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Deathsworn Arc #4
Rise of the Archmage
Saul Karza has defied the Isharian Church.
Now Melchiot is after his blood and desperate to silence anyone who may reveal the 'Truth'.
With quisitors, assassins, elves and verkreath, all after them - it's definitely time for the companions to head to Votrex's home.
On the way though, they chance upon another gravian, a ghost from Brael's past. Can he finally get his curse removed and regain his ability to perform magic?
The Deathsworn Arc Series of Dark, Epic Fantasy Adventure Novels:-
Deathsworn Arc : The Last Dragon Slayer
Deathsworn Arc 2 : The Verkreath Horror
Deathsworn Arc 3 : The Blood Queen
Deathsworn Arc 4 : Rise of the Archmage
Deathsworn Arc 5: The Temple of the Mad God
The Deathsworn Arc contains graphic violence and mature themes.
Recommended for readers 15+ only.
Enjoyed this book? Look for 'The Lambton Worm' and it's exciting sequel 'Return of the Worm Slayer', also by Martyn Stanley
Now Melchiot is after his blood and desperate to silence anyone who may reveal the 'Truth'.
With quisitors, assassins, elves and verkreath, all after them - it's definitely time for the companions to head to Votrex's home.
On the way though, they chance upon another gravian, a ghost from Brael's past. Can he finally get his curse removed and regain his ability to perform magic?
The Deathsworn Arc Series of Dark, Epic Fantasy Adventure Novels:-
Deathsworn Arc : The Last Dragon Slayer
Deathsworn Arc 2 : The Verkreath Horror
Deathsworn Arc 3 : The Blood Queen
Deathsworn Arc 4 : Rise of the Archmage
Deathsworn Arc 5: The Temple of the Mad God
The Deathsworn Arc contains graphic violence and mature themes.
Recommended for readers 15+ only.
Enjoyed this book? Look for 'The Lambton Worm' and it's exciting sequel 'Return of the Worm Slayer', also by Martyn Stanley
- GenresFantasy
229 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2016
12 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Martyn Stanley
14 books199 followersAward winning writer, Martyn Stanley is married to his wife, Rachael, and has two young children. He lives in a small village on the Staffordshire, Cheshire border and is a director at a small manufacturing unit. He has always been interested in writing, and over the years has spent many hours writing for pleasure on forums, as well as writing some short stories. "The Last Dragon Slayer" is his first novel, and his second and third books, “The Verkreath Horror” and "The Blood Queen" (along with other planned books), form part of the “Deathsworn Arc” series.
He has also authored the 'Lambton Worm' and 'Return of the Worm Slayer' a re-telling of an old English folktale and a sequel.
He has long been an avid reader of Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld,” and it was partly due to his love of this fantasy series, that he sought to write his own “epic fantasy” books. Unlike Terry Pratchett’s work, his books have a darker tone and address some adult themes, including questions of faith and moral philosophy.
Martyn has many other varied interests. He completed his Open University General Science degree and graduated with First Class Honours in 2019, the course material provided inspiration and ideas for his books. The course has also led him to read a number of other science-based books for pleasure, which has further strengthened his atheist leanings. As part of his degree he studied Creative Writing and Advanced Creative Writing - being awarded a distinction in the latter.
Martyn is interested in video games and gaming culture, particularly fantasy adventure and role-playing games. He enjoys playing the guitar, and spent a few years in a rock band during his miss-spent youth! Besides this, he has an interest in martial arts, and although no longer practising, due to family commitments, he holds a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo. This is something he would like to resume doing, time permitting!
His latest novel is the subversive YA Vampire novel, 'Ofelia'. which won the Literary Titan Silver Book Award for 2021.
Martyn won first prize for the DriveTribe 2017 Award for Best Article.
https://drivetribe.com/p/K8pjfBF2QISZ...
Martyn's 1st prize winning article:-
https://drivetribe.com/p/the-clarkson...
He has also authored the 'Lambton Worm' and 'Return of the Worm Slayer' a re-telling of an old English folktale and a sequel.
He has long been an avid reader of Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld,” and it was partly due to his love of this fantasy series, that he sought to write his own “epic fantasy” books. Unlike Terry Pratchett’s work, his books have a darker tone and address some adult themes, including questions of faith and moral philosophy.
Martyn has many other varied interests. He completed his Open University General Science degree and graduated with First Class Honours in 2019, the course material provided inspiration and ideas for his books. The course has also led him to read a number of other science-based books for pleasure, which has further strengthened his atheist leanings. As part of his degree he studied Creative Writing and Advanced Creative Writing - being awarded a distinction in the latter.
Martyn is interested in video games and gaming culture, particularly fantasy adventure and role-playing games. He enjoys playing the guitar, and spent a few years in a rock band during his miss-spent youth! Besides this, he has an interest in martial arts, and although no longer practising, due to family commitments, he holds a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo. This is something he would like to resume doing, time permitting!
His latest novel is the subversive YA Vampire novel, 'Ofelia'. which won the Literary Titan Silver Book Award for 2021.
Martyn won first prize for the DriveTribe 2017 Award for Best Article.
https://drivetribe.com/p/K8pjfBF2QISZ...
Martyn's 1st prize winning article:-
https://drivetribe.com/p/the-clarkson...
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 22 reviews
June 9, 2022
*Editorial Review*
It seems so long since I started writing this one. I think it's been the hardest 'Deathsworn Arc' book to write. When I began work on this project, again, I intended to take the companions to the 'Temple of the Mad God' and that was going to be the title!
The thing is, it took me longer than I anticipated to wrap up events in Cormaroth. I won't apologise for it though - I'm really pleased with the Cormaroth bit now.
Once I'd written them out of Cormaroth, I knew it was going to be a long book. There were characters who I'd really intended to leave with a 'happily ever after' or to only briefly explore. In my outline the girls, (You'll know who I mean when you read it) were just going to ride off into the sunset. Now they have their own sub-plot. Also the dark elf girl, was just going to be a ship that passed in the night - now she's on her way to becoming a main character. Of all my characters in this book, I really like the dark elf girl. Her back story, her history and her conflicting emotions are really interesting to me. I like the fact that she's still a little naive about living amongst overlanders and she still stares at the night sky, the sunset and the rain in wonder. She faces challenges, coming from a strictly matriarchal society where she had a position of authority, to a patriarchal human culture, which strongly distrusts dark elves.
I'm also very fond of the young girl who lives in Berman's Rock, she's in for a hard time, but she's going to become an integral character in book 5.
This is a hard book at times. There's a tiny bit of swearing in it - I could probably count the words on one hand, and there's some gruesome and cruel sections. As always though, I think the best way for characters and relationships to grow and develop is through hardship.
Saul comes into his own a little to in this book. He has his eyes opened to the limitless possibilities of magic and yearns to expand his powers. However, doing so won't be easy. Vashni's back story gets expanded significantly here and the story surrounding the mind in Korhan's blade develops significantly. You might miss it, but the name of the individual whose minds resides in the sword is snuck in! I hope you can piece the clues about who is in the sword together!
I won't say any more, I don't want to spoil things. Except that 'Rise of the Archmage' is a very apt title and you get to visit good old Trest again! You get to learn the outcome of the Berger being confounded by Vashni's whispers in book 1. I really hope you enjoy this, I put a lot of hard work into this book. I've tried to raise the bar again and I think, I've succeeded.
I can't wait to hear what you think!
Martyn
Re-read finished 13th October 2016
Well, I finished and I'm ready to read the opening to book 5 which I've already written. I actually liked the duel at the end of book 4. I know some readers think it was a bit long, but I really think it was a fitting end to the book. I liked how as always, things don't go to plan for the gang. I suppose I DO worry that it's getting a bit ridiculous now. They should really start joking about not making plans around now because so many times their plans have gone pear-shaped. Getting Silus to join them in Trest didn't exactly go how they'd expected. Escaping the town didn't really go how it was supposed to. The Battle with Thrax didn't really go that well. Meeting up with Callen and Ellen didn't work out. The duel with Ramon Hern didn't go to plan. Fleeing through the Warren didn't go how they'd wanted. Rescuing Elira didn't go well. Korhan's exploits in the Bowl didn't go how he'd wanted. I suppose Vashni was one thing that didn't go too badly, and the episode with Kaya and the Palace dungeon. The Lindie part went nowhere near to plan, the battle of Cormaroth didn't really have a plan, but it sort of worked out. Meeting up with Kaya didn't really go exactly to plan. Brael's grand experiment didn't really go to plan, and Korhan's duels in book 4 definitely didn't work out. I actually make a point of this in book 5. He wants to duel again, but the others won't let him! Poor Korhan!
I won't give any major spoilers away, it probably isn't a spoiler as such, but I will tell you things don't really go to plan for the companions in book 5!
Re-read finished 24th October 2017
I really, really like this book. It feels like a more grown-up, proper novel than especially the first two books in this series. The characters seem richer, deeper. I think Vexis is the strongest character in this book. She's full of internal conflict, I think she comes across as a very real and multi-dimensional character. I notice the theme I ran with in book 5 of the companions actions earlier in the series having sometimes unwanted, unforseen circumstances was started in this book. The berger Jurgen being whispered to, Brael taking his friends to see the shape of the world. I really like the fact that things rarely go to plan for my characters, it makes it all the MORE satisfying on the odd occasions they do. I feel like I'm ready for a final read-through of book 5 once I've done the next round of edits, then we should be ready for a release. It's really been too long this time. I can't wait to get book 5 out, but I will NOT release it until I'm sure it's ready!
Re-read finished 25th January 2019
Well, I'm re-reading the series AGAIN in preparation for writing book 6: Emergence. I have to say I DO really like this book! The rescue at the start, I really like. Vashni's encounter with the hand, I really like. The duel at the apple tree, the whole Vexis battle of wills with Barrisclough and the witch trial and stuff. There's a lot of good stuff going on in this book. If anything the plan plot of the companions making their way to Durgheim Holt got a little side-tracked. But I think on a long journey we need some side-stories to spice things up. Lindie and Vexis WILL join the main story later on too. The things that are happening now aren't entirely inconsequential. Characters playing small parts now will play bigger parts. The journey into the sky to see the shape of the world, I also really enjoyed. I can appreciate why some people thought the final duel dragged on a bit. It is a looooong fight! But I think it's a good one. I don't think it's ever completely clear how the fight is going to go. Highlight of the book? Well, if I'm honest I really a soft spot for the Vexis in Berman's Rock plot. Her backstory, her attempts to atone for her dark past, her eerie dreams... The dream sequence I really, really like. It's a rough ride, the trial by combat and the ensuing witch trial are pretty gritty, bordering on grim. It's a hard-hitting part of the book, but I think Vexis comes across as a very real character. A character you know, care about and feel for. Sadly versions of the kind of tortures and trials Vexis has to endure HAVE happened in history. That's a sorry indictment of humanity, that we are often quick to mistrust people who are different to us. I know I'm biased, but I really like this book. I like it better than The Blood Queen , but I can understand why some people prefer that. It's slightly less hardcore than Rise and the final blood trial really is epic. I like every book better than the last one, I think it's almost a shame people didn't read the last books first then read the early ones as a prequel. The first book is good, but each book gets better in spades I think.
May 2022 re-read:- I re-read this to prepare for a final read-through of book 6 - Deathsworn Arc: Emergence. When I look on Amazon and Goodreads, this is consistently rated as one of my best, if not my best book. Having read it again, I can see why. The trouble with book 5: Temple of the Mad God is there's almost TOO much going on in it. The bit in Cormaroth at the start of this book, I really like. Vexis introduction and all the dream scenes and the advancement of Brael's story arc... I really, really love this book. I can totally understand why it's a fan favourite.
It seems so long since I started writing this one. I think it's been the hardest 'Deathsworn Arc' book to write. When I began work on this project, again, I intended to take the companions to the 'Temple of the Mad God' and that was going to be the title!
The thing is, it took me longer than I anticipated to wrap up events in Cormaroth. I won't apologise for it though - I'm really pleased with the Cormaroth bit now.
Once I'd written them out of Cormaroth, I knew it was going to be a long book. There were characters who I'd really intended to leave with a 'happily ever after' or to only briefly explore. In my outline the girls, (You'll know who I mean when you read it) were just going to ride off into the sunset. Now they have their own sub-plot. Also the dark elf girl, was just going to be a ship that passed in the night - now she's on her way to becoming a main character. Of all my characters in this book, I really like the dark elf girl. Her back story, her history and her conflicting emotions are really interesting to me. I like the fact that she's still a little naive about living amongst overlanders and she still stares at the night sky, the sunset and the rain in wonder. She faces challenges, coming from a strictly matriarchal society where she had a position of authority, to a patriarchal human culture, which strongly distrusts dark elves.
I'm also very fond of the young girl who lives in Berman's Rock, she's in for a hard time, but she's going to become an integral character in book 5.
This is a hard book at times. There's a tiny bit of swearing in it - I could probably count the words on one hand, and there's some gruesome and cruel sections. As always though, I think the best way for characters and relationships to grow and develop is through hardship.
Saul comes into his own a little to in this book. He has his eyes opened to the limitless possibilities of magic and yearns to expand his powers. However, doing so won't be easy. Vashni's back story gets expanded significantly here and the story surrounding the mind in Korhan's blade develops significantly. You might miss it, but the name of the individual whose minds resides in the sword is snuck in! I hope you can piece the clues about who is in the sword together!
I won't say any more, I don't want to spoil things. Except that 'Rise of the Archmage' is a very apt title and you get to visit good old Trest again! You get to learn the outcome of the Berger being confounded by Vashni's whispers in book 1. I really hope you enjoy this, I put a lot of hard work into this book. I've tried to raise the bar again and I think, I've succeeded.
I can't wait to hear what you think!
Martyn
Re-read finished 13th October 2016
Well, I finished and I'm ready to read the opening to book 5 which I've already written. I actually liked the duel at the end of book 4. I know some readers think it was a bit long, but I really think it was a fitting end to the book. I liked how as always, things don't go to plan for the gang. I suppose I DO worry that it's getting a bit ridiculous now. They should really start joking about not making plans around now because so many times their plans have gone pear-shaped. Getting Silus to join them in Trest didn't exactly go how they'd expected. Escaping the town didn't really go how it was supposed to. The Battle with Thrax didn't really go that well. Meeting up with Callen and Ellen didn't work out. The duel with Ramon Hern didn't go to plan. Fleeing through the Warren didn't go how they'd wanted. Rescuing Elira didn't go well. Korhan's exploits in the Bowl didn't go how he'd wanted. I suppose Vashni was one thing that didn't go too badly, and the episode with Kaya and the Palace dungeon. The Lindie part went nowhere near to plan, the battle of Cormaroth didn't really have a plan, but it sort of worked out. Meeting up with Kaya didn't really go exactly to plan. Brael's grand experiment didn't really go to plan, and Korhan's duels in book 4 definitely didn't work out. I actually make a point of this in book 5. He wants to duel again, but the others won't let him! Poor Korhan!
I won't give any major spoilers away, it probably isn't a spoiler as such, but I will tell you things don't really go to plan for the companions in book 5!
Re-read finished 24th October 2017
I really, really like this book. It feels like a more grown-up, proper novel than especially the first two books in this series. The characters seem richer, deeper. I think Vexis is the strongest character in this book. She's full of internal conflict, I think she comes across as a very real and multi-dimensional character. I notice the theme I ran with in book 5 of the companions actions earlier in the series having sometimes unwanted, unforseen circumstances was started in this book. The berger Jurgen being whispered to, Brael taking his friends to see the shape of the world. I really like the fact that things rarely go to plan for my characters, it makes it all the MORE satisfying on the odd occasions they do. I feel like I'm ready for a final read-through of book 5 once I've done the next round of edits, then we should be ready for a release. It's really been too long this time. I can't wait to get book 5 out, but I will NOT release it until I'm sure it's ready!
Re-read finished 25th January 2019
Well, I'm re-reading the series AGAIN in preparation for writing book 6: Emergence. I have to say I DO really like this book! The rescue at the start, I really like. Vashni's encounter with the hand, I really like. The duel at the apple tree, the whole Vexis battle of wills with Barrisclough and the witch trial and stuff. There's a lot of good stuff going on in this book. If anything the plan plot of the companions making their way to Durgheim Holt got a little side-tracked. But I think on a long journey we need some side-stories to spice things up. Lindie and Vexis WILL join the main story later on too. The things that are happening now aren't entirely inconsequential. Characters playing small parts now will play bigger parts. The journey into the sky to see the shape of the world, I also really enjoyed. I can appreciate why some people thought the final duel dragged on a bit. It is a looooong fight! But I think it's a good one. I don't think it's ever completely clear how the fight is going to go. Highlight of the book? Well, if I'm honest I really a soft spot for the Vexis in Berman's Rock plot. Her backstory, her attempts to atone for her dark past, her eerie dreams... The dream sequence I really, really like. It's a rough ride, the trial by combat and the ensuing witch trial are pretty gritty, bordering on grim. It's a hard-hitting part of the book, but I think Vexis comes across as a very real character. A character you know, care about and feel for. Sadly versions of the kind of tortures and trials Vexis has to endure HAVE happened in history. That's a sorry indictment of humanity, that we are often quick to mistrust people who are different to us. I know I'm biased, but I really like this book. I like it better than The Blood Queen , but I can understand why some people prefer that. It's slightly less hardcore than Rise and the final blood trial really is epic. I like every book better than the last one, I think it's almost a shame people didn't read the last books first then read the early ones as a prequel. The first book is good, but each book gets better in spades I think.
May 2022 re-read:- I re-read this to prepare for a final read-through of book 6 - Deathsworn Arc: Emergence. When I look on Amazon and Goodreads, this is consistently rated as one of my best, if not my best book. Having read it again, I can see why. The trouble with book 5: Temple of the Mad God is there's almost TOO much going on in it. The bit in Cormaroth at the start of this book, I really like. Vexis introduction and all the dream scenes and the advancement of Brael's story arc... I really, really love this book. I can totally understand why it's a fan favourite.
