Folktales from the Endless Frontier: Volume 1 - A Deep Dive Review

by Brett Lurie (Author)

Updated at: 05/02/2025

Dive into the vibrant world of Endless Frontier with Folktales from the Endless Frontier: Volume 1, a thrilling anthology of short stories and novellas by Brett Lurie. This collection expands the rich tapestry of a realm where magic and technology intertwine, offering exciting adventures and intriguing characters. Follow daring airship heists, harrowing desert escapes, and a gripping race against a serial killer. Meet Sariya Vaeliz, Kasta Krane, and Deputy Raelyn Bovien as they navigate a world of danger and unexpected alliances. Whether you're a seasoned Endless Frontier veteran or a newcomer, these stories promise a wild ride filled with intrigue, magic, and the boundless possibilities of a genre-defying universe. Prepare for a journey where anything is possible.

4.7 / 8 ratings

Review Folktales from the Endless Frontier

Folktales from the Endless Frontier: Volume 1 absolutely captivated me! From the very first page, I was swept away by Brett Lurie's vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling. The anthology's structure, weaving together short stories and novellas, kept the pace brisk and exciting, preventing any sense of monotony. Each tale felt like a self-contained adventure, yet they all contributed to a richer understanding of this fantastic world where magic and technology intertwine.

I was particularly enthralled by Sariya Vaeliz's story. Lurie's portrayal of her—a strong, witty young woman with a surprising secret (those gills!)—was simply brilliant. Her audacious airship heist was thrilling, and her interactions with the often-boorish crew showcased both her strength and her sharp sense of humor. I loved how she held her own amongst a group of men who clearly underestimated her, proving that she could be "one of the boys" while remaining entirely herself. The surprise reveal of her father, and his expectations for her, added a powerful emotional layer to her character arc. The artist's depiction of Sariya, particularly the detail given to her gills and her striking green eyes, perfectly captured Lurie's descriptions; it was like seeing the character spring to life from the pages.

The other stories were equally compelling. Kasta Krane's harrowing desert escape was gripping, and her resilience in the face of adversity was inspiring. Deputy Raelyn Bovien's race against a terrifying serial killer kept me on the edge of my seat, while the tale of the Moon Shadow Riders explored complex themes of loyalty and betrayal with satisfying depth. The inclusion of elements like the siren's call, the cybernetic beast, and the references to prayers and human emotions all added layers of richness and complexity to the already vibrant world. The mention of hacking and codes, reminiscent of a favorite movie like Hackers, was a nice touch, bringing a familiar element into this fantastical setting.

I especially appreciated the way Lurie incorporated his own hobbies, like RPGs and fantasy fiction, into the stories. It felt like a personal invitation into his creative process, allowing readers a glimpse into his inspirations and passions. The book felt less like a collection of disconnected narratives and more like a cohesive exploration of the Endless Frontier's many facets. The map, the locations, the characters – everything felt detailed and thoughtfully crafted. The way the adventures changed and shaped the characters resonated deeply with me. It was easy to feel immersed in the world, sharing their triumphs and challenges. The detail that the artist brought to the illustrations perfectly complemented the rich tapestry of the writing. The artistry was truly incredible!

Ultimately, Folktales from the Endless Frontier: Volume 1 is a must-read for anyone who enjoys imaginative fantasy worlds filled with strong female characters, thrilling adventures, and captivating storytelling. It's a fantastic blend of action, mystery, and emotional depth, and I eagerly await the next installment! The book's strength lies not only in its individual stories but also in how beautifully they build upon each other, creating a world I genuinely want to explore further.