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The Lanternfish #3
Wreck of the Lanternfish
James Cuttler created a peaceful spot for he and his wife to settle down. Far from the war that ravages their homeland, far from the reputation he earned as the notorious Captain Bloodwater, and far from responsibility.
A royal Prelonian houseguest is a constant reminder of what's at stake half a world away, of the friends he put ashore to fight the war. He lives in a dream world that's temporary, at best. It's only a matter of time before his guest is identified and the black assassins come for her.
He mortgages his precious vineyard to pay for repairs to his ship. If nothing else, Lanternfish will be one of the most powerful ships in the war. He'll need to avoid those on his own side who would hang him for piracy.
Serang is half a world away, leading her army of mercenary swordsmen toward the Fulminites. Mistrusted by both sides of the war, she appears as a third combatant on the battlefield. She may eliminate the mysterious order, only to succumb to the demons of her own tragic past.
Strap on your swords and hoist the colors one more time as the thrilling Lanternfish Trilogy comes to an end.
A royal Prelonian houseguest is a constant reminder of what's at stake half a world away, of the friends he put ashore to fight the war. He lives in a dream world that's temporary, at best. It's only a matter of time before his guest is identified and the black assassins come for her.
He mortgages his precious vineyard to pay for repairs to his ship. If nothing else, Lanternfish will be one of the most powerful ships in the war. He'll need to avoid those on his own side who would hang him for piracy.
Serang is half a world away, leading her army of mercenary swordsmen toward the Fulminites. Mistrusted by both sides of the war, she appears as a third combatant on the battlefield. She may eliminate the mysterious order, only to succumb to the demons of her own tragic past.
Strap on your swords and hoist the colors one more time as the thrilling Lanternfish Trilogy comes to an end.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2021
4 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
February 19, 2022
I was looking forward to this final book in the Lanternfish trilogy and was not disappointed in the slightest.
We hit the deck running as the Lanternfish is refurbished, outfitted and crewed by favourite characters in a final effort to turn the tide of the war and free their country from tyranny.
James Cuttler has won the hearts and minds of his motley crew of friends, pirates, travellers met in previous adventures and the root monsters who bring so much humour to the stories. They would follow him to the ends of the earth and do battle with him whatever the odds.
Others we have met along the way in the series are also working towards the same goal, often under dangerous conditions such as months undercover with the enemy to gather intelligence, or sweeping across the land destroying the often mystical evil elements intent on domination and enslavement of the population.
The author has done an excellent job of creating the fantasy world and the memorable characters who inhabit its land and seas. The battles in both these elements are masterful and detailed as you are swept along with the Samurai army and the crew of the Lanternfish as they adapt and invent ways to defeat the enemy.
Whilst this book is action packed, it also has moments of reflection on both sides that provide hope for the future. All the threads of the story come together in the last chapters to provide a very satisfactory ending to this highly recommended trilogy.
We hit the deck running as the Lanternfish is refurbished, outfitted and crewed by favourite characters in a final effort to turn the tide of the war and free their country from tyranny.
James Cuttler has won the hearts and minds of his motley crew of friends, pirates, travellers met in previous adventures and the root monsters who bring so much humour to the stories. They would follow him to the ends of the earth and do battle with him whatever the odds.
Others we have met along the way in the series are also working towards the same goal, often under dangerous conditions such as months undercover with the enemy to gather intelligence, or sweeping across the land destroying the often mystical evil elements intent on domination and enslavement of the population.
The author has done an excellent job of creating the fantasy world and the memorable characters who inhabit its land and seas. The battles in both these elements are masterful and detailed as you are swept along with the Samurai army and the crew of the Lanternfish as they adapt and invent ways to defeat the enemy.
Whilst this book is action packed, it also has moments of reflection on both sides that provide hope for the future. All the threads of the story come together in the last chapters to provide a very satisfactory ending to this highly recommended trilogy.
January 13, 2022
I’ve followed this series from the start, so the ending is somewhat bittersweet. I’m going to miss these characters. I’ve been through numerous sea battles with them, have been swept up in warring factions, confronted by exploding monks, and a bevy of creatures from dangerous to intriguing, each and every one a fantastical invention of the author’s creative mind.
This time around core characters are split, each group engaging in separate strategies while caught up in the war between the Hollish and the Prelonians. The Palumbo’s are still running cons (this time along with the help of an older woman posing as Camilla’s mother), Serang, now a general, is in the thick of the fighting, and James Cuttler risks everything to make Lanternfish seaworthy again. The action is non-stop, with all three plot arcs merging perfectly at the end. I grew particularly fond of the Palumbo’s during this third novel, and who knew I would develop such a soft spot for a snubhorn? (If you don’t know what a snubhorn is, you’re missing out on something special—and truly bizarre).
James is a clever, fair captain who rises to circumstance and finds himself in a surprising new role by the end of the book. Of all the characters, he remains my favorite. For fans of the series, the root monsters are back. I especially loved the section when a group in search of papers “and other crap” receive names—always a fun event.
Boyack deftly mixes dollops of humor into the story, to offset the political maneuvering and battle scenes. Underneath the bigger picture, this is also a tale about relationships. Of special note, I love the father/son relationship between James and Mule and how that wraps at the end. The title sits a little heavy on my heart, but the way in which Boyack addresses what becomes of each character (even the root monsters and Serang’s Fu dogs) left me thoroughly satisfied. Wreck of the Lanternfish is a fantastic conclusion for an engaging series. Bravo to the author!
This time around core characters are split, each group engaging in separate strategies while caught up in the war between the Hollish and the Prelonians. The Palumbo’s are still running cons (this time along with the help of an older woman posing as Camilla’s mother), Serang, now a general, is in the thick of the fighting, and James Cuttler risks everything to make Lanternfish seaworthy again. The action is non-stop, with all three plot arcs merging perfectly at the end. I grew particularly fond of the Palumbo’s during this third novel, and who knew I would develop such a soft spot for a snubhorn? (If you don’t know what a snubhorn is, you’re missing out on something special—and truly bizarre).
James is a clever, fair captain who rises to circumstance and finds himself in a surprising new role by the end of the book. Of all the characters, he remains my favorite. For fans of the series, the root monsters are back. I especially loved the section when a group in search of papers “and other crap” receive names—always a fun event.
Boyack deftly mixes dollops of humor into the story, to offset the political maneuvering and battle scenes. Underneath the bigger picture, this is also a tale about relationships. Of special note, I love the father/son relationship between James and Mule and how that wraps at the end. The title sits a little heavy on my heart, but the way in which Boyack addresses what becomes of each character (even the root monsters and Serang’s Fu dogs) left me thoroughly satisfied. Wreck of the Lanternfish is a fantastic conclusion for an engaging series. Bravo to the author!
December 28, 2021
This is the final book in The Lanternfish Series, and I have to say it is an epic adventure from beginning to end. In this segment of the series, we see James Cutler go into debt to refurbish The Lanternfish and put her into service to help put an end to the horrible war between the Hollish and Prelonians. Only this time, his journey takes him from the high seas to a land war with adventures and mind-boggling risks galore. We see all of our favorite characters, Fala, Dan, Serang, Mal, Mule, Biscuit Bill, the Root Monsters, and the Palumbos play important roles in this part of the story. There is non-stop action from the time the Lanternfish sets sail until James returns to his home and wife. The author did a great job of wrapping up all the loose ends for each of the many characters, including the Root Monsters. While I enjoyed all the adventure, the final wrap-up, and many happy endings had me smiling through a tear or two, especially with the lovable Root Monsters. If you love fantasy, action, a little magic, and a whole lot of realism, you will enjoy this entire series. I do highly recommend you start with book 1 and work your way through the trilogy to fully understand the final segment. Kudos to the author for this tremendous undertaking!
April 14, 2022
One Last Voyage…
If you had told me when I began this series that I would have laughed so much, I might have believed you. I mean, pirate adventures aren’t typically hilarious, but Boyack has a way of tempering the serious with levity so readers can catch their breath. But if you had told me I’d also be moved to tears, I would have scoffed.
Yet more than once, I found myself misty-eyed.
The third book in the Lanternfish trilogy has us following three different groups—the con artists Palumbo, warrior monk Serang, and Captain James and his pirates. The Palumbos are neck-deep in their schemes and in more danger than ever. Serang and her warriors fight one battle after another with no rest for the weary. And the Lanternfish crew lays it all on the line to end the war.
The way these three groups reunite was masterfully crafted. The fact that not everyone makes it out alive adds a realism to this fantastic tale. I won’t drop any spoilers, but the losses were heartbreaking and the destinies of the survivors bittersweet.
I have to call out the Fu dogs, who always captured my attention when they hit the page and of course the root monsters, who never failed to steal the show. Saying goodbye to these characters sits heavy on my heart even now.
If you haven’t begun this series, now is the time to start. It has everything a reader could hope for—love, adventure, mystery, and danger. And make sure you read all the way through this gripping and fulfilling conclusion. All three works in this series were worthy tales, but the author outdid himself with this one. Tipping my tricorn in salute. I I I I.
If you had told me when I began this series that I would have laughed so much, I might have believed you. I mean, pirate adventures aren’t typically hilarious, but Boyack has a way of tempering the serious with levity so readers can catch their breath. But if you had told me I’d also be moved to tears, I would have scoffed.
Yet more than once, I found myself misty-eyed.
The third book in the Lanternfish trilogy has us following three different groups—the con artists Palumbo, warrior monk Serang, and Captain James and his pirates. The Palumbos are neck-deep in their schemes and in more danger than ever. Serang and her warriors fight one battle after another with no rest for the weary. And the Lanternfish crew lays it all on the line to end the war.
The way these three groups reunite was masterfully crafted. The fact that not everyone makes it out alive adds a realism to this fantastic tale. I won’t drop any spoilers, but the losses were heartbreaking and the destinies of the survivors bittersweet.
I have to call out the Fu dogs, who always captured my attention when they hit the page and of course the root monsters, who never failed to steal the show. Saying goodbye to these characters sits heavy on my heart even now.
If you haven’t begun this series, now is the time to start. It has everything a reader could hope for—love, adventure, mystery, and danger. And make sure you read all the way through this gripping and fulfilling conclusion. All three works in this series were worthy tales, but the author outdid himself with this one. Tipping my tricorn in salute. I I I I.
November 29, 2021
“Wreck of the Lanternfish” is the final book of the Lanternfish Series. Although I was sad to see this thrilling story come to an end, I loved seeing James Cuttler take one more journey to the sea. He risks everything to step back into the war that his friends are still fighting. The battles are shown through different perspectives, including Serang. My favorite characters, the root monsters, were back. Their “I I I I” always made me smile. This story not only touches on pulling communities apart, but how to put them back together. Battles on land and sea showcase how clever leaders can outwit their foe. This is a world and characters that I won’t forget anytime soon. Lanternfish is a series I can highly recommend, especially if you love exciting stories with pirates, love, greed, and great characters. But start from the beginning and don’t miss the companion book. You won’t want to miss any part of this exciting tale!
May 17, 2022
Sadly, all of my beloved book series must come to an end at some point – it’s inevitable. I dreaded reaching the conclusion of the Lanternfish series, but I was also excited to embark on one last high seas adventure with my favorite group of pirates.
The story focuses on three groups – the Palumbo con artists, General Serang, her army, and the Fu dogs, and Captain James and his crew aboard Lanternfish. I enjoyed spending time with each of these groups and seeing how the author gradually merged their stories toward the end. And the root monsters! I’m such a fan of these creatures (still hoping for merch) and laughed over their antics and misunderstandings. I also loved that more of them received names on this last voyage.
Expect exciting battles, humor (I may have snorted out loud more than once), fantastical creatures, political maneuvering, and some heartfelt relationships. I savored every last moment, and the ending is absolute perfection – especially for the root monsters and Fu dogs. I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters, but very happy with the way the series wrapped up.
The story focuses on three groups – the Palumbo con artists, General Serang, her army, and the Fu dogs, and Captain James and his crew aboard Lanternfish. I enjoyed spending time with each of these groups and seeing how the author gradually merged their stories toward the end. And the root monsters! I’m such a fan of these creatures (still hoping for merch) and laughed over their antics and misunderstandings. I also loved that more of them received names on this last voyage.
Expect exciting battles, humor (I may have snorted out loud more than once), fantastical creatures, political maneuvering, and some heartfelt relationships. I savored every last moment, and the ending is absolute perfection – especially for the root monsters and Fu dogs. I’m sad to say goodbye to these characters, but very happy with the way the series wrapped up.
