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Keys of the Origin
The time has come for the Keys of the Origin to play their part in restoring balance to Aeldynn; but how will their choices affect the outcome?
Two young men; one a righteous law-abiding servant to the people, the other a distinguished outlaw, don’t yet realise they are to play a part in a foretold bid for the future of Aeldynn. Fate leads them down a road they would never have dreamed of following; a road that leads them into a struggle to bring the world back into a state of balance from the precipice of madness and desolation.
It is not only Zehn and Larkh who are fated to take on the malevolent forces of Aeldynn; there are others who must join with them as they are coaxed into the embrace of the ancient Nays and the fabled Drahknyr, who are also entangled in the masterful puppeteering of a renegade sorceress hell bent on reviving the greatest threat of all.
Two young men; one a righteous law-abiding servant to the people, the other a distinguished outlaw, don’t yet realise they are to play a part in a foretold bid for the future of Aeldynn. Fate leads them down a road they would never have dreamed of following; a road that leads them into a struggle to bring the world back into a state of balance from the precipice of madness and desolation.
It is not only Zehn and Larkh who are fated to take on the malevolent forces of Aeldynn; there are others who must join with them as they are coaxed into the embrace of the ancient Nays and the fabled Drahknyr, who are also entangled in the masterful puppeteering of a renegade sorceress hell bent on reviving the greatest threat of all.
- GenresFantasyHigh Fantasy
Unknown Binding
4 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Melissa A. Joy
4 books808 followersMelissa A. Joy is an Autistic + ADHD fantasy author who challenges the conventional expectations of fantasy and takes them to a whole new level. It is no secret that she/they believe(s) in the existence of all things fantastical, and that anything is possible.
She/they began building the world of Aeldynn and started writing seriously aged approximately 13, and has since developed it into something truly magical worth sharing. From the glorious winged Drahknyr and wise and fearsome dragons to pirates of the high seas and a world rich with history and lore, her/their imagination could be said to be limitless.
When not locked in a reverie about what’s going on in the world of Aeldynn, she/they are probably out sailing the high seas on a tall ship, training at Kung Fu, gaming, or perhaps dressed up in costume at an anime convention.
She/they began building the world of Aeldynn and started writing seriously aged approximately 13, and has since developed it into something truly magical worth sharing. From the glorious winged Drahknyr and wise and fearsome dragons to pirates of the high seas and a world rich with history and lore, her/their imagination could be said to be limitless.
When not locked in a reverie about what’s going on in the world of Aeldynn, she/they are probably out sailing the high seas on a tall ship, training at Kung Fu, gaming, or perhaps dressed up in costume at an anime convention.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 13, 2019
Fantasy fans rejoice - this is a wonderful experience for you to embrace, a well-realised world to completely lose yourself in!
When it comes to extremely well-realised exquisitely detailed fantasy environments, situations and adventures, this book takes the cake, biscuit and everything else in between. I was extremely impressed at how the narrative itself unfurled, keeping me totally engaged with a fine balance of both male and female protagonists, all the while continually adding depth and colour to a vast sprawling world of cultures and characters that I genuinely wanted to know more about throughout the book.
I thought it was a fantastic idea to have 'Nays' characters speak in their own tongue at times and then have this translated, so that you felt like you were privy to conversations from another realm but you were specifically given insight into their meaning too. This never felt forced, just completely natural (the language itself is extremely convincing when read aloud) and this drew me into the novel right from the beginning, as if I were personally living and breathing within this unique domain.
There is a map, along with a glossary in the back of the book to help you get to grips with the scale of the settings, surroundings and its inhabitants, along with assisting you as to how to pronounce the words of certain places, people and cultural terms relevant to the races of characters themselves, which for me made the whole experience all the more immersive. I ended up feeling like a mortal traveller who had been given the honour of experiencing a guided tour into the wondrous, exhilarating vistas inhabited by both the heroes and the villains.
My favourite parts that I enjoyed the most were the pirate and swashbuckling elements with Captain Larkh at sea (the author mentions her passions for tall ships and sailing, which clearly comes across in her authentic descriptions of the nautical elements of her tales). There are however many other layers/facets in the story on land to explore and appreciate further, with multiple plotlines crackling and fizzing in the background all coming together in one glorious whole by the time all of the players in this beautiful orchestra are made known to us. Everyone and everything plays a key part in this fantastic and mesmerising journey and when I reached the climax at the end, I was sad to have gotten there knowing it was the end (I've spent a very long time admiring this world and the characters that inhabit it) but I was also extremely excited knowing that there is potential growing for further volumes in this series. This book ends on a very satisfying cliffhanger (I'm not saying anything about it, as I don't want to spoil the overall experience for the reader) but suffice to say, it certainly leaves enough mystery and intrigue to have me caring about where the story will go next in the future.
This is a heady, intellectual powerhouse of a book that deserves to have its own TV series like Games of Thrones.
I look forward to how the plot unfolds and which exciting directions the author goes next with the series, as we will learn even more about The Keys of Origin and the trials and tribulations they will face as they fulfil their destinies.