November 16, 2016
Loved this book. Gripping and breath holding encounters. I honestly can't wait for the next book. I NEED to know what becomes of everyone. Companions and side arcs keep you sitting on the edge of your chair.
February 16, 2020
Another exciting, action-packed addition to one of my all-time favorite fantasy series! We see more character development and the overall plot moves forward in this book. I hope the next book isn't the last in deatshworn arc series.
May 31, 2018
I joined a band the other day. Guess what instrument I play. SANS! *sans holds up a trombone* :> That's my Undertale reference for today. On with the review! Oh and fair warning, most of this is advice hidden behind harsh language, no offense to anyone, alright? *Mettaton dance*
May contain spoilers! Read at your own risk!
Ok, I'd been warned by the author himself that I might not like the 4th book and you know he was ABSOLUTELY RIGHT. Lemme just sum up the whole plot of the story:
Rescues, rescues, Vashni is a badass, Korhan has dumb luck, Brael is annoying as ever (with powers now!), Saul is as incompetent as ever (you're NOT DOING IT RIGHT, MAN!) some dueling and magic training and at the end Korhan gets his ass handed to him which gets Vashni captured again...
*facepalm* Have these people not gotten the hint that depending on Korhan is like having a professional kidnapper babysit your 4 year old? I would have thought 3 books were enough to hammer that point in... but NOOOO. Let Vashni make a fool of herself again!
As I mentioned in the short summary... RESCUES! There are so many of them in this book it's not even funny! Rescued Kaya in book 3, rescue Lindie here, then rescue Kaya again (cuz secrecy is one of the things these characters utterly lack in this series), then a bit later they rescue Vexis from being drowned/burned/hanged for being a witch (eeesh she went through all possible processes that's harsh, man). Oh and there was another rescue Vashni did for a former man-servant of hers. But it's still a rescue.
You know what my theory is? *takes out notepad and begins to write* Mr. Martyn, it appears your characters may be suffering from a severe case of Chronic Hero Syndrome, which normally is prevalent in typical fantasy novels. What does this mean? Well it means that your characters have a tendency to take upon themselves the responsibility of saving every citizen that is in need of help and is in earshot of them. Side effects: stupidity, irrational behavior, out of character moments, overreactions and in some cases death and unnecessary sacrifices. I recommend that in future series, the accent be less on their heroics and more on their personality, as we all know the deed does not always make the man.
*takes off doctor glasses and throws them away* Now that that's out of the way let's talk about the names. The lack of proper family names is really jarring especially in this because here is the thing: formal, objective members of the church and authority officials are supposed to say these characters' names and all we got for them is Kaya, Lindie, Vashni, Korhan son of Brian and Brael Truthseeker, the only one that gets a proper family name is Elden Roth!
@ 7 % God Brael! We haven't even past the first 5 minutes of this freaking book and I already wanna punch you in the face. This urge hasn't died on me, Martyn, it's just being rekindled.
I have some issues with the occurrences in this book:
- First of all how did the velkreath even get in the moat without being seen?! It was broad daylight! They can't have stayed in the water over night and the burning of a person is more important than guarding the city walls? Really?
- So you made Saul cast a destructive spell so that the Orion's Hand are after him too? Way to complicate things. And really, this guy has the wizardry training of a teenager! Is he self-taught? I bet he is, if he's using his life energy as resource he will never cast spells efficiently. Sorcery 101.
- Elden Roth's curse is STUPID! There I said it! Not only is it illogical that the only way he can find out information about something he had no previous knowledge of is to sing it, but the lyrics he says are nonsensical and borderline cringe worthy (really did he have to sing about Vexis' attempt at cutting Edgar's testies too?).
- I just like it how they simply talk about killing off the paralyzed assassin in front of them - that they immediately deemed evil and sadistic, way to be quick at labeling people Martyn - and don't even break a sweat. They even suggest shipping her off to become a blind (eyes gouged out) whore. No sweat... she's not a human being or anything! We are the humans, she's just assassinating for the gold, her life is worthless. >.> They finally resort to extracting her memories and leaving her with none... but this also has consequences. The Orion's Hand know how she looks like! Here's a woman that is going to be ambushed at night, raped, tortured then killed and she'll have no FUCKING IDEA what for!
- Why are they so hellbent on rescuing Kaya and Lindie! Why the hell do they go out of their way to do that. Here's an alternative example: George R.R. Martin gave subtle hints as to who Jon Snow's parents are so that his death can't be ruled out as merely just like any other death in his books. He is important to the plot, that's why his parentage has been expanded upon. In this book, what is the importance these two girls have in the novel?! Why do they NEED to be saved?!
- Where's the plot? Is the plot only them going from Cormaroth to Votrex's Holt, on their way doing random rescues and good deeds? Cuz that's what they did in the first book too.
- The narrator has a few awkward tendencies: interrupting fight scenes to randomly dump in some information I bet no one will keep in mind by the end of the paragraph; when shifting perspecting from a focus character to another the narrator sounds like that 50's narrator from Legend of Korra (And here we have Kaya and Lindie casually strolling to Briem. Back at the group's camp Saul is...) Seriously? What is he a news anchor?
- The characters are SO CHATTY! My god, I've never seen so many words come out of a collective group of characters with SO LITTLE relevant material to say.
Random sparknotes:
- Vashni = next Candidate for my one punch list.
- Was literally made Korhan the one who killed Thrax, just so he can be called Dragonslayer?
- Are they seriously having a talk about what's considered an acceptable procreating couple? >.>
- On Elden Kissing Korhan: "Ohhh you sneaky, you're gay, aren't you? Oh my... No. Wait. He's bi."
- And are they SERIOUSLY TALKING ABOUT GENETICS NOW?! X(
Ok I'll stop being rude now and say that the setting is a bit too muddled and it's not described well enough to convey realistic images in my mind. The plot is kind of non-existant, they go from point A to point B but in their way do some random stuff like they did in the first book. The main characters haven't improved at all, the only one who is showing signs of improvement is Brael, or maybe that's because he has magic to back up his lengthy explanations. The secondary characters were weak, especially Vexis, that attempted rape scene and the way she was tortured during the witch trial was a bit too on the graphic side.
The writing however has improved a lot in this book as opposed to the previous ones, it's a bit more fluid, but the lack of plot focus and excessive focus on conversations is hard to grasp your attention. I am not really sure what happened at the end :/
Let's Rate This - 6.8/ 10
Setting and Atmosphere - 7
Plot - 6
Main Characters - 8
Secondary Characters - 6
Antagonist - 6
Writing - 8
Enjoyability -7
Sorry again :/ Well, I guess this would have fared well if it were not necessarily a novel in and of itself, but rather part of a larger more expansive novels.
Reviews for the Deathsworn Arc series:
The Last Dragon Slayer
The Verkreath Horror
The Blood Queen
Rise of the Archmage
The Temple of the Mad God
My reviews :) | My Blog | Twitter
May contain spoilers! Read at your own risk!
Ok, I'd been warned by the author himself that I might not like the 4th book and you know he was ABSOLUTELY RIGHT. Lemme just sum up the whole plot of the story:
Rescues, rescues, Vashni is a badass, Korhan has dumb luck, Brael is annoying as ever (with powers now!), Saul is as incompetent as ever (you're NOT DOING IT RIGHT, MAN!) some dueling and magic training and at the end Korhan gets his ass handed to him which gets Vashni captured again...
*facepalm* Have these people not gotten the hint that depending on Korhan is like having a professional kidnapper babysit your 4 year old? I would have thought 3 books were enough to hammer that point in... but NOOOO. Let Vashni make a fool of herself again!
As I mentioned in the short summary... RESCUES! There are so many of them in this book it's not even funny! Rescued Kaya in book 3, rescue Lindie here, then rescue Kaya again (cuz secrecy is one of the things these characters utterly lack in this series), then a bit later they rescue Vexis from being drowned/burned/hanged for being a witch (eeesh she went through all possible processes that's harsh, man). Oh and there was another rescue Vashni did for a former man-servant of hers. But it's still a rescue.
You know what my theory is? *takes out notepad and begins to write* Mr. Martyn, it appears your characters may be suffering from a severe case of Chronic Hero Syndrome, which normally is prevalent in typical fantasy novels. What does this mean? Well it means that your characters have a tendency to take upon themselves the responsibility of saving every citizen that is in need of help and is in earshot of them. Side effects: stupidity, irrational behavior, out of character moments, overreactions and in some cases death and unnecessary sacrifices. I recommend that in future series, the accent be less on their heroics and more on their personality, as we all know the deed does not always make the man.
*takes off doctor glasses and throws them away* Now that that's out of the way let's talk about the names. The lack of proper family names is really jarring especially in this because here is the thing: formal, objective members of the church and authority officials are supposed to say these characters' names and all we got for them is Kaya, Lindie, Vashni, Korhan son of Brian and Brael Truthseeker, the only one that gets a proper family name is Elden Roth!
@ 7 % God Brael! We haven't even past the first 5 minutes of this freaking book and I already wanna punch you in the face. This urge hasn't died on me, Martyn, it's just being rekindled.
I have some issues with the occurrences in this book:
- First of all how did the velkreath even get in the moat without being seen?! It was broad daylight! They can't have stayed in the water over night and the burning of a person is more important than guarding the city walls? Really?
- So you made Saul cast a destructive spell so that the Orion's Hand are after him too? Way to complicate things. And really, this guy has the wizardry training of a teenager! Is he self-taught? I bet he is, if he's using his life energy as resource he will never cast spells efficiently. Sorcery 101.
- Elden Roth's curse is STUPID! There I said it! Not only is it illogical that the only way he can find out information about something he had no previous knowledge of is to sing it, but the lyrics he says are nonsensical and borderline cringe worthy (really did he have to sing about Vexis' attempt at cutting Edgar's testies too?).
- I just like it how they simply talk about killing off the paralyzed assassin in front of them - that they immediately deemed evil and sadistic, way to be quick at labeling people Martyn - and don't even break a sweat. They even suggest shipping her off to become a blind (eyes gouged out) whore. No sweat... she's not a human being or anything! We are the humans, she's just assassinating for the gold, her life is worthless. >.> They finally resort to extracting her memories and leaving her with none... but this also has consequences. The Orion's Hand know how she looks like! Here's a woman that is going to be ambushed at night, raped, tortured then killed and she'll have no FUCKING IDEA what for!
- Why are they so hellbent on rescuing Kaya and Lindie! Why the hell do they go out of their way to do that. Here's an alternative example: George R.R. Martin gave subtle hints as to who Jon Snow's parents are so that his death can't be ruled out as merely just like any other death in his books. He is important to the plot, that's why his parentage has been expanded upon. In this book, what is the importance these two girls have in the novel?! Why do they NEED to be saved?!
- Where's the plot? Is the plot only them going from Cormaroth to Votrex's Holt, on their way doing random rescues and good deeds? Cuz that's what they did in the first book too.
- The narrator has a few awkward tendencies: interrupting fight scenes to randomly dump in some information I bet no one will keep in mind by the end of the paragraph; when shifting perspecting from a focus character to another the narrator sounds like that 50's narrator from Legend of Korra (And here we have Kaya and Lindie casually strolling to Briem. Back at the group's camp Saul is...) Seriously? What is he a news anchor?
- The characters are SO CHATTY! My god, I've never seen so many words come out of a collective group of characters with SO LITTLE relevant material to say.
Random sparknotes:
- Vashni = next Candidate for my one punch list.
- Was literally made Korhan the one who killed Thrax, just so he can be called Dragonslayer?
- Are they seriously having a talk about what's considered an acceptable procreating couple? >.>
- On Elden Kissing Korhan: "Ohhh you sneaky, you're gay, aren't you? Oh my... No. Wait. He's bi."
