Book Review: Awakening Horde (Shieldwall Academy Book 1) by M. Zaugg
When I stumbled upon Awakening Horde, now the first in M. Zaugg’s Shieldwall Academy series, I felt an immediate tug of curiosity—a blend of underdog resilience and the magical allure of academy myths. The allure of a street rat navigating treacherous politics and potent magic intrigued me, igniting my imagination and drawing me into a world where every misstep could spell doom.
The story centers around Pax, a cunning street rat estranged from any noble birthright, striving to keep his crew safe while grappling with the loss of his own family. The stakes surge when his best friend is captured, catapulting him into the heart of the Astan Empire’s elite mage academy. What follows is an enthralling dance between survival and revelation, forged through Pax’s struggle to harness the forbidden magic bubbling within him—the very essence of rebellion against the oppressive empire.
Zaugg crafts characters that feel utterly real; Pax, with his flaws and fierce devotion to his friends, is incredibly relatable. It’s hard not to root for him as he grapples with challenges both internal and external. The camaraderie he builds within his friends strikes a chord, reminding me of the power of found family, especially in harsh worlds. As Pax maneuvers through the social maelstrom of the academy, I found myself reflecting on how camaraderie can elevate even the most tangled experiences.
The writing style is another gem here. Zaugg’s vivid prose deftly balances rich descriptions within a fast-paced narrative, ensuring I was never far from the action or the heartbreaks. The world-building is equally impressive—each layer of the Astan Empire feels textured and alive, from the haunting legacy of the cataclysm to the magical systems that underpin the society. I was particularly fascinated by the concept of “monster-touched” humans, a term that opens up riveting questions about identity and power dynamics, making me eager to explore the hidden depths of this world alongside Pax.
One of the book’s standout moments is when Pax begins to uncover the truth about his magic and its ties to the past. It’s not just about the fight against beasts but also about unraveling a mystery I didn’t see coming. This intricate layering of secrets surrounding Pax’s abilities adds a dimension of intrigue and kept me turning pages late into the night.
With an overarching theme of defiance against oppression and the pursuit of truth, Awakening Horde excels as a gripping LitRPG entry. It’s not just for fans of action-packed fantasy but for anyone who enjoys tales of resilience, reckless bravery, and the occasionally explosive growth of unlikely heroes.
Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, this book promises an adventure filled with heart, friendship, and a dash of rebellious magic. I walked away feeling a sense of wonder and excitement, eagerly anticipating Pax’s next move. Dive into this world—you won’t regret it!
You can find Awakening Horde (Shieldwall Academy Book 1) here >>