunned magic is a metaphor for his sexuality.
Blaise is a highly sympathetic protagonist. His lifetime of being bullied by his peers and treated as the problem whatever he does by adults has made him fear not only his power but conflict at all. This both results in him shying away from trying to gain any control over his Breaking while also accepting he is a bad person for having an uncontrolled power. However, he is also very compassionate and personable when not panicked, and a talented baker; so while sometimes passive when direct challenged, is an active force.
Jack is also more nuanced than he might first seem. His initial persona of gruff outlaw mage provides a strong contrast to Blaise’s meekness. However, underneath Jack is revealed as every bit troubled by his own issues but using the persona to avoid failing his town; thus, although Blaise might dislike him, readers are likely to feel some sympathy rather than dismissing him as a bully.
The supporting cast also display complexity and growing depth, both creating a sense they are complete characters in themselves rather than foils for the protagonists, and making it harder for the reader to be certain whether they might not be honest in what they say their motivations and loyalties are.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking weird west that has plenty of action but isn’t simply action.
I received a free copy with a request for a fair review.
Blaise was born with the power to literally destroy whatever he touches, a power he can’t control, a power that makes him at best disliked by his neighbours. So, when his home joins the Salt-Iron Confederation, a union that treats many mages as virtual slaves, and soldiers arrive to register the inhabitants, he sees no choice other than to flee into the badlands. A chance encounter leads him to a sanctuary for outlaw mages. Unfortunately, one of the ruling council is determined not to allow spies or other dangers to threaten the town; and has already seen the effects of Blaise’s uncontrolled destruction.
Campbell’s story is set in an analogue of the Wild West with a dusting of magic, fantasy creatures, and alternative technology giving the novel a strong weird western feel. The evocation of frontier life is strong and coherent, integrating the differences magic might make while retaining the fundamental sense of hardy folk striving to cleave out a place to live free in the face of invading civilisation.
While Campbell does include sentient non-human races, these are not—in contrast to many stories based on the Wild West—metaphors for Native American tribes; there are non-humans among the outlaws but there are also non-humans among the Salt-Iron Confederacy who (from what the reader sees) face no prejudice.
While those with unusual abilities are called mages, they are limited to a single mystical power rather than being akin to fantasy wizards. These powers run from the classic healing magic or control of people through attuned dolls to more obscure powers such as the ability to teleport from one succulent plant to any other within a considerable range. While the boundaries of powers are somewhat affected by what the mage thinks they can do, they are still narrow allowing them to be obviously powerful defiance of reality without turning the book into a magical arms race or making it implausible mages do not rule the world. This sense of otherness is enhanced by Blaise having been mostly isolated from others until the start of the book, so the reader sees it through the eyes of someone not used to it.
Where some readers might find the magic system less smoothly portrayed is in Blaise’s own powers: he seems to destroy some things almost immediately while extended contact with other things only makes them seem worn; this dichotomy is clearest in the leather gloves he wears to stop his power affecting things he touches. While there is some explanation for why this might happen later, Blaise’s apparent lack of theories might seem odd for someone who clearly goes out of their way to avoid potential trouble from his power.
In parallel with Blaise’s search for a place he is accepted, the advance of the Salt-Iron Confederacy into new territory poses a new threat to the entire town. While this includes a clear military threat, the survival of the town requires ongoing contact with the wider world for information and supplies, meaning both visitors and those residents with outside contacts might be spies. Thus the novel is woven from a mix of interpersonal drama, fast-paced action, and paranoia.
The impact of both the interpersonal drama and the potential espionage threat is amplified by Campbell’s use of Wildfire Jack, the outlaw who already distrusts Blaise, as a second PoV. Thus, in addition to seeing how Blaise’s actions could be misinterpreted as malice, the reader learns things Blaise doesn’t know, casting the motives of those who appear to support Blaise into doubt.
This is especially true of the romance subplot involving Blaise and a surveyor from the Confederacy. The surveyor claims to be here only for mutual profit, acts like he doesn’t share the common prejudice against mages, and behaves like he more than likes Blaise; but some of the things Jack notices make it seem very likely the surveyor is a flawless manipulator.
The romance is homosexual; however, there is no sign that same sex relationships are regarded as abnormal or sinful in Campbell’s world so this introduces no additional complications to the issue of someone who is used to being shunned coping with being cared for. While it might not be a deliberate choice by Campbell, the ongoing distrust by some mages for others (and thus the immediate creation of a new “family” among mages) also avoids the impression that Blaise’s shunned magic is a metaphor for his sexuality.
