New Year's Eve

As 2023 rolls away I think it is only fitting to look back on this year's accomplishments:

•  Books 3-5 of Jaclyn Moriarty's Kingdoms and Empires Series.
• Books two and three of J.V. Hilliard's Warminster Series.
• Volumes seven and eight of the Novels of Tiger and Del by Jennifer Roberson.
• Greenglass House by Kate Milford
• The Swan's War Trilogy by Sean Russell.
• The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel: The Lost Stories Collection by Michael Scott.
• The Winterhouse trilogy by Ben Guterson.
• The Gathering Storm, Book One of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven.
• The Foundling: And Other Tales of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander.
• Reread The Changeling Sea by Patricia A. McKillip.
• Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore, the fifth book of her Graceling Realm Series.
• The first trilogy of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.
• The Thief and the Historian, Book One of the Runetree Chronicles by Brendan Corbett.
• The Dragon Egg Princess by Ellen Oh.
• Reread Hexwood by Diana Wynne Jones
  
• The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh.
  

A busy year, to be sure. Fortunately I also got a new bookshelf and had a new cover designed for my own book as well as a trailer for it.

I have finished The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh

I have finished The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh.

This is one of those tales that stays with you, for I fell into Mina's story no less than she fell into the Spirit World, the enchantment of the Sea God's city seeping into me as she used her courage, wits, and a heart the size of the moon to unravel a curse upon both worlds. "Don't chase fate, Mina. Let fate chase you." Based (I think) off Korean mythology, the story has all the breathtaking elegance and beauty of Asian art, deceptively simple and bursting like overstuffed dumplings with soul. I loved every word of it and learned much besides.

So the fairest of farewells to Mina, Shin, Namgi, Kirin, Nari, Joon, Dai, Mask, Miki, Shim Cheong, and Shiki. Until next time.

Jólabókaflóð

 

I have started The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh

I have said in the past that the lore of Eastern cultures remains a largely untapped goldmine within the Fantasy genre. Fortunately that was a while ago and the gold mine has been tapped quite a bit since then. Which is why, ever on the look out for unique Fantasies, I have begun The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh... and have already fallen in love with Mina for her courage, knowledge, and determination to be the master of her fate as she navigates the Spirit World to save her own.

Of course, spirits are a capricious lot – regardless of which mythology they belong to – and this time it will take more than true love's kiss to break the enchanted sleep. Far more. Can a girl who chose herself save a god? Can she truly pick her fate, or is that Red String more enduring than it seems? Can she survive in a world where mortals are fish out of water? Only one way to find out, though it is only the second question that is truly a question.

I have finished Princess of the Sword, Book 3 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I have finished Princess of the Sword, Book 3 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms and the conclusion of its opening trilogy.

As I have said, I seldom dive into Romantic Fantasy...but this series caught and pulled me along with its ceaseless, heartfelt action. Seldom has any series chewed up entire afternoons the way this one has. Which is why I shall miss Morgan and Miach, for watching them first struggle against black mages and the past before ultimately besting them both while wrestling with personal feelings and duty was a gripping joy. Farewell, and rule well, my friends!

(Will I ever read the rest of the Novels of the Nine Kingdoms? Quite possibly, but twelve books is a lot even for me and shelf space must be considered.)

My father and I have for the second time finished Hexwood by Diana Wynne Jones

My father and I have for the second time finished Hexwood by Diana Wynne Jones, Mistress of the Multiverse and Lady of Endless Surprises.

A seamless blend of Fantasy and Sci-Fi, for us this is THE Jones book that set the standard for originality that is nothing short of sheer genius coupled with surprises that had us literally banging our heads against the bed, yelling "We've been Jonesed!" Yes, for us "Jonesed" is a verb. There is a reason why we view Jones as second only to Tolkien, after all. Hence reading Hexwood again for the first time in over a decade was like seeing very old friends again and reliving some of the most memorable moments in all our long years of reading together.

Fire Emblem Heroes: Book VIII

Usually I consider myself fairly quick on the uptake regarding game trailers, but this one has me baffled. That we are navigating Yggdrasill and dealing with those who inhabit it is obvious, but that is as far as I can make out. The nature for the conflict is at present beyond me.

Music to start the month

I am in a festive mood this Holiday Season, so I shall begin the month not with a quote but rather a song:

I have started Princess of the Sword, Book 3 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I have started Princess of the Sword, Book 3 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

Rescue missions and romance, seriously evil wizards and stealing arcane secrets, a dark legacy to undo and hopefully defeat a Black Mage along the way. I have a feeling that putting this book down will be, in its way, no less a challenge than anything Morgan and Miach have to face. Point of order, I also do not think that schools of wizardry should have Masters of dark magic as part of the faculty.

I have finished The Mage's Daughter, Book 2 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I have finished The Mage's Daughter, Book 2 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

Nothing is as it seems in the Nine Kingdoms, and no one, apparently. But the heart endures even in the face of rampaging trolls, grumpy royal grandfathers, and seriously evil magic. They say that ignorance can be overcome but that prejudice will destroy you, and thank goodness Mhorghain overcame it. But overcoming what killed her mother will be a different matter altogether, even with archmage Miach by her side.

I have started The Mage's Daughter, Book 2 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I have started The Mage's Daughter, Book 2 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

They say that ignorance can be overcome but that prejudice will destroy you, and it is my dear hope that Morgan does not become an object lesson of that statement regarding her determined loathing of mages. Something of an ironic loathing given both her past and likely future, so here is hoping Miach can earn both the mark of the sword and her affection before the true war begins.

My father and I just finished The Secret of Lillian Velvet by Jaclyn Moriarty, the fifth book of her Kingdoms and Empires Series!

My father and I just finished The Secret of Lillian Velvet by Jaclyn Moriarty, the fifth and unexpected book of her Kingdoms and Empires Series (which apparently is NOT finished after all!) 

Would that I had a Genie bottle or, better yet, a Genie handy; the first would hopefully let me dream what I am supposed to write here and the latter grant me a wish for the perfect thing to be written. Lacking either, I suppose I am going to have to help myself - which are Genies' goals for humans anyway, so I guess it is fitting that I have neither. If that sound rather convoluted then perhaps I have begun writing the perfect post after all, for this book was more than "just another day in the Kingdoms and Empires". It showed that Moriarty is truly the literary heir of the great Diana Wynne Jones, for NO other author possesses such sheer genius in weaving story threads across time itself! Meaning it was first confusing then intriguing then a heartstopping thrill-ride watching Lillian Velvet use her wits and the contents of a pickle jar to meet and help the Mettlestones. Linear causality is overrated anyway.

I would say goodbye, only I am dead certain this is not the last we have seen of the Mettlestone family (or, hopefully, Lillian as well), past or present. So until next time, whatever time within the Kingdoms and Empires that may be!

(By the way, Jaclyn Moriarty obviously had WAY TOO MUCH FUN writing this book.)

I have finished Star of the Morning, Book 1 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I have finished Star of the Morning, Book 1 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

Darkness grows even as the hope, the star of the morning, rises as a mage's daughter confronts, well, magic, in addition to truths dead set against personal convictions. While I typically do not go for Romantic Fantasy, this one has certainly been a ride - and free of many of the typical clichés, better yet, and not just on the romance quarter. I have certainly never seen THAT happen to a magic sword, and swords, mage-born and otherwise, are necessary to keep Neroche and indeed all the Nine Kingdoms from falling to Lothar the black mage. Provided Morgan learns to accept a few things, of course, including that swords are not the only honorable way to fight.

Netflix's Official Teaser of Avatar: The Last Airbender

 Tis only a teaser and obviously we all are reserving judgement until it comes out but, that said, I cannot think of a better sign that Netflix is determined to make its live-action adaption of Avatar: The Last Airbender worthy, truly worthy, of the masterpiece that was the original.

A new cover, a new coat of paint

One of the best things about being a school librarian is that one is surrounded by books, and book covers by extension. An extension that made me realize that, much I like the original cover for my book, The Last War: Book One of the Cynnahu Saga, it lacked a certain dynamism compared to other books and, to put it bluntly, looked self-published. So I went back to GetCovers (then added a few personal touches) and the result was nothing short of splendid! Behold the red ship and its crimson-eyed captain!

I have begun (once again) Star of the Morning, Book 1 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

Back in April 2016, a mere month or so before I began this mostly humble blog, I wrote the following post on Facebook:

Due to the fact that this semester is reeking havoc with my reading schedule, I must postpone my reading of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms; simply put, the series deserves more time and energy than I have.
I am therefore switching to Oathblood by Mercedes Lackey, a book of short stories featuring the adventures of my favorite she'enedra sisters of sword and spell - mercenaries Kethry and Tarma (and Warrl!)

It was my final semester in college, so spare time was a rarity. Anyway, it has been quite a long postponement, and the tale has been sitting patiently on my bookshelf ever since. Yet the time of waiting is over for I have begun once again Star of the Morning, Book 1 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms!

A King whose lost his magic, an Archmage with plenty, and a Mercenary who is about to find herself thrust into an arcane destiny where magic, love, swords, and deadly danger are bound together around a rather sudden and alarming mage-born mystery and war. I never wanted to stop this book the first time and now, like the Swords of Neroche and Angesand, it speaks to me again, calling me to the Nine Kingdoms.

Official Book Review: The Thief and the Historian, Book One of the Runetree Chronicles by Brendan Corbett

I just finished The Thief and the Historian, Book One of the Runetree Chronicles by Brendan Corbett and, as the author requested, now give it an Official Book Review.

One thing I have learned in my vast Fantasy reading is not to let the size of a book shape my assumptions, for there are no shortage of short classics in the genre. And while I would not call The Thief and the Historian a classic, I can say with absolute surety that it packs a whole, carefully thought-out, and unique world within its slender form. From a race of merchants who forge coins yet find no value in them to magic written on the air, from gods-blessed Runetrees that record all of history per the legendary Order of Historians to a dark plot that seemly would wipe them out. Alas, given the shortness of the book I can say little without giving spoilers, but it was a pleasure watching Aeda and Gieral journey across the Known Lands facing several different varieties of danger.

 

(P.S. If you, dear reader, are an author/publisher and reading this review makes you want to ask me for a review too then PLEASE read my Contact Me? page.)

New Riddle Masters

 My newest students are certainly doing well in Riddle Mastery. They have had barely a month of training, as I call it, and four have already solved the Championmaster. They win an award for speed, to be sure.

I just started The Thief and the Historian, Book One of the Runetree Chronicles by Brendan Corbett

At the author's request I just started The Thief and the Historian, Book One of the Runetree Chronicles by Brendan Corbett.

I am always on the lookout for unique Fantasies and a book featuring an elusive society of thieves and a legendary order of Historians mandated by the gods to roam and record history definitely fits the bill. Add ancient mysteries, magical creatures, and a young thief who wants to find a better life and it should come as no surprise that I put aside my general wariness of writing book reviews to take this one up – though naturally the Official Book Review will come after I finish it.

I have finished The Trillias Gambit, Book Three of J.V. Hilliard's Warminster Series

"Crimson flags borne on horses of white, see them ride, ye children of light." – The Ballad of Eldwal

I have finished The Trillias Gambit, Book Three of J.V. Hilliard's Warminster Series.

"A path without challenge is the wrong way" goes the Erudian proverb, "and the best laid plans never survive first contact with the enemy" goes one from an entirely different book, and both are equally applicable in the best of ways here. For it was a tense pleasure watching the carefully laid plans of the fell alliance from the Dragon’s Breath Mountains come undone as Prince Montgomery arrived on time, Viscount Joferian rescued his Ember from Scarlett, a cryptid was unmasked, and a great battle won - if at great cost. Yet two thirds of the alliance thrives still, for though the Black Rose has wilted his Shadow masters live. Though Daemus recovered the book and the heart of a god, Graytorris the Mad flies with destruction not even Sir Ritter Valkeneer's Silencer and Princess Addilyn Elspeth's magic can fell. I always wondered how the Dragon’s Breath Mountains got their name, as well as the origins of the Moor Bog. Now the whole of Warminster will find out.

“The blade of betrayal, the sharpest of weapons, is wielded not by your enemies, but by your friends." – Warminster the Mage

My father and I just finished The Dragon Egg Princess by Ellen Oh

My father and I just finished The Dragon Egg Princess by Ellen Oh.

One of the nice things about being a school librarian is that you learn about the latest literary hits, and this one caught my eye the moment I saw it. A short yet delightful tale as much informed by Asian mythology as modern issues such as greed and exploitation, it was fascinating watching Jiho Park - a boy immune to magic - brave the magical and deadly Kidahara forest, a wilderness the realm's Princess Koko along with many others disappeared into without a trace. Until the forest spits them out again, pitting them and Jiho against an evil that would destroy not only the Kidahara but the entire human world. Making this a most refreshing Fantasy, the Eastern influences giving it a sparkle in a genre still largely defined by Western-based worlds.

Quote of the month

"Wishes cannot be summoned up or kept away at will. They come from deeper within us than good or bad intentions. And they spring up unannounced.” - Michael Ende

I have started The Trillias Gambit Book Three of J.V. Hilliard's Warminster Series.

“Crimson flags borne on horses of white, see them ride, ye children of light." – The Ballad of Eldwal

I have started The Trillias Gambit Book Three of J.V. Hilliard's Warminster Series.

Compassion is never a weakness and love a hard seed to slay, so perhaps there is a near-invisible glimmer of hope for our Bone Elf assassin. But I doubt it, as now he sails on a very strange ship to Thronehelm where also ride Princess Addilyn Elspeth and Sir Ritter Valkeneer to rally the realm against the fell alliance from the Dragon’s Breath Mountains - for the Keepers have fallen to the Fallen Keeper. Leaving the Last Keeper Daemus Alaric and his friends to find a certain lost book requiring they pass Ancient Trillias' Gambit. Thus does this epic, unique, and unpredictable saga continue, and I need not possess Erudian Sight to see that the fight, the war, has just begun. I just hope Prince Montgomery arrives with his own surprise on time.

"The blade of betrayal, the sharpest of weapons, is wielded not by your enemies, but by your friends." – Warminster the Mage

I have finished Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore, the fifth book of her Graceling Realm Series

I have finished Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore, the fifth book of her Graceling Realm series.

Somehow I doubt that Bitterblue and her friends will ever visit Winterkeep again. Nearly dying once is perhaps expected, but constant seasickness, nearly drowning, freezing to death, kidnapping, political plots, explosives, traitors, spies, attempted murder, storms followed by shipwreck and a long harrowing journey across uncharted glacial northlands while nearly freezing to death again and dogged still by the remnants of plots the rest of which await you at home? Next time just send a delegation. Anyway, twas fabulous seeing the world from Hava's perspective, as well old friends in both the Dells and the Seven Nations. But most importantly, I am glad that Hava found her place and is no longer a Graced shadow. This is the last book of the Graceling Realm series, but somehow I doubt it will stay that way; it never does.

So, either for new journeys or old, farewell and lots of love to Hava, Linny, Bitterblue, Giddon, Hope, Adventure, Coran, Liel, Moth and the other kits, Froggat, Annet, Navi, Ollie, Jackie, Fire, Katsa, Po, Raffin, Bann, Helda, Nash, Brigan, and Ror.

