Prince Kristian's Honor Reviews

I have read Prince Kristian's Honor through twice now. By far my favorite thread is Cairn. Tod does a great job of translating his military experience into the book. The reader can definitely draw the parallels between Erinia and our world that Tod is aiming for, and I appreciate the metaphors. There are several scenes (I promise no spoilers here) that I was absolutely not prepared for, and I've read a LOT of fantasy/science fiction. When they happened, it blew me away.

There is a bit of constructive criticism that I would offer in this review, and I've already spoke with Tod about these. Ferral comes across a little cliche. I hope to see in the next book a bit more depth to him, a drive that is more than simple power. I would like to see an idealism backing that lust for power that reflects the real world person he represents. I detest Kristian, but I think that was the point. His best scenes are with Allisia and I look forward to him maturing as a man and a character.

The suspense built with Mikhal Jurander's character and his subplot is good. Mikhal also has the greatest internal conflict. He is a highly talented junior officer in the most decorated unit of the military, but Kristian quickly rubs him raw and makes him doubt the idea unquestioning obedience to those in authority, especially when he knows that the one in authority (Kristian) is a fool. I have to wonder how that reflects the real world and if Tod sees himself or perhaps one of his military buddies in Mikhal. Next to Cairn, Mikhal is the most interesting character thread, and I believe the more human of the two. It will be a challenge to see if Kristian can grow to be like Mikhal, even as the young lieutenant also matures.

Ernie Laurence, Jr.
Hero's Guild Publications

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heros-Guild-Publications/425078263568

Reading Prince Kristian's Honor was the first book of the fantasy genre that I have read. The pace of the story kept me continuously engaged and made it difficult to put the book down. I thought the development of the characters, particularly Kristian, Mikhal and Ferral was very good. I assumed they would grow but not in the direction that each of them did. The mysterious Cairn was very interesting and I always found myself wondering about his past, Tod gives you bits and pieces of his past but I still want to know more about him. The story telling and descriptions of every scene made it easy for me to visualize what was happening. I'm looking forward to the second book to see what happens to each character, as well as to the kingdoms of Belarn, Duellr & Erinia.
~ M.B. Bosch, Chicago, IL

Every time I see "Prince Kristian's Honor" on my shelf I find myself anticipating the second release in this saga. The entire story replays in my mind each time and I can't help but wonder what the next chapter holds in store for these endearing characters. I never realized the enjoyment one could get from drifting into a fantastical world where each turn brings a new element of adventure, danger, and passion. Tod, your book has an excellent balance between love and hate - regret and hope - good and evil. Please get the second book to print. I can't wait!! Doug, Indiana

Prince Kristian, soon to be ruler of Erand, has been sent on a mission. Rumors have been circulating that Erand's ancient enemy, Belarn, is preparing to go to war and try to conquer the kingdom. Kristian has been sent to Duellr, where he is to propose to the princess Allisia, and cement a relationship between the two countries so that they can oppose Belarn.

Kristian is a young, spoiled man, unloved by his country due to his superior attitude and determination to have his own way regardless of the merit of his plans. He is furious at having to propose to please his father, the King, and be used as a pawn in the country's future plans. When he actually meets Allisia, though, he is instantly charmed and pleased at her beauty. He proposes and is disconcerted to realise that she is no happier about the marriage than he is. But as they talk, they begin to form a relationship, and Kristian starts to realise that he has a long way to go in terms of likeability and interactions with others.

Then tragedy strikes. In Belarn, the mad prince, Ferral, has used his unholy knowledge of the dark arts to kill his father and take the throne. He undergoes a ceremony that brings a demon-woman to life, and sends her to Duellr. The demon appears in court, kills the Duellrian king in front of Allisia and Kristian and then kidnaps Allisia, taking her back to Belarn where she is under Ferral's control.

Pandemonium erupts in Duellr. Kristian realises that it is time for him to grow up and take leadership, whether he is ready or not. He rallies his guard and the Duellrian army, and they start for Belarn to defeat Ferral and rescue Allisia, leaving word for his country to raise an army and come to their support.

Still headstrong and unpracticed in military matters and leadership, the war does not go well. Kristian makes decisions against the advice of his military staff, and along with the evil magic of Ferral, these decisions lead to a massacre of the troops. Reeling from the disaster, Kristian and two of his military staff flee, the only survivors. Can Kristian grow up and take control as he is destined to do? Will he be able to rescue Allisia from Ferral's control before she is killed?

A new voice in fantasy, Tod Langley has created an exciting new world. Krisitian is not the typical hero. He is vain and stubborn, detested by the men he needs to lead. The other characters are skillfully drawn, and the plot is engrossing. Prince Kristian's Honor is labled Book One of The Erinia Saga. Readers will be well advised to wait for the rest of the series to see if Kristian can become the ruler and man that he needs to be. This book is recommended for fantasy lovers.

As a new reader to the fantasy genre, I found this book entertaining and a compelling read. I have an extensive professional library that has been suffering from neglect since I started reading the likes of Feist and Tolkien. It is obvious the author has some expertise in force on force ground tactics involving infantry and cavalry. Even more catching is the inner conflicts many of the characters suffer from as they struggle to meet expectations, find fulfillment, and act upon their strong emotions. Knowing from the title that I wasn't going to enjoy a nice tidy self contained story in fewer than three hundred pages (I have tried to stay away from story lines that are unfinished), I found this was very much worth the read. I am looking forward to reading what the future holds for Prince Kristian and his cast of would be heroes, who will need to rise to the challenges presented in this volume to right the wrongs their kingdoms have endured and triumph over their profoundly dastard nemesis. The most intriguing part is I have no idea what to expect as the author has taught me to understand his cast of characters is anything but predictable. If you are looking for something new, I highly recommend giving this book the short amount of time it will take you to get through it.
~ Leon, Chicago, IL

Prince Kristian's honor is the first book from author Tod Langley and the first in his Erinia saga of novels which introduce the reader to a fantasy land of rival Kingships, war, ancient religion, dark magic, love, and revenge. The first in the series, Prince Kristian's honour centres on the eponymous reluctant prince, who finds himself a political pawn when he is betrothed to Allisia, princess of a rival province. But what initially feels like a huge sacrifice to appease the ambitions of his father, and King, becomes something wholly unexpected when the pair finally meet and begin to form a close bond. But as things finally look like they are going right for the downtrodden and introspective young prince, the throne of Bellarn is murderously taken by a despotic son, Ferral. Now with the political leverage to legitimise the re-introduction of a religion steeped in dark magic and demonic worship, Ferral begins abusing his sorcerous powers to bring forth a demon and set about waging war on the land. In the ensuing chaos, towns and villages are decimated, Kingdoms fall, and Allisia is kidnapped by the demonic power that Ferral has unleashed.

Unexpectedly thrust into leadership with his army in disarray, and his soon to be wife incarcerated in the dark towers of Bellarn, Kristian must attempt to escape the ghosts of his past to become something more than he could ever believe. Aided by veteran cavalier Mikhal, the young and inexperienced Garis, and crossing paths with the mysterious Cairn, they will all soon face their own demons in a bid to save the land from an evil on the brink of spiralling out of control.

Prince Kristian's honor is a great first novel in what is a highly ambitious series of books for a new author. It's very professionally edited, well paced, full of distinct characters and nicely structured interweaving sub-plots. It's not without it's minor faults but this is inevitable for a first time writer, and such infrequent shortcomings are easy to overlook when an author writes with the passion and belief that Tod demonstrates. Also bear in mind that this is part one of a much larger story, and it definitely helps to approach it as such. The characters, themes, plots and relationships that Tod has crafted for the Erinia saga begin to take shape and develop in Prince Kristian's honor, and the highest compliment I can pay him is that you will reach the end and immediately want more.

In a current market saturated with high fantasy, urban fantasy, vampires and werewolves, it was really nice to read an evocative, grounded character based fantasy novel with some very relatable themes. I wish Tod every success with the future of the saga, I look forward to the next installment, and I know that with such a strong opening novel that he will go from strength to strength.
~Longshot75, Woking, Surrey United Kingdom

The characters are written with enough depth that you want to know more about them--especially with Cairn, who appears infrequently, but whom I found to be the most sympathetic and interesting. The plot is fairly consistent for the genre, but differs in ways that make the story entertaining and suspenseful. Dialogue is realistic and believable. On the downside, there are consistent editing errors throughout, all of them homonyms ("reigns" instead of "reins", "fair" instead of "fare", "thrown" instead of "throne") that can be a bit distracting for one who notices such things.

I would definitely buy Book Two to see how this story continues/ends.
~ Kevin F, Maryland

Prince Kristian's honor is a great first novel in what is a highly ambitious series of books for a new author. It's very professionally edited, well paced, full of distinct characters and nicely structured interweaving sub-plots. Tod's clearly carefully crafted characters, themes, stories and relationships and the highest compliment I can pay him is that this first book immediately leaves you wanting more. I am genuinely really looking forward to part two. In a current market saturated with high fantasy, urban fantasy, vampires and werewolves, it was really nice to read an evocative, grounded character based fantasy novel with some very relatable themes.

