The Cracked Altar Series 5-Book Bundle (Ebook)

Lots of action this time around as lots is happening and lots of moving parts. But had to see how it would all end. And it was entertaining and fun to read and see who would make it to the end and how. Lots of trouble and adventure had by all. Who would get the Grand Mage and save the heir was the question. I had to see and how they would the Grand Mage in the end.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
(Originally posted on Kobo for THE BROKEN CHAIN)

this was a great entry in the Cracked Altar series, it had what I was looking for from the other books. The characters were what I expected and I enjoyed how good it was. Timothy J. R. Rains has a great writing style and I enjoy the use of Medieval elements. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
(Originally posted on Google Play Books for THE BROKEN CHAIN)

Well written fantasy. Has a variety of twists and turns but is easy enough to follow. Also has a compelling main character that is easy to relate to. Recommend

(Originally posted on Goodreads for THE CRACKED ALTAR)

This was a great start to what is sure to be an excellent fantasy series. There were some religious themes, but I think anyone who enjoys medieval fantasy would like this regardless of personal beliefs. That said, most of the story centers around a pretty intense battle, so I wouldn't recommend it to those who don't like violence. The world this author created is very impressive and vivid, and I'm intrigued to learn more of Hinkle's family secrets. I never knew what turns this story would take, and can't wait for more from this author.
(Originally posted on Amazon for THE CRACKED ALTAR)

Engaged from the beginning. Lots of action, balanced with introspection. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.. Well written, well-developed characters with full range of emotional and magical capabilities. This may be listed as YA , but I would consider it great for any age group of good Fantasy genre lovers.
(Originally posted on Amazon for THE CRACKED ALTAR)

The Cracked Altar, a fantasy novel by Timothy J. R. Rains, first interested me because of its intriguing title. Would it have a religious theme? What dastardly action would happen, as when something says cracked, it usually has a clever twist. As soon as I dove in, Hinkle's near-capture captivated me. I'm not typically a reader in this genre, but the more I sample some works, I find myself becoming a fan.

Hinkle's family tree is complex. We immediately learn that her mother is gone. She's been living with a grandmother in a world where her family has suffered. There's an uncle who's a mystery and aunt who's either a pious nun or a nefarious witch. Which will it be? Hinkle is rescued by her own special brand of knight, and her grandmother engineers a solution that will benefit them all in the future. It's a powerful scene and sets a fantastic tone for the book. We follow Hinkle's path with her new protector only to learn nothing we've thought true is indeed accurate. In this world, what's gray is more important than what's black and white.

Rains builds a fascinating and well-developed world where the rich are rich, and the poor are poor. Part-fairy tale and part mystical quest, the novel will engage your visual senses as each scene and action are vividly described. The battle scenes were strong but not over-the-top. The secrets were revealed at timely moments. And the clues were in abundance. The story is gripping, and I'm hopeful there will be a sequel. Kudos to the author for gaining a new fan in the fantasy genre.
(Originally posted on Amazon for THE CRACKED ALTAR)

I liked this fantasy story with its mystery, intrigue, and secrets. The characters were interesting with some very easy to hate and I had to see what they were hiding and how others would react once the secrets and hidden stuff was revealed. I liked the mix of the middle ages, hint of religion but not preachy, and the magic. While not a light story it was still fun to read and the darker feel fit well. The scenes were good and the battles easy to picture. Overall a good story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
(Originally posted on Amazon for THE CRACKED ALTAR)

This book is a perfect example of “don’t judge a book by the cover,” or in this case, by the title. The title, while interesting, sounds like a religious theme, and not being a religious person, I might not have read it. However, the book came highly recommended by a friend with very good taste, and I live fantasy anyway, so I decided to give it a shot, and I’m happy that I did. The story is fast-paced and intriguing (I especially liked the battle scenes), and the two main characters are easily relatable. The book has some horror elements to boot! What I really liked was the world-building, and I am a sucker for cliffhangers. Off to book two, I guess!
(Originally posted on Amazon for THE CRACKED ALTAR)

Great fantasy novel. Action and excitement on the surface with deeper and heavier undertones. Raines builds a complex and immersive world of nations at war, old grudges, magic and intrigue. We get to see parts of this adventure through the innocent eyes of a young village girl and parts from the noble viewpoint of a battle-hardened knight; an interesting juxtaposition.

A solid read for fantasy fans and non-fans alike.
(Originally posted on Amazon for THE CRACKED ALTAR)

Well written. While the novel stays true to its genre, the author brings a fresh look at magic, the dark arts, and everything in between. Characters are relatable and I really enjoyed the horror elements as well. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
(Originally posted on Amazon for THE CRACKED ALTAR)