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First of the Blade #2
Unseen
Having found the true power of her blade, Imogen must use it to protect her people.
After preventing her brother from taking the power of the Porapeth and becoming the very thing her people have defended against, Imogen now chases him, believing he can still be saved.
When a dangerous creature not seen in centuries emerges and begins to hunt those with magic, Imogen fears her brother responsible. Stopping these creatures involves an understanding of the sacred patterns Imogen hasn’t fully mastered, and requires her to protect those the Leier have long warred with.
They need a true master of the sacred patterns, which means the First of the Blade must become something more.
She must find a way to lead.
After preventing her brother from taking the power of the Porapeth and becoming the very thing her people have defended against, Imogen now chases him, believing he can still be saved.
When a dangerous creature not seen in centuries emerges and begins to hunt those with magic, Imogen fears her brother responsible. Stopping these creatures involves an understanding of the sacred patterns Imogen hasn’t fully mastered, and requires her to protect those the Leier have long warred with.
They need a true master of the sacred patterns, which means the First of the Blade must become something more.
She must find a way to lead.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 6, 2024
Full circle
An excellent continuation of the series. My only problem with the last book was that it was a bit too slow paced. This one is perfectly paced. I also enjoy how Imogen has levelled up since the last book. She will need every new skill and understanding for what comes up in this book.
Since stopping her brother from ascending to a dark power, Imogen has a greater understanding of the Sacred Patterens. However, something old has been unleashed that will force Imogen to return to the last place she ever wanted to go again. Her homeland. Imogen never really fit in before she left on her Bond Quest. How will an older, more worldly version of Imogen fit in now? Will she be able to face people from her past as well as deal with the latest deadly (supernatural) threat?
I enjoyed everything about this book. Great character development and lots of action. A couple of reunions but not the one I am mist looking forward to. I can't wait for the next book.
An excellent continuation of the series. My only problem with the last book was that it was a bit too slow paced. This one is perfectly paced. I also enjoy how Imogen has levelled up since the last book. She will need every new skill and understanding for what comes up in this book.
Since stopping her brother from ascending to a dark power, Imogen has a greater understanding of the Sacred Patterens. However, something old has been unleashed that will force Imogen to return to the last place she ever wanted to go again. Her homeland. Imogen never really fit in before she left on her Bond Quest. How will an older, more worldly version of Imogen fit in now? Will she be able to face people from her past as well as deal with the latest deadly (supernatural) threat?
I enjoyed everything about this book. Great character development and lots of action. A couple of reunions but not the one I am mist looking forward to. I can't wait for the next book.
January 4, 2022
Compared to first book things were made more clear and it was enjoyable to read. You could get real sense of characters and bond with them. I loved that this book needed no romance but was thrilling anyway.
May 4, 2023
This is the second book in the First of the Blade series, and it is just as enjoyable as the rest of the books in both the Chain Breaker and First of the Blade series so far.
In this novel we learn more about Imogen's time in the Sacred Temple. We also get a deepening relationship between Imogen and Benji, which provides us more insight into both our Leier and our Porapeth protagonists. We see little of Timo, but what we do see of him continues to disappoint, in all the right ways.
Imogen's understanding of the Scared Patterns and the lessons that her master once tried to impart to her become to take on knew and deeper meaning.
While there isn't a lot that happens in terms of time and major events, this book does an excellent job of setting the stage for everything that is likely to come in the next few novels.
The development we see in Imogen and some of the other supporting characters is enjoyable and flows naturally and genuinely.
I enjoyed this novel and will be flowing straight into book 3, Unlocked.
In this novel we learn more about Imogen's time in the Sacred Temple. We also get a deepening relationship between Imogen and Benji, which provides us more insight into both our Leier and our Porapeth protagonists. We see little of Timo, but what we do see of him continues to disappoint, in all the right ways.
Imogen's understanding of the Scared Patterns and the lessons that her master once tried to impart to her become to take on knew and deeper meaning.
While there isn't a lot that happens in terms of time and major events, this book does an excellent job of setting the stage for everything that is likely to come in the next few novels.
The development we see in Imogen and some of the other supporting characters is enjoyable and flows naturally and genuinely.
I enjoyed this novel and will be flowing straight into book 3, Unlocked.
March 8, 2026
4.5 Stars
Unseen is the sixteenth book in The Chain Breaker World Series (First of the Blade #2) by D.K. Holmberg. It is an expansive, character-driven fantasy saga that blends fast-paced adventure with a rich, evolving world. Across its multiple interconnected books, Mr. Holmberg crafts a setting that feels both lived-in and yet still full of mystery — from bustling city streets to dangerous wilds teeming with magic and hidden threats.
Mr. Holmberg excels at portraying characters with depth — flawed, determined, and shaped by the weight of their choices. The relationships, particularly the bonds of loyalty and trust, give the story an emotional core that balances the action.
If you enjoy immersive fantasy worlds, morally complex heroes, and a blend of action, mystery, and heartfelt moments, then ‘The Chain Breaker World’ Series is a rewarding read that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
Happy Reading…
Unseen is the sixteenth book in The Chain Breaker World Series (First of the Blade #2) by D.K. Holmberg. It is an expansive, character-driven fantasy saga that blends fast-paced adventure with a rich, evolving world. Across its multiple interconnected books, Mr. Holmberg crafts a setting that feels both lived-in and yet still full of mystery — from bustling city streets to dangerous wilds teeming with magic and hidden threats.
Mr. Holmberg excels at portraying characters with depth — flawed, determined, and shaped by the weight of their choices. The relationships, particularly the bonds of loyalty and trust, give the story an emotional core that balances the action.
If you enjoy immersive fantasy worlds, morally complex heroes, and a blend of action, mystery, and heartfelt moments, then ‘The Chain Breaker World’ Series is a rewarding read that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
Happy Reading…
July 10, 2022
This story is very much just the story of the narrator. She tells the story. We see her change. We hear of her failures and successes. And it needs some other character. Benji the Elder is impossible to care about. Timo is a colorless villian. Other characters are only present for short periods to provide Imogen a temporary setback or means for growth. In short the book needs another dimension. The writing is also a little stilted.
The story itself is interesting. The world building and fighting/magic system are creative.. But i really want to care about the main character and I don't find that I do. So not a bad read but I think I'll move on to another series.
The story itself is interesting. The world building and fighting/magic system are creative.. But i really want to care about the main character and I don't find that I do. So not a bad read but I think I'll move on to another series.
April 18, 2022
Enlightening Read
It is such a challenge finding out that a family member has betrayed you. As children Imogen and Timo was close. They both only had each other. However, they both grew apart as their sword skills and goals began to change. So Imogen had to finally face the truth that her brother had changed to one of true evil. Timo's goal was not to further develop his sword skills to serve but to dominate others who did not share his dream of becoming a powerful sorcerer. He was even willing to sacrifice his own sister to further his goals.
It is such a challenge finding out that a family member has betrayed you. As children Imogen and Timo was close. They both only had each other. However, they both grew apart as their sword skills and goals began to change. So Imogen had to finally face the truth that her brother had changed to one of true evil. Timo's goal was not to further develop his sword skills to serve but to dominate others who did not share his dream of becoming a powerful sorcerer. He was even willing to sacrifice his own sister to further his goals.
May 9, 2026
Distinctly different story style
At times I found myself a very frustrated with main character, but her thought process and behavior were consistent with her backstory. I have enjoyed the way the author takes you through her journey as she struggles to remain true to her ideal (serving her people) and balance that with the realities of their world that she had been raised to misunderstand, disregard, and treat as danger instead of accepting and learning to live in harmony with the magic in their world.
At times I found myself a very frustrated with main character, but her thought process and behavior were consistent with her backstory. I have enjoyed the way the author takes you through her journey as she struggles to remain true to her ideal (serving her people) and balance that with the realities of their world that she had been raised to misunderstand, disregard, and treat as danger instead of accepting and learning to live in harmony with the magic in their world.
November 12, 2021
Solid writing, very compelling characters.
As a secondary character, foundation tale, this was far better than most. I will read more and have followed the author. The availability of titles through Kindle Unlimited was a major influence in my purchasing. Price points do matter to some readers, I am one of them.
As a secondary character, foundation tale, this was far better than most. I will read more and have followed the author. The availability of titles through Kindle Unlimited was a major influence in my purchasing. Price points do matter to some readers, I am one of them.
March 5, 2022
A excellent story about a young woman who is finding herself.She has completed her first mission energy taken it's toll on her. She follows along with the General and in the end she becomes the General as he has died in the last big battle. Now that she she is in charge, We is trying to get them all back
Home!!!
h
Home!!!
h
May 12, 2022
Sacred patterns
The way of the sword is the way of the spirit. A different style of describing sword battles that flow with unintended magic or is it unity of spirit and sacred patterns. A read that keeps you on the edge of your sword. An insight of conflicting ideals that tends to reach for the same goal.
The way of the sword is the way of the spirit. A different style of describing sword battles that flow with unintended magic or is it unity of spirit and sacred patterns. A read that keeps you on the edge of your sword. An insight of conflicting ideals that tends to reach for the same goal.
November 6, 2021
Thoroughly enjoy reading
I was encaptured by this book. I found it hard to put down. I read mostly at night and found myself staying up way past when I go to sleep. I look forward to D.K Holmberg next book in this series.
I was encaptured by this book. I found it hard to put down. I read mostly at night and found myself staying up way past when I go to sleep. I look forward to D.K Holmberg next book in this series.
December 29, 2021
Unseen (First of the Blade boot 2)
I have really enjoyed getting to know Imogene, she is a complex character and being there as she grows and learns is so much fun! I look forward to reading book 3! Loved The Chain Breaker and this is like icing on the cake!
I have really enjoyed getting to know Imogene, she is a complex character and being there as she grows and learns is so much fun! I look forward to reading book 3! Loved The Chain Breaker and this is like icing on the cake!
February 16, 2022
Great book
The progression from book to book flows well and builds upon existing social and cultural paradigms without suffocating or revealing the overall plot development. Enjoyable easy read.
The progression from book to book flows well and builds upon existing social and cultural paradigms without suffocating or revealing the overall plot development. Enjoyable easy read.
February 17, 2022
different style
Yes this is about a girl, her brother, two friends and some monsters. We have Imogene going after her evil brother. She has help. What sets this story apart is the dialogue. The emotions of Imogene finding her quest.
Yes this is about a girl, her brother, two friends and some monsters. We have Imogene going after her evil brother. She has help. What sets this story apart is the dialogue. The emotions of Imogene finding her quest.
May 11, 2022
Insightful and lots not strange creatures
Imogen is frustrated with her inability to learn what she needs to. Will her journey, that is drought with danger, help her learn, or destroy her? Great story line, just moved a little slow sometimes.
Imogen is frustrated with her inability to learn what she needs to. Will her journey, that is drought with danger, help her learn, or destroy her? Great story line, just moved a little slow sometimes.
June 6, 2022
unseen
I’m so glad I found this series as I follow Imogen in her quest to save her brother, protect her people and continue I’m her path to truly learn, understand and embody the magical martial arts patterns that are the only defence against the dark magic in the land.
I’m so glad I found this series as I follow Imogen in her quest to save her brother, protect her people and continue I’m her path to truly learn, understand and embody the magical martial arts patterns that are the only defence against the dark magic in the land.
July 22, 2022
so it goes on
This is slightly different to the normal run of the mill fantasy
Runs similar but not the same, Imorgan character dwells deep into herself but you still can’t connect with her, there is promise but unfulfilled. Besides that the story is fast paced, action filled.
This is slightly different to the normal run of the mill fantasy
Runs similar but not the same, Imorgan character dwells deep into herself but you still can’t connect with her, there is promise but unfulfilled. Besides that the story is fast paced, action filled.
March 30, 2023
Awesome!!! A must read
Action packed. The characters grow before your eyes. You find yourself caught up in their stories and are rooting for them to win. Can't wait to start the next one.
Action packed. The characters grow before your eyes. You find yourself caught up in their stories and are rooting for them to win. Can't wait to start the next one.
July 23, 2023
First off the Blade
I am really enjoying this series. The main characters have depth and credibility. The story of the growth in understanding of self is wonderfully stated. Well worth the read.
I am really enjoying this series. The main characters have depth and credibility. The story of the growth in understanding of self is wonderfully stated. Well worth the read.
November 5, 2021
Most Action
The most action so far. This chapter in th series begins to make sense of it all. Imo gen is finally coming into her own. Very good..
The most action so far. This chapter in th series begins to make sense of it all. Imo gen is finally coming into her own. Very good..
January 23, 2022
Engaging from the start.
This book is the bridge between what was and what is to be. Imo gen is the path and the leader forward. Can't wait to read the next chapter.
This book is the bridge between what was and what is to be. Imo gen is the path and the leader forward. Can't wait to read the next chapter.
March 17, 2022
this is a fantastic story
You can really tell the strength of a story in the subsequent books. This one does not disappoint. It’s very well composed.
You can really tell the strength of a story in the subsequent books. This one does not disappoint. It’s very well composed.
March 24, 2022
a great read
I can’t wait to read the next, to see where timo goes from here. I know our heroin will continue to grow and learn.
I can’t wait to read the next, to see where timo goes from here. I know our heroin will continue to grow and learn.
May 9, 2022
Great series
Hard to put down. A journey for the imagination. You can feel the characters feelings as they struggle to succeed.
Hard to put down. A journey for the imagination. You can feel the characters feelings as they struggle to succeed.
July 10, 2022
Imogen continues to learn about her untapped abilities. Good character development and an entertaining read.
August 10, 2022
Fantastic read. Absolutely engrossing.
Fabulous series, wonderfully gripping. First book got me hooked, & now I'm a great fan of D K Holmberg. Highly recommended.
Fabulous series, wonderfully gripping. First book got me hooked, & now I'm a great fan of D K Holmberg. Highly recommended.
December 14, 2022
Great book
Great second book! I can't wait to read the next one. I highly recommend reading this series! I plan on checking out the author for more books as well.
Great second book! I can't wait to read the next one. I highly recommend reading this series! I plan on checking out the author for more books as well.
January 9, 2025
Imogen has started go master the sacred forms and comes go realise that she is also mastering magic. What else can she learn?
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews