The Way of Orc and Drow: A Short Fantasy Novel

by Amzi Ilgen

Previously published as "Caliperius and the Orc".

Death was coming; Caliperius just didn’t know where or when...

Stripped of his ancestral power and influence, the dark elf found himself in an unfamiliar world with new dangers and no allies. Within two weeks of his royal exile, fate delivered a fellow fugitive to his side. Unfortunately, she came in the form of a twelve-year-old orc child, with her own unique set of problems.

Urosa was little more than a wild animal in the elf’s elitist eyes. To her, the drow was the epitome of civilized evil, his kind responsible for so much that was wrong with her world. In an act of mutual desperation, the two ancient enemies set aside their differences for a moment. It was either that or die...

Pansylvania is a mystical land, filled with colorful characters and marvelous creatures. A sharp sword and strong bow may help you survive, but a keen mind and a little magic will serve even better.

134 pages, Paperback

Published July 1, 2024

Reviews

[Lubov Leonova · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Beautiful Tale About Genuine Friendship

“The Way of Orc and Drow” explores the unlikely friendship between two enemies. The story revolves around Caliperius, a royal drow exiled from his kin, and Urosa, a hunted orc runaway seeking to escape a deadly past. While they originate from opposing races, their paths collide as they band together to survive the persistent threat of other orcs who pursue Urosa as the last of her bloodline.

One of the standout aspects of Ilgen's narrative is the character development. As Caliperius and Urosa confront their mutual challenges, their grudging cooperation blossoms into a genuine friendship. The author excels in showcasing the evolving relationship between these two outcasts; their bond is one of camaraderie and understanding, rather than romantic attraction, which adds a refreshing dynamic to the story.

However, the writing style falls short at times. The author often names the characters' emotions instead of showing them through action and dialogue. This reliance on exposition occasionally detracts from the overall immersion in the story.

Overall, "The Way of Orc and Drow" offers a compelling exploration of friendship amidst adversity. It raises the intriguing question of whether two natural enemies can unite for a common cause, ultimately affirming that even the most unlikely companions can forge a powerful alliance.

[R.M. Alwyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Captivating Novella of unlikely friendship.

Stripped of his power and exiled to a perilous world, the elf prince embarks on a journey that challenges not only his physical abilities but also his deep-seated prejudices. In an unlikely alliance with a young orc girl, he discovers that true strength lies in unity, not in division. Their captivating novella unfolds as they navigate through a world filled with dangers, forcing the prince to confront his long-held beliefs and biases. The two ancient enemies set aside their differences in order to survive.

[Jessica Lewandowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Way of the Orc and Drow is an enjoyable short fantasy about two outcasts, an exiled royal drow (or dark elf) named Caliperius and a hunted runaway orc named Urosa. These two characters are from naturally opposing races, but they grudgingly decide to work with one another in order to survive the other orcs that were originally just after Urosa as the last member of her family line. Their distaste towards each other and each other’s races is grasped quite easily by the reader and in a slightly comical way. But Caliperius and Urosa very quickly start to learn that there is more than meets the eye. Caliperius learns that Urosa is not the dumb, uneducated orc that he believes all orcs to be, but discovers her to be quite intelligent as well as a good little fighter and quick thinker. Urosa learns that Caliperius is not just a heartless evil drow, but one that is honorable and even has a hidden soft spot. They gradually come to care for each other and their friendship only strengthens with every bit of danger they face.

As much as I liked this book, I do wish there was a bit more of a back story for both characters. Regardless, I found it to be an enjoyable read.

[G. W. reviewers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Way of Orc and Drow: A Short Fantasy Novel by Amzi Ilgen is a gripping story that explores the journey of two unlikely companions—Caliperius, a disgraced dark elf prince, and Urosa, a strong-willed orc girl. Forced to work together despite their hatred and mistrust, they must navigate a dangerous world where survival depends on trusting each other. The story starts with action right away, which I liked because it pulled me in from the first page. As they face enemies and challenges, their uneasy partnership grows, making me curious to see how their journey would unfold.

What stood out for me was how both characters learned and changed through their experiences. Caliperius, once proud and arrogant, starts seeing Urosa beyond her orc identity. Urosa, tough and guarded, slowly begins to respect the drow despite her initial hatred. Their banter and arguments felt real, and I enjoyed watching their relationship shift from mistrust to understanding. This part of the story reminded me of how we sometimes form unexpected bonds when life pushes us into difficult situations.

The world of Pansylvania is also well-crafted, filled with interesting creatures and magical elements. I loved how the author described different beings like werewolves and halflings without slowing down the story. Urosa’s unique ability to sense magic as dancing dots was fascinating and added a refreshing twist to the usual magic systems found in fantasy. The vivid descriptions made it easy to imagine the dangerous yet beautiful world they were navigating.

On a personal level, this book left me thinking about how people from different backgrounds can learn to trust and understand each other. It’s a story that goes beyond fantasy and touches on real-life lessons about breaking down prejudice and finding strength in unlikely friendships. I’d recommend The Way of Orc and Drow to anyone who enjoys a quick fantasy read with action, adventure, and emotional depth. It’s a short but meaningful journey that stays with you even after the last page.

[Wes Hubert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Things I Liked: This story is a short one with a clear story line. It starts off with action and immediately the problem of the story is introduced. I really like this in a book as I don’t have to wonder if it’s something I’m going to be interested in. The action continues, rises and falls like a good book should and the main characters are presented with challenges that vary enough to keep it interested. Also, the unusual pairing of the main characters is enough of a twist to add variety. I also liked the variety of beings in this world and the author did a good job of describing the ones he needed to and skimming over those that weren’t a major part of the story.

Things I Didn’t Like: Right from the start, there were things that didn’t make sense to me: how a prince could be pampered and yet be incredible with a sword, why the prince would give a traditional enemy a knife only a short time after meeting her, etc. Multiple times, I would think, “It really wouldn’t happen that way.” Also, there were many times the book told me how a character was feeling. I think part of the story should be me interpreting what the character is feeling through what they do and say. Lastly, there were times when the story was told from different charcters’ perspective. It would switch around which I found a bit jarring. It was a good read, nonetheless. If you’re in the mood for a light read, go for it.

[JM · Rating 5 out of 5]

To start, I will say that the cover to The Way of Orc and Drow is very visually appealing. Really drew me in, and set the stage for the world to come. A short novel, yet really immersive and quick to its plot, I enjoyed this and hope to read more from this author.

I appreciated how Ilgen was able to pull on the normal fantasy tropes, like a battle-tested orc warrior, and their own unique spins on the magical world. As Caliperius and Urosa find an unlikely alliance against the the world around them, their bond becomes the crux of survival and the heart of the novel at large.

Which is what I think sets this novel apart—aside from its generally brief descriptions on things that would, in typical fantasy, be otherwise explained or drawn out. There’s a balance to this type of writing, and I think Ilgen goes very much to the side of plot and character development over extensive world building. The inclusion of other magical beasts, werewolves and the like, will be familiar for fantasy readers, and don’t need further explanation. But if you’re a Tolkien fan, for example, you might find the worldbuilding lacking.

My younger son (11) is getting into this style of writing, and for me, this novel is actually a really good introduction into it. It will keep his attention, and give him a taste of this type of writing without bogging it down.

[KB · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an entertaining dungeons and dragons-inspired tale about two people who began their journey hating each other due to their upbringings but later became the best of friends. They were thrown into a series of action-packed adventures that tested their strength, intelligence, and compassion.

This story really did read like a D&D campaign, complete with bosses, unexpected allies, and twists and turns. There was a lot of funny banter and lightheartedness as the protagonists slowly began to trust each other and were met with various allies and enemies along the way. My favourite character was Alphonso the halfling bard. His interactions with Caliperius the drow ranger were hilarious.

The only critique I have is that one character said they would meet up with the protagonists again but did not actually re-appear. But it was mentioned at the end that the adventures of the drow and the orc did not end there, so I'm guessing the author will be releasing more books about them. This short story had a satisfying conclusion but also left me wanting to read more about the characters' adventures.

[Zoe Tasia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Way of Orc and Drow, a fantasy novella, by Amzi Ilgen is an engaging tale about an unlikely alliance. After his mother exiles him, Caliperius, a drow elf, finds shelter in an abandoned cabin. His alarm spell is set off when a young female orc enters. The orc’s family has been murdered and the culprits chase Urosa.

During their travels, Urosa educates the underground-dwelling drow about the topside he is unaccustomed to while he protects her as he escorts the orc to safety of a walled city called Zessian’s Keep. They come to appreciate each other’s skills and form a friendship.

The entertaining novella is an enjoyable, speedy read. The two main characters are easy to cheer for. The author includes humorous moments in the exciting adventure. By the half-way point in the book, they are attacked by an owlbear, a large, fierce predator, meet a helpful bard halfling, and venture into the Swamp of Despair. The action is non-stop in this fantasy.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Way of Orc and Drow. If you love clever fantasies about enemies who come to be friends, then you should definitely give this book a read.

[Mizz Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first 50% of the book in one sitting as the story was captivating and flowing, but the second half went slower for me. There’s more action, but it felt less involving.
The novella is about an unlikely companionship for convenience between a teenage orc and a seasonal dark elf. Both are in trouble and sticking together increases their chance of survival.
The narrative is less dark than the description implies, with bits of humor, which I actually appreciated. We have a clear, linear journey of the heroes, without further complexities or backstories, so it is pretty simple and straightforward, but I wished there were a little more about the elf’s backstory. Maybe there is a sequel.
I also think the last confrontation was too sudden and not very clear – I didn’t quite understand what happened there.
When all is said and done, the story is more than the adventures of Urosa and Caliperious, it’s a metaphor with nice messages for those who can see them, so I recommend the reading.

[Ray Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Way of Orc and Drow: A Short Fantasy Novel (by Amzi Ilgen) is, as its subtitle tells us, a fantasy novella, clocking in at a bit over a hundred pages. The story is about an unlikely pair of on-the-run mythical humanoid creatures (an orc and a drow — the former is found in the dictionary and the latter isn’t, but it’s said to be a kind of subterranean elf). They are traditional enemies, but since these two are outcasts and being hunted, they decide to team up and learn to cooperate in order to survive the ordeals they must face. And since their fanciful world is a kind of medieval nightmare, sword, dagger, and arrow-play is involved. But the most fun, and perhaps interest, in the tale is in the wary-to-trusting banter and interactions of the two protagonists, as well as how they get along — or not — with lots of other fabled characters. The story is written with an appropriately medieval flavor, and the writing flows well. So, if reading about the adventures of orcs and elves and wizards and ogres and such is your thing, this one is recommended.

[Tim Goff · Rating 4 out of 5]

The exiled drow elf Caliperius teams up with a fugitive orc princess Urosa…

…And together they embark upon a quest for sanctuary in the city of Zessian Keep, a quest that takes them through a rugged forest and into a vast swamp. Along the way, they meet an assortment of eclectic characters, including the halfling bard Alphonso, a tribe of frog people, and a scholarly ogress. They battle orcs and monsters, and learn something about themselves as well.

The tale is straightforward and entertaining. Caliperius and Urosa have distinct personalities, though neither came across as callous as their heritages would imply. The secondary characters are also distinct.

The setting, races, and monsters are all lifted straight from ‘Dungeons and Dragons,’ though the author did not use any game mechanics in the story. I did note a few minor typos, but not enough to detract from the story.

‘The Way of the Orc and Drow’ should appeal to fantasy fans, especially those interested in ‘Dungeons and Dragons.

[Kristina Kamaeva · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Way of Orc and Drow is a short fantasy adventure novel set in a magical world of Pansylvania.
There are two main characters: a dark elf prince in exile and Urosa (I like her name), an orc girl who is hunted by a horde of angry orcs. When I read that elves had a reputation as baby eaters, I was shocked and went to look for more information about Drow. They are indeed a cruel race that lives underground and believes in their superiority to other races.
However, in this story, both the orc and the drow have big hearts. Yes, they were taught to be cruel, but they soon discovered they didn’t want to. They easily outsmart their enemies, find allies, make friends, and kill or hurt only those characters who are beyond redemption. Their journey helps them to overcome their prejudices, better understand their life goals, and become best friends.
In the story, you’ll find some humorous banter, feel-good moments, and a variety of fantastical creatures.
You also learn that orcs only struggle with the common language because they are paranoid about looking stupid.

[Cassia Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick and enjoyable read, ‘The Way of Orc and Drow’ is a fantasy novella that would appeal to younger readers, especially those who enjoy D&D. The two main characters – Urosa the young orc and Caliperius the exiled drow prince- are well-drawn and their interactions, dialogue, and adventures entertaining.

I enjoyed the unlikely pairing of a drow prince and a young but intelligent orc, each with preconceived notions about the other. They come together out of necessity but quickly learn that each possesses skills that the other needs. What follows is not merely fantasy adventure but an account of their budding friendship and growing respect for one another.

I love the bullywugs, who inject colour and levity into the story. The action scenes are well crafted, and the underlying themes of overcoming prejudice, of rising above others’ expectations of us, of using intellect to prevent violence, are commendable. Younger fantasy readers (11-15 yrs old) would enjoy this fast-paced story full of vivid descriptions.

[Xine Fury · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun novella for lovers of tabletop role-playing games. Caliperius the drow and Urosa the orc are both members of so-called "evil" races. They're both on the run from their respective clans, and neither expects to survive the day. When they happen to run into each other in a forest cabin, an unlikely alliance is formed. Though enemies by birth, they have to rely on each other to fight off the orc assassins that doggedly pursue them through the forest.
It's a great story that could have come right out of a D&D session, and RPG fanatics will find themselves right at home reading this one. It touches on concepts like the nature of evil and the ability to overcome one's background. Though it's a short read, it still has time for character growth, and both of the main characters are very different people by the end.
If you like D&D and fantasy in general, you'll enjoy this little tale.

[Lyndi Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hadn’t picked up a fantasy book in a while so I chose The Way of Orc and Drow: A Short Fantasy Novel by Amzi Ilgen for a quick read. In this story, two unlikely companions, Caliperius, an elf and Urosa, a child orc, journey together encountering other characters along the way. Often, they must work together to defend themselves. Each of them discovers there is much more to the other than they at first imagined and in particular Caliperius learns how smart and skilled Urosa is at twelve years old.

The scenes and characters were well described which was helpful since they were always changing and the reader needed to be grounded in the scenes. I enjoyed reading how knowledgeable Urosa was and how when they were in dangerous situations, she confidently knew what to do to get them out of it based on what her father had taught her. A quick and enjoyable read for those who enjoy short fantasy story.

[William Turmel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Way of Orc and Drow: A Short Fantasy Novel” by Amzi Ilgen is a delightfully lean adventure story that is a pleasurable read throughout.

The tale is written in an easy-to-read style with an economical use of words. The first half is mostly action with a little dialogue, but when needed, there’s a bit of descriptive text. In the second half, after the newness of the adventure has worn off, the story slows enough to allow for some character growth. The narrative is quick, not requiring much of the reader, and a pleasurable read throughout.

We follow Caliperius and Urosa as they fight their way through forest and swamp, hoping to make it to the safety of Zessian’s Keep before their enemies end their lives. During their journey, they come across many different creatures, some friends, some foes, some wanting to eat them, and some that become their food. It is action and adventure all the way, with an ending befitting the story.

[Paul Baldwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a magical tale that has characteristics of a fable, where fantastical creatures, through their adventures, give readers wisdom and life lessons. The story begins quickly with the main characters in danger and making quick decisions to save their lives. Both characters are in trouble, and together, they must learn to trust each other and overcome old traditions and ways of thinking if they will be successful at evading their enemies and making it to their goal in one piece. I like how the author’s language combines high art and everyday slang. The character’s direct thoughts have an interesting spin on how they are presented to readers; they quickly show how the two main characters view each other and how they change over time. I recommend this book for Middle-Grade readers and anyone who loves fables, fantasy, and adventure stories. The messages presented by the author are essential and timeless.

[Rich Meyrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This excellent short story by Amzi Ilgen is a tale of friendship and overcoming prejudice, with a lot of excitement packed into its all-too-few pages. Despite most of the characters not being human, they're are completely relatable (Bessie has to be my favourite).

The text could do with a little polishing (there are a few typos and punctuation errors), but my main problem is that The Way of Orc and Drow isn't longer (which is a good problem to have!). I was really enjoying the story and was disappointed that it was over so soon. I'm dying to know the exact circumstances of Caliperius' banishment, so I truly hope there's a sequel in the works.

[Zee's Bookish Haven · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Way of Orc and Drow is a short fantasy story about Caliperius and Urosa and the unexpected friendship they develop throughout the book. Although short, it is still a full story that you'd want to read more about. Amzi Ilgen's writing is vivid and so imaginative that it really draws the readers in the world and journey with the characters. All the characters were interesting, overcoming differences are what can be learned in the real world, and the adventure was so excellently weaved together. Definitely a must-read for fantasy readers.

[Erik P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A troup of unlikely travellers

Such a great story! We are transported to a strange kingdom full of questions and fear. The story opens with a dark elf, Caliperius, on the run and trying to survive. This quote is classic: “The disgraced aristocrat knew better than to become addicted to the sweet nectar of self-pity, having watched its slow poison destroy men stronger than he.”
Soon, he meets Urosa (the orphaned daughter of aristocratic orcs), also on the run. We meet great characters along the way. Each is deep and complicated, yet honorable in their own way. They start as mutually suspicious individuals, become forged into a team, and slowly emerge as friends. Great story, artful writing, and great characters. I’ve left wanting the next book!

[John Hundley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a charming and heart-warming tale of open-mindedness and inclusivity. Well-paced and easy to read. I’d like to see more of its kind.