Brett Armstrong

I debated for awhile on how to write this review. On one hand, this book had a lot of potential but it also didn’t meet my expectations.
I was hooked in the prologue. It was interesting and drew the reader in right away.
This book seemed very serious and heavy, without the joy that normally comes to lighten the mood.
Another think that I was not fond of was the characters. They seemed two-dimensional and all had similar personalities. Midway through the novel, still had no idea who was who because nothing set one apart from the others.

Rating: 2 Stars

*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author. A positive review was not required and all thoughts are my own.… (altro)

Taking place in Diocletian's Great Persecution of Christians in the end of the 3rd century AD, an ex-Senator of Rome, loses all he has--his home burned to ashes, his wife, servants, and other possessions. Marcus Servius sets out to find the pastor who turned him to Christianity and to find who has destroyed his life. All the main characters are vividly portrayed, even Marcus's inner life, as he follows Jesus's message and tries to find his nemesis. Very nicely written. the story brings home the Christian message, especially the final reckoning in the Senate. The author uses the words of the title, though in English, towards the end of the book. My remembrance of high school Latin translated it as "destitution which leads to forgiveness [or expunging]"… (altro)

I love how the author does a quick review at the beginning about the previous story. This helps readers refresh their memory and makes it easy to jump right into this book. The author is known for his brilliant ability to take us into worlds where strange creatures roam and danger surrounds our characters. I’m so happy to see Jason return in this story.

Jason is regretting his decision to leave behind Aria but he was so sure he was doing the right thing. When he stumbles into a shop, his world turns upside down. Where is he and what has he gotten himself into? I couldn’t wait to see if he would be able to save Aria. I knew it would be a journey filled with unexpected visitors, lessons that will stay with him forever and a sense of finding himself as he trusts his instincts.

Anargen has his own mission to complete. The Quest must be protected and Anargen must find within himself that darkness will not win. I love how the author takes characters who seem like they are hopeless and shine light on them as their faith grows. There are many twists in the story and unexpected characters which make this book so incredible. I have found his writing to be an invitation to look in the dark and find hope, growth and a feeling of conquering the enemy.

This is the last in the series but it is surely the best of the lot. Each book has given the author a chance to show his growth and ever changing strength of weaving a tale that captivates readers. With each book, it is evident that faith is part of his life and brings it into each story. I am looking forward to seeing what new adventure the author is working on.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (altro)

I didn’t realize that this was book four in the Quest for Fire series. The story kicks off in high gear as they get ready for battle. What fuels the flames of these battles is greed, jealousy, and power, this is indeed a grand adventure.

This novel contains numerous disputes, some of which at times felt excessively detailed. The novel contains some sorcery, which sparks discussions about spells and danger. The reader quickly realizes that nothing is as it seems.

Since I don't read many fantasy books, and this one is book four in a series, I felt a bit disconnected from the story. I struggled to identify with the characters. The battle scenes somewhat reminded of Tolken Lord of the Ring stories.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/… (altro)