Setisia


A Complete Novel, Free Online.


Welcome! First, a brief explanation of the site. There are two versions of the novel, both with the same text, but with different views. This version, accessable from the chapter links in the left hand column ("NEAT") enables you to adjust the width of the page by clicking and dragging the dividing line of the frames to the left or right. It also enables you to choose the background colour of the page with a simple touch of the mouse, as you can see if you click into chapter one. There is also a plain (and ink saving) version for printing, which can be accessed from within the online chapters, or from the links in the right hand column of the navigation bar. If you find the text on this version too small for you, then the other version, which is larger and bold, like this, can be accessed by clicking on the links in the center column, under "BIG". You may need to drag the dividing bar to the left in order to see the whole page, depending on your set up. You can see this version outside these frames by clicking on the Chapter One (bold) link below. (Use the "back" button on your browser to get back here).

Chapter One (neat)

Chapter One (bold)

There is no need for me to describe the book, other than to say that it's an unusual fantasy/adventure story, because I've included some letters from readers (below) and their comments will give you some idea of what the book's about. Also, I'm told that the book is very clear and easy to read, so it's self-explanatory!

Downloading: This version, the alternative version, and the printable version can all be downloaded easily, chapter by chapter. The links won't work offline, so I'd suggest giving the files titles that ensure that they are bunched together in order, and can be easily found (e.g. set.ch1, set.ch2, etc.). I've been asked why I don't offer a complete download (it's for complicated reasons of statistical research!) but this way is just as good, because the chapters are long, and it's easier (and quicker than a complete file) to take down two or three chapters to try out. Then if (I should say when!) you find you like what you're reading, you can return for a few more. Downloading all twenty-one chapters together doesn't take long, even on a dial-up connection, but there's no need to do this, as the site's always there!
Enjoy the read!

Readers' Comments

(Email letters sent to this site)

Subj: Setisia

Greetings
I am an American currently living and working in Dalian, China. I happily discovered your excellent novel online and must say, as a voracious fantasy reader of many years, this is one of the finest works I have read. You have given me a gift beyond measure, as reading material in English is difficult and expensive to acquire here, and decent fantasy novels almost impossible to find. Your characters are brilliantly, yet concisely, developed, easy both to love and to hate, and your prose not only erudite but engagingly humorous. You are gifted and generous in equal measure, and I wish you success commensurate with your considerable talent. I only have one criticism of your fine work...there is far too little of it! More, Sir (or Madam, as the R.L. does not give a clue to your gender), and quickly! I await the sequel eagerly and hope to be a fan of many of your works for years to come. Dare I place the name Salisbury in the same company as Leguin, McCaffrey and, with all reverence, Tolkien? I dare. Thank you for this precious gift once again.

Travis

Subj: the book

Hi,
I am a Business Development Manager for a Training and Development Company in the UK. I am 25 years of age and found your website by accident whilst doing some research. I was intrigued and found myself reading the entire Setisia story in one sitting. I wanted to email and congratulate you on the story which was fascinating and also the characters whom I found to be both believable and enchanting.
I hope that you will continue with your talent and have some work published so that more workaholics can escape for a while into the fantasy lands that your story creates!!!

Well done and good luck.
Kind regards,
Tiffany.

Subj: Setisia

I have been sitting at this computer for the last 4 hours, reading your novel, and I must admit, "I'm Hooked". I have been reading SF and Fantasy novels (along with almost anything else) for many years, and frequently get bored with the sameness of the story lines. Let me know if it has a sequel. This was very good. Thank you.

I am a 58 year old man, living in Smithtown,New York,U.S.A.
Regards, George

Subj: Great Book

Hi there

I loved the book Setisia. Easy to read, fascinating and a lot of fun. The mixture of old world, science fiction, humor and warmth has created a charming and magical tale.

Though the online format took some getting used to (as a librarian, I'm a more conventional book fan), the charm and easy flow of the story kept me glued to my PC.

Thanks for a great story. It reminded a little of another favorite science fiction author of mine. I will keep a look out for your name online, as well as a hopeful eye on the shelves of my favorite bookstores. This book should be available in print - ideal bedtime reading, and to escape the real world out there.

Keep up the good work!

Helena (currently working in South-Korea as an English teacher)

Subj: Setisia

Damn good story! Havent read a good fantasy story that kept me on the edge of my seat in a while. The only thing I was disappointed by was the lack of a kiss at the end. If hes gonna [plot giveaway!] her, he might as well kiss her!

