In a sundered world whose dominant religion believes in reincarnation, and largely ties individuals’ intrinsic moral worth to where they were born, the protagonist Asho was given a rare opportunity to elevate himself and train to become a knight under the lord whose life his father saved. Yet many only see as far as his origin, and he himself comes soon to witness both the death of his protector and troubling revelations about the faith. Still, he is determined to support his lord’s widow and new liege to the best of his abilities.

So far feels like very solid and fairly classical Epic fantasy with a welcome fresh coat of paint (like the orcs initially present as hired shock troops in the opening battle, but then having a POV and developments back home rather than being just endless disposable mooks irretrievably in thrall to some villain). ( )

As you can see by the start date and end date--this book needed time to grow on me. I set it aside last year in August of 2020 as something about it didn't work for me at that time, but I kept it in mind to give it a second chance. I am glad I did. While I am not as enamored of the story, characters, and writing as I might be of others, there are good points, fantastic lore, and an interesting history/magic/plot that finally took root.

I have begun the second book and look forward to seeing how the story unfolds, improves, changes, and so on. Sometimes a book, whether it works or not or you like it or not, is a deeply personal thing dependant on mood, health, mindset, and what is going on in your life. I am glad that I did not dismiss this book (no offense to Phil) entirely and gave it another chance.

I would not chuck it into the Black Gate just yet. Give it some time. I recommend it for those that love fantasy epics with deep magic and history. ( )

The Path of Flames
By: Phil Tucker
Narrated by: Noah Michael Levine
Series: Chronicles of the Black Gate, Book 1
This is a great fantasy with wonderful characters, both good and bad. The world building was fantastic! If you like evil kings, knights, sorcery, magic gates, revenge, and demons then this is just a taste of what is in here!
The narration was spot on with the voices! ( )

The Path of Flames by by Phil Tucker is the first installment in The Chronicles of the Black Gate Series. Sorcery is forbidden in the Ascendant Empire, but sorcery is used against the empire to close the ancient portals. Asho is a slave made squire by King Kyferin. Can Asho become more than a squire, or is he doomed to die on the field of battle?

Plot 5/5: Excellent plot with action and suspense.

Characters 5/5: Well fleshed out characters to love and some to hate.

World building 5/5: Great world building.

Pacing 5/5: Lots of action with a steady pace.

Writing 4/5: The writing was good, but at one point the main character's name was spelled wrong.

Overall 4.8

This book is a great start to an intriguing story.

Purchased on Amazon. ( )