That I could be so overtaken by a fantasy novel has surprised me. The genre has never been a strong draw for me; I have tried to read some of the classics in Fantasy but have never really been "caught" by them. M. Belanger's book "had" me within the first hundred pages. I was whelmed to discover the story began showing up in my dreams; I was grateful for every moment I could steal away to spend with this book.

The story is expertly constructed with levels of the world, the characters, the story peeling away to reveal larger dimensions I had not expected. Several times, I had to just say out loud "wow".

I will read every book that gets published in this series, and look forward to the surprises that await.

As a professional fantasy cover artist I have the unique oppurtunity to read many, many fantasy novels long before they reach the presses. Because of this it takes something pretty special to impress me. This novel had me reading into the wee hours of the night. MG belanger has a true talent for engrossing the reader and keeping them there. It truly is just as good and in many cases much better storytelling than those of the High fantasy genre published by the mainstream publishing houses. I highly recommend you add this to your must read list.

I just loved this book, but I think there should have been more female characters, although the mostly male cast added to the many other aspects of this book that reminded me of Tolkien (which is a good thing). I really liked all the different stories, involving very different characters, (especially Gavin Silveron, my favourite)and can't wait for the second one to come out. I actually found this book to be one of the most suspenseful books I have ever read, and could not put it down. Definitly recommend it.

This is good writing! Can't seem to put awat the book. It reads like a fast train! Hope part 2 comes out soon!

This can compete with some established Fantasy-writers!

It is not always that an author can suck you into the book with just a few pages read, but he does just that!! As a newer author this guy has a very promising career ahead of him and I hope to be able to read everything else he writes!!!

I'm usually quite hard to impress when it comes to fantasy novels so it comes as something as a surprise at how much I was impressed with Aeldenwood.

The author allows the reader to revel in the rich background brought to life by this book by skillfully following a number of different characters throughout the novel. This allows the reader to follow the adventures in different parts of his world.

This is very well written with a strong plot and would highly recommend it to anyone.

Looking forward to the sequel!

I went into Aeldenwood not really knowing what to expect. It was the first book I'd ever bought from Lulu and wasn't sure how it would stack up against some of the more popular 'mainstream' fantasy authors I was used to reading.

Well, I just finished Aeldenwood and all I can say is - Wow! This ranks right up there with any other fantasy series I have ever read. On a personal note, I never read books more than once.... well, I shouldn't say never. There is only one other series that I have ever reread and that's George R. R. Martin's Song of Ice and Fire - Well, now I can add Aeldenwood to that short list. If this were a third or fourth book by an established author it would excellent. Considering this is a first offering it's amazing. If Belanger isn't picked up by a major publishing house soon I will be shocked!

Belanger has crafted a world that is rich with history and allure. He gives just enough detail to make the scenes really come alive. (Especially the battle scenes.) There were many instances when I finished a chapter where I had the feeling I had just watched the action unfold rather than read about it. The story is well thought out with a sense of purpose and direction. I always had the feeling that the author knew exactly where he was going with the plot.

Belanger allows the reader to develop a real connection with the main characters that leaves you wanting to know more about them. They are well fleshed out and intriguing. You get a sense that they have interesting pasts and (luckily for us) futures.

I can't say enough good things about Aeldenwood. If you are a fan of fantasy novels you owe it to yourself to pick it up. (Actually, Aeldenwood would appeal to readers of non-fantasy as well. This is not your typical fantasy novel.)

Needless to say, Book Two: H'rothgarr can't come soon enough!

John Krieg
Fort Worth, Texas

M.G. Belanger’s debut book, Aeldenwood, introduces an epic fantasy tale that immerses the reader in a world so detailed and unique; it will keep you turning pages well into the night.

The author’s ability to incorporate a richly detailed natural landscape with character development that allows the reader to identify with many of the books major players is truly genius. Three major story lines allow the reader to effortlessly traverse this fantasy world while the author hints at relationships and encounters that will undoubtedly unfold in books to come.

Aeldenwood is detailed and developed, resulting in a considerable read that is well worth the investment. The author’s strong writing style will surely capture your imagination; I highly recommended this book, as in my opinion it is much better than many fantasy novels you will find in major book stores.

Rick Jarvis
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Aeldenwood is definitely a must-read for anyone who is a fan of the genre.

M.G. Belanger takes many of the classical aspects one would expect to find in a fantasy novel & puts a unique spin on them, giving the story a flavor that’s highly original and very memorable. The character themselves, along with their individual struggles, are so well depicted that you immediately find yourself identifying with their strengths and weaknesses; giving them a very human face. From the characters, to the realm, every aspect of the story is richly detailed, and carefully crafted; making the book very difficult to put down once you start reading.

For a debut novel this is a diamond in the rough and comes highly recommended; ranking on par (and in some cases a cut above) many of the main stream authors you would find in your local book store.

M.G. Belanger’s Aeldenwood is an outstanding debut novel upholding the designation Canadian authors have established as front-rank writers of fantasy and science fiction. Belanger’s debut is a gritty epic fantasy full of enchantment, with skilled characterization and compelling storytelling, set against the backdrop of a land rich in its own history and diversity. Belanger has managed to breathe life into the setting, allowing it to become a character in itself.

The world of Aeldenwood is a surreal feudal landscape rife with living myth and history, where travellers are haunted by the terrible Gath and wonder at the disappearance of the captivating Gorimm. Belanger immerses readers immediately introducing three unique storylines which at first appear quite separate, yet Belanger hints at deeper connections between the three, a sign of things to come in the next instalments in this series. The stories of Gavin Silveron, Alessan Oakleaf and Leoric D’Athgaran offer unique perspectives of Old Caleria and each offers the reader an enjoyable journey.

The strong writing and depth of this story create a powerful and assured debut novel. Written with a clean grammatical style this novel is a sizeable read and a great value.

Highly recommended to everyone!

Jackie Cunningham,
Leeds County Books