Today, I'm thrilled to be a part of the Mages & Magic Series by Nina R. Schluntz's virtual book tour sponsored by Rockstar Book Tours. I read the Mages & Magic, which is the YA version of this series of books, RISE OF THE NECROMANCER and GOBLIN GOLD. My book reviews are below, and don't forget to enter the giveaway!
My Review:
RISE OF A NECROMANCER (Mages & Magic #1)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nina Schluntz's "Rise of a Necromancer," the first installment in the Mages & Magic series, unfolds a captivating narrative in a world where magic emanates from dragons, and the line between the living and the undead is blurred. The story introduces us to Tiamat, a six-headed demon god banished from Earth to a realm where rules are scarce, and the dead possess magical energies.
The characters in this novel are diverse and well-crafted, each contributing a unique perspective to the unfolding epic. Rojo Siete, the red dragon full of chaos and fire magic, is bound to serve human mages for seventy years. Leslie Μάγος, an orphaned human child of slaves, becomes a mage trained by the Magisterium and is paired with a fire dragon. Ruven Σκιά, a shadow assassin elf turned tracker with a hellhound, adds an intriguing layer to the ensemble. Finally, Heista Νεκρός, an undead priest controlled by a powerful necromancer, brings an element of darkness to the narrative.
The focal point of the story revolves around Tiamat's journey to harness the power of dragons, a quest that compels him to conceal his true identity as a god. The author skillfully weaves together elements of deception, loyalty, and the struggle for power as Tiamat navigates the complexities of his new world. The dynamics between the characters, particularly the unconventional alliance between Tiamat and the weakened dragon Leslie, add depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of redemption and transformation.
The novel takes unexpected turns when Tiamat's past catches up with him, bringing demons from Earth into the mix. The introduction of necromancy as a formidable force on this magical plane adds an ominous twist, forcing Tiamat to confront his true nature and make sacrifices for the greater good. The clash between Tiamat and the other demons promises high-stakes action and raises questions about destiny, identity, and the cost of power.
Schluntz's world-building is vivid and immersive, painting a fantastical landscape where dragons and magic reign supreme. The unique premise of magic originating from dragons rather than souls adds a refreshing twist to the fantasy genre. The pacing is brisk, keeping readers engaged from start to finish, while the well-developed characters and intricate plot contribute to the book's overall appeal.
"Rise of a Necromancer" sets the stage for an epic series, seamlessly blending elements of fantasy, adventure, and dark magic. Nina Schluntz's masterful storytelling and imaginative world-building make this book a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre. As Tiamat faces the demons of his past and embraces his destiny, readers are on a thrilling journey filled with twists, turns, and the inexorable rise of a necromancer.
GOBLIN GOLD (Mages & Magic #2)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nina Schluntz continues to enchant readers in the second installment of the Mages & Magic series with "Goblin Gold," a mesmerizing tale that delves deeper into the intricate web of alliances, secrets, and conflicts within the magical realm. In this riveting sequel, the goblins, blessed by Sun Deities and able to transform into Mechanical Dragons, emerge as the unexpected heroes in the face of an impending invasion by necromancer demons.
The cast of characters is expanded, introducing compelling figures such as Olje Ιππότης, a dedicated Goblin Paladin raised as an undead protector to Tiamat; Gruillie Καλόγερος, a religious Goblin Monk bound to Mage Tiamat as his dragon; Tiamat ψόφιος, the six-headed demon god dragon sworn to protect the world; and Neo Νερό, a Water Dragon bound to Mage Peter, entangled with demons, and facing internal conflicts.
The narrative brilliantly explores the goblins' unique attributes, such as their ability to transform into Mechanical Dragons and harness the holy sun power from another plane. However, their methods of creating the coveted gold reveal ethical dilemmas that sow seeds of discord among the previously united races of elves, humans, dragons, and goblins. The nuanced exploration of alliances and betrayals adds layers of complexity to the story, making it more than a straightforward battle against the undead.
As new mages and dragons enter the fray, alliances shift, and loyalties are tested. Neo's internal struggle, torn between his hatred for elves and undead and his vow to aid Tiamat, brings a poignant element to the narrative. Olje's transformation from a faithful servant of Tiamat to a character with altered priorities further underscores the moral ambiguity that permeates the magical world.
Schluntz's storytelling prowess is on full display as she weaves together themes of trust, deception, and sacrifice. The clash between the races becomes not only a physical battle against the undead but also a war of ideologies and conflicting interests. The inclusion of elves in the quest for goblin gold adds an unexpected twist, forcing characters to reevaluate their alliances and make difficult choices.
The world-building in "Goblin Gold" remains vivid and imaginative, with the author skillfully expanding on the magical elements introduced in the first book. The ethical quandaries faced by the goblins and the repercussions of their actions resonate with contemporary themes, adding depth to the fantastical narrative.
In "Goblin Gold," Nina Schluntz has crafted a sequel that surpasses expectations, delivering a rich and multi-layered story that explores the consequences of power, the complexities of alliances, and the sacrifices required in the face of impending war. This book is a must-read for fans of fantasy who crave a narrative that goes beyond epic battles, offering a thoughtful exploration of morality and the consequences of wielding magic in a world teetering on the brink of chaos.