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Deborah Jay

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The Prince's Man: The Five Kingdoms: Book 1 Kindle Edition

by Deborah Jay (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

4.3 355 ratings

Book 1 of 4: The Five Kingdoms

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What if the magic that could save your loved ones condemns you to death?

Rakish royal spy, Rustam Chalice, loves his life the way it is, so when the kingdom he serves is threatened from within, he leaps into action. To his dismay the spymaster prince teams him up with an untouchable aristocratic assassin. And to make matters worse, she’s the most beautiful woman in the Five Kingdoms.

Plunged into a desperate journey over the mountains, the mismatched pair struggle to survive deadly wildlife, the machinations of a spiteful god—and each other. When Rustam discovers he has magic of his own, he is forced to question his identity, his sanity, and his loyalty to his prince. For in Tyr-en, all magic users are put to death.

The Prince’s Man is the first book in The Five Kingdoms epic fantasy series. If you like action, intrigue, and magic, spiced with a touch of romance, then you’ll love Deborah Jay’s vividly realised characters.

Scroll up to buy The Prince’s Man now and lose yourself in this captivating fantasy adventure.

What readers are saying

“Book 1 in the five kingdoms series is a sensational creation that blends together sweeping epic fantasy with a thoroughly modern edge to it. The mix of spellbinding romance with a dark mystery, made me feel like I was reading a Robin Hobb novel - -and yet something quite different." Lucinda

“Randomly browsing thru newer ebooks and came across this gem. Was delightfully surprised after reading the description "Think James Bond meets Lord of the Rings" which intrigued me to no end, to find that this was exactly how I perceived the book” R Lewis

“Reminiscent of Game of Thrones, this delightful fantasy will hold your attention from beginning to end.” Rhoda D'Etorre

“Jay paints a vivid world, that we are treated to in this dangerous adventure that tests our heroes to every limit. Including having them question everything they had ever taken for granted.” Miss K Marsden

"Please note, that it is advisable to start this book when you have a block of time to dedicate to it. Starting an hour before needing to leave the house will make you late, I should know” Firefly

“For lovers of series like the Wheel of Time, with its associated political intricacies, this is a series to watch carefully. It promises to deliver the kind of machinations and power struggles we love to see our heroes and heroines coming to grips with. It also draws interesting social parallels with our own issues around the fear of 'other', be it race, religion, or in this case the wielders of magic.” C Spencer

“Firstly let me say, if you have enjoyed books by Tolkien, Christopher Paolini, or Robin Hobb - you will absolutely enjoy this book.” Rachel Braithwaite

“Adventure, heartache, murder, horses, mayhem, elves; the list gallops on, bursting with action in this well written novel set in a completely believable world. Attention grabbing story and underlying layers of detail make it a 'can't put downer'.” Andelusional

“It starts off hitting the ground running with action, but carries the reader along easily. The narrative was well written and engaging, quickly immersing the reader in a new world. Very accomplished writing, characterisation and story telling.” Mickey H

“I enjoyed this greatly. It is indicative of a good read if you immediately search for the next book in the series.” Shineman

Amazon categories

Sword and Sorcery

Epic Fantasy

From the Publisher

THE FIVE KINGDOMS series - action-packed adventure, spies, assassins, deadly politics and magic phobia, spiced with a pinch of romance

The Prince's Man

Take one handsome, vain spy, mix with a noblewoman who is also a revenge-obsessed assassin, add a pinch of prejudice, and garnish with magic.

Set in a land stolen by humans from elves, and subject to the whims of a capricious, dual-natured deity, join Rustam Chalice as he struggles to stay alive long enough to save his beloved kingdom from a vicious usurper.

Before he discovers his life so far has been a lie...

Editorial Reviews

Review

"You can't help but get caught up in the amazing world that Jay presents to her readers. At times I felt like I was watching a reel, I was so caught up in Jay's descriptions of each and every scene." Pure Jonel Book Reviews *****"This newly created world is firm, there are no gaps or jumps of reasoning. One creature, idea, magic or bit of history flows right into the next. Characters that appear substantial at the beginning of the book do nothing but grow and evolve as their backstory unfolds behind them." Rosie's Book Reviews ***** "This award-winning story, the first in the Five Kingdoms series, is intricately woven, dramatically told, and filled with twists and turns that will keep every reader guessing." Jacqui Murray, Vine Voice *****"The writing is exquisite, layered with beautifully detailed descriptions of enthralling realms, fantastical creatures, and breathless adventure. From the moment I opened the first pages, I was sucked into the author's expertly crafted world of intrigue and danger. A truly engaging story." Author Mae Clair *****"Unlike other fantasy books `The Prince's Man' is supremely singular, and a tale that's so intricately woven you cannot help but get lost within it. I was so mesmerized by the detailed descriptions, tangible world-building and intricate narrative that I just did not want to put this book down. I have no hesitation in placing it alongside Hobb, Feist, Martin and Brooks upon my bookshelf." Lucinda, Amazon purchaser *****

Product details

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00I9N2Q20
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Deborah Jay (February 5, 2014)
Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 5, 2014
Language ‏ : ‎ English
File size ‏ : ‎ 2257 KB
Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
Print length ‏ : ‎ 444 pages

Best Sellers Rank: #656,129 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- #5,645 in Action & Adventure Fantasy (Kindle Store)
- #9,051 in Sword & Sorcery Fantasy eBooks
- #9,675 in Epic Fantasy (Kindle Store)

Customer Reviews:
4.3 355 ratings

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About the author

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Deborah Jay

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Deborah Jay writes Epic Fantasy series and Urban Fantasy featuring complex, quirky characters and multi-layered plots – just what she likes to read.

Fortunate to live not far from Loch Ness in the majestic, mystery-filled Scottish Highlands with her partner and a pack of rescue dogs, she can often be found lurking in secluded glens and forests, researching locations for her books.

Her action adventure fantasy series, The Five Kingdoms, opens with THE PRINCE'S MAN, an Amazon Top 100 Hot New Release, winner of a UK Arts Council award, and an International Bestseller.

Book #2, THE PRINCE'S SON, #3, THE PRINCE'S PROTEGEE and #4, THE PRINCE'S HEIR, complete this series.

The first of a series of free tie-in short stories is available by signing up to Deborah's newsletter via her website: https://deborahjayauthor.com/newsletter-sign-up/

Urban fantasy, DESPRITE MEASURES, is the first in a projected 5 book CALEDONIAN SPRITE SERIES, and a stand alone short story SPRITE NIGHT is now available.

Deborah has also published a multi-author SFF anthology THE WORLD AND THE STARS, which includes her SF story, PERFECT FIT.

She also has non-fiction equestrian titles published under the name Debby Lush.

See Deborah's blog at:

https://deborahjayauthor.com/

And connect with Deborah on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/DeborahJay

https://twitter.com/DeborahJay2

https://www.pinterest.co.uk/debbylush/boards/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7172608.Deborah_Jay

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5

355 global ratings

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Mae Clair

An enthralling epic fantasy novel

Reviewed in the United States on January 3, 2021

Verified Purchase

One of the best fantasy novels I have read in ages, The Prince’s Man combines court intrigue, nefarious plots, and dazzling realms. Rustam (Rusty) Chalice is a debonair dance master who lives a double life as a spy in the service of his prince, while also frequenting the beds of highborn ladies.

His life takes a turn when he is forced to team with Dart, the court’s royal assassin—a woman—with the goal of transporting a sickly elf across hostile, mountainous territory. Through the arduous journey, all three characters undergo brutal transformations and evolve as they are tested time and again, forced to rely on one another. At the same time, threats to the throne involve a traitorous noble, an illegitimate heir, and a diabolical torturer. There are layers upon layers of plot, all woven neatly together for a satisfying conclusion in this first book of what promises to be a stellar trilogy.

I was smitten with all three of the lead characters, especially Rustam who undergoes the most compelling transformation of all. You can’t read this book and not be caught up in the lives of Jay’s rakish spy, Risada, Elwaes and so many others. Even the secondary characters are fleshed out and vibrantly written. We meet so many along the journey, yet each leaves a distinctive mark.

The writing is exquisite, layered with beautifully detailed descriptions of enthralling realms, fantastical creatures, and breathless adventure. Every bit as riveting are the cloak-and-dagger machinations of several royal houses and the cruel manipulations of power-hungry men who seek the throne. From the moment I opened the first pages, I was sucked into the author’s expertly crafted world of intrigue and danger. A truly engaging story. Although book one delivers a wrap to the story as presented, I look forward to continuing for the full scope in books two and three. Highly recommended!

6 people found this helpful

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wmcharg

Good solid story

Reviewed in the United States on September 3, 2013

Verified Purchase

This book has a lot going for it. The characters are well thought out, and clearly delineated. Unlike one reviewer, I did not have trouble keeping characters straight. Also this book is nothing like The Lord of the Rings. I am not sure where that even came from.
The growth of the main character, Rustam, makes perfect sense within the book. Some reviewers have said they don't like the character Risada. She is a bit cold and hard, but given her past and the social structure of the country, it makes sense. I thought she was more a victim of her upbringing. Rustam's parentage puts him on the outside of society, so he is able to see a different path for himself.
This is supposed to be the first book. I would almost like to see the next book set at least 10 years after this one, and have the characters reacting to the inevitable changes that are going to take place given the story.
Very good read, and I hope she writes more.

2 people found this helpful

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M

Magic, politics and twisted love affairs

Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2024

Verified Purchase

I read a lot of fantasy and I couldn't put this one down. Wonderful plot twists along with magic and the superstitious fear of magic in the 5 kingdoms as well as love affairs. Whatever you do, Deborah, keep up this realm of stories

Helpful

Kylie Betzner aka Lit Chic

A Book I Wanted to Love

Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2015

Verified Purchase

This is one of those novels I really, really wanted to love, but couldn't. I did like it. It was okay. Just not as epic as I wanted it to be.

The opening is absolutely engrossing. I stayed up late, unable to put it down. But after a few chapters, my attention did wane. It wasn't that the story wasn't interesting; it was the writing that lagged a little. Stylistic decisions bogged down the writing, making it hard for me to complete it.

For the characters, I wanted to love this novel. The thief and the princess were both very engaging, but the writing was a bit cumbersome.

Please check it out for yourselves. My goal is not to discourage you. I tend to be really picky, but you may love it!

10 people found this helpful

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headred

Great Debut Fantasy!

Reviewed in the United States on September 17, 2016

Verified Purchase

I enjoyed this fantasy book more than I thought I would. I particularly enjoyed seeing the characters' development over the course of the story. Chalice, particularly, has a sort of "coming of age" experience in that he comes to realize the importance of the people in is life for more than simply pawns in the game. His friendship with Elwaes was especially well written, developed, and poignant. I just think that the whole thing is very well done and I can't wait for the sequel! I found only a very few editing errors and I had a hard time putting it down to sleep and/or work.

One person found this helpful

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Top reviews from other countries

Vicki-Author

A very satisfying read

Reviewed in Canada on March 14, 2018

Verified Purchase

I loved this book. The characters are complicated, the story filled with suspense and misdirection. People weren't who they, or the reader, thought they were, and these misconceptions caused some very awkward relationships. The horrors some of characters underwent were gut-wrenching. All in all. it was a very satisfying read. The cover is beautiful.

Amazon Customer

At Last….A Fantasy Author Who Writes Really Well!

Reviewed in Australia on December 30, 2021

Verified Purchase

I’ve shied away from Fantasy novels after being spoiled by Sara Douglass and Robin Hobb! Ones I’ve considered but have not bought since, disappointed from the perspective of the way they were written, the use of language etc. But this novel by Deborah Jay was a delight.

Written in a literary style that doesn’t assume the reader has a stunted vocabulary, with a tight, exciting plot, descriptions that engage and stimulate the reader’s imagination - everything I had given up on in my search for new authors of this genre. I’ve already rushed to buy the other books in the series.

Thank you, Deborah Jay! May your Muses be with you and may you continue to write…..

Lucinda

Classic medieval fantasy with an unusual sinister sleuth `twist'!

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 25, 2014

Verified Purchase

Book 1: in the five kingdoms series is a sensational creation that blends together sweeping epic fantasy with a thoroughly modern edge to it. The mix of spellbinding romance with a dark mystery, made me feel like I was reading a Robin Hobb novel - -and yet something quite different. Amid this packed tale of deadly politics, secret assassins and old magic lies an undercurrent of an adventure {or ambitious quest} as its foundations. Fantastic characters such as rogue and ladies man Rustam Chalice and spy Prince Halnashead for instance, take you on the most entertaining journey across the vastly imaginative world.

Unlike other fantasy books `The Prince's Man' is supremely singular, and a tale that's so intricately woven you cannot help but get lost within it. I was so mesmerized by the detailed descriptions, tangible world-building and intricate narrative that I just did not want to put this book down. Deborah Jay has created a highly believable world in which you can loose yourself entirely within, as well as a cast of unforgettable characters and creatures.

Seamless storytelling and a perfect balance of in-depth prose and dramatic action, makes this assured novel a most enjoyable read. The suspenseful and gripping battle scenes are so vivid and authentic; you are able to clearly envisage the brutality and gore. This captivating fantasy is well written and incredibly convincing hence I have no hesitation in placing it alongside Hobb, Feist, Martin and Brooks upon my bookshelf. If you enjoy fantasy with a touch of reality then this outstanding debut is definitely worth reading! Without a doubt this book for me deserves no less than 5 stars.

I was provided with a `PDF' {e-copy} from the author to read, and I would like to state how my review reflects my honest and impartial opinions.

4 people found this helpful

Kindle Customer

The prince's man

Reviewed in Canada on April 21, 2024

Verified Purchase

So many plots and twists and deaths and awakenings. The incredibly handsome dance instructer the highborn and elves and monsters. Not a happy ending really but an okay ending.

Crinkly

Enjoyable

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on October 20, 2013

Verified Purchase

Interesting plot, multi dimensional characters and good character development. The rest of the series will hopefully expand the world building. I'm certainly interested to read more.

I gave it less than 5 stars for one reason only - there are a number of things which pulled me out of the book and ruined the immersive experience - and they are all to do with the style of writing.

The main character is a 20 year old man with a gigolo lifestyle. But his mindset is strangely female. Not gay, or camp, just... female. I am probably explaining this badly, so I will use examples. Did you ever hear of a man who commented that a woman's skirt was flattering because it was 'cut on the bias'? Or who 'provocatively swung the tassel' on his belt? I can imagine a male clothes designer saying that in the 20th century, but not a 20 yr old fantasy hero/undercover agent/medieval gigolo.

There's a lot of background info in this story. All of it is necessary, whether it is family tragedy, politics or magic history. I'm glad it was included, but... I feel it could have been worked into the plot more subtly. Every time I needed background it was provided, usually as a long monologue style chunter. It all fit together, creating a coherent whole, I would have just preferred to be shown that the hero's homeland hated magic. Instead, I was told it repeatedly.

The characters were also all incredibly emotionally self aware. I could have enjoyed one person. Two seemed excessive. The rest were just too much.

But I did enjoy the book, and I will read the next one. The good definitely outweighs the mediocre, and it is a great foundation for the rest of the series.

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The Prince's Man: The Five Kingdoms: Book 1 Kindle Edition

From the Publisher

THE FIVE KINGDOMS series - action-packed adventure, spies, assassins, deadly politics and magic phobia, spiced with a pinch of romance

The Prince's Man

Editorial Reviews

Review

Product details

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About the author

Deborah Jay

Customer reviews

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