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Fable's End
After centuries of warfare, a world of conquerors has at last defeated their enemies and destroyed their god-like creators. With their society now teetering on collapse and an aging ruler close to death, two young scions from legendary imperial families contend to take control. One has a progressive vision for changing their world by integrating their former enemies. The other has a darker plan that calls for the expulsion and extermination of those who once opposed them. Only one can succeed, and their struggle to destroy each other may be the spark that burns their empire to ashes.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2022
7 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Seth Halleway
5 books17 followersSeth Halleway is an Australian-American sci-fi author. Formerly a resident of Chicago, he's enjoyed stints as a linguist, a teacher, and an explorer - not necessarily in that order. A lover of all great movies and music of the 1980s, when he isn't indulging in fits of nostalgia he's either writing or playing video games, sometimes trying to do both at the same time.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 4, 2022
I'm a big fan of the author, so I was pretty stoked when this new series was announced. Happy to say: I wasn't disappointed. The story is epic, fast-paced, and full of awesome moments. The characters are fun and well-developed. It's a strong ensemble, and even the antagonist has some unexpected wrinkles for you to discover. What I'm most impressed with is the world-building. But as proven in his other books, this is the author's strength. It's very imaginative and complex... BUT NOT CONFUSING, which is no easy feat. The details and traditions of the different groups within this society are well developed. The author goes as far as to weave in snippets of a wholly-original language. It's so effective that by the end of the novel, you KNOW these words and phrases. Like I said, very impressive. It all comes together in a HUGE CLIMAX, but not quite as you expect it. All in all, it definitely leaves you wanting more in a good way. And just wait until you meet your first Vùlriakhì --- AWESOME.
August 1, 2022
This SFF novel pitches those who are flawed, but noble in their intentions against those, who are cruel of mind and commanding in action.
The ailing ruler of Shentonia must select a successor, and two noblemen, with starkly different dreams for the future of their land, must outsmart, outwit, and outbattle each other to stay alive and become Shehémni, ruler of Shentonia. Shentonia is a place vividly imagined through meticulous world-building, with interjections of in-world language and a detail to unique traditions of disparate groups.
The world in this book is one, in which the people fought and destroyed their ancient gods who played with people as toys and destroyed their lives.
A calamitous incident forces the main characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, to work together, when a great injustice threatens to destroy them – and from there unfolds action-packed chases, momentous decisions, and quiet moments between characters who must give up old ideas as the future catches up with them – a future rooted in the distant past. This well-written story takes the time to give each character their own distinct voice, while it builds to a tense, fast-paced, and unpredictable but ultimately satisfying ending. An intricate plot, interesting characters, and detailed world-building make this a great read.
The ailing ruler of Shentonia must select a successor, and two noblemen, with starkly different dreams for the future of their land, must outsmart, outwit, and outbattle each other to stay alive and become Shehémni, ruler of Shentonia. Shentonia is a place vividly imagined through meticulous world-building, with interjections of in-world language and a detail to unique traditions of disparate groups.
The world in this book is one, in which the people fought and destroyed their ancient gods who played with people as toys and destroyed their lives.
A calamitous incident forces the main characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, to work together, when a great injustice threatens to destroy them – and from there unfolds action-packed chases, momentous decisions, and quiet moments between characters who must give up old ideas as the future catches up with them – a future rooted in the distant past. This well-written story takes the time to give each character their own distinct voice, while it builds to a tense, fast-paced, and unpredictable but ultimately satisfying ending. An intricate plot, interesting characters, and detailed world-building make this a great read.
August 7, 2022
DNF at 40%
I tried to like this book, I promise I did. I just couldn’t get through it. New words with little to no description of what their meaning was, unexplained social systems, and characters that weren’t likable.
Sometimes the amount of invented words for this world were used so much that I wasn’t sure what characters were talking about. I was confused and a little bored.
I just couldn’t get into it, sorry.
I tried to like this book, I promise I did. I just couldn’t get through it. New words with little to no description of what their meaning was, unexplained social systems, and characters that weren’t likable.
Sometimes the amount of invented words for this world were used so much that I wasn’t sure what characters were talking about. I was confused and a little bored.
I just couldn’t get into it, sorry.
June 17, 2022
A masterful and organic story blended with unpredictable action and plot twists!
I enjoyed this work immensely and always wanted to review it for quite a while.
The story is immersive, organic, unpredictable, thrilling, has many twists, and is full of action and moral dilemmas.
The long story:
1) Organic worldbuilding
As an author myself, I recognise good worldbuilding in this work. Worldbuilding was seamless and integrated throughout the story such that they were taken for granted. This means there were very few editorial issues such as info dumping or throat clearing. If they were present, they were relevant and given when the reader wants to know.
