DESCRIPTION: 

A young man leaves his small village with mysterious strangers on an epic journey.

Life is simple in Ben’s village until an unexpected attack brings the arrival of exciting strangers. Before he understands what is happening, the strangers have recruited his sister to go with them on an adventure. Ben leaves with them to ensure her safety. Soon, they venture into a more dangerous world than he ever imagined. Mages, demons, thieves, and assassins are just a few of the perils they will face on an epic journey to a city shrouded in myth and legend.

As the six volume series unfolds, the stakes get higher, and much more than Ben’s life is at risk. Against the backdrop of warring political, economic, and military factions, Ben and his friends battle a threat to all of mankind. Ben’s knowledge and skill grows, but he must decide if he will live under the control of the unscrupulous leaders who rule the land, flee from them, or break them.

Packed full of action and adventure, Benjamin Ashwood is perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn, Michael J Sullivan’s Riyria, and David Estes Fatemarked.

MY REVIEW: 

I thought I picked this book up through my KU membership, but it was through Prime instead.  And it still is a Prime book. 

Like most high fantasy books, this one is a long read, so be prepared.  I really enjoyed the world that Cobble invented.  The fact a young man who taught himself how to brew ale became the focus of a grand quest.  I like Ben and his personality.  Coming from a small town, all he’s known is myths and legends about the world beyond their walls.  Now, he has a chance to see it for himself.  And it’s not what he expected.  Is it ever? 

I really enjoyed the secondary characters too. Because with a high fantasy, you know you have to have quest companions.  Even though I felt like the writing is a bit dull and dry, they were built up enough to get attached to them. 

What I didn’t like was the writing.  A lot, and I mean a lot of exposition and telling.  There were also scenes that didn’t advance the plot,  just needless words.  However, when I still had over 4 hours left in the book, I read it in one setting.  I couldn’t put it down.  Then it ended on a cliff-hander.  That’s when I found out the series isn’t in KU.  Oh NO.  I’m not sure if I’ll read book 2, though I want too. 

Do I recommend the book?  Yes, I do.  It’s perfect for people who love fantasy worlds to get lost in, companions to share a laugh or cry with, and a great plot.  I give it 4 stars.