The Last War: Book One of The Cynnahu Saga - Official Book Trailer

New authors always hope their books become bestsellers despite knowing how utterly beyond unlikely it is, and that goes for me as well. Yet I also always hoped – again despite knowing the unfathomable odds against it coming true – that The Last War would get its own Book Trailer (I know, I REALLY dreamed big). Well, if the downside of self-publishing is that you must do everything yourself then, by the same token, that is also the upside. So I hired Literary Titan make a book trailer for it... and it is amazing!

Fifty years ago, J.R.R Tolkien died

Fifty years ago, J.R.R Tolkien died. Thus do I raise a glass of proverbial Dwarven ale to the man who remade our world with the world he created.

“The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way,
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.

Roads go ever ever on,
Over rock and under tree,
By caves where never sun has shone,
By streams that never find the sea;
Over snow by winter sown,
And through the merry flowers of June,
Over grass and over stone,
And under mountains in the moon.

Roads go ever ever on,
Under cloud and under star.
Yet feet that wandering have gone
Turn at last to home afar.
Eyes that fire and sword have seen,
And horror in the halls of stone
Look at last on meadows green,
And trees and hills they long have known.

The Road goes ever on and on
Out from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone.
Let others follow, if they can!
Let them a journey new begin.
But I at last with weary feet
Will turn towards the lighted inn,
My evening-rest and sleep to meet.

Still round the corner there may wait  
A new road or a secret gate,  
And though I oft have passed them by,  
A day will come at last when I  
Shall take the hidden paths that run  
West of the Moon, East of the Sun."

Quote of a friend

"There's something beautiful about the stillness, its tranquility, of the warmth changing to a comfortable cold that settles the soul. Of the still air that carries the twilight's harmony. The quick moment of complete calm detached from the bustling reality." - Lindsay

I like to think that I have some very wise friends.

Serial Fiction

Not every intricate, worthy Fantasy tale comes in novel form. There are Fantasy games such as Golden Sun, RuneScape, Fire Emblem, and Radiant Historia whose story is the game. Then there are games like League of Legends whose story is unveiled a piece at a time with each Champion's individual tale, and Magic the Gathering whose story arcs are published in the serial fiction format - coming out a bit at a time, chapter by chapter, over many years.

Then there is actual serial fiction, authors who chose to publish their works online in such a manner instead of in a traditional novel or book series. I have never dealt much with such Fantasies, but they deserve note. So I will post now about one which I am a diehard fan of, and another which recently caught my interest.

"Long, long ago in Neraland, the pious human built a great tower to show the respect to their goddess Nera. Goddess Nera was deeply moved by human piety; to reward them, she opened a door at the top of the tower. This ethereal door connected to another world; it was known as—Heaven Eye. However..." Beginning with the former, GhostBlade is a fantasy comic series, the only one I read, and one of the most unique stories I have ever come across. Bearing some trappings of traditional Fantasy, such as an epic journey in a medieval-style world it diverges in so many ways as to be almost staggering. When one starts reading one is uncertain whom to trust. Princess Yan of Haiqin and Kain the Silver Knight, certainly, but the rest are wreathed in shades of grey and mystery with much cryptic foreshadowing as to the future.

Even the journey is uncertain, and the world's history, and the world itself, is incredible, filled with distinct cultures and issues and reflect real-world concerns while still being true escapist Fantasy. For the characters are as real, as deep, as conflicted, as any I have ever read. I wish I could say more, but I do not want to deprive readers of any surprise, no matter how slight. But I can say this: the story makes you think, and WLOP (the author) clearly has a long story in mind, one as intricate and stellar as the art which brings each character, their emotions, and the world of Neraland itself to life. On a final note, the tale is unfinished, and a nightly ritual of mine is to check whether new chapters have been published.

 

Now to the one which recently caught my interest, that being the Legends of Icaria. Since I have just begun, I can only say so much, hence I will let the author give the introduction: "Icaria is a place of magic, both old and new. It's a land of human and Fae and the natural political and religious disputes that result from struggling to find a balance of place and power. I hope you'll walk her shrouded mountains, marvel at her sea plains, mourn her deaths, sail with merchants up Emak, trek the Great Stone Way, and engage with the factions across the land." The bottom line being that while I cannot yet speak with certainty to the overall uniqueness of the plot, I know good writing when I see it and the author clearly has the depth of vision, dedication, and skill that defines true Fantasy authors.

A good reminder that Fantasists tell their tales in their own way, one which they feel best suits their story and that they get the most enjoyment out of. And speaking of enjoyment, I anticipate getting some in the land of Icaria. Also, and this is a key point for serial fiction readers, the author posts new chapters often. The Prologue was published in June and Chapter 11 was published 8 hours ago, and plenty of other posts including but not limited to A Short Compendium of Icarian Prophecy and An Excerpt from Faen Customs and Culture. Remember what I said about dedication and depths of vision? Well, in my extensive experience with the Fantasy genre I know that only those with both write such pure world-building texts in addition to their regular work.  

Ghostblade has gone on for years and has a dedicated and well-deserved fandom, and I hope Legends of Icaria earns its stripes the same way. But, as with all online serial fiction, whether it is an established comic or a new tale looking for readership, we can only hope that the authors keep at it until the story ends.

I just started Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore

A busy vacation forcing one to do weeks worth of homework in the single week prior can certainly derail a person's reading, but now the ship is righted for I just started Seasparrow by Kristin Cashore, the fifth book of her Graceling Realm Series.

As ever, it is a delight seeing old friends again in Bitterblue, Giddon and Hava! En route by ship back to Monsea after their adventures in Winterkeep, issues of translation and sailors' secrets seem like child's play, but the journey back is destined to be as hazardous as the one to. If it is not Queen overboard it is Queen shipwrecked, and I have a strong feeling that ice, mountain passes, and the finer points of moral responsibility will be the least, or the least complex, of hurdles they must cross before they finally get home.

Quote of the month

"And yet you can glimpse the tale there in all those books. It slips out unexpectedly like sun on a cloudy day, a shimmer of light across the world. And then it’s gone, but it never fades that quickly from your heart. The heart remembers." - Patricia A. McKillip

A private message to my former students

Greetings my friends!

If you are a former student of mine and are asking how can I possibly give you a private message on a public blog then you are absolutely correct. I have therefore written it on a separate page accessible via this link; it is password protected, and password is the answer to the Grandmaster Riddle – which I trust you all remember. The first letter is lowercase. If you write it in uppercase it will deny you access and tell you "the page you were looking for in this blog does not exist."

Best,

Ian Adler

I have started and finished The Foundling: And Other Tales of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander

I have started and finished The Foundling: And Other Tales of Prydain, the companion book to Lloyd Alexander's The Chronicles of Prydain.

Long has it been since I finished The Chronicles of Prydain, so when there is no time to start anything major between homework and a Southern vacation I thought it the perfect time to pluck this final harp-string. And a lovely tune it gave for, brief though it was, it twas good to again walk the lands of Prydain and hear the tales of Dallben, Coll, good old Doli, and the history of a certain sword.

Official Book Review: The Gathering Storm, Book One of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven

I just finished The Gathering Storm, Book One of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven and, as the author requested, now give it an Official Book Review.

We all have hobbies we are passionate about, and two of mine are reading/writing Fantasy and studying the lore, myths, and Druidic mysteries of the ancient Celts. Yet interestingly those passions have seldom if ever blended, meaning that I have no true experience reading Celtic Fantasy.

But there is a first time for everything, so my first sojourn into this sub-genre of the Fantastic is the island-continent of Daffyd, from the highland villages of the Green Mount to the cold lakes and cities of the Kingdom of Lachland. Distant lands that hold at least two things in common, their fierce independence and an invasion by the savage yet unquestionably cunning Barbárs hordes and their sadistic Angor blood-shaman allies. Yet this is no straightforward tale of good versus evil, or, if it is, then it is as much against the evil hiding in plain sight and under the white mantle of nobility as it is against blood mad barbarians. For as the tale marches forward so too do complex plots, plans within plans, emerge as varying enemies with different agendas join in alliance against the highland and Lachlanders. Thus too do three parallel stories take shape: one of the highlanders Corvus Corax, called the Raven, along with his sons and longtime friend Yazid; one of the wastrel Princess Darienne, Queen Isador, and Captain Zach of the Lanchland; and a third of the Aslene mystics Mama Warad and her three votaries from the distant deserts of the Silken Emperor whose mission carries the fates of all.

A very readable book, emotional, fast-paced and with some of the most finally executed battle scenes I have ever read, what makes David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven stick out is his attention to detail. Each character, even the secondary and bellow ones, is well-rounded and each culture distinct and based upon real-world ones. Being knowledgeable of the old lore myself, as well as a Black Belt in Northern Longfist style Kung Fu, I can say with full confidence that Doersch captures the spiritual essence of the Celtic lands, and I especially appreciated Aslene martial arts and mysticism whose forms remind me of my own Kung Fu training.

The battle cry goes out as swords are drawn… "Protect the Tor!"

(P.S. If you, dear reader, are an author/publisher and reading this review makes you want to ask me for a review too then PLEASE read my Contact Me? page.)

My father and I just finished Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea by Ashley Herring Blake

My father and I just finished Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea by Ashley Herring Blake. 

Dad had read this book long enough ago that he forgot most everything save deeply enjoying it, but he also suggested it because we had just finished McKillip's The Changeling Sea – which reminded him in ways he could not fully recall of this one. Well, we soon found out because while the two are deeply different the resemblances are uncanny. A parent lost to the power of the sea, shattering the family left behind. A mysterious sea-woman whose legend is tied to those who dwell on the shore. A girl drowning in grief who has to learn swim through it and live, not by rejecting the sea but by embracing it, herself, and those she loves again. By finding the words to express the language of the heart which, like this book, is no less vast or deep than the blue sea. Those are the similarities. You want a difference? Well, this one was intense enough to nearly give me heart burn on more than one occasion. Rarely do books leak into my dreams in even the smallest manner, but Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea by Ashley Herring Blake has that honor now.

Fare ye well, Hazel & Peach & Evie & Lemon & Claire & Jules & Kiko. The Rose Maid lives and they and they all lived happily ever after!

