Title: The Mountains Rise
Author: Michael G. Manning
First published June 20, 2014
530 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.3
Overview
Amidst the shadows of history, emerges the story of Illeniel’s initial mage. David Lionel led an unremarkable life, tending to his flock with ease and hardly any concerns, until the sentinel manifested.
David’s potential comes to life, and soon he becomes the target of the minions of the ruthless and apathetic deities of the woods. Bound by his talents, David will unveil the mysteries that lie within the heart of the forest and the creatures that inhabit it – a society formed from the ashes of a bygone era.
His revelations will spark a furious fury within him, devouring everything in his path.
About the Author
Michael Manning was raised in Cleveland, Texas, where he spent most of his childhood reading fantasy and science fiction books. He had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed conducting his own experiments in the backyard while avoiding schoolwork.
After finishing high school, Michael enrolled at Sam Houston State University. During his time there, he developed an interest in role-playing games and discovered a love for beer.
Although his family refers to it as “the lost year,” Michael describes it as “his best year ever.”
However, Michael soon realized that he needed to focus more on his future. He applied for the University of Houston Honors program and was accepted, which eventually led to a degree in pharmacy.
He was able to obtain a license to practice pharmacy, but he soon found out that he was not cut out for the profession. His free-spirited nature and disregard for the rules did not align with the perfection and patient safety that the profession required.
Despite this, he persisted and worked as a hospital pharmacy manager and eventually as a pharmacist in correctional managed care for the State of Texas.
After several years, Michael became bored with his job and began teaching himself about networking, programming, and database design and administration. Although his supervisors repeatedly warned him to stick to his assigned tasks, they eventually gave up and let him do what he wanted since it was working out well for them.
Years later, Michael became bored with his job again and decided to write a book. He wrote “The Blacksmith’s Son,” which became popular among readers.
This led him to pursue writing full-time, much to the chagrin of his mother, who had always wanted him to become a doctor.
Despite his mother’s disapproval, Michael’s wife supported his decision to become a writer. She initially doubted that he could make a living from it, but Michael was determined to prove her wrong.
He now lives at home with his wife, teenage twins, several pets, and a head full of imaginary people.
Editoral Review
In Michael G. Manning’s The Mountains Rise, readers are transported to a world of magic, intrigue, and power struggles.
Published in 2014, Manning’s novel is a thrilling addition to the fantasy genre that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Manning is a prolific author who has written many successful fantasy novels, and The Mountains Rise is no exception.
The novel takes place in a world called Andomhaim, where the powerful Gifted rule over the common folk. The story follows Mordecai, a young commoner who discovers he has magical abilities, and his struggle against the oppressive Gifted regime.
Along the way, he meets other rebels who share his cause, as well as formidable foes who are determined to crush their rebellion. The story is set against a backdrop of lush forests, majestic mountains, and dark dungeons, all vividly described by Manning’s masterful prose.
The Mountains Rise is a novel of epic proportions, with a large cast of characters and a complex plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. Manning’s writing is both engaging and descriptive, drawing readers into his world and immersing them in the story.
The pacing of the novel is also excellent, with just the right amount of action, suspense, and romance to keep readers hooked. One of the strengths of The Mountains Rise is its rich world-building.
Manning has created a complex world with its own history, culture, and mythology that feels both familiar and new. The magic system in the novel is also well-developed, with clear rules and limitations that add to the tension of the story.
The characters in the novel are also well-drawn, with distinct personalities and motivations that make them feel like real people. One weakness of the novel is its length.
At nearly 600 pages, The Mountains Rise is a lengthy read, which may deter some readers. Additionally, some of the plot twists and turns may be predictable to readers familiar with the fantasy genre.
Overall, The Mountains Rise is a thrilling and well-crafted novel that will appeal to fans of epic fantasy. Manning’s excellent world-building, engaging prose, and complex plot make for an immersive and enjoyable reading experience.
While the novel may not be for everyone due to its length and predictability, fans of the genre will find much to love in this engaging and exciting tale. Rating: 4/5 stars.
