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Dagmarth #1
Escape from Palmar
Dagmarth stopped the dark lord's quest for intergalactic rule once before, but the last battle was won at the cost of near obliteration. The kingdom now needs our aid in a united stand against him. Humanity is not alone.
130 pages, ebook
First published May 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 21, 2020
The story has potential but needs some work. Although, to be fair, the author said that a newer version has lots of changes made to it, so that may have already been done.
A boy finds that he is heir to the throne of Dagmarth, though all he remembers is life on Earth. A battle insues with longtime enemies who wish a prophecy to go unfulfilled that involves the boy, Kodos. The book is the first in a series, so it is not a stand- alone, and leaves the reader with a cliff- hanger.
I had issues with some of the dialogue-- sometimes I was not sure who was speaking. Also, the story was too much going back and forth between Earth and Dagmarth, which is supposed to be in a distant galaxy, but withing minutes of Kodos hopping in his pod, he was at his destination.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review-- thank you.
A boy finds that he is heir to the throne of Dagmarth, though all he remembers is life on Earth. A battle insues with longtime enemies who wish a prophecy to go unfulfilled that involves the boy, Kodos. The book is the first in a series, so it is not a stand- alone, and leaves the reader with a cliff- hanger.
I had issues with some of the dialogue-- sometimes I was not sure who was speaking. Also, the story was too much going back and forth between Earth and Dagmarth, which is supposed to be in a distant galaxy, but withing minutes of Kodos hopping in his pod, he was at his destination.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review-- thank you.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
September 2, 2023DNF.
I received the e-book in exchange for a honest review, but I'm afraid this just isn't something for me. I tried so hard to get through the book, but my interest slipped away as I was making progress.
I have never dnfed a review copy before so this feels weird and disappointing, but I tried my best. I hope other people will like this book though!
I received the e-book in exchange for a honest review, but I'm afraid this just isn't something for me. I tried so hard to get through the book, but my interest slipped away as I was making progress.
I have never dnfed a review copy before so this feels weird and disappointing, but I tried my best. I hope other people will like this book though!
May 17, 2019
2.5 stars
I tried. I really, really tried to enjoy this, to be interested in what was going on, but I couldn't. While the story's premise was interesting, some of the tech was cool and the combination of magic and sci-fi was intriguing, there was just too much that stood in the way of me enjoying this.
1, the characters: They felt flat. There was little to distinguish them and because there was so little shown of their emotions, motivations, etc. I did not connect with them at all—not even Kodus, whom given the fact he’s the MC/chosen one, I had thought would have been at least somewhat fleshed out. Sadly, this wasn’t the case.
2, too much telling:Telling has its place—I’m not one of those, “show, never tell” people—but it shouldn’t have been as frequent as it was. There were plenty of opportunities to show the reader things like feelings, physical sensation, etc. that were missed, in my opinion.
3, head-hopping:Had it been done on a fresh paragraph for each character, I wouldn’t be bothered by it, since it’s a style choice—but since it happened within paragraphs, it threw me off a bit.
Other issues I had: The writing came across dull, the pacing went from one extreme to the other, there was a lot of info-dumping, and a great deal of exposition. The worldbuilding was lacking, sadly, and the dialogue felt unnatural and awkward.
I don’t want to continue picking the story apart, so I’ll just say: In general, I feel like it could have used another edit or two, since this felt like, if not a first draft, at least a very early one. Despite this, I encourage other people to read it and make their own assessments, and wish the author luck in future endeavours. This story just wasn't for me.
I tried. I really, really tried to enjoy this, to be interested in what was going on, but I couldn't. While the story's premise was interesting, some of the tech was cool and the combination of magic and sci-fi was intriguing, there was just too much that stood in the way of me enjoying this.
1, the characters: They felt flat. There was little to distinguish them and because there was so little shown of their emotions, motivations, etc. I did not connect with them at all—not even Kodus, whom given the fact he’s the MC/chosen one, I had thought would have been at least somewhat fleshed out. Sadly, this wasn’t the case.
2, too much telling:Telling has its place—I’m not one of those, “show, never tell” people—but it shouldn’t have been as frequent as it was. There were plenty of opportunities to show the reader things like feelings, physical sensation, etc. that were missed, in my opinion.
3, head-hopping:Had it been done on a fresh paragraph for each character, I wouldn’t be bothered by it, since it’s a style choice—but since it happened within paragraphs, it threw me off a bit.
Other issues I had: The writing came across dull, the pacing went from one extreme to the other, there was a lot of info-dumping, and a great deal of exposition. The worldbuilding was lacking, sadly, and the dialogue felt unnatural and awkward.
