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The Tales of Y'Myran #1
Banshee's Honor
Born a half-elf, Azhani Rhu'len earned the love and trust of the people of Y'Dan, becoming the kingdom's warleader. Just when all her dreams were about to be fulfilled, treachery stole everything that she loved. Now, landless, loveless and broken near to death, all she clings to is the hope of regaining her honor. Struggling to heal, Azhani discovers that an ancient evil threatens the land she once called home. Will she abandon her quest for honor to save Y'Dan, or will she turn her back on the people who cast her out?
356 pages, Paperback
First published January 6, 2007
About the author
Shaylynn Rose
4 books16 followersShaylynn Rose has never wanted to do anything other than create. From an early age, she was writing stories and poems, painting pictures, making jewelry, and exercising her imagination in every way she could. A fascination with mythology grew into a full-on love for fantasy and science fiction, and through this, she discovered the world of role-playing games, where she developed and honed her storytelling chops. Eventually these loves merged when she began writing the first of many stories, most of which aren’t fit to print but nonetheless allowed her to stretch her muscles little by little.
The late nineties brought the advent of television shows such as Xena: Warrior Princess and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and through these mediums, she discovered the world of fan fiction, beta readers, and feedback. This was, for her, a perfect storm for nurturing her creativity. Through the Xena fandom, she met Ciegra, who pushed and shoved and generally encouraged her to stretch beyond the comfort zone of fan fiction and back to the place where stories first began — the world of original tales.
With Ciegra (and, once the secret was out, her family and numerous other friends) constantly cheering her on, Shaylynn found the courage to write and eventually publish her first novel, Banshee’s Honor. Sadly, Ciegra passed away in 2011, but her spirit lives on, always pushing Shaylynn to keep writing, to share the characters that live inside her head, and to stay away from writing laundry lists instead of stories.
The late nineties brought the advent of television shows such as Xena: Warrior Princess and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and through these mediums, she discovered the world of fan fiction, beta readers, and feedback. This was, for her, a perfect storm for nurturing her creativity. Through the Xena fandom, she met Ciegra, who pushed and shoved and generally encouraged her to stretch beyond the comfort zone of fan fiction and back to the place where stories first began — the world of original tales.
With Ciegra (and, once the secret was out, her family and numerous other friends) constantly cheering her on, Shaylynn found the courage to write and eventually publish her first novel, Banshee’s Honor. Sadly, Ciegra passed away in 2011, but her spirit lives on, always pushing Shaylynn to keep writing, to share the characters that live inside her head, and to stay away from writing laundry lists instead of stories.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 25, 2017
I seriously haven't read anything this awesome since Misty Lackey's Vows and Honor duology featuring Tarma and Kethry. Yeah, this novel is on par with that classic series and gives me all kinds of feels. The cover alone had me doing all sorts of happy dances. I'll say it again, representation matters and having a Black heroine - a dark skinned one at that - on the cover means a whole hell of a lot given both erasure and colorism in real life. It's even more important in the fantasy and LGBTQ genres where the lack of characters of color is slowly being addressed but not fast enough.
This. Is. A. Fantasy. Novel. First. I am a fantasy fan. There is a romance, but it's a slow building of trust. The most that happens are hugs, chaste kisses (and not between the two characters). And it's not the raison d'etre, which makes me happy. There is no heroine hijacking here.
So let's talk about "The Banshee", Azhani Rhu'len. Warrior, warleader, half-elven confidente of Kings, wronged woman. And a woman ready to get revenge on those who destroyed her name and murdered the woman she loved. When introduced to her, she's not in much shape to do a lot on that score. But wounded she's still dangerous and despite her injuries, is still formidable enough to take out a potential kidnapper and deprive him of his victim. Like most warrior characters, Azhani is resolute in her quest, but not so much that she ignores those in need of her skills. However, her plans take a different turn after realizing the woman she rescued is a Stardancer - a healer and worshipper of the Twain.
The Stardancer - Kyrian - is not your typical damsel in distress. As priestess and healer, she's stubborn enough to heal a woman whose reputation as mass murderess is known far and wide. Kyrian may be against the taking of life, but she's no shrinking violet and is more than capable of defending herself when necessary. She's also capable of helping Azhani turn her dilapidated home into a decent shelter for the coming winter, all the while discovering the truth behind the brutal legend of the Banshee.
Meanwhile, the kingdom of Y'myran is in the hands of Joffrey Baratheon (lol, not really). It's in the hands of a spoiled brat who could easily give that kid a run for the money. Unfortunately for young Arris, he's easily influenced by a weasel of a councilor name Porthyros, whom in turn, is in thrall to more dangerous entities - one who is a part of Azhani's past. Add to that, are the seasonal attacks of the rimerbeats - ice demons who have been the bane of all the kingdoms. The rimerbeats are only supposed to stir at certain times of the year, which allowed warriors like Azhani to fight them. Unfortunately, something has brought them out of their cycle, and with tragic consequences. So now Azhani has two tasks - to save innocent lives from the rimerbeats, and to exact revenge on Arris and his cohorts.
Banshee’s Honor is an epic fantasy novel with lots of heart. It doesn't shy away from the blood, guts and gore, though none of those are gratuitous. The characters are finely crafted - both heroes and villains. There are tons of strong female friendships as well as male respect for the strength of women. Young Arris is a terrible boy not ready to rule a kingdom (something his father knew full well and Thodan's decision set the scene for events to come). Some of the side characters turn out to be quite surprising in the best of ways. Azhani and Kyrian work well together as they negotiate not just their survival, but the slow realization of their feelings. Everyone else sees what they do not, but the two of them also have deeper issues to resolve first.
It's been a spell since I've read a book that made me resent real life getting in the way. It's been longer still since a fantasy novel has made me feel once again that I belong. That I could imagine myself with a sword and be off on incredible adventures. Azhani has long braids and due to her half-elven heritage was sometimes regarded as an outsider. I got that. I read the author's bio and like myself, was a fan of RPG's - Role Playing Games - a space where I was that powerful heroine. Azhani, much like her fantasy soul sister Tarma, has become a part of the Fountain Pen Diva's pantheon of awesome heroines.
Needless to say, I'm ready for book two. Don't bother me.
This. Is. A. Fantasy. Novel. First. I am a fantasy fan. There is a romance, but it's a slow building of trust. The most that happens are hugs, chaste kisses (and not between the two characters). And it's not the raison d'etre, which makes me happy. There is no heroine hijacking here.
So let's talk about "The Banshee", Azhani Rhu'len. Warrior, warleader, half-elven confidente of Kings, wronged woman. And a woman ready to get revenge on those who destroyed her name and murdered the woman she loved. When introduced to her, she's not in much shape to do a lot on that score. But wounded she's still dangerous and despite her injuries, is still formidable enough to take out a potential kidnapper and deprive him of his victim. Like most warrior characters, Azhani is resolute in her quest, but not so much that she ignores those in need of her skills. However, her plans take a different turn after realizing the woman she rescued is a Stardancer - a healer and worshipper of the Twain.
The Stardancer - Kyrian - is not your typical damsel in distress. As priestess and healer, she's stubborn enough to heal a woman whose reputation as mass murderess is known far and wide. Kyrian may be against the taking of life, but she's no shrinking violet and is more than capable of defending herself when necessary. She's also capable of helping Azhani turn her dilapidated home into a decent shelter for the coming winter, all the while discovering the truth behind the brutal legend of the Banshee.
Meanwhile, the kingdom of Y'myran is in the hands of Joffrey Baratheon (lol, not really). It's in the hands of a spoiled brat who could easily give that kid a run for the money. Unfortunately for young Arris, he's easily influenced by a weasel of a councilor name Porthyros, whom in turn, is in thrall to more dangerous entities - one who is a part of Azhani's past. Add to that, are the seasonal attacks of the rimerbeats - ice demons who have been the bane of all the kingdoms. The rimerbeats are only supposed to stir at certain times of the year, which allowed warriors like Azhani to fight them. Unfortunately, something has brought them out of their cycle, and with tragic consequences. So now Azhani has two tasks - to save innocent lives from the rimerbeats, and to exact revenge on Arris and his cohorts.
Banshee’s Honor is an epic fantasy novel with lots of heart. It doesn't shy away from the blood, guts and gore, though none of those are gratuitous. The characters are finely crafted - both heroes and villains. There are tons of strong female friendships as well as male respect for the strength of women. Young Arris is a terrible boy not ready to rule a kingdom (something his father knew full well and Thodan's decision set the scene for events to come). Some of the side characters turn out to be quite surprising in the best of ways. Azhani and Kyrian work well together as they negotiate not just their survival, but the slow realization of their feelings. Everyone else sees what they do not, but the two of them also have deeper issues to resolve first.
It's been a spell since I've read a book that made me resent real life getting in the way. It's been longer still since a fantasy novel has made me feel once again that I belong. That I could imagine myself with a sword and be off on incredible adventures. Azhani has long braids and due to her half-elven heritage was sometimes regarded as an outsider. I got that. I read the author's bio and like myself, was a fan of RPG's - Role Playing Games - a space where I was that powerful heroine. Azhani, much like her fantasy soul sister Tarma, has become a part of the Fountain Pen Diva's pantheon of awesome heroines.
Needless to say, I'm ready for book two. Don't bother me.
October 19, 2016
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
Banshee's Honor was a pretty good Fantasy read. Although it was more character focused than I generally like. It all starts with Azhani finding Kyrian in the hands of a kidnapper. Even though she's been banished and ostracized, Azhani cannot let a healer be abused like that. She rescues Kyrian, even on her broken leg, and takes her back to her home. She hopes Kyrian leaves soon, but the healer cannot in good conscious leave an injured person untended. Even if they are a murder and a traitor to the crown. But somehow Kyrian doesn't quite believe that about her rescuer.
Of course, Banshee's Honor is about corrupt royals, betrayal, and setting things back to right before all hell breaks loose. Azhani was wrongfully accused of murdering her wife and for treason by the former king's evil son. However, the first third is all focused on Azhani and Kyrian developing a friendship. It's mostly just them working together to prepare for the upcoming Winter and stealing longing glances. I actually loved how well we got to know them. I just wish the plot had moved along some at the same time. Then the second third jumps to the palace to following Azhani's friend, Elisira, who has the attention of the new man-child king. Again, we get to know her and other characters very well, but no plot development.
It isn't until the final third of Banshee's Honor when the plot starts moving. Elisira finds Azhani and Kyrian, along with the rest of the group she's travelling with, and they're stuck there until Spring. Not much happens. It's just more character development which is fine. It isn't until the last couple of chapters where the characters all start heading to where they're suppose to be going. And then it ends! What?! I need to know what happens!
I did enjoy Banshee's Honor. The characters are lovable and I definitely care about what happens to them. If only the plot had been as developed and started before the final few chapters.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Banshee's Honor was a pretty good Fantasy read. Although it was more character focused than I generally like. It all starts with Azhani finding Kyrian in the hands of a kidnapper. Even though she's been banished and ostracized, Azhani cannot let a healer be abused like that. She rescues Kyrian, even on her broken leg, and takes her back to her home. She hopes Kyrian leaves soon, but the healer cannot in good conscious leave an injured person untended. Even if they are a murder and a traitor to the crown. But somehow Kyrian doesn't quite believe that about her rescuer.
Of course, Banshee's Honor is about corrupt royals, betrayal, and setting things back to right before all hell breaks loose. Azhani was wrongfully accused of murdering her wife and for treason by the former king's evil son. However, the first third is all focused on Azhani and Kyrian developing a friendship. It's mostly just them working together to prepare for the upcoming Winter and stealing longing glances. I actually loved how well we got to know them. I just wish the plot had moved along some at the same time. Then the second third jumps to the palace to following Azhani's friend, Elisira, who has the attention of the new man-child king. Again, we get to know her and other characters very well, but no plot development.
It isn't until the final third of Banshee's Honor when the plot starts moving. Elisira finds Azhani and Kyrian, along with the rest of the group she's travelling with, and they're stuck there until Spring. Not much happens. It's just more character development which is fine. It isn't until the last couple of chapters where the characters all start heading to where they're suppose to be going. And then it ends! What?! I need to know what happens!
I did enjoy Banshee's Honor. The characters are lovable and I definitely care about what happens to them. If only the plot had been as developed and started before the final few chapters.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
December 17, 2019
Banshee's Honor was a wonderfully woven tale and the beginning of a series that explores a world where one woman has been wronged and betrayed and has to find her way again. This is the foundation story and we learn about each of the characters, what makes them who they are, and what they're working for and what's working against them. The author does a great job of setting the stage for the reader to understand each person's motivation. The writing is complex at times, but very simple in its delivery. Though I'm not a fan of series writing, and for some reason, I didn't catch that this is book one before I dove in, there is enough element of the story told and delivered that make it worth the read and worth picking up the next book.
April 22, 2020
Loved this series, true love and friendship overcoming great obstacles. I am still wondering who Kyrian`s parents are.
April 19, 2016
I am always careful with high fantasy books as it's not always my cup of tea. But this one... oh wow, this one was just the ticket! Good world-building (not painfully in-depth but completely believable), protagonists you end up really caring about and enough interesting threads weaving in and out of the main plot to keep you on your toes.
June 11, 2017
Azhami and Kyrian are strong leads in this fantasy romance with lots of action. To keep things clear in my mind, I went back and forth while reading about this wonderful world. Looking forward to reading book 2. 4 stars I rec'd a copy of this book from Ylva in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2018
Have the sequel handy: story gets all the more addictive as it goes
Fantasy is a fairly new genre for me to read but if this book and its sequel are any indication, I’ll likely be reading more of it in the future. The world depicted in the story is so well thought out and frighteningly believable, it’s easy to be immersed in. I was relieved to have the sequel close at hand when I began this book because the nearer I got to the end, the more addictive it became. In places it reminded me of the Xena and Game of Thrones TV series, and Lord of the Rings movies, but overall, it’s an original story with familiar themes that are freakishly similar to modern day, despite the story being populated with elves, dragons, humans, dwarves, magic users, beasts of all kinds, among others. Discrimination, corruption, the thirst for power regardless of its cost, greed are all covered here and presented in a multi-kingdom realm where some characters speak in a language that reads like an older form of English than what is spoken today. Those portions of dialogue are florid by comparison but still easily read and understood; it forced me to read the story slower than I normally read modern day English and as a result heightened the atmosphere and made it that much more clear that this setting is a different world and time, one that is plentiful in violence, loyalty and heroes.
The violence is graphic but necessary and not gratuitous and there is humor to offset it so the story is not wholly dystopian in mood. There are plenty of amazing and strong characters to root for as there are villains to cheer against; the politics at play are complex and often devious which sets up conflicts and characters seeking revenge for various reasons.
If you’re okay with some graphic violence and want to read some strong female characters and gratifying relationships blossoming in dire circumstances, give this story a try and if by the halfway mark you’re enjoying the story be sure to have the sequel at hand to continue the story without a gap in reading. This is not a standalone read and neither is the sequel, Banshee’s Vengeance, but both are very satisfying reads for the characters, their relationships, and the journeys they take in the course of the books.
There were typos in the book and although there were more than a few, they did not pull me out of the story or my enjoyment of it. Also the map of the kingdoms at the beginning of the book could have been larger and taken up an entire page for easier reading and reference.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Fantasy is a fairly new genre for me to read but if this book and its sequel are any indication, I’ll likely be reading more of it in the future. The world depicted in the story is so well thought out and frighteningly believable, it’s easy to be immersed in. I was relieved to have the sequel close at hand when I began this book because the nearer I got to the end, the more addictive it became. In places it reminded me of the Xena and Game of Thrones TV series, and Lord of the Rings movies, but overall, it’s an original story with familiar themes that are freakishly similar to modern day, despite the story being populated with elves, dragons, humans, dwarves, magic users, beasts of all kinds, among others. Discrimination, corruption, the thirst for power regardless of its cost, greed are all covered here and presented in a multi-kingdom realm where some characters speak in a language that reads like an older form of English than what is spoken today. Those portions of dialogue are florid by comparison but still easily read and understood; it forced me to read the story slower than I normally read modern day English and as a result heightened the atmosphere and made it that much more clear that this setting is a different world and time, one that is plentiful in violence, loyalty and heroes.
The violence is graphic but necessary and not gratuitous and there is humor to offset it so the story is not wholly dystopian in mood. There are plenty of amazing and strong characters to root for as there are villains to cheer against; the politics at play are complex and often devious which sets up conflicts and characters seeking revenge for various reasons.
If you’re okay with some graphic violence and want to read some strong female characters and gratifying relationships blossoming in dire circumstances, give this story a try and if by the halfway mark you’re enjoying the story be sure to have the sequel at hand to continue the story without a gap in reading. This is not a standalone read and neither is the sequel, Banshee’s Vengeance, but both are very satisfying reads for the characters, their relationships, and the journeys they take in the course of the books.
There were typos in the book and although there were more than a few, they did not pull me out of the story or my enjoyment of it. Also the map of the kingdoms at the beginning of the book could have been larger and taken up an entire page for easier reading and reference.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2018
Banshee's Honor was a wonderfully woven tale and the beginning of a series that explores a world where one woman has been wronged and betrayed and has to find her way again. This is the foundation story and we learn about each of the characters, what makes them who they are, and what they're working for and what's working against them. The author does a great job of setting the stage for the reader to understand each person's motivation. The writing is complex at times, but very simple in its delivery. Though I'm not a fan of series writing, and for some reason, I didn't catch that this is book one before I dove in, there is enough element of the story told and delivered that make it worth the read and worth picking up the next book.--Naleighna Kai, National bestselling author of Loving Me for Me, Open Door Marriage, and Every woman Needs a Wife
May 7, 2023
I read the first edition of this story published in 2007, so technically, this is a re-read. Back then, I was hungry for Xena AUs, and I remember the book, with its beautiful cover, was an amazing read.
This revised edition is even better. Although the warrior/criminal - healer/bard emphasis has been toned down, many other aspects have been improved and will delight today's readers. The worldbuilding is detailed with well developed characters and a complex plot. Azhani and Kyrian's struggles with their individual past trauma, support for each other and developing relationship is still central and well written.
Do note that this is Book 1 of a duology, and cannot be read as a standalone. For me, this is a excellent as I definitely want Azhani and Kyrian's story to continue. On to Book 2!
This revised edition is even better. Although the warrior/criminal - healer/bard emphasis has been toned down, many other aspects have been improved and will delight today's readers. The worldbuilding is detailed with well developed characters and a complex plot. Azhani and Kyrian's struggles with their individual past trauma, support for each other and developing relationship is still central and well written.
Do note that this is Book 1 of a duology, and cannot be read as a standalone. For me, this is a excellent as I definitely want Azhani and Kyrian's story to continue. On to Book 2!
December 6, 2025
I received this book as a gift from a dear friend and I absolutely adore it. This book has traveled with me across three states and about five different moves and remains a treasured possession. I've never thought to look it up before, but I absolutely recommend this to anyone looking for a really heartwarming fantasy romance. It's such a sweet story and I wish it had a bigger following.
November 6, 2022
06.11.22 added back after loss of data early October.
Remember loving it, and it having a very mildly sentient sword!!!
Remember loving it, and it having a very mildly sentient sword!!!
November 27, 2015
I started this book a bit on the confused side. The prologue left me a feeling a little like I didn’t know what was going on and had a lot of information to process in a short space of pages. However, I pressed on and into the meat of the book. I have to say, I’m very glad I did. The story I found within was driven, well told and kept me turning pages. The story line does jump from character to character point of view wise every so often but it is done in a way which lets you know which POV you are following.
The characters carry depth and are well thought out, well put together and exhibit growth through the book while staying true to personalities. There is a definite connection between two of the characters while another pair shows the hints of impending romance which I can’t wait to follow in future books in the series. The plot carried well, moving forward without much ‘fluff’ I would think to trim away. The dialog is well written and ranges from serious battle strategy to fun jabs and ribbing at each other.
For characters, I give the following:
Azhani is a wonderfully complex and emotionally ragged character. She is constantly at odds with herself in a very real and touching way. She was easy to love right from the start while still maintaining the desire to slap her upside the head frequently! A strong warrior with a driving need to protect everyone and everything around her she proves again and again that she is a character to be watched closely, and adored. You feel her pain, heartache and rage through every memory, story and detail.
Kyrian comes across as that friend/sibling everyone seems to have: almost annoyingly perfect but so sweet you love her anyway. Her inner battles and demons rear their nasty little heads but she manages to handle them with a silent grace which tells a lot about her. She is more than she appears and the inner struggle, the debate she has with herself throughout the chapters can often lend a little laughter to tense scenarios.
Elisiria and Padreg are supporting characters with their own quirks. They grab the attention of the reader and make you forget the aggravation you’re feeling at the main pair in the story! Their heart-warming romance is a little too perfect but so sweet it leaves you not caring (not to mention it balances out the other not-quite-there romance in the storyline!)
The other characters, from Aden to Devon and even right down to Arun the horse are beautifully written and add a richness to the story that keeps it deep and moving forward. I’m very excited for the next book in this series and will be waiting (impatiently!) for it. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a detailed, in depth fantasy with a rising romantic element. Great read and two thumbs way up.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads
The characters carry depth and are well thought out, well put together and exhibit growth through the book while staying true to personalities. There is a definite connection between two of the characters while another pair shows the hints of impending romance which I can’t wait to follow in future books in the series. The plot carried well, moving forward without much ‘fluff’ I would think to trim away. The dialog is well written and ranges from serious battle strategy to fun jabs and ribbing at each other.
For characters, I give the following:
Azhani is a wonderfully complex and emotionally ragged character. She is constantly at odds with herself in a very real and touching way. She was easy to love right from the start while still maintaining the desire to slap her upside the head frequently! A strong warrior with a driving need to protect everyone and everything around her she proves again and again that she is a character to be watched closely, and adored. You feel her pain, heartache and rage through every memory, story and detail.
Kyrian comes across as that friend/sibling everyone seems to have: almost annoyingly perfect but so sweet you love her anyway. Her inner battles and demons rear their nasty little heads but she manages to handle them with a silent grace which tells a lot about her. She is more than she appears and the inner struggle, the debate she has with herself throughout the chapters can often lend a little laughter to tense scenarios.
Elisiria and Padreg are supporting characters with their own quirks. They grab the attention of the reader and make you forget the aggravation you’re feeling at the main pair in the story! Their heart-warming romance is a little too perfect but so sweet it leaves you not caring (not to mention it balances out the other not-quite-there romance in the storyline!)
The other characters, from Aden to Devon and even right down to Arun the horse are beautifully written and add a richness to the story that keeps it deep and moving forward. I’m very excited for the next book in this series and will be waiting (impatiently!) for it. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a detailed, in depth fantasy with a rising romantic element. Great read and two thumbs way up.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads
December 11, 2015
I received an ARC of this book from Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
This book was reminiscent of those epic fantasy adventures from names like Eddings, Weis and Hickman, even Tolkien (whose writing I actually don't like as much as others). This is only book one, but it gave the readers so much. We met many of the good guys, struggling to escape the reach of those who would do evil, to serve and protect the innocent, and right the wrongs done in their world. And we met many of the agents of evil, who succeeded in making us cringe at the depth of their nefarious plans, and the ways in which their greed and hubris have already damaged the world around them, even as they move toward fulfilling greater plans of destruction and cruelty. Yes, this is a book that is so grand in scope, that it needs hyperbole to describe it. And I mean that in the best way.
The world-building is magnificent, the conflict far-reaching and insidious. And complicated in the way that real life truly is. The heroines are well-crafted, with not only admirable qualities but also those insecurities and characteristics that make them three dimensional. The problems they are struggling with seem overwhelming, yet even in the midst of crushing despair, they find hope. The evil characters are led by their weaknesses, and yet, even in the midst of their most vile actions, the reader can feel sorry for them within their limitations even while hoping they die a hideous death.
This book sets up the players, the conflict, and the obstacles. It ends, not in a cliff-hanger, but right before the characters move to the next stage of their plans. And I want to know how those plans play out. This was an excellent book. I heartily recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy. And I can't wait for the next book in the series.
This book was reminiscent of those epic fantasy adventures from names like Eddings, Weis and Hickman, even Tolkien (whose writing I actually don't like as much as others). This is only book one, but it gave the readers so much. We met many of the good guys, struggling to escape the reach of those who would do evil, to serve and protect the innocent, and right the wrongs done in their world. And we met many of the agents of evil, who succeeded in making us cringe at the depth of their nefarious plans, and the ways in which their greed and hubris have already damaged the world around them, even as they move toward fulfilling greater plans of destruction and cruelty. Yes, this is a book that is so grand in scope, that it needs hyperbole to describe it. And I mean that in the best way.
The world-building is magnificent, the conflict far-reaching and insidious. And complicated in the way that real life truly is. The heroines are well-crafted, with not only admirable qualities but also those insecurities and characteristics that make them three dimensional. The problems they are struggling with seem overwhelming, yet even in the midst of crushing despair, they find hope. The evil characters are led by their weaknesses, and yet, even in the midst of their most vile actions, the reader can feel sorry for them within their limitations even while hoping they die a hideous death.
This book sets up the players, the conflict, and the obstacles. It ends, not in a cliff-hanger, but right before the characters move to the next stage of their plans. And I want to know how those plans play out. This was an excellent book. I heartily recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy. And I can't wait for the next book in the series.
September 25, 2015
The world this author created in this book was really amazing.
You get Azhani and Kyrian who were so good together.. You get the action, angst and of course the bad guy with this book. This story had everything I love in a fantasy book. Azhani is a warleader who is labeled a oathbreaker and Kyrian is a healer. The first time they meet Azhani saves Kryrian, Kyrian then heals Azhani's hurt leg. You could feel how deeply these two characters feel for each other from the start. So I do not want to say anymore and give away any spoilers because this book was just so good you really need to read it for yourself.
I really loved the characters this author created with this book also you will meet so many different characters in this book too.
So this is were I say there were some parts of this book did drag for me unfortunately and I did have a hard time getting into this book at first but once I did I really did like this story. All together this author created a really amazing world were you have characters you will like that were good and some bad people too. I really liked this book! I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
You get Azhani and Kyrian who were so good together.. You get the action, angst and of course the bad guy with this book. This story had everything I love in a fantasy book. Azhani is a warleader who is labeled a oathbreaker and Kyrian is a healer. The first time they meet Azhani saves Kryrian, Kyrian then heals Azhani's hurt leg. You could feel how deeply these two characters feel for each other from the start. So I do not want to say anymore and give away any spoilers because this book was just so good you really need to read it for yourself.
I really loved the characters this author created with this book also you will meet so many different characters in this book too.
So this is were I say there were some parts of this book did drag for me unfortunately and I did have a hard time getting into this book at first but once I did I really did like this story. All together this author created a really amazing world were you have characters you will like that were good and some bad people too. I really liked this book! I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
November 27, 2016
Recensione in italiano qui: http://thereadingpal.blogspot.it/2016...
"Who are you, that you bear the brand of an Oathbreaker?"
Without esitation, the woman replied, "I am Azhani Rhu'len," and
bowed with exaggerated grace. "At your service, my lady."
The first disappointing read in the Ylva Publishing catalogue. I mean, it wasn't bad, but It couldn't stand a chance against the other books from YP that I read, to be honest.
Azhani is an easely likable character, Kyrian not so much. The other characters are a bit.. Meh.
The story is interesting enough too, but I didn't enjoy the writing style at all and it made everything so "heavy" to read, I almost quit reading it.
Let's say the amazing cover and the promis of a well-written and interesting book thanks to the synopsis deceived me into believing I could have loved this book, thing that unfortunately didn't happen.
I gave it 3/5 stars anyway because, as I said, the story itself isn't that bad, and Azhani is pleasurable enough to me.
Now, I don't know if I'll read the sequel. I could give it a chance to see if it gets better, but I still don't know.
"Who are you, that you bear the brand of an Oathbreaker?"
Without esitation, the woman replied, "I am Azhani Rhu'len," and
bowed with exaggerated grace. "At your service, my lady."
The first disappointing read in the Ylva Publishing catalogue. I mean, it wasn't bad, but It couldn't stand a chance against the other books from YP that I read, to be honest.
Azhani is an easely likable character, Kyrian not so much. The other characters are a bit.. Meh.
The story is interesting enough too, but I didn't enjoy the writing style at all and it made everything so "heavy" to read, I almost quit reading it.
Let's say the amazing cover and the promis of a well-written and interesting book thanks to the synopsis deceived me into believing I could have loved this book, thing that unfortunately didn't happen.
I gave it 3/5 stars anyway because, as I said, the story itself isn't that bad, and Azhani is pleasurable enough to me.
Now, I don't know if I'll read the sequel. I could give it a chance to see if it gets better, but I still don't know.
December 2, 2016
Banshee's Honor was a little slow to start, maybe it was because the writing style is quite different to what I usually read. However, I found myself getting drawn in and looking forward to reading more.
Shaylynn's spin on that era with a strong female figure, leaving you at times to read between the lines and draw your own take or allowing your imagination to take you places you didn't expect it would go.
I would recommend this book.
Shaylynn's spin on that era with a strong female figure, leaving you at times to read between the lines and draw your own take or allowing your imagination to take you places you didn't expect it would go.
I would recommend this book.
July 3, 2014
Great read! The story was paced very well. The relationship between Kyrian and Azhani was heartfelt.I know some didn't like the POV shifting so often, but I loved reading what everyone was thinking. As most said in the reviews for the book, read it like a rough draft, you won't be disappointed!
August 22, 2019
🙌🏿
This book is just as good as I remembered it being. The characters are likable, the story is addictive and memorable.
All this but I have a hate and love relationship with the slow pace of the story.
This book is just as good as I remembered it being. The characters are likable, the story is addictive and memorable.
All this but I have a hate and love relationship with the slow pace of the story.
March 26, 2012
I loved the story! Happen ending and all.
It desperately needs to be edited. Read it like a rough draft. The shifting point of view is somewhat disconcerting until you adjust for it.
It desperately needs to be edited. Read it like a rough draft. The shifting point of view is somewhat disconcerting until you adjust for it.
November 28, 2015
Banshee’s Honor by Shaylynn Rose: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
August 8, 2018
Ordinary, standard formula medieval sword & sorcery fantasy/romance. Finished, but only because I skimmed maybe 1 or 2 paras on every page.
June 23, 2008
This one is growing on me - originally I put it down after reading three chapters.
I'm working hard to disregard the POV shifts and sentence structures.
Updated:
Now here's an epic story - Honor, betrayal, loyalty, revenge, love and some very good world building. The villain may have been a bit too villainous (his back story and name made me cringe a bit) but the main characters Azhani and Kyrian more than made up for it. Both leads were strong and complex characters and the plot had some interesting twists and turns.
Ok, now for my grumblings. This book was a rather impressive 355 pages. It should have been at least 450 pages. This publisher uses tiny tiny print and has margins that should be measured in millimeters - made me feel old when I had to squint to read it. At times, I felt that the book was a bit too long - a bit of tightening in the middle would have have made the story's pace a bit better. I know, I know ... normally I'm fussed by the fact that I've just spent all this money on a 250 page book with really big font.
With everything that was going on in the book and the build up back stories and intrigue, by the time the final climatic battle took place, it felt rather rushed and a bit anticlimactic (and the villain's name - Darkchilde- honestly). On a separate note, I happened across one of this authors stories online, "Message In A Bottle" ,as I was assuaging my recent "uber obsession" and I really enjoyed it.
I'm working hard to disregard the POV shifts and sentence structures.
Updated:
Now here's an epic story - Honor, betrayal, loyalty, revenge, love and some very good world building. The villain may have been a bit too villainous (his back story and name made me cringe a bit) but the main characters Azhani and Kyrian more than made up for it. Both leads were strong and complex characters and the plot had some interesting twists and turns.
Ok, now for my grumblings. This book was a rather impressive 355 pages. It should have been at least 450 pages. This publisher uses tiny tiny print and has margins that should be measured in millimeters - made me feel old when I had to squint to read it. At times, I felt that the book was a bit too long - a bit of tightening in the middle would have have made the story's pace a bit better. I know, I know ... normally I'm fussed by the fact that I've just spent all this money on a 250 page book with really big font.
With everything that was going on in the book and the build up back stories and intrigue, by the time the final climatic battle took place, it felt rather rushed and a bit anticlimactic (and the villain's name - Darkchilde- honestly). On a separate note, I happened across one of this authors stories online, "Message In A Bottle" ,as I was assuaging my recent "uber obsession" and I really enjoyed it.
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