White Mountain - Book 1 Of the darkling chronicles

What's all the fuss about?
Reviews:
4.0 out of 5 stars A beautiful book of dragons and wizards 22 January 2017
By Shepline
Format: Paperback|Verified Purchase
Tolkein's The Hobbit aside, I do not often read the sword and sorcery fantasy that involves dragons, but Sophie Tallis' White Mountain is too beautiful a book not to read. Even in the Kindle version, the illustrations by the author shine through and help you draw you into a world - epic in scale - and under control a dark and powerful wizard.
The story has the feel of of Elizabeth Kerner's Song in the Silence in the way that humans, wizards, and dragons co-exist in the world. Whenever I think of dragons I thing big, Tolkien Smaug-sized beasts that dwarf the other characters, and so I did stuggle a bit with placing the size of some of the dragons we meet in this story.
Where this story succeeds marvellous is the relationship between the old, wizened Mr Agyk and his apprentice witch, Wendya, and through them their relationship with Gralen. No spoiler's here, but the closing chapters are heartrending until the end...
4.0 out of 5 stars suitably distracting 11 January 2017
By Mrs. Vivienne Tuffnell
Format: Paperback|Verified Purchase
This was very much outside my usual reading material; I rarely read fantasy these days and even more rarely young adult anything. I was after something different that would be suitably distracting. The story whips along at a good pace and is filled with characters that one can really become attached to (my favourite was Gralen). It's almost impossible when reading a fantasy novel not to have thoughts of certain great epics that established the genre; even the first generation of fantasy after LOTR tended to follow certain lines. White Mountain has moments that make you think of those epics but it also has its own flavour and originality. I confess that I skim read many of the battle scenes (as I did for pretty much all the battle scenes in the Sharpe books, Simon Scarrow's Roman series and even the Last Kingdom books (again, Bernard Cornwell, I apologise!) and all the Shannarra series. It's not squeamishness but rather an inability to send my mind up and view the battle from a raven's eye view. The book ends on a bit of a bombshell so I shall keep my eyes open for the next in the series.
5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant book 2 January 2017
By Abbi G
Format: Paperback|Verified Purchase
Beautifully written, fantasticly talented author, fantastic storyline and plot.
5.0 out of 5 stars Love love love! 23 May 2016
By Amazon Customer
Format: Paperback
Love love love this book! Incredibly creative characters and plot, one of my favourites to curl up with after a long day! Can't wait for the next one!!
4.0 out of 5 stars Easy to Read Epic Fantasy Story, 4 October 2015
By Steven J. Guscott
Format: Kindle Edition
White Mountain, by Sophie E. Tallis is a traditional fantasy story about the fight between good and evil. It is a story suitable for the young and the more seasoned.
The start and middle of this story takes the reader on an interesting journey to a number of magical places. The world building is reminiscent of Tolkien with the detail of names, places and history, but written in and easy to read and simple style. This is not an easy thing, so well done Ellis.
The characters are really enjoyable to read about. Mr A. Marval, a wizard who takes the main role in the story, is well developed and unique enough to not be too comparable to other wizards in other well known stories. I loved Garlen, how could I not, he's courageous and loyal, and a dragon.
I did not feel any strong emotional connection to the characters, however, until the end. For me, it was hard to do anything more than sympathise for the plight of their journey. I prefer the next level of really having empathy for them, but I guess that can't be helped as it's a very individual thing.
There were times the story dragged a little and perhaps it could have been condensed a little, but that, again, is just my personal opinion. The story is still really good the way it is. The best part of this story for me was the battle scene towards the end. It is very well written and has interesting developments I found really grabbed my attention. The story has an emotional and satisfying ending which leaves it open for the next part of the journey.
Ellis, clearly has a wonderful imagination and the illustrations are incredible. Overall, this story didn't wow me, but it is a very good read and enjoyable. Ellis is certainly a talented writer and there are many who will really enjoy this tale so take a look and definitely give it a read. I look forward to reading more of her stories.
