| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Alaundo |
Posted - 24 May 2005 : 09:02:42
Well met
It appears now that Maiden of Pain (book 3 of The Priests Series, by Kameron M Franklin) has been seen in stores and also read by a small number of scribes here at Candlekeep. A few comments and questions have already been posted on other threads but in order to keep discussions in a consistant area, please post any comments\feedback etc. in this scroll.
Thank ye  |
| 30 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 02 May 2007 : 01:42:55
Heh, not much of note with regard to the Realms. I've written an adventure for Goodman's Games Dungeon Crawl Classics (I'll be at GenCon Indy this year DMing some sessions to promote it) and have a short story circulating through various fantasy markets. My company, which I started back in June 2006, is in mid-production of a Flash-based, multiplayer turn-based strategy game.
I'll stop there before Alaundo thumps me for non-Realms-related discussion. Anyone interested is welcome to visit my website, where I post updates in my blog. Thanks for asking. |
| Brian R. James |
Posted - 02 May 2007 : 00:51:08
It's been a while Kameron. What have you been up to? |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 10 Aug 2006 : 05:09:01
Nope. I am attending GenCon (packing as I type) and hope to do some networking there. I'll be doing signings at the Borders booth on Author Avenue Friday and Saturday and would love to meet any Candlekeepers who will be there. |
| Lord Nemes |
Posted - 10 Aug 2006 : 01:23:09
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
Lord Nemes - Glad you enjoyed it. I'd also love to write more about Ythnel and the Realms.
Do you have any project you can talk about? |
| Paec_djinn |
Posted - 09 Aug 2006 : 03:24:46
quote:
Paec_djinn - I'd encourage you to finish the book, if for no other reason than you did shell out some of your hard-earned money for it.
I would if I had the time. But right now, I just came back from an 8 month Realms hiatus and I've still got about 8-10 books on my to read list. Maybe after that, if I have some time I can come back to it. |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 09 Aug 2006 : 03:18:42
Paec_djinn - I'd encourage you to finish the book, if for no other reason than you did shell out some of your hard-earned money for it.
Lord Nemes - Glad you enjoyed it. I'd also love to write more about Ythnel and the Realms. |
| Lord Nemes |
Posted - 09 Aug 2006 : 01:38:12
I personally enjoyed this book, it's not very frequent that we read about a follower of an evil god/goddess who is not super-evil, especially as a main character(Except maybe Cale). It also had a good Realms feel.
I would read more of this character/author.
Lord Nemes |
| Rinonalyrna Fathomlin |
Posted - 09 Aug 2006 : 00:49:00
quote:
Originally posted by Paec_djinn
Not to add any controversy, but I just feel that there could have been better submissions for the MoP contest.
Relax, people aren't going to jump on you for giving your opinion.  |
| Paec_djinn |
Posted - 08 Aug 2006 : 13:49:23
Don't mean to offend anyone here, especially the author, but I just felt that this novel didn't cut it for me. I read through the first part and was moderately into it until they left the city. I managed to read up to the point where they were captured by the were-rats.
That's where I started to think that the plot was starting to lose relevancy. I put down the book for awhile. I might get back to it, but I doubt it'll be anytime soon. This is the second Realms novel I've actually stopped reading altogether since Shadowdale (of which was due to lack of time then and not any particular disinterest. I've since read finished)
I also wasn't really overjoyed with the writing style and the overall plot of the novel. Not to add any controversy, but I just feel that there could have been better submissions for the MoP contest.
But again, I stress I haven't finished the novel and my opinions are based prematurely upon the half of the novel which I've read. |
| Zelg of Cyric |
Posted - 05 Oct 2005 : 07:05:28
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
quote:
Originally posted by Zelg of Cyric
Sure, no problem. You remember who to write the check out to, and where to send it. 
Ah, but then people would be able to dismiss it as paid sponsorship, and we wouldn't want your voice to be discredited in such a manner. 
 Don't worry, everyone knows I was just kidding. Right, everyone? He really doesn't know where to send the check or who to make it out to. I was being facetious. Ok, are we all clear? Good.
You got your review anyways. It's up 
|
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 05 Oct 2005 : 05:43:32
quote:
Originally posted by Zelg of Cyric
Sure, no problem. You remember who to write the check out to, and where to send it.
