Destiny draws the elf to the mortal world, but the weight of its shadows is more than he can bear.Revered among the High Elven of Sorrelcrest, Nilinriall’s mastery of elfsong is unrivalled. His path is first to ascend to the Songspiren, and then the realm of gods.
Unlike his kin, however, Nilinriall harbours a deep curiosity for the material realms. When he’s irresistibly drawn to a mortal woman whose singing can make warriors weep and flames dance, he vows to sever his ties to the material world—for attachment is not the elven way.
But it’s too late. Rejected by the Songspiren, Nilinriall is cast down to the mortal realm, where every attachment frays his elven spirit, and the shame of his exile torments him. Yet, he can’t escape the allure of the singing woman.
What begins as a noble quest quickly turns perilous. Terrethedron is dark and treacherous. With his companions Gwynnestri and Dillinir, posing as singers from the ice lands, they face sharded wraiths in the forest of Darpirith, the cruelty of the Three Cities, and the greed of the Nine Lands.
Hope faltering and the harsh trials pressing down on him, Nilinriall is increasingly seduced by mortal temptations—lust, luxury, and the numbing allure of intoxication—especially as his fame grows, and he becomes the most celebrated singer in the world.
Each step in this dark realm weighs heavier upon his soul, and with every breath, Nilinriall finds it harder to remember who he once was—or why he ever left the light of the aether. With his spirit weakening, he fears he may never be worthy of Sorrelcrest’s light again.
Just when he believes he's found his destiny, everything is torn apart once more.
Read the highly anticipated prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands Elfsong is a prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands and can be read as book 1 or 2 in the Nine Lands Saga. The author and publisher recommend reading it after A Tale of the Nine Lands, as book 2 in the saga.
Legend has it that J. K. F. Sandham’s DNA is coded in prose. His dream of becoming an author started at age six, selling illustrated stories of dragons to his mother’s friends for twenty pence apiece. Now, with a BA in English Literature, an MA in Creative Writing, fifteen years of copywriting experience, and a black belt in overcoming self-doubt, he’s bringing his dream to life, one book at a time, one reader at a time.
J. K. F. also writes gritty British crime as Jameel Sandham
Elfsong by J. K. F. Sandham is an epic-fantasy story unlike anything I’ve read before. This is a prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands, the first book in Sandham’s The Nine Lands Saga. In this first book, we’re able to meet the main character from this prequel Nilinriall when a servant escapes from a revolting palace and decides to take refuge with the strange yet alluring group of singing elves she ran into in the middle of the forest. In that same scene, Nilinriall himself tells the girl that she can rest with them, that the elfsong will help her and it does. The elves’ elfsong doesn’t just help her rest after being tortured and running away from the palace, but it also heals the injuries she’d received earlier, proving that the nice little songs they’re known for are more than just simple music. The elfsong is a type of magic the High Elven of Sorrelcrest use to connect to the world around them and use its energies (or threads) in their favor.
While living in Sorrelcrest, Nilinriall was known by his people as one of the most powerful elfsong users. His magic was so powerful that Nilinriall thought he was destined to ascend into the Songspiren and then the realm of gods one day, but everything changes the moment Master Qin tells him that his destiny is otherwise. Instead of being destined to ascend higher up into the aether world, Nilinriall is destined to descend into the mortal world where the humans, witches, giants and dwarves can barely stand each other. Which ended up making Nilinriall's story a lot more original and interesting than I anticipated. I loved how the pacing of the story, the world, and the way Nilinriall reacted to his new fate along with his friends Gwynnestri and Dillinir ended up making Elfsong an extremely compelling story. Watching how this group of high elves experiment this new, mortal world full of threats at every corner--especially those from the shadow realm--for the very first time was fascinating. After all, they’d only seen the mortal world from afar in their aether world but they had never experienced it as a whole–especially their emotions.
