The first book in a trilogy. The Print Edition of this book contains over 200 illustrations and 3 full digital paintings.
Welcome to Aetrelys, home of the Seri.
Enpirion, a gifted soldier of his ancient, energy-wielding race, awakens, alone and friendless, in a new home after a terrible ordeal that has left him with both physical and mental scars. Placed back into active service, he finds himself struggling to overcome what he's been through and the problems it has left him with. Even while desperately trying to cope with his own deep-seated issues, Piri is drawn into a far-reaching dilemma that, while on the surface seems to be merely a fanatical human sector targeting his race, has much further reaching consequences.
With a threat arising from a vastly different domain governed by a unique, chaotic and conflicting energy source, the situation begins to quickly spiral out of control and Piri finds himself having to confront issues with his culture and loyalties, as well as fighting an internal battle with a newly arising realization of who and what he is as he struggles to save everything that he knows from destruction.
Book Themes: LGBT+, Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety, Self-confidence, Interpersonal Relationships; Contains mild sexual content
I was formerly a fashion designer and graphic designer, creating everything from footwear and apparel to tradeshow booths and marketing materials. From the time I've been young, I've held an intimate love for both art and writing. The Enpirion Project has allowed me to merge those together and create something special.
While I work in pencils, acrylics and oils, my true love and the medium I most commonly work with is digital. I spend most of my time in Photoshop CS6 on my trusty 13” Cintiq.
I have 10 years of experience in the fashion industry and over 15 in art and graphic design. Trained for the game industry at DigiPen Institute of Technology, I currently freelance to the industry as well as doing private commissions and contract graphic design work.
It has been a long time since I found a book this good! From page 11 I was hooked, and I remained fixed to the characters until the final sentence! (I'm still hooked actually, but you know🥴 I have to read the next one yet too.) Read this in about 4ish hours.
I found this book at a book festival, and truly one of the only reasons I bought it and the sequel is because the wonderful author had merch for her books. Shallow and weird I know, but it is so rare that I needed to be apart of it! She has custom blankets for crying out loud! All of you readers with no fandoms or very small ones understand how amazing that is! But not only is there a lot of merch, it's all designed by the author! So you know it's quality!!! And one of my favorite things about my new hardback (signed) copies, is that I don't need the dust covers! The stunning artwork is on the cover too!!💖💖💖
Ok ... So reasons I actually liked the story: The plot was gripping, and the characters moving in the best way! The writing is simply fantastic and say nothing of the satisfying dialog! I felt connected to the characters in such a way, and was constantly at the edge of my seat, bracing for this to be the cliffhanger that breaks me. I simply loved it! Instantly in my favorites!
I'm still kicking myself that I failed to ask the author how to pronounce the names in her book though. I was right there! Talking to her! And it didn't even cross my mind!🤦
Fourth time through: characters are still great! Plot is great! And my absolute favorite thing about this book is how romanticized a healthy relationship is! And how the only real expectations Piri and Neph have for each other is basic human decency and the trust they've earned through experience.
A great fantasy with a strong focus on human connection and mental struggles.
This book felt quite distinct from the fantasy series I have been reading lately. It focuses a lot on the relationship yet I wouldn't strictly call it a romantasy. There is more focus on the human connection than the queer romance. There is a heavy focus on the mental struggles of the main character, too. The fantasy world was really neat and interesting. I have read the physical edition and I must say the illustrations really enhance the story. It is quite a slow-paced book but I didn't mind taking my time with it.
I could not put this book down. Great setup of the characters - well developed and complex. Piri was taken from his family as a young child by the military - trained to be a dangerous weapon. Abused, isolated, self-hatred, Piri struggles to recover from his latest mission. Taken under the care and supervision of an officer, Nephael. Given a safe place, Piri begins to recover - both physically and mentally, though inspiring fear in those around him. Nephael doesn't give up - choosing him to train a newly arrived recruit. A new human cult obsession slowly kills their world - and Piri cannot deny his need to help. The world building, relationships, recovery, illustrations - I frankly loved this book! I cannot wait for the next!
A fantasy, action-packed story with a complex magic system, political unrest, and a little romance, this book feels like it has all in one. Book one, Exordium, specifically builds up a layered and intricate world that the main character, Piri, is forced to navigate and find his place in despite being faced with constant adversity and stigmatization.
This book tackled some hard subjects, specifically Piri’s mental health through a first-person account. I appreciated the complexity in the way the author presented this. By not lightheartedly taking on the subject, the author was able to show just how excruciating mental illness can be, specifically dealing with guilt and remorse. I appreciated the truth in this, especially showing the day-to-day struggles Piri faced.
And wow, I was completely blown away by the illustrations! The sketches and art pieces added so much depth to the story. Each of them detailed the exact scenes as if the reader was flipping through Piri’s sketchbook, I could see exactly what the author envisioned for the story. It’s clear how much work was put into this story and project, I thoroughly enjoyed reading not just for the storyline and fantasy elements, but because this project is a work of art in itself.
400 pages +, but definitely a quick, exciting read. I can’t wait for the second and third books!The Enpirion Project: Exordium
Book 1 of the Enpirion Project, Exordium was filled with epic world-building, an intricate plot, and the development of lovable characters and an amazing romance.
Just to start this off, I absolutely LOVED the illustrations. When it comes to fantasy, it is hard to envision certain scenes and parts and the illustrations definitely helped. The amount of talent that went into these drawings is astounding!
Another big point I would like to emphasize is the way Piri, our MC’s mental health was addressed. I loved how throughout the story, he was finding himself. No part of it felt forced or fake.
Moving onto the book itself, the style and language of the writing was perfect for the context of this book. It was not overly wordy which I liked, but still enough details were included. The fight scenes were well described, as well as the softer, fluffier scenes. There was a perfect balance of the romance, which was so adorable by the way, and action. Great POC and LGBTQIA+ representation as well! In terms of pacing though, I wasn’t the biggest fan. The first half was very slow, and then it randomly picked up out of nowhere. I think that was the reason why it took me so long to finish this book.
Nevertheless, this is still a great read for all fantasy lovers! Can’t wait to see what happens in book 2!
A big thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book.
The Enpirion Project is dazzlingly charming in places, and equally slow-placed in others. There were parts of this story that I really loved and enjoyed and some that I struggled to get through or just did not care enough!
To begin with, I absolutely loved the mental health representation. Piri's situation and background are extremely challenging and sad. In that sense, the story does highlight several times throughout the book about his difficulties.
Since we are talking about Piri, I feel that his character and all others were extremely complex and layered. Even the side characters were mostly fun to follow. The found-family trope is one of my favourites and I was cheering all the way for these wonderful people to get together!
The main antagonist of the story is well set up. I can't say much about it apart from the fact that I was genuinely thinking it to be someone else and then BOOM! It was all a lie! It turned out to be someone who was far more dangerous! And I loved it!
The world-building is intricately drawn. Had the writing style been in the third person, I would have probably not enjoyed it. Since we got a first-person POV, it was easy to follow and get into. But besides that, I do feel that the introduction to this world could have been done a lot better.
For the first 100 pages or so, I was struggling to figure out what is exactly is happening. I of course understood stuff in bits and pieces, and I don't necessarily want to be spoon-fed with information but I was genuinely confused and lost. We are thrown right into the action with little to no context. It reminded me a lot of how Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo - a book that everyone loved but me, started.
The pacing of the book is all over the place. While the second half, especially towards the end is very fast-paced and action-packed, the first half is slow and meandering.
I absolutely despise books with INSTA-LOVE/FRIENDSHIP tropes because they just seem very unreal to me. And here, Piri and Neph have something which can be categorised as INSTA-friendship/love. While it was arguably handled a lot better than what I have read, it wasn't the best. The romance for me did not work for the first half of the book! Only until something major happens and I can't say what because of SPOILER ALERT, I felt some real attraction towards them as a couple.
Having said all of those things, I absolutely couldn't stop gushing about how adorable the illustrations were. Bossi has painstakingly illustrated characters and scenes from the story and while you're reading, it all comes to LIFE. I have not read anything other than the Harry Potter illustrated editions in this format, so this was very very cool! Not only were the illustrations beautifully succeeding in capturing the given moment, but they were also just so well drawn and detailed. Just holding the book in my hand flipping through the pages felt so wholesome! Ugh!
Despite the flaws, The Enpirion Project is highly ambitious and by the end of the story, I was hooked! When is Book 2 coming? Haha!
According to me, this would appeal to the fans of Shaun David Hutchinson, Eliot Schrefer, and Adam Silvera. Oh, for the illustrations Alice Oseman too! So, if you like any of these authors and their work, then you absolutely shouldn't miss out on this book!
Thank you to L.Bossi, the author for generously providing me with an ARC of this book!
this book was unlike any other fantasy i’ve ever read and wow was it rich with world building and intrigue. i was immediately drawn into these characters. the mental health rep was v well handled and so lovely to see in a fantasy book. i was able to connect with it and saw my own struggles on the page. the gay romance was so adorable and so cute to see. i loved that there was no homophobia whatsoever. more books should show that kind of acceptance. the book was beautiful AND THEN there were the illustration! that was such a fun and welcomed surprise throughout the entire book. i loved it!
if i had to give any feedback it would be that i thought the book was a bit too long. everything that happened felt like it coulda been in quicker succession. and that woulda helped the pacing too. with the pacing, at times, i felt disconnected since ever chapter was like “weeks later”. but my disinterest didn’t last long as the author throws you back into the action. coulda just had some more finetuning. but truly that is a v v minor thing. the overall book was fantastic!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4/5 stars
thank you to the author for trusting me with their work! they kindly sent me a copy for an honest review and i’m so grateful for that level of trust. i love me a gay new adult fantasy book and this gave it all to me!
I honestly didn't know what I was walking into but I really enjoyed this read! There was so much mental health rep, understanding, and found family. I was always on the edge of the unknown as to the cause and solutions of the conflicts that happened in the book.
The love story was absolutely beautiful, full of consent, understanding, love, and empathy. Like when I tell you that the first 150 pages were like a big hug for me. Just reading the conversations and seeing the actions between the characters was healing.
I don't read fantasy often because I struggle to imagine the worlds and the fact that this was illustrated really allowed me access to the beautiful aspects of this world and the systems within it.
I saw the author announce the sequel! and I truly can't wait to see what Nephael, Piri and Reva are up to next!
and also I know I will see Sendaryn in the next book but I really don't want to lol he gets on my last nerve.
The Enpirion Project: Exordium by L. Bossi is the first book in the Enpirion Project trilogy. First off I want to thank the author for giving me an e-book as I would not have been able to easily read a book in print. I am kinda sad that I didn’t get to see these illustrations that everyone else is raving about!
As others have already mentioned, the first half of the book moves slowly, but it’s establishing the mental state of Enpirion following a long and painful recovery from injuries suffered as one of Aetrelys’s elite soldiers in the ENForcer division.
“There’s very little that I can recall from the time after I was rescued, other than darkness. I’m unsure if I was even awake or coherent for much of it... or if my mind had simply performed a small kindness by removing it from my waking thoughts.” L. Bossi. The Enpirion Project: Exordium
The world Aetrelys, home of the Source powered Seri, and the various other species author Bossi created for this novel are extremely well done. I found it easy to root for the protagonist Enpirion (Piri for short), and his slow emergence back into the land of the living. The care and love that he receives from Nephael is both tender and very well written. And of course we need a worthy opponent and we discover that there is indeed an evil darkness buried deep beneath the towns, its name is Merythalis, and he/it is the antagonist in the Enpirion Project.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It does seem a bit long, and I think the recovery chapters could have been tightened up and the final confrontation and action chapters extended. With the journey through the caves in the middle left as is I think there would be a bit more balance. The ending just seems so rushed. Perhaps extend the actual battlefield scene with Nephael, Reva and Farryn as the Source power fails, as opposed to Piri saying he could feel it and just tells us what he sees as he flies over.
I’m also not clear on time movement through the book, and I have no clue as to how old these fairy-like people are. Piri saying such and such happened a long, long time ago is rather vague. What, to him, and to us, is a long, long time ago?
I am looking forward to the second installment, which is coming out in April of 2023 if I remember correctly.
P.S. I wouldn’t be terribly disappointed if, on their way to a Council meeting, Arafel and Sendaryn’s wings suddenly ceased to exist and they both plummet into a fiery bottomless rift. Just sayin’… ;)
In the second edition of this fascinating journey, "The Enpirion Project," readers are treated to an enriched narrative accompanied by over 200 illustrations and three full digital paintings, adding a visual dimension that complements the imaginative storytelling. This latest edition brings not only updated artwork but also a glossary and a map, enhancing the immersion into the world of Aetrelys.
The story unfolds in the ethereal realm of Aetrelys, the homeland of the Seri. We are introduced to Enpirion, a gifted and resilient soldier of the Seri, whose character arc is both poignant and profound. He awakens alone and friendless, grappling with the harrowing aftermath of a traumatic experience that has left him with physical and emotional scars. Despite the challenges that loom large in his path, Enpirion is placed back into active service, demonstrating an unyielding spirit.
As the narrative progresses, the story evolves into a complex web of interpersonal relationships and culture. Enpirion is not only wrestling with his own inner demons but is also drawn into a crisis that extends far beyond the initial facade of a conflict between a human sector and the Seri. The novel delves into themes such as mental health, depression, anxiety, self-confidence, and, notably, LGBT+ representation.
The multifaceted layers of the plot revolve around a threat emanating from a domain governed by chaotic and conflicting energy sources, an impending disaster that threatens to engulf everything Enpirion holds dear. As the stakes rise and the world faces obliteration, the character confronts his loyalties and his own evolving identity.
The inclusion of themes like mental health and LGBTQ+ representation lends a depth and authenticity to the narrative. It explores not only the external conflicts but the internal struggles of the characters, making them relatable and endearing.
Overall, "The Enpirion Project" captivates readers with a richly illustrated and deeply moving story, touching on a myriad of human experiences and challenges.
"The Enpirion Project: Exordium" by L. Bossi is an extraordinary epic fantasy that will leave you utterly enchanted! This enchanting series opener invites readers into the mystical world of Aetrelys, a realm brimming with diverse species, intricate magic, and political intrigue. In this ambitious science fiction tale, we are introduced to Enpirion, a gifted soldier of an ancient energy-wielding race known as the Seri. The story opens with Enpirion's awakening, alone and friendless, after a harrowing ordeal that has left him physically and mentally scarred. This poignant beginning installment sets the tone for a narrative that delves deep into the psyche of its protagonist! . The book's plot takes an intriguing turn as Enpirion becomes entangled in a crisis that initially appears to be a conflict between a fanatical human sector and his own race. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that the threat originates from a vastly different domain governed by a unique and chaotic energy source. This twist propels the narrative into a high-stakes, page-turning adventure! . One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of cultural identity and loyalty. Enpirion's internal struggle to come to terms with his own identity and his place in the world adds a thought-provoking dimension to the story! As readers follow his evolution, they are invited to ponder their own notions of self-discovery and the complexities of allegiance! . L. Bossi's prose is both evocative and immersive, painting a vivid picture of the world of Aetrelys and its diverse inhabitants. The author's attention to detail and world-building structure shines through, enhancing the reader's sense of being transported to this captivating realm. The novel's exploration of identity, culture, and loyalty, combined with its engaging characters and mind-blowing imaginative world, make it a must-read for fans of the genre!
Exordium by L. Bossi, is a thrilling entry into the world of science fiction and fantasy, blending elements of advanced technology, political intrigue, and unexpected alliances. The narrative is set in a future where humanity is on the verge of monumental discoveries, both in terms of science and its place in the cosmos. Bossi weaves a complex plot that pulls readers in with a mixture of action, mystery, and exploration. The book follows a team of scientists and adventurers as they embark on a high-stakes mission to unlock the secrets of the project, a mysterious and potentially world-altering initiative. The protagonist, an intelligent but flawed lead figure, must navigate not only the technical aspects of the mission but also the shifting allegiances and personal dynamics within the group. This complexity is one of the book's strengths, and motivations. Bossi excels at world-building, creating a rich, immersive universe with a detailed history and diverse factions. The futuristic technology and unique fantastical elements are well thought out, giving the story an engaging sense of plausibility while still offering room for wonder. The pacing of the plot is steady, with moments of intense action that are balanced by slower, more reflective scenes where the characters grapple with moral dilemmas and existential questions. However, at times, the story can feel a bit dense, especially when delving into the technological or philosophical aspects of the Entering Project. While these elements contribute to the depth of the narrative, they may challenge readers who are looking for a faster-paced or more straightforward experience. Is an exciting start to a series that promises to explore the boundaries of human knowledge, the costs of ambition, and the complexities of societal progress. It's a recommended read for fans of thought-provoking science fiction and fantasy. Is book that excite my fun.
The Enpirion Project Book 1: Exordium follows Enpirion “Piri”.
Piri is a Seri and one of their most well-trained Enforcers. Many other Seri are afraid of him.
Nephael is part of the council and stuck up for Piri; therefore, in the beginning, he follows him everywhere watching from a distance. As his commanding officer as well, Neph tries everything to get Piri to open up. Reva is new at The Watch and starts training with Piri.
He is use to being alone and not letting anyone in but Nephael and Reva snake their way into his life. When he is sent to The Depths with Farryn, he will go from trying to make Piri’s life harder to being a loyal friend.
Nephael and Piri end up fall in love over time. Piri suddenly finds himself struggling since he is not use to his actions affecting anyone. Piri will have to lie to Nephael in order to put his life on the line to save the human world and the Series.
There are amazing drawings throughout the book done by the author. There are spots that are slow and drag on, but I was invested in the story and continued reading. The ending was expected but unexpected at the same time. It has me wanting to jump into book 2 but guess I will just have to wait until Spring 2023.
The Enpirion Project is a beautifully layered fantasy that left me both moved and eager for more. At its heart is Enpirion—known as Piri—a child shaped into a weapon of war and forced to carry the heavy scars of trauma, PTSD, and deep self-isolation. Now grown, Piri is thrust into a new mission under Officer Nephael’s guidance, and through the journey we see him grapple with his past, slowly allowing friendship, love, and self-discovery to break through the walls he’s built around himself.
This is not just a story about war—it’s about humanity, resilience, and connection. The LGBTQ+ representation is woven seamlessly into the narrative, and the illustrations scattered throughout the book add an extra dimension, making the world and characters feel even more vivid.
The pacing of the plot may feel gradual at first, but that time is spent developing Piri in a way that makes his journey feel authentic and deeply relatable. His struggles, triumphs, and growth have qualities anyone can identify with, no matter their usual genre preference.
The book closes on a cliffhanger, and I, for one, cannot wait to dive into book two. Whether fantasy is your go-to genre or not, The Enpirion Project is a story that has something meaningful to offer every reader.
3.75 stars This in an unique, queer fantasy novel that is filled with lovely illustrations- which is what caught my eye first, you know I love some interior formatting in my books.
Read if you like:
>> Found Family >> Queer Characters >> Fantasy Worlds >> Wings >> Must Save Our World Vibes >> Slow Burn >> Best friends to Lovers
The beginning of the book was a bit slow but around halfway it picked up and then the ending was fast. There are parts where I was a tad confused on whose pov we were in as well. Overall, this was a great fantasy read with some really fun characters. The interior artwork was a nice touch throughout as well.
Hands down the best book I have ever read. . I love all the characters except one who is a complete a-hole and I love how the book wisks you away to a world of danger and adventure and love and romance as well as friendship . The makes you fall in love with all sorts of characters and makes you just want to hige the main character. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to sit back and just cry and laugh and just be free .
What an adventure. This book is beautifully written and illustrated and captured my heart immediately. An improbable love story, with epic adventures - an enchanting fantasy with just enough magic. The world building is completely immersive and the character development is dynamic. I can't wait for book 2!
I was hooked from the first paragraph. There was no long passages that you wished would end soon. Great story and one adventure after another.
There is so much adventure and magic, I felt like I am a part of it all. I found this a riveting tale. His characters become real & you quickly find yourself immersed in the wild
What an amazing adventure from start to finish. The writing pulls you right in AND, beautiful illustrations. An enchanting and magical fantasy. Running to book 2!
The pacing for this, the characters - were all I could've asked for in a fantasy book. I appreciated that I can't really say I've read any world exactly like this one. I would definitely recommend this to any fantasy-lovers. I would say this falls into the apocalyptic genre, rather than post-apocalyptic. I most definitely grew very attached to Piri but also Neph, who seems infallible (how is it that one person can be so patient, kind, and understanding? and emotionally intelligent?) I'd definitely recommend this to fantasy book lovers, who love an outcast to root for.
I really enjoyed the worldbuilding of the world of the Enpirion Project. I wish the author would have included a glossary or a map to help me understand it a bit better, but I suppose that will come in time. The illustrations are good and help bring a special character to the novel. Can't wait for the next installment!