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Dreams of Dust and Steel #1
The Price of Power
Prince Barodane could not hold back the darkness. Not even in himself. He laid an innocent city in its grave and then died a hero.
In his absence, war whispers across the land.
Power-hungry highborn dispatch spies and assassins to the shadows as they maneuver for the throne, while an even greater threat rises in the South. Monsters and cultists flock to the banners of a mad prophet determined to control reality…and then shatter it.
Destiny stalks three to the brink of oblivion.
A dead prince that isn’t actually dead. Barodane buried his shameful past in a stupor of drugs, drink, and crime, and now, he’d rather watch the world fall apart than wear a crown again.
An orphan with hero’s blood who is forced to make a harrowing choice: betray her country or sacrifice her first love.
And a powerful seer who has no choice at all–her grandson must die.
If any of them fails to pay the price…
The cost will be the world’s complete annihilation.
In his absence, war whispers across the land.
Power-hungry highborn dispatch spies and assassins to the shadows as they maneuver for the throne, while an even greater threat rises in the South. Monsters and cultists flock to the banners of a mad prophet determined to control reality…and then shatter it.
Destiny stalks three to the brink of oblivion.
A dead prince that isn’t actually dead. Barodane buried his shameful past in a stupor of drugs, drink, and crime, and now, he’d rather watch the world fall apart than wear a crown again.
An orphan with hero’s blood who is forced to make a harrowing choice: betray her country or sacrifice her first love.
And a powerful seer who has no choice at all–her grandson must die.
If any of them fails to pay the price…
The cost will be the world’s complete annihilation.
481 pages, Paperback
First published January 31, 2023
593 people are currently reading
4019 people want to read
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August 24, 2024
Review copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5/5 stars
The Price of Power is a foundational character-driven fantasy debut with promises of great things to come.
It seems like in the middle of my hectic life, I seem to have forgotten to write my full review for The Price of Power by Michael Michel. By two months! I shall fix that now. Apologies. I really thought I’d written my review for it. For the past year or so, The Price of Power has been gaining positive reviews and a steady increase in the legion of fans devoted to it. As a diehard fan of The First Law series by Joe Abercrombie, I had my interest in it immediately invoked when I heard, repeatedly, how this is compared to The Blade Itself. While I personally think The Blade Itself is a superior novel, I can certainly understand why people recommend it to readers of The First Law, too. The story is told from the perspective of four main POV characters, and that’s how I will structure my review. Starting from Prince Barodane.
Out of all the four POV characters, Prince Barodane is the one that has the vibe of The First Law. And I was immediately hooked by the strong opening of Barodane’s story. Overall, it is a tale of regret and the struggle of overcoming it when it’s rooted deeply in your soul. Barodane’s relationship with Garlenna was slowly nurtured and developed. However, although Barodane’s story started and ended strongly, I do think the slow-burn nature of the narrative in his story was a bit too long and winded. The payoff at the end of the novel for Barodane’s story did not feel powerful or rewarding enough because the entirety of it feels like a setup for the sequel.
The biggest surprise for me was Ishoa Ironlight’s story. Unlike Barodane’s storyline, Ishoa’s POV did not have a strong beginning. However, Ishoa’s chapters are the ones that keep getting better and better with each page. The character development was great, the intensity steadily increased, and I was surprised to find how gripped I was by her conflict with her family and also her romantic partner, Lodaris Warnock, by the end of the novel. The strive and turmoil with the Scarborn were well-depicted, and hey, there’s a fierce animal companion in Ishoa Ironlight chapters, which is always a plus for me in my fantasy books. But was Ishoa my favorite character? No.
Almost the entire narration in The Price of Power is written with a third-person past tense narration. There’s only one POV character in the book narrated in the first-person present tense, the POV of the grandma. Or Locastrii. The story of Locastrii and Akyris is my favorite in The Price of Power. Right from the first chapter, I was hooked by the distinct narration, and I always wanted to learn more about what was going on. To find out whether the mentioned tragedy will occur. And how the premonitions, training, and development could connect with the other POV characters. I’m a fan of reading characters with distinct voices, and this is where Michel’s skill as a storyteller shines like the piercing arrow of light the narrative chases. It’s incredible. I eagerly look forward to reading the continuation of Locastrii and Akyris’s story. No doubt about it.
Unfortunately, the remaining POV character, Thephos, was the weakest link of the novel for me. It ended up bringing down my enjoyment of The Price of Power more than I expected, thanks to my disconnection with the character and his story. To put it simply. I felt his storyline belonged in a different book or a spin-off to The Price of Power. It felt like reading the prologue of The Price of Power, which I believe will be removed or restructured in future editions because it feels too disconnected. The tone of the prologue felt different from the rest of the novel. And Thephos’ story (to me) did not spark a big enough emotional investment in me.
Overall, as a series starter, The Price of Power is a great foundational installment. Similar to how The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie is used to introduce the characters and premise of the series, Michel did a similar execution with the novel. Although some of my reading enjoyment was substracted because of this, especially in Thephos's chapters, I have faith that the rest of the series will only get better and better. The ending chapters of the three other POV characters certainly have enough power to make me interested in reading the sequel whenever I feel like I'm in the right mood for it.
You can order this book from: Amazon | Blackwells (Free International shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Aliysa, Ambrosius, Andrew, Andrew S, Annabeth, Anne, Arliss, Barbara, Bev, Cade, Chris, Christopher, Cullen, Dan, Donuts, Dylan, Edward, Elaine, Elias, Erich, Feanor, Francesca, Frank, Gary, Gregory, Hamad, Helen, James, Jeff, Jenn, Jesse, Joie, Jonathan, Katrina, Kim, Kristina, Lara, Lourdes, Luis, Melinda, Michael, Michael, Mike, Miracle, Mordie, Nicholas, Radiah, RCT, Redmischief, Rue, Samuel, Sarah, Scott, Sean, Shawn, Stephanie, Trish, TS, Wick, Woodman, Xero, Yuri, Zoe.
3.5/5 stars
The Price of Power is a foundational character-driven fantasy debut with promises of great things to come.
“As much as the future is fickle, the past is solid and certain. What it tells me is things continue forward. The future persists even when bleak. I fight fear with wisdom.”
It seems like in the middle of my hectic life, I seem to have forgotten to write my full review for The Price of Power by Michael Michel. By two months! I shall fix that now. Apologies. I really thought I’d written my review for it. For the past year or so, The Price of Power has been gaining positive reviews and a steady increase in the legion of fans devoted to it. As a diehard fan of The First Law series by Joe Abercrombie, I had my interest in it immediately invoked when I heard, repeatedly, how this is compared to The Blade Itself. While I personally think The Blade Itself is a superior novel, I can certainly understand why people recommend it to readers of The First Law, too. The story is told from the perspective of four main POV characters, and that’s how I will structure my review. Starting from Prince Barodane.
“When you ride alongside those considered the lowest in honor, you must work all the harder to demand respect.”
Out of all the four POV characters, Prince Barodane is the one that has the vibe of The First Law. And I was immediately hooked by the strong opening of Barodane’s story. Overall, it is a tale of regret and the struggle of overcoming it when it’s rooted deeply in your soul. Barodane’s relationship with Garlenna was slowly nurtured and developed. However, although Barodane’s story started and ended strongly, I do think the slow-burn nature of the narrative in his story was a bit too long and winded. The payoff at the end of the novel for Barodane’s story did not feel powerful or rewarding enough because the entirety of it feels like a setup for the sequel.
“And as a ruler you must know the stories of those who serve you as well as those who oppose you. Information is the shield that protects nations. Knowing what motivates your enemies, the killing blade. Without understanding of your people, you are left naked. Weak.”
The biggest surprise for me was Ishoa Ironlight’s story. Unlike Barodane’s storyline, Ishoa’s POV did not have a strong beginning. However, Ishoa’s chapters are the ones that keep getting better and better with each page. The character development was great, the intensity steadily increased, and I was surprised to find how gripped I was by her conflict with her family and also her romantic partner, Lodaris Warnock, by the end of the novel. The strive and turmoil with the Scarborn were well-depicted, and hey, there’s a fierce animal companion in Ishoa Ironlight chapters, which is always a plus for me in my fantasy books. But was Ishoa my favorite character? No.
“I’ve learned time favors decisions both clear and bold. For those working against the River’s current, commitment is a necessity. More precious than gold, or weapons, or magic powers, none of which are earned without commitment.”
Almost the entire narration in The Price of Power is written with a third-person past tense narration. There’s only one POV character in the book narrated in the first-person present tense, the POV of the grandma. Or Locastrii. The story of Locastrii and Akyris is my favorite in The Price of Power. Right from the first chapter, I was hooked by the distinct narration, and I always wanted to learn more about what was going on. To find out whether the mentioned tragedy will occur. And how the premonitions, training, and development could connect with the other POV characters. I’m a fan of reading characters with distinct voices, and this is where Michel’s skill as a storyteller shines like the piercing arrow of light the narrative chases. It’s incredible. I eagerly look forward to reading the continuation of Locastrii and Akyris’s story. No doubt about it.
“Love is not meant to be betrayed. It is like a dog that we train. Treat it with care and it gives in return all that it has until its dying breath. But raise it with a malevolent hand and it is an untrustworthy, dangerous beast. Already, I have felt its bite. Love is a bitch.”
Unfortunately, the remaining POV character, Thephos, was the weakest link of the novel for me. It ended up bringing down my enjoyment of The Price of Power more than I expected, thanks to my disconnection with the character and his story. To put it simply. I felt his storyline belonged in a different book or a spin-off to The Price of Power. It felt like reading the prologue of The Price of Power, which I believe will be removed or restructured in future editions because it feels too disconnected. The tone of the prologue felt different from the rest of the novel. And Thephos’ story (to me) did not spark a big enough emotional investment in me.
“One who does not seek to break their chain is already broken by it.”
Overall, as a series starter, The Price of Power is a great foundational installment. Similar to how The Blade Itself by Joe Abercrombie is used to introduce the characters and premise of the series, Michel did a similar execution with the novel. Although some of my reading enjoyment was substracted because of this, especially in Thephos's chapters, I have faith that the rest of the series will only get better and better. The ending chapters of the three other POV characters certainly have enough power to make me interested in reading the sequel whenever I feel like I'm in the right mood for it.
“To control another is to amplify one’s own pain and maybe lose a loved one all the faster. Relationships teach as much to those willing to listen.”
You can order this book from: Amazon | Blackwells (Free International shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Aliysa, Ambrosius, Andrew, Andrew S, Annabeth, Anne, Arliss, Barbara, Bev, Cade, Chris, Christopher, Cullen, Dan, Donuts, Dylan, Edward, Elaine, Elias, Erich, Feanor, Francesca, Frank, Gary, Gregory, Hamad, Helen, James, Jeff, Jenn, Jesse, Joie, Jonathan, Katrina, Kim, Kristina, Lara, Lourdes, Luis, Melinda, Michael, Michael, Mike, Miracle, Mordie, Nicholas, Radiah, RCT, Redmischief, Rue, Samuel, Sarah, Scott, Sean, Shawn, Stephanie, Trish, TS, Wick, Woodman, Xero, Yuri, Zoe.
January 7, 2024
I read this book for judging Purposes for SPFBO 9. Such an amazing book which is why I made it my Semi Finalist! This book is pulse pounding, inventive, dark, and executed to perfection.
The more I think on this book 6 months after having read it the more I love it. 5 star read and I cannot wait for more.
The more I think on this book 6 months after having read it the more I love it. 5 star read and I cannot wait for more.
July 3, 2023
Okay, so I know it’s always risky to compare stories to another big and beloved author/series, but I truly believe that this story will be perfect for fans of First Law and A Song of Ice and Fire. The Price of Power is an epic, character-driven, multi-POV grimdark fantasy full of cutthroat political intrigue, complex and morally grey characters, rich history and lore, intriguing magic and lots of brutal action scenes.
I went into this book completely blind and was immediately hooked by the intriguing prologue. It’s thrilling, mysterious, gripping and really sets the tone for the rest of the book.
This story focuses on 4 very intriguing central characters whose lives and journeys couldn't be more different and separate from each other if they tried. I mean, we follow a supposedly dead king now turned drug dealer, an orphaned princess competing in deadly trials, a grandmother with mystical powers intent on killing her grandson, and an abused farmer on a mission to end his life. Now, that’s a cast of interesting characters if I’ve ever seen one. I do have to say that at first it almost felt like I was reading 4 different books instead of one cohesive narrative, but once I found my footing, I was all in.
