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Darkhelm
You are a brief candle in a long night. You pass through, and we are grateful, but the blackness will take you.
Yet another village full of complaints. Daine listened, delivered all the justice she had power to give, and prepared to move on.
All in a day's work for a Knight of the Road.
Of course, some disliked her intrusion into their schemes, but they were of little concern. They had tried to stop her before and would doubtless try again.
Things change when Daine is charged with the protection of a simple stable boy. Shadows gather around those like Daine who seek to bring light, and their eyes are fixed on the boy.
Can Lady Darkhelm stand in their way? The realm needs heroes, and Daine Darkhelm may not be enough.
BardLyre's Darkhelm is a grim and gritty epic fantasy adventure that thousands have already come to love through Royal Road. Dive in today, and brace yourself for a tale you'll never forget.
Yet another village full of complaints. Daine listened, delivered all the justice she had power to give, and prepared to move on.
All in a day's work for a Knight of the Road.
Of course, some disliked her intrusion into their schemes, but they were of little concern. They had tried to stop her before and would doubtless try again.
Things change when Daine is charged with the protection of a simple stable boy. Shadows gather around those like Daine who seek to bring light, and their eyes are fixed on the boy.
Can Lady Darkhelm stand in their way? The realm needs heroes, and Daine Darkhelm may not be enough.
BardLyre's Darkhelm is a grim and gritty epic fantasy adventure that thousands have already come to love through Royal Road. Dive in today, and brace yourself for a tale you'll never forget.
- GenresFantasy
466 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 15, 2024
16 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 29, 2024
Good read
BardLyre’s "Darkhelm" is an enthralling epic fantasy that skillfully combines elements of darkness and heroism. The main character, Daine Darkhelm, is a fully developed character whose evolution from a roaming knight to the guardian of an ostensibly unimportant stable boy is both engaging and poignant. The story is enriched with extensive world-building and multifaceted characters, making it essential for fans of grim and gritty fantasy. The unexpected plot developments keep you captivated, and the moral conflicts Daine encounters add a layer of complexity that enhances the narrative. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a darker, more realistic approach to fantasy adventures.
BardLyre’s "Darkhelm" is an enthralling epic fantasy that skillfully combines elements of darkness and heroism. The main character, Daine Darkhelm, is a fully developed character whose evolution from a roaming knight to the guardian of an ostensibly unimportant stable boy is both engaging and poignant. The story is enriched with extensive world-building and multifaceted characters, making it essential for fans of grim and gritty fantasy. The unexpected plot developments keep you captivated, and the moral conflicts Daine encounters add a layer of complexity that enhances the narrative. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a darker, more realistic approach to fantasy adventures.
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September 6, 2024I went into Darkhelm thinking I knew what to expect. I was way off-base, and I love the way the book went instead! Daine “Darkhelm” is a hardcore character. She travels around the kingdom, dispensing the justice of her Goddess (which basically involves quite a bit of violence). She’s a taciturn loner, until she gets caught up with a boy who is not at all as he appears. From there, things get a lot murkier and a LOT more violent. Whether anyone will survive is the question of the day.
Darkhelm was extremely well-done, from a plot progression standpoint. The reader is immediately introduced, not only to Daine, but what she does. There’s a lot of information given in a way that doesn’t slow down the story or become too much all at once, a feat that I appreciate. The pacing isn’t slow, but this isn’t a non-stop action story either. That being said, the action is, for lack of a better word, epic.
I love the cast of characters that join Daine. They draw her out of herself which made her much more interesting to me. Kristin, an archer who joins Daine after an… unfortunate first meeting, was great, but my favorite character by far was Genoes. He was a beat-upon child who Daine ends up protecting. There is much, much more to him than it seems at first glance, and I was fascinated seeing that slowly revealed. I loved how, toward the beginning, he used his considerable skills in very specific ways (only to defend, not to attack). This said a lot about his personality, and it was shown without being shoehorned in.
I don’t read a ton of LitRPG and seeing things like “mana” and in the middle of a scene was a bit disconcerting at times, especially since there was less of the actions in later pages. I think that will become less surprising to me as I read more of this subgenre.
The world was complex and dark, the villains were flat-out horrible, and the characters each brought a new facet to the story. If you enjoy grittier fantasy with lots of action and a complex plot, Darkhelm is for you!
https://wittyandsarcasticbookclub.hom...
Darkhelm was extremely well-done, from a plot progression standpoint. The reader is immediately introduced, not only to Daine, but what she does. There’s a lot of information given in a way that doesn’t slow down the story or become too much all at once, a feat that I appreciate. The pacing isn’t slow, but this isn’t a non-stop action story either. That being said, the action is, for lack of a better word, epic.
I love the cast of characters that join Daine. They draw her out of herself which made her much more interesting to me. Kristin, an archer who joins Daine after an… unfortunate first meeting, was great, but my favorite character by far was Genoes. He was a beat-upon child who Daine ends up protecting. There is much, much more to him than it seems at first glance, and I was fascinated seeing that slowly revealed. I loved how, toward the beginning, he used his considerable skills in very specific ways (only to defend, not to attack). This said a lot about his personality, and it was shown without being shoehorned in.
I don’t read a ton of LitRPG and seeing things like “mana” and in the middle of a scene was a bit disconcerting at times, especially since there was less of the actions in later pages. I think that will become less surprising to me as I read more of this subgenre.
The world was complex and dark, the villains were flat-out horrible, and the characters each brought a new facet to the story. If you enjoy grittier fantasy with lots of action and a complex plot, Darkhelm is for you!
https://wittyandsarcasticbookclub.hom...
August 25, 2024
Light LitRpg
I really enjoyed this gritty Fantasy LitRpg. I've not read many of the LitRpg books but this was just the right amount to dip toes in without it being overwhelming in a new genre. It was easy to follow and read. The plot was intrigued and the characters felt real. Can't wait to read onwards.
I really enjoyed this gritty Fantasy LitRpg. I've not read many of the LitRpg books but this was just the right amount to dip toes in without it being overwhelming in a new genre. It was easy to follow and read. The plot was intrigued and the characters felt real. Can't wait to read onwards.
August 26, 2024
I felt that the first few chapters were abit slow for me but wow, there is some interesting and supportive characters. There was so much going in it pulled you into so many directions throughout the book. If you love dark fantasy then I think you would really enjoy this book.
September 16, 2024
A Dark and Exciting Fantasy 😇
Darkhelm is a great fantasy book that's dark and exciting. It's about a hero named Daine who fights against evil in a world that's full of danger.
Daine's job is to protect people, but her latest mission is different. She must keep a young boy safe from bad people who want to hurt him.
What I liked:
- The world in the book is complex and realistic
- The characters are interesting and multi-dimensional
- The story is full of action and unexpected twists
- The bad guys are really bad, making the story more exciting
I loved Daine's bravery and determination. The author created a great story that's hard to put down. If you enjoy fantasy, give Darkhelm a try!
If you like fantasy books with complex worlds and exciting stories, you'll love Darkhelm!
Darkhelm is a great fantasy book that's dark and exciting. It's about a hero named Daine who fights against evil in a world that's full of danger.
Daine's job is to protect people, but her latest mission is different. She must keep a young boy safe from bad people who want to hurt him.
What I liked:
- The world in the book is complex and realistic
- The characters are interesting and multi-dimensional
- The story is full of action and unexpected twists
- The bad guys are really bad, making the story more exciting
I loved Daine's bravery and determination. The author created a great story that's hard to put down. If you enjoy fantasy, give Darkhelm a try!
If you like fantasy books with complex worlds and exciting stories, you'll love Darkhelm!
May 26, 2024
An Engaging and Gritty Tale
BardLyre’s Darkhelm is a gripping epic fantasy that masterfully blends darkness and heroism. The protagonist, Daine Darkhelm, is a well-rounded character whose journey from a wandering knight to a protector of a seemingly insignificant stable boy is both compelling and heart-wrenching. The narrative is rich with detailed world-building and complex characters, making it a must-read for fans of grim and gritty fantasy. The plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat, and the moral dilemmas faced by Daine add a layer of depth that elevates the story. Highly recommended for those who appreciate a darker, more realistic take on fantasy adventures.
BardLyre’s Darkhelm is a gripping epic fantasy that masterfully blends darkness and heroism. The protagonist, Daine Darkhelm, is a well-rounded character whose journey from a wandering knight to a protector of a seemingly insignificant stable boy is both compelling and heart-wrenching. The narrative is rich with detailed world-building and complex characters, making it a must-read for fans of grim and gritty fantasy. The plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat, and the moral dilemmas faced by Daine add a layer of depth that elevates the story. Highly recommended for those who appreciate a darker, more realistic take on fantasy adventures.
September 16, 2024
Engaging and Immersive
I really enjoyed this engaging, immersive read. It’s one of those fantasy novels you can really lose yourself in as you journey alongside some interesting characters. I loved the main character and just thought she was awesome. Her attitude was hilarious at times, and she’s just a strong, well-intentioned hero, the kind you want to join on a quest. The world is well developed, from the politics to the locals and their struggles. Lots of big battles and dark magic make it fun and gripping. The story arc is strong and wraps up just enough while leaving it open to a sequel. A great read.
I really enjoyed this engaging, immersive read. It’s one of those fantasy novels you can really lose yourself in as you journey alongside some interesting characters. I loved the main character and just thought she was awesome. Her attitude was hilarious at times, and she’s just a strong, well-intentioned hero, the kind you want to join on a quest. The world is well developed, from the politics to the locals and their struggles. Lots of big battles and dark magic make it fun and gripping. The story arc is strong and wraps up just enough while leaving it open to a sequel. A great read.
September 11, 2024
A brilliant well written story
This book is an absolute must read! It follows a formidable Knight of the Road, a superpowered warrior armed with a sword and a set of powerful, triggerable skills. She’s tough, relentless, and ready to take down anyone who crosses her sense of right and wrong. The plot thickens when she goes up against a crew that nearly pushes her beyond her limits.
I couldn't book the down which was a very pleasant surprise as I read it wanting something different to my usual reads. It definitely did not disappoint and kept me engaged throughout. The writing style is very easy to enjoy from the start and the story is very well written with great descriptions to enhance the read.
Look forward to reading book 2.
This book is an absolute must read! It follows a formidable Knight of the Road, a superpowered warrior armed with a sword and a set of powerful, triggerable skills. She’s tough, relentless, and ready to take down anyone who crosses her sense of right and wrong. The plot thickens when she goes up against a crew that nearly pushes her beyond her limits.
I couldn't book the down which was a very pleasant surprise as I read it wanting something different to my usual reads. It definitely did not disappoint and kept me engaged throughout. The writing style is very easy to enjoy from the start and the story is very well written with great descriptions to enhance the read.
Look forward to reading book 2.
July 30, 2024
Excellent start to a new series
In a truly imaginative cross between epic fantasy and medieval reality, the author has created a diverse world filled with a variety of characters that interact in a believable manner. The story revolves around a pantheon of gods, who are manipulating humanity in an unusual struggle between light and darkness. The female main-character, Daine Darkhelm, could be described as a cross between a chaotic neutral D& D paladin and traveling law keeper, without the typical animal sidekick. While traveling on her ten year long circuit, she comes across a young orphan stable boy, that has drawn the ire of the village bullies. What should have been a simple rescue leads Darkhelm into a convoluted series of adventures as she tries to ensure the boy's safety from the dark’ gods human agent, an egocentric psychopath with an artistic kink.
The slow beginning may throw off a casual reader. However, by the third chapter, the author settled into the storyline. While the book introduced an interesting array of supporting characters, I felt there was not a lot of time to get comfortable with one before something pulled me in another direction. Even though I’m not usually a fan of dark fantasy, by the end, I was eager for the next book. It is definitely worth taking the time to check it out.
In a truly imaginative cross between epic fantasy and medieval reality, the author has created a diverse world filled with a variety of characters that interact in a believable manner. The story revolves around a pantheon of gods, who are manipulating humanity in an unusual struggle between light and darkness. The female main-character, Daine Darkhelm, could be described as a cross between a chaotic neutral D& D paladin and traveling law keeper, without the typical animal sidekick. While traveling on her ten year long circuit, she comes across a young orphan stable boy, that has drawn the ire of the village bullies. What should have been a simple rescue leads Darkhelm into a convoluted series of adventures as she tries to ensure the boy's safety from the dark’ gods human agent, an egocentric psychopath with an artistic kink.
The slow beginning may throw off a casual reader. However, by the third chapter, the author settled into the storyline. While the book introduced an interesting array of supporting characters, I felt there was not a lot of time to get comfortable with one before something pulled me in another direction. Even though I’m not usually a fan of dark fantasy, by the end, I was eager for the next book. It is definitely worth taking the time to check it out.
September 17, 2024
Daine is the powerful knight of the road. Things soon change when Daine has to protect a young orphaned boy Genoes. Can Lady Darkhelm stand in their way? The realm needs heroes, and Daine Darkhelm may not be enough...
This book is a Grim dark fantasy. This is my first litRPG (Literary role-playing game.)
The world building and the character development of Daine was written well. Fighting scenes were vividly written.
This is book 1 of Tales of the shattered glass series.
Will look forward to book 2.
I would recommend this book who enjoy dark fantasy adventure, with mythical creatures, magic and battle scenes.
This book is a Grim dark fantasy. This is my first litRPG (Literary role-playing game.)
The world building and the character development of Daine was written well. Fighting scenes were vividly written.
This is book 1 of Tales of the shattered glass series.
Will look forward to book 2.
I would recommend this book who enjoy dark fantasy adventure, with mythical creatures, magic and battle scenes.
May 9, 2024
Roll on the next one...
Really enjoyable story.
Follows a superpowered Knight of the Road - think Jack Reached with a sword and triggerable Skills - who kicks ass and takes names of anyone that breaks her view of good and evil.
She ends up tangling with a crew that, almost, means she bites off more than she can chew.
There’s a nice Litrpg element with Classes and Skills being used throughout - but without overwhelming with stats.
First of a series - cannot wait until the next one!
Really enjoyable story.
Follows a superpowered Knight of the Road - think Jack Reached with a sword and triggerable Skills - who kicks ass and takes names of anyone that breaks her view of good and evil.
She ends up tangling with a crew that, almost, means she bites off more than she can chew.
There’s a nice Litrpg element with Classes and Skills being used throughout - but without overwhelming with stats.
First of a series - cannot wait until the next one!
July 24, 2024
Eliud was my fave!
anytime there’s a book character named after the greatest marathoner in running history, I’m sold! but this story offered more than just appropriate name designations; the choice of female characters as the moral strength of the story was refreshing. everyone from Daine to the Lady Knight to Kirsten added valuable perspective. meanwhile, Drunnoc was one of the fascinating heels I’ve read in a while. I wanted him to lose, but needed him alive - kinda like Darth Vader.
anytime there’s a book character named after the greatest marathoner in running history, I’m sold! but this story offered more than just appropriate name designations; the choice of female characters as the moral strength of the story was refreshing. everyone from Daine to the Lady Knight to Kirsten added valuable perspective. meanwhile, Drunnoc was one of the fascinating heels I’ve read in a while. I wanted him to lose, but needed him alive - kinda like Darth Vader.
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July 23, 2024Very mysterious and engaging!
This story is very mysterious and engaging. It transports the reader to a time of king and ancient fantasy world. It is packed with mystery, betrayal, and exciting quests. The blend of historical and fantastical themes make annimmersive read. The characters are compelling, and their struggles keep you hooked. It is a must read for anyone who loves medical adventures.
This story is very mysterious and engaging. It transports the reader to a time of king and ancient fantasy world. It is packed with mystery, betrayal, and exciting quests. The blend of historical and fantastical themes make annimmersive read. The characters are compelling, and their struggles keep you hooked. It is a must read for anyone who loves medical adventures.
September 5, 2024
A mesmerizing and gritty epic read
The tale is a blend of dark intrigue and heroism. In a realm in desperate need of true heroes. BardLyre's vivid world-building and complex characters make this a standout on Royal Road.
Daine's journey, especially her will to protect a simple stable boy. Against gathering shadows, is both thrilling and deeply emotional. This is a great read for any fantasy lover.
The tale is a blend of dark intrigue and heroism. In a realm in desperate need of true heroes. BardLyre's vivid world-building and complex characters make this a standout on Royal Road.
Daine's journey, especially her will to protect a simple stable boy. Against gathering shadows, is both thrilling and deeply emotional. This is a great read for any fantasy lover.
October 7, 2024
Wonderfully woven
This story of the warrior woman Daine in this fantastic land with fire mages and a goddess who guides her and a mysterious orphan boy with unusual powers is absolutely intriguing. I started reading and just fell into this world of blood and magic and justice and revenge. Incredible.
This story of the warrior woman Daine in this fantastic land with fire mages and a goddess who guides her and a mysterious orphan boy with unusual powers is absolutely intriguing. I started reading and just fell into this world of blood and magic and justice and revenge. Incredible.
May 26, 2024
To call Darkhelm: Tales of Shattered Glass a phenomenal adventure is an extreme understatement. With Bard Lyre expertly crafting this series, we should expect an extensive and unpredictable masterpiece.
April 29, 2024
Wow! I really loved this book. The characters just seem so real to me. We also have gods and goddesses making an appearance. The action and evil vs good aspect of the story always seems to shift.
August 11, 2024
Plenty of action fun
This is a cool dark fantasy tale. Follow Daine a Knight who battles on the road whilst trying to protect an orphan boy. With Lady Darkhelm trying to stop their every move. The story is very well written and the battles really keep you on the edge of your seat. I look forward to more in the series.
This is a cool dark fantasy tale. Follow Daine a Knight who battles on the road whilst trying to protect an orphan boy. With Lady Darkhelm trying to stop their every move. The story is very well written and the battles really keep you on the edge of your seat. I look forward to more in the series.
August 12, 2024
Totally enjoyed it! This is a well written and has well developed characters. The story is catching and with the strong characters makes for a very enjoyable read. Great Reading Everyone!
December 28, 2024
Quite complex and well plotted
Almost lost two nights sleep caught up in this excellent tale. Great world building and character development! Definitely more, please!
Almost lost two nights sleep caught up in this excellent tale. Great world building and character development! Definitely more, please!
August 17, 2024
in a few words bad ass.
in a few words bad ass!
Not too geeky with the light rpg elements and a helluva ride from starts to finish with a sparkling heroine who never fails to deliver the goods!
in a few words bad ass!
Not too geeky with the light rpg elements and a helluva ride from starts to finish with a sparkling heroine who never fails to deliver the goods!
March 4, 2025
I loved the story and the vibe of the book. Characters are really interesting and have the stories that I'm sure are worth telling
The only thing I didn't like is the writing. But if you're a fan of 3rd person POV, past tense and non-colloquial language then there's absolutely no reason for you not to read this book
The only thing I didn't like is the writing. But if you're a fan of 3rd person POV, past tense and non-colloquial language then there's absolutely no reason for you not to read this book
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews