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hiking_reader's review against another edition
4.5
Curse of the Fallen was on my radar even before it was announced as an SPFBO-9 entry. I've heard quite a bit of chatter about this one in the community already. It was an easy choice add this not only to my personal SPFBO TBR list but it made it into my top 20 of those 48 that I wanted to make sure I read. This ended up being my 18th read from the competitions entries.
I was very intrigued with the first chapter alone. We had mercenaries, a magic user on the run and some interesting creatures and races. But why does it always have to be spiders! Creepy little spiders crawling out of wholes, yuck! Sorry that's a bit of comedy regarding one of my own semi-phobic tendencies. It's a coping mechanism alright!?
The pacing of this book seemed very fast throughout most of book one. Our group seemed like they were constantly on the run from someone or something, or toward their next objective. This isn't to say we don't have time for either story or character development. It's just those development moments were typically on the move as well. I think this actually contributed in me wanting to constantly keep reading to find out what was next! The only complaint I have is the dialog for Loryk. The way he spoke tripped me up many times as I had to pause and try to figure out what he was saying. I'll touch on this in the character section as well.
The worldbuilding was great! I've already mentioned the various races and creatures. We have different religions and cultures as well. The author does a great job in painting a picture of each environment the story is taking place. Most of these seem on the darker side if that happens to be your thing as well. This wasn't over done though. This is very important for me in loving a book. I need those descriptions to make me feel like I'm right there with the characters in this world, but not over done where it can bog down the progression of the story.
The character development was also great! We get to see growth of several of our characters on their relationships throughout this read. I liked the representation from several races and how different individuals within those races can actually be. It fits in with realizing you can't base an entire race off of a single individual. Seeing how different Klaud and Avelloch are was great! We see these characters change quite a bit over the course of book one. Not to try and explain just a little more about Loryk. He's a great character! I get that his dialog is created for a reason and letting us get to know him more. It just seemed to trip me up a bit throughout.
The very end of Curse of the Fallen left me in shock as well as wanting to see where this story goes from here. I don't know if I'll be able to work book 2 in before the third is released but we shall see.
I'd recommend Curse of the Fallen to just about any fantasy book reader. It does lean a bit more on the darker side. It's not necessarily a feel good happy go lucky type of fantasy read.
I was very intrigued with the first chapter alone. We had mercenaries, a magic user on the run and some interesting creatures and races. But why does it always have to be spiders! Creepy little spiders crawling out of wholes, yuck! Sorry that's a bit of comedy regarding one of my own semi-phobic tendencies. It's a coping mechanism alright!?
The pacing of this book seemed very fast throughout most of book one. Our group seemed like they were constantly on the run from someone or something, or toward their next objective. This isn't to say we don't have time for either story or character development. It's just those development moments were typically on the move as well. I think this actually contributed in me wanting to constantly keep reading to find out what was next! The only complaint I have is the dialog for Loryk. The way he spoke tripped me up many times as I had to pause and try to figure out what he was saying. I'll touch on this in the character section as well.
The worldbuilding was great! I've already mentioned the various races and creatures. We have different religions and cultures as well. The author does a great job in painting a picture of each environment the story is taking place. Most of these seem on the darker side if that happens to be your thing as well. This wasn't over done though. This is very important for me in loving a book. I need those descriptions to make me feel like I'm right there with the characters in this world, but not over done where it can bog down the progression of the story.
The character development was also great! We get to see growth of several of our characters on their relationships throughout this read. I liked the representation from several races and how different individuals within those races can actually be. It fits in with realizing you can't base an entire race off of a single individual. Seeing how different Klaud and Avelloch are was great! We see these characters change quite a bit over the course of book one. Not to try and explain just a little more about Loryk. He's a great character! I get that his dialog is created for a reason and letting us get to know him more. It just seemed to trip me up a bit throughout.
The very end of Curse of the Fallen left me in shock as well as wanting to see where this story goes from here. I don't know if I'll be able to work book 2 in before the third is released but we shall see.