Ah, but then people would be able to dismiss it as paid sponsorship, and we wouldn't want your voice to be discredited in such a manner. |
| Zelg of Cyric |
Posted - 05 Oct 2005 : 05:36:32
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
Thanks for the kind words, guys.
Shameless plea for promotion  :
I'd be deeply grateful if anyone who has posted their enjoyment of the book here would copy and paste their comments into a review at Amazon.com. It would definitely help balance the opinions currently stated there.
Sure, no problem. You remember who to write the check out to, and where to send it. |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 04 Oct 2005 : 18:10:27
Thanks for the kind words, guys.
Shameless plea for promotion :
I'd be deeply grateful if anyone who has posted their enjoyment of the book here would copy and paste their comments into a review at Amazon.com. It would definitely help balance the opinions currently stated there. |
| khorne |
Posted - 04 Oct 2005 : 13:17:22
quote:
Originally posted by Rinonalyrna Fathomlin
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
quote:
Originally posted by Rinonalyrna Fathomlin
By the way, I just finished reading Realms of Dragons II, and I thought your story was one of the best. It features a gnome who turns out to be a true hero. Yours was definitely one of the more uplifting stories in that anthology.
Thanks. I haven't heard it described as uplifting yet, considering the sadness of the outcome. What makes you think of it as such?
Because it affirms that heroism is about what you do, not about how strong you are or what powers you might have. The end of the story is tragic, but at the same time heroic. The young gnome was willing to give his life to save his friend, and I liked that.
Indeed. That gnome was more of a hero than many other so-called heroes I`ve read about. |
| Zelg of Cyric |
Posted - 04 Oct 2005 : 10:02:34
Spoilers*******************************************
I loved this book. 75th fr book that I've read.
I don't think it was as dark a book as everyone has been saying. Regardless of Yethnel's religion, she obviously seemed like a good person, even if she wasn't exactly "nice." Being a nice person and being a good person are two comepletely different things. This book was definitely about growing up and discovering the harsh realities of the realms and overcoming those realities. The "good guys" in this book were not very powerful characters, and they were constantly imperiled by more powerful enemies and nature. But they bided there time, fled when necessary, and prayed when they could do nothing else, and recieved Tymora's blessing when they absolutely needed it. The stayed strong through it all and, in the end, Ketsus's dream was fufilled, and Yethnel got her revenge. The escape from imminent doom of the protagonists so that they can bring the end of a tyranny is a pretty happy ending in my opinion. There really wasn't any danger to all Faerun. The story really just concerned Chessenta, particullary just the ruling family of Lutcheq and some minor political and economic implications of Thay. On a personal level for Yethnel, just like her creed teaches she endured the hardships and came out stronger thatn before.
We can assume many thing at the end of the book but we can be sure. It appears that Karanoks are going to fall now, with the rumblings in city, and the apparent lack of witchweed, and the Mordulkin magical assualt on the way. It seams like Naeros and Saestra plan on leaving the city. We don't know what is going on with Jaerios though. He may have an emergency stash of witch weed, which a lot of do :D We don't really know what happens. That is the problem with a really good book, is that you still want to know what happens next even when the book is over. Yethnel is a character that is just starting out in the world. It seems like she has many adventures ahead of her at the end of the book, which begs that she be written again. I guess it's possible that she spends the rest of her days in a Loviatan temple, but that wouldn'tbe very interesting.
P.S. I know there is a good bit of sex in the House of Serpent Series, by Lisa Smedman,which is probably why it is the most intersting series for me ;) I'm sure this applies to many other books in the realms as well. I understand the complaints about such writting because it may not be appropriate for children, but I can't complain about it because I am not a minor and it entertains me. |
| Rinonalyrna Fathomlin |
Posted - 21 Sep 2005 : 20:00:24
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
quote:
Originally posted by Rinonalyrna Fathomlin
By the way, I just finished reading Realms of Dragons II, and I thought your story was one of the best. It features a gnome who turns out to be a true hero. Yours was definitely one of the more uplifting stories in that anthology.
Thanks. I haven't heard it described as uplifting yet, considering the sadness of the outcome. What makes you think of it as such?
Because it affirms that heroism is about what you do, not about how strong you are or what powers you might have. The end of the story is tragic, but at the same time heroic. The young gnome was willing to give his life to save his friend, and I liked that. |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 20 Sep 2005 : 23:17:11
quote:
Originally posted by Rinonalyrna Fathomlin
By the way, I just finished reading Realms of Dragons II, and I thought your story was one of the best. It features a gnome who turns out to be a true hero. Yours was definitely one of the more uplifting stories in that anthology.
Thanks. I haven't heard it described as uplifting yet, considering the sadness of the outcome. What makes you think of it as such? |
| Rinonalyrna Fathomlin |
Posted - 20 Sep 2005 : 22:08:21
By the way, I just finished reading Realms of Dragons II, and I thought your story was one of the best. It features a gnome who turns out to be a true hero. Yours was definitely one of the more uplifting stories in that anthology. |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 14 Sep 2005 : 23:17:19
quote:
Originally posted by Alaundo
'tis indeed a shame, it would have been very interesting to read of such a tale in the Shaar. The first tale ever in this location, I believe. Are ye able to tell us anything about the tale or is it now restricted by WotC copyrights, even though not selected?
As far as my proposal, I'm pretty sure WotC has some sort of legal hold on it, so I will have to pass on your generous offer and take the synopsis to my grave. |
| Rinonalyrna Fathomlin |
Posted - 14 Sep 2005 : 21:38:13
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
Rin: A writer loves nothing more than when somebody gets his story. Thanks for the glowing words.
You're welcome!
quote:
*sigh* If only the FR editors at WotC agreed with your last statement ("...you really seem to know what makes the Realms tick.") Unfortunately, that last proposal I sent in was rejected. But who knows, I may get a chance to revisit the Realms in a couple years.
I'm sorry to hear that. But as Alaundo said, you've already left your mark (a great novel), and WotC would be smart not to overlook you forever. Don't worry about it too much. |
| Alaundo |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 23:45:42
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
quote:
Originally posted by Alaundo
Well met
I'm sorry to hear that, Kameron  Are ye able to say what this proposal was for?
Still, ye have certainly left thy mark on the Realms, and I hope ye continue to remain at Candlekeep, for thy presence is much appreciated. Also, ye will sometimes find scribes posting comments back here periodically on thy work
I had been asked to send in a proposal for either the upcoming Dungeon or Citadel series. My proposal was for a Dungeon book set in the Shaar.
You've got a great community here, Alaundo, and I certainly enjoy visiting.
Well met
Thank ye, Kameron. I'm very happy that thou art enjoying thy stay herein
Oh worry not about those Wizards whom dwell on the Coast. Simply, send thy proposal to me and i'll be more than happy to read through it
'tis indeed a shame, it would have been very interesting to read of such a tale in the Shaar. The first tale ever in this location, I believe. Are ye able to tell us anything about the tale or is it now restricted by WotC copyrights, even though not selected? |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 23:34:03
quote:
Originally posted by Alaundo
Well met
I'm sorry to hear that, Kameron Are ye able to say what this proposal was for?
Still, ye have certainly left thy mark on the Realms, and I hope ye continue to remain at Candlekeep, for thy presence is much appreciated. Also, ye will sometimes find scribes posting comments back here periodically on thy work
I had been asked to send in a proposal for either the upcoming Dungeon or Citadel series. My proposal was for a Dungeon book set in the Shaar.
You've got a great community here, Alaundo, and I certainly enjoy visiting. |
| Alaundo |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 23:30:01
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
Rin: A writer loves nothing more than when somebody gets his story. Thanks for the glowing words.
*sigh* If only the FR editors at WotC agreed with your last statement ("...you really seem to know what makes the Realms tick.") Unfortunately, that last proposal I sent in was rejected. But who knows, I may get a chance to revisit the Realms in a couple years.
Well met
I'm sorry to hear that, Kameron Are ye able to say what this proposal was for?
Still, ye have certainly left thy mark on the Realms, and I hope ye continue to remain at Candlekeep, for thy presence is much appreciated. Also, ye will sometimes find scribes posting comments back here periodically on thy work |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 23:17:40
Rin: A writer loves nothing more than when somebody gets his story. Thanks for the glowing words.
*sigh* If only the FR editors at WotC agreed with your last statement ("...you really seem to know what makes the Realms tick.") Unfortunately, that last proposal I sent in was rejected. But who knows, I may get a chance to revisit the Realms in a couple years. |
| Kajehase |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 22:10:13
quote:
Originally posted by Kameron M. Franklin
quote:
Originally posted by Kajehase
Only real peeve I have would be the aforementioned 'french' windows, although the fact that the description of the scene is based on the picture of Saestra in DRAGON #236 (Children of the Night, Vampires of the Forgotten Realms Setting) makes it very easy to forgive it
 Good catch! That picture was indeed the inspiration for the scene.
Glad you liked the book. I'm surprised at the amount of feedback I'm still receiving this long after the the release. Two reviews were recently posted on my website forum.
As it happened I'd seen the picture just before starting to read the book, so pure happenstance. |
| Rinonalyrna Fathomlin |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 20:00:47
quote:
Originally posted by Erik Scott de Bie
Cool. I half-expected a Kestus / Ythnel romance, and I like the way you handled it. Rather than just outright attraction / fullblown relationship, it was more "left hanging" in the face of greater concerns.
I also got the sense that Kestus was only about half attracted to Ythnel -- in the scene where she's got the illusion on and they interact, it seemed that he was only really attracted to her articially good looks, so I said to myself: "Bah. Loser!"
I thought the same thing myself.
Anyway, I could tell that Mr. Franklin had some experience with writing because of how nicely detailed the story was. But more importantly, I loved the main character. Yes, it's a dark story and features dark characters (and I tend to like light romps myself), but Ythnel seemed to me like a real person. Maiden of Pain reminded me of the stories in the Rogues series, which featured innocent (or not-so innocent) protagonists having to fight for themselves in hostile environments. That is one reason why this story hooked me instantly--the protagonist was one I could sympathize with.
The book explores why a "nice" person like Ythnel would ever worship Loviatar, and I found the explanation to be quite believable. It seems Loviator fills a maternal role for her, among other things, and again I felt sorry for Ythnel because her real mother not only never revealed herself, but seemed to be manipulating her as well. Interesting, how a priestess of pain like Yenael wanted to spare Ythnel from pain by not revealing her parentage. Nice touch there.
I also like how the book showed that in the Realms, there are people scheming all over the place, but even their motives were interesting in believable. I loved the scene where Jaerios feels ambivalent about his own clerical power because it's "too much like magic" and the ends don't justify the means. It made me wonder if the Karonoks really felt they were doing the right thing in trying to get rid of wizards, however "mad" that may be.
Great first novel, Kameron--you really seem to know what makes the Realms tick. |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 19:50:58
quote:
Originally posted by Kajehase
Only real peeve I have would be the aforementioned 'french' windows, although the fact that the description of the scene is based on the picture of Saestra in DRAGON #236 (Children of the Night, Vampires of the Forgotten Realms Setting) makes it very easy to forgive it
Good catch! That picture was indeed the inspiration for the scene.
Glad you liked the book. I'm surprised at the amount of feedback I'm still receiving this long after the the release. Two reviews were recently posted on my website forum. |
| Kajehase |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 19:43:07
Well, this book sure took its time to come in my possession, but yesterday I finished it, and I'll agree with those here who's said it's a good book, not a great one, but I certainly never felt bored or put off by it - on the contrary, I had to postpone my dinner with 1 hour to finish the last third.
SPOILER
Only real peeve I have would be the aforementioned 'french' windows, although the fact that the description of the scene is based on the picture of Saestra in DRAGON #236 (Children of the Night, Vampires of the Forgotten Realms Setting) makes it very easy to forgive it |
| Kentinal |
Posted - 29 Jun 2005 : 21:03:47
Best I can find is
Witchweed stick
"When lit, creates a 10’ cube of light smoke (no concealment) for 5 rounds. Anyone casting a spell in the smoke must make a Concentration check vs. DC 15 + spell level, or loose the spell."
It appears to make it harder to cast a spell. |
| Kameron M. Franklin |
Posted - 29 Jun 2005 : 21:03:17
Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. Witchweed was originally introduced in the 2nd Ed supplement, FR10 Old Empires. I think it was tweaked slightly for 3E. I'll check my notes when I get home tonight and try to provide more details.
The gist of it, however, in 2E was that exposure prevented a wizard from casting spells. Extended exposure could kill. |
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