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Shadow Knights #1
The Last Shadow Knight
“I cannot recommend this enough for all fantasy lovers. If you enjoy books like the Mistborn series, you’re going to love this story too!” – Liliyana, thefaeriereview.com “The Last Shadow Knight is realistic, accessible, and a thumping good read!” – Jan Foster, fantasy author “I am so glad I read this one! It was a surprisingly quick and easy read and now I can’t wait for the next installment!” Kat, thelilycafe.com “Great read for YA adventure fantasy fans!” – Sonja F. Blanco, fantasy author
"It is a fantastic tale of adventure, mystery, fantasy, and coming-of-age. This should be on every bookshelf from ages 12 and up!" - Laura, goodreads.com
"What a story! It was SO GOOD! So well done!" - Mike, goodreads.com
"What a fantastic book from a talented, first-time author!" - Brian, goodreads.com On the unforgiving streets of Karad, Veron grows up hungry, inexperienced, and stealing just to survive. After tragedy strikes, he is forced to decide what path his life will take. Opportunity arises when he discovers the last survivor of a secret organization called the Shadow Knights. Apprenticed to learn their ways, Veron begins to develop abilities he never dreamed he could have. Meanwhile, an enemy from across the mountains comes to destroy their kingdom’s way of life, and the Shadow Knights are the only ones able to stop him. As Veron fights to survive the city, he prepares to face his destiny.
"It is a fantastic tale of adventure, mystery, fantasy, and coming-of-age. This should be on every bookshelf from ages 12 and up!" - Laura, goodreads.com
"What a story! It was SO GOOD! So well done!" - Mike, goodreads.com
"What a fantastic book from a talented, first-time author!" - Brian, goodreads.com On the unforgiving streets of Karad, Veron grows up hungry, inexperienced, and stealing just to survive. After tragedy strikes, he is forced to decide what path his life will take. Opportunity arises when he discovers the last survivor of a secret organization called the Shadow Knights. Apprenticed to learn their ways, Veron begins to develop abilities he never dreamed he could have. Meanwhile, an enemy from across the mountains comes to destroy their kingdom’s way of life, and the Shadow Knights are the only ones able to stop him. As Veron fights to survive the city, he prepares to face his destiny.
480 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2021
2037 people are currently reading
4823 people want to read
About the author
Michael Webb
10 books152 followersMichael Webb is a fantasy author who lives in Georgia, northwest of Atlanta. A graduate of Berry College, he is married and has a son. He began writing on a whim in 2019 and fell in love with it. In addition to finishing The Shadow Knights Trilogy, he plans to write additional books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
February 25, 2022
4.25/5
Definitely a fun read.
Fast paced and decent characterisation.
Liked the finance and commerce aspect of this fantasy world.
Definitely a fun read.
Fast paced and decent characterisation.
Liked the finance and commerce aspect of this fantasy world.
August 21, 2021
Disappointing…unless you want drama
Story is good overall, but such a mentally weak main character I struggled to finish this book. I wanted to really like this book but I could not get through all the really bad decisions made by the mc. I liked that the mc is empathetic & not op, but he just became more and more stupid as the story progresses. He trains for 4 years with all weapons and afterwards somehow keeps getting mugged by street thugs with clubs… He was smarter when he was 13…🙄. I found myself skimming pages to get past these repeating incidents. The “only” time he uses any skills is to kill an invading army in a room full of nobles in a castle saving (almost) everyone’s lives, he gets thrown in the dungeon & made a slave. Not 1 person has anything say about their savior? Nothing against drama, this book had too much for my taste. I don’t think I will continue this series.
Story is good overall, but such a mentally weak main character I struggled to finish this book. I wanted to really like this book but I could not get through all the really bad decisions made by the mc. I liked that the mc is empathetic & not op, but he just became more and more stupid as the story progresses. He trains for 4 years with all weapons and afterwards somehow keeps getting mugged by street thugs with clubs… He was smarter when he was 13…🙄. I found myself skimming pages to get past these repeating incidents. The “only” time he uses any skills is to kill an invading army in a room full of nobles in a castle saving (almost) everyone’s lives, he gets thrown in the dungeon & made a slave. Not 1 person has anything say about their savior? Nothing against drama, this book had too much for my taste. I don’t think I will continue this series.
April 2, 2021
One Sentence Summary: Veron is a thief, until he tries to steal from a reclusive man and ends up training to possibly be the one person who can stop an invading king.
I am so glad I read this one! When the author contacted me for a review, I really wanted to read it because the description sounded like it was right up my alley, but I had my reservations concerning the way it was categorized. Fortunately, the categorizations were errors (they've been fixed), so I was more than happy to review it. And, like I said, I'm so glad I did! It turned out to be quite different from what I expected, but I really enjoyed it. It focused on what I thought it would, but it also really reminded me of the slice of life book The Dragon's Banker by Scott Warren, which was about an ordinary man being charged with keeping a dragon's wealth. In The Last Shadow Knight, there's not a big focus on banking but on commerce.
The Plot: Where Knights and Businessmen Collide
Placed in an orphanage by his father after his mother died, Veron ran away after his father stopped visiting. Now a street thief just trying to get by with his friend Fend, they run from the law and dream big. Until Veron's life changes in a matter of minutes and he's on his own again. But an encounter with an old man changes his life, and his destiny.
The daughter of Felting's High Lord of Commerce, Chelci squirms under the tough thumb of her mother. With an adventurous spirit and the desire to learn to use a sword, she runs away, straight into trouble. But also into a life where she can be who she wants to be, as long as she keeps her secrets carefully tied up.
Brixton only has one wish: to please his difficult father, Karad's Lord of Commerce. Brixton works hard, but it's never enough. After receiving a top education from boarding school, he returns home, only to be under the scornful eye of his father as his dreams of working in finance go down the drain. Until a chance meeting and surprise friendship with a man he grows to hate delivers the opportunity of a lifetime.
The Last Shadow Knight really packed it in, and never once made it easy for the characters. There's a lot going on for each of the characters over the several years this story spans, but it was also a surprisingly fast read. Or maybe I just enjoyed it so much that I couldn't help gobbling it down.
I loved that this book focuses on three characters who are around the same age and who cross paths in surprising ways. Initially, they seem like disparate stories, especially since each of them is focused on attaining a different end. But I loved the ways in which their stories eventually intertwined. The only thing that bothered me a bit was how much younger Veron is than all the other characters who end up relying on him and how they instantly just trusted him. It felt like a typical YA thing, where a teenager is somehow better and brighter than an adult, but Veron carried himself so well that even I forgot how young he was.
The one thing that I didn't like much was the pacing, especially in terms of how the book is split into parts. It felt a little uneven, especially as I came to the middle. The beginning takes a more day-by-day approach and then subtly shifts so time moves a little quicker. But, by the middle, years have been skipped over before the first part even ends. The second part has a much more even pacing as it doesn't have any awkward time shifts. Of course, it did make sense why the time passed the way it did; I just wish the parts had been divided up a little differently to reflect the varied pacing. The end, though, was fantastic and made me really want to read the next book. Fates start to collide and enemies are made, and I just really want to know what happens next.
The Last Shadow Knight feels more like a character-driven story. They operate under the overarching story, but I felt they were written so well that I couldn't absolutely see how they ended up turning out the way they did. Their stories, personalities, and goals all made sense and tie in well and I can't wait to see how their individual stories work with the overarching story. I especially liked Brixton's story arc as it was quite unexpected, and surprisingly thrilling to read.
What surprised me the most is that this is not a typical fantasy story. Certainly, there's plenty of knight training and a looming destined battle, but it really focused on day-to-day life, especially for Veron. I was so surprised by how commerce-oriented this book was, but really ended up loving it because that's one side of fantasy worlds that is never really explored. This one certainly explored it, and now I'm hoping for more fantasy like it!
The Characters: Three Very Different Peers
The Last Shadow Knight is, undeniably, mostly Veron's story. After all, he's the one who trains to become a knight. But it also includes two others, Chelcie and Brixton. I love that they are major parts of the story, but I also can't help wondering how, exactly, they're tied into Veron's story and the overarching plot. I love them, but I'm hoping for more clarity about their particular roles in future books.
Most of the story is told from Veron's perspective. We meet him as a child thief who makes desperate choices that leads him to his fate. I really felt sympathy for him and wanted so much for him to be able to protect and care for himself. He's smart and strong-willed, but also just an overall good guy. He cares about others, especially those who need help the most. Most of all, I loved how hard he tried to be good and noble, but the world forced him to lie and do unsavory things just to survive.
I loved Chelcie. She's definitely a spunky young lady who is intent on doing what she wants, even if it means running away. What I loved most was how it took time for her to slough off who she was in order to fit in as someone she isn't. As the daughter of a High Lord, she was expected to act a certain way and was used to certain comforts, but, when all that is no longer hers, she didn't automatically adjust. It took time and I loved how natural it was, and just how well she grew up and matured. Chelcie is hardworking and determined, and I just know she'll be quite a force in the story.
Then there's Brixton. He was such a surprising character to me. I did not expect him to turn out the way he did, but I'm also kind of glad he did. Everything about his life was pointing him in that direction, and he really had little choice but to follow it. Manipulative and sneaky, he's the perfect foil to Veron.
The Setting: Traditional Medieval with a Twist
The Last Shadow Knight is set in the world of Terrenor and is mostly in the city of Karad. This is a medieval European-inspired world, but delves so much more into the inner workings of it than most other fantasies I've read.
As I mentioned, there's quite a bit of focus on the business end. Instead of kings and queens maneuvering (though there is a bit of that as an invading king is trying to take over), it's the high lords overseeing money and commerce. I loved every bit of it and especially loved how this book really went into how commerce, trade, and money operate. Somehow, it made the world more interesting and more alive. Or maybe I just loved that it didn't involve court politics and intrigue.
Most of the story is set in the city of Karad, where Veron and Brixton are based. It's a harsh city, especially for the poor. It's easy for the nobility to screw over the people who cross them, even if they don't realize it. But there are still some bright, friendly souls that help soften the edges. Veron evolves a lot over the course of the story, so it was wonderful to see all the sides of the city from his eyes as it helped paint a rather 3D sort of world. I could almost believe I was walking the streets and jumping from rooftops alongside him.
Overall: A Fantastic Spin on Traditional Fantasy
The Last Shadow Knight is, in many ways, a typicaly Eurocentric fantasy. There are kings, there are destinies, there's even a sort of Chosen One. There's knight training and dangerous creatures and an invading army. But there's also a refreshing look at how a fantasy city actually might function. I adored how it focused on commerce. I also loved how strong and complex the characters were. It was wonderful to see how their pasts tied into their presents and futures in a way that made complete sense despite ow jarring it made the pacing. This was a surprisingly quick and easy read and now I can't wait for the next installment.
Thank you to Michael Webb for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I am so glad I read this one! When the author contacted me for a review, I really wanted to read it because the description sounded like it was right up my alley, but I had my reservations concerning the way it was categorized. Fortunately, the categorizations were errors (they've been fixed), so I was more than happy to review it. And, like I said, I'm so glad I did! It turned out to be quite different from what I expected, but I really enjoyed it. It focused on what I thought it would, but it also really reminded me of the slice of life book The Dragon's Banker by Scott Warren, which was about an ordinary man being charged with keeping a dragon's wealth. In The Last Shadow Knight, there's not a big focus on banking but on commerce.
The Plot: Where Knights and Businessmen Collide
Placed in an orphanage by his father after his mother died, Veron ran away after his father stopped visiting. Now a street thief just trying to get by with his friend Fend, they run from the law and dream big. Until Veron's life changes in a matter of minutes and he's on his own again. But an encounter with an old man changes his life, and his destiny.
The daughter of Felting's High Lord of Commerce, Chelci squirms under the tough thumb of her mother. With an adventurous spirit and the desire to learn to use a sword, she runs away, straight into trouble. But also into a life where she can be who she wants to be, as long as she keeps her secrets carefully tied up.
Brixton only has one wish: to please his difficult father, Karad's Lord of Commerce. Brixton works hard, but it's never enough. After receiving a top education from boarding school, he returns home, only to be under the scornful eye of his father as his dreams of working in finance go down the drain. Until a chance meeting and surprise friendship with a man he grows to hate delivers the opportunity of a lifetime.
The Last Shadow Knight really packed it in, and never once made it easy for the characters. There's a lot going on for each of the characters over the several years this story spans, but it was also a surprisingly fast read. Or maybe I just enjoyed it so much that I couldn't help gobbling it down.