4.0 out of 5 stars Sheer Magic, 3 August 2015
By Mr. C. Horner "hierath"
Format: Kindle Edition
This novel, the first in a projected series, is set both in our world and alongside it, in the spaces between things, in the lost forests and hidden mountain caverns of an otherworld that’s almost close enough to touch. Three friends, Marvalla Agyk, his dragon companion Gralen, and the young witch Wendya, are drawn into a quest to defeat an evil changeling wizard whose dark sorcery threatens both the supernatural world and the human one. It is predicted that one of them will not survive the encounter…
It’s clear that Sophie Tallis takes great delight both in playing with language and in the natural world. She has said the novel was inspired by nature and landscape and that comes through in her writing, in the descriptions of the world the travellers pass through and the deft turns of phrase that lift this above a standard magical quest. It owes a debt to the the past masters of fantasy, to Tolkien and Lewis, and it’s a book that isn’t afraid to wear its heart on its sleeve. Traditional fantasy, maybe, but with a playful modern touch.
One aspect where the book falls down slightly is the constantly shifting point of view, particularly noticeable in the final climactic battle with the evil Morreck at his semi-living fortress. The author tries to show the perspective of the battle from the point of view of around half-a-dozen different characters, leading to a series of short, very choppy scenes that prevent the reader from becoming fully immersed in the three heroes fight for life, at a time when the story would really benefit from having just one or two viewpoint characters. But hey, I’d rather see an author trying hard and not quite hitting the mark than being lazy and not trying at all, and it’s clear Sophie Tallis has put her all into White Mountain.
The book isn’t marketed as YA, but I think it would suit early teen readers finding their way into fantasy, and anyone who takes delight in clever language and timeless storytelling.
4.0 out of 5 stars Epic and engrossing, 25 July 2015
By sjhigbee for SFReader.com, 22 June 2015 http://sfreader.com/read_review.asp?t=White+Mountain%2DSophie+E%2E+Tallis&book=1787# and for her blog Brainfluff - (https://sjhigbee.wordpress.com/2015/06/09/review-of-kindle-ebook-white-mountain-book-1-of-the-darkling-chronicles-by-sophie-e-tallis/) June 9, 2015.
Verified Purchase Format: Paperback
If you are looking for some modern twist on the classic epic Fantasy setup, this isn’t it. Tallis gives us a straight Fantasy tale, complete with an evil mastermind who has been plotting the overthrow of the world for ages – and now his plans have finally come to fruition. We have a stark demonstration of the power of said evil mastermind very early into the story. It was at this stage, I bonded with Marval and his grumpy dragon Gralen.
One of the other classic aspects of this book is the semi-omniscient viewpoint Tallis uses. To be frank, it isn’t a favourite viewpoint choice of mine, as writers who use it are too liable to canter through a story long on action and description, while being rather light on characterisation. However, Tallis writes with passion and eloquence that breathes life into her characters. There is plenty of description, but as the tone of the story inexorably darkens and becomes steadily grimmer, those descriptions, imbued with Tallis’s strong visual imagination and fluent writing add rather than detract to the story. sophiedrawingAn enjoyable addition are the beautiful illustrations drawn by Tallis herself, evidently a talented artist.
The initial light and affectionate exchanges between Marval and Gralen abruptly disappear after Marval’s abduction and draining as the tone of the book darkens. There is a real feel of danger – partly because Tallis isn’t afraid to kill off some of her more major characters.
My personal favourite is Gralen, the impulsive and outspoken dragon. He manages to provide shafts of light relief throughout the book, which I very much appreciated as the stakes steadily go on getting ever higher. The climax – the huge battle – was every bit as big a deal as Tallis continually flagged. In fact, while I’d already realised she is a writer of ability and passion, it was her depiction of the major conflict that confirmed her as a gifted storyteller. Did I see the final denouement coming? Yes, but that didn’t really matter – because it’s what the consequences are going to be that will count.
I will certainly be looking out for the second book in this series – and if your taste runs to quality epic Fantasy, then track down White Mountain – you won’t be disappointed.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars Jun 10, 2015
By Claire Rees (Goodreads) & (Girl Who Reads website) http://www.girl-who-reads.com/2015/06/review-white-mountain-by-sophie-e-tallis.html – online source for book reviews and author news, June 8, 2015.
Follow three friends; Marval, a wise old wizard, Gralen one of the last dragons alive and Wendya a young witch as they travel across the world from one magical kingdom to another meeting new friends and gaining alliances against a dark force called Morreck.
Marval is alone the first time he encounters Morreck and barely gets away with his life. He needs to recover and then takes Gralen to check on their friend Wendya. She is fine but insists on coming along to help her friend and the man she thinks of as a father to her, Marval. He must regain his powers before the sixth new moon or he will fade away and die. Along their way through magical kingdoms they encounter many different beasts most who are not friendly and they endure ferocious attacks but pull together and somehow make it to safety relatively unharmed. They also meet many old friends and make amazing new ones. At the end they all come together to fight one huge battle where many lives are lost, both good and evil.