- And are they SERIOUSLY TALKING ABOUT GENETICS NOW?! X(
Ok I'll stop being rude now and say that the setting is a bit too muddled and it's not described well enough to convey realistic images in my mind. The plot is kind of non-existant, they go from point A to point B but in their way do some random stuff like they did in the first book. The main characters haven't improved at all, the only one who is showing signs of improvement is Brael, or maybe that's because he has magic to back up his lengthy explanations. The secondary characters were weak, especially Vexis, that attempted rape scene and the way she was tortured during the witch trial was a bit too on the graphic side.
The writing however has improved a lot in this book as opposed to the previous ones, it's a bit more fluid, but the lack of plot focus and excessive focus on conversations is hard to grasp your attention. I am not really sure what happened at the end :/
Let's Rate This - 6.8/ 10
Setting and Atmosphere - 7
Plot - 6
Main Characters - 8
Secondary Characters - 6
Antagonist - 6
Writing - 8
Enjoyability -7
Sorry again :/ Well, I guess this would have fared well if it were not necessarily a novel in and of itself, but rather part of a larger more expansive novels.
Reviews for the Deathsworn Arc series:
The Last Dragon Slayer
The Verkreath Horror
The Blood Queen
Rise of the Archmage
The Temple of the Mad God
My reviews :) | My Blog | Twitter
December 13, 2017
After infuriating the head the church, the companions flee the city. They send the two women captives they have rescued to a safe haven. The rest head to Durgheim Holt to help Votrex find out what happened to his people. They have more enemies after them than before. As usual with this lot, the journey isn't a leisurely ride. They come upon a gravian about to be executed. They rescue her too and find out she used to be a priestess. She and Brael Truthseeker know one another and she is not pleased to be rescued by him! As luck would have it, their newest recruit is able to remove Brael's curse. With his magic back Brael sets out to prove a theory of his. He does so, but nobody is happy about it. Vashni is caught and taken back to her homeland by the elves tracking her. Korhan is devastated. Vexis, the gravian priestess elects to go to Cormoroth. Elden Roth will go with her. The Dragonslayer company is breaking up. What's going to happen next, when the rest reach their destination? As usual, I can highly recommend this latest installment and am looking forward to the next.
November 2, 2017
awesome characters, love the time line and following the story. excitingly waiting the 5th book, the author Martyn was very fast about getting back to me with an update.
February 1, 2017
Having read the first three books in this fabulous series I recently bought and read the 4th book... ‘The Rise of the Archmage’ To appreciate these books I would definitely recommend potential readers to begin with the first book and carry on through them all in order to get the fullest enjoyment of the series.
My fascination has grown with each book. There have been various changes since the original small group of warriors came together to kill a dragon for the Empress Jade and they grew in number, consisting of very different breeds and cultures.
The wariness and mistrust seen in the earlier books has gradually disappeared as the brave band move through countless trials, battles and gradually meld together in their mutual but very different characters.
Book 4 is definitely both different and is my favourite. It deals with mature themes and is dark but so absorbing. There is much more focus on ‘The Truth’ which has been revealed by Brael the dark elf. This has caused much antagonism from the Isharian Church in particular and great disbelief. Even the band of warriors is doubtful as to whether what he has revealed is correct.
I don’t like spoilers but am finding it difficult not to reveal some of the plot
Do read the books and find out what the gravian elf Brael has shocked everyone in the books by revealing what is extremely unpalatable to them in its nature. Each character in this book reveals more of whom and what they are as individuals as the brave band face many dangers in the continuation of their quest. They grow closer together more and more and truly care for each other in bonds of trust and deep friendship which overcome their differences. They are obviously prepared to risk their own lives for each other now. Among the many twists and turns, as the plot moves along, their enemies are always close behind them in their frantic efforts to try to overcome and kill them in order to silence Brael’s truth.
They are journeying to the home of Votrex the dwarf but have many adventures along the way. Another vitally important character - another gravian, this time an amazing female named Vexix now joins them. She is a fascinating character with a past she does not wish anyone to know about. She knows Brael however and could be the means of helping him (Read to find out how)
Another new character who has become part of the band is Eldon who has a truly magical ability which is an incredible help to them all as they come up against so many obstacles and dangers.
There are sub plots along the way too. For example the band comes across two young girls who both need rescuing from certain execution. Contentious issues are involved.
I feel I know Saul the wizard much better in this book. Vashni has grown and grown in diversity and has produced many surprises among them. Brael too has some amazing things to bring to the quest. Vexis is a character to watch for in the next book.
Book 4 is brilliant. It is so complex in all the many different threads running through the adventures the group with its different personalities become involved with. What an interesting and creative author Martyn is to produce this wonderful and magical world. He brings many moral issues that are in our own world into his which makes for so much interesting reading. I often stopped to ponder on all sorts of issues he introduces within the group.
Harbinger – a sword with some amazing magical content. Find out what happens when it is used.
Votrex – wait and see what happens to him near the end!
Each time I stopped reading, when I began again to read, the story is so dense in its complexity, I always had to go back a chapter or two to get into the middle of it all once more. This book is full of thrills and I didn’t want it to end. But end it did with a few highly dramatic cliff-hangers, one of which in particular, left me with my heart in my mouth. It is clear after a breathtaking sword fight near the end that what follows, means that there will be a further book to eventually carry on this series. Good news indeed and I look forward to this.
Fantasy lovers, please don’t miss these wonderful books. They are among the best I have ever read in this genre.
March 4, 2017
This showed significant improvement on the previous books in this series - it seemed to flow a lot better with less overexplaining and repetition of information. Perhaps more importantly, it expands on the character of Brael the atheist prophet, positioning him more as a brilliant but flawed (specifically, arrogant and impulsive) person rather than a plot device. This leads to a great scene in which he builds a magical space rocket and invites his friends on a trip to prove the world is round. This is part of a general blending of real-world science and magic in this series which I actually enjoy because of its consistency and entertaining implementation, unlike a lot of other works with "functional magic".
This book also further develops the effects of Brael's revelations about the conspicuous absence of gods on his home society, through a new gravian character for whom the collapse of the dominant religion had an intensely personal significance. This character was, according to the author, less developed in the original outlines, which I think would have been a significant loss, since her plotline adds to the atheism plotline and also develops themes of xenophobia, prejudice and gender issues (albeit in a somewhat over-the-top way).