I loved that this book focuses on three characters who are around the same age and who cross paths in surprising ways. Initially, they seem like disparate stories, especially since each of them is focused on attaining a different end. But I loved the ways in which their stories eventually intertwined. The only thing that bothered me a bit was how much younger Veron is than all the other characters who end up relying on him and how they instantly just trusted him. It felt like a typical YA thing, where a teenager is somehow better and brighter than an adult, but Veron carried himself so well that even I forgot how young he was.
The one thing that I didn't like much was the pacing, especially in terms of how the book is split into parts. It felt a little uneven, especially as I came to the middle. The beginning takes a more day-by-day approach and then subtly shifts so time moves a little quicker. But, by the middle, years have been skipped over before the first part even ends. The second part has a much more even pacing as it doesn't have any awkward time shifts. Of course, it did make sense why the time passed the way it did; I just wish the parts had been divided up a little differently to reflect the varied pacing. The end, though, was fantastic and made me really want to read the next book. Fates start to collide and enemies are made, and I just really want to know what happens next.
The Last Shadow Knight feels more like a character-driven story. They operate under the overarching story, but I felt they were written so well that I couldn't absolutely see how they ended up turning out the way they did. Their stories, personalities, and goals all made sense and tie in well and I can't wait to see how their individual stories work with the overarching story. I especially liked Brixton's story arc as it was quite unexpected, and surprisingly thrilling to read.
What surprised me the most is that this is not a typical fantasy story. Certainly, there's plenty of knight training and a looming destined battle, but it really focused on day-to-day life, especially for Veron. I was so surprised by how commerce-oriented this book was, but really ended up loving it because that's one side of fantasy worlds that is never really explored. This one certainly explored it, and now I'm hoping for more fantasy like it!
The Characters: Three Very Different Peers
The Last Shadow Knight is, undeniably, mostly Veron's story. After all, he's the one who trains to become a knight. But it also includes two others, Chelcie and Brixton. I love that they are major parts of the story, but I also can't help wondering how, exactly, they're tied into Veron's story and the overarching plot. I love them, but I'm hoping for more clarity about their particular roles in future books.
Most of the story is told from Veron's perspective. We meet him as a child thief who makes desperate choices that leads him to his fate. I really felt sympathy for him and wanted so much for him to be able to protect and care for himself. He's smart and strong-willed, but also just an overall good guy. He cares about others, especially those who need help the most. Most of all, I loved how hard he tried to be good and noble, but the world forced him to lie and do unsavory things just to survive.
I loved Chelcie. She's definitely a spunky young lady who is intent on doing what she wants, even if it means running away. What I loved most was how it took time for her to slough off who she was in order to fit in as someone she isn't. As the daughter of a High Lord, she was expected to act a certain way and was used to certain comforts, but, when all that is no longer hers, she didn't automatically adjust. It took time and I loved how natural it was, and just how well she grew up and matured. Chelcie is hardworking and determined, and I just know she'll be quite a force in the story.
Then there's Brixton. He was such a surprising character to me. I did not expect him to turn out the way he did, but I'm also kind of glad he did. Everything about his life was pointing him in that direction, and he really had little choice but to follow it. Manipulative and sneaky, he's the perfect foil to Veron.
The Setting: Traditional Medieval with a Twist
The Last Shadow Knight is set in the world of Terrenor and is mostly in the city of Karad. This is a medieval European-inspired world, but delves so much more into the inner workings of it than most other fantasies I've read.
As I mentioned, there's quite a bit of focus on the business end. Instead of kings and queens maneuvering (though there is a bit of that as an invading king is trying to take over), it's the high lords overseeing money and commerce. I loved every bit of it and especially loved how this book really went into how commerce, trade, and money operate. Somehow, it made the world more interesting and more alive. Or maybe I just loved that it didn't involve court politics and intrigue.
Most of the story is set in the city of Karad, where Veron and Brixton are based. It's a harsh city, especially for the poor. It's easy for the nobility to screw over the people who cross them, even if they don't realize it. But there are still some bright, friendly souls that help soften the edges. Veron evolves a lot over the course of the story, so it was wonderful to see all the sides of the city from his eyes as it helped paint a rather 3D sort of world. I could almost believe I was walking the streets and jumping from rooftops alongside him.
Overall: A Fantastic Spin on Traditional Fantasy
The Last Shadow Knight is, in many ways, a typicaly Eurocentric fantasy. There are kings, there are destinies, there's even a sort of Chosen One. There's knight training and dangerous creatures and an invading army. But there's also a refreshing look at how a fantasy city actually might function. I adored how it focused on commerce. I also loved how strong and complex the characters were. It was wonderful to see how their pasts tied into their presents and futures in a way that made complete sense despite ow jarring it made the pacing. This was a surprisingly quick and easy read and now I can't wait for the next installment.
Thank you to Michael Webb for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 8, 2021
The Last Shadow Knight by Michael Webb is an immersive high fantasy read.
I like the cover image of this book and as I read the book and finished it, it started to make sense to me, so I really liked the thoughtfulness behind it. This book was really interesting to read and very engaging. It is a delightful mixture of vivid and elaborate settings, strong characterisation, interesting concept and good writing along with great pacing and tension. So, for me, this book had it all. I enjoyed reading it and I am looking forward to reading the next part of this trilogy.
If you like reading fantasy books then I'd definitely recommend this book!
You can also read this review on thereadingbud.com
I like the cover image of this book and as I read the book and finished it, it started to make sense to me, so I really liked the thoughtfulness behind it. This book was really interesting to read and very engaging. It is a delightful mixture of vivid and elaborate settings, strong characterisation, interesting concept and good writing along with great pacing and tension. So, for me, this book had it all. I enjoyed reading it and I am looking forward to reading the next part of this trilogy.
If you like reading fantasy books then I'd definitely recommend this book!
You can also read this review on thereadingbud.com
December 30, 2022
In the dangerous streets of Karad survival is hard. A young man will find hope apprenticing to the last of an elite order thought extinct. Skills that will be needed. For a deadly threat looms near.
Fast paced with great characters. Excellent start to series!
Fast paced with great characters. Excellent start to series!
March 30, 2025
Pretty good book but I wish it was more gritty and less YA.
Veran is the son of a Shadow Knight who were all eradicated, or so they thought. The last one finds Veran and trains him in his father’s footsteps.
A girl abandons her privileged life to become pursue her own interests
Another character just wants to open a bakery and doesn’t want to follow his father’s life.
