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Mark of the Fool 1

Book 1 in the series:Mark of the Fool

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Mark of the Fool 1 by J.M. Clarke follows the journey of Alex Roth, a young man who, after being branded with the Mark of the Fool, is chosen as one of the heroes to fight the returning Ravener. The story revolves around Alex's character growth as he overcomes challenges, navigates the academy setting, and harnesses his unique abilities to become a true hero. The book is praised for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and the exploration of themes such as coming of age, magic systems, and overcoming adversity.

The writing style of Mark of the Fool 1 is described as immersive and engaging, with a focus on character development and world-building. The book blends elements of action, adventure, and slice of life, creating a narrative that slowly builds momentum and captivates readers with its detailed descriptions and intricate magic systems.

Characters:

The cast displays growth and complexity, with relational dynamics at the forefront, though some characters may feel less developed.

Writing/Prose:

The prose combines detailed descriptions with character focus, although it occasionally suffers from clarity issues.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative involves a protagonist marked for failure in a magical world who opts for self-determination, leading to a blend of adventure and character relationships.

Setting:

The setting is intricately crafted with original elements that create a distinct fantasy world, steering clear of Earth comparisons.

Pacing:

The pacing begins slowly but transitions into a more engaging rhythm, culminating in dynamic character arcs.

Notes:

The main character, Alex, receives the Mark of the Fool, which is notorious for leading to the deaths of its bearers.
Instead of following the expected path of a chosen hero, Alex decides to attend a magic university after receiving his mark.
The world is richly developed with original creatures and beings, avoiding direct comparisons to Earth's creatures.
Magic is experimentally measured in heartbeats rather than minutes or hours.
The protagonist's sister plays an important role, but she sometimes disappears in the later chapters.
This story avoids typical tropes like school bullying and instant hate among characters.
The book's setting is described as ordinary yet intricately blended with fantastical elements.
The characters showcase diverse personalities and significant growth throughout the storyline.
The romance subplot is subtle; Alex has feelings for his best friend but it is not the main focus.
The author uses humor and banter to enhance the reader's experience without being overly serious.
The narrative style has been praised for its pacing and ability to hold reader's interest despite slower action at times.

From The Publisher:

The gods chose him. He said no.

After his parents died, Alex Roth had one desire: become a wizard. Through hard work, he was accepted into the University of Generasi, the world's greatest academy of wizardry...

Fate, however, had other plans.

On his eighteenth birthday, he is Marked by prophecy as one of his kingdom's five Heroes, chosen to fight the Ravener, his land's great enemy. But his brand is 'The Fool'. Worst of the marks.

Rather than die or serve other Heroes like past Fools, he takes a stand, rejects divine decree…and leaves. With his little sister, his childhood friend, and her cerberus, Alex flees for the university, hoping to research the mystery of the Ravener. He'll make lifelong friends, learn magic from mad wizards, practice alchemy, fight mana vampires and try to pay tuition.

There's one small problem. The Mark insists on preventing the Fool from learning and casting spells, while enhancing skills outside of divinity, combat, and spellcraft…

…that is, unless he learns to exploit the hell out of it.

Explore a coming of age magic academy fantasy with a weak-to-strong progression into power, a setting inspired by D & D, detailed world building and magical science, action, comedy, slice-of-life, and GameLit elements.

With nearly 10 million views on Royal Road, this popular web-serial has been completely revised and relaunched into this definitive version now coming to Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, and Audible, narrated by Travis Baldree!

Ratings (102)

Incredible (18)
Loved It (28)
Liked It (25)
It Was OK (20)
Did Not Like (9)
Hated It (2)

Reader Stats (140):

Read It (96)
Currently Reading (7)
Want To Read (24)
Did Not Finish (10)
Not Interested (3)

2 comment(s)

It Was OK
1 month

Really enjoyed the first few books, but the story feels like it's just getting dragged out foe no reason.

 
Did Not Like
11 months

Not for me- didn't like the pacing of the training

 
 
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