| Books! Where are the great books?

THE WARDED MAN by PETER V. BRETT

Posted on October 2, 2014 by Bookwraiths

The Warded Man by Peter V. Brett

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Demon Cycle #1

Publisher: Random House (March 14, 2009)

Author Information:Website | Twitter

Length: 416 pages

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

The Warded Man was a novel I’d heard a lot about from my reading friends. Peter V. Brett’s name was constantly whispered in my ear as a writer whose work I must try at once. And after finishing this story, I have to admit that was very wise advice — at least where this book is concerned.

For those who haven’t read Mr. Brett’s Demon Cycle series, it is set in a post-apocalyptic world where demons rule the night. In fact, the cause of the apocalypse was the rising of these demons from the underworld, which resulted in human kind almost being totally wiped out. Only by hiding behind special “wards” has a small remnant been able to escape total annihilation. But it is a very precarious existence, for if even one ward fail then the demons will immediately burst into a city or a home killing everyone within. And the worst part is that man has no way to even harm these demons!

But things begin to change when a young boy named Arlen loses his mother to demons while his father cowers in fear. The tragic loss and disgust at people’s fear of the demons leads Arlen on a desperate trek across the nighttime landscape, where he unwittingly discovers his almost uncanny ability to recognize and draw wards.

Barely escaping death at the hands of demons, Arlen is found by a Messenger (A group of specially trained and armed warriors who travel the land with their Jongleurs, entertaining the peasants, trading goods and delivering messages for the rulers of the land.) who takes him back to one of the Free Cities, where the young boy soon begins his training to ultimately become a Messenger himself. His secret desire to travel the world and rediscover the lost offensives wards that can kill demons!

Spaced in between chapters about Arlen are ones focusing on two other characters: a teenage girl named Leesha, who lives in a small village, and a small boy, Rojer, whose life takes an unexpected turn and leads him to the life of a Jongleur. Both these tales are interesting, if not as epic feeling as Arlen’s journey, but I’d have to say that Leesha’s character and life was much more well done than Rojer, who did not get enough page time.

Naturally, a reader senses that the story will eventually push these three people together, but Mr. Brett does a good job making the journey to that point entertaining and intriguing. Each of the youths living very different lives and developing their own unique character and outlook on the world around them – something that kept their individual tales fresh throughout the novel.

There were a few things that I did not love about the novel. One was simply that Arlen’s “big” discovery was a bit of a letdown. Rather than something epic, where he has to brave dangers and escape with his life, he just stumbles upon a map that leads him directly to a spot. No real buildup to this earthshattering discovery, but rather Boom! there it is. Two, the constant skipping of years by the end of the story grew tiresome. It just would have been nice to see Arlen, Leesha, and Rojer grow up instead of them showing up later in the story as a grown woman and two grown men, changed by the years.

Overall, I have to say that The Warded Man was a great book to start the Demon Cycle series, as it had everything that I look for in an opener: interesting characters, mysterious history, creative world, and plenty of fighting. Naturally, the whole concept of demons and wards was the real selling point to me, but Mr. Brett also livened up the rather straightforward narrative, making me turns the pages desperate to discover the answers to some of the questions brewing in my mind.

This one is highly recommended!

Buy the book at Amazon.

Posted in 4 Stars, Epic, Fantasy, High | Tagged best fantasy books, best fantasy novels, best fantasy series, best ongoing fantasy series, Peter V. Brett, THE DEMON CYCLE, THE WARDED MAN | 18 Comments

THE LONGEST FANTASY SERIES

Posted on October 2, 2014 by Bookwraiths

Every one of you has done it: fallen in love with an epic, fantasy series that goes on and on forever. The ones that begin so grandly then morph into multi-volume nightmares that never seem to end. Even the authors know they are bloated beasts, for example take Tad Williams, writer of the “Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn” series, who labeled that trilogy “The Bloated Epic.”

Having gone through this horror myself more than once, I wondered what fantasy series in my life (I was born in 1970) were the longest and most bloated. Not “bloated” in the sense that they were terrible reads (though there are some that were horrid) but rather that the author had contracted “Herbert’s Syndrome”, in which he is overwhelmed by the temptation to keep expanding his popular universe. (I’ve read that the Fantasy Review came up with the label “Herbert’s Syndrome” when Dune creator Frank Herbert kept pumping out Dune books back in the 1980s.)

With this in mind, I did some research and came up with thirty of the “Longest Fantasy” series ever published. While I realize word count would be a more reliable measure of true length, I found it difficult to get (what I considered) reliable data regarding word count of all fantasy series, so I settled for number of pages in series, which seems to be a fairly accurate measure of total length.

After you read through the list, please nominate any others that you feel should be included. I do read the suggestions and modify this list from time to time.

#30: THE BLACK COMPANY

Glen Cook has led this bunch of mercenaries across two continents and into a few different dimensions through nine books with 3,808 pages. Two more books planned in the series.

#29: DRENAI SAGA

David Gemmell was a master of heroic fantasy; none of his books more well known than this beloved series, which stretched to 11 novels with approximately 4,432 pages.

#28: THE DARK TOWER

King’s epic has run 8 books and 4,600 pages, and it will only grow larger. Trust me. See my reviews of several novels in the series.
Gunslinger Drawing of the Three Wolves of the Calla Dark Tower VII

#27: MYTH ADVENTURES

Robert Lynn Aspirin’s humorous fantasy series has run for five decades and provided fans with 20 novels, sitting at approximately 4,821 pages.

#26: A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE

Martin’s saga is 5 books and basically 5,000 pages long, and it is not close to being complete.

#25: THE DERYNI CHRONICLES

Kurtz began this in 1970 and has reached 16 books with approximately 5,000 pages. Plus, there is so much more to write about in this world that I doubt we have seen the end of this long running series.

#24: THE WORLD OF THE BELGARIAD

Eddings wrote two 5 book series and two histories: 12 novels and 5,014 pages in all. See my review of Pawn of Prophecy, the first book in the series.

#23: A CROWN OF STARS

Elliot’s 7 book series with 5,300 pages. Each book averaging a slim 750 pages.