I thought this book had some cheesy parts and rushed some scenes and of course it was always the scenes I wanted to be fleshed out more.
Veran is the son of a Shadow Knight who were all eradicated, or so they thought. The last one finds Veran and trains him in his father’s footsteps.
A girl abandons her privileged life to become pursue her own interests
Another character just wants to open a bakery and doesn’t want to follow his father’s life.
I thought this book had some cheesy parts and rushed some scenes and of course it was always the scenes I wanted to be fleshed out more.
Read
June 27, 2023I am going for DNF for the time being, mostly because I did not find the right groove. I will return to this world, maybe in autumn!
July 26, 2021
This book wasn't quite what I was expecting. The premise of the novel sounds very fantasy-like, right? But what I got from it was more politics and economics.
In terms of writing, I feel like Michael Webb tells us a lot of things, but he doesn't quite show it. For example, in the beginning of the book, . The author tells us that Veron is grieving, but I (personally) didn't really feel it. He also forget about until the very end.
In terms of characters, I didn't hate them, but I didn't love them. We follow four perspectives: Veron, Chelci/Elise, Brixton, and King Bale. We get Veron's perspective major of the time, so you get to read about him thinking a lot. I feel like there was more to all the characters than what was written. For example, from all the people's perspectives that we read from, Brixton was the most complex in my opinion. In the beginning, he really wants to go against his father's wishes, but then eventually concedes. Even after that, his father still doesn't really acknowledge him. So Brixton starts to devise plans to make it seem like he's the competent one while throwing other people under the bus. I loved how he went from this good-ish character to this morally gray and questionable one. But for everyone else, their personalities and development felt very flat.
In terms of plot, y'all. This was my biggest issue. From my perspective, every issue and its resolution was so conveniently solved within a few pages. For example, how Veron gets his loan seemed way too easy. Chelci returning to her family and them accepting her just like that? Too convenient.
Also, there wasn't really any big, significant climax. I was expecting to read about a boy (Veron) who learns he's the last Shadow Knight and then proceeds to train and fight the bad guy. What I got? Well, the first part came true. But after Veron trained and everything, he proceeds to go start his own business. He "meets" King Bale (the villain) once and that's pretty much it. Where is the fantasy aspect? (Yes, technically as of right now, the book isn't labelled as fantasy on Goodreads, but based on the description of the book, it sounds like fantasy.) Is he going to fight the King? What about the prophecy? Is he going to ignore it? Why does it matter if he's the last Shadow Knight if he's not using any of his abilities?
Speaking of the Shadow Knights, I need more information about them! I like everything that Michael Webb gave to us, but I have a lot of questions about the organization. Like, how does one exactly become a Shadow Knight? Why are there so few of them? How exactly does the origine work? Is its limits the same for everyone? How does one learn how to use it? Michael Webb also alludes to this potential power of being invisible. How does that work? I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS THAT NEED TO BE ANSWERED.
Overall I didn't hate this book. Did I have some issues with it? Yes. But I can't expect perfection from an author's first book.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. It was entertaining enough for me to read (and finish) and that ending makes me want to pick up the next book.
In terms of writing, I feel like Michael Webb tells us a lot of things, but he doesn't quite show it. For example, in the beginning of the book, . The author tells us that Veron is grieving, but I (personally) didn't really feel it. He also forget about until the very end.
In terms of characters, I didn't hate them, but I didn't love them. We follow four perspectives: Veron, Chelci/Elise, Brixton, and King Bale. We get Veron's perspective major of the time, so you get to read about him thinking a lot. I feel like there was more to all the characters than what was written. For example, from all the people's perspectives that we read from, Brixton was the most complex in my opinion. In the beginning, he really wants to go against his father's wishes, but then eventually concedes. Even after that, his father still doesn't really acknowledge him. So Brixton starts to devise plans to make it seem like he's the competent one while throwing other people under the bus. I loved how he went from this good-ish character to this morally gray and questionable one. But for everyone else, their personalities and development felt very flat.
In terms of plot, y'all. This was my biggest issue. From my perspective, every issue and its resolution was so conveniently solved within a few pages. For example, how Veron gets his loan seemed way too easy. Chelci returning to her family and them accepting her just like that? Too convenient.
Also, there wasn't really any big, significant climax. I was expecting to read about a boy (Veron) who learns he's the last Shadow Knight and then proceeds to train and fight the bad guy. What I got? Well, the first part came true. But after Veron trained and everything, he proceeds to go start his own business. He "meets" King Bale (the villain) once and that's pretty much it. Where is the fantasy aspect? (Yes, technically as of right now, the book isn't labelled as fantasy on Goodreads, but based on the description of the book, it sounds like fantasy.) Is he going to fight the King? What about the prophecy? Is he going to ignore it? Why does it matter if he's the last Shadow Knight if he's not using any of his abilities?
Speaking of the Shadow Knights, I need more information about them! I like everything that Michael Webb gave to us, but I have a lot of questions about the organization. Like, how does one exactly become a Shadow Knight? Why are there so few of them? How exactly does the origine work? Is its limits the same for everyone? How does one learn how to use it? Michael Webb also alludes to this potential power of being invisible. How does that work? I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS THAT NEED TO BE ANSWERED.
Overall I didn't hate this book. Did I have some issues with it? Yes. But I can't expect perfection from an author's first book.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. It was entertaining enough for me to read (and finish) and that ending makes me want to pick up the next book.
March 17, 2021
This is an amazing new-old adventure story, with a tinge of fantasy. I say "new-old": it is a new story in the old tradition. It is a fantastic tale of adventure, mystery, fantasy, and coming-of-age. This should be on every bookshelf from ages 12 and up. The author has captured what so much of current fiction lacks: a firm grasp of truth, goodness, and beauty. The novel is beautifully written and well-crafted. I found myself comparing it to Alexandre Dumas, S.D. Smith, and Eoin Colfer. The plot was innovative and kept me wanting to read more. This book is a great new title for fans of young adult fantasy, and I would definitely recommend it.
March 26, 2021
It's Star Wars meets fantasy. This is a fun book about three different characters growing up and finding their way in the world as they face challenges and intersecting paths. An easy read and a great story.
December 27, 2021
Unexpected twists, turns, unpredictable, enjoyable adventure.
A promising start to a promising trilogy. Interesting characters, villains monsters...checks all the boxes. Looking forward to reading book two asap.
