The Kingmaster

by C.A. Doehrmann

The Hero of Ellunon
Kyen is a talented swordsman with a heavy reputation on his shoulders. Shy and destitute, all he wants is to wander the wilderness the rest of his days—and to hide a powerful secret.

Until word arrives that his best friend, Finn, the Crown Prince, has been possessed by a sorcerer known as the Kingmaster. The royal family calls on Kyen to save him, but steel is useless against his dark and sentient magic.

Adeya is a princess doomed to an arranged marriage. Once celestial beings wielded the Three Powers at the command of her people. Now, they've fallen silent, and, with fiends running amok and her kingdom on the brink of ruin, she must marry… or find an arcangel who still answers.

Together they embark on a quest, following the rumors of a last summoner hiding his arcangel in an ancient forest. Fiends, dragons, and thieves can't compare to the Kingmaster as his black magic turns every friend they meet into an enemy. When his designs ensnare Adeya, Kyen must choose between saving his friends or releasing a secret that will endanger all the kingdoms of Ellunon.

Genres: Fantasy

Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2021

About the author

C. A. Doehrmann, an avid lover of YA adventure fantasy, loves writing books about quests and sending characters on a journey to find out who they are and where they belong (including a few smash-down, drag-out fights along the way.) She’s been a novelist for over two decades and is currently working on The Books of Ellunon, a fantasy series within the Arc Legends universe. She lives in the Midwest with her Knight in Shining Armor and her aptly named fluff-dragon, Princess.

Reviews

[Abbi Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad I read this book and would like to give the author a quick shout-out for providing me with an arc copy. Thank you so much, C.A. Doehrmann!

One of the things I really loved was the way the author introduced her world and its inhabitants. Nothing is outright explained, but almost taken for granted
so that the reader finds themselves immersed in a world that, though unknown to them, feels completely familiar. I also loved the protagonist, Kyen, a young war-hero with a mysterious past and awesome powers. His detached attitude and love for sandwiches were some of my favorite things, though I still wonder about when he was staring off into space so much...

The princess was surprisingly cool in this story. Too often I find that an author, attempting to create a strong female lead, has taken away all of her humanity. Adeya is most definitely still human. Sure, she's tough, has a temper, and insists on adventure, but, overall, she's a good character and plays a genuinely valuable part in the quest. I also like that she's blonde with blue eyes instead of your typical redhead.

I found the concept of the Arc and the arcangels fascinating. I've seen it done similarly before, but I absolutely love Doehrmann's presentation and description, lovely and magical as well as powerful.

There are a few typo and grammar instances in the book, as well as a couple paragraphs where we hear a lot about "the two swordsmen", but this is one of the best books I have read this year and I'm giving it five stars for sure. It made me laugh out loud, had me guessing at the plot twists constantly even though I thought I was sure of my suspicions, and kept me turning pages constantly. Excellent reading material that I recommend for middle-grade and up. I can't wait to read the next series installments and (hopefully) have all my big questions answered, as well as see more of my favorite characters and places.

(review also posted on blog @ http://abbigrace.com)

[Catherine P. Ames · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sword, sorcery, and sandwich! All the action of fantasy, with characters so relatable they could be your best friend!

[Larissa G. Capella · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Welcome, Kyen of Avanna,” said all four, simultaneously. “To my kingdom. I am the Kingmaster.”

This novel is outstanding, and by outstanding I mean incredibly adventurous.

I love it when fantasy books manage to surprise me with every chapter. I had the impression that I was one of the characters, slashing at the puppets controlled by the Kingmaster. The thought of a kingmaster ruling over people is, to begin with, immensely intriguing, but not quite as much as the idea of arcangels and summoners. They were the only ones who could work together to defeat the Kingmaster and free those who had fallen victim to the mysterious influence of black weapons. I was very interested in learning more about them and how they became such a threat during the past war, even though I knew those details might be explained in book two. 

The characters are well-developed, and each has a unique personality. I adore Galveston. He frequently acted stubbornly and threw mini tantrums during the journey. I found it enjoyable to read his narration. Adeya was one character I must say I enjoyed more at the beginning of the novel than in the middle. She was a curious princess who had never used a sword in her life and had been raised in a castle under constant parental supervision. She was following her grandma's discoveries, so I was anticipating her to be more courageous. Nevertheless, I understand she wasn't supposed to be a warrior in the book, but even so, I thought it was fun when she went up against Galveston and did what she wanted rather than what was expected of her. I strive for a strong female character. Kyen inspired her and offered to support her every step of the way. He is my favorite character, and I was surprised to see he was not very intimidating as someone who was a great warrior. He is gentle and caring, yet when necessary, he stands up for the people he cares about. 

The story was not fast-paced, and none of the events felt rushed. The descriptions of fighting scenes and of scenarios were very imaginative. I read some of them twice, just to experience the words' fluidity once more. I loved every scene and was on the edge of my seat!

[Eric Balch · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Kingmaster is the first novel in the Arc Legends of Ellunon fantasy series. Taking place in an alternate world, the story follows Kyen, a renowned swordsman and hero of a great war. When his friend, Prince Finn, undergoes a bizarre change in personality after a mysterious attack, Kyen sets off on a quest to find someone who can cure him. On his journey, he teams up with the princess of another kingdom who is searching for the same thing he is. Along with an obnoxious prince who is trying to court the princess, they face dangers of many kinds, ranging from monsters in the woods to attacks from the Kingmaster himself.

The Kingmaster is an engaging tale filled with magic, adventure, and mystery. Kyen is a bit of a loner who travels with the others reluctantly. His past is somewhat mysterious and he hides a secret from the others and possibly himself. The princess is inexperienced, but eager to learn and is far more resourceful than given credit for by the others, especially her suitor. The unwanted prince is obnoxious and overbearing and is on the journey only because the princess is. All the characters have unique personalities and motivations.

Overall, The Kingmaster is an entertaining and well-well written story. Fans of sword and sorcery-style fantasy will be sure to enjoy this book. Everyone will be looking forward to the next installment.

[M.H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

Kyen of Avanna is a legendary swordsman despite his youth. He’s also a loyal friend, a meek and pleasant fellow, and a joy to read about. He definitely joins my top favorite book heroes list. I also enjoyed Princess Adeya, a flawed, temperamental, naive, yet intelligent and lovable girl who complements Kyen well. Add the gruff Galveston to this trio—plus the last arcangel Kade who dwells inside Kyen—and you have a great recipe for a fine adventure!

This book does have some flaws. Typos pepper the pages, and there are a few repeated conversations and other debut errors that could be smoothed. But I found that I enjoyed the story and characters so much, I could tune those things out more than usual. After three DNFs, I’m happy I took a chance on this book!

Doehrmann has a natural writing knack that will only get better from here. The world she’s crafted is fascinating and vivid. The mystery yet to be unfolded has me intrigued. I look forward to book 2 of Ellunon!

Content: No strong language. No steam/spice. Does contain fantasy violence, including death.

[Nathan Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although the first in the Arc Legends series, The Kingmaster is a great standalone book. Doehermann definitely has her own, individual voice in a genre with an overwhelming choice of writes.

It’s a very fast-paced, exciting read, packed with truly epic battles. The detailed writing style draws you into each scene, so that you feel you’re right there, experiencing the action with the characters. The characters felt, perhaps, a little clichéd, but this doesn’t draw from the fun of joining them on a battle against a very deadly, dark enemy. It’s biggest strengths, for me, is how very real everything felt, and how adept the aouthor is with the genre's idiom.

[BookmarkedOne · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the author started offering ARCs for the new and improved version of The Kingmaster, I didn't think twice about claiming one of my own.

Meet our legendary hero, a perpetually distracted, slightly shy and awkward young man who spends his days wandering the wild world, avoiding recognition for his masterful deeds, and dreaming of sandwiches.

Kyen of Avanna.

He’s still just as excellent as in the first version.

Really, everything is just as good as before, and in some ways, better. Although it has some slow moments in the middle and a few plot holes, it's an enjoyable read. I can't wait to see what Doehrmann does with the rest of the series!

Full review here for the curious: http://bookmarkedone.home.blog/2024/0...

And for the even more curious, my review of the original Kingmaster book: http://bookmarkedone.home.blog/2023/0....

[Jade Lawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️
This was a fun, classic quest story. The tone and style reminded me a lot of Stardust by Neil Geiman. A quest with knights and a princess learning to fight, and the last archangel in the search to find more of his kind while destroying the darkness terrorizing them and their kingdoms. And like Geiman’s story the tone was ambiguous enough to be enjoyable for any age. I feel like this probably could’ve gone farther or developed a little more. But yet I think because it wasn’t, that is what reminded me more of Neil Geiman than say Tolkien or George RR Martin. So yeah, this was really enjoyable and quick read that I would definitely recommend to others.
Thank you to BookSiren and the author for providing an advance reader copy of this book for my honest review.

[Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this read!

The author did an excellent job of storytelling, with an exciting tale that was fast paced (too fast at times), detailed, and well thought out.

It stands well on its own, yet sets us up for book two with ease. I put this book in front of many others on my list upon recommendation from a friend, and am glad for it… Just what the doctor ordered 👍🏼

Nice work Doehrmann!

[J. Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is amazing!!!! And the characters carry it so well! The mix of Kyen and Adeya is so superb, my only complaint is that book two is not out yet!

[BookmarkedOne · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a fun little romp. Pretty well-written and fast-paced, too.
And how can you dislike Kyen when his life goals are long walks and eating lots of sandwiches? Spoiler: you can't.

Full review for the curious: https://bookmarkedone.home.blog/2023/....

[SDreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Descriptive and action-packed

Fantasy is not my preferred genre so it took several pages for me to get my bearings. I appreciated the vivid descriptions that allowed me to picture the characters and setting. The story moves forward at a steady pace and offers plenty of action. The characters are interesting and grow through their experiences. I look forward to learning more in book 2.

[W.A. Stanley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided an advance reader copy of The Kingmaster, and am leaving this review voluntarily. An extra special thanks to C.A. Doehrmann for holding the raffle, and for happening to select me as a winner.

Upon first opening this book, I was struck by the simplicity of the author's prose. The book is full of short sentences and paragraphs, which she uses to great effect throughout the book, through descriptions, setting the mood, and reaching and maintaining a fast pace.

While the novel isn't particularly long, and the short sentences and paragraphs mean there is a bit of white space left on the page, it feels like it is exactly the right length for the story - there is no padding, nor does the book rush through events. The book has been tightly edited to accomplish this, as well as preventing spelling and grammatical errors.

The characters are well-written, and the three leads, Kyen, Galvestron and Adeya are all enjoyable leads. Likewise, the titular Kingmaster is also well-written.

There is plenty of action in the book, which is well written, and flows beautifully thanks to the aforementioned sentence and paragraph structure.

While there is lots of action, this does not turn into real violence or ugliness, like so many stories aspire to, for the sake of it. This results in a book that is as appropriate for children as it is their parents.

While this book is the first in the Arc Legends series, aside from the epilogue, the book stands alone. While the epilogue works well as a tease for what's to come, The Kingmaster is a great done in one story. You can read it, safely assured that you have bought a complete story.

My full review will be posted here from 15 November 2021.

[Nicole Sperber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Accessible, well-paced, loaded with sword fights. Enjoyed the fiends, and the diverse application of magic. One of two reveals was a big surprise, which was nice. There's no growth or change in the characters, but they're likeable, so that's good. Prose is clunky, but doesn't get in the way of the story. Reads like an anime, which I also enjoyed. Features an aloof, ever-hungry, plays-the-fool hero with a solemn demeanor, secrets, and storm-grey eyes; an aquamarine-eyed princess with a fierce pout and a lot of precious pep; fire-bellied dragons; faceless fiends with white teeth; a quest for magic-gone-silent, and summoners who do not want to be found. A nice debut. I am glad to have read it!

[Aildreda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, YA adventure with an oddball group. Meet a mysterious--albeit awkward--war hero, a princess who doesn't want to marry, and the suitor who really wants to marry her. Together, they travel through several unique lands, each with fun new world building details, to fulfil their quest. The ending--after some nice twists--was satisfying while still setting up the subsequent books.

This was a pretty quick read, with no content that would make it unsuitable for a younger teen audience.

[Jenna Huether · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exciting beginning to a new fantasy world from a debut author! Each chapter pulled me into the next and the book as a whole left me only wanting more of Kyen and Ellunon.

[Hannah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Kingmaster was a lively read that kept me entertained and eager for more. I received an ARC of this book and I am happy to review it with my own thoughts. Doehrmann is a fun and enjoyable storyteller who wonderfully brought their characters to life.

I enjoyed Adeya’s spunk and perseverance throughout the tale. I thought her energy and Kyen’s reserve complimented each other well. I look forward to their dynamic and deepening relationship in the next book.

My biggest critique would be that it felt like I had picked up a book in the middle of a series. I actually had to check to make sure there wasn’t a book before this that I was missing. Before the events of this book, Kyen apparently almost single-handedly won a war and defeated the leader of the opposing army. There was also the tragic downfall of Kyen’s kingdom and Kade’s people, which they were witnesses to, but the reader learns nothing about these past events during the story. Perhaps the author is planning a slow reveal for the tragic past in the sequels, but as far as the previous exploits during the war, that feels like it should be in a prequel book. Perhaps if the author had sprinkled in some well planned flashbacks the current story wouldn’t have felt so jarring.

Regardless, I recommend The Kingmaster as a fun and quick story that keeps the reader wholly entertained. I can’t wait for the next installment!

[Viking Jam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review: Kyen. Hmmm. Pretty close to Kai in convention. Almost too close that it may warrant a star deduction. Fuking Kai.

For a novel built on and for the YA idiots amongst us, this was a damn fine read. Except for the Kai-en shjt naming. I liked following around in this douche bags footsteps as he at once disarming and self-deprecatory while brandishing skill with a sword from a famous land that is no longer.

The supporting cast is well defined and diverse in presentation. Princesses abound everywhere so fug me sideways on that. Finn's sisters are Ten in number which may confound the reader. Is six not enough? A rando princess has the hots for Dummy but he is too shy, scrared blah, blah, blah to do anything about it. She wants it like a feral cat and all but sticks it in his face but dumbass cannot figure out what to do. Really? I am sure this is a slow build that grows within the series.

Anyhoo, the quests are many and the characters entertaining. Easy five stars but for the MCs name.

4.4/5

[Grace (alatteofliterature) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Praise: great prose and exceptional world-building, I throughly enjoyed this book and felt myself getting sucked into a new fictional universe. I really loved the villain and the various anti-heros and creatures throughout the story.

Criticisms, and the reason for 3 stars: Sometimes, the dialogue felt too casual for the fantastical setting. There was also some very direct “telling” instead of “showing,” especially at the end of the chapters to tease what’s happening next. The action/fight scenes could feel stilted at times and didn’t flow nearly as well as other parts of the story. I also found Adeya whiny and problematically stubborn throughout the story, which was disappointing for the main female character.

Overall, I look forward to reading more from this author!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story follows Kyen of Avanna, a reluctant wanderer who wants nothing more than to stay unnoticed. Unfortunately for him, he carries a secret that makes anonymity impossible: Kade, an ancient, powerful sprite who lives inside his mind. Kyen’s quiet life unravels when Princess Adeya crosses his path—determined to escape an arranged marriage and restore the lost art of summoning, a magic tied directly to the being Kyen is hiding. Their uneasy partnership becomes even more precarious when the Kingmaster, a sorcerer wielding a cursed relic capable of twisting allies into enemies, rises as a threat. The novel balances character-driven vulnerability with high-stakes fantasy, giving readers a hero who is far from the typical chosen-one archetype. Kyen’s fear, awkwardness, and internal conflict make him deeply human, while the presence of Kade adds a mythic, almost dual-soul tension.

[C.S. Wachter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though a quick, fun read, I felt the story lacked the tension of escalating confrontations. The first attack was over the top impossibly strong, the second attack followed suite, the third attack, etc. Personally, I would have liked to see the challenges build over time giving Kyen the opportunity to handle the initial attacks using his renowned skills without Kade needing to involve himself. Then, over time, Kyen and Kade could rise to the challenge of further escalating attacks together.
And I realize Adeya wanted to be helpful, but she came off as just annoying several times.
Some telling. Some stilted dialogue, but generally well written.
So, for me, a fun read, but not great.

[A.R. Grimes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yes, there are dragons in this book ;)

Overall, I enjoyed this story. I found the worldbuilding intriguing and there wasn't a dull moment in the entire narrative. This is a clean fantasy with minimal violence and is okay for younger readers. No romance in this book, but I predict a possibility of it developing later in the series.
Despite some areas with awkward prose, I found the characters and plot engaging enough to keep reading, and continue reading the rest of the series.

[Andy Smullin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story does have its moments and there is a nice twist at the end. I felt that many of the sword battles were very unconvincing mainly because they tended to knock their opponents out by smashing their head with pommels. I have never seen any kind of a sword battle where that tactic was used. It seems to me as if that sort of tactic wouldn't lead them to opening themselves up for failure. I also cannot conceive of any archangels being subject to death.

[Blake Vanier · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Kingmaster is set in a unique world that is begging to be explored. Doehrmann does a wonderful job of delivering just enough info on the world to tease us, but not so much that we get lost in pages of world building. The result is a world that I'm excited to learn more about in the books to come!

The story takes off in a scramble and runs the entire time to an exciting finish. Hopefully we won't have to wait too long for the sequel!

[Connor Olsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A classic adventure in an engaging new world!

The story is filled with fun and distinct characters who face impossible odds in an immersive world of magic and rich history.

The book really shines at the end, where the plot comes together in a bombastic way, leaving me satisfied and excited to read more of the story in the next installment