I think the character work in this book is really strong and compelling. If you like following flawed, complex and morally ambiguous characters, then you are in for an absolute treat. These characters all have very distinct personalities and well-fleshed out backgrounds, which made them feel very three-dimensional and realistic. And even though I wasn't able to connect to most of them on an emotional level, I just couldn't stop reading because I was fascinated by their journeys. These characters, including the side characters, are all SO interesting and everyone's personality just leaps off the page, which I loved.
And as the title suggests, this book dives deep into the price and burdens of power, resulting in some authentic and nuanced explorations of mental health. To keep the tone from becoming too bleak though, there are some amusing injections of dark and witty humour, which I really appreciated.
The worldbuilding is another really strong suit of the book. This world is vast and contains a multitude of interesting cultures, races and political factions, all of which are brought to life through Michel’s vivid and evocative prose. We are presented with tantalising bits of rich history and lore, yet a lot of the intricacies and details of this world remain clouded in mystery. The fantastical elements are never fully explained, which creates a great sense of intrigue and leaves you wanting to know more. Whether that’s a good or a bad thing is going to depend on the type of reader you are. I personally felt a bit lost at times, but I have a feeling that the author intended it to be that way. After all, this is only the first instalment in what’s promised to be a long and epic series, so there’s still lots of time for things to fall into place.
This is simply the type of story where you will just have to be able to sit back, revel in the confusion and trust the author to weave things together eventually, otherwise it might end up becoming a very frustrating reading experience.
Now, the plot and pacing are very slow-burn for the first 75% of this book, but once things kick into gear, it’s just an insanely wild ride straight up to the very final chapter. The political scheming, the betrayals and backstabbing, the jaw-dropping reveals and implications about some fantastical elements, the riveting action scenes… I was just glued to the page by the end. Actions have serious consequences here, which resulted in really high stakes and some unexpected twists and turns.
This story may require a bit of patience and trust at the start, but the explosive conclusion is so worth it in my opinion. I am very intrigued by the way these characters are set up and by the threads that are left open to pursue in the upcoming instalments in this series.
Overall, I think this is an extremely ambitious, well-crafted and promising debut novel. We got some answers, but we are also still left with so many questions, so now I am fully invested in the story and desperately need book 2!
If you like your epic fantasy to be dark, slow-burn, character-driven and full of political intrigue, then this is the book for you.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I went into this book completely blind and was immediately hooked by the intriguing prologue. It’s thrilling, mysterious, gripping and really sets the tone for the rest of the book.
This story focuses on 4 very intriguing central characters whose lives and journeys couldn't be more different and separate from each other if they tried. I mean, we follow a supposedly dead king now turned drug dealer, an orphaned princess competing in deadly trials, a grandmother with mystical powers intent on killing her grandson, and an abused farmer on a mission to end his life. Now, that’s a cast of interesting characters if I’ve ever seen one. I do have to say that at first it almost felt like I was reading 4 different books instead of one cohesive narrative, but once I found my footing, I was all in.
I think the character work in this book is really strong and compelling. If you like following flawed, complex and morally ambiguous characters, then you are in for an absolute treat. These characters all have very distinct personalities and well-fleshed out backgrounds, which made them feel very three-dimensional and realistic. And even though I wasn't able to connect to most of them on an emotional level, I just couldn't stop reading because I was fascinated by their journeys. These characters, including the side characters, are all SO interesting and everyone's personality just leaps off the page, which I loved.
And as the title suggests, this book dives deep into the price and burdens of power, resulting in some authentic and nuanced explorations of mental health. To keep the tone from becoming too bleak though, there are some amusing injections of dark and witty humour, which I really appreciated.
The worldbuilding is another really strong suit of the book. This world is vast and contains a multitude of interesting cultures, races and political factions, all of which are brought to life through Michel’s vivid and evocative prose. We are presented with tantalising bits of rich history and lore, yet a lot of the intricacies and details of this world remain clouded in mystery. The fantastical elements are never fully explained, which creates a great sense of intrigue and leaves you wanting to know more. Whether that’s a good or a bad thing is going to depend on the type of reader you are. I personally felt a bit lost at times, but I have a feeling that the author intended it to be that way. After all, this is only the first instalment in what’s promised to be a long and epic series, so there’s still lots of time for things to fall into place.
This is simply the type of story where you will just have to be able to sit back, revel in the confusion and trust the author to weave things together eventually, otherwise it might end up becoming a very frustrating reading experience.
Now, the plot and pacing are very slow-burn for the first 75% of this book, but once things kick into gear, it’s just an insanely wild ride straight up to the very final chapter. The political scheming, the betrayals and backstabbing, the jaw-dropping reveals and implications about some fantastical elements, the riveting action scenes… I was just glued to the page by the end. Actions have serious consequences here, which resulted in really high stakes and some unexpected twists and turns.
This story may require a bit of patience and trust at the start, but the explosive conclusion is so worth it in my opinion. I am very intrigued by the way these characters are set up and by the threads that are left open to pursue in the upcoming instalments in this series.
Overall, I think this is an extremely ambitious, well-crafted and promising debut novel. We got some answers, but we are also still left with so many questions, so now I am fully invested in the story and desperately need book 2!
If you like your epic fantasy to be dark, slow-burn, character-driven and full of political intrigue, then this is the book for you.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 18, 2023
5 Stars
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Michael Michel brings a strong new voice to grimdark fantasy. The Price of Power is an impressive debut that fans of Joe Abercrombie won’t want to miss.
This is a character-driven story told through multiple points of view as the whispers of war spread throughout the land. From the first page, I was hooked.
The story follows a mad prince believed to be dead, but rather is paying for the mistakes of his past in drugs and drink; a young princess who must decide between her kingdom or her first love; a grandmother who must sacrifice her grandson and a young man who is already dead. If they fail to pay the price, the world will be destroyed.
Let’s talk about the characters for a moment; each character received development in one form or another, often in unexpected ways. With characters from young teenagers to the elderly we see their relationships and internal struggles laid bare to the reader. I can’t forget to mention the morally grey characters, strong female characters and compelling character arcs that will keep readers wanting more. I was thoroughly impressed by how thoughtfully the main and side cast were written. With so much depth put into the characters psychology, this is the kind of book you could sit and analyze.
As the title implies, there is a common theme among the POVs. Seeing the price that power takes from four different situations and POV’s made for a captivating read. There was diversity and subtly done with it that balances the characters arcs with the plotlines which felt seamless.
The worldbuilding naturally flowed with the story and was easy to get lost in. Rich in political tensions between the ruling lands, diverse cultures, dangerous creatures, ascended beings, and a magic system with spiritual influences. I do wish there was more exploration of the magic system however, this is a world with much more to discover in future books.
Regarding pacing, this was a satisfying slow burn with a whirlwind of an ending. I’d recommend making some time to read the last 15% of the book in a sitting if you can. The Price of Power is also the kind of book you’ll want to re-read to catch all the hints left throughout the story.
I also appreciate that Michael Michel was not afraid to include grimdark elements. This added a sense of dread and even horror as I was never certain which characters might be safe. Ultimately, this 700-page book was hard to put down.
With captivating scenes, dangerous trials, political scheming, epic battles, animal companions, and pure madness readers will not be disappointed.
This was bloody, brutal, and brilliant. I’d highly recommend this for any grimdark fantasy reader looking for their next read.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Michael Michel brings a strong new voice to grimdark fantasy. The Price of Power is an impressive debut that fans of Joe Abercrombie won’t want to miss.
This is a character-driven story told through multiple points of view as the whispers of war spread throughout the land. From the first page, I was hooked.
The story follows a mad prince believed to be dead, but rather is paying for the mistakes of his past in drugs and drink; a young princess who must decide between her kingdom or her first love; a grandmother who must sacrifice her grandson and a young man who is already dead. If they fail to pay the price, the world will be destroyed.
Let’s talk about the characters for a moment; each character received development in one form or another, often in unexpected ways. With characters from young teenagers to the elderly we see their relationships and internal struggles laid bare to the reader. I can’t forget to mention the morally grey characters, strong female characters and compelling character arcs that will keep readers wanting more. I was thoroughly impressed by how thoughtfully the main and side cast were written. With so much depth put into the characters psychology, this is the kind of book you could sit and analyze.
As the title implies, there is a common theme among the POVs. Seeing the price that power takes from four different situations and POV’s made for a captivating read. There was diversity and subtly done with it that balances the characters arcs with the plotlines which felt seamless.
The worldbuilding naturally flowed with the story and was easy to get lost in. Rich in political tensions between the ruling lands, diverse cultures, dangerous creatures, ascended beings, and a magic system with spiritual influences. I do wish there was more exploration of the magic system however, this is a world with much more to discover in future books.
Regarding pacing, this was a satisfying slow burn with a whirlwind of an ending. I’d recommend making some time to read the last 15% of the book in a sitting if you can. The Price of Power is also the kind of book you’ll want to re-read to catch all the hints left throughout the story.
I also appreciate that Michael Michel was not afraid to include grimdark elements. This added a sense of dread and even horror as I was never certain which characters might be safe. Ultimately, this 700-page book was hard to put down.
With captivating scenes, dangerous trials, political scheming, epic battles, animal companions, and pure madness readers will not be disappointed.
This was bloody, brutal, and brilliant. I’d highly recommend this for any grimdark fantasy reader looking for their next read.
April 3, 2025
This fine fellow offered me a review copy in exchange for an honest review. I’m glad he did. This also stands as the first book to have a super cool looking cover when it was offered to me just for me to find out the cover was a PLACEHOLDER! And wow, look at this real cover!
This is a dark and gritty fantasy featuring some morally gray characters that might not actually be deserving of salvation. The cast itself, also features some children, as well we others, that brighten the whole thing up, which I enjoyed a lot. I have seen this compared to The First Law trilogy, (of which I’ve only read the Blade Itself) but I think other than tone, grittiness, and genre, they’re quite different.
The magic system is awesome. It features magical folks called Awakened, who must summit a mountain and return powered. Most die, and the powers are random. Not to mention, they aren’t even guaranteed! Who the hell would try that! Well, some people do, and it works for them. Several different powers are displayed in the story, and it’s never really described if that’s all of them or if there is more. As these powers possibly come from the gods, it makes sense they are random and not fully explained.
As is the usual aim for these types of stories, the author has created a main character that is so awful that the entire world should despise him. Yet, the more and more you read, the more you like and feel for him. I’m impressed with how well done the character was built. His guilt and self-imposed suffering are what leads you to see him as redeemable.
Personally for me, there was a chunk in the center there that was a bit thick. I wondered if maybe a POV was cut out if it would have flowed better, however I couldn’t think of one I’d want to do without, so idk! Therefore, 5/5* for me. It was great.
So good:
“Belara straightened. “Peace is what happens when enemies fear each other enough to avoid the uncertain results of attempted conquest.””
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-the-pr...
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-the-pr...
This is a dark and gritty fantasy featuring some morally gray characters that might not actually be deserving of salvation. The cast itself, also features some children, as well we others, that brighten the whole thing up, which I enjoyed a lot. I have seen this compared to The First Law trilogy, (of which I’ve only read the Blade Itself) but I think other than tone, grittiness, and genre, they’re quite different.
The magic system is awesome. It features magical folks called Awakened, who must summit a mountain and return powered. Most die, and the powers are random. Not to mention, they aren’t even guaranteed! Who the hell would try that! Well, some people do, and it works for them. Several different powers are displayed in the story, and it’s never really described if that’s all of them or if there is more. As these powers possibly come from the gods, it makes sense they are random and not fully explained.
As is the usual aim for these types of stories, the author has created a main character that is so awful that the entire world should despise him. Yet, the more and more you read, the more you like and feel for him. I’m impressed with how well done the character was built. His guilt and self-imposed suffering are what leads you to see him as redeemable.
Personally for me, there was a chunk in the center there that was a bit thick. I wondered if maybe a POV was cut out if it would have flowed better, however I couldn’t think of one I’d want to do without, so idk! Therefore, 5/5* for me. It was great.
So good:
“Belara straightened. “Peace is what happens when enemies fear each other enough to avoid the uncertain results of attempted conquest.””
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-the-pr...
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-the-pr...
March 18, 2025
The relaunch polishes a gem stone into a shining marvel.
If you want to learn prose, study Anna Smith Spark, Luke Tarzian, and Patrick Rothfuss.
If you want to learn dialogue, study Sebastien de Castell and Scott Lynch.
If you want to learn action, study Anthony Ryan and Matthew Stover.
If you want to learn imagery and character work, STUDY MICHAEL MICHEL
The dude is exceptionally talented, the covers are stunning, and something epic is being built. Get in on it now
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you want to learn prose, study Anna Smith Spark, Luke Tarzian, and Patrick Rothfuss.
If you want to learn dialogue, study Sebastien de Castell and Scott Lynch.
If you want to learn action, study Anthony Ryan and Matthew Stover.
