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Ink & Sigil #1
Tinte und Siegel
Skurril und witzig wie Die Chronik des Eisernen Druiden - Neues vom Bestsellerautor Kevin Hearne.
MacBharrais ist gesegnet. Gesegnet mit einem ungewöhnlich schönen Schnurrbart, einem Sinn für kunstvoll gemixte Cocktails - vor allem aber mit einem einzigartigen magischen Talent. Er schreibt mit Geheimtinte kraftvolle Zaubersprüche. Und als ehrbarer Schotte setzt er alles daran, unsere Welt vor den schurkischen Knechten verschiedener Pantheons zu beschützen, im Besonderen vor Feenwesen, die alles andere als nett sind.
Traurig, aber wahr: Al ist auch verflucht. Jeder, der seine Stimme hört, geht sofort mit unvorstellbarem Hass auf ihn los. So kann er nur schriftlich oder mit Sprach-Apps kommunizieren. Und schlimmer noch: Alle seine Lehrlinge starben bei höchst sonderbaren Unfällen. Fergus wurde bei den Highland-Spielen von einem schlecht geworfenen Baumstamm erschlagen, Ramsey wurde von schusseligen amerikanischen Touristen, die auf der falschen Straßenseite unterwegs waren, überfahren. Als sein letzter Lehrling Gordie tot in seiner Wohnung in Glasgow aufgefunden wird - er erstickte an einem rosinenhaltigen Gebäck -, entdeckt Al, dass Gordie ein geheimes, verbrecherisches Doppelleben führte und in einen schwunghaften Menschenhandel mit nichtmenschlichen Wesen verstrickt war...
MacBharrais ist gesegnet. Gesegnet mit einem ungewöhnlich schönen Schnurrbart, einem Sinn für kunstvoll gemixte Cocktails - vor allem aber mit einem einzigartigen magischen Talent. Er schreibt mit Geheimtinte kraftvolle Zaubersprüche. Und als ehrbarer Schotte setzt er alles daran, unsere Welt vor den schurkischen Knechten verschiedener Pantheons zu beschützen, im Besonderen vor Feenwesen, die alles andere als nett sind.
Traurig, aber wahr: Al ist auch verflucht. Jeder, der seine Stimme hört, geht sofort mit unvorstellbarem Hass auf ihn los. So kann er nur schriftlich oder mit Sprach-Apps kommunizieren. Und schlimmer noch: Alle seine Lehrlinge starben bei höchst sonderbaren Unfällen. Fergus wurde bei den Highland-Spielen von einem schlecht geworfenen Baumstamm erschlagen, Ramsey wurde von schusseligen amerikanischen Touristen, die auf der falschen Straßenseite unterwegs waren, überfahren. Als sein letzter Lehrling Gordie tot in seiner Wohnung in Glasgow aufgefunden wird - er erstickte an einem rosinenhaltigen Gebäck -, entdeckt Al, dass Gordie ein geheimes, verbrecherisches Doppelleben führte und in einen schwunghaften Menschenhandel mit nichtmenschlichen Wesen verstrickt war...
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First published August 25, 2020
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About the author
Kevin Hearne
70 books12.8k followersKevin is the NYT bestselling author of the Iron Druid Chronicles, as well as The Seven Kennings, an epic fantasy trilogy, and the Tales of Pell, a humorous fantasy series co-authored with Delilah S. Dawson. INK & SIGIL, a new urban fantasy series set in the Iron Druid universe, will be out in 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,480 reviews
September 13, 2020
It’s an entertaining, magical, action packed return to the Iron Druid Chronicles universe with brand new Sigil Agent in his sixties with magnificent white moustache, amazing taste of alcoholic beverages and fantastic skill gives him enough power to fight against Faes.
But unfortunately this blessed man is also cursed with his voice: as soon as he starts to talk, anyone hears him starts hating his guts and it ends with dangerous and deadly consequences. So he chooses to be better safe than sorry and use speech apps to fool the people around and his crafted skill about casting spells with magically enchanted ink gives him enough power he needs.
But now his seventh apprentice Gordie is killed and he needs to find out the perpetrator which means he needs to take a long trip in Scotland to dig out more and convince a truly batshit crazy hobglobin to be his partner in crime to solve the mystery so let the magical ink games begin!
It’s unique, moving and enjoyable reading with so many eccentric characters and I always admire Kevin Hearne’s imagination to open us new and dazzling universes’ doors and enjoy our adventurous ride with him!
I had some hard time to decipher the dialogues between Scottish men so it slowed down my pace just a little bit to search for true meanings of their words but overall it was remarkably interesting and intriguing brand new series and I’m in to read more!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey Books for sharing this intriguing ARC with me (I forgot to add how spectacular this cover is!) in exchange my honest review.
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But unfortunately this blessed man is also cursed with his voice: as soon as he starts to talk, anyone hears him starts hating his guts and it ends with dangerous and deadly consequences. So he chooses to be better safe than sorry and use speech apps to fool the people around and his crafted skill about casting spells with magically enchanted ink gives him enough power he needs.
But now his seventh apprentice Gordie is killed and he needs to find out the perpetrator which means he needs to take a long trip in Scotland to dig out more and convince a truly batshit crazy hobglobin to be his partner in crime to solve the mystery so let the magical ink games begin!
It’s unique, moving and enjoyable reading with so many eccentric characters and I always admire Kevin Hearne’s imagination to open us new and dazzling universes’ doors and enjoy our adventurous ride with him!
I had some hard time to decipher the dialogues between Scottish men so it slowed down my pace just a little bit to search for true meanings of their words but overall it was remarkably interesting and intriguing brand new series and I’m in to read more!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey Books for sharing this intriguing ARC with me (I forgot to add how spectacular this cover is!) in exchange my honest review.
blog
April 16, 2020
This is what happens when you give a frat boy a laptop and tell him to write a story. Brawling leprechauns, swearing hobgoblins and a mute ink wizard oh my. It took my a while to get into this story because while the action kinda started right at the beginning I just didn't care about any of it.
This had a great cast of characters and I am partial to Nadia. The name Buck Foi was just annoying as hell and wholly immature and not as funny as I think the author wants it to be.
This was a fun read, but frankly the 'mystery" was sorely lacking. Al didn't actually detect nor uncover anything. He didn't make any grand discoveries. All of his hints and clues were supplied by other people. Saxon should get the big bonus for giving Al every single clue that he cobbled together, with a hat tip to Eli as well.
And the reason for all this run around was pretty thin too, but I guess everyone has to start somewhere. There just wasn't enough in between the pages. The story limps along and relies on the by play between Al and Buck a little too much.
I will say that I enjoyed the book and I will be looking into any others of the series, but the actual plot bogs them down.
This had a great cast of characters and I am partial to Nadia. The name Buck Foi was just annoying as hell and wholly immature and not as funny as I think the author wants it to be.
This was a fun read, but frankly the 'mystery" was sorely lacking. Al didn't actually detect nor uncover anything. He didn't make any grand discoveries. All of his hints and clues were supplied by other people. Saxon should get the big bonus for giving Al every single clue that he cobbled together, with a hat tip to Eli as well.
And the reason for all this run around was pretty thin too, but I guess everyone has to start somewhere. There just wasn't enough in between the pages. The story limps along and relies on the by play between Al and Buck a little too much.
I will say that I enjoyed the book and I will be looking into any others of the series, but the actual plot bogs them down.
November 20, 2021
It would seem that Kevin Hearne has begun a new series which may be as good as his Iron Druid books. In fact Atticus and Oberon make a short appearance in this book which is fun!
Ink & Sigil is set in modern day Scotland but one where the Fae and other magical creatures have a strong presence. Al MacBharrais is a Sigil Agent. His spells are written ones and his job is to control the presence of magical creatures and make sure they do not cause trouble.
I very much enjoyed the magic system especially the frequent references to the Iron Druid world. Al is an interesting character and the characters of Nadia and Buck Foi the hobgoblin are very entertaining.
Altogether I was very impressed with this first book in the series and aim to read the second one very soon.
Ink & Sigil is set in modern day Scotland but one where the Fae and other magical creatures have a strong presence. Al MacBharrais is a Sigil Agent. His spells are written ones and his job is to control the presence of magical creatures and make sure they do not cause trouble.
I very much enjoyed the magic system especially the frequent references to the Iron Druid world. Al is an interesting character and the characters of Nadia and Buck Foi the hobgoblin are very entertaining.
Altogether I was very impressed with this first book in the series and aim to read the second one very soon.
August 28, 2020
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2020/08/24/...
Move over, Atticus O’Sullivan, because Kevin Hearne fans are in for a treat with his new series spinning off of The Iron Druid Chronicles starring Aloysius “Al” MacBharrais, Scottish sigil agent extraordinaire. In his sixties and blessed with a fancy mustache, he’s part of an organization responsible for regulating and enforcing the rules of travel for supernatural creatures to and from our mortal plane. As one of only a handful of people on this world with the ability to create sigils from special ink, a big part of his job also involves work with magically binding contracts in addition to crafting all manner of spells.