There was a rich narration, vocabulary, and ethnography, which must have taken a lot of effort to plan and write.
2) Excellent and Natural Dialogue
The best part of the novel was the dialogue. Each character had a distinct voice and spoke with their own personality, with italicizations used well for emphasis and emotional impact. Most importantly, they were natural and not forceful or structured, giving rise to an immersive, organic, and emergent experience reading them.
3) Unpredictable and Thrilling Action, Plot twists, and moral dilemmas
The second half of the novel is full of unpredictability because of the number of interacting characters. Without giving away spoilers, there were many unexpected events and choices involving the various family members and the unexpected ending. It defied convention and provided an interesting storytelling free of cliches.
I can also tell that the writer is a seeder instead of a plotter as he excels in immersive and ethnographic storytelling like Stephen King. The unpredictability of the plot definitely rhymes well with what a seeder would do. If it is of any interest, I'm a plotter.
4) Flawless Editorial Standard
There were no editing issues that I could see. The formatting was spot-on and most likely, the writer hired a professional editor.
Summary:
Overall, this is a great book and suits people who like plot-driven scifi with organic worldbuilding, moral choices, and unpredictable plot.
I enjoyed this work immensely and always wanted to review it for quite a while.
The story is immersive, organic, unpredictable, thrilling, has many twists, and is full of action and moral dilemmas.
The long story:
1) Organic worldbuilding
As an author myself, I recognise good worldbuilding in this work. Worldbuilding was seamless and integrated throughout the story such that they were taken for granted. This means there were very few editorial issues such as info dumping or throat clearing. If they were present, they were relevant and given when the reader wants to know.
There was a rich narration, vocabulary, and ethnography, which must have taken a lot of effort to plan and write.
2) Excellent and Natural Dialogue
The best part of the novel was the dialogue. Each character had a distinct voice and spoke with their own personality, with italicizations used well for emphasis and emotional impact. Most importantly, they were natural and not forceful or structured, giving rise to an immersive, organic, and emergent experience reading them.
3) Unpredictable and Thrilling Action, Plot twists, and moral dilemmas
The second half of the novel is full of unpredictability because of the number of interacting characters. Without giving away spoilers, there were many unexpected events and choices involving the various family members and the unexpected ending. It defied convention and provided an interesting storytelling free of cliches.
I can also tell that the writer is a seeder instead of a plotter as he excels in immersive and ethnographic storytelling like Stephen King. The unpredictability of the plot definitely rhymes well with what a seeder would do. If it is of any interest, I'm a plotter.
4) Flawless Editorial Standard
There were no editing issues that I could see. The formatting was spot-on and most likely, the writer hired a professional editor.
Summary:
Overall, this is a great book and suits people who like plot-driven scifi with organic worldbuilding, moral choices, and unpredictable plot.
March 23, 2022
Highly recommended!
I love this story!
I love this story!
Read
March 16, 2022An Imaginative and Fast-Paced Read
This was my first read of a Sci Fi book. So honestly, expectations were unknown. The synopsis provided some great clues.
In the first few pages, the reader experiences a new and different world (literary weightlessness) where unusual names, places, settings, language, culture, and characters abound. Very soon, one becomes comfortable and understands the context. Do not consult Websters. Just go with the flow and enjoy.
Then the fast ride accelerates and the reader moves through the plots, twists, and intrigues facing the main characters, their allies and enemies. Yes, in the end, good triumphs over evil (spoiler alert), but there are unresolved issues which cry out for a sequel which must be in the works.
At times, this reader detected elements of Shakespearean plays and other literary references. It is clear that that Seth Halleway’s imagination was in full open throttle. There was a certain point in the novel, where the reader crossed the Rubicon and like Caesar did, cannot return. The most enjoyable parts (and there were many) included the MC’s escape scene, the final battle for supremacy, and the last minute surprises coming out of left field.
Outstanding reading experience.
This was my first read of a Sci Fi book. So honestly, expectations were unknown. The synopsis provided some great clues.
In the first few pages, the reader experiences a new and different world (literary weightlessness) where unusual names, places, settings, language, culture, and characters abound. Very soon, one becomes comfortable and understands the context. Do not consult Websters. Just go with the flow and enjoy.
Then the fast ride accelerates and the reader moves through the plots, twists, and intrigues facing the main characters, their allies and enemies. Yes, in the end, good triumphs over evil (spoiler alert), but there are unresolved issues which cry out for a sequel which must be in the works.
At times, this reader detected elements of Shakespearean plays and other literary references. It is clear that that Seth Halleway’s imagination was in full open throttle. There was a certain point in the novel, where the reader crossed the Rubicon and like Caesar did, cannot return. The most enjoyable parts (and there were many) included the MC’s escape scene, the final battle for supremacy, and the last minute surprises coming out of left field.
Outstanding reading experience.
August 19, 2022
Fable’s End: A Shentonia Story by Seth Halleway is a sci-fi novel about the world of Shentonia. When the old ruler is ready to name his successor, two imperial families compete for control. Yemeni Gasadon is a ruthless leader ready to eradicate his enemies and use dirty tactics to get to the throne. In contrast, Diyavid Chuto is a more compassionate man, and he is focused on helping the various groups of people live together in harmony.
I really enjoyed this story and would give the book 4.5 stars. Even though I don’t read much sci-fi, I was pulled into the action. The language is engaging and clear, and the characters are realistic. The author has clearly put a lot of time into the editing stage because the book flowed well, and there were no editorial issues.
While reading, I wished there was slightly more explanation. Throughout the story, a lot of words and phrases in the characters’ language are used, and they aren’t explained very clearly, so I had a hard time imagining the social hierarchy.
However, more experienced sci-fi fans might be able to picture this more easily. I would highly recommend Fable’s End to anyone who would like to be immersed in an engaging and action-packed adventure.
I really enjoyed this story and would give the book 4.5 stars. Even though I don’t read much sci-fi, I was pulled into the action. The language is engaging and clear, and the characters are realistic. The author has clearly put a lot of time into the editing stage because the book flowed well, and there were no editorial issues.
While reading, I wished there was slightly more explanation. Throughout the story, a lot of words and phrases in the characters’ language are used, and they aren’t explained very clearly, so I had a hard time imagining the social hierarchy.
However, more experienced sci-fi fans might be able to picture this more easily. I would highly recommend Fable’s End to anyone who would like to be immersed in an engaging and action-packed adventure.
February 20, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this world building novel.
At first glance a fantasy novel depicting good against evil. But this story is so much more. Yes, Diyadiv and Yemeni both want power, one by diplomacy that may be a mistake, one by brute force, but the intricacies of plots, twists and character build-ups makes for an immersive read, and throw freedom fighters into the mix and you have chapters of action also. Characters are well drawn and the unusual names take some getting used to but strangely named objects (musical instruments for instance) I didn't bother to learn as the context makes it obvious what they are.
Having drawn this world and its characters, I cannot imagine the author will treat this book as a one off. Although it has a beginning and end, so a stand-alone novel, I wouldn't be surprised to be reading book two, some time soon.
At first glance a fantasy novel depicting good against evil. But this story is so much more. Yes, Diyadiv and Yemeni both want power, one by diplomacy that may be a mistake, one by brute force, but the intricacies of plots, twists and character build-ups makes for an immersive read, and throw freedom fighters into the mix and you have chapters of action also. Characters are well drawn and the unusual names take some getting used to but strangely named objects (musical instruments for instance) I didn't bother to learn as the context makes it obvious what they are.
Having drawn this world and its characters, I cannot imagine the author will treat this book as a one off. Although it has a beginning and end, so a stand-alone novel, I wouldn't be surprised to be reading book two, some time soon.
March 3, 2022
Immersive world-building. Deep characters with believable imperfections. Decisions driven by caste and culture as often as necessity. This was a fun and fast read with high stakes and plenty of action.
I found myself surprised often by the direction of the story, which is always a great sign. The author's linguistic background shows with his created language and how it so seamlessly integrates with the characters' experience. I literally found myself drawing comparisons to Tolkein as I read.
High praise indeed but the story is not without faults. There were a couple of clunky decisions that felt driven more by the needs of the story than good sense and a couple of pieces of larger action that had me scratching my head, but, with that said, the good, far outweighed the bad - hence the five-star rating. This is a worthwhile read from an author I'm looking forward to hearing more from.
I found myself surprised often by the direction of the story, which is always a great sign. The author's linguistic background shows with his created language and how it so seamlessly integrates with the characters' experience. I literally found myself drawing comparisons to Tolkein as I read.
High praise indeed but the story is not without faults. There were a couple of clunky decisions that felt driven more by the needs of the story than good sense and a couple of pieces of larger action that had me scratching my head, but, with that said, the good, far outweighed the bad - hence the five-star rating. This is a worthwhile read from an author I'm looking forward to hearing more from.
February 25, 2023
Seth Halleway has an amazing talent for constructing another world with God-like precision. But, not only does he effectively build a believable and enchanting geographical landscape (which I would love to spend the rest of my life exploring), but he develops an entire civilisation., culture and history on par with the likes of Tolkien.
I’ll admit, intergalactic sci-fi isn’t my go-to genre – whilst the world-building in such novels can be nothing short of amazing, they lack fundamental story telling is amiss. Halleway is one of the few writers I have encountered who can build incredible fantasy worlds while still telling an excellent story with memorable characters and a page-turning plot.
Fable’s End is nothing short of excellent.
I’ll admit, intergalactic sci-fi isn’t my go-to genre – whilst the world-building in such novels can be nothing short of amazing, they lack fundamental story telling is amiss. Halleway is one of the few writers I have encountered who can build incredible fantasy worlds while still telling an excellent story with memorable characters and a page-turning plot.
Fable’s End is nothing short of excellent.
June 18, 2022
Filled with complex characters, good guys and bad guys, no one is wholly good or bad in this action-packed sci-fantasy novel. The cultures and the unique aspects come through very well in this novel where you just don't know what's going to happen until you finally hit those pages! There's betrayal, unusual friendships and partnerships that strike up to make the novel grip you. The technology isn't as important as the story here and at any given moment, the cultural reasons and motivations for the characters make complete sense. It's worth getting a hard copy of this book. Read it and leave a review!
October 6, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this space drama. Well written, good pacing and relatable and distinct characters make this a good old fashioned well-rounded yarn. The descriptions of technology and different races and cultures are very well done and do not feel forced upon the reader at any point.
*Minor spoiler*
Who would have thought that an old man's refusal to retire to cause such a fuss?
Top read, I will be back for more!
*Minor spoiler*
Who would have thought that an old man's refusal to retire to cause such a fuss?
Top read, I will be back for more!
November 25, 2022
GREAT WORLD-BUILDING. As the first in a series, the world-building in this book is first class. It contains the classic "good versus evil" tropes that belong to the fantasy genre but goes a great deal further. The characters are complex as is the plot in this sci-fantasy book. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves the genres of science fiction and fantasy.
January 16, 2023
Great novel
The story reminded me of a mix between Dune and Jupiter's Rising. It would make a great movie. I did think the names of the different levels of the society and even some of the character's names were a bit complicated. A list of the author's pronunciations would have been helpful. I would have given this five stars otherwise.
The story reminded me of a mix between Dune and Jupiter's Rising. It would make a great movie. I did think the names of the different levels of the society and even some of the character's names were a bit complicated. A list of the author's pronunciations would have been helpful. I would have given this five stars otherwise.
September 19, 2022
This was good! I love finding self published gems like this. It has the world building of something like Dune but also a playfulness I found fun. Any gripes are minor. It makes me curious to read a sequel (there’s an opening for one). If you want a fun, quick read, you can’t go wrong with this.
October 14, 2022
Terrific novel from beginning to end. Great character development and a solid story to go along with the engaging action scenes. An overall excellent read. If you are into space odysseys, definitely give this a try!
December 16, 2022
This book's for you if you're looking for creative world-building with a vivid setting and intriguing conflict. Some readers might find the unique words off-putting, but I didn't, as I expect science fiction to contain some new words due to the setting.
May 4, 2023
Great sci-fi, especially if you’re a fan of awesome reads that build a world that resembles our own in another dimension. So much symbolism, and yet it holds true to the storyline. As always, Seth doesn’t disappoint as an author.
July 10, 2023
For the lovers of fantasy
For the lovers of fantasy, this book is a good example of imagination and world building. The only drawback for me were the names and pronunciations but most likely that is because this was my first in depth fantasy novel. Nice job
For the lovers of fantasy, this book is a good example of imagination and world building. The only drawback for me were the names and pronunciations but most likely that is because this was my first in depth fantasy novel. Nice job
March 19, 2022
Highly recommended.
This text is very good and interesting. This author is very gifted; the story is highly recommended. I'm glad that I found it; very good story.
This text is very good and interesting. This author is very gifted; the story is highly recommended. I'm glad that I found it; very good story.
February 16, 2024
Good read
Interesting story where Seth leads us through a fantasy world. Struggled a Little at first with the made-up terms, but as immersion into the story it isn't a problem.
Interesting story where Seth leads us through a fantasy world. Struggled a Little at first with the made-up terms, but as immersion into the story it isn't a problem.
April 8, 2022
A world and characters worth investing in
Scifi world building takes time and skill. Stay with it and learn the culture, you’ll be gad you did. Exciting action and a surprise ending to keep you wanting more.
Scifi world building takes time and skill. Stay with it and learn the culture, you’ll be gad you did. Exciting action and a surprise ending to keep you wanting more.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews