"Quite an interesting read, and a great start to a potentially successful series of stories. I like this genre of novels quite a bit, but this one stood out because although it was humorous and lighthearted, leaving it easy for younger readers to enjoy it, its serious, mature themes make it very interesting for adults. I wish the second book was coming out soon!"
"As in the title you might think that this is a bedtime story for you kids, just for your kids. but no way! this book is by far an amazing book! it is yes, family friendly but it is a kind of book that from 5 year olds to 50 year olds! this book it all out wonderful! it has a perfectly connected plot line with no holes and a clever writing technique. the language is amazing all used correctly and in nice fitting places, and its not short of witty comebacks. it has thrills and epic battle scenes! with well written twists! its and original take on classic fantasy with fresh new monsters that are flat out sinister! it has a lord of the rings feel in a more modern take in a far off land. all in all amazing book!!!"
"The book is fantastic. It entertains with new magic and plot development while keeping you engaged with good character story arches and intrigue. The "bad guys" are absolutely frightening, and the "good guys" are charismatic and endearing. The animal companions Jace gains along the way are by far my favorite in any book. Overall this book is worth the time and money to pick up and will leave you satisfied with your purchase."
"The Soulkind Awakening has got all of the trappings of epic fantasy: the young learner, the aged master, sinister baddie, baddie's vicious minions, a quest fraught with danger, and a whole lot of magic. The author clearly spent a lot of time thinking about how the magic Soulkind (there are many of the mystical objects) interact with his world, and it works. Part of the reason it succeeds is the slow reveal. You only get to see a taste of just one of the Soulkind throughout the majority of the novel, and even that happens slowly as the magic users (Followers) are forced by circumstance to figure things out largely on their own.
You experience the world largely through the eyes of (the young learner) Jace, a reformed thief. He's got the usual cadre of friends (including aged master Turic), enemies, and curious abilities which harken more significant talents. Eventually it becomes evident that the long-dormant magic of the Soulkind is awakening, and then everyone is caught up in the epic quest to save the world from sinister baddie.
Overall, this is a solid, well-written debut novel with the potential for a whole bunch of innovative sequels. I look forward to reading them."
Here's a link to my speaking event for the Soulkind Awakening I had at the West Linn Public Library.
