I've got a new website up - basically I'm trying to make a site where you can find the cheapest price for anything for sale online.
You can check it out at
DealLookup.com
Thanks to everyone who contributed fantasy art inspired by The Elder Staves!
Well I'm obviously interested in writing. I started several years ago with short stories that can be read here .
My first novel, The Elder Staves has received a ton of good reviews (Feel free to go to Amazon and give your own review of the book). However, without a huge marketing budget I can't quit the day job. Please check it out, and let me know what you think.
I really appreciate all the feedback you've given me, and making my MySpace author page so popular. If you know anyone who loves fantasy, please send them over. As a self-published author, I'm thrilled that so many people have viewed my work. If you enjoyed reading send me a message or comment and I'll be sure to thank you.
Unfortunately, I'm turning off comments until all these password-link stealers/comment posters go away. Please comment in the blog or in the pictures section (or just send me a message, I'd love to hear from you)
If you're a fellow author, please join Authors of MySpace: groups.myspace.com/authorsofmyspace
For all the Fantasy/Sci-Fi readers, please join my other group, groups.myspace.com/sffgroup
Reviews of my novel, The Elder Staves:
If you are having LOTR withdrawels, This is the book for you! - March 9, 2007
Reviewer: Nurse Claudia (California)
Having some serious Fantasy withdrawals and are desperate for a fix that will last, giving you some gratification? If the answer is a resounding "yes" you owe it to yourself (and addiction) to read this book!
The world below the city of Tyr is dead; inhabitable due to the harsh elements of freezing cold temperatures. Any being sustained in that environment is expected to die within hours. So, where do the people live? Why, in a big floating city above the planet! The city is kept afloat with magic and three staves, the city ruled by a council of three elders. Two of the elders are Orthodox and considered harsh in their sentencing. The third elder is young, cool, and hip and believes in salvation; always outnumbered he therefore gives into the harshness of the two senior elders.
Garrett is what the townsfolk would consider a crazy mad inventor. He has wealth and runs factories that many don't understand, nor approve of. He is not comfortable with the fact that the entire city is 100% dependant on the magic of the Elders and their staves to keep the city safely afloat in order to sustain life. He has tried to bring this to the attention of the Elders and found himself talking to deaf ears. He's a bit of an outcast. He's like Gandalf, but no magic, just crazy inventions to make up for his lack of magic.
Carn is a young impressionable young adult male. He holds the magic that some of the population holds, but doesn't like to take it for granted, never relying on it. He stresses the importance on learning the mechanisms of things...how they work. Garrett has taken Carn under is wing and has treated him like the son he's never had. This makes Carn's own father a bit uneasy since Garrett is considered a crazy madman. I would say Carn is like a swift fighter like Luke Skywalker, but has the brute masculinity and leadership qualities of Aragorn.
Isaac is a guard of incredible strength. He works for Garrett. He's also loyal friends with Carn. He's like Samwise and Gimli all rolled up in one.
Elysa is Garrett's only child, beautiful with her long black hair and emerald green eyes. Unlike her father, she possesses great magic abilities that even far surpass Garrett's. Oh, she's definitely the Arwen in the story, except she has green eyes and no pointy ears.
And then there are other important characters in the book, but I don't want to give it all away, I want you to read the book for yourself.
The book is action packed from the get go. There is never a lull in the story. The characters are in for one very long night of hell when the trouble starts with arson of the crops, and things just keep going downhill and getting worse from there. The elders are murdered and the staves are stolen. The city is falling, its atmosphere changing. It's all up to the main characters to save the city and all who dwell within it. As the night moves on, the opponents get stronger and more difficult to take on.
The only criticism I have of this story is that Oliverez finalized it without leaving an open end for a sequel or possible trilogy. The characters and delicate environment were interesting enough to want to know more about these people and what happens next. What will happen to their next generation? Who will take over the council? Sequel please!!!!
Great Story! - January 23, 2007
Reviewer: Amy Losonsky "Aymi" (New York)
I have never liked science fiction...that is until now! Superb details, wonderful characters, fantastic plot - this book has it all! Get your copy today! You won't be disappointed!!