I loved this story, the characters are so believable I began to identify with them and I felt their losses and happiness at their successes. I enjoyed exploring the magical places with them and meeting the different races and beasts both good and bad. It was written so well that I could imagine what the places and people looked like easily. I got pulled into the book and felt as though I was walking or flying the same paths as the characters. My favourite parts were the pictures dotted throughout the book that the author drew herself, they are amazing and really give the reader a view of what the author imagines the places and characters to look like. I would recommend this book to all who love magical worlds, where there is evil beyond any imagination and to those who love adventure and friendship.
5.0 out of 5 stars Dragons and monsters and wizards, oh my..., 2 June 2015
By KC - See all my reviews This review is from: White Mountain (The Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
A wonderful read - dragons, shapeshifters, monsters, more dragons, wolves and wizards and dwarves and heroes! The story jumps straight in and Mr Agyk's soon travelling with Gralen (who is possibly my favourite character), and the pace doesn't slow all the way to the twist at the end! I did find the names and places hard to follow on the first read, but considering the book's well worth a second (and third) read, it wasn't a problem at all. The drawings scattered through the text are a really nice detail, the writing is excellent, and the story definitely keeps you hooked. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series to find out what happens!
5.0 out of 5 stars A modern epic, 1 April 2015
By Robyn J. Fulton - See all my reviews
Verified Purchase(What is this?)
This review is from: White Mountain (Kindle Edition)
Tallis' novel will please any fantasy fan. It is rich with a myriad of mythologies which help create a vibrant, believable world of magic that exists beside our own. White Mountain, follows Mr M.Agyk, an elderly Mage, seeking to recapture his powers stolen from him by an ancient and insidious foe. He is joined by Gralen, the last dragon, and Wendya a young witch of mysterious heritage. We see the troop travel from the Arctic to the jungles of the Amazon to the Himalayas in their breathtaking quest, confronting and conquering devious Oracles, nightmare beasts and their own fears. I am excited for the 2nd part of the Darkling Chronicles, as the first one ended on a powerful cliffhanger. A highly recommended read.
Michelle Mollohan rated it 5* stars!
Reviewed by Michelle Mollohan for Reader's Favorite (USA), March 21, 2015
Book Review
Reviewed by Michelle Mollohan for Readers' Favorite - https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/white-mountain
White Mountain by Sophe E. Tallis is the first book in the Darkling Chronicles series. An epic tale of good versus evil, White Mountain follows the arduous journey of a wizened powerful mage, Marvalla Agyk, as he seeks to destroy the evil changeling who stole his powers before it's too late. Mr. Agyk is accompanied by his fiercely loyal friend and dragon Gralen, and Wendya, the witch he loves like a daughter. Along their journey, they encounter more victims of the villain Morreck and gain allies to aid their cause. An Oracle tells Mr. Agyk that one of his traveling companions will betray them and one of them will die, leaving him worried for his dear friends, yet knowing that they must continue on their quest or all will be lost.
Sophe E. Tallis has crafted a complex world of magical beings intertwined with the human world in White Mountain. The journey covers varied gorgeous landscapes as the group journeys through the seasons across various kingdoms in order to complete their quest. Fans of classics such as The Hobbit and The Lord of The Rings Trilogy will enjoy reading White Mountain as the epic battles between good and evil forces are told in splendid detail. The first in the Darkling Chronicles, White Mountain delves deeply into the characters while leaving the reader in breathless anticipation of the subsequent volumes. The shocking revelation at the end of the book made me wish that I already had the next installment so I could immediately continue the saga of Mr. Agyk, Wendya, Korrun and Gralen!
Jocelyn Jazmen rated it 4 of 5 stars (Goodreads), March 13, 2015
A magical world, as rich as a Tolkien novel, an intrepid band of brave souls as they battle against ultimate evil. Sounds heavy but this one was almost as much fun as a Harry Potter book!
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Epic Fantasy, February 17, 2015
By Aurorawatcher - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (Kindle Edition)
White Mountain follows an intrepid band of brave souls as they battle against ultimate evil. And that's where the resemblance to typical high fantasy ends, because Tallis brings the reader into a richly drawn world with believeable characters battling titanic forces in a world within our world.
