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Record of the Sentinel Seer #1
Prince of the Fallen
Abandoned in the wilderness, Lekore lives with ghosts and fallen gods, until his efforts to rescue a traveling princess and her entourage bring him into a civilization unlike anything he’s ever known.
Caught in a net of silk and secrets, Lekore finds himself ensnared by court intrigue, midnight assassins, and a deviant faction of the Church of the Sun Gods—all thirsting for his blood.
He just wants to find the man who deserted him, until a storm rises out of the north, furious enough to destroy the city and outlying lands. Now Lekore must find the source of its wrath, deep in the wilds of the deadly Lands Beyond, if he can flee a city that won’t let him escape.
Caught in a net of silk and secrets, Lekore finds himself ensnared by court intrigue, midnight assassins, and a deviant faction of the Church of the Sun Gods—all thirsting for his blood.
He just wants to find the man who deserted him, until a storm rises out of the north, furious enough to destroy the city and outlying lands. Now Lekore must find the source of its wrath, deep in the wilds of the deadly Lands Beyond, if he can flee a city that won’t let him escape.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2021
23 people are currently reading
2019 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 10, 2023
This is a classic fantasy with a slight sci-fi flare. I think the story is well plotted and I liked the discussions on religion. I found the prose and dialogue to be incredibly formal, and because of this, I really didn't find the characters to be compelling. They seemed very stiff because they spoke in such a formal and proper way rather than showing a lot of personality. I wasn't a huge fan of the sci-fi lean, but I can see where that would be an allure to other readers.
For my full review check out my video! https://youtu.be/Hkv-WGjEtt8
For my full review check out my video! https://youtu.be/Hkv-WGjEtt8
January 1, 2022
A new epic fantasy series with a hint of science fiction to spice up this wonderful world Woodscourt has created. When the local cultures clash and outworlders arrive there is plenty of scope for misunderstanding and conflict.
Add to that the return of a long lost prince and it is not surprising that long held beliefs come under question. But ingrained prejudice and beliefs are not so easy to overcome, and Lekore is not used to politics and intrigue. He will have to learn fast if he is going to survive.
Fortunate for Lekore, Lord Captain Nerenoth Irothe suspects who he is and is determined to protect him. I liked Nerenoth, a stern and determined man who is not afraid to stand up to bigotry and hatred. I hope he and the princess make a match, he needs someone to soften his edges!
Lekore is sweet and mysterious, and has a heavy burden on his shoulders. Lor’Toreth, the (other fallen) prince of the Tawloom, was the least developed character and I look forward to finding out more about him and what he will contribute.
This is book one of the series, and although it does end on a bit of cliffhanger, I do see why it ended where it did. But with a world-ending threat approaching the story is unfinished! Fortunately we do not have long to wait for the second installment.
Add to that the return of a long lost prince and it is not surprising that long held beliefs come under question. But ingrained prejudice and beliefs are not so easy to overcome, and Lekore is not used to politics and intrigue. He will have to learn fast if he is going to survive.
Fortunate for Lekore, Lord Captain Nerenoth Irothe suspects who he is and is determined to protect him. I liked Nerenoth, a stern and determined man who is not afraid to stand up to bigotry and hatred. I hope he and the princess make a match, he needs someone to soften his edges!
Lekore is sweet and mysterious, and has a heavy burden on his shoulders. Lor’Toreth, the (other fallen) prince of the Tawloom, was the least developed character and I look forward to finding out more about him and what he will contribute.
This is book one of the series, and although it does end on a bit of cliffhanger, I do see why it ended where it did. But with a world-ending threat approaching the story is unfinished! Fortunately we do not have long to wait for the second installment.
August 11, 2025
A murder, a Sun god, a toddler prince and a captain sworn to protect him, a usurper king, is how this intriguing tale begins. When princess Talanee is attacked, a mysterious young man comes to her rescue. He commands both fire and wind and is suddenly in everyone's crosshairs. He is brought to the palace and is seen as a threat, both by the King and the Sun church, who both want him dead. But it seems they're not the only ones who want Lekore, the Star temple does too. Two warring people, each wanting to eradicate the other, with Lekore somehow in the middle. Poor Lekore, he's totally out of his element, having grown up isolated and is befuddled by how everyone reacts to him. Well his trials only get more insufferable, as he is once again needed to protect and free captives. And so my "love affair with Lekore began. My heart! What a brilliantly crafted character! He's a character embedded in my very DNA! As for the very enigmatic Ademes, who I must admit is one of my favourite characters, with his supposed easy going nature and ready smile. He was definitely a character I wanted to unravel!
This author's penmanship is superb! She captures me with her incredible prose, her excellent plot and her sheer capability of presenting a story that has me loving or loathing characters, smiling or writhing in anguish, she sure as heck has me feeling it all!!!! Ms Woodscourt spins me like clothes in a washing machine until I'm limp, she kept me guessing until the very end! In fact, there were so many twists and additions to the plot, that I was kept completely captivated throughout! I could never anticipate what was to happen next but each new occurrence, each new character, came perfectly and unraveled a tale of unique characteristics. I love a book I can sink my teeth into, which this one did from the start. With each character introduced so well, each scene completely believable as well as amping up the drama, all I can say is loved it and can't wait for the next book!
This author's penmanship is superb! She captures me with her incredible prose, her excellent plot and her sheer capability of presenting a story that has me loving or loathing characters, smiling or writhing in anguish, she sure as heck has me feeling it all!!!! Ms Woodscourt spins me like clothes in a washing machine until I'm limp, she kept me guessing until the very end! In fact, there were so many twists and additions to the plot, that I was kept completely captivated throughout! I could never anticipate what was to happen next but each new occurrence, each new character, came perfectly and unraveled a tale of unique characteristics. I love a book I can sink my teeth into, which this one did from the start. With each character introduced so well, each scene completely believable as well as amping up the drama, all I can say is loved it and can't wait for the next book!
October 11, 2021
Blood calls to the stars, and unknown evil rushes to answer in this new science fantasy series from M.H. Woodscourt. The main character, Lekore, reminded me at times of my younger self when I first headed to college. Surrounded by people and concepts he’s unfamiliar with, he struggles to maintain kindness while thrown into a world determined to use him, manipulate him, paint him a villain—or worse. Poor boy needs a hug. However, he soon learns the unspoken rules of his new world, and by the end of the story is figuring out which rules can be broken or ignored entirely.
Prince of the Fallen is a unique blend of sci-fi and fantasy, and the questions raised in this first book of five were more than enough to leave me already clamoring for the next installment. The author manages to blend opposing religions, visitors from other realms, magic, and piercingly relevant humanity into a gripping story that left me not wanting to set the book down.
*Content Warning* There is one scene in this book that some readers may find disturbing. No spoilers here, but some aspects of the culture and religion depicted are bloody and murderous in nature. Reader discretion advised in chapter 12, for a scene that— while not gratuitous— can be just as distressing for the reader as it is for Lekore to witness.
Prince of the Fallen is a unique blend of sci-fi and fantasy, and the questions raised in this first book of five were more than enough to leave me already clamoring for the next installment. The author manages to blend opposing religions, visitors from other realms, magic, and piercingly relevant humanity into a gripping story that left me not wanting to set the book down.
*Content Warning* There is one scene in this book that some readers may find disturbing. No spoilers here, but some aspects of the culture and religion depicted are bloody and murderous in nature. Reader discretion advised in chapter 12, for a scene that— while not gratuitous— can be just as distressing for the reader as it is for Lekore to witness.
November 21, 2021
After receiving this ARC i was unsure what to expect moving away from the saucy romance of my usual choosing however i was completly hooked.
The characters within the story have seen and encountered so much and most definitely take you along for the ride throughout their journey.
The story is built around key characters and smaller characters brought in to support the story which allows the focus of the story to stay on track of which i love rather than getting lost in smaller trivial drama.
Love, loss, torture, anguish, desperation are just a few of the feelings projected from the story so far and the promise of much more to come.
Is it a coincidence Adeyne's new given name from the sun gods is Lekore evidently Erokel spelt backwards? Are the mysteries and the unanswered questions of the past and present answered in the future happenings?
I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for Lekore, Ademas, Lord Captain, Talanee and the others, the story so far is captivating and i cannot wait for the next installment.
The characters within the story have seen and encountered so much and most definitely take you along for the ride throughout their journey.
The story is built around key characters and smaller characters brought in to support the story which allows the focus of the story to stay on track of which i love rather than getting lost in smaller trivial drama.
Love, loss, torture, anguish, desperation are just a few of the feelings projected from the story so far and the promise of much more to come.
Is it a coincidence Adeyne's new given name from the sun gods is Lekore evidently Erokel spelt backwards? Are the mysteries and the unanswered questions of the past and present answered in the future happenings?
I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for Lekore, Ademas, Lord Captain, Talanee and the others, the story so far is captivating and i cannot wait for the next installment.
October 1, 2021
"Sunbeams touched the valley floor. A flash and sparkle glinted below as the mists burned. As the last wisps of vapor disappeared, the valley caught the light and glowed. All of it, like the flames of the Sun Throne blazing with glory."
As always, M.H. Woodscourt created a wonderful, gorgeous, and flawed world. The descriptions are rich, painting vivid pictures, both beautiful and horrific.
The characters were much the same. Many of them were hiding secrets and fighting internal battles. They weren't perfect, but they were real. I loved Lekore, Nerenoth, Jeth, Jesh, and Ademas. Talanee was always a little too much of a religious zealot for me to get behind, and I had hoped that certain other characters would get their comeuppance, but maybe this will be better. Teokaka was an interesting character, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of her and Lor'Koreth in book two. I especially hope to see great things from him.
I could picture the spirits almost as Disney characters. I loved their mischievousness and their antics, how they changed shapes and played with Lekore's hair.
Everything about this book was magical. I felt like MH Woodscourt transported me to another world, and now I'm left wanting and waiting to go back.
I am lucky enough to be one of her beta readers, so I read this book well in advance of its release.
As always, M.H. Woodscourt created a wonderful, gorgeous, and flawed world. The descriptions are rich, painting vivid pictures, both beautiful and horrific.
The characters were much the same. Many of them were hiding secrets and fighting internal battles. They weren't perfect, but they were real. I loved Lekore, Nerenoth, Jeth, Jesh, and Ademas. Talanee was always a little too much of a religious zealot for me to get behind, and I had hoped that certain other characters would get their comeuppance, but maybe this will be better. Teokaka was an interesting character, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of her and Lor'Koreth in book two. I especially hope to see great things from him.
I could picture the spirits almost as Disney characters. I loved their mischievousness and their antics, how they changed shapes and played with Lekore's hair.
Everything about this book was magical. I felt like MH Woodscourt transported me to another world, and now I'm left wanting and waiting to go back.
I am lucky enough to be one of her beta readers, so I read this book well in advance of its release.
October 6, 2021
Thanks given to M. H. Woodscourt for the ARC provided in exchange for my honest review.
Prince of the Fallen is a blend of sci-fi and fantasy that delves into the depths of some serious subjects. Morality is a huge theme from start to finish and some of the verbal back-and-forth between characters really explores some of these ideas in greater detail. Definitely check this book out if that's your jam!
I'm sitting in a weird place for rating this title because I love the story and I'm invested in what has happened and what is yet to happen, but... and isn't that the hang up? I have a but! The writing felt a little clunky in its attempt to hit the refined/classic fantasy verbiage. Some of the plot points also seem to happen just for the sake of happening/without deeper explanation too; I can forgive this latter point though because I'm hoping subsequent books will touch on these instances.
Overall, I enjoyed Prince of the Fallen. I want to understand how the rift between the two peoples came to be; how the 'Sun Gods' became deities to the Kel and I sure as Hell want to know more about Keo's race. So I'll definitely be checking in for book two.
Prince of the Fallen is a blend of sci-fi and fantasy that delves into the depths of some serious subjects. Morality is a huge theme from start to finish and some of the verbal back-and-forth between characters really explores some of these ideas in greater detail. Definitely check this book out if that's your jam!
I'm sitting in a weird place for rating this title because I love the story and I'm invested in what has happened and what is yet to happen, but... and isn't that the hang up? I have a but! The writing felt a little clunky in its attempt to hit the refined/classic fantasy verbiage. Some of the plot points also seem to happen just for the sake of happening/without deeper explanation too; I can forgive this latter point though because I'm hoping subsequent books will touch on these instances.
