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Ira Perkins's Reviews > The Forgetting Moon
The Forgetting Moon (The Five Warrior Angels, #1)
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I am sitting here stunned! First by how truly brilliant this book is. And second by how few ratings this book has. How is this book not hyped more?
This book stands shoulder to shoulder with High Fantasy epics by the likes of Brandon Sanderson, Joe Abercrombie, Steven Erikson and George "freaken" R.R. Martin. Indeed, if those four had a literary brainchild, I think you'd be somewhere in the ballpark of where this amazing book lands! This dark, gritty, and intricate tale embodies the essence of epic fantasy, while presenting an innovative spin with its focus on dueling religious ideologies. Let me tell you, it is books like this that S-Tier is made for!
Once you've had time to let that sink in, allow me to inform (or remind) you that this is Brian Lee Durfee's DEBUT(!!) novel (*cue mouth hanging open*), AND that according to most readers the second and third book in this series are apparently better?! (*cue brain exploding*)
Again (and I'm literally shaking my head as I write this), how does this book have under 2000 ratings?!?!
Let me be straight with you. If you're a fan of authors like Erikson, G.R.R.M, Brando Sando, or Abercrombie, then I wholeheartedly believe that your best move right now is to grab a copy of this book and dive in. I won't take it personally if you set my review aside for the time being, because this book is worth every second of your attention. It'll be right here when you return, and trust me, it's well worth the interruption.
‘“IN THIS EMBATTLED WORLD, MAN HELD FAITH IN INVISIBLE FORCES AND HOSTILE SPIRITS, OFTIMES DOING THE BIDDING OF THE WRAITHS THAT FED IN HIS SOUL. TO APPEASE THE WINGED DEMONS WHO RULED WITH FIERY DEATH, MAN ERECTED ALTARS OF SACRIFICE. IT WAS A TIME OF SELECTIVE LOYALTIES, A TIME OF GREAT BETRAYAL. A TIME OF CELESTIAL DIVINATIONS THAT ONE HOLY AND PURE AND STRONG OF MIND WOULD BE BORN BY THE SEA, BLESSED WITH THE MARK OF THE CROSS.”—THE MOON SCROLLS OF MIA.’�
Credit: Federico Musetti
Plot Summary
The story weaves an intricate web of complex narratives, brimming with political intrigue, religious conflict, and personal transformation. It centers around the Five Isles, a land torn apart by a war of faith and power, led by the ambitious prince of Sør Sevier, Aeros Raijael. Raijael, armed with a new religion and a fanatical army, seeks to subjugate the believers of the ancient Laijons faith, plunging the islands into chaos and suffering.
Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, we follow the stories of several key characters, each with their distinct narrative threads that gradually intertwine to form a grand tapestry. The orphan boy, Nail, who is the secret hope of salvation; Jovan, the king consumed by delusions; his sisters Jondralyn and Tala, who grapple with their brother's despotic rule; all of these characters are skillfully woven into the overarching plot.
World Building: 5/5
Durfee's world-building skill is exceptional, creating an immersive universe reminiscent of timeless classics like Lord of the Rings or the Osten Ard series. The Five Isles, populated by humans, dwarves, orc-like Oghuls, and the graceful Vallé, is a world teeming with life, culture, and history. Each island has its distinct identity, enriched by its inhabitants, customs, and geography.
But Durfee's world-building isn't restricted to the physical landscape alone. Indeed, it's really how he delves deep into the social and political structures of this world that sets his book apart. Intricately detailing their religious beliefs, historical conflicts, and racial tensions. Each island has its own set of traditions and customs, with societal hierarchies and religious doctrines that shape the lives of the inhabitants in profound ways.
Moreover, Durfee doesn't shy away from painting this world with dark, gritty shades, much like Joe Abercrombie's grimdark fantasy realms. Life here is far from idyllic, with the shadow of war looming large and a harsh survival-of-the-fittest mentality governing the actions of the characters. The elements of magic and prophecy, the mythical creatures, the ancient ruins hinting at forgotten civilizations - all contribute to the grandeur and intrigue of this fascinating world. It's an intricate tapestry of fantasy and reality, woven together with threads of skillful storytelling and a vivid imagination.
“In life, as in war, more is lost when hope dies, than by a cold steel and slaughter. —�
Plot: 5/5
The Forgetting Moon, much like Steven Erikson's Malazan series, demands patience and attention from its readers. It begins with a sense of mystery and confusion, withholding key information only to be revealed gradually as the story unfolds. It's a narrative strategy that might be challenging for some but offers a rewarding sense of discovery and immersion for those who persevere.
Overall the plot stands out for its intricate exploration of the clash of faiths, the machinations of power, and the toll of war. It dives deep into religious prophecy, playing with the idea of predestination and free will. Again, it reminds me a bit of the philosophical questions posed in Steven Erikson's "Malazan Book of the Fallen," provoking thought about fate, free will, and everything in between. All the while, I was on the edge of my seat, wondering if the prophecy would come to pass.
However, the plot isn't all grand schemes and epic battles. Durfee takes time to delve into the personal struggles and growth of his characters, lending a sense of authenticity and depth to the story. Nail's journey from an overlooked orphan to a pivotal figure in the fate of the Five Isles is particularly compelling, filled with trials, tribulations, and unexpected twists.
Despite its complexity, the plot is carefully structured, ensuring a coherent and engaging narrative flow. Durfee skillfully manages the pacing, balancing quieter moments of character development with high-tension sequences of action and revelation. Every plot point, every twist feels deliberate, culminating in a narrative that is as satisfying as it is thought-provoking.
“Trust is fleeting, while betrayal is timeless. Alas, life is crowded with lies. So be bloody, be brave, be happy. For at the end of every tale, nobody is who they seem to be. . . . —�
Characterisation: 5/5
Now, if there's one thing that really strikes a chord with me in Durfee's work, it's the characters. I mean, these folks are living, breathing, multi-dimensional beings that have leapt off the page and into my imagination. Durfee's characters aren't just black and white, good and evil. No, they're painted in every shade of grey, complex and unique, each with their own rich backstories and intricate motivations.
Take Nail, our orphan turned chosen one. He's not just a pawn in a prophecy, he's a real boy experiencing the world, wrestling with his identity, dealing with a myriad of emotions, growing, changing and becoming. He's a blend of innocence and grit that truly resonates. Then there's Jondralyn and Tala, the royal sisters, each distinctly compelling. Durfee masterfully explores their relationships with their mad king brother, their struggles for power and identity, their fears and hopes, all against the backdrop of a kingdom teetering on the brink of war. They're not just royal figures but women who show strength, vulnerability, and resilience in equal measure.
And let's not forget the antagonist, Prince Aeros Raijael. He's not your typical fantasy villain. He's a zealot, a man driven by his religious beliefs to the point of obsession. He's charismatic yet terrifying, a blend that keeps you on edge.
“Face all challenges. Never run away from them. Especially if you are in the right.�
Writing Style: 5/5
Brian Lee Durfee's writing style in "The Forgetting Moon" is a symphony of words that strikes the perfect balance between rich, immersive descriptions and heart-pounding action. His prose captivates you, pulling you deep into a world that feels tangible and real, with a strong emotional core. Each page is a feast for the senses, as he weaves a tapestry of characters, settings, and events that are both detailed and vivid. But it's his ability to connect readers to his characters through raw, honest portrayals of emotion that truly sets his writing apart. In essence, Durfee's writing is not just about telling a story, but about taking the reader on a beautifully crafted, memorable journey.
Enjoyment: 4.5/5
I loved this book! I cannot wait to read the rest of the series! I guess my only complaint is maybe that it fell into the (unavoidable) "first book in a series" trap of having to set the scene for later books to come - meaning there was probably less action than I desired.... But then I don't have to wait for the second book to come out, so who am I kidding!
Final Rating: 4.9/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕
My favourite books of 2023 in preferential order
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕:
1. The Shadow of the Gods - (My Review)
2. The Lies of Locke Lamora
3. The Forgetting Moon - (My Review)
4. The Justice of Kings - (My Review)
5. Kings of the Wyld - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗:
6. Red Seas Under Red Skies - (My Review)
7. The Escape Artist: The Man Who Broke Out of Auschwitz to Warn the World
8. Empire of the Vampire - (My Review)
9. Assassin's Apprentice - (My Review)
10. Golden Son
🌕🌕🌕🌕д:
11. Leviathan Wakes - (My Review)
12. The Winter King - (My Review)
13. Gardens of the Moon - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌗д:
14. Deadhouse Gates - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕дд:
15. The Song of Achilles - (My Review)
16. Red Sister - (My Review)
🌕🌕ддд:
17. Babel: An Arcane History - (My Review)
This book stands shoulder to shoulder with High Fantasy epics by the likes of Brandon Sanderson, Joe Abercrombie, Steven Erikson and George "freaken" R.R. Martin. Indeed, if those four had a literary brainchild, I think you'd be somewhere in the ballpark of where this amazing book lands! This dark, gritty, and intricate tale embodies the essence of epic fantasy, while presenting an innovative spin with its focus on dueling religious ideologies. Let me tell you, it is books like this that S-Tier is made for!
Once you've had time to let that sink in, allow me to inform (or remind) you that this is Brian Lee Durfee's DEBUT(!!) novel (*cue mouth hanging open*), AND that according to most readers the second and third book in this series are apparently better?! (*cue brain exploding*)
Again (and I'm literally shaking my head as I write this), how does this book have under 2000 ratings?!?!
Let me be straight with you. If you're a fan of authors like Erikson, G.R.R.M, Brando Sando, or Abercrombie, then I wholeheartedly believe that your best move right now is to grab a copy of this book and dive in. I won't take it personally if you set my review aside for the time being, because this book is worth every second of your attention. It'll be right here when you return, and trust me, it's well worth the interruption.
‘“IN THIS EMBATTLED WORLD, MAN HELD FAITH IN INVISIBLE FORCES AND HOSTILE SPIRITS, OFTIMES DOING THE BIDDING OF THE WRAITHS THAT FED IN HIS SOUL. TO APPEASE THE WINGED DEMONS WHO RULED WITH FIERY DEATH, MAN ERECTED ALTARS OF SACRIFICE. IT WAS A TIME OF SELECTIVE LOYALTIES, A TIME OF GREAT BETRAYAL. A TIME OF CELESTIAL DIVINATIONS THAT ONE HOLY AND PURE AND STRONG OF MIND WOULD BE BORN BY THE SEA, BLESSED WITH THE MARK OF THE CROSS.”—THE MOON SCROLLS OF MIA.’�
Credit: Federico Musetti
Plot Summary
The story weaves an intricate web of complex narratives, brimming with political intrigue, religious conflict, and personal transformation. It centers around the Five Isles, a land torn apart by a war of faith and power, led by the ambitious prince of Sør Sevier, Aeros Raijael. Raijael, armed with a new religion and a fanatical army, seeks to subjugate the believers of the ancient Laijons faith, plunging the islands into chaos and suffering.
Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, we follow the stories of several key characters, each with their distinct narrative threads that gradually intertwine to form a grand tapestry. The orphan boy, Nail, who is the secret hope of salvation; Jovan, the king consumed by delusions; his sisters Jondralyn and Tala, who grapple with their brother's despotic rule; all of these characters are skillfully woven into the overarching plot.
World Building: 5/5
Durfee's world-building skill is exceptional, creating an immersive universe reminiscent of timeless classics like Lord of the Rings or the Osten Ard series. The Five Isles, populated by humans, dwarves, orc-like Oghuls, and the graceful Vallé, is a world teeming with life, culture, and history. Each island has its distinct identity, enriched by its inhabitants, customs, and geography.
But Durfee's world-building isn't restricted to the physical landscape alone. Indeed, it's really how he delves deep into the social and political structures of this world that sets his book apart. Intricately detailing their religious beliefs, historical conflicts, and racial tensions. Each island has its own set of traditions and customs, with societal hierarchies and religious doctrines that shape the lives of the inhabitants in profound ways.
Moreover, Durfee doesn't shy away from painting this world with dark, gritty shades, much like Joe Abercrombie's grimdark fantasy realms. Life here is far from idyllic, with the shadow of war looming large and a harsh survival-of-the-fittest mentality governing the actions of the characters. The elements of magic and prophecy, the mythical creatures, the ancient ruins hinting at forgotten civilizations - all contribute to the grandeur and intrigue of this fascinating world. It's an intricate tapestry of fantasy and reality, woven together with threads of skillful storytelling and a vivid imagination.
“In life, as in war, more is lost when hope dies, than by a cold steel and slaughter. —�
Plot: 5/5
The Forgetting Moon, much like Steven Erikson's Malazan series, demands patience and attention from its readers. It begins with a sense of mystery and confusion, withholding key information only to be revealed gradually as the story unfolds. It's a narrative strategy that might be challenging for some but offers a rewarding sense of discovery and immersion for those who persevere.
Overall the plot stands out for its intricate exploration of the clash of faiths, the machinations of power, and the toll of war. It dives deep into religious prophecy, playing with the idea of predestination and free will. Again, it reminds me a bit of the philosophical questions posed in Steven Erikson's "Malazan Book of the Fallen," provoking thought about fate, free will, and everything in between. All the while, I was on the edge of my seat, wondering if the prophecy would come to pass.
However, the plot isn't all grand schemes and epic battles. Durfee takes time to delve into the personal struggles and growth of his characters, lending a sense of authenticity and depth to the story. Nail's journey from an overlooked orphan to a pivotal figure in the fate of the Five Isles is particularly compelling, filled with trials, tribulations, and unexpected twists.
Despite its complexity, the plot is carefully structured, ensuring a coherent and engaging narrative flow. Durfee skillfully manages the pacing, balancing quieter moments of character development with high-tension sequences of action and revelation. Every plot point, every twist feels deliberate, culminating in a narrative that is as satisfying as it is thought-provoking.
“Trust is fleeting, while betrayal is timeless. Alas, life is crowded with lies. So be bloody, be brave, be happy. For at the end of every tale, nobody is who they seem to be. . . . —�
Characterisation: 5/5
Now, if there's one thing that really strikes a chord with me in Durfee's work, it's the characters. I mean, these folks are living, breathing, multi-dimensional beings that have leapt off the page and into my imagination. Durfee's characters aren't just black and white, good and evil. No, they're painted in every shade of grey, complex and unique, each with their own rich backstories and intricate motivations.
Take Nail, our orphan turned chosen one. He's not just a pawn in a prophecy, he's a real boy experiencing the world, wrestling with his identity, dealing with a myriad of emotions, growing, changing and becoming. He's a blend of innocence and grit that truly resonates. Then there's Jondralyn and Tala, the royal sisters, each distinctly compelling. Durfee masterfully explores their relationships with their mad king brother, their struggles for power and identity, their fears and hopes, all against the backdrop of a kingdom teetering on the brink of war. They're not just royal figures but women who show strength, vulnerability, and resilience in equal measure.
And let's not forget the antagonist, Prince Aeros Raijael. He's not your typical fantasy villain. He's a zealot, a man driven by his religious beliefs to the point of obsession. He's charismatic yet terrifying, a blend that keeps you on edge.
“Face all challenges. Never run away from them. Especially if you are in the right.�
Writing Style: 5/5
Brian Lee Durfee's writing style in "The Forgetting Moon" is a symphony of words that strikes the perfect balance between rich, immersive descriptions and heart-pounding action. His prose captivates you, pulling you deep into a world that feels tangible and real, with a strong emotional core. Each page is a feast for the senses, as he weaves a tapestry of characters, settings, and events that are both detailed and vivid. But it's his ability to connect readers to his characters through raw, honest portrayals of emotion that truly sets his writing apart. In essence, Durfee's writing is not just about telling a story, but about taking the reader on a beautifully crafted, memorable journey.
Enjoyment: 4.5/5
I loved this book! I cannot wait to read the rest of the series! I guess my only complaint is maybe that it fell into the (unavoidable) "first book in a series" trap of having to set the scene for later books to come - meaning there was probably less action than I desired.... But then I don't have to wait for the second book to come out, so who am I kidding!
Final Rating: 4.9/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕
My favourite books of 2023 in preferential order
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕:
1. The Shadow of the Gods - (My Review)
2. The Lies of Locke Lamora
3. The Forgetting Moon - (My Review)
4. The Justice of Kings - (My Review)
5. Kings of the Wyld - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗:
6. Red Seas Under Red Skies - (My Review)
7. The Escape Artist: The Man Who Broke Out of Auschwitz to Warn the World
8. Empire of the Vampire - (My Review)
9. Assassin's Apprentice - (My Review)
10. Golden Son
🌕🌕🌕🌕д:
11. Leviathan Wakes - (My Review)
12. The Winter King - (My Review)
13. Gardens of the Moon - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌗д:
14. Deadhouse Gates - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕дд:
15. The Song of Achilles - (My Review)
16. Red Sister - (My Review)
🌕🌕ддд:
17. Babel: An Arcane History - (My Review)
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Chung
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May 08, 2023 05:59PM
curious if this is worth reading or not
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Chung wrote: "curious if this is worth reading or not"Mate. It absolutely is!
Fantastic review!! Sounds like I need to move this series higher up my TBR 🤩
My top book of last year. It’s pretty amazing. 😁
This is a Great Review. I finished the series this year and it is amazing.
This has been on my book shelf/TBR for ages. I’m gonna bump this up the priority list to read this year!! Great review !!
Karin (book_scent) wrote: "Fantastic review!! Sounds like I need to move this series higher up my TBR 🤩"Thanks for the kind words Karin! Feel free to put it in first place :P
Allison wrote: "My top book of last year. It’s pretty amazing. 😁"Amazing indeed! Did you enjoy the next books in the series as well? (asking for a friend)
Ryan wrote: "This is a Great Review. I finished the series this year and it is amazing."Awesome! I love it when I love a first book in the series and then the series gets better as you go! Did you enjoy the next two books more or less than the first do you think?
Philip wrote: "This has been on my book shelf/TBR for ages. I’m gonna bump this up the priority list to read this year!! Great review !!"Mate! Do it! You (hopefully) won't regret it!
I feel like I need to read this now! Was going to read Red Rising next but might bump this forward!!
Steff Mother of Sphynx wrote: "I feel like I need to read this now! Was going to read Red Rising next but might bump this forward!!"Tough quandary to be in - because Red Rising series is also excellent imo. Although if I'm comparing both series to Brandon Sanderson, Red Rising equates more to Mistborn (bit more young adulty), whereas Five Warrior Angels equates to Stormlight Archive (Epic High Fantasy).... Hope that helps in your decision :)
looking forward to binging this trilogy later this year.