A promising start to a promising trilogy. Interesting characters, villains monsters...checks all the boxes. Looking forward to reading book two asap.
February 28, 2021
What a fantastic book from a talented first-time author! I'm not a fast reader, but I finished this book in less than a week because I just couldn't put it down. The characters are likable and interesting, the plot keeps you engaged from page to page, and the story is filled with fascinating twists and turns. .Michael Webb does a great job of making the characters come alive with both their strengths and weaknesses playing into a fascinating story line.
I'm a fantasy lover, and I thought this book was great, but I would also recommend it to those who aren't typically interested in fantasy literature. While the fantasy elements guide the overall plot and keep the reader intrigued, the majority of the story revolves around the lives of the characters more so than the fantastic components. The Last Shadow Knight is the kind of book that can appeal both to fantasy readers and to those who don't typically pick this genre. In a genre where coarse language and highly sexualized content are common, it's refreshing to have a fantasy novel that doesn't include these, but still reads like a high-quality fantasy novel written for adults. And I love having a fantasy novel that I can gladly recommend to my preteen kids.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book for anyone looking to find a well-written fantasy novel from a new and promising author, especially one that can appeal to a wide variety of audiences.
I'm a fantasy lover, and I thought this book was great, but I would also recommend it to those who aren't typically interested in fantasy literature. While the fantasy elements guide the overall plot and keep the reader intrigued, the majority of the story revolves around the lives of the characters more so than the fantastic components. The Last Shadow Knight is the kind of book that can appeal both to fantasy readers and to those who don't typically pick this genre. In a genre where coarse language and highly sexualized content are common, it's refreshing to have a fantasy novel that doesn't include these, but still reads like a high-quality fantasy novel written for adults. And I love having a fantasy novel that I can gladly recommend to my preteen kids.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book for anyone looking to find a well-written fantasy novel from a new and promising author, especially one that can appeal to a wide variety of audiences.
September 8, 2021
This is a fantastically adventurous story, with excellent world building and character development. If you like Patrick Rothfuss, you’ll love this, though in my opinion, it surpasses Name of the Wind by miles. The main protagonist is Veron, who starts out a young boy on the streets, but we have various POVs throughout, all of which are a great read. We follow multiple characters with separate lives whilst witnessing their struggles, successes and development. All aspects of the story were truly brilliant and I loved the ending. It’s left me needing to read the next book ASAP, an extremely talented author!
March 23, 2022
Fun story buried in overwriting
Dang lotta angst and hurt feelings and lots of non-common sense. The makings of a good heroic character or two exist, but it sure takes a lot of reading to flesh 'em out. What mild interest the climax and denouement may have aroused is quickly smothered by recalling the tortuous trail travelled to their doorstep.
Dang lotta angst and hurt feelings and lots of non-common sense. The makings of a good heroic character or two exist, but it sure takes a lot of reading to flesh 'em out. What mild interest the climax and denouement may have aroused is quickly smothered by recalling the tortuous trail travelled to their doorstep.
March 6, 2021
If you are new to fantasy this is a great place to start. If you read fantasy on occasion you will thoroughly enjoy this story. If you are an avid fantasy reader you will find this book hard to put down. It keeps you on the edge of your seat just waiting to see what happens next.
March 2, 2022
I can barely wait for book 2!!!
March 8, 2021
I loved this book. It’s the first in a trilogy which makes me so excited because it gives the author an opportunity to delve even deeper into the story. The heart of the book is about not only finding your destiny, but how far you’re willing to go to fulfill it. Kill? Steal? Lie? Cheat? If you love fantasy and good writing then read The Last Shadow
February 27, 2021
I finished the book, and it is amazing! This is one of the books I would love to read over and over again.
October 6, 2021
A little perspective from a non-leisure reader. It’s probably been 20 years since I read for pleasure only.
I know Michael personally and joked with him if he minded if I purchased his book and it sat unread on my bookshelf for years.
But truth be told it’s the first story I could really get Into in a long time. I just got the book 4 days ago and I’m 300 pages into it and don’t want to put it down. I casually sat outside when I started it to see what it was all about, and was 150 pages in when I realized I got sunburned.
I like the separate stories, and how they eventually cross paths. I feel my biggest complaint will be having to wait for the next book when I finish this one!
If you like fantasy world stories with vivid details and characters you can feel like you bond with, this is it.
I know Michael personally and joked with him if he minded if I purchased his book and it sat unread on my bookshelf for years.
But truth be told it’s the first story I could really get Into in a long time. I just got the book 4 days ago and I’m 300 pages into it and don’t want to put it down. I casually sat outside when I started it to see what it was all about, and was 150 pages in when I realized I got sunburned.
I like the separate stories, and how they eventually cross paths. I feel my biggest complaint will be having to wait for the next book when I finish this one!
If you like fantasy world stories with vivid details and characters you can feel like you bond with, this is it.
Currently reading
March 28, 2021I'm extremely proud of The Last Shadow Knight! I wanted to create a story with characters you can love that is exciting and makes you want to not put it down. I hoped to build a story that is loved by adults as well as young adults, and I've been pleased with the overwhelmingly positive response. I can't wait to finish book 2 in the series and share it as well!
The Last Shadow Knight launches in ebook and paperback, April 1st on Amazon. Preorder the ebook now! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08VDQ5WJR
Sign up for my mailing list to get information on upcoming books at www.michaelwebbnovels.com.
The Last Shadow Knight launches in ebook and paperback, April 1st on Amazon. Preorder the ebook now! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08VDQ5WJR
Sign up for my mailing list to get information on upcoming books at www.michaelwebbnovels.com.
April 9, 2021
This is a great book from a first-time author. I loved how the author would jump back and forth between characters. That kept it fresh and me on the edge of my seat always wanting to know more about what was happening with them. The characters were what drew me in from the start. I would say this is a great book for young adults who like the fantasy genre. I appreciated that it was a clean book but full of adventure and intriguing concepts.
July 19, 2023
This book was a fantastic adventure into the fantasy world. Swords and Thrill, I absolutely loved it. For a first novel, this is gold.
April 24, 2022
3.5 Stars
FRUSTRATING is the word that keeps coming to my mind. And that was actually the word that popped into my brain when this book ended. I am by no means an expert in the fantasy genre. In fact, I'm not sure that I'm an expert in any genre. I know what I like, and sometimes that is odd because I don't even know what it is about a book that makes it RESONATE with me until I realize that it has.
I pretty much like most every genre in the fiction realm and that is pretty obvious by my library. But....I HAVE read enough GREAT books in this genre to know how it impacts ME. When I can not stop reading. When I feel EVERY emotion under the sun -and to my horror, my eyes water.... When I am rooting for the MC who is being battered on all sides....And honestly, this book had some of those parts. That is what kept me going.
But, then there are the issues that pull the reader out of the story. And unfortunately, there were MANY of these issues. The first (and honestly, the most important to me) was the fact that while the story did flow fairly well, it did not flow well enough. The pacing was erratic. I started to realize somewhere after the middle that I just wanted it to end. That is not the severe criticism that it might sound like.
I truly liked Vernon. Chelsie irritated me for most of the book, but has her redemption at the very end. Brixton, well, let's just say if he fell in a well and was about to die....I wouldn't let anyone know (oh, maybe that makes ME an awful person, but....truth, right? )And then that doesn't even touch on the ACTUAL corruption that is occurring on a daily basis in this city. The leaders pretty much ALL suck.
Yes, there is a very likeable male MC in Vernon. He is from that "trope of street urchin who finds out that has a possible destiny awaiting him" (that's a trope right? If not, it should be...). Honestly, he is kind and a really good guy. And usually, with that, we always have some sort of "Big Bad" who is trying to destroy our hero. And boy do we find out that there is not ONE big bad...but a whole group of them.
In this case it is a bit different. We are introduced to a few different MC's and given their POV's yet most of them do not inter connect until the very end. This kind of reminded me of a very current book that I recently read that had a similar situation. That, I think, might have been the problem. In that book, I was emotionally taken prisoner. I couldn't stop until I KNEW what was going to happen. And, I freaking cried much more that is socially acceptable.... But, with our MC's in this story, they are all still in their growth period. Things have not turned out the way they would have liked so there is a lot of work to do to get them back on track. Who knows, maybe none of this makes sense.
As I mentioned before...what do I know?
This is a new author to me. I think this may be a new debut book.....so freaking kudos to Mr. Webb. The book held my interest until the end. It had all the hallmarks of becoming an excellent series. But, between the pacing, the fact that the MC's did seem to grow but still couldn't seem to pull it all together at the most important time....It. Was. Frustrating.
And the truth of it is, I'm not sure I can take much more. So, for now, I'll stop here with pleasant memories and then wait to see how the trilogy ends.
FRUSTRATING is the word that keeps coming to my mind. And that was actually the word that popped into my brain when this book ended. I am by no means an expert in the fantasy genre. In fact, I'm not sure that I'm an expert in any genre. I know what I like, and sometimes that is odd because I don't even know what it is about a book that makes it RESONATE with me until I realize that it has.
I pretty much like most every genre in the fiction realm and that is pretty obvious by my library. But....I HAVE read enough GREAT books in this genre to know how it impacts ME. When I can not stop reading. When I feel EVERY emotion under the sun -and to my horror, my eyes water.... When I am rooting for the MC who is being battered on all sides....And honestly, this book had some of those parts. That is what kept me going.
But, then there are the issues that pull the reader out of the story. And unfortunately, there were MANY of these issues. The first (and honestly, the most important to me) was the fact that while the story did flow fairly well, it did not flow well enough. The pacing was erratic. I started to realize somewhere after the middle that I just wanted it to end. That is not the severe criticism that it might sound like.
I truly liked Vernon. Chelsie irritated me for most of the book, but has her redemption at the very end. Brixton, well, let's just say if he fell in a well and was about to die....I wouldn't let anyone know (oh, maybe that makes ME an awful person, but....truth, right? )And then that doesn't even touch on the ACTUAL corruption that is occurring on a daily basis in this city. The leaders pretty much ALL suck.
Yes, there is a very likeable male MC in Vernon. He is from that "trope of street urchin who finds out that has a possible destiny awaiting him" (that's a trope right? If not, it should be...). Honestly, he is kind and a really good guy. And usually, with that, we always have some sort of "Big Bad" who is trying to destroy our hero. And boy do we find out that there is not ONE big bad...but a whole group of them.
In this case it is a bit different. We are introduced to a few different MC's and given their POV's yet most of them do not inter connect until the very end. This kind of reminded me of a very current book that I recently read that had a similar situation. That, I think, might have been the problem. In that book, I was emotionally taken prisoner. I couldn't stop until I KNEW what was going to happen. And, I freaking cried much more that is socially acceptable.... But, with our MC's in this story, they are all still in their growth period. Things have not turned out the way they would have liked so there is a lot of work to do to get them back on track. Who knows, maybe none of this makes sense.
As I mentioned before...what do I know?
This is a new author to me. I think this may be a new debut book.....so freaking kudos to Mr. Webb. The book held my interest until the end. It had all the hallmarks of becoming an excellent series. But, between the pacing, the fact that the MC's did seem to grow but still couldn't seem to pull it all together at the most important time....It. Was. Frustrating.
And the truth of it is, I'm not sure I can take much more. So, for now, I'll stop here with pleasant memories and then wait to see how the trilogy ends.
April 15, 2021
I'll admit that I began reading The Last Shadow Knight because I'm friends with Michael Webb. I'm an avid reader of non-fiction, but the last (and perhaps only) fiction novel I read was Harry Potter. Initially I thought, "A fantasy novel??? Eh, I'll give it a try." My main thought after finishing The Last Shadow Knight: "I'm SO GLAD that I picked up this book! Where is book two!?!" I haven't stopped talking about The Shadow Knight with my friends and family.
What I love the most about The Last Shadow Knight: the themes and "value lessons" throughout the book and the ups and downs (and personal growth) that each of the characters experienced. I read the last 200 pages in one night, under the light of my iPhone at 2am, while my husband kept telling me "to go to sleep!" I had to know what happened to the three main characters: Veron, Chelsi, and Brixton. (By the way, I loved all three.)
Throughout the book, I felt every single emotion. I cried at parts. I yelled at Michael (the author) at parts. I felt myself sweating, heart racing, on the edge of my seat at parts (out of fear and anticipation). I literally yelled in glee during parts. At one point I audibly said "OH NO he didn't!!!!" I did everything in my power not to skip ahead.
