The Gate

by Brandi Schonberg

Welcome to the Edge of Forever

Amarynn has no idea who she was before she became a Traveler: a fierce warrior magically transported to Earth to fight for a king she's never trusted or respected... a king she is bound to for eternity.

Genres: Fantasy

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 25, 2022

About the author

Brandi Schonberg has always written stories. The Gate is her debut novel and the first title in The Immortal Coil Saga. A native Texan, she works as a middle school science instructional coach in San Antonio, Texas, and has three grown children, a loving partner, and two exceptionally unusual cats.

Reviews

[K.M. West · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you've ever wished you could be a badass warrior and escape the service of your incompetent boss, Amarynn's story will inspire you.

In this thrilling fantasy debut, Schonberg casts a fresh look the stark reality of forever and the crippling weight of consequence, yet teases us with the thing we long for most: hope.

We open on Amarynn, an immortal warrior on a suicide mission. At times both relatable and fascinating, Amarynn is a victim of circumstances she's determined to escape. But when her hyper focus on achieving this end causes collateral damage--to the tune of an immortal army in the hands of a megalomaniac--she's launched into a journey to discover who she is and what she stands for, BIG things for a woman with no memory of life before she crossed the Gate and a contract for endless servitude.

I found Schonberg's characters compelling and entertaining, cut from an earnest desire to survive. At times the story felt like adventuring with old friends. If you're looking to get lost in a fantasy, explore the heart of human nature, and maybe stab some baddies, I highly recommend the Gate!!

[Tay Hurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

"We All Want to Live Forever....Until We Don't"

I went into this based on Ms. Schonberg's call on TikTok to have ARC readers, I am so glad I did!
I thoroughly enjoyed it. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, so I won't go into detail, but I think that if you want a fantastic fantasy adventure, that ANYONE can read, this is the one I would recommend.
I was drawn into a massive world building experience, where the story wove itself around the character of Amarynn, a woman who was drawn out of her own world by force and thrown into a world of magic, battles and immortality. There were Wyverns, Mages, warriors, elemental magics, battles, love, and a cliffhanger. I was so invested into the story and characters I started and finished the book all in one day. Now, I cannot wait to read the next in the series, even though this one JUST came out.

[L.M. Riviere · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was privileged to read this book in advance of publication, and I have to say if you love Outlander, the Shadow and Bone series, or anything Sarah J. Maas, you will LOVE 'The Gate'!

The heroine isn't everyone's cup of tea, herself included. She is grumpy, forlorn, fed-up, and just overall done with everyone... or is she?

Dark magic, legendary beasts, swords, handsome princes, evil rulers, female antiheroes, interdimensional travel... need I say more?

[Deandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review~
⭐⭐⭐⭐

The world building was beautifully done, and the magic system was so unique. The writing flowed well and was easy to get caught up in the enchanting world. The mystery surrounding Amarynns previous life had me wanting all the answers as much as she did!
I love the blossoming Romance between Amarynn and Jael! The way they protect and care for each other was everything!  Everyone's gotta love a charming, kind, and incredibly caring Prince!
Overall 4 stars, the storyline will hook you from the very first page and hold you to the vary last page! I can not wait to see where the story takes us in the next book!

[♡Lea♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off I received a copy from the Author and my review has no bearing on that...

That said Holy wow I absolutely loved this story. Amarynn is this bad ass warrior who the kingdom of Karths mage dragged from another world. She is immortal and really doesn't want to be there. She can't remember a thing from her past life and doesn't seem to want a future with the legion.

Of course she accidentally hands out vital information to the enemy and has to go on this quest with the kings son. Whew the vibes there. There is so much more to this but you will have to go and get it to see for yourself.

I will leave this though the last chapter has me screaming I need the next book like yesterday

Happy Reading 📚

[Jennifer Schexnailder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great read!! The vocabulary level was such a refreshing change from so many books! The action packed scenes make the book so addicting! I highly recommend!

[H.M. Skinner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gate by Brandi Schonberg @bschonbergauth

⚔️🗡♥️⚜️🛡🗡⚔️

Synopsis: Amarynn is the most gifted warrior in the Legion, an elite fighting force bound to their ruthless King. She was ripped from her previous life, her memories stolen and she is tired of her immortality. But when the kingdom is endangered by a powerful threat, Amarynn must join forces with the inexperienced Prince Jael. The kingdom hangs in the balance, and the pair begin to realize that they are bound together by more than circumstance.

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I loved this book! Amarynn is so relatable, and I love that she isn’t perfect. She is bitter and flawed, but I liked her more for it. I love the story and the plot. There are a few side characters that I could read a whole book about!
Also…Jael is peak man-written-by-woman-material. I love his development throughout the book and I don’t want to spoil things but just…..read it! There is a lot to this book, it’s a lot more than it’s romance subplot, but I really liked it.
It’s slow-burn, no-spice and it’s *chefs kiss* beautiful. I don’t want to list some of the tropes I noticed cause I don’t want to spoil it, but I want you to read it!!!!!!

[The Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Gate is the first part of a fantasy series that begins with an intriguing premise and runs well with it. Amarynn is a Traveller, a person dragged via magic to the land of Karth, who as a result of the transportation is now effectively immortal. She is forced to fight for the King who controls the ability to “create” Travellers, and it’s through her eyes that you follow the core of the story. Add an unrequited love, a young girl who might be the most powerful magic wielder ever known and you have a decently paced and engaging story. The characters are well rounded, although the “evil” ones can be a bit one note at times. Some might like that kind of portrayal, so each to their own. Their actions are believable and true to their nature. The story builds to a good holding point for the planned sequel, and you never feel as if the author is padding the book. As to the future volume(s), it will be interesting to see if the author can avoid common fantasy tropes as she has done here, and I really would like to know the origins of the Travellers. A well written fantasy with a good premise and promise to come. (Andrew Oyston Book Tour Reviewer)

Overall, a well-written story. Strong characters caught in an existence they must endure, a bloody and uncertain future they must confront. (Andrew Bell Book Tour Reviewer)

As a long-time fan of fantasy settings, I was eager to dive into this book. For a first-time fantasy work and the start of a series, I felt that the writing was strong and the premise (always an important factor in such settings) was interesting. It’s a fairly dark tale, with a grim protagonist, and explores themes of self-harm as well as harm inflicted by others. The pace of the novel is a positive, though there will be some, like me, who will be left wondering at some of the world’s elements that are presented without comment or investigation before the story moves forward. For instance, who is Balan and why is he known for his flaming sword? Hopefully, these sorts of questions will be delved into as the Immortal Coil series progresses, as the seeds have been well-sown for the sequel, and I would love to have the context that the answers could provide. (Tim Marshall Book Tour Reviewer)

I loved this book. I was drawn into it from the very first paragraph of the prologue. Brandi Schonberg has created a world that is believable and accessible. Her skilled writing takes you directly into the heart of it till you are battling evil with the heroine and experiencing every cut and thrust of her sword. I read many different genres, but I have to admit, fantasy is my favourite, and Brandi does not disappoint. The story is epic. The writing is professional and polished. In the copy I received, there were a few typographical errors, but I have been assured these have been corrected now. It would be a shame for such a wonderful story to be spoiled by lack of proof-reading. The plot is well thought out, and the pace is electric. It is a real page-turner. I sat up late into the night because I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to the sequel! (Eleanor Dixon Book Tour Reviewers)

A pacy and action-packed fantasy tale of adventure and magic that I enjoyed from the first. This author has an accomplished writing style, making it easy to fall into the story without effort. Her characters are well rounded, believable and relatable and I cared about their fates, both good and evil. Amarynn is a worthy, yet flawed, heroine. She will have the reader rooting for her even while occasionally despairing of her decisions and ability to stir up trouble. I also ‘loved to hate’ the baddies; some were without redemption, but others I trust may return to fight again in a sequel? I do hope so. (Deborah Barwick Book Tour Reviewer)

This is not normally a genre that I would choose, so I wasn’t sure what to expect when embarking on the reading of this novel. I am a fan of time travel but this book focuses on dimension travel, which was a theme I hadn’t explored before. I like the characters that Brandi has created, especially the female lead of Amarynn and Sia, the up and coming young mage and believe there is great promise for the upcoming sequel. (Eileen Tilley Book Tour Reviewer)

A superbly written fantasy adventure with exciting and credible characters, that are well rounded, with a positive balance of strengths and flaws, that make them interesting and easy for the reader to invest in. The story progresses at a good pace keeping its audience engaged and turning the pages over. With believable dialogue that moves the story forward, and gives a good insight into the characters thoughts and intentions, there is plenty to love in this tale weaved by Author Brandi Schonberg. I really enjoyed reading, The Gate, and found it so easy to form an emotional connection with Amarynn, Venalise, Sia and Regealth. I loved Jael, not just as the romantic interest for Amarynn, but what I feel is to come, as his own gifts and abilities grow stronger. I also have a soft spot for the Atranoch creatures, and I am looking forward to seeing what part they play in the next book, and whether more of their backstory will be shared. A great book and I am eager to read the next instalment. (Kirsty McKay Book Tour Reviewer)

We award 4.5 stars.

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anxiously awaiting book two!

[Twyla Rae Andersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 solid immortal stars!

This first installment in the series has all the makings of a promising epic fantasy adventure!

The first thing I want to say right out of the starting gate is this - I LOVE the ending. It makes me want to read more!

With The Gate, Schonberg introduces the reader to a fantasy world with elements that are vastly different from any others I've read, while simultaneously staying true to the mainstays of traditional tales in the fantasy genre involving magic, gifted warriors, fantastical creatures, and epic journeys told from multiple POVs.

