Exhumation: An Epic of Existentia (Acts of the Sojourner Book 1) Kindle Edition

EXHUMATION: AN EPIC OF EXISTENTIA (ACTS OF THE SOJOURNER BOOK I) by S.A. Chapman is an Epic tale on the scale of Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings. In other words, this isn’t a book for those who like to play around with their epic journeys. It is a read that you will have to commit to. One that will frustrate the reader who isn’t a true fan of the genre. Having said that, it did surprise me. Because, full disclosure, while I enjoy fantasy, I tend to like my fantasy in movie form. Yes, I enjoyed reading Tolkien and a few other selections from the genre when younger, but it’s just not really my go-to. However, once I got past the first chapter, I was hooked. Maybe I’ve been missing out. I really got into the story of Pious Argentum the Underborn and the intrigue of betrayal. I found myself disappointed when the story ended on a cliff-hanger and wanted more. Admittedly, the battle and fight scenes were a little much for me, and I think the book could be even better with a bit of editing, but if you’re a fan of epic literature, I assume the intense and extremely descriptive battle scenes and introductions to this new and strange world would be just the thing that you’re looking for, so kudos.
The author does include a list of terms and explanations at the end of the book which is quite good at explaining everything. And he does point the reader in that direction at the beginning of the book just in case you get a little lost, but I found I was able to follow the book without having to refer to the references in the back without too much trouble. Even the times I felt a little lost, I eventually found my way within the story, so it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of it at all. For a book that creates an entire world from scratch and then introduces the characters complete with their places in society and their employment positions as well as the history of the world along with the various creatures and armies and political intrigues, etc. I have to say this book is well-written and a really good story. My only problem is: Now I want to know what comes next. Please tell me the next one will be released soon!

“It is the 165th Cycle in the Era of Purity, almost 162 Cycles since the end of the devastating war between the Elysian Concordat and the Shaydean Alliance…” In these realms, a shadow looms over the planet Aurania wherein they reside. Front and center in Elysia is Pious Argentum, the principal protector of Sanctuary, “the grand and fortified capital city of Elysia,” and who is the only person with abilities to collect Evershade Moss, an essential healing plant that Master Alchemist Zosim requests him to gather. Zosim, who observed a strange burn on one of the locals, fears that this supposed infection will create devastating effects on Elysia. Pious’s mission to collect the precious plant, however, is riddled with unforeseen danger, especially when he witnesses the Shaydean Alliance breaking the truce between the two realms.

Upcoming fantasy and sci-fi author S. A. Chapman has produced the first book in his Epic of Existentia series—an appropriate title since this debut is truly of epic proportions. Intricately elaborate realms grace the pages of this hefty read (close to 500 pages!). Replete with extensive minutiae across the board, Chapman’s third-person narrative includes a vast host of well-definable principal, supporting, and foiled cast on a J. R. R. Tolkien-scale and reminiscent of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Chapman’s incorporation of fantastical history is fascinating. Because there is so much going on throughout, Chapman includes “a glossary, maps, sketches and other bits of useful information” for those in his audience that desire to learn every nook and cranny of these realms. Closing on a cliffhanger and many other unanswered questions, Exhumation will leave readers eager to delve into forthcoming sequels.

The war between the Elysian Concordat & the Shaydean Alliance reduced the population of Aurania to 1/3rd.

The Tribunal of Focal Powers (government) is supposed to rejuvenate resources.
Prime Prefect of the Praetorium Pious Argentum cannot predict the future for the PPL.
Everyone vows for the Existentia (Womb Realm) to take over.
Cedric Pervigil (9°, High Inquisitor Initio & Advocate of Lumerus, 3rd. Cycle of Purity) has just given his lecture.

There are 9 virtues (right)/Iniquities (wrong).
The Shroud of Unrepentant who consisted of: Governor Hythax, Magister Hythax, Overseer Farnham, & Kazier Blunz were meeting.
Pious Argentum mother was Ulaana Argentum. She did not know who his father was.
Ulaana committed suicide & left Pious an orphan.
Jarus is his brother.
Fast forward, Pious entered the Northern Cardinal Dome.
The Arboreal Clerics were tending to the Arboretum’s trees, & gathering fruits/nuts for winter.
Commanding Officer Felixius Parabellum was helping Pious adjust his saddle on the Qulin.
Serana (Knownborn) was mad at Pious because he had not come to see her in quite a while.
Pious could not find Lothar. He spoke to Magemnon Frentus (1st. District Governor).
Imperator Principio listened to the testimony.
Prime Prefect Pious Argentum was brought before the Tribunal for the murder of Praetorian Vigilant & Excelator Aurelius Vim, & the assault on High Prelate & Imperator Draetor Principio, dereliction of duty, & treason.
Pious pleaded his case.
The trial was continued.

Supreme Overseer of the Operarium Manley Cromwell was furious with the outcome.
Serana (Eir) was very glad to see Pious & vice versa.
Where will Pious Argentum journey take him next?

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A fairly well written fantasy book. It wasn’t very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish, but never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great fantasy movie, an animated cartoon, or better yet a mini TV series. Took me a while to rad it but I liked it so I will rate it at 5 stars.

Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)