Overall, I enjoyed Prince of the Fallen. I want to understand how the rift between the two peoples came to be; how the 'Sun Gods' became deities to the Kel and I sure as Hell want to know more about Keo's race. So I'll definitely be checking in for book two.
January 16, 2023
I was lucky to get an ARC of this book and damn was it good. The world building was fantastically done, the characters were diverse and developed, and the plot was captivating.
I loved Woodscourt's dedication to each character. It was clear that a large amount of time had gone into their development and role in the story. I adored Lekore and Aedmas was my favorite character just because he was so fun to read (and yes I have a crush on him don't judge me).
This was very much a "classic" style fantasy novel and I loved it! I haven't read a novel like this in a few years and this was the perfect book to jump back into that corner of the genre with.
I have to mention that I did skip chapter 12 because the violence in it made me uncomfortable. But otherwise the book was very clean (no romance or intense violence beyond that one chapter). That chapter didn't bring down my rating because I was warned about it beforehand.
All in all, I adored this book and I can't wait to jump into book 2!
Lots of love!
I loved Woodscourt's dedication to each character. It was clear that a large amount of time had gone into their development and role in the story. I adored Lekore and Aedmas was my favorite character just because he was so fun to read (and yes I have a crush on him don't judge me).
This was very much a "classic" style fantasy novel and I loved it! I haven't read a novel like this in a few years and this was the perfect book to jump back into that corner of the genre with.
I have to mention that I did skip chapter 12 because the violence in it made me uncomfortable. But otherwise the book was very clean (no romance or intense violence beyond that one chapter). That chapter didn't bring down my rating because I was warned about it beforehand.
All in all, I adored this book and I can't wait to jump into book 2!
Lots of love!
October 26, 2021
Get ready to be thrown into a robust world—honestly, it's one of my favourite things about this novel. Erokel and its people live and breathe with touches of magic and faith combined in a compelling way and realistic way. The character dynamics deliver a thought-provoking look at what it means to be faithful and the evolution of faith. Throw in the Sci element of this Sci-Fantasy, and we've got an intriguing look at where science fits into and even influences this discussion.
If faith isn't quite your thing, even for a fantasy world, there's still plenty to love about Prince of the Fallen. Fantasy creatures, elemental spirits, and a diverse range of relatable characters are each shining points. Ultimately, we've got a tale of a young man finding belonging in a foreign world as he searches for the one who left him behind. Prepare for a few emotional punches to the gut.
If faith isn't quite your thing, even for a fantasy world, there's still plenty to love about Prince of the Fallen. Fantasy creatures, elemental spirits, and a diverse range of relatable characters are each shining points. Ultimately, we've got a tale of a young man finding belonging in a foreign world as he searches for the one who left him behind. Prepare for a few emotional punches to the gut.
February 11, 2022
Well, I've been wanting to read this since its release, but I've had to patiently wait for paychecks to order it and it finally showed up last week. Still, my schedule prevented me from reading right away. FINALLY, I brought it to work and (through multiple interruptions), I finished it in two and a half days. And can I just say...how AMAZING it is!
From the moment I opened the front cover, I was drawn into the story and the characters. Told from several different perspectives, I enjoyed myself immensely. I loved the descriptions, which gave the story depth and interest.
This story is full of fantasy-scifi elements all through it, as well as non-stop intrigue, dark secrets, politics, extreme and opposing views and characters that mesh it all together in endearing and thought provoking ways. When I laughed, I laughed out loud (even chuckling at work, which sparked interest from others), and near the end of the story, tears pricked my eyes and my heart ached for those who were weighed down by the many secrets as they were revealed. There was action and beautiful moments. I felt deeply for the main character, Lekore, but also many others throughout the book claimed my heart and I fell in love with them.
It was never dull, and near the end, it went from one thing to another without pause, yet it excited me and left me wanting answers to the unanswered questions and my investment in the world and characters only increased. It concluded in a way that tells me I HAVE to get the next book asap, because I need to know what happens next!
But, most of all, I loved the over all messages that I gained. That it's okay to be different (which the Author herself states in it), but that there is also power in truth, loyalty and that keeping an open, accepting mind to what might be strange to you, is so important. Everyone views their world differently, but we have to be willing to learn and grow and change to see others views as well. We have to be willing to see truth.
Over all, I absolutely loved it. And I've already ordered book two in the series! For those looking for something unique, complex (yet easy to follow) and still somehow comfortable in the fantasy and magical elements, I highly recommend this.
From the moment I opened the front cover, I was drawn into the story and the characters. Told from several different perspectives, I enjoyed myself immensely. I loved the descriptions, which gave the story depth and interest.
This story is full of fantasy-scifi elements all through it, as well as non-stop intrigue, dark secrets, politics, extreme and opposing views and characters that mesh it all together in endearing and thought provoking ways. When I laughed, I laughed out loud (even chuckling at work, which sparked interest from others), and near the end of the story, tears pricked my eyes and my heart ached for those who were weighed down by the many secrets as they were revealed. There was action and beautiful moments. I felt deeply for the main character, Lekore, but also many others throughout the book claimed my heart and I fell in love with them.
It was never dull, and near the end, it went from one thing to another without pause, yet it excited me and left me wanting answers to the unanswered questions and my investment in the world and characters only increased. It concluded in a way that tells me I HAVE to get the next book asap, because I need to know what happens next!
But, most of all, I loved the over all messages that I gained. That it's okay to be different (which the Author herself states in it), but that there is also power in truth, loyalty and that keeping an open, accepting mind to what might be strange to you, is so important. Everyone views their world differently, but we have to be willing to learn and grow and change to see others views as well. We have to be willing to see truth.
Over all, I absolutely loved it. And I've already ordered book two in the series! For those looking for something unique, complex (yet easy to follow) and still somehow comfortable in the fantasy and magical elements, I highly recommend this.
October 1, 2021
"Sunbeams touched the valley floor. A flash and sparkle glinted below as the mists burned. As the last wisps of vapor disappeared, the valley caught the light and glowed. All of it, like the flames of the Sun Throne blazing with glory."
As always, M.H. Woodscourt created a wonderful, gorgeous, and flawed world. The descriptions are rich, painting vivid pictures, both beautiful and horrific.
The characters were much the same. Many of them were hiding secrets and fighting internal battles. They weren't perfect, but they were real. I loved Lekore, Nerenoth, Jeth, Jesh, and Ademas. Talanee was always a little too much of a religious zealot for me to get behind, and I had hoped that certain other characters would get their comeuppance, but maybe this will be better. Teokaka was an interesting character, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of her and Lor'Koreth in book two. I especially hope to see great things from him.
I could picture the spirits almost as Disney characters. I loved their mischievousness and their antics, how they changed shapes and played with Lekore's hair.
Everything about this book was magical. I felt like MH Woodscourt transported me to another world, and now I'm left wanting and waiting to go back.
I am lucky enough to be one of her beta readers, so I read this book well in advance of its release.
As always, M.H. Woodscourt created a wonderful, gorgeous, and flawed world. The descriptions are rich, painting vivid pictures, both beautiful and horrific.
The characters were much the same. Many of them were hiding secrets and fighting internal battles. They weren't perfect, but they were real. I loved Lekore, Nerenoth, Jeth, Jesh, and Ademas. Talanee was always a little too much of a religious zealot for me to get behind, and I had hoped that certain other characters would get their comeuppance, but maybe this will be better. Teokaka was an interesting character, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of her and Lor'Koreth in book two. I especially hope to see great things from him.
I could picture the spirits almost as Disney characters. I loved their mischievousness and their antics, how they changed shapes and played with Lekore's hair.
Everything about this book was magical. I felt like MH Woodscourt transported me to another world, and now I'm left wanting and waiting to go back.
I am lucky enough to be one of her beta readers, so I read this book well in advance of its release.
December 30, 2021
This is the 2nd book I’ve read by M.H. Woodscourt and it certainly won’t be the last! Prince of the Fallen is wonderfully written and the world is beautifully described. That already makes it enjoyable, but what shines even brighter is the characters! They are each so well developed with their own strengths and flaws and I loved getting to know them all. Lekore and Ademas are my favourites. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series to see their growth continue. The blend of fantasy and Sci-Fi is very well done and I loved learning about the world. I had a hard time putting this book down since it had me so intrigued. Just a warning that there is a very violent chapter that some people might find disturbing. I highly enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to continue the series!
October 6, 2021
This is the first book I have read by M.H. Woodscourt and It did not disappoint. This book has everything you you desire in a fantasy book and then some! The world-building and style of writing had me hooked. I can't wait to continue Lekore’s story!
September 21, 2021
Every book that she has wrote is a page Turner! I was never into fantasy thrillers until I was introduced to her books! Highly recommend if you love fantasy thrillers or looking for a new genre if books!
June 28, 2025
Ohhhh my goodness. Y’all. Read this one. I REALLY enjoyed it! Intrigue and science fantasy and political drama and religious conflict aaaaaaa it’s so good!
Read
January 7, 2022DNF’ed at 40%
I don’t know if it’s me (because honest to god I haven’t been the same since I finished this other book), or if it’s the fact that I couldn’t vibe with the writing style. It very well could be the former…Or both. 🤦♀️
I don’t know if it’s me (because honest to god I haven’t been the same since I finished this other book), or if it’s the fact that I couldn’t vibe with the writing style. It very well could be the former…Or both. 🤦♀️
December 20, 2021
The story definitely takes you along, almost by the hand. In an age where It seems everything has been written about, Woodscourt brings a number of fantasy elements together in a new way. It’s a great combination that ultimately brings a wonderful Fantasy Adventure.
August 12, 2024
Mystifyingly Amazing Epic Fantasy/Sci-Fi World
Prince of the Fallen is one of those books that is impossible to put down. I kept telling myself, "Just one more chapter". The sun was beginning to rise when I finally gave in and went to bed.
There is so much to love about this universe the author created. The world-building is amazing, the characters are marvelous, the magic is mystifying, the creatures are bewildering. Then there is the conflict, the adventure... It all makes me desire the next book to come out soon.
No, come out NOW!
More Lekore, please. And Nerenoth, too. Those are may favorite characters.
Prince of the Fallen is one of those books that is impossible to put down. I kept telling myself, "Just one more chapter". The sun was beginning to rise when I finally gave in and went to bed.
There is so much to love about this universe the author created. The world-building is amazing, the characters are marvelous, the magic is mystifying, the creatures are bewildering. Then there is the conflict, the adventure... It all makes me desire the next book to come out soon.
No, come out NOW!
More Lekore, please. And Nerenoth, too. Those are may favorite characters.
November 6, 2021
Wow. This book. You can tell that M.H. Woodscourt has a great talent for writing as she has created such a unique complex world in Prince of the Fallen! This book is filled with strong, incredible characters who act with great Integrity and are willing to learn and grow, you just can't help but love them! I also loved the message throughout the book that being different isn't bad, in fact it can be really good to be different, like Lekore!
That being said, this book was too violent for me, hence the lower rating despite all the good aspects of the book. The horrifying Blood Day ritual especially bothered me.
That being said, this book was too violent for me, hence the lower rating despite all the good aspects of the book. The horrifying Blood Day ritual especially bothered me.
January 15, 2022
This was a great novel, filled with well-crafted, lyrical writing. The plot is deep, unexpected, and full of moral complexity. The magic system is beautiful, and it’s woven well into the characters that use it.
If you like classic high fantasy in a world filled with magic, royalty, and big, sweeping stories, this book would be a perfect match for you.
If you like classic high fantasy in a world filled with magic, royalty, and big, sweeping stories, this book would be a perfect match for you.
February 26, 2023
Wow! Just wow! I am in love with Lekore! Nerenoth! Ademas! I love them, the unique creatures, the unique world! This is an amazing epic fantasy/sci-fi combination that will suck readers in for years to come!
January 14, 2022
A nicely written epic fantasy. I'd characterize the style as smooth--the prose is overall quite strong, well-edited and well-written, with flowing sentences and varied sentence structure. Dialogue was a particular strength.
The relationship between Netye and Adenye is so wrenching and beautifully written! Though far from the only plot threat, starting with the scene of their separation helped me feel part of this story right away. i wanted to know more about these character sand how things would change as Adenye grew up. That promise was definitely fulfilled!
Some more worldbuilding about the religion and how it works might have been helpful earlier on, I appreciated the attempts to avoid infodumping but there were a few too many unanswered questions for a reader to entirely emotionally engage in the internecine debates depcited. This is the kind of fantasy that can feel a little dense, a little distant, both because of its epic scope and because of its style. Certain characters were very emotionally engaging, though, which helped me stay involved, though I might have liked a little bit more feeling or humor to break up a plot- and world-building heavy book based on my personal preferences.
The introduction of some sci-fi elements was unexpected and very cool, also quite nicely executed.
Overall, a solid epic fantasy read, with some exceptionally beautiful scenes.
The relationship between Netye and Adenye is so wrenching and beautifully written! Though far from the only plot threat, starting with the scene of their separation helped me feel part of this story right away. i wanted to know more about these character sand how things would change as Adenye grew up. That promise was definitely fulfilled!
Some more worldbuilding about the religion and how it works might have been helpful earlier on, I appreciated the attempts to avoid infodumping but there were a few too many unanswered questions for a reader to entirely emotionally engage in the internecine debates depcited. This is the kind of fantasy that can feel a little dense, a little distant, both because of its epic scope and because of its style. Certain characters were very emotionally engaging, though, which helped me stay involved, though I might have liked a little bit more feeling or humor to break up a plot- and world-building heavy book based on my personal preferences.
The introduction of some sci-fi elements was unexpected and very cool, also quite nicely executed.
Overall, a solid epic fantasy read, with some exceptionally beautiful scenes.
July 22, 2024
Prince of the Fallen is captivating in the same way as Stormlight (Sanderson) and Legend of Drizzt (Salvatore). The author instantly creates a unique world that you readily accept, then introduces compelling characters who reveal more of it to you with each turn of the page.
Nerenoth has the moral compass of Dalinar Kholin (Way of Kings), and his steadfast honour drew me to him. I’ve been a sucker for any world where they ride giant lizards since the Drow in Drizzt. The world’s politics, featuring a twisted religion supporting a shady king with invaders at the door, feels like a familiar family member.
In the middle of it all is a mysterious young man with powers, and it’s clear from the first chapter that there is much more to him. But he’s been so lost and lonely. Can he trust again? Wrapped around all of this is a first-class, twisty-turny plot (I love those). I can’t wait to get to Book Two.
Nerenoth has the moral compass of Dalinar Kholin (Way of Kings), and his steadfast honour drew me to him. I’ve been a sucker for any world where they ride giant lizards since the Drow in Drizzt. The world’s politics, featuring a twisted religion supporting a shady king with invaders at the door, feels like a familiar family member.
In the middle of it all is a mysterious young man with powers, and it’s clear from the first chapter that there is much more to him. But he’s been so lost and lonely. Can he trust again? Wrapped around all of this is a first-class, twisty-turny plot (I love those). I can’t wait to get to Book Two.
May 15, 2023
Wow! The first book I've read by M. H. Woodscourt but definitely not the last!
My favorite books have me on the hook by the end of the first chapter and this book met the requirement. By the end of the first chapter I wanted to go on a voyage with the characters and see what happens to them. The world building was great and there was no portion of the book that is hard to get through. It just flowed. I love epic fantasy and this is definitely that. But with a little sci fi added. I didn't see it coming at all but it's a happy addition. I would actually love to see this on a screen. I can already see how some characters look in my mind. Like The Lord Captin!😆. I'm usually reading about 3 books at any given time. But I read this from beginning to end in less than 24 hours. It's a tale not to be missed.
My favorite books have me on the hook by the end of the first chapter and this book met the requirement. By the end of the first chapter I wanted to go on a voyage with the characters and see what happens to them. The world building was great and there was no portion of the book that is hard to get through. It just flowed. I love epic fantasy and this is definitely that. But with a little sci fi added. I didn't see it coming at all but it's a happy addition. I would actually love to see this on a screen. I can already see how some characters look in my mind. Like The Lord Captin!😆. I'm usually reading about 3 books at any given time. But I read this from beginning to end in less than 24 hours. It's a tale not to be missed.