If I have any major criticisms of this book, it would be that there are maybe slightly too many plots overall - the plotline with the lesbian couple from the previous book feels a bit extraneous because it doesn't intersect with the other characters once they part ways. Also, the ending of the book felt a bit abrupt to me,
This book also further develops the effects of Brael's revelations about the conspicuous absence of gods on his home society, through a new gravian character for whom the collapse of the dominant religion had an intensely personal significance. This character was, according to the author, less developed in the original outlines, which I think would have been a significant loss, since her plotline adds to the atheism plotline and also develops themes of xenophobia, prejudice and gender issues (albeit in a somewhat over-the-top way).
If I have any major criticisms of this book, it would be that there are maybe slightly too many plots overall - the plotline with the lesbian couple from the previous book feels a bit extraneous because it doesn't intersect with the other characters once they part ways. Also, the ending of the book felt a bit abrupt to me,
May 28, 2016
This very enjoyable book which starts with the rescue of Lindie (left hanging at the end of book 3) who has been captured for having an illicit relationship with Kaya. The verkreath rear their ugly heads again as our faithful friends try to escape the city. Nothing goes to plan (as ever!) which is what make this so enjoyable. Characters abound at every turn with different traits to try and thwart our happy band of miscreants. A new main character appears whom I love and there is a twist at the end (no spoilers!).
I enjoyed this more than the other books as the characters were even richer and ever more colourful, that said you need to have read the others to know who is who and what is going on!
I love the authors’ sideways look at modern life in so many different ways, slipping in ethics, pathos, and his own view on life. A very enjoyable read.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an open and honest review
I enjoyed this more than the other books as the characters were even richer and ever more colourful, that said you need to have read the others to know who is who and what is going on!
I love the authors’ sideways look at modern life in so many different ways, slipping in ethics, pathos, and his own view on life. A very enjoyable read.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an open and honest review
March 26, 2016
As if this group of misfits couldn't get any more unpopular. And yet they have! I would normally feel sorry for them but this group proves over and over how competent they are. And yet there is some truth to this series about how often people are afraid of those that are different than them and the past is an ugly reminder to us all. I love how the author has blended in things like the witch trial to his world where someone who could whisper to heal people could be deemed dangerous by those that didn't understand it, which were most humans. The truth is still a real problem for most that hear it in this book and although some bad things happen, there is also good. But I have to say that those who find trouble in this series tends to stay in it or die.
May 10, 2016
Better and better. In this book of the series, the companions yet again protect others from dangers that others put them in. We meet Lindie and Kaya who are to be burned for loving each other and then Vexis who is wanted for having followed her spiritual beliefs. Mr. Stanley takes each character and makes them question every belief and moral they have ever had. As we get further into this series the companions meet new characters and start losing some of their own as each begins their own adventures in life. Some have said this book has gotten darker yet truly all it does is make you look at your own moral beliefs and wonder if everything is real or just a belief after all.
December 6, 2017
Rise of the Archmage by Martyn Stanley is the fourth installment of the Deathsworn Arc series. The companions are headed to Votrex's home when they stop to aid a woman thought to be a witch.
************SPOILERS************
While Martyn's writing is getting better, and the editing is also getting better, I feel that the characters are not growing enough. They seem to be the same as they were in book one. Grant you, the time in the books has only been two or three weeks, I still haven't seen any character growth. Especially Korhan. It seems Korhan has the ability to slay a Noble Dragon in book one, but gets his butt handed to him in every fight he gets into since, which seems to me that Vashni's training has had no effect on Korhan at all. It seems she just wants to humiliate him for her own amusement, which is getting a bit boring to me.
Brael is another character I was hoping to see some character growth, but the only thing I see with him is that he is so obsessed with the 'truth' that he almost caused one of the companion's death.
Saul, the wizard, has actually learned a bit of spell casting, so his character is growing somewhat.
It seems that Votrex is the only character that still hasn't had his day. The companions still haven't made it to Votrex's home. The companions are easily distracted from their destination, and seem to be well caring people, for they will stop and help any damsel in distress.
I hope the author puts more growth into his characters in the next book, for I've come to care for these characters and would like to see them learn and grow.
I was given a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
************SPOILERS************
While Martyn's writing is getting better, and the editing is also getting better, I feel that the characters are not growing enough. They seem to be the same as they were in book one. Grant you, the time in the books has only been two or three weeks, I still haven't seen any character growth. Especially Korhan. It seems Korhan has the ability to slay a Noble Dragon in book one, but gets his butt handed to him in every fight he gets into since, which seems to me that Vashni's training has had no effect on Korhan at all. It seems she just wants to humiliate him for her own amusement, which is getting a bit boring to me.
Brael is another character I was hoping to see some character growth, but the only thing I see with him is that he is so obsessed with the 'truth' that he almost caused one of the companion's death.
Saul, the wizard, has actually learned a bit of spell casting, so his character is growing somewhat.
It seems that Votrex is the only character that still hasn't had his day. The companions still haven't made it to Votrex's home. The companions are easily distracted from their destination, and seem to be well caring people, for they will stop and help any damsel in distress.
I hope the author puts more growth into his characters in the next book, for I've come to care for these characters and would like to see them learn and grow.
I was given a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2017
I was lucky enough to be given book 4 of this series for an honest review...here it is.
I've said this before, however, the two best things about this series are the characters and the Truthseeker's revelations. Each character is distinct and develops well within the plot, whilst the relationships between them grow. The philosophical debate is particularly interesting, and I respect the author for not being afraid to question belief systems.
These 'best things' then make for a compelling read because they are engaging on many levels...read the series to find out why.
Very well written, fast-paced and descriptive, so to give an excellent sense of place and authenticity.
Highly recommended.
I've said this before, however, the two best things about this series are the characters and the Truthseeker's revelations. Each character is distinct and develops well within the plot, whilst the relationships between them grow. The philosophical debate is particularly interesting, and I respect the author for not being afraid to question belief systems.
These 'best things' then make for a compelling read because they are engaging on many levels...read the series to find out why.
Very well written, fast-paced and descriptive, so to give an excellent sense of place and authenticity.
Highly recommended.
October 11, 2017
O.K., now I'm finished. This book seems to be the ideal penultimate volume for a series like this. All kinds of convoluted action plus the addition of new characters & bad guys and a classic cliffhanger ending; I liked it.
The wait for Book#5 is going to seem agonizing but I'll just have to be patient. Looking forward to it.
BTW: this is the first time I've rated & reviewed this. As I said in my message, I don't know where that original rating came from. Ghosts in the machine at Goodreads perhaps?
The wait for Book#5 is going to seem agonizing but I'll just have to be patient. Looking forward to it.
BTW: this is the first time I've rated & reviewed this. As I said in my message, I don't know where that original rating came from. Ghosts in the machine at Goodreads perhaps?
October 13, 2017
Twists and turns and politics with a little - no, make that a lot of - medievalism thrown in. Every chapter has the possibility of being more nasty than the last. Does that make me perverted, twisted & sick also? I hope not but I've got to say I'm salivating with anticipation for Book 5!
Keep 'em coming.
Keep 'em coming.
March 20, 2017
In this 4th instalment of the Deathsworn Arc, our heroes battle through more adversities, rescuing people along the way. There are some fantastic gruesome scenes in this featuring torture devices, hanging, burning etc, something i'm coming to expect from this author and which he achieves very well without being overdone. I loved the character of Vexis, who I felt simultaneously sorry for and horrified by. One of my favourite characters, who I won't name, seems to be being axed, but I hope this isn't the last I hear from them as i'm incredibly attached by this point - the ending in particular left me very sad.
I can't wait for the next book, will be buying it as soon as it's released.
I can't wait for the next book, will be buying it as soon as it's released.
March 8, 2018
I feel that Rise of the Archmage is by far the best in the series. This particular book raised so many more questions for me, and I will be impatiently waiting for the next book in the series to get some answers. What I really do enjoy about this series, is that there are some questions that are answered rather quickly, and some that have been drawn out since book one or two.
The writing in this book is still quite easy to understand. I did check on a few words in this book, but they weren't anything that could not have been misunderstood with the context.
I also appreciate the amount of the world that is left to my own imagination. It is just descriptive enough for me to believe that I might be seeing these scenes unfold before my own eyes.
I think that one of the things I really like about this series is that the magical races are few and far between, and face realistic scenarios on the surface. Regardless that this is a fantasy, there aren't towns or regions that are populated with elves and the like. I find this to give the elves and gravians a more mystical and mysterious nature. I also like the fact that the human wizards, even the more talented and seasoned, have large limitation compared to the elves. Also, that human wizards do not know, and most of the time unaware, or the capabilities of these magical races. It makes the world seem so large.
Overall, I gave this book 5 stars. I am really becoming attached to the characters. New characters feel like outsiders to the group, and I find myself desiring to learn more about the long past of the elves, and the motivation and capabilities of the humans. Some of the character traits and circumstances in this book are unique to others that I have read, and I find that crucial in keeping my interest. I look forward to book 5 in the series!
The writing in this book is still quite easy to understand. I did check on a few words in this book, but they weren't anything that could not have been misunderstood with the context.
I also appreciate the amount of the world that is left to my own imagination. It is just descriptive enough for me to believe that I might be seeing these scenes unfold before my own eyes.
I think that one of the things I really like about this series is that the magical races are few and far between, and face realistic scenarios on the surface. Regardless that this is a fantasy, there aren't towns or regions that are populated with elves and the like. I find this to give the elves and gravians a more mystical and mysterious nature. I also like the fact that the human wizards, even the more talented and seasoned, have large limitation compared to the elves. Also, that human wizards do not know, and most of the time unaware, or the capabilities of these magical races. It makes the world seem so large.
Overall, I gave this book 5 stars. I am really becoming attached to the characters. New characters feel like outsiders to the group, and I find myself desiring to learn more about the long past of the elves, and the motivation and capabilities of the humans. Some of the character traits and circumstances in this book are unique to others that I have read, and I find that crucial in keeping my interest. I look forward to book 5 in the series!
May 6, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
"Rise of the Archmage" is the 4th book in the "Deathsworn Arc" series and sees the tale of Korhan and company take a darker turn.
There are some delicate situations that are handled very well, plenty of action, and some surprising occurrences - one in particular caused me to hold my breath (and that doesn't often happen to me - I'm usually more of a sound effect person when I read, peppering the narrative with my own gasps, oohs, ahs, and uh-ohs!).
If you've read the first 3 books in the series, you won't be disappointed with this one... and there's some great news too - Book 4 is NOT the end!!
"Rise of the Archmage" is the 4th book in the "Deathsworn Arc" series and sees the tale of Korhan and company take a darker turn.
There are some delicate situations that are handled very well, plenty of action, and some surprising occurrences - one in particular caused me to hold my breath (and that doesn't often happen to me - I'm usually more of a sound effect person when I read, peppering the narrative with my own gasps, oohs, ahs, and uh-ohs!).
If you've read the first 3 books in the series, you won't be disappointed with this one... and there's some great news too - Book 4 is NOT the end!!
May 8, 2016
Another great installment in this super-fun series. This time, the stories are a little darker, and things happen that I don't know how the companions will fix. The characters keep evolving and we meet new people who give us another look at different parts of the cultures that we've gotten to know. Vexis, a dark elf who was a priestess until Brael's "Truth" was exposed, is a welcome addition as another strong female character. The companions are getting closer to their next adventure. I am curious to get to know Durgheim Holt but I am enjoying the ride. Be forewarned, there is a big cliffhanger at the end and the new volume is not out yet.
June 22, 2016
Really enjoying this series, easy to become engaged with the characters.
March 29, 2017
I got this from the author for my honest opinion and review. This is the fourth book in this series. This one head me a little tied up in knots. It had a hold of my heart because for someone to be punished for their beliefs or their feelings for someone else. That is just wrong. This one centers around Saul going against the church and centuries of tradition. Saul and his comrades are now on the run and doing all they can to escape the city. Each new book shows how they work together and becoming a closer unit. Each has their own skills and talents that help them at the right moment. I love a couple of the new characters. A really good book.
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