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Relentless Blades
"If you like Dungeons and Dragons, cool fights that are dynamic, banter, and so much more, Russell Carroll's debut novel, Relentless Blades, is for you." - Jonathan Putnam, SFF Insiders.
Relentless Blades promises heart-pounding action, rich world building, and unforgettable characters. With a gripping plot, heroes to root for and villains to despise, this is a must read for any fantasy fan craving an edge-of-your-seat adventure from beginning to end. The fight for Zarune begins-are you ready?
Cross the wrong men and meet their blades!
In Zarune, peace hangs by a thread as the vragoths, once tyrannical rulers, hunger to reclaim their dominance. When an ancient scepter capable of tipping the balance of power is unearthed, they will stop at nothing to seize it.
Burdened by shame and hiding in a frontier town, Vigilanton never expected to stand against them. But when his estranged brother arrives to investigate the discovery, Vigilanton is forced to confront his past and take action. Joined by Grimlock—a half-skron driven by vengeance and haunted by guilt—they may be the realm’s only hope of stopping the vragoths.
As fates collide, unlikely allies engage in a deadly pursuit of these wicked fiends, while old grudges and past failures threaten to tear their fragile alliance apart. Time is running out, and each knows that failure will doom the land to the vragoths’ brutal reign.
Relentless Blades promises heart-pounding action, rich world building, and unforgettable characters. With a gripping plot, heroes to root for and villains to despise, this is a must read for any fantasy fan craving an edge-of-your-seat adventure from beginning to end. The fight for Zarune begins-are you ready?
Cross the wrong men and meet their blades!
In Zarune, peace hangs by a thread as the vragoths, once tyrannical rulers, hunger to reclaim their dominance. When an ancient scepter capable of tipping the balance of power is unearthed, they will stop at nothing to seize it.
Burdened by shame and hiding in a frontier town, Vigilanton never expected to stand against them. But when his estranged brother arrives to investigate the discovery, Vigilanton is forced to confront his past and take action. Joined by Grimlock—a half-skron driven by vengeance and haunted by guilt—they may be the realm’s only hope of stopping the vragoths.
As fates collide, unlikely allies engage in a deadly pursuit of these wicked fiends, while old grudges and past failures threaten to tear their fragile alliance apart. Time is running out, and each knows that failure will doom the land to the vragoths’ brutal reign.
- GenresFantasy
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2024
16 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
Russell Carroll
8 books23 followersRussell Carroll is an accomplished author focusing on dark, sword and sorcery fantasy. He passionately crafts tales of noble, but flawed heroes overcoming personal demons to vanquish wicked villains. The kind of adventures he and his friends lived while growing up playing Dungeons and Dragons. A hallmark of his writing is vivid combat so visceral it places the reader in the middle of the action.
In 2020, he fulfilled a lifelong ambition when his short story, The Purple Heart, was published as part of the Days of the Dead fanthology, Nevada Necromance edition. He released his first novel, Relentless Blades: The Prophecies of Zarune, Volume I on October 21, 2024, to much success. Ashbound Oaths, the exciting sequel, releases in the fall of 2025. Together they constitute love letters to his teenage self and all those who enjoy epic fantasy.
He and his family are passionate about animals and have a growing number of pets, including two German shepherds, Auggie and Luna, their ackie monitor, Mushu, a blue-tongue skink named Dewey, a green cheek conure parrot named Piko, their ball python, Yoshi and two crested geckos, Lucius and Iris.
You’re never too old to chase your dreams!
As a 'thank you' for all those who purchase his books, please contact him. He will add you to his email list and give you access to bonus deleted scenes from Relentless Blades and a draft sample chapter from Ashbound Oaths.
In 2020, he fulfilled a lifelong ambition when his short story, The Purple Heart, was published as part of the Days of the Dead fanthology, Nevada Necromance edition. He released his first novel, Relentless Blades: The Prophecies of Zarune, Volume I on October 21, 2024, to much success. Ashbound Oaths, the exciting sequel, releases in the fall of 2025. Together they constitute love letters to his teenage self and all those who enjoy epic fantasy.
He and his family are passionate about animals and have a growing number of pets, including two German shepherds, Auggie and Luna, their ackie monitor, Mushu, a blue-tongue skink named Dewey, a green cheek conure parrot named Piko, their ball python, Yoshi and two crested geckos, Lucius and Iris.
You’re never too old to chase your dreams!
As a 'thank you' for all those who purchase his books, please contact him. He will add you to his email list and give you access to bonus deleted scenes from Relentless Blades and a draft sample chapter from Ashbound Oaths.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 17, 2025
A knight seeking redemption forms an unlikely alliance with a half- skron. With only the realm’s survival at stake. For great terror awaits.
Adrenaline blasting, sword & mace swinging adventure! A D&D nostalgic romp with heart! Great fun!
Adrenaline blasting, sword & mace swinging adventure! A D&D nostalgic romp with heart! Great fun!
April 19, 2025
Relentless Blades by Russell Carroll is a thrilling debut novel that will captivate fans of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) and high-octane fantasy. Inspired by the rich storytelling of D&D, this book delivers action-packed sequences that keep you on the edge of your seat, marking the start of an exciting new series.
Carroll’s greatest strength lies in his mastery of action. His vivid, pulse-pounding scenes are crafted with a precision and energy that echo the works of R.A. Salvatore and the iconic Dragonlance novels by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. Every clash of steel scene feels immersive, pulling readers into a world brimming with classic fantasy flair.
Written by a fan of classic fantasy for fans of the genre, Relentless Blades is a love letter to the tropes and traditions that make epic fantasy so enduring. If you crave fast-paced battles and a story steeped in D&D-inspired adventure, this book is a must-read. Carroll has set the stage for an unforgettable series, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.
Highly recommended for classic fantasy and D&D enthusiasts!
Carroll’s greatest strength lies in his mastery of action. His vivid, pulse-pounding scenes are crafted with a precision and energy that echo the works of R.A. Salvatore and the iconic Dragonlance novels by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. Every clash of steel scene feels immersive, pulling readers into a world brimming with classic fantasy flair.
Written by a fan of classic fantasy for fans of the genre, Relentless Blades is a love letter to the tropes and traditions that make epic fantasy so enduring. If you crave fast-paced battles and a story steeped in D&D-inspired adventure, this book is a must-read. Carroll has set the stage for an unforgettable series, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.
Highly recommended for classic fantasy and D&D enthusiasts!
October 29, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFFINSIDERS.COM
Relentless Blades by Russell Caroll follows Vigilanton, a dishonoured Valadian Knight who has to prove his worth by saving the world from the evil Vagroths, who are on the verge of unleashing an ancient evil. He is joined by Grim, a half-skron who is driven by vengeance and haunted by guilt. Together,they are the realm’s only hope of stopping the Vragroths.
I discovered this novel through the SFF Insiders Discord library and the cover art immediately caught my attention. I instantly emailed Russell asking if I could read and review his book. Russell was incredibly welcoming and thoughtful with his responses. What I didn't expect was for Russell to send me his proof copy, for which I am very grateful, as he simply wanted my honest feedback.
Relentless Blades is a fast-paced epic fantasy novel featuring a variety of magic and unique races, including goblins and other creatures. Initially, the book didn’t quite click for me, as I struggled to follow the story. However, after a few chapters, I became accustomed to Russell’s writing style and I was completely hooked and couldn’t put the book down.
My favourite characters within Relentless Blades were Rarran and Grim. Rarran’s presence was so impactful that I eagerly awaited his scenes. He served as a father figure to both Grim and Vig, guiding them with wisdom and helping refine their skills without ever judging them. Rattan saw potential in them from the start, accepting them for who they were. He never discriminated against Grim for being half-skron and ensured Grim found work suited to his abilities. Likewise, he didn’t look down on Vig for his struggles with reading but instead offered his help with kindness.
Grim was another character that I came to admire, especially for how he carries himself in tough situations. He is an all-around warrior, and although his temper sometimes gets the best of him due to his emotional state, he remains a very honourable individual. Always striving to do the right thing despite how others perceive or treat him. When Grim opened up about his past, I couldn't help but love him more. The pain and challenges he endured were deeply moving and I admire the way he grew from them. I can’t wait to see more of Grim in the series, as I have a feeling his journey has only just begun, with much more to explore.
One of my favourite aspects of this novel was the emotional depth, as Russell timed these moments masterfully. They really struck a chord with me, especially moments of grief and reflection, which revealed the depth of these characters, making them more than just stereotypical heroes. I’d love to see more moments like these, as they stayed with me long after I finished the book.
In conclusion, Relentless Blades offers a fresh story filled with magic, action, adventure, and heart. The deeper message I took away from this novel is to not dwell on the past and to always appreciate family, even after arguments try to reconcile because you never know if you’ll get a second chance. The story was beautifully written, and I can’t wait for the next instalment to see what is in store for these amazing characters.
Relentless Blades by Russell Caroll follows Vigilanton, a dishonoured Valadian Knight who has to prove his worth by saving the world from the evil Vagroths, who are on the verge of unleashing an ancient evil. He is joined by Grim, a half-skron who is driven by vengeance and haunted by guilt. Together,they are the realm’s only hope of stopping the Vragroths.
I discovered this novel through the SFF Insiders Discord library and the cover art immediately caught my attention. I instantly emailed Russell asking if I could read and review his book. Russell was incredibly welcoming and thoughtful with his responses. What I didn't expect was for Russell to send me his proof copy, for which I am very grateful, as he simply wanted my honest feedback.
Relentless Blades is a fast-paced epic fantasy novel featuring a variety of magic and unique races, including goblins and other creatures. Initially, the book didn’t quite click for me, as I struggled to follow the story. However, after a few chapters, I became accustomed to Russell’s writing style and I was completely hooked and couldn’t put the book down.
My favourite characters within Relentless Blades were Rarran and Grim. Rarran’s presence was so impactful that I eagerly awaited his scenes. He served as a father figure to both Grim and Vig, guiding them with wisdom and helping refine their skills without ever judging them. Rattan saw potential in them from the start, accepting them for who they were. He never discriminated against Grim for being half-skron and ensured Grim found work suited to his abilities. Likewise, he didn’t look down on Vig for his struggles with reading but instead offered his help with kindness.
Grim was another character that I came to admire, especially for how he carries himself in tough situations. He is an all-around warrior, and although his temper sometimes gets the best of him due to his emotional state, he remains a very honourable individual. Always striving to do the right thing despite how others perceive or treat him. When Grim opened up about his past, I couldn't help but love him more. The pain and challenges he endured were deeply moving and I admire the way he grew from them. I can’t wait to see more of Grim in the series, as I have a feeling his journey has only just begun, with much more to explore.
One of my favourite aspects of this novel was the emotional depth, as Russell timed these moments masterfully. They really struck a chord with me, especially moments of grief and reflection, which revealed the depth of these characters, making them more than just stereotypical heroes. I’d love to see more moments like these, as they stayed with me long after I finished the book.
In conclusion, Relentless Blades offers a fresh story filled with magic, action, adventure, and heart. The deeper message I took away from this novel is to not dwell on the past and to always appreciate family, even after arguments try to reconcile because you never know if you’ll get a second chance. The story was beautifully written, and I can’t wait for the next instalment to see what is in store for these amazing characters.
January 2, 2025
A brilliant, fast paced epic fantasy adventure full of twists that’ll keep you hooked! The world building in incredibly in depth, featuring characters and races all with their own religious beliefs, magic usage and back stories. The multiple pov allows you to follow the story form a variety of angles, and as you progress through the story you really get to see each character grow and their relationships develop. The author has a wonderful, understated way of writing which conveys enough emotion to get you involved but doesn’t weigh you down with too much descriptive work. A real story of quest adventure, I would throughly recommend this to anyone who loves fantasy with a lot of action!
October 24, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFFINSIDERS.COM
Until Russell Carroll commented on a post by TJ McKay (this one here), I had no clue who he was or what his book was about. And after reading his debut novel… I’d like to see where he takes his world and his characters, not only due to the way each of the characters behave at any given circumstance, but also the very fluid dynamics of a fight scene. Carroll is a D&D player, and with that role playing knowledge also comes a few other things that help set this novel up. But I digress, for I am not a bard who spends too long on the introductions (I don’t think I do).
Relentless Blades by Russell Carroll
Had I a library or store to hand out novels, and a customer came in wondering if I had anything that went towards D&D chaos with some spins on the map and a few homebrew races tossed in, I’d hand them a copy of this novel and tell them this short sell:
“Vigilanton is a thief in the night for a crime lord in a frontier town. That is until trouble comes aknocking. All bets are off, stakes are high. Care for more?”
If they do, indeed, want to know more, then I’d oblige, since that blurb is but a footnote of happenstances in the book, and it doesn’t really point out the D&D aspect, just one of the characters in the book who drew the short end of the straw.
I’m getting ahead of myself though, since I’ve not yet talked about Vigilanton, or Vig to his acquaintances that don’t want his head on a pike, and Grimlock.
Vig… He’s the troubled child of a family of knights, and he’s dyslexic. It may not seem like much in the short term of this review… but, as a wise (or drunk) person once put it… “Just trust me bro”, because if I said anything more than that, I’d be getting into the spoilers of the book, which I’m trying to avoid as much as humanly possible. Aside from that, he’s good with a blade, thieving, and being a slippery bugger - with a somewhat bleeding heart of gold, when he feels up to it. Some hullabaloo drags him through the mud at first, some more events decide a ravine is too kind and go for the endless void, and he starts getting his hopes up… and those hopes get shattered. And at some point the novel’s over, with everything seeming all good - at least that is what Vig hopes, but we can’t because Carroll decided to write an ending that’ll have us readers coming back.
Then, with Grimlock… the best way to sum up his character development is:
Family drama with even more psychotic family members than Vig
He’s looking for his sibling, got stuck in a town and got pulled into Vigs adventure by association and gets to survive both the same and different scenarios as his acquaintance.
Next comes the plot of the book, which, aside from some similarities with the D&D movie, is completely unhinged in a good way, since it takes us on a ride through the land, and in extension the history of the world. Shenanigans happen, which set up the novel, more shenanigans, and after a twist and a turn, we find ourselves at the end, which is but just the beginning of the end.
Adding to the plot, there’s the world building and to properly talk about that, I need to go into the map and how everything is placed on it. Through the map, the events of the novel can be slowly pieced together in a continuous trek through the world, and I liked being able to trace their progress through that. However, it isn’t to scale and it was probably made from the perspective of some sort of cartographer, so not everything fits with where one thinks it would be, so everything on it could be wrong or placed just out of alignment.
Besides that, there’s the lore and the dragons involved with the lore. The dragons were supposedly all dead, but eggs of dragons still existed so one thing leads to another and Vragoths want them back. As for the Vragoth… they are basically demons with various traits and magical abilities
Lastly, aside from the world building and the lore, there’s also the magic system to talk about. It’s very D&Desque, with necromancers, clerics and a few other mages just hanging about. I don’t know what’s happened with the bards - they probably all died out after attempting to woo dragons back when they still existed. There’s also pyromancers, but that’s, at least in regards to this novel, mostly limited to the Vragoth. As for the clerics, they are more in line with what one would have pictured as a paladin, but it’s not too much of a difference, they just have access to SMITE in limited circumstances.
