Item: Threat
Author: Gina

Threat by Peter Gribble (The City of the Magicians #1) | $10 Gift Card Available | #BookReview #Fantasy @GoddessFish @TellwellPublishing

A book blog tour from Goddess Fish Promotions.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and Marianne & Judy at Goddess Fish for providing me with the information for this tour.

Book Details

Threat by Peter Gribble (The City of the Magicians #1) | $10 Gift Card Available | #BookReview #Fantasy @GoddessFish @TellwellPublishing

Threat by Peter Gribble
Series: The City of the Magicians Book #1
Published by Tellwell Talent on 05/17/2022
Genres: Adult Fiction 18+, Fantasy
Format: eBook, Hardcover, Paperback
Pages: 314

"A Journey Without Departure" is the traditional term for a telepathic sending. It is a talent few can perform yet this is the strategy the City of the Magicians-non-violent pacifists, without army or weapons-hopes will mitigate the barbarian invasion coming in six months.

The plan could work, but then maybe not. Sas, the young man chosen to "educate the barbarian," can only think, Me? Sendings? They've made a mistake!

Lalya, a City librarian searching for her dead lover's vanished manuscript, is ensnared by a secret society planning to collaborate with the same barbarians. Attempts to extricate herself from the blackmail, double-dealing, seduction and betrayal force her to realize her final treachery could very well destroy her.

Shoan, the Council strategist, is fully aware a shadowy opposition lurks behind the scenes but is stymied how to lure it out into the open. He should remember one of the basic axioms of tactics is, "Methodology is seldom prepared for surprises."

Both Sas and Lalya are pawns in the strategies of others... yet it only takes a pawn to change the game.

Threat, the first book in The City of the Magicians series, reveals all the preparations for a barbarian arrival, but when strategies collide, will anyone be ready? Will anyone be safe?

Source: Goddess Fish Promotions

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Excerpt from Threat

A pale blue 5—the obsolete form—was painted on a cryer pillar. “Looks like a bony hand, don’t it?” the man remarked. “D’you know its meaning, Lettered sir?”

“It’s the number 5, glyphed the old way,” said Sas. “Not used in generations.”

A young girl volunteered, “Seen it other places, too.”

“Other places?”

“The Upper Ridge so far … on house walls, no paper.”

“Barbarians,” seethed someone.

“Indeed.”

The girl asked, “Lettered sir, what does it signify?”

“Afraid I don’t know, but thank you for showing me. Unusual, isn’t it? I’ll let others know. Sorry, you’ll have to excuse me, I’m going to be late for the Temple service.” “You’re late now,” smirked the girl.

Sas grinned. “You’re right. Be well.” With a nod he resumed his walk.

He was slowed by a second 5 splashed on the east wall of Nethua House, then further on by another more rushed than the last. In the distance another blue 5, large and illegible, lured him toward the Temple.

Excerpt provided by the author/publisher for use in this post.

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Purchase Links for Threat

Threat (The City of the Magicians Book 1)

Amazon Kindle Edition
Gribble, Peter (Author)
English (Publication Language)
316 Pages - 11/17/2020 (Publication Date) - Tellwell Talent (Publisher)

Threat (The City of the Magicians)

Gribble, Peter (Author)
English (Publication Language)
314 Pages - 11/18/2020 (Publication Date) - Tellwell Talent (Publisher)

If the above link does not take you to your country’s Amazon page, please let me know, and I’ll gladly get a link for you.

Using my link does not change the price you pay. Amazon pays me a minimal amount out of their share. Every penny helps to support this blog.

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My Thoughts on Threat

While I received a digital copy of this book for a Goddess Fish Blog Tour, I believe it is well worth the price. This tale is an intriguing page-turner that will appeal to readers across genres.

“Threat” is the first book in Peter Gribble’s The City of the Magicians series, and it captivates readers from the get-go with its blend of intrigue, strategy, and vivid world-building. Set in a city of pacifist magicians facing an impending barbarian invasion, this novel ties together the fates of three compelling characters, each struggling with unique challenges and inner demons.

Sas, an unlikely hero chosen for a telepathic mission, is endearing in his self-doubt and relatable in his journey toward self-discovery. His internal monologue, questioning the wisdom of his selections, adds a layer of authenticity and vulnerability to his character.

Lalya, a determined librarian ensnared by a secret society, brings a touch of noir to the story. Her quest for her deceased lover’s manuscript pulls her into a web of blackmail and betrayal. Lalya’s struggles highlight the novel’s themes of loyalty, trust, and the cost of betrayal, making her one of the more complex and fascinating characters.

Shoan, the City’s Strategic Mastermind, embodies wisdom and foresight. His awareness of the lurking opposition adds suspense to the narrative. However, unexpected twists test his strategic prowess, underscoring the age-old saying that even the best-laid plans can go awry.

Peter Gribble’s world-building is top-notch, creating a vivid and immersive setting that feels fantastical yet somehow familiar. The City of the Magicians is brought to life with rich descriptions and a well-plotted societal structure that intrigues and engages the reader.

The plot, driven by the impending barbarian invasion and the intricate strategies to counter it, keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. Gribble balances action with introspection, ensuring that each character’s personal journey is as compelling as the overall conflict.

As some of the language is created in the author’s vivid imagination, certain readers will benefit from a bit of note-taking to keep the names, places, and events straight. I don’t consider this problematic, as I generally take notes until I become familiar with the cast and settings.

While “Threat” concludes with a satisfying ending, it leaves enough threads untied to make readers eager for the next book in the series, “Within.” The mystery, strategy, and character development blend makes this a must-read for science fiction and fantasy fans.

“Threat” is a cleverly written fantasy novel that showcases Peter Gribble’s excellent world-building skills. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy intricate plots, deep character exploration, and a blend of fantasy and science fiction elements. As soon as you turn the last page, prepare to dive into Book Two, “Within.” I doubt you will stop there. Book Three, “Quickening,” has also been released.

I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.