Well done, and keep up the good work! Such a valuable contribution to online literature!

Chris, Philadelphia USA

Subj: Reader Response

Hi, I'm just writing to let you know that I just got done reading your online novel Setisia, and I loved it!! I'm a 26 year old female and avid reader from Ohio, USA who loves fantasy.Your story kept me captivated from beginning to end!! Great character development, plot, and descriptive writing.I felt a part of the beautiful and diverse culture that you created, and could imagine vividly all the gorgeous scenery as the story went on...I think it's wonderful that you put your first novel online for the public to read and give feedback. I think it's a great idea for any potential writer to post their first works online, as it's beneficial for both the writer and the audience. Thank you so much for sharing it!! I hope to see more from you in the future, and will most definitely be looking out for a sequel to continue this wonderful story...Good luck with everything in the future.;)

Alathea 

Subj: Lovely Story

THANK YOU FOR SUCH A LOVELY STORY. IN SOME WAYS NAIVE, NONE THE WORSE FOR THAT. IT GAVE ME A SENSE OF WONDER AND EXCITEMENT. I AM 69 (ON 1ST AUGUST) AND LIVE IN HAWTHORN, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA.

CHEERS GUS.

Subj: Setisia

Dear R.L.,
I am 12, live in the US of A in Missouri. I read your book Setisia, and I think it is absolutly wonderful! It has got a perfect balance of Drama, Comedy, Sadness, Happiness, Romance, everything! I know some people might say, that it was a bad thing that [a character] died, but I think it was good for the story, because it made it seem more like real life, and it reminded you of the danger everyone in the story was in. It was a great work of art, and I highly recommend you to write a sequel, I know I would go out of my way to read it! Maybe that evil Priest that got away should come back to torment Telli and Setisia, it just seems like a setup!
A avid fan,
Kiki

Subj: About your book

Hello,

I am suman from India. I love reading fantasy stories. Specially, romance with adventure and action. Your book has provided just that! I love it! I love the main characters in the stories a lot. I write a little. If you ever need my services let me know. I would love to read your next book! Please let me know when it is ready. Finally I enjoyed your book a lot. I am my self only 17 so I enjoyed the story which told a story about a hero of my awn age.
Best Regards,
Suman.

Subj: loved the story

Hi
I've just finished reading Setisia and enjoyed it immensely. I would love to read a follow up, especially about Telli and Set's training with the Meldriths. It was good to read something fresh and original that was written in a practical way, easily understood. Loved the humour!!! As for myself, I'm 28, female and living in Pretoria, South Africa. I come from a publishing background, but now work in the travel industry.
Thanks, Elizma

Subj: Setisia

Aloha,

Obviously I'm in Hawaii, Makawao, Maui to be exact. I loved your story, and hope that "Princess Lephelia" is in the "works".

Aloha, Les...

Subj: Aloha [Again!]

Hmmm... I'm a native English speaker living on a small island, wondering if I should take umbrage or not with your assertion that we are all a bit weird and have to do things differently... except of course for the next obvious fact that I and my friends most certainly resemble the remark... Setisia was how I spent last evening and the better part of this morning, the first time off that I've had in some 7 weeks. It was time relaxing and delightfully spent, and I thank you for that. I live on the island of Kauai. I am a Clairvoyant and a potter marching merrily towards my 45th birthday next October. Grace Mahalo Nui Loa, CA

Subj: EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE IT. I just completed reading "Setisia" and I must say it is a superbly written story. I found it to be a wonderful light adventure story, that had me smiling, and eager to the end. What surprised me though was the fact that i felt satisfied that the story was finished, which is not usually the case with such stories. Don't get me wrong however I'de love to see more of or two adventurers and what awaits them. In the mean time i give it *****. By the way Do you have any other stories out, have you published a book, let me know, u have made yourself a fan.
Oh, I am from Jamaica. Mark

Subj: Setisia

I have been an avid reader since I first mastered the ability. At the age of 10 I had read every book in the entire children's section of our city's library, and with my parents' approval was given permission to start on the adult section. I can generally read a book from start to finish in a couple hours, unless it is a huge tome which might take a little longer. I usually manage to read 3 or 4 hundred books a year, as I am now physically disabled and have few other pursuits which afford me as much pleasure as reading. The fantasy genre is one of my favorites and as a result I have read thousands of fantasy books and stories. Due to this experience, I feel that my opinion of your writing may have some weight. I must say that of all I have read, your book was one of the most enjoyable. You have a great and wonderful talent, and you must pursue it! I look forward with great eagerness to hearing more of the fantastic story of Telli and Setisia and all the others in their world. If I were to pick an author to compare your work to, I would have to say that your writing very much reminds me of that of Anne McCaffrey. Now that, you must admit, is a compliment! Good luck to you in the future.

Sincerely,
Claudia
Amory, Mississippi

Subj: Hello!

Hi!
I read "Setisia" and must say it is one of the most beautiful fantasy novels I have ever read. Actually, it is one of the best novels of any kind I've read.
I am a 25-year-old guy from Finland who loves reading (almost as much as music :-) ). Honestly, this is one of my favorite stories. I can't believe how lucky I am to have come across this wonderful novel of yours. I would very much like to know whether you have written or intend to write other novels or stories of other type, e.g. short stories. I also have another question. Actually, it's more a request than a question... Please, please, don't ever stop writing!! You have a gift of writing wonderful stories and that gift should be cherished and used.

Sincerely,
Timo

Subj: Loved the book!

I have just finished reading it and am in awe so I cannot find words to say much except that I have neglected my chores and school work for four day in a row and my husband has gotten suspicious and is jealous of my laptop(which i read from). I am jamaican and a living and teaching in the bahamas. I am 28 years old and hope I can get my ten yr old to readit.

I will not use an adjective to describe your book as a cannot think of any that will express what I think of it enough

Selma

Subj: Response to request for information

Hi, I am 64 years old, and - until January 2005 - an IT Manager in an engineering company in London. I have always enjoyed SF and some Fantasy, as well as most other types of novel. Only the most formulaic love stories leave me bored. In Fantasy stories, I can accept some strangeness in names and places, but find too much of this very irritating and it often makes me give up. (I had the same problem with the Russian names in Dr Zhivago). In your story the names are unusual, but not too difficult as to make reading a pain. I really enjoyed the story itself - which I found when I needed to fill up some time and looked for something to read on the Internet - which I found very interesting. It held my attention without using the tricks of several separate parts of the story being switched between as in some - like The Lord of the Rings for example. The characters were well defined and the 'magical' aspects subtle. Thank you for making your book available on the Internet.

Regards, Don

Subj: Comments

I am 51 years old. I have always loved fantasy and Sci-fi stories. I was a fan off the Lord of The rings, before it became so popular. Your story is just as good! Thanks for letting me read it. Sincerely. Bessie

Subj: SETISIA IS A GREAT BOOK GIVE US MORE "WILL BUY"

GREAT BOOK to start the series. Name's Oscar and im a 22 yr old fantasy lover from yuma arizona(usa). read it in two sittings and i must say the author is clearly talented. The next book could get more detailed in the extent of their powers ex: flight,healing and some new ones. Clearly suggestions to one so talented. thanx for the free read. Make another and i would definitely pay to read it.

oscar

Subj: Setisia

Hi! Very charming story with all sorts of "genre" included. Would like to know more about the wherabouts of Telli and Setti right now. Your characters are very round and therefor I suppose you might be in the position in writing a whole novel for each character in "SETISIA". I am a 27 year old woman from Germany with Korean origins living in Brussels/Belgium
Juli

Subj: Requested Email

umm.......well My name is William and I live in scotland. I'm 17 and enjoy reading allmost all kinds of books, especially fantasy and science fiction. I really enjoyed reading the story and am interested in knowing if there is a sequel allready produced or if one is being planned. The real reason that I sent this email was that I am interested in reading the sequel and have been pretty much caught up in the story. I found the story to be very interesting and liked the way that the main characters powers were pretty limited instead of the traditional magical blasting of most of the armies they come into contact with. However I hope they will develop them in the sequel and that there will be a number of people who witness them and have varying reactions, from awe to violence, so that I can get a better idea of what they are like. I hope you can find the time to reply to this message and tell me about the sequel.

Subj: The story of Setisia

I truly enjoyed your story! Its wonderfully told and kept me interested from the beginning till the end. I felt like I could have read and read, although I did read till far into the night, had a very hard time turning my computer off! I have nothing to negative to add about it because it was truly as magnificent of a story as any I have read from many known authors and better than some. I am an avid sci fi reader,and have been for years,I live in Illinois . Just your typical 47 yr.old housewife,with two pretty much so grown children.I spend my leisure hours reading,either on my computer or books I have checked out the library. I sure hope to read more about Telli and Setisia in the future, you surely have a god given talent.Thank you so very much for sharing it! Sincerely, Debbie

Subj: Loved the book

I just finished reading Setisia and I thought it was absolutely riveting. The characters were extremely believable and very colorful, as well as adequately described. I would have liked to hear more about other trips through the Khrelling caves after the truce with the king was made. Other than that I thourally enjoyed the book, especially the Mendia Rhyll. I would love to see a sequel, and would be interested to know of any more books, by the same author of course. Thank you,
Sincerely,
Alberto.

Subj: Great Book!

I spent last night and this morning reading your novel. I loved the characters you created, especially how they were all so easily warm and loving to each other (which, unfortunately is uncommon in the real world).
Your novel was really IMAGINATIVE! The magical worlds and characters you created with all their special abilities/personalities was incredible! It had all the necessary elements that make up a great fantasy/adventure book: a tiny bit of ROMANCE (should've been more, though the characters would definitely need to be older), ACTION (absolutely Loved that fight scene [plot giveaway]...very thrilling), TRAGEDY(never would've expected [a character] to go...), FRIENDSHIPS (formed at home, with different clans, with important & powerful people...very cool), and much much more! I thought that the ending was really clever. The trading deal [sorry - censored again - plot giveaway!] was believable and just like the diplomatic relations of the real world. On the whole, SUCH a pleasure to read! Only criticism? Reading the meeting between Setisia and Telli was really fun! However, the 'goblin' and 'slave' name calling kinda grew tiresome towards the end. I thought that she'd grow to respect her friend by the end and no longer need, or even want, to keep putting him down with those 'nicknames' she uses.
Anyway, I hope you'll write a sequel. I'd surely read it, and recommend others to. Great job!

-Girl in HK [Finland]

Subj: In regards to your novel

Absolutely amazing. Like any excellent story it leaves me wanting more. I cannot wait to read more of the story. Please let me know it is ready. I am a 24 year old network engineer who reads sci-fi/fantasy constantly.
--Luke

Subj: About "Setisia"

Hi there!

Well, you said you wanted to know what kind of people your e-book appeals to, so I just thought you´d like to know that at least you have one Argentinian reader- me! ^_^ I´m an Argentinian 16-year-old girl who read and loved "Setisia". I just wanted to let you know that the book is great, it is like a Fantasy story, but very different from most of this kind of tales. There is no need of big wars nor bloody conflicts in this book to make it atractive.

Oh! And sorry if my English is not good enough to express myself properly, I just hope it is clear enough how much i apreciate "Setisia" ^_^

Namárië,

Just... Melisa ^_^

Subj: A very good novel

Dear Author, I have just finished reading your novel and I am truly disappointed that the story ended. I was held captive by the exploits of young Tellimakis and his [plot giveaway] Setisia. I was mesmerized, and finished the novel in one day only taking so long because today is Halloween and I had to take my children out to a small gathering for the solicitation of candy from strangers(trick or treat!!!!). Had I not been obligated to this task I would not have left my chair until I finished! I am from Shriever, Louisiana,U.S.A., and I work offshore in the oil industry, therefore I do read a lot and hunger for good reading such as Setisia certainly is. Please e-mail me the titles of your novels and where I may find the collection. Thank you for a very enjoyable evening of adventure. Sincerely
H.D.G...

Subj: WOW!

For the love of God and the literate world, I BEG YOU TO WRITE THE SEQUEL!! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!!!!
I fell in love with the whole setting right after the first 3 paragraphs. My name is warren , and i'm currently in Moscow in my 3rd year of med skool. Home to me is a small peninsula in Asia, just above Singapore; a (relatively) unknown coutry by the name of MALAYSIA. I have always loved Fantasy. If it interests you, I love the guitar and [lots of personal information]. I have no idea why I am telling you all this , but I figured, anyone who can write a story as beautiful as this has to be a great guy/girl . So. If you do have an msn account, please do add me!

I really hope you write the sequel ASAP! 3 thumbs up! Cheers!
p.s. Congrats on a GREAT job!

Subj: The Book

Excellent book, I enjoyed it immensely. The characters were well written and were brought to life very nicely. It has been awhile since I have read a book that I so thoroughly enjoyed. My only question is, when is the next one going to be out.
Che

Subj: Your Book

Mrs.? Salisbury,
I am a 20 year old male, in Northern Florida, and avid fan of fantasy novels. I was searching out fantasy related things on the internet while bored at work, when I stumbled across your site. Over the course of a few weekend morning shifts, I have just completed your novel. It was very captivating(managing to steal me away from the Sword of Truth series im currently reading) and I am quite impressed. There isnt much i could think of to give as negative criticism except that I wish it had been longer, it seemed to sort of rush from one important thing to the next with no transition. I cant wait for the sequel, and if you ever get them published I will be buying a copy of both for my collection. Im sure its asked a lot, but i didnt see any answer on your website, regarding your next installment. I wont ask when you plan to have it out, im just curioius if you will be annoucing it on your setisia site so that i know to check back. Thanks for your time,
-Dan-

Subj: Just finished, loved it!

I’m an inveterate fantasy buff, leaning towards mostly female writers, who seem to develop their characters better – male writers focus on technical detail and action! I do read both, it just seems that my favourite authors are female – even counting Raymond Feist and David Eddings who both co-write with a female. I really enjoyed Setisia and would be very interested to read the next instalment.
Niki - Office Administrator

[So, "What gender am I, then?"].

It's not immediately obvious, at least to me. It's interesting actually to think about it, there is enough character development that I'd discount male first off, but the technique used to develop character isn't immediately identifiable as female, either - not much directly about "how I feel" from the characters, more it seems to me to rely on a discussion of motivations. The storyline is primarily carried by the relationships between people, rather than the action/narrative. Hhmm, on balance I'd tend towards female.
Am I close?
Niki - Office Administrator

[Very interesting!]

Subj: Your book

i loved it,you have done a marvelous job with the book Setisia i just wish it was a little longer.
Hi my name is Emily and i'm 14 years old i hope you will soon create more books as i would enjoy reading them also Thank-you for a great read. Another small thing i would like to add is maybe you could show or tell, more about Telli and Setisia's relationship and how they love eachother. Just a thought! And again THANKYOU!!!

Subj: [None]

I have read Setisia and really enjoyed it, being a fan of forgtten realms and the like works of literature. I am certainly looking forward to any future books involving the advntures of Setisia and Telli. Please put my e mail address on a mailing list to infrom me of any future publishing.
Sincerly
Adam

Subj: Thanks for the story

Hello,
I just finished your novel "Setisia" after 3 days of reading, and I just wanted to tell you that it is a wonderful story. I am a 24 year old stay at home mother of a 4 month old baby living in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA. During the summer I am usually outdoors, but, because of rather cold weather this winter, I am pretty much stuck indoors and am always in need of relaxation as my time permits. Your story provided just what I needed, and I wish that more people would publish their work online for others to read just as you did. I would be interested to know if you are planning a sequel to this novel as you left off at an opportune place to do just that. Please let me know if you plan on posting or publishing a sequel as I would be very interested in reading it. =) Thank you again for this wonderful story. Take care, and keep up the good work!
Sincerely,
Stephanie

Subj: [None]

hi i have read the novel and found it intriguing though i wish to know which part of the world have u picturised this place. have just finished reading this one and would be interested in the sequel - if any. Am living in Delhi, India which is located in Asia.
regards,
Swati Pande

Subj: Enjoyed your book!

Just finished "Setisia" last night - I first printed out a few chapters to read at lunch a couple of weeks ago, wanted to finish it but things got too hectic at work. Finally, yesterday, I printed out all the rest, read some at lunch and the rest before bed - great story. I really like your style, flows very well. (I normally read 4-5 books a week so perhaps I have good comparison fodder). Only noticed a few minor errors, one in particular, the misuse of "effect" and "affect". But overall, as I said, very well written. I would definitely read another of your stories! Thanks. Cindy
PS: I live in San Diego and work for 12 industrial real estate brokers; reading is my primary hobby. Thanks again.

Subj: Your book!

Hello,
I come from Uganda in East Africa. I am 22 years old and work as a systems administrator in the Information Technology department of a Telecomms department. I have really enjoyed the book and I hope that there will be more details of Telli and Setisia and their life together especially in the King's court.
----- Noah

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