But following the fatal accident of his seventh apprentice Gordie, our protagonist begins to wonder if there might be another reason for why all his students seem to meet untimely deaths. So, he starts digging. And as it turns out, Gordie had been living a secret double life, hiding his criminal involvement in an underground supernatural trafficking ring. It seems that fae of all types are being kidnapped and sold to buyers for a mysterious purpose, and Al is determined to find out why. With the help of a mischievous hobgoblin who calls himself Buck Foi, Al sets off on a mission to blow the whole fiendish scheme wide open, all the while trying to stay under the radar of the real world police who are starting to wonder why trouble seems to follow him wherever he goes.
To kick off the analysis part of my review, I think it’s only appropriate to first talk about Al and what a unique, entertaining and complex protagonist he is. A sixty-something widower, he is a true rarity when it comes to urban fantasy leads, but I absolutely adored the refreshing perspective he brought to the genre. I also liked how Hearne mostly avoided falling back on clichés about older people, putting artful creative spins on his main character, like the fact he is cursed with a voice that makes others’ hatred for him grow the more they hear him talk. So to get by, he relies heavily on his spells, writing, and speech apps.
And goodness, this book was funny, so funny. If you enjoyed the sassy, light-heartedness of the Iron Druid series, I think it’s safe to say you’ll feel right at home. In fact, I often found the humor to be even more appealing in Ink & Sigil, possibly due to Al’s more genuine and down-to-earth personality, and the jokes are maybe just slightly less juvenile. His interactions with his staff are filled with wit and whimsy, and more than once I found myself chuckling at the clever banter. It’ll be tough to top the dynamic duo that is Atticus and Oberon, but dare I say it, Al and Buck might give them a run for their money.
The world-building was also intriguing and made me want to learn more. While Ink & Sigil shares its world with Iron Druid, it nevertheless reads like a standalone and feels completely separate—the way a spin-off should, I might add, barring a few cool cameos. There’s a whole new magic system to discover, and in true Kevin Hearne style, it feels both inventive and well thought out. Sigil-based magic is more than it appears, starting from the very specialized ink that sigil agents must make from rare specific ingredients. Once crafted, a sigil can then be used to manipulate the world around them, and some of their effects can be pretty wild.
Like a lot of mysteries in UF though, I found this one to be slightly lacking and unfocused in the plot department. There are quite a few distractions and side ventures, but this being the opening volume of a new series, a part of me understood the need to introduce as many aspects of the world and its characters all at once. There’s also the issue of the heavy Scottish dialect, and while I appreciated Hearne’s efforts at authenticity and to make his readers feel as immersed as possible, bottom line, some of it’s just a damn pain to get used to, and slowed things down as a result.
Still, as many of my favorite UF series also took a few books to find their feet, I’m definitely willing to give this one more time to smooth out any bumps and dents. All told, while Ink & Sigil is only the first book, I’m already liking where things are going. I believe fans of Kevin Hearne will be well pleased with this humorous and fresh novel, and if you’ve ever been curious about the author’s work, this would be the perfect opportunity to jump on board.
Move over, Atticus O’Sullivan, because Kevin Hearne fans are in for a treat with his new series spinning off of The Iron Druid Chronicles starring Aloysius “Al” MacBharrais, Scottish sigil agent extraordinaire. In his sixties and blessed with a fancy mustache, he’s part of an organization responsible for regulating and enforcing the rules of travel for supernatural creatures to and from our mortal plane. As one of only a handful of people on this world with the ability to create sigils from special ink, a big part of his job also involves work with magically binding contracts in addition to crafting all manner of spells.
But following the fatal accident of his seventh apprentice Gordie, our protagonist begins to wonder if there might be another reason for why all his students seem to meet untimely deaths. So, he starts digging. And as it turns out, Gordie had been living a secret double life, hiding his criminal involvement in an underground supernatural trafficking ring. It seems that fae of all types are being kidnapped and sold to buyers for a mysterious purpose, and Al is determined to find out why. With the help of a mischievous hobgoblin who calls himself Buck Foi, Al sets off on a mission to blow the whole fiendish scheme wide open, all the while trying to stay under the radar of the real world police who are starting to wonder why trouble seems to follow him wherever he goes.
To kick off the analysis part of my review, I think it’s only appropriate to first talk about Al and what a unique, entertaining and complex protagonist he is. A sixty-something widower, he is a true rarity when it comes to urban fantasy leads, but I absolutely adored the refreshing perspective he brought to the genre. I also liked how Hearne mostly avoided falling back on clichés about older people, putting artful creative spins on his main character, like the fact he is cursed with a voice that makes others’ hatred for him grow the more they hear him talk. So to get by, he relies heavily on his spells, writing, and speech apps.
And goodness, this book was funny, so funny. If you enjoyed the sassy, light-heartedness of the Iron Druid series, I think it’s safe to say you’ll feel right at home. In fact, I often found the humor to be even more appealing in Ink & Sigil, possibly due to Al’s more genuine and down-to-earth personality, and the jokes are maybe just slightly less juvenile. His interactions with his staff are filled with wit and whimsy, and more than once I found myself chuckling at the clever banter. It’ll be tough to top the dynamic duo that is Atticus and Oberon, but dare I say it, Al and Buck might give them a run for their money.
The world-building was also intriguing and made me want to learn more. While Ink & Sigil shares its world with Iron Druid, it nevertheless reads like a standalone and feels completely separate—the way a spin-off should, I might add, barring a few cool cameos. There’s a whole new magic system to discover, and in true Kevin Hearne style, it feels both inventive and well thought out. Sigil-based magic is more than it appears, starting from the very specialized ink that sigil agents must make from rare specific ingredients. Once crafted, a sigil can then be used to manipulate the world around them, and some of their effects can be pretty wild.
Like a lot of mysteries in UF though, I found this one to be slightly lacking and unfocused in the plot department. There are quite a few distractions and side ventures, but this being the opening volume of a new series, a part of me understood the need to introduce as many aspects of the world and its characters all at once. There’s also the issue of the heavy Scottish dialect, and while I appreciated Hearne’s efforts at authenticity and to make his readers feel as immersed as possible, bottom line, some of it’s just a damn pain to get used to, and slowed things down as a result.
Still, as many of my favorite UF series also took a few books to find their feet, I’m definitely willing to give this one more time to smooth out any bumps and dents. All told, while Ink & Sigil is only the first book, I’m already liking where things are going. I believe fans of Kevin Hearne will be well pleased with this humorous and fresh novel, and if you’ve ever been curious about the author’s work, this would be the perfect opportunity to jump on board.
March 11, 2022
Never getting an audiobook in this series ever again. The accents were painful to listen to. And the voice actor had his work cut out for him-- he had to do Scottish, Irish, American, synthesized English, and synthesized Scottish.
Not sure how much the accents held me back, but this book couldn't hold my attention. Minutes would pass and I realized I hadn't been listening, and I couldn't bring myself to care. It is difficult to relate to an older man protagonist who is functionally mute, and spends an inordinate amount of time bragging about his pride in his white mustache.
Facial hair is only an accomplishment to 12-year-old boys and insecure men.
Kevin Hearne found a workaround for the fact the Iron Druid (Atticus) was previously the only druid left in the world. We did already know that lots of other supernatural creatures/characters existed in this world. So, the author decided to invent a brand new type of mage --not a druid-- to be the protagonist here. This type of magic is all about written sigils. Which works out for the cursed-to-be-mute protagonist.
Where the Iron Druid books used humor sporadically, this new series attempts a much more crass, unfunny humor much more regularly. That is why there is a character named "Buck Foi." This isn't actually funny, but the author thinks that it is.
It isn't just that I don't care for humor in my fantasy literature; Kevin Hearne just isn't that funny. I hated all of Hearne's attempts at humor in Iron Druid. Atticus and that damn Irish wolfhound make an appearance in this novel, too. Although, hearing the Iron Druid's American accent was like balm to my ears. I'm not exaggerating when I say I almost teared up a little at the sound of a normal, American accent.
I still want to castrate that fucking wolfhound. Not for population-control reasons. I just want to do it as a form of torture.
There was a lesbian main character whose gift of foresight helped her master MMA fighting. She, and any descriptions of her fighting, were the best part of this novel. However, why waste your time with this whole novel if there's really only one worthwhile character?
Seriously. Don't bother with this series.
Not sure how much the accents held me back, but this book couldn't hold my attention. Minutes would pass and I realized I hadn't been listening, and I couldn't bring myself to care. It is difficult to relate to an older man protagonist who is functionally mute, and spends an inordinate amount of time bragging about his pride in his white mustache.
Facial hair is only an accomplishment to 12-year-old boys and insecure men.
Kevin Hearne found a workaround for the fact the Iron Druid (Atticus) was previously the only druid left in the world. We did already know that lots of other supernatural creatures/characters existed in this world. So, the author decided to invent a brand new type of mage --not a druid-- to be the protagonist here. This type of magic is all about written sigils. Which works out for the cursed-to-be-mute protagonist.
Where the Iron Druid books used humor sporadically, this new series attempts a much more crass, unfunny humor much more regularly. That is why there is a character named "Buck Foi." This isn't actually funny, but the author thinks that it is.
It isn't just that I don't care for humor in my fantasy literature; Kevin Hearne just isn't that funny. I hated all of Hearne's attempts at humor in Iron Druid. Atticus and that damn Irish wolfhound make an appearance in this novel, too. Although, hearing the Iron Druid's American accent was like balm to my ears. I'm not exaggerating when I say I almost teared up a little at the sound of a normal, American accent.
I still want to castrate that fucking wolfhound. Not for population-control reasons. I just want to do it as a form of torture.
There was a lesbian main character whose gift of foresight helped her master MMA fighting. She, and any descriptions of her fighting, were the best part of this novel. However, why waste your time with this whole novel if there's really only one worthwhile character?
Seriously. Don't bother with this series.
August 29, 2021
Kevin Hearne, the author of the wildly popular Iron Druid series returns to that same universe, but with a new protagonist, a sigil agent.
Just as his magical world building was so entertaining in the series featuring Atticus and Oberon, here too does Hearne show off his imagination and innovation. Al MacBharrais is a Scotsman in his 60s who’s also working for the first of the Fae to regulate comings and going by folks from other planes. His magic use is cool too, he creates magical sigils from special inks that produce magical effects.
He’s also cursed – twice – and that is also a fun part of this cool urban fantasy. The first curse is that anyone who hears his voice for an extended time will start to despise Al and the second is that people close to Al seem to come to outlandish ends.
While Hearne’s magic rules and world building are cool, and his writing again shows the quirky humor as did the books about Atticus, I did not like this near as much as I hoped I would. His writing from ten years ago was fresh and had a swaggering edge to it that made it work brilliantly. The delivery here is just not as colorful.
I did like the Scottish setting and how Hearne wrote those accents, and also his continuation of a fun world building.
For fans.
Just as his magical world building was so entertaining in the series featuring Atticus and Oberon, here too does Hearne show off his imagination and innovation. Al MacBharrais is a Scotsman in his 60s who’s also working for the first of the Fae to regulate comings and going by folks from other planes. His magic use is cool too, he creates magical sigils from special inks that produce magical effects.
He’s also cursed – twice – and that is also a fun part of this cool urban fantasy. The first curse is that anyone who hears his voice for an extended time will start to despise Al and the second is that people close to Al seem to come to outlandish ends.
While Hearne’s magic rules and world building are cool, and his writing again shows the quirky humor as did the books about Atticus, I did not like this near as much as I hoped I would. His writing from ten years ago was fresh and had a swaggering edge to it that made it work brilliantly. The delivery here is just not as colorful.
I did like the Scottish setting and how Hearne wrote those accents, and also his continuation of a fun world building.
For fans.
December 20, 2021
Set in the same world as his Iron Druid series, Ink and Sigil build off and adds to the magic systems of the previous books while introducing a new and fun approach. It took a few chapters to click with the new cast, but things soon locked into a very similar vibe to the adventures of Atticus and Oberon. I listened to the audiobook, and as always, Luke Daniels hits it out of the park, although, like the new characters, the shift to a narrator with a thick Glasgow accent who often speaks though a speech app took some getting used to. Have already picked up and started book 2.
November 8, 2025
Humorous and fun, Ink & Sigil reminded me of a hard-boiled detective story with magical creatures. The world building was unique and easy to follow without having read the series from which this is a spin-off. The best part, however, was the quirkiness of the characters, particularly the hobgoblin.
August 25, 2020
Hearne has this magical ability to weave stories and characters you want more of. Our protagonist, Al, is in his sixties and cursed. He can create magic using paper & ink. Spells to hide, spells to see, heal and more. As for the curse? Anyone who hears his voice feels an inexplicable hatred for Al. Because of this he communicates through the written word or speech apps, particularly if he plans to encounter that person again. He also has difficulty keeping an apprentice.
When Gordie, his latest apprentice, turns up dead, Al discovers evidence that Gordie was living a secret life of crime. What he finds in Gordie’s home alarms him and dons a detective hat to find answers. That is after he gets his new flat mate situated. 🤣
The world-building is complex and rich, but Hearne allows the reader to enjoy the discovery as the story unfolds. There is magic and keepers of sorts. Al with his unique mustache is a Sigil Agent. He runs a shop and has a manager named Nadia. She also acts as the muscle and I absolutely adored her from her mannerism to snark. There are other agents around the globe who we met briefly. I found them all to be memorable and can imagine tales with them.
One of my favorite characters was a hobgoblin named Buck Foi. He enjoys a stolen beer and has recently discovered Netflix. He made me laugh so hard I had tears streaming down my face.
The mystery was interesting and introduced us to trolls, pit fighting, and magic. It worked as the perfect backdrop as we met characters and learned of their world. Hearne even treated fans to a brief but memorable encounter with a druid and his dog.
I am curious about Al’s curse. Questions were raised that have me looking forward to more stories in the series. Hearne has been contracted for three books in this series but hopes to have nine.(yes, yes, yes) So be sure to snag a copy. I got my pre-order this morning and am waiting for my hardcover edition.
I am soooo glad I listened. The language is a wee bit tricky and I slowed my listen down to 1.2x. I would have butchered the pronunciation of these names. Luke Daniel’s narration was superb. I have long been a fan of Daniel’s narration, particularly when it comes to urban fantasy and science fiction. His range of voices and gusto added a whole extra layer to Hearne’s stories. In fact, I have listened to all of Hearne’s books on audio.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
When Gordie, his latest apprentice, turns up dead, Al discovers evidence that Gordie was living a secret life of crime. What he finds in Gordie’s home alarms him and dons a detective hat to find answers. That is after he gets his new flat mate situated. 🤣
The world-building is complex and rich, but Hearne allows the reader to enjoy the discovery as the story unfolds. There is magic and keepers of sorts. Al with his unique mustache is a Sigil Agent. He runs a shop and has a manager named Nadia. She also acts as the muscle and I absolutely adored her from her mannerism to snark. There are other agents around the globe who we met briefly. I found them all to be memorable and can imagine tales with them.
One of my favorite characters was a hobgoblin named Buck Foi. He enjoys a stolen beer and has recently discovered Netflix. He made me laugh so hard I had tears streaming down my face.
The mystery was interesting and introduced us to trolls, pit fighting, and magic. It worked as the perfect backdrop as we met characters and learned of their world. Hearne even treated fans to a brief but memorable encounter with a druid and his dog.
I am curious about Al’s curse. Questions were raised that have me looking forward to more stories in the series. Hearne has been contracted for three books in this series but hopes to have nine.(yes, yes, yes) So be sure to snag a copy. I got my pre-order this morning and am waiting for my hardcover edition.
I am soooo glad I listened. The language is a wee bit tricky and I slowed my listen down to 1.2x. I would have butchered the pronunciation of these names. Luke Daniel’s narration was superb. I have long been a fan of Daniel’s narration, particularly when it comes to urban fantasy and science fiction. His range of voices and gusto added a whole extra layer to Hearne’s stories. In fact, I have listened to all of Hearne’s books on audio.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
July 12, 2021
After Hearne lost in interest in the Iron Druid series and botched up the last book, I swore I wouldn't touch another one of his book... only this one sounded so interesting. But it turned out to be bland, with juvenile potty "humour", a muddled plot and an old man (Sigil Agent) who can magic away any injuries (how bloody convenient!) and is a rather ineffective detective - but then again it was a rather ineffective mystery to be solved. The side characters were the most interesting part of the book. I would rather have read about them than a mute wizard glued to his phone app. Most of the characters also need their mouths' washed out with soap. In short, a decent concept with juvenile execution and immature characters.
Read
May 20, 2020Ink & Sigil features a very appealing cover. Ink & Sigil features a master wizard who makes sigils (paper spells), but is cursed so that he can't speak without being hated. It is told in heavy Scottish dialect and even comes with a short glossary of word usage.
However, I'm not a big fan of "urban fantasy," a sub-genre of fantasy where the modern world through some twist of fate is peopled by elves, wizards, fairies, gnomes, and all sorts of imaginary beings. Maybe this would hold more appeal to fans of the genre. It's just not right for me.
However, I'm not a big fan of "urban fantasy," a sub-genre of fantasy where the modern world through some twist of fate is peopled by elves, wizards, fairies, gnomes, and all sorts of imaginary beings. Maybe this would hold more appeal to fans of the genre. It's just not right for me.
October 4, 2020
I’ve never read anything by this author before now, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from him. I only knew his other series have been popular, and this book being the start of a new series, seemed fun and like a good place to be introduced to him. And fun it was to read this urban fantasy novel with its interesting magic system and a cast of very likable Scottish characters who are misfits, but fit in well with each other. And the humor, while in turns both silly and rather colorful as far as the language is concerned, had me either laughing or groaning, the latter not necessarily bad. So overall, despite it containing some violence, and the inclusion of some tragic subject matter of topical interest, this book was a lighter read and inventive, which was just was I was looking for right now. I also liked that the MC was a man around 60 years of age, but hardly a doddering sort which was refreshing. I’ll definitely be reading the next book in the series whenever it is released.