December 17, 2021
This is the last book in the three book (and one individual side book) series. It was bittersweet to finish it. So many favorite characters are now settling in to new lives--which they richly deserve. But the war and their experiences fighting it are over. A good thing. C.S. Boyack did a wonderful job of wrapping up every single character we've met along the way. Even the root monsters get new beginnings. But before they got to put away their swords and cannons, each had to prove their worth, and the battles they fought were epic. A great finale to a fun series.
January 3, 2023
Loved it! Review to follow
March 20, 2022
Delightful
Absolutely one of the most entertaining books I have read in years. I laughed all the way through. Loved the creatures. I recommend this book to anyone with a functioning sense of humor, an absolute must read!!!
Absolutely one of the most entertaining books I have read in years. I laughed all the way through. Loved the creatures. I recommend this book to anyone with a functioning sense of humor, an absolute must read!!!
April 20, 2022
I was looking forward to seeing all my favourite characters in this series’s third and final book. I wasn’t sure how this story would pan out, though, with a war raging and the Lanternfish in dry dock and out of commission.
We find our captain, James Cutler, cooling his heels with Bonnie, his wife. But is this where he needs or wants to be?
It isn’t long before James comes up with a plan to end the war, but first, he needs to find a way to repair the Lanternfish.
This story has many exciting battle scenes, keeping me on the edge of my chair! The author is to be applauded for such ingenious plotting throughout this trilogy.
James Cutler has been a wonderful character in this trilogy, covering several vocations, along with the rest of the amazing cast. All of which brought out the best of him and added to the exciting finale.
I am sorry to have reached the end of his journey, but this Captain has more than earned a rest.
Craig Boyack is well known for creating fabulous characters and intriguing storylines. The Wreck of the Lanternfish is one of the best…
We find our captain, James Cutler, cooling his heels with Bonnie, his wife. But is this where he needs or wants to be?
It isn’t long before James comes up with a plan to end the war, but first, he needs to find a way to repair the Lanternfish.
This story has many exciting battle scenes, keeping me on the edge of my chair! The author is to be applauded for such ingenious plotting throughout this trilogy.
James Cutler has been a wonderful character in this trilogy, covering several vocations, along with the rest of the amazing cast. All of which brought out the best of him and added to the exciting finale.
I am sorry to have reached the end of his journey, but this Captain has more than earned a rest.
Craig Boyack is well known for creating fabulous characters and intriguing storylines. The Wreck of the Lanternfish is one of the best…
July 9, 2023
So long since I read the 2nd book in the trilogy that it took a great effort to get back into this finish! Obstacles arose, which had nothing to do with the book itself. But my advice to others and a reminder to myself--no matter what, don't leave such a gap in time between reading the next book in a series!
So MANY characters--a bunch who are odd in themselves and some that are decidedly paranormal--like the sentient roots (known as "modders") in the story. Or the evil Fulminites, including monks that can explode themselves to harm others. But, if the author can keep track, it's up to the reader to keep up.
A good, anticlimactic happy ending--earned by the protagonist along with his family friends. What else could you expect if you read the first two. Read the trilogy; it's worth your time if you like fantasy, adventure, paranormal and humorous events. You will enjoy them all. Just don't read this book alone; it will make little sense.
So MANY characters--a bunch who are odd in themselves and some that are decidedly paranormal--like the sentient roots (known as "modders") in the story. Or the evil Fulminites, including monks that can explode themselves to harm others. But, if the author can keep track, it's up to the reader to keep up.
A good, anticlimactic happy ending--earned by the protagonist along with his family friends. What else could you expect if you read the first two. Read the trilogy; it's worth your time if you like fantasy, adventure, paranormal and humorous events. You will enjoy them all. Just don't read this book alone; it will make little sense.
June 4, 2023
This third book in the Lanternfish trilogy offers a masterful conclusion to the series. Boyack makes sure the characters get a voice in the adventure. Serang has always been a favorite of mine, along with the root monsters, but there is a favorite for everyone’s taste.
I highly recommend the Wreck of the Lanternfish. Boyack’s unique way of creating tension, and the polarities of good and evil, will keep you on your toes throughout this fantasy adventure of pirates and sea battles.
I highly recommend the Wreck of the Lanternfish. Boyack’s unique way of creating tension, and the polarities of good and evil, will keep you on your toes throughout this fantasy adventure of pirates and sea battles.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews