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The Serrulata Saga #1
Gathering of the Four
"In the Realm, every citizen knows their place."
Leora of Mae is a young woman orphaned at birth and raised on a remote farm. As a wielder of Xanthcraft, her abilities set her apart from her adoptive family and the other villagers.
Shortly before her twentieth birthday, she learns of her family’s plot to sell her into servitude. Fearing for her life, she flees from the only home she’s ever known—defying societal conventions and breaking the edicts of the Realm.
As she runs, Leora meets Roland Shallowbrook, a traveler on the Thieves’ Road; Lady Aurora Verte, daughter of a powerful member of the gentry; and the White Rider Leopold, a soldier with a secret.
Together, this found family will have to band together to survive.
Set in the distant future during the return of the Hale-Bopp comet, Gathering of the Four is the first book in The Serrulata Saga.
Leora of Mae is a young woman orphaned at birth and raised on a remote farm. As a wielder of Xanthcraft, her abilities set her apart from her adoptive family and the other villagers.
Shortly before her twentieth birthday, she learns of her family’s plot to sell her into servitude. Fearing for her life, she flees from the only home she’s ever known—defying societal conventions and breaking the edicts of the Realm.
As she runs, Leora meets Roland Shallowbrook, a traveler on the Thieves’ Road; Lady Aurora Verte, daughter of a powerful member of the gentry; and the White Rider Leopold, a soldier with a secret.
Together, this found family will have to band together to survive.
Set in the distant future during the return of the Hale-Bopp comet, Gathering of the Four is the first book in The Serrulata Saga.
508 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2021
10 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Bennett
7 books91 followersA.E. Bennett (she/her) is a novelist and poet living in Northern Virginia.
She grew up on base at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.
She grew up on base at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
June 9, 2022
I completely loved this first book in the Serrulata Saga! There is a comet with a blue and yellow tail headed towards Earth. Certain magic users, called the Xanthos, are feared by those in the Realm because of their ability to use magic or Xanthcraft. They can be identified by their yellow eyes. I really liked the cast of characters and their backstories, which were cleverly developed. Leora, a Xanthos who was adopted and has lived a hard life with an adoptive mother who didn’t want her and now at nearly the age of majority, is about to be sold in to permanent servitude, was a favorite. I also especially liked Leopold, a White Rider who had a particularly interesting back story and connection to other characters in the story. Aurora and Eve Verte, the twins, were two of my favorites, and I really liked the way both of their stories got more twisty and complex as we got further along in the novel. I had actually read the companion novella before reading book one, so I liked getting to see some characters I knew from the novella, particularly Octavia, who was a favorite. The world building was really outstanding, with an interesting magic system and family and character relationships that created great conflict. I definitely can’t wait for book two!
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October 26, 2021edit: Oh I absolutely adore the new cover!
Gathering of the Four is the first book in A.E. Bennett's Serrulata Sage and is set in the Realm, a futuristic place where Xanthcraft, a sort of magic, exists. Those who wield Xanthcraft have different skills and abilities that are natural to them.
This is a big book, coming in at over 400 pages, and I really wish I'd read it in paperback! I handle big, fantastical books better in paperback, so this is definitely going on my will-be-reread list for sure! ebooks are great, but for big fantasy, it takes me a long time to sink in to the story and I have trouble doing that without a paperback. ANYWAYS, I digress ...
“But outside of the Realm, if they follow the calendar of the Ancients, it’s 4385.”
I really appreciated this line, as it gives you a sense of how far into the future the Realm is and how much things have changed. When Leora learns that her stepmother and her father plan to sell her into 'servantry', she runs away. She soon meets Roland Shallowbrook and the pair become fast friends.
“Before New Market, I thought—and I know this is so silly but—I thought I was the only one. I knew it wasn’t true, but I’d never seen anyone else with eyes like mine. And then I saw Xanthi in New Market, and now I’ve met you and, well…it’s been very nice.”
We get other characters and POVs as well. I really enjoyed the relationships Bennett develops between the characters and the world-building of the Realm. Each character comes from a very different place and you get to spend time with the characters before their paths and storylines start to collide. One of the romances took me by surprise in the best way, too. BUT I SHAN'T SPOIL! ;)
Each chapter also begins with an excerpt that adds to the worldbuilding and I seriously loved them. You start to get proverbs from the Realm towards the end of the book that were wicked cool.
The Capitol is not an easy building to navigate. Different wings were constructed at very different times throughout the Realm’s history, and it doesn’t take one long to figure out that each new wing was built without a care for what already existed. I do not recommend wandering around alone.
The setting reminded me of The Hunger Games and the Shannara Chronicles in the sense that it feels both new and old. This is only book one and I'm so curious to see where Bennett takes the storyline!
☆ Blog | Twitter ☆
Gathering of the Four is the first book in A.E. Bennett's Serrulata Sage and is set in the Realm, a futuristic place where Xanthcraft, a sort of magic, exists. Those who wield Xanthcraft have different skills and abilities that are natural to them.
This is a big book, coming in at over 400 pages, and I really wish I'd read it in paperback! I handle big, fantastical books better in paperback, so this is definitely going on my will-be-reread list for sure! ebooks are great, but for big fantasy, it takes me a long time to sink in to the story and I have trouble doing that without a paperback. ANYWAYS, I digress ...
“But outside of the Realm, if they follow the calendar of the Ancients, it’s 4385.”
I really appreciated this line, as it gives you a sense of how far into the future the Realm is and how much things have changed. When Leora learns that her stepmother and her father plan to sell her into 'servantry', she runs away. She soon meets Roland Shallowbrook and the pair become fast friends.
“Before New Market, I thought—and I know this is so silly but—I thought I was the only one. I knew it wasn’t true, but I’d never seen anyone else with eyes like mine. And then I saw Xanthi in New Market, and now I’ve met you and, well…it’s been very nice.”
We get other characters and POVs as well. I really enjoyed the relationships Bennett develops between the characters and the world-building of the Realm. Each character comes from a very different place and you get to spend time with the characters before their paths and storylines start to collide. One of the romances took me by surprise in the best way, too. BUT I SHAN'T SPOIL! ;)
Each chapter also begins with an excerpt that adds to the worldbuilding and I seriously loved them. You start to get proverbs from the Realm towards the end of the book that were wicked cool.
The Capitol is not an easy building to navigate. Different wings were constructed at very different times throughout the Realm’s history, and it doesn’t take one long to figure out that each new wing was built without a care for what already existed. I do not recommend wandering around alone.
The setting reminded me of The Hunger Games and the Shannara Chronicles in the sense that it feels both new and old. This is only book one and I'm so curious to see where Bennett takes the storyline!
☆ Blog | Twitter ☆
January 13, 2022
I was really looking forward to this after I read and loved Bennet's romance novella, Your and Mine and Gathering of the Four did not disappoint! The world that Bennet has crafted is so interesting and intricately designed. And of course the characters are just wonderful and I found it hard to pick just one favourite. They're all so intriguing and loveable in their own ways. I can't wait to see what Bennet has in store for us in the next installment.