Great read! - November 29, 2006
Reviewer: M. Retter
It always amazes me the imagination and ideas that writers come up with - especially in fantasy and sci-fi. Steven Oliverez's world of Tyr is richly detailed and his writing draws you into every characters' move. I love how they all revolve around each other and I love the way Tyr's history comes together! Can't wait to read the next book!!
Great Read - November 4, 2006
Reviewer: Nicole Vanblarcom
I loved the book, normally I don't like these kinds of books but I read this one in 2 days...It has a little of every thing in it...Well worth the money.
OMG!! - November 4, 2006
Reviewer: Christina Marie Burnham "crisi7" (Pomona, CA USA)
LOVED IT. Steven Oliverez has a way of putting the reader in the story. As though you were there in Tyr, watching people go by, hearing each word that is spoken. You could feel the warmth of the sun as if you were walking down the street. As if you, yourself was written in as a character. I truly loved it.
Elder Staves - A must read for all - September 8, 2006
Reviewer: Tara L. Weaver (West Plains, MO USA)
Elder Staves is a "must read" book. I couldn't put it down. It was one of those books I could see playing out like TV in my imagination. As the reader continues to read, the more involved the reader becomes in the action of saving the staves.
Very well written: descriptive, colorful, creative, and suspenseful! I felt like there was a little bit of everything in it for both male and female readers. I think it would make a good movie!
Elder Staves a Hit - August 22, 2006
Reviewer: Patricia Hamilton (McKinleyville, CA United States)
Magnificent imagery, believable characters, The Elder Staves is a must read for anyone who doesn't mind being swept away from the drudgery of their daily lives. Oliverez's grasp of world-building rivals the masters of the genre. The seamless blend of fantasy, myth, and technology will keep you both spellbound and riveted.
The book is easily accessible for the fantasy novice yet deep enough to be compelling for veterans. If you do not own this book, buy it. If you do own it, buy a few more copies.
great book - August 16, 2006
Reviewer: Steven D. Allen (NewHampshire, USA)
I just finished reading The Elder Staves. I really enjoyed it. Steven Oliverez did a great job. Hope there's a sequel to it.
Best read in a long time - August 9, 2006
Reviewer: Jenn "Jenn"
Very exciting book, the details made you feel like you was part of the story. Highly recommended and you will definitely want more!!
Elder Staves - August 4, 2006
Reviewer: Lance L. Lambertus (Phoenix , Az)
This book was great! It had me going and I couldn't put it down . Can't wait to read the next book written by this author.
Great First Book - August 3, 2006
Reviewer: Purpleboz (Kentucky, USA)
I am not one who often reads fantasy, but I loved this book. As a future teacher, I have found myself reading many books that I normally would not pick up. I recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy and anyone looking to read fantasy for the first time. I am including this book in my library for my classroom. Can't wait until there is another book written by Steven.
Great First Book.. Awesome read - August 2, 2006
Reviewer: Cesar Romero
Anyone that is a fan of fantasy should definitely check out Steven Oliverez' first novel.. A great read.. couldn't put it down.. great story telling.. great setting... and great characters... just an all around great book.. After reading the first 2 chapters for free on "myspace" I just had to finish it..great start for someone who I'm sure will be a great addition to the fantasy genre.. keep it up Steven..Can't wait to read your next one....
A+++++++ Amazing Book - July 30, 2006
Reviewer: N. Stebbins
This Book is amazing I am so glad I bought it. One of the best books I have read yet and this is his first book! If you buy this book you will get a great book. Not only that but you will also help establish a great author who could end up writing many more amazing books. A+++++++ book I am very impressed and happy I bought this book! Once you start reading this book its so tough to put it down. Its a page turner to the end and I love the mix of magic with technology. The begining isnt extremely exciting but thats just building the story. Once you get deeper into the story its going to be nearly impossible to put this book down!
Awsome - July 22, 2006
Reviewer: Becka (Rowlett, Tx. USA)
I enjoyed the book. It's a page turner to the very end. I recomend this book to anyone who likes to read. I don't read sci-fi or fantasy very often, but this is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Thank you Steven Oliverez.
absolutely mezmerizing!!! - July 21, 2006
Reviewer: Jeanna Watson "michelle watson" (McCrory, Arkansas)
This is a wonderful, and exciting book....Unbelievable for a first time writer. I believe he has many more left to write!!! can't wait for the next one!!
A Must Read - July 20, 2006
Reviewer: Tonya Cleary "Luluschon" (North Carolina, USA)
I really enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone.
Loved this book - July 20, 2006
Reviewer: DOMom (CA United States)
This book pulled me in and kept me until it ended. I do not usually read fantasy - sci fi, but really enjoyed it. I eagerly await the next book...
Couldn't wait to read the next chapter - July 20, 2006
Reviewer: Marie "Marie" (Northern Kentucky USA)
I will be honest with you, reading the first few paragraphs, I thought he was trying too hard to write like Earnest Hemingway. (Which, I did tell him). However, don't be put off by the introduction, after getting half way through the first chapter I was highly intrigued with this book. I read the first two chapters online, and ordered the book within minutes of finishing. I have recommended this book to everyone I know who likes to read, and several who don't. I have every I work with at my pharmacy interested in the book too. I highly recommend this book to all of you!
Great First Novel - July 8, 2006
Reviewer: R. M. Singletary
This is a great first novel, and I would greatly recommend buying it. It will probaly be a collectors item in ten years.
Waiting for the next book! - June 24, 2006
Reviewer: Elizabeth Johnson (Platte City, MO USA)
I found The Elder Staves to be very captivating. I was drawn into the world and characters with vivid descriptions. The combination of science fiction and fantasy was refreshing for me. The author's word choice made The Elder Staves an easy book for me to read, like I was hearing someone tell the story. I couldn't put it down. I am anxious for the next book so I can be drawn into another "new" place.
I have not read the whole ting yet... - June 8, 2006
Reviewer: Richard Tibbetts (Sacramento, CA USA)
AAHHH!!! I just found the first two chapters of your book linked from your myspace page, I read them. And now I sit here wondering why I didnt shell out the 5 bucks for 2 day shipping, I am stuck in the land of cheap skates trying to save a few bucks and I want back into Tyr. You writing style, choice of words, desriptions of everything from the wind to character clothing to the smell of a room, every word really means something. In just a few pages I have bonded to your characters, I have to know who is with Seward, and will Carn end up with Elysa and the factory, what will becom of Garret, will the factory even be there by the end...just two chapters and I am captured. I have to go now so I can spend the next few days watching for the UPS guy. YOU ARE GREAT!!!! Keep up the excellent work. I dont even have to read the rest, but I really want to, this book is going to set a standard for new writers.
I loved IT! - June 5, 2006
Reviewer: headie "Headie" (Battle Creek MI)
I loved this book. I can't wait to get my hands on another.. I felt as if he pulled me into the book . The only downfall is waiting for the next!!! Job Well done!
Great read! - June 4, 2006
Reviewer: T. Adamich (Denver, Colorado)
Great read! I really got lost in the book's plot and found myself reading it for hours. I will be reading this one again for sure and more of Oliverez's pieces in the future.
Very Good Read - November 3, 2005
Reviewer: C. Naish "queen kitty" (Hesperia, CA)
This book has a lot to offer. Depth, plot, the whole thing. Im impressed with the author Steven Oliverez, he really seems to know what he is doing. I hope to see more of his work real soon!
Branching Out - November 2, 2005
Reviewer: Carl Tran "Carl Tran" (SC)
Having finished the Gunslinger and Sword of Truth Series (up to Chainfire), I needed a new author for my fantasy fix. I also wanted something with a different style from typical fantasy offerings. The Elder Staves was a refreshing change of pace (and length - wow, Goodkind can droll on for 500 pages and nothing happens. There was more in this single offering than several volumes of the series I've been plodding through.)Bottom line, if you want an exciting and entertaining story, pick this one up. If you're only reading to get your elf or space battle fix, there are other books out there.I hope Oliverez writes faster than the other guys.
Elegant - August 3, 2005
Reviewer: Tom Perera (Irving, TX)
This one is hard to classify as it has elements of fantasy, science fiction and literary fiction. It would seem that Oliverez chose story over writing artificially to fill a niche (something readers like myself have been complaining about for years). This makes it somewhat unappealing to strict genre-ists, who want more of the same and cringe when their literary peas and carrots touch. This is not "high fantasy," nor is it a space opera. It is a uniquely told story that does not follow a preconceived checklist.Also, somewhat refreshing to find in a fantasy work is Oliverez's mature view of women. The main female character advances the story as much as the males do; she has her own opinions and fights for them, often comming out on top. The interactions between the characters, especially of different genders, are far more realistic than in many other fantasy works.I agree with those that have described his style as 'poetic simplicity.' The sentences are easy to read, yet I was continually impressed by how the author could convey so much in so few words. This allows each reader to see and digest this book at their own level.
Enjoyable, Well Worth The Read - August 1, 2005
Reviewer: Rachael Crowley
Oliverez presents us with a world where magic was once the norm, where the old power structure of near-invincible magic users is crumbling in the face of commoners armed with simple yet revolutionary weapons. Magic, it would seem, cannot stand against the natural forces of the world - chief among them being ingenuity and gunpowder.The Elder Staves is thought-provoking, but to say that takes away from the exciting action that dominates the story. Above all else it is a highly enjoyable and entertaining read, with more excitement and quick page turns than I've seen in long time. It also stands in stark contrast to the thick, wordy, drawn-out tomes that dominate the fantasy genre. This work is concise and makes fantasy available to those of us who don't wish to plod through 600 pages of boring repetition.Carn is the son of a noble and is poised to become the next Elder, one of a Romanesque triumvirate that rules the sky-city of Tyr. The main character of the story, however, seems to be Tyr herself. As we meet several of her finest (and not so fine) citizens, we see the underlying class struggles and distinctions that existed in a time when magic was unchallenged, and the changes brought about since the rise of technology. This may sound like a stuffy piece of literature until you actually pick it up and start reading - this is all just intelligent background to a city where buildings are being firebombed and magical guardians are being gunned-down by incomprehensible new inventions.Will magic survive? Should it?The Elder Staves also prompts this question for the avid daydreamer: If magic really did exist in our world, would we need it?What I enjoyed most about this novel is the voice. At times it takes on a Hemmingway simplicity with poetic undertones. The description is not read so much as transferred directly to the reader's imagination. The action is expertly timed, starting out as a slow simmer while Oliverez sets up the events of the troubled city, then the dominoes begin to fall from all directions and you feel the tempo increase as tensions reach the breaking point and conflicts multiply. In the escalating battles between the forces of magic and technology it is often hard to distinguish between the two, and we see this in the characters as well. Carn is torn between two extremely powerful forces, both of which far exceed his understanding.So many similarities can be drawn to today's culture, and yet one can never be sure if this was intentional or if it simply reflects how real and immediate the world that Oliverez has created is. The similarities are not allegory, because they are not meant to prove a position or make a statement. All sides are presented and, as in real life, the reader is on his own to decide who is right and who is wrong - and no matter who you chose, you will probably argue up and down that the author agrees with you.This is an incredible debut and it seems that both Tyr and Oliverez have many more stories to give us.
deep fantasy - July 13, 2005
Reviewer: Harriet Klausner
The majestic sky city of Tyr runs on the magic of the aristocratic elders, who use staves to keep the deadly tundra below at bay by controlling the environs. Still even in this seemingly utopian realm, the rebels revolt against the status quo especially the death sentence used to quell dissension. As the rebellion mounts, rumors abound that the staves are losing their power; this growing belief is fostered by the daily occurrence of a cold wind blowing across Tyr when until recently this had never happened before.His family, especially his father has manipulated the political landscape so that Carn will be named elder. Carn has problems with becoming an elder because of some of their tyrannical practices like the execution of peaceful dissenters.Meanwhile in the frozen wasteland below Tyr, the Fallen Exile wants vengeance against those who kicked him out of paradise. He may just succeed if he can remove his only worthy opponent Garret the inventor, which he cleverly does. However, the Exile failed to consider Carn.The comparative analysis between the two societies and within Tyr makes for a deep fantasy in which readers observe a battle of ideas as much as a war mindful of the late 1960s and the deep split in America today. The story line is action-packed with the key cast members symbolic of a segment of society. Whereas Carn represents the rebellion of youth, his father connotes tradition. Both believe their city is falling part, but who will prevail or will the intrusion from below cause the end of days. This is a terrific saga that readers of all ages will cherish as much for its concepts as for the action-adventure.
A very interesting read - July 7, 2005
Reviewer: C. Congdon (Indianapolis, IN USA)
A friend of mine pointed me in the direction of this book because he knows of my love for all things 'anachronistic.' I found the combination of magic and technology to be very attention getting especially with the opposition of the two forces, yet the main character winds up embracing both.All in all a very enjoyable read. My only complaint is that there is no sequel yet!
Not what I was expecting - June 23, 2005
Reviewer: Neil Clarkson "Neil" (Washington, DC)
Reading this book was a delight. Picked this up on a whim because it is a new author, I am impressed with the raw talent that he has for telling a story. Personally I enjoyed a change of pace from the normal Dungeons and Dragons fantasy setting that most of the genre is stuck in. The world and society shown in this book is well thought out and has some real depth put into it. If I had to compare this book to another author's work it would be Gene Wolfe's The Book of the New Sun, while not quite the complete story yet I think that the two go nicely together. If you liked The Book of the New Sun you should definately check this out. I look forward to reading more of Steven Oliverez' work.
Literary Fantasy - June 2, 2005
Reviewer: SEH "Susan" (Herndon, VA)
This was by far the best fantasy novel I've ever read. It put a new spin on a normally overdone magical world by opposing it against technology. Oliverez is a fantastic writer and really lures the reader into the story of a falling world. I would definately recommend this book to readers of both literary fiction and fantasy/sci-fi because with the central character development and vivid fantasical images, both genre of readers will love the story!
The Elder Staves - June 3, 2005
Reviewer: Michael Venson (Akron, MI)
A longtime reader (and critic) of fantasy, I was delighted to find an author that took a new approach.The book opens with the summary trial of Seward Granston, a man accused of sabotage and aiding a clandestine insurgence in the skycity of Tyr. The Elders (three nobles who comprise the head of Tyr's government) sentence him to exile, and he is banished to the 'world below the world' - a dead, frozen land miles below the floating city. It is in this wasteland that Seward meets an evil far greater than himself.The city itself is slowly falling, which the Elders blame on the waning influence of magic and become more aggressive in their efforts to stamp out the threat posed by the rapid advance of technology.Carn, the son of an influential noble and the main character in The Elder Staves, often takes a backseat to the power plays and overt conflict as myriad factions battle for the soul of Tyr. As he becomes more deeply entangled in the struggle, Carn must choose whether to support the Elders and the power they promise, or to align himself with the technologists and aid in their attempt to bring a new order to Tyr.When full-scale war erupts, it is fought with swords, spells, firearms and massive machines of war. And far below the city, hidden among the ice, something evil eagerly watches Tyr's descent.At times it seems as though Oliverez is setting all this up to lay a big political message on the reader - but fortunately, he never does - which is a testament to his ability to weave a story of political intrigue in a world that is very different from our own. The result is truly fantastical.
Great Read!!! - June 2, 2005
Reviewer: Antonio Torro "Tony" (California, USA)
First time reading anything from this author. The story kept me on the edge of my seat. The development of his characters and the brilliant battles between them were engaging, and the way the author mixed fantasy with technology and the "old ways" was great. I was thoroughly entertained. I am a big sci-fi/fantasy buff and I can't wait for his next book.
If you're an artist looking for some exposure, I'd love to work with you. Pick up The Elder Staves (or read the first two sample chapters) and send me some artwork based on a scene in the book. I'm going to put it all together on a separate web page, and your name and a link to your site will appear with along with it.