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Frith Chronicles #8
Grandmaster Arcanist
The Frith Guild. The Second Ascension. The end of an era.
Volke Savan has sworn he’ll bring the Second Ascension to justice, but as the Autarch amasses power, it becomes apparent Volke’s task might not go as originally planned. God-arcanists gather on two sides of a brewing war, and the outcome of the arcane plague will determine the fate of the world.
With Evianna at his side, Volke must not only find the last of the god-creatures, but he must locate Luthair, defeat the Autarch, and save his friends from the ultimate corruption. As the tasks mount, so does Volke’s determination.
But the legends of the magic-destroying apoch dragon may change everything. The Autarch has made sure of it.
Volke Savan has sworn he’ll bring the Second Ascension to justice, but as the Autarch amasses power, it becomes apparent Volke’s task might not go as originally planned. God-arcanists gather on two sides of a brewing war, and the outcome of the arcane plague will determine the fate of the world.
With Evianna at his side, Volke must not only find the last of the god-creatures, but he must locate Luthair, defeat the Autarch, and save his friends from the ultimate corruption. As the tasks mount, so does Volke’s determination.
But the legends of the magic-destroying apoch dragon may change everything. The Autarch has made sure of it.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2023
188 people are currently reading
439 people want to read
About the author
Shami Stovall
45 books827 followersShami Stovall is a multi-award-winning author of fantasy and science fiction. Before that, she taught history and criminal law at the college level, and loved every second. When she’s not reading fascinating articles and books about ancient China or the Byzantine Empire, Stovall can be found playing way too many video games, especially RPGs and tactics simulators.
If you want to contact her, you can do so at the following locations:
Website: https://sastovallauthor.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GameOverStation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAStovall/
Email: s.adelle.s@gmail.com
If you want to contact her, you can do so at the following locations:
Website: https://sastovallauthor.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GameOverStation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAStovall/
Email: s.adelle.s@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
April 11, 2023
The Autarch and The Second Ascension will stop at nothing to rule the world. Only Volke and his allies stand in his way. Volke plans to find the rest of the God creatures and finish the Autarch. All the while the apoch dragon looms in the minds of all the God Arcanists.
I have so many complaints about Grandmaster Arcanist, just so so many. I will say that I won't complain about the ending though. That hit me right in the feelings. I also felt it was an earned ending that won't sour me from continuing to read books by Shami Stovall in the future.
So about those complaints...where to begin. I have felt the books after The World Serpent Arcanist have simply been rushed to put it mildly. I largely feel like the God Arcanists should have been a whole separate series, preferably with multiple point of view characters, it could have revolved around Volke's brother (who with some slight tweaks could bond with the World Serpent instead of Volke.) Having it revolve around a different God Arcanist would have worked too. It took five books to build up The Frith Guild and Volke just for everything to get carried away afterwards. Very little even happens between Arcanist Fables, Warlord Arcanist, Master Arcanist, and Grandmaster Arcanist. Most of the time is spent searching for god creatures with a little bit of training for Volke. I would have completely preferred battles or intrigue, but there really wasn't much of that. Lots of travel though and contemplation about the future.
Throughout the series the cast of characters grew to an unmanageable amount. There were so many characters and with only one point of view character each new character just further took page time away from other characters. Some characters popped up to disappear nearly as quickly like Yevin Venrover and others play what seems to be a large roll yet simply disappear later on like King Odion, Jozé, Karna, and others I'm surely forgetting.
The Villains may be the absolute worst part of the series. They just did not get any time to show who they are, with the exception of Theasin Venrover. Theasin honestly should have been the main villain all along anyway. There is no reason he couldn't have been the Autarch instead. Speaking of the Autarch, that character was a complete waste. He is teased throughout yet he barely appears in Grandmaster Arcanist. His desire to destroy everything and rebuild it to his liking really never gets explored. When he finally appears in the last 20% of the book, I wasn't sure he was even going to speak. It truthfully didn't matter because he didn't have much of worth to say anyway.
The Frith Chronicles do the worst job of describing romantic relationships I've ever seen. It makes me think of the scene in The 40-Year-Old Virgin where Steve Carell's character Andy describes touching a breast, "You know how when you grab a woman's breast... it feels like... a bag of sand." The description of romantic relationships are like that except without any humor regarding it. They all act like preteens regardless of their age. There is so much blushing and embarrassment. Even Lynus (Callisto) is going around blushing when people talk about relationships. I just...I can't. It is embarrassingly bad honestly. It was almost as though someone forced the author into writing about relationships and the very thought makes her blush in embarrassment. She simply couldn't imagine anyone doing anything else.
Grandmaster Arcanist overall wraps up a disappointing three book stretch after The World Serpent Arcanist. It all feels like wasted opportunity. I can easily imagine this book and its two predecessors being considerably more interesting. That makes me sad. I had much higher expectations after Plague Arcanist and the series never reached my expectations.
I have so many complaints about Grandmaster Arcanist, just so so many. I will say that I won't complain about the ending though. That hit me right in the feelings. I also felt it was an earned ending that won't sour me from continuing to read books by Shami Stovall in the future.
So about those complaints...where to begin. I have felt the books after The World Serpent Arcanist have simply been rushed to put it mildly. I largely feel like the God Arcanists should have been a whole separate series, preferably with multiple point of view characters, it could have revolved around Volke's brother (who with some slight tweaks could bond with the World Serpent instead of Volke.) Having it revolve around a different God Arcanist would have worked too. It took five books to build up The Frith Guild and Volke just for everything to get carried away afterwards. Very little even happens between Arcanist Fables, Warlord Arcanist, Master Arcanist, and Grandmaster Arcanist. Most of the time is spent searching for god creatures with a little bit of training for Volke. I would have completely preferred battles or intrigue, but there really wasn't much of that. Lots of travel though and contemplation about the future.
Throughout the series the cast of characters grew to an unmanageable amount. There were so many characters and with only one point of view character each new character just further took page time away from other characters. Some characters popped up to disappear nearly as quickly like Yevin Venrover and others play what seems to be a large roll yet simply disappear later on like King Odion, Jozé, Karna, and others I'm surely forgetting.
The Villains may be the absolute worst part of the series. They just did not get any time to show who they are, with the exception of Theasin Venrover. Theasin honestly should have been the main villain all along anyway. There is no reason he couldn't have been the Autarch instead. Speaking of the Autarch, that character was a complete waste. He is teased throughout yet he barely appears in Grandmaster Arcanist. His desire to destroy everything and rebuild it to his liking really never gets explored. When he finally appears in the last 20% of the book, I wasn't sure he was even going to speak. It truthfully didn't matter because he didn't have much of worth to say anyway.
The Frith Chronicles do the worst job of describing romantic relationships I've ever seen. It makes me think of the scene in The 40-Year-Old Virgin where Steve Carell's character Andy describes touching a breast, "You know how when you grab a woman's breast... it feels like... a bag of sand." The description of romantic relationships are like that except without any humor regarding it. They all act like preteens regardless of their age. There is so much blushing and embarrassment. Even Lynus (Callisto) is going around blushing when people talk about relationships. I just...I can't. It is embarrassingly bad honestly. It was almost as though someone forced the author into writing about relationships and the very thought makes her blush in embarrassment. She simply couldn't imagine anyone doing anything else.