The Wheel of Time Season 2 - Official Trailer

"The Great Hunt of the Horn rides forth, rides to seek the Horn of Valere that will summon the heroes of the Ages back from the grave to battle for the Light..."

"Let whosoever sounds me think not of glory, but only of salvation."

Let the Dragon ride again on the winds of time.

 

Graceling book trailer

So, for a class I am taking I was assigned to create a book trailer for that week's assigned book. As good fortune would have it, that book was Graceling by Kristin Cashore, one of my favorite Fantasies, so making a trailer for it was a pleasure and I thought I would share it.

 

George R. R. Martin is having a rough time with The Winds of Winter because he accidentally killed an important character

So apparently George R. R. Martin is having a rough time with The Winds of Winter because he accidentally killed an important Game of Thrones character. As he put it in an interview, "I’m having all kinds of trouble...You ever killed somebody off that you later realized you knew you needed?"

Had I been the interviewer, I might have answered, "Well, Mr. Martin, no, and even as a Fantasy writer myself I have trouble imaging how you quite managed to pull that off. Then again, if you insist in killing off characters to the point that Westeros and slaughterhouses have a lot in common then yes, I suppose I can see how you accidentally butchered a cow-- I mean character whom you intended to keep. Valar morghulis, as they say. For myself and other non-Grimdark authors, we try not to kill off many characters in general, much less one we even vaguely suspect we might need in the future."

My father and I have once again finished The Changeling Sea by Patricia A. McKillip.

My father and I have once again finished The Changeling Sea by Patricia A. McKillip.

It is an enchantment out of the sea. A lullaby born upon the tides. A siren's song luring readers to an island humble fishing village where a pale-and-tangled-haired girl who scrubs floors and walks barefoot finds herself in the midst of a grand mystery born of love and anger out of the depths. A fairy tale of a dark-haired prince who hears the call of the sea, a kingdom beneath the waves, a sea-dragon wearing a golden chain, and a wizard who smells of brine. McKillip books always sit on the same shelf as Tolkien's, but this one is truly like a lullaby – the ebb and flow of the lyrical text seeping into you so that one must concentrate harder on the story itself lest one fall under a foggy enchantment and lose one's head. For those seeking a book capturing all the fey majesty and mystery of the sea, look no further.

Farewell and lots of love to Peri, Prince Kir, Aidon, mage Lyo, Mare, Carey, Enin, the King, and the sea-woman.

“It’s an odd thing, happiness. Some people take happiness from gold. Or black pearls. And some of us, far more fortunate, take their happiness from periwinkles.” – Patricia A. McKillip

“Love and anger are like land and sea: They meet at many different places.” – Patricia A. McKillip

Mythological Fantasy

It occurred to me recently that I forgot a Fantasy sub-genre in my Types of Fantasy page. So without further ado:

Mythological Fantasy: An incredibly popular sub-genre with two versions that hug Contemporary and Historical Fantasy respectively, Mythological Fantasy typically features the gods and heroes of our own World Mythology or have HEAVY mytho-historical elements. I say two versions because the settings of books of this sub-genre are either the ancient world or the modern one, an example of the former (sometimes called Celtic or Arthurian Fantasy) being The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley as it takes place in the court of King Arthur, and the latter being the world-renowned Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan in which the Greek Gods interact with the modern world. My own experience with this genre is limited since I prefer completely made-up world, yet those of this type I have read I count among my favorites, these being The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series by Michael Scott and The Dark is Rising Sequence by Susan Cooper.

Other examples of this sub-genre include The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh (Korean myths), The Children of the Lamp by P. B. Kerr (Arabian myths), and The Sea of Trolls trilogy by Nancy Farmer (Celtic and Norse myths).

I just started The Gathering Storm, Book One of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven

It is an interesting fact that, while I devoted much time to the study of the lore and myths of the ancient Celts, I have seldom if ever read true Celtic Fantasy. Well, that changes now as at the author's request I have started The Gathering Storm, Book One of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven. (Coincidentally, exactly three years to the day I finished another book of the same name.)

Respect, pride, and peace are the things which the Daffyd highlanders fight for – and with a vengeance! All the more so now that the savage yet unquestionably cunning Barbárs hordes have come bringing fire and death to the peaceful lands of Green Mount and the sacred Tor at its heart. Would that savage swords were all the highlanders faced, for now Corvus Corax, called the Raven, along with his sons, friends, and a collection of mystics must use all their own skill and cunning to push back sorcery most foul in defense of each other and all they love.

The battle cry goes out as swords are drawn… "Protect the Tor!"

 

(Naturally the Official Book Review will come after I finish the book.)

I have finished The Shadow Roads, Book Three of The Swans' War Trilogy by Sean Russell

I have finished The Shadow Roads, Book Three of The Swans' War Trilogy by Sean Russell.