I wish Tod every success with the future of the saga, I know that with such a strong first novel that demonstrates a raw natural flair for his craft, that he will go from strength to strength!

The ability to weave relevant personal experiences into a writing style and message is difficult to do and even harder for readers to fully appreciate. Kristian, being who he is, takes life's lessons and war and blends them into a feeling of current events. Historical fantasy, a scary bit of horror, and the endless quest for answers make this debut novel a fun and insightful read. Do yourself a favor and get in early.
~Lawrence K, Indiana

I picked up Prince Kristian's Honor with some reluctance. I've had no interest in the genre so going in I did not expect to be entertained. A friend's recommendation and the need for a change of scenery are the only reasons Book One made it to the top of my read pile.

In spite of this deficit, Langley delivered a knock-out. I was surprised to find myself genuinely engaged. The suspense is real. A customary fight between good and evil brings you in, but the Saga keeps you from setting it down. The author's passion for storytelling is obvious on every page. And as the uninitiated, I especially appreciated the thoughtful complexity and care for relatable characters. I'm hesitant to claim total conversion just yet, but I can guarantee I will be in line for Book Two.
~ Matt M, Maryland

Prince Kristian's Honor by Tod Langley is a refreshingly new addition to the Fantasy genre. It breaks the mold of the Tolkien archetype by presenting a character born into a hero's role who has yet to define himself as a hero. The main character is trying to prove himself and this is what makes the story so interesting. The struggle of the main character is combined with vivid descriptive narratives of battlefield scenes and at times the story crosses over into horror. Very reminiscent of Stephen King's the Tower in that it uses elements of Fantasy and Horror in a seamless combination. The author is very skilled at building tension which leads to a real page turner. In fact, the first several pages are nothing but a build up to a satisfying climatic conclusion. The slow revelation of the characters' pasts keeps the reader interested in finding out who these individuals really are. An exciting new work for fantasy and horror fans.
~ Matt W, Virginia

Prince Kristian's Honor, by Tod Langley, follows the journey of an unlikely hero to find what honor truly is. Spoiled and selfish, he sets off on this journey caring only for himself and sacrificing those around him for his own gains. But then he meets Allisia ... he fights death, demons, and himself to survive in a land transformed into Hell by an evil and power-hungry King Ferral.

Tod's debut novel is a fast paced, twisting and twisted journey through a land of enchantment, magic, and darkness. I enjoyed reading this and would recommend it for anyone who enjoys reading epic fantasy. His characters are real, you hate King Ferral and Rebenna so much that you love them, and cheer the heroes until the very end.

Definitely give this new author a read, I only see this series and this author getting better. I look forward to the next chapter in The Erinia Saga.
~ Renee, Canada

I love fantasy books and this one is a great new find. The characters are complex and personal. I found myself needing to know what happened to my favorite ones. The supporting characters, as well as the main ones, came alive in this book. I really got to know these characters. At the end of the book, I wondered when this new author would put out his next installment. The story line is riveting and kept me reading well into the night. I finished it in record time. Can't wait for the next one.
~ Barbara H, Crofton, MD

From the moment that I read the first chapter, I couldn't put the book down. It was always just one more page, one more chapter. I can't wait for the next book in this series. The author's character development is spot on and the way they interact with each other and the situations they are involved in shows that the author knows what he is doing. I am a huge fan of Tom Clancy, Clive Cusslar, Dan Brown and now... Tod Langley.

Even though this is a Fantasy novel, you can identify current political events in the real world. The battles have real strategic methods and it is obvious that the author knows and understands tactics, political issues and human nature. The way that Prince Kristian slowly learns about himself and struggles to overcome his shortcomings keeps you rivited throughout the entire book.

I can imagine this story turning into a great RPG game or a First Person Shooter Game also. Everyone needs to watch this author, I am sure that he will be publishing more great books in the future and I would recommend him to all of my friends.
~ Kip B, Indiana

I like a book to get my attention right off the bat, and "Prince Kristian's Honor" did. It was easy to get involved with the characters, and feel their fears and frustrations. I was surprised when I get to the last page...I wasn't ready for it to end. I will be looking for book II.
~ Shirley J, Indiana

I really enjoyed reading Prince Kristian's Honor. I'm a murder mystery/serial killer book reader. I normally don't read magical/fantasy books.
 
This book, however, got my attention immediately. If you've ever been in a supervisory role you can understand and sympathize with Kristian as he learns that leadership isn't just about ordering people around without considering the consequences. He could certainly learn a lot from his lieutenant, Mikhal.

It was interesting to see how the different characters introduced in the beginning of the book come together and how the relationships develop. Possibly even a love story or two? Tod threw everything at us from monsters to sorcerers to a truly evil Prince. There were battles, battle strategy, stupid mistakes and egos. The book moves at a fast pace - if your looking for a place to stop and put it down.........you won't find it.

I am anxiously awaiting the second book to continue the Saga. Well done Mr. Langley.
~Janet L, Indiana

I  just finished Prince Kristian's Honor this weekend. I don't think there was anytime while reading that I thought "Oh. Well, he is only a first time author." In fact, I was quite impressed with his writting. I highly recomend giving this book a try. If you like fantasy, I think you will enjoy this. Fantasy is not usually on the top of my list, but this was an enjoyable read and I look forward to seeing what happens next in the story.
~ Scott C, Indiana

Prince Kristian's Honor is a book that once you read the first chapter, you won't be able to put it down until you finish it. The author's character development is right on and their intereaction with each other flows very nicely. I am a big fan of authors like Clancy, Cussler, and Brown and now Langley also. Even though this is a fantasy tale, I can identify with real current events throughout the entire book just like a Tom Clancy novel. Not only am I waiting for the next novel in this story, but I can already invision the RPG video game that would support this story line. I would and have already recommended this book to my friends.---Kip B Indiana

This book has a good story line with an enjoyable mixture of romance, war, good and evil. It moved along making me want more. I enjoyed it very much. I love to read series books and I am looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend this book.
~ K.K. Wilson

Engrossing from Beginning to End!
Prince Kristian's Honor is a truly suspenseful and intriguing novel. I had not read a novel in this genre in over 15 years, but was captivated from the very first chapter. Tod Langley skillfully crafts a world of good and evil that hints at the underlying events occurring in today's world with the rise of a feared religion that threatens to engulf the world. The author presents his heroes with all of their flaws and how they must deal with these flaws to rise up and become true heroes and leaders. The story unfolds in a manner that creates the world of Erinia as real to the reader as it is to the characters. I couldn't stop reading the book and look forward to the continuing saga as it unfolds.
~ Jack S, MO

Prince Kristian's Honor a Real Winner - Read It Now!
Tod Langley's new book "Prince Kristian's Honor" will be a treasured find for anyone who enjoys a robust tale of good, evil, and the many shades of man's personality between black and white. The first chapter of Kristian's Honor sets the hook as Langley constructs a vivid and striking background for this entertaining read. From gripping sword fights to repulsive demons, scheming princes, political intrigue, and evil sorcerers, this book has it all. The Erinia Saga looks like the next Lord of the Rings - with the caveat that Langley hasn't made a cheap copy of Tolkein's classic. The depth and development of Langley's characters reflects an author with a wealth of understanding of human nature, the quandaries of leadership, and a deep and colorful imagination. I can't wait to read the sequels to this fine novel. Thanks for a hugely entertaining read Tod!
~ Tom N, Maryland

Fantasy type books, even ones like Lord of The Rings, normally aren't my style. But, on the recommendation of a friend, I read Prince Kristian's Honor. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I liked it! There are a lot of things going on in the story but not so much that you can't keep it all straight...which tends to be a problem for me when I read Fantasy books. Honestly, I don't think the cover synopsis does the book justice. Yes, it gives you a brief overview of the story but there is much more than that and the individual plot lines go much deeper than described. For instance, when you first meet Prince Kristian, you think of him as a spoiled, self-centered royal. He is, don't get me wrong, but througout the book you get to know him and see inside and realize there is much more to him. You also get to know some of the supporting characters and I really like that in a book. It just seems that the more you know the people around the main character, the more you understand the dynamics of their relationships as well as the main character himself. There is just so much more inside the book than what is presented on the outside. More complex, more involved and definately much deeper.

I also noticed a lot of similarities between the happenings and politics of the different kingdoms and things going on in the world today. Mr. Langley doesn't do it in a preachy sort of way but in a way that makes you think and wonder how our world got to be the way it is.

If you are a fan of Fantasy fiction, this is a book that should be on your shelf. And if you're not, like me, try it. I think you'll be surprised. I will definately be getting the rest of this new series!
~B. Gard, Indiana

This is not the type of book I would normally choose to read and because of that I had a rough start. However, the relationship between the characters and the incredibly visual battle scenes the author created pulled me into the story to the point that I could not put the book down once I got into it. A sign for me that I've really gotten involved in a story is when I actually start dreaming about it. Three nights after starting the book, my dog woke me up and I remember thinking, "He's so rude. What else do you expect from a person from Belarn." And if you want to know what is wrong with being from Belarn, you need to read the book.
~ Lisa, IN

I very much enjoyed Prince Kristian's Honor. The very first chapter was like, WOW, I can't wait to read the rest of this. The story both surprised me and kept me guessing throughout the book. I was never able to predict what was going to happen. I was spellbound to the very end and was not ready for the book to end. I am very much looking forward to the next book. I would definitely recommend the book to anyone who likes adventure or just likes a great fantasy story to lose themselves in.
~ Gail C, Indiana

I read your book, Prince Kristians's Honor. I did not think this would be my kind of book since I normally only read westerns and outdoor type books. But I thought I would give it a try and see if I could stick with it for a few chapters (to get a feel for it). I have to say that I could not put it down until I was finished with it. It normally takes me months to read a book but this only took me a week! I am impressed with your writting ability and look forward to the next book!
~ Larry H, Indiana

I could not put this book down. It's an amazing story. I finished it in 24 hours. I can't wait for the next one in the series. Wow, haven't read something like this in a long time and it was wonderful...
W. Klauk, Washington

Prince Kristian's Honor really pulled me into this fantasy world and made me keep turning the pages until the wee hours of the night. The action is so well described that my stomach was in knots at one point wondering what was going to happen to my favorite characters.

So excited to have a this new author on the scene. I can't wait for book two of the Erinia Saga to find out what happens next to these relate-able characters.

S. Poca, Tennessee

If you like lots of action, this book is for you. From the very beginning to the very end, the author holds your attention - you want to find out what will happen next. As the story develops you start identifying with the characters; their strengths and weaknesses, their range of emotions and their challenges. It is good versus evil with surprising twists and turns. The author has written a fantasy about the lives of Prince Kristian, Princess Allisia and a cavalier named Mikhal and the challenges and obstacles they must face. The characters develop nicely and the story holds you spellbound as you become entwined with their lives. This new author captured my attention and I am anxiously awaiting future books of the Erinia Saga.
~ S.D. Bunch, Indiana

The character development is extremely good for a first time author. By the end of the book I felt like I knew every character. The agony that Prince Kristian endures as he is forced to assume responsibility for his actions that result in horrific consequences will be shared by anyone who has faced life changing decisions in their own lives.
~ M.Grissom, Arizona

Prince Kristian's Honor grabbed me and I couldn't put the book down until I had finished it. I was surprised at how the characters' emotions and problems could be transformed into today's modern world. I could actually feel Prince Kristian's pain as he struggled to lead his men and the friendships he was trying to forge. I felt the author gave good insight into the characters' personalities, and of course, it was fun trying to second guess the author before all the relationships became known. I would, and have, recommended this book to everybody I know that enjoys reading for fun. I can't wait for the next book.
~Marilyn, Indiana

I have been looking for a series to read since Harry Potter wrapped up. I am not a reader unless I find something I'm very interested in and I have to say that I couldn't put the book down. I started Saturday night and finished it at 1:30 Monday morning. I had to go to work early that same morning but I just had to finish the book! I absolutely loved it. I would also love to see some kind of illustrations to put faces to the names.

How long before the next one and how many in the series?

To me a great book is one that you can't put down because you just need to see what happens next. Prince Kristian's Honor is just such a book. I was so involved with the story that it only took me two evenings to finish reading it. While the story is a fantasy, readers will easily identify with the challenges that face several of the characters. It is a story about success and failure, love and loss, friends, family, and foes, loyalty and treachery, good and evil. The author provided good character development. I had several "ah ha" moments when connections between some of the characters were finally revealed. Kristian is forced to deal with some hard truths and must learn how to start over and gain people's trust and respect. Born into a leadership position does not make one a leader. His relationship with his troops and Allisia will help him discover that. I recommend this book to those readers that enjoy the joining of forces to protect and battle between lands with a king that thrives on dark magic to add a little challenge. It will also be enjoyed by those that like facing great obstacles and learning from them.

This was one of the best books I have ever read! It kept me wanting to read more and more! I read the entire book in just 5 days!