Review: A fun read
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 03 5, 2012
I had bought this book ages ago but only read it recently and I'm kicking myself for holding off for so long.Spellmonger is a very fun, PG-13 level fantasy starring a charming and likeable rogue of a protagonist. Min drinks, he wenches, and he comes from the Han Solo school of loveable scoundrels. He's a great character.The supporting cast is also great. From Min's apprentice to his troublesome nemesis, Mancour populates the world with an interesting cast of characters. There's great action scenes, insane magical battles, some genuinely funny humor and just a world you wish actually existed. The climax of the book is possibly one of the most outrageous, original and amusing situations I've ever seen. I defy one to find a fantasy novel that has a similar resolution, its definitely a riot.As much as I enjoyed the book there were a few quibbles I had with it. There are a few formatting errors and situations where words aren't properly spaced, particularly in the second half of the book. It isn't a deal breaker but they do mar an otherwise smooth and enjoyable read. There are also a handful of situations where information is repeated, sometimes a mere few pages later.Ok, the goblins are generally as smart as humans, I don't need to know that 3 times within the first 15% or so of the book. It doesn't happen very often but it was enough for me to take note.Other than those minor issues, this was a genuinely enjoyable book and I've already picked up the sequel. It occupies a nice comfortable spot between comedy and seriousness without giving in to either. Like I said, PG-13 fantasy. Theres some cursing, adult situations and blood but none of it is overdone, graphic or really focused upon. I think both adults and older teens will find a lot to like in this book. I hope Mr. Mancour continues this series beyond the 2nd book, I think he's got a winner here and he joins the list of my favorite indie fantasy authors.