August 12, 2021
Wow, what a ride! I don't think I know where to start! GATHERING OF THE FOUR is a dimensional, multi-layered story of adventure and intrigue that glows with magic and contains some of my favorite plot tropes. Its main characters are entertaining and feisty, and to be honest I'd read a whole book about each of them. I'm fascinated by the worldbuilding; Bennett does an excellent job at crafting a post-apocalyptic world that feels real enough to jump into. With many intriguing plot threads and a cast to follow to the ends of the earth, GATHERING OF THE FOUR is an easy favorite for all lovers of dystopia, adventure, and science-fantasy. I very much look forward to the next installment!
February 22, 2022
I really like the diversity in the characters of this book. Each one was unique and misfits, but they all worked well together. There was not a favorite among the four...Leora, Roland, Lady Aurora Verte, and Leopold that I had. Partly this is due to the fact, that I did find myself struggling a bit to fully connect with everyone on a strong emotional level; despite me liking them.
The journey that these four takes is filled with plenty of danger. It helps as it keeps the storyline moving and exciting. There were many opportunities for each of them to show their skills. While I did not "love" this book, I did "like" it enough that I would read book two.
Warning as the "f" word is used in this book. However, it is not abused but used for the appropriate times.
The journey that these four takes is filled with plenty of danger. It helps as it keeps the storyline moving and exciting. There were many opportunities for each of them to show their skills. While I did not "love" this book, I did "like" it enough that I would read book two.
Warning as the "f" word is used in this book. However, it is not abused but used for the appropriate times.
February 9, 2022
In 1997, I remember standing outside one of my first apartments and looking up at Comet Hale-Bopp. Little did I know at the time that the comet–with one blue tail and one yellow–would play a part in the demise of a cult named Heaven’s Gate which I have since read about and studied ad nauseum. I recall thinking to myself at the time: “Self, what would life on Earth be like when the comet returns to the solar system in 4385?”
In the Gathering of the Four: Book One of the Serrulata Saga by A.E. Bennett, we are given one possible version, and it is one that I would not have guessed. Rather than some idyllic, technologically advanced future with flying cars and robots, the world of 4385 (at least within this first book in the series) is a medieval one that reminded me both of Game of Thrones with its various families and any other book set in pre-Renaissance Europe.
Leora–an orphan with yellow eyes and abilities that include producing fire, transforming her appearance, healing and more–learns that she is to be sold into slavery. She runs from her adoptive family and joins up with three other deep, and very well-developed characters: a thief and ragamuffin named Roland, a refined lady of the gentry named Aurora, and a soldier named Leopold. Together, they make strong bonds, escape from those who hunt them down, and learn to survive on the road.
Gathering of the Four is filled with adventure, high stakes, familial spats, and blossoming love while being reflective on racial prejudices, societal constructs and norms which are still apparent even 2300 years from now. The look back on our own version of life through the eyes of these travelers was great to see, and the character development was so complete and rich that they became “book friends” by the end. I want to drink an ale with them.
Bennett’s writing is crisp, witty, philosophical at times, and filled with great narration that rarely detracts from the storyline. I greatly appreciated each chapter’s epigraph and the detail with which the evolution and devolution of our society is both shown and hinted at. Gathering of the Four is the setup to a great series, and one that I am excited to continue.
In the Gathering of the Four: Book One of the Serrulata Saga by A.E. Bennett, we are given one possible version, and it is one that I would not have guessed. Rather than some idyllic, technologically advanced future with flying cars and robots, the world of 4385 (at least within this first book in the series) is a medieval one that reminded me both of Game of Thrones with its various families and any other book set in pre-Renaissance Europe.
Leora–an orphan with yellow eyes and abilities that include producing fire, transforming her appearance, healing and more–learns that she is to be sold into slavery. She runs from her adoptive family and joins up with three other deep, and very well-developed characters: a thief and ragamuffin named Roland, a refined lady of the gentry named Aurora, and a soldier named Leopold. Together, they make strong bonds, escape from those who hunt them down, and learn to survive on the road.
Gathering of the Four is filled with adventure, high stakes, familial spats, and blossoming love while being reflective on racial prejudices, societal constructs and norms which are still apparent even 2300 years from now. The look back on our own version of life through the eyes of these travelers was great to see, and the character development was so complete and rich that they became “book friends” by the end. I want to drink an ale with them.
Bennett’s writing is crisp, witty, philosophical at times, and filled with great narration that rarely detracts from the storyline. I greatly appreciated each chapter’s epigraph and the detail with which the evolution and devolution of our society is both shown and hinted at. Gathering of the Four is the setup to a great series, and one that I am excited to continue.
June 15, 2023
A well-deserved five stars for an unputdownable and thrilling action-adventure. At 510 pages it should be a chunky read but it doesn't seem like it at all. The story never loses momentum even for a moment and I found myself flying through this story at top speed. The second in the series is already published so I'll be diving into that book as soon as possible!
Gathering Of The Four has excellent character development and world-building. I had a very clear picture of who everyone was and the world they inhabited. Each character was equally interesting and important to me. Even the villains were written in such a way that you wanted to read more scenes involving them.
The reader goes through a gamut of emotions as the characters individually experience pain, fear, and betrayal before finding hope and love as a band of friends fighting for survival. Their path is fraught with danger making it a nail-biting experience from start to finish. There is a real sense of evil and oppression in society. The sovereign and his advisor rule the land like a dictatorship and their army of White Riders enforce every dictate. The White Riders are suitably terrifying because of their ruthlessness and lack of mercy. It makes thrilling reading as the White Riders hunt the Four across the land.
Leopold's backstory really pulled me in. We learn more about him and his family than we do Leora and I found his story appalling but fascinating. I couldn't help but feel sorry for the little child he used to be and for what happened to him when he began his training to be a White Rider.
The other three members of the Four also have their own unique talents and quirks, especially Leora who is a Xanthi with very strong but untrained magical abilities. Aurora is clever and educated. Roland is a thief but loyal and quick to defend. Together, they make an unlikely but terrific team.
An addictive read and a fantastic start to the series.
Gathering Of The Four has excellent character development and world-building. I had a very clear picture of who everyone was and the world they inhabited. Each character was equally interesting and important to me. Even the villains were written in such a way that you wanted to read more scenes involving them.
The reader goes through a gamut of emotions as the characters individually experience pain, fear, and betrayal before finding hope and love as a band of friends fighting for survival. Their path is fraught with danger making it a nail-biting experience from start to finish. There is a real sense of evil and oppression in society. The sovereign and his advisor rule the land like a dictatorship and their army of White Riders enforce every dictate. The White Riders are suitably terrifying because of their ruthlessness and lack of mercy. It makes thrilling reading as the White Riders hunt the Four across the land.
Leopold's backstory really pulled me in. We learn more about him and his family than we do Leora and I found his story appalling but fascinating. I couldn't help but feel sorry for the little child he used to be and for what happened to him when he began his training to be a White Rider.
The other three members of the Four also have their own unique talents and quirks, especially Leora who is a Xanthi with very strong but untrained magical abilities. Aurora is clever and educated. Roland is a thief but loyal and quick to defend. Together, they make an unlikely but terrific team.