October 11, 2020
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I had a really good time with this book! Even though I haven't quite finished reading the Iron Druid Chronicles, I was excited to see that Kevin Hearne was writing more stories set in the same world. I had originally planned to read this book on my e-reader but I ended up with the audiobook since Luke Daniels does such a good job with this author's work. I was not disappointed. I am so glad that I decided to give this book a try.
This book is set in the same world as the books from the Iron Druid Chronicles. Fans of that series will be happy to be back in the world and will enjoy seeing some familiar characters but this is also a great place for new readers to jump in. I really enjoyed getting to know these new characters and found the whole idea of the sigils to be very interesting.
Al is a great character. I love that he is an older guy just trying to do what needs to be done and get through each day. He takes special precautions to protect others from his curse. The more I learned about Al, the more I liked him. Buck added a nice touch to the story. I was quite entertained by this hobgoblin and thought that he added a really fun element to the story. The two of them make a great, but very unlikely, pair.
I thought that the story was very well done. I was really invested in the mystery and couldn't wait to see how things would work out. The sigils added a nice element to their quest to get to the bottom of things. I found the police to also be well done. I found the book to be really exciting and quite often hard to put down.
Luke Daniels did a fantastic job with the narration. I liked the different voices that he used and thought that he did an especially great job with the voice app that Al often uses. He added a lot of excitement to the story and was able to capture each character's personality in his reading. I am glad that I decided to go with the audiobook for this story.
I would recommend this book to others. It was a very well done story with a new spin on some familiar elements. I cannot wait to go on future adventures with Al and Buck!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Random House Publishing - Del Rey via NetGalley and purchased a copy of the audiobook.
Initial Thoughts
I had a good time with this book. I have quite finished reading the Iron Druid Chronicles yet but I have read enough that I knew the world that this book was set in prior to beginning the novel. I don't really feel like jumping to this series spoiled anything for me in the Iron Druid series but what do I know. I decided to go with the audiobook for this one since Luke Daniels narrates the book and I think it was a good choice. I enjoyed going on this adventure with Al and I found myself completely sucked in by the mystery. Buck helped to keep things from being too serious and was the perfect character to offset Al. I found this to be a great start to a very promising series and I cannot wait to learn more about the curses and what Al will face in the next installment.
I had a really good time with this book! Even though I haven't quite finished reading the Iron Druid Chronicles, I was excited to see that Kevin Hearne was writing more stories set in the same world. I had originally planned to read this book on my e-reader but I ended up with the audiobook since Luke Daniels does such a good job with this author's work. I was not disappointed. I am so glad that I decided to give this book a try.
This book is set in the same world as the books from the Iron Druid Chronicles. Fans of that series will be happy to be back in the world and will enjoy seeing some familiar characters but this is also a great place for new readers to jump in. I really enjoyed getting to know these new characters and found the whole idea of the sigils to be very interesting.
Al is a great character. I love that he is an older guy just trying to do what needs to be done and get through each day. He takes special precautions to protect others from his curse. The more I learned about Al, the more I liked him. Buck added a nice touch to the story. I was quite entertained by this hobgoblin and thought that he added a really fun element to the story. The two of them make a great, but very unlikely, pair.
I thought that the story was very well done. I was really invested in the mystery and couldn't wait to see how things would work out. The sigils added a nice element to their quest to get to the bottom of things. I found the police to also be well done. I found the book to be really exciting and quite often hard to put down.
Luke Daniels did a fantastic job with the narration. I liked the different voices that he used and thought that he did an especially great job with the voice app that Al often uses. He added a lot of excitement to the story and was able to capture each character's personality in his reading. I am glad that I decided to go with the audiobook for this story.
I would recommend this book to others. It was a very well done story with a new spin on some familiar elements. I cannot wait to go on future adventures with Al and Buck!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Random House Publishing - Del Rey via NetGalley and purchased a copy of the audiobook.
Initial Thoughts
I had a good time with this book. I have quite finished reading the Iron Druid Chronicles yet but I have read enough that I knew the world that this book was set in prior to beginning the novel. I don't really feel like jumping to this series spoiled anything for me in the Iron Druid series but what do I know. I decided to go with the audiobook for this one since Luke Daniels narrates the book and I think it was a good choice. I enjoyed going on this adventure with Al and I found myself completely sucked in by the mystery. Buck helped to keep things from being too serious and was the perfect character to offset Al. I found this to be a great start to a very promising series and I cannot wait to learn more about the curses and what Al will face in the next installment.
November 24, 2020
Full of fairy trafficking rings, really ugly and foul-mouthed hobgoblins and a magic system that proves that the pen really is mightier than the sword, this sounded right up my ally.
And although it was an entertaining urban fantasy there were a few things that bothered me.
I love a good curse bestowed on a main character however this one seemed to have hindered the story more than it helped.
As per the book synopsis ”Anyone who hears his voice will begin to feel an inexplicable hatred for Al, so he can only communicate through the written word or speech apps.”
The action scenes were very clunky because of this “curse”. Who stops to type into a speech app when sh*t is flying around?
It also felt as if this book is just one long setup for the rest of the series. But I suspect fans of the authors Druid series will like this as well.
I may try the 2nd book in the series at some point and will definitely do the audio version next time.
And although it was an entertaining urban fantasy there were a few things that bothered me.
I love a good curse bestowed on a main character however this one seemed to have hindered the story more than it helped.
As per the book synopsis ”Anyone who hears his voice will begin to feel an inexplicable hatred for Al, so he can only communicate through the written word or speech apps.”
The action scenes were very clunky because of this “curse”. Who stops to type into a speech app when sh*t is flying around?
It also felt as if this book is just one long setup for the rest of the series. But I suspect fans of the authors Druid series will like this as well.
I may try the 2nd book in the series at some point and will definitely do the audio version next time.
September 3, 2021
Live long enough and people from your past will echo, calling back to you years after they have left you behind.
My first read from the much acclaimed writer Kevin Hearne and I was a little sceptic but I shouldn't have worried as this was quite entertaining.
Al MacBharrais loses yet another apprentice to death whom he was teaching the art of making magical sigils from magical ink. Al finds some proof of Fae trafficking at his apprentice's apartment and he has no other option but to play detective to find out who was behind the whole thing.
Al has a printing company as his day job but he is also one of the five ink and sigil agents in the world. His job is to keep the gods, fae, deities and such away from the humans and earth as much as possible. He makes contracts that bind the fae from creating mischief on earth but still there are some loopholes.
Al is a sixty three year old widower who is cursed. His curse is that if he speaks to people for a few days in a row, the people he speaks to start to hate him so he uses a speech app on his phone to communicate. He likes simple things in life like a good cocktail and his well groomed mustache.
Bring a healthy sense of wonder and dread. That should be the right frame of mind.
The idea of a sixty three year old protagonist is quite unique and it worked so well in this. It was such a refreshing change that I loved Al from the get go. I loved his sense of humor and his narrative.
Paranoia and tradecraft were exhausting.
Al also has a manager, a kickass Indian lesbian, goth woman, Nadia. I loved Nadia too. Along with the hobgoblin, Buck Foi and the hacker, Saxon Codpiece. Stellar characters.
I have not read the Iron Druid Chronicles series but that didn't stop me from enjoying this. In fact, I didn't even know that this was a spin off until I read the reviews. So if you haven't read the Iron Druid Chronicles series, no problem at all because this works on its own really well.
Without giving away any spoilers, the action starts pretty much from page one. This was not heavy on Fantasy as I expected it to be but I still really enjoyed this. It's more like crime, detective, mystery, mythology, humor, character driven with some fantasy in it. The only issue that I really had was the ending. It felt like such an anticlimactic ending after all the buildup and tension. Having said that I am really looking forward to reading the next in the series.
3.75 stars
My first read from the much acclaimed writer Kevin Hearne and I was a little sceptic but I shouldn't have worried as this was quite entertaining.
Al MacBharrais loses yet another apprentice to death whom he was teaching the art of making magical sigils from magical ink. Al finds some proof of Fae trafficking at his apprentice's apartment and he has no other option but to play detective to find out who was behind the whole thing.
Al has a printing company as his day job but he is also one of the five ink and sigil agents in the world. His job is to keep the gods, fae, deities and such away from the humans and earth as much as possible. He makes contracts that bind the fae from creating mischief on earth but still there are some loopholes.
Al is a sixty three year old widower who is cursed. His curse is that if he speaks to people for a few days in a row, the people he speaks to start to hate him so he uses a speech app on his phone to communicate. He likes simple things in life like a good cocktail and his well groomed mustache.
Bring a healthy sense of wonder and dread. That should be the right frame of mind.
The idea of a sixty three year old protagonist is quite unique and it worked so well in this. It was such a refreshing change that I loved Al from the get go. I loved his sense of humor and his narrative.
Paranoia and tradecraft were exhausting.
Al also has a manager, a kickass Indian lesbian, goth woman, Nadia. I loved Nadia too. Along with the hobgoblin, Buck Foi and the hacker, Saxon Codpiece. Stellar characters.
I have not read the Iron Druid Chronicles series but that didn't stop me from enjoying this. In fact, I didn't even know that this was a spin off until I read the reviews. So if you haven't read the Iron Druid Chronicles series, no problem at all because this works on its own really well.
Without giving away any spoilers, the action starts pretty much from page one. This was not heavy on Fantasy as I expected it to be but I still really enjoyed this. It's more like crime, detective, mystery, mythology, humor, character driven with some fantasy in it. The only issue that I really had was the ending. It felt like such an anticlimactic ending after all the buildup and tension. Having said that I am really looking forward to reading the next in the series.
3.75 stars
February 27, 2025
3.5 star
Urban fantasy concerning on mystery solving with a bit of humor.
Featuring:
- hobgoblin with a passion for theft and alcohol
- quite old sigil agent that has to write instead of speaking
- ink, paper and more of sigil magic
At the beginning I had problems with attaching to the story.
But after all it was a pleasant read and a solid first volume in this series.
Urban fantasy concerning on mystery solving with a bit of humor.
Featuring:
- hobgoblin with a passion for theft and alcohol
- quite old sigil agent that has to write instead of speaking
- ink, paper and more of sigil magic
At the beginning I had problems with attaching to the story.
But after all it was a pleasant read and a solid first volume in this series.
December 16, 2023
English version below
********************
Dies ist ein wirklich unterhaltsamer, spannender und witziger Urban Fantasy-Krimi mit einem Protagonisten, dessen Beruf mir völlig neu war.
Aloysius MacBharrais ist einer von weltweit 5 Siegelagenten. Seine Magie beruht auf Siegeln, die er mit speziellen, selbst angerührten Tinten herstellt. Er fungiert als Mittelsmann zwischen unserer realen Menschen welt und dem Feenreich und hat die übt das Amt eines Diplomaten/Polizisten aus. Als Lehrling erstickt an einem Rosinenscone und so treten allerhand dunkle Machenschaften zutage, um die Al sich kümmern muss.
Kevin Hearne hat hier das Rad nicht neu erfunden, obwohl er schon einige nette Ideen in dem Buch untergebracht hat.
Es gab auch einige Stellen, in denen der Autor in länglichen Monologen wahre Infodumps auf uns herabregnen ließ. Aber das hat mich nicht sonderlich gestört.
Amüsiert hat mich, dass der Autor eines meiner Lieblingsfeindbilder verwendet hat.
Alles in allem hat mir das Buch gut gefallen und ich vergebe 4 Sterne und freue mich schon auf den Folgeband.
----------------------------
This is a really entertaining, exciting and funny urban fantasy thriller with a protagonist whose profession was completely new to me.
Aloysius MacBharrais is one of 5 sigil agents worldwide. His magic is based on sigils, which he creates using special inks he mixes himself. He acts as an intermediary between our real human world and the fairy realm and holds the office of diplomat/policeman. As his apprentice chokes on a sultana scone, all sorts of dark machinations come to light that Al has to deal with.
Kevin Hearne hasn't reinvented the wheel here, although he has included some nice ideas in the book.
There were also a few places where the author rained down veritable info dumps on us in long monologues. But that didn't bother me too much.
I was amused that the author used one of my favourite enemy images.
All in all, I enjoyed the book and give it 4 stars and am already looking forward to the next volume.
********************
Dies ist ein wirklich unterhaltsamer, spannender und witziger Urban Fantasy-Krimi mit einem Protagonisten, dessen Beruf mir völlig neu war.
Aloysius MacBharrais ist einer von weltweit 5 Siegelagenten. Seine Magie beruht auf Siegeln, die er mit speziellen, selbst angerührten Tinten herstellt. Er fungiert als Mittelsmann zwischen unserer realen Menschen welt und dem Feenreich und hat die übt das Amt eines Diplomaten/Polizisten aus. Als Lehrling erstickt an einem Rosinenscone und so treten allerhand dunkle Machenschaften zutage, um die Al sich kümmern muss.
Kevin Hearne hat hier das Rad nicht neu erfunden, obwohl er schon einige nette Ideen in dem Buch untergebracht hat.
Es gab auch einige Stellen, in denen der Autor in länglichen Monologen wahre Infodumps auf uns herabregnen ließ. Aber das hat mich nicht sonderlich gestört.
Amüsiert hat mich, dass der Autor eines meiner Lieblingsfeindbilder verwendet hat.
Alles in allem hat mir das Buch gut gefallen und ich vergebe 4 Sterne und freue mich schon auf den Folgeband.
----------------------------
This is a really entertaining, exciting and funny urban fantasy thriller with a protagonist whose profession was completely new to me.
Aloysius MacBharrais is one of 5 sigil agents worldwide. His magic is based on sigils, which he creates using special inks he mixes himself. He acts as an intermediary between our real human world and the fairy realm and holds the office of diplomat/policeman. As his apprentice chokes on a sultana scone, all sorts of dark machinations come to light that Al has to deal with.
Kevin Hearne hasn't reinvented the wheel here, although he has included some nice ideas in the book.
There were also a few places where the author rained down veritable info dumps on us in long monologues. But that didn't bother me too much.
I was amused that the author used one of my favourite enemy images.
All in all, I enjoyed the book and give it 4 stars and am already looking forward to the next volume.
August 6, 2020
There are two curses on Aloysius MacBharrais, placed by someone who is very good at what they do. Curse one involves Al having to be very careful with who he talks to - and how. Curse two seemed to only manifest itself in one character who wasn't even a character; this character was only a name and had no presence in the book. So here goes Al trying to keep his part of the world's geography clearly marked with who and what can travel here from other planes. Somebody is working some kind of trafficking in altered Fae. So who, what and why? That's all Al has to figure out. And fix.
I began reading the Iron Druid Chronicles written by this author and loved them until....I didn't. I think this movement to a character completely grounded in the modern world has the chance to become interesting because of the scope available for future stories. However, having Al saddled with that curse made story progression slow down and almost halt at times. He also has to retire to a special place to draw the sigils he will (?) need in whatever encounter he's going toward. Then using each sigil has it's own difficulties. It just felt rather awkward and slow for the special effects to be utilized. If you've been missing Atticus O'Sullivan and Oberon they both make an appearance in this book, but not as actors in this drama, more as a temptation. Seemed like an author pushing their own series within a different series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House, Ballantine, Del Ray for an e-galley of this novel.
I began reading the Iron Druid Chronicles written by this author and loved them until....I didn't. I think this movement to a character completely grounded in the modern world has the chance to become interesting because of the scope available for future stories. However, having Al saddled with that curse made story progression slow down and almost halt at times. He also has to retire to a special place to draw the sigils he will (?) need in whatever encounter he's going toward. Then using each sigil has it's own difficulties. It just felt rather awkward and slow for the special effects to be utilized. If you've been missing Atticus O'Sullivan and Oberon they both make an appearance in this book, but not as actors in this drama, more as a temptation. Seemed like an author pushing their own series within a different series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House, Ballantine, Del Ray for an e-galley of this novel.
September 25, 2021
Goodreads says five stars means "it was amazing," and I certainly did find this book to be amazing in spite of one rather weak area. So I think I can at least say 4.5 stars rounded up. Now if I were familiar with Glasgow, or had even been in Scotland, it might be a different matter, because Hearne goes very heavily into the dialect and urban culture of Glasgow and it seems authentic to me as an outsider (a few of my ancestors were Scottish, but that's as far as I get).
The most delightful thing about the novel? The characters, the humor, and the storyline. It's a rollicking action ride with moments of thoughtful reflection that fit very smoothly into the unfolding adventure. Beyond that there's a new urban fantasy world, quite cleverly thought out, that's revealed in little bits here and there until finally we get a full, explicit account on pages 205-208 in my hardcover edition. By then I was so invested in this world that the info dump was a pleasure to read (and that doesn't usually happen).
The first-person narrator, Al MacBharrais (pronounced "MacVarish"), is one of only five sigil agents in the world. Sigil agents compound inks from special rare ingredients to draw different sigils that have specific magical effects when unsealed, and they use their sigils in the course of enforcing contracts that bind supernatural beings who enter our dimension from wherever they reside. As the blurb says, Al "uses his gifts to protect our world from rogue minions of various pantheons, especially the Fae."
In this version of the universe, gods are creatures of human imagination and faith, but they're real because people have given them life; the same goes for all the supernatural critters of folklore. Since the invention of photography and the proliferation of iron and steel across our world, contacts between humans and supernaturals have been strictly regulated by the sigil system under the direction of , who plays a major role in the story but doesn't enter soon enough to avoid my spoiler tag!
Al MacBharrais (pronounced "MacVarish," remember) is unusual among urban fantasy main characters--he's sixty-three years old, at the peak of his abilities, strongly ethical and sympathetic to people who are really suffering, with fascinating insights into himself and others. The only turn-off for me is too much fussing with his mustache. Oh well, can't have everything.
Al has teamed up with Nadia, a pit fighter and accountant whose dual life comes in very handy indeed. No romance--Nadia has a female life partner and Al still feels the death of his beloved wife years before. While Al is somewhat genteel, the other principal players are anything but; be ready for some coarse language in that Weegie dialect. Besides Nadia, there's a paranoid hacker whose current alias is Saxon Codpiece ("last week it was Languid Eggplant") and there's a new recruit to this team of misfits who's decided to call himself Buck Foi.
Buck Foi is a hobgoblin, pink and two feet tall, and he hits Al with the main plot of the novel right there in Chapter One (titled "Scones Should Come with a Warning"). The blurb doesn't tell us everything we find out in that chapter, so here goes.
Al has had seven apprentices, and each one has died in a freak accident. The latest to die, named Gordie, choked on a raisin scone, making Al wonder why on earth the fool would try to eat a raisin scone. Al rushes to the scene to remove evidence of the sigil system before the police, investigating the suspicious death, get their hands on something really dangerous for everyone. He uses three sigils to gain acceptance from law enforcement at the scene, and he makes a shocking discovery.
"Gordie was living a secret life of crime," the blurb says, but it doesn't say what the crime was. In Gordie's apartment, in a room the cops haven't gotten to yet, there are two cages. One is empty, and the other contains the hobgoblin. Al demands,
And that's the one weak part of the story. The mastermind behind the evil project, who might be the villain of the whole series, shows up in one scene and is quite well portrayed, I thought. Also, the "minions" that Al, Nadia, and Buck fight are a colorful lot. And I agree they had to be stopped, so the plot holds firm. But what they were up to wasn't very original and parts of it fell flat for me
I'd say the humor throughout this story saved the day, and I really want to see a LOT more of Al, Nadia, Buck, Inspector Munro, the goddesses, and maybe even whatever Saxon Codpiece calls himself this week.
The most delightful thing about the novel? The characters, the humor, and the storyline. It's a rollicking action ride with moments of thoughtful reflection that fit very smoothly into the unfolding adventure. Beyond that there's a new urban fantasy world, quite cleverly thought out, that's revealed in little bits here and there until finally we get a full, explicit account on pages 205-208 in my hardcover edition. By then I was so invested in this world that the info dump was a pleasure to read (and that doesn't usually happen).
The first-person narrator, Al MacBharrais (pronounced "MacVarish"), is one of only five sigil agents in the world. Sigil agents compound inks from special rare ingredients to draw different sigils that have specific magical effects when unsealed, and they use their sigils in the course of enforcing contracts that bind supernatural beings who enter our dimension from wherever they reside. As the blurb says, Al "uses his gifts to protect our world from rogue minions of various pantheons, especially the Fae."
In this version of the universe, gods are creatures of human imagination and faith, but they're real because people have given them life; the same goes for all the supernatural critters of folklore. Since the invention of photography and the proliferation of iron and steel across our world, contacts between humans and supernaturals have been strictly regulated by the sigil system under the direction of , who plays a major role in the story but doesn't enter soon enough to avoid my spoiler tag!
Al MacBharrais (pronounced "MacVarish," remember) is unusual among urban fantasy main characters--he's sixty-three years old, at the peak of his abilities, strongly ethical and sympathetic to people who are really suffering, with fascinating insights into himself and others. The only turn-off for me is too much fussing with his mustache. Oh well, can't have everything.
Al has teamed up with Nadia, a pit fighter and accountant whose dual life comes in very handy indeed. No romance--Nadia has a female life partner and Al still feels the death of his beloved wife years before. While Al is somewhat genteel, the other principal players are anything but; be ready for some coarse language in that Weegie dialect. Besides Nadia, there's a paranoid hacker whose current alias is Saxon Codpiece ("last week it was Languid Eggplant") and there's a new recruit to this team of misfits who's decided to call himself Buck Foi.
Buck Foi is a hobgoblin, pink and two feet tall, and he hits Al with the main plot of the novel right there in Chapter One (titled "Scones Should Come with a Warning"). The blurb doesn't tell us everything we find out in that chapter, so here goes.
Al has had seven apprentices, and each one has died in a freak accident. The latest to die, named Gordie, choked on a raisin scone, making Al wonder why on earth the fool would try to eat a raisin scone. Al rushes to the scene to remove evidence of the sigil system before the police, investigating the suspicious death, get their hands on something really dangerous for everyone. He uses three sigils to gain acceptance from law enforcement at the scene, and he makes a shocking discovery.
"Gordie was living a secret life of crime," the blurb says, but it doesn't say what the crime was. In Gordie's apartment, in a room the cops haven't gotten to yet, there are two cages. One is empty, and the other contains the hobgoblin. Al demands,
"Who are ye and why did Gordie imprison ye here?"There is good discussion of the realities of human trafficking throughout the book, almost a public service and much less obtrusive than, say, Tolstoy's discussions in War and Peace, but by page 27 we know that the usual purposes of human trafficking aren't what this story is about. Saxon Codpiece (remember him?) finds an email exchange between Gordie and his buyer, code-named Bastille. Gordie asks what the "subjects" are being used for and Bastille replies, "Science. Glorious, lifesaving science."
"Said he was gonnay sell me. He's a trafficker in Fae folk, so he is. Or was."
"Nonsense." I stamped my cane on the floor. "Tell me the truth!"
The hobgoblin...placed his right hand over his heart, deploying the phrase that the Fae always used when they were swearing the truth... "I tell ye three times, man. He's got a buyer. I'm s'posed tae be delivered tonight. And I'm no the first he's sold. There was a pixie in here a couple of days ago, didnae stay long." ...
This information was more of a shock to me than Gordie's death. ...Trafficking Fae? I didn't know such traffic existed.
And that's the one weak part of the story. The mastermind behind the evil project, who might be the villain of the whole series, shows up in one scene and is quite well portrayed, I thought. Also, the "minions" that Al, Nadia, and Buck fight are a colorful lot. And I agree they had to be stopped, so the plot holds firm. But what they were up to wasn't very original and parts of it fell flat for me
I'd say the humor throughout this story saved the day, and I really want to see a LOT more of Al, Nadia, Buck, Inspector Munro, the goddesses, and maybe even whatever Saxon Codpiece calls himself this week.
October 3, 2024
Very nice 1st book in the series. Reminds me of his Iron Druid books. fun and entertaining read. Very recommended
December 24, 2021
I really enjoyed this. I will be checking out the Iron Druid now.
October 27, 2022
Al MacBharrais ist ein älterer Herr kurz vor der Rente mit einem besonderen Talent – er ist Siegelmagier. Mithilfe der richtigen Zutaten kann er Siegel herstellen, die Unvorstellbares bewirken. Um dieses Wissen weiterzugeben, bevor er in den Ruhestand tritt, versucht er seit langem, einen Schüler auszubilden, doch leider ist bisher jeder potentielle Nachfolger vor Beendigung seiner Ausbildung tragisch verstorben. Dass das ein-, vielleicht zweimal passiert, okay. Aber sechsmal?
Als dann auch der siebte Schüler den Löffel abgibt, macht sich Al an die Ermittlungen. Und bald stößt er auf immer größere Rätsel. Kann es sein, dass sein letzter Schüler auch noch andere Geschichten am Laufen hatte? Erste Erkenntnisse legen nahe, dass Gordie in den illegalen Feenhandel verstrickt war? Schon bald ahnt Al, dass all die Todesfälle kein Zufall sein können.
_________________________
Yeah, that was a hot mess.
Mal wieder ein klassischer Fall von „das Cover hat mich überzeugt, den Klappentext hab ich nicht angeschaut“. Irgendwie hat mir der gezeichnete Einband so gut gefallen, dass ich das Hörbuch einfach mal begonnen habe. Nach einer halben Stunde hab ich dann den Klappentext gelesen und dachte mir „hm, naja, vielleicht wird’s besser, als es sich anhört“ und zwischendrin hatte ich tatsächlich auch das Gefühl, eine ganz okaye Geschichte zu hören.
Aber je weiter die Geschichte fortgeschritten ist, desto weniger interessierte sie mich. Die Figuren waren anfangs noch sympathisch, aber insgesamt dann doch so überzogen, dass man die Augen verdrehen musste. Der Humor war stellenweise gut, an anderen Stellen dann jedoch wieder peinlich-pubertär. Das mit den Siegeln war eine mir neue Idee von Magie, aber wie genau sie funktionieren, wurde nicht ganz klar. Irgendwann war es dann auch einfach etwas zu convenient, dass es für jede Situation ein passendes Siegel gab, sodass man sich aus jeder Lage befreien kann.
Ich habe Kevin Hearnes Iron Druid Reihe nicht gelesen, somit weiß ich nicht, ob das Eintauchen in die Welt bei Kenntnis der ersten Reihe nicht etwas einfacher fällt.
