[[quoteright:350:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/futile_novel.png]]
''An Exercise in Futility'' is a 2010 book written by Steve Thomas.

The story follows the adventures of a young man named Ezekiel as he discovers a hidden talent that doesn't involve singlehandedly fighting off a far more experienced army.

!! This story contains examples of:
* AerithAndBob: Kalharians have made-up fantasy names like Kathelm and Meunig, while the Gurdur have Herbrew names such as Ethan and Joseph. One Gurdur tribe names women after virtues, such as Charity.
%%* ChekhovsGun: [[spoiler:Spurrig's knife.]]
* FantasyCounterpartCulture: The Kalharians have a bit in common with the Romans.
* FunctionalMagic: Magic is tied to a natural resource and requires special training.
%%* HappilyEverAfter: Subverted.
%%* TheEmpire
%%* ThanatosGambit: [[spoiler:Ezekiel in Chapter 1-18.]]
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