An addictive read and a fantastic start to the series.
January 29, 2023
I. Am. Impressed. This captivating dystopian future fantasy make you think about so many things. First of all if civilization as we know it were to fall, what would surviving that look like? How would we restructure a society from essentially nothing? Would the same mistakes be made? Humanity is after all deeply flawed, does that doom us to repeat history no matter the growth we make? Leora gives us a fantastic example of racial bias and class discrimination. Raised as a peasant farm girl she only knows hard labor and abuse from a bitter woman who was supposed to act as a mother to her. She has something of an ally in her father figure but ultimately he is not strong enough to stop his wife so Leora does what she has to and runs. Along her journey she meets and befriends Roland an unapologetic lifelong criminal who has learned to steal to get by. He is her first friend and the first person to treat her as an equal, not less than and most importantly not an exotic thing because of her Xanthos heritage. They run into Aurora a twin hailing from the great house of Verte, after the fall of the house of Verte. See Aurora was forced to run from her home on her wedding day after watching her father die, and her twin Eve made her leave her since the escape route would only work for one of them. Next we add Leopold to this ragtag bunch of misfits a disgraced White Rider. He was first commander and his men turned on him for what they saw as crimes against the sovereign. He has an interesting heritage of his own and connects with the other three in ways no one would have expected. These four outcasts go through so much together and yet are still willing to die for the greater good of the people who have been victimized by the broken hierarchy in place. This is the kind of tale that acknowledges and shows you the worst in people, but still gives you hope from those who want to help, who want to better the world for others. I can’t wait to see where the story takes them next.
June 14, 2023
I was expecting the year four thousand something to be much more technologically advanced, with AI having taken over, robots and flying cars and hoverboards and the like everywhere, but I was not expecting to find myself in this almost medieval world, where it almost felt like we have taken a big step back rather than forward.
The story itself is very intriguing and the premise is interesting, but I felt like it was a bit slow at times and it took me a while to get into. I think to really appreciate this book and the writing you have to take your time, and not try to rush through it. With a book of its length, I think that is also kind of a given (for me it always takes a little longer to read Sci-fi / dystopias anyway, as I need a bit of time to fully immerse myself in the world).
What a unique concept! I really liked the premise, the unique cast of characters, and this strange new world that the author created. I would have liked a bit more of a proper introduction to this ‘Realm’ and felt the story was a bit slow at times, but I was still thoroughly entertained. I recommend this book to all fans of fantasy, sci-fi, and dystopias!
4 stars from me!
The story itself is very intriguing and the premise is interesting, but I felt like it was a bit slow at times and it took me a while to get into. I think to really appreciate this book and the writing you have to take your time, and not try to rush through it. With a book of its length, I think that is also kind of a given (for me it always takes a little longer to read Sci-fi / dystopias anyway, as I need a bit of time to fully immerse myself in the world).
What a unique concept! I really liked the premise, the unique cast of characters, and this strange new world that the author created. I would have liked a bit more of a proper introduction to this ‘Realm’ and felt the story was a bit slow at times, but I was still thoroughly entertained. I recommend this book to all fans of fantasy, sci-fi, and dystopias!
4 stars from me!
June 22, 2023
Book source ~ TWR Tour
Leora of Mae is a unique individual in her tiny village. When she was a baby, she was taken in by a family friend when her parents left and never returned. However, she’s a Xanthos and she wields Xanthcraft though her adoptive family and the villagers don’t know that. During the return of the Hale-Bopp comet, when she overhears her “family” talk about selling her into servitude right before her age of maturity, she runs away. And that’s when things really start to get intriguing.
This is an interesting world with great characters. Told from several POVs I get a good all around sense of the place, the people, and what’s what. The plot comes together from several directions and advances at an even pace. The story stops on a bit of a cliff hanger, but is well set up for the next book in the overall arc.
I do have some issues with it though. The writing in places is a bit choppy and at times the characters are stiff and this makes the scenes flow unevenly. I also got supremely sick of hearing about how the comet had two tails, one blue and one yellow. Every. Single. Time. Why? Are the readers being punked? Is there a specific reason for this? I mean, other than irritating me? Because I fail to see it. *shrugs*
Overall, this is a creative addition to the Sci-Fi Dystopian genre. If you like The Hunger Games then this should be right up your alley.
Leora of Mae is a unique individual in her tiny village. When she was a baby, she was taken in by a family friend when her parents left and never returned. However, she’s a Xanthos and she wields Xanthcraft though her adoptive family and the villagers don’t know that. During the return of the Hale-Bopp comet, when she overhears her “family” talk about selling her into servitude right before her age of maturity, she runs away. And that’s when things really start to get intriguing.
This is an interesting world with great characters. Told from several POVs I get a good all around sense of the place, the people, and what’s what. The plot comes together from several directions and advances at an even pace. The story stops on a bit of a cliff hanger, but is well set up for the next book in the overall arc.
I do have some issues with it though. The writing in places is a bit choppy and at times the characters are stiff and this makes the scenes flow unevenly. I also got supremely sick of hearing about how the comet had two tails, one blue and one yellow. Every. Single. Time. Why? Are the readers being punked? Is there a specific reason for this? I mean, other than irritating me? Because I fail to see it. *shrugs*
Overall, this is a creative addition to the Sci-Fi Dystopian genre. If you like The Hunger Games then this should be right up your alley.
June 19, 2022
This is quite a new book that I really enjoyed. The characters live a few thousand years from now where some people have developed magical abilities and civilisation exists within protected walls. I loved the depth of the characters and how we learned about each of their backgrounds, and I loved how their stories wove together. This was a book that I did struggle to put down. There was always something happening, but I felt like this progressed the story well rather than overwhelmed it.
There were some things I found a bit frustrating or distracting around the timeline. Like the use of the word 'ticks' to describe any type of time passing. There were also some disparities when referring to the Ancients. For example, at one point the group look at a map of what things used to be, but this map would have been hundreds if not thousands of years old - it would have been quite brittle, but people were just picking it up and passing it around.
All in all, I'm super excited to learn more about their story as the next books come out. I enjoyed the action, the adventure, and the romance.
There were some things I found a bit frustrating or distracting around the timeline. Like the use of the word 'ticks' to describe any type of time passing. There were also some disparities when referring to the Ancients. For example, at one point the group look at a map of what things used to be, but this map would have been hundreds if not thousands of years old - it would have been quite brittle, but people were just picking it up and passing it around.
All in all, I'm super excited to learn more about their story as the next books come out. I enjoyed the action, the adventure, and the romance.
March 17, 2024
This is book 1 of the Serrulata Saga, a new and exciting fantasy series.
As ever, this isn't my favourite genre, but I do really enjoy dipping in every so often to see what I'm missing out on.
This was a pretty chunky read and I did struggle at times to motivate myself to pick it up - but I must stress that this was definitely not for any fault of the author or the storyline at all!
This was brilliantly written, with engaging plotlines and some really well thought out characters - all of whom I came to connect with. The diversity worked well and I loved how the dynamics evolved over the course of their journey.
