Book 3, Magelord: The Spellmonger Series

Terry started this series strong, but by this book I found that I had lost quite a bit of interest. I can't really put my finger on why. I think it was a combination of many things. From the characters no longer feeling compelling to a plot that never seemed to want to move even while it steadily burned up page after page.

I think the biggest issue I had was the enemy. This is a series where the enemy is in my opinion too powerful. Every time its defeated its because of some perfect configuration of people arriving at the right place at just the right time and performing some feat of magic and thought that belies all logic. Its heroic, but at the same time, it is such a miraculous victory that it feels hollow and that hollowness ends up becoming part of the story as the characters soldier on toward the night climatic battle.

Good writing is evident, but the way the plot forms just leaves me unimpressed

Most self-published books are priced well below the $5 price I paid for this volume. I don't mind the price--a good read is worth it.

On the other hand, if I do pay for a "book" then I expect to get a book. I don't expect to be charged book-price for an unfinished, uncleaned draft of a book.

Spell-checking, a rather basic task, was sloppy. Mistakes like the use of "their" instead of "thet're," the appearance of "bread" instead of "bred" and other such errors are annoying and served to break the flow of the narrative. As if those weren't enough, the occasional unfinished sentence, the erratic punctuation, the appearance of the author's writing notes, places where two sentences--two separate thoughts--were run together in a confusing way, and other errors of "finishing" the writing process were a serious bar to my enjoyment of this volume.

This reads like a ms that was rushed to publication before its time. It's far from being the worst example of self-publication I've ever seen but is a disappointment in an otherwise readable series.

Reading other reviews about this book, I just don't get it. For one no one mentions the editing, its horrid. In fact there are some who actually say that there are not many problems at all. The reality is that there are spelling errors, wrong words and missing words, paragraphs with discussions between two characters that are not written in an easy to follow manner. This is spread throughout the book and it is a LONG book.

The story is in a word boring. A good way to look at it is to take the last book. Remember how we got switched from the war effort to the ducal politics and then back? OK so take out the war effort and then lower the difficulty and importance level of ducal politics to that of a land holding knight.....snore. The way the book is written does not help matters at all either. It is pretty much time skip after time skip with summaries of what happens in that period of time. You actually do not get a lot of things happening 'on screen' so to speak. Instead of two characters talking you will get more often than not a blurb of what they talked about. We are told what is happening not shown and I just did not enjoy that.

The 'early release' edition is, sadly enough, full of spelling and grammatical errors and even comments like 'here min should have an internal dialogue'. Better to wait for the official version as it distracts from the content.

The story itself is like a breeze of fresh air, the third book in the series with again a different focus. This time, less battles (book 1), less politics and battles (book 2), but describing the development of the magelord's land, Sevendor. Best to describe it as a description of a game of Sim City... Nice continuation of the series.

Terry Mancour is an excellent author. His stories are well written, paced, with the ability to understand other event, acts and personilities ,explained from the main character's objective (mostly) point of view.

While Mr Mancour is a very good author, I truly do not like the direction Min has taken. The first two books were epic battles to the death, with the fate of hundreds of thousands in the balance. Minalon is devoted to the death of the Dead God and improving the lives of those with Talent (magical abilities). This is repeated many times throughout both books.

So it makes not sense to me that 85% of this long book is spent in his chosen lands gifted as a reward for his fighting services, over the span of a year or so. It would make sense if he spent a few months getting things in order and then going back out to the front lines, but instead he retreats and leaves the heavy lifting to others, and tens of thousands perish during the time he is away.

Only in the final 14% does he finally gather troops and move to the front line again. And here is where the sluggish pace of the first 86% speeds up, and an all too short fight occurs, for which he is victorious. After which he goes home again!!!!

I get that he loves his wife and son, I get that he doesn't want accollades or glory. But it's just doesn't make sense to me. The lull from the goblins is also puzzling, and seems more of an excuse for the author to change direction for his main character.

I'm a third way through book 4 and it almost looks the same as book 3. I hope the author is not trying to turn this into a cashcow and going to try to prolong this series forever.

4 stars for the quality of the author.
3.5 stars for the story.

BIG HINT : READ "The Road to Severendin" & "...Honeymoon" BEFORE YOU READ THE THIRD BOOK IN THE SERIES. They're add-ons, released between 3 and 4, but there is content that is referenced in 3 that will make it more fun to read. After you've read #3 is a good point to pick up "Hawkmaiden".

I just thoroughly enjoyed spending my time leisurely reading this volume in the series (although I didn't do much of anything else until I reached the end). I really love that this author didn't rush. He takes the time to tell a multi-layered story. Yet it's never muddled or encumbered with superfluous verbiage. I never lost track of the story or the characters. Kind of like an exquisitely rich desert, without the calories, and you don't tire of the taste. You just want more.

Just one thing, though... The Westwood characters are misnamed according to Hawkmaiden. Kyle is not the head of that group and his father, Kamen, is very much alive and still the head of the Westwood families. Kyle is Dara's older brother. Also, after the siege, it's pretty inconceivable that Dara wouldn't have been brought to Minlan's attention by Banamor, Olmeg, Zagor, or Sir Cei. A newly discovered brown mage would merit notice and reporting? That she wasn't accorded special recognition as were the other siege heroes (because she wasn't male perhaps) was pretty shabby. Dara shouldn't have been 'news' to Minalin at the Magic Fair.

This review is for Kindle/Audiobooks Book 1 thru Book 3
I wasn't convinced in Book one, but since then, Minalan has charmed me. I previously didn't like him much as a character, but loved the story and the world that it's set in. That's all changed as Mr Mancour series (and characters) matures.

Things are only getting better. I love these books and am using the Kindle and the Audio versions. I only wish the rest of the series was on audio. I'm loving the series enough that although I'm in Kindle Unlimited, I'm choosing to purchase each book rather than rent on KU. I know that I'll be re-reading them so am quite willing to spend the money.

The audiobook narrator, John Lee is exceptional!

Very entertaining, with well developed story lines and characters. Authors have their passions about certain story elements, and the emphasis in this series is on the structure and organization of magic, social / feudal structures, the organization of the various "countries" and domains within, and the history of the land. This is all beautifully woven into character and story development, and each book effectively builds the storyline (though I think you could enjoyably read each one standing alone). These are well written books, and will speak to those interested in sword/sorcery/fantasy, as well as those who like military history, feudal / chivalric history, combat and a bit of romance. I think all of these elements are excellently balanced.

My four-star rating is because the books I have been reading as Kindle versions are not well edited. I don't know that I can lay that at the feet of the author or not, but the poor editing for spelling, continuity and layout is inexcusable really. However, these flaws in the delivered versions do not take away from the enjoyment of the story at all. Read on!

Interesting world and pleasant to read, even if the author doesn't pay too much attention to previous facts which can result in contradictions. Some pieces of the narrative just appear out of the blue to fit the needs of the moment. It's why I cannot give it 5 stars.
There are quite a few grammatical and spelling errors as well, including the use of wrong words, but not so frequently as to make it irritating.

The spellmonger series (books 1-6)
Spellmonger, Warmage, Magelord, Knights Magi, High Mage, & Journey Mage.
I read all six books in one long set. I literally went from one book right to the next, no stopping to read anything else. Nor stopping to write a review except for book 1, which is why I'm doing it this way. I really enjoyed this series, and the great bit of news is that the series continues for at least 3 more books. The next book "Enchanter" is suppose to be out in June, 2015. Yay!!
This series follows the life of a male Mage who was procured for a war and following that just wants to settle in a quiet little town and be a simple spellmonger--using magic to fix warts, heal colds, etc.
But that's not in the cards for this Mage because a war begins with the Gurvani--short, black furred, upright walking creatures that usually live within the mountains and usually only venture out at night. There's an upset Gurvani spirit that comes back for revenge against the human race and presents himself as a God, Shereul. His goal: to wipeout the human race and take all of the land for the Gurvani. They kill, enslave and sacrifice humans. Shereul grows stronger with every sacrifice; so strong that he has become unstoppable. But the Spellmonger, Minalan will not give up the human race that easily. Min gains power thru stones of Irionite that he takes from the Gurvani Shaman. He shares the Irionite with other mages and begins his power politically as well as physically.
There are so many other characters in the story that I loved, as well: Minalan's wife, his apprentices and many others. The interactions between the Mage and his apprentices, is very loving, fatherly and funny. Pentandra- an old girlfriend from school, specializes in sex magic and he helped her study. ;) She becomes Min's "right hand man", especially in the political world as she comes from royalty and he comes as a bakers son. She is very light hearted, yet a great tactician.
They'll not only have the Gurvani to worry about but the political games, the likes of dukes and duchess's with aspirations to become king and queen, or secret societies with assassins: The Black Rat and Mother's.
With all of that power comes responsibility. Min pours much of that responsibility into a place of his own: Sevendor- a rundown castle and hamlet. He pours his power, money, love and affection into this place and its people and gains a home and loving community and much more for all that power is bound to change things.
I cannot say enough about this series. I really did love the characters, the storyline and how it just sort of sucks you into the story. It's well written and edited. I can't wait for the next book! This is a young adult(+) series. Once again I would implore the writer to brighten, dramatize and capture the essence of each book on the cover. That's how you gain a readers eye who hasn't read the author before. The covers are boring and not eye catching at all. The series deserves better and more people need the incentive and privilege to read it!

Sent from my iPhone

So many hours of enjoyment from each book! This one is no exception. I really identify well with the main character, even his many imperfections.
Speaking of imperfections, the book needs some serious editing! Honestly. It makes me cringe. I considered giving only 3 stars for this reason.
I am downloading the next book immediately, though, because I really love the story and want to read more.

This book is constantly showing the reader the cost of trying to do what is right. Actions are taken for and against our hero. Forced to take action for and against the people in his care has cost him much worry and pleasure. I enjoy the many twists and turns of the plot.

Continues from Book 2. The main character gets his own land and it is not exactly what he thought it was. It is going to take a lot of work an magic to fix. Like the story. Continuing to read the series.

I have really enjoyed the Spellmonger Series, except for the awful editing job. There are just so many errors that it becomes disruptive to the flow of reading.
For anyone looking for a good medieval tale set in an alternate world, full of all the mystical creatures of our own lore, Good guys(and gals) and Bad Guys (and gals) and Really really Bad guys...this series has it all. Minalan, the Spellmonger seems very real to me, as he goes from simple peasant beginnings to a powerful Mage and Lord. I like it that he knows what he does not know, and surrounds himself with good council. But when all else fails, he just makes it up as he goes along. I think this is how a lot of us go through life!
Again, good stories, and great character development....just needs an editor.

Great, enjoyed detailed descriptions of what life may have been like tor supporting characters.
That said - - - NOTE TO Terry Mancoure: Get on the store's ass about not indicating page count. I like to know how long I will probably be reading a book before I start and also like to compare with other books. FILE SIZE DOES NOT GET IT!!
Again, thanks for another great book.

Unlike prior books in this series, fighting and sex take a back seat to magical development of a small feudal domain. That doesn't mean either sex or fighting aren't available in healthy amounts-- it just means that this is one of the better portrayals of medieval life I've ever read. In a way, it's a "Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court," translating a character with modern tastes and sensibilities into feudal living. This book was a delight to me, far better than the prior books.

This book doesn't disappoint! The story moves smoothly. You really have to pay attention to who is who as there are a lot of new people added to the story line. I am in love with this series I can't get enough. I do hope there are a lot more.

In this book the hero gets stronger and more powerful. That's good because the big bad guy is really big and really powerful. Unlike "Lord of the Rings" there is no ring only the knowledge that the good guys have to hold on. There is the process of collecting allies and fending off political problems. It is the addition of the political problems that keep the story interesting.

This is an interesting series. There is some real crap here and it is a bit of a slog but there is some genius too. What is needed is a editor. Maybe several of them. This book is just sloppy. Personally it would embarrass me to have a book with this many errors out there.

I honesty didn't anticipate enjoying that series as much as I have. This author is masterful and his character development is amazing. A few misplaced words lead me to believe that that he did all of this without a professional editor. Which makes it all that much more impressive.

In spite of some weakness (mainly the lengthiness of some parts) I am still thoroughly interested in the story. I like the way the author puts a new focus in every book and still follows the main theme (fighting the Dead God). I`ve already bought the next two books and am looking forward to reading them.

The spellmonger series (books 1-6)
Spellmonger, Warmage, Magelord, Knights Magi, High Mage, & Journey Mage.
I read all six books in one long set. I literally went from one book right to the next, no stopping to read anything else. Nor stopping to write a review except for book 1, which is why I'm doing it this way. I really enjoyed this series, and the great bit of news is that the series continues for at least 3 more books. The next book "Enchanter" is suppose to be out in June, 2015. Yay!!
This series follows the life of a male Mage who was procured for a war and following that just wants to settle in a quiet little town and be a simple spellmonger--using magic to fix warts, heal colds, etc.
But that's not in the cards for this Mage because a war begins with the Gurvani--short, black furred, upright walking creatures that usually live within the mountains and usually only venture out at night. There's an upset Gurvani spirit that comes back for revenge against the human race and presents himself as a God, Shereul. His goal: to wipeout the human race and take all of the land for the Gurvani. They kill, enslave and sacrifice humans. Shereul grows stronger with every sacrifice; so strong that he has become unstoppable. But the Spellmonger, Minalan will not give up the human race that easily. Min gains power thru stones of Irionite that he takes from the Gurvani Shaman. He shares the Irionite with other mages and begins his power politically as well as physically.
There are so many other characters in the story that I loved, as well: Minalan's wife, his apprentices and many others. The interactions between the Mage and his apprentices, is very loving, fatherly and funny. Pentandra- an old girlfriend from school, specializes in sex magic and he helped her study. ;) She becomes Min's "right hand man", especially in the political world as she comes from royalty and he comes as a bakers son. She is very light hearted, yet a great tactician.
They'll not only have the Gurvani to worry about but the political games, the likes of dukes and duchess's with aspirations to become king and queen, or secret societies with assassins: The Black Rat and Mother's.
With all of that power comes responsibility. Min pours much of that responsibility into a place of his own: Sevendor- a rundown castle and hamlet. He pours his power, money, love and affection into this place and its people and gains a home and loving community and much more for all that power is bound to change things.
I cannot say enough about this series. I really did love the characters, the storyline and how it just sort of sucks you into the story. It's well written and edited. I can't wait for the next book! This is a young adult(+) series. Once again I would implore the writer to brighten, dramatize and capture the essence of each book on the cover. That's how you gain a readers eye who hasn't read the author before. The covers are boring and not eye catching at all. The series deserves better and more people need the incentive and privilege to read it!

Sent from my iPhone

Full of typos but entertaining and detailed. The author isn't afraid to take the time to flesh out things that aren't just romance and battle. Sevendor and the main character continue to change and grow in creative and interesting ways.

This is one of my favorite in the spellmonger series. Minalyn finally gets to try out his hand at using his magic to build and create. It certainly isn't what he expected and certainly not an easy road but the reader comes away with an even better understanding of our Spellmonger.

This book is constantly showing the reader the cost of trying to do what is right. Actions are taken for and against our hero. Forced to take action for and against the people in his care has cost him much worry and pleasure. I enjoy the many twists and turns of the plot.

Continues from Book 2. The main character gets his own land and it is not exactly what he thought it was. It is going to take a lot of work an magic to fix. Like the story. Continuing to read the series.