A review by the_midwest_library
Rise of the Ranger: (The Echoes Saga: Book 1) by Philip C. Quaintrell

adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Phil you silly sob, you really did the dang thing. And, guess what? I quite liked it!!!! 

Okay so, this is a series that imo has a lot to love, we have horny elves (Tolkien did not prepare me for that), a Nevernight x Hogwarts magical school, a brooding spicy sad boy (think Fitz mixed with Logan Nine Fingers), and a political system that is one spark away from going up in smoke. Oh, and dragons. 

The beginning of this book had me sat, I LOVED the whole front like third of this book, really nice setup and a plot that felt really unique while playing with some well known tropes. The middle was a bit slower but nothing I can't forgive and I thought the ending was really nice, setting us up for the rest of the world. 

Overall, I think this is a unique series, I can't quite decide if the series has truly found its footing yet, it's like I'm 80% of the way in the door but I just want someone to come along and yank me in so I can really get that last 20%. 

Let's see where this one takes me!