What do you think?
Rate this book
The Envoys of Chaos #1
The Envoys of War
Don’t kill the messengers.
Gen has the perfect job: traveling the realm, drinking wine, and hitting things with her sword. Her latest assignment should be a simple one. Escort Cordyn, an envoy and her closest friend, through enemy territory to deliver vital military intelligence.
Except the mission is fake.
The King suspects Cordyn is a traitor, and Gen’s true orders are to watch him. Closely.
Cordyn may be a brash, arrogant libertine with a gift for trouble, but Gen can't imagine him capable of such a betrayal. Bandits lurk.
Mages seek vengeance.
An enemy plot surfaces and Cordyn’s usually complex schemes grow more tangled.
Gen is forced to choose what matters most: the mission or her friends.
Even if it means never going home again.
A rollicking fantasy adventure for fans of Dungeons and Dragons, Nicholas Eames, and Michael J. Sullivan.
Gen has the perfect job: traveling the realm, drinking wine, and hitting things with her sword. Her latest assignment should be a simple one. Escort Cordyn, an envoy and her closest friend, through enemy territory to deliver vital military intelligence.
Except the mission is fake.
The King suspects Cordyn is a traitor, and Gen’s true orders are to watch him. Closely.
Cordyn may be a brash, arrogant libertine with a gift for trouble, but Gen can't imagine him capable of such a betrayal. Bandits lurk.
Mages seek vengeance.
An enemy plot surfaces and Cordyn’s usually complex schemes grow more tangled.
Gen is forced to choose what matters most: the mission or her friends.
Even if it means never going home again.
A rollicking fantasy adventure for fans of Dungeons and Dragons, Nicholas Eames, and Michael J. Sullivan.
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 19, 2024
About the author
Dave Lawson
6 books111 followersDave Lawson is an Oklahoma-based fantasy novelist. He received an MFA in Fiction Writing from The New School in 2009 and published some contemporary literary fiction, before spending several years doing absolutely nothing with his degree. Now, he writes what he enjoys reading--fast-paced, witty fantasy. His first fantasy novel, The Envoys of War, was published in October of 2024. He enjoys writing about conniving rakes and creative liars who do whatever they must to get what they desire. However, Dave's not like his characters. Pinky swear.
When he's not writing, he teaches high school English and Drama. He lives with his wife, Caitlin, and their dog, Rowena, who is a ball of energy. In a past life, Dave was surely a pirate.
When he's not writing, he teaches high school English and Drama. He lives with his wife, Caitlin, and their dog, Rowena, who is a ball of energy. In a past life, Dave was surely a pirate.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
Read
March 19, 2025I won’t rate this book because I wrote it, but I had so much fun writing it and I hope you’ll enjoy it too!
October 19, 2024
This review was originally published on Before We Go Blog
In The Envoys of War, Dave Lawson delivers a motley crew of frustratingly charming misfits, tons of exhilarating action, a good dash of mystery, and plenty of magical mayhem; this rollicking fantasy adventure has a fun factor that rivals Michael J. Sullivan’s Riyria Revelations and James Logan’s The Silverblood Promise.
Look, when you give me a story following a bunch of characters who are all just a certified hot mess in their own unique way, I am in. Meet Gen, an aroace bodyguard for the King’s Envoys who is more than happy drinking her wine and swinging her sword; now meet Cordyn, a conniving rake who is way too charming and lustful for his own good; and then meet Tobias, a deceptive mage with questionable morals and a deadly lust for vengeance. Driven by their own selfish motivations, they find themselves reluctantly working together to pull off a daring rescue mission where danger, deceit and betrayal lurk around every corner. They never signed up to be the heroes, but they will do whatever they must to get what they desire… cue the chaos!
The Envoys of War really just hits the ground running and sucks you straight into the crazy messes that these characters call their daily lives. I was quickly impressed with how smoothly and skilfully Lawson pulled off the multi-POV storytelling, delivering a dynamic cast of (older!!) characters who all pop off the page in their own unique way. Sure, they sometimes felt just a bit too caricaturish and melodramatic to me, but I simply can’t deny their irresistible charm. And seeing them clash in the most entertaining ways because of their (secret) conflicting motivations and opposing personalities was just so entertaining, resulting in plenty of disastrously amusing moments where I didn’t know if I wanted to hug, slap or strangle them all.
For me, Gen was absolutely the highlight of the story, not only because she is just effortlessly entertaining and scarily relatable in her flaws, but especially because of her openly and unapologetically asexual and aromantic nature that I felt so seen and represented by as someone who lives under the ace umbrella themself. Though I also really appreciated Cordyn, a.k.a. everyone’s favourite incorrigible flirt, as a foil to her, and I especially enjoyed slowly unravelling the whole mystery surrounding his potential disloyalty at the start of the novel; Lawson knows how to get you hooked!
All that said, while I love me a good twisty and turny story, I do have to admit that the fast-paced and action-packed nature of The Envoys of War became a bit too hectic and overwhelming to me at points. It helps that the characters’ loud personalities kept me grounded throughout most of the craziness, but I personally would have loved to spend more time exploring the tense political landscape, admiring the fascinating magic of the water mages, and digging into the emotional/traumatic backstories and complex interpersonal relationships of the characters in order to feel more immersed and emotionally invested.
Still, I had an absolute blast with The Envoys of War, and I think it’s an extremely promising and enticing start to an excitingly fresh yet comfortingly familiar fantasy adventure; I certainly will be back for more, not least because I want to see so much more of my girls Gen and Evalia! So, if you like the sound of a DnD-flavoured quest fantasy full of delightfully messy characters, impressively complex schemes, surprisingly dark secrets, and just a ton of heart, then I can’t recommend The Envoys of War highly enough.
3.5/5 stars
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
In The Envoys of War, Dave Lawson delivers a motley crew of frustratingly charming misfits, tons of exhilarating action, a good dash of mystery, and plenty of magical mayhem; this rollicking fantasy adventure has a fun factor that rivals Michael J. Sullivan’s Riyria Revelations and James Logan’s The Silverblood Promise.
Look, when you give me a story following a bunch of characters who are all just a certified hot mess in their own unique way, I am in. Meet Gen, an aroace bodyguard for the King’s Envoys who is more than happy drinking her wine and swinging her sword; now meet Cordyn, a conniving rake who is way too charming and lustful for his own good; and then meet Tobias, a deceptive mage with questionable morals and a deadly lust for vengeance. Driven by their own selfish motivations, they find themselves reluctantly working together to pull off a daring rescue mission where danger, deceit and betrayal lurk around every corner. They never signed up to be the heroes, but they will do whatever they must to get what they desire… cue the chaos!
The Envoys of War really just hits the ground running and sucks you straight into the crazy messes that these characters call their daily lives. I was quickly impressed with how smoothly and skilfully Lawson pulled off the multi-POV storytelling, delivering a dynamic cast of (older!!) characters who all pop off the page in their own unique way. Sure, they sometimes felt just a bit too caricaturish and melodramatic to me, but I simply can’t deny their irresistible charm. And seeing them clash in the most entertaining ways because of their (secret) conflicting motivations and opposing personalities was just so entertaining, resulting in plenty of disastrously amusing moments where I didn’t know if I wanted to hug, slap or strangle them all.
For me, Gen was absolutely the highlight of the story, not only because she is just effortlessly entertaining and scarily relatable in her flaws, but especially because of her openly and unapologetically asexual and aromantic nature that I felt so seen and represented by as someone who lives under the ace umbrella themself. Though I also really appreciated Cordyn, a.k.a. everyone’s favourite incorrigible flirt, as a foil to her, and I especially enjoyed slowly unravelling the whole mystery surrounding his potential disloyalty at the start of the novel; Lawson knows how to get you hooked!
All that said, while I love me a good twisty and turny story, I do have to admit that the fast-paced and action-packed nature of The Envoys of War became a bit too hectic and overwhelming to me at points. It helps that the characters’ loud personalities kept me grounded throughout most of the craziness, but I personally would have loved to spend more time exploring the tense political landscape, admiring the fascinating magic of the water mages, and digging into the emotional/traumatic backstories and complex interpersonal relationships of the characters in order to feel more immersed and emotionally invested.
Still, I had an absolute blast with The Envoys of War, and I think it’s an extremely promising and enticing start to an excitingly fresh yet comfortingly familiar fantasy adventure; I certainly will be back for more, not least because I want to see so much more of my girls Gen and Evalia! So, if you like the sound of a DnD-flavoured quest fantasy full of delightfully messy characters, impressively complex schemes, surprisingly dark secrets, and just a ton of heart, then I can’t recommend The Envoys of War highly enough.
3.5/5 stars
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 5, 2025
A book that played out like a movie in my head aided by the spectacular skills of the audiobook narrator.
Gen is a bodyguard for the King’s Envoys, spending her days traveling, drinking wine, and stabbing things with her sword.
Things change when she is sent with her friend Cordyn into war-torn enemy territory to deliver vital military intelligence to an allied nation. She is tasked with finding out if arrogant, smooth-talking, rich Cordyn is a spy.
Cordyn is a mess, but you can’t help but love him. Think Jaskier from The Witcher.
Gen is very black and white and extremely honourable.
They reminded me of Hadrian and Royce from the Riyria Revelations.
There is great banter, genuine character interactions and reactions, action mixed with drinking at taverns.
It starts simple and expands with side quests and conspiracies.
The first half was definitely my favourite as I preferred the slower moments where we really got to see our characters in their natural snarky states.
Audiobook arc gifted by author.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Gen is a bodyguard for the King’s Envoys, spending her days traveling, drinking wine, and stabbing things with her sword.
Things change when she is sent with her friend Cordyn into war-torn enemy territory to deliver vital military intelligence to an allied nation. She is tasked with finding out if arrogant, smooth-talking, rich Cordyn is a spy.
Cordyn is a mess, but you can’t help but love him. Think Jaskier from The Witcher.
Gen is very black and white and extremely honourable.
They reminded me of Hadrian and Royce from the Riyria Revelations.
There is great banter, genuine character interactions and reactions, action mixed with drinking at taverns.
It starts simple and expands with side quests and conspiracies.
The first half was definitely my favourite as I preferred the slower moments where we really got to see our characters in their natural snarky states.
Audiobook arc gifted by author.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
June 21, 2025
I went into the Envoys of War in my favorite fashion, without knowing a single thing about the book other than the genre and who wrote it. Being newer to fantasy, I expect a close group of friends, one major quest, and some minor obstacles along the way. Envoys of War left me pleasantly surprised.
The close friendship box is checked off by Cordyn and Gen. Cordyn is a mess, and it’s curious why Gen favors him so much. Gen is straightforward with a good heart. Cordyn often entertains himself with devious activities. The pair is given a quest right from the beginning, and while their friendship seems mismatched, their interactions offer humorous banter and fun contrast.
However, rather than every effort propelling our characters toward achieving their main goal, the conflicts line up and their courses change throughout until the main quest is irrelevant. The characters don’t just encounter stumbling blocks, but events that change their direction completely. They don’t allow their duties to overpower their morality, regardless of the shenanigans Cordyn dabbles in.
We pick up a few people along the way, and the dynamic between several of the characters shifts throughout the book. Characters that I didn’t like at the beginning, I became fond of later on. Characters who didn’t like each other but maintained a mutual goal worked together. Some even started as enemies, or uncertain strangers, only to become the best of friends.
The banter between characters was enjoyable, suitable for the atmosphere of the book, not over the top, while still feeling genuine. It also served to help world-build in a way that wasn’t overly informative and easy to digest.
The action itself is a bit of a slow burn as Lawson takes the time to build up the characters and introduce new plot lines. However, I never felt bored or that the pacing was too slow. I delighted in the slower moments when characters were discussing plans, or trying to determine who was friend or foe.
My favorite thing about the plot is that it was not a straight line from point A to point B. The characters would head out to complete something, end up having to deal with a different task, that task would take them elsewhere, etc. I was never sure where things would end up, and I was unable to predict the storyline.
Within those caveats, the characters would make plans on how to get out of certain debacles. Yet, a lot of plans were thwarted, which fueled my enjoyment, not because I did not want the characters to succeed, but because it forced the characters to come up with unique ways to problem-solve.
The Envoys of War was a very fun adventure. With characters to love, characters to hate, and a plot that evolves as the story goes on, it’s a must-read for fantasy fans, especially those who are newer to the genre. Lawson builds strong characters, navigates them through exciting twisty plots, and crafts fierce battle scenes. I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook, whose narrator was superb and perfect for each character involved.
A FanFi Addict Review
The close friendship box is checked off by Cordyn and Gen. Cordyn is a mess, and it’s curious why Gen favors him so much. Gen is straightforward with a good heart. Cordyn often entertains himself with devious activities. The pair is given a quest right from the beginning, and while their friendship seems mismatched, their interactions offer humorous banter and fun contrast.
However, rather than every effort propelling our characters toward achieving their main goal, the conflicts line up and their courses change throughout until the main quest is irrelevant. The characters don’t just encounter stumbling blocks, but events that change their direction completely. They don’t allow their duties to overpower their morality, regardless of the shenanigans Cordyn dabbles in.
We pick up a few people along the way, and the dynamic between several of the characters shifts throughout the book. Characters that I didn’t like at the beginning, I became fond of later on. Characters who didn’t like each other but maintained a mutual goal worked together. Some even started as enemies, or uncertain strangers, only to become the best of friends.
The banter between characters was enjoyable, suitable for the atmosphere of the book, not over the top, while still feeling genuine. It also served to help world-build in a way that wasn’t overly informative and easy to digest.
The action itself is a bit of a slow burn as Lawson takes the time to build up the characters and introduce new plot lines. However, I never felt bored or that the pacing was too slow. I delighted in the slower moments when characters were discussing plans, or trying to determine who was friend or foe.
My favorite thing about the plot is that it was not a straight line from point A to point B. The characters would head out to complete something, end up having to deal with a different task, that task would take them elsewhere, etc. I was never sure where things would end up, and I was unable to predict the storyline.
Within those caveats, the characters would make plans on how to get out of certain debacles. Yet, a lot of plans were thwarted, which fueled my enjoyment, not because I did not want the characters to succeed, but because it forced the characters to come up with unique ways to problem-solve.
The Envoys of War was a very fun adventure. With characters to love, characters to hate, and a plot that evolves as the story goes on, it’s a must-read for fantasy fans, especially those who are newer to the genre. Lawson builds strong characters, navigates them through exciting twisty plots, and crafts fierce battle scenes. I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook, whose narrator was superb and perfect for each character involved.
A FanFi Addict Review
October 12, 2024
Envoys of War was so much fun! The characters were a loveable hot mess, the story was fast paced and full of twists and turns, and the dialogue and banter was witty and hilarious! I adored this book and cannot wait to see what Dave Lawson does next. Check this book out, or Francois will come for you! Wondering what that meant...well read the book and you'll know!
September 28, 2025
If you're looking for a fun fantasy adventure, look no further! It was funny, with great voice, and wonderful characters that had me invested from the get go.
Gen and Tobais where were my favorites. Gen with her affinity for winter plum wine and naming dangerous animals was hilarious and I loved seeing the world from her point of view. Tobias was the brooding anti hero that added a nice depth to the story.
The narration was fantastic and I loved all of the characters voices.
I highly enjoyed this adventure and can't wait to see where the crew goes next.
Gen and Tobais where were my favorites. Gen with her affinity for winter plum wine and naming dangerous animals was hilarious and I loved seeing the world from her point of view. Tobias was the brooding anti hero that added a nice depth to the story.
The narration was fantastic and I loved all of the characters voices.
I highly enjoyed this adventure and can't wait to see where the crew goes next.
May 1, 2025
I appreciate what the author was going for, but this was a genre mismatch for me. I think fans of humorous fantasy like Terry Prachett will find a lot to like here, but unfortunately like the Prachett I’ve read, I’m not the right audience. The accent and performance of the audiobook narrator did a great job conveying the humor as well!
The key in how much you enjoy this book will be how you feel about the main characters Cordyn and Gen. I know several people who love Cordyn, but he was not for me. Cordyn is a snarky fop that injects humor and uncertainty into any scene he is and the story thrives when thrown into that Chaos. Gen, steadier and often the “straight man,” provides a contrast while adding her own blend of humor and I found her to be the more relatable of the two.
I did find that I liked Tobias and Evhalia significantly more as far as side characters go, and felt both represented intriguing dimensions to this story.
The writing was of a good quality, and if dry British humor with a dash of absurdity in Fantasy is your thing (think the IT Crowd), you will absolutely love this!
The key in how much you enjoy this book will be how you feel about the main characters Cordyn and Gen. I know several people who love Cordyn, but he was not for me. Cordyn is a snarky fop that injects humor and uncertainty into any scene he is and the story thrives when thrown into that Chaos. Gen, steadier and often the “straight man,” provides a contrast while adding her own blend of humor and I found her to be the more relatable of the two.
I did find that I liked Tobias and Evhalia significantly more as far as side characters go, and felt both represented intriguing dimensions to this story.
The writing was of a good quality, and if dry British humor with a dash of absurdity in Fantasy is your thing (think the IT Crowd), you will absolutely love this!
September 27, 2025
I loved absolutely everything about this book, so much so that I had a really hard time whenever I had to put it down.
A well-written, highly captivating and intriguing story with many lovable and quite diverse (introverts, extroverts, aro/ace, and neurodivergent) characters, and so much witty snark and banter. It has everything you want from a DnD-style swords & sorcery fantasy novel that focuses more on the swords and less on the sorcery, the same way it focuses more on the characters and the storytelling and less on the combat.
I had a blast reading it and I cannot wait until the next book in the series comes out - or the novella about Cork (who reminds me so much of Grog from Vox Machina).
Dave did a marvellous job with (t)his debut novel and I am hoping he will be blessing us with his stories for many decades to come.
Suitable for middle grade and up (~12+), I'd say - but I have no kids and started reading Stephen King when I was 11, so take it with a grain of salt.
A well-written, highly captivating and intriguing story with many lovable and quite diverse (introverts, extroverts, aro/ace, and neurodivergent) characters, and so much witty snark and banter. It has everything you want from a DnD-style swords & sorcery fantasy novel that focuses more on the swords and less on the sorcery, the same way it focuses more on the characters and the storytelling and less on the combat.
I had a blast reading it and I cannot wait until the next book in the series comes out - or the novella about Cork (who reminds me so much of Grog from Vox Machina).
Dave did a marvellous job with (t)his debut novel and I am hoping he will be blessing us with his stories for many decades to come.
Suitable for middle grade and up (~12+), I'd say - but I have no kids and started reading Stephen King when I was 11, so take it with a grain of salt.
May 16, 2025
4.25/5
Couple of quick notes
This is a review for the audiobook which is currently not an option on GR, which was narrated by Laurence Sterling Knott
My copy of the audiobook was gifted by the author in return for an honest review.
The blurb for this says it is a good read for Dnd fans, and I can confirm that this does a good job of emulating some of the vibe of playing a dnd game,if mildly less absurd.
What really works for me is that our 2 initial leads of Gen and Cordyn are just people going about their jobs, as spy and their protector, tasked with delivering military intelligence to an ally who is at war, except the government think Cordyn is a double agent and have tasked Gen with uncovering the truth.
We have a couple of interesting arc's here, with Gen struggling to square the idea that her friend is a traitor, whilst we slowly peel back layers of Cordyn from smooth talking, occasionally elitist 'bard' archetype character (lock up your woman!) and see that underneath a lot more is going on.
This is complicated when they meet the rest of the leads, and uncover a plot that pricks all their moral consciences and gets them all on the same page, if for different reasons.
Also worth mentioning is the magic system, which I loved, the idea if sticking with one element and using it so creatively is really impressive, and does a surprising amount to flesh out the world simply due to how it is applied.
The ending is well done as well, and is open ended enough to follow on from but doesn't do the whole end of book cliffhanger bit that can be frustrating, it very much feels like a first arc has come to a natural stop point
Finally on the narration, and it is spot on, Laurence Sterling Knott does an outstanding job, with small nuances in delivery as well as all characters getting a unique voice/accent so it is easy to tell the characters apart, and a nice touch was the internal monologues staying in character voice as well rather than dipping back into the default narration which was a nice touch.
All in all, a very good fantasy, with great narration which fans of the genre should consider picking up.
Couple of quick notes
This is a review for the audiobook which is currently not an option on GR, which was narrated by Laurence Sterling Knott
My copy of the audiobook was gifted by the author in return for an honest review.
The blurb for this says it is a good read for Dnd fans, and I can confirm that this does a good job of emulating some of the vibe of playing a dnd game,if mildly less absurd.
What really works for me is that our 2 initial leads of Gen and Cordyn are just people going about their jobs, as spy and their protector, tasked with delivering military intelligence to an ally who is at war, except the government think Cordyn is a double agent and have tasked Gen with uncovering the truth.
We have a couple of interesting arc's here, with Gen struggling to square the idea that her friend is a traitor, whilst we slowly peel back layers of Cordyn from smooth talking, occasionally elitist 'bard' archetype character (lock up your woman!) and see that underneath a lot more is going on.
This is complicated when they meet the rest of the leads, and uncover a plot that pricks all their moral consciences and gets them all on the same page, if for different reasons.
Also worth mentioning is the magic system, which I loved, the idea if sticking with one element and using it so creatively is really impressive, and does a surprising amount to flesh out the world simply due to how it is applied.
The ending is well done as well, and is open ended enough to follow on from but doesn't do the whole end of book cliffhanger bit that can be frustrating, it very much feels like a first arc has come to a natural stop point
Finally on the narration, and it is spot on, Laurence Sterling Knott does an outstanding job, with small nuances in delivery as well as all characters getting a unique voice/accent so it is easy to tell the characters apart, and a nice touch was the internal monologues staying in character voice as well rather than dipping back into the default narration which was a nice touch.
All in all, a very good fantasy, with great narration which fans of the genre should consider picking up.
June 30, 2025
I couldn't be more happy to have this as my first book for my fantasy journey. You get introduced to a character named Gen, a bodyguard for the kings envoy's who gets sent on a mission that she and her good friend Cordyn will never forget. No mission is never simple, right? They have no idea what they're about to get themselves into. On their journey, they meet several people who have... other intentions. Let's just say that, quoted from a friend of mine, and I couldn't agree more. This is an "enemy of my enemy is my friend" novel.
As far as the writing goes. It is very easy to read, very immersive. The author knows how to keep you engaged. It's a bit of a slow build, and we all know how that could lead readers to become distant and find the story lacking, but that's not the case with this one. To me, if an author can make their story a slow build but keep your attention, you know you're about to experience something fantastic. The book focuses on quite a few characters. Trust me, you won't feel lost. The author keeps it easy to follow. I only wish there was more of a back story with Gen and Cordyn. And who knows, we might find out more about their past in future one's
Overall, this was an outstanding first fantasy novel for me to begin with. Their is a prequel, and I plan on getting to that very soon. I'm not sure if the author is currently working on book two, but I can't wait to see what he brings to the table next. Highly recommend!!
As far as the writing goes. It is very easy to read, very immersive. The author knows how to keep you engaged. It's a bit of a slow build, and we all know how that could lead readers to become distant and find the story lacking, but that's not the case with this one. To me, if an author can make their story a slow build but keep your attention, you know you're about to experience something fantastic. The book focuses on quite a few characters. Trust me, you won't feel lost. The author keeps it easy to follow. I only wish there was more of a back story with Gen and Cordyn. And who knows, we might find out more about their past in future one's
Overall, this was an outstanding first fantasy novel for me to begin with. Their is a prequel, and I plan on getting to that very soon. I'm not sure if the author is currently working on book two, but I can't wait to see what he brings to the table next. Highly recommend!!
April 14, 2025
Great character work
“Faking a smile was harder than faking anger. With anger, at least, you could remove all expression from your face. With happiness, you needed to put on a show.”
Wasn’t sure about this one at first. The main trio (except Gen) was pretty unlikable for the first couple chapters, but watching their characters grow really made this book awesome.
I loved the character dynamics, and it made each POV more fun considering no one really trusts each other. The magic system is great too. Having it based off water was an interesting concept and really allowed for neat moments and ideas like blood magic. The big bad at the end is kind of cartoonishly evil, but for a fantasy adventure it works. The whole story reads like a D&D campaign which I’ll always appreciate
“Faking a smile was harder than faking anger. With anger, at least, you could remove all expression from your face. With happiness, you needed to put on a show.”
Wasn’t sure about this one at first. The main trio (except Gen) was pretty unlikable for the first couple chapters, but watching their characters grow really made this book awesome.
I loved the character dynamics, and it made each POV more fun considering no one really trusts each other. The magic system is great too. Having it based off water was an interesting concept and really allowed for neat moments and ideas like blood magic. The big bad at the end is kind of cartoonishly evil, but for a fantasy adventure it works. The whole story reads like a D&D campaign which I’ll always appreciate
October 15, 2024
Cordyn and Gen are envoys for the nation of Piran, tasked with a mission to deliver a critical report to an allied nation. But Gen is also tasked with another, more important mission: to find out if her friend Cordyn is secretly a spy for the enemy.
As they travel to their destination, they run into a mage named Tobias who has a grudge against Cordyn's family. Through some mental gymnastics, he joins the group while seeking revenge on Cordyn.
They eventually meet Evalia, a pretty musician whose younger brother is kidnapped during the machinations of the warring countries. The unlikely crew end up on a mission to rescue her brother and other children from an enemy warcamp.
A single word can sum up The Envoys of War: shenanigans. Plans are made, plans go awry and new plans take their place. The vibrant characterization of Cordyn and Gen steal the show and glue you to the page. All the characters are fun, well written, and have complex internal struggles.
Lawson perfectly balances the tone of the story. The setting always feels grounded and even with the wild schemes and eccentric characters, the darker background of war gives each conflict an air of believability.
That being said, I would have liked a bit more depth to the politics and external conflict. In several cases alliances seemed to be formed at the mere mention of child prisoners (which in my mind is an unfortunately common occurrence in war). I also wanted stronger character arcs for the cast, who don't seem to grow much through their adventure. Cordyn starts off as a womanizing schemer and ends up in the same spot. Gen remains a drinker with a heart of gold, only slightly wavering in her trust of Cordyn. I'd argue Tobias has the strongest character arc, but is robbed of his final climatic choice which is given to his nephew Topper instead.
All in all The Envoys of War was a gripping read that I recommend to anyone who likes witty characters, political machinations, and D&D style shenanigans.
As they travel to their destination, they run into a mage named Tobias who has a grudge against Cordyn's family. Through some mental gymnastics, he joins the group while seeking revenge on Cordyn.
They eventually meet Evalia, a pretty musician whose younger brother is kidnapped during the machinations of the warring countries. The unlikely crew end up on a mission to rescue her brother and other children from an enemy warcamp.
A single word can sum up The Envoys of War: shenanigans. Plans are made, plans go awry and new plans take their place. The vibrant characterization of Cordyn and Gen steal the show and glue you to the page. All the characters are fun, well written, and have complex internal struggles.
Lawson perfectly balances the tone of the story. The setting always feels grounded and even with the wild schemes and eccentric characters, the darker background of war gives each conflict an air of believability.
That being said, I would have liked a bit more depth to the politics and external conflict. In several cases alliances seemed to be formed at the mere mention of child prisoners (which in my mind is an unfortunately common occurrence in war). I also wanted stronger character arcs for the cast, who don't seem to grow much through their adventure. Cordyn starts off as a womanizing schemer and ends up in the same spot. Gen remains a drinker with a heart of gold, only slightly wavering in her trust of Cordyn. I'd argue Tobias has the strongest character arc, but is robbed of his final climatic choice which is given to his nephew Topper instead.
All in all The Envoys of War was a gripping read that I recommend to anyone who likes witty characters, political machinations, and D&D style shenanigans.
November 23, 2024
A fantastic debut; The Envoys of War should be on every fantasy readers TBR.
The story follows our two heroes; Cordyn Tallen, a rakish provocateur, and Gen, a straightforward sword-wielding badass. The two are Envoys for the nation of Piran.
What starts as a routine mission soon spirals into a daring rescue in dangerous territory.
There is plenty of wit and charm here, but the drama always takes centre stage. Lawson is very effective at building anticipation and tension in the many plans that unravel.
The dialogue flows very naturally, with personality popping of the page for certain standout characters. Speaking of which, Tobias Stinton is a perfect example of a "marmite character". At points you hate him, at others you root for him.
Without getting into spoilers, the major conflict of the book is a nice surprise which focuses the drama on our characters, while expertly weaving in worldbuilding.
As for magic, there is plenty of watery wizardry to be found - with some interesting scenarios not unlike some of the waterbending you'd find in ATLA.
The book races to an exciting conclusion that leaves the reader with an interesting hook for a sequel, which I hope is not too far in the future.
The story follows our two heroes; Cordyn Tallen, a rakish provocateur, and Gen, a straightforward sword-wielding badass. The two are Envoys for the nation of Piran.
What starts as a routine mission soon spirals into a daring rescue in dangerous territory.
There is plenty of wit and charm here, but the drama always takes centre stage. Lawson is very effective at building anticipation and tension in the many plans that unravel.
The dialogue flows very naturally, with personality popping of the page for certain standout characters. Speaking of which, Tobias Stinton is a perfect example of a "marmite character". At points you hate him, at others you root for him.
Without getting into spoilers, the major conflict of the book is a nice surprise which focuses the drama on our characters, while expertly weaving in worldbuilding.
As for magic, there is plenty of watery wizardry to be found - with some interesting scenarios not unlike some of the waterbending you'd find in ATLA.
The book races to an exciting conclusion that leaves the reader with an interesting hook for a sequel, which I hope is not too far in the future.
April 10, 2025
Crazy plans and crazy snark
I had great fun!
Dave wrote a great, fun paced story with plenty of snark and crazy plans.
Undoubtedly its most remarkable aspect is the character work he manages throughout the story, slowly letting us know more and more of them, and making them slowly sneak [not Gen, she has not a single skill point in sneaking] into our fold.
This is a quintessential Rag-Tag Team story. Love it how all the characters feel unique and involved, and they get so much in each other's ways. It felt like a D&D table that was hellbent on driving the DM crazy.
Thr story is simple at first, but as the book progresses so does the stakes and there's where the plot and the story find their stride, when you really feel the scope and the stakes getting wider, more expensive, more serious.
I now eagerly wait for the second entry in this fun-paced story, with even more snark and crazy plans.
PS: Gen, please stop putting ALL your skill points in swordsmanship for the love of Kirth! 🤣
I had great fun!
Dave wrote a great, fun paced story with plenty of snark and crazy plans.
Undoubtedly its most remarkable aspect is the character work he manages throughout the story, slowly letting us know more and more of them, and making them slowly sneak [not Gen, she has not a single skill point in sneaking] into our fold.
This is a quintessential Rag-Tag Team story. Love it how all the characters feel unique and involved, and they get so much in each other's ways. It felt like a D&D table that was hellbent on driving the DM crazy.
Thr story is simple at first, but as the book progresses so does the stakes and there's where the plot and the story find their stride, when you really feel the scope and the stakes getting wider, more expensive, more serious.
I now eagerly wait for the second entry in this fun-paced story, with even more snark and crazy plans.
PS: Gen, please stop putting ALL your skill points in swordsmanship for the love of Kirth! 🤣
September 20, 2025
5 stars!!!
What an adventure! Gen and Cordyn are your MCs and so fun! Gen’s inner monologue hilarious! Cordyn and Evelia banter is funny with a very minor romance sub plot. The found family in this book is really great. Tobias and Cork are really great side characters and can’t wait to read more about them too I hope! I really appreciate the world and the descriptions really allowed me to see the world in my mind! I listened to this book first and then read several of the chapters on KU because I felt I missed part of the story and I’m so glad I did! The humor in this book!!! The best!! Such a great adventure!
The audiobook was done so well! The narrator was fantastic! His voice changes for the characters was perfect! Had to listen slower @1.2 though because this is a very fast paced book and I was missing a lot hahahha. Overall, great fantasy adventure with quests, twists, lovable characters. Thank you @ Dave Lawson for sending me this audiobook. This review is my honest opinion!
What an adventure! Gen and Cordyn are your MCs and so fun! Gen’s inner monologue hilarious! Cordyn and Evelia banter is funny with a very minor romance sub plot. The found family in this book is really great. Tobias and Cork are really great side characters and can’t wait to read more about them too I hope! I really appreciate the world and the descriptions really allowed me to see the world in my mind! I listened to this book first and then read several of the chapters on KU because I felt I missed part of the story and I’m so glad I did! The humor in this book!!! The best!! Such a great adventure!
The audiobook was done so well! The narrator was fantastic! His voice changes for the characters was perfect! Had to listen slower @1.2 though because this is a very fast paced book and I was missing a lot hahahha. Overall, great fantasy adventure with quests, twists, lovable characters. Thank you @ Dave Lawson for sending me this audiobook. This review is my honest opinion!
April 3, 2025
Dave Lawson’s novel has been my companion this past month as I adjust to living abroad and even though I can only read a few pages a day cause of my hectic work schedule, I enjoyed the colorful characters he’s created in the world of Sarakan! I thoroughly had fun with the dialogues between and among the characters especially Cordyn’s wit and sarcasm! The book is wonderfully balanced and is a definite recommendation to those looking to start their journey in the realm of fantasy fiction! I can’t wait to read what you have next for us, Dave!
August 24, 2025
I just loved this book and most of all its characters.
A fast-paced adventure full of action and fun, that I could describe as the A-team in a fantasy setting.
The worldbuilding, the history, the politics and the backgrounds of the characters are not too detailed, maybe we will know more in the next books, but these characters (especially Gen), and their interactions are what made me love the book.
That and the main themes of the story, friendship and doing the right thing, even when it's not the easiest solution.
And like the episodes of A-Team, at the end you feel good, and your heart feels warmer.
A fast-paced adventure full of action and fun, that I could describe as the A-team in a fantasy setting.
The worldbuilding, the history, the politics and the backgrounds of the characters are not too detailed, maybe we will know more in the next books, but these characters (especially Gen), and their interactions are what made me love the book.
That and the main themes of the story, friendship and doing the right thing, even when it's not the easiest solution.
And like the episodes of A-Team, at the end you feel good, and your heart feels warmer.
December 27, 2025
The Envoys of War (The Envoys of Chaos #1) by Dave Lawson is a fun, fast-paced fantasy adventure with a chaotic cast of characters, plenty of action, and a plot that twists and turns in unpredictable ways. It pulls you in quickly and keeps the momentum going, even if some parts feel a bit familiar.
The main characters are a mess, but in an entertaining way.
Gen is a skilled bodyguard, asexual and with no interest in romance, who drinks, fights, and keeps everyone on their toes. I loved seeing aromantic representation done well!
Cordyn is a charming rogue whose cunning and flirtation often get him into more trouble than he planned.
Tobias is a morally grey mage with secrets and a thirst for vengeance.
None of them signed up fot the adventure they are in for, yet they are thrown together for a dangerous mission. Watching them clash, bicker, and occasionally cooperate is one of the book’s best parts. That said, the characters did feel a little tropey at times, and some personalities veered toward caricature, even while remaining entertaining.
The magic in this story is chaotic and unpredictable. It doesn’t feel carefully measured or structured, and sometimes it behaves almost at random. That said, it fits perfectly with the wild, messy world and fast-moving plot. It’s fun to see what the characters pull off, and it adds to the sense of danger and unpredictability throughout the book.
One thing that didn’t fully work for me was how consequences were handled. Injuries or punishments are presented as serious, but characters often recover almost instantly or shrug off events that should leave a mark. It created a disconnect between what was described as dangerous or debilitating and what the characters were actually able to do anyway. It never completely breaks the story, but it did make the stakes feel less convincing.
Overall, The Envoys of War is an entertaining, energetic read. It’s packed with humor, messy characters, clever schemes, and just enough danger to keep you turning pages. It’s a lighter read in style rather than tone, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, chaotic fantasy adventure. It’s not flawless, but it’s an enjoyable read.
The main characters are a mess, but in an entertaining way.
Gen is a skilled bodyguard, asexual and with no interest in romance, who drinks, fights, and keeps everyone on their toes. I loved seeing aromantic representation done well!
Cordyn is a charming rogue whose cunning and flirtation often get him into more trouble than he planned.
Tobias is a morally grey mage with secrets and a thirst for vengeance.
None of them signed up fot the adventure they are in for, yet they are thrown together for a dangerous mission. Watching them clash, bicker, and occasionally cooperate is one of the book’s best parts. That said, the characters did feel a little tropey at times, and some personalities veered toward caricature, even while remaining entertaining.
The magic in this story is chaotic and unpredictable. It doesn’t feel carefully measured or structured, and sometimes it behaves almost at random. That said, it fits perfectly with the wild, messy world and fast-moving plot. It’s fun to see what the characters pull off, and it adds to the sense of danger and unpredictability throughout the book.
One thing that didn’t fully work for me was how consequences were handled. Injuries or punishments are presented as serious, but characters often recover almost instantly or shrug off events that should leave a mark. It created a disconnect between what was described as dangerous or debilitating and what the characters were actually able to do anyway. It never completely breaks the story, but it did make the stakes feel less convincing.
Overall, The Envoys of War is an entertaining, energetic read. It’s packed with humor, messy characters, clever schemes, and just enough danger to keep you turning pages. It’s a lighter read in style rather than tone, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, chaotic fantasy adventure. It’s not flawless, but it’s an enjoyable read.
June 1, 2025
Review originally posted to the SFF Insiders website:
Once in a while there is a book that makes a splash in the reading world in a variety of ways. Enter Envoys of War in such a fashion, taking the reading world by storm. I saw it multiple times with the most memorable being the cover that had the mustaches on every character as well as the sword. Little did I know that it would be a sign of how the stage was set for a very fun read that reads like a breath of fresh air for the fantasy genre. The author does a great job of introducing the characters and story that set the stage for what ends up being a debut with a lot of heart and even more humor. I did do this as an audiobook and felt that the narrator did an exceptional job of portraying this story. The jokes were able to hit just right, much like the sword of Gen. Overall, fans of Dungeons and Dragons will fall in love with this story that has a lot of elements of fantasy in a lower stakes setting. There is a lot happening in the background that I believe will eventually come to light for the readers, but this is an excellent beginning to a series that will have a cult-like following in no time.
The strength of the novel are the characters, especially with the humor that is portrayed. Some of it is subtle, while others are deliberately thrown into the face of the readers to break up the action. I feel that readers will feel drawn to one of the characters more than the others, but it will all be one who they relate with the most. I found myself drawn to Tobias, finding his storyline very intriguing. Each will have a moment that will be memorable for a reason that will stay in a reader's mind for a long time. I did feel that there were moments of action that felt sudden and surprising, much like a video game or other RPG where the character would run into a mob of enemies that had to be vanquished. The action is well written and easy to picture, often being something that will get the heart pumping. I was pulled out of the flow a couple of times when these scenes did pop up, which surprised me as I tend to love all of the action. I can see readers easily looking forward to all of these scenes as they will play out like a movie in their mind.
This book knows exactly what it is and delivers with a resounding round of applause. With characters that will become beloved, a reader should look forward to a fun action packed romp of an adventure. I know that I look forward to the future stories that the author will deliver as this is one that was a perfect fit in between some denser reads, being a nice palette cleanser of a read. I encourage all fantasy readers to pick this up, especially if character driven adventures are a recipe for a good time. This one will hit the spot, just like the perfect wine.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
Once in a while there is a book that makes a splash in the reading world in a variety of ways. Enter Envoys of War in such a fashion, taking the reading world by storm. I saw it multiple times with the most memorable being the cover that had the mustaches on every character as well as the sword. Little did I know that it would be a sign of how the stage was set for a very fun read that reads like a breath of fresh air for the fantasy genre. The author does a great job of introducing the characters and story that set the stage for what ends up being a debut with a lot of heart and even more humor. I did do this as an audiobook and felt that the narrator did an exceptional job of portraying this story. The jokes were able to hit just right, much like the sword of Gen. Overall, fans of Dungeons and Dragons will fall in love with this story that has a lot of elements of fantasy in a lower stakes setting. There is a lot happening in the background that I believe will eventually come to light for the readers, but this is an excellent beginning to a series that will have a cult-like following in no time.
The strength of the novel are the characters, especially with the humor that is portrayed. Some of it is subtle, while others are deliberately thrown into the face of the readers to break up the action. I feel that readers will feel drawn to one of the characters more than the others, but it will all be one who they relate with the most. I found myself drawn to Tobias, finding his storyline very intriguing. Each will have a moment that will be memorable for a reason that will stay in a reader's mind for a long time. I did feel that there were moments of action that felt sudden and surprising, much like a video game or other RPG where the character would run into a mob of enemies that had to be vanquished. The action is well written and easy to picture, often being something that will get the heart pumping. I was pulled out of the flow a couple of times when these scenes did pop up, which surprised me as I tend to love all of the action. I can see readers easily looking forward to all of these scenes as they will play out like a movie in their mind.
This book knows exactly what it is and delivers with a resounding round of applause. With characters that will become beloved, a reader should look forward to a fun action packed romp of an adventure. I know that I look forward to the future stories that the author will deliver as this is one that was a perfect fit in between some denser reads, being a nice palette cleanser of a read. I encourage all fantasy readers to pick this up, especially if character driven adventures are a recipe for a good time. This one will hit the spot, just like the perfect wine.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
June 6, 2025
This is a twisty, banterish, fantasy adventure that leans towards politics, betrayal, and surprisingly heartfelt relationships. It's an excellent, easy read or listen (full disclosure, I listened to the audiobook). Ren and Cordyn make a great duo, and author Dave Lawson sends them on a somewhat ridiculous, somewhat high-stakes road trip ostensibly to deliver a secret message but really to discover if Cordyn is a double agent.
It's a fun book that delivers exactly what it promises, but also surprises you with its depth, interesting character turns, and heart. Highly recommended.
It's a fun book that delivers exactly what it promises, but also surprises you with its depth, interesting character turns, and heart. Highly recommended.
February 27, 2026
Review first published on Willow Wraith Press
I was looking for an entertaining read, and The Envoys of War fitted my requirements. The banter is reminiscent of the witty exchanges you may find in classic British comedies or Jane Austen’s novels (there’s a smidgen of romance here), and the plot moves at the same clipping pace as the horses on their cross-country journeys. Some politicking and swordplay further enliven the proceedings. I can recommend the immersive audiobook. The narrator handles the different regional accents well and speaks in a distinctive register for each member of the main cast.
The two suns in this world quickly clue us in that this is not a historical fantasy set on the Earth we know. However, the dress codes are reminiscent of the 1700s, with characters calling our rakish protagonist a “libertine”. The magic system is effective in its simplicity. Rather than portraying characters who can manipulate a variety of elements, Envoys has only mages who manipulate water (which has some versatile applications).
While this is a multi-POV story, I’d consider Gen to be our main character. She’s a kind, loyal, and trusting woman who is also a demon on the battlefield. Her lack of interest in romance or physical relationships is portrayed in a very natural way. That’s not to say she is without her indulgences. She enjoys her wine a little too much and keeps Maralda, her sword, close at all times.
Cordyn, her long-time travelling companion, doesn’t share her restraint when it comes to taking lovers. His introduction sets up his character perfectly (we find him partially clothed and on the run). If he’s not already in trouble, he’s plotting it. At least he’s handsome and quick-witted enough to wheedle his way out of most dilemmas. A classic rake, Cordyn can’t be reformed by just anyone. But a certain lute-wielding temptress might just be up to the task.
Unfortunately, Cordyn’s hedonistic lifestyle has drawn suspicion. An envoy of his station shouldn’t be able to afford all that he has; it is possible he’s betraying his country for money. On their upcoming mission, Gen is tasked with delving into his financial affairs. It won’t be an easy feat; if Gen is the heart and the muscle behind their operations, Cordyn is the brain. And, on a more personal note, she doesn’t want to turn against her friend.
On their travels, they encounter intriguing characters like Tobias, Evalia, and Cork. All have defined personalities and agendas that impact Cordyn and Gen’s original plans in significant ways. Attitude and vendettas are evenly distributed throughout the cast.
While there’s a good dash of wry humour in Envoys, I wouldn’t describe it as a comedy. There are also sobering moments involving a coming war and an investigation into missing mage children. Some creative dismemberments occur along the way, many of them courtesy of Maralda. This book also has one of the most unusual torture scenes I’ve read (unusual in motive, more than execution). The finer details of the plot become a little murky in the middle. I struggled to establish a sense of place, time, and distances covered. Eventually, I got my bearings and started to better understand the cultures of Piran, Rosenfell and the mysterious Winn, and the tenuous political relationships between them.
The brilliant character work and sharp writing cover for the aspects of the plot that were a little harder to follow. While many of the characters do fit recognisable archetypes, they aren’t static. I liked the way they were unpacked and developed beyond the bounds of what I first expected. If you like adventures that deliver laughs and gasps in equal measure, The Envoys of Chaos might be the series for you.
I was looking for an entertaining read, and The Envoys of War fitted my requirements. The banter is reminiscent of the witty exchanges you may find in classic British comedies or Jane Austen’s novels (there’s a smidgen of romance here), and the plot moves at the same clipping pace as the horses on their cross-country journeys. Some politicking and swordplay further enliven the proceedings. I can recommend the immersive audiobook. The narrator handles the different regional accents well and speaks in a distinctive register for each member of the main cast.
The two suns in this world quickly clue us in that this is not a historical fantasy set on the Earth we know. However, the dress codes are reminiscent of the 1700s, with characters calling our rakish protagonist a “libertine”. The magic system is effective in its simplicity. Rather than portraying characters who can manipulate a variety of elements, Envoys has only mages who manipulate water (which has some versatile applications).
While this is a multi-POV story, I’d consider Gen to be our main character. She’s a kind, loyal, and trusting woman who is also a demon on the battlefield. Her lack of interest in romance or physical relationships is portrayed in a very natural way. That’s not to say she is without her indulgences. She enjoys her wine a little too much and keeps Maralda, her sword, close at all times.
Cordyn, her long-time travelling companion, doesn’t share her restraint when it comes to taking lovers. His introduction sets up his character perfectly (we find him partially clothed and on the run). If he’s not already in trouble, he’s plotting it. At least he’s handsome and quick-witted enough to wheedle his way out of most dilemmas. A classic rake, Cordyn can’t be reformed by just anyone. But a certain lute-wielding temptress might just be up to the task.
Unfortunately, Cordyn’s hedonistic lifestyle has drawn suspicion. An envoy of his station shouldn’t be able to afford all that he has; it is possible he’s betraying his country for money. On their upcoming mission, Gen is tasked with delving into his financial affairs. It won’t be an easy feat; if Gen is the heart and the muscle behind their operations, Cordyn is the brain. And, on a more personal note, she doesn’t want to turn against her friend.
On their travels, they encounter intriguing characters like Tobias, Evalia, and Cork. All have defined personalities and agendas that impact Cordyn and Gen’s original plans in significant ways. Attitude and vendettas are evenly distributed throughout the cast.
While there’s a good dash of wry humour in Envoys, I wouldn’t describe it as a comedy. There are also sobering moments involving a coming war and an investigation into missing mage children. Some creative dismemberments occur along the way, many of them courtesy of Maralda. This book also has one of the most unusual torture scenes I’ve read (unusual in motive, more than execution). The finer details of the plot become a little murky in the middle. I struggled to establish a sense of place, time, and distances covered. Eventually, I got my bearings and started to better understand the cultures of Piran, Rosenfell and the mysterious Winn, and the tenuous political relationships between them.
The brilliant character work and sharp writing cover for the aspects of the plot that were a little harder to follow. While many of the characters do fit recognisable archetypes, they aren’t static. I liked the way they were unpacked and developed beyond the bounds of what I first expected. If you like adventures that deliver laughs and gasps in equal measure, The Envoys of Chaos might be the series for you.
October 18, 2024
The Envoys of War by Dave Lawson, is a character driven novel with lots of action and adventure. I really enjoyed reading it. I like Cordyn, who is witty and charming and is a master at using his intelligence and verbal skills against his opponents. Gen is a warrior with sword skills and her sword Maralda is her pride and joy. She is a animal lover and loyal to her friends also which gives her a softer side.
The world building is fascinating in this novel and I love the map and descriptions of the territories in which they travel and fight their enemies. The strengths and weaknesses of each person and their conflicts with each other are intriguing. We meet the mage Tobias who has revenge on his mind. There are a whole cast of characters from different territories, such as Evalia and Cork who I loved as well.
I recommend this book . It is a lot of fun to read!
This is a wonderful story with plenty of character driven narrative and a lot of action and adventure!
The world building is fascinating in this novel and I love the map and descriptions of the territories in which they travel and fight their enemies. The strengths and weaknesses of each person and their conflicts with each other are intriguing. We meet the mage Tobias who has revenge on his mind. There are a whole cast of characters from different territories, such as Evalia and Cork who I loved as well.
I recommend this book . It is a lot of fun to read!
This is a wonderful story with plenty of character driven narrative and a lot of action and adventure!
March 9, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up :)
This was a great, fun ride that kept me hooked throughout!
Full RTC soon
This was a great, fun ride that kept me hooked throughout!
Full RTC soon
June 14, 2025
Unless you want to kill us all...make less noise
January 1, 2025
He is the planner. She, the executioner, I mean executor of plans, although more often than not, it seems they are one and the same. They both love women, wine, and song. What can possibly go wrong when they are headed towards war? 😋
Well, as they are going on a mission, Envoy of kings, Gen is approached for a side mission. The question seems to be; Is Cordyn as loyal to the kingdom as Gen is to him?
As they embark on....no wait, are chased out of the town, we get vivid descriptions of nature, villages, and creatures that go bump in nature and not entirely in the night around the realm.
We also get to know our duo better. Yes, there are times you have to laugh out loud. Of course, our charmer with a way with words is not always hitting the mark, and it turns out that Gen has a gentler side as she finds herself wanting a wolvinn.😍
And, of course, a tale is not complete without a damsel in distress. Will Cordyn step up? Will Gen be able to drink more plum wine and let Maralda rest?
(OK, that is not what it sounds like). With magic on more than one level blooming, this is a ride for sure, perhaps better taken on wolvinns than horses. I think Gen is right. Let's go!🤗
Well, as they are going on a mission, Envoy of kings, Gen is approached for a side mission. The question seems to be; Is Cordyn as loyal to the kingdom as Gen is to him?
As they embark on....no wait, are chased out of the town, we get vivid descriptions of nature, villages, and creatures that go bump in nature and not entirely in the night around the realm.
We also get to know our duo better. Yes, there are times you have to laugh out loud. Of course, our charmer with a way with words is not always hitting the mark, and it turns out that Gen has a gentler side as she finds herself wanting a wolvinn.😍
And, of course, a tale is not complete without a damsel in distress. Will Cordyn step up? Will Gen be able to drink more plum wine and let Maralda rest?
(OK, that is not what it sounds like). With magic on more than one level blooming, this is a ride for sure, perhaps better taken on wolvinns than horses. I think Gen is right. Let's go!🤗
November 3, 2024
This was fantastic. I love the way Envoys reads like a D&D campaign where the party are all fantastic roleplayers. There’s so much humour and natural chemistry between the characters - even between Gen and her trusty greatsword, Maralda.
Envoys takes the two main characters, Cordyn and Gen on a sham mission that soon goes awry when they discover a group of mage children held captive. With political plots and wars far, far away in the distance, the book focuses on their new quest to save the children.
At a time where there's an abundance of high stakes fantasy it's refreshing that a novel like Envoys takes on a more sidequest feel. I'm not sure if sidequest fantasy is its own a genre but it should be, and this book is why.
Lawson uses every bit of his background in theatre to make each scene in Envoys impactful. I can envisage the author taking the characters to one side and showing them where to stand, how to deliver their lines, and how best to make the combat feel exhilarating.
Pick up a copy of this if you want to fall in love with some characters and read each page with a grin on your face.
Envoys takes the two main characters, Cordyn and Gen on a sham mission that soon goes awry when they discover a group of mage children held captive. With political plots and wars far, far away in the distance, the book focuses on their new quest to save the children.
At a time where there's an abundance of high stakes fantasy it's refreshing that a novel like Envoys takes on a more sidequest feel. I'm not sure if sidequest fantasy is its own a genre but it should be, and this book is why.
Lawson uses every bit of his background in theatre to make each scene in Envoys impactful. I can envisage the author taking the characters to one side and showing them where to stand, how to deliver their lines, and how best to make the combat feel exhilarating.
Pick up a copy of this if you want to fall in love with some characters and read each page with a grin on your face.
December 30, 2024
This was an absolute smash hit for me that I couldn't put down. Just when I thought I was done reading, I had to pick it back up and keep going! Banter is probably one of my favorite things with dialog in books and this has tons of it. Cordyn has tons with all the characters and it's downright hilarious at times. Gen is a giant sword-swinging baddie and even she chirps in with the banter of her own towards the end.
Between all that, the fast-paced action, and the plot twists and turns you never see coming, this tale was a fantastic one. And what lies ahead for this crew, I'm super excited to see it!
Between all that, the fast-paced action, and the plot twists and turns you never see coming, this tale was a fantastic one. And what lies ahead for this crew, I'm super excited to see it!
February 10, 2026
Envoys of War has a truly amazing cast of characters with distinct personalities, strong voice, witty banter and unique dialogue. The vastly different characters must come together, putting aside different goals and grudges to take on a mission bigger than any one of them individually. This thrilling adventure will keep you engaged and leave you eager to find out what shenanigans this group will get up to next!
August 29, 2024
I had so much fun reading this book. The author makes it a fun read mixing in great jokes, with fantastic story telling, and a few serious moments. I can't wait to read the next book in the series and see what happens with Gen, Cordyn, and the rest of the gang.
February 18, 2026
At the outset, the King sends Gen and her friend Cordyn into enemy territory to deliver important military information to an allied nation. Sounds simple enough, right? Yeah… not really.
Gen later realizes the whole mission is basically a lie. The real reason they were sent is because the King suspects Cordyn of being a spy (mostly because of his weird shopping habits), and Gen’s actual job is to secretly keep an eye on him.
And that’s where the real story starts.
From the moment Cordyn showed up,I loved him immediately. He’s charming, chaotic, and just has that energy that makes every scene better. Honestly, every character in this book is written so well, and the group dynamic is so much fun to read.
Worldbuilding is also really enjoyable. I especially liked how magic and mages work in this world.
What starts as a simple delivery mission turns into a rescue mission, and more people join the team along the way. Halfway through the book we meet Cork, and somehow he completely stole Cordyn’s spot and became my favorite. I was not expecting that at all.
I really loved the platonic relationships between the characters and how deeply they care about each other. That part felt so genuine.
Also I wanted to know more about Ned as I didn't get enough of him!
Overall, the whole book was just fun. I enjoyed every single moment of reading it.
Gen later realizes the whole mission is basically a lie. The real reason they were sent is because the King suspects Cordyn of being a spy (mostly because of his weird shopping habits), and Gen’s actual job is to secretly keep an eye on him.
And that’s where the real story starts.
From the moment Cordyn showed up,I loved him immediately. He’s charming, chaotic, and just has that energy that makes every scene better. Honestly, every character in this book is written so well, and the group dynamic is so much fun to read.
Worldbuilding is also really enjoyable. I especially liked how magic and mages work in this world.
What starts as a simple delivery mission turns into a rescue mission, and more people join the team along the way. Halfway through the book we meet Cork, and somehow he completely stole Cordyn’s spot and became my favorite. I was not expecting that at all.
I really loved the platonic relationships between the characters and how deeply they care about each other. That part felt so genuine.
Also I wanted to know more about Ned as I didn't get enough of him!
Overall, the whole book was just fun. I enjoyed every single moment of reading it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews