I found Knightmare Arcanist (Frith Chronicles #1) by Shami Stovall on bragmedallion.com, home of award winning indie books. I read the blurb and was intrigued by the concept. I bought it and added it to my TBR list. Here is my review!
Synopsis (from the author):
Gravedigger Volke Savan wants nothing more than to be like his hero, the legendary magical swashbuckler, Gregory Ruma. First he needs to become an arcanist, someone capable of wielding magic, which requires bonding with a mythical creature. And he’ll take anything—a pegasus, a griffin, a ravenous hydra—maybe even a leviathan, like Ruma.
So when Volke stumbles across a knightmare, a creature made of shadow and terror, he has no reservations. But the knightmare knows a terrible secret: Ruma is a murderer out to spread corrupted magic throughout their island nation. He’s already killed a population of phoenixes and he intends to kill even more.
In order to protect his home, his adopted sister, and the girl he admires from afar, Volke will need to confront his hero, the Master Arcanist Gregory Ruma.
What I liked about Knightmare Arcanist:
Aside from the book’s concept of bonding with a mythical creature, I truly enjoyed reading the story. Volke is a nice character, beaten up a little bit by life, but nonetheless loved and cherished by William and his best friend and adopted sister Illia. Illia, too, is an interesting character, with her own challenges. To watch them persevere through their trials was entertaining, as was the growth of their respective eldrin. The supporting cast added tension and conflict to the story and the meeting with Gregory Ruma was a great conclusion to much of it, though it set the stage for much more. Overall, a great read!
What I didn’t like about Knightmare Arcanist:
The repetitive nature of Volke shifting into a combined character with Luthair (his Eldrin) got a little boring. I thought Addy’s character could be developed more. Other than that, no complaints!
Overall impression of Knightmare Arcanist:
The unique concept, intrigue, budding (or not) romances, and the pursuit of Gregory Ruma made for a good story. The character growth and the plot twists and turns added much to the story and kept me turning pages. I’d recommend this one for anyone who enjoys a good fantasy read!
My rating:
5 Stars!
Connect with Shami Stovall:
Find Shami Stovall on her Amazon Author Page, her Goodreads page, or her website. Find all her Frith Chronicles books as well as her other works. Leave a comment, a review, and maybe buy a book or five!
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