Very interesting book about what it means to be a hero. Can a hero be made or do they have to choose that fate. A kingdom has been overthrown and as it crumbles a warrior and a fortuneteller of sorts run off with an orphan and escape into the rural areas of the land. They have plans to rescue their country from it's conquers but it will take 18 years to make it happen. What does it mean to be a parent? They will find out. Raul raised as a tavern keepers son will be thrust into a glorious destiny that he was prepared for. He is after all the birthmarked focus of a prophecy, destined to free his homeland. Or is he? The more he struggles to fulfill his role, the more he begins to doubt if he really is meant for all this. Is this nicely packaged prophecy the truth or is he just a pawn. The young man is well trained for sure but naïve and fragile in many ways. Will he embrace the rebellion? This book is very character driven with a wonderful cast full of motives, regrets and passion. The world itself it complex and fascinating. All in all a well written and fascinating book, well worth the read. Thanks to netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read this book.

ARC provided by the publisher-Orbit-in exchange for an honest review. I thought this book was good. Had many aspects that stood out and was a neat twist in the “chosen one trope”. I did feel there was some rushing in the world building but otherwise an enjoyable read.

This book was filled with battles, adventure, and uncertainty. It kept me wondering which way things were going to turn with each chapter. Absolutely loved it and cannot wait for the next!

I thought this book was a interesting take on the “chosen one” trope. In this story the prophesied one to take back the land for a conquered people is artificial engineered with a birthmark that is in actuality a branding that was given to him as a baby and other evidence planted to make him and the people believe that he is the one to fulfill this.

The problem (for those who created these signs) is he is a kindhearted young man of 18 when the story opens after the prologue and in a lot of ways he is not a good fit for the role. By the end of this book there is a great stopping point but there appears to be more of the story. Hopefully the author is able to write more stories in this world. It gets four stars because while it is entertaining, and I did finish, I didn't find myself constantly thinking about these characters and world throughout my day like I would for a five star book.

Andrew writes an action packed, new spin on an old trope, book of charms, magic and what would happen if a chosen one was created, not born.

This book has slowly become a new favorite because it's covertly sharp-whitted, and very well written. Your not bogged down by unnecessary verbiage, but the language is crisp and authentic and you want to befriend some of the characters because of their realism and their personality that shines.

I want to read more in this world, so keep wm coming...