July 15, 2023
Lord Captain Nerenoth witnessed the death of his king and the attempt on the young Prince. He is about to intervene to save the Prince, when one of the Sun Gods stops him and tells him to remain quiet and they will take the Prince and care for him. He does as asked, but questions what purpose they have for doing so.
18 years later, Lekore has a dream that sends him to the aid of a woman and her people in distress. After being isolated from other people for so long, he is unprepared for the prejudice, hate, and malice that now face him among his people.
This was such a great story of acceptance and love. Being different is not a bad thing. We can embrace everyone as they are. Such an amazing story!
18 years later, Lekore has a dream that sends him to the aid of a woman and her people in distress. After being isolated from other people for so long, he is unprepared for the prejudice, hate, and malice that now face him among his people.
This was such a great story of acceptance and love. Being different is not a bad thing. We can embrace everyone as they are. Such an amazing story!
June 17, 2024
Five stars for all five books!
M.H. Woodscourt possesses an enchanting ability to spin words into a captivating, seat-gripping world. A marvelous author. Truly. It is amazing how she can create an entire universe set in an epic medieval fantasy/sci-fi setting and make it all so realistic. Best of all, everything is unique. I don't think I have ever seen characters or creatures nearly close to what is found here. I foresee her becoming a bestseller, if she isn't already. She sure has me hooked. I read this entire series, enjoying everything with heart-pounding intensity, straight through. I couldn’t put the books down!
M.H. Woodscourt possesses an enchanting ability to spin words into a captivating, seat-gripping world. A marvelous author. Truly. It is amazing how she can create an entire universe set in an epic medieval fantasy/sci-fi setting and make it all so realistic. Best of all, everything is unique. I don't think I have ever seen characters or creatures nearly close to what is found here. I foresee her becoming a bestseller, if she isn't already. She sure has me hooked. I read this entire series, enjoying everything with heart-pounding intensity, straight through. I couldn’t put the books down!
December 23, 2021
The book is excellent. The characters, the story and more than one adventure.
I liked the development of the MC. The storytelling was great moving at a good pace, as was the world setting.
Overall it really did have a good storyline and some great characters who can clearly develop and grow with a lot of opportunities to turn this story into a fantastic series of books. I look forward to what’s to come.
I liked the development of the MC. The storytelling was great moving at a good pace, as was the world setting.
Overall it really did have a good storyline and some great characters who can clearly develop and grow with a lot of opportunities to turn this story into a fantastic series of books. I look forward to what’s to come.
February 1, 2023
Enjoyable read, a mix of fantasy and a little bit of sci-fi. The sci-fi part seemed very random but I know now it grows over the series and is a main part. The writing was excellent, the author did amazing with the world building and the character personalities and the overall writing in general. The story is multi-perspective which kind of threw me a bit from the reading sometimes but I saw why it was necessary. I liked Lekore and Nerenoth the most.
Want to read
January 4, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBO9 contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
Great opening line. Prose is purple at times, but it’s evocative. There’s something big & uncomplicated happening! Good steady flow of information that doesn’t clog up the action.
Characters are emerging! A dark medieval setting! Grief, madness, murder. I love the names! Subtle dialogue. These are real people. I’m in!
Great opening line. Prose is purple at times, but it’s evocative. There’s something big & uncomplicated happening! Good steady flow of information that doesn’t clog up the action.
Characters are emerging! A dark medieval setting! Grief, madness, murder. I love the names! Subtle dialogue. These are real people. I’m in!
July 22, 2025
4.5/5
I've seen this book advertised as Lord of the Rings meets Star Wars, but I have to whole-heartedly disagree. This book is its own beautifully crafted story and I cannot wait to continue this series. Does it have ancient lore? Yes. Does it have shining bright cities, lurking evils, and a medieval cast system? Yes. Does it have spaceships? Yes! None of those things make it Star Wars or LOTR. This story is great in its own right and deserves the praise it is getting!
I've seen this book advertised as Lord of the Rings meets Star Wars, but I have to whole-heartedly disagree. This book is its own beautifully crafted story and I cannot wait to continue this series. Does it have ancient lore? Yes. Does it have shining bright cities, lurking evils, and a medieval cast system? Yes. Does it have spaceships? Yes! None of those things make it Star Wars or LOTR. This story is great in its own right and deserves the praise it is getting!
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