AGE OF MAGIC

By Tim Vee

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GENRE:  dark fantasy

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURB:

A young peasant woman’s mundane existence is upended by a mysterious traveller, thrusting her into a perilous world of secret family ties, dark magic, deadly beasts, intrigue, pirates, and thrilling adventure—where light and dark forces clash in a battle for power and revenge.

Age of Magic is a dark fantasy story with a timeless fairytale vibe, set in a grounded but magical world.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

EXCERPT

There was movement in the shadows—the sound of a sandal on the dry red bricks. Zola froze, seeing ahead of him a weasely-looking man holding a butcher’s blade stepping into a pool of light. Selene gasped, covering her mouth. Zola’s head snapped to his right, where he saw another man step into a pool of light behind them, holding a rusty meat cleaver.

“Becalm yourself, m’lady,” whispered Zola, releasing her hand and stepping from the shadows into the light.

“Mayhaps I can help you lads with something?” he said confidently, as he turned in a circle and regarded them.

Two more men stepped from the shadows, a new one on either side carrying a wooden club.

“Coin!” hissed the man holding the knife that he jabbed forward menacingly.

“Coin and girl!” said the man with the cleaver. The others laughed darkly and inched forward.

Zola turned to the man with the cleaver. “Mayhaps I would have tossed you a pouch of coppers and silver, to send you scurrying away to your filthy taverns and your filthy wenches, without the need for blood to be spilt.” He pulled back his coat, exposing the bejewelled hilt of his cutlass. “But alas, for you, the girl will be staying with me!”

“Four us, one you!” said the man with the cleaver, chuckling.

“I’ll gladly take those odds…” said Zola grimly, his gold tooth glinting in the moonlight as he drew his bejewelled cutlass.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

REVIEW

The Age of Magic has something that I love and it is a map of the fantasy world right up front for reference. Believe me, I was referring to it quite often.

If you’re looking for a read filled with thrilling atmosphere of piracy, adventure, and danger then this book is for you. It is an enthralling swashbuckling tale that whisks readers away into a world of piracy, clandestine heists, and unexpected romances. With its vivid imagery and rich storytelling, the narrative captures the reader’s imagination from the very beginning. The pacing throughout the story is engaging, perfectly balancing high-stakes conflict with moments of levity.

This book is not all about battles and treasures; the story also delves deeper into themes of identity and longing. Zola’s encounter with Princess Aldara adds an unexpected layer to the narrative. Their electric interactions shift dynamically from hostility to a budding connection that hints at romance, showcasing the complexity of their characters. Aldara is portrayed as strong and defiant, a refreshing departure from the traditional damsel in distress. Her desire to escape her father’s oppressive rule adds depth to her character and raises compelling questions about choice and freedom.

The writing is particularly strong in its descriptive passages, painting vivid scenes that allow readers to truly visualize the world. From the opulent ballroom with its candelabras and dancing girls to the dark, shadowy corridors of the Sultan’s palace, each location feels alive. The atmosphere is almost tactile, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the tension and excitement of the story.

Despite the action-packed plot, the story also leaves room for reflective moments, particularly regarding Zola’s character development. He embodies the classic pirate archetype, yet his interactions with Aldara reveal layers of complexity that make him more relatable. This duality enhances the story, drawing readers into his journey not just as a thief but as a man navigating the tides of his own heart.

If you’re looking to be entertained, then get this book. You will definitely enjoy it.

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Tim works in digital marketing in Toronto and is well-traveled, having visited over 80 countries. When he is not working or writing, he likes to spend time with his family and German Shepherd and go cycling.

Website: https://timvee.com/

Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/author/tim-vee/id1502949338?see-all=books

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/info/name/Tim_Vee?id=11kqs8s3cc

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Tim-Vee/author/B09LWPJ9YZ

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/TimVee

X: https://x.com/_Tim_Vee_

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21960899.Tim_Vee

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

Tim Vee will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.