Synopsis
Debut author Jason Clark presents an exciting new genre-bending sci-fi/fantasy story set in a brutal future world, where swords settle disputes and those who can control the elements are the most feared warriors. Get ready for a fantastic escape from reality.
When Darius receives an invitation to attend the Training Grounds, he wonders why an insignificant farm boy would be asked to join the most elite training academy in Merchant Valley. The only thing special about him is that he has unsettling visions he can’t understand. Despite the unknown, he accepts this privilege, and with his best friend, they set out on this new adventure. While there, they quickly form alliances with a skilled archer, a talented blacksmith, and a powerful wielder of the elements.
Together, this new band of friends will learn that not all is as it seems at this new school. In fact, secret plots abound. It makes them question everything and everyone, including the head of the school, Dean Anders. Now it’s up to this adventurous group to uncover the truth about their world and find out the meaning of Darius’s vision. Visions that include a weapon known as the reaper that carries with it apocalyptic repercussions. But between classes, finding love, and training, will he and his friends be able to discover the truth before it’s too late?
Review
The author offered me an audible code to give this a listen, and I’m so glad he did. The narration by Jamie Treselyan was fantastic work. This is a reposted review from me, but I really want to see other people talking about this one!
This book is honestly a wild ride. It’s long, but it doesn’t end up feeling long enough. It starts in a somewhat grounded fantasy world. There is magic, but it comes with the landscape of the world. Then however, it turns into a full on science fiction / fantasy mix as the mystery opens up. I won’t spoil anything, but it does end up coming together and making sense.
Darius, a boy with visions and unbelievable strength, receives an invite to the Training Grounds. It is a prestigious school, so he isn’t sure why he’s been accepted, but he agrees to go. With that comes the general growing pains of new places, new faces, and learning new things. In my opinion, these are some of the most unique classes and school backdrop since the Boy Who Lived. Each class gives background on the world, as well as helping us to understand that the students are progressing, and I didn’t feel bored for a single minute.
The school does feature a tournament that feels very Triwizard Tournament meets The Hunger Games, as unexpected deaths are almost expected as kids battle for the cash prize. This did feel a little underwhelming to me, as it got a bit washed out by everything else going on, but it was cool to see the kids compete. Also it wasn’t the climax, so it ended up holding its own.
The novel comes to a pinnacle with the most scifi/fantasy blend for one hell of a climax. I do wish it had a less cliffhanger ending, but it did make me want even more!
Check this out and then talk to me about it!! And there’s a sequel!!
I absolutely love the series. His third book is now out. I just ordered it should be here on Tuesday. Supposed to be the best of all the three of them it’s called. “Training grounds Anarchy. “I can’t wait to read it.