Jason Denzel

I never purposefully jump into a series in the middle of it because every time it’s accidentally happened, I’ve hated the book. Part of why I’ve hated them is just how obvious it is that I’ve jumped in at the middle of the story… It either feels as if I’m missing something, or every time the author mentions what happened in the previous book(s) it makes me want to throw the book I’m reading out the window.

So when, over halfway through reading Mystic Dragon, I found out it was the second book in a trilogy, I was extremely impressed by how Jason Denzel had weaved his story. I found myself dying to read the first book, but not because I felt as if I was missing something in reading the second one first – it was because I just want to read more!

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Mystic Dragon. The world(s) itself was enough to keep me interested. It’s a little crazy because there are basically two worlds – Fayün and the “normal” world. Fayün is bleeding over into the mortal world and unnatural events are happening everywhere. The Mystics must stop the worlds from merging together forever, but they have limited time to do so and they’re up against a force much more powerful than they are!

The characters are very well-developed and complicated. I loved the way all of their stories were weaved together, as if they were always heading to the moment when the fate of all the worlds would be decided.

Even at the end, when everything came together and fates were sealed I was shocked by the ending! I literally said “Well, I didn’t see that coming,” out loud.

I definitely recommend picking this one up!

I’d love to know what you think! Leave me a comment below!

THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND MACMILLAN-TOR/FORGE BOOKS FOR PROVIDING ME WITH AN ELECTRONIC COPY OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!

Full review at https://jesscombs.com… (més)

Mr. Denzel excels at world building and creating rich and well developed characters. This story is full of action, adventure and I really enjoyed the back stories he included in the plot. I felt they added depth and richness to my reading experience. About halfway through though, the flow of the story changed and it lost a bit of it's steam. For me, I felt that the potential I saw in the first part of this book did not fully carry through to the latter part.

While my favorite book in this series remains to be Mystic, I did enjoy reading Mystic Dragon. I am looking forward to reading the third installment of this series when it is released!

I received this book for free. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own. Thank you to Mr. Denzel, Tor Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.… (més)

Jason Denzel
MYSTIC
Tor Books
Fantasy / YA

Why didn't you use the Myst to save yourself?

In MYSTIC, Jason Denzel lets unfold a wonderful coming-of-age tale. On the Island Moth lives the new High Mystic, Mistress Yarina, and she will need an apprentice. Traditionally, those nominated for the position apprentice are of noble blood, and have been preparing for the role as apprentice from the time of birth.

Which is why when the Green Man appears in Oakspring, during the Springrise Feast and Toweren Celebration Pomella AnDone is shocked to hear her name. She has been chosen by the High Mystic to participate in the Trials. Winning candidate will serve as Yarina's apprentice. The shock Pomella felt is because she is a commoner.

It is made clear by those in Oakspring, if she accepts the Green Man's offer, and fails, then she will be Unclaimed for the rest of her life. Unclaimed is worse than living as a commoner. She will never wed, or have kids. She might not find an employer, or have any friends. Unclaimed is like living as a ghost no one can, or wants to see.

In Kelt Apar, where High Mystic Yarina dwells, the apprentice candidates arrive, and the trials begin immediately. The trials are not in and of themselves difficult, it is how one obtains the end result that Yarina seems most interested in witnessing. Unfortunately, there are evil forces surrounding Kelt Apar. Revenge is in the air, and the Trials of little consequence to those planning an attack.

Yarina life is suddenly in danger. The trials are forgotten. It is up to some of the candidates to work together in order to restore rescue those in danger!

Jason Denzel writes so smoothly, I was immediately pulled into the story. MYSTIC will appeal to most fantasy fans, but especially those just getting into the genre. It is simple, in a good way, with just enough magic, and creatures, and characters, and lands, to not get lost or confused. There is some romance, a splash. And there is plenty of tension, suspense, and action. I am clearly relieved knowing this is the first in a trilogy!

Phillip Tomasso
Author of the Severed Empire Series, and
The Vaccination Trilogy… (més)