5.0 out of 5 stars Loved it, and highly recommend it, January 18, 2015
By carocaro (Middle of the UK) - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (Kindle Edition)
I understand this book has been updated, re editing and republished from its original launch, this time by Grimbold Publishing/Kristell Ink. I have been working through some of their books in their catalogue and find them to be fascinating reads, some exceptional stories. This book White Mountain continues this standard and surpassed my expectations.
I have found it enthralling, even believable, here the main characters for good, wizard, Mr. Marval Agyck, his lifelong friend the green dragon with orange bejewelled belly, Gralen, and young for a witch, Wendya, are all endearing characters. They live in a world alongside the human world, yet hidden from human eyes. The reader travels the quests and trials with these characters through thick and thin. They have wrung all emotions out of me, and I have been both child and adult on this journey of theirs
Then there are evil characters, with one main one, he is power hungry and will take what he wants in pursuit of his aim, regardless of costs, pain, life and/ or death and destruction. Sophie Tallis has created an evil changeling that to be honest attains the worst of traits I have read or that can be compared to in a long while.
The White Witch in the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is not quite in this league. Closer might be Lord Saul in Tolkien's stories. Yet, this story telling, and world she has created stand shoulder to shoulder with other classical story quests where good v evil is fought for in mythological or make believe worlds, worlds as mentioned, but I think this is on a par maybe even better than such as Alan Garner's, The Weirdstone of Brisingamen, or modern examples like, The Flight of the Griffin by C.M. Gray and I adore these books and others previously mentioned.
At first, I thought this was an older children's or YA's book, but as events unfolded I realised that this is one of those exceptional and magical books that is for any and all ages from 10-11 to 100. To me it has all the elements of a quest, fantasy world classic. It has a dark side that is definitely for adults to ponder over.
There is travel throughout the quest, to other magical kingdoms across the globe, Sophie's use of description had me there in the Amazon, in ancient Russian/Siberian forests, in Africa and the Himalayas...her knowledge of geography enriches this story for us the readers.
The linking in of the state of the human world and the human lot as it stands now also made me think. Not always a good place...it added to the feeling of authenticity that such a world really exists.
For countless generations people have talked of dragons, wizards, witches, elves, dwarfs and so on. You will find them all in this wonderful story, though names at times differ, old names like fyrren are used, but Ms Tallis ensures we know that dragons are the same.
It started as if a children's adventure but ends in a very adult place, an apocalyptic battle, aspects of which had tears streaming down my face. Neither is all resolved at the end. The resolution is right for that time and place, but is left open for further adventures that I hope will be written and take place in future works in this created world.
If you like any of the books I mentioned within this review you will also love this too. I have no hesitation but give this 5 stars+, and this is a story I will read over and over again. I highly recommend it.
5.0 out of 5 stars Got to love a dragon, 17 Jan. 2015
By Will Macmillan Jones (Wales) - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (Kindle Edition)
I bought a copy of this at a book fair, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
White Mountain is a great new traditional High Fantasy, and ticks all the boxes for lovers of the genre. There’s a flawed and believable hero, a suitably evil enemy, action adventure, pathos, excitement and a dragon. Ms Tallis isn’t scared to kill off characters, even if they have garnered the reader’s sympathy. She writes with a skill and emotional depth that draw the reader into the story from the very start. Her worldbuilding is impeccable and believable, her characters finely drawn and real, and the plot interesting. I particularly enjoyed the scene setting and the locations, which added a realism often missing in this sort of storytelling. A great start to a series, and a great debut.
5.0 out of 5 stars Breathtaking fantasy, January 14, 2015
By TriciaAnn "TriciaAnn" (The United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (The Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
White Mountain chronicles the journey of an aged wizard and his entourage as they seek to destroy a powerful enemy. The wizard, Mr. Agyk, brings with him a loyal dragon named Gralen and Wendya, a young witch.
The characters in this book were well-formed and likable. Mr. Agyk’s dilemma is the catalyst for story, so we are introduced to him first. He’s a mix between Gandalf and Dumbledore, a wise, kindly old man most readers will enjoy and root for. Gralen, the loyal but sometimes impulsive dragon, vows to help Mr. Agyk whether he likes it or not. Gralen brings childlike wonder and bold bravery to the tale. Wendya, the young witch, is a character the female readers will identify with. She’s experienced great loss in her life, but is willing to sacrifice everything she has for the greater good. Our villian, Morreck, threatens not only the world of Wizards, mages, and dragons, but the world as a whole.
Tallis has created a world within our world, a world inhabited by the bravest of warriors and the foulest of creatures. From the mountains to the jungle to underground caverns, the fast-paced story takes us places we can envision so clearly we feel as if we could step into the scenery. Every scene is detailed to perfection. Every sense is engaged.
In a way, this is a typical high-fantasy quest story, but that’s where ‘typical’ ends. This is probably the best fantasy tale I’ve read in a long time. It truly exceeded my expectations, and trust me, my expectations are high when it comes to fantasy. I really think this book (and series) has a ton of potential and widespread appeal if non-fantasy readers will give it a chance. It’s easier to read than LOTR with characters as ‘fun’ and engaging as those in Harry Potter. The stakes are high and I was breathless with anticipation several times during this story. I wish I could share the ending with you because it was so unexpected and incredible, but I’m afraid Gralen might come after me. So, you’ll have to read it for yourself.
4.0 out of 5 stars White Mountain, May 19, 2013
By S. D. Aston Format: Paperback
What do you do when your friends seem to be disappearing? When the most powerful Wizards and Witches seems to be just not there anymore?
As this begins to happen the last great Wizard sets out to find out what is happening. And from here begins the last fight with the one great changling who could bring the whole world to its knees. As the powers from the magic community are literally sucked out by the changling are they too late to save the world or is there one last roll of the dice to come?
If you like Wizards, Witches, Dragons and Dwarfs this is a book for you. Chuck in a bit of good v Evil battles and the last minute twist where you least expect it and you have a very good book to read.....Enjoy!!!
5.0 out of 5 stars Truly Wonderful, 29 Mar 2013
By Lindsey J Parsons "lindsey" (uk) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What is this?)
This review is from: White Mountain (Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
I have to say I really really loved this book, not just because it has a wonderful brave dragon in it and some amazing illustrations, but also because the story is gripping and exciting.
The story follows two friends Mr Agyk a wise old wizard and Gralen a large portly green dragon. They receive a message from a wizard friend of Mr. Agyk who appears to be in trouble and set out to help him. This is the start of an adventure that tests them to the limit and takes them to many far off corners of the world.
The descriptions paint vivid pictures, which draw you into the story and the story line keeps you wanting to read more and more. I thoroughly enjoyed this and can't wait to get my hands on the next instalment. I would recommend White Mountain to anyone, a truly wonderful story.
Feb 09, 2013 Ross Kitson rated it 4 of 5 stars (Fantasy Book Review)
After a long stretch of reviewing seminal fantasy works it was quite refreshing to read something fresh and newly released, and it was with a certain enthusiasm that I tackled White Mountain by Sophie Tallis.
White Mountain is the first book in the Darkling Chronicles and follows the adventures of a sorcerer, Marval Agyk, the Green Wizard and his companion, the dragon, Gralen. Mr. Agyk is drawn to a distress call from an old wizarding friend in the hidden city of Issatun. When he arrives things a...more After a long stretch of reviewing seminal fantasy works it was quite refreshing to read something fresh and newly released, and it was with a certain enthusiasm that I tackled White Mountain by Sophie Tallis.
White Mountain is the first book in the Darkling Chronicles and follows the adventures of a sorcerer, Marval Agyk, the Green Wizard and his companion, the dragon, Gralen. Mr. Agyk is drawn to a distress call from an old wizarding friend in the hidden city of Issatun. When he arrives things are not quite as they seem and Mr. Agyk is captured by an ancient evil, M’Sorreck, who feeds on magic to fuel his changeling abilities. Mr. Agyk escapes, although diminished to a tiny size, and embarks upon a quest to regain his magic.
The core of any good fantasy book is a journey, whether that be a quest or a journey that a character has to make within himself. Tallis uses the plot device well—each of the main four characters has a journey to make within the novel, and for some there is further to travel in future books. As the companions complete stages in their ‘quest’ so they evolve as individuals and friends, in a believable and entertaining way.
The world of White Mountain is one that co-exists within our own, hidden away by magic and ancient skill. The races are the usual High Fantasy ones—elves are AEllfr, dwarves (the main protagonists) are Dworlls, and dragons are Fyrren. In this hidden world are ancient cities and kingdoms that we visit during the book. Tallis has a skill at description of these locations that conveys their heritage and age in a detailed manner, allowing a believable backdrop to the adventure. There is excellent ‘world-building’, another bastion of quality fantasy books, and I found myself drawn into the concealed cities she has created. There was a definite air of Tolkien and Donaldson to both the characters and locales, notably in the protagonist, M’Sorreck, who conjured memories of Lord Foul in a number of ways.
The tone of the book alters as the adventure progresses. The earlier parts of the book have a lighter, almost fairy tale quality at times, with banter and jokes, especially between Agyk and Gralen. The atmosphere shifts to being quite dark and harrowing half-way through, and by the end is fairly bleak. It will be interesting to see what vibes are set in the future books, as it may be tricky to reset the lighter atmosphere given the events at the end of book one, although they are a welcome break in the narrative.
White Mountain is a well-written and engaging read. Stylistically it is engaging, although there was a habit of capitalisation to convey shouting/yelling that irked me. Although fitting with the High Fantasy style of the book, I was left wanting this hidden world to feel more of a part of our own. Humans are mentioned, but never feature, and in many ways the book could have been set in a totally fresh fantasy world rather than our own. I’m hoping in future books that Tallis brings in more aspects of our own world, perhaps human characters, to make the hidden one a little more magical.
In summary, a good début and I look forward to the next book.
(review posted on Fantasy Book Review)
5.0 out of 5 stars Very enthralling read, 3 Feb. 2013
By Stuart R - See all my reviews Verified Purchase (What is this?)
This review is from: White Mountain (The Darkling Chronicles Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
What a great book, the story line is excellent, moves at a good pace, and its a little different to the usual fantasy books I have read, which makes it really enjoyable. The descriptive language is excellent and gives you a real feel for the world that this takes place in. Would recommend very highly.
5.0 out of 5 stars Just wow, January 29, 2013
By Mandy Brookshier on Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
This was a little slow to get started, but turned amazing. I do not know when the next book is going to be out, but I really can not wait. I think that if it is anything like this one it will be a really great one. Thank you for the great read!!
5.0 out of 5 stars Sophie E Tallis, January 18, 2013
By Ruth A. Ban "Book Lover" on Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
This book kept me interested from beginning to end. Sophie is a writer that puts you into the book,. Can't want for the next one.
5.0 out of 5 stars Quite Simple, the Lady is Amazingly Talented, 10 Jan. 2013
By strooth - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
White Mountain is a truly beautiful story. As the characters appeared they became close to me, I felt very protective of them. Sophie's descriptions are spot-on, a lot of authors wax far too lyrical, use too many words and over-do them. She gives you just enough to take you there and then your own imagination can take over.
It is full of intrigue, suspense, fear and emotion. I love the fact that time is the same and human life has closely affected life in the fantasy, making us aware of what we are doing to our world.
Hurry up Sophie we want more!! Take note all Film Producers this would be a fantastic film, get there before someone else does!!
5.0 out of 5 stars Exceeded my expectations 31 Dec 2012 By Tricia
My Review: White Mountain chronicles the journey of an aged wizard and his entourage as they seek to destroy a powerful enemy. The wizard, Mr. Agyk, brings with him a loyal dragon named Gralen and Wendya, a young witch. The book begins with a thorough glossary to aid the reader in navigating the rich fantasy world. I refuse to refer to glossaries for two reasons. Reason one: when reading, it breaks my stride when I'm forced to constantly consult the beginning of the book. Reason two: if the author can't present their story without a separate guide, then they're not doing their job as a storyteller. I'm happy to report the glossary was not necessary, but merely a bonus. I finally read the glossary when I was finished with the story in hopes there would be some hints as to what would happen in subsequent books. (Someone please tell me what happens next!)
The characters in this book were well-formed and likable. There were many, many characters, but they were interwoven into the tale and not dumped on the reader in an overwhelming rush on the first page. Mr. Agyk's dilemma is the catalyst for story, so we are introduced to him first. He's a mix between Gandalf and Dumbledore, a wise, kindly old man most readers will enjoy and root for. Gralen, the loyal but sometimes impulsive dragon, vows to help Mr. Agyk whether he likes it or not. Gralen brings childlike wonder and bold bravery to the tale. Wendya, the young witch, is a character the female readers will identify with. She's experienced great loss in her life, but is willing to sacrifice everything she has for the greater good. Our villan, Morreck, threatens not only the world of Wizards, mages, and dragons, but the world as a whole.