If you want to learn imagery and character work, STUDY MICHAEL MICHEL
The dude is exceptionally talented, the covers are stunning, and something epic is being built. Get in on it now
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 3, 2025
An ambitious indie debut that I was engrossed with.
A Prince who decided to give up his title in shame and go into hiding as a drug dealer.
An untested orphan princess left behind to try and keep the wolves at bay before she comes of age to be crowned.
A grandmother who is training her grandson, perhaps for the fate of the world.
An abused pig farmer escaping from his broken past to face his demons - quite literally.
I couldn’t believe this was over 700 pages because the pace was perfect and the character perspectives were well managed, even if it did feel overwhelming to start with. Especially with the dramatis personae at the start.
Each character is extremely distinct, all with very distinct plots and character arcs. Whilst none of them connect in this story, you can see how some might come together later.
“You don’t call me ‘little fly’ anymore.” He cocks his head. “That must mean something. Maybe you see a difference, too.”
Perceptive. I laugh. “Flies make an annoying buzzing sound. But you, Akyris, you circle life’s shit quietly now. I’ll call you little bird instead, for you still preen for attention, but you learn as quickly as a crow.”
All the perspectives are narrated in a third-person past tense except one which is in the first-person present tense. This was an interesting choice and did throw me off, so I am curious to see why this deliberate choice might mean. Especially as it is the POV of a grandmother who is crazily powerful and hiding secrets.
I didn’t really understand the point of one of the POVs. Thephos’s quest to die or ascend felt very out of sync with the rest of the book and I never felt connected to him. It felt repetitive and the character was quite whiny. However, I can tell he will play a larger role later on!
Great prose, exciting action scenes, heart pounding moments, great characters and voice - I am eager to see where this goes.
Arc gifted by the author!
Bookstagram
A Prince who decided to give up his title in shame and go into hiding as a drug dealer.
An untested orphan princess left behind to try and keep the wolves at bay before she comes of age to be crowned.
A grandmother who is training her grandson, perhaps for the fate of the world.
An abused pig farmer escaping from his broken past to face his demons - quite literally.
I couldn’t believe this was over 700 pages because the pace was perfect and the character perspectives were well managed, even if it did feel overwhelming to start with. Especially with the dramatis personae at the start.
Each character is extremely distinct, all with very distinct plots and character arcs. Whilst none of them connect in this story, you can see how some might come together later.
“You don’t call me ‘little fly’ anymore.” He cocks his head. “That must mean something. Maybe you see a difference, too.”
Perceptive. I laugh. “Flies make an annoying buzzing sound. But you, Akyris, you circle life’s shit quietly now. I’ll call you little bird instead, for you still preen for attention, but you learn as quickly as a crow.”
All the perspectives are narrated in a third-person past tense except one which is in the first-person present tense. This was an interesting choice and did throw me off, so I am curious to see why this deliberate choice might mean. Especially as it is the POV of a grandmother who is crazily powerful and hiding secrets.
I didn’t really understand the point of one of the POVs. Thephos’s quest to die or ascend felt very out of sync with the rest of the book and I never felt connected to him. It felt repetitive and the character was quite whiny. However, I can tell he will play a larger role later on!
Great prose, exciting action scenes, heart pounding moments, great characters and voice - I am eager to see where this goes.
Arc gifted by the author!
Bookstagram
May 25, 2023
https://undertheradarsffbooks.com/202...
Today is my stop on the Escapist Book Tour and today I will be reviewing The Price of Power by Michael Michel. A grimdark doorstop of a book with intense character interactions and a rich world to absorb. The history of this world kept me engaged and wanting to know more while at the same time being frightened and the dark deeds of the past looking to repeat themselves. Now a participant in the SPFBO #9 contest, I can honestly say that be forewarned when you pick up this debut novel. You may not like the characters are doing but you will be begging for the sequel immediately.
We are following several main characters in this epic grimdark with each one being more grey than the next. We have an orphaned Princess participating in deadly trials, a grandma with visions of the future needing to make the ultimate sacrifice by killing her grandson, and a drug dealer hiding his true self as a dark prince long thought dead. Each turn of the page sent more and more shivers down my spine for different reasons. This is a brutal world where everything is centered around making the right choices to gain more political power. There is a whole group of people who are punished for the sins of the past by forever being scarred at birth to live in shame. Pride and justice are virtues not held in high regard in this world as it may be your downfall. The Price of Power is a slow burn novel that takes its time drilling down the intrigues of the world and citizens before it will ultimately crush you by the end.
Michael Michel’s prose I would consider to be very rich and written in such a way that you need to slow your reading down to fully understand what is going on. Imagine the pacing of this novel as the drawing of an arrow until it is fully loaded and waiting to be fire in more ways than one. The story telling method reminded me of The Drowned Kingdom Saga by P.L. Stuart. The worldbuilding will play an intricate part in the story ahead and you will not believe where the story will take you. You will not know who to trust or around which corner the next threat will come from. The Price of Power shows us the true costs of war, which often leads to power falling into the wrong hands. Hard choices will always have to be made when peoples lives are on the line and the one holding the sword must strike true, or at least we can hope.
In short, this debut is an excellent start to what is sure to be a grimdark series for the ages. You need to love slow burn books, with dense prose, and characters you will love to hate. Not too much to ask but then again you never know.
Cheers!
Today is my stop on the Escapist Book Tour and today I will be reviewing The Price of Power by Michael Michel. A grimdark doorstop of a book with intense character interactions and a rich world to absorb. The history of this world kept me engaged and wanting to know more while at the same time being frightened and the dark deeds of the past looking to repeat themselves. Now a participant in the SPFBO #9 contest, I can honestly say that be forewarned when you pick up this debut novel. You may not like the characters are doing but you will be begging for the sequel immediately.
We are following several main characters in this epic grimdark with each one being more grey than the next. We have an orphaned Princess participating in deadly trials, a grandma with visions of the future needing to make the ultimate sacrifice by killing her grandson, and a drug dealer hiding his true self as a dark prince long thought dead. Each turn of the page sent more and more shivers down my spine for different reasons. This is a brutal world where everything is centered around making the right choices to gain more political power. There is a whole group of people who are punished for the sins of the past by forever being scarred at birth to live in shame. Pride and justice are virtues not held in high regard in this world as it may be your downfall. The Price of Power is a slow burn novel that takes its time drilling down the intrigues of the world and citizens before it will ultimately crush you by the end.
Michael Michel’s prose I would consider to be very rich and written in such a way that you need to slow your reading down to fully understand what is going on. Imagine the pacing of this novel as the drawing of an arrow until it is fully loaded and waiting to be fire in more ways than one. The story telling method reminded me of The Drowned Kingdom Saga by P.L. Stuart. The worldbuilding will play an intricate part in the story ahead and you will not believe where the story will take you. You will not know who to trust or around which corner the next threat will come from. The Price of Power shows us the true costs of war, which often leads to power falling into the wrong hands. Hard choices will always have to be made when peoples lives are on the line and the one holding the sword must strike true, or at least we can hope.
In short, this debut is an excellent start to what is sure to be a grimdark series for the ages. You need to love slow burn books, with dense prose, and characters you will love to hate. Not too much to ask but then again you never know.
Cheers!
August 6, 2025
Excellent epic dark fantasy.
Michel definitely knows how to write epic fantasy and most of all knows how to create an extremely interesting world, where he places great and realistic characters, even if most of them are quite unlikeable people.
I loved the style, with just a few explanations and lot of rhythm, and the story, with still many mysteries to solve.
Why only 4 stars then?
I guess that getting older is making me softer, so I found it a little too dark for my current taste.
Still I will surely read the next books in the series.
Michel definitely knows how to write epic fantasy and most of all knows how to create an extremely interesting world, where he places great and realistic characters, even if most of them are quite unlikeable people.
I loved the style, with just a few explanations and lot of rhythm, and the story, with still many mysteries to solve.
Why only 4 stars then?
I guess that getting older is making me softer, so I found it a little too dark for my current taste.
Still I will surely read the next books in the series.
August 25, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up.
The Price of Power is a dark tale that will find a perfect home in the hands of fans of Abercrombie, Martin, and Erikson. This entry is one you don't wanna miss.
Check out my full review on SFF Insiders!
The Price of Power is a dark tale that will find a perfect home in the hands of fans of Abercrombie, Martin, and Erikson. This entry is one you don't wanna miss.
Check out my full review on SFF Insiders!
April 2, 2025
I will say up front that I was gifted a copy of The Price of Power, the revised edition, in exchange for an honest review, which is what I feel I have here. Please note I am not a regular reviewer so apologies if this is a bit of a ramble
I hadn’t read the book beforehand so I can’t say what the revisions entailed, I have read Michael’s other works, Way of the Wizard and Warsong, and enjoyed both to varying degrees so I was familiar with his style
The book itself, is written with 4 POV’s, it starts very slowly, some of the 4 threads more so than others, but stick with it and you will be rewarded (in some cases). However it is very difficult to see where some of these POV’s will link up in the future books, you start to see it at the end of the book, but for a lot of the book it felt like totally different stories
I have seen mention that some people don’t like the difference in POV’s from third person to first person but I have to say that didn’t really impact my reading of the book
The main POV characters:
Ishoa Ironlight – heir to the throne, but no fairytale princess, a tale of first loves, coming of age and hopes dashed, definitely the slowest start of the tales, at first I was like not another Ishoa chapter, but as the book progressed and we get into the story I found myself more and more hooked on it, to the point that if at the end of my reading time, the next chapter was an Ishoa one, the time got extended
Prince Barodane (Kord) – The Mad Prince, who died and came back again and is now living in hiding and deals in drugs both selling and using, his tale is one of redemption, a strong dark story, it got it’s teeth in to me from the start and I really enjoyed this thread
Locastrii – Ancient sorceress or the kind of grandmother we would all hate to have to kiss? Starts off as someone you can’t like, but as the story continues you start to understand the complex division in her between what has to be done and her love for her grandson, again it took a while to warm to this character but as the story around her unfolded it became more interesting
Thephos – Dull farm boy trying to die, and failing badly even at this, I’m sorry I just did not enjoy this POV thread at all, the character is particularly unlikeable to me, with no real redeeming characteristics, and the narrative is so different here to the other threads that I found it threw me every time we went to this character, about the only good thing is that this tale is the one you visit the least through the book
Pro’s
The world building is grand, and epic in scale and does start to build a backdrop worthy of the best
The characters are fully fleshed out and very individual, you knew who was the main character in the chapter at all times, some are flawed, some are grappling with what is happening to them but they are all well rounded and interesting, and you start to get involved with them, or at least most of them in my case
The magic system is interesting, the magic users are called “The Awakened” but becoming Awakened is not an easy process, it requires real risk as most of the people who try either do not return, or those that do gain powers are not the same people who went looking for it
Con’s
The pacing of the book it is a very slow burn all the way through until you get a frenetic finish to most of the arcs, it just seems unbalanced to me
There is no real identification of a big bad until the very end of the book where we start to see 4 possible threats, one for each POV thread, whether these will coalesce into a single threat or if we will continue on different threads we will have to wait and see, and that I feel is where the book fails for me, there is no real overall narrative which you can grasp and hang on to, by the end of the book all we have is 4 distinct threads going forwards
Overall
An enjoyable read, but somewhat unsatisfactory, I will however be looking to read the next volume in the series to see where the story is going, hopefully as the stories start to merge together the overall narrative will be one that grips me and I carry on the journey with Michael’s work
I hadn’t read the book beforehand so I can’t say what the revisions entailed, I have read Michael’s other works, Way of the Wizard and Warsong, and enjoyed both to varying degrees so I was familiar with his style
The book itself, is written with 4 POV’s, it starts very slowly, some of the 4 threads more so than others, but stick with it and you will be rewarded (in some cases). However it is very difficult to see where some of these POV’s will link up in the future books, you start to see it at the end of the book, but for a lot of the book it felt like totally different stories
I have seen mention that some people don’t like the difference in POV’s from third person to first person but I have to say that didn’t really impact my reading of the book
The main POV characters:
Ishoa Ironlight – heir to the throne, but no fairytale princess, a tale of first loves, coming of age and hopes dashed, definitely the slowest start of the tales, at first I was like not another Ishoa chapter, but as the book progressed and we get into the story I found myself more and more hooked on it, to the point that if at the end of my reading time, the next chapter was an Ishoa one, the time got extended
Prince Barodane (Kord) – The Mad Prince, who died and came back again and is now living in hiding and deals in drugs both selling and using, his tale is one of redemption, a strong dark story, it got it’s teeth in to me from the start and I really enjoyed this thread
Locastrii – Ancient sorceress or the kind of grandmother we would all hate to have to kiss? Starts off as someone you can’t like, but as the story continues you start to understand the complex division in her between what has to be done and her love for her grandson, again it took a while to warm to this character but as the story around her unfolded it became more interesting
Thephos – Dull farm boy trying to die, and failing badly even at this, I’m sorry I just did not enjoy this POV thread at all, the character is particularly unlikeable to me, with no real redeeming characteristics, and the narrative is so different here to the other threads that I found it threw me every time we went to this character, about the only good thing is that this tale is the one you visit the least through the book
Pro’s
The world building is grand, and epic in scale and does start to build a backdrop worthy of the best
The characters are fully fleshed out and very individual, you knew who was the main character in the chapter at all times, some are flawed, some are grappling with what is happening to them but they are all well rounded and interesting, and you start to get involved with them, or at least most of them in my case
The magic system is interesting, the magic users are called “The Awakened” but becoming Awakened is not an easy process, it requires real risk as most of the people who try either do not return, or those that do gain powers are not the same people who went looking for it
Con’s
The pacing of the book it is a very slow burn all the way through until you get a frenetic finish to most of the arcs, it just seems unbalanced to me
There is no real identification of a big bad until the very end of the book where we start to see 4 possible threats, one for each POV thread, whether these will coalesce into a single threat or if we will continue on different threads we will have to wait and see, and that I feel is where the book fails for me, there is no real overall narrative which you can grasp and hang on to, by the end of the book all we have is 4 distinct threads going forwards
Overall
An enjoyable read, but somewhat unsatisfactory, I will however be looking to read the next volume in the series to see where the story is going, hopefully as the stories start to merge together the overall narrative will be one that grips me and I carry on the journey with Michael’s work
January 5, 2023
Ok, so I called this book a masterpiece before ever reading a single word of it – call it a gut feeling – call it whatever you darn well please. However…. This. Is. A. Masterpiece.
I was hooked from the first chapter and that feeling did not stop until the last word on the last page. A cumulative course of events leading to some of the best plot twists I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. I would never have guessed this to be the authors first book based purely on the effortless way it reads. (A little birdie told me it’s a work of 23+ years in the making!)
We follow several different perspectives from characters who all appear to have the same goal. To keep Namarr safe from Scothea. Ishoa is a 14-year-old princess trying to prove her worth since being orphaned. Being bombarded by hate and scorn from surrounding populace, trials to earn her right to have her voice heard, proving herself to her parents memory, falling in love, not to mention everything that just comes with the title itself. I’m normally put off by incessant fear and worry but considering everything this child is going through it fits her character arc so well. I’ve been a 14-year-old girl before. It’s no walk in the park. Her strength carrying her on is inspiring. Akyris is also a young child of 12 who quickly learns he’s destined for far greater things in this world. His grandmother (whom I shall not name because it’s a small spoiler) is raising him up to be killed. She is the only character written in the first person which was a little confusing at first but quickly became one of my favorite characters to read about. Barodane has some serious trauma and is trying to avidly avoid his responsibilities as the Crown Prince. His friend and shield, Garlenna, gives off major Brienne of Tarth (Game of Thrones) vibes. She’s a keeper. Then there Thephos. I have questions about Thephos as he was a great part of the entire book, but there wasn’t much to tie him in with the other character plots… yet. His part ended with a massive cliffhanger that has me on edge for book 2! The Madness (think Grim Reaper) is another favorite of mine even though his scenes are limited, simply because of the humor he brought to the drama.
A boatload of political intrigue, phenomenal fighting scenes with all the blood, brains, and gore you could hope for. Fearsome creatures that range from massive bull-sized snakes to trolls that remind me of a yeti to enormous worms as long as ten horses and with dozens of hands which it gets from…well...spoiler here too, so you’ll have to read it because it’s absolutely terrifying how it got those hands and worthy of a read.
Long story short – yes, I recommend this book to anyone who’s interested in a dark fantasy with plenty of death and destruction and the occasional one-liner. Bloody brilliant. A masterpiece, if you will. Turns out peace might cost you an arm or a leg….or both.
.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Michael, for trusting me with 23 years of work... These thoughts are my own.
My rating: 4.5/5
I was hooked from the first chapter and that feeling did not stop until the last word on the last page. A cumulative course of events leading to some of the best plot twists I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. I would never have guessed this to be the authors first book based purely on the effortless way it reads. (A little birdie told me it’s a work of 23+ years in the making!)
We follow several different perspectives from characters who all appear to have the same goal. To keep Namarr safe from Scothea. Ishoa is a 14-year-old princess trying to prove her worth since being orphaned. Being bombarded by hate and scorn from surrounding populace, trials to earn her right to have her voice heard, proving herself to her parents memory, falling in love, not to mention everything that just comes with the title itself. I’m normally put off by incessant fear and worry but considering everything this child is going through it fits her character arc so well. I’ve been a 14-year-old girl before. It’s no walk in the park. Her strength carrying her on is inspiring. Akyris is also a young child of 12 who quickly learns he’s destined for far greater things in this world. His grandmother (whom I shall not name because it’s a small spoiler) is raising him up to be killed. She is the only character written in the first person which was a little confusing at first but quickly became one of my favorite characters to read about. Barodane has some serious trauma and is trying to avidly avoid his responsibilities as the Crown Prince. His friend and shield, Garlenna, gives off major Brienne of Tarth (Game of Thrones) vibes. She’s a keeper. Then there Thephos. I have questions about Thephos as he was a great part of the entire book, but there wasn’t much to tie him in with the other character plots… yet. His part ended with a massive cliffhanger that has me on edge for book 2! The Madness (think Grim Reaper) is another favorite of mine even though his scenes are limited, simply because of the humor he brought to the drama.
A boatload of political intrigue, phenomenal fighting scenes with all the blood, brains, and gore you could hope for. Fearsome creatures that range from massive bull-sized snakes to trolls that remind me of a yeti to enormous worms as long as ten horses and with dozens of hands which it gets from…well...spoiler here too, so you’ll have to read it because it’s absolutely terrifying how it got those hands and worthy of a read.
Long story short – yes, I recommend this book to anyone who’s interested in a dark fantasy with plenty of death and destruction and the occasional one-liner. Bloody brilliant. A masterpiece, if you will. Turns out peace might cost you an arm or a leg….or both.
.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Michael, for trusting me with 23 years of work... These thoughts are my own.
My rating: 4.5/5
April 24, 2025
4.5/5 stars
The Price of Power is an impressive start to an intricately plotted dark fantasy saga. Michel’s writing shines with his fine attention to detail, a polished prose, and a rich, moral ambiguity where you’re never comfortable rooting for a particular side.
Two empires have been struggling for decades. One side invaded and enslaved the other, but the slaves broke free and overcame their oppressors while unifying disparate territories into a sovereign nation. But as time passed, the oppressed became the oppressors; they enacted a horrifying tradition of permanently scarring the newborns of their old enemies. There are legitimate arguments on both sides for generational hatred, and the current balance of peace vs. rebellion is teetering on the precipice of disaster.
We follow several POVs across the continent: a powerful Grandmother tasked with training a doomed young boy; an isolated princess forced to prove her worth to save the kingdom from shattering into chaos; a disgraced war veteran-turned-drug dealer haunted by madness and regret; an ally of the veteran who traded honor for loyalty; a defeated and abused pig farmer who embarks on a suicide march up a cursed mountain haunted by demons and untold power.
The vast majority of the story has very little crossover between the characters, but the threads start to weave together near the conclusion. While there was some predictably with some of the later reveals, Michel’s strong character development and emotional growth elevated the reading experience.
The pacing was also strong, as I longed to return to each POV to see what would happen next — but was never upset about switching over to the next chapter POV. There was a good balance between action, plot development, and the emotional struggles each character was facing.
This is not a short book, but it still felt like it was all about setup — characters were introduced, stakes were raised, and pieces put in place for a long, complex, and exciting journey ahead.
I wouldn’t classify this as grimdark although it’s easy to see how others might. Just be warned that this is not an uplifting book — many terrible things happen to good people, and justice is fleeting. But for those who like grit and grime and no easy solutions, this is an easy recommendation to make. I already started the prequel novella and eagerly await book two’s release.
The Price of Power is an impressive start to an intricately plotted dark fantasy saga. Michel’s writing shines with his fine attention to detail, a polished prose, and a rich, moral ambiguity where you’re never comfortable rooting for a particular side.
Two empires have been struggling for decades. One side invaded and enslaved the other, but the slaves broke free and overcame their oppressors while unifying disparate territories into a sovereign nation. But as time passed, the oppressed became the oppressors; they enacted a horrifying tradition of permanently scarring the newborns of their old enemies. There are legitimate arguments on both sides for generational hatred, and the current balance of peace vs. rebellion is teetering on the precipice of disaster.
We follow several POVs across the continent: a powerful Grandmother tasked with training a doomed young boy; an isolated princess forced to prove her worth to save the kingdom from shattering into chaos; a disgraced war veteran-turned-drug dealer haunted by madness and regret; an ally of the veteran who traded honor for loyalty; a defeated and abused pig farmer who embarks on a suicide march up a cursed mountain haunted by demons and untold power.
The vast majority of the story has very little crossover between the characters, but the threads start to weave together near the conclusion. While there was some predictably with some of the later reveals, Michel’s strong character development and emotional growth elevated the reading experience.
The pacing was also strong, as I longed to return to each POV to see what would happen next — but was never upset about switching over to the next chapter POV. There was a good balance between action, plot development, and the emotional struggles each character was facing.
This is not a short book, but it still felt like it was all about setup — characters were introduced, stakes were raised, and pieces put in place for a long, complex, and exciting journey ahead.
I wouldn’t classify this as grimdark although it’s easy to see how others might. Just be warned that this is not an uplifting book — many terrible things happen to good people, and justice is fleeting. But for those who like grit and grime and no easy solutions, this is an easy recommendation to make. I already started the prequel novella and eagerly await book two’s release.
January 22, 2023
A big thank you to the Author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Being a beta reader for the Price of Power I can honestly tell you, I am so impressed with the work Michel has put into this debut.
For fans of a multi POV grim dark that does not shy away from the harsher elements of life, this is for you. This book takes risks, it will have you on the edge of your seat and maybe cursing the author one or two times for certain events. In a good way, I promise.
Abercrombie meets GRRM in this new epic fantasy.
Full review to be posted over on EpicIndie.net and my YT channel in the coming weeks!
Being a beta reader for the Price of Power I can honestly tell you, I am so impressed with the work Michel has put into this debut.
For fans of a multi POV grim dark that does not shy away from the harsher elements of life, this is for you. This book takes risks, it will have you on the edge of your seat and maybe cursing the author one or two times for certain events. In a good way, I promise.
Abercrombie meets GRRM in this new epic fantasy.
Full review to be posted over on EpicIndie.net and my YT channel in the coming weeks!
September 12, 2023
Review originally on JamReads
The Prince of Power is the first book on the eponymous epic grimdark fantasy series, written by Michael Michel, and which has been selected as a SPFBO9 semifinalist. A slow burn character driven story, which follows several POVs in a world full of political intrigues, war and intriguing magic.
Let's first talk a bit about the character work, as I think this is the major strength of this book; the four perspectives are quite intriguing, as Michel introduces what could be a clash between the origin of the characters and their current occupation. Each one of those has their own voice, making them easily recognisable just when we are a bit into the chapter.
All of them are quite complex, having to deal with the complications attached to the power they might have had at some point; and being honest, they are quite flawed. They could also be called morally grey, as we will become spectators of acts that are not for faint hearts.
Another aspect that I need to talk about is the world-building, as Michel slowly introduces a vast world, full of details and which is quite intriguing at many points. Small historical moments are introduced here and there; and honestly, it feels like an alive place. Some fantastical elements are not really explained, but that only adds to the mystery aura of the world.
Personally, I found the pacing to be a problem for me in this book. The plot is told in a slow-burn style, which leads to a big frenetic avalanche quite at the end; while I understand why this worked for other people, for me, it was a big miss. I felt that with a more even distribution of events, trimming down some fragments initially, but expanding the final 20% could have worked much better for me.
While this book was a miss for me, if you like epic grimdark stories, in the style of A Song of Ice and Fire, with morally grey characters, and don't mind a slow pacing, The Price of Power could be a great choice for you.
The Prince of Power is the first book on the eponymous epic grimdark fantasy series, written by Michael Michel, and which has been selected as a SPFBO9 semifinalist. A slow burn character driven story, which follows several POVs in a world full of political intrigues, war and intriguing magic.
Let's first talk a bit about the character work, as I think this is the major strength of this book; the four perspectives are quite intriguing, as Michel introduces what could be a clash between the origin of the characters and their current occupation. Each one of those has their own voice, making them easily recognisable just when we are a bit into the chapter.
All of them are quite complex, having to deal with the complications attached to the power they might have had at some point; and being honest, they are quite flawed. They could also be called morally grey, as we will become spectators of acts that are not for faint hearts.
Another aspect that I need to talk about is the world-building, as Michel slowly introduces a vast world, full of details and which is quite intriguing at many points. Small historical moments are introduced here and there; and honestly, it feels like an alive place. Some fantastical elements are not really explained, but that only adds to the mystery aura of the world.
Personally, I found the pacing to be a problem for me in this book. The plot is told in a slow-burn style, which leads to a big frenetic avalanche quite at the end; while I understand why this worked for other people, for me, it was a big miss. I felt that with a more even distribution of events, trimming down some fragments initially, but expanding the final 20% could have worked much better for me.
While this book was a miss for me, if you like epic grimdark stories, in the style of A Song of Ice and Fire, with morally grey characters, and don't mind a slow pacing, The Price of Power could be a great choice for you.
January 21, 2024
Stick with it…ramps up nicely!
Grasps for power within. Threats of destruction beyond. To save their nation it will require sacrifice, discovery & reclamation. A torturous price to be paid.
Slow burn, mysterious & dark! Full of inner turmoil and fascinating mysticism. Deep, bleak & an explosive finale!
Entrancing dark fantasy!
Grasps for power within. Threats of destruction beyond. To save their nation it will require sacrifice, discovery & reclamation. A torturous price to be paid.
Slow burn, mysterious & dark! Full of inner turmoil and fascinating mysticism. Deep, bleak & an explosive finale!
Entrancing dark fantasy!
December 5, 2022
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of his novel in exchange for an honest review!
4.5/5 🌟
The Price of Power is a multi-POV, epic, character-focused, grimdark fantasy following 4 central perspectives. Barodane, the disgraced Mad Prince who is thought by all to be dead. Ishoa, an orphaned princess, with enormous shoes to fill. A grandmother with unique abilities, tasked with a mission that is bound to be the death of her own grandson. Thephos, a pig farmer who has suffered a lifetime of abuse from his father with nothing left to lose.
Michael Michel does some really phenomenal character work in this novel. Each character goes through major trials and tribulations throughout the story, and we are there right by their sides through every victory, loss, and moment of pain. My favorite bit of character work was with Thephos; his journey from beginning to end had me absolutely hooked. He was my favorite character from the moment he was introduced.
Thephos feels he has no reason left to live, and decides to ascend the perilous and mysterious mountain of Unturrus - a journey that causes most people who take it to die.
Ishoa is next in line for the throne to rule Namarr, but there are threats to dismantle the peace and freedom her grandfather fought so hard for. She must learn all she can to prepare for her new role - but it requires betraying the trust of one she loves.
Barodane has been “dead” for years. At least, that’s what he’s okay with people thinking. He tries constantly to bury his shameful past. The voices of those he killed haunt him, and he copes by living in a near constant drug or drink induced stupor.
The grandmother, whose identity is unknown to us for some time, has extraordinary abilities. And because of these abilities, she knows she must lead her own kin on a path to their own destruction.
As with almost any epic fantasy, there is a lot of information to digest and retain about this world and its inhabitants. It was a bit slow going for me at first because of this, but it was to be expected. Once I had my bearings and this world started to form in my head, I became incredibly invested in the lives of the four main characters.
Near the end of the novel, it becomes clearer how the paths of these four characters could start to converge in the next installment. Each character’s journey has an explosive ending, and I can’t wait to see what is in store for them next.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves character focused fantasy, fans of Game of Thrones, and fans of Joe Abercrombie! I will definitely be ordering a physical copy when it releases 🙌🏻
4.5/5 🌟
The Price of Power is a multi-POV, epic, character-focused, grimdark fantasy following 4 central perspectives. Barodane, the disgraced Mad Prince who is thought by all to be dead. Ishoa, an orphaned princess, with enormous shoes to fill. A grandmother with unique abilities, tasked with a mission that is bound to be the death of her own grandson. Thephos, a pig farmer who has suffered a lifetime of abuse from his father with nothing left to lose.
Michael Michel does some really phenomenal character work in this novel. Each character goes through major trials and tribulations throughout the story, and we are there right by their sides through every victory, loss, and moment of pain. My favorite bit of character work was with Thephos; his journey from beginning to end had me absolutely hooked. He was my favorite character from the moment he was introduced.
Thephos feels he has no reason left to live, and decides to ascend the perilous and mysterious mountain of Unturrus - a journey that causes most people who take it to die.
Ishoa is next in line for the throne to rule Namarr, but there are threats to dismantle the peace and freedom her grandfather fought so hard for. She must learn all she can to prepare for her new role - but it requires betraying the trust of one she loves.
Barodane has been “dead” for years. At least, that’s what he’s okay with people thinking. He tries constantly to bury his shameful past. The voices of those he killed haunt him, and he copes by living in a near constant drug or drink induced stupor.
The grandmother, whose identity is unknown to us for some time, has extraordinary abilities. And because of these abilities, she knows she must lead her own kin on a path to their own destruction.
As with almost any epic fantasy, there is a lot of information to digest and retain about this world and its inhabitants. It was a bit slow going for me at first because of this, but it was to be expected. Once I had my bearings and this world started to form in my head, I became incredibly invested in the lives of the four main characters.
Near the end of the novel, it becomes clearer how the paths of these four characters could start to converge in the next installment. Each character’s journey has an explosive ending, and I can’t wait to see what is in store for them next.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves character focused fantasy, fans of Game of Thrones, and fans of Joe Abercrombie! I will definitely be ordering a physical copy when it releases 🙌🏻
April 20, 2025
So much potential, great atmosphere and you can see there’s a great story to be told there’s great ideas, but the story here was a lot of set up for not much unfortunately. Really great writing, world and the series to come could be really really good, but this book left me wanting more from each characters journey, and the story as whole.
December 23, 2022
The Price of Power is a debut by Michael Michel leaves us wanting more from this series.
Prince Barodane could not hold back the darkness. Not even in himself. He laid an innocent city in its grave and then died a hero.
In his absence, war whispers across the land.
Power-hungry highborn dispatch spies and assassins to the shadows as they maneuver for the throne, while an even greater threat rises in the South. Monsters and cultists flock to the banners of a mad prophet determined to control reality…and then shatter it.
Destiny stalks three to the brink of oblivion.
A dead prince that isn’t actually dead. Barodane buried his shameful past in a stupor of drugs, drink, and crime, and now, he’d rather watch the world fall apart than wear a crown again.
An orphan with hero’s blood who is forced to make a harrowing choice: betray her country or sacrifice her first love.
And a powerful seer who has no choice at all–her grandson must die.
If any of them fails to pay the price…
The cost will be the world’s complete annihilation.
This book was a breath of fresh air and had such massive scope that was filled with tons of history, plot and characters. The world felt so alive and that can be hard to achieve with a fantasy novel. I like how Michel dealt with burden and grief. These are real struggles that were highlighted fantastically. The novel hopefully sets up future story points and really quenched my grimdark fascination. The worldbuilding was complete and highlights Michel's skill as a writer and I really enjoyed the magic system that was used. I like when things are limited and full of struggle because there's this sense of achievement and Michel handled that brilliantly.
I'm impatient for a second novel but this is really a story for fantasy readers that don't want things handed to them and want to be kept on their toes
Prince Barodane could not hold back the darkness. Not even in himself. He laid an innocent city in its grave and then died a hero.
In his absence, war whispers across the land.
Power-hungry highborn dispatch spies and assassins to the shadows as they maneuver for the throne, while an even greater threat rises in the South. Monsters and cultists flock to the banners of a mad prophet determined to control reality…and then shatter it.
Destiny stalks three to the brink of oblivion.
A dead prince that isn’t actually dead. Barodane buried his shameful past in a stupor of drugs, drink, and crime, and now, he’d rather watch the world fall apart than wear a crown again.
An orphan with hero’s blood who is forced to make a harrowing choice: betray her country or sacrifice her first love.
And a powerful seer who has no choice at all–her grandson must die.
If any of them fails to pay the price…
The cost will be the world’s complete annihilation.
This book was a breath of fresh air and had such massive scope that was filled with tons of history, plot and characters. The world felt so alive and that can be hard to achieve with a fantasy novel. I like how Michel dealt with burden and grief. These are real struggles that were highlighted fantastically. The novel hopefully sets up future story points and really quenched my grimdark fascination. The worldbuilding was complete and highlights Michel's skill as a writer and I really enjoyed the magic system that was used. I like when things are limited and full of struggle because there's this sense of achievement and Michel handled that brilliantly.
I'm impatient for a second novel but this is really a story for fantasy readers that don't want things handed to them and want to be kept on their toes
February 5, 2023
“Whatever happens, keep your feet moving forward. Don’t stop for anything.”
If you’re looking for Game of Thrones without all the sex and incest, Lord of the Rings but with more digestible prose, all mixed together with The Witcher vibes? Look no further. The Price of Power follows four different characters in an ever-winding story. Each, whether they know it or not, are of vital importance to the country of Namaar and the people who inhabit it.
“The knot in his gut tightened, a braid of two parts. The first, a kindness from a stranger. The second, an impending loss of the same.”
It took me until chapter 25 to really fall into step with each character and by chapter 33 I didn’t want to put it down. That is truly my only qualm with the entire thing—it took me too long to get hooked. If this hadn’t been an ARC I probably would have DNF’d. Not because of the writing, for that was superb, but because I lacked any emotional connection with the characters.
But once I hit that midpoint? I couldn’t read fast enough. The author’s use of metaphor and description captured me so wholly that I found myself highlighting portions to look back on for inspiration for my own writing.
“A chubby boy played the flute twice as well as anyone else, though respectively less than half so well as Yurm the Worm.”
I loved Locastrii and Akyris’s storyline the most but by the end was so enamored with Ishoa’s that I was absolutely shocked by the ending. So, ample warning for a cliffhanger, it’s there and it’s looming.
Last thing, favorite scene--Stirmma Omenfaen and the trolls!! AHHH. Still thinking about that one.
Thanks to the author for allowing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If you’re looking for Game of Thrones without all the sex and incest, Lord of the Rings but with more digestible prose, all mixed together with The Witcher vibes? Look no further. The Price of Power follows four different characters in an ever-winding story. Each, whether they know it or not, are of vital importance to the country of Namaar and the people who inhabit it.
“The knot in his gut tightened, a braid of two parts. The first, a kindness from a stranger. The second, an impending loss of the same.”
It took me until chapter 25 to really fall into step with each character and by chapter 33 I didn’t want to put it down. That is truly my only qualm with the entire thing—it took me too long to get hooked. If this hadn’t been an ARC I probably would have DNF’d. Not because of the writing, for that was superb, but because I lacked any emotional connection with the characters.
But once I hit that midpoint? I couldn’t read fast enough. The author’s use of metaphor and description captured me so wholly that I found myself highlighting portions to look back on for inspiration for my own writing.
“A chubby boy played the flute twice as well as anyone else, though respectively less than half so well as Yurm the Worm.”
I loved Locastrii and Akyris’s storyline the most but by the end was so enamored with Ishoa’s that I was absolutely shocked by the ending. So, ample warning for a cliffhanger, it’s there and it’s looming.
Last thing, favorite scene--Stirmma Omenfaen and the trolls!! AHHH. Still thinking about that one.
Thanks to the author for allowing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2023
The Price of Power is Michael Michels debut novel, beginning an epic new grimdark series, that hits all the right fantasy notes, while adding a beautiful sprinkle of grimdarkness. It follows multiple characters and address’s themes of war, magic, power and the struggle for survival that leaves behind a satisfying taste of a great read.
The Price of Power begins explosively with one of the best prologues I have read, marking the beginning of the kingdom of Namarr. However, things just aren’t that easy and the fairly new kingdom quickly falls into turmoil, civil war and petty arguments after the decimation of its monarchy not many years later. At the same time, there looms the constant shadow of Scothea with their barbaric customs and an even darker shadow yet to be revealed.
The book follows four main characters and a very strong supporting cast. The characters felt well-fleshed out and morally grey, while also being likable.
The first being Barodane Ironlight, the disgraced former King of Namarr, now thought to be dead. After sacrificing himself to save the country he has his head stuck in alcohol, drugs and…women. Things look pretty hopeless for him and running the country definitely isn’t on the table.
Ishoa Ironlight was definitely my main interest in the book. Being an orphaned 14-year-old and having the weight of an entire kingdom on her shoulders, while preparing for a trial that may or may not kill her, while enemies swarm you from all sides makes for some very interesting reading! Hint, she’s a badass.
