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The Last Magus #1
Natural Magic
Mastering magic comes only with the greatest of trials...
Alec began his 18th birthday with the temple monks. By day's end, he discovers he possesses magical abilities. Except his magic is unique. He doesn't require grimoires and incantations to cast spells. Alec's magic is entirely natural. He can, somehow, absorb the elements from objects and manipulate them according to his will.
This power is incredible, but difficult to master. If he's going to learn how to use his natural magic, it'll take the tutelage of Archmage Diamondspear, one of the most adept magic users in the kingdom.
And Alec's training is not without its dangers. His abilities manifest and grow when he is in dire circumstances, and his teachers are not beyond putting Alec in the gravest of situations if it means his powers will increase. He'll battle monsters and creatures from his own world, and even those from other worlds.
Join Alec as he faces unknown dangers and learns how to harness natural magic.
This coming-of-age fantasy saga features incremental magic and skill progression, light romance elements, and a heavy magic setting.
Alec began his 18th birthday with the temple monks. By day's end, he discovers he possesses magical abilities. Except his magic is unique. He doesn't require grimoires and incantations to cast spells. Alec's magic is entirely natural. He can, somehow, absorb the elements from objects and manipulate them according to his will.
This power is incredible, but difficult to master. If he's going to learn how to use his natural magic, it'll take the tutelage of Archmage Diamondspear, one of the most adept magic users in the kingdom.
And Alec's training is not without its dangers. His abilities manifest and grow when he is in dire circumstances, and his teachers are not beyond putting Alec in the gravest of situations if it means his powers will increase. He'll battle monsters and creatures from his own world, and even those from other worlds.
Join Alec as he faces unknown dangers and learns how to harness natural magic.
This coming-of-age fantasy saga features incremental magic and skill progression, light romance elements, and a heavy magic setting.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2021
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443 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
June 26, 2021
Not Great
This book is marketed as progression fantasy, but the progression part is ridiculous. First, the main character is given four god-like pieces of equipment right away. He never actually learns anything about magic. He just is miraculously able to access whatever type of spell he needs in any situation. He spends about one page experimenting and then, on his first official day of training, he has to slay literal hordes of monsters because he can’t learn if his life isn’t at risk. There is no magic system or world building or any real training/development of powers.
This book is marketed as progression fantasy, but the progression part is ridiculous. First, the main character is given four god-like pieces of equipment right away. He never actually learns anything about magic. He just is miraculously able to access whatever type of spell he needs in any situation. He spends about one page experimenting and then, on his first official day of training, he has to slay literal hordes of monsters because he can’t learn if his life isn’t at risk. There is no magic system or world building or any real training/development of powers.
September 11, 2023
I'm at nearly 40% and I'm still waiting for the story to start. The world is interesting, but I'm having a really hard time with the hero, Alec. He's just too much.
I mean, it's bad enough that he gets all the things. His magic is different than anyone else's. And it's uber-powerful. And he can do things nobody else can. And the righteous and just archmage notices and immediately takes him under his wing. And rights all the perceived wrongs in Alec's universe. And then people start giving him all their magical artifacts. Including the great Archon who is something like a god, or at least demigod who nobody has seen or heard from in ages who poofs a fancy cloak for the amazing Alec.
But I was wary even before that with the oddly idealized interactions with his charges; a handful of young boys who are "foundlings" with the monks Alec has lived his life with (as he, too, is a foundling). Those interactions were too touching, too heart-rending, too single-note.
And having a "best friend" he hasn't seen in five years doesn't work for an eighteen year-old. I'm sorry, but at that age, your thirteen year-old self is an embarrassing enigma. After five years, you're pretty much over that "friendship" and you are definitely not that person any longer. It might have worked if you went with "hero-worship", but no, the internal dialogue and story progression insists on "best friend". And that just doesn't work.
So it's one star, though a completely different kind of one-star from the author's other book I almost read. I'm still intrigued because one thing the author has in spades is imagination. So I'll aim for something between this one and the other I bounced off of and see how we do.
I mean, it's bad enough that he gets all the things. His magic is different than anyone else's. And it's uber-powerful. And he can do things nobody else can. And the righteous and just archmage notices and immediately takes him under his wing. And rights all the perceived wrongs in Alec's universe. And then people start giving him all their magical artifacts. Including the great Archon who is something like a god, or at least demigod who nobody has seen or heard from in ages who poofs a fancy cloak for the amazing Alec.
But I was wary even before that with the oddly idealized interactions with his charges; a handful of young boys who are "foundlings" with the monks Alec has lived his life with (as he, too, is a foundling). Those interactions were too touching, too heart-rending, too single-note.
And having a "best friend" he hasn't seen in five years doesn't work for an eighteen year-old. I'm sorry, but at that age, your thirteen year-old self is an embarrassing enigma. After five years, you're pretty much over that "friendship" and you are definitely not that person any longer. It might have worked if you went with "hero-worship", but no, the internal dialogue and story progression insists on "best friend". And that just doesn't work.
So it's one star, though a completely different kind of one-star from the author's other book I almost read. I'm still intrigued because one thing the author has in spades is imagination. So I'll aim for something between this one and the other I bounced off of and see how we do.
August 6, 2021
Potential, but didn't deliver
I'm sorry, cant rate higher than a 2 even after being made aware that an Amazon 2 star is basically a terrible review.This book made big promises and just didn't deliver unfortunately.
Character description was bland and generic; I don't know what many of them looked like beyond things like "long blond hair", or "short white beard". Which is odd as the locales were well described.
The pacing was off. Like, way off. I would say approx 50% of the book is a training montage, and right after the initial inciting incident the plot progression stalls massively. You can feel the places where the author is trying to make something "mysterious" but then the topic gets dropped. It's gameLit so the equivalent would be quest flags that get ignored.
The romance is... weird. I got tricked into shipping the MC with his long lost male elf friend whom he's been obsessing over for 5 years! Said friend returns, and appears to be jealous whenever the MC hugs anyone other than him... only to have have MC fall for the first woman he sees and has more than 1 day interaction with. And nothing is ever said of his 5 year man-crush again from either party, even though he fully admits knowing sweet F all about women, and barely understanding romantic feelings other that his friendships (hint hints 5 year man-crush) since he grew up as a monk.Colour me confused. Im not surprised if he is either to be fair, but its the instant switching that makes it weird.
There were some minor spelling/grammar checks, and a huge missed opportunity with the House/Hall of doors/many doors NOT being a running gag that everyone called it something else but only MC could tell. I thought that would have been hilarious anyway.
Final nail in the coffin though; the magic system in this magic story is soo under cooked it literally makes no sense. If the most powerful mage in this world can't coherently explain how magic works then Alec... you in danger boy. MC in addition to having non-explained ridiculous magic is also a Gary stu who gets handed OP magic artifacts like candy from almost everyone... including the worlds God! This is right at the beginning before we even begin the 50% training montage I might add.
Conclusion; it reads like the opening few hours of a JRPG, complete with random side quest flags that get ignored, God gifted gear that you can't take off for the entire game and a main plot which won't make sense until (presumably) the next installation i.e the 2nd book. But unfortunately I won't continue.
I'm sorry, cant rate higher than a 2 even after being made aware that an Amazon 2 star is basically a terrible review.This book made big promises and just didn't deliver unfortunately.
Character description was bland and generic; I don't know what many of them looked like beyond things like "long blond hair", or "short white beard". Which is odd as the locales were well described.
The pacing was off. Like, way off. I would say approx 50% of the book is a training montage, and right after the initial inciting incident the plot progression stalls massively. You can feel the places where the author is trying to make something "mysterious" but then the topic gets dropped. It's gameLit so the equivalent would be quest flags that get ignored.
The romance is... weird. I got tricked into shipping the MC with his long lost male elf friend whom he's been obsessing over for 5 years! Said friend returns, and appears to be jealous whenever the MC hugs anyone other than him... only to have have MC fall for the first woman he sees and has more than 1 day interaction with. And nothing is ever said of his 5 year man-crush again from either party, even though he fully admits knowing sweet F all about women, and barely understanding romantic feelings other that his friendships (hint hints 5 year man-crush) since he grew up as a monk.Colour me confused. Im not surprised if he is either to be fair, but its the instant switching that makes it weird.
There were some minor spelling/grammar checks, and a huge missed opportunity with the House/Hall of doors/many doors NOT being a running gag that everyone called it something else but only MC could tell. I thought that would have been hilarious anyway.
Final nail in the coffin though; the magic system in this magic story is soo under cooked it literally makes no sense. If the most powerful mage in this world can't coherently explain how magic works then Alec... you in danger boy. MC in addition to having non-explained ridiculous magic is also a Gary stu who gets handed OP magic artifacts like candy from almost everyone... including the worlds God! This is right at the beginning before we even begin the 50% training montage I might add.
Conclusion; it reads like the opening few hours of a JRPG, complete with random side quest flags that get ignored, God gifted gear that you can't take off for the entire game and a main plot which won't make sense until (presumably) the next installation i.e the 2nd book. But unfortunately I won't continue.
June 5, 2021
I thought this was quite corny and melodramatic. And is that a diamondspear in your pocket or are you just pleased to see me? What’s that? It’s a short sturdy rod, unique to your family? Touch it in the right way and it greatly increases in length? Do you know, I’ve just remembered another appointment. I’ll let myself out.
February 5, 2024
Dang, I was hoping it wasn't, what I thought. Besides training like Dragon Ball in a room. Through a portal, was pretty cool.
July 19, 2021
Rating 3.5 stars
Started out good but ended up okay. The story follows an 18 year old orphan that lives in a monastery raised by monks. The monastery is dedicated to the last true mage. Since then only people who read grimoires can use magic. The MC finds out that he is able to use magic without a grimoire when he finds himself in a life and death situation. The arch mage comes to take him to an academy once he find out. The MC also reunites with an old elf friend who he hasn't seen in 5 years. Thats was all pretty good but then the story seemed to stall and didn't go anywhere. All in all, it was just okay, could have been a lot better.
Started out good but ended up okay. The story follows an 18 year old orphan that lives in a monastery raised by monks. The monastery is dedicated to the last true mage. Since then only people who read grimoires can use magic. The MC finds out that he is able to use magic without a grimoire when he finds himself in a life and death situation. The arch mage comes to take him to an academy once he find out. The MC also reunites with an old elf friend who he hasn't seen in 5 years. Thats was all pretty good but then the story seemed to stall and didn't go anywhere. All in all, it was just okay, could have been a lot better.
May 17, 2021
Good book
This is a good book that is decently written, the characters are fun and distinct and the plot seems fun so far. Overall it is a good book and I am glad I stuck it out to the end and I will probably pick up the second book when it comes out.
The only thing I absolutely hate about this book is the ham-fisted attempts at foreshadowing at the end of a couple of the chapters. Instead of lightly giving shades of what is to come the author just straight up states that something is coming in the future. It is immersion breaking, and frankly straight up amateurish. I literally had to put the book down for a while after it happened the second time and convince myself to pick it up again.
This is a good book that is decently written, the characters are fun and distinct and the plot seems fun so far. Overall it is a good book and I am glad I stuck it out to the end and I will probably pick up the second book when it comes out.
The only thing I absolutely hate about this book is the ham-fisted attempts at foreshadowing at the end of a couple of the chapters. Instead of lightly giving shades of what is to come the author just straight up states that something is coming in the future. It is immersion breaking, and frankly straight up amateurish. I literally had to put the book down for a while after it happened the second time and convince myself to pick it up again.
June 9, 2021
Not a fan
Main character is the chosen one, and painfully lucky. Supposedly he had a hard life growing up but we don't see any of that as suddenly everything goes right for him and magic items rain from the sky.
I understand giving your character a unique edge but not only is he the only mage that can cast without spells, but he is bombarded with magic items, universal loved by everyone important. And attacked only by 2d evil caricatures. It is painful to read and I did not finish.
Main character is the chosen one, and painfully lucky. Supposedly he had a hard life growing up but we don't see any of that as suddenly everything goes right for him and magic items rain from the sky.
I understand giving your character a unique edge but not only is he the only mage that can cast without spells, but he is bombarded with magic items, universal loved by everyone important. And attacked only by 2d evil caricatures. It is painful to read and I did not finish.
May 29, 2021
This is just poor storytelling.
The actions of the characters make no sense given the context of the story. All of it is very forced. None of the characters come off as having free will. The whole thing is just a badly told tale.
The actions of the characters make no sense given the context of the story. All of it is very forced. None of the characters come off as having free will. The whole thing is just a badly told tale.
January 28, 2022
The concept, characters, and overall story are interesting. It was worth the quick read. However ...
Putting this as politely as I can, the writing is largely bad. Some editorial fixes definitely need to happen, but beyond that, the overuse of similes and metaphors, even repetition of some of them, plus repetition of some words in back-to-back sentences (see how I just did that and it's off-putting? Yeah, this book is full of instances like that), plus the obvious plot devices and story formulas, and added to all that some flat-out low-quality writing, make this book a bit of a cringe at times. I nearly gave up at many points, but I pushed through since it was a short book, and I ended up being drawn in to the setting and wondering what would happen next to the characters, so overall I was glad to finish it.
It feels very much like a rough draft, or like a high schooler's writing assignment, with definite Gary Stu vibes that I didn't think I'd be irritated by until I actually encountered it in this book. The excessive handing out of rare magical devices, opportunity after opportunity to show off and grow his magic when he really had no idea what he was doing, illogical character behavior, cheesy and unnecessary romance . . . I am surprised that I can actually still say that I'm glad to have read it, after all my criticisms; but yes, there was some pleasure in it. The story idea had plenty of potential, but the execution was not handled well. I'm not sure that I'll read any more from this author, unless I find out that the writing has improved since this attempt.
Putting this as politely as I can, the writing is largely bad. Some editorial fixes definitely need to happen, but beyond that, the overuse of similes and metaphors, even repetition of some of them, plus repetition of some words in back-to-back sentences (see how I just did that and it's off-putting? Yeah, this book is full of instances like that), plus the obvious plot devices and story formulas, and added to all that some flat-out low-quality writing, make this book a bit of a cringe at times. I nearly gave up at many points, but I pushed through since it was a short book, and I ended up being drawn in to the setting and wondering what would happen next to the characters, so overall I was glad to finish it.
It feels very much like a rough draft, or like a high schooler's writing assignment, with definite Gary Stu vibes that I didn't think I'd be irritated by until I actually encountered it in this book. The excessive handing out of rare magical devices, opportunity after opportunity to show off and grow his magic when he really had no idea what he was doing, illogical character behavior, cheesy and unnecessary romance . . . I am surprised that I can actually still say that I'm glad to have read it, after all my criticisms; but yes, there was some pleasure in it. The story idea had plenty of potential, but the execution was not handled well. I'm not sure that I'll read any more from this author, unless I find out that the writing has improved since this attempt.
August 5, 2021
Entertaining.
Like another reviewer , I didn't care for the blatant foreshadowing at the end of some of the chapters. I wasn't as bothered by the second as I was the first. The story already provides enough foreshadowing that the one left me feeling insulted. So far I like the magic and the world. The story moves along pretty well, but sometimes the emotions seem a bit extravagant.
Like another reviewer , I didn't care for the blatant foreshadowing at the end of some of the chapters. I wasn't as bothered by the second as I was the first. The story already provides enough foreshadowing that the one left me feeling insulted. So far I like the magic and the world. The story moves along pretty well, but sometimes the emotions seem a bit extravagant.
August 25, 2021
This book had a pretty simplistic writing style. It read like a book for a younger audience in style & plot, but I wouldn’t give it to my middle schoolers to read, because the author just threw in swear words willy-nilly, and was too descriptive with his violence for a younger audience. I couldn’t decide if it was a book for an older YA audience that needs definite improvement, or a book for a younger audience (11-13 year olds) with age-inappropriate content.
January 22, 2022
Decent overall, but lacked the essential spark of a "great" book as opposed a decent one. I don't have a solid read on the MC, but he's a decent guy thrown in over his head. It's pretty much a YA book with teenagers as the focus, so you needn't worry about things getting too dark. It lacks a bit of gravity for my taste, but I'll try one or two more books and see where this goes.
January 25, 2022
Eh, not for adults
I did mental eye rolls far too many times. Also predictable and he gives away plenty. Too bad.
Not bad tho I'm sure teens will enjoy it, and perhaps YA.
(I'm 38)
I did mental eye rolls far too many times. Also predictable and he gives away plenty. Too bad.
Not bad tho I'm sure teens will enjoy it, and perhaps YA.
(I'm 38)
July 15, 2021
Some people might like it
I found the writing a bit boring, and the plot not really thought out well. I made it to 52 percent, when I decided this story is not worth my time.
I found the writing a bit boring, and the plot not really thought out well. I made it to 52 percent, when I decided this story is not worth my time.
February 2, 2022
Really Solid First Book in a Series
Excellent pacing establishes Alec as a good, responsible guy you want to see succeed. He has complaints but also appreciation of what could be worse in life.
The classic need to choose a career, er, a path in life. Realism vs. dreams and all of that. Does a great job setting up Uriel Diamondspear as some near-god-like being, then pulling Alec into his world.
A lot of "really good, exceptional things" happen to Alec all at once on his 18th birthday. Gets a magic dagger as a gift, awakens his magical abilities, tests his bravery and reenters the Crypt, rescues a child in his care from a supernatural being, and just luckily it all happens when Uriel is nearby and can recognize his potential and claim him as his own blood. Reconnects with his long-lost elven ranger friend Tanuin.
Alec gets his own Diamondspear. Gets some direct guidance and a gift (magic teleporting cloak) from Archon (god?) and a parting gift (magic shield ring) from Master Abel who retroactively was only being hard on him all these years because he knew he was special and had his bests interest at heart. Meets Eleira, who turns out to be a fellow-magic-student-recruit, who also functions as a foil demonstrating the usual / non-natural way of being a magician.
Gets a last hurrah at the monastery, demonstrating his heroism and new found powers saving the lives of several children and killing some bandits.