Blaise is a highly sympathetic protagonist. His lifetime of being bullied by his peers and treated as the problem whatever he does by adults has made him fear not only his power but conflict at all. This both results in him shying away from trying to gain any control over his Breaking while also accepting he is a bad person for having an uncontrolled power. However, he is also very compassionate and personable when not panicked, and a talented baker; so while sometimes passive when direct challenged, is an active force.
Jack is also more nuanced than he might first seem. His initial persona of gruff outlaw mage provides a strong contrast to Blaise’s meekness. However, underneath Jack is revealed as every bit troubled by his own issues but using the persona to avoid failing his town; thus, although Blaise might dislike him, readers are likely to feel some sympathy rather than dismissing him as a bully.
The supporting cast also display complexity and growing depth, both creating a sense they are complete characters in themselves rather than foils for the protagonists, and making it harder for the reader to be certain whether they might not be honest in what they say their motivations and loyalties are.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking weird west that has plenty of action but isn’t simply action.
I received a free copy with a request for a fair review.
Read
October 30, 2021*Not an unbiased review because this is my book baby*
News
1. Want all the latest updates on whatever madness I'm working on? Sign up for my free newsletter! I send out free short stories to my subscribers on occasion.
2. Interested in checking out the first 6 chapters of Breaker before committing to it? Download them here!
My Take
Oh my sweet, beloved disaster characters. I had such a ball writing this book, even though the plot changed massively from first draft to final draft. Blaise is a very old character of mine (I first started writing about him around 2000 or so), and it was like visiting an old friend when I started to write him again!
As I drafted Breaker, I decided I didn't want to use the standard medieval fantasy setting we see so often (and I didn't want to do urban fantasy, either). Years ago I had the idea that it would be fun to write about cowboys riding on pegasi, and I decided why not combine my ideas? And thus the world was set.
About the characters:
1. Blaise: Yes, he is ace and mostly touch-averse. And he is very much a cinnamon roll, which I find delightfully ironic based on his hobby.
2. Jack wasn't supposed to be a main character, but he had other ideas. But in his defense, he probably didn't realize how cruel authors can be to their beloved characters when he poked his nose into things. (And he's on the ace spectrum, too, but demi.)
3. Emmaline was supposed to just be a sentry, an extra, nothing more! That didn't happen.
4. Jefferson was definitely supposed to be an antagonist. He was not supposed to be COMPLICATED. Ugh.
5. Emrys is based on the real-world Friesian horse.
6. Zepheus - the closest real-world horse breed for him would be Peruvian Paso due to gait.
7. Oberidon is 100% Appaloosa
News
1. Want all the latest updates on whatever madness I'm working on? Sign up for my free newsletter! I send out free short stories to my subscribers on occasion.
2. Interested in checking out the first 6 chapters of Breaker before committing to it? Download them here!
My Take
Oh my sweet, beloved disaster characters. I had such a ball writing this book, even though the plot changed massively from first draft to final draft. Blaise is a very old character of mine (I first started writing about him around 2000 or so), and it was like visiting an old friend when I started to write him again!
As I drafted Breaker, I decided I didn't want to use the standard medieval fantasy setting we see so often (and I didn't want to do urban fantasy, either). Years ago I had the idea that it would be fun to write about cowboys riding on pegasi, and I decided why not combine my ideas? And thus the world was set.
About the characters:
1. Blaise: Yes, he is ace and mostly touch-averse. And he is very much a cinnamon roll, which I find delightfully ironic based on his hobby.
2. Jack wasn't supposed to be a main character, but he had other ideas. But in his defense, he probably didn't realize how cruel authors can be to their beloved characters when he poked his nose into things. (And he's on the ace spectrum, too, but demi.)
3. Emmaline was supposed to just be a sentry, an extra, nothing more! That didn't happen.
4. Jefferson was definitely supposed to be an antagonist. He was not supposed to be COMPLICATED. Ugh.
5. Emrys is based on the real-world Friesian horse.
6. Zepheus - the closest real-world horse breed for him would be Peruvian Paso due to gait.
7. Oberidon is 100% Appaloosa
June 6, 2022
An outcast with dangerous magic, who happens to be the sweetest cinnamon roll,
A surly gunslinger with temper issues,
A sweet and fierce teenage daughter,
Found family of the best, though perhaps most unusual kind,
and totally FABULOUS talking Pegasi you won't help but adore!
Their sass was one of the best parts of the tale and yep. They kind of stole the show! :)
Fun, feeling and a hell lot of heart in an Old West inspired fantasy world full of gripping adventure, cool magic and the occasional yummy baked goodies that might make you head over to the nearest pastry shop. :D
I loved this book!
It's as simple as that.