Grandmaster Arcanist overall wraps up a disappointing three book stretch after The World Serpent Arcanist. It all feels like wasted opportunity. I can easily imagine this book and its two predecessors being considerably more interesting. That makes me sad. I had much higher expectations after Plague Arcanist and the series never reached my expectations.
March 9, 2023
Struggling to maintain series
There are 3 main issues Shami has proven to have throughout her series and her writing in general.
Scope.
Scale.
Timeline.
Now she has added a 4th in basic medieval tactics.
But I have to revisit the first 3 once again for why this bothers me so much in repetition for this series. I believe this is the 2nd at minimum, maybe 3rd time I have made this issue.
For timeline, Shami is writing each of these books to be happening consecutively without intermission. So that is causing her to lose track of the actual duration of the story. The first book started while Volke and his sister were 16. By book 8 Shami is acting like it has been 8 to 20 years later by context because it has taken her a number of years and life events, work, etc to write the books. But except for the rare occasion that she inconsistently basks the cast out for a 6 month out 2 week back trek into the oceans, which she does twice in the 8 books, making teleportation a thing I guess, or just dramatic expedience a convenient need for hurrying travel. Because not understanding geography or travel consistencies and not studying actual time over land analogues to stop breaking immersion in story.
The main issue for this are things like Volke and Evianna's relationship, her having been 13 or so when they met 4 books back 3 and a half years if factoring the fast forward travelogues in. But Shami's style acts like they have been together for a decade. Talking about things a few months earlier like a lifetime ago. A year before like a decade because 1 book prior. Nevermind the dynamics between Volke and Evianna were more between him and her sister, while she was a spoiled bratty child and still behaves as a tween sometimes while just projecting time. It's weird.
Scope. Like geography, get the analogues down better. It isn't 6 months out and 2 weeks back. If it takes 6 months straight out, it takes 6 months straight back using the same method of travel. Shami keeps doing this. Knowing your kingdoms and having some sense of consistency and relative distances... There is quite a bit here but it mixes too with Scale.
I have a lot to say specifically with scale.
Scale. 300 soldiers is laughable. Every single individual lord has well over 300 soldiers. A knight has some 30 to 100 soldiers dependent upon wealth of a feudal nation. Any king has thousands and more. 2500 soldiers is not a sizable army for an entire continent. 2500 soldiers does not begin to strain resources for a standing army. 500 is a standard garrison for a major castle keep. Start getting into the 10s of thousands for substantial armies for Europe, often 40s to 60s for average major battles in the 1200s to 1600s. In Asia it would reach the 100s of thousands.
2500 is not a marching army. It is a moderate mercenary force. A kingdom claiming itself a kingdom supplying 300 soldiers would long be consumed by a neighbor in a feudal society.
Back to Scope. We are in a feudal setting. There is no possibility of nations that can only have 300 soldiers to muster that could maintain an independence or would not form a republic with neighbors on the border of a tyranny kingdom fielding 15k and more with implied multiple legions.
Back to scale.
Language. Garuda cannot be giant and the scylla waters be giant, and the world serpent be giant, and the coatl... it implies they are all the same size. The world serpent has been described as dozens to hundred feet long and carrying people. The Garuda bird was described essentially as 10 feet tall, but then in description of its giantness, suddenly is the same size as the 100 foot long, dozen foot thick world serpent. There is no consistency in scale in description.
And finally.
Basic. Bloody. Medieval warfare tactics. Mild spoilers.
You are fighting 50 ships. 3 god beasts. You have 2 that specifically deal in fire and lava, 1 in lightning. And you just IGNORE and try to BLOCK the ships with stone? BURN THE SHIPS!
Shami attempts to weakly apply some weird, hey, Volke knows a tactic because he read a book once of a battle once of where they got cut off once, so have some scouts out... like that isn't also the most basic of tactics ever. As if there are no captains and generals in the field with people living for centuries because of arcanists like Liet who know a crap ton about combat and tactics. But lets rely on the 20 to 40 (really 24 year old) because timeline is all over the place that just generally romps and claim to strategy fame is the predecessor to the serpent was a tactical genius, therefore he must be too.
Just. Burn. The. Ships. And then they get massively played because PLOT ARMOR! congrats Shami. Book 8. You're either getting lazy, or careless, or rushed because all the things that were annoying previously just tore apart hard and we got to go with door number 3, done to death lazy plot armor, the main character has decided to be totally moronic and forget ships are made of wood, don't plan for that, just attrition them.
There are 3 main issues Shami has proven to have throughout her series and her writing in general.
Scope.
Scale.
Timeline.
Now she has added a 4th in basic medieval tactics.
But I have to revisit the first 3 once again for why this bothers me so much in repetition for this series. I believe this is the 2nd at minimum, maybe 3rd time I have made this issue.
For timeline, Shami is writing each of these books to be happening consecutively without intermission. So that is causing her to lose track of the actual duration of the story. The first book started while Volke and his sister were 16. By book 8 Shami is acting like it has been 8 to 20 years later by context because it has taken her a number of years and life events, work, etc to write the books. But except for the rare occasion that she inconsistently basks the cast out for a 6 month out 2 week back trek into the oceans, which she does twice in the 8 books, making teleportation a thing I guess, or just dramatic expedience a convenient need for hurrying travel. Because not understanding geography or travel consistencies and not studying actual time over land analogues to stop breaking immersion in story.
The main issue for this are things like Volke and Evianna's relationship, her having been 13 or so when they met 4 books back 3 and a half years if factoring the fast forward travelogues in. But Shami's style acts like they have been together for a decade. Talking about things a few months earlier like a lifetime ago. A year before like a decade because 1 book prior. Nevermind the dynamics between Volke and Evianna were more between him and her sister, while she was a spoiled bratty child and still behaves as a tween sometimes while just projecting time. It's weird.
Scope. Like geography, get the analogues down better. It isn't 6 months out and 2 weeks back. If it takes 6 months straight out, it takes 6 months straight back using the same method of travel. Shami keeps doing this. Knowing your kingdoms and having some sense of consistency and relative distances... There is quite a bit here but it mixes too with Scale.
I have a lot to say specifically with scale.
Scale. 300 soldiers is laughable. Every single individual lord has well over 300 soldiers. A knight has some 30 to 100 soldiers dependent upon wealth of a feudal nation. Any king has thousands and more. 2500 soldiers is not a sizable army for an entire continent. 2500 soldiers does not begin to strain resources for a standing army. 500 is a standard garrison for a major castle keep. Start getting into the 10s of thousands for substantial armies for Europe, often 40s to 60s for average major battles in the 1200s to 1600s. In Asia it would reach the 100s of thousands.
2500 is not a marching army. It is a moderate mercenary force. A kingdom claiming itself a kingdom supplying 300 soldiers would long be consumed by a neighbor in a feudal society.
Back to Scope. We are in a feudal setting. There is no possibility of nations that can only have 300 soldiers to muster that could maintain an independence or would not form a republic with neighbors on the border of a tyranny kingdom fielding 15k and more with implied multiple legions.
Back to scale.
Language. Garuda cannot be giant and the scylla waters be giant, and the world serpent be giant, and the coatl... it implies they are all the same size. The world serpent has been described as dozens to hundred feet long and carrying people. The Garuda bird was described essentially as 10 feet tall, but then in description of its giantness, suddenly is the same size as the 100 foot long, dozen foot thick world serpent. There is no consistency in scale in description.
And finally.
Basic. Bloody. Medieval warfare tactics. Mild spoilers.
You are fighting 50 ships. 3 god beasts. You have 2 that specifically deal in fire and lava, 1 in lightning. And you just IGNORE and try to BLOCK the ships with stone? BURN THE SHIPS!
Shami attempts to weakly apply some weird, hey, Volke knows a tactic because he read a book once of a battle once of where they got cut off once, so have some scouts out... like that isn't also the most basic of tactics ever. As if there are no captains and generals in the field with people living for centuries because of arcanists like Liet who know a crap ton about combat and tactics. But lets rely on the 20 to 40 (really 24 year old) because timeline is all over the place that just generally romps and claim to strategy fame is the predecessor to the serpent was a tactical genius, therefore he must be too.
Just. Burn. The. Ships. And then they get massively played because PLOT ARMOR! congrats Shami. Book 8. You're either getting lazy, or careless, or rushed because all the things that were annoying previously just tore apart hard and we got to go with door number 3, done to death lazy plot armor, the main character has decided to be totally moronic and forget ships are made of wood, don't plan for that, just attrition them.
April 11, 2023
Alas, the series conclusion has some glaring issues that made reading the final installment a bit of a slog. While it's pretty common for side-characters to "solidify" there personality/role/relationship in regards to the MC/Story near the end of a series, the extent for which that happened in this series made reading the conclusion both predictable and unfortunately boring.
Examples (Probably don't need spoiler tags... but will use them anyways):
Also, whats up with everyone in this story blushing at the mere mention of physical contact and/or sexual tension? I have never met even a single person that has blushes as much as these young (and not so young) adults... Considering the fact that seemingly every character in the series gets paired up at some point, you would presume everyone would be used to it.
Story gets two star. While it wasn't a satisfying conclusion, the mere fact that the story DID conclude was enough for me to +1 star it.
Examples (Probably don't need spoiler tags... but will use them anyways):
Also, whats up with everyone in this story blushing at the mere mention of physical contact and/or sexual tension? I have never met even a single person that has blushes as much as these young (and not so young) adults... Considering the fact that seemingly every character in the series gets paired up at some point, you would presume everyone would be used to it.
Story gets two star. While it wasn't a satisfying conclusion, the mere fact that the story DID conclude was enough for me to +1 star it.
January 29, 2023
Wow! Just Wow
Where do I begin? I started this journey with Shami and the Frith guild many years ago. I fell in love with the world and story she was telling. This series had me laughing at times and crying at others. It made me angry and joyous as the same time in other parts. I will forever be a fan of the world Shami has brought forth and breathed life into. While I am sadden to stand at the edge that is the end of Volke's story, I am excited to see where the new series takes us and how the Fable of the God Arcanists influence the world.
I can express the gratitude to Shami for writing this story and shake my fist at her for the ending as it had me putting the book down to wipe tears and calm my breathing before I could continue but it was an amazing ride.
I would recommend this series and give it a 10 star if I could. DO NOT pass up any opportunity to read this series. I have giving it to my own children and friends to read.
Thanks again Shami!
Where do I begin? I started this journey with Shami and the Frith guild many years ago. I fell in love with the world and story she was telling. This series had me laughing at times and crying at others. It made me angry and joyous as the same time in other parts. I will forever be a fan of the world Shami has brought forth and breathed life into. While I am sadden to stand at the edge that is the end of Volke's story, I am excited to see where the new series takes us and how the Fable of the God Arcanists influence the world.
I can express the gratitude to Shami for writing this story and shake my fist at her for the ending as it had me putting the book down to wipe tears and calm my breathing before I could continue but it was an amazing ride.
I would recommend this series and give it a 10 star if I could. DO NOT pass up any opportunity to read this series. I have giving it to my own children and friends to read.
Thanks again Shami!
February 6, 2023
Disappointing
I so much senseless drama, Honestly I pretty much skipped and skimmed through most of the book. It had some good parts but I wished the books were written differently. I felt like a big disappointment a bit let down. Btw creation and destruction are both sides of a coin, just limiting them to one or the other is silly. There was so much potential in the books. It's amazing just how many of them are yet so insecure.
I so much senseless drama, Honestly I pretty much skipped and skimmed through most of the book. It had some good parts but I wished the books were written differently. I felt like a big disappointment a bit let down. Btw creation and destruction are both sides of a coin, just limiting them to one or the other is silly. There was so much potential in the books. It's amazing just how many of them are yet so insecure.
May 25, 2023
*this is somewhat more of a series review than a book review*
I have to be honest, I’m completely split.
First, I loved this series at the start. There was a somewhat likable main character (Volke), with goals of just a fun time on the high seas and fighting evil pirates and bandits. There was his sister (Illia), who I never really liked, albeit did like more towards the end. There was Volke’s rival (Zaxis) who consistently butted heads with Volke (until he just doesn’t anymore (?)). There was the girl he wanted (Atty), who was smart and kind (and I liked this part I think because I could relate to Volke’s struggles with liking and getting through to her). There was a fun sense of carefreeness among the main characters, sailing the high seas, while fighting somewhat serious threats, such as pirates and bandits. I loved Coliseum Arcanist, as there was some real character development, some fresh new characters I enjoyed, like Lyvia and the Grandmaster Inquisitor (RIP to both), Karna, Devlin, and Joze. It also more or less set up the plot of the whole series and set the scene for a very good book, plague arcanist. Not to mention, the world building and design of magic in the world was spectacular, albeit being a somewhat generic magic system.
However, there were a lot of things, especially towards the end of the series, that I just did not like:
- I understand that Volke was always supposed to be a saintly main character, but he almost never grew as a character in my opinion, and towards the end became cheesy, cliche, (I hate to say this) boring.
- The ending was predictable: I knew that someone was going to do something to counteract the effects of a very powerful something at the end, by I think the sixth book. There also weren’t many (if any) plot twists or betrayals to keep the reader guessing, and that just made the book more boring.
- The Autarch just never felt like a full fledged villain to me, but just a half baked scapegoat who they don’t like because was trying to get everybody an eldrin and some magic (yes he might have had to break a lot of eggs to get there, but let him cook).
- There were so many stupid tactical decisions made that just frustrated me, and shouldn’t have worked. They just accept villains and people who helped villains into their crew, no questions asked. Who in their right mind would do that?
- The whole competition and power struggle between Zaxis and Volke just died out, with no explanation.
- So many stories and relationships, like Volke’s with his brother, Joze, Karna, and Atty were just unfinished, and in some cases left to die - he in essence just cast them away at the end and ignored them.
- I think my biggest gripe lies with Evianna. The whole relationship just left me with a bad feeling. When Volke met Evianna, she was a whiny brat, whose sister was likable. Not to mention the fact that she is something like 5 years younger than Volke, so their relationship was something like 19-14 at one point - kinda gross, right? She also seems way too submissive, and acts like a puppy around Volke - she does everything he says, hangs onto his arms, and doesn’t have many, if any, opinions of her own. I know that I am biased, but I much would’ve preferred the story if Volke and Atty had a relationship, instead of a weird Romeo and Juliet situation with Evianna.
All in all, I enjoyed this series, but the ending almost ruined it for me. Grandmaster Arcanist was still a good book, and the whole series was good, but could have definitely ended better. I will still read some of Stovall’s other series, such as the Astra Academy and Nexus Games series, both of which seem promising to me as of right now. If you liked this series, I’d recommend the Summoner by Taran Martharu, as it is similar.
I have to be honest, I’m completely split.
First, I loved this series at the start. There was a somewhat likable main character (Volke), with goals of just a fun time on the high seas and fighting evil pirates and bandits. There was his sister (Illia), who I never really liked, albeit did like more towards the end. There was Volke’s rival (Zaxis) who consistently butted heads with Volke (until he just doesn’t anymore (?)). There was the girl he wanted (Atty), who was smart and kind (and I liked this part I think because I could relate to Volke’s struggles with liking and getting through to her). There was a fun sense of carefreeness among the main characters, sailing the high seas, while fighting somewhat serious threats, such as pirates and bandits. I loved Coliseum Arcanist, as there was some real character development, some fresh new characters I enjoyed, like Lyvia and the Grandmaster Inquisitor (RIP to both), Karna, Devlin, and Joze. It also more or less set up the plot of the whole series and set the scene for a very good book, plague arcanist. Not to mention, the world building and design of magic in the world was spectacular, albeit being a somewhat generic magic system.
However, there were a lot of things, especially towards the end of the series, that I just did not like:
- I understand that Volke was always supposed to be a saintly main character, but he almost never grew as a character in my opinion, and towards the end became cheesy, cliche, (I hate to say this) boring.
- The ending was predictable: I knew that someone was going to do something to counteract the effects of a very powerful something at the end, by I think the sixth book. There also weren’t many (if any) plot twists or betrayals to keep the reader guessing, and that just made the book more boring.
- The Autarch just never felt like a full fledged villain to me, but just a half baked scapegoat who they don’t like because was trying to get everybody an eldrin and some magic (yes he might have had to break a lot of eggs to get there, but let him cook).
- There were so many stupid tactical decisions made that just frustrated me, and shouldn’t have worked. They just accept villains and people who helped villains into their crew, no questions asked. Who in their right mind would do that?
- The whole competition and power struggle between Zaxis and Volke just died out, with no explanation.
- So many stories and relationships, like Volke’s with his brother, Joze, Karna, and Atty were just unfinished, and in some cases left to die - he in essence just cast them away at the end and ignored them.
- I think my biggest gripe lies with Evianna. The whole relationship just left me with a bad feeling. When Volke met Evianna, she was a whiny brat, whose sister was likable. Not to mention the fact that she is something like 5 years younger than Volke, so their relationship was something like 19-14 at one point - kinda gross, right? She also seems way too submissive, and acts like a puppy around Volke - she does everything he says, hangs onto his arms, and doesn’t have many, if any, opinions of her own. I know that I am biased, but I much would’ve preferred the story if Volke and Atty had a relationship, instead of a weird Romeo and Juliet situation with Evianna.
All in all, I enjoyed this series, but the ending almost ruined it for me. Grandmaster Arcanist was still a good book, and the whole series was good, but could have definitely ended better. I will still read some of Stovall’s other series, such as the Astra Academy and Nexus Games series, both of which seem promising to me as of right now. If you liked this series, I’d recommend the Summoner by Taran Martharu, as it is similar.
February 27, 2023
This book was amazing!!! I am so happy I discovered this wonderful series and quite possibly one of my favorite books of all time. I am so thankful Shami wrote this amazing series and could not recommend this series enough.
Read
June 6, 2023Arguably the weakest installment - wrapping up the finale feels like marking off a checklist of subplots to close, mostly due to too many god-creatures and too little screen time to develop them all. The ending somewhat makes up for it, but it still feels rushed. The original bunch (Ilia, Zaxis, Atty) deserved more attention, too.
Overall it's a nice series, if you forgive several genre cliches played straight (such as the protagonists winning with the power of friendship and might of their right, the villains recruited out of evil scientists and corrupt medical workers, and absurdly young marriages - it's so ingrained in epic YAs that pretty much no one notices except for the old grouches like me).
(OK. One other thing makes me angry. Why even include queer characters if the whole finale, ending included, plays from the ye olde patriarchal playbook, including the guys having the most firepower and/or conviction and the romantic interest being way younger than the MC, and multiple progeny before they even turn 25?)
Overall it's a nice series, if you forgive several genre cliches played straight (such as the protagonists winning with the power of friendship and might of their right, the villains recruited out of evil scientists and corrupt medical workers, and absurdly young marriages - it's so ingrained in epic YAs that pretty much no one notices except for the old grouches like me).
(OK. One other thing makes me angry. Why even include queer characters if the whole finale, ending included, plays from the ye olde patriarchal playbook, including the guys having the most firepower and/or conviction and the romantic interest being way younger than the MC, and multiple progeny before they even turn 25?)
September 27, 2023
Very satisfying conclusion to this lengthy series.
August 14, 2023
3 stars because it's a finished story that I didn't have to wait over a decade for
Much better than the previous two? Three? But still not as good as the first few books
The bad:
1. The writing was disjointed as if it happened between long stretches of time and the author didn't remember what has already been mentioned. Like apart from continuity errors (Volke had already introduced Evi as his intended to that Queen and then Evi threw up a stink bc he hadn't asked her to marry yet?)
2. there was a whole lot of repetitive info about the characters. I know what they look like, you don't need to mention it every two chapters!
3. Character development in this last book was bad. Calisto was just taken in like nothing happened. So was the sky titan girl.
I thought it was kind of bullshit that a) established interesting characters were cast aside (like Volk's bio dad, his brother AND KARNA!) b) that we never got to even see the behemoth. C) the last few God creatures felt rushed and sloppy.
Not to mention that Evi never got interesting at all. Her personality was flat and Volke suddenly becoming so infatuated a few books back was weird. The romance was awkward and Volke had always a lot more chemistry with Atty and Karna. (also coming back to my previous point, Ryker was v clearly written just to pawn off Karna to Volke's 'copy') Hell, even Zaxis would have made a more plausible romantic interest than Evi. Also the age gap. Nope. Just nope. Gross. She's probably like 15 by book 8 and Volke is 20. I don't care if your world thinks 15 year Olds as adults. That's just gross.
(PS- Barf, I just remembered the incestuous crush Ilia had on her brother for the first few books)
William wasn't developed at all.
4. The ending was absolutely predictable
The Good:
1. I really enjoyed the diversity. There were a few ND characters across the series, and I really appreciated the three gay couples that were semi-main characters!
2. The world, man. This whole concept was absolutely my jam and that's why I kept reading. I loved the magic system and the world building A LOT.
3.Zelfry. That's it. That's the 3rd point.
4. Volke as a protagonist was actually really fun to read. I usually tend to find 0 to hero protagonists annoying af (see a certain British wizard whose author is a piece of shit). Not him though!
Still wish he was a woman tho. Women can be warlords too.
5. The predictable ending was very sweet and I liked it because I'm a fucking softy.
Much better than the previous two? Three? But still not as good as the first few books
The bad:
1. The writing was disjointed as if it happened between long stretches of time and the author didn't remember what has already been mentioned. Like apart from continuity errors (Volke had already introduced Evi as his intended to that Queen and then Evi threw up a stink bc he hadn't asked her to marry yet?)
2. there was a whole lot of repetitive info about the characters. I know what they look like, you don't need to mention it every two chapters!
3. Character development in this last book was bad. Calisto was just taken in like nothing happened. So was the sky titan girl.
I thought it was kind of bullshit that a) established interesting characters were cast aside (like Volk's bio dad, his brother AND KARNA!) b) that we never got to even see the behemoth. C) the last few God creatures felt rushed and sloppy.
Not to mention that Evi never got interesting at all. Her personality was flat and Volke suddenly becoming so infatuated a few books back was weird. The romance was awkward and Volke had always a lot more chemistry with Atty and Karna. (also coming back to my previous point, Ryker was v clearly written just to pawn off Karna to Volke's 'copy') Hell, even Zaxis would have made a more plausible romantic interest than Evi. Also the age gap. Nope. Just nope. Gross. She's probably like 15 by book 8 and Volke is 20. I don't care if your world thinks 15 year Olds as adults. That's just gross.
(PS- Barf, I just remembered the incestuous crush Ilia had on her brother for the first few books)
William wasn't developed at all.
4. The ending was absolutely predictable
The Good:
1. I really enjoyed the diversity. There were a few ND characters across the series, and I really appreciated the three gay couples that were semi-main characters!
2. The world, man. This whole concept was absolutely my jam and that's why I kept reading. I loved the magic system and the world building A LOT.
3.Zelfry. That's it. That's the 3rd point.
4. Volke as a protagonist was actually really fun to read. I usually tend to find 0 to hero protagonists annoying af (see a certain British wizard whose author is a piece of shit). Not him though!
Still wish he was a woman tho. Women can be warlords too.
5. The predictable ending was very sweet and I liked it because I'm a fucking softy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2023
I've been reviewing this author for years, including this series, so when she offered me a copy of this book, of COURSE I accepted.
The plot felt slightly rushed this time around. A lot of major story beats happened "off screen" and I wished I'd gotten to read through them firsthand. There was also a gigantic amount of characters that made the interactions with each one feel super small. That being said, there was still a lot of major moments that felt like it punched me in the heart (but like in a good way) and felt properly big. I also loved how so many story aspects brought up entire books earlier (the abyssal leech experiments, Atty's personal goal, etc.) came to fruition here. It was obvious the author was planning things out far ahead.
I was iffy on the lead's romance. Evianna seemed to come in and out of the story at various times. There were a few crucial scenes where I kept thinking "she should be here right now." At times, she felt like more of a side character than other characters that weren't in a relationship with Volke. In the end, I landed on a rather neutral "it's nice they were together." I did adore Zelfree and Lynus' dynamic, though.
The ending battle was properly dramatic. Although I've come to expect that out of Shami Stovall's work. Things were gigantic and world-threateningly dire. But then there was a quiet "this was always the way it was meant to be" scene near the very end. The author told me it was the hardest chapter she'd ever had to write and the emotional toil shows. But there was a certain rightness to it. And when Volke thought to himself about how he was "finally a hero" I swear there was an actual ache in my chest.
All in all, a fantastic end to the series. And, of course, a perfect set up for the spin off series. I know what Shami book I'm reading next. ; )
The plot felt slightly rushed this time around. A lot of major story beats happened "off screen" and I wished I'd gotten to read through them firsthand. There was also a gigantic amount of characters that made the interactions with each one feel super small. That being said, there was still a lot of major moments that felt like it punched me in the heart (but like in a good way) and felt properly big. I also loved how so many story aspects brought up entire books earlier (the abyssal leech experiments, Atty's personal goal, etc.) came to fruition here. It was obvious the author was planning things out far ahead.
I was iffy on the lead's romance. Evianna seemed to come in and out of the story at various times. There were a few crucial scenes where I kept thinking "she should be here right now." At times, she felt like more of a side character than other characters that weren't in a relationship with Volke. In the end, I landed on a rather neutral "it's nice they were together." I did adore Zelfree and Lynus' dynamic, though.
The ending battle was properly dramatic. Although I've come to expect that out of Shami Stovall's work. Things were gigantic and world-threateningly dire. But then there was a quiet "this was always the way it was meant to be" scene near the very end. The author told me it was the hardest chapter she'd ever had to write and the emotional toil shows. But there was a certain rightness to it. And when Volke thought to himself about how he was "finally a hero" I swear there was an actual ache in my chest.
All in all, a fantastic end to the series. And, of course, a perfect set up for the spin off series. I know what Shami book I'm reading next. ; )
April 4, 2023
This series has been a roller coaster.
I absolutely love the magic in this world, and the world building in general. The concept of the bonding and the world-destroying plague and the solution nature has come up with to right itself.... Great.
A few of the earlier books had their specific issues in my opinion: overdone love triangle, problematic romantic relationships.... but the underlying plot was intriguing enough to keep me coming back.
This final book was very satisfying. I had no specific, distracting, major issue like I did in some of the previous books. There were enough intriguing plot twists. The magic was epic, and the ending felt right.
I absolutely love the magic in this world, and the world building in general. The concept of the bonding and the world-destroying plague and the solution nature has come up with to right itself.... Great.
A few of the earlier books had their specific issues in my opinion: overdone love triangle, problematic romantic relationships.... but the underlying plot was intriguing enough to keep me coming back.
This final book was very satisfying. I had no specific, distracting, major issue like I did in some of the previous books. There were enough intriguing plot twists. The magic was epic, and the ending felt right.
February 2, 2023
"Warlord - no one has fought as long, or as hard, for the world as you have. You can stop fighting now."
Two important things about 'Grandmaster Arcanist:'
1) If you've been invested in these books, you gonna cry hot tears
2) If you have a pet, you'll look at them with a little disappointment that they can't talk
Book blurb: Volke Savan has sworn he’ll bring the Second Ascension to justice, but as the Autarch amasses power, it becomes apparent Volke’s task might not go as originally planned. God-arcanists gather on two sides of a brewing war, and the outcome of the arcane plague will determine the fate of the world.
With Evianna at his side, Volke must not only find the last of the god-creatures, but he must locate Luthair, defeat the Autarch, and save his friends from the ultimate corruption. As the tasks mount, so does Volke’s determination.
But the legends of the magic-destroying apoch dragon may change everything. The Autarch has made sure of it.
Grandmaster Arcanist bring Volke and the gang's story to an end. I've been reading the Frith Chronicles for the last few years and at the end of this book, I realise that I cared much more than I originally thought about this story.
The story itself is a combo of Pokemon, a coming of age story, epic fantasy with a world-ending villain...everything you can want for in a fantasy story. The world itself is well realised, if not thoroughly explored. Most of this realisation is focused on the digging down into the lore of the eldrin (or the Pokemon in this case), and how they interact with the humans in the story - evolution, power set etc.
One of the best things about this story however, is the cast of characters - and in particular the core group that you've lived with over 8 books. Led by Volke - the plucky and committed hero who starts from the bottom, his adopted sister Illia - feisty with a chip on her shoulder, Zaxis - a privileged hothead and Atty - single minded star pupil (who isn't in this as much). Around them are some familiar tropes like Zelfree (in the role of wise wizard/mentor), Liet, Calisto and so on. However, some of the best characters are the eldrin themselves. From Luthair, to Forsythe, to Nicholin, these animal familiars/partners are the real beating heart of the series, and their connection with their arcanists really drive the emotions home.
Grandmaster Arcanist neatly wraps up several storylines in the series - both personal storylines and relationships, and overarching plot points. There are moments - particularly towards the end, where you will shed real tears. I got pretty emotional towards the end. However, I still believe there could have been some more consequences to the main cast - to really drive home the finality of the series. While retrospectively it may matter, in the reading of the story, it didn't.
Final thoughts: When you end a series and you feel that ember of warmth in your heart and you feel yourself smiling, you know the author has done an amazing job. I'm pretty sure you would feel this way at the end of this book.
Two important things about 'Grandmaster Arcanist:'
1) If you've been invested in these books, you gonna cry hot tears
2) If you have a pet, you'll look at them with a little disappointment that they can't talk
Book blurb: Volke Savan has sworn he’ll bring the Second Ascension to justice, but as the Autarch amasses power, it becomes apparent Volke’s task might not go as originally planned. God-arcanists gather on two sides of a brewing war, and the outcome of the arcane plague will determine the fate of the world.
With Evianna at his side, Volke must not only find the last of the god-creatures, but he must locate Luthair, defeat the Autarch, and save his friends from the ultimate corruption. As the tasks mount, so does Volke’s determination.
But the legends of the magic-destroying apoch dragon may change everything. The Autarch has made sure of it.
Grandmaster Arcanist bring Volke and the gang's story to an end. I've been reading the Frith Chronicles for the last few years and at the end of this book, I realise that I cared much more than I originally thought about this story.
The story itself is a combo of Pokemon, a coming of age story, epic fantasy with a world-ending villain...everything you can want for in a fantasy story. The world itself is well realised, if not thoroughly explored. Most of this realisation is focused on the digging down into the lore of the eldrin (or the Pokemon in this case), and how they interact with the humans in the story - evolution, power set etc.
One of the best things about this story however, is the cast of characters - and in particular the core group that you've lived with over 8 books. Led by Volke - the plucky and committed hero who starts from the bottom, his adopted sister Illia - feisty with a chip on her shoulder, Zaxis - a privileged hothead and Atty - single minded star pupil (who isn't in this as much). Around them are some familiar tropes like Zelfree (in the role of wise wizard/mentor), Liet, Calisto and so on. However, some of the best characters are the eldrin themselves. From Luthair, to Forsythe, to Nicholin, these animal familiars/partners are the real beating heart of the series, and their connection with their arcanists really drive the emotions home.
Grandmaster Arcanist neatly wraps up several storylines in the series - both personal storylines and relationships, and overarching plot points. There are moments - particularly towards the end, where you will shed real tears. I got pretty emotional towards the end. However, I still believe there could have been some more consequences to the main cast - to really drive home the finality of the series. While retrospectively it may matter, in the reading of the story, it didn't.
Final thoughts: When you end a series and you feel that ember of warmth in your heart and you feel yourself smiling, you know the author has done an amazing job. I'm pretty sure you would feel this way at the end of this book.
June 20, 2025
The Frith Chronicles: Flawed, Fierce, and Ultimately Fantastic
I’ll be honest—The Frith Chronicles peaked for me with The Plague Arcanist. Shami Stovall did the Harry Potter thing—raising the stakes with every book, pushing the characters into darker territory. What began as the fun, wide-eyed journey of hopeful heroes with shining eyes slowly became a world filled with shadows and despair. Volke had no hope of saving himself, let alone the world. That’s the tone we entered Plague Arcanist with, and it delivered an incredible, emotionally charged story with a brilliant ending. Just perfect.
The books that followed didn’t hit me quite the same way. The sense of urgency faded, and the characters—especially the main ones—didn’t feel as sharp or strategic as the situation demanded. The ultimate villain’s downfall, too, felt underwhelming.
But the book doesn’t end with that. There’s something more. And that’s where Stovall cast her strongest spell.
She misled me—carefully, cleverly, and purposefully—across several books to deliver a final twist that reframed certain parts of the story in a deeply satisfying way. It didn’t recontextualize everything, but what it did hit, it hit beautifully. And in that moment, Stovall reminded me exactly why I fell in love with this series in the first place.
She’s a gifted storyteller whose skills only get sharper. Her latest series, The Time-Marked Warlock, is absolutely fantastic, and I’ll read anything she puts out next.
Also—Zaxis is my favorite. Closely followed by Adelgis and Lynus. Obviously.
I’ll be honest—The Frith Chronicles peaked for me with The Plague Arcanist. Shami Stovall did the Harry Potter thing—raising the stakes with every book, pushing the characters into darker territory. What began as the fun, wide-eyed journey of hopeful heroes with shining eyes slowly became a world filled with shadows and despair. Volke had no hope of saving himself, let alone the world. That’s the tone we entered Plague Arcanist with, and it delivered an incredible, emotionally charged story with a brilliant ending. Just perfect.
The books that followed didn’t hit me quite the same way. The sense of urgency faded, and the characters—especially the main ones—didn’t feel as sharp or strategic as the situation demanded. The ultimate villain’s downfall, too, felt underwhelming.
But the book doesn’t end with that. There’s something more. And that’s where Stovall cast her strongest spell.
She misled me—carefully, cleverly, and purposefully—across several books to deliver a final twist that reframed certain parts of the story in a deeply satisfying way. It didn’t recontextualize everything, but what it did hit, it hit beautifully. And in that moment, Stovall reminded me exactly why I fell in love with this series in the first place.
She’s a gifted storyteller whose skills only get sharper. Her latest series, The Time-Marked Warlock, is absolutely fantastic, and I’ll read anything she puts out next.
Also—Zaxis is my favorite. Closely followed by Adelgis and Lynus. Obviously.
February 13, 2023
It was an exhilarating experience with everything that Shami threw our way. From True Form getting plagued to the comeback of Luthair. Book had its moments like the acceptance of death in the end, and the calm presence of Appch Dragon. Atty's comeback was great but it kind of felt out of place, maybe it's because I didn't like the character arc of Atty. She achieved what she set out to do in her life and even understood that her family was using her, but the way she never helped the Frith Guild and never participated in the war that literally brought about the change in the world, it didn't sit right with me. It felt, somewhat.. selfish.
But overall, great way upto the war. The ending felt a little rushed like 5-6 more chapters could've been taken to let us see how Volke helped as the Warlord of Magic and how people perceived him. Also, after the death of God Creatures, what became of the god arcanists reputation?
But maybe some questions would remain unanswwred.
I loved the whole series. The righteousness in the mc, the thrill in the story and the concept of power in the Frith Chronicles kept me hooked the entire time I read the series.
But overall, great way upto the war. The ending felt a little rushed like 5-6 more chapters could've been taken to let us see how Volke helped as the Warlord of Magic and how people perceived him. Also, after the death of God Creatures, what became of the god arcanists reputation?
But maybe some questions would remain unanswwred.
I loved the whole series. The righteousness in the mc, the thrill in the story and the concept of power in the Frith Chronicles kept me hooked the entire time I read the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
Well here we are at the end of the series for the Frith Chronicals. After book 7 ended on some shock information I’ve been impatiently waiting to get my hands on this one and see how everything was going to turn out.
I enjoyed this book and it has wrapped up the series nicely – I’m still in two minds about the ending – I both loved it and partly wished the book ha ended a few chapters earlier – although that might just be the mood I’m in at the moment. Either way we get an ending worthy of the series.
It’s really hard to review the last book in a series without giving away massive spoilers! What I will say is that I have enjoyed spending time with these characters and seeing them develop. Some develop more than others but that’s OK too.
If I’m being critical its to say that sometimes the pacing varies throughout both this book and the series as a whole – but I’ve never been bored reading these.
If you are looking for a fun fantasy series (that’s finished!) this is it. Talking magical creatures that bond with those they deem worthy, magic, sword fights, epic journeys, good vs evil, quests and strong friendships this series has it all.
I enjoyed this book and it has wrapped up the series nicely – I’m still in two minds about the ending – I both loved it and partly wished the book ha ended a few chapters earlier – although that might just be the mood I’m in at the moment. Either way we get an ending worthy of the series.
It’s really hard to review the last book in a series without giving away massive spoilers! What I will say is that I have enjoyed spending time with these characters and seeing them develop. Some develop more than others but that’s OK too.
If I’m being critical its to say that sometimes the pacing varies throughout both this book and the series as a whole – but I’ve never been bored reading these.
If you are looking for a fun fantasy series (that’s finished!) this is it. Talking magical creatures that bond with those they deem worthy, magic, sword fights, epic journeys, good vs evil, quests and strong friendships this series has it all.
June 8, 2025
*Spoiler Alert* This was easily one of my favorite book series, right up until the end. Having the final battle and then just immediately jumping forward 10 years was such a huge slap in the face. So many plot lines just thrown in the trash and abandoned. There was easily potential for another book or two, but to me it seemed like the author just got bored of this series and wanted to move on to the next project, which is really a shame because this was such an amazing series. I really hate leaving reviews like this, but it was extremely disappointing. Especially the fact that Volke just abandoned Luthair for 10 years… they easily could have found him sooner. So much potential, just for it all to be trashed. Also, Volke’s combat prowess with his World Serpant magic was extremely underwhelming. It’s just constantly “let me throw magma at them, or how about I just toss a rock at them??” He launched Zack’s intro the ground with ease when he was just learning his powers and then the rest of the time, it’s like he barely has any combat experience at all… aside from the zombies crashing into the docks, the final battle was really underwhelming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2023
Happiness of sadness, sadness of happiness.
I am pleased with this entire Chronicel. I was very upset and sad about the potential ending outcome of your story. Thank you so much for making it a happy ending. Instead of ending it the way it seemed like it was going to end. All good things must come to an end. It's sad, but also happy. Thank you. Sometimes, I wish an author would just keep painting world realities such as this one and keep doing so indefinitely. But time is not a commodity humanity is blessed with. Perhaps the shortness of life's time makes stories all the more sweet/bitter-sweet. Thanks, Shami Stovall, for giving me a respite from real life and enjoying another "painted world reality." And thanks for merging multiple 'Auras'. It's something I mentioned in a previous review(I think it was the book before this.
Regards,
Matthew H.
PS. I'm looking forward to the next 'painted reality you create.
Thanks.
I am pleased with this entire Chronicel. I was very upset and sad about the potential ending outcome of your story. Thank you so much for making it a happy ending. Instead of ending it the way it seemed like it was going to end. All good things must come to an end. It's sad, but also happy. Thank you. Sometimes, I wish an author would just keep painting world realities such as this one and keep doing so indefinitely. But time is not a commodity humanity is blessed with. Perhaps the shortness of life's time makes stories all the more sweet/bitter-sweet. Thanks, Shami Stovall, for giving me a respite from real life and enjoying another "painted world reality." And thanks for merging multiple 'Auras'. It's something I mentioned in a previous review(I think it was the book before this.
Regards,
Matthew H.
PS. I'm looking forward to the next 'painted reality you create.
Thanks.
May 17, 2023
In conclusion, this is a solid series. This series may not be as epic as other stories, but it is simply wonderful. From the first book had me feeling like a kid again, and I wanted to be an Arcanist. Now the end of the series wraps up at the end beautifully. A few doors are left open, but most characters have a great arc. The only thing I can say I did not like about this book was the main villain and the pacing. I feel that the pacing can be a bit slow at times and then a bit too fast when it comes to the God Arcanist. The main villain was built up throughout the series, but we only met him twice, and he was nowhere near as good as the villains in the past. I think we had more time with him. I think he was have been better other than the talks we've heard about him.
I recommend this for those looking for a YA book with a child-like wonder to its world and characters. I hope I'll see this in theaters or even a tv series one day because Shami Stovall deserves it.
I recommend this for those looking for a YA book with a child-like wonder to its world and characters. I hope I'll see this in theaters or even a tv series one day because Shami Stovall deserves it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2023
An awesome ending to a truly great epic adventure.
From start to finish, Volke has been steadfast with his honor, his word, and his actions to the point that many admire him while just as many despise him throughout these books. He stays true to himself and his ideals even when the world has twisted his heroes and challenged his opinion of the evils of men.
When the final battle happens, Volke stays true to himself and his beliefs, willing to trade his life for the Autarch/Cane Helvetti’s life just to end his future tyranny and punish him for the travesties he has already committed.
Volke has only ever wanted to make the world a better place and fight the evils that most mortals cannot face. He comes to the final battle and it’s too close, but even then he isn’t prepared for the Autarch’s power and the amplification granted baby his gold kirin. Will Volke and his friends have enough strength to defeat the Second Ascension and the Autarch’s 3 god-creatures?
From start to finish, Volke has been steadfast with his honor, his word, and his actions to the point that many admire him while just as many despise him throughout these books. He stays true to himself and his ideals even when the world has twisted his heroes and challenged his opinion of the evils of men.
When the final battle happens, Volke stays true to himself and his beliefs, willing to trade his life for the Autarch/Cane Helvetti’s life just to end his future tyranny and punish him for the travesties he has already committed.
Volke has only ever wanted to make the world a better place and fight the evils that most mortals cannot face. He comes to the final battle and it’s too close, but even then he isn’t prepared for the Autarch’s power and the amplification granted baby his gold kirin. Will Volke and his friends have enough strength to defeat the Second Ascension and the Autarch’s 3 god-creatures?
April 24, 2023
A fitting culmination of the Frith Chronicles. The pacing was a little slow for the majority of the novel. The treks and trials to obtain the remaining God Creatures and the efforts to prepare for the final battle are important, but seem to drag, with small bursts of activity and action. The final battle was interesting, but again, the pacing seemed off. This was the culmination of everything, the final showdown with the Autarch, and with that in mind, it seems like it was rushed through.
The ending was interesting and both draws a direct connection between this series and the Astra Academy series and provides an opportunity for further novels with characters from the Frith Guild.
All in all I enjoyed the book and the series. I will be continuing to read Astra Academy, and would rejoin the Frith Guild on any adventures they may go on in the future.
The ending was interesting and both draws a direct connection between this series and the Astra Academy series and provides an opportunity for further novels with characters from the Frith Guild.
All in all I enjoyed the book and the series. I will be continuing to read Astra Academy, and would rejoin the Frith Guild on any adventures they may go on in the future.
February 26, 2025
the ending was so sweet. it has me tearing up.
I really enjoyed all of these books. these books were good on boarderline to great but there were times it felt like the scenes of certain events were written out really really well but the transitions from one event to the next felt a little bit empty. There are also times the book felt a bit rushed compared to the rest of the weitting. I know we have our main character and we are mainly following him the whole time but some of our early introduced characters had interesting introductions (and implications) to their abilities but ultimately were pushed to the side and barley seen or spoke of as the story got closer to the conclusion. like we missed the opportunity of seeing how much they grew in their own powers when they were not "on screen". overall it was an unforgettable adventure that will always have a place in my heart.
I really enjoyed all of these books. these books were good on boarderline to great but there were times it felt like the scenes of certain events were written out really really well but the transitions from one event to the next felt a little bit empty. There are also times the book felt a bit rushed compared to the rest of the weitting. I know we have our main character and we are mainly following him the whole time but some of our early introduced characters had interesting introductions (and implications) to their abilities but ultimately were pushed to the side and barley seen or spoke of as the story got closer to the conclusion. like we missed the opportunity of seeing how much they grew in their own powers when they were not "on screen". overall it was an unforgettable adventure that will always have a place in my heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2024
pretty good, not great
**Spoilers**
I am disappointed with how the book ended. The build up to the final meeting with the autarch all for it to seemingly end in a few pages.
The defeat of the autarch seemed way too easy. All of the toil and troubles they went through and then the final battle ends in a few pages? It seemed like the author was in a rush to end this book and pack the ending in as quickly as possible which is disappointing. The whole 8 book series I’d give 3/5 stars. Some parts were great, but much of it just missed the mark in my opinion.
Overall, worth the read. I just feel like it could have been so much more.
**Spoilers**
I am disappointed with how the book ended. The build up to the final meeting with the autarch all for it to seemingly end in a few pages.
The defeat of the autarch seemed way too easy. All of the toil and troubles they went through and then the final battle ends in a few pages? It seemed like the author was in a rush to end this book and pack the ending in as quickly as possible which is disappointing. The whole 8 book series I’d give 3/5 stars. Some parts were great, but much of it just missed the mark in my opinion.
Overall, worth the read. I just feel like it could have been so much more.
June 12, 2025
DNF. Grandmaster Arcanist failed to deliver a satisfying and heroic conclusion to Volke's journey. We got jarring narrative choices and gratuitous content that undercut the strengths of the series.
Compounding this issue is the book’s indulgence in homosexual subplots. Having Callisto—a vile murder—as a romantic lead and sympathetic figure was disturbing. He becomes part of the “hero” roster with no atonement. His inclusion undermines the narrative’s moral stakes and belittles Illia.
For readers invested in adventure, strong moral clarity, and tight pacing, Grandmaster Arcanist is a disappointing read.
Compounding this issue is the book’s indulgence in homosexual subplots. Having Callisto—a vile murder—as a romantic lead and sympathetic figure was disturbing. He becomes part of the “hero” roster with no atonement. His inclusion undermines the narrative’s moral stakes and belittles Illia.
For readers invested in adventure, strong moral clarity, and tight pacing, Grandmaster Arcanist is a disappointing read.
February 1, 2023
This series has been a part of my life for a long time having followed me in my journey throughout high school and now college. Overall I'm ecstatic with how Volke's story has ended, and am more than happy about the way his journey came to a close. Admittedly I had some issues with the pacing in the middle of the book; to me it felt as if everything was happening to quickly, making me worried what that would mean for the books ending. However, its clear that my fears were unfounded as Shami found a perfect way to close the curtains on the multitude of characters I found myself caring about.
March 27, 2023
I am a mess!!!!
I'm talking a sniffling sobbing need. My face is awash with tears, tears of elation, relief and, is that satisfaction???... It had been some time since I've encountered/experienced the culmination of a journey that was so profoundly heart-rending yet gratifying. To know that each character's individual journey brought them full circle and allowed them live up to their hearts purpose while bringing light to the world is just so beautiful.... Thank you Shami Stovall for this fulfilling read!
I'm talking a sniffling sobbing need. My face is awash with tears, tears of elation, relief and, is that satisfaction???... It had been some time since I've encountered/experienced the culmination of a journey that was so profoundly heart-rending yet gratifying. To know that each character's individual journey brought them full circle and allowed them live up to their hearts purpose while bringing light to the world is just so beautiful.... Thank you Shami Stovall for this fulfilling read!
May 25, 2025
Did not disappoint. 🐌
I took FOREVER to read this,the last installment floor the Frith Chronicles. By choice.
It was so worth the wait.
I have overly enjoyed this series and recommend it to others. The author takes you on an epic adventure, full of marvelous creatures and a whirlwind of imagination. The end, even though seemingly final, continues to hold the reader on the edge of wanting to know more!
Deeply satisfied with this series and the writing style of this author, purchasing books along the way....
I took FOREVER to read this,the last installment floor the Frith Chronicles. By choice.
It was so worth the wait.
I have overly enjoyed this series and recommend it to others. The author takes you on an epic adventure, full of marvelous creatures and a whirlwind of imagination. The end, even though seemingly final, continues to hold the reader on the edge of wanting to know more!
Deeply satisfied with this series and the writing style of this author, purchasing books along the way....
January 29, 2023
AMAZING
I have been reading this series since the first book and WOW! This was a beautiful ending to this fantastic story. It’s always sad to see a story end but I’m happy it was done in such a perfect full circle. The foresight and hard work that was involved in writing this must have been daunting. Again it is sad to see it go, but a round of applause to job done exceedingly well. Thank you Miss Stovall, for allowing me to be a part of your story!
I have been reading this series since the first book and WOW! This was a beautiful ending to this fantastic story. It’s always sad to see a story end but I’m happy it was done in such a perfect full circle. The foresight and hard work that was involved in writing this must have been daunting. Again it is sad to see it go, but a round of applause to job done exceedingly well. Thank you Miss Stovall, for allowing me to be a part of your story!
February 11, 2023
Amazing
I have been left with that warm feeling that only comes after the end of a really good book series. A series worthy of many re-reads, where everything comes together in a beautiful way where you can’t help but cry. The characters and their development came together in a way that just left everything great. I’m not good at making reviews but gosh darn it I loved this book and this series!
I have been left with that warm feeling that only comes after the end of a really good book series. A series worthy of many re-reads, where everything comes together in a beautiful way where you can’t help but cry. The characters and their development came together in a way that just left everything great. I’m not good at making reviews but gosh darn it I loved this book and this series!
April 1, 2023
The Grand Finale - For a Grand Master - Arcanist
I never know how to predict the ending of the final book in a series, but the aftermath is hardly ever done right, but this time it was perfect. The writing, as ever is imaginative, magnetic and designed to carry the the reader on a loaded story line in an exciting way. Cannot wait for the next book by Shami Stovall as her writing is way way way up there… Never mind a Grandmaster Arcanist, Truly a Grand Master Scribe
I never know how to predict the ending of the final book in a series, but the aftermath is hardly ever done right, but this time it was perfect. The writing, as ever is imaginative, magnetic and designed to carry the the reader on a loaded story line in an exciting way. Cannot wait for the next book by Shami Stovall as her writing is way way way up there… Never mind a Grandmaster Arcanist, Truly a Grand Master Scribe
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