Thephos, a priest with nothing to live for finds himself in somewhat…grim circumstances, meeting some pretty grim folk. Unfortunately, he was probably the only character I didn’t connect with on any level. I wasn’t entirely sure how he fit with the plot, but assume more will be revealed eventually.
The final main character is an all-powerful and mysterious seer grandmother, who at first seems like the kind of grandmother no one wishes for, but quickly shows to reveal a rather interesting background and motivation.
Not bad right?
Doesn’t end there. What really made this book stand out for me were the supporting characters, including Garlenna, the only one able to bring Barodane out of his stupor, Wolst the most badass kind of knight and a few other fantastic ones I won’t mention!
Towards the middle of the book there was a bit of a drop in plot for me, but that quickly changed after two thirds in when the plot exploded with pace, and intrigue, grasping me like a vice and not letting go until the end. Also that ending, phew, now that was an ending to make even Michael Bay proud.
I’d like to highlight the beautiful way this book was written, which I cannot stress enough, was absolutely phenomenal. It’s rare that writing alone makes me feel so immersed, but it really did. The words felt like they flew of the page and grasped me, pulling me into the world Michel’s created.
I hope it’s obvious but now, but if it isn’t then do yourself a favour and grab this book. If the super awesome cover doesn’t grab your attention, then the blurb most definitely will and if that still hasn’t, then know if you’re a grimdark fan, that the book will be more than enough to quench that grimdark thirst and have you wanting more.
The Price of Power begins explosively with one of the best prologues I have read, marking the beginning of the kingdom of Namarr. However, things just aren’t that easy and the fairly new kingdom quickly falls into turmoil, civil war and petty arguments after the decimation of its monarchy not many years later. At the same time, there looms the constant shadow of Scothea with their barbaric customs and an even darker shadow yet to be revealed.
The book follows four main characters and a very strong supporting cast. The characters felt well-fleshed out and morally grey, while also being likable.
The first being Barodane Ironlight, the disgraced former King of Namarr, now thought to be dead. After sacrificing himself to save the country he has his head stuck in alcohol, drugs and…women. Things look pretty hopeless for him and running the country definitely isn’t on the table.
Ishoa Ironlight was definitely my main interest in the book. Being an orphaned 14-year-old and having the weight of an entire kingdom on her shoulders, while preparing for a trial that may or may not kill her, while enemies swarm you from all sides makes for some very interesting reading! Hint, she’s a badass.
Thephos, a priest with nothing to live for finds himself in somewhat…grim circumstances, meeting some pretty grim folk. Unfortunately, he was probably the only character I didn’t connect with on any level. I wasn’t entirely sure how he fit with the plot, but assume more will be revealed eventually.
The final main character is an all-powerful and mysterious seer grandmother, who at first seems like the kind of grandmother no one wishes for, but quickly shows to reveal a rather interesting background and motivation.
Not bad right?
Doesn’t end there. What really made this book stand out for me were the supporting characters, including Garlenna, the only one able to bring Barodane out of his stupor, Wolst the most badass kind of knight and a few other fantastic ones I won’t mention!
Towards the middle of the book there was a bit of a drop in plot for me, but that quickly changed after two thirds in when the plot exploded with pace, and intrigue, grasping me like a vice and not letting go until the end. Also that ending, phew, now that was an ending to make even Michael Bay proud.
I’d like to highlight the beautiful way this book was written, which I cannot stress enough, was absolutely phenomenal. It’s rare that writing alone makes me feel so immersed, but it really did. The words felt like they flew of the page and grasped me, pulling me into the world Michel’s created.
I hope it’s obvious but now, but if it isn’t then do yourself a favour and grab this book. If the super awesome cover doesn’t grab your attention, then the blurb most definitely will and if that still hasn’t, then know if you’re a grimdark fan, that the book will be more than enough to quench that grimdark thirst and have you wanting more.
November 27, 2023
This chonker was such an ambitious debut from a wonderful new voice in the indie fantasy community and I’d like to give Michael props for trying to weave together so many different perspectives into a cohesive narrative on his first go around!
For a lot of the novel it was really well done and I absolutely loved Ishoa’s character (god damn it Michael you stole the name of my own protagonist 😂). I thought her character ARC was really well done and there were multiple times where I felt all of the right emotions which is something I absolutely need in my books.
I also enjoyed the concept of Baradone and his story ARC as a former King thought dead but actually survived and is now a drug addict on a path of redemption. I did, however, think a lot of this novel worked as a kind of set up for the next few books. Two of the other perspectives (I’m sorry but I just had to skip all Akyris POV chapters as they drew me right out of the story) were sort of like chapters upon chapters of not much happening and building tension for the next book. This can be a really good thing if you like your characters to have depth, but for me I kind of wanted a little more to happen to keep me hooked on those perspectives.
Ishoa, however, stole the show and led to me really enjoying and looking forward to her every chapter. I really look forward to what Michael has in store next, because the stage is set for a big book two!!
—
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
For a lot of the novel it was really well done and I absolutely loved Ishoa’s character (god damn it Michael you stole the name of my own protagonist 😂). I thought her character ARC was really well done and there were multiple times where I felt all of the right emotions which is something I absolutely need in my books.
I also enjoyed the concept of Baradone and his story ARC as a former King thought dead but actually survived and is now a drug addict on a path of redemption. I did, however, think a lot of this novel worked as a kind of set up for the next few books. Two of the other perspectives (I’m sorry but I just had to skip all Akyris POV chapters as they drew me right out of the story) were sort of like chapters upon chapters of not much happening and building tension for the next book. This can be a really good thing if you like your characters to have depth, but for me I kind of wanted a little more to happen to keep me hooked on those perspectives.
Ishoa, however, stole the show and led to me really enjoying and looking forward to her every chapter. I really look forward to what Michael has in store next, because the stage is set for a big book two!!
—
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 16, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S THE PRICE OF POWER ABOUT?
This is not the easiest question to answer, I'll tell you right now. The title really sums it up well, this is a story about what power costs—political, familial, monetary, military, personal, magical.
But that's not much of a plot, that's more of a description. There are four plotlines—that somewhat overlap, but most of that overlap is promised for Book Two and beyond. But the further you read, the more you see how they are intertwined even if most of the characters don't see/understand that yet.
So I'm going to steal a little from the blurb that Michel sent me (and that I posted recently) to give some quick thoughts about each plotline.
"A MAD PROPHET DETERMINED TO CONTROL REALITY"
This is the hardest one to talk about, primarily because this storyline is full of symbolism, visions, dreams, and magic. The point of view character and most of the people him aren't sure what is going on—what's real, what's a dream, and what's their imagination. Those who do know what's going on are either lying, deluded, or a supernatural entity who is trying to trick the humans.
I was engrossed, though. I may not have understood it all, but I was hooked by what I did figure out. By the last chapter of this storyline? I was gobsmacked. While I felt like I should've understood what Michel was going for early on, there was no reason for me to have. It was one of those situations where an author did something fairly unexpected, but did it so well that you couldn't imagine any other way it could've gone.
"A DEAD PRINCE WHO ISN'T DEAD"
This, on the other hand, is a straightforward story about a prince whose thirst for vengeance—driven by rage and grief—led to a type of destruction that might make Tywin Lannister take a step back.
Now he's just trying to avoid contact with everyone, denying who he is, dwelling on what he did, and what it cost him (the price he paid, to make it less than subtle). You almost feel sorry for him and wish he'd snap out of his self-pity and self-destruction when he needs to (which is right about the time we meet him). But also...if anyone should hate themselves, it's hard to argue against him.
The action in these chapters is just great—the prince and his allies face off against some very vile criminals. The fight scenes will get your blood pumping—and maybe a fist or two (but not every time). There are horrors—and the closest you'll get to grins in this book.
Barodane is set up for a redemption story. But I'm not convinced that's what Michel has in mind. Of all these four plots, this is the one I'm most invested in because of some of the surrounding characters.
"AN ORPHAN WITH HERO'S BLOOD"
This, too, feels like a familiar fantasy story. A princess raised to take the place of her dead parents leading the nation through a tumultuous time, with everyone wondering if she is capable of doing the job. You just can't help but feel bad for this girl. She's got the weight of the world on her shoulders (or at least the weight of a nation), and pressures and expectations on her are as high as can be.
On the one hand, what she's called upon to do (so far) is easier than the rest—but her age and visibility even out the scales a bit. I like her, I like her teachers and her animal companion. But honestly, everyone else in her immediate circle could be wiped out and the only reason I'd care is because of the impact it'd have on those four.
I'm pretty sure that I've spent a decent amount of time leaning forward during her chapters like you do during a tense part of a film (am I the only one who does that while reading?). A lot of the turns her story took were expected—but not all of them were. And a couple left me reeling.
"AND A POWERFUL SEER"
This is a hard storyline to work through. This grandmother/Obi-Wan figure is a tough old lady, having to act tougher than she really is to do what she has to. Her ability to see time and reality have shown her what needs to happen, and the price she and her grandson will have to pay.
Michel keeps the details vague at this point—but you get to see enough to keep you invested and eager to learn alongside her grandson. If, as I/the title/and I think the author say, this book is about the price you pay for power—this seer has paid a hefty price already and is preparing to pay a bigger price. She's also caused (and plans on causing) others to pay—it's a little unclear who benefited from them paying great prices, but the seer would claim it's for the greater good (and probably believes that).
There's a very cool magic battle in this story—at least one, anyway—and just knowing that this kind of thing is possible around this woman will keep you invested, even if you weren't inclined to be anyway.
This seer is very much in the Elizabeth Best (from The Thursday Murder Club )/Taishi (from The Art of Prophecy )/Akina Azure (from Partial Function) mold of scarily competent elderly characters. Barodane might be a frighteningly violent warrior, but honestly, this woman would worry me more if I lived in this world. The way she's tied to every other storyline just makes me want to understand her more than her own did.
DRAMATIS PERSONAE
There's a lengthy (or maybe my e-reader font is just set large enough that it seems that way) dramatis personae at the beginning of the novel—if you're like me, keep it open on your phone while you use an e-reader for easy reference. If you got your hands on a paper copy, keep a bookmark there—you're going to want to check it often for the first third or so (results may vary on your attention span or memory).
Even if you don't rely on it, it's a good way to think about the book—4 rosters of characters to get to know now.
I expect that those who survive will get tossed together like a salad in the ensuing novels.
HOW THE NOVEL WORKS
This isn't a "Book One: Barodane", "Book Two: Princess" kind of thing where each book tells the complete story of each character. Each character/storyline gets a chapter and then it moves on to the next, and keeps rotating that way. There are some variations from the pattern, but it holds more often than not—and any of the variations only serve to push the story forward.
There are two schools of thought when it comes to chapters—a lot of authors will close an idea, or a time period at the end of a chapter. This makes it easy to put your bookmark/quitter strip in the book and set it down to sleep, eat, converse with people, or whatever. Other writers will end a chapter in a way that propels you to move on to the next (Jim Butcher, for example, talks a lot about this practice). This keeps you engaged, moves you to keep reading—and is an excellent way to annoy a reader who really has other things they should be doing.
Michel falls into the latter category. Of course, the trick with this book is that as a Bardodane chapter leaves you hungry for the next thing in his story—but you have to go through three other plotlines before you get back to it (and each one of those will leave you hungry to press on with that storyline). I love this—I also hate it. Some people will choose to skip chapters to stick with one story through the end. This is a mistake—and will inevitably involve you getting something spoiled (I can think of at least once where that spoiler is major. There may be more to come).
So gird up, and prepare for Michel to play with you like a fisherman trying to tire out his catch before reeling it all the way in.
THE SECONDARY CHARACTERS
To keep this to a length people would want to read, I've limited what I've said about secondary characters. This is a problem—some of them just as interesting and compelling as the point-of-view characters (possibly more so). That long dramatis personae is filled with people you will want to spend time with, or at least understand better. And sure, some of them are despicable and you will root for their defeat (but you'll still want to understand them and maybe spend time with them on the page, just not at a pub).
There are a few secondary character deaths in this book—and you know there are more to come. One of them provoked me to send a message to Michel (the number of times I do that mid-read is incredibly small), threatening him if he did something similar to another character before the fifth book (at which point, I assume almost everyone will die or be defeated). I suspect I will not be alone in feeling that way about some of these characters, even if you pick ones that aren't as cool as the ones I pick.
Michel is not playing around when it comes to character design or messing with his reader's emotions.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE PRICE OF POWER?
I don't know what else to say here—I think I slipped out of my typical post outline above. In case you haven't picked up on it—this book is one of my favorite Fantasy novels in recent memory.
This is about as far from cozy fantasy as you can get, obviously. But it doesn't quite reach what I'd define as grimdark—I'm no expert in those definitions, but that's what my gut says. Michel prefers the term gritty—and that makes sense to me. It's very noir, a Fantasy version of hard-boiled. I'm not going to say that it's what Nathanael West would've written if he wrote a Fantasy novel—but if that idea intrigues you, this just might, too.
The prologue wowed me. The first chapter raised the stakes—and as every point-of-view character was introduced the intrigue grew. I was already impatient for the next book to be published before I finished with this one.
Go grab this one as soon as you can. Books 2 and 3 are scheduled for release this year—Book 2 should be out in June—and you're going to want to be ready for them.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S THE PRICE OF POWER ABOUT?
This is not the easiest question to answer, I'll tell you right now. The title really sums it up well, this is a story about what power costs—political, familial, monetary, military, personal, magical.
But that's not much of a plot, that's more of a description. There are four plotlines—that somewhat overlap, but most of that overlap is promised for Book Two and beyond. But the further you read, the more you see how they are intertwined even if most of the characters don't see/understand that yet.
So I'm going to steal a little from the blurb that Michel sent me (and that I posted recently) to give some quick thoughts about each plotline.
"A MAD PROPHET DETERMINED TO CONTROL REALITY"
This is the hardest one to talk about, primarily because this storyline is full of symbolism, visions, dreams, and magic. The point of view character and most of the people him aren't sure what is going on—what's real, what's a dream, and what's their imagination. Those who do know what's going on are either lying, deluded, or a supernatural entity who is trying to trick the humans.
I was engrossed, though. I may not have understood it all, but I was hooked by what I did figure out. By the last chapter of this storyline? I was gobsmacked. While I felt like I should've understood what Michel was going for early on, there was no reason for me to have. It was one of those situations where an author did something fairly unexpected, but did it so well that you couldn't imagine any other way it could've gone.
"A DEAD PRINCE WHO ISN'T DEAD"
This, on the other hand, is a straightforward story about a prince whose thirst for vengeance—driven by rage and grief—led to a type of destruction that might make Tywin Lannister take a step back.
Now he's just trying to avoid contact with everyone, denying who he is, dwelling on what he did, and what it cost him (the price he paid, to make it less than subtle). You almost feel sorry for him and wish he'd snap out of his self-pity and self-destruction when he needs to (which is right about the time we meet him). But also...if anyone should hate themselves, it's hard to argue against him.
The action in these chapters is just great—the prince and his allies face off against some very vile criminals. The fight scenes will get your blood pumping—and maybe a fist or two (but not every time). There are horrors—and the closest you'll get to grins in this book.
Barodane is set up for a redemption story. But I'm not convinced that's what Michel has in mind. Of all these four plots, this is the one I'm most invested in because of some of the surrounding characters.
"AN ORPHAN WITH HERO'S BLOOD"
This, too, feels like a familiar fantasy story. A princess raised to take the place of her dead parents leading the nation through a tumultuous time, with everyone wondering if she is capable of doing the job. You just can't help but feel bad for this girl. She's got the weight of the world on her shoulders (or at least the weight of a nation), and pressures and expectations on her are as high as can be.
On the one hand, what she's called upon to do (so far) is easier than the rest—but her age and visibility even out the scales a bit. I like her, I like her teachers and her animal companion. But honestly, everyone else in her immediate circle could be wiped out and the only reason I'd care is because of the impact it'd have on those four.
I'm pretty sure that I've spent a decent amount of time leaning forward during her chapters like you do during a tense part of a film (am I the only one who does that while reading?). A lot of the turns her story took were expected—but not all of them were. And a couple left me reeling.
"AND A POWERFUL SEER"
This is a hard storyline to work through. This grandmother/Obi-Wan figure is a tough old lady, having to act tougher than she really is to do what she has to. Her ability to see time and reality have shown her what needs to happen, and the price she and her grandson will have to pay.
Michel keeps the details vague at this point—but you get to see enough to keep you invested and eager to learn alongside her grandson. If, as I/the title/and I think the author say, this book is about the price you pay for power—this seer has paid a hefty price already and is preparing to pay a bigger price. She's also caused (and plans on causing) others to pay—it's a little unclear who benefited from them paying great prices, but the seer would claim it's for the greater good (and probably believes that).
There's a very cool magic battle in this story—at least one, anyway—and just knowing that this kind of thing is possible around this woman will keep you invested, even if you weren't inclined to be anyway.
This seer is very much in the Elizabeth Best (from The Thursday Murder Club )/Taishi (from The Art of Prophecy )/Akina Azure (from Partial Function) mold of scarily competent elderly characters. Barodane might be a frighteningly violent warrior, but honestly, this woman would worry me more if I lived in this world. The way she's tied to every other storyline just makes me want to understand her more than her own did.
DRAMATIS PERSONAE
There's a lengthy (or maybe my e-reader font is just set large enough that it seems that way) dramatis personae at the beginning of the novel—if you're like me, keep it open on your phone while you use an e-reader for easy reference. If you got your hands on a paper copy, keep a bookmark there—you're going to want to check it often for the first third or so (results may vary on your attention span or memory).
Even if you don't rely on it, it's a good way to think about the book—4 rosters of characters to get to know now.
I expect that those who survive will get tossed together like a salad in the ensuing novels.
HOW THE NOVEL WORKS
This isn't a "Book One: Barodane", "Book Two: Princess" kind of thing where each book tells the complete story of each character. Each character/storyline gets a chapter and then it moves on to the next, and keeps rotating that way. There are some variations from the pattern, but it holds more often than not—and any of the variations only serve to push the story forward.
There are two schools of thought when it comes to chapters—a lot of authors will close an idea, or a time period at the end of a chapter. This makes it easy to put your bookmark/quitter strip in the book and set it down to sleep, eat, converse with people, or whatever. Other writers will end a chapter in a way that propels you to move on to the next (Jim Butcher, for example, talks a lot about this practice). This keeps you engaged, moves you to keep reading—and is an excellent way to annoy a reader who really has other things they should be doing.
Michel falls into the latter category. Of course, the trick with this book is that as a Bardodane chapter leaves you hungry for the next thing in his story—but you have to go through three other plotlines before you get back to it (and each one of those will leave you hungry to press on with that storyline). I love this—I also hate it. Some people will choose to skip chapters to stick with one story through the end. This is a mistake—and will inevitably involve you getting something spoiled (I can think of at least once where that spoiler is major. There may be more to come).
So gird up, and prepare for Michel to play with you like a fisherman trying to tire out his catch before reeling it all the way in.
THE SECONDARY CHARACTERS
To keep this to a length people would want to read, I've limited what I've said about secondary characters. This is a problem—some of them just as interesting and compelling as the point-of-view characters (possibly more so). That long dramatis personae is filled with people you will want to spend time with, or at least understand better. And sure, some of them are despicable and you will root for their defeat (but you'll still want to understand them and maybe spend time with them on the page, just not at a pub).
There are a few secondary character deaths in this book—and you know there are more to come. One of them provoked me to send a message to Michel (the number of times I do that mid-read is incredibly small), threatening him if he did something similar to another character before the fifth book (at which point, I assume almost everyone will die or be defeated). I suspect I will not be alone in feeling that way about some of these characters, even if you pick ones that aren't as cool as the ones I pick.
Michel is not playing around when it comes to character design or messing with his reader's emotions.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE PRICE OF POWER?
I don't know what else to say here—I think I slipped out of my typical post outline above. In case you haven't picked up on it—this book is one of my favorite Fantasy novels in recent memory.
This is about as far from cozy fantasy as you can get, obviously. But it doesn't quite reach what I'd define as grimdark—I'm no expert in those definitions, but that's what my gut says. Michel prefers the term gritty—and that makes sense to me. It's very noir, a Fantasy version of hard-boiled. I'm not going to say that it's what Nathanael West would've written if he wrote a Fantasy novel—but if that idea intrigues you, this just might, too.
The prologue wowed me. The first chapter raised the stakes—and as every point-of-view character was introduced the intrigue grew. I was already impatient for the next book to be published before I finished with this one.
Go grab this one as soon as you can. Books 2 and 3 are scheduled for release this year—Book 2 should be out in June—and you're going to want to be ready for them.
June 18, 2025
Questo è davvero un grande libro!!
La cosa incredibile è che sia il primo lavoro di un indipendente.. perché è scritto e costruito in modo degno di autori più navigati, e la saga è all'altezza di lavori più blasonati..
È il primo volume di una saga epica e molto corposa, quindi per lo più è un volume introduttivo, che si prende tutto il tempo che gli serve per farti conoscere i personaggi, farli iniziare a muovere sullo scacchiere e introdurci ai vari aspetti del sistema magico, particolare, diverso e dai risvolti spettacolari.. soprattutto preannuncia scintille nei volumi successivi..
Il mondo costruito è davvero particolare, anche se in questo primo volume non viene presentato in toto, ma quel che basta per apprezzare la storia, senza inutili spiegoni, ma introducendo le info via via, in modo sapiente e invogliante..
Adoro quando inizi un libro e hai quella sensazione piacevolmente spiazzante di nomi, luoghi, eventi storici, culture, razze e poteri estranei, che poi un po' alla volta inizi a comprendere.. lo rende così interessante e per niente banale..
Essendo un libro Character Drive, è sui personaggi che viene svolto il lavoro migliore!
Seguiamo 5 pov principali:
Kord e Garlenna, due pov intrecciati che riveleranno molto più di quello che sembrano.. questa è la parte più grimdark, con droghe, disturbi post traumatici, bassa moralità..
C'è Ishoa, la principessa.. questa è più una parte di formazione, che ricorda un po' GOT, con aspetti politici e culturali complessi e intrecciati con molto di quello che verrà..
Il Pov della maga, scritto in prima persona a differenza degli altri, è davvero immersivo.. con la parte del Fiume come flusso magico, è una delle due parti più mistiche, visionarie e onirica, che rivela anche la trama più epica di fondo a tutta l opera.. Per alcuni aspetti mi ha ricordato gli aspetti fighi della Lycanius Trilogy di Islinghton..
Infine c'è Thephos, il ragazzo spezzato, che si appresta a scalare Unturros, il monte sacro, alla cui vetta solo pochissimi dei pellegrini riescono a sopravvivere e a risvegliare i loro poteri magici.. questa è la seconda parte più affascinante, collegata alla precedente.. molto si rivelerà nei prossimi volumi, ma già si intuisce un sistema magico complesso e affascinante.. è forse la parte più dark fantasy del libro..
I vari Pov si capisce che sono in modo più o meno evidente intrecciati tra loro e sarà davvero interessante vedere come proseguirà la storia al netto dei diversi plot twist del finale..
Un libro maturo, dal grande respiro, che forse non presenta solo elementi innovativi, ma che lo fa comunque in modo moderno, cupo e mai scontato.. certo, qualche sbavatura c'è.. Nessun libro è perfetto.. e in qualche gestione dei Pov alcune cosette possono essere affinate.. ma con un debutto così, c'è solo da aspettarsi fuoco e fiamme!!!
La cosa incredibile è che sia il primo lavoro di un indipendente.. perché è scritto e costruito in modo degno di autori più navigati, e la saga è all'altezza di lavori più blasonati..
È il primo volume di una saga epica e molto corposa, quindi per lo più è un volume introduttivo, che si prende tutto il tempo che gli serve per farti conoscere i personaggi, farli iniziare a muovere sullo scacchiere e introdurci ai vari aspetti del sistema magico, particolare, diverso e dai risvolti spettacolari.. soprattutto preannuncia scintille nei volumi successivi..
Il mondo costruito è davvero particolare, anche se in questo primo volume non viene presentato in toto, ma quel che basta per apprezzare la storia, senza inutili spiegoni, ma introducendo le info via via, in modo sapiente e invogliante..
Adoro quando inizi un libro e hai quella sensazione piacevolmente spiazzante di nomi, luoghi, eventi storici, culture, razze e poteri estranei, che poi un po' alla volta inizi a comprendere.. lo rende così interessante e per niente banale..
Essendo un libro Character Drive, è sui personaggi che viene svolto il lavoro migliore!
Seguiamo 5 pov principali:
Kord e Garlenna, due pov intrecciati che riveleranno molto più di quello che sembrano.. questa è la parte più grimdark, con droghe, disturbi post traumatici, bassa moralità..
C'è Ishoa, la principessa.. questa è più una parte di formazione, che ricorda un po' GOT, con aspetti politici e culturali complessi e intrecciati con molto di quello che verrà..
Il Pov della maga, scritto in prima persona a differenza degli altri, è davvero immersivo.. con la parte del Fiume come flusso magico, è una delle due parti più mistiche, visionarie e onirica, che rivela anche la trama più epica di fondo a tutta l opera.. Per alcuni aspetti mi ha ricordato gli aspetti fighi della Lycanius Trilogy di Islinghton..
Infine c'è Thephos, il ragazzo spezzato, che si appresta a scalare Unturros, il monte sacro, alla cui vetta solo pochissimi dei pellegrini riescono a sopravvivere e a risvegliare i loro poteri magici.. questa è la seconda parte più affascinante, collegata alla precedente.. molto si rivelerà nei prossimi volumi, ma già si intuisce un sistema magico complesso e affascinante.. è forse la parte più dark fantasy del libro..
I vari Pov si capisce che sono in modo più o meno evidente intrecciati tra loro e sarà davvero interessante vedere come proseguirà la storia al netto dei diversi plot twist del finale..
Un libro maturo, dal grande respiro, che forse non presenta solo elementi innovativi, ma che lo fa comunque in modo moderno, cupo e mai scontato.. certo, qualche sbavatura c'è.. Nessun libro è perfetto.. e in qualche gestione dei Pov alcune cosette possono essere affinate.. ma con un debutto così, c'è solo da aspettarsi fuoco e fiamme!!!
April 4, 2025
The Price of Power is a debut by Michael Michel that leaves us wanting more from this series. With this re-release, we are treated to a new prologue and I am even more eager than I was before for book 2.
Prince Barodane could not hold back the darkness. Not even in himself. He laid an innocent city in its grave and then died a hero.
In his absence, war whispers across the land.
Power-hungry highborn dispatch spies and assassins to the shadows as they maneuver for the throne, while an even greater threat rises in the South. Monsters and cultists flock to the banners of a mad prophet determined to control reality…and then shatter it.
Destiny stalks three to the brink of oblivion.
A dead prince that isn’t actually dead. Barodane buried his shameful past in a stupor of drugs, drink, and crime, and now, he’d rather watch the world fall apart than wear a crown again.
An orphan with hero’s blood who is forced to make a harrowing choice: betray her country or sacrifice her first love.
And a powerful seer who has no choice at all–her grandson must die.
If any of them fails to pay the price…
The cost will be the world’s complete annihilation.
This book was a breath of fresh air and had such massive scope that was filled with tons of history, plot and characters. The world felt so alive and that can be hard to achieve with a fantasy novel. I like how Michel dealt with burden and grief. These are real struggles that were highlighted fantastically. The novel hopefully sets up future story points and really quenched my grimdark fascination. The worldbuilding was complete and highlights Michel's skill as a writer and I really enjoyed the magic system that was used. I like when things are limited and full of struggle because there's this sense of achievement and Michel handled that brilliantly.
I'm impatient for a second novel but this is really a story for fantasy readers that don't want things handed to them and want to be kept on their toes
Prince Barodane could not hold back the darkness. Not even in himself. He laid an innocent city in its grave and then died a hero.
In his absence, war whispers across the land.
Power-hungry highborn dispatch spies and assassins to the shadows as they maneuver for the throne, while an even greater threat rises in the South. Monsters and cultists flock to the banners of a mad prophet determined to control reality…and then shatter it.
Destiny stalks three to the brink of oblivion.
A dead prince that isn’t actually dead. Barodane buried his shameful past in a stupor of drugs, drink, and crime, and now, he’d rather watch the world fall apart than wear a crown again.
An orphan with hero’s blood who is forced to make a harrowing choice: betray her country or sacrifice her first love.
And a powerful seer who has no choice at all–her grandson must die.
If any of them fails to pay the price…
The cost will be the world’s complete annihilation.
This book was a breath of fresh air and had such massive scope that was filled with tons of history, plot and characters. The world felt so alive and that can be hard to achieve with a fantasy novel. I like how Michel dealt with burden and grief. These are real struggles that were highlighted fantastically. The novel hopefully sets up future story points and really quenched my grimdark fascination. The worldbuilding was complete and highlights Michel's skill as a writer and I really enjoyed the magic system that was used. I like when things are limited and full of struggle because there's this sense of achievement and Michel handled that brilliantly.
I'm impatient for a second novel but this is really a story for fantasy readers that don't want things handed to them and want to be kept on their toes
April 5, 2023
I received and ARC of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
4.5/5 stars
The Price of Power is a fantastic start to a new grimdark fantasy series, and the debut novel from author Michael Michel. Throughout the story, we follow a cast of unique characters as they wrestle with their own trials and destinies. These include the disgraced prince Barodane who is presumed dead, the crown princess and orphan Ishoa, a seer with an important task involving her grandson, and finally an abused farmer with a death wish, Thephos. All of these characters have wonderfully fleshed out backgrounds and personalities. The way we see them develop and grow makes you feel like you are experiencing their journey with them. Though our main characters are on their on paths, by the end of the novel you begin to have an idea of how they will all play a role in the future of the world.
The world-building is another strong point of this book. The history of this land is very rich in detail and density. The monsters and creatures of this world have so unique and have a lot of variety. The way the locations and peoples of the world are described make the setting come vividly alive. While it might be a bit difficult to keep track of all the names and locations for some readers, it’s not an obstacle to understanding the world and story. Readers who love a good bit of political maneuvering in their fantasy won’t be disappointed with this book. The action scenes are also fun and intense to read through.
The Price of Power was a promising beginning to the series. I recommend it for fans of grimdark fantasy, who enjoy complex worlds and character driven stories. I’m looking forward to seeing where it’s heading in the future installment.
4.5/5 stars
The Price of Power is a fantastic start to a new grimdark fantasy series, and the debut novel from author Michael Michel. Throughout the story, we follow a cast of unique characters as they wrestle with their own trials and destinies. These include the disgraced prince Barodane who is presumed dead, the crown princess and orphan Ishoa, a seer with an important task involving her grandson, and finally an abused farmer with a death wish, Thephos. All of these characters have wonderfully fleshed out backgrounds and personalities. The way we see them develop and grow makes you feel like you are experiencing their journey with them. Though our main characters are on their on paths, by the end of the novel you begin to have an idea of how they will all play a role in the future of the world.
The world-building is another strong point of this book. The history of this land is very rich in detail and density. The monsters and creatures of this world have so unique and have a lot of variety. The way the locations and peoples of the world are described make the setting come vividly alive. While it might be a bit difficult to keep track of all the names and locations for some readers, it’s not an obstacle to understanding the world and story. Readers who love a good bit of political maneuvering in their fantasy won’t be disappointed with this book. The action scenes are also fun and intense to read through.
The Price of Power was a promising beginning to the series. I recommend it for fans of grimdark fantasy, who enjoy complex worlds and character driven stories. I’m looking forward to seeing where it’s heading in the future installment.
May 23, 2023
I backed the kickstarter for this release thanks to a gleaming recommendation from another author I love and it did NOT disappoint. It only took me as long as it did to read it because my life hit such a hectic point that reading became hard, but let me tell you! This was such a good book! Action packed, character driven with multiple POVs who ranged in age and gave the story such depth that I was drawn in from the start. It flowed so effortlessly and kept me on the edge of my seat, so much so that I ended up getting an ebook of it so I could read it at night as well.
Looking for an epic fantasy with some grimdark elements? This book is for you.
Bloody and brutal, but beautifully written that had me BEGGING for more.
Looking for an epic fantasy with some grimdark elements? This book is for you.
Bloody and brutal, but beautifully written that had me BEGGING for more.
May 26, 2024
Wasted 4 hours of my life , reading this absolute crapfest of a novel ...A snoozefest garbage where nothing happens for 500 pages ...
People who are comparing this with First Law are absolute idiots....
People who are comparing this with First Law are absolute idiots....
April 2, 2025
This is the first book that I have read by Michael Michel, and I know it won’t be my last.
The story weaves its way through several main characters’ tales, each thread connecting them, and binding them tighter as the plots come to bear. When the author can set the tone from the beginning, when the words used draw one in immediately, you know you’re in for a ride. Such as this passage did for me.
“Shackles only hold those who allow it. One who does not seek to break their chain is already broken by it. Here and now, free your swords! Free your souls! My sons and daughters of Namarr, you cannot die but once. Let us live boldly and without fear!” – Danath Ironlight's Call to War
We have an assumed dead prince, Barodane, who exiled himself after a slaughter of innocents, brought on by grief over the deaths of his family in a war that’s brewing once again. The thing I really enjoyed about this character in particular, is he is very much a morally grey man. He’s haunted by the ghosts of those he slaughtered, and has chosen to exile himself after being presumed dead following the battle where he killed the invading Scothean emperor and his remaining army. And I found myself wanting to throttle and cheer him in equal measure. He is haunted by the guilt that consumes his every waking moment. His slide into oblivion is visceral, and I wanted nothing more than to throttle him on more than one occasion. He chooses to numb himself by using a drug called godsthorn to which he’s addicted, and spirals into a fugue of self loathing and addiction, assuming a false identity and life of self imposed exile for the past 14 years. But events conspire to pull him out of his half life. Because the realm needs its prince to keep it from falling to enemies once again at their shores.
A destitute son of a pig farmer, whose life was nothing but fear and hatred from his drunken father, driven to go on a quest for death to escape his brutal life. What he finds is something entirely different. And is he the savior, the Ascendant who will banish a long stirring evil, that has been biding its time, and now may tear the realm apart, or is he the one to tear the veil between worlds? He’s broken in so many ways, it seems impossible that he’d even survive the trials of becoming an Ascendant on Untuurus’ highest peak.
A too young princess, Ishoa Ironlight, thrust into political intrigue because she’s believed to be the last of a fearless bloodline, but is betrayed by those who seek to dismantle the hierarchy, and insert themselves into the power they covet. She has to grow up fast, with only her anjuhtarg, Rakeema, an ice tiger bound to her as her companion and guardian, as there is always a knife waiting in the dark, seeking to end the Ironlight line. She’s not a warrior in any sense of the word, and now must fend for herself, not truly knowing who her allies are. They most likely are her most deadly enemies.
Power, redemption, evil manifested on the side of a mountain, masterfully crafted into a tale that has the reader wanting to get their hands on more by this author, to learn what will transpire in the coming shifts of power, of magic, of untested mettle.
A must read for anyone who enjoys incredibly written grim dark fantasy, full of characters you wish to succeed, or see their heads jammed onto pikes, Michael Michel’s book delivers all of this, and so much more.
The story weaves its way through several main characters’ tales, each thread connecting them, and binding them tighter as the plots come to bear. When the author can set the tone from the beginning, when the words used draw one in immediately, you know you’re in for a ride. Such as this passage did for me.
“Shackles only hold those who allow it. One who does not seek to break their chain is already broken by it. Here and now, free your swords! Free your souls! My sons and daughters of Namarr, you cannot die but once. Let us live boldly and without fear!” – Danath Ironlight's Call to War
We have an assumed dead prince, Barodane, who exiled himself after a slaughter of innocents, brought on by grief over the deaths of his family in a war that’s brewing once again. The thing I really enjoyed about this character in particular, is he is very much a morally grey man. He’s haunted by the ghosts of those he slaughtered, and has chosen to exile himself after being presumed dead following the battle where he killed the invading Scothean emperor and his remaining army. And I found myself wanting to throttle and cheer him in equal measure. He is haunted by the guilt that consumes his every waking moment. His slide into oblivion is visceral, and I wanted nothing more than to throttle him on more than one occasion. He chooses to numb himself by using a drug called godsthorn to which he’s addicted, and spirals into a fugue of self loathing and addiction, assuming a false identity and life of self imposed exile for the past 14 years. But events conspire to pull him out of his half life. Because the realm needs its prince to keep it from falling to enemies once again at their shores.
A destitute son of a pig farmer, whose life was nothing but fear and hatred from his drunken father, driven to go on a quest for death to escape his brutal life. What he finds is something entirely different. And is he the savior, the Ascendant who will banish a long stirring evil, that has been biding its time, and now may tear the realm apart, or is he the one to tear the veil between worlds? He’s broken in so many ways, it seems impossible that he’d even survive the trials of becoming an Ascendant on Untuurus’ highest peak.
A too young princess, Ishoa Ironlight, thrust into political intrigue because she’s believed to be the last of a fearless bloodline, but is betrayed by those who seek to dismantle the hierarchy, and insert themselves into the power they covet. She has to grow up fast, with only her anjuhtarg, Rakeema, an ice tiger bound to her as her companion and guardian, as there is always a knife waiting in the dark, seeking to end the Ironlight line. She’s not a warrior in any sense of the word, and now must fend for herself, not truly knowing who her allies are. They most likely are her most deadly enemies.
Power, redemption, evil manifested on the side of a mountain, masterfully crafted into a tale that has the reader wanting to get their hands on more by this author, to learn what will transpire in the coming shifts of power, of magic, of untested mettle.
A must read for anyone who enjoys incredibly written grim dark fantasy, full of characters you wish to succeed, or see their heads jammed onto pikes, Michael Michel’s book delivers all of this, and so much more.
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