A Fallen Sword: The Wolf and Viper Series

by Kaven Hirning

A Guild of Criminals.A Guild of Heroes.One Holy Weapon.A book made entirely by rolling the dice.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Fiction

310 pages, Paperback

Published December 12, 2023

Reviews

[Cody]

To be fair I have a fully unbiased perspective on this work as I have a purely romantic and sexual relationship with the author. With that being said Kaven has grown leaps and bounds in her artistic layout and delivery.

This work is unique in its concept, and the authorship paints an engaging picture of dynamic storytelling and character development along the path of an ultimate uniting goal.

I’m so proud to be a part of Kaven’s development and growth along her journey of delivering more and more immersive and impactful literature to you, the ones she loves so dearly ❤️

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

just a great fun time

Such a fun read! Can’t wait for the next one… and that ending! Part of me saw it coming.. but still left absolutely shaken

[Kaycee O'Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this little book! The plot was interesting and unique, and I liked how the story actually moved and progressed at the book went along. I liked all the characters and I don’t think they were too difficult to keep track of. One critique I would have is the author through a lot of vocabulary, cities, names, and stuff like that at us right away that I didn’t understand immediately so maybe having a guide or something would be helpful. But overall, really liked it. The end was unexpected and I am interested to see how the next book will happen!

[Laura Stagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Ratings
Content: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Readability: ⭐⭐⭐
Plot Development: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Feelings whilst reading the book: 😄

Review
So I found Kaven Hirning through their incredible ACOTAR videos on TikTok. I think she is absolutely hilarious. When TikTok served me her video about her new book and how it was written using dice, I was sold. Immediately preordered it.

A Fallen Sword was brilliant. It has everything you want from a D&D style book. I found the start a little bit hard to get into. I found you were thrust into an established world, and it took me a little bit to catch up. But once I found my feet in the world, I loved every minute of it.

The ending was spectacular. I had guessed some of the outcomes, as I read through the final chapter, but it had me screaming at my Kindle as if the the main character could hear me.

5 out of 5 stars I can't wait for the next book in the series.

[Cesi✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a gut feeling this book was good but the next one will be GREAT! It’s setting everything in place and building the story before all hell breaks loose.

It’s spicy, emotional and exciting. The cliffhanger though… 💔 Not her having to hunt down the man she now loves.

[Leighanne Hoffmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun time. I was here for the vibes and the banter lol.

[Cree · Rating 4 out of 5]

So every decision in this book was made by a roll of a dice… HOW CRAZY FUN! I’m ngl I totally need a pronunciation check for a lot of things in this book lmao

[Gabby Lucas · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ending 😀😀😀 although I don’t play DND i enjoyed this a lot especially knowing it was based on the roll of a dice! I loved it!

[Jennifer S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️THE ENDING 😱 I really enjoyed this!!!!

[Mackenzie M.G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐️

This was such a fun book! I really like the complexities of the characters and I am excited to read the next one.

There were quite a few predictable parts but that didn’t make it any less enjoyable! I am interested to learn more about Lars backstory.

[Jenessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wild quest of a story that will leave you scrambling to make sense of a shocking end!

A Fallen Sword is exactly how you might expect a story propelled by random rolls of a dice to be - a bit chaotic in a fun way.

The magic system is well laid out and complicated in the best way. So many times as I was reading, I thought to myself, "How the hell did Kaven come up with this?" While there were many characters, I thought they were represented well and given time to shine throughout the story. I can't wait to see how some of their stories pan out in book 2.

Kaven's strength as a writer lies in the dialogue between her characters. Her humor, wit, and ability to relay emotional distress in a way that's relatable is something she excels at.

I'll be anxiously waiting for book 2 (because that ending wtf) and hoping that our Mirevra girl finds the strength to break free of her invisible chains. And that a certain rogue helps her along the way.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶2/5

[Karalyn Gibbs · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have very mixed feelings about this one. While I did appreciate the writing style and the world building was pretty good too, it was hard to follow at times because the names and terms for characters, places, and/or spells were too complicated to remember and I could never get a grasp on it. Also, it felt like something was incomplete about this story overall and it just felt disjointed at times like things were just happening out of the blue. I don't know if it's because I'm just not well versed in the D&D world and that happens but it just didn't translate to paper very well. Not to mention the fact that this book clearly wanted to be Lord of the Rings the whole time. It also could have benefitted from more character development because anytime a character was introduced or had something going on, I just didn't feel connected at all with any of them and I wish we actually got to know them more and spent more time learning about their strengths and weaknesses. The main character Marevra could've been a better character had she not been so all over the place with her personality meaning she couldn't decide on who to be in certain moments and it made it very difficult to want to be invested in her character. I did like Baga's character a lot because he was very complex and strong and you definitely wanted him to succeed after all the hardships that he's had to go through. With Marevra's character being the way that she was, it made the "romance" not that believable or tense because I knew that she would be indecisive about it from the get go and the spicy scene just didn't land for me either. I totally clocked who the infamous Wolf was going to be from the beginning but I will say that I loved the reveal and how it didn't pussy foot around with the betrayal that played out. Overall, this was just okay, it wasn't groundbreaking or intense, but it was fine and it's a big maybe if I'm going to continue on with this. Who knows? Maybe the next one might be better and I'll be able to follow it better that time around.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thief, Merevra, and her fists of fury are recruited by Little Finger to form a co-ed knights of the round table with other “thieves” and “hero’s” to seek out Excalibur. Turns out the guy who made Excalibur was presumed dead but is in fact not dead, made said sword into an horocrux and wants it back real bad. But it’s buried in Mount Doom and he can’t get it himself so someone else has to?? I don’t know I listened to this on Audible and not I’m always a great listener so the details there are lost on me.

Fortunately Merevra is clever enough to figure out how to find the sword. Even more fortunately, her fellow knights are better fighters than her because despite constantly telling people to “catch these fists”, most magical people (who are most people) can kick her ass. She survives purely out of spite and devotion to Little Finger, even though you, me, and Lars (a pirate cosplayer) knows he doesn’t deserve her loyalty. The twisted ending is even more satisfying when Mirevera threatens Lars. It’s perhaps the most sane reaction a character has had to a love interest since Elide told Lorcan to get lost and it nearly blew my mind. And honestly it’s so refreshing. I’m sick of MFL getting justifiably angry only to let it all go because he is hot.

This book is unique when most writers are cashing in on shadow daddy narratives. I really hope the series explores the other characters because there is so much potential.

[Candice Cutri · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first few chapters in this book had me convinced I couldn’t finish it. Some chapters seemed to skip or have parts missing. Whether I was too distracted a missed key points, or it just took me a while to wrap my head around to world building I’m not sure.
But there were bits and pieces that enthralled me that made me continue listening/reading.

And I can’t remember when it happened. But at some point I was INVESTED. I’m Baga, in Marevera, in Lars, and all the adventures they were going through.
The back stories.
The twists.
I really enjoyed the book, I saw the ending coming but it still felt like the rug was pulled from under my feet!

The banter and sexual tension between the 2 main characters were hilarious.
I also enjoyed that it swapped between Baga and Marevera. I’m glad they ended up where they were. They both have so much growth. And I can tell these 2 are going to change their world.

I hope Marevera heals.
I hope Baga finds self love.
I hope we see Lars again.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not much of a regular book reviewer, but sometimes you’re just moved to talk about a fantastic read, yknow!

Romantasy as a genre can get pretty repetitive and formulaic, especially on KU. It’s so refreshing to read a story that does feel like a warm hug with a familiar-ish story, but then breaks away from your expectations, making you sit up and take notice. I’d guess that the dice roles had some influence on this, and it really worked for me! I liked that there were consequences that must be followed through and I don’t expect an easy solution to the conflicts that arise.

Adored the group dynamics too, I don’t think there’s a single character I don��t want to know more about?

Honestly just loved this, delightful read, can’t wait for the next one, you’re the best Kaven! Also pls can you do a Bagah impression on tiktok asap I need it biblically x

[Karen Babies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin? I’m sitting on a plane, in the dreaded middle seat, trying to keep my cool. Thirty minutes ago I was giggling and hiding my screen and now I sit here trying not to sob. If you’re drawn to epic adventures, an ensamble cast, and a large magical world, this book is for you. Beautifully written with the roll of a d20, you’ll find yourself captivated by these characters and their quest. You don’t need to be a Dungeons and Dragons fan to fall into this world and get swept away. The dialogue will make you smile, the slow warming of our baddie MFC will capture your heart, and the horrendous cliff hanger at the end will make you question whether Kaven did this just to ruin your life. Kaven, we need to have words about that ending.

[Katlynn Phelps · Rating 4 out of 5]

KAVEN

My fellow Texas girlie…I need book two because I KNOW that I predicted this outcome but that didn’t mean I was prepared for it.

Don’t worry I won’t post spoilers…

Screw Veravant. Figuratively.
Screw Lars. Literally.

I didn’t know that was supposed to be a roller coaster!?

Anyways…if you love fantasy. If you are intrigued by DnD or love DnD, or just love the DnD Fantasy. Go on Amazon and buy this book. Then come talk to me.

There were so many times I was like “Oop she rolled bad” or “that was def a natural 20”. It added such an extra thrill to the book, on top of the actual plot line.

This is an adventure filled slow burn that you didn’t know you needed in 2024, but you do.

[OsiriaGrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been following Kaven on Tiktok for some time now, so when I saw she had written this book, I immediately knew I had to have it. I picked it up, and I did not put it down until I finished it. The characters are all interesting and intriguing, and I wanted to know more about this band of heroes and misfits. The banter and humor were perfect (which is exactly what I had expected from Kaven). There were twists and turns and audible gasps from me as I read them. I just fucking loved it and I need the second book in my hands like yesterday. It's my favorite read of the month so far, and I look forward to picking up the rest of Kaven's books.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not a D&D fan at all but this was so fun!!! Loved all the characters and the plot was really unique. I love the concept of rolling the dice to write a story, I think it turned out great! I was a bit confused at times by the lore but it was still very enjoyable and a quick read.
That ending? I’m dead. I need book 2 asap!!! Thanks🫶🏼
Other than that, I loved the 3rd person pov, I think Kaven’s writing really shines that way. She’s really good at describing friendships and relationships in general, even in a shorter story like this.
Also, Lars is baby girl. I love him.

[Hailey Hawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5 if not higher. This is the first book of Kaven’s that I read and it exceeded my expectations. Her writing style is incredibly readable and perfectly painted a picture in my mind.

It would be so cool to be able to know when the rolls occurred and what Kaven rolled, I don’t know if it would subtract from the reading but an index maybe would be so neat.

Very very much looking forward to the sequel.

Trope spoilers *

A true enemies to lovers to enemies that *actually* made my dislike the “enemy” at the end. Which is incredibly rare.

[Natasha (The Bookbasket) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded to a 5

I enjoyed a lot of aspects from this book, especially the journey the characters went on. Kavin Hirning is a really great storyteller and knows how to capture a reader's attention.

I just struggled to connect with the characters in the beginning. It's obviously a me thing because I stopped and started this book maybe 3 times, but only around the 60% mark did I start to care about them.

I'm definitely reëling from that cliffhanger though, so I can't wait to get my hands on the next book.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Really really well executed. I would not have known that the story was created using rolls of a D20 if I hadn’t been explicitly told because it was so well thought out and put together. The concept is soo creative and Kaven did an amazing job with it! The ending killed me and I need to read the second book immediately because whattttttt!!! Also I LOVE Lars (I’m assuming spelling since I listened on audio) and I just want him and Mirevra to be happyyyyy. Also love bagha and his whole side story. Def recommend!

[Cait Ness · Rating 3 out of 5]

that was… well that was something.

the plot was good and i was invested, but man— it could have used a couple rounds of edits.

the ending was good, and i didn’t see the twist coming. the characters were hard to keep up with for a while, but i couldn’t tell if that was me not paying enough attention to it or the book itself.

i really liked the concept of the book, with kaven using the dice to further the plot and characters. it was an interesting read, for sure

[Kiwi Raleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

KAVEN WHAT DID YOU DO TO ME?! I had to push through the beginning because I was a little confused trying to imagine all the characters and settings. But BOYYY did it pick up quick! There was so much diversity, detail, and drama, I loved every second! The way the ending had MY JAW ON THE FLOOR brb gonna go cry a little (a lot). *A message to the author, my love, Miss Kaven Hirning: I am so glad you retired that d20, because I'm gonna need some REDEMPTION for my girl, Mirevra, in the next book!*

[Colette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, I bought this book to support independent authors and I was low-key expecting to not love it but damn! I really enjoyed reading it, very Lord of the Rings meets Throne of Glass with a bunch of unexpected twists. My biggest critique is only that I wanted more - more world building, more character interactions, etc. I did see the twist at the end coming but not the story behind it and I love it! Can't wait for the next one!

[Colleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mirevra is a bitch and she owns it. Her world is in trouble so her band of criminals must join forces with a group of the realm’s best heroes to try and ensure there’s a world left for all her debauchery.

There is a deep complex world built into this story. There are times where I totally got it but there were also times where I was utterly confused. I don’t know if it’s because I don’t play DND or if I just missed it? The characters were fun though so 4/5

[Karmen Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love love loved this book! It had me HOOKED from start to finish. Anyone who knows me, knows I love Kaven's content on social media and I will always read any book that she writes. But let me tell y'all that this book was GOOD!

It makes it even better that she wrote this book by letting dice make decisions for her; so much chaos and stress. I absolutely NEED the next book, so write fast Kaven!

[Jess Huber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was everything! I fell in love with the author through her Cassian impressions on TikTok and when I saw that she wrote a book I knew I had to add it to my TBR pile. A Fallen Sword gives you: characters with depth, heart-wrenching backstories, a plot with lots of twists and turns (thanks to the rolling of dice), and heartbreaking betrayal that will leave you gagging in the end. I am still reeling and can’t wait for the second one to come out because WHAT JUST HAPPENED??!?

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars

How did Kaven do this?! Writing a book, by the roll of dice?
The story begins somewhat slow, but picks up midway. The characters are very diverse, with questionable pasts and motives and creating tension and mystery throughout the book.
All in all, I thought this book was pretty well written given how much there was to keep track of and the fact that she did it by a roll of the dice!
Looking forward to book two!

[Blanca Sirikul · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️A Fallen Sword by Kaven Hirning✨️

🌟🌟🌟✨️

This was a fun audiobook. I really enjoyed the magic system, which was a bit complicated but still very well paced. They have guilds, which are the Heros, Vipers, and Wolfves, neither of them like each other. BUT! They literally work together to find the holy weapon. The ending had my jaw on the floor. I NEED to know what happens! I am not 100% sure our FMC is even alive after all that transpired.

✨️What to expect✨️
•Betrayel
•Found Family
•Magic
•Guilds
•Adventure