Sails on an airship to Uriel's estates, including the House of Doors. Gets training alongside Eleira, a suitable-aged female elf. The hope is to prepare them both to enter the formal mage academy. Meets Maimonides the Shadebringer, a gnome mage who provides comedy relief, and takes over Alec's training for awhile. House of Doors provides a convenient way to grind in controlled challenge environments, so Alec can develop his skills. Behind one door, Alec manages to recruit a demoness as a familiar, Trystara. Eleira and Alec together overcome Baldir, Uriel's dead son trapped in a pocket dimension behind one of the doors. They earn treasures killing the spider queen.
Hints of machinations going on behind the scenes setup the next story in the series Alec and Eleira are ready for mage school.
Excellent pacing establishes Alec as a good, responsible guy you want to see succeed. He has complaints but also appreciation of what could be worse in life.
The classic need to choose a career, er, a path in life. Realism vs. dreams and all of that. Does a great job setting up Uriel Diamondspear as some near-god-like being, then pulling Alec into his world.
A lot of "really good, exceptional things" happen to Alec all at once on his 18th birthday. Gets a magic dagger as a gift, awakens his magical abilities, tests his bravery and reenters the Crypt, rescues a child in his care from a supernatural being, and just luckily it all happens when Uriel is nearby and can recognize his potential and claim him as his own blood. Reconnects with his long-lost elven ranger friend Tanuin.
Alec gets his own Diamondspear. Gets some direct guidance and a gift (magic teleporting cloak) from Archon (god?) and a parting gift (magic shield ring) from Master Abel who retroactively was only being hard on him all these years because he knew he was special and had his bests interest at heart. Meets Eleira, who turns out to be a fellow-magic-student-recruit, who also functions as a foil demonstrating the usual / non-natural way of being a magician.
Gets a last hurrah at the monastery, demonstrating his heroism and new found powers saving the lives of several children and killing some bandits.
Sails on an airship to Uriel's estates, including the House of Doors. Gets training alongside Eleira, a suitable-aged female elf. The hope is to prepare them both to enter the formal mage academy. Meets Maimonides the Shadebringer, a gnome mage who provides comedy relief, and takes over Alec's training for awhile. House of Doors provides a convenient way to grind in controlled challenge environments, so Alec can develop his skills. Behind one door, Alec manages to recruit a demoness as a familiar, Trystara. Eleira and Alec together overcome Baldir, Uriel's dead son trapped in a pocket dimension behind one of the doors. They earn treasures killing the spider queen.
Hints of machinations going on behind the scenes setup the next story in the series Alec and Eleira are ready for mage school.
September 23, 2022
It's hard to tell whether I like this book for its own merits or because it put me in a nostalgic mood for my early days of falling in love with the fantasy genre.
This book feels very much like an entry-level fantasy adventure, the kind of story that pulls middle-grade to young-adult readers into the world of fantasy novels. It doesn't take any risks, sticks to the tropes, and is quite simplistic in writing style and plotting. However, please don't confuse any of that as criticism. There's a time and place for complex adult novels, and there's also a time and place for this kind of easy-reading book that you can just close off your mind, sit back and enjoy.
One of the elements I really enjoyed in this book was the main character. He is a genuinely good souled character, showing a genuine interest in other people. In a world where grim-dark characters are becoming more and more common, I appreciated this. I do think that this opens a door to a 'Gary Stu' style character, and indeed that could be a criticism of this novel for those less inclined to enjoy this type of story. However, right now he's just enough on the fun/wish-fulfilment side of the equation that I don't really mind it.
The main reason for losing a star in this review is that my engagement in the story dips in the novel's second half. I think this is because the story felt like it was being rushed so the main character can get to the good stuff, and I don't think that was necessary. Some more time devoted to the characters' travels and some more effort on fleshing out the world and building up character relationships would have gone a long way to improving this book.
Overall though, this is an easy reading novel that manages to capture the charm that first pulled me into a lifelong love of this genre. It's probably 3.5-stars of writing quality that gets bumped up to a 4 because I enjoyed it so much.
This book feels very much like an entry-level fantasy adventure, the kind of story that pulls middle-grade to young-adult readers into the world of fantasy novels. It doesn't take any risks, sticks to the tropes, and is quite simplistic in writing style and plotting. However, please don't confuse any of that as criticism. There's a time and place for complex adult novels, and there's also a time and place for this kind of easy-reading book that you can just close off your mind, sit back and enjoy.
One of the elements I really enjoyed in this book was the main character. He is a genuinely good souled character, showing a genuine interest in other people. In a world where grim-dark characters are becoming more and more common, I appreciated this. I do think that this opens a door to a 'Gary Stu' style character, and indeed that could be a criticism of this novel for those less inclined to enjoy this type of story. However, right now he's just enough on the fun/wish-fulfilment side of the equation that I don't really mind it.
The main reason for losing a star in this review is that my engagement in the story dips in the novel's second half. I think this is because the story felt like it was being rushed so the main character can get to the good stuff, and I don't think that was necessary. Some more time devoted to the characters' travels and some more effort on fleshing out the world and building up character relationships would have gone a long way to improving this book.
Overall though, this is an easy reading novel that manages to capture the charm that first pulled me into a lifelong love of this genre. It's probably 3.5-stars of writing quality that gets bumped up to a 4 because I enjoyed it so much.
March 22, 2022
If you are a teenage male, ignore my rating and ignore my review.
For everyone else: a bit over 2*, rounded down to 2 to remind me not to read the next.
There are YA books that get the label merely because the protagonists are teens. And there are YA books aimed young. This is the latter. The boy wonder gets power and can defeat creatures and is amazing. If you defeat a boss creature, you get random treasure in ways that make no sense, like a teen version of D&D. Characters and relationships are superficial to the point of being caricatures. The stated entrance requirements are highly exaggerated and make no sense - so hopefully that’s just an excuse and will be revealed as such in the next book. What is the magic system? That’s extremely superficially explained. How does the ranger know his birthday - he just accepts that? The writing has choices that wouldn’t be tolerated in a book aimed at adults. The most egregious is the end of chapter restatement of foreshadowing “little did he know, but this will happen”. I also found the constant “young man” annoying. There’s more to dislike, but if you are a fan of hack and slash D&D with random treasure and skilled and determined elf girls treated like eye candy, then you’ll like this book. If that doesn’t appeal to you, it probably won’t.
For everyone else: a bit over 2*, rounded down to 2 to remind me not to read the next.
There are YA books that get the label merely because the protagonists are teens. And there are YA books aimed young. This is the latter. The boy wonder gets power and can defeat creatures and is amazing. If you defeat a boss creature, you get random treasure in ways that make no sense, like a teen version of D&D. Characters and relationships are superficial to the point of being caricatures. The stated entrance requirements are highly exaggerated and make no sense - so hopefully that’s just an excuse and will be revealed as such in the next book. What is the magic system? That’s extremely superficially explained. How does the ranger know his birthday - he just accepts that? The writing has choices that wouldn’t be tolerated in a book aimed at adults. The most egregious is the end of chapter restatement of foreshadowing “little did he know, but this will happen”. I also found the constant “young man” annoying. There’s more to dislike, but if you are a fan of hack and slash D&D with random treasure and skilled and determined elf girls treated like eye candy, then you’ll like this book. If that doesn’t appeal to you, it probably won’t.
April 8, 2022
Great example of the genre in which a young adult discovers they have a talent for magic. Those sequences of discovery were very well done. The system of magic created by Mr. King seems reasonable. The world that provides the magical context is pretty well crafted. There is a well-designed romantic tension between two characters.
I was immensely irritated by the author's pointless "author's hints" at the end of some sections. There is NEVER any reason to let the air out of a story by spilling the beans and telling readers what's going to happen in the next chapter/section. I read to see how a story and its characters develop and deal with surprises and challenges. Things like, "Little did he know that he would be passing through that door very soon instead of waiting until he was ready." are pointless and unfortunate. The final chapter in which the author lays out the essence of the remainder of the story covered in future books, revealed future lies and treachery by key characters that pretty much killed my desire to continue the series.
In spite of the good things, I did not continue the series. Might consider it in the future.
I was immensely irritated by the author's pointless "author's hints" at the end of some sections. There is NEVER any reason to let the air out of a story by spilling the beans and telling readers what's going to happen in the next chapter/section. I read to see how a story and its characters develop and deal with surprises and challenges. Things like, "Little did he know that he would be passing through that door very soon instead of waiting until he was ready." are pointless and unfortunate. The final chapter in which the author lays out the essence of the remainder of the story covered in future books, revealed future lies and treachery by key characters that pretty much killed my desire to continue the series.
In spite of the good things, I did not continue the series. Might consider it in the future.
March 26, 2022
I DNFed this book for couple of reasons.
First, at the end of chapters there is like a spoilery teasing line so that you continue with the next chapter which is just bad writing, in my opinion. Also that letter from Alec’s elf friend just made me cringe. Talk about being too obvious and dramatic on purpose lol. So yeah overall the writing wasn’t for me, which leads me to the second reason
Second, a lot of gender stereotypes going on that just pissed me off. Couple of quotes:
1)“the fairer sex” (uhm fuck off),
2)“Long blonde hair reached almost all the way down to his waist, giving the messenger an almost girlish look” (really? since when having long hair makes you girlish? wtf? especially considering we haven’t seen any female characters until that point to make that assumption)
3)“The boys loved the idea of carnage, as all young boys do” (again wtf?)
