The Sum of All Men (The Runelords, Book One:)

Reviews (See all 85) Write a reviewfor this

It's a hit!

This series is AMAZING. Farland gives a whole new twist on the fantasy world. People are able to give their natural abilities like stamina, stren... (show more)

This series is AMAZING. Farland gives a whole new twist on the fantasy world. People are able to give their natural abilities like stamina, strength, vision, wit, grace and beauty as endowments to more powerful individuals like Kings but are in turn reduced in those areas leaving them crippled and needing protection.

Raj Ahten is one of the most extreme badass bad guys that ever was. With thousands of endowments from people he is a beast in battle. All wounds heal instantly and a voice that can bend backs and break walls. Matched with such a great bad guy is the humble and non-destructive Prince Gaborn Orden who is bound to protect the Earth and the preservation of life.

This book has great characters, great conflict, great new concepts and awesome battles. Farland's description of the 40+ metabolism Runelord battle is awesome since he talks about the physical limitations with such fast movements and everything. This book has great philosophical ideas as well. I can't wait to get started on the next books in the series. (show less)

 

 

by Facebook User

No, it's a flop!

I love the idea of Endowments, but it all feels somewhat half-formed. I think this is one of those series that improves on further reading, as the ... (show more)

I love the idea of Endowments, but it all feels somewhat half-formed. I think this is one of those series that improves on further reading, as the initial stuff feels forced, and the main characters are very much too good to be true. (show less)

 

 

by Facebook User

More Reviews

• 

  Just another "fantasy" book? Nope... take every pre-conceived notion of how 'by the numbers' a fantasy book has to it and throw it out the window. There is so much more to this book than the standard fantasy magic and sword fighting, add in the great question, of "Just how far would you go for your power?"

  What price do the leaders charge of their vassals.. how far would one man go to save his kingdom.. would he kill his own childhood friend?

  This book is truly a gr... (show more)

  Just another "fantasy" book? Nope... take every pre-conceived notion of how 'by the numbers' a fantasy book has to it and throw it out the window. There is so much more to this book than the standard fantasy magic and sword fighting, add in the great question, of "Just how far would you go for your power?"

  What price do the leaders charge of their vassals.. how far would one man go to save his kingdom.. would he kill his own childhood friend?

  This book is truly a great (admittedly fictional) psychological study of a vast variety of characters, and how far they would take their desire for safety and security to protect themselves from a growing evil. (show less)

   

   

  by Mark Stone on Aug 23, 2009 at 04:29AM

  Already read

  Is this review helpful? yes no
   
• 

  This is one of the best books I've ever read. Also one of the best series, but the first book is the best in my opinion. "The Runelords" is such a unique and fascinating concept, yet somehow it reminds me of an RPG video game (which are my favorite, so that's awesome!). In fact, it would make an excellent RPG! Imagine winning people over to the point where you can take endowments from them, fighting evil tyrants whilst managing your own kingdom and protecting your dedicates all at... (show more)

  This is one of the best books I've ever read. Also one of the best series, but the first book is the best in my opinion. "The Runelords" is such a unique and fascinating concept, yet somehow it reminds me of an RPG video game (which are my favorite, so that's awesome!). In fact, it would make an excellent RPG! Imagine winning people over to the point where you can take endowments from them, fighting evil tyrants whilst managing your own kingdom and protecting your dedicates all at the same time. Maybe later on there's an "adventure mode" where you have to go on a quest to find Daylan Hammer. Omg and fight the reavers! Oooooo I'd SO play that! I want it!!! >:O Ha. Um, anyway this book is really awesome in so many ways! I love, love, love, love, love it~! It's so real, it breathes~~ (show less)

   

   

  by Sara Wyatt on Aug 13, 2009 at 03:10PM

  Already read

  Is this review helpful? yes no
   
• See all reviews
  Write a review