I really enjoyed this book. It's the first book in a four book series and one I am definitely excited to explore. There's a magic system that I don't quite understand yet.

4.5 stars

A bittersweet ending to Ransom's tale.

I quite enjoyed this series, though I wish it were a bit more to it. I would have liked for the story as a whole to have come to a conclusion instead of just Ransom's bit in it. I would have also liked to understand the magic a bit better and get a bit more on that and the deep fathoms and how they are all related.

I like that Ransom is so very honest and loyal, but there were many times it was irritating, especially since he just keeps getting dealt the shittiest cards. The thing with having a character like this is that there is an expectation that at some point they will be rewarded for their suffering, but he really never is. There is never a point of glorious comeuppance for his enemies. That was all quite a trickle when I was hoping for a deluge, a bit underwhelming and unsatisfying. There is never a that moment of vicarious joy where he FINALLY gets his. It's like playing a fighting game where every time you take damage, your meter builds up until you can finally release a devastating special attack, but Ransom never gets to release his special. I understand that this isn't always how life pans out in reality, but this isn't reality, it's a story. I suppose it isn't that kind of story though, and that's okay. It's still an excellent series, and I would still recommend it.

Fate's Ransom
by Jeff Wheeler
The fate of your world is based on the price that you would pay to keep those you love safe. A story of personal struggle, personal demons and how to over come adversity. Struggling to find safety for his people he will risk everything for the survival of the Argentine. Showing the facial nature of politics even in medieval based literature.

Wow, just wow. Jeff has another masterpiece here. I feel strongly connected to the characters and the suspense is strong in the book. The story moves very quickly but does not feel rushed. It i truly loved this book.

So, Mr. Wheeler, just so you know, you've brought me to tears one more time with your books!
Fate's Ramson ends perfectly, I mean, it's not the ending I expected, but it's a fitting ending for a character as noble, loyal and faithful as Ransom Barton. And by the way, I was right: the series is inspired by the life of Sir William Marshal!
Another exceptionally written series, with a fair mix of history and fantasy, fictional characters inspired by historical figures and the best, has brought us back to the Kingfountain universe! I hope that this series is not the farewell to Kingfountain and in the not too distant future we will be honored with the reading of another series set in the kingdom of the Argentines.

https://onereadingnurse.com/2022/02/17/fates-ransom-book-review-by-jeff-wheeler/

I was lucky enough to be invited to read Fate’s Ranson, the final installment of The First Argentines series as an ARC. While normally I would drop my TBR and jump on it, I knew what was coming … and I put this one off for a few weeks.

My apologies to the publisher but even in a better state of existence the end absolutely ruined me!! Ruined! Not ugly crying but more the silent streaming tears of ruination kind!

I will do the review without spoilers, although this is absolutely not a standalone and you need the first three books in order to read the ending.

...

The synopsis really says it all: Jon-Landon is an insufferable twat and his spy master is even worse. Ransoms pays the heaviest price as petulance and jealousy destroy the kingdom from the inside, while opportunistic kings attack the borders.

There is a little more magic in this book. The real history of the Wizr board is revealed with how this particular game began. There are miracles of the fountain to behold. Alix hints at having more abilities than anyone is aware of, and I really wish we had seen more of her and Estian’s motivations that what we learned at the end. (I wonder if maybe in reading the two books about Ankorette, we learn these poisoner secrets so that Alix only had to give a nod to it in a later book? I skipped them but am going to go back for sure).

There was so much intrigue, as in every book, although I felt like this was more about Jon-Landon cutting off his own arms than having a good reason to conquer his own allies. Ransom stayed loyal to the Fountain above all else. There were some parts that almost turned to dark fantasy, as in, children were murdered, graphic poisonings, etc, but even in the darkest times there was a way forward.

There was the typical dose of battles, strategy, reconciliation ,and heroism that I come to expect from these books. The “Dex Aie” chapter was pretty much everything. Ransom and Estian finally had their showdown, although I could have gone for an epic duel.

What else… oh yes, the family scenes. I wish Wheeler would do families in more of his books, I just loved seeing the twins causing mayhem with the princess. I think he’s got a strong sense of family and it shows in the pages, it surprised me that this isn’t something he has written before. The twins were somewhat of the comic relief in some otherwise terrible situations. I have theories about how they will grow up and be married and further the realm for sure.

My only question was – so obviously some years had passed in the beginning of the book, but I don’t think everything else aged consistently. Dappled would have been older too and probably not as strong and resilient as he used to be. Ransom’s kids didn’t seem to age appropriately either, either that or there weren’t really that many years that had passed.

Either way, let me close by giving Claire the spotlight – I think she deserved the protectorate position at the end, so much!! She was the most capable queen and saved the day so many times throughout the series. While the devastation at the end did absolutely ruin me, I couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome for Claire. I don’t know how I feel about the fact that she more or less converted to the belief of the Fountain, although again, the ending, the ending, the ending. I’m glad she affiliated herself with Constance and got to see the Deep Fathoms for herself.

All in all – yes definitely recommend these books for those seeking an exciting medieval fantasy series. I think they are great books for teens too, easy to follow plots and very clean content. I am interested in checking out the history and books that the series and Ransom character are based on. There was a knight named William Marshal and his service to four kings (the Plantagenet line, predecessors of the Tudors) was a real piece of history. There’s a fantastic author note about it all.

Jeff Wheeler has written a number of series in related kingdoms and worlds: Muirwood, Mirrowen, and Kingfountain, and I've read and enjoyed many of these series. The Kingfountain books are a mixture of alternate history, fantasy, and excellent story telling.

Fates Ransom is the fourth and final book in the First Argentine series and is set in Kingfountain.

My favorite is The Queen's Poisoner, the first in the six book Kingfountain series, but each series is full of great characters and exciting adventures and each book is hard to put down. Wheeler's characters have depth--he excels at creating the kind of characters that the readers want to know more about.

I recommend starting with The Queen's Poisoner to become acquainted with the kingdom and see if you might become as addicted to Wheeler's books as I've become.

NetGalley/47North
Fantasy. Jan. 4, 2022.

I absolutely bawled my eyes out. Seriously. That ending.

The conclusion of the heroic epic of Ransom Barton was probably the best of all the books. It is kind of refreshing to have a series end with such a high note. The story didn't feel worn or ready to be over. The loose strings were all woven into an epic tapestry. I couldn't be happier to have had a conclusion to all these plots floating around.

Ransom Barton has served 4 different kings. Each has had a unique style of rule, and each has underestimated Ransom's wisdom. However, those that follow Ransom's example managed to live fulfilled lives. They struggled through hardships, but they did it together and were able to reap the joys together.

Not only did these kings underestimate Ransom, but the biggest detriment was to underestimate the strength and bond of Ransom's marriage. This is a series filled with bitter and hopeful characters that weave an intricate plot. Many have changes of heart and growth that progress the story along at a page-turning pace. This released on January 4th, and I had it finished by January 6th. I just couldn't stop wait to see who would be the 5th king of Ceredigion.

The struggles of loyalty in the face of extremely hostile conditions is truly 5 stars. That theme is what made this series for me. We have all railed against our own faith. Going along on Ransom's journey was bracing and filled with hope.

"Fate's Ransom" a roller coaster ride worth taking

Two suggestions for anyone who picks up “Fate’s Ransom,” the fourth and final book in “The First Argentines” series by Jeff Wheeler.
First, set aside a chunk of time to read because you’ll have a hard time putting the book down once you start. And second, strap in because Wheeler takes readers on a roller-coaster ride that doesn’t end until the very last page.
It isn’t spoiling anything to say that in this last book, protagonist Ransom Barton, a knight of the land of Ceredigion, is serving his fourth king, the last Argentine son, though it is an uneasy alliance. There is no love lost between King Jon-Landon and the ever-gallant Ransom.
His service is summed up in the book this way: “You are part of something greater than yourself, Lord Ransom. Many are called by the Fountain. But few choose to heed the call because the road is never easy.”
We’ve seen Ransom progress from childhood through knighthood in this series, realizing his highest potential when he remains faithful to the Fountain, the magic system in the series, and to the kings he serves.
That faithfulness is especially tested in this last book. His road is, indeed, challenging, but he always keeps his eye on the goal, to preserve the life of the Argentine heir, though others question his steadfast loyalty to a king who does nothing to earn it.
Wheeler keeps the tension high throughout the book. Though Ransom has some tender moments with his wife, Clair, and their children, including the fun injected by the antics of their twin sons, much of the time, the knight and his lady are dealing with the consequences of Ransom’s choices. The book is filled with non-stop action.
“Fate’s Ransom” is a prequel to two other Kingfountain series by Wheeler. As with the other books in this series, longtime readers get nuggets of information that add to their understanding of earlier Kingfountain books.
We see some familiar terms: ondines and the Assizes, the prophecy of the Dreadful Deadman and nightshade. Wheeler also includes recognizable names such as Kiskaddon and Dragan.
On the other hand, anyone new to Wheeler’s books won’t feel as though they’re missing out by not having read the previous series. But if they go on to read the other books, they’ll have a deeper level of understanding going in.
This review comes with the caveat that I received an early copy of the book, with the understanding that I would write my honest thoughts about “Fate’s Ransom.” I can truly say that I found the book compelling, fast-moving and a fitting end to the series.
Unlike the fourth book, which I felt told rather than showed emotions, I was gripped by the feelings expressed by the characters in this final book of the series.
The book is a worthy addition to the world of Arthurian legend. Discovering Ransom’s fate is a roller-coaster ride worth taking.

Fate’s Ransom is the final of the four-book Argentines series set in the Kingfountain world. Every reader steps into the final novel with some trepidation, wondering if the author will do the story justice, balancing reader expectation, wrapping up all the story threads, all while taking them through unexpected twists and turns.

Fate’s Ransom did not disappoint. I read it over four nights until the wee hours of the morning. I absolutely would have read it all the way through if I’d started reading it in the morning and didn’t have work. Of all Wheeler’s works, this series is the fastest-paced. I wouldn’t have minded the story being slower, in the beginning, to fit in all the world-building I love, but as I read Kingfountain in advance, I had a good handle on the world. The last story built upon the relationships and drama of the previous novels, creating an exciting stage for the last novel to unfold.

Wheeler does an amazing job of creating nuanced characters. Of course, in this one, the focus is on the king, and he is truly a villain. Probably the darkest villain Wheeler has ever written. Normally the reader has some sympathy (even a tiny thread of sympathy) for the villain. In this novel, the antagonist makes one evil choice after another. It’s completely believable based on the actions of this character in the past; a terrible, powerful villain in this last novel, which was great.

The ending has a great push and pull of emotions. It didn’t end as I expected, but it was properly foreshadowed, and I love a good bitter-sweet ending every once in a while. I definitely felt all the feels, the threads were neatly tied up, and it’s left me pondering on the story the next day (which is always a good sign).

Excellent series. The last novel pulled off action and emotion beautifully. Highly recommend.

I just absolutely loved this book.
Very well written and got me hooked into the story right away. I ended up staying up late last night because I just didn't want to put it down.

I do highly recommend this.

I have grown so attached to this universe. I always wait for the newest entry so anxiously and am never disappointed! Fate's Ransom is the final in a series of four books about a warrior who gains power from showing loyalty to his king, but in this entry he finds that he serves a king who doesn't deserve that loyalty. Ransom Barton faces conflicts that test his very nature. The last installment in the series left several plot threads unresolved, and Fate's Ransom ties them up neatly. Legault's Claire deMurrow is one of my favorite characters in the series, and she really gets a chance to shine in this final entry. There is no cliffhanger, the story is resolved in a satisfying way, but I do hope that Wheeler is not done with the Kingfountain universe. I enjoy his other novels very much, but Kingfountain is really something special.

I really enjoyed the last book in the Last Argentines series. I loved following Ransom's story and couldn't wait until this book came out and I didn't want the story to end. Jeff Wheeler is a great story teller and I can't wait to read his next series!

4 stars

You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.

This is the final book in an exciting, action-packed YA Fantasy series and does not disappoint. Jon-Landon has ascended to the throne and wears the hollow crown. His reign is as bad as Ransom thought it would be. The new King is petty and cruel and makes his hatred of Ransom clear to all. In fact, he goes out of his way to humiliate Ransom in an effort to get him to do something for which he can be deemed a traitor and thereby killed.

Despite wanting to lash out, Ransom takes everything the King dishes out, doing his duty and obeying the will of the Fountain, including sending his twin boys to Kingsfountain as hostages. Luckily the boys see it as an adventure and have a lot of fun exploring the castle and vying for the attention of the Princess. The Espion spy Claire watches over the two, easing some of the fear Ransom and Claire have for their safety.

Ransom and Claire are apart for most of the book, as Ransom races from one end of the kingdom to another fighting back enemies attacking the kingdom. His ultimate duty, to see that Jon-Landon's son ascends to the throne, is his sole goal. Will Ransom be able to save the Prince from his father's many enemies?

This is another great series set in the world of Kingsfountain. There are plenty of characters to love and hate. The main characters, and even some of the minor ones, are well formed and have full and complete story arcs. This author does a great job of tying up storylines and does not often leave loose ends hanging - unless it's on purpose. Despite this author being quite prolific, his books continue to be creative and enjoyable to read. I know I will never be disappointed when picking up his books.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and 47North. All opinions are my own.

What a fitting conclusion. Full.of adventure and strategy. I just love Ransom and Claire. I am sorry this is over. I could not help but cry at the end.

I do love the books of Jeff Wheeler - and Fate's Ransom is a perfect finale to the First Argentine series.
As always, the hero of this series is a man of loyalty and honor, striving to always do the right thing, no matter what. And Ransom has more struggles than usual, having to serve an unworthy king. This book has everything - adventure, warfare, truly evil villains, personal struggles, a continuing love story with his wife Claire, and that beautiful touch of Kingfountain Magic. I thought the last book in the series moved a little slowly, but this one was a gem! Many thanks to NetGalley and 47North for the e-arc. Loved it! 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5 because the end was so very moving.

I received a free digital copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review..

Lady's Ransom is the fourth book in this series of four. It completes the story of an honorable knight, Sir Ransom Barton - who has been blessed with extraordinary magic, which is fed from his loyalty and unwavering testament to his country and king. The series takes place in Kingfountain, and is an early tale on the long timeline of stories from this world - that Mr. Wheeler has so keenly created (in less than a decade of writing).

This series dives deeper into the roots of the Argentine royal family, and is set in time at least one generation before the main Kinfountain series takes place. The main character's values are a very honorable - which I was pleased to see the foreshadowing and glimpses of Owen Kiskaddon (literal and figurative) - who also serves the Argentine royal family as a fountain-blessed knight.

This book was very difficult to put down, as Mr. Wheeler has created so many interesting avenues to keep the reader's mind glued to each chapter. It was very nice to be able to see into Ransom's family life (with his true love since childhood), and see the narratives from his wife's perspective in her journal entries throughout the entire series. I would have liked to see her share the details with Ransom in the end, though - to show trust to her husband. It was also great to learn more about the deep fathoms, and how they are related to the fountain magic and the fate of this world's honorable people.

This was truly one of my favorite series from Mr. Wheeler, and I look forward to potential future works, where we can continue to go back further in the Kinfountain timeline and explore more great adventures!

This third installment of Jeff Wheeler’s Ransom story is phenomenal and heart wrenching at the same time. I won’t lay out the story or the ending but suffice it to say that the story has come into its own. Ransom’s dilemma between his loyalty to the Fountain (making him in turn to being loyal to the King) and loyalty to his own sense of right is the backbone of this novel. Even though the king is the likes of Jon Landon. Jon Landon has shown his true colors and then comes the ups and down of the rule. Claire de Murrow has shown her mettle,
This last part of the series is fast paced, and extremely well written. The story loops and winds taking the reader though some very exciting ups and downs. The character and story arc of Claire has, to my joy, been developed well. I was hoping for this. The ending was bitter sweet for me. But I absolutely enjoyed reading this book. I can’t wait to listen to Kate Rudd’s narration

A grand finale to the four book series. Ransom now serves the youngest Argentine King who tests his honour and loyalty. However, it is not Ransom who needs testing, but the King. Everything the King puts Ransom through, plagues him at the end. The only question is, can the game of Wizr be won? Or will everything Ransom fought for end up at in the Deep Fathoms.

Anything by Jeff Wheeler is an automatic read for me. He is an amazing author and has crafted multiple series that are subtly interconnected. Fate’s Ransom is the 4th (and final) installment in the First Argentine’s series. This book, like all the others in the series, follows the tale of Ransom Barton who is a knight (among other things) sworn to protect the King and Argentine line.

This story takes place in a fantasy world that is similar to medieval Europe. There are castles, knights, tournaments, nobles, and warring kingdoms. There is also a magic system but it is limited to 3 characters (Ransom being one). The magic comes from the “ fountain” and it gives Ransom the ability to sense danger, assess opponents for weakness, and fight incredibly well. The Fountain guides Ransom as he protects the Argentine line and bids him to remain loyal to his King/ duty no matter what. Ransom’s magic is ultimately tied to his loyalty and he is tested many times throughout the series.

I loved the tale of Ransom. He’s truly an amazing character and well written. Ransom is so good and always does the right thing as a knight/noble. Ransom is just really too good for the world he lives in. Even when he has moments that make him question his loyalty or have negative thoughts, he wrestles those feelings and still manages to do his duty. He’s not petty nor does he seek revenge. So the ending of his story killed me. So beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time.

Thank you to Netfalley, the publisher, and Mr. Wheeler for an eARC of this amazing book. Highly recommend to anyone! Also, pick up other Jeff Wheeler titles especially anything about Muirwood!!