Silence Is Silver

Shadowbinders #0.5

by Andrew Watson

The Urdahl believe pain is inevitable. But if one can lean into that suffering they can achieve anything.

Beneath the desert sands, Bas has spent his entire life training to become a fully-fledged Urdahl. And now his time has come to prove his worth. First, he must drink from the Seeing Bowl to clear his clouded mind and witness visions bestowed to him by ancient deities. Next, he must prove strength of body with the Passage of the High Pass. But destiny is shrouded in red and strength of arm will not be enough to survive its true tests.

Will he ascend to a full Urdahl or will his visions of blood come to pass?

The turning season has begun.

Taking place before the events of the Shadowbinders trilogy, “Silence is Silver” is a novella for both old and new readers.

Genres: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Novella

53 pages, Hardcover

Published June 14, 2024

About the author

Get your FREE copy of "Silence is Silver" – a prequel novella from Andrew Watson's dark epic fantasy Shadowbinders trilogy – when you sign up for his mailing list:
andrew-watson.co.uk

Andrew Watson is the best selling author of the Shadowbinders trilogy. He lives on the outskirts of Edinburgh where he rambles about made up people and places.

Reviews

[Andrew Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so excited to share this free novella. It means a lot to me and I had a blast writing it. Prepare to return to Tarris but perhaps not the one you are familiar with from the main series.

Stillness in the storm. Determination from defeat. Strength from ashes.

[Dave Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for SFINCS.

This was an excellent novella that makes me really excited for Watson’s novel series. The urdahl way of life is brutal, and this story is brutally good.

Lots of twists, turns, betrayals, and some unexpected emotional gut-punches.

Full review to come on SFFinsiders.com

[Esmay Rosalyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally published on Before We Go Blog

Andrew Watson gives a tantalising glimpse into the world of his Shadowbinders series in Silence is Silver, a prequel novella filled with incredible action and emotion that will leave you speechless by the end.

Taking place before the events of book 1 in the main series, Harbinger of Justice, this novella focuses on the backstory of a minor character in this world. Bas is a young man who has grown up beneath the desert sands training to become an Urdahl master. Now his rite of passage is finally upon him, but a bloodsoaked vision has shrouded his destiny in darkness, and he is left wondering what it truly is that his heart desires.

In just a few pages, Watson smoothly transports the reader into an immersive and atmospheric setting that is truly brimming with culture and life. I absolutely loved exploring the Urdahl society through Bas’ eyes, especially as we see him starting to doubt his way of life through the challenges that he is faced with.

And oh boy, does Bas go through it in Silence is Silver. Right from the very first page, we are confronted with the brutal training that the young Urdahl have to endure, and somehow things just only get more intense from there. I mean, when one of the most important proverbs of their culture is: “Pain is a lie. Told to us by weakness.”, you should get a good idea of the (emotional) suffering you can expect here.

Though it’s not all pain and trauma, as Silence is Silver actually has a surprisingly heartwarming friendship at its core that gives the story so much heart. The unconventional dynamic between Bas and the younger Eri really tugged on my heartstrings, and I loved seeing them bond through escaping into a wonderful fictional tale together.

The power of story and is a really big theme in Silence is Silver, which not only makes the characters’ dire situations instantly more relatable for all us fantasy lovers, but also increases the emotional resonance and impact of the story even more. Watson really cleverly played around with the idea of heroism and the familiar hero’s journey, resulting in a refreshingly unique and deliciously darker take on a coming-of-age fantasy tale. And then add to that some viscerally written and pulse-pounding action scenes, a few heavy emotional gut punches, and a brutally bittersweet ending, making Silence is Silver just a prequel novella done absolutely right!

Even though this is connected to the larger Shadowbinders series, this self-contained story works brilliantly on its own and can be read without any prior knowledge of this world. Though, speaking from my own experience, I can guarantee that you will be left desperate to explore this intriguing world further upon finishing this exciting little tale.

Watson’s skill as a storyteller just shines through so brightly in Silence is Silver, and I already can’t wait to see his rich imagination on full display in the full-length novels. If you are in the mood for an exhilarating little novella that will both challenge you with some deep philosophical quandaries while also filling you with plenty of chills and thrills, then I can’t recommend Silence is Silver highly enough!

Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Jamedi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Silence is Silver is an introductory novella to the dark fantasy series Shadowbinders, written by Andrew Watson. A short read that helps the reader to meet the Urdahl tribe and their coming of age rituals, following Bas' story and his infinite doubts; a novella with a heavy focus on the atmosphere.

An interesting take for a novella that allows us to understand more about the secretive Urdahl and their beliefs about pain and valours; all while we continue following Bas as he passes the rituals that mark his transition to be a full member of the tribe, at the same time he's experiencing doubts about the validity of certain beliefs. And we will see how all play when Bas will be put between the rock and the wall.

Personally, I think it is interesting the approach that Watson took in terms of writing, trying to reinforce the atmosphere and the image woven around the Urdahl; however, it is only achieved sometimes, while in others I would like to see a different approach, as at the end, some mantras sound more like clichés.
It is refreshing how the coming of age rites/challenges are presented in this novella, and Watson shines when action is presented, making that specific part of the book really enjoyable.

Silence is Silver is an interesting novella, an introduction to the Shadowbinders' world, but which I think it would be more enjoyable after reading the first full novel in the series; if you like dark fantasy, it is worth to give it a try.

Disclaimer: This review represents my personal opinion. Score and review from the whole team might vary.

[Janny]

A tight novella featuring the trial testing the young at their coming of age, set in a society that values rugged individuality at all costs, and the conflicts of the heart that arise when two maverick characters bend the status quo, under their conflicted loyalty to community. Andrew Watson has built a detailed society and packed a lush dash of world building into very economical prose, with an ending that will twist your mind and provoke contemplation long after the last page concludes.

I look forward to more by this author, and the unique perspective he brings to philosophy.

[VeldonReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Silence is silver was an amazing short read, that can be read in just a few hours, but still manages to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Once again, Andrew got me hooked into the narrative very quickly, and I was loving all the new lore we were able to get from the world of Tarris.

This story follows Bas, a young man of the Urdahl who is about to embark in this traditional ritual, to become once and for all a fully-fledged Urdhal.

This is an action packed novella, filled with tension, amazing quotes, quests for finding one-self and bittersweetness.

I was so happy to be back in the world of Tarris and now that I've read this novella, I cannot wait to come back to Nya in the main story once book 2 comes out!

[Joey, The Dragon Reread · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders

"Pain is a lie. Told to us by weakness."

Silence is Silver is a deep dive into a character—Bas—that we meet briefly in Harbinger of Justice. We learn more about his mysterious people, the Urdahl. This was a fascinating coming of age story, chock full of profound Urdahl proverbs and wisdom. It is amazing how much story and interesting cultural history that Watson is able to pack into such a short novella.

"There is strength in lies."

The Urdahl are a mysterious people that we catch glimpses of in Harbinger of Justice; however, Silence is Silver pulls back the veil and allows us to observe their coming of age ceremony, with the brutality and impassion that makes these people so terrifying. There is a clinical iciness to these people that chills the bones and makes you question to what extent they will walk down the proverb lined path of their creed. The twists and turns in this book are ankle-breakers, letting the readers experience the harshness of the Urdahl as they seek to purify and strengthen themselves, sometimes at the detriment of those around them.

"Breaking is an act of creation as much as it is destruction."

Andrew has continued to mature as a writer, and you can feel that confidence as he grabs the reader by the throat from page one, drawing them into this imaginative world where pain is weakness that needs to be driven from the body and strength is found in the reliance of one’s own prowess and not in the ability to help empower other people. Whether this is your first exposure to Tarris or you’ve already had your heart judged by the Harbinger of Justice, this is a must-read, brutal coming-of-age story. Silence is Silver is an intimate, fast-paced vignette of Urdahl maturation that expands the overall worldbuilding and depth of Tarris.

[Tabitha Tomala · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was read as part of SFINCS2!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Silence is Silver

The world of Silence is Silver is one of violence. To become a full member of the Urdahl one must be able to conquer their pain and embrace the beliefs of the clan. The trials one faces to be seen as an equal are brutal and betrayal is commonplace. Bas is seen as one of the top candidates for the clan, and being so he is also a threat to the others.

The pain readers will witness Bas endure is only the beginning as we journey through the explanation of the Urdahl culture and the final trial all coming-of-age members must complete. But even though he has lived among the clan, Bas begins to harbor doubts. And doubts are a deadly affliction to have. The Urdahl clan is cult-like as any other form of thought that does not align with their values is seen as almost a sickness. Something to be stamped out by any means necessary if they deem someone worthy.