The world building here was woven beautifully into the story and this meant that it didn't feel as though it was rushed or all thrown at us at once and I found the descriptive writing gave me a clear and vivid image of the Realm and it's people.
I loved the use of the different pov's in this as it really allowed us to learn about the characters more and really see their personalities shine through. This helped me create a relationship with them moving forward.
By the end of the book, I was totally gripped and came out knowing that I'd certainly be grabbing book 2 asap.
As ever, this isn't my favourite genre, but I do really enjoy dipping in every so often to see what I'm missing out on.
This was a pretty chunky read and I did struggle at times to motivate myself to pick it up - but I must stress that this was definitely not for any fault of the author or the storyline at all!
This was brilliantly written, with engaging plotlines and some really well thought out characters - all of whom I came to connect with. The diversity worked well and I loved how the dynamics evolved over the course of their journey.
The world building here was woven beautifully into the story and this meant that it didn't feel as though it was rushed or all thrown at us at once and I found the descriptive writing gave me a clear and vivid image of the Realm and it's people.
I loved the use of the different pov's in this as it really allowed us to learn about the characters more and really see their personalities shine through. This helped me create a relationship with them moving forward.
By the end of the book, I was totally gripped and came out knowing that I'd certainly be grabbing book 2 asap.
September 13, 2021
Gathering of the Four is a great book. A.E. Bennett did a fantastic job creating a compelling cast of characters and writing an engaging plot. The journey these characters go on, literally and figuratively, is only beginning but it’s been a captivating one so far. The dynamics between characters are great and I’m very invested in where the story goes from here. She created a world that feels both familiar and strange to the reader and crafted an equally compelling magic system to go alongside it. This is a book that I simply could not put down and I’m excited for the next entry in the series.
My full review can be found here
My full review can be found here
March 19, 2024
"Gathering of the Four" by A.E. Bennett is a dystopian-fantasy set in the distant year 4385. Following Leora, the protagonist ostracized for her Xancraft abilities, as she embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets of the realm and the Ancient world.
The main group of protagonists were very likeable and had a great dynamic. The premise of this book shows promise, think magic, found family and a plot full of betrayal and politics.
However, I found the pacing to be a bit sluggish. Despite moments of excitement, the narrative often seemed to plateau, hindering the overall momentum. The complexity of the world left me feeling overwhelmed, as a lot was packed into this initial installment.
Nevertheless, I remain hopeful for the series' potential to tie up loose ends and provide clarity.
The main group of protagonists were very likeable and had a great dynamic. The premise of this book shows promise, think magic, found family and a plot full of betrayal and politics.
However, I found the pacing to be a bit sluggish. Despite moments of excitement, the narrative often seemed to plateau, hindering the overall momentum. The complexity of the world left me feeling overwhelmed, as a lot was packed into this initial installment.
Nevertheless, I remain hopeful for the series' potential to tie up loose ends and provide clarity.
March 22, 2024
I really can't recommend this book enough. Science fiction with fantasy trappings, incredibly compelling characters I cried over several times, politics and world building that are *complicated* and *interesting*, sex scenes that are honest and genuine and *good*.
It's appropriately violent, never shying away from its often brutal themes, but also never revels in that brutality. It knows when to look away and turn to subtext. Several of the twists you can see coming and absolutely all of them work.
I've been replaying so many scenes in my head for days now, and I've bought a paperback copy as well as the sequel and related novellas.
It's appropriately violent, never shying away from its often brutal themes, but also never revels in that brutality. It knows when to look away and turn to subtext. Several of the twists you can see coming and absolutely all of them work.
I've been replaying so many scenes in my head for days now, and I've bought a paperback copy as well as the sequel and related novellas.
January 26, 2022
Gathering of the Four hooked me from the beginning and keep my interest the entire way through. Reading multiple perspectives can easily get overwhelming but the author handles them so well. I loved how this was a dystopia but also fantasy mixed with a little sci-fi. I've never read something that blends genres like this and it resulted in a refreshing read. I'm definitely counting down until Book 2 releases.
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.
September 13, 2022
What a fantastic book. This story pulls you in right from page one and doesn’t let go at all. the book is exciting and fast paced, taking you on a journey. A sci-fi book set in the future, the author does a great job of creating a post-apocalyptic world. It was easy to imagine and vivid in the description.
I loved the blend of characters used as well. They all worked in their context and created a book with depth. This is a fantastic story and I can’t wait for book 2.
I loved the blend of characters used as well. They all worked in their context and created a book with depth. This is a fantastic story and I can’t wait for book 2.
May 12, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed Gathering of the Four! This book was unique, interesting, and I was completely immersed in this well developed fictional world!
This book was so much fun and the characters made it all the more interesting! This combination of science fiction, dystopia, and adventure was wonderful and I was hooked from the first page!
I’m looking forward to reading more in this world!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was so much fun and the characters made it all the more interesting! This combination of science fiction, dystopia, and adventure was wonderful and I was hooked from the first page!
I’m looking forward to reading more in this world!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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August 28, 2021 I enjoyed the book thoroughly. It is science-fiction fantasy, a buddy tale, a journey tale. It is L Frank Baum meeting Robert Heinlein at Mark Twain’s house, for dinner with Jacqueline Susan and Mary McCarthy. It is feminist, swashbuckling, sexy, “renaissance-punk”-retro-futuristic. It is dystopian, yet hopeful. The resulting paradoxes and tensions are interwoven with clearly drawn, strong personalities. The characters all have deep past histories and secrets. The dialogue and narrative are well written and very witty at times. There is strong irony of a world long past and a world evolving. The first book leaves you asking many questions beyond the usual, “What happens next?” One quickly comes to believe in the characters and the writing makes you visualize their journey, their world. READ THIS BOOK
August 11, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of Gathering of the Four for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When books blend science fiction and fantasy elements together, they can yield great results, and they do so with the first book in The Serrulata Saga, Gathering of the Four, which while largely a fantasy story, infuses it with some sci-fi elements. While fully entrenched in the epic fantasy genre, it also presents a dystopian future.
Set thousands of years from now, humanity, as we know it, is gone. We are consigned to history, referred to as "ancients," a mysterious race of forbearers whose knowledge and technology has been lost to the ages. In our place are the people of the Realm, less advanced and fearful of what lies beyond their borders. With laws designed to keep people in their place, this society is xenophobic, particularly towards Xanthos, who wield the mysterious power of Xanthcraft.
As the novel brings its protagonists together as they run from their oppressors, it builds a mystery about what happened to humanity. As the Hale-Bopp comet casts a shadow over the world and its residents wonder about the meaning of this, the question about our fate serves as an undercurrent to the adventure. These touches of science fiction in the otherwise fantastical story creates something that stands apart from its contemporaries, despite its setting being one familiar to fans of the genre.
Given Gathering of the Four's setting, I would have appreciated it if the character names weren't ones familiar to our time, as names and naming conventions change drastically over time and across cultures. While a relatively small issue, this took me out of the story and interfered with my ability to suspend disbelief. The phonetic similarity to the protagonists' names (Leopold, Leora, Aurora, Roland) also interferes with the flow of the writing.
The characters work well and play off each other well. They are a distinct group of individuals and their differences make for some interesting group dynamics. The fact that they are highly enjoyable helps this, as does their development. Whole each one fits a fantasy archetype, the author has created fully fleshed out characters with great depth.
The characters' interactions with the world around them reflect today's society. Leora is feared for her power and her difference, Roland’s bisexuality is criminalised, Aurora is considered a lady and little more, and Leopold has been indoctrinated into following those in power. Our society has moved past the Realm in many ways, but the themes of xenophobia, sexism, homophobia and abuse of power remain resonant.
This novel is a hefty read, which the author uses to further the plot and provide plenty of characterisation. The prose is engaging and sets an inviting tone, but this could have been tightened as the author has a habit of repeating herself, giving the same information multiple times. While characters and actions are described in great detail, the settings and locations aren’t explored in as much depth, anf I wasn’t transported into the world as much as I'd have liked.
Among the the elements explored in vivid detail are the sex scenes, of which there are a few. These are written in explicit detail and while they convey the characters' emotions, they border on erotica. Additionally, there is a fair amount of profanity and violence. While I can see the tone and story appealing to fans of YA books, this subject matter is designed for adults only.
As the subtitle suggests, this is the first book in a series. The story is open-ended and ends on a great hook, enticing the reader to pick up the next. While it feels like a complete experience, you'll need to keep reading for the entire story.
Gathering of the Four's infusion of fantasy and sci-fi creates a unique experience. While the character names and the world's exploration impacted how immersed I was in the story, the fully realised characters combined with its themes add a level of depth. Not only does it entertain, it has the reader thinking about the world we live in.
My full review will be available on my website from 17 August, 2022. To read it (and a host of other reviews), click here.
When books blend science fiction and fantasy elements together, they can yield great results, and they do so with the first book in The Serrulata Saga, Gathering of the Four, which while largely a fantasy story, infuses it with some sci-fi elements. While fully entrenched in the epic fantasy genre, it also presents a dystopian future.
Set thousands of years from now, humanity, as we know it, is gone. We are consigned to history, referred to as "ancients," a mysterious race of forbearers whose knowledge and technology has been lost to the ages. In our place are the people of the Realm, less advanced and fearful of what lies beyond their borders. With laws designed to keep people in their place, this society is xenophobic, particularly towards Xanthos, who wield the mysterious power of Xanthcraft.
As the novel brings its protagonists together as they run from their oppressors, it builds a mystery about what happened to humanity. As the Hale-Bopp comet casts a shadow over the world and its residents wonder about the meaning of this, the question about our fate serves as an undercurrent to the adventure. These touches of science fiction in the otherwise fantastical story creates something that stands apart from its contemporaries, despite its setting being one familiar to fans of the genre.
Given Gathering of the Four's setting, I would have appreciated it if the character names weren't ones familiar to our time, as names and naming conventions change drastically over time and across cultures. While a relatively small issue, this took me out of the story and interfered with my ability to suspend disbelief. The phonetic similarity to the protagonists' names (Leopold, Leora, Aurora, Roland) also interferes with the flow of the writing.
The characters work well and play off each other well. They are a distinct group of individuals and their differences make for some interesting group dynamics. The fact that they are highly enjoyable helps this, as does their development. Whole each one fits a fantasy archetype, the author has created fully fleshed out characters with great depth.
The characters' interactions with the world around them reflect today's society. Leora is feared for her power and her difference, Roland’s bisexuality is criminalised, Aurora is considered a lady and little more, and Leopold has been indoctrinated into following those in power. Our society has moved past the Realm in many ways, but the themes of xenophobia, sexism, homophobia and abuse of power remain resonant.
This novel is a hefty read, which the author uses to further the plot and provide plenty of characterisation. The prose is engaging and sets an inviting tone, but this could have been tightened as the author has a habit of repeating herself, giving the same information multiple times. While characters and actions are described in great detail, the settings and locations aren’t explored in as much depth, anf I wasn’t transported into the world as much as I'd have liked.
Among the the elements explored in vivid detail are the sex scenes, of which there are a few. These are written in explicit detail and while they convey the characters' emotions, they border on erotica. Additionally, there is a fair amount of profanity and violence. While I can see the tone and story appealing to fans of YA books, this subject matter is designed for adults only.
As the subtitle suggests, this is the first book in a series. The story is open-ended and ends on a great hook, enticing the reader to pick up the next. While it feels like a complete experience, you'll need to keep reading for the entire story.
Gathering of the Four's infusion of fantasy and sci-fi creates a unique experience. While the character names and the world's exploration impacted how immersed I was in the story, the fully realised characters combined with its themes add a level of depth. Not only does it entertain, it has the reader thinking about the world we live in.
My full review will be available on my website from 17 August, 2022. To read it (and a host of other reviews), click here.
August 26, 2021
I received this book as a reading copy for an honest review.
The author has a very good writing style. It doesn't seem like a first-time book at all, which it is. The story feels like a long introduction for what is to come and ended with a cliff-hanger. The 2nd book is to be released at the end of 2021. I'm looking forward to it. The characters are well drawn and develop. I think everyone will find a favourite character in the four main characters. The stories of the subplots with the side-characters are also well written.
There is a "content warnings" in the beginning, which made me expect the worst. However, the descriptions are moderate.
The author has a very good writing style. It doesn't seem like a first-time book at all, which it is. The story feels like a long introduction for what is to come and ended with a cliff-hanger. The 2nd book is to be released at the end of 2021. I'm looking forward to it. The characters are well drawn and develop. I think everyone will find a favourite character in the four main characters. The stories of the subplots with the side-characters are also well written.
There is a "content warnings" in the beginning, which made me expect the worst. However, the descriptions are moderate.
October 11, 2022
Wholly immersive, epic, and original
Gathering of the Four finds a group of four characters on the precipice of change whose lives become fatefully intertwined. Fans of post-apocalyptic, old-is-new tropes will find this novel comfortable yet refreshing with its unique voice.
With the conversational ease of Austen or Wilde, Bennett molds an immersive world full of political intrigue, complex social standing, and a fascinating magic system. I love how the excerpts and quotes at the beginning of chapters add another layer to the lore and world-building. Bennett takes us to a fully-realized Realm with the breadth of an RPG like Elder Scrolls, setting up opportunities for endless stories and countless characters.
There’s a nicely paced mix of dialogue and action, plus there are lots of naughty, spicy moments. I’m excited to read more in this series and to further explore the reaches of the Realm!
Gathering of the Four finds a group of four characters on the precipice of change whose lives become fatefully intertwined. Fans of post-apocalyptic, old-is-new tropes will find this novel comfortable yet refreshing with its unique voice.
With the conversational ease of Austen or Wilde, Bennett molds an immersive world full of political intrigue, complex social standing, and a fascinating magic system. I love how the excerpts and quotes at the beginning of chapters add another layer to the lore and world-building. Bennett takes us to a fully-realized Realm with the breadth of an RPG like Elder Scrolls, setting up opportunities for endless stories and countless characters.
There’s a nicely paced mix of dialogue and action, plus there are lots of naughty, spicy moments. I’m excited to read more in this series and to further explore the reaches of the Realm!
August 23, 2021
What a book! This novel is an exciting journey based in a post apocalyptic world! I could not put it down and was very tired for work after staying up far too late to finish this page turner. It is rare that you find a first novel to be as well written as this one is. The author does a masterful job of character development and storytelling. You get sucked into this fantasy world which takes place far into the future yet is staggeringly like the world was in the 1500's. Magic, drama, love and more await you in this first novel. You come to care for each of the characters and their lives. The only issue I had is that I have to wait to see where the story goes in the next book!! My one caution is to not start it at night if you have to work the next day!
February 2, 2022
Thanks to Voracious Readers for allowing me a review copy of this book.
This doesn't fit within the usual sphere of SciFi books I like to read, but let me say from the start I really enjoyed this well crafted novel. It is well written and edited, the characters are both believable and well drawn.
The pacing of the novel is excellent and this quickly became a page turner for me. The author shows real skill in both the level of excitement and those inevitable periods where, in real life, life can be just boring and about nothing much. They contribute to characters being real and elevate good works above the mundane and soap opera.
Whilst the book carries a clear direction to its adult themes, they are well written and whilst not salacious, the sex scenes do feel a little gratuitous. I'm not sure where the need to graphically describe those occasional scenes comes from. They all take place in clearly consensual and loving relationships where the protagonists care for each other. That is, to my mind, perhaps the issue. There is clearly one other relationship in the book where this is not the case and the different experiences between the two would, for me, have made their inclusions more worthwhile.
That is my one critique of an otherwise excellent book that has introduced me to characters I want to follow and a type of book I will read more of.
I look forward to next episode.
A real winner.
This doesn't fit within the usual sphere of SciFi books I like to read, but let me say from the start I really enjoyed this well crafted novel. It is well written and edited, the characters are both believable and well drawn.
The pacing of the novel is excellent and this quickly became a page turner for me. The author shows real skill in both the level of excitement and those inevitable periods where, in real life, life can be just boring and about nothing much. They contribute to characters being real and elevate good works above the mundane and soap opera.
Whilst the book carries a clear direction to its adult themes, they are well written and whilst not salacious, the sex scenes do feel a little gratuitous. I'm not sure where the need to graphically describe those occasional scenes comes from. They all take place in clearly consensual and loving relationships where the protagonists care for each other. That is, to my mind, perhaps the issue. There is clearly one other relationship in the book where this is not the case and the different experiences between the two would, for me, have made their inclusions more worthwhile.
That is my one critique of an otherwise excellent book that has introduced me to characters I want to follow and a type of book I will read more of.
I look forward to next episode.
A real winner.
August 14, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of Gathering of the Four from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
As the title suggests we have four primary characters. Leora the young Xanthi, Roland a thief and adventurer, The Lady Aurora, and the mysterious White Rider Leopold. As we get to know each of them we are also introduced to an incredible cast of supporting characters as they discover themselves and start out on a quest of monumental proportions.
As the title suggests we have four primary characters. Leora the young Xanthi, Roland a thief and adventurer, The Lady Aurora, and the mysterious White Rider Leopold. As we get to know each of them we are also introduced to an incredible cast of supporting characters as they discover themselves and start out on a quest of monumental proportions.
July 31, 2021
Gathering of the Four: Book One of the Serulata Saga by A. E. Bennett
3.75/5
Gathering of the Four is Bennett’s debut indie novel. This dystopian fantasy is intriguing and full of detail. The United States no longer exists. In its place, the Realm was created. The main character Leora of Mae is a peasant but has the strength to spark a revolution.
Together with Roland Shallowbrook, Lady Aurora Verte, and the White Rider Leopold, they will set out on a quest to survive.
I loved the world-building, character details, and magic in this book. The magic specifically was really detailed and thought out. I enjoyed the Xathani craft immensely. My favorite character was Leopold, the strong, sexy White Rider.
However, as a new author, there were a few issues in the book, but I know given time they will improve. Occasionally throughout the book, there was head-hopping, where it wasn’t clear when a character changed POV. However, throughout most of the book, Bennett made POV changes clear with her flower art as a marker.
I see a lot of promise for Bennett as a writer and I can’t wait to see how Serulata Saga develops.
3.75/5
Gathering of the Four is Bennett’s debut indie novel. This dystopian fantasy is intriguing and full of detail. The United States no longer exists. In its place, the Realm was created. The main character Leora of Mae is a peasant but has the strength to spark a revolution.
Together with Roland Shallowbrook, Lady Aurora Verte, and the White Rider Leopold, they will set out on a quest to survive.
I loved the world-building, character details, and magic in this book. The magic specifically was really detailed and thought out. I enjoyed the Xathani craft immensely. My favorite character was Leopold, the strong, sexy White Rider.
However, as a new author, there were a few issues in the book, but I know given time they will improve. Occasionally throughout the book, there was head-hopping, where it wasn’t clear when a character changed POV. However, throughout most of the book, Bennett made POV changes clear with her flower art as a marker.
I see a lot of promise for Bennett as a writer and I can’t wait to see how Serulata Saga develops.
August 3, 2021
Fantastic story! Strong characters that develop and grow even stronger. A storyline that unfolded from interesting to fascinating with hints of things to come. Book 2 cannot come out soon enough!
A huge thank you to A.E. Bennett for the complimentary copy of Gathering of the Four:Book One of the Serrulata Saga via Voracious Reader’s Only.
This is a book that will be reread more than once.
Thanks again A.E.Bennett
A huge thank you to A.E. Bennett for the complimentary copy of Gathering of the Four:Book One of the Serrulata Saga via Voracious Reader’s Only.
This is a book that will be reread more than once.
Thanks again A.E.Bennett
August 15, 2022
In the distant future, under the ominous twin tails of the Hale-Bopp comet, a tale of adventure and intrigue unfolds.
Life in the Realm is governed by the edicts – rules set in place to ensure each person functions as a cog in the great machinery. The peasants work the land, take care of farm animals, and do trade, those born or sold into the servantry belong to their masters, the five noble Founding Families control the land with the sovereign at the helm, the White Riders protect the Realm… everyone must know their place. This is exactly what proves challenging for the eponymous four.
Young Leora has been belittled and ostracized her entire life. Never accepted by her adoptive family and constantly othered by everyone in the village, she stands out both for her appearance and for the incredible abilities she wields: Xanthcraft, the power of the Xanthi people. Its use is strictly controlled by the edicts of the Realm – rules that Leora breaks in order to survive.
Roland walks the Thieves’ Road, relieving the occasional traveler of their coin and using his irresistible charm and street smarts to put food in his belly and clothes on his back.
What was supposed to be the happiest day in the life of noblewoman Aurora Verte turns into unspeakable tragedy, as she’s forced to flee the ruins of her home and finds herself completely alone in a hostile world she’d mostly known through books.
White Rider Leopold breaks the covenant of his military order by allowing secrets and emotions to guide his actions – an act of treason against the sovereign and the Realm.
