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Alaundo
Head Moderator
United Kingdom
5695 Posts |
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ericlboyd
Forgotten Realms Designer
USA
2067 Posts |
Posted - 18 Jul 2006 : 22:08:25
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Great book James.
I particularly enjoyed the diversity of cultures represented in the tale, as that is exactly how I expected the Border Kingdoms to be. I think you've added a lot of really cool lore to our understanding of Nar and Shaaryan cultures and history.. Also, the itinerant nature of the Order of Twilight fit well for an "up-and-coming evil cult".
--Eric |
-- http://www.ericlboyd.com/dnd/ |
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 19 Jul 2006 : 07:07:20
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quote: Originally posted by ericlboyd
Great book James.
I particularly enjoyed the diversity of cultures represented in the tale, as that is exactly how I expected the Border Kingdoms to be. I think you've added a lot of really cool lore to our understanding of Nar and Shaaryan cultures and history.. Also, the itinerant nature of the Order of Twilight fit well for an "up-and-coming evil cult".
--Eric
Thanks Eric! I had alot of fun playing with the Borderers and should things go well I hope to revisit the Order of Twilight with some new ideas (insert evil laugh here ).
PS: Powers and Pantheons and Faiths and Pantheons came in quite handy, thanks again! |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
Edited by - James P. Davis on 19 Jul 2006 07:12:41 |
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Beezy
Learned Scribe
USA
280 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2006 : 05:13:21
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I also liked this novel. It was a bit different than many other realms novels I have read. The novel seemed to be "darker" than many other realms novels. I enjoyed it. I really enjoyed the ghostwalker in the novel. I liked the whole concept of bloodwalking as well and how she casted her making using her blood as a component. The scene of her busting out of the hunter's chest was very memorable indeed! I am always a sucker for cool magic items so I definitely enjoyed Bedlam and the magic eating shield as well.
I have one question. I am not sure if I read it right but is Fate's Fall some sort of game? It seemed as if he was talking about the stones belonging to some sort of game, something like a game of strategy? I wish I would have read closer the first time it was explained early in the book because it came up several times later. |
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2006 : 06:44:54
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quote: I have one question. I am not sure if I read it right but is Fate's Fall some sort of game? It seemed as if he was talking about the stones belonging to some sort of game, something like a game of strategy? I wish I would have read closer the first time it was explained early in the book because it came up several times later.
I imagined the Fate Fall to be a game like chess, except that one plays alone with domino-like pieces. The rules are loose and even losing can be a form of victory (and vice versa ) when the pieces are finally placed and played. Strategy would be an important aspect and each person would play the game differently, coming to individual conclusions about themselves and how they imagine fate as a part of their own lives. At least, that's the idea in a nutshell.
I'm glad you enjoyed the book!
Best, --James |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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Lord Rad
Great Reader
United Kingdom
2080 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2006 : 20:47:44
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One consistant thing i've found in this novel is the constant reminder of what the weather is like. This is great, we're being told whether it's raining, lightning or whatever and adds so much more darkness and depth to the story.
A little touch I liked in this section (I think it was this section) was when the spider was walking along the windowsill and climbed up Morgynns hand... Excellent
The bit was nice too where she dropped those lavae onto her blood and conjured up those red wasp-like critters! Nasty!
So Baertah turns up again...hehehe he sure got a good beating there
This whole section was like a whirlwind. A great ending to the book and I loved it how Quin dispatched Morgynn! Fantastic end to the villain.
A beautiful touching end between Quin and Eli too... kinda feel all empty now
Loved the book, I highly recommend it! A different aspect and feel to the "normal" Realms and it has a perfect dark feel to it. |
Lord Rad
"What? No, I wasn't reading your module. I was just looking at the pictures"
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 25 Jul 2006 : 05:20:28
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quote: This whole section was like a whirlwind. A great ending to the book and I loved it how Quin dispatched Morgynn! Fantastic end to the villain.
A beautiful touching end between Quin and Eli too... kinda feel all empty now
Loved the book, I highly recommend it! A different aspect and feel to the "normal" Realms and it has a perfect dark feel to it.
