Book One & Two
DRUIDS OF THE FAERIE: GATHER THE CHAMPIONS
(Kindle, Paperback, Hardcover)
Lewis G. Gazoul
Published March 28, 2023
Young Baytel, overshadowed by his imperious father, King Vokat, and by his increasingly demonic twin brother, Ravek, is being tutored by a Tree Faerie, Cyr. Fueled with idealistic courage and no knowledge of the land outside his father's realm, Baytel abandons his birthright and duties and begins a journey to fulfill the destiny he senses within himself. His quest leads him to become a Citadel Druid, skilled in the healing arts and self-reliance. He devotes himself to enabling peaceful coexistence among the many sects of humanity who inhabit the One Land. All this is in grave conflict with his father's and brother's plans of conquest.
Through mysteries and battles that leave him severely at odds with his father's ideas of domination, Baytel's quest leads him to learn of his grandfather he had never met, his ancestry in a powerful sect, and a magic of the ages emerging within him. His adventures unite him with a group of men and women with particular individual skills and resourcefulness.
To bring peace requires violent counteraction, brilliant quick thinking, steadfastness, a bit of humor, and magical happenings, all enveloped in their devotion to the quest and the ripening of friendships.
Baytel's globe is breathtakingly real, in an era of castles, blacksmiths, pulsing forests and swamps, magic and spirits, self-sustaining villages, and diverse beings and creatures--a living earth with individuals of honor and evil.
Review by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Druids of the Faerie: Gather the Champions
Druids of the Faerie Books One and Two by Lewis G. Gazoul introduces readers to Prince Baytel and his contemplations about the lands beyond the Narrow, a mountain pass he has never been allowed to enter. The thought of what lies beyond fascinates him, especially as he feels restricted under his father's rule. Feeling trapped and disillusioned with his father's reign and his brother's growing obsession with dark magic, Baytel confides in his close friend, the Tree Faerie Cyr. Book Two follows Kalti, a skilled thief raised by outlaws, as he embarks on a dangerous journey to find Calidor, a legendary druid long believed to be dead. Along the way, Kalti encounters treacherous rivers, dangerous forests, and enigmatic creatures that test his courage and resourcefulness. As he seeks the aid of the River Gnome Ceön, the narrative delves into the vast diversity of sects inhabiting the One Land, each with its unique magic and secrets.
Druids of the Faerie Books One and Two excel in building tension and suspense, making it hard to put down. Lewis G. Gazoul's storytelling is masterful, and the pacing is well-balanced. The introduction of various elements, such as political intrigue, magical battles, and character development, is skillfully interwoven, resulting in a gripping and unpredictable plot. Gazoul exhibits exceptional storytelling prowess, demonstrating a keen understanding of fantasy elements and a mastery of language. The prose is evocative and poetic. With its vivid world-building, compelling characters, and engaging plot, this is a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre.
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