HOLD: Book One, Ion Heroes

by J. Matthew, Nathanael Burks (Illustrator)

The Earth in 2419, glutted and overdependent on technology, is destroyed by a military-grade computer virus. Billions die and technology is deemed heresy, only used by the hated and feared techWitches. Remnants of the past remain, but without advanced manufacturing and computing capabilities, the world falls back to a quasi-Medieval standard of living. Now, a thousand years later, Lian Martell, a blacksmith in the Forge, must seek long lost power to rescue his love, Ember, from the evil king Damon. Ancient strength will be uncovered as Lian journeys to the heavens and beyond in search of a way to win Ember back. Lurking in the shadows is a conspiracy, longing for the power that Lian will find. Who can Lian trust? Will he win the day or will Ember die? Find out in Hold, first book of the Ion Heroes Series.

299 pages, Paperback

Published October 27, 2022

Reviews

[David · Rating 2 out of 5]

Full disclosure: I received this book free through an internet offer.

I really wanted to like this book, but it didn't happen. I like the author's life profile and objectives.

That said, the whole book is based on a false premise. Prima nocta (first night, basically the idea that a ruler can bed any woman he wants on her wedding night) has zero basis in fact. There is no evidence that this ever actually happened. It's the kind of trope you drag out against your enemies in another land, to the effect of 'we're not like them, they practice prima nocta.'

I thought I could get over that, as the plotline was pretty good up to about the 60% mark. Then the bottom fell out of the plot, and you could drive a truck through the plotholes. Disappointing.

[Idiosyncratic Engima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book! I finished the first within two days and I thought it was quick, action packed, and very well thought out! The bad guy introduction made me very happy and, once I finished this one, I immediatly dove into the next! Five stars all the way!

[Roy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh.

[Justin Oliver · Rating 3 out of 5]

BLUF: Quick, fast paced and enjoyable but not overly memorable

[Leah Jubilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book! It was super engaging, and well-written, and the story is gripping from the start. I'll just say that "Hold" is an apt title.