Really glad you liked it Rad!
I do tend to lean toward the 'dark' in my writing, mostly because it's fun (mwahaha!), but also for the endings when things get a little brighter...even if a bit of shadow still hangs over their heads.
Best, --James
PS: Should you (or anyone else) feel inclined please post a review over at Amazon.com. Just be as honest as you like. For a first-timer like me, every little bit helps! Thanks. |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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The Red Walker
Great Reader
USA
3567 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2006 : 03:49:59
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What an interesting read! I could not put it down until it was finished. I prefer to stretch out my $ a little longer than 3 hours, but what the heck!
I really enjoyed the charcters depth you imbued them with, without giving us to much. You left much to our imaginations....or for another novel?? Is that an evil laugh I hear?
As soon as i finished , I could envision Eli's sister coming to her after the town is put back in order and offering to scry Quin's location for her as she knows she has unfinished business with him... maybe Eli shows up just as he needs her as he has finally been summoned back to his home......
Here 's hoping you are allowed to pen us another tale of the realms.
Thank You. |
A little nonsense now and then, relished by the wisest men - Willy Wonka
"We need men who can dream of things that never were." -
John F. Kennedy, speech in Dublin, Ireland, June 28, 1963
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2006 : 07:36:27
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Thank you Red! And welcome to Candlekeep!
quote: I really enjoyed the charcters depth you imbued them with, without giving us to much. You left much to our imaginations....or for another novel?? Is that an evil laugh I hear?
As soon as i finished , I could envision Eli's sister coming to her after the town is put back in order and offering to scry Quin's location for her as she knows she has unfinished business with him... maybe Eli shows up just as he needs her as he has finally been summoned back to his home......
Let's see...sister, scrying, unfinished business...What? Oh nothing, just jotting down some notes...(mwahaha...)
But seriously, if I get the chance to continue Quin's story (and possibly Eli's...) the scribes here at Candlekeep will be the first to know. Well, after me, my wife and my editor...okay fourth to know...but then there's my blog to consider...Anyway it'll all be on the same day.
(Counted seven ellipses there...now eight...I gotta' stop that)
quote: Here's hoping you are allowed to pen us another tale of the realms.
Oh ya' never know, here's hoping though! To quote the Wonka: You should never never doubt what nobody is sure about. (love your sig!)
Thanks again! --James
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"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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The Red Walker
Great Reader
USA
3567 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2006 : 02:36:21
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Thank You for the welcome. It is nice to find a place where the authors are not only unafraid of, but encourage interaction!
As to your hastily jotted notes, your welcome to them and I hope something comes of them! lol
Just remember this Jem when negotiating that next FR book:
Don't talk to me about contracts, Wonka, I use them myself--they're strictly for suckers.
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A little nonsense now and then, relished by the wisest men - Willy Wonka
"We need men who can dream of things that never were." -
John F. Kennedy, speech in Dublin, Ireland, June 28, 1963
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Na-Gang
Learned Scribe
United Kingdom
348 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2006 : 14:47:05
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I've just finished the book. Great read from beginning to end. I was particularly surprised by the dispatch of Mahgra (I think that was his name), the Ogre Mage near the beginning. I felt initially that he was being set up as a major opponent in the book but his (relatively) quick despatch wrong-footed me a little.
The battle was the best bit though, LOTS of nice touches.
Plus the book, has added some colour to Gargauth, who is one of my favourite evil deities. |
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Ethriel
Learned Scribe
USA
272 Posts |
Posted - 28 Jul 2006 : 15:40:38
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I just finished it last night, James...really great read. Quin was easily my favorite and an awesome character...chalk him onto the list of people whose stories need continue. Was there a little hint he and Eli'd meet again from what Eli's sister said?
