A compelling mix of adventure, history, and fantasy… I’m excited to introduce you to a story that has all the makings of a masterpiece. ~ Kim's Book Reviews (Reviewer), https://www.kimsbookreviewsandwritingahas.blog

How cool… I hope Dirk's got more stuff. ~ The History Shelf - YouTube , https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT1mDf9U91w

Conquist reminds me of Lord of the Rings in a Spanish elves and dwarves way… my favorite type of fantasy writing. There is a lot of history in this book, which history lovers will love! This is an action filled story about Cristobal… and has a lot of depth to it overall. I look forward to more books from this author! ~ Country Mamas With Kids (Reviewer), https://countrymamaswithkids.com/books-fantasy/f/conquist-a-fantastic-spanish-historical-fantasy-to-read

Strasser has incorporated a good deal of authenticity… you'll find a lot to love here in this novel… Highlights for me in this book include seeing the journey of some of the key leaders as they struggle with circumstances while seeking to overcome personal demons, self-doubt, greed, arrogance, and how to be honorable in a world where you cannot be true to everyone… The races that he created for the story was also one of my favorite things… They were fresh and unique and well done. Finally I appreciated how there were several plot twists, particularly later in the book, that were well thought out and creative narrative choices. ~ Fantasy for the Ages (Reviewer), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cufNbXMTMqs

Looking for epic fantasy, alternate history and characters that leap off the page. Try Conquist by Dirk Strasser. ~ Australian Book Lovers, https://www.instagram.com/australianbooklovers/p/DBQdoq2RBMV/?hl=id

Conquist is a fascinating tale, cleverly combining the history of the conquistadors with a fantasy world…. a thrilling, fast-paced story about greed, warfare, and a struggle for survival on all sides... A highly-recommended tale that has you turning the pages fast, Conquist will appeal to readers of historical adventures and fantasy alike. ~ Ruins and Reading (Reviewer), https://ruinsandreading.blogspot.com/2024/10/review-conquist-by-dirk-strasser.html#more

I would definitely recommend the book. If you like exploration..., armies..., death..., adventure and loss - it's got everything in there. ~ 3 Rivers Books (Reviewer), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upPeaBMNLdk

There are plenty of ‘portal’ fantasies – stories of ordinary people who walk through a magical gateway that take them to a fantasy world… Think of classics like the Narnia books, Alice in Wonderland or the Wizard of Oz. Conquist eschews this approach and instead explores this fantasy world through a particular world view – the Spanish in their time of conquest… Dirk Strasser takes this idea and does something new with it and his approach provides for a unique and fascinating fantasy adventure. ~ Robert Goodman (Reviewer), Goodreads

Overall, the combination of history and fantasy, along with the rich, thought-provoking, character development, made Conquist a memorable experience. If you’re looking for a book that’s not only exciting but also makes you reflect on the nature of conquest—both external and internal—Conquist is well worth the read. ~ Literaria Luminaria (Reviewer), https://literarialuminaria.com/conquist-book-review/

An original and riveting read from start to finish, "Conquist" by author Dirk Strasser will have a very special appeal to readers with an interest in sword & sorcery style heroic fantasy. An action/adventure fantasy novel raised to an impressive level of literary excellence by the storytelling talents of Dirk Strasser as a novelist. "Conquist" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended pick for community library Science Fiction & Fantasy collections. ~ Michael J. Carson, Midwest Book Review September 2024

An engrossing and fast-paced read with intriguing fantasy elements. Such a delight!!!! ~ Helen Smith (Reviewer), Goodreads

Conquist blends, with great fidelity, the history of Spanish exploration and conquest in South America with a fantasy world filled with human-ish creatures with their own civilisation... Its take on the lost world fantasy genre is original, and that alone makes it interesting… This is intelligent but kinetic fiction. Things happen. Threads come together. The world and geographies—richly rendered—cohere… This is what fiction should be—engaging, locked in. It’s good. ~ Cliente (Reviewer), Amazon UK

“Conquist” is the perfect fever dream of conquistadors, magic, and portals, alongside conflict, some drama, and gold-mad lunatics. If I could somehow teleport to Strasser’s location right now, I’d do so to a) get my copy signed, and b) talk about this book… If this book didn’t already entice me with the historical fiction aspect of it all, the fantasy creatures in this book make it even more tantalising to read. ~ Jonathan Putnam, SFF Insiders

Cristobal’s force is lured through a one-way portal into a brutal landscape peopled by two warring races who have their own politics and beliefs… I don’t want to lift the lid on these factions, as the unveiling of their cultures and joint history is one of the delights of the book. ~ Jason Nahrung, Ballarat Writers Inc, Full Review - https://ballaratwriters.com/book-review/book-review-conquist-by-dirk-strasser/

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recommend! Especially if you enjoy historical adventures with depth and detail. The world-building is enticing, with vivid descriptions, making the fantastical creatures inspired by South American myths feel real and menacing. I love South American mythology, personally, so this was a real treat to read. Varga's journey of self-discovery resonated with me. His struggles with self-doubt and ambition felt genuine, and I found myself rooting for him even when his choices led him astray. ~ Lunetta (Customer), Amazon Australia

Conquist is swiftly paced and filled with action and political intrigue... As a reader who does not typically engage with the fantasy genre, I found Conquist to be very accessible and the historical elements made it more enjoyable for me. Strasser has already turned his novel into a screenplay, and I can certainly see the great potential for this novel to be successfully adapted for the screen. Ultimately, fans of the fantasy genre will find much to enjoy in Conquist. ~ We Need to Talk About Books, Full Review - https://weneedtotalkaboutbooks.com/2024/09/02/conquist-by-dirk-strasser-a-review/

Conquist by Dirk Strasser is a thoroughly enjoyable book that takes the reader on a creative adventure that includes everything from conquistadors to ñakaqs and the fantastical winged duende. If you would like to take a journey in an alternate world, this is the novel to read. ~ Kim (Reviewer), Amazon UK

Tense, imaginative and thought-provoking. Conquist is a deeply engaging novel with intriguing characters, a tense and thought-provoking plot, and imaginative world-building. I have enjoyed immersing myself in the pictorial narrative and watching the words unfold into a suspense movie. Highly recommended to those who are looking for not just a well-written storyline, but also a distinct style of writing with beauty in simplicity. Or anyone looking to just escape reality for a short while. ~ Cindy (Reviewer), Amazon Australia

This was an intriguing read. Having spent time in Peru, including Macchu Pichu, I was immediately in that land, though would have liked more description of the settings. I loved the interspersing of the Captain's diary. The characters were compelling though, other than the hero, could have done with more depth. There was little emotion shown but that made for a fast paced plot which was well rounded at the end. A good mix of spec fic with historical fiction. ~ Paula Boer (Reviewer), Amazon Australia

Stacked with deeply rounded-out characters, this simply riveting, enchantingly magical odyssey not only acts as a heartily entertaining, and devilishly satisfying read, but this intriguing fantasy has quickly become a must-read for all fans of this genre. ~ Exclusive Magazine (Reviewer), Full Review - https://annecarlini.com/ex_books.php?id=698

5 out of 5 stars. I really loved this fantasy novel, Conquist by Dirk Strasser. I loved the way history was intertwined with the search for Inca gold within this fantasy novel. Capitan Christobal was vulnerable, loyal, aggressive, strong and loving, he is a real and relatable hero. I enjoyed the strong women, the adventure, the warring and, the exciting and new landscapes and races the Conquistadors journeyed through and engaged with. A great read, exciting from start to end! ~ Lindy Howlett (Reviewer), Goodreads

The author draws on the folklore of the Andes and the Spanish and he plays with the idea of good and evil. I loved the world building in this novel and I was never quite sure where I was going to end up - which is good. ~ Milly Reynolds, Goodreads Author

“This is unlike any book that I have read… I loved the Spanish being taken to this world that they do not understand… I am glad that I read this... It was a fun adventure.” ~ Alyson Stone (Reviewer), Goodreads

I really like how the main character, Cristobal, begins an unraveling journey of conquest, magic, and redemption. This is a great novel to read with a sip of coffee. It challenges our beliefs and assumptions. 5 out of 5 stars ~ Yakub Tirza (Educator), Netgalley

While historical fantasy exists, Strasser's newest novel, Conquist, seems to go in a new and bold direction, blending the fantastical, historical, and ahistorical in a masterful sense… Strasser has created a tight and believable world to enter us into. ~ Lewis Fisher (Reviewer), Goodreads

Conquist is a wholly original idea, delivered with panache and it is an immensely entertaining read. ~ Stephen Higgins (Reviewer), Goodreads

I easily lost myself in this tale, and felt I had jumped back into its pages on picking it up again after a long day of real life… Thanks Dirk, unputdownable. ~ Virginie Ryan (Reviewer), Goodreads

I tore through Conquist in record time! It's a great blend of action and introspection that kept me glued to the pages. ~ Lynette Watters (Reviewer), Goodreads

Conquist was an exciting find for me, as I love fantasy and history, and this novel combined them in a fascinating and unique way. ~ David Catt (Reviewer), Goodreads

“Conquist” is a strong novel, using historical fact as a jumping off point for an original fantasy adventure which will intrigue many readers. In 1538 Capitan Cristobal de Varga is leading an army of conquistadors in Peru, intent on conquest and on finding a fortune in Incan gold. In actual history, these twin lusts led to many deaths among both conquistadors and Incans, and very little success for anyone. Here Cristobal and his army are led through a magical portal which traps them in a new war between two eternal enemies. Cristobal tries to stay focused on his goals, and on protecting his men, but increasingly finds himself questioning everything that has guided his life: his command principles, his God, his honor, his love. The actual history here is a very light touch, but it’s enough to lend veracity to the people and setting. The attitudes and behaviours are very typical of white men of this class and time. Combined with a realistic projection of the Incan natives’ own behaviour and attitudes, I found it believable and easy to sink into. This veracity is helpful when Strasser plunges you into his fantasy world. You’re already engaged with strong and realistic characters, and it’s not a stretch to follow them into something fantastical. The fantasy world is well imagined. The portrayal of other races is particularly vivid. It may not rouse much empathy in you – they’re deliberately portrayed as very alien to humans in their attitudes and behaviours – but you’ll probably find them understandable. Although there’s a fair bit of action here, there are more than a few thoughtful questions underpinning the story. Cristobal becomes quite introspective at times, reflecting on the motivation and actions of not only himself but his men. This gives the novel considerably more depth than relying on action alone. Overall, this is a great read. It’s fast-moving, and a lot happens, but there’s also a fair bit to consider. It’s vivid and original, and I enjoyed it a great deal. ~ Lorraine Cormack (Reviewer), Netgalley

I predict that Cristòbal’s words will be heard, and that Conquist will do some conquering of its own in the field of fantasy fiction. It’s fast paced as an adventure, thoughtful as a meditation on life, and of course highly imaginative. Great stuff! ~ Richard Harland (Multi award-winning fantasy author of Worldshaker)

If you're after a character driven adventure that doesn't neglect clever plotting and pacing, Conquist is for you. If you're after an imaginative narrative that astounds, amazes and ultimately satisfies, Conquist is for you. Dirk Strasser knows how to tell a story that inveigles, intrigues and inspires and takes every reader on an unforgettable journey. This isn't a run of the mill Fantasy—it's special. ~ Michael Pryor (Multi Aurealis Award shortlisted author of The Laws of Magic series)

Dirk Strasser's latest novel, Conquist, is an ambitious and refreshingly different work… Although it has been compared to Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, for me Conquist is closer to Clavell's Shogun in themes, characterisation and the politics of cultural collision. ~ Sean McMullen (Hugo and BSFA nominated author)

Dirk Strasser’s Conquist is a riveting historical odyssey with deep characters, like Ithilia, the gold-winged leader of the duendes—‘her face shimmering like sunlight on water’, and how she befuddles Capitán Cristóbal de Varga, the captain of the conquistadors. Cruel and tender. A stunning novel of conquest and magic. Enchantment splashed with darkness and light. —Eugen Bacon, author of Secondhand Daylight. Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ~ Eugen Bacon (Book Trade Professional), Netgalley

This was a fantastic historical fiction novel; it had everything that I wanted. The characters were what I was looking for, and I enjoyed how they worked in this universe. Dirk Strasser has a great writing style, and I was glad I got to read this. ~ Kathryn McLeer (Reviewer), Netgalley

Like the best ‘lost world’ stories, the action of Conquist is unrelenting from the moment Varga and his men step through the one-way ‘entrada’ until the very last page. Through his travels, Varga encounters the strangest of flora and fauna, others like him who have wandered into this world only to be lost, enemies who become allies, and seeming friends who will betray them all. Varga himself is a fascinating character, seemingly cruel and uncaring of the misery he inflicts on the Incas, staunchly loyal to his men, hoping to raise himself and his cousin Diego from penury and struggling with the legacy and memory of his father who chose honour above gold. He’s a clever tactician and brave in a fight, and he and his men experience fearful battles, strange discoveries, desperate flights and pursuits, hidden places, and unimaginable wonders in equal measure while Varga learns a few hard truths about himself and his place in the world. He may not achieve all that he desires, but perhaps there are other, more personal victories possible that can bring him peace. I tore through the novel in record time. Conquist is a rip-roaring action adventure with heart that is sure to please. ~ Keith Stevenson (Book Trade Professional), Netgalley

What’s most interesting about this world is the way it defies all expectations and challenges the characters’ assumptions. The Spanish believe they are in purgatory, while the Inca believe it’s the realm of the sun god Inti. The truth is something more nebulous. In a search for an escape from this increasingly hostile world, Cristobal must decide where his priorities truly lie. In Conquist, Strasser tells a riveting odyssey of conquest, magic, and redemption that fans of historical fantasy will devour. ~ Gabriel Robertson, Aurealis

Dirk is a master… It is a joy to behold Dirk’s impressive oeuvre finally getting the notice it so justly deserves: I won’t be able to call him an unsung hero for very much longer. Like my old pal Harlan Ellison, Dirk is a giver, not a taker; and it’s a joy to see all that good karma finally coming back to him. And you – you, for whom luck is with you right now, right this very minute because – you hold one of his gifts right in the palms of your hands. Enjoy and behold what the fuss is all about. Now turn the goddamn page and watch the show! It’s Dirk Strasser time. ~ Jack Dann, Nebula and World Fantasy Award-winner

Dirk Strasser's stories leave an indelible after-image in the mind's eye, through which you must ever after view the mundane world. ~ Isobelle Carmody, multi-award winning fantasy author

Dirk Strasser’s novel Conquist with its deep characters and historic odyssey ran in 2020. But, in his 2022 review, Gabriel Robertson rekindled my personal affection for Ithilia, the gold-winged leader of the duendes—‘her face shimmering like sunlight on water’, and how she befuddled Capitán Cristóbal de Varga, the captain of the conquistadors. An enchanting story splashed with darkness and light. ~ Eugen Bacon, World Fantasy Award finalist and award-winning author of Danged Black Thing, Mage of Fools and Chasing Whispers