Third, it’s too Tolkien style with elves being present and then there was this sentence “Grimoires were given to the elves, the dwarves, and to man—”. It’s just not for me, sorry lol
I love the cover though. Well done!
First, at the end of chapters there is like a spoilery teasing line so that you continue with the next chapter which is just bad writing, in my opinion. Also that letter from Alec’s elf friend just made me cringe. Talk about being too obvious and dramatic on purpose lol. So yeah overall the writing wasn’t for me, which leads me to the second reason
Second, a lot of gender stereotypes going on that just pissed me off. Couple of quotes:
1)“the fairer sex” (uhm fuck off),
2)“Long blonde hair reached almost all the way down to his waist, giving the messenger an almost girlish look” (really? since when having long hair makes you girlish? wtf? especially considering we haven’t seen any female characters until that point to make that assumption)
3)“The boys loved the idea of carnage, as all young boys do” (again wtf?)
Third, it’s too Tolkien style with elves being present and then there was this sentence “Grimoires were given to the elves, the dwarves, and to man—”. It’s just not for me, sorry lol
I love the cover though. Well done!
June 23, 2021
Mediocre book
Language and the writing itself is good if a little simple.
The story is engaging if very a very classic coming of age story, nothing new here!
The worldbuilding is not very convincing or detailed. The reader is left wondering Why some things are considered special. We're told that the main person is so unique and special but wee not SHOWN the difference between him and others. There are no details regarding the magic system even though it plays a central role in the story. There are many places in the book where the reader ends up just saying "What?" as things happen.
Lastöy there is no emotional buildup. I think this is because the characters lack depth, mening that we never really get to know them or care about them.
3/5
It's good enough to finish reading but not good enough for me to continue with the series.
Language and the writing itself is good if a little simple.
The story is engaging if very a very classic coming of age story, nothing new here!
The worldbuilding is not very convincing or detailed. The reader is left wondering Why some things are considered special. We're told that the main person is so unique and special but wee not SHOWN the difference between him and others. There are no details regarding the magic system even though it plays a central role in the story. There are many places in the book where the reader ends up just saying "What?" as things happen.
Lastöy there is no emotional buildup. I think this is because the characters lack depth, mening that we never really get to know them or care about them.
3/5
It's good enough to finish reading but not good enough for me to continue with the series.
May 5, 2022
I really wanted to like this book. I really did. And like the premise and the story is really promising. I do like the concept. But omg the writing and dialogue and argh! It was just so frustrating to read!! This story could’ve been told in half the words it was. There was just so much over explanation and too much description. Also we didn’t need to know every single thought Alec has about everything. Also what’s with all that corny foreshadowing? “Little did Alec know, his life was about to change…” - like once or twice I could probably handle, but this happened like every other chapter!!
I was looking forward to getting back into reading fantasy as I haven’t read much of it for a while, but this was such a disappointment. It gets 1 star for a fun sounding concept and another for effort.
I was looking forward to getting back into reading fantasy as I haven’t read much of it for a while, but this was such a disappointment. It gets 1 star for a fun sounding concept and another for effort.
January 6, 2023
I finished it, it's good enough that I finished it but I didn't enjoy it, books like this get 2 stars from me. A 3 star is a book I finished and think is worthy of a read and I'd recommend some 3 stars. 4 stars are great books and I save the 5 stars for the true rare gems. I wish I could find more stuff worthy of 5 stars but I guess I'm harsh, feel like most people hand out 5 stars here like they're candy.
I like me a Marty Stu / Mary Sue story but didn't find anything particularly enthralling about this story at all the premise has potential but everything just moves WAY too slowly. I'm sorry to judge it harshly as I appreciate authors but just don't feel the desire to listen to the next audiobook. It may have something to do with the narrator though I didn't think he was so bad while I listened.
I like me a Marty Stu / Mary Sue story but didn't find anything particularly enthralling about this story at all the premise has potential but everything just moves WAY too slowly. I'm sorry to judge it harshly as I appreciate authors but just don't feel the desire to listen to the next audiobook. It may have something to do with the narrator though I didn't think he was so bad while I listened.
June 30, 2021
Alert
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. I am simply saying that I liked it. I would like you to read it and make your own decision. After all, you are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
I will happily discuss the book with you on Goodreads if you are so inclined. As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. I am simply saying that I liked it. I would like you to read it and make your own decision. After all, you are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
I will happily discuss the book with you on Goodreads if you are so inclined. As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
July 14, 2021
Decent coming of age series start
Fairly typical conning of age hero book. The MC is hidden in a monastary and awakens his unusual magic powers. Seems there is a big bad brewing but the reader is not informed what it is.The MC has a unique power to use magic without a grimoire. He needs to go the The magic academy but must train the elements to pass the entrance exams. The story is decent but progression is rushed and there is very little detail to the magic.... He just gets better and can do more wonderous things. I prefer more detail in the magic system and this one is sparse. The book is not horrible but I think could have been better.
Fairly typical conning of age hero book. The MC is hidden in a monastary and awakens his unusual magic powers. Seems there is a big bad brewing but the reader is not informed what it is.The MC has a unique power to use magic without a grimoire. He needs to go the The magic academy but must train the elements to pass the entrance exams. The story is decent but progression is rushed and there is very little detail to the magic.... He just gets better and can do more wonderous things. I prefer more detail in the magic system and this one is sparse. The book is not horrible but I think could have been better.
March 28, 2022
I have a very strong feeling that this is a smurf pen name for Dante King. It seems to be non smut, so if it is him, I hope he will focus on the actual story and not the smut.
This wasn't too bad. The story actually progressed smoothly, and the characters had some amount of depth...
What I didn't like was
Other than that, I will pick up the sequel, and other books by the author (who I still believe is Dante King).
2.5/5 Stars
This wasn't too bad. The story actually progressed smoothly, and the characters had some amount of depth...
What I didn't like was
Other than that, I will pick up the sequel, and other books by the author (who I still believe is Dante King).
2.5/5 Stars
May 2, 2022
Main character, an orphan, finds out he has magic on his 18th birthday when he has to save some kids that he was supposed to be watching. Of course one of those kids has to go into a ruin where some sort of hag has made her home.
A visiting arch-mage shows up just in time to save them both from the hag. Takes him to train so that he can pass the entrance exams for their version of Hogwarts. The book only gets them through to where they are ready for the exams, and of course the arch-mage is one of the "for the greater good" kinda characters.
3/5 was really close to a 2/5 as I had a hard time staying interested in it enough to finish.
A visiting arch-mage shows up just in time to save them both from the hag. Takes him to train so that he can pass the entrance exams for their version of Hogwarts. The book only gets them through to where they are ready for the exams, and of course the arch-mage is one of the "for the greater good" kinda characters.
3/5 was really close to a 2/5 as I had a hard time staying interested in it enough to finish.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2021
Interesting Concept
I hemmed and hawed about this review, but in the end I had to give this book a 4.
The concept is good, a person who can use magic naturally, while others need the help of books. Think sorcerer or druid vs wizards in game terms.
The part I didn't enjoy is that I didn't get to learn how any of the main character's abilities worked. Everything is just described as working after a montage scene with his tutor.
I'm excited for the sequel, hopefully his time at the academy will shed some more light on how this world works.
I hemmed and hawed about this review, but in the end I had to give this book a 4.
The concept is good, a person who can use magic naturally, while others need the help of books. Think sorcerer or druid vs wizards in game terms.
The part I didn't enjoy is that I didn't get to learn how any of the main character's abilities worked. Everything is just described as working after a montage scene with his tutor.
I'm excited for the sequel, hopefully his time at the academy will shed some more light on how this world works.
June 7, 2021
Good writing
But this particular subject has been done to death by everyone who writes. An unknown young person, male or female, raised in hard circumstances (but still kind) turns out to be Luke Skystumbler or the local equivalent. I should say "I'm sorry to rain on your story", but I won't. To make it work you have to make me deeply care for the main character and his friends and enemies. The character I liked the most was the pretty demon that liked to eat spiders. Most all the others were larger than life cardboard cutouts that no one could live up to.
But this particular subject has been done to death by everyone who writes. An unknown young person, male or female, raised in hard circumstances (but still kind) turns out to be Luke Skystumbler or the local equivalent. I should say "I'm sorry to rain on your story", but I won't. To make it work you have to make me deeply care for the main character and his friends and enemies. The character I liked the most was the pretty demon that liked to eat spiders. Most all the others were larger than life cardboard cutouts that no one could live up to.
October 23, 2022
I don't know why I finished it. I guess it was cause I craved a fantasy, but this story was so un-unique and I didn't care about the characters or plot at all. there's no real world building or magic system, the character's just about to do whatever he wants without training, something supposed to be impossible in this world, and he's a perfect (boring) Gary Sue to boot.
if the author actually developed the grimoire magic system and made his character actually earn something then this book might've had some potential.
if the author actually developed the grimoire magic system and made his character actually earn something then this book might've had some potential.
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