Gut fand ich, dass Hearne mit dem illegalen Feen-Handel ein Problem anspricht, das auch den in der echten Welt ein äquivalentes Problem darstellt. Finds immer ganz gut, wenn es in Fantasywelten auch gesellschaftliche und politische Probleme gibt.
Letztendlich hatte „Tinte und Siegel“ für mich jedoch mehr Schwächen als Stärken, sodass ich die Reihe voraussichtlich nicht weiterverfolgen werde.
Als dann auch der siebte Schüler den Löffel abgibt, macht sich Al an die Ermittlungen. Und bald stößt er auf immer größere Rätsel. Kann es sein, dass sein letzter Schüler auch noch andere Geschichten am Laufen hatte? Erste Erkenntnisse legen nahe, dass Gordie in den illegalen Feenhandel verstrickt war? Schon bald ahnt Al, dass all die Todesfälle kein Zufall sein können.
_________________________
Yeah, that was a hot mess.
Mal wieder ein klassischer Fall von „das Cover hat mich überzeugt, den Klappentext hab ich nicht angeschaut“. Irgendwie hat mir der gezeichnete Einband so gut gefallen, dass ich das Hörbuch einfach mal begonnen habe. Nach einer halben Stunde hab ich dann den Klappentext gelesen und dachte mir „hm, naja, vielleicht wird’s besser, als es sich anhört“ und zwischendrin hatte ich tatsächlich auch das Gefühl, eine ganz okaye Geschichte zu hören.
Aber je weiter die Geschichte fortgeschritten ist, desto weniger interessierte sie mich. Die Figuren waren anfangs noch sympathisch, aber insgesamt dann doch so überzogen, dass man die Augen verdrehen musste. Der Humor war stellenweise gut, an anderen Stellen dann jedoch wieder peinlich-pubertär. Das mit den Siegeln war eine mir neue Idee von Magie, aber wie genau sie funktionieren, wurde nicht ganz klar. Irgendwann war es dann auch einfach etwas zu convenient, dass es für jede Situation ein passendes Siegel gab, sodass man sich aus jeder Lage befreien kann.
Ich habe Kevin Hearnes Iron Druid Reihe nicht gelesen, somit weiß ich nicht, ob das Eintauchen in die Welt bei Kenntnis der ersten Reihe nicht etwas einfacher fällt.
Gut fand ich, dass Hearne mit dem illegalen Feen-Handel ein Problem anspricht, das auch den in der echten Welt ein äquivalentes Problem darstellt. Finds immer ganz gut, wenn es in Fantasywelten auch gesellschaftliche und politische Probleme gibt.
Letztendlich hatte „Tinte und Siegel“ für mich jedoch mehr Schwächen als Stärken, sodass ich die Reihe voraussichtlich nicht weiterverfolgen werde.
August 5, 2020
Aloysius “Al” MacBharrais is a Sigil Agent. Only five such people in the world exist and it is their ability to create sigils from special ink that make them special. These sigils work like magic spells and can be used for both offensive and defensive and even for more mundane purposes. But when Al’s apprentice dies by choking to death on a scone, Al is convinced it isn’t really an accident. Perhaps that is because his previous six apprentices have also all died in various accidents. His investigation into the death leads him to another crime, this time a large-scale fey trafficking ring being run by what appears to be some sort of governmental organization. He manages to free a mischievous hobgoblin who was next to be sold off and who then acts as a sidekick throughout the rest of the story.
This first-in-a-series novel takes place in the same universe as the author’s Iron Druid Chronicles although it’s important to note that it is not necessary to have read those books in order to enjoy this one. The character of Al MacBharrais is well developed in this first book along with his sigil craft and several of his closest friends and allies. Some of this is told through brief flashback sequences but the author does this in creative ways to avoid dreaded info dumps. At one point he even remembers back to when he met Atticus O'Sullivan, the Iron Druid himself, as well as his loyal dog companion Oberon.
This book does have a fair bit of dialog that reflects unique Scottish terminology and accents (specifically Glaswegian, or “Weegie"). When I read that in the author’s note at the beginning of the book along with a pronunciation guide, I was plenty worried. That sort of thing often yanks me out of any kind of immersive storytelling experience. But here, it didn’t bother me at all. In fact, I think it helped me see and hear these people better.
There is quite a bit of humor in the novel, perhaps even more than can be found in the Iron Druid stories. Some of it is a little juvenile, especially from the hobgoblin, but then that seems totally in character for a hob anyway. Most of it is actually quite clever and original.
Recommended. Keven Hearne fans will not be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free ARC in return for an honest review
This first-in-a-series novel takes place in the same universe as the author’s Iron Druid Chronicles although it’s important to note that it is not necessary to have read those books in order to enjoy this one. The character of Al MacBharrais is well developed in this first book along with his sigil craft and several of his closest friends and allies. Some of this is told through brief flashback sequences but the author does this in creative ways to avoid dreaded info dumps. At one point he even remembers back to when he met Atticus O'Sullivan, the Iron Druid himself, as well as his loyal dog companion Oberon.
This book does have a fair bit of dialog that reflects unique Scottish terminology and accents (specifically Glaswegian, or “Weegie"). When I read that in the author’s note at the beginning of the book along with a pronunciation guide, I was plenty worried. That sort of thing often yanks me out of any kind of immersive storytelling experience. But here, it didn’t bother me at all. In fact, I think it helped me see and hear these people better.
There is quite a bit of humor in the novel, perhaps even more than can be found in the Iron Druid stories. Some of it is a little juvenile, especially from the hobgoblin, but then that seems totally in character for a hob anyway. Most of it is actually quite clever and original.
Recommended. Keven Hearne fans will not be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free ARC in return for an honest review
June 18, 2020
Is there anything better than a book that not only transports you to another reality, but does so while with a fresh and unique flair?
Al MacBharrais is not your typical magical user. He isn’t young and dashing, he’s been cursed, but his ability to create magic out of ink and paper. Kevin Hearnes’ INK & SIGIL is part mystery and mayhem and one hundred percent entertaining as Al attempts to discover why his apprentices are dying and what evil is lurking in the shadows.
Let go of reality as you know it, embrace a world filled with magic, hobgoblins and a quirky group of allies as Al becomes his own brand of detective in a world many couldn’t imagine even exists, while avoiding the real detectives around every corner.
Prepare for some humor, some unusual characters, a lot of darkness and a look into the world of magic, power and plenty of action. Entertaining, well developed and set at a pace that will keep readers turning pages.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Del Rey! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Ink & Sigil - Book 1
Publisher: Del Rey (August 25, 2020)
Publication Date: August 25, 2020
Genre: Fantasy Fiction
Print Length: 336 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Al MacBharrais is not your typical magical user. He isn’t young and dashing, he’s been cursed, but his ability to create magic out of ink and paper. Kevin Hearnes’ INK & SIGIL is part mystery and mayhem and one hundred percent entertaining as Al attempts to discover why his apprentices are dying and what evil is lurking in the shadows.
Let go of reality as you know it, embrace a world filled with magic, hobgoblins and a quirky group of allies as Al becomes his own brand of detective in a world many couldn’t imagine even exists, while avoiding the real detectives around every corner.
Prepare for some humor, some unusual characters, a lot of darkness and a look into the world of magic, power and plenty of action. Entertaining, well developed and set at a pace that will keep readers turning pages.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Del Rey! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Ink & Sigil - Book 1
Publisher: Del Rey (August 25, 2020)
Publication Date: August 25, 2020
Genre: Fantasy Fiction
Print Length: 336 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 8, 2020
If you are someone who is tired of hearing how white men are evil, rich people are evil, and Trump is a Russian puppet then this will not be a book for you. If that is your thing then you will find it to be in the 4 to 5 star range for you.
For me, it is less than one star. Kevin decided in this book to go all out with characters that do nothing but express their disdain for anything that doesn't conform to their narrow view on the world, views that if the race and sex were reversed would be considered racist and sexist. The last straw for me was when the American sigil agent decided to go off about how Russia interfered with the election and installed a puppet.
I pick up fantasy and scifi books to escape the insanity of identitarian politics, not to read the spewing of the author's diatribe on his political beliefs. If that is what he wants to do that is fine and he is well within his rights to do so, and I'm sure he will continue to sell books, but I won't be one of those purchasing his books nor recommending them any longer.
In short, if you think, "orange man bad" then this book is for you, if on the other hand you are fed up with that kind of insanity then give this one a pass.
For me, it is less than one star. Kevin decided in this book to go all out with characters that do nothing but express their disdain for anything that doesn't conform to their narrow view on the world, views that if the race and sex were reversed would be considered racist and sexist. The last straw for me was when the American sigil agent decided to go off about how Russia interfered with the election and installed a puppet.
I pick up fantasy and scifi books to escape the insanity of identitarian politics, not to read the spewing of the author's diatribe on his political beliefs. If that is what he wants to do that is fine and he is well within his rights to do so, and I'm sure he will continue to sell books, but I won't be one of those purchasing his books nor recommending them any longer.
In short, if you think, "orange man bad" then this book is for you, if on the other hand you are fed up with that kind of insanity then give this one a pass.
January 27, 2026
via Audible:
Loved the narration by Luke Daniels. MC voice reminded me of Fat "Get in muh belly" Bastard from Austin Powers fame.
Really enjoyed the story and I'm definitely interested in checking out more of the Iron Druid Chronicles.
Loved the narration by Luke Daniels. MC voice reminded me of Fat "Get in muh belly" Bastard from Austin Powers fame.
Really enjoyed the story and I'm definitely interested in checking out more of the Iron Druid Chronicles.
September 5, 2020
I was incredibly excited when I learned that Kevin Hearne was going to jump back into his Iron Druid world and publish a side story. Ink & Sigil immediately jumped onto my "I have to have this book'' list. I love the Iron Druid series, and I was very sad when the series concluded. I love Hearne's Seven Kennings series, but Atticus and Oberon hold a special place in my booklover's heart. I will always read a book set in their world, even if they aren't in it!
Al is both blessed and cursed.....literally. He uses his magical powers to protect this world, but it comes at a cost. Anyone who hears his voice will begin to hate him....really hate him. So he writes his words and uses technology instead of his voice. When his apprentice is killed, Al finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation. Its not easy to investigate a death in Scotland's magical underworld, but Al is determined to discover the truth.
I loved reading the story of another sigil agent. Al is a great character and Hearne is a great storyteller! I read my review copy and immediately purchased the audio book. I have all the Iron Druid books in audio format, so had to have this one as well! I can't wait to find out what is in store for Al and his magnificent moustache next!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Random House publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Al is both blessed and cursed.....literally. He uses his magical powers to protect this world, but it comes at a cost. Anyone who hears his voice will begin to hate him....really hate him. So he writes his words and uses technology instead of his voice. When his apprentice is killed, Al finds himself embroiled in a murder investigation. Its not easy to investigate a death in Scotland's magical underworld, but Al is determined to discover the truth.
I loved reading the story of another sigil agent. Al is a great character and Hearne is a great storyteller! I read my review copy and immediately purchased the audio book. I have all the Iron Druid books in audio format, so had to have this one as well! I can't wait to find out what is in store for Al and his magnificent moustache next!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Random House publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
February 26, 2021
Oh, Foi.
The book started as my funniest read this year and somehow ended in a severe disillusion.
The first half was great. The idea of a sixty year old protagonist, who has to use a voice app on his phone to communicate because of a curse was brillant and something I haven't read before. Also the Hobgoblin Buck, watching Netflix and Lord of the Rings, was hilarious. Sigils as a magic system were rare as well. And finally, to include the topic of (human and fae) trafficking as to raise awareness was welcomed.
Then I read the chapters of how Nadia, Dhanya and Al met for the first time.
First off, Nadia is Als manager. She's a kickass pitfighter with a magical advantage. She wears black on black, wears a mohawk and has a no-bullshit-attitude, which is cool. She's Indian (which is never explicitly stated from Als POV) and has a girlfriend. Nice!
Then, I get to see their "witchwagon", painted with a fictional lizardgod in a white robe, who "stands for the white patriarchat, for the rich elite and excess", a lizard who "grills men on a stick". Inside there is a carpet with "unicorns piercing men". And, to top that, Dhanya states they have "salt from Mens Tears" in their refrigerator (a very political statement). Everything about this is NOT COOL.
Imagine the shitstorm if they were men laughing about pierced women.
I guess women can't be sexist, right?
Also, the evil scientists are labelled "white man/woman" (wait, now the color is important?).
This is the sort of political agenda and double standard I don't stand for in fantasy books.
This is the reason why people think diversity is bad, because it's forced down their throats. Because some authors are disrespectful towards white people/men and display political issues instead of setting a good example and write a good story which everyone can enjoy.
The book started as my funniest read this year and somehow ended in a severe disillusion.
The first half was great. The idea of a sixty year old protagonist, who has to use a voice app on his phone to communicate because of a curse was brillant and something I haven't read before. Also the Hobgoblin Buck, watching Netflix and Lord of the Rings, was hilarious. Sigils as a magic system were rare as well. And finally, to include the topic of (human and fae) trafficking as to raise awareness was welcomed.
Then I read the chapters of how Nadia, Dhanya and Al met for the first time.
First off, Nadia is Als manager. She's a kickass pitfighter with a magical advantage. She wears black on black, wears a mohawk and has a no-bullshit-attitude, which is cool. She's Indian (which is never explicitly stated from Als POV) and has a girlfriend. Nice!
Then, I get to see their "witchwagon", painted with a fictional lizardgod in a white robe, who "stands for the white patriarchat, for the rich elite and excess", a lizard who "grills men on a stick". Inside there is a carpet with "unicorns piercing men". And, to top that, Dhanya states they have "salt from Mens Tears" in their refrigerator (a very political statement). Everything about this is NOT COOL.
Imagine the shitstorm if they were men laughing about pierced women.
I guess women can't be sexist, right?
Also, the evil scientists are labelled "white man/woman" (wait, now the color is important?).
This is the sort of political agenda and double standard I don't stand for in fantasy books.
This is the reason why people think diversity is bad, because it's forced down their throats. Because some authors are disrespectful towards white people/men and display political issues instead of setting a good example and write a good story which everyone can enjoy.
April 22, 2020
I love the Iron Druid series and jumped at the chance to get an ARC of Kevin Hearne's new series debut Ink & Sigil from Net Galley. I did enjoy it, but I hope the next one might have a little more pizzazz. I was nervous about the thorough guide to dialect and pronunciation at the beginning of the book as I was already reading a dystopian book that is told in deteriorated English that was wearing on me. Not the case here, it was easy to follow and pronounce in my head. The characters are likable enough, the villains a little flat. It was pleasant enough reading and moved quickly. I'd like to see something a little stronger for the second outing.
May 16, 2021
Siegelmagier Al war mir sofort sympathisch. Er ist älter als meine üblichen Protagonisten und strahlt trotz oder gerade wegen all der Dinge, die er schon erlebt hat, eine gewisse Weisheit, Ruhe und Reife aus. Die Wesen, mit denen er tagtäglich zu tun hat, sind oft gefährlich und er wird immer mit neuen Situationen konfrontiert, aber er hat genug Berufserfahrung, um nie die Contenance zu verlieren und schnell neue Pläne zu fassen.
Er musste aber auch schon eine ganze Menge durchmachen, denn er ist nicht nur verflucht, sodass jeder, der seine Stimme hört ihn früher oder später zu hassen beginnt, er hat nun auch den siebten Lehrling verloren, der dazu auch noch Dreck am Stecken hatte.
Der Humor im Buch hat mir schon sehr gut gefallen, denn er bildet oft einen wunderbaren Kontrast zu Als gelassener Art und den eigentlich ernsten Themen im Buch. Schon die bunte Mischung der Charakter bringt viel Abwechslung in die Geschichte, wie Kämpferin/Managerin/Goth Nadia oder der verzweifelte Hobgoblin Buck mit seinen derben Sprüchen. Die Geschichte wird spannend durch Als Ermittlungen bezüglich der Wesen, an deren Entführung sein letzter Lehrling beteiligt war, und den ständig drohenden Gefahren durch die Feenwesen, die Al so souverän und nonchalant meistert, was ihr Abenteuer auch wieder unterhaltsam gestaltet. Auch die Magie der Siegel sowie die verschiedenen Regeln der Feenwelt fand ich wirklich interessant.
Fazit
In "Tinte & Siegel" gefiel mir besonders Protagonist Al, der immer der Herr der Lage ist, und die magische Geschichte um entführte Feenwesen, die sowohl spannend als auch sehr unterhaltsam ist.
Er musste aber auch schon eine ganze Menge durchmachen, denn er ist nicht nur verflucht, sodass jeder, der seine Stimme hört ihn früher oder später zu hassen beginnt, er hat nun auch den siebten Lehrling verloren, der dazu auch noch Dreck am Stecken hatte.
Der Humor im Buch hat mir schon sehr gut gefallen, denn er bildet oft einen wunderbaren Kontrast zu Als gelassener Art und den eigentlich ernsten Themen im Buch. Schon die bunte Mischung der Charakter bringt viel Abwechslung in die Geschichte, wie Kämpferin/Managerin/Goth Nadia oder der verzweifelte Hobgoblin Buck mit seinen derben Sprüchen. Die Geschichte wird spannend durch Als Ermittlungen bezüglich der Wesen, an deren Entführung sein letzter Lehrling beteiligt war, und den ständig drohenden Gefahren durch die Feenwesen, die Al so souverän und nonchalant meistert, was ihr Abenteuer auch wieder unterhaltsam gestaltet. Auch die Magie der Siegel sowie die verschiedenen Regeln der Feenwelt fand ich wirklich interessant.
Fazit
In "Tinte & Siegel" gefiel mir besonders Protagonist Al, der immer der Herr der Lage ist, und die magische Geschichte um entführte Feenwesen, die sowohl spannend als auch sehr unterhaltsam ist.
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