The Gate is the first part of a fantasy series that begins with an intriguing premise and runs well with it. Amarynn is a Traveller, a person dragged via magic to the land of Karth, who as a result of the transportation is now effectively immortal. She is forced to fight for the King who controls the ability to “create” Travellers, and it’s through her eyes that you follow the core of the story. Add an unrequited love, a young girl who might be the most powerful magic wielder ever known and you have a decently paced and engaging story. The characters are well rounded, although the “evil” ones can be a bit one note at times. Some might like that kind of portrayal, so each to their own. Their actions are believable and true to their nature. The story builds to a good holding point for the planned sequel, and you never feel as if the author is padding the book. As to the future volume(s), it will be interesting to see if the author can avoid common fantasy tropes as she has done here, and I really would like to know the origins of the Travellers. A well written fantasy with a good premise and promise to come. (Andrew Oyston Book Tour Reviewer)
Overall, a well-written story. Strong characters caught in an existence they must endure, a bloody and uncertain future they must confront. (Andrew Bell Book Tour Reviewer)
As a long-time fan of fantasy settings, I was eager to dive into this book. For a first-time fantasy work and the start of a series, I felt that the writing was strong and the premise (always an important factor in such settings) was interesting. It’s a fairly dark tale, with a grim protagonist, and explores themes of self-harm as well as harm inflicted by others. The pace of the novel is a positive, though there will be some, like me, who will be left wondering at some of the world’s elements that are presented without comment or investigation before the story moves forward. For instance, who is Balan and why is he known for his flaming sword? Hopefully, these sorts of questions will be delved into as the Immortal Coil series progresses, as the seeds have been well-sown for the sequel, and I would love to have the context that the answers could provide. (Tim Marshall Book Tour Reviewer)
I loved this book. I was drawn into it from the very first paragraph of the prologue. Brandi Schonberg has created a world that is believable and accessible. Her skilled writing takes you directly into the heart of it till you are battling evil with the heroine and experiencing every cut and thrust of her sword. I read many different genres, but I have to admit, fantasy is my favourite, and Brandi does not disappoint. The story is epic. The writing is professional and polished. In the copy I received, there were a few typographical errors, but I have been assured these have been corrected now. It would be a shame for such a wonderful story to be spoiled by lack of proof-reading. The plot is well thought out, and the pace is electric. It is a real page-turner. I sat up late into the night because I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to the sequel! (Eleanor Dixon Book Tour Reviewers)
A pacy and action-packed fantasy tale of adventure and magic that I enjoyed from the first. This author has an accomplished writing style, making it easy to fall into the story without effort. Her characters are well rounded, believable and relatable and I cared about their fates, both good and evil. Amarynn is a worthy, yet flawed, heroine. She will have the reader rooting for her even while occasionally despairing of her decisions and ability to stir up trouble. I also ‘loved to hate’ the baddies; some were without redemption, but others I trust may return to fight again in a sequel? I do hope so. (Deborah Barwick Book Tour Reviewer)
This is not normally a genre that I would choose, so I wasn’t sure what to expect when embarking on the reading of this novel. I am a fan of time travel but this book focuses on dimension travel, which was a theme I hadn’t explored before. I like the characters that Brandi has created, especially the female lead of Amarynn and Sia, the up and coming young mage and believe there is great promise for the upcoming sequel. (Eileen Tilley Book Tour Reviewer)
A superbly written fantasy adventure with exciting and credible characters, that are well rounded, with a positive balance of strengths and flaws, that make them interesting and easy for the reader to invest in. The story progresses at a good pace keeping its audience engaged and turning the pages over. With believable dialogue that moves the story forward, and gives a good insight into the characters thoughts and intentions, there is plenty to love in this tale weaved by Author Brandi Schonberg. I really enjoyed reading, The Gate, and found it so easy to form an emotional connection with Amarynn, Venalise, Sia and Regealth. I loved Jael, not just as the romantic interest for Amarynn, but what I feel is to come, as his own gifts and abilities grow stronger. I also have a soft spot for the Atranoch creatures, and I am looking forward to seeing what part they play in the next book, and whether more of their backstory will be shared. A great book and I am eager to read the next instalment. (Kirsty McKay Book Tour Reviewer)
We award 4.5 stars.