As high elven, they were taught to look beyond their emotions and to depend on their elfsong to be at peace with themselves. Yet everything changes when their magic isn’t as powerful as it used to be and Nilinriall and his friends Gwynnestri and Dillinir start to stray a little from their path as they succumb to the distractions, problems and temptations of the mortal world. As they try to find their way and their purpose in this new world full of good, evil and everything in between, these characters–and the ones that we meet along the story–end up feeling a lot more natural and appealing to me as a reader. If you’re a fan of high-fantasy books with powerful magic, a complicated yet interesting world full of different races and relatable characters, I definitely recommend you give Elfsong a try. Follow Nilinriall and his friends through this epic journey where they’ll have to fight to survive–and maybe even try to enjoy some forbidden love. I promise you, Elfsong will grab your attention from the beginning and won’t let go until the very end!
This is the second book to release of the Elderworld/Tale of The Nine Lands saga and serves as a prequel to the first release, providing backstory to a very important elven character named Nilinriall. The story tells of Nilinriall's quest to understand and fulfill his true destiny, albeit reluctantly as it completely conflicts his anticipated ascension to Songspiren, and leads him and his companions to a material realm in search of his true path, and of a mortal woman whom he is mysteriously connected to. I read this book from front to back on Christmas Day (thanks holiday COVID), and I will admit the the first few chapters began a bit slow, but in the end were quite necessary to help appreciate the constant struggle Nilinriall faced between the Elven way and his battle of succombing to the temptational sins of the material realm. Once Nilinriall and his two Elven besties (Gwynnestri and Dillinir) leave the comfort of Sorrelcrest and are transported to their first material realm, is where the book really picked up for me and had me hooked. Without giving away spoilers, it is thankfully much more complex than simply traveling through time/space to a new realm and connecting with her, and there are many challenges and twists along the way that Nilinriall and his companions (both Elven and anew) must face. Many familiar characters from the first book emerge as Nilinriall spirals and is consumed by the tribulations of the material realm. Much as the first book, I was very engaged with this story and found it hard to put down. As mentioned, it was a bit slow to start (which is actually quite befitting to the Elven realm and it's tranquility it is painting the picture of), but once they step through the portal and begin their first encounter in the new realm the excitement ramps up, and each chapter leaves you needing to know what happens next. The ending ties in perfectly to the first book it is a prequel of, and I cannot wait for the third book to come out and see where this goes next.
Elfsong by J. K. F. Sandham is a richly imagined epic fantasy that captures the reader from the opening pages and refuses to let go. Lyrical, immersive, and emotionally grounded, this prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands offers a deeply compelling introduction to Nilinriall and the world that shapes and ultimately fractures him.
At the heart of the story is elfsong itself: a beautifully realized form of magic that is far more than music. It is healing, connection, discipline, and identity. Sandham’s depiction of elfsong as both power and burden gives the novel its unique emotional core, grounding the fantasy elements in something intimate and deeply human.
Nilinriall’s fall from the aether to the mortal realm is handled with care and nuance. His struggle with attachment, shame, temptation, and fading purpose makes him a fascinating protagonist, especially as his elven detachment erodes under the weight of mortal emotion. Watching him and his companions Gwynnestri and Dillinir navigate a world filled with danger, desire, and moral complexity is one of the novel’s greatest strengths.
The pacing is strong, the worldbuilding expansive without being overwhelming, and the cast of characters feels natural and earned. Themes of identity, destiny, forbidden love, and the cost of choice are woven seamlessly into the narrative, giving the story depth beyond its epic scope.
If you enjoy high fantasy with powerful magic systems, richly layered worlds, and characters who feel both mythic and deeply relatable, Elfsong is an absolute must-read. It is haunting, beautiful, and unforgettable an epic journey that lingers long after the final page.
Elfsong is the prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands and the second boek in the Nine Lands Saga. It tells the story of High Elf Nilinriall and how destiny takes him to The Nine Lands.
I really enjoyed this one. Bit of a slow start but after that it became a page turner for me. I really like the way of the High Elven and how that compares to the inhabitants of The Nine Lands.
I love the way in which the author describes how the High Elven experience and see the world, which seems to have a lot of resemblance with Eastern wisdom. The inhabitants of The Nine Lands on the other hand seem to resemble how most people are in the real world. This packs the story full of hidden messages of how we all can improve in the real world.
This one really is an epic tale with loads of magic, magical creatures and places to explore. It also made me want to read A Tale of the Nine Lands again, with Elfsong fresh in mind.
Looking forward to the next one is this saga!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Elfsong was meant to be a reader magnet at first but it soon turned into a full novel about one of the characters from ATOTNL (A Tale Of The Nine Lands), I highly reccommend you to read that book btw!
Elfsong had a bit of a slow start for me, not something I had real trouble with as I really loved to read all about the elven world and their way of living. The further I got into the book the more I was unable to stop reading.
The story is engaging as Nilinriall (the main character) thought he knew his destiny and always imagined it to be in his own world. He finds out his destiny will bring him to the world of the immortals, which is not to strange as he was always drawn to this world.
The story is very engaging and keeps you curious to what is going to happen next!
This is the second book, which could also be read as the first book. I don't know if I'd recommend it in any order but what I do know is that I'd recommend you to read both of them.
'Elfsong: A Tale of the Nine Land Saga' was a great read. It had my full attention right from the start and had me always trying to find time to get back for more. It was descriptive and full of substance which had my imagination running wild. I enjoyed the assortment of characters and had a soft spot for more than expected and found myself ever curious about what is coming next. It was a great read and I would recommend it for all, as it has so many different variables and different characters that all can find something that will resonate with them. It's a great choice if you are looking for something new, a new adventure which I could see many more stories to come. This feels like it is just the beginning. I'm already craving a volume 2 and I can't wait to get a physical copy to add to the bookshelf.
"Elfsong: Nine Lands Saga Book 2" by J.K.F. Sandham is a captivating prequel that delves deep into the enchanting world of the High Elven. The narrative follows Nilinriall, a master of elfsong from Sorrelcrest, whose journey from revered elf to exile in the mortal realm is both poignant and compelling. Sandham's lyrical prose beautifully captures Nilinriall's internal struggles and the allure of forbidden attachments, making his descent into the treacherous Nine Lands a mesmerizing read. The rich world-building and intricate character development immerse readers in a tale of love, loss, and self-discovery. Whether you're new to the Nine Lands Saga or a returning fan, "Elfsong" offers a profound exploration of identity and redemption that will resonate long after the final page. A must-read for epic fantasy enthusiasts seeking a story that harmoniously blends emotion with adventure.
A prequel to "A Tale of the Nine Lands," "Elfsong: Nine Lands Saga Book 2" by J.K.F. Sandham is a beautifully written high fantasy novel that blends lyrical prose with deep character exploration. The story follows an elf whose journey into the mortal world challenges his identity, purpose, and the limits of his abilities. Sandham’s world-building is immersive, with elfsong as a unique and compelling form of magic, adding depth to the lore. While the pacing may feel slow at times, the novel rewards patient readers with rich themes of self-discovery, longing, and transformation. A must-read for fans of poetic storytelling and immersive fantasy.
I recently finished reading Elfsong, and I can't stop thinking about it! The storytelling is absolutely captivating, with richly developed characters that feel incredibly real. The way the author weaves together mystery and magic is both thought-provoking and heartwarming. I found myself completely immersed in the world they created, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish. This is one of those books that stays with you long after you've turned the last page. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a meaningful and beautifully written story! Also, to get the full picture, would recommend everyone reading Book 1 (A Tale of the Nine Lands) as well.
A Tale of the Nine Lands is everything I want in a dark fantasy: rich lore, sharp character arcs, and stakes that make your pulse race. The Nine Lands is built on cruelty and control, but it’s the flickers of rebellion through Theo, Ash, and Exiluk that give this story its fire.
J.K.F. Sandham doesn’t hold back. The magic system feels dangerous and ancient, the villains are genuinely terrifying, and the world feels fully alive. Each POV added a new layer of depth, making it feel like I was witnessing a rebellion from the inside. If you love immersive, high-stakes fantasy that isn’t afraid to go dark, this is your next obsession.
"Elfsong" by J. K. F. Sandham is a beautifully crafted fantasy tale of love, loss, and self-discovery. As the second installment in the Nine Lands Saga, this novel serves as a stunning prequel to "A Tale of the Nine Lands," enriching the series' intricate world-building and character development. In conclusion, "Elfsong" is a mesmerizing addition to the Nine Lands Saga, offering a profound exploration of the human (and elven) condition through a fantastical lens. It's a must-read for fans of epic fantasy seeking a story that resonates on both an emotional and philosophical level.
I love reading the stories in the elderworld and Elfsong is the second book of the story. My journey of this started with collection NFTs from Stag Alliance. Now I‘m enjoying every book release and waiting patiently for the next releases.
Each book adds new depth to the elderworld and the lore behind it with unforgettable characters. Elfsong captivated me with its poetic storytelling and the emotional journey of Nilinriall, making it a standout in the series. I can’t wait to see where the next chapter takes us!
Elfsong is a captivating prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands, following Nilinriall, a gifted High Elf, as he grapples with destiny, exile, and the allure of the mortal world. His journey through treacherous lands and his struggle with temptation make for an immersive read. Sandham masterfully blends rich world-building with deep themes of identity and transformation. A must-read for fantasy lovers and fans of the Nine Lands Saga!
A gripping prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands. Elfsong is a gripping prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands which is a best-selling book by the same author. The story follows an elf called Nilinriall who comes from a magical world and travels to a mortal world on an epic and perilous journey. The character development is strong and the worldbuilding is intriguing and exciting. Pour a hot drink, sink in to an armchair and lose yourself in an epic fantasy world!
OKAY! soooo this book maybe my favorite altho i didn’t read three at this point BUT i am partial to elves and magic… this book had the same old school adventure and dnd kind of feel which kept me interested throughout the whole book. It had the same great flow and simple relatable language. Im digging the writing style. These are great fantasy books. I am super excited to get my hands on book three when i can.
First time leaving a review on GoodReads so you know its worth it. This series has me reading books for fun and enjoyment for the first time in many years! Finishing the first book "A Tale of the Nine Lands" left me wanting more backstory. And the second book in the saga which is a prequel delivered! I am a few chapters in and "Elfsong" has already lived up to the original. #ForTheHerd !
Elfsong is a fantastic prequel to the Nine Land Saga. It gives more background to the story and characters, making the world even deeper. The writing is beautiful, and the mix of magic and adventure kept me interested the whole time. If you like fantasy, you should definitely read this book!
This second book in the collection is a must read. I did enjoy every minute and every word of it. You get sucked in as soon as you start reading. Looking forward to the next book!
Elfsong is a prequel to A Tale of the Nine Lands, which I found to be an interesting choice for the second book. It follows Nilinriall, who struggles between what he thinks is his destined path and his curiosity for the mortal world. The story draws you in from the start, keeping you eager to see where it goes, which is one of the key aspects that makes me love a fantasy book.
Following up a strong first book is never easy in a saga, but this one rises to the challenge. While you could read it as the first or second, I’d recommend it as the second book. The first introduces you to the world, while this one fully immerses you in it.
Is the prequel better than the first book (A Tale of the Nine Lands)?
Elfsong by J.K.F Sandham is the second book of an adventurous phantasy epos. When I was informed that Elfsong will be published at the end of 2024, I definately showed awaking interest in getting a copy as soon as possible. Why? Because I really enjoyed reading A Tale of the Nine Lands and the whole world in the book hooked me. So I had to satisfy my inner curiositiy and I was full of hope and thanks to Mr. Sandham I did not become disappointed. It is exactly the opposite that is true! The whole journey of an Elf, called Nilinriall, in this book and the "call of the material world" has proved that it was worth reading it from the beginning to the end. I love his path and his destiny through the book. Get ready to meet Gwynestri and Dillinir, the 2 fellows of Nilinriall, and prepare yourself to empathize with their positive vibes even though not everything proves easy and friendly. However, the further you read into the book the more you will love the growth of these characters, their connection to each other when they will meet dwarves, giants, "Aires"and many more...
I am definately looking forward getting my hands on the third book, which will be soon! Hopefully...