Amarynn, the main character, is an immortal warrior bound to fight for a king who doesn't deserve her allegiance. She is driven by strong emotions - anger at the king for forcing immortality on her against her will, and a desire to know her origins (which she has no memory of).

Amarynn wants to undo the wrong that's been done to her, or die trying. A very difficult feat to do. I found her so wonderfully written, and her motivations and expression of emotions were both clear and believable.

It's through an unexpected and suspenseful journey, and the help of characters she would never have otherwise seen herself bonding with, that Amarynn finds answers and insights.

In any one work of fiction, a character's combined dialogue and actions are great when they sync in a way that makes it seem like they've jumped right off the page. In those moments, time, and everything outside of us, stands still while brilliant storytelling grabs our attention - entire scenes seemingly play out before our eyes like a great screenplay.

I felt that The Gate did this - 75% of the time. Which is a good solid reason to read this novel.
While I think it could use improvement, it is just the first book in a series, and is a very solid foundation for a phenomenal series overall.

Because there is a lot going on in The Gate, with worldbuilding, many points of view, and so many directions that plot (and Amarynn's journey) could go, at times it felt like the path forward wasn't as clearly defined as it could be.

To me, it felt as if the novel needed another round of beta reading - or two. To help with continuity and clarity.

For example, most of the time there was a clear delineation between characters' voices because entire chapters or sections were devoted to an individual's POV. But, occasionally, the POV would switch unexpectedly between characters within a few paragraphs of each other. That affected the flow of the story, and my focus as a reader.

There were a few continuity issues, enough for me to pause and mentally take note of what was out of sync in the story.

But, none of it affected the overall quality of the narrative and worldbuilding. I mention it because, unless you are a more critical reader than I am, all flaws can be overlooked.

Because this is good storytelling!

And, that twist at the end... I can't wait to see where Amarynn's story goes from there.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jas · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was well written and the story was interesting. Amarynn is a refreshing MC with her own unique (to me) struggles and motivations. How would you feel if you were ripped from your own home to fight in someone else's war? I believe Amarynn is very relateable in what she feels and her primary motivations for her actions.

However, I got deeper into things, met new characters, and explored new locations, I started to lose interest and investment in what was happening. The romance that was kindling was, also, a bit lost on me. It felt forced and left me wanting a more natural connection. The characters were also making odd and obviously poor choices for no logical (to me) reason and I only finished to see what happened. This one was just not for me.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love dark magic, handsome princes, swords and beasts and so much more then this is for you. I love the fantasy and action aspects of the book which kept my attention and truly enjoying the story. I don't want to say too much to give anything away! The FMC is relatable and flawed which made her likeable. The author does an amazing job with the world building and the unique personalities of the characters. We follow through the story with the characters able to see their growth and become more invested in them. This is a slow burn novel but is more than the romance part of the plot. Run and get this book. You will enjoy this page turner.

[Deborah Barwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A pacy and action-packed fantasy tale of adventure and magic that I enjoyed from the first. This author has an accomplished writing style, making it easy to fall into the story without effort. Her characters are well rounded, believable and relatable and I cared about their fates, both good and evil. Amarynn is a worthy, yet flawed, heroin. She will have the reader rooting for her even while occasionally despairing of her decisions and ability to stir up trouble. I also ‘loved to hate’ the baddies; some were without redemption, but others I trust may return to fight again in a sequel? I do hope so.

Deborah Barwick
Official The Book Dragon Reviewer

[Nikkiaust17 · Rating 3 out of 5]

I recieved a free copy from the author.
This was a great book with a great backstory and characters. It read a little ya for me and didn't go into depth enough with some characters like Jael. He just kind of popped in and their relationship kindled a little fast. It wasn't as smooth as I would've liked I should say. But overall really enjoyed this read and finished it in a few days! Contains magic, a very strong warrior FC. Once I got towards the end I was eating it up and can't wait to see what else this author puts out including the rest of this series!

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amarynn is a legendary warrior who is immortal and wishes her life to come to an end. Unfortunately, while seeking her end she makes the foolish decision to entrust the information of her making to an evil mage. This begins a downward spiral of events that leads down to a destructive path.

The characters were relatable with all their flaws. The world building was also well done. Word of warning though that the story ended on a bit of a cliffhanger which I did find a little frustrating.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellently written. Just enough action throughout to keep me fully invested and curious. I am horrible at writing these but this is a very good book. Magic, immortal warriors, beasts of legends and the superb development of characters make for an excellent example of fantasy writing.

[Kathleen White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was amazing I haven’t read a fantasy book before like this but this was amazing I love the sorry about jael and Amarynn’s story I loved the action of it as well can’t wait for the next book

[Honey-Marie Lashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent fantasy novel. Mrs. Schonberg did a terrific job on her debut novel and I look forward to seeing more from her.