Each character is on the run, and in their hour of need, they find each other. Wildly different and shaped by their individual personal tragedies, they learn to balance each other and wield their (for Leora and Leopold literal) inner power.
The pacing of the book is fantastic, with new characters introduced at just the right places. Information is never overwhelming, and the world is intricately built in an amazing combination of magic and science. There is never a dull moment, with either an action scene, absorbing worldbuilding, or character development. The diversity of the characters is stunning, with the themes of otherness and belonging thoroughly explored through them, e.g. queer and racial identity. The characters are all complex, interesting people, and the thing that sets them apart from the rest is far from the sole thing that defines them – they’re simply really well and carefully written. They carry the warmth, credibility, and complexity of real human beings and truly pop off the page.
Fair warning: there is quite a bit of swearing and violence, but it’s never used gratuitously – it’s naturally woven into the story. The language and depictions of violence add grit and realness to the story. From the daily dangers of life on the road to court intrigue, each individual strand of the story is intricate and captivating. The author masterfully balances an engrossing and entertaining narrative with an in-depth exploration of important social issues, and the result is truly awesome. Exploring the details of the world alongside each character’s storyline is a delight.
Gathering of the Four is a spellbinding story about found family at its most heartwarming and at the same time at its most gut-wrenching. It opens the Serrulata Saga, the rest of which I am already really looking forward to.
Life in the Realm is governed by the edicts – rules set in place to ensure each person functions as a cog in the great machinery. The peasants work the land, take care of farm animals, and do trade, those born or sold into the servantry belong to their masters, the five noble Founding Families control the land with the sovereign at the helm, the White Riders protect the Realm… everyone must know their place. This is exactly what proves challenging for the eponymous four.
Young Leora has been belittled and ostracized her entire life. Never accepted by her adoptive family and constantly othered by everyone in the village, she stands out both for her appearance and for the incredible abilities she wields: Xanthcraft, the power of the Xanthi people. Its use is strictly controlled by the edicts of the Realm – rules that Leora breaks in order to survive.
Roland walks the Thieves’ Road, relieving the occasional traveler of their coin and using his irresistible charm and street smarts to put food in his belly and clothes on his back.
What was supposed to be the happiest day in the life of noblewoman Aurora Verte turns into unspeakable tragedy, as she’s forced to flee the ruins of her home and finds herself completely alone in a hostile world she’d mostly known through books.
White Rider Leopold breaks the covenant of his military order by allowing secrets and emotions to guide his actions – an act of treason against the sovereign and the Realm.
Each character is on the run, and in their hour of need, they find each other. Wildly different and shaped by their individual personal tragedies, they learn to balance each other and wield their (for Leora and Leopold literal) inner power.
The pacing of the book is fantastic, with new characters introduced at just the right places. Information is never overwhelming, and the world is intricately built in an amazing combination of magic and science. There is never a dull moment, with either an action scene, absorbing worldbuilding, or character development. The diversity of the characters is stunning, with the themes of otherness and belonging thoroughly explored through them, e.g. queer and racial identity. The characters are all complex, interesting people, and the thing that sets them apart from the rest is far from the sole thing that defines them – they’re simply really well and carefully written. They carry the warmth, credibility, and complexity of real human beings and truly pop off the page.
Fair warning: there is quite a bit of swearing and violence, but it’s never used gratuitously – it’s naturally woven into the story. The language and depictions of violence add grit and realness to the story. From the daily dangers of life on the road to court intrigue, each individual strand of the story is intricate and captivating. The author masterfully balances an engrossing and entertaining narrative with an in-depth exploration of important social issues, and the result is truly awesome. Exploring the details of the world alongside each character’s storyline is a delight.
Gathering of the Four is a spellbinding story about found family at its most heartwarming and at the same time at its most gut-wrenching. It opens the Serrulata Saga, the rest of which I am already really looking forward to.
July 1, 2023
Gathering of the Four is the first book in A. E. Bennett' s Serrulata Saga.
The story is set way in the future (I think it somewhere in the 43rd century) in a kind of dystopian/sci-fi/ fantasy type setting where there a division of the United States into something called The Realm and other singular city states.
In the midst of this there is a split of people's. Firstly, there's humans and then there's the second class magical Xanthos, who despite their aid in some diatant war or other, seem to be a people who are derided and feared.
That's where we meet the first main character of the story, Leora of Mae. An orphaned Xanthos who lives with a poor family who eke out a living from the land. Leora is hated by her adopted family and when she discovers that she is to be sold into servitude, she quickly hoofs it and finds herself in some inn or other on the wrong end of some bounty hunters.
This is where she comes across Roland, who saves her from the clutches of the bounty hunters and they quickly come firm friends. Unfortunately, as they battle the aforementioned bounty hunters, Leora let's slip that she's a Xanthos by burning the inn to the ground with her magic, this sets off a chain of events which results in the third character, Lady Aurora Verte coming into the fold atfter she experiences tragedy when the king's soldier's led by the fourth member of the party Leopold, turns up at her country estate and has a quick bit of arjy bargey with her dad.
And there we have the group of the book. The Gathering of the Four.
That's not the whole story, but you get general gist.
Now, I am going to admit that I got this book wrong, especially at the beginning. You see I didn't know anything about this book and when I started I thought this is going to be a young adult novel. It's not like I have anything against this form of fiction, it's just that I put myself in a certain mindset. However, I quickly got disabused of that mindset come chapter 2. Anyways, after a quick change of expectations, I then went on with the rest of the book.
I quite enjoyed this one. It's not my usual type of book, but as I usually say, I don't actually know what my type of book is so it is good to expand my repertoire.
The world building is set around a sci fi/dystopian version of earth, particularly the US, but it has emerged into a typical fantasy kind of world that you expect, which I thought worked quite well. Putting me in mind of some other books that have a similar kind of world building.
I have to admit, there were some niggles with the story that kept throwing me out of the narrative. For one, the magic system. Whilst it is a perfectly good magic system and fits the story well, the name kept throwing me. However, I soon learnt to accept it and reconciled it with the fact that this is a dystopian novel and there is no reason that ancient literature could be the reason for it.
On the whole, this is a good book with believable characters that interplay and interact well. There's a good plot that doesn't particularly lose its pacing and moves along enough to make this a bit of a page turner, always wanting to find out what happens next. In addition to that there are some decent action sequences.
The Gathering of the Four is a book that's well worth a read, and if you fancy a good sci fi, dystopian, fantasy mash up then I don't think you will go far wrong with this.
The story is set way in the future (I think it somewhere in the 43rd century) in a kind of dystopian/sci-fi/ fantasy type setting where there a division of the United States into something called The Realm and other singular city states.
In the midst of this there is a split of people's. Firstly, there's humans and then there's the second class magical Xanthos, who despite their aid in some diatant war or other, seem to be a people who are derided and feared.
That's where we meet the first main character of the story, Leora of Mae. An orphaned Xanthos who lives with a poor family who eke out a living from the land. Leora is hated by her adopted family and when she discovers that she is to be sold into servitude, she quickly hoofs it and finds herself in some inn or other on the wrong end of some bounty hunters.
This is where she comes across Roland, who saves her from the clutches of the bounty hunters and they quickly come firm friends. Unfortunately, as they battle the aforementioned bounty hunters, Leora let's slip that she's a Xanthos by burning the inn to the ground with her magic, this sets off a chain of events which results in the third character, Lady Aurora Verte coming into the fold atfter she experiences tragedy when the king's soldier's led by the fourth member of the party Leopold, turns up at her country estate and has a quick bit of arjy bargey with her dad.
And there we have the group of the book. The Gathering of the Four.
That's not the whole story, but you get general gist.
Now, I am going to admit that I got this book wrong, especially at the beginning. You see I didn't know anything about this book and when I started I thought this is going to be a young adult novel. It's not like I have anything against this form of fiction, it's just that I put myself in a certain mindset. However, I quickly got disabused of that mindset come chapter 2. Anyways, after a quick change of expectations, I then went on with the rest of the book.
I quite enjoyed this one. It's not my usual type of book, but as I usually say, I don't actually know what my type of book is so it is good to expand my repertoire.
The world building is set around a sci fi/dystopian version of earth, particularly the US, but it has emerged into a typical fantasy kind of world that you expect, which I thought worked quite well. Putting me in mind of some other books that have a similar kind of world building.
I have to admit, there were some niggles with the story that kept throwing me out of the narrative. For one, the magic system. Whilst it is a perfectly good magic system and fits the story well, the name kept throwing me. However, I soon learnt to accept it and reconciled it with the fact that this is a dystopian novel and there is no reason that ancient literature could be the reason for it.
On the whole, this is a good book with believable characters that interplay and interact well. There's a good plot that doesn't particularly lose its pacing and moves along enough to make this a bit of a page turner, always wanting to find out what happens next. In addition to that there are some decent action sequences.
The Gathering of the Four is a book that's well worth a read, and if you fancy a good sci fi, dystopian, fantasy mash up then I don't think you will go far wrong with this.
November 25, 2023
The Gathering of the Four by AE Bennett is the first novel in the Serrulata Saga!
It follows Leora, a peasant girl who goes on the run after overhearing that she’s going to be sold into slavery. This ignites a sort of accidental quest that leads to an unlikely partnership with a fallen noble woman, Aurora, whose father was murdered on her wedding day while her sister was kidnapped by the new, young, arrogant sovereign in charge of the realm, a thief with a heart of gold, Roland, and a former white rider (guardian of the realm), Leopold, with a myriad of secrets and a confused moral compass.
They journey begins with them just trying to get by, to find safety in a world where there is no safety for them, each hunted for their own respective reasons. This leads them through a post-apocalyptic-futuristic fallen United States on a quest to kill the sovereign and hopefully free the people of the realm where they live.
A delightful tale with relatable characters and an intriguing story, along with an interesting magic system called Xanthcraft. The world feels rich and populated, something I think that many fantasy stories set in a futurist post-apocalyptic world often lack. I felt it could be its own world, completely unrelated to ours (which means I’m impressed). The history is rich, and the people are well fleshed out and fun to get to know. It’s a lengthy read- but that’s not a bad thing. I like my books girthy. Even at is length, the book keeps you engaged the whole time even if you only have a chance to read a chapter here and there. Not so much fantasy-garble that you’re confused when you come back after not having time to read for a few days.
Leora is a kind and relatable protagonist, one that you feel could be much crueler given the way life has treated her. Roland, while I didn’t relate to him quite as much as the other characters, was well fleshed out and well written. The mark of a good writer! Aurora was a breath of fresh air in an otherwise heavy plot. Her story, while just as heavy, was lightened by her aloof nature and sometimes absurd behavior. Leopold was my favorite, I will say. I love a brooding grump in a fantasy novel, it’s one of my many weaknesses. Plus the way his story unravels as you read makes him fascinating. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the second book in the series, the Test of the Four (which I was lucky enough to win a copy of! Signed!! Isn’t that rad??). Pick them both up on Amazon, give them a read, and leave a review!
I’m not very good at writing reviews so I’ve decided to embrace the way that I write them authentically rather than trying to conform to a preconceived notion of how reviews are supposed to be written. I liked this book. I would recommend anyone with a love for rich fantasy worlds gives it a read. The diverse cast and rich culture make it a great read.
The cool thing about the Serrulata Saga is that there are also a series of short novellas that go with it and allow you to explore different genres in the same world. Here and There is a horror novella! Because You Asked, Yours and Mine, and Second Glance are all romance novellas. It’s awesome. I read Yours and Mine as an ARC and it was fantastic. Highly recommend that as well!
It follows Leora, a peasant girl who goes on the run after overhearing that she’s going to be sold into slavery. This ignites a sort of accidental quest that leads to an unlikely partnership with a fallen noble woman, Aurora, whose father was murdered on her wedding day while her sister was kidnapped by the new, young, arrogant sovereign in charge of the realm, a thief with a heart of gold, Roland, and a former white rider (guardian of the realm), Leopold, with a myriad of secrets and a confused moral compass.
They journey begins with them just trying to get by, to find safety in a world where there is no safety for them, each hunted for their own respective reasons. This leads them through a post-apocalyptic-futuristic fallen United States on a quest to kill the sovereign and hopefully free the people of the realm where they live.
A delightful tale with relatable characters and an intriguing story, along with an interesting magic system called Xanthcraft. The world feels rich and populated, something I think that many fantasy stories set in a futurist post-apocalyptic world often lack. I felt it could be its own world, completely unrelated to ours (which means I’m impressed). The history is rich, and the people are well fleshed out and fun to get to know. It’s a lengthy read- but that’s not a bad thing. I like my books girthy. Even at is length, the book keeps you engaged the whole time even if you only have a chance to read a chapter here and there. Not so much fantasy-garble that you’re confused when you come back after not having time to read for a few days.
Leora is a kind and relatable protagonist, one that you feel could be much crueler given the way life has treated her. Roland, while I didn’t relate to him quite as much as the other characters, was well fleshed out and well written. The mark of a good writer! Aurora was a breath of fresh air in an otherwise heavy plot. Her story, while just as heavy, was lightened by her aloof nature and sometimes absurd behavior. Leopold was my favorite, I will say. I love a brooding grump in a fantasy novel, it’s one of my many weaknesses. Plus the way his story unravels as you read makes him fascinating. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the second book in the series, the Test of the Four (which I was lucky enough to win a copy of! Signed!! Isn’t that rad??). Pick them both up on Amazon, give them a read, and leave a review!
I’m not very good at writing reviews so I’ve decided to embrace the way that I write them authentically rather than trying to conform to a preconceived notion of how reviews are supposed to be written. I liked this book. I would recommend anyone with a love for rich fantasy worlds gives it a read. The diverse cast and rich culture make it a great read.
The cool thing about the Serrulata Saga is that there are also a series of short novellas that go with it and allow you to explore different genres in the same world. Here and There is a horror novella! Because You Asked, Yours and Mine, and Second Glance are all romance novellas. It’s awesome. I read Yours and Mine as an ARC and it was fantastic. Highly recommend that as well!
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