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the_lady_miaow's review
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
catsy2022's review
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Rating: A
So close to an A+! This is a sword and sorcery genre fantasy novel following two main characters: Farys and Sybil, as they are introduced and team up to take down the Manticore, a mysterious demonic king ruling their nation. Sybil is a witch, which is outlawed in his land, and Farys is the 3rd son of a nobleman, whose mother is kidnapped by the Manticore. A myriad of other mysterious characters are introduced in the story, which enriches the experience.
With that, the wizard rose with a theatrical flourish, a wave of his hand, and he patted Lughan on the shoulder, praised his fine work once again, and he left. But Axiom never returned.
What really drew me into the book initially was the classical design on the cover; like a medieval-inspired tapestry. I believe I bought this as part of a promotional sale on a collection of sword and sorcery novels. I felt like the lore and world-building was richly developed and I thoroughly enjoyed finding all the little tidbits of history dropped throughout. I really liked reading about the origins of Farys and his legendary prowess, especially when he finally faces Sordid. I liked how unique and frightening each of the characters are. I really love named weaponry as well - the final chapters of the book were especially interesting to me. Lore and mysteries are one of my favourite fantasy tropes.
I felt like the action scenes kept me interested, with really clear descriptions so I could see what was happening really well in my mind. What I often struggle with is understanding what is happening in action-packed scenes, so I'm glad that I enjoyed these, too. I also really liked the variety of factions fighting and growing to become to top (especially the mentions of the Dragon and Manticore in the same discussion).
The scale of the story makes me excited for the next ones in the series and I'm happy to know that another is being published this year.
The Mandrian witch reached out and took Sordid’s hand in her own, her nails lacquered red, her touch warm. She moved almost faster than Sordid could react.
As for what pulled the book down for me, it was mostly the use of female-based slurs like bitch or whore to the characters. I think I was also pretty confused by the Manticore - and the scale of him compared to the other characters. I think I also thought he was humanoid for some of the book even though he is not.
It’s too late for any of you. Make your peace with whatever gods you hold dear to you. The Hour of the Wolf is upon you. —Farys
So anyway, onto the next book. This is one of my favourites for 2021.
So close to an A+! This is a sword and sorcery genre fantasy novel following two main characters: Farys and Sybil, as they are introduced and team up to take down the Manticore, a mysterious demonic king ruling their nation. Sybil is a witch, which is outlawed in his land, and Farys is the 3rd son of a nobleman, whose mother is kidnapped by the Manticore. A myriad of other mysterious characters are introduced in the story, which enriches the experience.
With that, the wizard rose with a theatrical flourish, a wave of his hand, and he patted Lughan on the shoulder, praised his fine work once again, and he left. But Axiom never returned.
What really drew me into the book initially was the classical design on the cover; like a medieval-inspired tapestry. I believe I bought this as part of a promotional sale on a collection of sword and sorcery novels. I felt like the lore and world-building was richly developed and I thoroughly enjoyed finding all the little tidbits of history dropped throughout. I really liked reading about the origins of Farys and his legendary prowess, especially when he finally faces Sordid. I liked how unique and frightening each of the characters are. I really love named weaponry as well - the final chapters of the book were especially interesting to me. Lore and mysteries are one of my favourite fantasy tropes.
I felt like the action scenes kept me interested, with really clear descriptions so I could see what was happening really well in my mind. What I often struggle with is understanding what is happening in action-packed scenes, so I'm glad that I enjoyed these, too. I also really liked the variety of factions fighting and growing to become to top (especially the mentions of the Dragon and Manticore in the same discussion).
The scale of the story makes me excited for the next ones in the series and I'm happy to know that another is being published this year.
The Mandrian witch reached out and took Sordid’s hand in her own, her nails lacquered red, her touch warm. She moved almost faster than Sordid could react.
As for what pulled the book down for me, it was mostly the use of female-based slurs like bitch or whore to the characters. I think I was also pretty confused by the Manticore - and the scale of him compared to the other characters. I think I also thought he was humanoid for some of the book even though he is not.
It’s too late for any of you. Make your peace with whatever gods you hold dear to you. The Hour of the Wolf is upon you. —Farys
So anyway, onto the next book. This is one of my favourites for 2021.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood and Death
Moderate: Child abuse
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