In 'The Lost City of Ithos', the readers embark on a journey filled with adventure, magic, and intricate world-building. The story follows a group of characters searching for the ancient, ruined capital of a defeated empire while facing challenges from different factions. The book introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique backstories and interactions that bring depth to the narrative. The writing style is described as engaging, with moments of humor and seriousness that blend seamlessly, creating a vibrant and immersive reading experience.

Characters:

The cast includes a diverse range of characters, although their development varies significantly, leading to some appearing as side characters in their own narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by improved fluidity and character development, incorporating both humor and serious elements to keep readers engaged.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative revolves around a group of friends embarking on an adventurous quest to discover an ancient city while facing various conflicts along the way.

Setting:

The setting boasts rich and expansive world-building, filled with diverse locations and a well-established historical context.

Pacing:

Pacing fluctuates between rapid action and slower romantic scenes, occasionally upsetting the balance of character focus.

Notes:

The series features a character named Hugh, whose spellbook attempts to make friends with another character, Talia, in a comedic way.

The world-building is praised for its depth and connections to previously mentioned creatures.

The magic system is noted for its internal logic and flexibility, making it appealing to readers who enjoy well-structured fantasy.

The stories explore various character relationships, including LGBTQ themes, without making them overly dramatic or significant.

Readers appreciate the balance between humor and serious moments in the story.

The characters go through different stages of maturity, reflecting more adult themes like romance and drinking.

The narrative benefits from strong descriptions, especially in the lessons and classes within the magical academy.

The writing style has evolved, becoming smoother and more engaging as the series progresses.

There is a sense of adventure as characters search for ancient ruins and face new enemies.

Despite the engaging story, some readers feel that character development sometimes takes a backseat to romantic subplots.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of alcohol use and exploration of sexual identity, which may not be suitable for all audiences.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance in the book, with various relationships explored but lacking deep development.

From The Publisher:

Half a millennium ago, the sphinx Kanderon Crux and her allies banished the city of Imperial Ithos from the world of Anastis, in a desperate attempt to defeat the Ithonian Empire. Her dread weapon, the Exile Splinter, even erased the memory of its location from the universe.

Now it's returning, bringing the Exile Splinter back with it. The great powers of the continent are desperately hunting for the site of the lost city, knowledge lost even to Kanderon herself. None know what ancient Ithonian weapons and enchantments might still be found in the ruins, but even the Exile Splinter alone would be a prize justifying war. Hugh and his friends find themselves dragged along on the search, where they'll face enemy warlocks, sea monsters, liches, unnatural storms, and even a man-eating tiger. There's something they're not being told about the lost city, however.

Something that has even Kanderon and the other great powers terrified.

(Includes the bonus short story Murder at Ras Andis.)

Ratings (11)

Incredible (3)
Loved It (6)
Liked It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (19):

Read It (17)
Want To Read (1)
Not Interested (1)

What can you read after
The Lost City of Ithos?

Wintersteel
Will Wight
intricate culture
eastern cultivation

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The Lost City of Ithos

John Bierce

Book 4 in the series:Mage Errant