When it comes to extremely well-realised exquisitely detailed fantasy environments, situations and adventures, this book takes the cake, biscuit and everything else in between. I was extremely impressed at how the narrative itself unfurled, keeping me totally engaged with a fine balance of both male and female protagonists, all the while continually adding depth and colour to a vast sprawling world of cultures and characters that I genuinely wanted to know more about throughout the book.
I thought it was a fantastic idea to have 'Nays' characters speak in their own tongue at times and then have this translated, so that you felt like you were privy to conversations from another realm but you were specifically given insight into their meaning too. This never felt forced, just completely natural (the language itself is extremely convincing when read aloud) and this drew me into the novel right from the beginning, as if I were personally living and breathing within this unique domain.
There is a map, along with a glossary in the back of the book to help you get to grips with the scale of the settings, surroundings and its inhabitants, along with assisting you as to how to pronounce the words of certain places, people and cultural terms relevant to the races of characters themselves, which for me made the whole experience all the more immersive. I ended up feeling like a mortal traveller who had been given the honour of experiencing a guided tour into the wondrous, exhilarating vistas inhabited by both the heroes and the villains.
My favourite parts that I enjoyed the most were the pirate and swashbuckling elements with Captain Larkh at sea (the author mentions her passions for tall ships and sailing, which clearly comes across in her authentic descriptions of the nautical elements of her tales). There are however many other layers/facets in the story on land to explore and appreciate further, with multiple plotlines crackling and fizzing in the background all coming together in one glorious whole by the time all of the players in this beautiful orchestra are made known to us. Everyone and everything plays a key part in this fantastic and mesmerising journey and when I reached the climax at the end, I was sad to have gotten there knowing it was the end (I've spent a very long time admiring this world and the characters that inhabit it) but I was also extremely excited knowing that there is potential growing for further volumes in this series. This book ends on a very satisfying cliffhanger (I'm not saying anything about it, as I don't want to spoil the overall experience for the reader) but suffice to say, it certainly leaves enough mystery and intrigue to have me caring about where the story will go next in the future.
This is a heady, intellectual powerhouse of a book that deserves to have its own TV series like Games of Thrones.
I look forward to how the plot unfolds and which exciting directions the author goes next with the series, as we will learn even more about The Keys of Origin and the trials and tribulations they will face as they fulfil their destinies.
August 15, 2017
This book is not for the light reader, and hard-core fans of epic fantasy should be well pleased with this first instalment in the Scions of Balance series. Keys of the Origin is an immersive venture into a meticulously crafted high fantasy world, with multiple actors both mortal and immortal revolving around a layered plot that unfolds gradually. But don’t worry: there is plenty of action to keep you going while you get your head around Joy’s mind-bending world-building and devious plotting, and as someone who recently started reading the Horatio Hornblower/Jack Aubrey books, I was rather taken by the high seas flavour to her storytelling. I’m told Joy sails in her spare time, and can well believe it – she certainly appears to have done her research.
Joy's pantheon is reminiscent of Tolkien's in its richness; the Origin are forgotten gods who made the world aeons ago; the Nays, Fey and Elves three distinct but related immortal races created by deity-like figures who came after. Of the Nays were born the Drahknyr, angelic warrior beings in the Old Testament sense who can fly, are near invulnerable, command formidable powers and can wreak havoc when they feel it’s warranted. Foremost among them are the select Kaesan Drahknyr, and after three thousand years, they have woken up...
The reason behind their reawakening is Zerrçainne, a renegade sorceress once of the Nays but now following her own path, who appears (quite literally) hell-bent on raising or tapping a shadowy being called Alymarn, whom I took to be some sort of Sauron/Lucifer type figure. Though this appears to be her ultimate goal, the narrative focuses on Zerrçainne’s more mortal meddlings, for her scheming has taken her deep into the continent of Armaran, once colonised by the technologically advanced Nays but now populated by less sophisticated humans, where she is facilitating a plot by the kingdom of Adengeld to invade its neighbour Faltainyr Demura. Into this mix we have scheming dukes and princes on either side of the border, whose intentions are anything but loyal to their respective lieges. Zerrçainne, a machiavellian manipulator with a pet demon and a dragon on the payroll, is only too happy to embroil these ambitious men of power in her own wider schemes. Thus while mortal actors play their petty games of usurpation and rivalry, the immortal Drahknyr look on with growing consternation as a conflict of much greater magnitude brews on the horizon…
Against this panoramic backdrop we have our two chosen ones: Larkh, a former scion of the aristocracy who took to piracy after watching his entire family slaughtered, and Zehn, an elite warrior driven by duty – and a strong desire to bring Larkh to justice. Larkh is a bit of a cynic and something of a womanizer too, a dashing rakehell sort that evokes an 18th century Treasure Island/Pirates of the Caribbean type milieu. I felt him to be by far the more intriguing character than his stuffy counterpart Zehn, who seemed more of a loyal soldier than your typical in-it-for-the-money type mercenary. They make for a compelling contrast, and their aggressive rivalry is gripping reading: right from the get-go we have the pair squaring off against one another swords awhirl. However this is a tale that is destined to bring them together, as they learn they are in fact the Keys long foretold in prophecy. As such they are forced to mend fences by two mutual friends, half-elven warlock Raeon and amnesiac seeress Arcaydia, who have also been ordained a part to play in the coming saga. It’ll be interesting to see how the two Keys get along in future books as, prophecy or no, there is still no love lost between them … I anticipate a fraught friendship at best!
The narrative jumps around a lot and there are multiple POVs; as a writer Joy definitely has a touch of the swashbuckler about her and I enjoyed the heady mixture of swordfights, naval battles, supernatural duels and dragon invasions. I don’t think any fantasy writer could claim to surpass her imagination, and this is some of the best world-building I’ve encountered, with a history dating back millennia and beautiful nomenclature that I found to be quite unique; however, I did feel that I was getting an awful lot thrown at me, and at times I had trouble keeping track of who was who among the immortal protagonists, some of whom seem to evoke the classical Greek gods: looking on from afar, intervening occasionally and offering advice to their shock troops, the Kaesan Drahknyr, before despatching them to Armaran to counter Zerrçainne.
The maps are beautifully illustrated so I was never lost geographically, but there is a lot of exposition in this book, and some might feel this gets in the way of the story occasionally. The author often steps out of the narrative to impart vital background information; this was generally fine, but occasionally I felt it could have been worked more seamlessly into the narrative, for instance through dialogue and storytelling between the characters. Bear in mind that this is just a personal preference, and other readers may feel differently. Had it been my gig, I would have pared it back slightly in places, but nonetheless this stands out as an exceptional piece of fantasy reminiscent of classic storytelling in the genre yet original in its own right – usually a good sign in my eyes.
I look forward to book #2, but I’ll be far more intrigued to catch up with Larkh, Zehn and their mortal companions than the immortal types to be honest. Madukeyr, Melkhar and Kalthis, three Kaesan Drahknyr sent to Armaran to try and stop the feckless humans making a mess of things, were very well drawn but I found it difficult to relate to them. This is probably as it should be though: immortal beings are not types to cosy up to after all, and I thought they were quite believable. Still, I can’t help but feel more invested in what will happen to Larkh & co… well hey, I am only human!
All in all I thought this was a rich, evocative piece of storytelling that will probably reward re-reading at some point, a promising debut from an up-and-coming fantasy author with a boundless imagination. I could actually say a lot more about this book, not least Joy’s authentic stab at an Elvish-type language, or the likeable support characters including the motley crew of Larkh’s magically enhanced ship Greshendier… but I’ll leave you to find out all those things for yourself.
Joy's pantheon is reminiscent of Tolkien's in its richness; the Origin are forgotten gods who made the world aeons ago; the Nays, Fey and Elves three distinct but related immortal races created by deity-like figures who came after. Of the Nays were born the Drahknyr, angelic warrior beings in the Old Testament sense who can fly, are near invulnerable, command formidable powers and can wreak havoc when they feel it’s warranted. Foremost among them are the select Kaesan Drahknyr, and after three thousand years, they have woken up...
The reason behind their reawakening is Zerrçainne, a renegade sorceress once of the Nays but now following her own path, who appears (quite literally) hell-bent on raising or tapping a shadowy being called Alymarn, whom I took to be some sort of Sauron/Lucifer type figure. Though this appears to be her ultimate goal, the narrative focuses on Zerrçainne’s more mortal meddlings, for her scheming has taken her deep into the continent of Armaran, once colonised by the technologically advanced Nays but now populated by less sophisticated humans, where she is facilitating a plot by the kingdom of Adengeld to invade its neighbour Faltainyr Demura. Into this mix we have scheming dukes and princes on either side of the border, whose intentions are anything but loyal to their respective lieges. Zerrçainne, a machiavellian manipulator with a pet demon and a dragon on the payroll, is only too happy to embroil these ambitious men of power in her own wider schemes. Thus while mortal actors play their petty games of usurpation and rivalry, the immortal Drahknyr look on with growing consternation as a conflict of much greater magnitude brews on the horizon…
Against this panoramic backdrop we have our two chosen ones: Larkh, a former scion of the aristocracy who took to piracy after watching his entire family slaughtered, and Zehn, an elite warrior driven by duty – and a strong desire to bring Larkh to justice. Larkh is a bit of a cynic and something of a womanizer too, a dashing rakehell sort that evokes an 18th century Treasure Island/Pirates of the Caribbean type milieu. I felt him to be by far the more intriguing character than his stuffy counterpart Zehn, who seemed more of a loyal soldier than your typical in-it-for-the-money type mercenary. They make for a compelling contrast, and their aggressive rivalry is gripping reading: right from the get-go we have the pair squaring off against one another swords awhirl. However this is a tale that is destined to bring them together, as they learn they are in fact the Keys long foretold in prophecy. As such they are forced to mend fences by two mutual friends, half-elven warlock Raeon and amnesiac seeress Arcaydia, who have also been ordained a part to play in the coming saga. It’ll be interesting to see how the two Keys get along in future books as, prophecy or no, there is still no love lost between them … I anticipate a fraught friendship at best!
The narrative jumps around a lot and there are multiple POVs; as a writer Joy definitely has a touch of the swashbuckler about her and I enjoyed the heady mixture of swordfights, naval battles, supernatural duels and dragon invasions. I don’t think any fantasy writer could claim to surpass her imagination, and this is some of the best world-building I’ve encountered, with a history dating back millennia and beautiful nomenclature that I found to be quite unique; however, I did feel that I was getting an awful lot thrown at me, and at times I had trouble keeping track of who was who among the immortal protagonists, some of whom seem to evoke the classical Greek gods: looking on from afar, intervening occasionally and offering advice to their shock troops, the Kaesan Drahknyr, before despatching them to Armaran to counter Zerrçainne.
The maps are beautifully illustrated so I was never lost geographically, but there is a lot of exposition in this book, and some might feel this gets in the way of the story occasionally. The author often steps out of the narrative to impart vital background information; this was generally fine, but occasionally I felt it could have been worked more seamlessly into the narrative, for instance through dialogue and storytelling between the characters. Bear in mind that this is just a personal preference, and other readers may feel differently. Had it been my gig, I would have pared it back slightly in places, but nonetheless this stands out as an exceptional piece of fantasy reminiscent of classic storytelling in the genre yet original in its own right – usually a good sign in my eyes.
I look forward to book #2, but I’ll be far more intrigued to catch up with Larkh, Zehn and their mortal companions than the immortal types to be honest. Madukeyr, Melkhar and Kalthis, three Kaesan Drahknyr sent to Armaran to try and stop the feckless humans making a mess of things, were very well drawn but I found it difficult to relate to them. This is probably as it should be though: immortal beings are not types to cosy up to after all, and I thought they were quite believable. Still, I can’t help but feel more invested in what will happen to Larkh & co… well hey, I am only human!
All in all I thought this was a rich, evocative piece of storytelling that will probably reward re-reading at some point, a promising debut from an up-and-coming fantasy author with a boundless imagination. I could actually say a lot more about this book, not least Joy’s authentic stab at an Elvish-type language, or the likeable support characters including the motley crew of Larkh’s magically enhanced ship Greshendier… but I’ll leave you to find out all those things for yourself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2018
It's a shame I can't give it 10 stars! I'm obsessed. I'm looking forward to a re-read less than a day after finishing Keys of the Origin. I don't even know where to start.
The book begins with the awakening of the Kaesan’Drahknyr, the seven mighty warriors that protect Aeldynn. After a slumber of 3000 years, they are called to protect the balance between Aevnatureis and its evil counterpart Phandaerys. Not to mention the many races that dwell in Aeldynn, for evil rises one more time. And an ancient prophecy is becoming a reality.
Melkhar, the fiercest of the Kaesan’Drahknyr has been tasked with the protection of Arcaydia, a young woman with growing powers. On her way Melkhar discovers the human kingdoms are in the brink of war. Forced to part ways with her protector Arcaydia meets Larkh , he is a pirate, but not a typical one. He is smart beyond his years and has more than a couple mysterious trades. Larkh is being chased by Zehn, a law enforcer that travels accompanied by a mage, Raeon. Raeon belongs to a the Order of Silver, an order that follows the knowledge of the Nays, the ageless race that brought to physical existence the Drahknyr, and the Kaesan' Drahknyr. Kalthis is also a Kaesan’ Drahknyr, he's in tune with nature in a unique way, which allows him to obtain knowledge no-one else can reach. All will be connected in the battle against Zerrçainne, a powerful sorceress that used to be a Galétriahn Highlord, a Nays High Mage. She plots to rise to power through manipulation and dark sources of magica.
And that’s as far as I’ll go with details. Spoilers are a pain.
The plot is well-paced, allowing the reader to become familiarized with the lore and the characters right in the midst of great discoveries and epic battles. There are edge of the seat moments; it made wish I could read faster.
The characters have an ample specter, not only in personality and trades, but also in kin. Humans, Nays, Elves, Drahknyr, hybrids... The reading is easy, despite being my first time reading about such rich world it didn't became heavy in any moment. The way the story is told and the vivid descriptions made me feel at times like I was there watching everything happen; sometimes even like a video-game.
I love the way the eternal battle between the light and the darkness has been approached. It is a different way to tell such a story.
My favorite character without a doubt would be Melkhar; I knew it would be after reading just one line of her point of view. She is fierce, powerful, highly intelligent, and merciless when she has to be. There is much to learn from her; often times, her actions reveal more than her words. She's refreshing. Not just for a female character but overall.
Overall, the best book I've read so far without a doubt. An epic story with mighty heroes, powerful villains, and beautiful lore. I can't wait to read more from Melissa Joy. Hell, I'd read her grocery list.
An epic story with mighty heroes, powerful villains, and beautiful lore.
The book begins with the awakening of the Kaesan’Drahknyr, the seven mighty warriors that protect Aeldynn. After a slumber of 3000 years, they are called to protect the balance between Aevnatureis and its evil counterpart Phandaerys. Not to mention the many races that dwell in Aeldynn, for evil rises one more time. And an ancient prophecy is becoming a reality.
Melkhar, the fiercest of the Kaesan’Drahknyr has been tasked with the protection of Arcaydia, a young woman with growing powers. On her way Melkhar discovers the human kingdoms are in the brink of war. Forced to part ways with her protector Arcaydia meets Larkh , he is a pirate, but not a typical one. He is smart beyond his years and has more than a couple mysterious trades. Larkh is being chased by Zehn, a law enforcer that travels accompanied by a mage, Raeon. Raeon belongs to a the Order of Silver, an order that follows the knowledge of the Nays, the ageless race that brought to physical existence the Drahknyr, and the Kaesan' Drahknyr. Kalthis is also a Kaesan’ Drahknyr, he's in tune with nature in a unique way, which allows him to obtain knowledge no-one else can reach. All will be connected in the battle against Zerrçainne, a powerful sorceress that used to be a Galétriahn Highlord, a Nays High Mage. She plots to rise to power through manipulation and dark sources of magica.
And that’s as far as I’ll go with details. Spoilers are a pain.
The plot is well-paced, allowing the reader to become familiarized with the lore and the characters right in the midst of great discoveries and epic battles. There are edge of the seat moments; it made wish I could read faster.
The characters have an ample specter, not only in personality and trades, but also in kin. Humans, Nays, Elves, Drahknyr, hybrids... The reading is easy, despite being my first time reading about such rich world it didn't became heavy in any moment. The way the story is told and the vivid descriptions made me feel at times like I was there watching everything happen; sometimes even like a video-game.
I love the way the eternal battle between the light and the darkness has been approached. It is a different way to tell such a story.
My favorite character without a doubt would be Melkhar; I knew it would be after reading just one line of her point of view. She is fierce, powerful, highly intelligent, and merciless when she has to be. There is much to learn from her; often times, her actions reveal more than her words. She's refreshing. Not just for a female character but overall.
Overall, the best book I've read so far without a doubt. An epic story with mighty heroes, powerful villains, and beautiful lore. I can't wait to read more from Melissa Joy. Hell, I'd read her grocery list.
An epic story with mighty heroes, powerful villains, and beautiful lore.
March 27, 2019
A novel that I very much enjoyed, I bought the Hardback and was very pleased with it. The story is enjoyable with different opening plots lines weaving together to form a good narrative, with likeable characters who have good chemistry with one another allowing for good scenes and entertaining interactions. The book has good pacing and flows smoothly, making for a pleasant read. The inclusion of a map and a short glossary at the end was a nice addition. I would have liked a Dramatis Personae list just to make keeping track of the extended cast simpler but it’s not in any way needed (and I just like them in general).
The book was a really good start to a new series, setting up solid characters and interesting setting which I am looking forward to seeing more of its characters to see how the events set out in the book continue to play out.
All in all a very well written novel that gave an enjoyable read and some well thought out characters to enjoy.
The book was a really good start to a new series, setting up solid characters and interesting setting which I am looking forward to seeing more of its characters to see how the events set out in the book continue to play out.
All in all a very well written novel that gave an enjoyable read and some well thought out characters to enjoy.
June 20, 2018
This one of the most beautifully constructed novels that I have ever had the pleasure of reading! Trust me when I say this book is worth every page, treat yourself to this novel! A full review will be on my blog soon
April 27, 2024
This was a great high fantasy experience with everything I love from pirates to dragons, to banter and tension. Some aspects of the back and forth between the povs were hard to grasp but other than that I am eagerly awaiting the next book!
April 11, 2020
I'm not a big reader, I have to get that out of the way to begin with. When I do get into a book, however, I can very easily become hooked. This book got me hooked. A staggeringly detailed and thought out world, with another whole book worth of lore, and an eclectic cast of characters from all walks of life, all extremely well written and three dimensional. The world is vast and the lore incredibly deep, so obviously a labour of time and love it's hard not to get swept up in the tales of ancient beings, prophecies and other such details that are never thrown in your face without explanation or careful timing. While the large cast of characters can seem overwhelming to begin with, the author easily balances their weight in the story, spending enough time away from each as to leave us thankful for their return but never enough as to confuse or convolute the pacing and overall arching story. The time we get to spend with each of these characters allows them to grow beyond their initial labels (handsome rogue pirate, determined and skilled mercenary, fearsome and deadly warrior) to become much more. I couldn't help but love the seafaring theme as well, thanks to one of the main characters being the aforementioned pirate, giving it a fresh feel and tone. The action is used sparingly but is always excellent, fast paced and tense.
Not quite knowing how to end this, I will just say this; any lover of high fantasy with sprawling narratives, prophecies, god like beings and good old fashioned dragons myst do themselves a favour and read this book.
Not quite knowing how to end this, I will just say this; any lover of high fantasy with sprawling narratives, prophecies, god like beings and good old fashioned dragons myst do themselves a favour and read this book.
June 4, 2020
This was an amazing read on several levels. The author has literally created an astounding world for us. The intricate detail of the places, the structures, the lore/mythology, the culture, and even its own language in certain parts of the story show an author’s passion for her story that we are lucky enough to become a part. I believe I read she started creating her story as a teenager, and that shows as you begin to enter into her world. As she takes you through it, you can see the majesty of the structures, smell the saltwater of the harbor, and the language doesn’t seem as foreign as it did in the beginning of your travels. Then there are the people you meet as you travel. There are pirates, mercenaries, gypsies, Nays, Drahknyrs, dragons, enchantresses of sorts, and other interesting individuals. Some mortal, some immortal, some good, some bad, some with a mix of both, and all it seems with pasts that have much to tell. As we watch them now, it seems their past is very much a part of their present, whether it still haunts them or motivates their actions. Either way it is before them, and they must wrestle with it now and decide what it will do to them. We uncover complex individuals, not your ordinary pirate or mercenary, but ones that outwardly show an exterior that cannot be broken, but inwardly deeply wage a painful battle. Even those that seeming should be immune to such things are not in the author’s world. They too have painful scars from the past that rear their ugly head at times, and maybe they attempt to bury the feeling in the next battle they fight. The author has a built a breathtaking world to view, and I’m enjoying my time with those I’ve met so far. I’m looking forward to seeing more!
January 16, 2019
I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. I have to give this novel a 4.7/5.0. Melissa created a wonderful high fantasy story in Keys of the Origin.
To start off, the character development showed that she did her research, and she cared for her story. I loved the fact that she used long and interesting words. Like Aevnaturies and Phandearys. Loved it. Great job Melissa.
The world-building is phenomenal. The environment, the social interactions were great. It keep my attention through most of the story. I would love to see this as a show or movie. If you like to read high fantasy then you need to read Melissa's story. There were some parts where my attention didn't hold...not big issues, but I still recommend it.
The cover is so intriguing. It was the first thing that grabbed my eye, and I'm not afraid to admit that. I really recommend this book to everyone.
To start off, the character development showed that she did her research, and she cared for her story. I loved the fact that she used long and interesting words. Like Aevnaturies and Phandearys. Loved it. Great job Melissa.
The world-building is phenomenal. The environment, the social interactions were great. It keep my attention through most of the story. I would love to see this as a show or movie. If you like to read high fantasy then you need to read Melissa's story. There were some parts where my attention didn't hold...not big issues, but I still recommend it.
The cover is so intriguing. It was the first thing that grabbed my eye, and I'm not afraid to admit that. I really recommend this book to everyone.
May 18, 2020
When I started reading this one I thought wow the artwork on the title is amazing and the cover is gorgeous. When I started the story I was blown away by the writing. It was very good in that dept. However, this book ended up not being for me. I found it very lyrical in the writing and over the top with its descriptions. I think those who love books that are wordy with descriptions would love this one. I also thought that some of this was kind of confusing and there was a fair amount of info dumping as well.
January 17, 2021
Amazing
An epic fantasy, with an amazing narrative. I especially loved the characters in this book. Strong female characters. A very well crafted fantasy novel, I enjoyed how as the story progressed the author interweaved lore. An enjoyable read.
An epic fantasy, with an amazing narrative. I especially loved the characters in this book. Strong female characters. A very well crafted fantasy novel, I enjoyed how as the story progressed the author interweaved lore. An enjoyable read.
May 30, 2021
The only word to describe this book is epic. If your a lover of the fantasy genre, then this is the book for you. I love the narrative and how the whole story plays out, the world building and word play.
May 4, 2017
It's AMAZING! Packed with detail and unique and fascinating characters. A TV series adaptation would be awesome! I hope the next book is released soon!
September 10, 2018
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A powerful new high fantasy novel takes flight in author Melissa A. Joy’s novel Keys of the Origins (The Scions of Balance #1). Here’s the synopsis:
In a world where ancient races still dwell,
the events of an age-old prophecy begin to stir.
From the pages of an antique tome,
there is much the ancients themselves have yet to learn.
The time has come for the Keys of the Origin to play their part in restoring balance to Aeldynn; but how will their choices affect the outcome?
Two young men; one a righteous law-abiding servant to the people, the other a distinguished outlaw, don't yet realise they are to play a part in a foretold bid for the future of Aeldynn. Fate leads them down a road they would never have dreamed of following; a road that leads them into a struggle to bring the world back into a state of balance from the precipice of madness and desolation.
It is not only Zehn and Larkh who are fated to take on the malevolent forces of Aeldynn; there are others who must join with them as they are coaxed into the embrace of the ancient Nays and the fabled Drahknyr, who are also entangled in the masterful puppeteering of a renegade sorceress hell bent on reviving the greatest threat of all; Alymarn.
This book was rich with mythology building, character development and a phenomenal story like no other. The High Fantasy world created by the author is a blend of other series like Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings and the Throne of Glass series all rolled into one. Far off lands, mystical creatures and various different species all swirl around a powerful and dark force that threatens to tear the world apart. Ancient rivalries, long foretold prophecies and intimate connections between the characters all bring this novel into new and uncharted territory within the genre, making this novel stand out.
The writing was intricate, detailed and yet real all at once. The author speaks through this book with the confidence and creativity that makes readers feel as if they are traveling through Aeldynn themselves. The imagery almost plays out as if you are in a visual work of art only seen in modern day video games, giving it a cinematic feel throughout the novel.
Overall I loved the story. This book is a great step into a fantastic new fantasy series that needs to be told. Filled with maturity, honesty and some of the most intricate and detailed mythology I’ve read in a fantasy series, this is a must read for any high fantasy fan out there. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy of Melissa A. Joy’s novel Keys of the Origins (The Scions of Balance #1) today!
A powerful new high fantasy novel takes flight in author Melissa A. Joy’s novel Keys of the Origins (The Scions of Balance #1). Here’s the synopsis:
In a world where ancient races still dwell,
the events of an age-old prophecy begin to stir.
From the pages of an antique tome,
there is much the ancients themselves have yet to learn.
The time has come for the Keys of the Origin to play their part in restoring balance to Aeldynn; but how will their choices affect the outcome?
Two young men; one a righteous law-abiding servant to the people, the other a distinguished outlaw, don't yet realise they are to play a part in a foretold bid for the future of Aeldynn. Fate leads them down a road they would never have dreamed of following; a road that leads them into a struggle to bring the world back into a state of balance from the precipice of madness and desolation.
It is not only Zehn and Larkh who are fated to take on the malevolent forces of Aeldynn; there are others who must join with them as they are coaxed into the embrace of the ancient Nays and the fabled Drahknyr, who are also entangled in the masterful puppeteering of a renegade sorceress hell bent on reviving the greatest threat of all; Alymarn.
This book was rich with mythology building, character development and a phenomenal story like no other. The High Fantasy world created by the author is a blend of other series like Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings and the Throne of Glass series all rolled into one. Far off lands, mystical creatures and various different species all swirl around a powerful and dark force that threatens to tear the world apart. Ancient rivalries, long foretold prophecies and intimate connections between the characters all bring this novel into new and uncharted territory within the genre, making this novel stand out.
The writing was intricate, detailed and yet real all at once. The author speaks through this book with the confidence and creativity that makes readers feel as if they are traveling through Aeldynn themselves. The imagery almost plays out as if you are in a visual work of art only seen in modern day video games, giving it a cinematic feel throughout the novel.
Overall I loved the story. This book is a great step into a fantastic new fantasy series that needs to be told. Filled with maturity, honesty and some of the most intricate and detailed mythology I’ve read in a fantasy series, this is a must read for any high fantasy fan out there. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy of Melissa A. Joy’s novel Keys of the Origins (The Scions of Balance #1) today!
August 26, 2016
A land that is out of balance and the journey of those who have the chance to save it, the Keys of the Origin, the first book in this saga by Melissa A. Joy.
The book was a little slow to start, I normally prefer to be gripped by the story almost straight away, but I am very glad I stuck with it. The story is complex, and that coupled with exceptionally detailed and descriptive writing has made for a wonderful start to this series. The descriptive writing enabled me to immerse myself in the story and in some places, like the fair in Almadeira; I could almost hear the music and feel the atmosphere whilst still being sat in my living room. There are lots of twists and turns throughout and jumping between places and characters, but it in this case I felt that it worked really well because you get a well rounded view of the story as it happens. It was very difficult to figure out what was going to happen next, which made it a brilliant page-turner. If you stick with it as I did, you will find yourself unable to put the book down!
The characters are very well thought out, so much so that I found myself cheering on some, while strongly cursing others, and each have many layers to them. I found them very believable and in some cases relatable. They also link in and contrast extremely well, creating brilliant doses of tension and humour throughout the book, that add a little something extra to the story. My favourite character is Melkhar, one of the Kaesan’Drahknyr. A fierce redheaded warrior with a dark past, that everybody fears and admires.
I thought that the maps and glossary included in the book are also a wonderful touch. I could use the map to see where everything actually was during the story, which really helped with picturing the land in my mind, and in doing so, added to the story itself, and the glossary so I could easily look up what was being said when there was not a footnote to translate.
Overall, I would say this is an exceptional book that I would happily recommend to readers young and old that enjoy a good fantasy novel. Very well thought out, brilliantly written, and I eagerly await the next installment!!
The book was a little slow to start, I normally prefer to be gripped by the story almost straight away, but I am very glad I stuck with it. The story is complex, and that coupled with exceptionally detailed and descriptive writing has made for a wonderful start to this series. The descriptive writing enabled me to immerse myself in the story and in some places, like the fair in Almadeira; I could almost hear the music and feel the atmosphere whilst still being sat in my living room. There are lots of twists and turns throughout and jumping between places and characters, but it in this case I felt that it worked really well because you get a well rounded view of the story as it happens. It was very difficult to figure out what was going to happen next, which made it a brilliant page-turner. If you stick with it as I did, you will find yourself unable to put the book down!
The characters are very well thought out, so much so that I found myself cheering on some, while strongly cursing others, and each have many layers to them. I found them very believable and in some cases relatable. They also link in and contrast extremely well, creating brilliant doses of tension and humour throughout the book, that add a little something extra to the story. My favourite character is Melkhar, one of the Kaesan’Drahknyr. A fierce redheaded warrior with a dark past, that everybody fears and admires.
I thought that the maps and glossary included in the book are also a wonderful touch. I could use the map to see where everything actually was during the story, which really helped with picturing the land in my mind, and in doing so, added to the story itself, and the glossary so I could easily look up what was being said when there was not a footnote to translate.
Overall, I would say this is an exceptional book that I would happily recommend to readers young and old that enjoy a good fantasy novel. Very well thought out, brilliantly written, and I eagerly await the next installment!!
February 28, 2018
So it took me quite a while to get through this book, but not because of anything book related, just mostly down to my own life getting in the way.
The book when you get into the beginning, is pretty interesting from the get go, the first two characters you meet, jump into the big screen of focus, and hold that attention for the rest of the book. Throughout the entire book their character builds on itself and each other, both certainly have flaws that it is interesting to find out as the story unfolds.
Pacing is quite well implemented, and lets the story unfold in it’s own way and in it’s way, seemingly to be a natural flow of actions and outcomes. The world is fantastic, a finely crafted world, with lush and vivid races, interesting characters, some you simply love to hate, other take a small period to get used to (Yes I’m talking about Larkh in my own personal opinion)
All in all, an excellent book, certainly one I plan to follow as the second and third book are released.
The book when you get into the beginning, is pretty interesting from the get go, the first two characters you meet, jump into the big screen of focus, and hold that attention for the rest of the book. Throughout the entire book their character builds on itself and each other, both certainly have flaws that it is interesting to find out as the story unfolds.
Pacing is quite well implemented, and lets the story unfold in it’s own way and in it’s way, seemingly to be a natural flow of actions and outcomes. The world is fantastic, a finely crafted world, with lush and vivid races, interesting characters, some you simply love to hate, other take a small period to get used to (Yes I’m talking about Larkh in my own personal opinion)
All in all, an excellent book, certainly one I plan to follow as the second and third book are released.
March 7, 2021
I keep running out of steam reading this novel, so I’m going to put it down for now, and try to give an honest review why the novel doesn’t hold my attention.
The world building is exquisite. It is such a unique and rich fantasy world. But while the world building is the novel’s strongest point, it’s perhaps laid on a little too thick. There’s a lot of details that add little to the narrative. You also need an appendix just to remember whose who and what’s what.
The author has a tendency to tell you what’s happening rather than show you. And so it’s very easy to feel disconnected from and lose interest in what’s happening. For example: one of the last scenes I read involved two characters dancing. You get little sense of the characters’ ‘experience’ of dancing and their chemistry.
I’m still not too clear on the actual plot, as the author has gone more for a slow plot reveal style narrative over a sense that plot is progressing in any significant way. This works in a mystery, but not so well in a info damp style fantasy where 90% of the details feel like fluff, so that when new plot info is dropped it lacks any impact.
I want to love this book. It’s the kind of fantasy I love. But I think that would require a massive revision. If this is the author’s first book they ever wrote then it’s an incredible achievement, but it also has all the hallmarks of a writer still developing their craft. Don’t get me wrong, it’s free of any spelling of grammatical errors that I noticed, but it needed an editor that could help the author refine their work and strengthen the areas where the writing was weakest.
The world building is exquisite. It is such a unique and rich fantasy world. But while the world building is the novel’s strongest point, it’s perhaps laid on a little too thick. There’s a lot of details that add little to the narrative. You also need an appendix just to remember whose who and what’s what.
The author has a tendency to tell you what’s happening rather than show you. And so it’s very easy to feel disconnected from and lose interest in what’s happening. For example: one of the last scenes I read involved two characters dancing. You get little sense of the characters’ ‘experience’ of dancing and their chemistry.
I’m still not too clear on the actual plot, as the author has gone more for a slow plot reveal style narrative over a sense that plot is progressing in any significant way. This works in a mystery, but not so well in a info damp style fantasy where 90% of the details feel like fluff, so that when new plot info is dropped it lacks any impact.
I want to love this book. It’s the kind of fantasy I love. But I think that would require a massive revision. If this is the author’s first book they ever wrote then it’s an incredible achievement, but it also has all the hallmarks of a writer still developing their craft. Don’t get me wrong, it’s free of any spelling of grammatical errors that I noticed, but it needed an editor that could help the author refine their work and strengthen the areas where the writing was weakest.
September 16, 2024
World-building was amazing, most of the story was compelling, I loved the fictional language, and the clear delineation between good and evil.
However, the plot was also ponderous, there was a lot of different things going on at all times, and the names were confusing with how many there are, so no single character stood out to me as one I was invested in their story.
On the whole, it’s fantastic for anyone who wants a book that feels like an open-world concept that will
immerse you in it before launching you into the plot!
However, the plot was also ponderous, there was a lot of different things going on at all times, and the names were confusing with how many there are, so no single character stood out to me as one I was invested in their story.
On the whole, it’s fantastic for anyone who wants a book that feels like an open-world concept that will
immerse you in it before launching you into the plot!
June 11, 2018
The names were too long and confusing, but it definitely wasn't the worse thing I've read. There was a lot of info dumping at the beginning, and that coupled with the super long made-up words made it super tricky to keep up with.
October 17, 2020
I did not fall in love with this book,it felt to complex with to much going on if your a Tolkien fan then this one is for you
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