Jennie’s Review
If you have been following this blog you know I’m a fan of this author. He continues to create new and compelling reads. And this new book continues in that path.
This fantasy had me thinking! What initially appeared to be an academy-style fantasy quickly evolved into something much more suited to an adult fantasy reader. The world-building was well done, creating an imaginative setting that drew me into the story. I would, however, have enjoyed a little more detail about how the characters traveled between places. Sometimes I enjoy the journey just as much as arriving in a new and interesting setting, and I would have liked to experience a bit more of that along the way.
I hope this is the beginning of a series because, while the story has the feel of a standalone with satisfying closure, that Epilogue leaves me wanting more. And please, do NOT read it until you reach the very end!
Dani, the main female lead, seems to have a bit of a Gemini personality. I really enjoyed her but would like to see her character develop as the series continues. Levi, on the other hand, is an interesting juxtaposition, going from geek to surprisingly intelligent hero. And the magic, well, that was top-notch, with great explanations that even this non-magical reader could understand.
Mark Piggott has given readers a fantasy with plenty to think about, an engaging world, and characters who leave room for further exploration. And that Epilogue? Well, now I’m ready for the next book!
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Book Summary
He cannot cast magic like the other students. He may be the only one capable of changing it forever.
In the kingdom of Engressia, every gifted child is tested and assigned a path in service to the crown. Levi Richter, youngest son of the Duke of Stormwind, is named an Enchanter at the Dawnstar Academy. Yet unlike the mages around him, Levi cannot cast spells through ordinary means. What others see as a limitation drives him toward a different kind of forging magic into devices, weapons, and armor.
Years later, Levi discovers Mysterium, a rare ore threaded with Violet Amerlyte and capable of transforming the way magic is made. His breakthrough could give Engressia a decisive advantage in its endless war against the undead legions of the Ebon Abyss. It also places Stormwind, Levi’s family, and everyone he loves in the path of enemies who will murder, manipulate, and betray to control it.
As an undead incursion threatens Fortress Drakmire and a conspiracy closes around his home, Levi must unite his talents as an Enchanter, swordsman, inventor, and reluctant heir. Alongside the formidable Blademancer Danielle Greyson, he faces vampires, dark mages, political rivals, and the devastating consequences of a feud generations in the making.
To protect Stormwind and end the forever war, Levi must become more than the mage his teachers expected. He must fulfill an old prophecy and prove himself a true Maker of Magic.
