Baneshard, Book 1 of the Hayze Chronicles

by Austin Baillio

The Baneshard is an epic fantasy novel that follows the journey of two young lovers, Maya and Bryggen, as they are thrown into a world of magic, gods, and demons. When Maya is infected by an unknown ancient artifact, Bryggen is determined to help her find a way to rid herself of it, even if it means facing off against powerful enemies and risking his own life. Together, they journey across a barren wasteland, teaming up with a banished light mage and a powerful rock golem as they race against time to save Maya from being consumed by dark magic. With action, adventure, and romance, the Baneshard is a thrilling page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

- via Kickstarter

Kindle Edition

About the author

No one writes quite like Austin Baillio. If you are into captivating Science Fiction or Fantasy books, Austin Baillio is definitely for you. Once you start reading, you won’t be able to put your book down.

​Austin Baillio isn’t your typical author. He is an attorney by trade, frequently writing winning motions and briefs for complex legal cases. However, to unwind from his busy schedule, Mr. Baillio enjoys escaping into the world of science fiction and fantasy, whether that be through reading, playing tabletop games, or creating new worlds and characters in his writing.

He lives with his wife and three kids in the metro-Phoenix area.

Reviews

[Michael Clayton · Rating 3 out of 5]

I backed this book on Kickstarter in 2023 after I saw the author’s father post it on Facebook. It was hand delivered and put it on the shelf as I was in the midst of another series. With that series now over, I pulled it off the shelf and gave it a go.

It was slow to start, but picked up speed once the shard was discovered.

I like the characters, their quirks, the system of magic, and the creatures that inhabit the world of Lucentia… the story is timeless and the motivations pure.

Bryggen, Maya, and Nilah were the highlights. Whisper was a delight (I had just finished rereading Lloyd Alexander’s Chronicles of Prydain, so it was nice seeing a big cat again). The baddies, while dark and mysterious as well as varied, were innumerable.

It was the world building for me that didn’t jive. The author did an okay job describing the environments, the atmosphere, and vegetation, but it fell flat for me. It felt like they were on a stage most of the time (and that just might be me and my opinion).

Would I read the second book in the Hayze Chronicles?

Yup.

If not to see where they go next - to simply support new authors as they reach for their dreams.

Keep going, Austin!

Three stars.

[Erin M. Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baneshard kept me on the edge of my seat with anticipation and excitement. I highly enjoyed the book and the characters were really fleshed out. The author gave you the sense of trepidation on what is going to happen next with each chapter. It was an interesting concept for the people of Faymore to believe in fate instead of Gods. To banish people with magic. The village was run by the Elders, what they said went no matter what. Looking forward to reading more by the author. 
I received a complimentary ARC copy from the author for a fair and honest review.