#22: IMAGER PORTFOLIO

L.E. Modesitt, Jr.’s first series on the list with 11 books and around 5,350 pages. At least one more novel planned.

#21: THE CHRONICLES OF THOMAS COVENANT

The Unbeliever’s “believers” have purchased 10 books so far and devoured almost 5,500 pages about their favorite leper. Supposedly, the series is over, but then again, I thought the Second Chronicles of Thomas Covenant was the last. So stay tuned to this one.

#20: THE ETERNAL CHAMPION

Michael Moorcock has published dozens of eternal champion books, but I decided to use the White Wolf omnibus editions, which collected all the stories in one nice hardcover set. This White Wolf series stretches for 14 books with 6,095 pages.

#19: THE DRESDEN FILES

Urban fantasy poster boy has over 6,200 pages through 15 books, and remember, he is still growing. See my review of Storm Front, the first book in the series.

#18: WARS OF LIGHT AND SHADOW

Wurts has put out 9 books so far. Several more planned. Each novel is close to 700 pages, for a total of 6,281 pages at present. Destiny’s Conflict (Book 10) tentatively set to be published on October 5, 2017.

#17: KUSHIEL’S UNIVERSE

Jacqueline Carey’s series has been around for a while with 9 books, totaling 6,535 pages.

#16: DRAGAERA WORLD

Brust has dazzled his fan with 21 novels and approximately 6,620 pages. Vallista to be released October 17, 2017. So excited. Yawn. See my reviews.
Jhereg The Phoenix Guards Brokedown Palace

#15: DEVERRY CYCLE

Fifteen books with approximately 6,912 pages from Katharine Kerr.

#14: REDWALL

During Brian Jacques life, he penned 22 novels in his amazing world, and his fans will continue to cherish all 8,645 pages.

#13: DRAGONRIDERS OF PERN

Labeled scifi by some, these 26 books have always seemed more fantasy with just a touch of science fiction mixed in to liven things up a bit. But whether you agree with me or not about that, you will, no doubt, concede that the series is approximately 9,000 pages and still growing.

#12: DRAGONLANCE

Okay, I know some of you are saying this is a serialized world with numerous authors writing about different characters, and I totally agree, so I am only counting the novels authored or co-authored by Margaret Weis or Tracy Hickman. With this criteria used, the core Dragonlance novels came down to 21 novels with 9,038 pages or there about.

#11: REALM OF THE ELDERLINGS

Robin Hobb has written 16 novels in this universe so far with around 11,000 pages. The author has left it open to return to the world again in the future if she feels she has another story to tell.

#10: THE LEGEND OF DRIZZT

Salvatore has given us a “legendary” run of 30 books with nearly 11,500 pages. It appears the series may have come to an end for the foreseeable future, but don’t count Drizzt out: there are always more stories to tell. See my reviews of the most recent books in the series.
Vengeance of the Iron Dwarf Archmage Hero

#9: THE SWORD OF TRUTH

Goodkind has published four series in his fantasy world of the Confessors: Sword of Truth, Richard and Kahlan, The Legend of Magda Searus, and Sister of Darkness: The Nicci Chronicles. These novels total 17 books so far with approximately 11,400 pages. Each book averaging almost 700 pages.

#8: THE SAGA OF RECLUCE

Modesitt’s second series on our list with Recluce stretching out 18 novels with approximately 10,740 pages. Book 19 (The Mongrel Mage) will be released on October 31, 2017.

#7: SHANNARA

A series that has run 29 books with nearly 12,200 pages. If you include four short stories and a graphic novel into the equation, then the series is at 34 published work with approximately 12,500 pages . . . and it’s still getting bigger: The final series (The Fall of Shannara) having begun in June 2017 with the publication of The Black Elfstone. See my reviews of the most recent Shannara novels.
The High Druid’s Blade The Darkling Child The Sorcerer’s Daughter.

#6: THE WHEEL OF TIME

Jordan and Sanderson’s 15 book epic. 12,000 pages. Basically 800 pages per book!

#5: XANTH

A little over 13,000 pages! 39 books! This series of cheesy fantasy jokes and fun puns is still going strong after all these years.

#4: THE RIFTWAR CYCLE

Feist strung this one out for 30 books and over 13,100 pages. It is over finally – we think.

#3: VALDEMAR

Lackey has penned 34 novels with 14,000 pages. A big investment of time there. And I’m not even including the short story collections.

#2: MALAZAN

Erickson and Esslemont’s series is now so long I’ve lost count of how many books there are in all the different series, but I believe we are up to 19 by the end of July 2017 with around 14,500 pages. Each novel averaging approximately 800 pages. If you add in the six novellas, the series is now above 15,500 pages long with 25 published works, and the latest novel arrives in November 2017 when Deadhouse Landing (Path to Ascendancy #2) hits shelves. Obviously, this series isn’t going to stop growing for quite some time, it seems.

#1: DISCWORLD

During Terry Pratchett’s prolific writing career, he wrote 45 Discworld novels spreading across 15,497 pages. And while this fantasy master has passed away, Discworld will always remain to pay homage to his greatness.

Now, to be honest, we all love for our favorite book series to go on and on. (I personally recall tearing up as a kid when Lord of the Rings ended.) And as long as the author can continue to churn out interesting new story ideas or plot lines, it isn’t a bad thing for anyone that a series goes “long.”

What inevitably seems to occur, however, is at some point new ideas stop coming and old ones start being rehashed, resulting in a great series turning into a never ending procession of the same formulaic story. “Bloat” sets in, if you will, and then it is up to the author to just stop. End it already, like Tolkien did by sending Frodo and Gandalf into the west at the end Lord of the Rings. Sure, I cried when I read it, but it was better than me giving up on the eighth LoTR sequel. You know, the one where Frodo is taking an enchanted sword to Mount Gundabad to destroy it so as to cast down the Ringwraith who survived Sauron’s destruction.

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY OTHER BEST OF FANTASY LISTS.