Breaker is a wonderfully written fantasy that manages to be both unique and fascinating, as well as gritty and uplifting. Awesome characters, fun banter and situations guaranteed to have you laugh out loud, a solid plot with a good pace. Bonus points for a wonderful ace and LGBTQ+ representation.
No romance per se but trust me when I say - you're not gonna miss it!
This book is totally awesome as it is!
If you're on the lookout for a great, well written fantasy with sass and fun, do yourself a favour and give Breaker a try.
You can thank me later.
A surly gunslinger with temper issues,
A sweet and fierce teenage daughter,
Found family of the best, though perhaps most unusual kind,
and totally FABULOUS talking Pegasi you won't help but adore!
Their sass was one of the best parts of the tale and yep. They kind of stole the show! :)
Fun, feeling and a hell lot of heart in an Old West inspired fantasy world full of gripping adventure, cool magic and the occasional yummy baked goodies that might make you head over to the nearest pastry shop. :D
I loved this book!
It's as simple as that.
Breaker is a wonderfully written fantasy that manages to be both unique and fascinating, as well as gritty and uplifting. Awesome characters, fun banter and situations guaranteed to have you laugh out loud, a solid plot with a good pace. Bonus points for a wonderful ace and LGBTQ+ representation.
No romance per se but trust me when I say - you're not gonna miss it!
This book is totally awesome as it is!
If you're on the lookout for a great, well written fantasy with sass and fun, do yourself a favour and give Breaker a try.
You can thank me later.
March 30, 2022
I was totally blown away! I almost didn't read the book as I am not a fan of westerns . That would have been one of the biggest mistakes ever! Amy Campbell you are now one of my favorite authors! I am a die hard Salvatore fan but I can say I loved this book just as much! Rich and vibrant characters with world building that rivals the very best! Intense attention to detail brings this book to life in your mind and heart! New and unusual magical aspects that keep the readers attention at every turn. The Pegasus were an awesome addition that brought a rich connection to the rider mount aspect. I can't wait to read the rest in this series!
June 14, 2023
DNF at 48%, because no. That was a dorky thing to do. (Again.)
This has such potential. But the manuscript did not get the edit passes it needed to keep the actions logical. I'm far too experienced a reader to let that pass. On top of that, it suffers from soggy middle syndrome, where it's too easy for a writer to get bogged down in details this reader just doesn't care about. Something potentially dangerous happens, finally... but there's no tension. That's my cue.
This has such potential. But the manuscript did not get the edit passes it needed to keep the actions logical. I'm far too experienced a reader to let that pass. On top of that, it suffers from soggy middle syndrome, where it's too easy for a writer to get bogged down in details this reader just doesn't care about. Something potentially dangerous happens, finally... but there's no tension. That's my cue.
July 16, 2024
If you're homofobic, seek therapy and read this book after you've got your head out of your ass.
This was new and entertaining.
Fantasy Wild West, with pegasi, gryphons, cowboys, robbery, soldiers, friendships, betrayal, love, assholes, sweetness, violence, and warmth with a touch of romance.
Didn't appreciate the killing and pain of the animals, but other than that, this was a fun read.
I will definitely continue this series!
This will most likely become a re-read book/series.
This was new and entertaining.
Fantasy Wild West, with pegasi, gryphons, cowboys, robbery, soldiers, friendships, betrayal, love, assholes, sweetness, violence, and warmth with a touch of romance.
Didn't appreciate the killing and pain of the animals, but other than that, this was a fun read.
I will definitely continue this series!
This will most likely become a re-read book/series.
April 11, 2021
I don’t read a lot of fantasy but Breaker had me laughing out loud at parts. I love the characters, especially Jack and Blaise. Campbell’s imagination shines thru when she writes about her characters and the world she created. Great read! Looking forward to the next book.
September 18, 2022
I loved the idea of this book the moment I read the blurb, but it still managed to exceed my expectations in terms of the story and worldbuilding. The exciting combination of western settings and characters mixed with fantasy charm had me engaged from the first page to the last. The characters were very well developed and came to life on the page, and I loved the way Campbell brought even the non-human characters and the setting itself to life through her writing. It's such a fascinating world and I really felt like I was there walking through the streets of the outlaw mage town as I read. I also enjoyed seeing how the relationships between characters developed and how that in turn influenced their own personal growth and chance throughout the story. There are a ton of characters to keep track of here and I generally prefer a smaller cast, but with more books to come, I can see how each has room to grow and impact the story further as we go along. Breaker is a strong first book in what promises to be a really fun and unique series, and I look forward to reading the next installments.
August 27, 2022
Great imaginative read. Amy builds her world with ease and takes the reader through each scene with great skill and flourish. Each area she describes opens a little like a snapshot and then continues into a nicely connected scene-to-scene flow. The characters are very believable and loveable and the relationships were warm and sweet with a pleasant amount of ennui. The story as a whole is a nice introduction to her writing and I am curious to keep reading more about this group of characters. I can easily see this finding its way from page to screen as it fits very beautifully into several ideas that are seen today on any streaming service.
May 10, 2022
The world in this book is utterly fascinating and I adore it. The plot kept me going. I love the wide cast of characters and how real they all feel. Some things didn't sit especially well with me, but I think it's just me? I'm not crazy about the love interest. I don't buy how it happened at all and am waiting for the other shoe to drop (though judging by the description of book 2, it's not going to). All in all, I was very pleasantly surprised by this story and look forward to continuing the series.
August 19, 2022
This was my beach read back in June. If you’re a fantasy fan looking for a lovely time reading something new, you’ll find it here – the world is new, the magic system is new, and the whole concept of a fantasy western is (for me, at least!) brand new! At the same time, there’s something warm and cozy about the whole thing that makes it feel like I’ve come back to a favorite from my childhood. Maybe it’s how much everyone cares. This is a story about community, how outcasts come together and create something worth fighting for. Even the most abrasive, unfriendly characters show how much they care about the people they care about, in thought and in action.
The prose is pretty repetitive, so you don’t need to worry about forgetting anything important, but it was unfortunately a repeated (haha) annoyance for me. There were also a few plot details that didn’t sit right with me – there’s a romance in the latter half of the book that I just couldn’t buy into, for one thing, and – but none of that took away from my enjoyment of the rest of the book. I’m interested to read the rest of the series, when I have the time!
The prose is pretty repetitive, so you don’t need to worry about forgetting anything important, but it was unfortunately a repeated (haha) annoyance for me. There were also a few plot details that didn’t sit right with me – there’s a romance in the latter half of the book that I just couldn’t buy into, for one thing, and – but none of that took away from my enjoyment of the rest of the book. I’m interested to read the rest of the series, when I have the time!
June 25, 2022
Had to close the book at 70%. More homosexual characters. It makes me sick that this is actually in style these days. And this is supposed to be *clean* fiction.
Read
April 29, 2025My suggestions included this book with a picture of a cowboy riding a pegasus on the front and I was ALL IN.
January 19, 2023
A fun little wild west fantasy with interesting characters and a great story. I felt it needed some more fleshing out in certain aspects, particularly the magic system. Parts of it also seems a little rushed, but all in all this was enjoyable.
April 12, 2021
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What can I say about this book besides WOW?! It was one of the best books I have ever read. If you like fantasy and westerns and want something that combines both in a brilliant and entertaining way you can't miss this one. Meet Blaise, the outcast hated for his abilities that you just want to pick up and cuddle (who also represents Asexual people in a way I found realistic to my experience). Jack, the second main character, will please anyone who loved Clint Eastwood's westerns and gruff no-nonsense cowboys. Plus there are talking pegasus, what horse lover wouldn't love that? If you want to break out of the mold of your normal fantasy and break out with Breaker!
What can I say about this book besides WOW?! It was one of the best books I have ever read. If you like fantasy and westerns and want something that combines both in a brilliant and entertaining way you can't miss this one. Meet Blaise, the outcast hated for his abilities that you just want to pick up and cuddle (who also represents Asexual people in a way I found realistic to my experience). Jack, the second main character, will please anyone who loved Clint Eastwood's westerns and gruff no-nonsense cowboys. Plus there are talking pegasus, what horse lover wouldn't love that? If you want to break out of the mold of your normal fantasy and break out with Breaker!
January 15, 2022
I saw this book on tiktok and was fascinated with the concept of magic and cowboy outlaws. It was like a dream come true, especially once I found out the main character was asexual as well.
Breaker is an amazing novel and one of my favorite novels to date. You meet Blaise, a mage with a destructive magic that is ostracized by his townfolk. Blaise is a very relatable character, stressing and being anxious over every little part of his life. Which is such a mood.
The plot of Breaker is very enticing, and the characters are well written and likeable. Truly one of the best fantasy books I've read. 10/10 would recommend picking up this book and reading it!
Breaker is an amazing novel and one of my favorite novels to date. You meet Blaise, a mage with a destructive magic that is ostracized by his townfolk. Blaise is a very relatable character, stressing and being anxious over every little part of his life. Which is such a mood.
The plot of Breaker is very enticing, and the characters are well written and likeable. Truly one of the best fantasy books I've read. 10/10 would recommend picking up this book and reading it!
October 18, 2023
Fantasy Western are still somewhat of a niche – at least I haven’t come across too many yet. I came across the Tales of the Outlaw Mages on kickstarter and was immediately hooked by the blurbs there. And now I can happily say that it was a wise choice because this book is fantastic.
There is a wide and very diverse cast of characters in this book, Blaise and Jack being the main characters, the story being mostly told from their points of view. Their personalities are quite contrary, Blaise is young, inexperienced, and very uneasy and awkward around people; Jack appears very secure and in charge of everything. At the beginning it seems to be quite the typical setup with the young trainee and the gruff mentor, but there is a lot more depth to both characters that we slowly discover as we follow the story. This also goes for some of the secondary characters: some might start out as something of a stereotype, but Amy Campbell gives them all a lot of depth and makes each one unique. I really hope we will get so see a little more of the side-characters, because there are some really interesting ones. And it’s the interaction between these very different characters that makes the story such a delight to follow.
The worldbuilding is rich and interesting and Amy Campbell uses a very unique magic-system (which has some X-Men-vibes for me – and that is very high praise in my book). Her writing is very smooth, the pacing the perfect balance between action-heavy scenes and more introspective and character-focused scenes.
Breaker is a wonderful book and a great start for a series. I can only highly recommend it (even if you’re not particularly into western).
There is a wide and very diverse cast of characters in this book, Blaise and Jack being the main characters, the story being mostly told from their points of view. Their personalities are quite contrary, Blaise is young, inexperienced, and very uneasy and awkward around people; Jack appears very secure and in charge of everything. At the beginning it seems to be quite the typical setup with the young trainee and the gruff mentor, but there is a lot more depth to both characters that we slowly discover as we follow the story. This also goes for some of the secondary characters: some might start out as something of a stereotype, but Amy Campbell gives them all a lot of depth and makes each one unique. I really hope we will get so see a little more of the side-characters, because there are some really interesting ones. And it’s the interaction between these very different characters that makes the story such a delight to follow.
The worldbuilding is rich and interesting and Amy Campbell uses a very unique magic-system (which has some X-Men-vibes for me – and that is very high praise in my book). Her writing is very smooth, the pacing the perfect balance between action-heavy scenes and more introspective and character-focused scenes.
Breaker is a wonderful book and a great start for a series. I can only highly recommend it (even if you’re not particularly into western).
November 14, 2021
If you like fantasy even just a little bit, grab this!
This book had no business being so good. I freaking loved it. The author seamlessly weaves together the world building, character development and story telling. All of the characters are interesting, even the side characters that only pop up here and there. The main POVs are Blaise (the sweetest cinnamon roll!) and Jack (the complete opposite of a cinnamon roll, this guy is grumpy!). If you’re looking for a romance, this is a true fantasy book and it’s not focused on a romance. Maybe the next one will have a relationship? But I imagine it would still not be the focus. I have zero complaints about that. There is ace rep in this book and it makes sense for a romance to be a super slow burn anyways.
I don’t want to go into details and ruin anything. There’s a lot that goes on and I was totally hooked and invested. I seriously could not put this book down and now I’m excited to read the next book.
This book had no business being so good. I freaking loved it. The author seamlessly weaves together the world building, character development and story telling. All of the characters are interesting, even the side characters that only pop up here and there. The main POVs are Blaise (the sweetest cinnamon roll!) and Jack (the complete opposite of a cinnamon roll, this guy is grumpy!). If you’re looking for a romance, this is a true fantasy book and it’s not focused on a romance. Maybe the next one will have a relationship? But I imagine it would still not be the focus. I have zero complaints about that. There is ace rep in this book and it makes sense for a romance to be a super slow burn anyways.
I don’t want to go into details and ruin anything. There’s a lot that goes on and I was totally hooked and invested. I seriously could not put this book down and now I’m excited to read the next book.
September 11, 2022
I'm writing this review after reading it the second time. It really held up to a second read. All sorts of details that are introduced then pay off in some way. I only have two complaints. First, I don't like how abusive Jack is toward Blaise. Second, I wish the story was more queer, given that it's in the LGBTQ fantasy genre.
August 16, 2021
Goddamnit this is why I don’t read WIPs. I’m going to die waiting for the next book. Argh.
I’ll admit, it was slow to hook me and I wasn’t sure I’d love it. But the subtle representation, how smoothly it all fits in, the magic world, the western magic mix? It worked for me truly.
I’ll admit, it was slow to hook me and I wasn’t sure I’d love it. But the subtle representation, how smoothly it all fits in, the magic world, the western magic mix? It worked for me truly.
December 5, 2025
This is a intriguing fantasy which has got an interesting narrative and world with some excellently depicted characters that really do leap off the page at you. It's old Western come Steampunk and a well put together combination at that. It could do with a little more depth, particularly in regards to the world building, and some of the narrative felt unevenly paced but I enjoyed it and I'm interested in reading further in the series.
There's a lot to like here. The fantastical Old West setting was really intriguing, particularly the various magic types of the main character and some of the sub characters. The cast of characters, idiosyncratic and entertaining all came to life on the page. Their flaws and brokenness make them more real. The narrative was a very personal story of the character leads in the backdrop of change and politics, and I really appreciated the intrinsic diversity throughout the book with LQBTQ and disability representation that never felt forced. There's a decent amount of action, often putting the characters through hell. There was some predictability where you could see the solution from a mile off and the characters did indeed jump those hoops, but all in all it's a well put together fantasy.
In terms of pacing, it's very much a start and stop book which felt slightly uneven to me but others may not mind. I was intrigued enough for this not to be a huge problem anyway. Where I felt it could have been improved was in expanding the world-building and magic system; we get hints and teasers, but much of the novel is set in a very insular outlaw town so there isn't really a wider view. What little we see of the magic system is interesting and piqued my interest, but it needed more - particularly in the first three quarters.
I'll be interested to see where Amy Campbell goes with this series and with more depth in the world-building and consistent pacing, this could easily be a five star read. It's character driven and the characters are flawed and interesting. The plot is very much focussed around the dilemmas the individual characters find themselves in, from Blaise on the run from mage hunters to the outlaw town trying to keep their own safe. There's a small hint of romance on the horizon, but it's very much in the background. All in all, I'd recommend this.
There's a lot to like here. The fantastical Old West setting was really intriguing, particularly the various magic types of the main character and some of the sub characters. The cast of characters, idiosyncratic and entertaining all came to life on the page. Their flaws and brokenness make them more real. The narrative was a very personal story of the character leads in the backdrop of change and politics, and I really appreciated the intrinsic diversity throughout the book with LQBTQ and disability representation that never felt forced. There's a decent amount of action, often putting the characters through hell. There was some predictability where you could see the solution from a mile off and the characters did indeed jump those hoops, but all in all it's a well put together fantasy.
In terms of pacing, it's very much a start and stop book which felt slightly uneven to me but others may not mind. I was intrigued enough for this not to be a huge problem anyway. Where I felt it could have been improved was in expanding the world-building and magic system; we get hints and teasers, but much of the novel is set in a very insular outlaw town so there isn't really a wider view. What little we see of the magic system is interesting and piqued my interest, but it needed more - particularly in the first three quarters.
I'll be interested to see where Amy Campbell goes with this series and with more depth in the world-building and consistent pacing, this could easily be a five star read. It's character driven and the characters are flawed and interesting. The plot is very much focussed around the dilemmas the individual characters find themselves in, from Blaise on the run from mage hunters to the outlaw town trying to keep their own safe. There's a small hint of romance on the horizon, but it's very much in the background. All in all, I'd recommend this.
November 9, 2021
Blaise Hawthorne is a Breaker, cursed with a deadly magic he has no idea how to control. He lives in constant fear that his unpredictable magic will be the thing that destroys everything he cares about. When a Salt-Iron Federation commander steamrollers his way through the only home he’s ever known looking for powerful mages, Blaise must flee to protect himself - and others. Along the way, Blaise rescues and bonds with a Pegasus named Emrys, and has a run in with a surly outlaw whose shooting skills are second to none.
Blaise finds a home in the town of Itude, and although he is still mistrusted by Wildfire Jack, the rest of the town readily learns to accept him. Blaise has never been happier, but when a building collapses and blame is tossed around like confetti, he finds himself fleeing once more. Blaise learns of a deadly planned attack on the town of Itude, and he must decide if he’s going to muster up the courage to return and protect those he left behind… or run away like he always has.
Holy. Freaking. Heck. This book was amazing!!! Campbell has created an Old-West inspired fantasy world that has one of the most unique and richly detailed settings I’ve ever read in a fantasy novel. Everything about this book was a pleasure. Blaise, he’s such a sweetie. He’s so young, and has been treated so cruelly by others, but this hasn’t made him bitter. He’s still good natured and kind; he’s a bit skittish, but that’s understandable.
Wildfire Jack. Now, I was not expecting to like him at all when he was first introduced, but as the book went on, and I learned more about him, I started to understand his motives… and that completely changed my outlook on his character. Other favorites of mine were Emmaline, Wildfire Jack’s mischievous and sassy teenage daughter, and the suave and charismatic Jefferson Cole.
All in all, this book was a brilliant read. If you extremely well written fantasy worlds with LGBT+ representation, then this is absolutely the book for you!!!