I felt like I was on the streets of Karad, and I found myself flipping to the front of the book often to look at the maps. The book really transports you into the world of the characters. My favorite parts were when the character stories overlapped, and I loved the different POV. I love how Michael would write about something small and seemingly insignificant, and it would pop up later in the book. I wasn't expecting that at all! This isn't a book where you expect what will happen. It's a page turner, incredibly well thought out and surprising. Twists and turns at every page flip.
I could share so many other reasons why I love this book. I'll be reading it again, and I literally cannot wait for book 2! Where can I sign up for my Shadow Knight training?
What I love the most about The Last Shadow Knight: the themes and "value lessons" throughout the book and the ups and downs (and personal growth) that each of the characters experienced. I read the last 200 pages in one night, under the light of my iPhone at 2am, while my husband kept telling me "to go to sleep!" I had to know what happened to the three main characters: Veron, Chelsi, and Brixton. (By the way, I loved all three.)
Throughout the book, I felt every single emotion. I cried at parts. I yelled at Michael (the author) at parts. I felt myself sweating, heart racing, on the edge of my seat at parts (out of fear and anticipation). I literally yelled in glee during parts. At one point I audibly said "OH NO he didn't!!!!" I did everything in my power not to skip ahead.
I felt like I was on the streets of Karad, and I found myself flipping to the front of the book often to look at the maps. The book really transports you into the world of the characters. My favorite parts were when the character stories overlapped, and I loved the different POV. I love how Michael would write about something small and seemingly insignificant, and it would pop up later in the book. I wasn't expecting that at all! This isn't a book where you expect what will happen. It's a page turner, incredibly well thought out and surprising. Twists and turns at every page flip.
I could share so many other reasons why I love this book. I'll be reading it again, and I literally cannot wait for book 2! Where can I sign up for my Shadow Knight training?
June 20, 2021
This book started out strong. To be honest, I had to reorient myself, since when the story begins, the main characters are still pretty young. That’s not a bad thing, of course, and it was actually refreshing to see younger characters in an epic fantasy story. Plus, it was interesting to see how these characters changed and matured as they got older. It was also interesting to see how the choices they made as children impacted their lives as young adults and the plot in general.
Of course, I also just simply liked the characters. Veron was certainly interesting; he changes a lot throughout the story, and I enjoyed seeing different aspects of his personality as events unfolded. But as much as I liked Veron, Chelci was definitely my favorite character. I admired her determination and dedication to her dreams and goals. Honestly, I wish more of the book had focused on her perspective. But this is only the first book, so hopefully we’ll get to see more of Chelci in future installments!
As for the general plot, it was honestly different from what I expected, but in a good way. Obviously, I won’t go into detail so as to avoid spoiling anything, but this definitely wasn’t just another epic fantasy story. It had a lot of unique elements and plotlines that captured my interest. But it also had plenty of the usual fantasy elements that I love! Webb did an excellent job balancing the two.
Frankly, the only flaw I found in this book was that, occasionally, there certain emotions or characteristics would be too bluntly explained rather than shown through actions or dialogue. Still, that hardly took away from my overall enjoyment of the book, and other than that, Webb’s writing was excellent.
All in all, I recommend giving The Last Shadow Knight a try. It was thoroughly enjoyable, with great characters, a captivating plot, and plenty of common fantasy tropes blended with Webb’s own unique ideas. So, I can confidently say that fans of the epic fantasy genre will most likely enjoy this book.
Of course, I also just simply liked the characters. Veron was certainly interesting; he changes a lot throughout the story, and I enjoyed seeing different aspects of his personality as events unfolded. But as much as I liked Veron, Chelci was definitely my favorite character. I admired her determination and dedication to her dreams and goals. Honestly, I wish more of the book had focused on her perspective. But this is only the first book, so hopefully we’ll get to see more of Chelci in future installments!
As for the general plot, it was honestly different from what I expected, but in a good way. Obviously, I won’t go into detail so as to avoid spoiling anything, but this definitely wasn’t just another epic fantasy story. It had a lot of unique elements and plotlines that captured my interest. But it also had plenty of the usual fantasy elements that I love! Webb did an excellent job balancing the two.
Frankly, the only flaw I found in this book was that, occasionally, there certain emotions or characteristics would be too bluntly explained rather than shown through actions or dialogue. Still, that hardly took away from my overall enjoyment of the book, and other than that, Webb’s writing was excellent.
All in all, I recommend giving The Last Shadow Knight a try. It was thoroughly enjoyable, with great characters, a captivating plot, and plenty of common fantasy tropes blended with Webb’s own unique ideas. So, I can confidently say that fans of the epic fantasy genre will most likely enjoy this book.
July 17, 2021
This is hands down one of the most interesting books that I have read this year. Told in three perspectives, the story is captivating and the characters endearing. The main character, Veron Stormbridge, starts as an orphan street rat. who sees his best friend brutally murdered in front of him by the law enforcement. Alone and with no choices, he attempts to steal from an elderly man, Artemis who unbeknownst to him used to be the trainor of a mysterious fighter group for justice and order. Instead of being turned over to the dubious law enforcement, Artemis recognises Veron as the son of his former pupil and gives him a choice for a new life and the skills to better himself. The second perspective of Cherci Marlow tells the story of a privileged but stifled young girl. Tired of living with under her mother's harsh restrictions, she walks out and claims the life that she wants to achieve. There are glimpses of a third young man's perspective, but I won't say too much about it to avoid giving the plot away. This story is fascinating, thoughtful, well written and well plotted. The choices that the three young people make change the course of their whole lives. I look forward to the next story in this series as we finally see the stories of Veron and Cherci intertwine towards the end of this book. 5/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2021
3/5
This book wasn't exactly what I expected and I first I thought it'll be on my DNF pile, but I didn't give up and was pleasantly surprised at the end.
What I really liked is that it had a strong start. There was action from the start and we get to see the drive behind Veron and just how it defined him. I'm somewhat disappointed that, although this comes up later in the story, it just feels like "yeah, that happened" moment, as if the author was using it for his convenience. And that handling makes Veron somehow feel flat at times.
The thing I probably liked the most was Chelci. I would honestly be ok with having her as the main character and following her full story instead. Her development feels significantly larger and more fulfilled, and it's just stunning when comparing her at the beginning and the end of the book.
I was a bit disappointed with how Brixton was handled. His personality shift was in my opinion not well thought out. Nobody can normally just switch their entire personality overnight. It's clumsy and lazy. It takes time to corrupt. I knew what he was supposed to be from the start but the handling and sudden shift just took a lot from the character.