Posted in Fantasy, Lists | Tagged Black Company, David Gemmell, DISCWORLD, Dragonlance, DRENAI SAGA, drizzt, ETERNAL CHAMPION, fantasy series, george r.r. martin, Glen Cook, goodkind, IMAGER PORTFOLIO, longest fantasy series, margaret weis, Michael Moorcock, MYTH ADVENTURES, pern, R. A. Salvatore, raymond e. feist, REDWALL, riftwar, ROBERT ASPIRIN, robert jordan, Stephen King, Sword of Truth, TERRY PRATCHETT, the dark tower, tracy hickman, valdemar, wheel of time | 68 Comments

THE SWORD AND ITS SERVANT (GRAUWELT #1) by VICTOR SALINAS

Posted on September 30, 2014 by Bookwraiths

My rating is 3 out of 5 stars.

The Sword and Its Servant is the first installment of what is planned as an ongoing series. This “portal” story is definitely a YA novel with its “coming of age” theme, but it also has a very strong element of horror incorporated in it with some nightmarish characters who do some rather nasty things. And that blending of YA and horror is definitely what gives this tale a uniqueness missing in many other books; something fantasy readers tired of the familiar fantasy tropes might find very refreshing.

The story begins on Earth with a young boy named Johannes, who is read a bedtime story by his mother. This fairy tale (for so they both believe it to be) talks about a world called Grauwelt, where a group of refuges has fled for safety only to find it haunted by a horrible supernatural creature who begins to devour them. When all hope of their survival seems lost, the leader of these refugees does the unthinkable and turns to hell itself for help.

After his mother stops reading and tells him to go to sleep, Johannes finds himself unable to stop his imagination from wandering. Instead of settling down to slumber, his mind races with images of himself as a brave knight, riding off on his mighty steed to fight the nightmarish hound-like creatures of Grauwelt called the Lowa.

And then the horror begins for this small boy snugged safety under his covers, as he finds a portal opening in his room! The pulsating whirlpool of light filled with insidious voices and shadowy images of the creatures spoken of in the fairy tale – things that are not so easily vanquished by Johannes’ toy sword. And before he can even call for help, the youth finds himself forced into the sibilant vortex and taken to Grauwelt. A different reality that is somewhere between our own and that of Hel, filled with creatures that are straight out of his nightmares, all of them locked in a struggle to the death for survival.

From this beginning, Mr. Salinas develops the story through several different points of view. After Johannes’ introduction, a parallel story about a strange girl named Einsa is begun; her life being one of unending terror as she lives in pitch black cells full of abducted children. And then the author moves onto several of the Lowa, who are the sons of the King and involved in political machinations. Through these multiple stories, a vivid world of darkness and violence is carefully crafted.

There are several things to really like about The Sword and Its Servant.

One is that Mr. Salinas has crafted a rather non-traditional fantasy world, based not on humans but on another species entirely. The Lowas are truly horrible but also complex creatures who have their own peculiar traditions and civilization that are slowly revealed by the author.

Two, this is not a classic “good versus evil” tale. In fact, all the characters portrayed here are definitely gray. Throughout the narrative, you will find yourself thoroughly hating one for his actions, only to find the motives for those heinous deeds explained later and the hatred turning slowly into mere dislike or perhaps something even more. For example, the Lowas are definitely creatures out of a child’s nightmare, but Mr. Salinas develops them into intelligent beings whose vile acts are within the parameters of their culture. And even the denizens of “Hel” are not shown as completely evil, but something between the two polar opposites of good and bad.

Third, The Sword and Its Servant is not merely a book series; it is actually the introduction to the role-playing world of Grauwelt. Online, lovers of Mr. Salinas’ fantasy creation can immerse themselves into this world via a role-playing game aptly dubbed Grauplay. Something that isn’t exactly new, but the creative team does a great job of integrating the two things together in a new, inventive way, and it does add that extra dimension to the series as a whole.

Overall, I like The Sword and Its Servant. Mr. Salinas’ writing was more than adequate for this YA story; something that I know will only improve as the series progresses. The plot was inventive and fast paced, which makes it perfect for YA lovers. So if you are just a fantasy aficionado looking for something different, or a horror fan who likes it a bit fantastical, this is absolutely something you should check out.

Posted in 3 Stars, Dark, Fantasy, High, Self-Published | Tagged Grauplay, Grauwelt, The Sword and Its Servant, Victor Salinas | Leave a comment

FUN DAY MONDAY, OR THE BOOKS THAT WILL HELP ME SURVIVE THE WEEK AHEAD (SEPTEMBER 29, 2014)

Posted on September 29, 2014 by Bookwraiths

The work week begins. Time for me to strap on my business suit and head back into the office to save the world one case at a time. And helping me forget about all the trials and tribulations of life will be a few books that I hope are really, really good. Unfortunately, I got a little behind on my reading last week, so I never got around to Scourge of the Betrayer, but that won’t happen this week. Real life be damned, reading comes first!

SCOURGE OF THE BETRAYER (BLOODSOUNDER’S ARC #1) by JEFF SALYARDS

“Many tales are told of the Syldoon Empire and its fearsome soldiers, who are known throughout the world for their treachery and atrocities. Some say that the Syldoon eat virgins and babies–or perhaps their own mothers. Arkamondos, a bookish young scribe, suspects that the Syldoon’s dire reputation may have grown in the retelling, but he’s about to find out for himself.

Hired to chronicle the exploits of a band of rugged Syldoon warriors, Arki finds himself both frightened and fascinated by the men’s enigmatic leader, Captain Braylar Killcoin. A secretive, mercurial figure haunted by the memories of those he’s killed with his deadly flail, Braylar has already disposed of at least one impertinent scribe … and Arki might be next.

Archiving the mundane doings of millers and merchants was tedious, but at least it was safe. As Arki heads off on a mysterious mission into parts unknown, in the company of the coarse, bloody-minded Syldoon, he is promised a chance to finally record an historic adventure well worth the telling, but first he must survive the experience!

A gripping military fantasy in the tradition of Glen Cook, Scourge of the Betrayer explores the brutal politics of Empire–and the searing impact of violence and dark magic on a man’s soul.” — Goodreads

BUY THE BOOK AT AMAZON

VEIL OF THE DESERTERS (BLOODSOUNDER’S ARC #2) by JEFF SALYARDS

“History, Family and Memory… these are the seeds of destruction.

Bloodsounder’s Arc continues as Captain Braylar Killcoin and his retinue continue to sow chaos amongst the political elite of Alespell. Braylar is still poisoned by the memories of those slain by his unholy flail Bloodsounder, and attempts to counter this sickness have proven ineffectual.

The Syldoonian Emperor Cynead has solidified his power base in unprecedented ways, and demands loyalty from all operatives. Braylar and company are recalled to the capital to swear fealty. Braylar must decide if he can trust his sister, Soffjian, with the secret that is killing him. She has powerful memory magics that might be able to save him from Bloodsounder’s effects, but she has political allegiances that are not his own. Arki and others in the company try to get Soffjian and Braylar to trust one another, but politics in the capital prove to be far more complicated and dangerous than even Killcoin could predict.

Deposed emperor Thumarr plots to remove the repressive Cynead, and Braylar and his sister Soffjian lie at the heart of his plans. The distance between “favored shadow agent of the emperor” and “exiled traitor” is an unsurprisingly short road. But it is a road filled with blind twists and unexpected turns. Before the journey is over, Arki will chronicle the true intentions of Emperor Cynead and Soffjian. And old enemies in Alespell may prove to be surprising allies in a conflict no one could have foreseen.” — Goodreads

BUY THE BOOK AT AMAZON

RISE OF THE KING (COMPANIONS CODEX #2) by R.A. SALVATORE

“In the second book of the Companions Codex, the latest series in the New York Times best-selling saga of dark elf Drizzt Do’Urden, R.A. Salvatore picks up with the fan-favorite storyline of dwarf king Bruenor Battlehammer and his bloody feud with the orc kingdom of Many Arrows.” — Goodreads

BUY THE BOOK AT AMAZON

Yeah, it is going to be an exciting week at my house. What books are you going to be reading?

Posted in Fantasy, Funday Monday | Tagged BLOODSOUNDER'S ARC, Companions Codex, JEFF SALYARDS, R. A. Salvatore, Rise of the King, SCOURGE OF THE BETRAYER, VEIL OF THE DESERTERS | 7 Comments

DURING THE DANCE by MARK LAWRENCE

Posted on September 28, 2014 by Bookwraiths

During the Dance by Mark Lawrence

Genre: Contemporary Fantasy

Series: Stand-alone short story

Publisher: Self Published (July 4, 2014)

Author Information: Website | Twitter

Length: 9 pages

My Rating: five out of five stars.

This is a short story penned by Mark Lawrence, author of the grimdark masterpiece Prince of Thorns and its sequels. While it has some fantastical elements, it is definitely not a fantasy work nor a grimdark in anyway, but rather a simple tale of love and loss set in the modern world.

Since this is such a compact tale, I will not attempt to summarize it other than to say it focuses on a young girl who sees another side of the world. And while nine pages is not much time to craft a complex story, Mr. Lawrence injects so much emotion into those two thousand words that even the most hardened person will likely find their heartstrings gently played by this girl’s poignant tale.

Truly, During the Dance is a story not to be missed. Its hauntingly beautiful narrative of love will echo in your memories long after you close your e-reader. While those who abhor The Broken Empire and its grimdark lead Jorg Ancrath may feel led to skip this short story, I would ask that they not do so, because it is a different story that should not be compared to Jorg Ancrath’s tale in any way. I personally revisit it from time to time, and it never fails to cast its spell over me. Due to that, it is one of my favorites stories of all time, and I’d love to help introduce it to others out there.

DOWNLOAD THE STORY AT AMAZON.

Posted in 5 Stars, Contemporary, Fantasy, Short Stories | Tagged During the Dance, Emperor of Thorns, free fantasy short stories, grimdark masters, Jorg Ancrath, King of Thorns, Mark Lawrence, Prince of Thorns, the broken empire | 1 Comment

TOUGH TRAVELING — COMPANIONS

Posted on September 25, 2014 by Bookwraiths

Every Thursday, Nathan over at Fantasy Review Barn hosts a weekly party where blogs get to follow along with Diana Wynne Jones’ hilarious book The Tough Guide to Fantasyland: The Essential Guide to Fantasy Travel listing their favorite books with a particular fantasy trope. So sit back and enjoy the fun.

25th September, 2014 – COMPANIONS

COMPANIONS… You will normally meet them for the first time at the outset of the tour. They are picked from among the following: Bard, Female Mercenary, Gay mage, Imperious Female, Large Man, serious soldier, Slender Youth, Small Man, Talented Girl, Teenage Boy, Unpleasant Stranger, and Wise Old Stranger.

Okay, I’m going to kill this topic!

JAKE CHAMBERS, OY, EDDIE DEAN and SUSANNAH DEAN – THE DARK TOWER by STEPHEN KING

The star of this series might have been Roland the Gunslinger, but it would not have been nearly as enjoyable without his ka-tet of Jake Chambers, Oy, Eddie Dean and Susannah Dean. This group of rich kid, drug addict, and wheelchair bound rich girl drove this series forward through the good and bad (No, Mr. King, I have not forgotten nor forgiven the conclusion to The Dark Tower saga), and without them, we all know that Roland Deschain’s quest to reach the Dark Tower would never have succeeded. Honestly, I loved each and every one of these characters for a different way, and I can’t think of any other companions that contributed so much to the series they co-starred in.

See my reviews of three of the novels in the series.
The Gunslinger Wolves of the Calla The Dark Tower Book VII

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

INGOLD INGLORION – DARWATH by BARBARA HAMBLY

As I’ve said before, this is one of my favorite old school fantasy series with Ingold Inglorion being my favorite wizard this side of Gandalf. Without a doubt, this robed guy has some bad mojo with a staff or a sword, and he has taken upon himself the task of trying to save his entire planet from nearly invisible creatures called the Dark, whose meal of choice is humankind. But you know what? He isn’t the main character in the series. Nope, two, twentieth century Americans are the stars, which made Ingold one of the best companions I’ve ever read about!

Read more about the Darwath Trilogy. 17 Overlooked Fantasy Series TIME OF THE DARK

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

LADY – THE BLACK COMPANY by GLEN COOK

As this series begins, Croaker is the main character. Naturally, as the annalist of the Black Company, it is his job to write this account of their ongoing exploits in the world. In the first book, a reader sees relatively little of Lady; the second novel is even less; and the third book, she plays a bigger part, especially toward the end. Even in the later books of the series, Lady is rarely the main character, but somehow she always finds a way to steal the spotlight from everyone in the book and is one of the most interesting “companion” characters that I’ve ever read about. I mean, wise old stranger and talented girl are great companions, but how about world conquering sorceress supreme who will kill you as soon as she spits on you but has the grace and sophistication of a true lady? Yeah, I do have a horrid thing for her, which means the Lady is one of my favorite companions.

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

MERRY, PIPPIN, SAMWISE, ARAGORN, LEGOLAS, GIMLI, GANDALF, and BOROMIR – TOLKIEN’S LORD OF THE RINGS

While it might not be completely true, I’d say that all these guys are companions to Frodo, whose quest they join and attempt to help him complete. Sure, several of them become the main focus of chapters and chapters of the novels, but to me, they are still merely members of the Fellowship of the Ring, whose job it is to be companions and helpers to the ring-bearer Frodo. So for those reasons, this group of characters are companions to me, and they will always deserve to be on any list of the best companions in fantasy.

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

SIGURD THE DREYLING – CITY OF STAIRS by ROBERT JACKSON BENNETT

Now, Shara Thivani, great granddaughter of the Kaj, and operative for the Saypur Foreign Affairs Ministry is the main character in this fantastic fantasy genre blender, but her bodyguard Sigurd slowly becomes a companion who steals more than a few scenes from Shara. Wild, barbaric and mysterious, this huge man who can wipe out a whole squads of armed men by himself has a shadowy past that is slowly revealed and turns him into something so much more addictive than just the strong, silent murderer. Honestly, this companion really deserves his own novel or at least a novella spotlighting his intriguing life and future.

See my review of the first book in the series.
CITY OF STAIRS

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

OBERON – THE IRON DRUID CHRONICLES by KEVIN HEARNE

I might have come late to the urban fantasy feast, but in Oberon of The Iron Druid Chronicles, I’ve already found my favorite UF companion. This Irish wolfhound’s constant banter with his human slave, twenty-one centuries old druid Atticus O’Sullivan, is the motor that runs this UF series. Sure, witches and werewolves, gods and goddess, magic and curses are great and all, but you just can’t beat a wisecracking dog, making his human’s life happier and more miserable in turn. As I try to find time to continue my read of The Iron Druid Chronicles, do you know my reason for wanting to do so is? Yeah, I want me some more Oberon. You just beat a talking dog, people. We really need one in every fantasy book.

See my review of the first book in the series.
HOUNDED

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

THE NAMELESS DWARF – SHADER by D.P. PRIOR

I’ve called the Shader series the best indie fantasy series that I personally have ever read, and while I really adore the hero of the series, Deacon Shader, Nameless (as his friends call him) is the best sword and sorcery companion that I’ve run into lately. This blood drenched dwarf who was so evil that he began to commit genocide of his own people is completely rehabilitated by Mr. Prior, showing himself to be a fighting man’s ideal companion. Nameless drinks, laughs, fights, and embraces nearly everyone in friendship. In fact, he becomes such a shining character that in the third book of the Shader series he began to actually steal the show from the star. Now, Nameless you are just going too damn far there. Companions have to know their place.

See my reviews of two of the novels featuring The Nameless Dwarf.
THE UNWEAVING THE ANT-MAN OF MALFEN

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

GARION’S COMPANIONS – THE BELGARIAD by DAVID EDDINGS
Credit for Image to Evolra
Throughout this series, Mr. Eddings continually adds more and more companions to this group led by Belgarath and Polgara, as they crisscross the world after the stolen Orb of Aldur. Sure, each of these people seem somewhat one dimensional, but even the most cardboard cutout characters has his or her moment to shine and do something necessary for the group as a whole to succeed. So while I wish I could pick just one of these companions, I’m going to throw them all in together. Honestly, how can I pick between Durnik, Silk, Barak, Hettar, Lelldorin, Mandorallen, Ce’Nedra, Relg, Taiba, or Errand, not to even mention Belgarath and Polgara. These guys were all great companions, and some of my favorite Young Adult fantasy characters.

See my review of the first book in the series.
Pawn of Prophecy

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

ALARIC MORGAN – THE DERYNI CHRONICLES by KATHERINE KURTZ

This seventh Duke of Corwyn and Lord General of the Royal Armies of Gwynedd is a close advisor and friend of both King Brion Haldane and King Kelson Haldane of the Deryni series. He is a man dedicated to protecting not only his liege lord but also trying to somehow ease the transition of the hated and cursed Deryni people back into society. A warrior, politician, and fast friend, Alaric is one of the most interesting companions that I’ve ever read about. While George R.R. Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire is a masterpiece of medieval noble genocide, Kurtz’ Deryni series is very similar in tone and can’t be beat for royal political treachery and backbiting – with Alaric being a big reason why.

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

LORD MHORAM and SALTHEART FOAMFOLLOWER – THE FIRST CHRONICLES OF THOMAS COVENANT by STEPHEN R. DONALDSON

These two companions of the whiny leper Thomas Covenant are introduced in the first novel of the series, Lord Foul’s Bane, but they continually grow and change so that by the third novel, The Power That Preserves, they are nearly completely different people. (I suppose, war with a Dark Lord will do that to anyone.) However, throughout their tumultuous relationship with Covenant, they are really some of the best companions that I have ever read.

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON.

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY BEST OF FANTASY LISTS.

Posted in Fantasy, Lists, Tough Traveling | Tagged Alaric Morgan, Barbara Hambly, best fantasy companions, Chronicles of the Deryni, City of Stairs, Companions, D.P. Prior, Darwath, David Eddings, Glen Cook, Ingold Inglorion, Katherine Kurtz, Kevin Hearne, Lady, Lord Mhoram, Lord of the Rings, Oberon, Roland Deschain, Saltheart Foamfollower, SIGURD THE DREYLING, Stephen King, STEPHEN R. DONALDSON, The Belgariad, The Black Company, the dark tower, The Iron Druid Chronicles, The Nameless Dwarf, thomas covenant | 18 Comments

CITY OF STAIRS by ROBERT JACKSON BENNETT

Posted on September 24, 2014 by Bookwraiths

City of Stairs by Robert Jackson Bennett.

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Divine Cities #1

Publisher: Broadway Books (September 9, 2014)

Author Information: Website | Twitter

Length: 452 pages

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Imagine yourself in a place called the Continent – a land graced by the presence of the six gods themselves; deities who live and walk among their chosen people for a thousand glorious years.

In this world, the earth is merely a canvas upon which the gods paint reality to their liking, making it more beautiful, more hospitable, and crafting works of wonder that rival nature’s innate splendor. Some of their creations are for nothing more than a godly whim, but others are there to protect their chosen people, ward off illness, feed them, house them in safety, and allow them to live in magnificent cities alongside deities come to earth. The most glorious of these abodes being the gods’ capital city of Bulikov, from which they ruled the world – including an island of slaves called Saypur, who had no god of their own.

What a glorious age it was, a time of paradise on earth for the Continent! But then seventy-five years ago, something horrible happened: the age of gods came to an end! A man known only as the “Kaj” rising up in Saypur, creating a weapon capable of killing the gods, methodically executing each of them, and thereby unleashing upon the Continent “The Blink.”

The children of the gods saw their world end in “The Blink.” Not only were the six divinities destroyed but with them instantly vanished all their creations. Cities disappeared. Mountains crumbled. Fertile lands turned to dust. The temperate climate turned cold and snowy. Paradise died. Chaos erupted. Starvation was born. Plagues ran rampant. Poverty reared its ugly head. Death’s pale visage loomed over all. It truly seemed that every person on the Continent would surely perish.

But before complete annihilation occurred, the Saypur forces took control. Their Kaj had come before as the divinity destroyer, but now that the Blink has taken its tole, his people return to the Continent as conquers. They take over the land. Divinity of any kind is outlawed. Words, symbols, or deeds relating to the vanquished gods are punishable by the harshest means possible. The Continent survives, but it is now a backwater filled with broken people, full of darkness, lost dreams, and hopelessness – slaves who were once the chosen of the gods.

As City of Stairs opens, the world is changing once again: civilization writhing in the birthing pains of an industrial revolution. And the Continent is caught up in this evolution, as two groups vie with one another to lead the journey into this brave, new world. One wishing to restore the old ways of the gods, and the others wanting to abandon the past and forge a new future.

Naturally, all this societal change causes a destabilizing pressure on the Continent – one that regularly erupts into violence, many times against Saypurians. And so when noted Saypurian Historian Dr. Efrem Pangyui is murdered in the old capital city of Bulikov, important people take notice.

One of these observers is Shara Thivani, great granddaughter of the Kaj, operative for her Aunt Vinya, who heads up the Saypur Foreign Affairs Ministry. Shara is a young woman banished from home due to a political act of conscious who has spent most of her adult life on the Continent accompanied by her bodyguard Sigurd, a barbarian Dreyling. While not knowing Dr. Pangyui for very long, Shara greatly admired him, counted him one of the few friends she has on the Continent, and after hearing of his fate, she voluntarily travels to Bulikov determined to uncover who killed him and why.

Naturally, as Shara begins turning over stones, she finds that this is no simple murder nor a random act of violence by a subjugated race. Rather it’s a complex puzzle with pieces carved from ancient history, the mystery of the Kaj, the destruction of the Continent by the Blink, and the conquest by Saypur. Involved in it all may even be a man from her past, who now finds himself as the leader of the Continental party for change in Bulikov. And while Shara tries to safely journey through the political minefield she has inadvertently wandered into, she soon discovers that lurking behind all these things might be a secret so dangerous that it would not only destroy her family but also the world Saypur rules over!

After finishing City of Stairs, all I could say was wow! It is by far one of the most impressive writing performances that I have had the privilege of reading. Robert Jackson Bennett has crafted such a uniquely original tale incorporating epic fantasy, urban fantasy, mystery, political thriller, and mythology that it is really breathtaking, and for that, he deserves the accolades this novel will surely earn him.

And as much as the story deserves praise, the world building itself also must be recognized. Here, Mr. Bennett has created a land filled with magic. There is the modern magic of an industrial revolution Saypur, filled with ships, guns, and the bureaucracy of a modern nation, while behind it is the lingering glimmer of the gods’ magic, highlighted by miraculous objects, glimmering portals, and vanishing stairs – though each is difficult to find anymore. And while some might say all this world building slows the story down, I can’t agree because by the time Mr. Bennett was done with it I was so fully committed to the story that I simply flew through the last half of the novel.

Truly, City of Stairs is a genre-blending novel that succeeds where so many others have failed. In it, Mr. Bennett has created a lush world, dripping with mythology and history, with intriguing characters, romantic tension, political mysteries, and more than a few action scenes. The book is philosophical. It is entertaining. It has a great cover. And it is a novel sure to be on most readers Best Books of 2014 lists.

I received this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank both of them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.

PURCHASE THE NOVEL AT AMAZON

Posted in 4 Stars, Fantasy, Low | Tagged best genre blending books, best urban fantasy series, City of Stairs, Kaj, ROBERT JACKSON BENNETT, Shara Thivani, The Blink | 12 Comments

THE LAST COLONY (OLD MAN’S WAR #3) by JOHN SCALZI

Posted on September 23, 2014 by Bookwraiths

My rating is 3 out of 5 stars.

I have to admit I was a bit excited to finally get to read The Last Colony. Old Man’s War was a great scifi novel and The Ghost Brigades was only a notch below it, in my opinion, so when I opened this one up, I had really high expectations – expectations that were not met by this novel, unfortunately. Oh, it was still an enjoyable read, just not the military extravaganza I was expecting.

The Last Colony opens with John Perry and his wife, Jane, living a relatively normal and boring life on a small, farming colony. The only thing that breaks up the monotony is settling quarrels between farmers and the snarky conversations with their adopted daughter Zoe, who is followed around by her two Obin bodyguards, Hickory and Dickory. Naturally, however, things are about to change and quickly.

One day, out of nowhere, an old military commander of John Perry shows up and extends a unique opportunity to him and Jane: become the leaders of a new, human colony to be built on the planet dubbed Roanoke. Along with their daughter and her bodyguards, they would be shepherding two thousand five hundred colonists chosen from ten of the human colonial worlds, something that has never happened before. And due to the political nature of this new colony, the Colonial Union needs some non-political people to head up Roanoke; a fact which led the CU search committee to Jane and John, who seem like great candidates with their military backgrounds and John’s experience as a colonial war hero.

Naturally, Jane and John are suspicious. Having been Colonial Union soldiers, they know through first hand experience how thoroughly devious the CU can be, and how the CU is more than willing to sacrifice anyone to further their secretive plans to expand the reach of Humanity in the stars. But being assured everything is on the up and up (as well as John and Zoe wanting to add some excitement to their dull life) the family agrees to take the jobs.

Do I need to even say what happens next?

Yeah, John and Jane immediately begin to suspect they were lied to. Things do not add up about Roanoke, and inevitable, the mission takes an unexpected turn for the worst – at least from John and Jane’s perspective. The Colonial Union is shown to have been deceiving everyone – about pretty much everything including its promises that the colony would not cause issues with The Conclave (an alliance of alien races determined to stop interstellar warfare by controlling colonization.) In fact, even the name of Roanoke turns out not to be for commemorative purposes but rather a dark joke. And it seems that John and Jane are going to need all their military expertise and more than a little luck to escape the political machinations of the CU and its enemies and keep from dying on this primitive, already inhabited, colonial world!

I really wish that I could say that this was a fitting ending to the Old Man’s War trilogy, but I can’t, because The Last Colony is not up to the level of its predecessors (which were two of the best military science fiction that I’ve ever read.) Where Old Man’s War introduced readers to a harsh universe where humanity turns its soldiers into genetically modified, green-skinned supermen to defend against all the nasty alien races waiting to devour humanity and The Ghost Brigades masterfully touched upon the idea of “How can a race be morally correct in destroying another species to save itself,” this novel reads like a show on the Scyfy channel about a lone man outwitting an entire galaxy. Or to put it another way, Perry-nado!

Honestly, I don’t like writing the above, because I really liked John Perry and Jane Sagan in the prior novels, but this time Mr. Scalzi turned them into overpowered caricatures of themselves. Jane becomes a near-invulnerable character, who always knows best, can kill practically anything or anyone on a whim, and is even able to read minds. (No, I’m not making that last part up.) John Perry, on the other hand, is his normal sarcastic self, but this time he is able to outwit, outplay, and outlast (Yeah, I stole that from the Survivor television series) every diplomat, soldier, and politician in the Colonial Union and the Conclave. Even teenager Zoe and her two, Obin bodyguards somehow are imbued with the innate abilities needed to help change the course of interstellar history.

And as for our heroes’ enemies, they are one-dimensional caricatures without any real depth. On one hand, there is a galactic leader who is so good, so honest that he looks like he stepped directly out of a Disney channel cartoon, continually espoused interspecies brotherly love and immediately believes anything John Perry says, because, I mean, it’s John Perry so you have to believe him after a five minute conversation, right? And the other villains are the exact opposites: evil 100%. All their motives are self-serving, obviously hiding a desire to cause mass genocide, and their refusal to join the interstellar love in is absolutely ridiculous without any merit.

I wish I could say that the secondary characters were more interesting, but Mr. Scalzi didn’t really spend much time developing them. Even the most visible members of the Roanoke colony is introduced, described and never developed from that point forward. It was like they were just there for John, Jane, and Zoe to have someone to make sarcastic remarks to or to save.

Added to these somewhat lacking characters, Mr. Scalzi throws into the mix some good, old deus ex machina plot lines to help John and Jane out with their plan to outfox the entire universe, machinas that are the only things standing between certain death for the Roanoke colony and certain defeat for John’s plan to transform the galaxy.

Now, I could also mention how certain plot lines were built up in the narrative until they seemed of paramount importance only to POOF! disappear without a trace, never to be seen or heard from again. But I won’t do that, because obviously they weren’t that important. If they were, Mr. Scalzi would have actually finished the plot line, wouldn’t he?

Now, does all that mean this novel isn’t worth reading?

Absolutely not, The Last Colony is entertaining enough. Mr. Scalzi’s still finds time to somewhat explore the logic of an imperialistic state; the constant banter and sarcasm of John Perry, Jane, and Zoe are still humorous; most of the plot lines are wrapped up by the conclusion of the novel; and the main characters generally have happy endings. Honestly, this is the perfect “Hollywood-ending” for the Old Man’s War trilogy, and if that sort of straightforward story is to your liking then you should give this novel a go. But if you are expecting a gritty, military story like the previous novels in the series, then it might be best if you skipped this one.

PURCHASE THE NOVEL AT AMAZON

CHECK OUT MY REVIEWS OF THE SERIES
OLD MAN’S WAR
THE GHOST BRIGADES
ZOE’S TALE

Posted in 3 Stars, Science Fiction, Soft | Tagged best military science fiction, best science fiction series, Jane Sagan, John Perry, John Scalzi, Old Man's War, The Colonial Union, The Ghost Brigades, The Last Colony, ZOE'S TALE | 3 Comments

STORM FRONT

Posted on September 22, 2014 by Bookwraiths

storm front

Storm Front by Jim Butcher

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Series: The Dresden Files #1

Publisher: Roc Books (April 1, 2000)

Author Information: Website | Twitter

Length: 352 pages

My Rating: 3 stars

What can one say about The Dresden Files that hasn’t already been said?

Not much really. It is hailed as a brilliantly written, amazingly addictive, and fabulously inventive story that is the measure by which most Urban Fantasy novels are judged. Its hordes of fans love it, and many, many authors have desperately tried to create the next Harry Dresden. And you know what? I can’t blame either group, because I can totally see how many readers would come down with a bad case of Dresden Fever after being introduced to this guy, and if I was an author I know I would absolutely be dying to create the next Harry.

As for Storm Front itself (which I’ve actually been told by Dresden fans is one of the weaker books in the series), this is Jim Butcher introduction of his wizard for hire, and quickly it becomes clear this isn’t your average dick or gumshoe, but a new age man of mystery with modern sensibilities who just happens to be a sorcerer of the secret, powerful White Council. But even still, the author sets the stage for Harry’s initial adventure as if this were merely another old school private eye story.

The building was quiet – absolutely devoid of sound except for the gentle tap of someone rhythmically counting out his boredom. A noise that unerring led down an empty hallway to a small office.

From under the wooden entryway escaped a bar of light, a pure light from the sun shining through a window rather than the metallic light of fluorescents, and if one followed back along that brilliant gleam, he would find himself in a simple office occupied by a lone man, who sits behind the only desk in the room. Clad in black, it is easy to see that the tapping heard down the hall is his doing. For while he sits stoically behind his desk, looking outwardly calm, it is easy to perceive that he is impatiently waiting for a call or a visitor. Someone, anyone who might need his help. Because he has that look about him: the visage of a helper; someone a person in need can go to for answers to shadowy problems or rescue from dangers he can barely perceive.

Naturally, there will be a price for his help. No one in this world can live on appreciation alone, not even this strong, silent man with the strange staff sitting within easy reach of his long, finely boned hands. (Hands that a person with discernment could tell were equally capable of punching someone in the jaw or weaving a spell of magic.) And Harry (for the letters on the door clearly labeled him as Harry Dresden) seemed to need someone to walk into his office, or for the dusty phone he stared at to ring. Perhaps the stack of unpaid bills on his desk attested to the why of his current desire.

Ring! Ring! Ring!

With carefully practiced professionalism, our dark-haired detective answers the phone, listens patiently to the caller’s problems, explains how he can help, and sets up the appointment with a lady who sounds like she desperately needs his help, a woman who also seems more than willing to pay him a nice fee to find someone. Sure, it is a job too easy for one of his obvious skills, but a paying customer is a paying customer.

Before Harry can pat himself on the back too much for the luck, the phone rings again. A job with the police. One of his special jobs. The kind that no one except a wizard like himself could undertake — which means there is a corpse somewhere that died by less than normal means.

With two people needing his help, Harry Dresden unfolds from his office chair, prepared to head out into a world that denies magic in order to save these very unbelievers from the very things they so vehemently deny exist!

The story that progresses from this point is a light, fast-paced and entertaining urban fantasy tale, part detective/part paranormal mystery. One that is incredibly easy to get sucked into. There is so many positives about the narrative, in fact, that it is difficult to isolate only a few things, because the characters, plot, and aesthetics of Butcher’s story just all work, blending together to create a compelling story. But if I was forced to name the most impressive element of Storm Front, however, I’d point directly at the main character himself. Harry’s constant inner monologue so natural, so lifelike that by the end of the book readers will feel like they know this wizard for hire, count him as one of their friends. Every stumble he makes sure to elicit a gasp of shock, an inner despair. Every fight causing Harry’s new fans to desperately root for him to survive unscathed. And by the end, most people will be happy beyond belief that there are many more books where they can continue to visit their new, wizardly friend.

Like I mentioned, there isn’t too much I can say about Harry that hasn’t been said before and said more eloquently by others. Sure, there were weaknesses in the narrative, elements which I personally didn’t love. But, overall, Storm Front was a fine read. I can’t say it turned me into a fan of either The Dresden Files or urban fantasy in general, but I definitely do not regret reading it to experience the hype first hand.

Purchase the book at Amazon

Posted in 4 Stars, Dresden Files, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy | Tagged best urban fantasy, best urban fantasy series, Dresden Files, Harry Dresden, Jim Butcher, Storm Front, THE DRESDEN FILES | 6 Comments

FUN DAY MONDAY, OR THE BOOKS THAT WILL HELP ME SURVIVE THE WEEK AHEAD (SEPTEMBER 22, 2014)

Posted on September 22, 2014 by Bookwraiths

The work week begins. Time for me to strap on my business suit and head back into the office to save the world one case at a time. And helping me forget about all the trials and tribulations of life will be a few books that I hope are really, really good. So without any further talking, here are a few indie novels that I’ll be reading this week.

THE WARDED MAN (DEMON CYCLE #1) by PETER V. BRETT

In his debut novel, Brett catapults readers into a world in which demons rise at night and the human population lives in fear and seclusion. Only those who brave the unsheltered night and survive see what lies beyond their birth town or city. The setting itself is spare and underdeveloped with the focus instead being on the flawed heroes of the tale. Brett spends a majority of the novel—the first of a series—establishing the backstories of the main characters, three humans who come from different towns and backgrounds and are thrown into the battle at a young age. Readers are held in suspense until the three finally meet. Brett uses the demons and magic to examine issues prevalent in our own society, such as religion versus science. The book is captivating and well written, quickly drawing readers in. The Warded Man is a must-read for anyone looking for a new fantasy world to explore.— Kelliann Bogan, Colby-Sawyer College, New London, NH

BUY THE NOVEL AT AMAZON

SCOURGE OF THE BETRAYER (BLOODSOUNDER’S ARC #1) by JEFF SALYARDS

Many tales are told of the Syldoon Empire and its fearsome soldiers, who are known throughout the world for their treachery and atrocities. Some say that the Syldoon eat virgins and babies–or perhaps their own mothers. Arkamondos, a bookish young scribe, suspects that the Syldoon’s dire reputation may have grown in the retelling, but he’s about to find out for himself.

BUY THE BOOK AT AMAZON

What will you be reading?