Blaise finds a home in the town of Itude, and although he is still mistrusted by Wildfire Jack, the rest of the town readily learns to accept him. Blaise has never been happier, but when a building collapses and blame is tossed around like confetti, he finds himself fleeing once more. Blaise learns of a deadly planned attack on the town of Itude, and he must decide if he’s going to muster up the courage to return and protect those he left behind… or run away like he always has.
Holy. Freaking. Heck. This book was amazing!!! Campbell has created an Old-West inspired fantasy world that has one of the most unique and richly detailed settings I’ve ever read in a fantasy novel. Everything about this book was a pleasure. Blaise, he’s such a sweetie. He’s so young, and has been treated so cruelly by others, but this hasn’t made him bitter. He’s still good natured and kind; he’s a bit skittish, but that’s understandable.
Wildfire Jack. Now, I was not expecting to like him at all when he was first introduced, but as the book went on, and I learned more about him, I started to understand his motives… and that completely changed my outlook on his character. Other favorites of mine were Emmaline, Wildfire Jack’s mischievous and sassy teenage daughter, and the suave and charismatic Jefferson Cole.
All in all, this book was a brilliant read. If you extremely well written fantasy worlds with LGBT+ representation, then this is absolutely the book for you!!!
August 9, 2024
After what had been an easy delivery run Blaise ran into an outlaw mage and his uncontrolled Breaker magic got the better of him again. More upset about his out of control magic than the outlaw, his guilt only gets worse when his parents try to coddle him. But the news that Desina has joined the Salt-Iron Confederation creates new problems for Blaise. For his choices now are either run and become a maverick or stay to be rounded up and turned into a weapon. Blaise runs when the Confederation comes for him. Now officially an outlaw, his choices to go are limited but after winning the trust of a pegasi he is taken to Itude. He is finally given a chance for a home but the Confederation is still coming not just for him but many of those who live in Itude.
This was a fun read. Magic, crime, baking, and wild west themes. I enjoy reading about opposite attributes such as the one here with a Breaker who enjoys baking/creating things. I like seeing the confidence and skill building we see with Blaise but not everything is fixed, that was definitely a realistic aspect that I enjoyed. Jack's distrust and motivations are understandable and so stubborn. I also liked the fact the two main POVs we followed are a little older than the normal, Blaise is in his early/mid twenties and Jack is probably in his forties. Their reasons and motivations for doing things are smaller, more personal reasons that I could easily get behind. It isn't a we need to save the world situation but I need to save my home and people.
This was a fun read. Magic, crime, baking, and wild west themes. I enjoy reading about opposite attributes such as the one here with a Breaker who enjoys baking/creating things. I like seeing the confidence and skill building we see with Blaise but not everything is fixed, that was definitely a realistic aspect that I enjoyed. Jack's distrust and motivations are understandable and so stubborn. I also liked the fact the two main POVs we followed are a little older than the normal, Blaise is in his early/mid twenties and Jack is probably in his forties. Their reasons and motivations for doing things are smaller, more personal reasons that I could easily get behind. It isn't a we need to save the world situation but I need to save my home and people.
May 17, 2021
Let me start by saying I very much enjoyed this book, and I am looking forward to the continuation of the story. It has everything good fantasy needs: compelling, noble but flawed characters, fantastic creatures, a setting that instills a sense of wonder be it through physical locations or the magic that permeates the world, and cowboys. Okay, maybe good fantasy does not need cowboys, but it never hurts.
On characters, because that is truly what our story is about, both of our viewpoint protagonists were well written. Their motivations were clear and simple, but that did not take away from the nuances of their personalities. Our titular breaker, though he would probably prefer the title of baker, just wants to find a place to fit in. The tale is old, but the take is far from stale. His budding romance is complicated in all of the best ways. That is certainly a plotline I will be watching closely.
Jack, on the other hand, is your quintessential bad-boy outlaw with a tough exterior and heart of gold. I love that his relationships and family are already well established. It keeps him grounded. I am looking forward to meeting his wife, and I hope she plays a large role in the upcoming book(s). Even before I knew she could set things on fire with her mind, I knew she sounded cool.
P.S. The town name: Itude. I'm mad. Not really though.
On characters, because that is truly what our story is about, both of our viewpoint protagonists were well written. Their motivations were clear and simple, but that did not take away from the nuances of their personalities. Our titular breaker, though he would probably prefer the title of baker, just wants to find a place to fit in. The tale is old, but the take is far from stale. His budding romance is complicated in all of the best ways. That is certainly a plotline I will be watching closely.
Jack, on the other hand, is your quintessential bad-boy outlaw with a tough exterior and heart of gold. I love that his relationships and family are already well established. It keeps him grounded. I am looking forward to meeting his wife, and I hope she plays a large role in the upcoming book(s). Even before I knew she could set things on fire with her mind, I knew she sounded cool.
P.S. The town name: Itude. I'm mad. Not really though.
October 5, 2022
🔥 Read for SPFBO, this is only my personal opinion, group verdict might differ wildly 🔥
This definitely is more of a YA story, or a book for those looking for something easier to follow, and with less complexity.
Even though it's on the easy to read side, I was quickly drawn into the story, and enjoyed it all the way through to the end.
Blaise and Jack feel very stereotypical at first, with a native young boy who had been bullied all his life, and the older gruff outlaw who makes his life even harder. Over the course of the story they do grow and show more of their hidden depths though!
The characters are a major reason why I felt this is more on the YA / NA spectrum, as they all are pretty easy to categorise. Good is bad, loyal or treacherous, you'll know pretty soon. It didn't really make this less enjoyable for me, as they still all had their flaws, but it might feel a tad too predictable for those who like it epic and complex.
Westerns usually aren't my cup of tea, and I was sceptical about the Pegasus who bind to a human partner, but overall it all worked out fine. Here and there it might have been a bit too "cute" and easy again, but as I read it with my YA hat on, I didn't mind.
There's some few twists I did not expect, and enough mysteries and adventure to make for an entertaining read, and I am very likely to pick up the next book in the series as well!
This definitely is more of a YA story, or a book for those looking for something easier to follow, and with less complexity.
Even though it's on the easy to read side, I was quickly drawn into the story, and enjoyed it all the way through to the end.
Blaise and Jack feel very stereotypical at first, with a native young boy who had been bullied all his life, and the older gruff outlaw who makes his life even harder. Over the course of the story they do grow and show more of their hidden depths though!
The characters are a major reason why I felt this is more on the YA / NA spectrum, as they all are pretty easy to categorise. Good is bad, loyal or treacherous, you'll know pretty soon. It didn't really make this less enjoyable for me, as they still all had their flaws, but it might feel a tad too predictable for those who like it epic and complex.
Westerns usually aren't my cup of tea, and I was sceptical about the Pegasus who bind to a human partner, but overall it all worked out fine. Here and there it might have been a bit too "cute" and easy again, but as I read it with my YA hat on, I didn't mind.
There's some few twists I did not expect, and enough mysteries and adventure to make for an entertaining read, and I am very likely to pick up the next book in the series as well!
July 3, 2024
This book! I can't even explain it. I have never even imagined a fantasy set in a wild west setting. It works better than I could have ever imagined. Also, the fact that Blaise is ace and Jefferson is gay is not made into a big deal. They just are who they are. Huge props to the writer for that!
So Blaise is a Breaker. And he has zero control over his magic. When Jack first meets him, he hates him. To be fair, Jack was being an outlaw picking on Blaise, so the fact that Blaise accidentally mangled the gun his missing/dead love gave him can't really be put at Blaise's feet.
So when Blaise shows up in Itude, which is Jack's town, Jack wants him gone asap. Fortunately, the rest of the Ringleaders vote to keep him.
There is a huge cast of characters, which include Clover, who is a cow person , and another who is a lion person. They ride Pegasai, which can talk to them in their mind.
And the bad guys are the salt, something Confederation. Showing that both Salt and the confederacy are bad.
I love Jack 's daughter Emmeline almost as much as he does. I wasn't a fan of Jack, but Emmaline changed my mind. Her power is so cool! I want to read so much more about it!
And what is going on with Jefferson Cole? I like that he shows affection for our boy Blaise, but that does not prove that he is not evil. Is he? Is he just playing with him? I just get weird vibes.
So Blaise is a Breaker. And he has zero control over his magic. When Jack first meets him, he hates him. To be fair, Jack was being an outlaw picking on Blaise, so the fact that Blaise accidentally mangled the gun his missing/dead love gave him can't really be put at Blaise's feet.
So when Blaise shows up in Itude, which is Jack's town, Jack wants him gone asap. Fortunately, the rest of the Ringleaders vote to keep him.
There is a huge cast of characters, which include Clover, who is a cow person , and another who is a lion person. They ride Pegasai, which can talk to them in their mind.
And the bad guys are the salt, something Confederation. Showing that both Salt and the confederacy are bad.
I love Jack 's daughter Emmeline almost as much as he does. I wasn't a fan of Jack, but Emmaline changed my mind. Her power is so cool! I want to read so much more about it!
And what is going on with Jefferson Cole? I like that he shows affection for our boy Blaise, but that does not prove that he is not evil. Is he? Is he just playing with him? I just get weird vibes.
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