I'd recommend Curse of the Fallen to just about any fantasy book reader. It does lean a bit more on the darker side. It's not necessarily a feel good happy go lucky type of fantasy read.
smilesgiggle's review against another edition
5.0
This cover did not mislead. I stayed up late to consume this book. That ending -wowza!
Magic is deemed a curse - all those born with the gift are to be killed upon birth. Including the one know as The Child. The Order cursed her magic - connecting them, alerting the Order to her location every time Neer uses her magic. Desperate for freedom. Desperate for her self, Neer starts an epic journey, based on a legend.
Along the way, Neer meets Elvae, forging new friendships with some trust. Her bard friend who saved her from a life of torment, Loryk, is determined to join her regardless of the danger.
There is just so much for this book to offer - finding someone who is not whole like Neer, different cultures, facing fears, having to survive Trials. I cannot recommend enough. One of the best books I read this year.
Magic is deemed a curse - all those born with the gift are to be killed upon birth. Including the one know as The Child. The Order cursed her magic - connecting them, alerting the Order to her location every time Neer uses her magic. Desperate for freedom. Desperate for her self, Neer starts an epic journey, based on a legend.
Along the way, Neer meets Elvae, forging new friendships with some trust. Her bard friend who saved her from a life of torment, Loryk, is determined to join her regardless of the danger.
There is just so much for this book to offer - finding someone who is not whole like Neer, different cultures, facing fears, having to survive Trials. I cannot recommend enough. One of the best books I read this year.
thadeusdylan's review against another edition
5.0
Loved it! Adventure from beginning to end! Amazing character development, fell in love with each character. I can’t wait to read the next book!
yondaimekamikage's review against another edition
5.0
I really love this book. Although it started off a bit slow for me, the world building, original characters and the deep friendship between the main character and her best friend quickly got my attention. I love that in spite of everything she’s lost, she had that one person who helped her to endure. I can’t wait to start book 2.
beanieb00ks's review against another edition
4.0
After seeing this little beauty on TikTok, I thought it was worth a try. I follow @hcnewellauthor and the more I watched the more intrigued I got. I may have got it in book form and KU, as I’m struggling still with concentration but it was worth the ride! Following Neer on her adventures was fab and I can’t wait to get book two. Definitely a good little page turner of evae and human adventures
commykaze's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
readlovereviewblog's review against another edition
4.0
This book is all about the quest. The destination is the same, but the purpose is different for each character. Some want it to take away a curse for themselves or another. Some want to tag along for a story to share.
I love the map at the beginging of the book super helpful when learning about a new realm. I find it interesting that the Brotherhood and the Order of Saro have similar rules except for the final one.
Neer or Nerana has magic, but she can't use it as it is cursed to alert the Saro when she does and is searching for a way to break it so she can stop hiding and running. Her friends Gil and Loryk are helping her. This book starts with a bang, and I noticed the author uses many words that are accented. I love how the author included the child of the Skye and divine mystery in the book. The old-world magic and hidden caves are exciting to read about.
Neer finds some clues and trouble in a hidden cave and now knows the next move of her quest. She must go to the trial of blood; on her journey, she groups up with an elf who is going the same direction and, after some detours, finds another to add to her party. The author gets into her history and friends, which is impressive to read about and understand the characters. As they get closer to the quest, the magic in this book gets darker. The trials are no joke seriously messed up, and the characters reveal their true selves in them. Want to know the ending? You'll have to read this one for yourself. But every minute of this book is action-packed and twisted.
I love how the author was so descriptive in the book. This story was action and adventures packed. Neer is an extraordinary heroine who still has a heart in most of the story. I think because she was good, she appealed to me in the books. I loved the inclusion of the elves and other species in this story. The author did get dark with memories and the trials themselves, but it was a fascinating fantasy read.
I look forward to reading more about Nerana's adventures and what happens next.