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Red Rapida
Acolyte
1 Posts |
Posted - 29 Jul 2006 : 01:41:41
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I would just like to say this was a great read. Heh, I thought it was so good I've stopped lurking to compliment you on it. I would have to say my favorite characters were the pale sisters, and well to be honest all of the characters were great. Congrats on a great book, but I have a few questions. Where could I find some more information on the ghostwalkers? Is there any way I could get a brief ideal of what kind of stats the shield of ossian would have?
Hmm, I'm sure I will think of some more later.
Anyway, I loved the book! |
"Why is it that the young resort so swiftly to personal offenses?" wise old Tabarast asked the world at large, loudly. "Name-calling and ridicule greet arguments that speak to a point, not foremost a person to attack or decry. Such a rude, unsettling approach makes a mountain out of every monticule, a pernicious tempest of every chance exchange of remarks, and blackens the names of all who dare to hold recusant views. I disapprove strongly of it, Droon, I do. Such scrannel threats and blusterings are no worthy substitute for well-argued views--and all too often hold up a shield for jejune, even retrorse sciamachy, bereft of sense and waving bright purfle and clever verbiage where meaning has flown!" --- Tabarast to Beldrune in The Temptation of Elminister
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 29 Jul 2006 : 07:54:05
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quote: Originally posted by Na-Gang
I've just finished the book. Great read from beginning to end. I was particularly surprised by the dispatch of Mahgra (I think that was his name), the Ogre Mage near the beginning. I felt initially that he was being set up as a major opponent in the book but his (relatively) quick despatch wrong-footed me a little.
The battle was the best bit though, LOTS of nice touches.
Plus the book, has added some colour to Gargauth, who is one of my favourite evil deities.
I appreciate the kind words Na-Gang and Gargauth is my personal favorite too. Keep an eye out on the WotC site, they've got alot of stuff in rotation this month, but there's a short story on the way that just might feature a bit of the G-man himself.
quote: Originally posted by Red Rapida
I would just like to say this was a great read. Heh, I thought it was so good I've stopped lurking to compliment you on it. I would have to say my favorite characters were the pale sisters, and well to be honest all of the characters were great. Congrats on a great book, but I have a few questions. Where could I find some more information on the ghostwalkers? Is there any way I could get a brief ideal of what kind of stats the shield of ossian would have?
Hmm, I'm sure I will think of some more later.
Anyway, I loved the book!
Thanks and welcome to Candlekeep!
As far as I know, Ghostwalkers are only detailed in the Sword and Fist book, no conversion yet to 3.5, but there is the novel by Erik Scott de Bie, Ghostwalker, that would give you another take on the class in the literary sense. The Shield of Ossian hasn't been fully statted out, but I think I have some notes regarding that tucked away around here somewhere. If I find them I'll let ya' know soon.
Best, --James |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
Edited by - James P. Davis on 30 Jul 2006 09:59:09 |
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KnightErrantJR
Great Reader
USA
5402 Posts |
Posted - 30 Jul 2006 : 01:07:40
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Excellent book James. I really liked it, and it really inspired me to dig into the Border Kingdoms to do some more research. As I said in the earlier thread, it was really cool to run across references to the Nars, Raumathar, and the like, as well as getting to see some glimpses of Shaaran culture as well. |
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 30 Jul 2006 : 09:56:14
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quote: Excellent book James. I really liked it, and it really inspired me to dig into the Border Kingdoms to do some more research. As I said in the earlier thread, it was really cool to run across references to the Nars, Raumathar, and the like, as well as getting to see some glimpses of Shaaran culture as well.
Glad you liked! Personally I've always been a fan of the Shaar, Nar, Raumathar, and the Rashemen cultures. Their tribal natures, and their differences within those natures, are fun to work with and research.
Have fun in the Border Kingdoms! So far, Ed Greenwood's articles on the Wizards site seems to be the most detailed resource of late, but considering the nature of the area who knows what could happen there next.
The link for anyone interested:
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/frbk/20060719a
Best, --James |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
Edited by - James P. Davis on 30 Jul 2006 10:11:29 |
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The Wanderer
Learned Scribe
USA
132 Posts |
Posted - 31 Jul 2006 : 05:18:02
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James: I know I'm just repeating everyone above this post, but I just wanted to say that Bloodkwalk was a really great read. I was hoping it would last me the week and it ended up lasting me a day. I truly enjoyed it.
The thing that really grabbed me was the completeness of the story. Every piece felt like it was placed in exactly the right spot. I felt I got close to and understood the characters well (Morgynn was a great (-->GREAT<--) villain). The story was captivating. Moreover, the realm's lore was very well woven into the story. The Border Kingdoms are also one of my (if not my most) favorite areas in Faerun and I always enjoy visiting them once again.
Anyways, I hope we can see more novels like that.
-- The Wanderer
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The Wanderer |
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 31 Jul 2006 : 07:09:07
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Thank you very much Wanderer! And while I'm not sure when the Border Kingdoms will appear again, I feel this is probably the best place to mention that Wizards has finally posted the accompanying webstory to Bloodwalk: "Bloodline".
Re-reading it, after having written it several months ago, I realized it is a definite 'read-after' story for Bloodwalk. Things are mentioned that could be confusing for anyone not familiar with the book, but honestly you guys are the true judges on that score.
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=books/fr/bloodliness
Hope you like! Best, --James |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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Na-Gang
Learned Scribe
United Kingdom
348 Posts |
Posted - 31 Jul 2006 : 10:51:17
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quote:
I appreciate the kind words Na-Gang and Gargauth is my personal favorite too. Keep an eye out on the WotC site, they've got alot of stuff in rotation this month, but there's a short story on the way that just might feature a bit of the G-man himself.
I see... well I'd best keep a look out then! |
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The Wanderer
Learned Scribe
USA
132 Posts |
Posted - 31 Jul 2006 : 15:42:22
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quote: Originally posted by James P. Davis
Thank you very much Wanderer! And while I'm not sure when the Border Kingdoms will appear again, I feel this is probably the best place to mention that Wizards has finally posted the accompanying webstory to Bloodwalk: "Bloodline".
Re-reading it, after having written it several months ago, I realized it is a definite 'read-after' story for Bloodwalk. Things are mentioned that could be confusing for anyone not familiar with the book, but honestly you guys are the true judges on that score.
http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=books/fr/bloodliness
Hope you like! Best, --James
Hey, James: Most welcome. Like I said, I really enjoyed it. As for Bloodlines, I believe it stands on its own. I tried to be mindful of the references you made to Bloodwalk, but I believe that they are all explained well within the story; it's a full picture. The one thing that left me wondering was *** MILD SPOILER *** the boy whom Tirenan was "unable to defend". The obvious connection would be Quin (especially with Tirenan hanging around Lethuriel), but I'm not sure. Any hints? *** END SPOILER *** (like I said, mild).
-- The Wanderer |
The Wanderer |
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Arkhaedun
Senior Scribe
869 Posts |
Posted - 01 Aug 2006 : 05:02:26
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After emerging from the "Wizards Series" reading cocoon, I have to say this was an excellent book James. It seemed to skew a bit more towards "fantasy horror" than just to high fantasy, and it was a nice change of paces, especially since you managed this and still wrote a book that felt like a Realms book. Then again, I guess the horror influence shouldn't been to strange given your signature.
Looking forward to another book James. |
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 01 Aug 2006 : 11:06:47
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quote: Originally posted by The Wanderer Hey, James: Most welcome. Like I said, I really enjoyed it. As for Bloodlines, I believe it stands on its own. I tried to be mindful of the references you made to Bloodwalk, but I believe that they are all explained well within the story; it's a full picture. The one thing that left me wondering was *** MILD SPOILER *** the boy whom Tirenan was "unable to defend". The obvious connection would be Quin (especially with Tirenan hanging around Lethuriel), but I'm not sure. Any hints? *** END SPOILER *** (like I said, mild).
-- The Wanderer
Actually in a pre-edit version of the story, the boy left behind played a much larger role in Tirenan's view of himself. Mostly it was cut down a bit for space, but the boy was an initiate to the Order (kidnapped from another tribe like what would happen to Morgynn later on). Tir had no idea what happened to the boy, but imagined the boy's life as the opposite to his own current situation. Sort of a "there but for the grace of God go I" type thing.
There were several other ideas I wanted to explore in the story, so much it could have been a book itself, but I'm hanging on to the notes just in case. Glad you liked!
quote: Originally posted by Arkhaedun After emerging from the "Wizards Series" reading cocoon, I have to say this was an excellent book James. It seemed to skew a bit more towards "fantasy horror" than just to high fantasy, and it was a nice change of paces, especially since you managed this and still wrote a book that felt like a Realms book. Then again, I guess the horror influence shouldn't been to strange given your signature.
Looking forward to another book James.
Thanks Arkhaedun, glad you enjoyed. As for the horror, I do enjoy the darker elements to be found in the Realms. There are little places scattered here and there on Faerun where the dark seems a little bit darker. Hopefully I'll get to visit them someday in another project.
quote: Originally posted by Ethriel I just finished it last night, James...really great read. Quin was easily my favorite and an awesome character...chalk him onto the list of people whose stories need continue. Was there a little hint he and Eli'd meet again from what Eli's sister said?
There may have been a hint...but how it might play out is another tale. No doubt their fates are linked in some strange way, but only Savras knows what that link may mean (or maybe it's Hoar that knows, hmmmm...). (PS: Sorry I didn't respond sooner Ethriel! Thanks!)
Best, --James
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"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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Uzzy
Senior Scribe
United Kingdom
618 Posts |
Posted - 05 Aug 2006 : 11:36:23
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Im just going to be repeating whats already said, but heh.
Just finished the book today, and I loved it. Its only the third FR novel ive read (and the first one not by Ed)
Anyway, like others, I enjoyed the mix of different cultures. I liked the bit with the Lathanderites in the Nar (The Sedras). The start of Chapter 26 added a lot to Samaska's character, which is always good. Those were the stand out bits for me.
Lots of good characters, a great pace to the action. The horror aspects were enjoyable too.
Great book. :) Would love to see more set around that area. |
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Dhomal
Senior Scribe
USA
565 Posts |
Posted - 07 Aug 2006 : 03:51:04
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Hello-
I'll try not to repeat what others have said. At least no too much. :)
I have to admit - I was a little disappointed not to find out for sure if Morgynn planted the visions Sameska had, or not. I could almost see them being real visions - in order for Sameska's vision as a child to come to fruition. Hard to say with that prophesy stuff I guess. :) As far as 'false' prophesy or an 'implanted' one - I like the general concept - that I am considering weaving it into my campaign./ That would be the stuff to really mess with and misslead the players with!
IIRC, the druids came to the aid of Brookhollow - in an ettempt to "honor the last vestiges of her bloodline's misplaced tribe one more time." (p233) at least that was Lesani's reason. I would have liked to see more of how that played out, whether or not she was satisfied with the outcome. But, I dont tend to like loose ends much! :)
Likewise, I would like to have seen someting of the fallout in the temple heirarchy. What happened to Sameska, and to Dresya also.
There were many, Many great little touches throuout the book however. Dont let my previous comments blur your vision on my overall opinion. Partially because of all these little bits that I feel made the story truly superb, as opposed to just darned good, I would be curious as to how long it took you to write it.
I really liked that once the druids showed up on the scene, and interacted some with Dreslya - that there were little references to the Shaaran plains, and that even Dreslya seemed to have visions of the plains herself - intimating an 'ancestral memory' or some such.
I liked the summoning circle that was done by the druids also. I remember trying to decide what sort of beast they had summoned - and the best my minds-eye came up with was a cross between a displacer beast and a manticore, only made of plant matter. :) Care to share anything more about the "Battlebriar"?
I enjoyed your 'bloodmage' versions of some standard spells. Seeing what someone else can come up with to describe the normal is interesting to me.
As you explained from an earlier post about your thoughts about this 'game' that Quin played in his head, I wont ask about it. I liked that part - it gave insight into how he approached situations, and presumably, life in general. Between reading about it in the book - and your description of what you imagined it to be like - I envision it as a cross between game and divination, as well as a cross between Mah-Jong and Dominoes.
All in all - I would heartilly suggest this book to others. Of course - this thread is not the best place to do that! :)
Dhomal
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I am collecting the D&D Minis. I would be more than willing to trade with people. You can send me a PM here with your email listed - and I can send you my minis list. Thanks!
Successfully traded with Xysma! |
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 07 Aug 2006 : 09:04:23
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Uzzy Posted:
quote: Im just going to be repeating whats already said, but heh.
Personally, I have to say repetition is no problem for me, but I'm certainly glad you liked it.
Dhomal posted:
quote: Hello-
I'll try not to repeat what others have said. At least no too much. :)
I have to admit - I was a little disappointed not to find out for sure if Morgynn planted the visions Sameska had, or not. I could almost see them being real visions - in order for Sameska's vision as a child to come to fruition. Hard to say with that prophesy stuff I guess. :) As far as 'false' prophesy or an 'implanted' one - I like the general concept - that I am considering weaving it into my campaign./ That would be the stuff to really mess with and misslead the players with!
I must admit, at first I imagined Morgynn as 'the source', but as the writing went on the play upon fate, prophecy, and maybe even a little destiny blurred the absolute lines I had drawn out. Morgynn certainly played her part, but whether or not she was director or pawn I'll leave to you guys.
quote: I liked the summoning circle that was done by the druids also. I remember trying to decide what sort of beast they had summoned - and the best my minds-eye came up with was a cross between a displacer beast and a manticore, only made of plant matter. :) Care to share anything more about the "Battlebriar"?
Oh yes, all you could want and more can be found in Monster Manual 3 (pg14). At one time a magically engineered beast, now they roam as free creatures. On the plains of the Shaar I wanted something horrific, filling the fantasy role of a 'lion', so to speak, plus something that could give a big fiend a run for its money (and then some). Judging by your description and looking at the MM3 artwork, I'm glad that it seems I did them justice.
Happy to hear you guys liked it! If you have any more questions I stop by here at least once a night, feel free ask.
Best, --James |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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Dremvek
Seeker
70 Posts |
Posted - 07 Aug 2006 : 17:11:56
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So, when's yer next book coming out? :)
I have to say, as has been posted repeatedly above, that this is a very good book. The pacing throughout the novel was just right. So many novels, it seems, run into problems where so much time is spent developing the plot that the author has only 20 or so pages left to quickly resolve the plot, resulting in a very rushed feel at the end. Bloodwalk did not have this problem at all.
I really liked the characters in this book. Quin was fascinating. Eli was believable, strong, heroic. Morgynn was a great villain - motivated to accomplish her goals by any means possible, versus the old standby of evil just for the sake of being evil. This is even reflected in her treatment of subordinates - it's ok if they get killed, because she doesn't need them after this battle anyway.
The descriptions of settings were outstanding. You really felt the foreboding in the forest. You could sense the magic the cult had gathered at the tower. You felt the hopelessness in the cities. I haven't read many books that have so skillfully portrayed setting.
My only complaint is pretty minor. Some of the names were a bit similar, which makes it hard to keep some of them straight in the beginning of the book. The orc mage, Morgynn, and one of the tree dryads all had names beginning with M - took me a second to realize who was being referred to at times. Like I said - pretty minor.
Thank you for this book, and I'll keep waiting to hear what your next project is :)
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 07 Aug 2006 : 21:40:37
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quote: So, when's yer next book coming out? :)
I'm glad you asked as I have been officially authorized to announce...
...Nothing...NDA's are nasty little creatures, sorry...Thank you for your comments on Bloodwalk though. I do like hearing what worked well for different readers and the minor things like tripling up on 'M' names. When you sit so close to something for so long, it gets east to miss little details like that, heh!
As for that next book, it must remain a mystery for now...as it has always been... (This vague statement sponsored by The International Association of Misleading and Vague Statements who have always been around...somewhere, to say...something, about...stuff).
Best, --James |
"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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Dremvek
Seeker
70 Posts |
Posted - 07 Aug 2006 : 21:56:22
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Well, the fact you have an NDA and you mention your "next book" tells me enough for now! Glad they're not letting you disappear :) |
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Conlon
Learned Scribe
Canada
132 Posts |
Posted - 10 Aug 2006 : 14:18:32
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James, this is a kick-ass book. Definitely one of the very best Realms books that I have read, and there have been many. Your writing is so evocative. I loved the way you described how Morgynn cast her spells. As a previous poster mentioned, that forest seemed damn scary. I'm a pretty tough guy myself, but you won't find me traipsing around in those damned woods!
Again re-iterating on what has been touched on, I was surprised when Mahgra (sp - sorry!) was dispatched so early in the story. He was shaping up to be a very interesting character and was then snuffed! I love it! This scene demonstrated further just how dangerous a dude Quinsareth is.
I know that this is often frowned upon, but could you perhaps provide a ball-park for the main characters' classes and levels?
Thanks for the truly outstanding book. I'll be recommending it. Hopefully the "upper crustacians" over at WotC come and check out these reviews from time to time. If they do, I'm sure they'll be awarding you with another contract.
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My hopes are ashes, my dreams are dust. All my intentions mean nothing unless they are followed by action. |
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James P. Davis
Forgotten Realms Author
USA
244 Posts |
Posted - 14 Aug 2006 : 03:58:09
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quote: James, this is a kick-ass book. Definitely one of the very best Realms books that I have read, and there have been many. Your writing is so evocative. I loved the way you described how Morgynn cast her spells. As a previous poster mentioned, that forest seemed damn scary. I'm a pretty tough guy myself, but you won't find me traipsing around in those damned woods!
Again re-iterating on what has been touched on, I was surprised when Mahgra (sp - sorry!) was dispatched so early in the story. He was shaping up to be a very interesting character and was then snuffed! I love it! This scene demonstrated further just how dangerous a dude Quinsareth is.
Nice to hear you liked it Conlon! I had fun with Mahgra (and all the villains). I'd like to revisit one or two of them someday, those that survived (or could have). As for Quin, I imagined his fighting style as equal parts Wolverine and Ash (from the Evil Dead movies), with a sword. A little unconventional, takes as much as he dishes out, but a survivor.
quote: I know that this is often frowned upon, but could you perhaps provide a ball-park for the main characters' classes and levels?
I would say on average the levels were "high". For a good ball-park scale, the minimum level for the bloodwalk ability is (I believe) 16th and Morgynn had a few more levels in addition.
quote: Thanks for the truly outstanding book. I'll be recommending it. Hopefully the "upper crustacians" over at WotC come and check out these reviews from time to time. If they do, I'm sure they'll be awarding you with another contract.
Thank you and you're welcome!
Best, --James
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"Everybody is a book of blood; wherever we're opened, we're red."--Clive Barker
FR: RotD2:"Possessions" Wizards:Bloodwalk Citadels: The Shield of Weeping Ghosts Wilds: The Restless Shore Ed Greenwood Presents Waterdeep: Circle of Skulls (May 2010) Book trailers: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-ska7ohVk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfvFdQ8bLp0 |
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Braveheart
Learned Scribe
Austria
159 Posts |
Posted - 22 Aug 2006 : 12:20:48
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I enjoyed Bloodwalk as well, mostly because of the livid description of the scenery and the display of interesting new magic (quite yucky if you can't stand the sight of blood ). Quinsareth struck me as a classic example of an antihero with a mystical background (that is explained a bit in "Bloodline") and an ending that's not typical for the FR, which made the book more interesting. Hopefully not the only story about this asimaar. |
Jarlaxle: "Do keep ever present in your thoughts, my friend, that an illusion can kill you if you believe in it." Entreri: "And the real thing can kill you whether you believe in it or not." |
Edited by - Braveheart on 22 Aug 2006 12:23:34 |
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