I have read over a hundred Fantasies, many of titans of the genre, and when I started this trilogy because I needed to return to the classic tradition of Epic Fantasy: its sweeping, dramatic vistas dripping with equally ballad-worthy history as a backdrop to a main story flush with intrigue rooted in sorcery and war both ancient and new, plain and unseen. Yet while The Swan's War was is exactly that, it is also among the most unique Fantasies I have ever read. A tale of the strange River Wynnd, a haunted river of many branches and secrets that may take travelers to hidden lands on no maps; a river once called the Wyrr, for the mighty enchanter who sleeps within. A story of two rival Houses, the Renné and Wills, fighting with sword and intrigue over the throne of a kingdom long gone. A tale of how the River Wynnd carried the living echoes of feuds older than death into the land between the mountains. A story of families both sorcerous and otherwise divided against each other, some over ideals and others blind hatred and ambition even as some would do anything for peace. A tale of love and courage, sacrifices and risks, as noble heirs, reborn magic-users, and three Valemen and a Fael storyfinder find themselves swept into a conflict unlike any other. All sides bear the swan banner yet only together could death, in both senses, be stopped and peace restored.

Farewell Tam, Fynnol, Baore, Cynddl, Lord Toren Renné, Lady Elise Wills, Prince Michael of Innes, Alaan, Gilbert A'brgail and the Knights of the Vow, Kai, Orlem Slighthand, Theason, Rabal Crowheart, Eber and Llya, Carl A'denné, Jamm, Pwyll, Dease Renné, and last but far from least Lord Carral Wills & Lady Llyn Renné. May you build and enjoy peace in One Kingdom of Ayr.

My father and I just finished the Winterhouse trilogy

My father and I just finished Winterhouse Mysteries by Ben Guterson, the third and final book of the Winterhouse trilogy.

No rhymes this time (mostly). Once again Elizabeth proves her sometimes foolish bravery but always unshakable resolve and razor wit as, along with Freddy, they unravel the last of Riley Granger's magical riddles hidden in the Winterhouse Hotel. Unraveling word puzzles while putting together more tangible ones in a race against the clock and a certain dead sorceress who would like to reverse her condition, all while dealing with odd guests and family. The third time pays for all, three items, three wishes, three friends to work towards Gracella Winter's fall. Once again they chose the good, protecting Winterhouse as it has stood: a place where the spirit of goodness seeps into all who visit it's storied, friendly halls. Which is why the Winterhouse trilogy is such a delightful read, complete with quirky characters who work through tangles of emotions in addition to fell sorcery.

A happily ever after ending to ye, Elizabeth Somers, Freddy Knox, Elana Vesper, Norbridge Falls, Leona Springer, the puzzle men, Jackson and Samson, Hyrum, and all the others at the Winterhouse Hotel. A long and joyful life awaits you, together.

Official Guest Post: Beginners Guide to Exploring Fantasy Books by StickerYou

Not long ago I was contacted by the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for the StickerYou company who expressed interest in writing a guest post for Stars Uncounted – i.e. a post for this mostly humble blog written by them and not me that adheres to the spirit and context of Stars Uncounted. An offer I accepted, so, without further ado, here is the blog's first Official Guest Post:

Beginners Guide to Exploring Fantasy Books

Magical realms, wizardry, and extraterrestrial beings are just a few of the hallmarks of the magical world of fantasy. As far as fantasy goes, the number of possible tales is infinite. It's a genre that lets you escape from the constraints of the real world and into a world of boundless opportunity. Explore a variety of different types of fantasy subgenres that suit your interests.

Heroic expeditions through mystical regions, mythological creatures, and fantastical worlds all come together in the magnificent world of fantasy. It allows readers to explore worlds that share many parallels with our own while also featuring supernatural characteristics. Today's fantasy genre is fast-growing in the book community thanks to all the movie remakes and social media.

Fantasy novels take readers on thrilling adventures full of magic, mythological creatures, and heroic quests. To truly enjoy fantasy literature, a reader must be familiar with its unique characteristics. Fantasy books are compelling because of the fantastical elements the authors incorporate, such as imaginary worlds, strong protagonists, and creatures. Understanding fantasy's characteristics and slowly familiarizing yourself with them will improve your experience of reading such an outlandish genre as you will be more likely to grasp the subtleties inherent to it.

So what are you waiting for? Roll the dice and take steps forward to discover your perfect guide for getting started with fantasy books. 

For many years, Hollywood has been turning fantasy books into big-budget films. In 2023, an all-star cast brought Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves to the big screens.
While the Dungeons & Dragons Series is rich in lore and storytelling, it also has 43 titles which may be of interest to the true, dedicated reader and fantasy savant. If you're looking for other popular series praised by critics that serve as an excellent jumping-on point with a decent introduction to the fantasy genre, we have you covered.

Fantasy Book-To-Screen Adaptations

"Twilight" series by Stephenie Meyer

The "Twilight" series, categorized as a fantasy romance, was written by Stephenie Meyer and was a huge commercial and critical success. The story revolves primarily around Bella Swan, a young teenager who, after relocating to the quiet town of Forks, Washington, falls in love with Edward Cullen, a vampire. Suppose you want to get into the fantasy genre. Twilight is an excellent place to start as you get to read a book that has been adapted into a movie and has another genre that you might be more familiar with, which is a romance subplot that helps beginners slowly get into and understand fantasy. In addition to exposing new readers to a larger group of fans, fantasy novels adapted into films are a great place to start. Successful book-to-screen adaptations made into movies frequently have devoted fan communities that participate in conversations and social groups. Beginners can join these discussions and interact with other enthusiasts with comparable interests when they have read the book and seen the movie, significantly improving the reading journey.

"Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling

J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter'' books are among the most popular fantasy works of all time. It chronicles Harry Potter's adventures at Hogwarts School through seven books and eight films. These films bring the series' mystical world and lovable characters to reality, making it much easier for readers to keep up with and enjoy. If the movies have a high reputation for being exceptionally made, then you can only imagine how much more engaging and fascinating the novels are. The fictional characters from the novel, including their features, behaviors, and unique traits, are brought to life on screen in movies. For those who are just starting out, watching the characters on screen can assist in developing a more profound attachment to them and a better grasp of their roles within the narrative. Visual character depiction can make reading more enjoyable by making it simpler to picture the characters in following books that you read.

"The Chronicles of Narnia" by C.S. Lewis

The novels by C.S. Lewis that make up "The Chronicles of Narnia" are epic works of fantasy. The stories take readers on an incredible journey into the make-believe world of Narnia, where they encounter wondrous beings and exciting journeys. The story follows the four siblings' adventures in Narnia. Readers of fantasy books tend to be exposed to sophisticated worlds rich with distinctive inhabitants, mythical creatures, and supernatural components. The existence of a film adaptation makes it possible for first-time readers to picture the imaginative elements of the story, making it simpler to understand and become invested in the narrative. Readers may find it easier to comprehend the author's concepts due to the visual aid and portrayal offered by films, allowing them to get more fully immersed in the narrative.

Fantasy Books With Romance Subplots

Numerous readers find themselves drawn to novels that address different aspects of romantic connections, which is fitting considering that romance is a genre that achieves enormous appeal universally. Readers on the fence about venturing into the fantasy genre are more likely to pick up a book with a romantic plot line set in a fantasy world. The combination of fantasy and romance can link by providing a more recognizable element, making the imaginative components more approachable and enticing to the reader.

Crown of Feathers

The plot of "Crown of Feathers" centers around Veronyka, a young girl with a special connection to phoenixes, and Tristan, a disturbed young man with a dark past. Readers will have a more personal connection to the story's protagonists and antagonists as their relationship develops. It makes the narrative more approachable and exciting for beginners to the fantasy genre because of the compassion and humanity it introduces. For first-time fantasy readers, "Crown of Feathers" offers a unique window into the genre because of its focus on a secondary romantic plot. Veronyka and Tristan's budding romance is intertwined with the phoenixes' fantasy universe, the complicated political situation, and the difficulties of belonging and self-identification. This blend gives readers the best of both worlds, allowing them to immerse themselves in the fantastical theme while experiencing the variety and details of a passionate bond. It can pique beginners' curiosity in the genre and urge them to read other works of fantasy.

Fable

The plot of "Fable" revolves around the protagonist, Fable, and her mysterious companion, West, as they face off against pirates and embark on a series of daring sea adventures. Because of the developing romance between Fable and West, the story becomes more personal. It enriches their distinct experiences and adds a relevant factor that might connect with beginning readers, prompting a broad spectrum of sentiments like sadness, betrayal, and love. The romantic subplot softens the otherwise tense and action-packed narrative. In contrast to the more emotional parts of the story, these moments of fragility, sensitivity, and proximity serve as a welcome relief. This blend makes for a more pleasant reading experience for new readers. Excessive romantic emotions between the two characters in a fantasy novel might make the reader feel distant from the story and its characters. However, the romance in this book specifically, while present, develops gradually and is balanced with the story.

If you want to continue your quest for finding the perfect fantasy book and great reading materials, check out this specially selected book collection of the greatest fantasy books. It has several excellent recommendations for books that could be both entertaining and notable. Don't pass up the chance to enrich your fantasy reading experience and potentially find a new favorite book.

Buddy Reading

It can be intimidating to begin reading an unfamiliar genre of book for the first time, but finding a friend to read alongside can supply both support and drive. It generates a common encounter in which readers can support and urge each other to continue reading, particularly during parts of the book that are difficult to read or a bit more confusing. Reading fantasy fiction novels with other enthusiastic readers makes for a more engaging experience overall. Thus, buddy reading is a great way to maximize your enjoyment of reading a new genre. Participate in book clubs or social groups to discuss the books you enjoy reading, get recommendations, and share your thoughts with other fantasy book lovers.

You can make buddy reading so much more interesting by trading stickers featuring your favorite characters; it is a fun way to change up buddy reading sessions and make them engaging. StickerYou has a large variety of stickers you may customize that include your favorite fantasy characters, such as Harry Potter, Grogu, Frodo Baggins and so much more. These character stickers are a great way to bond over a shared love of reading with a friend or group.

The imaginative domain of literature is a vast and intriguing land that has yet to be explored. You will go on an exciting path through compelling places that will kindle your creativity and leave you waiting for more. If you comprehend the fantasy genre, explore outstanding novels, and continue to read thoroughly into fantasy subtopics, now is the time to get your hands on a good book or a series and flip through its pages and allow your imagination to take you to fantastical lands.