Silence is Silver is just a fraction of the story, as this novella serves as a prequel to the Shadowbinders series. It is a read for those who enjoy darker fantasy and the struggle against one's own cultural beliefs. It is a tougher read, as Bas encounters no kindness or safe harbor in this story. His tale is one of hardship and heartbreak, yet sets the foundation for a much larger world setting.

[Lorena Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I would like to thank Andrew for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Silence is Silver is a prequel novella to the Harbinger of Justice, the first book in the Shadowbinders series. In this novella, we follow Bas, who is part of the Urdahl people and who has to pass a series of trials in order to fully become one of the Urdahl.

This was a very good story, fast-paced and also quite introspective. The small proverbs inserted at the beginning of each chapter helped to better describe and give an insight into the Urdahl culture.

Even if this is a short story, Bas showed growth and his arc even got me a bit emotional. I loved following him and getting to know more about this part of the world through his perspective.

I had previously read Harbinger of Justice, but this novella can be read either before or after you read the first novel in the series. Overall, I enjoyed it a lot and I highly recommend it! It comes out on the 14th this month, so be sure to check it out!

[S. Bavey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read on behalf of Team Behind the Musings for the SFINCS contest. My review is honest and my opinion is my own: 8.5/10

Silence is Silver is a highly original take on the coming of age trials concept. This SciFi novella worked for me as a standalone and made me want to know more of this world with its strange customs and terrifying wildlife. Caring for others is seen as weakness among the Urdahl tribe and pain is embraced as a trial that makes them stronger.

Some readers may be put off by the opening scenes of pain being inflicted on the main character, Bas – who I think was a teenager- in order to train the watching children in bravery and fortitude. I would encourage readers to persevere through this scene as they will discover rich world-building and interesting, layered characterisation which I found compelling.

The stakes are high in this short novella and the nail-biting challenges in which these teenagers have to compete kept me glued to the edge of my seat.

[Nils Ödlund]

I read this books as part of judging the SFINCS novella competition for Team Booked Solid. This review reflects only my own thoughts and does not represent the team’s final score.. I received a free copy of the book for the purpose of judging.
Please note that this book passed two rounds of qualifiers and is one of ten books (out of one hundred) that made it to the competition finals.
---
As a rule, prequel novellas don't work well for me. I find that, all too often, the author tries to user their prequel as a way to sell their main series, and the story tries too hard to impress the reader.
Silence is Silver is not that kind of prequel. Rather, it's written for those who've already read the main series and who're curious to know more about a certain aspect of it. Unfortunately, this means I lacked the context that's probably required to get the most out of this novella. There's some rather spectacular foreshadowing that's never delivered upon, and there's no satisfying resolution to the story.
What we do get are insights into a culture that celebrates independence and highlights the reliance on individual strength and pain-tolerance to the point of being toxic.
For me, as a new visitor to this world, it didn't make much sense, and the society of the Urdahl felt both irrational and contradictory to me. I'd like to believe that if I'd read the main series, this would have made more sense to me, but it's hard to say for sure, and I feel no great urge to delve further into this world.

What I'll whine about
I had a really hard time with the culture of the Urdahl. Their insistence on embracing pain and suffering as a way to achieve self-reliance is interesting in theory, but the way it's shown in the story feels irrational and contradictory. I'm aware of the concept of strength through adversity, but I feel like the adversity should be a means to an end, not a goal in itself.

What I enjoyed
Throughout the book, there are hints of a greater world beyond, and there are larger, more important, events on the horizon. This gives the sense that Bas (the main character), and the Urdahl (his people) are merely sideline observers of a greater conflict.

Final Words
Silence is Silver is a novella primarily for readers interested in finding out more about the world of the Shadowbinders.

[Senne ┃ Bridge Burner Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great novella, that is quick to read but punches you right in the gut. In only 50 pages Andrew Watson writes a really good character arc in a great new expansion on the worldbuilding of Harbinger of Justice.
You can get it for free, but the look and luxurious touch of the hardcover edition is amazing!

[kim | novelhaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars, 8.29 on CAWPILE

Hey. i AM MAD

[Tom Bookbeard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic descriptive writing. Becoming Urdahl is a brutal ordeal and this novella packs a lot into a short space. I really wasn't prepared for the twist.

[Colin · Rating 5 out of 5]

- A Near Perfect 4.75 Out Of 5 -

Three Word Review: Damn, That Ending!

[Shattered Anthologies · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrew Watson’s Silence is Silver - wow what a ride! Even though it’s just a short story, it still packs in some intense action and surprisingly heavy emotions.
The story drops you straight into the underground world of the Urdahl, this really harsh society where pain is basically a way of life and weakness isn’t tolerated. We follow Bas as he faces his initiation ritual, and right from page one it’s clear things aren’t going to be easy.
What surprised me most was how the book balanced all the brutality with these tender moments. Bas’ friendship with the younger Eri was honestly the heart of the novella for me. Their bond gave the story warmth and made all the grim parts hit even harder. And I loved how Watson played around with the theme of storytelling. How stories can shape hope and courage, even when everything else feels hopeless.
That said, the novella wasn’t perfect. The worldbuilding was intriguing, but it also felt a bit underdeveloped at times. I kept wishing there was more detail about the Urdahl culture and their world. Because of that, the novella sometimes felt more like a prologue than a complete story. And the ending, while powerful, felt a little rushed to me. It left me with a lot of questions rather than a real sense of closure.
It also made me wonder if maybe it would’ve been better to read this after starting the main series. On its own, it definitely works, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that knowing more about the series might’ve made Bas’ journey hit even harder. Still, as a teaser for what Watson is building, it absolutely does its job.
Verdict: I had a great time with Silence is Silver. It’s fast, emotional, and leaves you curious for what comes next. Sure, it could’ve dug a little deeper into the lore, but as an intro to Watson’s world, it’s a strong start. And without a doubt, I’ll be picking up the main series next.

[Matt Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Silence is Silver is the new novella by author Andrew Watson. This prequel novella and can be read either before or after the novel Harbinger of Justice.

The Novella focuses on the protagonist Bas in a coming of age story where he is seeking to progress through an academy but wider events are making him question his direction.

I haven’t read the first book but I found this a thoroughly accessible and welcoming instalment into Watson’s world.

Now it’s very much a cliche but this was a real page turner, it was a short and sharp novella but so very engaging that a did not want to put it down. I finished this is one sitting.

I have read a lot of these 0.5 Indie novellas but what Watson has produced here feels very special, I found his story compelling and his characters enthralling. He’s in a different class.

This is an easy 5Stars and is highly recommended, I will certainly be adding Book 1 to my TBR.

[Joebot · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 bumped to 4, because self pub authors rule.

More time in this amazing desert setting. Here we get the origin of a secondary character in the main Shadowbinders series. And more than that, we get to learn about their culture, a culture that is very distinct and intriguing.

This is a tale seen often in fantasy, a coming of age ceremony. A brutal test designed for only the worthy to succeed. This felt longer than the 53pgs used to tell it. Because this world and its people are so intriguing, I hope we get more of these novellas to flesh it out; especially if the author decides to take us elsewhere in any future works he releases after the main trilogy ends.

Quick read, interesting read, good little injection of world-building.

[Abel Montero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on SFFINSIDERS.COM

Full video review of this book and many more on my Booktube Channel BOOKSWITHABEL

A Journey into the Heart of the Sands

I'm always on the hunt for those hidden gems, those stories that grab you by the throat and refuse to let go. I've always had a soft spot for novellas. There's something about their concise nature that appeals to me. It's like a perfectly distilled shot of a story, packing a powerful punch in a smaller package. My expectations for novellas are simple: strong world-building, characters that resonate, and a satisfying arc, all delivered without wasting a single word. And let me tell you, Andrew Watson's Silence is Silver, a novella set in the Harbinger of Justice universe, not only met these expectations, it shattered them.

Echoes of the Past, Whispers of Promise

I thoroughly enjoyed Harbinger of Justice, so I was eager to return to Watson's Ancient Egypt-inspired world. What I didn't expect was to fall so completely in love with Silence is Silver. This novella takes a culture that previously existed on the periphery of the main story and thrusts it into the spotlight, revealing the rich tapestry of its past and current state of things. It's a huge flex for Watson's storytelling prowess; he manages to craft such a compelling narrative around a character I barely knew before. It felt like discovering a hidden treasure, a secret story waiting to be told.

Sands of Fate, Whispers of the Desert

The desert setting of Silence is Silver is more than just a backdrop; it's a character in itself. Watson's descriptions are really, really cool, painting a vivid picture of a harsh yet beautiful landscape. I was immediately transported to those scorching sands, the vast emptiness echoing the protagonist's inner turmoil. It reminded me of the stark beauty of Dune, but with a distinctly Egyptian flavor. This evocative setting, combined with Watson's intricate world-building and the peculiar civilization at the heart of the story, created a truly immersive experience. It wasn't just reading about this world; I was in it, feeling the grit of the sand between my teeth and the weight of the sun on my skin. The way the fantastical elements intertwined with this tangible reality was seamless, making the magic feel real and the world feel alive.

Trials of Worth, Whispers of Culture

The culture explored in Silence is Silver is a masterpiece of world-building. Watson has crafted a society with unique customs, beliefs about family and self-worth, and a brutal system of trials and demotions. I was fascinated by the intricacies of this culture, the way it shaped the protagonist's worldview and dictated their every action. The novella format, rather than being a limitation, allowed for a focused exploration of these cultural nuances. It felt like a deep dive into the heart of this society, revealing its secrets and complexities with every turn of the page.

A Masterful Stroke, Whispers of Skill

I'll be honest, I'm a bit picky when it comes to novellas. I often find it difficult to connect with characters and become invested in a world in such a short space. It can feel rushed, like a story crammed into a box that's too small. But Watson's expert craftsmanship in Silence is Silver completely blew me away. The pacing is absolutely perfect, a delicate balance of plot, character development, and world-building. Not a single word is wasted. By the time I reached the ending, I was completely hooked, my heart pounding in my chest as I followed the protagonist's perilous journey.

A Silver Lining, A Bitter End, Whispers of Emotion

The final sequence of Silence is Silver is a whirlwind of emotion, brutal fights, and a plot twist that left me reeling. I mean, wow. I don't want to give anything away, but let's just say it's an ending that will stay with me for a long time. It's dark, it's painful, and yet, it's utterly satisfying. Watson is a skilled writer. Even with such a devastating conclusion, I felt a sense of closure, a feeling that I had witnessed something truly special. The emotional impact of the ending was immense, leaving me breathless and in awe of what Watson had accomplished.

A Rising Star, Whispers of Growth

Andrew Watson's growth as an author is remarkable. Silence is Silver showcases his strengths in a way that Harbinger of Justice, while really good, only hinted at. He has a gift for description, bringing his world to life with vivid imagery and evocative prose. His action scenes are visceral and impactful, they convey the brutality and emotional stakes of each encounter. But it's not just the action; it's the way he weaves the action into the fabric of the story, making every fight meaningful and consequential. And the plot! It's intricate and satisfying, delivering a powerful narrative punch that belies the novella's concise format. He's a master of maximizing every word, proving that big stories can be told in small packages. Silence is Silver isn't just a good novella; it's a textbook accomplishment in novellas writing.

I highly recommend it, not just to fans of the Harbinger of Justice universe, but to anyone who loves a good fantasy story. And if you haven't read Harbinger of Justice yet, what are you waiting for? Go, read them both. You won't regret it.

[Charlie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great quick read. I read this story twice now and it was even better on a reread. There were a lot of hints at what was to come hidden all along the way that I totally missed the first time around. The end surprised me and cracked my heart just a little bit but in a good way? Thank you?

This is a great introduction to the world Andrew Watson has created and I am very excited to get to Harbinger of Justice. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and I don’t know if anyone is going to carry over from this story into the next but I’m curious to find out! Looking forward to more from this author!

[mo • lesmotsdemo · Rating 4 out of 5]

it was a very interesting and well-written story, and it makes me even more eager to pick up Harbinger of justice. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I was enthralled.

[Ashleigh Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly compelling with incredible worlds building and character development! I loved Bas' internal struggles and that ending?! ANDREW!

[Sofie✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc provided by the author!

Fantastic and loveable characters with strong growth! An amazing setting the keeps you on edge throughout the story. A really intriguing and different magicsystem!

An outstanding, short, novella with lots of action, an amazing story, strong friendship and loveable characters!

Can't wait to continue the story that will come after Harbringer of Justice! (Which also is an amazing books, go read!!)

[Charlotte (charami) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Breaking is an act of creation as much as it is destruction.”

Review on my blog: in English | in het Nederlands

Silence is Silver is a novella that delivers a powerful emotional punch in a compact package. Centering on Bas, an enigmatic figure introduced in Harbinger of Justice, this coming-of-age tale transports readers to a society shaped by stoicism and fierce individualism. Through the lens of a harrowing ceremony, Bas’s past is revealed, while his culture, with its painful traditions and austere values, is painted with stark clarity. I found the ending profoundly moving, bringing me to the verge of tears.

[Alan]

Review originally posted on Before We Go Blog for the SFINCS competition: https://beforewegoblog.com/sfincs-rev...

Silence is Silver by Andrew Watson is a tightly-focused epic fantasy novella that stands as an entry point to his popular Shadowbinders series. There's always a risk with prequel novellas, particularly in a contest setting, that they will fail to stand on their own and be impenetrable to new readers. SiS happily avoids the usual pitfalls, featuring a straightforward plot and worldbuilding that feels accessible without relying on dense infodumping to create a sense of itself. While there are several things to recommend SiS, however, ultimately I did find it to be lacking in a few key areas: notably it felt as though it could have stood a further edit, and at times the prose and certain worldbuilding concepts felt underconsidered or came off as unintentionally funny. That said, it's very clear Watson is a talent and that he shows much promise as a writer.

In SiS, we follow a boy named Bas as he struggles to live up to the expectations of the harsh, survivalist culture he belongs to. This culture--the Urdahl--value the kinship between generational cohorts over blood ties, with each cohort under the guidance of an assigned mother figure. Even the kinship between cohorts is contingent, however, with character traits such as mercy, kindness, and introspection denigrated in favour of ruthlessness and self-interest. If a community-oriented action would risk harm or loss to the self, it is not Urdahl. Bas fails to live up to these expectations in several ways. Although undeniably a gifted survivalist and warrior, his empathy for his cohort--particularly his friends Eri and Mei--as well as his compassion and sense of communal responsibility, set him apart from the others. This difference becomes critically apparent when Bas and the rest of his generation must participate in a series of coming-of-age rituals that involve tests of endurance and courage. Though the strictures of cultural expectation warn Bas away from aiding his friends, he's nonetheless compelled to do so, risking both his life and his future status within the community.

In many ways, SiS is a character piece. The plot is fairly straightforward (boy participates in coming of age ceremony, testing his skills and also his community ties), with some predictable developments that nonetheless manage to tug on the heartstrings by the time we reach the novella's denouement. The focus here is on Bas and the question of whether he will manage to find a place within Urdahl culture, or if he will be ostracized from the community. Bas is an easy character to follow and root for: he questions the often ridiculous and self-sabotaging dictates of his culture all while demonstrating a child's desperation to belong, and it's clear he genuinely cares for those around him, valuing the unique perspectives and talents of his friends in a way that we don't see from most of the Urdahl (Eri is a significant exception, and is a huge influence on Bas). There's a sense by the novella's conclusion that certain values and facets of Bas's personality have been reinforced, while a perhaps dangerous single-mindedness has been seeded within him.

Although the book does stand alone and provide enough of a conclusion to the main storyline that I found it satisfying, there are some questions raised in the novella that do go unanswered, presumably because they form part of the larger narrative at work in Shadowbinders. One such plot thread involves a vision Bas receives as part of his initiation. In the vision, Bas sees the elders (and others) of the Urdahl brutally slaughtered--seemingly a premonition of a disastrous future. When Bas tries to warn one of the elders of what he's seen, the elder's response is that the visions are private and that he doesn't want to know about it. If Bas wants to do something to avoid the future he foresaw, the elder suggests, he should try and avert that future himself. The sequence has the feel of something that's intended to communicate character motivation in the main series (at a guess, Bas is somewhat of a tragic figure, doomed to cause the future he attempts to avert). The lack of an answer on this (and a few other, minor points) may bother readers who prefer to have the whole story, but I felt that it was largely successful as a means of teasing the larger story, and I was neither surprised nor disappointed that we didn't get a clear answer here.

No matter how many times Maut Tenl told him to contain his emotions, Eri couldn’t when talking about stories.

In terms of the worldbuilding, there was much that intrigued me about the Urdahl, though equally they felt a little underconsidered. The sequence in which Bas confronts the elder, for example, might have imparted a richness to Urdahl beliefs around things like privacy and the sacred, but instead the elder's reaction came off as absurd and a little Pythonesque. I love a hint of humour (and particularly Pythonesque humour) to break up a text and add levity to a dour setting, but here it felt both unintentional and a little like an authorial shrug (the elder doesn't care to know or interfere because the author both needs him not to interfere, and also hasn't established a stronger reason for him not to do so). The metaphorical shrug we get from the elder feels counter, also, to the intense control Urdahl leaders appear to exert over those beneath them, and since one of the elders demonstrates elsewhere in the novella that they're willing to bend the rules to get their own way, it also felt unlikely from a character perspective.

I often find that survivalist and warrior cultures in fantasy and sci-fi are difficult to take seriously. Typically, this is because a particular group is so antagonistic, so violent, or so individualistic that it's unlikely they would have continued to successfully exist in the form presented in a given text (though I adore Star Trek, the Klingons are a prime example, and I find the Klingons most enjoyable when the show recognizes their ridiculousness). A little of that was present here, but more often I found it was the execution that pulled me out of the story. From the get, it's clear the reader is meant to take the Urdahl Very Seriously and that life as one of them is no piece of cake. The novella's chapters all feature Urdahl proverbs that delight in warfare, resilience, bloodshed. Unfortunately, many of these (as well as the repeated refrain of "it [he/she/this] was of the Urdahl") begin to slide into unintentional comedy. The first proverb, "Pain is a lie. Told to us by weakness," feels melodramatic, while a later variation ("Pain is inevitable") is too generic a truth to feel meaningful. Several such sayings and moments likewise don't make much sense once parsed (e.g. "dwelling is an idle mind," "from ashes comes armour"), though at an initial glance they appear striking. It should be said though, that for all that I'm being very critical of these pieces, they do all convey very strongly a particular feel. Probably, just by reading these, you've gained an immediate sense of the Urdahl and of the role they occupy in the text (and presumably Shadowbinders as a whole).

While I did find that both the above issues, as well as occasional grammatical problems and redundancies, pulled me out of the story, or skewed the tone in a way I suspect was unintended, there is a strong narrative flow and I was left with the impression of Watson as a talented writer who shows a lot of promise and potential if he continues to dedicate himself to working on the precision of his writing and worldbuilding. The popularity of the series suggests there's a strong readership for Watson's work, and I would be interested to read future stories from him. I did absolutely adore the author's note at the end, with its powerful message about storytelling. The importance of stories in the shaping of our lives was a subtle theme throughout SiS that came through well and that I found easy to invest in, leaving me curious about Bas and about whether that thematic element is present in the Shadowbinders series writ large. The dynamic between Eri and Bas was well-handled, and while I had an inkling of how that story element would turn out, knowing the conclusion didn't limit my emotional reaction (as ought to be the case in a tragedy!).

[Christopher M · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

[Trudie Skies]

Silence is Silver is a prequel novella that manages to feel like a self-contained novella that I felt I could read and understand as a standalone without understanding the larger series. This story is about Bas, a member of the Urdahl tribe, as he grows up in the harsh environment of the desert and takes part in a series of coming of age rituals in order to prove himself a full member. The Urdahl are all about training and punishment in order to survive this harsh existence, and unfortunately, Bas has a soft spot for a younger member of his tribe that could prove to be a liability.

Unfortunately, I’m not really a fan of fantasy stories involving cultures that must train in order to achieve honour or prove themselves worthy. It doesn’t really make sense to me for a community of gathered people who presumably depend on each other to act so individually, to go out of their way to punish, isolate, and even kill one another. I kept hoping that this would be a story where the main character would realise the awfulness of his situation and rebel, but instead, he was quite happy to keep on with the status quo. Perhaps this is something addressed in the larger series, but from what I saw represented in the novella, it didn’t satisfy me.

[Bill Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I read this novella as part the judging group The Secret Scribes for the Speculative Fiction Indie Novella Championship (SFINCS) semi-finals phase. The following review is strictly my personal thoughts as each novella will be reviewed by two judges to be as objective as possible.*

Silence is Silver is a prequel novella to Andrew Watson's Shadowbinders series and is a pseudo coming of age story (pseudo only because the main character is a bit older but ready to pass a test to become a full part of his tribe) that comes with a revelation that sets up this character's arc in the greater series.

Bas is part of the Urdahl warrior-esque tribe that believes in clear minds, harsh training, and extreme detachment from personal relationships (especially family as no member knows their parentage). Said Urdahl live in the desert in some underground caverns/ruins, and each class (kinda like birth year) train daily to become these emotionless members of the group. Bas' year is ready to take the final test, but only 3 can be winners and choose their paths/roles, those who finish, get assigned paths/roles, those who don't, they are kinda shunned members of the society. This story follows Bas' test where he learns some world-shattering things and it falls upon him to decide what his future will be.

The cast is fairly small. We have Bas (our POV protagonist) and he's deep in the throes of his Urdahl training, so he's becoming that emotionless member of the tribe. But there is still a smidge of emotion that trickles through at times, making him connectable to readers. Eri is younger than Bas and Eri is an outlier in the Urdahl, he is a dreamer, likes to read, wants to know about the outside world. So Eri clashes all the time with the harshness of the Urdahl way. Mei is a friend to Bas as much as the Urdahl have friends. Their relationship has an interesting dynamic.

The Urdahl way is pretty interesting, but the test (finding a beastie egg and bringing it back before sunset) is what drives this story before the realities of the training take over. The test is fun, action-packed, and full of tension. It has a very Hunger Games vibe to it (hurting another opponent is allowed, just can't outright kill them), so there is a ton of drama with some of Bas' other competitors. The beasties are fun birdlike creatures that try to kill left and right, defending their eggs.

But the real standout of this story is the revelations Bas learns after his trial. I won't even remotely touch on what it entails, but it's a very nice twist and gives Bas a lot to think about. Very nicely done.

The prose and pace are really steady. Though this is a novella, the lore and worldbuilding is just enough to satisfy. You don't have to have read the main series to understand the world here, everything we need to know is laid out for us in a simple, yet streamlined way. If anything, I found Bas a little difficult to connect with, and I think that's mostly due to him being almost devoid of emotion (as the Urdahl way intends) but I know other readers in our group thought the exact opposite.

Silence is Silver sets the tone in the very first scene and doesn't let up until the last page, opening up to the greater world Watson has crafted.

[Hans · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

”There is no softness without the sharp sting of the rocks. There was no ease without the burden of a full pack. There was no strength without suffering.”
- Silence is Silver, Andrew Watson

4.25⭐️ (non-spoiler)

Thank you to the author, Andrew Watson, for sending me an e-ARC for an honest review. A new installment in his Shadowbinders Trilogy (with Harbinger of Justice being the 1st book), this fantasy novella is set before the 1st book’s events, & can be read as a standalone (I think).

Following Bas, a young man of the Urdahl people (who are more or less like monk-warriors, so to speak), as he undergoes training to pass the Turning Season & advance into the ranks of the Urdahl. Part coming-of-age & part character study, the book mostly focuses on the trials & tribulations that Bas & his Urdahl siblings must overcome, all the while being plagued by blood-tinged visions of the desert city of Yontar, & by extension, of Tarris.

In just <100 pages, Andrew Watson balanced fast-paced action by the high-stakes trials with having a character-driven story by utilizing the trials as a catalyst for going deeper into Bas’ actions & motivations, both by exploring his relationship with other people & with himself. Introspective moments (which are my personal favorites in this novella) are interspersed with the action-driven scenes, giving the reader the room to breathe & at the same time humanizing Bas, making him more real despite the lesser page count.

I was initially thinking of giving this novella 4⭐️ as I was nearing the end, but something happened in the last chapter that bumped it to 4.25⭐️. It was tragic & heart-wrenching, & would certainly contribute to Bas’ character development if he ever appears in the other books of the trilogy. It’s Kaladin-level backstory material tbh.😔

I think newcomers to the series won’t have any problem if they come into the series with this novella or with Harbinger of Justice. Overall enjoyed this, highly recommend if you like desert-set worldbuilding, trial-based fantasy stories, & just good character work in general.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

GENRE: Adult Fantasy

MY RATING: 3.5/5
Characters: 3/5
Storyline: 3/5
Writing style/structure: 4/5
Overall enjoyment: 4/5

MY THOUGHTS
This 70 page novella takes place before the events of the Shadowbinders trilogy. “Silence is Silver” is a novella for those that have read the first book, but also for anyone picking the series up for the first time.

The use of Urdahl proverbs and sayings at the start of each chapter was a clever addition. It allows the reader to understand the mentality and sense of honor of the people, without introducing is inorganically in conversation throughout the story.

This was a nice quick read, with a likable main character and mysterious monk-like culture. I enjoyed the story but it was the last two pages that really sold the book for me. The resolve that our main character has at the end gives me hope for what is yet to come in book 2 of the series.

Just like in the main series, Andrew has a knack for creating unique and interesting creatures. I was both in awe and horrified by the giant birds. I am very happy to return to this world and cannot wait to see what else Andrew comes up with in later instalments.

I was provided a copy of this novella in exchange for an honest review. The release date for this one is 14 June 2024. I will definitely be buying the physical copy when it comes out.