Now, besides the fun parts of the novel, there’s also a thing that irked me, and it’s my own view on it, and it’ll be different for each reader, and that is the dialogue. At some point, it becomes more realistic, but it stumbles around in the beginning. It does get better, it just takes about the first eighth of the novel to get through to get to that part.
If you like Dungeons and Dragons, cool fights that are dynamic, banter, and so much more, Russell Carrolls debut novel, “Relentless Blades”, is for you.
As always, thank you for reading this review, and I hope I’ve been able to help nudge you towards your next read. If not, don’t fret, here’s a random link to another review on the site that may or may not be to your liking. But therein lies the fun. Journey before destination, as one great book put it.
Wherever you are reading this review, have a good morning, good afternoon, good evening and good night!
Until Russell Carroll commented on a post by TJ McKay (this one here), I had no clue who he was or what his book was about. And after reading his debut novel… I’d like to see where he takes his world and his characters, not only due to the way each of the characters behave at any given circumstance, but also the very fluid dynamics of a fight scene. Carroll is a D&D player, and with that role playing knowledge also comes a few other things that help set this novel up. But I digress, for I am not a bard who spends too long on the introductions (I don’t think I do).
Relentless Blades by Russell Carroll
Had I a library or store to hand out novels, and a customer came in wondering if I had anything that went towards D&D chaos with some spins on the map and a few homebrew races tossed in, I’d hand them a copy of this novel and tell them this short sell:
“Vigilanton is a thief in the night for a crime lord in a frontier town. That is until trouble comes aknocking. All bets are off, stakes are high. Care for more?”
If they do, indeed, want to know more, then I’d oblige, since that blurb is but a footnote of happenstances in the book, and it doesn’t really point out the D&D aspect, just one of the characters in the book who drew the short end of the straw.
I’m getting ahead of myself though, since I’ve not yet talked about Vigilanton, or Vig to his acquaintances that don’t want his head on a pike, and Grimlock.
Vig… He’s the troubled child of a family of knights, and he’s dyslexic. It may not seem like much in the short term of this review… but, as a wise (or drunk) person once put it… “Just trust me bro”, because if I said anything more than that, I’d be getting into the spoilers of the book, which I’m trying to avoid as much as humanly possible. Aside from that, he’s good with a blade, thieving, and being a slippery bugger - with a somewhat bleeding heart of gold, when he feels up to it. Some hullabaloo drags him through the mud at first, some more events decide a ravine is too kind and go for the endless void, and he starts getting his hopes up… and those hopes get shattered. And at some point the novel’s over, with everything seeming all good - at least that is what Vig hopes, but we can’t because Carroll decided to write an ending that’ll have us readers coming back.
Then, with Grimlock… the best way to sum up his character development is:
Family drama with even more psychotic family members than Vig
He’s looking for his sibling, got stuck in a town and got pulled into Vigs adventure by association and gets to survive both the same and different scenarios as his acquaintance.
Next comes the plot of the book, which, aside from some similarities with the D&D movie, is completely unhinged in a good way, since it takes us on a ride through the land, and in extension the history of the world. Shenanigans happen, which set up the novel, more shenanigans, and after a twist and a turn, we find ourselves at the end, which is but just the beginning of the end.
Adding to the plot, there’s the world building and to properly talk about that, I need to go into the map and how everything is placed on it. Through the map, the events of the novel can be slowly pieced together in a continuous trek through the world, and I liked being able to trace their progress through that. However, it isn’t to scale and it was probably made from the perspective of some sort of cartographer, so not everything fits with where one thinks it would be, so everything on it could be wrong or placed just out of alignment.
Besides that, there’s the lore and the dragons involved with the lore. The dragons were supposedly all dead, but eggs of dragons still existed so one thing leads to another and Vragoths want them back. As for the Vragoth… they are basically demons with various traits and magical abilities
Lastly, aside from the world building and the lore, there’s also the magic system to talk about. It’s very D&Desque, with necromancers, clerics and a few other mages just hanging about. I don’t know what’s happened with the bards - they probably all died out after attempting to woo dragons back when they still existed. There’s also pyromancers, but that’s, at least in regards to this novel, mostly limited to the Vragoth. As for the clerics, they are more in line with what one would have pictured as a paladin, but it’s not too much of a difference, they just have access to SMITE in limited circumstances.
Now, besides the fun parts of the novel, there’s also a thing that irked me, and it’s my own view on it, and it’ll be different for each reader, and that is the dialogue. At some point, it becomes more realistic, but it stumbles around in the beginning. It does get better, it just takes about the first eighth of the novel to get through to get to that part.
If you like Dungeons and Dragons, cool fights that are dynamic, banter, and so much more, Russell Carrolls debut novel, “Relentless Blades”, is for you.
As always, thank you for reading this review, and I hope I’ve been able to help nudge you towards your next read. If not, don’t fret, here’s a random link to another review on the site that may or may not be to your liking. But therein lies the fun. Journey before destination, as one great book put it.
Wherever you are reading this review, have a good morning, good afternoon, good evening and good night!
November 27, 2024
At first I wasn’t sure if I was going to enjoy this book as it started a bit dense and information heavy but I soon got into it and from then on I was invested! The world building was incredible and I could easily imagine in my mind the places they go to. I also loved the invention of various species such as the skron and vragoths and thought their appearances, powers and characters were all very well thought out and finely detailed.
I loved all of the main characters throughout the story especially Grim and Vig and I was definitely too attached to them. I liked how the chapters were from a few different POVs meaning that you could really get to know each individual character, their beliefs and their feelings about everything and there was in depth character development throughout which definitely made me get attached to them.
There are so many fight scenes that were amazing and action filled and kept me enraptured with impressive sword fights and some magic power being used to really create fantastic scenes. The journey I was taken on was filled with stunning descriptions and an exploration of the world that Carroll created. There were even a few sad moments involving certain characters that really upset me!
I liked the friendships that arose in this novel, from Grim, Vig and Rarran to the rest of the prisoners in the arena and there was a real sense of camaraderie and ‘we’ve got each other’s back’ which was really wholesome to read in the midst of all the action and despair. I liked how Carroll realistically shows the difference in species and the xenophobia that many of the characters face but overall the characters from different species come together to work as a team and become strong friends by the end.
I enjoyed how the connection to the prologue made sense about halfway through which gave me an indication of what was going to happen at the end but the reveal was still shocking and it left me wanting book 2 immediately! This is a fast paced fantasy read that kept me engaged from start to finish and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book.
I loved all of the main characters throughout the story especially Grim and Vig and I was definitely too attached to them. I liked how the chapters were from a few different POVs meaning that you could really get to know each individual character, their beliefs and their feelings about everything and there was in depth character development throughout which definitely made me get attached to them.
There are so many fight scenes that were amazing and action filled and kept me enraptured with impressive sword fights and some magic power being used to really create fantastic scenes. The journey I was taken on was filled with stunning descriptions and an exploration of the world that Carroll created. There were even a few sad moments involving certain characters that really upset me!
I liked the friendships that arose in this novel, from Grim, Vig and Rarran to the rest of the prisoners in the arena and there was a real sense of camaraderie and ‘we’ve got each other’s back’ which was really wholesome to read in the midst of all the action and despair. I liked how Carroll realistically shows the difference in species and the xenophobia that many of the characters face but overall the characters from different species come together to work as a team and become strong friends by the end.
I enjoyed how the connection to the prologue made sense about halfway through which gave me an indication of what was going to happen at the end but the reveal was still shocking and it left me wanting book 2 immediately! This is a fast paced fantasy read that kept me engaged from start to finish and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book.
October 15, 2025
You can read Russell’s inspirations throughout the story as it progresses. The fight scenes are nicely choreographed and visceral (blood, gore, gurgles, and slurps). You feel the internal (and visually the external) struggles of Grim and Vig as their stories converge and build toward the finale.
Like many new stories, the beginning moves a little slow as momentum builds. Stick with it, around page 50-100ish you are in the momentum, picks up faster by 150, and by page 200 the ride has engaged and you aren't getting off anytime soon, enjoy the ride. Several chapters revisit the same event from different perspectives as it unfolds in real time. This narrative style requires careful alignment and demonstrates real talent in maintaining cohesion. The fight scenes were vividly descriptive and well done. Russell's real talent lies in his fight choreography. It's vivid and almost a blow by blow recount. You picture the movement, the swing, the recoil, the parry, the blood-splatter. You can almost feel that he lived for these moments within the story.
Personally, there was some of the other moments where I wanted the scenes to live and breathe a little more but the pacing seemed to favor forward story momentum. There was a lot of narrative ground to cover in this story, and I think that Russell found a great balance. Russell is a very motivated and insightful author and dedicated to his craft. I would always be on the look out for his next book.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story and can’t wait to read his next installment for The Prophecies of Zarune, Book 2 - Ashbound Oaths!
Like many new stories, the beginning moves a little slow as momentum builds. Stick with it, around page 50-100ish you are in the momentum, picks up faster by 150, and by page 200 the ride has engaged and you aren't getting off anytime soon, enjoy the ride. Several chapters revisit the same event from different perspectives as it unfolds in real time. This narrative style requires careful alignment and demonstrates real talent in maintaining cohesion. The fight scenes were vividly descriptive and well done. Russell's real talent lies in his fight choreography. It's vivid and almost a blow by blow recount. You picture the movement, the swing, the recoil, the parry, the blood-splatter. You can almost feel that he lived for these moments within the story.
Personally, there was some of the other moments where I wanted the scenes to live and breathe a little more but the pacing seemed to favor forward story momentum. There was a lot of narrative ground to cover in this story, and I think that Russell found a great balance. Russell is a very motivated and insightful author and dedicated to his craft. I would always be on the look out for his next book.
Overall, I really enjoyed the story and can’t wait to read his next installment for The Prophecies of Zarune, Book 2 - Ashbound Oaths!
October 21, 2024
Relentless blades… what have you done to me?!
Full transparency- This book didn’t have me AT FIRST.. it felt very intimidating in the beginning to step into such a new world. Between the in depth world building and introduction of so many characters/creatures it felt like I was about to go on a full journey. & boyyyyyy did I !!
But oh, what a beautiful, painful, gut wrenching journey it was! I cried more while reading this book than I did during a whole different fantasy SERIES - that’s how good the character development was!!!!
I was incredibly invested.. hook, line, sinker ⚓️
As someone who has always enjoyed dungeons and dragons, stranger things, and use to play RuneScape as a child this book was so much fun to read!
The fight scenes were done with such descriptive writing that I could picture every single move that was made on the battlefield. The complexities of each character made this book have way more depth than I expected and if you asked me my favorite character? I have no clue who it would be. I loved them all for different reasons and hated some for obvious reasons. The story tied together beautifully and once it picked up, it never stopped. It’s very obvious to me that this book was created with so much research, love, and passion. I can’t wait to see if this becomes a series(please say YES) & what else this author has up his sleeve!
⭐️ I stand by the statement that this is one of my favorite fantasy books I’ve read⭐️
Thank you so much to the author, Russell Carroll, for the ARC of this book. This is my honest opinion!
Full transparency- This book didn’t have me AT FIRST.. it felt very intimidating in the beginning to step into such a new world. Between the in depth world building and introduction of so many characters/creatures it felt like I was about to go on a full journey. & boyyyyyy did I !!
But oh, what a beautiful, painful, gut wrenching journey it was! I cried more while reading this book than I did during a whole different fantasy SERIES - that’s how good the character development was!!!!
I was incredibly invested.. hook, line, sinker ⚓️
As someone who has always enjoyed dungeons and dragons, stranger things, and use to play RuneScape as a child this book was so much fun to read!
The fight scenes were done with such descriptive writing that I could picture every single move that was made on the battlefield. The complexities of each character made this book have way more depth than I expected and if you asked me my favorite character? I have no clue who it would be. I loved them all for different reasons and hated some for obvious reasons. The story tied together beautifully and once it picked up, it never stopped. It’s very obvious to me that this book was created with so much research, love, and passion. I can’t wait to see if this becomes a series(please say YES) & what else this author has up his sleeve!
⭐️ I stand by the statement that this is one of my favorite fantasy books I’ve read⭐️
Thank you so much to the author, Russell Carroll, for the ARC of this book. This is my honest opinion!
October 21, 2024
4.8 rounded up
So clearly this isn't my usual fluffly fairytale but I do like to dive into epic fantasy occasionally and this one definitely did not disappoint! Really nice pacing to this one, kept me interested and involved the whole time. The characters were all really well done but I wouldn't get too attached to anyone... And the ending wrapped things up nicely and also got me excited for the next book! Read this one for:
😌 A "save the world" mission
😌 Lots and lots of action
😌 Battling brothers
😌Loyal friendships
😌Dragon eggs
Favorite quote: "I guess having a bloodhorn head dropped on your desk by an enraged skron will scare some sense into anyone.”
Favorite scene: The Misty Canyon expedition
Favorite character: Grim! (He's the scary looking blue guy on the cover)
So clearly this isn't my usual fluffly fairytale but I do like to dive into epic fantasy occasionally and this one definitely did not disappoint! Really nice pacing to this one, kept me interested and involved the whole time. The characters were all really well done but I wouldn't get too attached to anyone... And the ending wrapped things up nicely and also got me excited for the next book! Read this one for:
😌 A "save the world" mission
😌 Lots and lots of action
😌 Battling brothers
😌Loyal friendships
😌Dragon eggs
Favorite quote: "I guess having a bloodhorn head dropped on your desk by an enraged skron will scare some sense into anyone.”
Favorite scene: The Misty Canyon expedition
Favorite character: Grim! (He's the scary looking blue guy on the cover)
October 2, 2024
"Relentless Blades" is an exciting fantasy debut from Russell Carroll that fans of Dungeons and Dragons will love. If you enjoy thrilling fights, fun character banter, and a gripping adventure, this book is for you!
Set in the troubled land of Zarune, the story revolves around the vragoths, a group of tyrannical rulers looking to reclaim their power. When an ancient scepter with the potential to change everything is found, they will do anything to get their hands on it.
The main character, Vigilanton, is hiding from his past in a small town. He never expected to be part of this battle, but when his estranged brother shows up, he has to face his fears and take action. Along with Grimlock, a half-skron seeking revenge, they might be Zarune's only hope against the vragoths.
The characters are relatable, and their interactions are full of witty banter, making the story enjoyable. The fight scenes are exciting and well-written, pulling you right into the action.
As the plot thickens, the stakes get higher, and you’ll find yourself turning pages quickly to see what happens next. "Relentless Blades" is a thrilling read filled with heart and adventure, making it a great pick for any fantasy fan. Get ready to dive into a world of danger and excitement as Vigilanton and Grimlock fight to save Zarune from the vragoths!
Set in the troubled land of Zarune, the story revolves around the vragoths, a group of tyrannical rulers looking to reclaim their power. When an ancient scepter with the potential to change everything is found, they will do anything to get their hands on it.
The main character, Vigilanton, is hiding from his past in a small town. He never expected to be part of this battle, but when his estranged brother shows up, he has to face his fears and take action. Along with Grimlock, a half-skron seeking revenge, they might be Zarune's only hope against the vragoths.
The characters are relatable, and their interactions are full of witty banter, making the story enjoyable. The fight scenes are exciting and well-written, pulling you right into the action.
As the plot thickens, the stakes get higher, and you’ll find yourself turning pages quickly to see what happens next. "Relentless Blades" is a thrilling read filled with heart and adventure, making it a great pick for any fantasy fan. Get ready to dive into a world of danger and excitement as Vigilanton and Grimlock fight to save Zarune from the vragoths!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
✨️ARC Review✨️
Thank you to Russell for this early review copy. My thoughts are my own.
Oh man, was this an adventure!! I felt like I was playing a D&D (Dungeons & Dragons) campaign while reading this. If you like world building, magic and action, then this is the book for you. There are so many characters of different races to meet, love and dislike but that doesn't keep you from reading. Between the banter and fight scenes, you will be waiting to see what happens next.
Thank you to Russell for this early review copy. My thoughts are my own.
Oh man, was this an adventure!! I felt like I was playing a D&D (Dungeons & Dragons) campaign while reading this. If you like world building, magic and action, then this is the book for you. There are so many characters of different races to meet, love and dislike but that doesn't keep you from reading. Between the banter and fight scenes, you will be waiting to see what happens next.
December 3, 2024
If there was one thing author R. Carroll wanted to accomplish with Relentless Blades that would be to present a story that even though might not be everyone’s ‘favorite cup of tea’, that it would at least come across as an undeniably well-written, professional, and competent work of fantasy literature.
Russell wrote Relentless Blades because of his love of ‘everything fantasy’ and Dungeons & Dragons in particular. It’s no exaggeration to say that the book was twenty-years in the making and a ‘love letter to his teenage-self’. In Russell’s own words:
“Remember, you’re never too old to pursue your dream!”
As for an author who inspired Russell? R. A. Salvatore and his Legends of Drizzt series is at the top of his list, and it clearly shows all throughout this first and exciting debut publication.
IN A NUTSHELL/CHARACTERS:
What is this book really about? And why should we be excited to read it?
Russell shares that:
“I determined to tell a fairly linear, character-driven story, that hints at a bigger picture and world, but without focusing on trying to explore the intricacies of multiple kingdoms.
As a debut author I was aware not to bite off too much.”
This is in fact part of the charm of RB. It’s easy to follow and because it is so well written we can quickly start to identify various relatable characters who don’t come across as dull or forgettable in the least. For example Grimlock, a skron halfbreed (skrons are kinda like blue-skinned orcs with orange hair), immediately becomes one of our favorite characters because although he is this apparently selfish hunter-for-hire, mountain of a humanoid, he has a conscience, and deep inside he values life and is resentful when a life is lost on his watch.
We have brothers Mathias and Val Braunstone, who on the surface couldn’t be any more different, the former being an esteemed Valadian Knight-Lieutenant while the latter choosing to put his abilities at the service of local crime lord Henshawe.
These are not your typical one-dimensional characters and the reader will feel easily drawn to the story thanks mostly to them.
PLOT:
When some ancient artifacts are found while mining near the Fractured Crags, a dispute for possessions of such items ensues between the Valedians, who claim such artifacts belong to them as they were found within their territory, and the Vragoths, who claim that the artifacts found are clearly of Vragothian origins.
We will quickly learn that the Mazzinoth’s Eggs are more than meets the eye, and they can become potentially a most devastating weapon in the wrong hands. If the Vragoths acquire the recently discovered scepter, they will unlock the way to awaken the dragons within the eggs.
A seemingly unorthodox group of heroes led by Grim and Vig are the only chance to stop the unleashing of dragons by the Vragoths. Find the enchanted scepter and stop the ritual before it’s too late. This is their mission.
A FRESH OUTLOOK:
Beyond the very well-written action scenes and suspenseful fights, where this book really stands out is in tackling noble virtues like altruism, courage, and kindness but in ways that feel very organic within the story and not forced into the narrative.
When Vig, who has dealt with dyslexia all his life, finds the compassion and the support of Everleign all he can say is:
“My whole life, I’ve felt ashamed of my problem, but you didn’t make me feel bad about it.”
To which Everleigh replies:
“Why would I do that? Acknowledging your limitations and seeking help to overcome them shows bravery. I’d never mock someone for that.”
And THAT is where this story really shines and becomes more than just another forgettable fantasy/action trope. In showing strength but also vulnerability in his characters, Russell manages to hit a home run with this debut publication.
CONCLUSIONS:
I always felt that fantasy literature had gotten more nihilistic in the last decade. The YA books are literally polluting the market and the ‘Game of Thrones’ types of books are a bit too much for my taste with their grey areas of morality.
Relentless Blades reminds me of the Dragonlance books and Salvatore’s D&D books we used to read decades ago. This is a story ‘with soul’: friendship, courage, honesty and perseverance in the face of adversities is what makes this relevant and it leaves an impression on the readers.
Russell communicates with vivid images that life is precious and fighting for others is a just and righteous cause.
The prose is snappy and concise without giving in to the insufferable modern-day euphemisms that pollute our everyday social media. A smart choice that always pays off in the long run.
It is exciting to see how this new fantasy realm will further unfold and I sure look forward to it!
🦀
Russell wrote Relentless Blades because of his love of ‘everything fantasy’ and Dungeons & Dragons in particular. It’s no exaggeration to say that the book was twenty-years in the making and a ‘love letter to his teenage-self’. In Russell’s own words:
“Remember, you’re never too old to pursue your dream!”
As for an author who inspired Russell? R. A. Salvatore and his Legends of Drizzt series is at the top of his list, and it clearly shows all throughout this first and exciting debut publication.
IN A NUTSHELL/CHARACTERS:
What is this book really about? And why should we be excited to read it?
Russell shares that:
“I determined to tell a fairly linear, character-driven story, that hints at a bigger picture and world, but without focusing on trying to explore the intricacies of multiple kingdoms.
As a debut author I was aware not to bite off too much.”
This is in fact part of the charm of RB. It’s easy to follow and because it is so well written we can quickly start to identify various relatable characters who don’t come across as dull or forgettable in the least. For example Grimlock, a skron halfbreed (skrons are kinda like blue-skinned orcs with orange hair), immediately becomes one of our favorite characters because although he is this apparently selfish hunter-for-hire, mountain of a humanoid, he has a conscience, and deep inside he values life and is resentful when a life is lost on his watch.
We have brothers Mathias and Val Braunstone, who on the surface couldn’t be any more different, the former being an esteemed Valadian Knight-Lieutenant while the latter choosing to put his abilities at the service of local crime lord Henshawe.
These are not your typical one-dimensional characters and the reader will feel easily drawn to the story thanks mostly to them.
PLOT:
When some ancient artifacts are found while mining near the Fractured Crags, a dispute for possessions of such items ensues between the Valedians, who claim such artifacts belong to them as they were found within their territory, and the Vragoths, who claim that the artifacts found are clearly of Vragothian origins.
We will quickly learn that the Mazzinoth’s Eggs are more than meets the eye, and they can become potentially a most devastating weapon in the wrong hands. If the Vragoths acquire the recently discovered scepter, they will unlock the way to awaken the dragons within the eggs.
A seemingly unorthodox group of heroes led by Grim and Vig are the only chance to stop the unleashing of dragons by the Vragoths. Find the enchanted scepter and stop the ritual before it’s too late. This is their mission.
A FRESH OUTLOOK:
Beyond the very well-written action scenes and suspenseful fights, where this book really stands out is in tackling noble virtues like altruism, courage, and kindness but in ways that feel very organic within the story and not forced into the narrative.
When Vig, who has dealt with dyslexia all his life, finds the compassion and the support of Everleign all he can say is:
“My whole life, I’ve felt ashamed of my problem, but you didn’t make me feel bad about it.”
To which Everleigh replies:
“Why would I do that? Acknowledging your limitations and seeking help to overcome them shows bravery. I’d never mock someone for that.”
And THAT is where this story really shines and becomes more than just another forgettable fantasy/action trope. In showing strength but also vulnerability in his characters, Russell manages to hit a home run with this debut publication.
CONCLUSIONS:
I always felt that fantasy literature had gotten more nihilistic in the last decade. The YA books are literally polluting the market and the ‘Game of Thrones’ types of books are a bit too much for my taste with their grey areas of morality.
Relentless Blades reminds me of the Dragonlance books and Salvatore’s D&D books we used to read decades ago. This is a story ‘with soul’: friendship, courage, honesty and perseverance in the face of adversities is what makes this relevant and it leaves an impression on the readers.
Russell communicates with vivid images that life is precious and fighting for others is a just and righteous cause.
The prose is snappy and concise without giving in to the insufferable modern-day euphemisms that pollute our everyday social media. A smart choice that always pays off in the long run.
It is exciting to see how this new fantasy realm will further unfold and I sure look forward to it!
🦀
May 27, 2025
Great action and a fun read.
I had fun reading this book, the characters were interesting, the story fast paced, and the world interesting.
I’ll quickly touch on what I didn’t like. Having never played D&D, some of the aspects relating to that I found a bit jarring. For example, the big baddie could only use his abilities once a day, some of the action almost felt turn based, and the fact they just find chests in random caves. This is an unfair criticism and I’m not taking any points away as this is inspired by D&D and I know that sort of thing goes on, but just get weird for me. I thought the characters all sounded the same too, like their internal thoughts all had the same “voice”.
That said, really good action. All the fight scenes were vivid and engaging. Grim and Vig are tough sons of Bs and the arena stuff was very cool.
The book moves at super speed aswel and you never get bored as there is always something just around the corner.
The world feels big, with tons of history and lore, but you’re not overwhelmed with it. You get the information you need for the story and that bit more to keep you interested of what else is out there.
Teaser at the end leaves you wandering what the next book is going to be like.
If you want something that’s a super easy read and love action, give this a go, ESPECIALLY if you like D&D
I had fun reading this book, the characters were interesting, the story fast paced, and the world interesting.
I’ll quickly touch on what I didn’t like. Having never played D&D, some of the aspects relating to that I found a bit jarring. For example, the big baddie could only use his abilities once a day, some of the action almost felt turn based, and the fact they just find chests in random caves. This is an unfair criticism and I’m not taking any points away as this is inspired by D&D and I know that sort of thing goes on, but just get weird for me. I thought the characters all sounded the same too, like their internal thoughts all had the same “voice”.
That said, really good action. All the fight scenes were vivid and engaging. Grim and Vig are tough sons of Bs and the arena stuff was very cool.
The book moves at super speed aswel and you never get bored as there is always something just around the corner.
The world feels big, with tons of history and lore, but you’re not overwhelmed with it. You get the information you need for the story and that bit more to keep you interested of what else is out there.
Teaser at the end leaves you wandering what the next book is going to be like.
If you want something that’s a super easy read and love action, give this a go, ESPECIALLY if you like D&D
November 8, 2025
Relentless Blades pulled me in faster than I expected. Carroll builds a world that feels big the moment you step into it. There are hints of all the fantasy flavors we love, yet it never feels borrowed or tired. The battles hit with real weight. You can almost hear the clash of steel and feel the tension rolling off the page. The magic has a familiar spark that reminds me of old-school D&D, which gives the whole story a nostalgic edge without leaning on it too hard.
What surprised me most was how quickly I connected with the characters. Carroll takes the time to let you know them, to understand what drives them, and before long you’re rooting for them like you’ve known them for years. Grim took the top spot for me, with Vig not far behind. They’re the kind of characters that make a story stick with you when you set it down.
The pacing never drags. The flow of the story moves with a smooth, steady push that keeps you flipping pages without realizing how far you’ve gone. By the time the final buildup hits, you’re fully invested and already itching for what comes next.
I didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did, but it won me over fast. If the next installment hits with the same heart and energy, this series is going to be something special.
What surprised me most was how quickly I connected with the characters. Carroll takes the time to let you know them, to understand what drives them, and before long you’re rooting for them like you’ve known them for years. Grim took the top spot for me, with Vig not far behind. They’re the kind of characters that make a story stick with you when you set it down.
The pacing never drags. The flow of the story moves with a smooth, steady push that keeps you flipping pages without realizing how far you’ve gone. By the time the final buildup hits, you’re fully invested and already itching for what comes next.
I didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did, but it won me over fast. If the next installment hits with the same heart and energy, this series is going to be something special.
October 27, 2024
Relentless Blades is the first book in the Prophecies of Zarune series, and I loved it! Although I played Dungeons and Dragons when I was younger, and I have read my fair share of fantasy books, I wouldn’t describe myself a fantasy fan. I was concerned initially about reading a book that was introducing me into a whole new fantasy world, with new characters and lands, but by Chapter 2 I was hooked. The author’s ability to paint pictures of places and characters pulled me deep into the story and he held my interest until the very end. And his world-building is just part of the reason why I liked this book. The story was fast-paced, with lots of action. It held my attention so well that even when dealing with a bad case of COVID and an overseas move I couldn’t wait to get back to it. I’m already looking forward to the next installment in the series!
June 10, 2025
Got this book as a gift from my mom. This book was kind of lying on my shelf and I wanted to read it for fun. Big fan of DND/Medieval Video Games, and I found this book extremely enjoyable.
The pacing was well done, and the storyline was executed beautifully. I wasn't expecting the amount of content in 400 pages, and had a hard time putting it down. Hands down, my favorite character has to be my goat, Grim.
I was a little disappointed by the ending where they decided to kill the dragons, but the rest of the ending made sense. If anything, I think it was fitting.
Removed a star because there were a few points where I found myself a bit confused on what was happening or found some points not clicking or making sense logically, but overall, great story. Can't wait for the second.
The pacing was well done, and the storyline was executed beautifully. I wasn't expecting the amount of content in 400 pages, and had a hard time putting it down. Hands down, my favorite character has to be my goat, Grim.
I was a little disappointed by the ending where they decided to kill the dragons, but the rest of the ending made sense. If anything, I think it was fitting.
Removed a star because there were a few points where I found myself a bit confused on what was happening or found some points not clicking or making sense logically, but overall, great story. Can't wait for the second.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2024
Russell Carroll did an amazing job writing this book! As per the description, this book is going to be PERFECT for you if you love dungeons and dragons. Russell does a fantastic job at creating characters with great story arcs, fighting and war scenes that play out like a movie in your head, and a touch of romance for some extra added depth (because who doesn’t love a little love?)
The main character, Vig, fits so perfectly in this world. I grew to love Vig and Grim, Xezarog, Jezara, Rarran, Prozac, and all of the other characters in this book. (Korrax sucks though, shittiest father of the last decade. Lurog also sucks, siblings are the worst sometimes. I wasn’t too sad when he got skewered and a decent hair cut around the neckline. He had it coming). They have depth, growth, and being able to read from different povs lets the reader get into the head of their favorite characters.
There’s new species, magic, monetary systems, languages, and more in this high fantasy novel. There’s definitely heart tugging moments though, so don’t get TOO attached to some characters…fair warning ;)
The main character, Vig, fits so perfectly in this world. I grew to love Vig and Grim, Xezarog, Jezara, Rarran, Prozac, and all of the other characters in this book. (Korrax sucks though, shittiest father of the last decade. Lurog also sucks, siblings are the worst sometimes. I wasn’t too sad when he got skewered and a decent hair cut around the neckline. He had it coming). They have depth, growth, and being able to read from different povs lets the reader get into the head of their favorite characters.
There’s new species, magic, monetary systems, languages, and more in this high fantasy novel. There’s definitely heart tugging moments though, so don’t get TOO attached to some characters…fair warning ;)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2024
This was a fantastic adventure and an absolutely great time, and I can’t wait for more. I loved everything about this book—dynamic character interactions, adventuring parties, scheming, dragons, creatures and species of untold variety, mysteries, magic, and every type of combat you could wish for. The characters were conflicted and well-rounded, the threats were personal and high-stakes, and the entire atmosphere of the book was thrilling and engaging. What a great opening to what is sure to be a favorite series to come.
March 11, 2025
Woohoo! This is a fun adventure. Not highbrow...not pretentious...not hard to get into...just fun.
I'm working on a zombie apocalypse series myself and it was so refreshing to read pure fantasy about a big guy with blue skin getting into fights.
Speaking of which I liked that the big roided half-skron got to be the protagonist. Often in fantasy there are elegant elves as the protags and orcs/urgals/some large muscular species as the villains. I liked that the big jacked skron got to be the protag.
I'm working on a zombie apocalypse series myself and it was so refreshing to read pure fantasy about a big guy with blue skin getting into fights.
Speaking of which I liked that the big roided half-skron got to be the protagonist. Often in fantasy there are elegant elves as the protags and orcs/urgals/some large muscular species as the villains. I liked that the big jacked skron got to be the protag.
March 4, 2025
I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this book and it had me hooked from start to finished! I had been itching for a good fantasy read and this is exactly what I was looking for, it feels reminiscent of a DND game you would have with friends and like some of my favorite epic stories set in the forgotten realms. I love the character of Grimlock the best and all of the banter throughout was very entertaining. I'm looking forward to reading more!
If you're looking for a good fantasy read with a fleshed out world and characters, this is the book for you!
If you're looking for a good fantasy read with a fleshed out world and characters, this is the book for you!
September 21, 2025
The debut book for Russel Carroll, it reads like a D&D campaign, with a wide cast of characters and a variety of abilities. The plot was solid, and the characters well imagined, though if I had one complaint it would be that it felt like a lot of the characters emotions were written at surface level. I had a hard time caring about their problems or conflicts because I couldn't really feel the emotion in the writing.
Still a very entertaining book though and I hope to see more from Russell!
Still a very entertaining book though and I hope to see more from Russell!
October 24, 2024
Thrilling & Action Packed
I loved this book! It was captivating & imaginative. You got to see the group of characters grow as a team and eventually tentative friends, especially the two main characters Vigilanton & Grimlock. The book takes you on a journey of discovery & redemption that made me care about the group & their individual lives and how each one of them grew with plenty of twists & turns to keep you hooked & wanting to read more.
I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series 😀
Happy reading!
I loved this book! It was captivating & imaginative. You got to see the group of characters grow as a team and eventually tentative friends, especially the two main characters Vigilanton & Grimlock. The book takes you on a journey of discovery & redemption that made me care about the group & their individual lives and how each one of them grew with plenty of twists & turns to keep you hooked & wanting to read more.
I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series 😀
Happy reading!
October 30, 2025
This is a great book for fans of Dungeons and Dragons. The world building and character development are extremely well done. The pace of the action keeps the reader entertained as the plot moves forward and has you eagerly awaiting the sequel.
March 6, 2025
Beyond words.
Simply Beyond Breath Taking, a true masterpiece for a debut, this story goes beyond just blades it’s complicated, complex characters and compelling storytelling and narrative that has more twists and turns that you can shake a snake at.
It’s also a completely unique story and simply wow in every sense, this is another great indie author at his finest.
Grab a copy or miss out
Simply Beyond Breath Taking, a true masterpiece for a debut, this story goes beyond just blades it’s complicated, complex characters and compelling storytelling and narrative that has more twists and turns that you can shake a snake at.
It’s also a completely unique story and simply wow in every sense, this is another great indie author at his finest.
Grab a copy or miss out
February 3, 2025
This was a thrilling and emotional read, with exciting action throughout. The DnD inspiration is clear throughout, most notably in the way the characters approached problem solving and engaging their enemies. Watching the characters grow was also extremely satisfying.
I'd strongly recommend reading this to anyone who enjoys the problem solving in roleplay, or epic fantasy of any variety!
I'd strongly recommend reading this to anyone who enjoys the problem solving in roleplay, or epic fantasy of any variety!
February 25, 2025
A story of honour, friendship, and redemption. If you enjoy fantasy books filled with great characters, rich worlds, and action, I think you will enjoy this book by an indie author! Give it a read!!
April 9, 2025
My first D&D, and if others are half as good, it won’t be my last
My favourite books are science fiction and fantasy, although the occasional dark fantasy is welcome. This means I started reading this D&D tale, unsure if it was my thing. The first few chapters seemed to introduce so much that I wasn’t sure if I could keep up, but I persevered, and boy, am I glad I did.
Relentless perfectly describes this story. It’s a powerhouse of action and twists and turns. The story brings the characters together so naturally that you soon forget this is set in a fantasy world. The characters and world-building happen subtly and without concentrating, making everything flow. The action makes it a real page-turner, and you care about all of the characters.
Every evening, I couldn’t wait to settle down and read into the wee hours of the morning. If you only ever read one D&D make it Relentless Blades because Russell Carroll has created a masterpiece.
My favourite books are science fiction and fantasy, although the occasional dark fantasy is welcome. This means I started reading this D&D tale, unsure if it was my thing. The first few chapters seemed to introduce so much that I wasn’t sure if I could keep up, but I persevered, and boy, am I glad I did.
Relentless perfectly describes this story. It’s a powerhouse of action and twists and turns. The story brings the characters together so naturally that you soon forget this is set in a fantasy world. The characters and world-building happen subtly and without concentrating, making everything flow. The action makes it a real page-turner, and you care about all of the characters.
Every evening, I couldn’t wait to settle down and read into the wee hours of the morning. If you only ever read one D&D make it Relentless Blades because Russell Carroll has created a masterpiece.
October 27, 2024
This epic fantasy will grab you and hook you and just enjoy the ride. The characters are amazing from brothers being enemies to the epic battles to The awesome creatures you meet in this story it's very fast-paced energetic adventurous story. This story gives you all the feels ...happy, excited ,sadness . Makes you wanting more. The story is amazing. I love the characters the setting. Definitely a must read!!
October 21, 2025
Relentless Blades by Russell Carroll was a fun journey! Fans of games like World of Warcraft or old school D&D will love the heck out of this book! The story is immersive and characters are written well with quality depth that pulls you in if you let it. And once it does it doesn’t let go!
If you’re in the first 5-10 chapters of the book, KEEP GOING. The setup might feel a little slower for some but the character and story development is worth it.
Once a bit immersed, Grim instantly gripped me. He struck me as likeable from early on and that affection grew with the story. Despite being discriminated against his whole existence you get the sense that he just does his best to brush it off and try to be a good guy. This aspect made it fun to cheer for him from the beginning and I look forward to seeing where his arc goes, especially after the ending. His companionship with Vig starts rough, and I honestly struggled to like Vig at first, but ended up liking how things played out. Both of the characters had great arcs with enjoyable growth and it left me wondering where the story will go from here.
In many ways this book reminded me of a really fun MMORPG, like WoW. In it you’ll cross paths with ogres, hobgoblins, Skrons, Vraggoths, dragons, and several creatures of various fantasy races. The names of these characters, places, and their ranks feel right too, like these things belonged in the world of Zarune.
A standout facet of the story is how the action scenes are so surprisingly well done, portraying well-choreographed, often-cinematic, multi-character fights that draw you in for every slice, dodge, and parry. Most of the battles are melee sword/axe style combat (blades), however, there is definitely a fair share of magic as well. If you’re looking for some fun and intense fight scenes, this book definitely delivered in that arena for me.
I won’t spoil anything but the ending is also done really well. It does leave the reader with some unresolved loose ends, but enough is wrapped up that the book feels both complete and also well-positioned for a sequel.
For those wondering about age appropriateness, there is a bit of blood and violence that put this story more toward the adult fantasy section but I wouldn’t call it excessive.
I did listen to the audiobook, often reading along with it. It’s done with AI, so not as immersive as a dramatized human could make it but still palatable and convenient.
Overall, I was impressed with the author’s attention to detail and how crisp the prose is. This is an indie book but it reads really clean with very few typos (if any), much like you’d expect a traditionally published book. The character development is honed well so you get a fair balance of action and character growth, especially for the main characters. If I had to nitpick I did find myself wanting more background on the main villain, but honestly, it’s not necessary and I have a feeling this gets explored in book II. The plot itself is well thought out, the prose is clean and well-written, the character development is solid, and the world of Zarune feels rich and lived-in. I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes gritty fantasy, Warcraft, D&D, or just wants some well-written, story-driven action with fun characters and a lot of blades!
If you’re in the first 5-10 chapters of the book, KEEP GOING. The setup might feel a little slower for some but the character and story development is worth it.
Once a bit immersed, Grim instantly gripped me. He struck me as likeable from early on and that affection grew with the story. Despite being discriminated against his whole existence you get the sense that he just does his best to brush it off and try to be a good guy. This aspect made it fun to cheer for him from the beginning and I look forward to seeing where his arc goes, especially after the ending. His companionship with Vig starts rough, and I honestly struggled to like Vig at first, but ended up liking how things played out. Both of the characters had great arcs with enjoyable growth and it left me wondering where the story will go from here.
In many ways this book reminded me of a really fun MMORPG, like WoW. In it you’ll cross paths with ogres, hobgoblins, Skrons, Vraggoths, dragons, and several creatures of various fantasy races. The names of these characters, places, and their ranks feel right too, like these things belonged in the world of Zarune.
A standout facet of the story is how the action scenes are so surprisingly well done, portraying well-choreographed, often-cinematic, multi-character fights that draw you in for every slice, dodge, and parry. Most of the battles are melee sword/axe style combat (blades), however, there is definitely a fair share of magic as well. If you’re looking for some fun and intense fight scenes, this book definitely delivered in that arena for me.
I won’t spoil anything but the ending is also done really well. It does leave the reader with some unresolved loose ends, but enough is wrapped up that the book feels both complete and also well-positioned for a sequel.
For those wondering about age appropriateness, there is a bit of blood and violence that put this story more toward the adult fantasy section but I wouldn’t call it excessive.
I did listen to the audiobook, often reading along with it. It’s done with AI, so not as immersive as a dramatized human could make it but still palatable and convenient.
Overall, I was impressed with the author’s attention to detail and how crisp the prose is. This is an indie book but it reads really clean with very few typos (if any), much like you’d expect a traditionally published book. The character development is honed well so you get a fair balance of action and character growth, especially for the main characters. If I had to nitpick I did find myself wanting more background on the main villain, but honestly, it’s not necessary and I have a feeling this gets explored in book II. The plot itself is well thought out, the prose is clean and well-written, the character development is solid, and the world of Zarune feels rich and lived-in. I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes gritty fantasy, Warcraft, D&D, or just wants some well-written, story-driven action with fun characters and a lot of blades!
February 25, 2025
Book Review:
Relentless Blades (Volume 1 of The Prophecies of Zarune) by Russell Carroll
Relentless Blades by Russell Carroll is an absolute gem for fantasy lovers. From the very first page (Yes, 2675 AV is a date), it pulls you in, instantly captivating the reader and leaving them hungry for more. This book is the first in The Prophecies of Zarune series, and let me tell you, it does not disappoint! (I couldn’t put it down)
This book features well-crafted writing. The author's word choice is particularly notable.
“It is taxing to spend all day in a room with a creature you know is evil incarnate, yet act as though he is not,” pg 133
“Streams of moonlight pierced the room, brightening the spacious interior.” pg 170
“Grim appreciated how the Valadian Knights worked in perfect concert with each other,…” pg 209
“As the days melted together between Vig’s bouts in the arena, a new head jailer replaced Glug.” pg 297
The world-building in Relentless Blades is nothing short of breathtaking—Russell Carroll has crafted a universe with remarkable depth and what I saw as complexity. Each page immerses you in the world of Zarune, making it feel like a world that is—just within reach—of reality. The characters are equally captivating—Vig stands out as someone who I would describe as having a “mysterious and layered history”, the kind of character you can’t help but root for. And then there’s Grim, a character I didn’t expect to connect with, yet quickly became one of my favorites. The development of both Grim and Vig is so well-done that they’d shine in any series.
The story itself evokes nostalgia for the days when swordplay and sorcery were the heart of epic adventures—reminding me of my early D&D days in the late '70s and early '80s. If you’re a fan of those classic tales, you’ll immediately feel at home in this world.
This book has reignited my passion for the fantasy genre, and I can’t wait to dive deeper into it. The cover art alone is enough to grab your attention, and I couldn’t be more pleased with this read. Carroll’s writing is engaging, and the plot is packed with twists that keep you hooked. Plus, with what I would consider to be a few “loose ends” that have left me eagerly awaiting to see what comes next, I’m already looking forward to the next installment in the series!
In short, Relentless Blades is an outstanding start to The Prophecies of Zarune saga. It’s a book that not only transports you into another world but also leaves you craving more. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy, adventure, and rich, immersive storytelling.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Five stars without a doubt!
Relentless Blades (Volume 1 of The Prophecies of Zarune) by Russell Carroll
Relentless Blades by Russell Carroll is an absolute gem for fantasy lovers. From the very first page (Yes, 2675 AV is a date), it pulls you in, instantly captivating the reader and leaving them hungry for more. This book is the first in The Prophecies of Zarune series, and let me tell you, it does not disappoint! (I couldn’t put it down)
This book features well-crafted writing. The author's word choice is particularly notable.
“It is taxing to spend all day in a room with a creature you know is evil incarnate, yet act as though he is not,” pg 133
“Streams of moonlight pierced the room, brightening the spacious interior.” pg 170
“Grim appreciated how the Valadian Knights worked in perfect concert with each other,…” pg 209
“As the days melted together between Vig’s bouts in the arena, a new head jailer replaced Glug.” pg 297
The world-building in Relentless Blades is nothing short of breathtaking—Russell Carroll has crafted a universe with remarkable depth and what I saw as complexity. Each page immerses you in the world of Zarune, making it feel like a world that is—just within reach—of reality. The characters are equally captivating—Vig stands out as someone who I would describe as having a “mysterious and layered history”, the kind of character you can’t help but root for. And then there’s Grim, a character I didn’t expect to connect with, yet quickly became one of my favorites. The development of both Grim and Vig is so well-done that they’d shine in any series.
The story itself evokes nostalgia for the days when swordplay and sorcery were the heart of epic adventures—reminding me of my early D&D days in the late '70s and early '80s. If you’re a fan of those classic tales, you’ll immediately feel at home in this world.
This book has reignited my passion for the fantasy genre, and I can’t wait to dive deeper into it. The cover art alone is enough to grab your attention, and I couldn’t be more pleased with this read. Carroll’s writing is engaging, and the plot is packed with twists that keep you hooked. Plus, with what I would consider to be a few “loose ends” that have left me eagerly awaiting to see what comes next, I’m already looking forward to the next installment in the series!
In short, Relentless Blades is an outstanding start to The Prophecies of Zarune saga. It’s a book that not only transports you into another world but also leaves you craving more. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy, adventure, and rich, immersive storytelling.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Five stars without a doubt!
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