Reviews

City of Lifestone by Tom Huddleston

liesljrowe's review against another edition

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3.0

I'm not familiar with the Warhammer games, but several of my students are big fans of Age of Sigmar and I've been intrigued by the miniatures etc for long enough that I decided to give this a go. Considering the Black Library's success at creating long-running series of books aimed at adults, it's not surprising that they're trying to dip into the middle grade market of potential wargamers.

"Realm Quest" is a fast-paced read and quickly explains a lot of the lore in an understandable fashion without slowing down the story. Really, this clearly is the set-up for a series, presenting the main characters and overall objective of the plot, complete with a dramatic cliffhanger ending. There's a diverse cast of characters and there's some interesting plot-threads started which remain unresolved by the end of the novel. I think this should be excellent for fans of novels like Beast Quest, who want to read a fast-paced series with brilliant action sequences and a whole world of lore to engage in. Looking forward to seeing what my students make of it!

Thank you Netgalley for giving me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.

trackofwords's review against another edition

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4.0

After escaping from a life of slavery, 14 year-old Kiri sets off alone in search of the city of her birth – Lifestone – where she hopes to find a new start. Things don’t quite work out how she hoped, and she’s soon being hunted by skaven and begrudgingly caught up with a strange group of children and their mentor, who tells her of a mysterious purpose for which she’s been chosen.

We’re introduced straight away to concepts like Sigmar and the different Realms, and as the story progresses it gradually builds up a picture – or at least the beginning of one – of the Age of Sigmar setting. It’s told in a way that suits a younger reader, so monsters can be fought and obstacles overcome, and while some elements are a little simplified it’s still recognisably the Mortal Realms.

It’s good to see some tough, capable female characters in the shape of Kiri and a couple of the other children. The plot is pacy, action-packed and exciting, and it’s all written in a way that’s easy to read and keeps you wanting more. It’s simple without being simplistic, and works brilliantly for this sort of story (as do Magnus Norén’s excellent illustrations).

Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2019/02/10/realm-quest-city-of-lifestone-tom-huddleston/

nooker's review against another edition

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4.0

I got this mostly because Billie Piper read reads it. I don't care much for fantasy, but this was fun and Billie Piper is a good reader.

1tolkienfan's review

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2.0

I know nothing of the game, worlds, etc. Found it difficult to follow or understand. Not sure how kids 5th - 8th grade with take/read this
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