The Wingspan of Treason

The Sturmsinger Chain #1

by L.N. Bayen

Invelmar. A great kingdom boasting unrivalled peace and a brutal grip over the known world. A kingdom built with blood.

Former Invelmari prince Klaus surrendered everything to it. Now he’s fleeing a shattering betrayal and wondering why his parents want to kill him.

Neighbouring Derinda – a once-magnificent realm devastated by Invelmar’s damming of its mighty river – may offer Klaus a new life mapping distant roads. But feuding Derinda makes poor refuge for a fugitive mapmaker, and there’s no peace from his questions here. Questions about who his real family are. Questions about the sentient particles awakening in Derinda’s desert, intent on unearthing the devastating secret buried in its sands…

Because this desert wind is thick with poets and pirates, shamans and spaewives, and the answers are far worse than Klaus could have imagined. His loyalties to his beloved home are fast unravelling, and the desert clamours for a trial of Invelmar’s crimes. But can he separate vengeance from justice?

Does he even want to?

TRUTH IS A KNIFE. LOYALTY’S A CAGE. NO ONE IS INNOCENT.

Genres: Fantasy

674 pages, Paperback

First published November 26, 2024

Reviews

[Jamedi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review originally on JamReads

The Wingspan of Treason is the first novel in the epic fantasy series The Sturmsinger Chain, the debut of the excellent author L. N. Bayen. An excellent proposal which puts a lot of thought on its plentiful worldbuilding, rich in practically all the aspects, while telling a journey of self-discovery and identity, taking some aspects from the classical hero's journey, but elevating it to a next level, partly due to the use of different perspectives, but also not being shy of portraying the hardest aspects of it.

Klaus, a prince fleeing his homeland after a murder plot against him (including his parents), together with his two best friends, Verdi and Arik, travels to Derinda, a desert neighbouring country, to lie low and try to piece together who really Klaus is; a new place that is dangerous and unforgiving, where Northerners are not trusted and pirates stalk the travellers in this territory. But coming to Derinda will not only bring them to contact the warring tribes of the zone, through Verdi's relatives, but also will start a chain of events that will reveal more about Klaus' origin and figure.

But not only Bayen puts the focus on Klaus' story, but manages to avoid one of the classical flaws in this kind of structure, giving enough space to the rest of the trio and immersing us on their own struggles and challenges, giving them a similar weight to Klaus. The three share their struggle about their own identity, in different shapes; either from their born status or from how they were raised. The author managed to create a rich cast of characters, even those that appear a few pages are more than simple NPCs put to allow our main group to complete their quest.

The worldbuilding is incredibly rich, a complex world with its own history and traditions; the moment we are experiencing with our group is just a grain of sand in the middle of a beach. While most of the plot happens in Derinda, we also get glimpses of the neighbouring nations, especially of Invelmar, especially through Klaus' flashbacks. Not only identity and self-discovery are treated, but the own aspect of connection with the nature plays an important role in the plot, and Bayen makes sure to fill the world with the most adorable creatures.
It is relatively slow paced, never info dumping you, but giving you the time to process all that is happening; it is clear that we are just setting the foundations for a really ambitious saga.

It is also necessary to mention how much care and effort are reflected on the graphic aspects of the books: from hand-drawn maps, to illustrations in the header of each chapter, this novel exudates excellency (and why human artists deserve the full credit).

The Wingspan of Treason is an excellent debut novel, an ambitious start to a series that definitely is perfect if you are looking for chonky epic fantasy but with a different setting; the prose is excellent, and it gives space for many memorable sentences. I can't wait to see what L. N. Bayen has under her sleeve for the next books in the Sturmsinger Chain series.

[Pete Reviews Books Good · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW.

Sometimes a single word could get the point across easier than an entire essay about the book ever could, so if you wanted to stop there just know it’s a much shorter review but will end the same; WOW.

This book was an actual masterpiece, one that will stick with me a long time. Which works out well, since it’s only the 1st in the planned series. I was looking forward to this for a long, long time. Back when I was just “Pete” on twitter (never X), and not the absolutely LEGENDARY reviewer I am today (a mere 5 months later), I asked for an ARC copy as soon as I saw the cover and after a few weeks of waiting, it arrived! At first, I was worried that my anticipation would fade as I read; what if I didn’t like it as much as I thought? Would I be obligated to read it, just because? Thankfully, the answer is a resounding no, and…WOW.

The book starts off with 3 of our POV characters Klaus, Verdi and Arik leaving their northern homeland of Invelmar aside. Klaus, an Intelligencer, was in line to become the next ruler but his sister tipped him off that he may not be a true heir, and the 3 made a dash for “safety” into the neighboring realm of Derinda. To the south, it’s a brutal and unforgiving place, where deserts and dunes make up the landscape and water becomes more valuable than gold. As they travel, we get into the minds of each of the 3. Verdi, Klaus’ servant and Erik, a loyal soldier, and each POV is so incredibly well thought out and given a voice of their own, it never drags the story down at all.

As the story expands, we encounter more characters; both main and side characters and all of them play integral parts to the accompanying story. I think the way in which LN wrote her characters, and the world itself, is by far the most dazzling part of the book. Clocking in at over 600 pages, it’s a slower paced adventure, but it makes up for it with some of the most beautiful writing I’ve ever come across. It’s on par with Rothfuss, Hobb, and the rest of those authors we know and love, who write like poetry. Every word, every sentence, every paragraph; it flows so wonderfully together, it feels like this has been passed down from generation to generation, finely tuned and when you close your eyes you could feel the world she’s written as if it were in front of you. I’m truly not even exaggerating, each word felt absolutely perfect, and like it was placed there without a second thought.

Following along with the characters, it becomes evident that not everything in Derinda is what it seems on the surface; there are wars between clans, pirates that are attacking caravans, and a prophet that was foretold who struggles with that revelation. I’m not going to go into details and spoil things; you’ll just have to read it for yourself and experience the journey firsthand. But as the plot goes deeper and deeper into a world where every step you take can matter, the tension builds and builds, and erupts into a climax that leaves you wanting more. Which, thankfully we will be getting. Cause I mean…WOW.

Besides the prose, one of the most relatable and enjoyable parts of the book were the characters. There are A LOT, just to get that out of the way. Even the ones we don’t spend a lot of time with can take up a few chapters, but Bayen does an incredible job at making them fully fleshed out, with their personalities, thoughts, fears and desires written out beautifully. Even our main 3; each one of them takes up a different voice for the reader to follow, and helps to get key points of the story across.

Another aspect I thought that was incredibly well done was the way in which flashbacks were written. In a story this big, full of this much history, it would be very easy to just throw an info dump into a chapter and be like “well, there ya go” and move on with the story. But that doesn’t happen here, and it made me realize just how many times I’ve seen flashbacks in other stories and can potentially gloss over it. These were written out in a way that actually brought what was currently happening to life; if a character like Klaus was reflecting on the journey so far and how he used his abilities as an Intelligencer in present day, the flashback would be to an important thing he learned while still in training, before snapping back to the current story. It was a great way of not just moving the story along, but showing how the past had helped shape his character, and it made reading them that much more interesting.

The history, which was incredibly rich, also never felt overwhelming. The Sturmsinger Chain, from which the series takes its name, is based on the king of Invelmar after the Second Redrawing (you’ll read about it) and the chain relates to the way in which all of the noble houses take turns in succession to the crown. This makes each of them strong in their own ways, since being the weak link would break the chain and lead to revolts, revolutions and just a whole lot of things rulers don’t want to deal with. It’s a way of keeping them all on even ground, which I thought was a very interesting take, and a nice reprisal from the typical “the kingdom shall pass to my FIRSTBORN SON” like we so often see.

As you can see by now, I can go on and on with the praise for this book; it was really that amazing. Whatever you think a score would be based on this review, add 1 to it and it still wouldn’t do it justice. It’s so obvious that Bayen poured her heart and soul into the story, the experiences were written out with such thought, care and heart that it leaps off the page and into the real world. I mean really, what else is there to say but-

WOW.

[Janny]

This story unfolds with admirable complexity and no oversimplified shortcuts, opening with three young men leaving their home behind under pressure, as the ground for their loyalty slips sideways. It took me about a third of the book to truly lock into engagement, not a bit due to the writing, though the exposition is primarily delivered through dialogue - but because we are thrown into a mosaic of overlapping history and cultural roots spread across countries and factions. Sticking with the story and trusting the map would come clear well rewarded the effort as the action picks up, and the tensions between fragile alliances and enmities build.

Where this story truly excels is the brilliance of depicting the evolution of old hatreds, ancient conquest, injustice and unequal distribution of resources cascades into the present and afflicts the destinies of the characters. It is rare to read fantasy that truly delves into the fermentation of resentments between cultures, factions, and the fractured damage done to trust, and the infighting over scant resources that colors the frictions of the oppressed. There are no martyred victims here, only human strengths and shortfalls thrown into bitter contention. The tapestry of ingrained resentments perpetrated across generations, the tribal societies that cannot unite, prophecies pasted over a buried history of betrayals and lies - and three young people thrown into the mix who are trapped in larger roles, picking their way forward against the fables of culture sown by past generations. Now, add a new threat, and an insidious new player taking advantage of the rifts of distrust - and you have a seriously interesting world, with unique magic and myth, seen through the eyes of three displaced characters who are not at home, truly, anywhere.

If you enjoy fantasy that makes you think, isn't a straightforward 'one sided' presentation, and add in a dash of mystical magic - this book delivers a lively first installment of a new epic series.

Check it out! We are seldom treated to the grit and the grime and the deep seated bitterness, in a tale that does not glorify martyrs. I enjoyed this one and look forward to where L. N. Bayen takes the sequels.

[Cat Bowser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.

This book is world building heavy and I am absolutely in love! These are the kind of stories I adore—a world that is fully fleshed out, with multiple locations and we get to visit so many of them! Each one has their own unique problems and the politics are how they’re connected, their interactions, their history is absolutely vital to the story. But we aren’t given a huge chunk of information but rather pieces here and there.

Klaus, a prince determined to journey and explore, is our first viewpoint but he is by no means our only one. But he definitely…prompts the others. As he goes on his journey from place to place, we pick up other viewpoint characters and I really like how this is done. It not only gives us different angles but tells us what’s important and what and who to be watching.

I really like Klaus because he’s pretty well rounded. He definitely has the naïveté that you expect from a prince but you can tell he’s not a fool. He’s not trusting the first thing he’s told and there’s a cautious knowledge to him that’s refreshing. He can be a bit of a klutz and that pride isn’t doing him any favors though. The author really balances his strengths and weaknesses well. He’s not winning and coming out on top in the situations he winds up in but he has enough victories to give you hope.

Remember how I said the world building is heavy? It’s heavy-heavy. This is a book where each chapter I feel like you need to stop and stay a while just to let the details sink in. Good news is that because it’s such an interesting world, it’s fun to do this! Take your time with this story. There’s lots of things to explore and consider.

Oh, and I love how each chapter has a quote or excerpt from a different book/source within the world! I wish more authors did stuff like that! It immediately gets you interested and curious. Curiosity fuels fantasy and this book has plenty to share.

[Chidiebere Ama · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm gonna have to appeal to everyone seeing this to close up whatever they're reading and pick up this literary masterpiece. This is the most perfect & holistic book one I've read since Curse of the Mistwraith.

Like Curse of the Mistwraith, it feels perfectly grounded and ready to host myriads of events spun in intricate webs that stretch far into distant places that echo the same songs of our world; of desolation, theft, lies and the blinding of our eyes.

𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙧; 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙛𝙩𝙨, 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙢𝙮𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙚𝙥𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙙 — 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚

The moment I saw this dedication, I intuitively knew this book was going to deliver something spectacular, something piercing into the core of some of the issues we face. And very few times have I ever felt such delight, such illumination from a book.

Where do I even begin? How do I even narrate the experience of a work that comes with a beckoning to face yourself? That demands you stop running and let the shadows you have clogged up in your heart dissipate so you can be free. So you can witness Truth untainted by lies

This book introduces you to a world ravaged by wars and the selfishness of man. The present pov doesn't focus on the wars itself but lets you see the impact centuries later after the victors have recorded their "truth" and preached it to the ends of the earth.

We witness a people whose lands have been stolen, whose resources have been hijacked, whose histories have been laid to waste, and by virtue of their losses are compelled to pay for what was rightfully theirs in bits and scraps.

The waters of the Southern people were dammed and cut off from them, turning their lands dry and empty. But yet, despite what the Northern people did, I love how the narrative doesn't paint the Southerners as saints.

I've read and watched quite a couple of oppressor-oppressed narratives and the common trajectory in most of these works is to paint the oppressed as a stereotypical righteous group wronged and seeking justice from their oppressors.

But this book doesn't do that. The entirety of this book is spent in the oppressed's land and we spend the time exploring their culture, history, people, and their petty internal politics that constantly blind them and deny the people their freedom.

Politics and infighting that has existed even before The Second Redrawing — the war from the North that ravaged them. I couldn't read this book without tracing some of the events to what goes on here in Nigeria. The ghabala — which is an "all man for himself" mindset — is what they proposed and imposed on themselves as brothers drew swords at brothers, clans stole and ransacked each other, and leaders downplayed greater threats for their selfish benefits even as their people constantly died to pirates.

This book features a lot of things I can't perfectly narrate here but at the core of it is a young man driven by necessity to find himself. Ulfriklaus Wintermantel, heir to the north, flees the north and is declared dead as matters of his birth are brought to light and he begins to question the very purpose of his existence. As a mapmaker, he steers his course South in the hope of discovering himself and in this journey, much more than you can anticipate, with so much deeper meanings and nuance is brought to the fore.

The story deals heavily on century longed propaganda and how unconsciously it compels us to give loyalty to creeds we think we know but are very much far from understanding what lies beneath them. We see Klaus and his friend Arik struggle to face Truth when confronted with it.

And then there's Viridian too, Klaus's servant who turns out to be something much more than a servant when they arrive in the deserts of the South. I found Viridian a bit relatable. His confusion and unwillingness to be pushed into a role he didn't understand struck me well.

I want to say a lot about this book, about Form, the very cage of our minds that we fashion to shield us.. about ilnurhin, the possibility in our hearts for change and growth. This book offers a lot more than I can express in this review.

But I urge you to read it. The prose is utterly beautiful and sometimes poetic. It's worldbuilding heavy and explores the Derindin culture. Sometimes it might feel slow, but everything serves to point at a deeper meaning, and this is a book that demands careful readingto savor the nuances in the story. I was completely enamored by every facet of this book and I'm so eager for the next one. I can't wait for the second book in the series to get published.

[Charles Cavendish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply fantastic and destined to be a modern classic!

The world building, characters, the writing - I loved it all and really didn’t want it to end.

The Wingspan of Treason has smashed its way to the top of my top ten best reads of 2024.

A full review will follow but I’ll be shouting about this one for quite some time.

[S]

October 2024:
Waiting… patiently waiting.

The big question to be asked is…
Hardcover or paperback?

October 20th:
In six more day. I will only have to wait for one more month. Let’s goo.

November 6th:
Aaaaaaaa it’s almost release day. Let’s goooooooooooo

November 10th:
I know, I know…. But y’all it’s almost time for the book to be released.
*insert hyperventilating meme* AAAAAAA
Also, the pre-order link should be happening soon. I did ask if a hardback would happen when the pre-order link comes. Right now…. That is to be determined at this time. Which… I get. It’s a big book. Kinda bums me out, only because the paperback will be destroyed with the way I read. 😂

November 26th, 2024:
Aaaaaaaaa. Today…. Its today.
Happy release day to the author. I hope it’s amazing for you.
………..
My book is said to arrive on the December 2 😭. Oh well, nothing I can do. I cant wait to read it.

December 1&2nd:
I got my book but it arrived damaged. Oh well, I guess. Time to start reading.

[Jeffery Heileson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apparently, my favorite setting is the desert. I've highly rated every fantasy book similarly set in the desert (see Obsidian). Despite this, the world of the Seven Parts are unique and incredibly well established for the reader. Bayen's prose and characterization shine throughout. I'm (im)patiently waiting for book 2!

[Azrah · Rating 5 out of 5]

[This review can also be found on my BLOG]

**I was provided with a proof of the book through the author in exchange for an honest review**

CW: violence, blood, injury, fire/immolation, war, death, child death, mention of sexual assault/rape (non graphic), anxiety, grief, familial trauma, displacement
--

Eloquently written and impressively plotted this book is truly the epitome of epic fantasy.

The Wingspan of Treason predominantly follows three young men as they flee the Northern kingdom of Invelmar due to Klaus, the former prince in waiting discovering his life has been a lie and his family’s betrayal deeming him a fugitive. Accompanying him are Arik and Verdi, another nobleman Warrior and Klaus’ personal servant of Derindin descent respectively, but their relationships is more that of best friends/ brothers.

They head south to Derinda, a desert land split into many clandoms and distrustful of Northerners as Invelmar holds responsibility for damming the primary river of the continent. Their journey to escape as well as to find answers has them uncovering many truths and the machinations of the world around them but also much about their individual destinies.

“Everyone tells the version of the world that they know. Sometimes they don’t know very much at all.”

It’s been such a long time since I’ve picked up a book where every single detail is so carefully thought out and meticulously put together that I want to be lost in the story and the world forever. Bayen is masterful in her telling, threading the history, customs and lore of two neighbouring nations in and around the journey and discoveries of her beautifully complex characters in the most compelling way.

On top of that, if you weren’t aware all of the illustrations and map work in the book have been drawn by the author herself and IT IS ALL SO BEAUTIFUL!!

There is an ambling pace to the story overall but it works perfectly to immerse you right in with both the physical and emotional journeys of the characters and never does it feel like you are being overloaded with information or that the narrative is being unnecessarily dragged out. Bayen’s storytelling makes you feel like you are part of the discussions and retellings around the campfires, are listening in on the gossip from the Babble and standing rapt in the council debates that collectively and steadily introduce you to the lay of the land and take you through the sociopolitical happenings across the clandoms.

“The struggle for justice has no proprietor. Does it matter who delivers it?”

Additionally, through epigraphs and flashbacks Bayen also paints a vivid picture of the inner workings of Invelmar, providing glimpses of the noble families, their sacred Blood Pact and the chain of succession that is keeping the northern kingdom afloat. I was really intrigued by the concept of Forms – a custom of the nobility of Invelmari society that involves rigorous mental and physical training in order to hone specific skills to become either a Warrior, Blacksmith, Jurist or Intelligencer. It was fascinating to see Klaus and Arik put their Forms to use as they lived in hiding over the course of the book.

Magic is also present in this world, woven into the overarching plot in such a captivating way but it is on the subtle side and is mainly associated with legends, prophecies and the history of the land. This is one of the things I’m excited to see touched on more as the series continues!

“Knowledge is a great burden,” She said at last. “That is why ignorance is so comfortable.”

While there are a few influences and practices that have been lifted from our world to help shape the worldbuilding, overall it is unique in its own right and the amount of attention and thought that has gone in to it all is absolutely outstanding.

Just as noteworthy are the characters. As mentioned already much of the book focuses on Klaus, Verdi and Arik who are each such brilliantly layered protagonists and it was refreshing how equally split their perspectives were. Their relationship is absolutely wonderful full of trust and brotherly banter as well as moments of protectiveness and vexation. I just wanted to swoop into the story myself to protect them and the bond they have.

“Be mindful, Viridian.. There will be many people eager to mould you. The danger to your mind is perhaps greater than any to your flesh.”

It was really interesting to follow them grapple with their individual fates and newfound identities as well as come to terms with the lived reality of the world beyond Invelmar versus how their upbringing has always framed it to be. The themes of self-discovery and loyalty, responsibility and choice are explored so well through the three of them.

However, the multi POV doesn’t stop there as we also follow along with the perspective of other characters, these mainly being people of Derindin descent but of different backgrounds and statuses in society which further added to the commentary on loyalty and responsibility as well as entitlement, power and oppression.

“The best record of history is what people remember, not what their kings inscribe on their own tombs.”

I honestly can’t recommend this book enough! From political scheming to pirate fighting action and the air of mystery around it all, everything that happens, even the smallest of interactions from earlier on come to play their part later and I was constantly finding myself floored the more that I read.

If you’re an epic fantasy fan then take my word and do not sleep on this book!!
Final Rating – 5/5 Stars

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review will be updated when I finish, but I wanted to take a second and talk about the extraordinary scale and effort put into this book. Illustrations, maps, world building. Epic fantasy is made as much of these things as it is from character and plot, and Bayan weaves all those elements together brilliantly.

The writing is elegant and expressive. The story has a classic hero's journey kind of opening, and it's dense. It is very dense, so lean into that Wheel of Time or Raymond Feist kind of scale. So far it's the story of three young men who are uprooted from their home and destinies, obviously caught in a net with much wider stakes. I have to say, I suspect I see one twist coming, and I'm dying to know if I'm right.

There's a nice inversion of the usual, humble birth destined for great things hero--in this case, the hero (or one of them) finds out he's not the heir at all and has to flee his country with only his closest companions.

I've been reading an electronic ARC, (cursing myself for asking for an electronic ARC now) and actually, that's one reason I haven't finished. I want to buy a copy of this book with all of its maps and front pieces for the chapters, the beautiful lore, and really savor it.

Grr you know it's not even available for preorder? Maybe on Amazon uk? Checking

I highly recommend this book for fans of epic fantasy, and real works of art.

[Cory Rathbun · Rating 5 out of 5]

My goodness. This book is dense and powerful as the best stories are. Klaus, Arik, and Verdi find themselves far from home in a land where they’re not sure they belong but find that it was where they needed to be. The richness of different cultures, infighting, and the faintest of hopes for the future spread out as wide as the dammed river that ended a war and savaged the nation that relied on it.

The past and the future are twined together as intricately as they are in our world, where every revelation shakes a history thought set in stone. The North is held together by an unbreakable pact of ruling succession, the South is divided among clans who still live by the self-destructive principle that if you can take it and keep it, it’s yours. Uncovering what really happened behind the scenes and feeling that history is written by the victors but lived by the victims makes for a tremendously enjoyable read.

Family also plays heavily into the story and the choices of all the main characters matter. Things they were born into, things they’ve chosen to leave behind, and the fate of two nations and countless people hang in the balance of how they reconcile those two directions. The weight of history may yet bury the hopes for the future..

Lamia is extremely talented both in the flow of her beautiful prose and the illustrations that fill the start of each chapter and the rich maps that accompanied this book. Absolutely one of the best debut novels I’ve read and if you’re looking for a book you can sink your teeth into, I encourage you to grab it with both hands. It’s a hefty read, it’s not one you’ll breeze through, but if you put time and attention into it you’ll be eagerly awaiting the next right alongside me.

[orpheuus · Rating 5 out of 5]

i don’t know what to do with myself now that i have finished this behemoth but of a book. one of the best i have read this year and best fantasy debuts i have read this year and there was competition.

[Stephen Ginnetty · Rating 4 out of 5]

( I received an Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review)

After letting this book sit with me for a minute, I have come to the conclusion that this is a very promising start to a series.

Please be warned that this book does have several trigger warnings but taking away from that it is well worth a read.

Very rich in world building and a character driven narrative which due to personal preference knocks it down from being a five star review but if you enjoy a fantasy story that is rich in world building and is character focused as opposed to plot focused then this is the book for you.

Can't wait to see where this series goes next.

[Xander Sable · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a truly epic flight into rich, multi-cultured storytelling, choose The Wingspan of Treason.

I was lucky enough to have an Advance Reader Copy of Wingspan, but these are my independent opinions. It’s my favourite fantasy read of the past ten years, and here’s why – without spoilers:

This is epic fantasy you want to wallow in. Thrown straight into exile, you’re bewildered in a good way, as Klaus and his loyal-to-the-core friends, Verdi and Arik, flee for Klaus’ life from his vipers’ nest of a family and ruling house. He has no idea why they suddenly wanted to kill him, and finding out is a fascinating journey to the last page. Machinations and fallout pull the story across the continent and deep into the desert; detailed and flowing as Bayen’s beautiful mapmaking, the luscious writing sinks you into the atmosphere alongside this likeable trio of twenty-somethings without weighing down the story’s steadily-building momentum. Within the first few chapters, you’re glad the chunky book gives you plenty of time to spend here.

The dynamic between the friends is attractively brotherly: they stand by each other as they grow and develop despite quicksand shifts in their respective fortunes. There are both disinherited prince and long-lost leader threads here, spun into a huge tangled web of how history is written, by whom and for what cynical purpose. (There are strong-as-nails women leaders, fighters, and healers too, but the main men are a compelling focus.) Add to that the culture-clash the three experience, fleeing home/adopted home for a place that feels so believably foreign to them, before it blossoms into somewhere they want to stay, and you really want them to stay. They’re soon drawn into stunning citadels and clans isolated by in-fighting more than the seas of dunes that surround them – and the frustration they feel at this when there’s higher societal risks at stake really kicks.

Slowly-revealed, the myth and mysticism of the desert feels refreshingly closer to spirituality and sixth sense than conventional magic. The land is alive in this book: you chart new physical and psychic territory with Klaus into desert-country both beautiful and unrelentingly harsh, until with sand in your hair and grit between your teeth, you find yourself reaching for a glass of water. Layer upon layer of revelations from varying cultural factions and points of view have you peering down into the guts of history on all political sides, conflicted alongside the friends when they question their prejudices, beliefs, and ultimately, loyalties. The historic heroes of both Klaus’ and Verdi’s heritage are so bloodied that they and you wonder whether the saints were really the most brutal of sinners, and whose cause it is right to champion.

The denouement is full and satisfying, but you’re champing at the bit to see what’s in the next instalment for the characters and the peoples they’ve grown to be part of. And the fantastical little pets are a delightful rose-water syrup drizzled on this multi-layered confection of a story – Ravi the oceloe is a darling. What’s an oceloe, you ask? Bayen’s gorgeous illustrations give you the cute and cheeky idea.

Spend your holiday season with Wingspan of Treason– it’ll stay with you long into next year.

[Jeanette Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Come with us! This is more than a journey, more than an adventure. What would the next level be called?

This is a not a book you can read in a day, well, if you read faster than this gentle reader, perhaps, it is still a whopping 670 pages to immerse yourself in.😊 And once in a while, you just need to come up for air... and more cold water.😉

Three younglings flee from their homes. The first impression I get is that they are close friends, not prince of Invelmar and others of the court, so the Prince must be treating them well.

They travel under cover and with new names. Still, one of them is recognized, and we are taken in a different direction than where we thought we might be fleeing. And they discover that the world is not what they have told it is.

There are so many likeable characters. Like Fibbler.
He makes me smile when I picture him. Others they meet along the way. Might there be love for fierce warriors?

I find that the history is very interesting as well. It is not really world building, and it is not this story in itself. It is what has happened before our gentlemen’s time that we get to learn. It is rich and full of details. I wonder if our author has been lost to another realm for a while to make it this so good? 😊

I totally need an oceloe. I do not know what to name it, I just know I need one.... Oh! And the powers one of our gentlemen may or may not possess.

I am glad to see there is a continuation to this story, I have way too many questions! And there are secrets still to reveal.

[Melanie Reynard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is epic fantasy and perfect for fans of books like The Jasad Heir, or Wheel of Time, with immersive, character storytelling and excellent worldbuilding you can really get your teeth stuck into.
It follows northmen Klaus and Arik with their southern friend Verdi, as they try to unravel a mystery and conspiracy in a dry arid desert-like part of the world. I don’t want to spoil the story but there are prophecies, spae wives, pirates and unusual creatures. It’s about friendship, determination, honour and there is a very slow burn romantic subplot as well.
Bayern’s prose is just so well written but also her dialogue is spot on and she really brings the many characters to life. It’s multi pov and perfect for fans who like character led books. Five stars from me!

[Bill Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wingspan of Treason is a whirlwind tome of deceit, mystery, and mapmaking, drawn (see what I did there?) with an expert hand by one L.N. Bayen. This book is rich, dense, and full of lore. One that takes you on a journey of self-discovery, as well as devastating brutality.

Where to even start describing this chonk? I suppose you can boil this thick tale down into betrayals of blood (or lack-thereof…perhaps). Klaus, a prince that was supposed to be the heir to a throne, flees his homeland because of a murder plot against him, involving his ruling parents (more on that below). With him comes his two bestest buds, Verdi and Arik. They flee to Verdi’s people/clansmen in a neighboring desert, and what unfolds is a two-pronged (in my view) arc of royal blood causing a lot of strife. Plus there are some birds (as well as other fun animal familiars). Some treason. Lots of maps. Some mysterious instruments, aka McGuffins. Did I mention treason?

The cast of TWoT starts small with the three lads but quickly expands into a sprawling epic. There are so many POVs, I lost count. And yet, none of this bogs down the narrative, each are strong characters to follow, all with goals and motivations. So many characters juggled by Bayen, not one feels lesser than. It’s quite amazing how each character feels real, feels part of the story and not just there for plot reasons.

But let’s stick with the mains, and for me, that’s Klaus and Verdi. Klaus is the main character for all intents and purposes, 1A, if you will. Klaus is a chronicler (again, more on that below) and interested in mapmaking. He’s an adoptive son by the throne and designated heir, but plots/schemes abound and he flees before he can be killed. His humble desire to be smart is offset by his training, and those said smarts play major fun roles in the story. The growth of Klaus across these pages is just a joy to witness. All the way to the final revelations to why he was hunted, he’s just awesome. And while this story starts off with Klaus’ flight, Verdi’s arc quickly becomes the main driving force of the story in my opinion. The 1B, sometimes 1A protag. Verdi’s also got some royal-esque blood (world lore specific), so when the lads get to his people, more than half the story shifts to what’s going on in that land (spoiler, it’s a lot!). I really liked Verdi because he is the truest ‘reluctant chosen one’ trope (some might say naive, which I will!). His character is just one of those you cannot help but want to root for. I just loved Verdi. He also has a little fuzzy familiar called Ravi, a cute little creature.

While the characters rightly are front and center, this book is filled with lush worldbuilding. The lore is so meticulous, you can tell Bayen spent so much time crafting each individual location, each history, each everything. It truly shows how deep this world is. I really enjoyed the fact this world is based on maps/locations. There was an event that shaped the current iteration of the world and it was called The Second Redrawing, by a dude named Sturmsinger (series title drop!). I think this concept is super neat and quite original.

There is really little to no magic in this world but one of the bits I really enjoyed are the four Forms. These Forms are: Warrior, Blacksmith, Jurist, and Intelligencer. Basically these are strict training regimens that are trusted by the people in this world to be experts at what they do. Klaus is trained as an Intelligencer, someone who can put all emotion aside and use logic and knowledge to look at situations. They are also historians (chroniclers and mapmakers) so Klaus’ training really plays a major role in the story for many different reasons, also to his detriment at times, specifically the ending revelation. Arik is trained as a Warrior, so his arc has a lot to do with protecting Klaus/Verdi but also factors into the pirate subplot. I really liked how the focus of these Forms was nothing to do with magic but more with training, it reminds me a lot of higher education careers, like surgeons, you know, what Bayen is in real life…but yeah, the Forms concept was really neato.

I also enjoyed the various instruments or McGuffins dropped in along the way. We have sundials, moondials, compasses, mysterious ore, sundisks. These are but a few objects that factor into the expansive worldbuilding. I joke when I say McGuffins because sometimes they feel like that but really they are important pillars of Klaus’/Verdi’s arcs.

The prose is phenomenal. Seriously some of the best writing I’ve seen in an indie book. It’s beautiful, it’s complex, it paints the scene with a visceral brush. The pace is on the slower side, so anyone expecting a quick read, that’s not this story. Since the world lore is so rich, we spend a lot of time exploring it. It’s a journey book, both literally with Klaus/Verdi, but also historically. Knowledge comes at a steady pace and each builds and builds upon the last. It’s a conversation book, if such thing exists. A lot of the worldbuilding comes via dialogue, but none of it is stilted, it flows naturally. Questions where appropriate, long-winded dumps when necessary, none of it forced. There is action/battles, so it’s not all dialogue and history lessons. A huge battle near the climax that was really well-executed. There are pirates, there are mercenaries, there are mysterious objects that must be deciphered. It’s a varied tale that can take some time to read, but boring is not a word I would ever put near this book.

Bayen also uses flashbacks to help deepen not only the lore, but Klaus in particular. Normally I’m not too keen on too many flashbacks in a book, but these just really work well. A lot of these flashbacks come to Klaus when he is dreaming, and there is a plot reason for that. But each of these flashbacks do serve a purpose and are handled extremely well.

Heck, I’ve gotten this far and haven’t even mentioned how beautiful the artwork is in it! Each chapter has hand-drawn headers by Bayen. Each are specific to the chapter, tiny bits of worldbuilding in themselves. The maps are so brilliantly detailed, you can feel like you are a part of it. This book is just a treat visually.

For a debut, The Wingspan of Treason is stellar. The characterization, the prose, the worldbuilding, all of it is just exquisite. I must say this is a top read of 2024 for me. Also, Lamia is one of the sweetest people I’ve met and she deserves all the praise for this book! The Wingspan of Treason releases on November 26, please go check it out!

[Kate Sibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is going to be hard. I want to review the Wingspan of Treason without sounding like a gushing idiot but I imagine there is going to be a lot of gush. Because this book is outstanding. Truly outstanding. It has the right mix of everything that makes an epic fantasy great - wonderful worldbuilding, intriguing characters and just the right amount of politics without getting bogged down. I found myself racing through it to find out what happens next. I loved it all. I loved the desert setting with it's ever-changing faces. I loved the character progression in a world where everyone is a little bit morally grey and all have secrets to hide. I loved the reveals and the foreshadowed knowledge that lay deep within the pages. I loved it.

Worldbuilding can make or break a book for me. The Wingspan of Treason has worldbuilding in spades but it also does it right. Whilst we begin the story in the cold North of Invelmar, we spend the majority of our time in Derinda. A once fertile land, Derinda has been transformed into a vast desert due to the damming of the Ninvellyn River by the Invelmari. The desert setting adds a great deal of atmosphere to the proceedings and there are some spectacular moments of description. It really allows the reader to become immersed into the narrative. I have read quite a few books with a desert setting but this felt real. It felt like the desert was a character itself, lending further levels of meaning to the proceedings. And while sometimes desert settings are quite monologue (sand, dunes, some more sand), here we have oases, towns, mountains and a wandering olive grove. I delighted in the setting and what the Author did with it.

The storyline could have a review all of it's own. It's complex but not too complicated. A tale of treason and treachery (no, really), it takes several twists and turns but never feels convoluted. There are some excellent turning of events and some lovely foreshadowing. This is a complex plot and it does sometimes feel like a longer book than it is but it is worth it. If I had one slight issue, it would be that there are some pacing issues in the middle section with a slight dragging. However, I didn't find that this was a strong feeling or that it affected my enjoyment at all.

The characters were a versatile and varied bunch - an ousted heir, a reluctant key to a prophecy, a master warrior, various strange soothsayers, a wicked bunch of mercenies, the list goes on. There are a lot of characters and I did get a bit tangled remembering who was who but it always became evident who was who. What I liked was the grey nature of the characters - no one was completely good. Even the "heroes" of the story had some dubious characteristics. This made the characters feel more realistic and made it easier to relate to them.

This is a wonderfully written book. The prose is strong and helps to set the scene. Combined with the imaginative world building, some strong characterisation and a mystically intriguing magic system, it all adds up to a brilliant whole. I really really enjoyed reading The Wingspan of Treason and can not wait to see what the Author does with the story in the future. This is a must for all fans of epic fantasy.

I received a free Advance Reader Copy from the Author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you

[Dorian Bau · Rating 5 out of 5]

“In the marketplace, where a man wrote out the sum of his true self for the world to see, every small portion of him counted.”


I don't think I’ve ever seen such care put into every one of the characters’ backstories, motives, and ideals as this book. From the get-go, the prose was instantly eye-catching. It was alive and reactive and made everything feel much more intimate to each other. It also served as wonderful foreshadowing of the magic at play in these lands. Everything about the world, from its history to the life it houses, is given time to breathe and speak its woes and dreams. The same can be said of the three main protagonists: Klaus, Verdi, and Arik, who share the same strife with identity, destiny, and faith, but are thrown into different pitfalls and hardships. What Klaus may find easy, Arik mourns for months; what Verdi may struggle with, Klaus yearns for. It was wonderful seeing their personal journey unfold (or begin for Arik lol) alongside rising tensions in the world around them.


I also love the small details in the relationship they have both with each other and with the people they meet along the way. Alizarin, Thilliana, and Nerisen are my favorite among the side characters. Alizarin specifically has very complex feelings about the main trio that stem from personal biases, fear, and begrudging hope for his nation. He is a man who thirsts for hope in a desert of conflict- A man who knows that evil has many roots, and can stem from suffering to inflict suffering. Who is to be punished then? For crimes committed out of necessity and grief. ‘The truth is not for carving up to preserve only the parts we wish to see. It must be taken whole.’


‘The truth has many parts. Choices must be examined in light of the conditions and intentions that spawned them. Only then can their consequences be fairly comprehended.’


That is the main focal point of the story, in my opinion. It is the layers of history and conquest, and the hate that succeeds it. Heroes are only heroes to the people they help, not the others they’ve trampled. Years can muddle feuds, and biases can break bridges before they're fully fortified. Yes, it can be frustrating to see an easy answer to a problem be so easily shoved to the side, but we cannot blame people’s mistrust without learning why it came to be so, just as we cannot idolize people without knowing the mistakes they made to be legendary. Just like the map in Samsarra, relationships are like the fickle grains of sand, tossing and turning with the slightest winds and greatest storms. We must not lose sight of the nuances of life if we are to pave a clear path towards a better future.


A very wonderful read. If you like slow-paced, character-driven fantasy with a big emphasis on the metaphysical and the dense, multilayered ties of history, loyalty, and love, then give this book a go.

[Alex Scheuermann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Klaus was the Wintermantel heir and next in line to rule over the kingdom of Invelmar. That was until his sister tipped him off, telling him he may not be a true heir. Running from the kingdom for his life alongside his servant, Verdi, and loyal soldier, Arik, they travel to the warring-tribes of Derinda to lay low and try and piece together who Klaus really is.

But Derinda is an unforgiving place, not just from their mistrust of northerners or the threat of pirates but also the parched land itself, thanks to a dam constructed by the Invelmari at the kingdom's border. Water is key for traveling there.

From the exquisite maps, to the custom artwork of every chapter header, Bayan carefully curated every detail of her debut. The complex world comes alive under her pen and the reader feels the anxiety of scrounging for each derina root carefully squeezed for moisture.

One thing that struck me while reading was how rich and deep the themes are in The Wingspan of Treason. In this current age of writing, I feel that themes are often overlooked in favor of spectacle. Refreshingly this is not the case here. The theme of identity is perhaps the most pronounced. Who a person is isn't just where they were born or raised. I quite enjoyed how Klaus, Verdi, and Arik each struggled with this in different ways. The second theme that stuck with me is that of connection with nature—specifically in the story humanities loss of a connection with nature. The pinnacle of which is represented by the biggest villain of the story, a dam built ages ago.

While I very much enjoyed the political intrigue and twists and turns of the how the world came to be, I feel that the story could have used a slightly tighter focus. There were so many characters, clan names, and regional dialect, not to mention the large page count, that things were hard to remember at times and resulted in a slow-ish middle. Thankfully Klaus springs into action, bringing the story to a satisfying climax and conclusion. And for the careful reader, the characters, clans, and dialect all tie in to the themes, plot, or otherwise enrich the story.

I highly recommend The Wingspan of Treason to all fantasy lovers. If you are looking for something different from your typical fantasy world with oodles of heart and themes that leave you thinking, check out this story today.

[Bella Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The pirate laughed. Arik shoved down his own sand-mask. Invelmari steel fell. Pirate blood sprayed the dunes, and the desert drank without reluctance.”
This quote stayed with me for the rest of the book and I went back to it a few times. It is a taste of the atmosphere created by Bayen. She can convey a world of meaning with short sentences and simple words.
Don’t let the size of the book scare you! I devoured its 660 pages with barely a pause to breathe, completely absorbed by the characters and their conflicts. Like many epic fantasy stories, this is the tale of a journey. Three friends find themselves exiled from their home, hunted and betrayed, and as they flee across the unforgiving desert of Derinda, they will learn about many secrets and will face many dangers. But they will also find friendship.
A gifted storyteller, Bayen weaves so many threads that you think she cannot possibly bring it all together in one book, but you are mistaken. Every bit has its place. All pieces of the jigsaw fall seamlessly and suddenly everything is right in front of your eyes!
The story is told mainly from the point of view of the three friends – Klaus, Arik and Verdi. While they share a common reason to be travelling together, each has their own personal conflicts to deal with and as their journey becomes ever more fraught with danger and with riddles to be solved, their own arc blossoms before the reader’s eyes. Their masks, doubts and hopes are peeled away, allowing the reader to dive deep into their characters and motivations. Bayen went beyond giving her characters flesh – she gave them a soul.
The settings are as vivid as the amazing illustrations and maps in this book. You can feel every grain of sand, the sharpness of the wind, the buzz in a tavern or the flurry of activity in a market.
Last, but not least, I cannot forget to mention the adorable mini-beasts who are full-characters in their own right and make the story that much richer with their presence!
This is a must-have for any fantasy bookshelf. Fans of epic fantasy will not be disappointed and will probably feel like me: with a severe book hangover!
Looking forward to reading the next instalment in this incredible series.

[Annette Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wingspan of Treason by L.N. Bayen is everything I love in epic fantasy and I have no regrets about the late nights I spent following her wonderful characters on their compelling quest. Klaus was once a prince, or so he believed, but upon learning the truth about his origin he is forced to flee the kingdom before those he believed to be his parents kill him. Accompanied by his faithful friends Verdi and Arik he flees to the neighbouring desert land of Derinda, a land held together by a loose alliances of tribes and clans where the only thing many of the people have in common is their hatred of Northerners like Klaus and his companions and the belief in a mystically chosen one who is destined to lead them. With pirates and spies, soldiers and shamans this book has a wonderful blend of magic, mystery, action and intrigue so it is no wonder that I found myself hooked, especially once I got to to grips with the world and the characters. This is a book filled with detail, layers of description and character development really build the world for the reader, not to mention the beautifully detailed and intricate maps that ground us in the author's creation. There is a real focus on nature woven through the storytelling, from dangerous sandstorms to the thirst quenching plants that are so important that they give Derinda its name. Threaded through the storytelling is a recurring motif of the damage caused by man to the environment and the terrible consequences of those actions. There is also a strong theme of identity and in some ways this feels like a coming of age novel as several of the characters grapple with figuring out who they are in the face of the expectations that have been placed upon them.
This may be a debut novel but it is polished, accomplished and deserves to find its audience , if you like your epic fantasy chunky, detailed and with characters that you cannot help but root for, The Wingspan of Treason is absolutely the book for you.
I read an ARC courtesy of the author but all opinions are my own.

[river_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book honestly blindsided me. It is, without exaggeration, the most cohesive and structurally sound book one I’ve ever read. And as a series opener, this book is nearly flawless.

For starters, the worldbuilding is where Bayen truly shines. She has an incredible sense for how a world reveals itself through culture and lived experience rather than infodumps.

Bayen’s prose also is quietly phenomenal cos it isn’t flashy for the sake of being flashy. It's precise and lyrical when it needs to be, and devastatingly restrained when it matters most. There’s a patience to the writing, letting moments breathe rather than over explaining them, that made me trust the narrative almost immediately. What also really got me is how emotionally calibrated the prose feels. She knows exactly when to pull back and when to lean in. Intimate moments land because they’re not overworked, and the heavier scenes hit harder because the language doesn’t flinch away from discomfort.

The characters is where Bayen completely won me over. She has such an uncanny ability to make you emotionally invested without forcing sympathy. Everyone feels shaped by their world in believable ways, and their choices carry weight even when they’re painful or morally compromised. And Ulfriklaus Wintermantel is becoming one of those characters I carry with me even when I'm not reading. Outside from Hadrian Marlowe, I can't remember the last time I felt this close to a character's inner life: their doubts, their struggles, the way they think.

Honestly this book deserves far more traction than most of the trending indie fantasy books. And this is not a “good for a debut” situation either, this is a genuinely exceptional novel. It gets an easy 5 stars from me.

[Hussain A. Ayoub · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC of this book and I am leaving a review voluntarily.

This year, I've made it my task to read as many indie and self-published books as possible. I wasn't disappointed. In fact, I am inspired by the innovation and creativity of all those talented authors. This book is the most delicious cherry on top of the cake.

The Wingspan of Treason by L.N. Bayen is a masterful epic fantasy that captivates with its rich lore and complex characters. As it stands, the book has a huge cast of characters, all of which are fleshed out with their unique motivations and quirks. However, the story primarily follows Klaus, a former prince escaping betrayal, and his journey through the desert kingdom of Derinda, which unfolds into a brutal adventure of self-discovery. This book is dense with lore and worldbuilding, featuring sentient landscapes, intricate maps (drawn by the author herself), and a unique training system called the Forms. But don't fret, it will draw you in from the first page to the last.

Bayen's prose is both beautiful and detailed, on par with Patrick Rothfuss and other top fantasy authors, making the slower pace more a rewarding experience. The book's lush descriptions and well-crafted characters, especially Klaus and Verdi, make it a standout debut.

This is my personal favourite book of the year, a must-read for fans of epic fantasy looking for a deep, immersive tale.

[Nele Paulsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG, I adore this book!

It’s one of those books that you fall in, then find yourself diving in deeper and deeper, letting the world swallow you whole.

It’s epic in the best of way, like a fantasy mystery, complete with a reluctant “chosen one” and such a round and fully-fledged cast of characters that I legit felt like I was there.

The fantasy elements are subtle but fantastic, the political intrigue just right, and the little oceloe [sic] steals the show.

(I love Klaus, I love Verdi, but Ravi and Arik still own my heart. And come on, Arik, nobody believes you don’t like the little rascal. lol)

Also: the author illustrated her own book and OMG, I am in AWE.

Anyways. I don’t actually wanna spoil too much but from someone who’s attention span has been terrible: this book is admittedly a chonker, but it’s such a fast read because the story - and the pacing - just pulls you along.

I really loved this one.

[indyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wingspan of Treason is well and truly a fabulous epic fantasy debut by all means. It reminded me of The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho (one of the GOAT books in my eyes), and why I fell in love with it in the first place. And honestly, it’s probably the highest of compliments that I can fathom! The writing was beautiful, the characters were superbly penned, the world building and the lore were in-depth and exquisitely crafted, the setting was excellently executed, and the plot was quite brilliantly put forth. Not to forget the amazing maps and illustrations as well! And although it’s quite “chonky” in itself, I was constantly being pulled towards it to see what the next chapter would bring. To put it simply, this is AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ, and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you add it to the top of your TBRs asap!

[Luke Winch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the easiest 5 stars I've given a book this year. A stunning debut novel. If you like epic fantasy, middle eastern-style world, complex sociopolitical world building and wonderfully diversive cultures, deeply rich characters and beautiful prose, then you need to get this book on your tbr!

My full review can be found on my channel:

https://youtu.be/-_-QPqf4aLU?si=7XN91...

[Luke Heppe · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had to dnf this book, because I just couldn't get behind the writing style. It felt like in every sentence the author was trying to come up with a unique, brilliant metaphor or turn of phrase and never succeeded.

[Helen Fray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written! The quality of the writing is astonishing here, and the world depicted so vivid. Klaus is a memorable character who's psychological journey is fascinating. The art work included in the book is also special. Thoroughly recommend.

[Soumyadeep Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent ...a criminally underrated masterpiece...