And another thing after all that is that, after reading the title, seeing the cover, and reading the blurb, I seriously expected it to be action packed, combat oriented book about a boy coming of age story and all that. It. Was. Not. That. At. All.
We get some combat, we get some intrigue, but most of all what we DO get is ECONOMICS and COMMERCE. I did not come to read about that. And if I was more impatient reader I would probably drop the book at that point. I know different authors have different hobbies and likes and dislikes that often colour their writing (like an unusual liking for chocolate or books in a character (not this book)) but this is somewhat extreme. I read through most of it because I just generally like to read but I felt a bit let down.
And, just to put this in here, all the prophecy tropes are lazy and just cliché. I admit they can be done well but that's not the case here. (if I have not made myself clear, I did not like it)
But despite all that I did read through the whole book and it wasn't a bad read. I liked to read about Chelci and all the action (when it came). But most importantly, I liked the ending we got in the end.
There is potential that the second book will be far greater than the first and I just can't wait to read and see.
This book wasn't exactly what I expected and I first I thought it'll be on my DNF pile, but I didn't give up and was pleasantly surprised at the end.
What I really liked is that it had a strong start. There was action from the start and we get to see the drive behind Veron and just how it defined him. I'm somewhat disappointed that, although this comes up later in the story, it just feels like "yeah, that happened" moment, as if the author was using it for his convenience. And that handling makes Veron somehow feel flat at times.
The thing I probably liked the most was Chelci. I would honestly be ok with having her as the main character and following her full story instead. Her development feels significantly larger and more fulfilled, and it's just stunning when comparing her at the beginning and the end of the book.
I was a bit disappointed with how Brixton was handled. His personality shift was in my opinion not well thought out. Nobody can normally just switch their entire personality overnight. It's clumsy and lazy. It takes time to corrupt. I knew what he was supposed to be from the start but the handling and sudden shift just took a lot from the character.
And another thing after all that is that, after reading the title, seeing the cover, and reading the blurb, I seriously expected it to be action packed, combat oriented book about a boy coming of age story and all that. It. Was. Not. That. At. All.
We get some combat, we get some intrigue, but most of all what we DO get is ECONOMICS and COMMERCE. I did not come to read about that. And if I was more impatient reader I would probably drop the book at that point. I know different authors have different hobbies and likes and dislikes that often colour their writing (like an unusual liking for chocolate or books in a character (not this book)) but this is somewhat extreme. I read through most of it because I just generally like to read but I felt a bit let down.
And, just to put this in here, all the prophecy tropes are lazy and just cliché. I admit they can be done well but that's not the case here. (if I have not made myself clear, I did not like it)
But despite all that I did read through the whole book and it wasn't a bad read. I liked to read about Chelci and all the action (when it came). But most importantly, I liked the ending we got in the end.
There is potential that the second book will be far greater than the first and I just can't wait to read and see.
November 1, 2021
4.5 🌟
The last shadow knight is not a classic "hero knight" story. I expected a boy training into becoming knight and killing a bad guy with some hardships along the way. This story is so much more and different than what I expected.
Worldbuilding and politics were quite intriguing and enjoyable. Economics part especially in 2nd part of book could have probably been shorter. I also wished to know more about "origin" and Shadow knights. I didn't enjoy much chapters about King Bale. He whould be a better villain if he stayed mysterious as well as his plans.
I did however loved POV chapters of other characters Chelci and Brixton. They definitely feel like more than side characters. I can't decide if I like more Veron or Chelci at this point. It was interesting to see kids from different backgrounds grow up and cross paths.
I'm usually more into fantasy romance, but I enjoyed this one more than I thought I would. Book contains two maps which are always a plus in a fantasy book. Storyline is spread into Two parts. Mid stages of both parts were slow but everything else makes up for it. Last 20-30% of the book were so good and left me eager to read next book in this trilogy!
My honest recommendation for this book.
The last shadow knight is not a classic "hero knight" story. I expected a boy training into becoming knight and killing a bad guy with some hardships along the way. This story is so much more and different than what I expected.
Worldbuilding and politics were quite intriguing and enjoyable. Economics part especially in 2nd part of book could have probably been shorter. I also wished to know more about "origin" and Shadow knights. I didn't enjoy much chapters about King Bale. He whould be a better villain if he stayed mysterious as well as his plans.
I did however loved POV chapters of other characters Chelci and Brixton. They definitely feel like more than side characters. I can't decide if I like more Veron or Chelci at this point. It was interesting to see kids from different backgrounds grow up and cross paths.
I'm usually more into fantasy romance, but I enjoyed this one more than I thought I would. Book contains two maps which are always a plus in a fantasy book. Storyline is spread into Two parts. Mid stages of both parts were slow but everything else makes up for it. Last 20-30% of the book were so good and left me eager to read next book in this trilogy!
My honest recommendation for this book.
October 12, 2021
I have nothing but good things to say about this book. I loved it; it was amazing, from start to finish! I was captivated by the beginning, and never once got lost, bored, or uninterested. I love how we meet the three principal characters when they are young and get to see them grow up as the story progresses. And in the cases of Veron and Chelci, I was very impressed by their teachers. So often I have come across teachers and mentor figures in stories that just throw things at their students and make them figure everything out on their own. In all fairness, there are times and places for that. But these teachers actually took the time to teach. I always appreciate that, and it made me respect Artimus even more. Veron's chapters were definitely my favorite. I loved following along his journey as he grew in character and integrity, especially after such a rough start on life. And of course, based on how this book ends, I REALLY want to know what happens next! I will be on the lookout for the next book in the trilogy!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
June 19, 2021
I cannot even begin to tell you how much I have enjoyed this book. It was like going back to the old style fantasy novels from my youth, reminiscent of Joel Rosenberg’s Guardians of the Flame novels and the Dragonlance Chronicles. I loved everything about it, from the writing style to the perfect pace and the great characters. What I particularly loved is that the author spent time to build the world and to introduce the reader to the characters background. This meant that later in the book you were fully invested in the characters, understanding their personalities, backgrounds and caring about what happened to them. The world itself was not too fantastical and so felt realistic, meaning that the hardships people faced and the relationship between the different classes felt believable. I loved the characters and really enjoyed following them on their personal journeys as they left their youthful experiences and perceptions behind, as they grew into different people. This book was aimed at the teenage market, but as a mature, experienced fantasy reader, I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next two books in this series.
This was a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
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