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Blood and Brotherhood #1
The Choosing
Seth is a young man torn by fear and indecision. His life no longer in his hands, he fears an uncertain future where the only certainty is a life of servitude to the kingdom. Fortunately for Seth, he is not alone. His brother Garret too attends the choosing ceremony where their fates will be decided. Together the twins make their way to the castle city of Valdadore for the choosing ceremony but along the way Seth notices a strange new trend in his life. Time after time strange circumstances befall him in what others might call a coincidence, but Seth knows something else is amiss and begins mentally cataloging each new and strange event. Learning his past is all a lie, Seth begins to fear more for his future as a dark goddess vies for his service to her cause. Seth's loyalties and responsibilities begin to stack up as he makes friends and allies and even falls in love, but with the choosing ceremony growing ever nearer will he be forced to flee the kindom into a life of exile, or choose to serve the goddess who swears that only through her will he find peace.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2012
179 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
Jeremy Laszlo
107Ìýbooks295ÌýfollowersFirst and foremost I am a father and a husband. I work full time as a civilian employed by the US army, and have also been known as a welder, electrician, carpenter, roofer, writer, painter, CNC machinist, and amongst many other things a romantic. I also belong to the eternal fraternal brotherhood of the United States Marine Corps, having served 8 years that showed me a much broader perspective of the world at large serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, The war on Terrorism, and the humanitarian effort in Liberia.
I currently live in southern Louisiana with my wife and children, though I grew up in Michigan, graduating high school in Mason MI. I also spent time living in North Carolina, Florida, and California during my time in the United States Marine Corps. I have always dreamed of publishing my work, and seeing it on a bookshelf in a store, however with the huge shift to digital media I finally realized that the dream was in my own hands. I tell my children that they can live their dreams, and I believe in leading by example.
I enjoy writing across several different genres from poetry, to children's stories, to full epic fantasies. Creating new characters for my readers to connect with, new worlds for them to immerse themselves in, and new ideas to wrap their minds around is an amazing if not humbling experience. I hope that all my readers can take something away from each of my books, and enjoy reading them just as much as I have enjoyed putting them in print.
Semper Fidelis
I currently live in southern Louisiana with my wife and children, though I grew up in Michigan, graduating high school in Mason MI. I also spent time living in North Carolina, Florida, and California during my time in the United States Marine Corps. I have always dreamed of publishing my work, and seeing it on a bookshelf in a store, however with the huge shift to digital media I finally realized that the dream was in my own hands. I tell my children that they can live their dreams, and I believe in leading by example.
I enjoy writing across several different genres from poetry, to children's stories, to full epic fantasies. Creating new characters for my readers to connect with, new worlds for them to immerse themselves in, and new ideas to wrap their minds around is an amazing if not humbling experience. I hope that all my readers can take something away from each of my books, and enjoy reading them just as much as I have enjoyed putting them in print.
Semper Fidelis
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 12, 2014
Just bad. Whatever promise might have been there at the beginning (and I'll admit I was skeptical from the start with the whole gods divide the universe a la Clash of the Titans) quickly and permanently went up in smoke in the first 50 pages.
Juvenile, repetitious writing. Treacly, stilted dialogue. Terrible grammar. Poorly drawn characters. Ridiculous insta-love (this plot device always makes me roll my eyes, but in this case it was 100x worse starting with the bimbo-fication of the only female main character). Plots started and then dropped (hey they aren't twins, but it's not important). Contradictions abound. I've read enough series to know that the first book of the group often has a large amount of exposition. It's a given. The scene has to be set, history and life have to be explained. Worlds must be built. That's the key - the author has to actively build the world the reader is in. Show, not tell through 10 different points of view what it is sorta like. Laszlo spent an awful lot of time telling how the gang of cardboard cutouts reacted to what they saw and felt (summed up in two terms - astonished and awe-inspired) instead of showing the reader.
There was little to no plot. Most of this book is the main cast of naive nitwits on the road. Nothing happened on said road, except for one silly little goblin attack. There was no strife. There was no dissension. No tension. There was nothing. Every time there was even a hint of a possible issue, a little Deus Ex Machina would come hoping into view. Everyone got along, hummed about rainbows and sunshine, giggled and were the best of friends. 250 pages and I have no more idea what the journey is about than I had on page one. There is no good reason given to continue on with book 2.
Save yourself some time and a number of potential injury producing eye rolls and just skip this one.
Juvenile, repetitious writing. Treacly, stilted dialogue. Terrible grammar. Poorly drawn characters. Ridiculous insta-love (this plot device always makes me roll my eyes, but in this case it was 100x worse starting with the bimbo-fication of the only female main character). Plots started and then dropped (hey they aren't twins, but it's not important). Contradictions abound. I've read enough series to know that the first book of the group often has a large amount of exposition. It's a given. The scene has to be set, history and life have to be explained. Worlds must be built. That's the key - the author has to actively build the world the reader is in. Show, not tell through 10 different points of view what it is sorta like. Laszlo spent an awful lot of time telling how the gang of cardboard cutouts reacted to what they saw and felt (summed up in two terms - astonished and awe-inspired) instead of showing the reader.
There was little to no plot. Most of this book is the main cast of naive nitwits on the road. Nothing happened on said road, except for one silly little goblin attack. There was no strife. There was no dissension. No tension. There was nothing. Every time there was even a hint of a possible issue, a little Deus Ex Machina would come hoping into view. Everyone got along, hummed about rainbows and sunshine, giggled and were the best of friends. 250 pages and I have no more idea what the journey is about than I had on page one. There is no good reason given to continue on with book 2.
Save yourself some time and a number of potential injury producing eye rolls and just skip this one.
September 27, 2012
3.5 stars
First off - this book was generously given to me in exchange for an honest review. While I hate to be anything other than nice, I am going to stick with honest.
This book follows a tried and true storyline thus far, with few minor variations thus far. That wouldn't be too problematic by itself, but the characters remain, for the most part, rather two-dimensional. One would hope that by the end of 227 pages the characters wouldn't remain quite so flat.
Of the four main characters, Seth seems to be the most prominent character, and thankfully the most developed, as he lives in his head a great deals- thus sharing far more with the reader than the other three. Ashton is a decent character with some serious room to grow, but also already fairly well defined in the traditional pantheon of characters one finds in an adventure book with a major war looming on the horizon. And Seth's twin brother Garrett is also pretty generic, though there are a few glimpses that show him to be developing into either a hero or, if viewed through a different lens, an enemy of the state. But that is yet to be determined, if it is determined at all. And finally there is Seth's beloved, Sara. Gackk! How annoying can one character get? If she doesn't develop a backbone and sense of self worth in the very near future I'm going to want to see her killed off, and soon!
The romance between Seth and Sara is off the charts unrealistic for me. Not too mention utterly boring and beyond saccharine. But hey, to each their own. And maybe they will grow up, but as of the end of book one they are both still neurotic messes, with Seth only slightly less so. At least Seth's neuroses make some sense, particularly in light of his mysterious relationship to a particular goddess. There isn't much beyond speculation at this point anyhow.
There are parts of the book where the writing and story flow together seamlessly, but they are too few and far between for me, which could explain why I put this book down and read several others before resuming and finishing this one. However in my experience the second book is often better than the first - at least when the first book is lacking but has the potential to grow. So I won't write this trilogy off, but I'm not going to run out and buy the second book right away either.
First off - this book was generously given to me in exchange for an honest review. While I hate to be anything other than nice, I am going to stick with honest.
This book follows a tried and true storyline thus far, with few minor variations thus far. That wouldn't be too problematic by itself, but the characters remain, for the most part, rather two-dimensional. One would hope that by the end of 227 pages the characters wouldn't remain quite so flat.
Of the four main characters, Seth seems to be the most prominent character, and thankfully the most developed, as he lives in his head a great deals- thus sharing far more with the reader than the other three. Ashton is a decent character with some serious room to grow, but also already fairly well defined in the traditional pantheon of characters one finds in an adventure book with a major war looming on the horizon. And Seth's twin brother Garrett is also pretty generic, though there are a few glimpses that show him to be developing into either a hero or, if viewed through a different lens, an enemy of the state. But that is yet to be determined, if it is determined at all. And finally there is Seth's beloved, Sara. Gackk! How annoying can one character get? If she doesn't develop a backbone and sense of self worth in the very near future I'm going to want to see her killed off, and soon!
The romance between Seth and Sara is off the charts unrealistic for me. Not too mention utterly boring and beyond saccharine. But hey, to each their own. And maybe they will grow up, but as of the end of book one they are both still neurotic messes, with Seth only slightly less so. At least Seth's neuroses make some sense, particularly in light of his mysterious relationship to a particular goddess. There isn't much beyond speculation at this point anyhow.
There are parts of the book where the writing and story flow together seamlessly, but they are too few and far between for me, which could explain why I put this book down and read several others before resuming and finishing this one. However in my experience the second book is often better than the first - at least when the first book is lacking but has the potential to grow. So I won't write this trilogy off, but I'm not going to run out and buy the second book right away either.
September 7, 2014
It's hard to justify even two stars for this novel. Let's try: a late-teen fantasy road story which brings together a likeable quartet who care for and defend one another. An epic fantasy setting in a world with medieval technology and a culture with active magic and powers.
What's not to like? Well, lots. It reads like a first draft. A hundred pages of story hidden in three hundred pages of text. Most sentences include some form of "was/were" or "had," which really slows the pace. Long paragraphs, some redundant, of description. A curious mix of modern speech, actions and attitudes with the medieval setting. Price tags? Three-inch heels on hiking boots?
This is fantasy, so horses can gallop all day without killing themselves, graze on grass that night, and do it again. A goblin would rifle packs before killing the sleeping youths. Fitness for national service is determined by a bloody mutual slaughter. (Laszlo apparently liked .)
Having said that Laszlo constructed an interesting world and characters. With a bit of editing, this could have rated much higher.
What's not to like? Well, lots. It reads like a first draft. A hundred pages of story hidden in three hundred pages of text. Most sentences include some form of "was/were" or "had," which really slows the pace. Long paragraphs, some redundant, of description. A curious mix of modern speech, actions and attitudes with the medieval setting. Price tags? Three-inch heels on hiking boots?
This is fantasy, so horses can gallop all day without killing themselves, graze on grass that night, and do it again. A goblin would rifle packs before killing the sleeping youths. Fitness for national service is determined by a bloody mutual slaughter. (Laszlo apparently liked .)
Having said that Laszlo constructed an interesting world and characters. With a bit of editing, this could have rated much higher.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2013
The Choosing by Jeremy Lallo is the first book in a fantasy series called Blood and Brotherhood. Seth and Garret are twins setting out on a required journey, a trip to ceremony that will decide the next five years of their life.Garret knows that he wants to be chosen to fight for the country, but Seth is torn since he would much rather help others than fight anyone. They are joined by a young healer on his way to the Choosing as well. Before long they are joined by another and Seth quickly falls in love. Their journey is dangerous, and the destination holds mystery and fear as they move forward toward their future.
The Choosing has everything that makes the start of a great fantasy series. There are gods, warring factions, a love story, mysterious or tragic origins for at least one major character, and world building that is both complete and entertaining. I really enjoyed the larger back story about the origin of man and the sources of the gods power. I have seen similar ideas before, but not expressed in the same way. I enjoyed the dynamics of the relationship between Seth and Garret, particularly their acceptance and intelligent use of their differences. The characters are each solidly built and consistent in their actions and choices. Their first companion, Ashton, is equally well built and constant. His gifts and thoughtful ways are exactly the foil the two other boys needed to round out their travel party.
Now on to the one thing that bothered me through out this book. As soon as the boys ran across Sara and she joined the group, I found myself skimming sections. She is not a terrible character. She has a sad story and has a great memory, which makes her very intelligent and a wonderful asset to the group. However, Seth and Sara seem to fall instantly in love and spend much of the rest of the book brooding or making out. I appreciated Seth's honor, and Sara's connection of physical contact with love, but it just got to be a bit much. There was no more than an instant connection, gratitude, and a urge to protect that bound them together rather than a well built relationship. That bothered me, as did the pages and pages of the pair 'exploring' each other and testing the limits of how far they could go without actually having sex and the 'fighting of urges'. It is not that I am a prude or do not enjoy a good love scene, as you can tell from the other books I have reviewed here, but it was simply not necessary to move the story forward, and I think the tale would have done better without most (if not all) of that aspect of the story. The pair falling in love is fine, but I would rather they form a real relationship rather than just thinking of each other as guardian and angel as they fool around. Wow, that was quite the tirade for me.
With all that said, I enjoyed the larger story line of The Choosing and still will recommend it to older teens and adults. If it had not been for the physical aspects of the relationship between Seth and Sara I would have recommended it to middle school students and older. I really did enjoy the world, and for the most part, the characters. I will be looking at the next installment of the Blood and Brotherhood Saga, which is titled The Chosen and will likely continue on as long as my enjoyment of the large story arch is greater than my annoyance with the 'romance'.
The Choosing has everything that makes the start of a great fantasy series. There are gods, warring factions, a love story, mysterious or tragic origins for at least one major character, and world building that is both complete and entertaining. I really enjoyed the larger back story about the origin of man and the sources of the gods power. I have seen similar ideas before, but not expressed in the same way. I enjoyed the dynamics of the relationship between Seth and Garret, particularly their acceptance and intelligent use of their differences. The characters are each solidly built and consistent in their actions and choices. Their first companion, Ashton, is equally well built and constant. His gifts and thoughtful ways are exactly the foil the two other boys needed to round out their travel party.
Now on to the one thing that bothered me through out this book. As soon as the boys ran across Sara and she joined the group, I found myself skimming sections. She is not a terrible character. She has a sad story and has a great memory, which makes her very intelligent and a wonderful asset to the group. However, Seth and Sara seem to fall instantly in love and spend much of the rest of the book brooding or making out. I appreciated Seth's honor, and Sara's connection of physical contact with love, but it just got to be a bit much. There was no more than an instant connection, gratitude, and a urge to protect that bound them together rather than a well built relationship. That bothered me, as did the pages and pages of the pair 'exploring' each other and testing the limits of how far they could go without actually having sex and the 'fighting of urges'. It is not that I am a prude or do not enjoy a good love scene, as you can tell from the other books I have reviewed here, but it was simply not necessary to move the story forward, and I think the tale would have done better without most (if not all) of that aspect of the story. The pair falling in love is fine, but I would rather they form a real relationship rather than just thinking of each other as guardian and angel as they fool around. Wow, that was quite the tirade for me.
With all that said, I enjoyed the larger story line of The Choosing and still will recommend it to older teens and adults. If it had not been for the physical aspects of the relationship between Seth and Sara I would have recommended it to middle school students and older. I really did enjoy the world, and for the most part, the characters. I will be looking at the next installment of the Blood and Brotherhood Saga, which is titled The Chosen and will likely continue on as long as my enjoyment of the large story arch is greater than my annoyance with the 'romance'.
June 24, 2012
This review is from:The Choosing (Blood and Brotherhood Saga Book One) (Kindle Edition)
by Jeremy Laszlo [C.M.Liebel Review]
Once the story begins with an episode of character introductions, as in THE CHOOSING (Blood and Brotherhood Saga) by Jeremy Laszlo (Ronnell Porter), the adventure has begun. There is total absorption and anticipation for the reader to follow the man or woman spoken to or walking into danger. Each of the author's four young adults becomes alive because of descriptives, mannerisms, and secrets the audience is privy to in much the same way as parents know their children. Tension and mystery assault the reader dramatically.
Imagine living in a land of two moons, castles made of quarried stone in forests and where equine travel faster than locomotion. Blend the experience with powerful giants that walk the earth through gifts from powerful gods and goddesses who buy followers. Diminished life is the cost to gods who grant so many magic gifts and rule over so many to enlarge their realms. The gods' motivation is power and their egos are at stake when the gods defend their kingdoms. Warriors vying for superiority are chosen according to special gifts they already possess and such gifts that they are awarded by gods. These warriors are the gods' defense against other kingdoms. Life is complicated.
Three young men graduate from home life to become wards of their country's kingdom. The boys are to serve their kingdom for years - no questions - and little chance of escape. Each enters the road toward the castle city of Valdadore for a choosing ceremony, with personal gifts, they know little about, and armour, suited for a life of war.
Seth is the twin of Garret. Their father, an innkeeper raises them with admirable qualities and help of women in the close-knit family circle. Mysterious tales are a secret until the present day. Not all secrets are shared with the brothers. A reader wonders if the brothers will remain loyal and protective of each other. The roles are explained in details so vividly that the hearer is caught-up in a personal struggle with the character as each tries to navigate their individual humanities.
The twins bond with a travel-friend before leaving town and, soon, Seth becomes protective of young Sara who is a beauty in trouble. The four friends become a forceful group. Along the road, legendary bravery, magical gifting, restoration from near-death to life, mind control, and other uncharted dreams are inspired in each individual. These are selfless humans but they are entering a danger zone. Other characters are dwarfs, elves, healers, and ruling Knights.
The story ending is by no means the exit of friends the audience has learned to care about. In fact, it is Book One and the beginning of a new book awaits fans by the Author Jeremy Laszlo of THE CHOOSING (Blood and Brotherhood Saga Book One). Available in Kindle Edition ebook @amazon.com. Amazon Verified Purchase.
September 21, 2012
Mr Laszlo has created an interesting world with a very interesting premise. I'll look forward to the development of his story and characters in book Two.
August 4, 2020
The whole story was about getting to The Choosing, which is why that's the title I suppose, but doesn't make for a very exciting story despite the challenges along the way. It really reads more like the lead up/prequel to the actual story.
Maybe a quarter of the book was also an insta-love situation where the couple are super devoted to each other, but show it by (a) the man refusing to sleep with her until they're married and (b) the woman going out of her way to DELIBERATELY try to seduce him despite knowing that. I understand (a), I do not understand (b). Unless the point was to show she was insecure about his love because he wouldn't have sex?
(I think the point was to have some kind of sexy times without actually having sexy times, but it just made the whole story annoying.)
I also do not understand how having all your new soldiers try to murder each other in a massive melee is the best way to get new soldiers for your army.
Maybe a quarter of the book was also an insta-love situation where the couple are super devoted to each other, but show it by (a) the man refusing to sleep with her until they're married and (b) the woman going out of her way to DELIBERATELY try to seduce him despite knowing that. I understand (a), I do not understand (b). Unless the point was to show she was insecure about his love because he wouldn't have sex?
(I think the point was to have some kind of sexy times without actually having sexy times, but it just made the whole story annoying.)
I also do not understand how having all your new soldiers try to murder each other in a massive melee is the best way to get new soldiers for your army.
June 4, 2012
The Prologue was gorgeous. I loved the idea of how the gods created the world, and why they need and are intrigued by humanity. The writing of the prologue also felt like a a proper story told by the fireside by tribe elders. It is a great set-up. Unfortunately, the rest of the novel didn't fulfill it's potential for me. The main characters of Garret, Seth, and the two they pick up along the way, Ashton and Sarah, felt a little flat as characters, and I wished the author had more of their backstories revealed in conversation while they journeyed to Valadore instead of giving details about the pace of their walk, or how they did not feel the need to talk. The journey to The Choosing is a large part of the novel, and largely unexciting. What excitement there was - a fight with a Goblin, and the fight for Sarah, was good and I think it would have helped the story for the companions to have experienced a little more danger. The romance between Sarah and Seth was very heavy-handed and repetitive, with little time given for it to actually develop.
The actual Choosing ceremony was a more exciting event, but surprisingly short, and with very little actual ceremony. I think the ideas in this book are solid, but a little more fleshing out of the mythology of this world would have helped the story.
The actual Choosing ceremony was a more exciting event, but surprisingly short, and with very little actual ceremony. I think the ideas in this book are solid, but a little more fleshing out of the mythology of this world would have helped the story.
January 26, 2015
The premise was captivating and everything was ok until the romantic interest of the main is introduced. After that everything goes downhill.
Dialogs feel forced and dull. There are lots of unnecessary dialogs and events which do not contribute to the story at all. You can cut down the number of pages to half and you can still follow the story. The romance feels very forced and artificial without any depth at all. I felt like strangling both of them when I was reading those cheesy lines and feelings. Every time I read those lines, I felt like dropping this book but kept going in hopes for a good development which never came throughout the book. And I gotta say I have never ever seen such a good job of butchering a potentially good beginning. Congratulations are in order for such a good job. I am not much of a reviewer as I am the "tag them and bag them" type but killing such a potential in such a spectacular fashion motivated me beyond I can manage inside, so I write this review.
Another thing is; there is no acceptable conclusion in this book. Mr. Laszlo clearly wants me to pick up the second book. I am sorry but I cannot handle more of those two moronic mains. Seth was OK overall if I subtract the Sara element from the equation but it ain't happening.
The only reason this was not 1 star was because of the promising start. Hence 2 stars.
Dialogs feel forced and dull. There are lots of unnecessary dialogs and events which do not contribute to the story at all. You can cut down the number of pages to half and you can still follow the story. The romance feels very forced and artificial without any depth at all. I felt like strangling both of them when I was reading those cheesy lines and feelings. Every time I read those lines, I felt like dropping this book but kept going in hopes for a good development which never came throughout the book. And I gotta say I have never ever seen such a good job of butchering a potentially good beginning. Congratulations are in order for such a good job. I am not much of a reviewer as I am the "tag them and bag them" type but killing such a potential in such a spectacular fashion motivated me beyond I can manage inside, so I write this review.
Another thing is; there is no acceptable conclusion in this book. Mr. Laszlo clearly wants me to pick up the second book. I am sorry but I cannot handle more of those two moronic mains. Seth was OK overall if I subtract the Sara element from the equation but it ain't happening.
The only reason this was not 1 star was because of the promising start. Hence 2 stars.
September 24, 2012
For full disclosure I was given a copy of this book for free by the author in order to entice me to write a review. I hope my honesty doesn't bite him in the ass. Frankly it's a story been done and done again, with a writing style that one can pick up almost anywhere and reminds me of what I used to write myself as a teenager. There is magic, there's a quest, there's two gifted boys who aren't as close as they think and the narrative reads like a classic D&D game among friends with obstacles put up only to be addressed by inevitable solutions that just so happen to occur.
All of that being said, the story does get you involved and keeps you reading, because while it's a story that's been done before, it's still a good story. The characters are fun, even mostly human at times and their quest is much much bigger than they believe. Add in one of the best mythologies I've read in a long time and there exists here some really great potential. I'm not busting at the scenes to read the rest of the story but I want to and there aren't too many writers out there these days that can get me to do that.
All of that being said, the story does get you involved and keeps you reading, because while it's a story that's been done before, it's still a good story. The characters are fun, even mostly human at times and their quest is much much bigger than they believe. Add in one of the best mythologies I've read in a long time and there exists here some really great potential. I'm not busting at the scenes to read the rest of the story but I want to and there aren't too many writers out there these days that can get me to do that.
June 22, 2012
This is classic fantasy, two brothers, twins, Seth and Garret leave their small village on a quest to the great city of Valdadore to enter The Choosing, where they will find out what role they will play in protecting the King and the Kingdom.
The first half of the book, mainly focuses on the journey and is a little bit dull in places, but the second half gets more interesting and The choosing itself is very entertaining. The world of Thurr that Laszlo has created seems very interesting and i'm sure we will find more out about it in the second and third books. The one criticism I have of this book is too many pages of descriptions of Seth and Sara's love making, a few sentences would have been enough but it just seemed to go on far too long and I found myself hitting the next page button a few times to get it over with! To sum up a great easy to read fantasy novel with likeable characters and an interesting world setting. I look forward to reading book two.
The first half of the book, mainly focuses on the journey and is a little bit dull in places, but the second half gets more interesting and The choosing itself is very entertaining. The world of Thurr that Laszlo has created seems very interesting and i'm sure we will find more out about it in the second and third books. The one criticism I have of this book is too many pages of descriptions of Seth and Sara's love making, a few sentences would have been enough but it just seemed to go on far too long and I found myself hitting the next page button a few times to get it over with! To sum up a great easy to read fantasy novel with likeable characters and an interesting world setting. I look forward to reading book two.
September 10, 2012
3.5 STARS
At the beginning of the book, it reminded me of shades of The Hunger Games. I loved the prologue and the story of the way the gods created their world.
The author did an excellent job of introducing us to the twins and showing us the world where they grew up.
I found the romance between Seth and Sara a little irritating, and the head hopping that goes on in the book became a little confusing in certain areas.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, the world created and the journey the characters took me on. This is definitely a good fit for the YA crowd.
This book was provided to me by the author for an honest review.
At the beginning of the book, it reminded me of shades of The Hunger Games. I loved the prologue and the story of the way the gods created their world.
The author did an excellent job of introducing us to the twins and showing us the world where they grew up.
I found the romance between Seth and Sara a little irritating, and the head hopping that goes on in the book became a little confusing in certain areas.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, the world created and the journey the characters took me on. This is definitely a good fit for the YA crowd.
This book was provided to me by the author for an honest review.
September 17, 2012
Interesting story line development and characters. Action started slow but, typical of a story that is in the development stage. Interaction between the characters is appropriate for the period and the ages of the characters. Several possibilities exist for future plot development with much potential. Curious what temple/God Seth settles on and whether or not their relationship is mutually beneficial. Also curious about why Sirus and his wife Sasha took such an active interest in the travelers. I've bought into the story and will be buying the follow on book to see where the story goes from here. Many possibilities! ( )
April 18, 2012
Jeremy Laszlo's first book in his series was a great read. Laszlo combines good quality heroic fantasy with a very modern humour in a story of two brothers travelling to a recruitment festival for the military. Along the way they meet new companions and become involved in serious violence.
My particular enjoyment in the book came from the magic system and the details about gods and followers. The detail is superb, although in places (especially in descriptions of food) it can get distracting. That is a minor point in a very assured debut.
Highly recommended.
My particular enjoyment in the book came from the magic system and the details about gods and followers. The detail is superb, although in places (especially in descriptions of food) it can get distracting. That is a minor point in a very assured debut.
Highly recommended.
October 23, 2012
The Choosing is an engrossing story that will hold your attention from beginning to end. Jeremey Laszlo demonstrates his talent for painting vivid details as he writes his fantastic tale. The elements of adventure, romance, and humor weave together to deliver an engaging story. This is a fast-paced story with twists and turns that will hold your attention from beginning to end.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
April 23, 2012
This was a very refreshing read for me. I had no idea what to expect when I got it and was blown away by how much it pulled me in. As soon as I finished this one I had to go on and get the second one. The story is very well told and you cannot help but find yourself drawn to all the characters.
February 5, 2018
This was an interesting enough story, but didn't really get moving until I was more than half way there. The writing of dialogue, especially that between the 'lovers' was amateurish and quite stilted.
December 19, 2019
This is a great book
I cannot wait to read the second book. I’m excited to read on how things will progress. After I finish this saga, I will definitely start the “Children of the after� series.
I cannot wait to read the second book. I’m excited to read on how things will progress. After I finish this saga, I will definitely start the “Children of the after� series.
January 18, 2025
Fantastic
This was an amazing story of coming of age. Two brothers are off to "The Choosing" to find their stations in life. They make friends and one falls in love along the way.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys young adult coming of age stories.
This was an amazing story of coming of age. Two brothers are off to "The Choosing" to find their stations in life. They make friends and one falls in love along the way.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys young adult coming of age stories.
October 13, 2019
Enjoyed the pace and the way the characters came together, if you like a bit of fantasy you will like this.
February 29, 2020
Review
A very good read but the author seems to go overboard on the description of items and scenery. I highly recommend
A very good read but the author seems to go overboard on the description of items and scenery. I highly recommend
October 23, 2012
Full disclosure: I received a free copy of The Choosing from Mr. Laszio in exchange for an honest review.
It's hard to say what I have to say, because I know how much work authors put into their babies. But, for me, The Choosing is simply not on par with what I expect from a fantasy novel. It feels like a story that cannot decide whether it wants to be action adventure, romance, or light erotica. Yes, a story is told, but it is a stumbling tale that seems to search for itself through the pages and never succeeds in finding itself.
The negatives for me were many. The characters felt wooden. Their dialogue and interactions seemed contrived. There was a lot of talking while walking or sitting. That talking seemed to revolve around things unimportant to the story. Scenes like Sara's shopping expedition seemed wholly out of place and the entire pace of the story seemed to lurch along. Back story was, in my opinion, forced. The omniscient POV seemed clumsily handled. Sometimes scene breaks were used. Other times it just flipped and flopped (i.e. head popping) from paragraph to paragraph.
The biggest determent to the story was the hard to believe "love at first sight", "head over heels" romance between Seth and Sarah. It felt like both characters simultaneously failed their charisma rolls against one another. That so much of the story centered around this romance, once it was introduced, only made the situation worse. Then came the nauseating sexual tension.
As for positives, there were some, lest you think I hated every minute of this book. First, was the prologue. In fact, I was actually quite interested in what was going on in the prologue. The problem is that the story hinted at in the prologue is not delivered in The Choosing. It might come in later books, but it is not in this story.
Second was the scene with Seth discovering, I guess you would call it, his destiny once in Voldadore. There were the same problems that plagued the rest of the story, but it was a very interesting scene (once he actually got to the temple that is). The whole "window shopping" for a god to whorship concept was a bit much though.
Lastly was the Choosing Ceremony itself. For me, although the scene is so short compared to the laborious journey to get there, it was well enough done to warrant a boost in the ratings. Honestly, it seems like the author spent a great deal of effort on this scene. I wish the rest of the book had had been given the same amount of effort.
There may be some out there who will enjoy this story. But it is definately not for those with discriminating tastes in fantaasy. To each their own. As I said before, The Choosing is simply not on par with what I expect from a fantasy novel. It certainly isn't "The Hunger Games", or "Twilight", or anything else I have seen people compared it to.
I would say that The Choosing earns two of five stars.
It's hard to say what I have to say, because I know how much work authors put into their babies. But, for me, The Choosing is simply not on par with what I expect from a fantasy novel. It feels like a story that cannot decide whether it wants to be action adventure, romance, or light erotica. Yes, a story is told, but it is a stumbling tale that seems to search for itself through the pages and never succeeds in finding itself.
The negatives for me were many. The characters felt wooden. Their dialogue and interactions seemed contrived. There was a lot of talking while walking or sitting. That talking seemed to revolve around things unimportant to the story. Scenes like Sara's shopping expedition seemed wholly out of place and the entire pace of the story seemed to lurch along. Back story was, in my opinion, forced. The omniscient POV seemed clumsily handled. Sometimes scene breaks were used. Other times it just flipped and flopped (i.e. head popping) from paragraph to paragraph.
The biggest determent to the story was the hard to believe "love at first sight", "head over heels" romance between Seth and Sarah. It felt like both characters simultaneously failed their charisma rolls against one another. That so much of the story centered around this romance, once it was introduced, only made the situation worse. Then came the nauseating sexual tension.
As for positives, there were some, lest you think I hated every minute of this book. First, was the prologue. In fact, I was actually quite interested in what was going on in the prologue. The problem is that the story hinted at in the prologue is not delivered in The Choosing. It might come in later books, but it is not in this story.
Second was the scene with Seth discovering, I guess you would call it, his destiny once in Voldadore. There were the same problems that plagued the rest of the story, but it was a very interesting scene (once he actually got to the temple that is). The whole "window shopping" for a god to whorship concept was a bit much though.
Lastly was the Choosing Ceremony itself. For me, although the scene is so short compared to the laborious journey to get there, it was well enough done to warrant a boost in the ratings. Honestly, it seems like the author spent a great deal of effort on this scene. I wish the rest of the book had had been given the same amount of effort.
There may be some out there who will enjoy this story. But it is definately not for those with discriminating tastes in fantaasy. To each their own. As I said before, The Choosing is simply not on par with what I expect from a fantasy novel. It certainly isn't "The Hunger Games", or "Twilight", or anything else I have seen people compared it to.
I would say that The Choosing earns two of five stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2014
I think I was suckered by all the good reviews over on Amazon. Again.
The plot was derivative, but that's never stopped me from liking a story before. And it had potential.
But...potential unmet. I'll point out the (biggest) flaws so you can decide whether they're deal-breakers.
1. The author doesn't tell the story from one point of view or another. He doesn't alternate between several people, either. Instead, he describes what ALL his characters are thinking/feeling/doing from the outside. I read fantasy so I can immerse myself in a tale, and the writing style prevents that utterly.
2. Similarly, the characters' emotions are...pretty emotionless, really. They all seem to do a lot of nodding happily and glaring angrily and frowning worriedly. They're flat. There's no nuance.
3. The plot is unrealistic. (Even for a fantasy!)
4. The author isn't great at grammar or punctuation. I started out willing to overlook the poor word usage and the missing commas, but when he started to end declarative sentences with question marks, I gave up. "I was curious about that" is not a question! I should not have to explain that to an author!
Tell you what: I'll give this book 2 stars because I got it for free and because there's potential there. Buried, but there. The general idea was an interesting one. And should this author get some more practice - and (*ahem*) an editor - I may give his work another shot.
The plot was derivative, but that's never stopped me from liking a story before. And it had potential.
But...potential unmet. I'll point out the (biggest) flaws so you can decide whether they're deal-breakers.
1. The author doesn't tell the story from one point of view or another. He doesn't alternate between several people, either. Instead, he describes what ALL his characters are thinking/feeling/doing from the outside. I read fantasy so I can immerse myself in a tale, and the writing style prevents that utterly.
2. Similarly, the characters' emotions are...pretty emotionless, really. They all seem to do a lot of nodding happily and glaring angrily and frowning worriedly. They're flat. There's no nuance.
3. The plot is unrealistic. (Even for a fantasy!)
4. The author isn't great at grammar or punctuation. I started out willing to overlook the poor word usage and the missing commas, but when he started to end declarative sentences with question marks, I gave up. "I was curious about that" is not a question! I should not have to explain that to an author!
Tell you what: I'll give this book 2 stars because I got it for free and because there's potential there. Buried, but there. The general idea was an interesting one. And should this author get some more practice - and (*ahem*) an editor - I may give his work another shot.
October 29, 2013
I enjoyed this book. The author is indeed talented and shows potential to pull even better creations from his mind and lay them out for us to read. I finished this book quickly, wanting to see the end!
My attention is caught and I want to read the next in the series ASAP. I could not bring myself to rate this book five stars, however, because of, and only because of, the "adult situations" between Seth and Sara. Although the situations were nowhere near what they could have been. They were still enough to make me feel uncomfortable about what I was reading and look over my shoulder to make sure no kids were sneaking a peek.
Some other reviews have stated annoyance at Sara and her interactions with Seth, I would hate for this to discourage other readers. So I'm going to just say that, yes, Sara has terrible self esteem, however, given her history I would as well. And, yes, their interactions can seem a bit awkward, however they are very young and inexperienced. Causing those who are older to look in on their interactions and see them as awkward.
This book contains excellent descriptions and truly helped me see where the characters were as well as set the stage for the rest of the series.
I'm excited for the next in the series as it is promised to be filled with more action and hold your attention even more. What could be wrong with that. :)
My attention is caught and I want to read the next in the series ASAP. I could not bring myself to rate this book five stars, however, because of, and only because of, the "adult situations" between Seth and Sara. Although the situations were nowhere near what they could have been. They were still enough to make me feel uncomfortable about what I was reading and look over my shoulder to make sure no kids were sneaking a peek.
Some other reviews have stated annoyance at Sara and her interactions with Seth, I would hate for this to discourage other readers. So I'm going to just say that, yes, Sara has terrible self esteem, however, given her history I would as well. And, yes, their interactions can seem a bit awkward, however they are very young and inexperienced. Causing those who are older to look in on their interactions and see them as awkward.
This book contains excellent descriptions and truly helped me see where the characters were as well as set the stage for the rest of the series.
I'm excited for the next in the series as it is promised to be filled with more action and hold your attention even more. What could be wrong with that. :)
November 13, 2014
The start of this story didn't capture me the way I hoped it would, but after picking it up again, and reading the first chapter recently I started to see the potential of the story. After about half way through, however, I realsied this story is not so much about two brothers, but one of those brothers and a girl. It just felt like a romance story the whole way through, which for me was too much. This might be enjoyable for some people but I prefer a better balance of themes in a fantasy story. Don't get me wrong I love romance, and write about it too, but I don't want it to dominate a fantasy story.
That aside there is an interesting story hidden under the romance and this follows the basics of a 'journey/adventure story' well and has some plot that stops it from being a cliche. Those ideas kept me going and the potential of Seth and Garret as characters is there, but I feel they could have been developed a lot more. I know they grew a little and learned some skills, but I don't feel like they themselves have been on a journey of self discovery or hardship, just more like a geographical journey. That's just how it felt to me and overall I did like The Choosing, but I don't think it reached its potential.
That aside there is an interesting story hidden under the romance and this follows the basics of a 'journey/adventure story' well and has some plot that stops it from being a cliche. Those ideas kept me going and the potential of Seth and Garret as characters is there, but I feel they could have been developed a lot more. I know they grew a little and learned some skills, but I don't feel like they themselves have been on a journey of self discovery or hardship, just more like a geographical journey. That's just how it felt to me and overall I did like The Choosing, but I don't think it reached its potential.
December 4, 2012
I was given this book by the author to give an honest review.
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The prologue was great, and I could see this story turning out to be a wonderful read. But during the read it just was not what I was expecting. I expected more action, magic. But instead I got a lot of romance.
Though I found the romance between Seth and Sarah to be cute, it seemed that a majority of the book was based on them. And not the Gods and magic.
I was glad to read the details of how Ashton could heal those injured. And how he was able to heal Seth wen he almost died. Now I did think Seth was written as a gentleman and I found myself really liking him. The way he was protective, and caring towards Sarah was sweet. I also enjoyed reading about the foods Felix would prepare. Oh they sounded delish!
I can say I was shocked and surprised with the news that Seth received, I did not see that coming.
The Choosing ceremony was amazing even if it was short. I would have liked it to have had more challenges besides just fighting.
I do see myself reading book two and hoping there is more action, more about the Gods, magic. And I would like to see what will become of Seth.
m
The prologue was great, and I could see this story turning out to be a wonderful read. But during the read it just was not what I was expecting. I expected more action, magic. But instead I got a lot of romance.
Though I found the romance between Seth and Sarah to be cute, it seemed that a majority of the book was based on them. And not the Gods and magic.
I was glad to read the details of how Ashton could heal those injured. And how he was able to heal Seth wen he almost died. Now I did think Seth was written as a gentleman and I found myself really liking him. The way he was protective, and caring towards Sarah was sweet. I also enjoyed reading about the foods Felix would prepare. Oh they sounded delish!
I can say I was shocked and surprised with the news that Seth received, I did not see that coming.
The Choosing ceremony was amazing even if it was short. I would have liked it to have had more challenges besides just fighting.
I do see myself reading book two and hoping there is more action, more about the Gods, magic. And I would like to see what will become of Seth.
October 18, 2012
A fantasy it is. What happens when gods are angered and humans get mixed in without their say so?
I liked the journey, the choosing - as random as that was, the love that blossomed during the journey and of course stout warriors and goblins.
The writer shows his skill exceptionally when writing things of interest, like the gods, and their story.
However, this is one of those books where rule "less is more" should be applied wholeheartedly.
While the ideas are interesting, the action keeps the pulse of the plot going, the repetition and incredible amount of detail bog the story down a bit.
There are also some unlikely ideas, but all is in the scope of the creator - so while I may disagree with some minute details - they are, indeed, simply characteristics that define this story as an it's own original.
I'm curious to read the sequel - to see how much the writer has improved and where fate takes the twins.
I liked the journey, the choosing - as random as that was, the love that blossomed during the journey and of course stout warriors and goblins.
The writer shows his skill exceptionally when writing things of interest, like the gods, and their story.
However, this is one of those books where rule "less is more" should be applied wholeheartedly.
While the ideas are interesting, the action keeps the pulse of the plot going, the repetition and incredible amount of detail bog the story down a bit.
There are also some unlikely ideas, but all is in the scope of the creator - so while I may disagree with some minute details - they are, indeed, simply characteristics that define this story as an it's own original.
I'm curious to read the sequel - to see how much the writer has improved and where fate takes the twins.
July 18, 2013
Every once in a while you come across a book that captures your imagination and soul, a book you can’t put it down. The Choosing by Jeremy Laszlo is just such a book. This fantasy novel is so full of adventure and excitement it was hard for me to take a breath.
The storyline is very well develop and easy to follow. It keeps you glued to the book as the author does a great job of continually building to the climax. I liked the way the author developed each new twist so they flowed with the storyline and were not disjointed. He made the book real and easily believable.
Jeremy Laszlo did an excellent job with character development. They were both believable and easy to identify with. The author’s writing style allowed you to get into the characters and feel their emotions, dreams and inter turmoil. I really liked each of the characters and their personalities.
I enjoyed The Choosing by Jeremy Laszlo and I highly recommend it to all readers and age groups.
The storyline is very well develop and easy to follow. It keeps you glued to the book as the author does a great job of continually building to the climax. I liked the way the author developed each new twist so they flowed with the storyline and were not disjointed. He made the book real and easily believable.
Jeremy Laszlo did an excellent job with character development. They were both believable and easy to identify with. The author’s writing style allowed you to get into the characters and feel their emotions, dreams and inter turmoil. I really liked each of the characters and their personalities.
I enjoyed The Choosing by Jeremy Laszlo and I highly recommend it to all readers and age groups.
November 14, 2013
I actually liked the story, despite that it was derivative of Lord of the Rings (at the very least). The story was interesting enough to make me want to read more, and I was able to look past some of the editing oversights and that the ending felt very rushed writing-wise.
The bad: The scenes between Seth and Sara got really old and tiring after a while, and it made me feel like the author was wandering a bit. Other segments felt pointless, such as all of the narrative about the Innkeeper - although I say that not having read any other books in the series, so I can't be certain that it doesn't play a role somewhere later in the overall plot.
The one area that really bothered me most, however, was the author's inability to know when to end a chapter - most of them were far too long and would have flowed much better in shorter lengths.
My complaints aside, it was a decent read and I think the author does have a very good talent for storytelling.
The bad: The scenes between Seth and Sara got really old and tiring after a while, and it made me feel like the author was wandering a bit. Other segments felt pointless, such as all of the narrative about the Innkeeper - although I say that not having read any other books in the series, so I can't be certain that it doesn't play a role somewhere later in the overall plot.
The one area that really bothered me most, however, was the author's inability to know when to end a chapter - most of them were far too long and would have flowed much better in shorter lengths.
My complaints aside, it was a decent read and I think the author does have a very good talent for storytelling.
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