Tallis has created a world within our world, a world inhabited by the bravest of warriors and the foulest of creatures. From the mountains to the jungle to underground caverns, the fast-paced story takes us places we can envision so clearly we feel as if we could step into the scenery. Every scene is detailed to perfection. Every sense is engaged.
In a way, this is a typical high-fantasy quest story, but that's where 'typical' ends. This is probably the best fantasy tale I've read in a long time. It truly exceeded my expectations, and trust me, my expectations are high when it comes to fantasy. I really think this book (and series) has a ton of potential and widespread appeal if non-fantasy readers will give it a chance. It's easier to read than LOTR with characters as 'fun' and engaging as those in Harry Potter. The stakes are high and I was breathless with anticipation several times during this story. I wish I could share the ending with you because it was so unexpected and incredible, but I'm afraid Gralen might come after me. So, you'll have to read it for yourself.
Our villian, Morreck, threatens not only the world of Wizards, mages, and dragons, but the world as a whole.
Tallis has created a world within our world, a world inhabited by the bravest of warriors and the foulest of creatures. From the mountains to the jungle to underground caverns, the fast-paced story takes us places we can envision so clearly we feel as if we could step into the scenery. Every scene is detailed to perfection. Every sense is engaged.
In a way, this is a typical high-fantasy quest story, but that's where 'typical' ends. This is probably the best fantasy tale I've read in a long time. It truly exceeded my expectations, and trust me, my expectations are high when it comes to fantasy. I really think this book (and series) has a ton of potential and widespread appeal if non-fantasy readers will give it a chance. It's easier to read than LOTR with characters as 'fun' and engaging as those in Harry Potter. The stakes are high and I was breathless with anticipation several times during this story. I wish I could share the ending with you because it was so unexpected and incredible, but I'm afraid Gralen might come after me. So, you'll have to read it for yourself.
4.0 out of 5 stars Fantasy adventure by a writer with an artist's eye, 24 Nov. 2012
By Debbie Young "Debbie Young" (Gloucestershire, England) (from Readathon UK) - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
I don't usually read fantasy books but was drawn in to this one from the first page by well-developed, interesting characters and dramatic settings described in vivid, painterly detail. It's a book that really hits the ground running.
The feeling of being immediately immersed in a three-dimensional, multi-sensory fantasy world caught me by surprise, given the stark but distinctive monochrome front cover. It also felt as if there was a strong back-story, as if the tale had been maturing in the author's imagination for a very long time. This impression added depth and conviction to the story, which galloped along at an exciting pace. It ends with a clever set-up for a sequel, and with such likeable characters at the heart of the book, it's good to know the story is to be continued.
I'm sure White Mountain will enchant fantasy fans of all ages. (And if I was a fantasy fan, I'd probably be giving it 5 stars!)
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastical and magical!, 11 Nov 2012
By Ms. K. A. Jack (UK) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)
This review is from: White Mountain (Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
Sophie is a remarkable writer, full of imagination and energy. Anyone, young or old, will adore her writing. White Mountain is bursting at the seams with energy, great characters and a fantastical story.
5.0 out of 5 stars brilliant brilliant brilliant, 9 Nov. 2012
By Popelov - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
I picked this up and couldn't put it down - ostensibly reading it to gauge if it would be suitable for my 9 year old who's an avid reader. I loved it, forget about him. It gripped me instantly and kept my attention right up until the blistering finish. I cannot WAIT for the next one. fantastic story-telling, beautifully crafted, visually exciting - it is so lyrically descriptive you can picture it evolving in your minds eye. I can SO see this as a movie - but that's by the by. Very much in the Lord of the Rings genre, it is imaginiative and compelling: telling a beautiful story of friendship, trust, betrayal, love, youth, maturity, darkness and evil. Totally enraptured by the charm of it
I'm pretty sure you get the picture by now - basically, buy it now! Oh, and i reckon my son will love it too - it really is something to be able to write for adults and children. wow
5.0 out of 5 stars The first Darkling tale, 6 Nov. 2012
By GtheReader - See all my reviews
This review is from: White Mountain (Darkling Chronicles) (Paperback)
This is a super story for children and adults - it is a fantasy in the Lord of the Rings tradition - a battle between good and evil. It places the fantasy world of elves and wizards in the modern human world. The descriptions are vivid and the illustrations wonderful. Most of all the reader really cares about the fate of the protagonists. There is a cliff hanger ending and I cant wait for the next instalment.