I love the map at the beginging of the book super helpful when learning about a new realm. I find it interesting that the Brotherhood and the Order of Saro have similar rules except for the final one.
Neer or Nerana has magic, but she can't use it as it is cursed to alert the Saro when she does and is searching for a way to break it so she can stop hiding and running. Her friends Gil and Loryk are helping her. This book starts with a bang, and I noticed the author uses many words that are accented. I love how the author included the child of the Skye and divine mystery in the book. The old-world magic and hidden caves are exciting to read about.
Neer finds some clues and trouble in a hidden cave and now knows the next move of her quest. She must go to the trial of blood; on her journey, she groups up with an elf who is going the same direction and, after some detours, finds another to add to her party. The author gets into her history and friends, which is impressive to read about and understand the characters. As they get closer to the quest, the magic in this book gets darker. The trials are no joke seriously messed up, and the characters reveal their true selves in them. Want to know the ending? You'll have to read this one for yourself. But every minute of this book is action-packed and twisted.
I love how the author was so descriptive in the book. This story was action and adventures packed. Neer is an extraordinary heroine who still has a heart in most of the story. I think because she was good, she appealed to me in the books. I loved the inclusion of the elves and other species in this story. The author did get dark with memories and the trials themselves, but it was a fascinating fantasy read.
I look forward to reading more about Nerana's adventures and what happens next.
labbit's review against another edition
Writing style too jarring and it didn't flow. Nothing in the book really pulled me in.
bshgarcia's review against another edition
5.0
Curse of the Fallen unfolds a fantastical journey reminiscent of exploring the landscapes of an epic RPG. From the first page, I was thrown into the tumultuous odyssey of Nerana, a character whose unyielding determination becomes the driving force behind an enthralling adventure.
Distinguished by its meticulously crafted world—a vibrant tapestry woven with enthralling lore, a nuanced magic system, and creatures that leap off the page—this book captures the essence of enrapturing world-building, similar to that found in Skyrim or the Witcher in terms of vibes, yet wholly unique. This immersive experience mirrors the thrill of playing a captivating video game, an observation I've seen echoed by other reviewers.
At its core, the story unfolds with a profound camaraderie between Nerana, Loryk, and Gil. Their banter introduces moments of levity, reminiscent of the dynamic companions found in the best storytelling. Newell's skill in creating authentic characters is evident, offering readers heartfelt and authentic relationships that transcend more plot-driven fantasy novels.
The narrative's unyielding pace propels readers through heart-pounding action sequences, skirmishes, and immersive battles—again making me think of some of my more epic RPG quests. Like, I can't express how much this made me feel like I was reading a game with a powerful storyline, and I mean that in the best way. Characters, particularly Nerana, confront a myriad of challenges, and the gritty realism in their portrayal intensifies the emotional highs and lows.
To summarize, Newell immerses you in a meticulously crafted world, where cool magic and deadly creatures seamlessly intertwine with the unbreakable bonds of friendship. Her storytelling prowess is unmistakable, her ability to create authentic characters resonates, and the world she's crafted is one you could easily lose yourself in, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Nerana's captivating journey. This book not only promises a thrilling and immersive fantasy experience but also cements itself as an exceptional gem within the genre, offering a rich, authentic, and lifelong-worthy reading experience for fantasy enthusiasts. I eagerly look forward to diving into book two.
Distinguished by its meticulously crafted world—a vibrant tapestry woven with enthralling lore, a nuanced magic system, and creatures that leap off the page—this book captures the essence of enrapturing world-building, similar to that found in Skyrim or the Witcher in terms of vibes, yet wholly unique. This immersive experience mirrors the thrill of playing a captivating video game, an observation I've seen echoed by other reviewers.
At its core, the story unfolds with a profound camaraderie between Nerana, Loryk, and Gil. Their banter introduces moments of levity, reminiscent of the dynamic companions found in the best storytelling. Newell's skill in creating authentic characters is evident, offering readers heartfelt and authentic relationships that transcend more plot-driven fantasy novels.
The narrative's unyielding pace propels readers through heart-pounding action sequences, skirmishes, and immersive battles—again making me think of some of my more epic RPG quests. Like, I can't express how much this made me feel like I was reading a game with a powerful storyline, and I mean that in the best way. Characters, particularly Nerana, confront a myriad of challenges, and the gritty realism in their portrayal intensifies the emotional highs and lows.
To summarize, Newell immerses you in a meticulously crafted world, where cool magic and deadly creatures seamlessly intertwine with the unbreakable bonds of friendship. Her storytelling prowess is unmistakable, her ability to create authentic characters resonates, and the world she's crafted is one you could easily lose yourself in, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Nerana's captivating journey. This book not only promises a thrilling and immersive fantasy experience but also cements itself as an exceptional gem within the genre, offering a rich, authentic, and lifelong-worthy reading experience for fantasy enthusiasts. I eagerly look forward to diving into book two.
graff_fuller's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I really enjoyed the character arc of Nerena (Neer). So often, we are rooting for the protagonist, but for this story...there was a part of me...that felt that maybe we were in the head of the bad guy/gal? The view of her life and what she's been saddled with was great to learn...and made her character VERY interesting to read about.
Also, learning about her origin story (a good ways into the book), clarified WHY the things were currently happening to her, and why she cannot remember certain things. The loss of everything/everyone she knew was VERY impactful to her life.
The following two characters are her steadfast and "ride or die" friends...which is the foundation for which she rebuilt her life.
Gil, the healer (with so many other talents), being able to be near her...and to "have her back", and also heal her at her need. AND Loryk, the bard...who is her best friend...though he gives her a hard time (like best friends do), loves her (and she, him). A great relationship.
Her desire to heal the curse that is attached to her...and hearing about the Trials from Klaud an Elf (Oops the Eva), who at first is surprising to meet at THAT point, but also fortuitous. He's purpose/goal driven, and will leave her in a instant to do what he has to do...not letting/allowing ANYONE to thwart him from this task.
I really liked Avelloch and their friendship, but didn't know how deep a connection was made, or if it was just out of convenience.
The priests, and the religious group that are LOOKING for her are obviously EVIL as can be...and when their path cross, they show their true colours at every instant.
Neer doesn't always help herselft out...in her goals, but the more that you get to know her...you feel that she is a giver (at least that is what I got our of her).
I'm really interested in what happens NEXT, especially because of some of the actions that happened near the end of the book...that will bear out in the coming book and beyond.
A new take on this genre. Love the complexity of the main character...and the people that are collected around her.
Also, learning about her origin story (a good ways into the book), clarified WHY the things were currently happening to her, and why she cannot remember certain things. The loss of everything/everyone she knew was VERY impactful to her life.
The following two characters are her steadfast and "ride or die" friends...which is the foundation for which she rebuilt her life.
Gil, the healer (with so many other talents), being able to be near her...and to "have her back", and also heal her at her need. AND Loryk, the bard...who is her best friend...though he gives her a hard time (like best friends do), loves her (and she, him). A great relationship.
Her desire to heal the curse that is attached to her...and hearing about the Trials from Klaud an Elf (Oops the Eva), who at first is surprising to meet at THAT point, but also fortuitous. He's purpose/goal driven, and will leave her in a instant to do what he has to do...not letting/allowing ANYONE to thwart him from this task.
I really liked Avelloch and their friendship, but didn't know how deep a connection was made, or if it was just out of convenience.
The priests, and the religious group that are LOOKING for her are obviously EVIL as can be...and when their path cross, they show their true colours at every instant.
Neer doesn't always help herselft out...in her goals, but the more that you get to know her...you feel that she is a giver (at least that is what I got our of her).
I'm really interested in what happens NEXT, especially because of some of the actions that happened near the end of the book...that will bear out in the coming book and beyond.
A new take on this genre. Love the complexity of the main character...and the people that are collected around her.