I don’t want to continue picking the story apart, so I’ll just say: In general, I feel like it could have used another edit or two, since this felt like, if not a first draft, at least a very early one. Despite this, I encourage other people to read it and make their own assessments, and wish the author luck in future endeavours. This story just wasn't for me.
September 16, 2017
Dagmarth Escape From Palmar by Joseph J. Miccolis is a fascinating tale about wars, kingdoms, kings and queens. It reads like a fairy tale and is set on a magical planet, the people of which think that it is the centre of galaxies. With people aspiring for peace on this land, struggle seems imminent in order to reclaim Dagmarth from the savage enemies who try to destroy it; the brutal politics which lead them to hide on Palmer. Peace is within reach too, as is prophesised, but it must come with a price.
August 19, 2020
The beginning is a little confusing as Solaris reminisces about the past war, spending a lot of time on the Castle built with stone but then discussing escape pods. When he is talking about the history and the castle it gave off a medieval vibe then it switches to a futuristic space, sci-fi vibe.
They find a place to settle and regroup, the author tries to indicate time passing but it wasn't effective. They are found again and end up fleeing to Earth, their hopes pinned on a vision and legend. Time passage is told to us but it isn't felt.
Sometimes Kodus is referred to as a boy, then a few sentences later a young man. When he's seventeen, he discovers the Royal pod and flies back and forth to Dagmarth in less than a day, and yet his parents don't discuss any of it or his history with them.
It's a jumpy story, there are moments it gets interesting then editing issues and continuity wrecked it for me. I struggled to complete this book and the end will leave you hanging.
If you like my reviews I hope you will follow my blog. https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
They find a place to settle and regroup, the author tries to indicate time passing but it wasn't effective. They are found again and end up fleeing to Earth, their hopes pinned on a vision and legend. Time passage is told to us but it isn't felt.
Sometimes Kodus is referred to as a boy, then a few sentences later a young man. When he's seventeen, he discovers the Royal pod and flies back and forth to Dagmarth in less than a day, and yet his parents don't discuss any of it or his history with them.
It's a jumpy story, there are moments it gets interesting then editing issues and continuity wrecked it for me. I struggled to complete this book and the end will leave you hanging.
If you like my reviews I hope you will follow my blog. https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2018
Solaris, an old, wise and brave man was worried and concerned about his people and the kingdom- The Dagmarthians. He seems to be the only Dagmarthian who could see clearly, things as they are. While others were lost in feast, believing or thinking that war and attack on the kingdom by the dark lord (Lazareth) are over, Solaris believed seriously that the dark lord will come back with his war and attack on their kingdom. So, he was worried that the king, Asmoph of Dagmarth and the people Dagmarth were living at ease and are not making any plans to defending the kingdom from the coming attack. Solaris also observed that the former glory and beauty of the house of Dagmarth is far greater than the present house.
When the king and his people- The Dagmarthians least expected, the dark lord returned. This time, with unbelievable and unimaginable weapons and attack on the kingdom. Every attempt to escape to a safe place proved abortive, Earth became the only hope for the king, his wife and the newly born Prince- Kodus. Dagmarthians lost every hope of survival and the return, better still, reborn of Dagmarth. The only hope left for the Dagmarthians was the prophecy made about a child who will be born to take Dagmarth to a greater glory and beauty. Prince Kodus is born, will he fulfill the prophecy?
... Dagmarth and the Escape from Palmer by Joseph. J. Miccolies is an interesting, thrilling and captivating story. It has a creative story line, garnished with catchy figures of speech. Joseph usage of words is not only creative and constructive, but it is also wonderful and awesome. In fact, in him I see present time Williams Shakespeare. This story is rich, mature and informative. It creates clear imagery or picture in the minds of its readers. As one read the story, he/she can see or view clearly in his/her mind the story. Also, one sees him/herself in the story and flows with the story line. The story is quite entertaining, full of suspense, making the reader eager to know what happens next and how it all ends. This will make the reader to continue reading tirelessly until he/she comes to the creative end of the story. Reading this story is like watching a movie.
I therefore rate this story 4 out of 5 stars because of it creativity and the ability to entertain. I also recommend this story to all readers, especially, those who love creative work of art (literature).
Finally, I say kudos to Mr. Joseph. J. Miccolies for the ability to use his pen creatively and to adequately entertain his readers; more grace.
When the king and his people- The Dagmarthians least expected, the dark lord returned. This time, with unbelievable and unimaginable weapons and attack on the kingdom. Every attempt to escape to a safe place proved abortive, Earth became the only hope for the king, his wife and the newly born Prince- Kodus. Dagmarthians lost every hope of survival and the return, better still, reborn of Dagmarth. The only hope left for the Dagmarthians was the prophecy made about a child who will be born to take Dagmarth to a greater glory and beauty. Prince Kodus is born, will he fulfill the prophecy?
... Dagmarth and the Escape from Palmer by Joseph. J. Miccolies is an interesting, thrilling and captivating story. It has a creative story line, garnished with catchy figures of speech. Joseph usage of words is not only creative and constructive, but it is also wonderful and awesome. In fact, in him I see present time Williams Shakespeare. This story is rich, mature and informative. It creates clear imagery or picture in the minds of its readers. As one read the story, he/she can see or view clearly in his/her mind the story. Also, one sees him/herself in the story and flows with the story line. The story is quite entertaining, full of suspense, making the reader eager to know what happens next and how it all ends. This will make the reader to continue reading tirelessly until he/she comes to the creative end of the story. Reading this story is like watching a movie.
I therefore rate this story 4 out of 5 stars because of it creativity and the ability to entertain. I also recommend this story to all readers, especially, those who love creative work of art (literature).
Finally, I say kudos to Mr. Joseph. J. Miccolies for the ability to use his pen creatively and to adequately entertain his readers; more grace.
August 28, 2016
This is a futuristic sci-fi read. King Asmoph and Queen Jessa know of A secret prophesy telling of a young boy who will help their planet and their people from destruction and evil. Dagmarth is their home, but they must leave it behind and begin a life on Earth. It is here that they and their two sons, Kodus and Erik, are going to find secrets of the past and prophesies of the future are going to change their lives and begin an epic adventure. The author does a great job with this story, reflecting to the past so readers have a knowledge of the story and following a story line that will have all looking for the next chapter in a science fiction journey.
February 27, 2020
Not my usual genre; however, Joseph emailed me a copy. It's a fun story I think the YA audience will like as it centers on a teenage boy who learns his world is much bigger and more complicated than for the usual Earth kid.
The book itself could use some polishing as I found some typos and parts of the story were a bit hard to follow at times.
Overall, it's a great start to the series. A cool mix between Earth and Sci-Fi world Dagmarth!
The book itself could use some polishing as I found some typos and parts of the story were a bit hard to follow at times.
Overall, it's a great start to the series. A cool mix between Earth and Sci-Fi world Dagmarth!
September 17, 2016
Really liked the story. The YA audience will be able to relate to the characters and be drawn into the storyline. The writing itself could use a little more polishing. The story can be hard to follow in places.
January 14, 2018
Joseph was kind enough to give a free copy for my thoughts on LinkedIn. I prefer buying books from the store for the physical copy. However, I admire his passion for writing and was willing to read something outside chick lit (my preference) after my work. I have to say I am very excited to see what happens from the ending of this story. Joseph has presented different opportunities for strong characters in the story to have their own voice in the plot. His background in writing made the language easy to read, but I can also easily see that he could strengthen his story writing in style. While I understand this is his first book with a pretty impressive storyline, it could be written better. That said, I would tell any potential reader to keep in mind this is not a polished work or even published, and to focus more on the story and plot. It's worth a read :)
June 14, 2018
"Escape from Palmar" is a YA sci-fi coming of age story about Kodus finding out that he is the prince of a planet called Dagmarth and that he is apart of a prophecy that will save the planet from Lord Lazareth.
Joseph Miccolis did a great job creating a brand new world completely unique in every way. As it is compared to Harry Potter, "Escape from Palmar" has this new age space opera theme in it that is very interesting.
My biggest concern was that I was often confused with the story line and didn't completely understand the passage of time between them arriving to the farm and moving into base.
From the last page it is made known that there will be more than one book. I hope that in future books Solaris' voice will play a bigger role and we will hear more from him as he seems to be a very important character.
Joseph Miccolis did a great job creating a brand new world completely unique in every way. As it is compared to Harry Potter, "Escape from Palmar" has this new age space opera theme in it that is very interesting.
My biggest concern was that I was often confused with the story line and didn't completely understand the passage of time between them arriving to the farm and moving into base.
From the last page it is made known that there will be more than one book. I hope that in future books Solaris' voice will play a bigger role and we will hear more from him as he seems to be a very important character.
January 14, 2018
Had the pleasure of meeting Joseph NYE. He didn't hesitate to offer a copy of this book by e-mail lol. I actually read Escape from Palmar and Deadly Embers. I think he's off to a great start with a writing career. He started in '15 and his passion only continues to grow. I loved that Asmoph and Jessa are like spoiled brats who are really lazy. Solaris was a funny character, but I felt so bad for him! Will be curious to see if Kodus becomes a fierce military commander and how he might manage that as the king of dagmarth. I would definitely watch Kodus reach his full potential on-screen. Deadly Embers was pretty good, too. Really liked that Joseph might have the knack for writing different genres. What he told me about Honest Dreamer seems really cute. Wish him the best!
May 13, 2019
If you knew of a prophecy that foretold what you would become and what you would have to face, would you be able to do it? This tale starts out on Dagmarth, but because of war the royal family must flee to safety. On Earth, they live normal lives with one day hoping to return to Dagmarth. One day, Kodus' father gives him a necklace with a diamond attached. This is when Kodus learns of the importance of him returning to Dagmarth. The story is filled with laughs, mystery, and hope. An outstanding read that leaves the reader wanting more.
August 29, 2016
This book was a mix of prophecy and a strangely entertaining style of storytelling which reminded me in concept of Enders Game at times. I thought it was both original in come it and execution - I enjoyed what felt like an almost religious feel to the prophecy as I personally haven't seen that before - this was a fast and entertaining read! I'm sure this author will be one to watch. Check it out!
October 1, 2016
I liked the author's artistic fantasy weaving of a long ago prophecy in this story. In some ways it reminded me a little of Lord of Rings. I like the ploy of placing main characters yearning for peace when there was none to be had unless the prophecy was fulfilled. I think the author did a great job in creating an imaginary world which he was able to pull the reader into it and see this world through his vision. I look forward to more of his work.
January 10, 2018
Got a PDF copy for a rating and review. Nice story. Mix of LOTR and Harry Potter with its own twists and ideas. Interesting approach to dystopian worlds with possibilities of improving. Really liked that Kodus has heroic potential to turn things around for Dagmarth and that Katera may have a heroine role. The writing is alright, took me some time to follow, but not bad for an unpublished work. 5 stars for the plot, polished writing, and being free lol!
January 17, 2018
I personally know Joseph, so it was pretty cool to read a full novel by him. He's talked a lot about it, but it takes a lot for someone to follow through on that effort. 5 stars for completing this book for sure. There seemed like a little Halo with the technology and Star Wars with space fighting. I guess thats popular with SciFi. The ending took me for surprise but I liked the hook. Way to go man!
January 9, 2017
If you are a fan of sci-fi YA books then this is a must read. A coming of age story of a boy learning his destiny after a sheltered upbringing and rebellion. Saving planets and fighting a war he never knew of! I loved this book. It keep me intrigued through the whole thing. I was connected with the characters and fell into the plot.
January 14, 2018
Can now mark this book off my list for holiday reading. I think Kodus will someday face Erik as an enemy. Im not sure whats gonna happen with Nikita and Katera, but I like the love triangle potential! Maybe I’ll be adapted :p
4.5 stars because no book is perfect except for the color purple!
4.5 stars because no book is perfect except for the color purple!
January 26, 2018
Good book. Starts off rocky but reminds me of a certain teen high school story I watched. Believe it had the number 11 in the title...I'll leave y'all to google and find it.
Because of the development throughout the story of the main character its a solid 4 stars. Loved it! Truly recommend it!
Because of the development throughout the story of the main character its a solid 4 stars. Loved it! Truly recommend it!
November 25, 2019
Kodus learns he is the prince of a planet evacuated because of a war that is not yet over. This si-fi adventure has an interesting concept but could do with more descriptions of characters to make them more relatable. This book is heavily dialogued.
January 11, 2018
Forgot about book from last year. Met Joseph on Twitter and got a copy. Cool story. Kodus is like the new Neo :)
October 15, 2019
Palamar is a believable world where too much peace has bred complacency. The results are catastrophic...
November 17, 2021
Left an honest review because the author asked for one, and it hurts to write this. I'm sorry. They are aware of the issues with their novel and are working on edits. The book itself was pulled from the Amazon market in the meantime. Most of the issues within the book have been noted by other reviewers, and hopefully in the future those will be corrected for.
Went through a quarter of the book, and couldn't push any more. I hope this improves after a considerable edit because it has the merits of potentially being a good sci-fi/fantasy. The biggest service to it would probably be stripping the first 20ish%. Start the main character at Earth, at 8. Have the parents show their spaceship that they're tinkering on, and explain in under 500 words "We're from this planet. We escaped because of the Dark Lord, etc." Less is more, and the worst killer of fantasy in particular is too much or needless world building.
Went through a quarter of the book, and couldn't push any more. I hope this improves after a considerable edit because it has the merits of potentially being a good sci-fi/fantasy. The biggest service to it would probably be stripping the first 20ish%. Start the main character at Earth, at 8. Have the parents show their spaceship that they're tinkering on, and explain in under 500 words "We're from this planet. We escaped because of the Dark Lord, etc." Less is more, and the worst killer of fantasy in particular is too much or needless world building.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews