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The Elder Wyrm
When Jorn Vjostersson returns to his native village after a stint in prison, he can’t decide which new addition is the abusive imperials who want to sell everything that isn’t nailed down; or the peace-and-love hippies who think eating magic mushrooms is a form of protest.
The only positive is that he lands unrestricted access to flying, rideable reptiles called wyrms. He'd leap atop one and start a rebellion by himself, but things aren’t so simple. Wyrms are no match for the imperials’ court wizards, nor can they take on an army of professional wyrmriders.
What Jorn can’t know is that it's all about to change, because there’s more to the mushrooms than it seems, and the peace-and-love bunch has their own plans.
The Elder Wyrm is inspired by metal bands like Black Sabbath and Electric Wizard and is imbued with dark and dry humor.
For adults.
The only positive is that he lands unrestricted access to flying, rideable reptiles called wyrms. He'd leap atop one and start a rebellion by himself, but things aren’t so simple. Wyrms are no match for the imperials’ court wizards, nor can they take on an army of professional wyrmriders.
What Jorn can’t know is that it's all about to change, because there’s more to the mushrooms than it seems, and the peace-and-love bunch has their own plans.
The Elder Wyrm is inspired by metal bands like Black Sabbath and Electric Wizard and is imbued with dark and dry humor.
For adults.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2024
3 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 24, 2024
If "How to Train Your Dragon" was written pre 2000
The Elder Wyrm by K.R. VanderBrooke is about the misadventures of Jorn. Jorn, the main protagonist, doesn't initially seem to have a purpose. The book starts at the end of his stint of punishment given for some unnamed reason. He returns home with a listless attitude towards life but wanting change. Deciding to not just do nothing, he looks for a proper job. All the little things he does in this quest lead to a bigger scheme that is ultimately beyond himself.
“You see only what you are intended to see. Only what you are… permitted.”
Jorn reminded me a lot of Bink from the Xanth series by Piers Anthony. The writing and approach to the story also had the same feel as this earlier fantasy series. 3rd person point of view, silly humor, and odd ball situations. The pacing was fitting as well. The beginning jumping in, fast and exhilarating. Jorn was interesting. What sort of character does he have? Previously a prisoner, now seemingly wanting to do good. What did he actually do that was wrong? Was it really wrong? The middle taking a round about, slower turn. Veering focus away from Jorn, and more toward the larger world. All tying together at the end.
I was invested while reading. The set up had me hooked. Although I did not care too much for the middle, and where some parts became trippy, it was for the journey and I wanted Jorn to finish what he started.
“They say that vengeance is the pursuit of the foolish, but I’ve always felt this overlooks the many things one can accomplish in its name.”
There were a few elements that were under appreciated that I felt deserved more detail or focus. Such as the wyrms, the elder wyrm, or Karina.
However they did all help and push the story forward and had purpose where they were used. All and all, an enjoyable read that had many parts I liked as well as being somewhat of a throwback.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this story. For clarity, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Elder Wyrm by K.R. VanderBrooke is about the misadventures of Jorn. Jorn, the main protagonist, doesn't initially seem to have a purpose. The book starts at the end of his stint of punishment given for some unnamed reason. He returns home with a listless attitude towards life but wanting change. Deciding to not just do nothing, he looks for a proper job. All the little things he does in this quest lead to a bigger scheme that is ultimately beyond himself.
“You see only what you are intended to see. Only what you are… permitted.”
Jorn reminded me a lot of Bink from the Xanth series by Piers Anthony. The writing and approach to the story also had the same feel as this earlier fantasy series. 3rd person point of view, silly humor, and odd ball situations. The pacing was fitting as well. The beginning jumping in, fast and exhilarating. Jorn was interesting. What sort of character does he have? Previously a prisoner, now seemingly wanting to do good. What did he actually do that was wrong? Was it really wrong? The middle taking a round about, slower turn. Veering focus away from Jorn, and more toward the larger world. All tying together at the end.
I was invested while reading. The set up had me hooked. Although I did not care too much for the middle, and where some parts became trippy, it was for the journey and I wanted Jorn to finish what he started.
“They say that vengeance is the pursuit of the foolish, but I’ve always felt this overlooks the many things one can accomplish in its name.”
There were a few elements that were under appreciated that I felt deserved more detail or focus. Such as the wyrms, the elder wyrm, or Karina.
However they did all help and push the story forward and had purpose where they were used. All and all, an enjoyable read that had many parts I liked as well as being somewhat of a throwback.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this story. For clarity, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 10, 2024
(Thank you to the author for giving me a free review copy of his book.)
The Elder Wyrm is a fantasy story about Jorn, a newly freed slave who has finally paid off his debts, and how a few misadventures somehow lead him on the path to rebellion and dismantling a sinister plot. Right away, you can already get a unique feel for his character with how he needs to readjust after having spent years away from his home on the island of Arlspeak.
The first few chapters are perhaps the best in the entire book, though it was a bit baffling to see some characters wholeheartedly agree to involve themselves in a not-so-well-laid-out scheme that could result in major consequences. (Said characters even remark on this after the fact, which can be seen as somewhat humorous.)
My interest dipped around the halfway point, with the main character fading into the background as pretentious professors spout long-winded spiels about ethics and the magical bindings that hold the world together. An authentic atmosphere, all things considered, but it doesn’t change the fact that this part of the story was rather lackluster for me.
Luckily, the book gets better after the sagging middle, and there are plenty of battles to sate those of you seeking intense action sequences. I found myself drawn to the pilgrimage Jorn takes and his communion with a draconic deity seeking to restore balance to the world. The naval warfare also fit it in nicely considering Jorn's experience with being forced to work on imperial ships.
The greatest thing I took away from The Elder Wyrm was the idea of repercussions for one’s own actions. Both the heroes and the villains experience this firsthand, and the future of this world’s inhabitants becomes uncertain yet hopeful after the book’s climax.
As for the writing itself, it was quite compelling and easy to read. Perhaps an overabundance of dashes that started sticking out in strange ways, but few errors otherwise.
If you’re looking for an indie fantasy book, The Elder Wyrm is a good contender in terms of its concepts and detailed prose. The shorter length also worked in its favor. Detailed Rating: 3.8/5
The Elder Wyrm is a fantasy story about Jorn, a newly freed slave who has finally paid off his debts, and how a few misadventures somehow lead him on the path to rebellion and dismantling a sinister plot. Right away, you can already get a unique feel for his character with how he needs to readjust after having spent years away from his home on the island of Arlspeak.
The first few chapters are perhaps the best in the entire book, though it was a bit baffling to see some characters wholeheartedly agree to involve themselves in a not-so-well-laid-out scheme that could result in major consequences. (Said characters even remark on this after the fact, which can be seen as somewhat humorous.)
My interest dipped around the halfway point, with the main character fading into the background as pretentious professors spout long-winded spiels about ethics and the magical bindings that hold the world together. An authentic atmosphere, all things considered, but it doesn’t change the fact that this part of the story was rather lackluster for me.
Luckily, the book gets better after the sagging middle, and there are plenty of battles to sate those of you seeking intense action sequences. I found myself drawn to the pilgrimage Jorn takes and his communion with a draconic deity seeking to restore balance to the world. The naval warfare also fit it in nicely considering Jorn's experience with being forced to work on imperial ships.
The greatest thing I took away from The Elder Wyrm was the idea of repercussions for one’s own actions. Both the heroes and the villains experience this firsthand, and the future of this world’s inhabitants becomes uncertain yet hopeful after the book’s climax.
As for the writing itself, it was quite compelling and easy to read. Perhaps an overabundance of dashes that started sticking out in strange ways, but few errors otherwise.
If you’re looking for an indie fantasy book, The Elder Wyrm is a good contender in terms of its concepts and detailed prose. The shorter length also worked in its favor. Detailed Rating: 3.8/5
September 2, 2024
After introducing the characters and conflicts so well early in the book, it sort of fell off and the plot grew just by people making stupid decisions and everyone thinking “oh that’s crazy what now?”. I feel like the author did such a good job of placing me in the world of the book but didn’t really show me any of the characters emotion and growth. I would have liked the book to have been longer and seen more character development instead of them just existing half the time and reappearing just to vibe (or die) for no reason!
November 1, 2024
At a Glance:
"The Elder Wyrm" is a fantasy book that blends both dark fantasy and satire into a narrative with a lot of character and silly moments that are undercut or shadowed by dark moments.
The novel follows, primarily, Jorn and Karina. While the novel is advertised as satire or dark comedy, I found this to be far more dark fantasy with just some whimsical elements, especially in the beginning. I would say that there isn't really a satirical part at all in the beginning chapters, but it certainly does ramp up those elements towards the end of the book.
What I like:
Something I really enjoyed about this novel was that we got to see multiple parts of the world, including a magic school, Jorn's hometown, and some darker areas (don't want to give spoilers!). The world building in this novel is very well done. There's lore that's explicitly revealed through books and character dialogue, and through common beliefs and customs.
I also enjoyed the beginning part of the book in Arlspeak because it felt really well written. I could see the characters, the streets, and the cruelty on display. I would have liked for Jorn to be a bit more mystified by the new aspects of the town given he was away for quite sometime.
Furthermore, I enjoyed the side characters and the satire/whimsical elements in the end of the novel. There is still a lot of good dark moments even towards the end with people getting maimed. But it doesn't lose the satire. If anything, the satire didn't really shine through towards the end but when it did, it was good.
What I didn't like:
There are a few moments about the book that turned me off. For example, one of the characters who is the comedic relief during the school is written as overweight and jolly, and there's a brief comment where two boys are referred to as "fairies" because they have characteristics commonly associated with gay men. I don't say this to mean that the book is bad or problematic, there were just moments that I personally did not joy, but they do not take the joy out of the entire narrative.
I also was a bit befuddled by the usage of the term "wyrm," I want to say that I am not a fantasy reader usually, but I was under the impression a Wyrm did not have wings. However, that doesn't seem to be the case here. Again, this is very well a possible fault on me as a reader and not the author.
Finally, I don't like that the "big bad" feels rather hidden through most of the book. I wanted more interactions with the big bad.
Recommended to:
I recommend this to fans of the genre, but also as a person who is not a super big fantasy reader, this was an easy read. There are some elements that I touched on that I would caution some readers for, but overall, I really enjoyed this novel.
"The Elder Wyrm" is a fantasy book that blends both dark fantasy and satire into a narrative with a lot of character and silly moments that are undercut or shadowed by dark moments.
The novel follows, primarily, Jorn and Karina. While the novel is advertised as satire or dark comedy, I found this to be far more dark fantasy with just some whimsical elements, especially in the beginning. I would say that there isn't really a satirical part at all in the beginning chapters, but it certainly does ramp up those elements towards the end of the book.
What I like:
Something I really enjoyed about this novel was that we got to see multiple parts of the world, including a magic school, Jorn's hometown, and some darker areas (don't want to give spoilers!). The world building in this novel is very well done. There's lore that's explicitly revealed through books and character dialogue, and through common beliefs and customs.
I also enjoyed the beginning part of the book in Arlspeak because it felt really well written. I could see the characters, the streets, and the cruelty on display. I would have liked for Jorn to be a bit more mystified by the new aspects of the town given he was away for quite sometime.
Furthermore, I enjoyed the side characters and the satire/whimsical elements in the end of the novel. There is still a lot of good dark moments even towards the end with people getting maimed. But it doesn't lose the satire. If anything, the satire didn't really shine through towards the end but when it did, it was good.
What I didn't like:
There are a few moments about the book that turned me off. For example, one of the characters who is the comedic relief during the school is written as overweight and jolly, and there's a brief comment where two boys are referred to as "fairies" because they have characteristics commonly associated with gay men. I don't say this to mean that the book is bad or problematic, there were just moments that I personally did not joy, but they do not take the joy out of the entire narrative.
I also was a bit befuddled by the usage of the term "wyrm," I want to say that I am not a fantasy reader usually, but I was under the impression a Wyrm did not have wings. However, that doesn't seem to be the case here. Again, this is very well a possible fault on me as a reader and not the author.
Finally, I don't like that the "big bad" feels rather hidden through most of the book. I wanted more interactions with the big bad.
Recommended to:
I recommend this to fans of the genre, but also as a person who is not a super big fantasy reader, this was an easy read. There are some elements that I touched on that I would caution some readers for, but overall, I really enjoyed this novel.
November 30, 2025
Fun - For adults, and no not the spicy kind.
I will say that it doesn't take much to convince me to give a book featuring big ridable lizards a go, for obvious reasons, and I also don't myself lack a sense of humor so the prospect of a story that might also make me laugh? I'm down for that.
That said I was actually surprised a bit by the depth an richness of the world and story. Is this a book that takes itself super seriously? NO but it is also not a book written in a way that knocks you off your chair with laughter. Everything is presented with a believable way with a more subtle, dry, sometimes even a little dark twist to the humor.
At no point was I in stiches reading this, but it did make me chuckle, and more importantly it kept me turning pages whether out hero was harvesting mushrooms off dog poop produced by human flesh, or trying to add a name into a roster so a buddy might be able to flirt with a girl.
Jorn the protagonist is equal parts believable and likable, and all he wanted was to make for himself an honest life on the island of his birth. We can't always get what we want though when those around us might be behaving a little... well nuts.
What starts with an ex con finding work at a wyrm roost evolves into an unexpected adventure far from home and even into another realm. Definitely not a typical chosen one, Jorn spends most of his time just trying to survive while doing what seems to him anyways to be right, even when that thing comes at a risk. You can see how this guy gets himself into trouble while still largely being the "good guy."
This is a fantasy with a little bit of everything - wryms, magical objects, evil imperials, corrupt magic collage, mushroom eating hippies... yeah maybe that last one isn't exactly what you are expecting but it just goes to show K.R. has crafted a complex world that certainly has soil fantasy roots (and branches).
Again I judge a book mostly on how much I enjoy it, and this book was in no way a chore to get through and read. In this case I listened to the audiobook form and the Narration is fantastic, giving it that perfectly placed British dry humor hit.
If you are looking for a fun standalone fantasy adventure that doesn't take too much on your part to just enjoy, with wit and wry humor, then this I would say might be your next read. 5 stars and an easy recommend for me.
I will say that it doesn't take much to convince me to give a book featuring big ridable lizards a go, for obvious reasons, and I also don't myself lack a sense of humor so the prospect of a story that might also make me laugh? I'm down for that.
That said I was actually surprised a bit by the depth an richness of the world and story. Is this a book that takes itself super seriously? NO but it is also not a book written in a way that knocks you off your chair with laughter. Everything is presented with a believable way with a more subtle, dry, sometimes even a little dark twist to the humor.
At no point was I in stiches reading this, but it did make me chuckle, and more importantly it kept me turning pages whether out hero was harvesting mushrooms off dog poop produced by human flesh, or trying to add a name into a roster so a buddy might be able to flirt with a girl.
Jorn the protagonist is equal parts believable and likable, and all he wanted was to make for himself an honest life on the island of his birth. We can't always get what we want though when those around us might be behaving a little... well nuts.
What starts with an ex con finding work at a wyrm roost evolves into an unexpected adventure far from home and even into another realm. Definitely not a typical chosen one, Jorn spends most of his time just trying to survive while doing what seems to him anyways to be right, even when that thing comes at a risk. You can see how this guy gets himself into trouble while still largely being the "good guy."
This is a fantasy with a little bit of everything - wryms, magical objects, evil imperials, corrupt magic collage, mushroom eating hippies... yeah maybe that last one isn't exactly what you are expecting but it just goes to show K.R. has crafted a complex world that certainly has soil fantasy roots (and branches).
Again I judge a book mostly on how much I enjoy it, and this book was in no way a chore to get through and read. In this case I listened to the audiobook form and the Narration is fantastic, giving it that perfectly placed British dry humor hit.
If you are looking for a fun standalone fantasy adventure that doesn't take too much on your part to just enjoy, with wit and wry humor, then this I would say might be your next read. 5 stars and an easy recommend for me.
August 16, 2024
Great world-building, but lacked character development
The Edler Wyrm by K.R. VanderBrooke is an RPG-style fantasy following Jorn, a former gallion slave. He comes home after being freed only to find it under political subjugation. He gets a job at a wyrm roost, caring for ‘wyrms’ which seem to be something like a dragon or wyvern, and becoms disenchanted by the local wyrmlord’s handling of things.
The prose and world-building in this book are good, but I found myself wanting more character detail—particularly about the wyrms. A solid picture of what they looked like, their personalities or their motivations would have helped me visualize them better in the well-developed visuals of the environment.
The characters, too, felt underdeveloped at times, with importance and emotions that didn’t really come through strongly. Several key relationships deserved more emotional weight, especially during pivotal moments like a character’s death. It’s like, “Oh, ok. They’re dead. Next.” I’m like, wait—what just happened?
That being said, I was engaged enough to keep reading and curious to see what would happen next. The plot felt a bit nebulous, as if we were leveling up ad-hoc through various video game quests without a strong sense of overall purpose. Was the goal to better Jorn's life, help the small folk, or awaken an ancient dragon?
While these elements were present, they felt somewhat vague, as did Jorn’s motivations and emotions. Likewise, the people around him felt rather flat as well. (Maybe they were all stoned?) The ending was an ending, but it lacked a full resolution after the climax, so it was a bit ‘meh’ for me.
Overall, The Edler Wyrm has a lot of potential with its unique concept, strong prose, and excellent world-building. With some additional pacing, character development, and editorial polish, it could truly shine. Is it worth reading? Sure. I was invested (which is a tough sell on me) but I wish it had been tightened up and polished so that orb could really shine.
The Edler Wyrm by K.R. VanderBrooke is an RPG-style fantasy following Jorn, a former gallion slave. He comes home after being freed only to find it under political subjugation. He gets a job at a wyrm roost, caring for ‘wyrms’ which seem to be something like a dragon or wyvern, and becoms disenchanted by the local wyrmlord’s handling of things.
The prose and world-building in this book are good, but I found myself wanting more character detail—particularly about the wyrms. A solid picture of what they looked like, their personalities or their motivations would have helped me visualize them better in the well-developed visuals of the environment.
The characters, too, felt underdeveloped at times, with importance and emotions that didn’t really come through strongly. Several key relationships deserved more emotional weight, especially during pivotal moments like a character’s death. It’s like, “Oh, ok. They’re dead. Next.” I’m like, wait—what just happened?
That being said, I was engaged enough to keep reading and curious to see what would happen next. The plot felt a bit nebulous, as if we were leveling up ad-hoc through various video game quests without a strong sense of overall purpose. Was the goal to better Jorn's life, help the small folk, or awaken an ancient dragon?
While these elements were present, they felt somewhat vague, as did Jorn’s motivations and emotions. Likewise, the people around him felt rather flat as well. (Maybe they were all stoned?) The ending was an ending, but it lacked a full resolution after the climax, so it was a bit ‘meh’ for me.
Overall, The Edler Wyrm has a lot of potential with its unique concept, strong prose, and excellent world-building. With some additional pacing, character development, and editorial polish, it could truly shine. Is it worth reading? Sure. I was invested (which is a tough sell on me) but I wish it had been tightened up and polished so that orb could really shine.
February 3, 2024
A captivating story combining fantasy, adventure and intrigue
Jorn, a former galley slave seeking revenge and power, joins forces with dragon-like wyrms to stand against the forces of tyranny that have taken over the realm in ‘The Elder Wyrm’ by K.R. VanderBrooke. The narrative weaves elements of Norse saga, bleak comedy and fantasy, creating a distinctively delightful combination. Jorn returns to his hometown, reunites with his beloved and becomes a wyrm rider, all while facing fierce battles and other fantasy tropes.
Ultimately, Jorn seeks purpose in his life. When he finds his hometown attacked by foreigners and a ruthless ruler, he decides to take action, finds a job at a wyrm roost and reconnects with his childhood sweetheart. As he learns more about the government’s control, he realises something needs to change and seeks help from neighbouring lands. This sets off a series of unexpected events, including Jorn learning about magic and astronomy, joining the military and eventually waging war against a dangerous cult.
‘The Elder Wyrm’ is filled with exciting twists and turns, and Jorn’s journey is amusing and engaging, peppered with heartily coarse humour. Despite some bland moments with pompous professors, the story picks up as Jorn makes his pilgrimage and interacts with a dragon divinity to restore balance to his world. He faces formidable foes and demonstrates both comedic and heroic facets. The story has a fast and exhilarating beginning, with a simple yet engaging writing style that makes it enjoyable for anyone. However, the plot is a little rushed and sometimes loses track of the character’s goals. Yet, the world-building is impressive and gradually presented. VanderBrooke skillfully knits leadership, fortune and influences together, leaving readers eager for more.
Overall, ‘The Elder Wyrm’ is a captivating story combining fantasy, adventure and intrigue, showcasing VanderBrooke’s expert storytelling and imaginative world-building.
Jorn, a former galley slave seeking revenge and power, joins forces with dragon-like wyrms to stand against the forces of tyranny that have taken over the realm in ‘The Elder Wyrm’ by K.R. VanderBrooke. The narrative weaves elements of Norse saga, bleak comedy and fantasy, creating a distinctively delightful combination. Jorn returns to his hometown, reunites with his beloved and becomes a wyrm rider, all while facing fierce battles and other fantasy tropes.
Ultimately, Jorn seeks purpose in his life. When he finds his hometown attacked by foreigners and a ruthless ruler, he decides to take action, finds a job at a wyrm roost and reconnects with his childhood sweetheart. As he learns more about the government’s control, he realises something needs to change and seeks help from neighbouring lands. This sets off a series of unexpected events, including Jorn learning about magic and astronomy, joining the military and eventually waging war against a dangerous cult.
‘The Elder Wyrm’ is filled with exciting twists and turns, and Jorn’s journey is amusing and engaging, peppered with heartily coarse humour. Despite some bland moments with pompous professors, the story picks up as Jorn makes his pilgrimage and interacts with a dragon divinity to restore balance to his world. He faces formidable foes and demonstrates both comedic and heroic facets. The story has a fast and exhilarating beginning, with a simple yet engaging writing style that makes it enjoyable for anyone. However, the plot is a little rushed and sometimes loses track of the character’s goals. Yet, the world-building is impressive and gradually presented. VanderBrooke skillfully knits leadership, fortune and influences together, leaving readers eager for more.
Overall, ‘The Elder Wyrm’ is a captivating story combining fantasy, adventure and intrigue, showcasing VanderBrooke’s expert storytelling and imaginative world-building.
July 8, 2024
At the beginning of the book, Jorn is fascinatingly unlikable. He thinks of himself as too good for manual labor, disdains his poor peasant mother and is delighted to hear that the fiance of a girl he used to know (and presumably had an interest in) has been arrested. (Oh, he's also specifically happy her parents died, so she has to come live nearby with her godmother.) When he gets a job tending the jarl's wyrms he wonders why his fellow workers haven't stolen the wyrms to sell them for a fortune, and concludes they must just be too scared to do it. It reads, in almost every way, like the beginning of a villain's story arc.
Fortunately, under the influence of his love interest (don't worry, she always loved him and married him at once) and some drugs, he starts to look outside himself and realizes that the current government is unfair and oppressive. His first attempts to do something about it go predictably wrong, at which point, he's perfectly willing to abandon his poor mother and leave his new wife's godmother in prison to get away. His wife refuses to leave, so he escapes alone on a stolen wyrm, leaving everyone else to pick up the pieces.
From then on Jorn bounces from place to place doing what other people tell him, and his lack of awareness frequently gets him in trouble. He's tricked, taken advantage of, pushed around, forced to pretend his name is Fartius, and sent hither and thither by other people. Using a magical artifact he just happened to be given, Jorn talks to the mythical elder wyrm and asks for help setting things right. When it refuses, he just lies to everyone and tells them it said to follow him. This doesn't go well. Fortunately there are other people to help him, tell him what to do, and even make the crucial decision at the end of the story for him.
The worldbuilding and description in the story are really creative, I wish some issues with the book had been worked out.
Fortunately, under the influence of his love interest (don't worry, she always loved him and married him at once) and some drugs, he starts to look outside himself and realizes that the current government is unfair and oppressive. His first attempts to do something about it go predictably wrong, at which point, he's perfectly willing to abandon his poor mother and leave his new wife's godmother in prison to get away. His wife refuses to leave, so he escapes alone on a stolen wyrm, leaving everyone else to pick up the pieces.
From then on Jorn bounces from place to place doing what other people tell him, and his lack of awareness frequently gets him in trouble. He's tricked, taken advantage of, pushed around, forced to pretend his name is Fartius, and sent hither and thither by other people. Using a magical artifact he just happened to be given, Jorn talks to the mythical elder wyrm and asks for help setting things right. When it refuses, he just lies to everyone and tells them it said to follow him. This doesn't go well. Fortunately there are other people to help him, tell him what to do, and even make the crucial decision at the end of the story for him.
The worldbuilding and description in the story are really creative, I wish some issues with the book had been worked out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2024
This is the tale of Jorn and wyrms (i.e. dragon-like creatures) set in a kind of Norse fantasy world, well-evoked by the author. Jorn returns from being a galley slave to his old home, Arlespeak, in dire straits. He soon picks up a job looking after wyrms for the crazed Jarl, although he seethes at the rule of the Imperials. Naturally, he quickly gets into trouble and has to flee again, and then becomes involved in revolt, magic, romance, and so on.
The book itself is somewhat odd. It starts as a serious adventure, but after a few chapters the author seems to have a brainstorm and becomes rather fey and slapdash, at which the book almost turns comic. In fact, the latter part of the book reminds me of the great Jack Vance and his Lyonesse books (which is no bad thing!). So, we suddenly have comic asides, silly names (Farteus Cockeson!), and absurd incidences. And in a way, this is great, but it does mean that the story itself also becomes somewhat absurd, with incredible incidences aplenty (our hero always walking in on important discussions just at the right time, or turning up at a sort of wizard college to receive what seems the first lecture of term), and inconveniences are ignored (e.g. when Jorn and Karina reach the Boglands, Karina just happens to have a purse of gold enough to buy a wyrm, while wyrms seem at once terrifying and rare and needing to be kept behind bars, and at others, completely mundane – roaming streets and not even causing an eyebrow to be raised). But in the end, I did enjoy this – very much. It is technically well written, and the formatting/editing is right up there. And the Vance-like silliness is excellent: no one will ever be as good as Vance, but I think VanderBrooke has the talent to go close, and I would urge him to give in to this dark side and forget straight fantasy (not that he can’t do it; he very much can!) and experiment. If he succeeds in this transition, I will be the first to board his fan bus.
The book itself is somewhat odd. It starts as a serious adventure, but after a few chapters the author seems to have a brainstorm and becomes rather fey and slapdash, at which the book almost turns comic. In fact, the latter part of the book reminds me of the great Jack Vance and his Lyonesse books (which is no bad thing!). So, we suddenly have comic asides, silly names (Farteus Cockeson!), and absurd incidences. And in a way, this is great, but it does mean that the story itself also becomes somewhat absurd, with incredible incidences aplenty (our hero always walking in on important discussions just at the right time, or turning up at a sort of wizard college to receive what seems the first lecture of term), and inconveniences are ignored (e.g. when Jorn and Karina reach the Boglands, Karina just happens to have a purse of gold enough to buy a wyrm, while wyrms seem at once terrifying and rare and needing to be kept behind bars, and at others, completely mundane – roaming streets and not even causing an eyebrow to be raised). But in the end, I did enjoy this – very much. It is technically well written, and the formatting/editing is right up there. And the Vance-like silliness is excellent: no one will ever be as good as Vance, but I think VanderBrooke has the talent to go close, and I would urge him to give in to this dark side and forget straight fantasy (not that he can’t do it; he very much can!) and experiment. If he succeeds in this transition, I will be the first to board his fan bus.
February 25, 2024
What a fun throwback fantasy read! For a short book it hit a lot of great notes. At times it reminded me of Untethered Sky, Name of the Wind, and about a dozen other classic high fantasies (all in a good way). But the author makes sure to weave it all to together uniquely, especially the wyrms– fitting considering the promise of the title!
The world-building was well done and covered a lot of ground, with at least five different locations in the world featured prominently, and nuanced social and political relationships between the people in those locales and the rest of the world.
The writing is superb - well constructed and edited throughout, much better than I expected. It’s obvious a great deal of thought was put into prose, pacing, and construction. I like that we get a vivid picture of these places without the author overextending to make the prose a distraction from the story. The action sequences are really well done, and there is a lot of action. For a small release, it’s fantastic to see the kind of writing quality you’d expect from a novel with a big publishing house investment.
My only quibble is with character development. Often it feels like the plot was made to fit around the main character Jorn rather than the main character fitting in the world of the story. He effectively learns and changes little, advancing the plot by consistently being in the right place at the right time to witness a key event or make a crucial acquaintance. Though overall, this is a minor complaint, considering the length of the story.
Definitely worth a read for classic fantasy fans!
The world-building was well done and covered a lot of ground, with at least five different locations in the world featured prominently, and nuanced social and political relationships between the people in those locales and the rest of the world.
The writing is superb - well constructed and edited throughout, much better than I expected. It’s obvious a great deal of thought was put into prose, pacing, and construction. I like that we get a vivid picture of these places without the author overextending to make the prose a distraction from the story. The action sequences are really well done, and there is a lot of action. For a small release, it’s fantastic to see the kind of writing quality you’d expect from a novel with a big publishing house investment.
My only quibble is with character development. Often it feels like the plot was made to fit around the main character Jorn rather than the main character fitting in the world of the story. He effectively learns and changes little, advancing the plot by consistently being in the right place at the right time to witness a key event or make a crucial acquaintance. Though overall, this is a minor complaint, considering the length of the story.
Definitely worth a read for classic fantasy fans!
April 9, 2024
The Elder Wyrm is good fun. I was well-entertained by Jorn's misadventures and it was easy for me to get invested in his journey and connect with him. Jorn is a lovable character with a rough exterior, he is a bit flawed and seems to find it difficult to adjust to life back home after spending some time as a galley slave. He is not your know-it-all superhero, but someone trying to navigate a world that he used to know like the palm of his hand but eventually has become unfamiliar. He suffers loss, defeat, and heartbreak, but remains wholesome, humble and very relatable.
This indie novel has some solid world-building, a bit of really juvenile humour (totally enjoyable, I promise), magic, battles, and fleshed-out characters you can care about and root for. Karina, in particular, is truly wonderful, Gertrude is an intriguing mix of bland and sinister that horrifies you at times, the boy-king is a delightful spoilt brat. The wyrms, well, you envision them as these frightful, powerful monsters who are also endearingly cute and majestic.
Despite a few minor glitches, mainly a couple of details popping up without much warning, like Nordan turning out to be the most loyal wyrm to Jorn a bit out of nowhere when the most mentioned wyrm up to then had been Rorik. I know Nordan is mentioned fairly early, too, but a bit casually so it comes as a shock when he takes centre-stage suddenly, I half-expected Rorik to be Jorn's wyrm, to be honest. Anyway, this is just nit-picking, really. This book is a very good read indeed. I recommend it to fans of classic fantasy who are looking for more complex characters and a refreshing take on the genre.
This indie novel has some solid world-building, a bit of really juvenile humour (totally enjoyable, I promise), magic, battles, and fleshed-out characters you can care about and root for. Karina, in particular, is truly wonderful, Gertrude is an intriguing mix of bland and sinister that horrifies you at times, the boy-king is a delightful spoilt brat. The wyrms, well, you envision them as these frightful, powerful monsters who are also endearingly cute and majestic.
Despite a few minor glitches, mainly a couple of details popping up without much warning, like Nordan turning out to be the most loyal wyrm to Jorn a bit out of nowhere when the most mentioned wyrm up to then had been Rorik. I know Nordan is mentioned fairly early, too, but a bit casually so it comes as a shock when he takes centre-stage suddenly, I half-expected Rorik to be Jorn's wyrm, to be honest. Anyway, this is just nit-picking, really. This book is a very good read indeed. I recommend it to fans of classic fantasy who are looking for more complex characters and a refreshing take on the genre.
January 18, 2024
I must say, The Elder Wyrm was a decent book that was an enjoyable read once you get into the nitty griity. The story was an epic adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Jorn, the protagonist, faced some truly formidable foes that made the story all the more exhilarating. The writing style was simple yet engaging, making it an easy and enjoyable read for anyone. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an exciting and decently-written fantasy adventure.
The story takes its time to develop in the beginning. Almost nothing of interest happens for quite some time. I think the author was so busy trying to explain every little detail of the world and our character's life that it became tedious. We see Jorn returning to his hometown, reuniting with his beloved, and eventually becoming a wyrm rider. However, the author takes a slower pace in the first 20% of the book, with fewer events occurring. As Alexa read this aloud to me, I was always dosing off during the first bit. At the beginning of the read, I had trouble gaining momentum and found myself struggling to maintain my focus. However, as I progressed further, I gradually began to become more engaged and invested in what I was doing. Despite the initial challenges, I ultimately found the experience to be quite enjoyable and satisfying.
But! Imagine a world where dark comedy meets classic '80s novels and fantasy art. This is the perfect recipe for a fantastic and hilarious journey through a world of fantasy. Are you ready to dive in?
The story takes its time to develop in the beginning. Almost nothing of interest happens for quite some time. I think the author was so busy trying to explain every little detail of the world and our character's life that it became tedious. We see Jorn returning to his hometown, reuniting with his beloved, and eventually becoming a wyrm rider. However, the author takes a slower pace in the first 20% of the book, with fewer events occurring. As Alexa read this aloud to me, I was always dosing off during the first bit. At the beginning of the read, I had trouble gaining momentum and found myself struggling to maintain my focus. However, as I progressed further, I gradually began to become more engaged and invested in what I was doing. Despite the initial challenges, I ultimately found the experience to be quite enjoyable and satisfying.
But! Imagine a world where dark comedy meets classic '80s novels and fantasy art. This is the perfect recipe for a fantastic and hilarious journey through a world of fantasy. Are you ready to dive in?
January 2, 2026
I chose to read this book because another reviewer compared it to "How to Train Your Dragon" with a pre-2000s vibe. That was an accurate comparison, and I definitely felt that it was inspired by classic sword and sorcery books from the 80s and 90s. In addition, this was an adult book with mature language and themes (often a bit silly and crude).
We are introduced to a Norse-inspired setting, complete with appropriate-sounding names (minus a silly name the boy-king gave the protagonist, Jorn, while completing missions in disguise).
There is magic, and a magic school, in this world. There are also plenty of dragons (who are referred to as "wyrms", even though they have legs and wings whereas traditional wyrms do not).
The action scenes were very well written, some of them aerial battles between wyrms carrying riders. The tension and conflicts between characters were also well done. The mythology / history of the wyrms was interesting--the elder wyrm especially.
The only critique I have is that the characters seemed a bit distant and hard to relate with. The protagonist, Jorn, seemed to "go with the flow" more than most protagonists I've read. His marriage seemed too sudden, as were many instances where he was told to do certain things by other characters. Some of these moments felt like side quests where he had more important things at stake but agreed for some reason; I would have liked his choices and personality to be more of a focus. Regardless, I'd recommend this to readers who enjoy dragons and Norse mythology.
We are introduced to a Norse-inspired setting, complete with appropriate-sounding names (minus a silly name the boy-king gave the protagonist, Jorn, while completing missions in disguise).
There is magic, and a magic school, in this world. There are also plenty of dragons (who are referred to as "wyrms", even though they have legs and wings whereas traditional wyrms do not).
The action scenes were very well written, some of them aerial battles between wyrms carrying riders. The tension and conflicts between characters were also well done. The mythology / history of the wyrms was interesting--the elder wyrm especially.
The only critique I have is that the characters seemed a bit distant and hard to relate with. The protagonist, Jorn, seemed to "go with the flow" more than most protagonists I've read. His marriage seemed too sudden, as were many instances where he was told to do certain things by other characters. Some of these moments felt like side quests where he had more important things at stake but agreed for some reason; I would have liked his choices and personality to be more of a focus. Regardless, I'd recommend this to readers who enjoy dragons and Norse mythology.
January 15, 2024
This fantasy adventure tells the tale of Jorn, a former prisoner who joins forces with the dragon-like wyrms to stand against the forces of tyranny that have taken over the land.
The book is shot through with cheerfully rude humour (a fair bit of toilet humour), and the main character is engaging and fun to be with. He comes across as a comic, hapless figure at times, but sometimes appears more of a highly capable action hero. While it doesn't take itself too seriously, which is quite refreshing in a fantasy novel, the world building is actually superior to many pofaced fantasy novels I've read.
Jorn's journey takes him into all sorts of mad scenarios, and the section in which Jorn goes undercover at a Wizard college was particularly entertaining.
The prose throughout the novel is very good, action scenes are vivid and the setup for the plot made me want to read on. I got through the book quite quickly (for me). The plot races along, and this touches on what, for me, was the story's main weakness. In the final third, the plot seemed almost to spiral out of control, a little rushed perhaps. At times I lost track of Jorn's purpose in moving on to a particular place and long periods of time were glossed over somewhat. If it was a little longer, the story would have had more room to breathe, I feel.
Overall, this is a really impressive novel, and I'd love to see the author take on a really meaty project, maybe in the same world.
The book is shot through with cheerfully rude humour (a fair bit of toilet humour), and the main character is engaging and fun to be with. He comes across as a comic, hapless figure at times, but sometimes appears more of a highly capable action hero. While it doesn't take itself too seriously, which is quite refreshing in a fantasy novel, the world building is actually superior to many pofaced fantasy novels I've read.
Jorn's journey takes him into all sorts of mad scenarios, and the section in which Jorn goes undercover at a Wizard college was particularly entertaining.
The prose throughout the novel is very good, action scenes are vivid and the setup for the plot made me want to read on. I got through the book quite quickly (for me). The plot races along, and this touches on what, for me, was the story's main weakness. In the final third, the plot seemed almost to spiral out of control, a little rushed perhaps. At times I lost track of Jorn's purpose in moving on to a particular place and long periods of time were glossed over somewhat. If it was a little longer, the story would have had more room to breathe, I feel.
Overall, this is a really impressive novel, and I'd love to see the author take on a really meaty project, maybe in the same world.
January 12, 2024
At the beginning of the novel, Jorn Vjosterson has just been released after spending a few years as a galley slave. He returns to his home town of Arlspeak to find that much has changed. The island’s new government is a bit on the controlling side, but it doesn’t seem too bad at first. He gets a job at the local wyrm roost, where he learns more about caring for the powerful creatures. He also reconnects with his childhood sweetheart, who he hasn’t seen in years. For just a moment, it looks like he’s destined for a somewhat comfortable life.
Alas, it is not meant to be. The more Jorn learns of the powers-that-be, the more he realizes that something needs to change. Then the new jarl commits a criminal act, and Jorn’s knowledge of the crime puts him and his loved ones in danger. Jorn must flee Arlspeak to seek help from the surrounding lands. This sets a series of events into motion that leads to him visiting faraway lands, learning about magic and astronomy, and joining the military. Eventually he must wage war against a spreading cult that wants to use magic to reface the world.
The Elder Wrym starts out simply enough, but gradually reveals a deep universe with an epic mythos. The story presents us with an exciting, fantastic setting in which fighters duel wizards atop dragon-like mounts. This is everything fantasy should be, and it is definitely worth your time.
Alas, it is not meant to be. The more Jorn learns of the powers-that-be, the more he realizes that something needs to change. Then the new jarl commits a criminal act, and Jorn’s knowledge of the crime puts him and his loved ones in danger. Jorn must flee Arlspeak to seek help from the surrounding lands. This sets a series of events into motion that leads to him visiting faraway lands, learning about magic and astronomy, and joining the military. Eventually he must wage war against a spreading cult that wants to use magic to reface the world.
The Elder Wrym starts out simply enough, but gradually reveals a deep universe with an epic mythos. The story presents us with an exciting, fantastic setting in which fighters duel wizards atop dragon-like mounts. This is everything fantasy should be, and it is definitely worth your time.
April 4, 2024
Imaginative and Intriguing Fantasy
When Jorn steps foot back on his island of Arlspeak after spending years at sea he discovers much has changed. The biggest being is that the Imperials of Aeland have taken over and his fellow islanders are either working for them or living in poverty. They have also enslaved dragon like creatures called Wyrms. Soon though Jorn is involved in a failed plot to overthrow the Imperials and with Nordan, one of the enslaved wyrms they make a desperate escape.
From there Jorn travels the land from the Boglands to Whiteheim to Numorea, where he encounters both friend and foe and even learns some magic until it’s time to return and take Arlspeak back from the dreadful Imperials. However with a cult of powerful wizards set on enacting an age old prophecy the fate of the known world, wyrms and magic itself is at stake. This was a fun and imaginative fantasy read. There was a heavy Scandi influence with names like Jorn and I imagined the plight of Arlspeak and their Imperial warriors was a familiar comment on today’s world such as the British with the Australians, The Europeans with the Native Americans and so on. Or even the Romans with practically half the world. I was fully invested in this story and even though the ending had a satisfying conclusion I do wonder if there could be more in the future.
When Jorn steps foot back on his island of Arlspeak after spending years at sea he discovers much has changed. The biggest being is that the Imperials of Aeland have taken over and his fellow islanders are either working for them or living in poverty. They have also enslaved dragon like creatures called Wyrms. Soon though Jorn is involved in a failed plot to overthrow the Imperials and with Nordan, one of the enslaved wyrms they make a desperate escape.
From there Jorn travels the land from the Boglands to Whiteheim to Numorea, where he encounters both friend and foe and even learns some magic until it’s time to return and take Arlspeak back from the dreadful Imperials. However with a cult of powerful wizards set on enacting an age old prophecy the fate of the known world, wyrms and magic itself is at stake. This was a fun and imaginative fantasy read. There was a heavy Scandi influence with names like Jorn and I imagined the plight of Arlspeak and their Imperial warriors was a familiar comment on today’s world such as the British with the Australians, The Europeans with the Native Americans and so on. Or even the Romans with practically half the world. I was fully invested in this story and even though the ending had a satisfying conclusion I do wonder if there could be more in the future.
January 23, 2025
I think this is one of the better fantasy novels I have read recently. I also loved the cover enough that I looked up the artist from the author's acknowledgments. The writing is good and the characters are interesting and well-rounded. It has a very classical fantasy vibe, which I see as I am writing this was the author's intent. They succeeded!
The wyrms, as the author has written them, hooked me from the start; they're like dragons but with their own unique twist. Anyone who is familiar with D&D probably knows something about them. That said, I wanted a little more from the main storyline. Sometimes, Jorn sort of bounces between scenes or events without clear purpose. Character relationships in the book sometime lacked emotional weight as well. These are not huge problems, but minor things that I would point to as potential "criticisms." I still quite liked Jorn as a character.
The world-building makes up for any of those things. The book has a lot of depth with five distinct regions, each with unique politics woven naturally into the story. At the wyrm roost, I felt transported there. The novel’s action sequences are terrific and engaging too. This is a highlight. Overall, I found myself pulled into and engaged by this classical fantasy tale, and I would definitely recommend it. It reminded me of the fantasy I grew up with.
The wyrms, as the author has written them, hooked me from the start; they're like dragons but with their own unique twist. Anyone who is familiar with D&D probably knows something about them. That said, I wanted a little more from the main storyline. Sometimes, Jorn sort of bounces between scenes or events without clear purpose. Character relationships in the book sometime lacked emotional weight as well. These are not huge problems, but minor things that I would point to as potential "criticisms." I still quite liked Jorn as a character.
The world-building makes up for any of those things. The book has a lot of depth with five distinct regions, each with unique politics woven naturally into the story. At the wyrm roost, I felt transported there. The novel’s action sequences are terrific and engaging too. This is a highlight. Overall, I found myself pulled into and engaged by this classical fantasy tale, and I would definitely recommend it. It reminded me of the fantasy I grew up with.
February 18, 2024
The Elder Wyrm" by K.R. VanderBrooke is an excellent foray into the realm of fantasy, merging Skyrim with "How To Train Your Dragon." This book stands out for its approachability, skipping complex jargon for clear, engaging prose that bridges the gap between young adult and adult readers seamlessly. The book is set in a pseudo-Nordic setting, replete with wyrms and foreign imperial overlords, so if that is up your alley, then this book is a definite homerun.
Overall I enjoyed the book but found that, while the narrative excels in world-building and atmosphere, it occasionally stumbles in character agency. Indeed, often, things just happen to the character rather than the character taking active choices to contribute to the events. It didn't feel like this was a choice taken by the author, which makes the whole thing read like a list of events happening in order to create this unlikely hero of the story.
Regardless, "The Elder Wyrm" is a testament to VanderBrooke's ability to craft a tale that is both accessible and engaging, offering a gateway into a world that is as enchanting as it is perilous. Suitable for older teens and adults alike, this book is for readers interested in robust world-building rather than character-driven fiction.
Overall I enjoyed the book but found that, while the narrative excels in world-building and atmosphere, it occasionally stumbles in character agency. Indeed, often, things just happen to the character rather than the character taking active choices to contribute to the events. It didn't feel like this was a choice taken by the author, which makes the whole thing read like a list of events happening in order to create this unlikely hero of the story.
Regardless, "The Elder Wyrm" is a testament to VanderBrooke's ability to craft a tale that is both accessible and engaging, offering a gateway into a world that is as enchanting as it is perilous. Suitable for older teens and adults alike, this book is for readers interested in robust world-building rather than character-driven fiction.
March 7, 2025
I enjoyed this fun high fantasy tale about Jorn Vjostersson and the wyrms! The plot was well developed and the world-building was imaginative and thorough, and the characters were skillfully formed and authentic. I particularly enjoyed the social nuances and complex political undertones.
K.R. VanderBrooke writes a colourful, interesting fantasy adventure with wonderful undertones of humour, against beautiful and vivid scenery.
-- When Jorn Vjostersson returns to his native village after a stint in prison, he can’t decide which new addition is worse: the abusive imperials who want to sell everything that isn’t nailed down; or the peace-and-love hippies who think eating magic mushrooms is a form of protest.
The only positive is that he lands unrestricted access to flying, rideable reptiles called wyrms. He'd leap atop one and start a rebellion by himself, but things aren’t so simple. Wyrms are no match for the imperials’ court wizards, nor can they take on an army of professional wyrmriders.
What Jorn can’t know is that it's all about to change, because there’s more to the mushrooms than it seems, and the peace-and-love bunch has their own plans.
The Elder Wyrm is inspired by classic fantasy works and is imbued with dark, goofy, and dry humor.
K.R. VanderBrooke writes a colourful, interesting fantasy adventure with wonderful undertones of humour, against beautiful and vivid scenery.
-- When Jorn Vjostersson returns to his native village after a stint in prison, he can’t decide which new addition is worse: the abusive imperials who want to sell everything that isn’t nailed down; or the peace-and-love hippies who think eating magic mushrooms is a form of protest.
The only positive is that he lands unrestricted access to flying, rideable reptiles called wyrms. He'd leap atop one and start a rebellion by himself, but things aren’t so simple. Wyrms are no match for the imperials’ court wizards, nor can they take on an army of professional wyrmriders.
What Jorn can’t know is that it's all about to change, because there’s more to the mushrooms than it seems, and the peace-and-love bunch has their own plans.
The Elder Wyrm is inspired by classic fantasy works and is imbued with dark, goofy, and dry humor.
September 23, 2024
Inventive worlds crammed into one story
Jorn, the main character went through quite the journey in The Elder Wyrm. He goes from one region to another trying to get help to overcome a vindictive overlord.
Each of the areas that Jorn visits is very unique. The different regions, types of beings, and their different lives was very interesting.
The use of magic, going into different worlds, and wyrms was a new spin that I haven't seen before. The school of magic was wonderful as well.
Unfortunately, there is so much that is crammed into the book, it could have been several books. There is not much depth or detail in each area that is traveled, the experiences or many of the characters. It feels like a quick flit to one area and the next. I would have liked to seen more detail and be drawn into the experience more. There were many times where I was lost of why things were happening and learned to expect that and not think too hard about it because it would not be resolved. I just had to accept things as they were stated. It left me wanting more from the book.
Jorn, the main character went through quite the journey in The Elder Wyrm. He goes from one region to another trying to get help to overcome a vindictive overlord.
Each of the areas that Jorn visits is very unique. The different regions, types of beings, and their different lives was very interesting.
The use of magic, going into different worlds, and wyrms was a new spin that I haven't seen before. The school of magic was wonderful as well.
Unfortunately, there is so much that is crammed into the book, it could have been several books. There is not much depth or detail in each area that is traveled, the experiences or many of the characters. It feels like a quick flit to one area and the next. I would have liked to seen more detail and be drawn into the experience more. There were many times where I was lost of why things were happening and learned to expect that and not think too hard about it because it would not be resolved. I just had to accept things as they were stated. It left me wanting more from the book.
June 12, 2025
I picked up The Elder Wyrm on a whim, drawn in by the cover and I’m really glad I did. This book surprised me in the best way.
First off: the wyrms, these creatures are something else entirely. There’s a sense of mystery and reverence around them, and I dont see them often in books depicted as great as they are. It’s been a while since a fantasy creature felt this fresh to me.
The story moves fast. Almost too fast at times, but honestly, I didn’t mind. Jorn, the main character, is easy to root for. He’s rough around the edges and has plenty of flaws, but there’s something solid about him. I also enjoyed the dry, often sarcastic humor sprinkled throughout. The sheer creativity of the world was great!!! The setting felt lived-in and unique without overexplaining everything. You get the sense that there’s a whole history behind every wyrm roost and city, even if you don’t see it all directly.
I’d definitely recommend The Elder Wyrm to anyone looking for a new take on dragon-rider stories or fantasy that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still has heart and imagination. It’s quirky, sharp, and genuinely original. I’ll be watching for whatever VanderBrooke writes next.
First off: the wyrms, these creatures are something else entirely. There’s a sense of mystery and reverence around them, and I dont see them often in books depicted as great as they are. It’s been a while since a fantasy creature felt this fresh to me.
The story moves fast. Almost too fast at times, but honestly, I didn’t mind. Jorn, the main character, is easy to root for. He’s rough around the edges and has plenty of flaws, but there’s something solid about him. I also enjoyed the dry, often sarcastic humor sprinkled throughout. The sheer creativity of the world was great!!! The setting felt lived-in and unique without overexplaining everything. You get the sense that there’s a whole history behind every wyrm roost and city, even if you don’t see it all directly.
I’d definitely recommend The Elder Wyrm to anyone looking for a new take on dragon-rider stories or fantasy that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still has heart and imagination. It’s quirky, sharp, and genuinely original. I’ll be watching for whatever VanderBrooke writes next.
September 30, 2025
VanderBrooke leans into a classic, slightly old-school fantasy cadence that is earthy, sardonic, and surprisingly tender in places. The humor (some of it cheerfully crude) keeps the politics from getting dour.
The wyrms are the standout: not just dragon stand-ins but working animals with mystique and muscle. Scenes with them feel lived-in, and the aerial sequences snap. The wider world holds together too; you can feel distinct regions and their rivalries without being bludgeoned by lore.
I did wish the story would occasionally slow down and let the big beats land. The plot sometimes sprints, then drifts, giving a few “level up” detours and relationships less emotional weight than they deserve. Jorn himself is easy to root for—rough-edged, decent—but his north star can blur, and a touch more interiority would sharpen his arc.
Quibbles aside, this is a smart, funny, nostalgically flavored fantasy with memorable set pieces and a creature concept that feels fresh. If you like dragonrider-adjacent stories that don’t take themselves too seriously but still have heart, this one’s worth your time.
The wyrms are the standout: not just dragon stand-ins but working animals with mystique and muscle. Scenes with them feel lived-in, and the aerial sequences snap. The wider world holds together too; you can feel distinct regions and their rivalries without being bludgeoned by lore.
I did wish the story would occasionally slow down and let the big beats land. The plot sometimes sprints, then drifts, giving a few “level up” detours and relationships less emotional weight than they deserve. Jorn himself is easy to root for—rough-edged, decent—but his north star can blur, and a touch more interiority would sharpen his arc.
Quibbles aside, this is a smart, funny, nostalgically flavored fantasy with memorable set pieces and a creature concept that feels fresh. If you like dragonrider-adjacent stories that don’t take themselves too seriously but still have heart, this one’s worth your time.
January 12, 2024
"The Elder Wyrm" by K.R. VanderBrooke is a captivating fantasy novel that embarks on an adventurous journey through a richly crafted world. The narrative follows Jorn, a determined protagonist seeking revenge and power, set against the backdrop of political intrigue, wyrms, and the struggle for control. The story unfolds with vivid descriptions and a diverse array of characters, each with their own motives and complexities. VanderBrooke's writing is immersive, drawing readers into a world filled with magic, intricate cultures, and dynamic conflicts. The novel skillfully weaves together themes of leadership, destiny, and the consequences of one's actions, leaving readers engrossed and eager to discover what unfolds next.
Overall, "The Elder Wyrm" is a compelling and intricately woven tale that offers an engaging mix of fantasy, adventure, and intrigue, showcasing VanderBrooke's skillful storytelling and imaginative world-building. It artfully blends elements of mystery and suspense, ensuring readers remain on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages until the very end.
Overall, "The Elder Wyrm" is a compelling and intricately woven tale that offers an engaging mix of fantasy, adventure, and intrigue, showcasing VanderBrooke's skillful storytelling and imaginative world-building. It artfully blends elements of mystery and suspense, ensuring readers remain on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages until the very end.
January 15, 2024
The Elder Wyrm is a compelling story that carries the reader through an intricate universe rife with adventure and intrigue. The world-building is impressive, more so because it is not im-posed from the outset but incrementally presented to the reader, which makes it an explora-tive journey. The plot is well-crafted and dictates the protagonist’s (Jorn Vjostersons) devel-opment. What begins with the description of the “resocialization” of a slave, or rather, a rebel chief, ends in a cosmic struggle. A great plus is the humor underlying many scenes and dia-logues – both plain and more subtle – which temporarily brings a certain levity amidst the darkness of the storyline. The language is vivid and engaging, with different styles loyal to the characters who employ it. The unmistakable influx of Old Norse and Old English in the nam-ing system, along with certain motifs like the bogyman being a jar (and not king), adds a strong flair of Germanic saga style. Last but not least, the cover is really cool!
January 27, 2024
"The Elder Wyrm" follows Jorn Vjosterson's return from prison to his home village. What he finds is something completely different from what he remembers. His village, once a haven, is now besieged by opportunistic foreigners and a ruthless ruler. What ensues after that is a humorous and fantastical journey as Jorn battles wizards plotting to bind mankind to an ancient hell.
The narrative weaves elements of historical Norse and Icelandic fiction, dark comedy, and fantasy literary criticism, creating a unique and entertaining blend. The author draws inspiration from classic fantasy imagery, infusing the tale with dark, dry humor reminiscent of '80s novels. The story's satirical tone engages you, offering a delightful escapade from daily life.
As Jorn races against a celestial clock, the quest takes him through foreign cities, magical libraries, and ancient tombs. However, the ultimate key lies with the wyrms. Overall, the book is a captivating and whimsical adventure that balances humor and fantasy quite nicely. It's a good read for those seeking a light-hearted yet engaging tale.
The narrative weaves elements of historical Norse and Icelandic fiction, dark comedy, and fantasy literary criticism, creating a unique and entertaining blend. The author draws inspiration from classic fantasy imagery, infusing the tale with dark, dry humor reminiscent of '80s novels. The story's satirical tone engages you, offering a delightful escapade from daily life.
As Jorn races against a celestial clock, the quest takes him through foreign cities, magical libraries, and ancient tombs. However, the ultimate key lies with the wyrms. Overall, the book is a captivating and whimsical adventure that balances humor and fantasy quite nicely. It's a good read for those seeking a light-hearted yet engaging tale.
February 26, 2024
Formerly a galley slave, Jorn's evolution from captive to a formidable force fuels this captivating narrative. In a satirical fantasy reminiscent of classic 80s novels, K.R. VanderBrooke crafts an engaging romp. Inspired by vintage tropes, the story weaves a compelling tapestry that pays homage to a bygone era. The Elder Wyrm, while very New Adult, balances direct language for easy engagement. VanderBrooke, however, occasionally sacrifices flair and a strong style for simplicity. The plot's driving force centres on a hero thrust into greatness, contrasting with a more proactive approach to shaping destiny. The amalgamation of revenge, power, and alliances, especially with dragon-like wyrms, intensifies the overarching struggle against tyranny. The addition of the wyrms blended with the Nordic aspects was one of my favourite aspects, really delivering nostalgia of many books I have read before. This tale of transformation and satirical fantasy, with its nods to classic literature, not only entertains but also sparks a welcomed resurgence of nostalgic enjoyment.
October 4, 2024
There’s a lot to admire about this entertaining fantasy. Our main character Jorn, enslaved for years as a rower in the bowels of a ship, returns to his home village of Arlspeak. His legs have withered, while his arms and shoulders are overdeveloped from the years of forced labor. Arlspeak, too, is in a state of imbalance. Jorn’s village is now under the control of cruel, foreign imperialists. Wryms, local dragon-like creatures once revered, are now caged and degraded for the entertainment of the imperialists and their guests. Jorn finds work at the village’s wyrm roost and reunites with a childhood friend, whom he soon marries. Jorn is kind of dragged into a rebellion after learning more about the imperialists and their evil ways, and he soon becomes a target after discovering a murder. Jorn is forced to flee Arlspeak, and from here, the story takes on a more humorous tone, with eccentric professors, a creative magic system, and some hilariously crude humor. Despite the tone shifts, the book maintains an exciting and engaging narrative. It’s a delightful story and very well-written!
October 30, 2024
The Elder Wrym was a very engaging fantasy read that instantly immersed me in Jorn's life. Full of ups and plenty of tragic downs and plot twists, I found that it kept my interest until the end. There was great scene painting, and full of relatable characters, and ones you want to shake around- even Jorn sometimes for being a bit more trustworthy than he should have at times. It’s a very fast-paced read, and if you're looking for a good stint of mythical beings and magic without being forced to learn an entire system, then give this book a try.
As plenty of ground was covered in this book, I wish there were moments when it slowed down a bit so we could get a bit more depth on certain scenarios and take a breath between the jumps in time. Sometimes, I found some of the character's decisions to be frustrating.
I was a big fan of the dark humor, moments of gore, and the comedic bits of profanity. I LOLd at the fake name the child king gave Jorn. Totally a kid move.
My favorite part was what was implied at the end by the elder wyrm's decision to take the orb back with him.
As plenty of ground was covered in this book, I wish there were moments when it slowed down a bit so we could get a bit more depth on certain scenarios and take a breath between the jumps in time. Sometimes, I found some of the character's decisions to be frustrating.
I was a big fan of the dark humor, moments of gore, and the comedic bits of profanity. I LOLd at the fake name the child king gave Jorn. Totally a kid move.
My favorite part was what was implied at the end by the elder wyrm's decision to take the orb back with him.
March 23, 2025
The Elder Wyrm feels like a child of The Wheel of Time and Harry Potter—a world brimming with fantastical creatures, wizards, appalling villains, and intriguing herbs, all delivered in an excellent fairy tale style. The pace leans toward the slower side, particularly for younger readers. I noticed clear markers of Old English writing, including an abundance of adverbs, a wealth of adjectives, and intricate sentence structures. However, you can tell rather immediately that the author crafted the book with this exact intention and remained true to his unique style throughout. This authenticity is what compelled me to rate it five stars. It takes courage to defy nearly every modern writing convention and execute it so masterfully. I typically abandon such dense narratives halfway through, but the author’s passion and dedication kept me engaged until the very end—a commitment well worth the 307 pages. I strongly recommend it to young readers looking to expand their literary comfort zone and to mature readers seeking a nostalgic return to the complex prose of classic fantasy.
July 1, 2025
A failed rebel takes a job tending dragons…
…And finds himself embarking on an odyssey of crime, magic, and revolution. Jorn steals a flying wyrm and flees from the corrupt Jarl governing his home island on behalf of a greedy empire. All he finds, though, are petty criminals, scheming magicians, and cultists. Still, bit by bit, he puts together a revolution.
Jorn came across as a plausible ‘everyman’ character thrust semi-willingly into the role of rebel leader. Other notable characters include a spiteful child Jarl, the student wizard Harold, and the treacherous witch Grizelda. Other characters, particularly the villains, did not stand out.
I found the story episodic, with a different tale centered on each new island that Jorn visits, morphing from criminal to student wizard to cultist, and finally to rebel General. Ultimately, Jorn’s adventures changed the world, but he remained constant.
‘The Elder Wyrm’ should appeal to fantasy readers who like ‘everyman’ type characters thrust into difficult situations.
…And finds himself embarking on an odyssey of crime, magic, and revolution. Jorn steals a flying wyrm and flees from the corrupt Jarl governing his home island on behalf of a greedy empire. All he finds, though, are petty criminals, scheming magicians, and cultists. Still, bit by bit, he puts together a revolution.
Jorn came across as a plausible ‘everyman’ character thrust semi-willingly into the role of rebel leader. Other notable characters include a spiteful child Jarl, the student wizard Harold, and the treacherous witch Grizelda. Other characters, particularly the villains, did not stand out.
I found the story episodic, with a different tale centered on each new island that Jorn visits, morphing from criminal to student wizard to cultist, and finally to rebel General. Ultimately, Jorn’s adventures changed the world, but he remained constant.
‘The Elder Wyrm’ should appeal to fantasy readers who like ‘everyman’ type characters thrust into difficult situations.
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