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Song of the Damned #1
Whispers of the Storm
REDLIN OF THE WOLVES
VANGUARD, LEGEND, ASSASSIN, REAPER
Listen to my story
I wasn't always the monster they see me as. Half of the songs they sing are stories of my grandeur. The other half are tales of my misdeeds.
The sad truth is that they're all true.
So, listen to my tale and learn why it all happened. Learn the reason for the war, the reason for all the death.
Listen to my tale and listen well. I won't be alive long enough to tell it again.
A moody, banter-laced, violent, and poetic framed story - Z.B. Steele presents Whispers of the Storm, book one of Song of the Damned.
VANGUARD, LEGEND, ASSASSIN, REAPER
Listen to my story
I wasn't always the monster they see me as. Half of the songs they sing are stories of my grandeur. The other half are tales of my misdeeds.
The sad truth is that they're all true.
So, listen to my tale and learn why it all happened. Learn the reason for the war, the reason for all the death.
Listen to my tale and listen well. I won't be alive long enough to tell it again.
A moody, banter-laced, violent, and poetic framed story - Z.B. Steele presents Whispers of the Storm, book one of Song of the Damned.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2025
194 people are currently reading
2168 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
August 6, 2025
The Name of the Wind, Blood Song, Empire of the Vampire fans, do I have a five star recommendation for you!!
Redlin of the Wolves. Vanguard, the Thunderblade, The Justicars’ Revenge, The Reaper in the Winds, The Assassin in Grey. The Storm Itself. It’s a lot of titles for the most wanted man in the empire who is now a captured prisoner. He recounts his life story on his way to his execution. We have a coming of age story, an academy, training, a hunter on the streets, magic, intrigue….
The writing is incredible. Witty and clever that keeps you on your toes and endeared to Redlin.
Yet, it is also full of hurt and regret at times. There is a particular instance that shows power dynamics that we tend to ignore when it concerns young boys (especially those who are warriors) which broke my heart.
Grief is like a wet cloak that wraps around your body and weighs you down. Rage is like a fire. You may have to burn part of your good nature to keep it burning, but at that time I would have rather burned all my kindness away than continue to mope.
Redlin craves a life of grandeur, of consequence, of fame. He is ambitious and wants to be the best. His internal conflict and latter reflection is reminiscent of Kvothe in the NotW, and I don’t say that lightly.
There is a cryptic cynicism apparent in the narrative that I was a sucker for.
What I loved is that you can tell Steele is a fantasy connoisseur. There are references to other books, indie books, publishers, and bookstores. They were Easter Eggs that made me inwardly smile and also feel smugly proud.
Thank you so much to the author for providing the physical arc.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Redlin of the Wolves. Vanguard, the Thunderblade, The Justicars’ Revenge, The Reaper in the Winds, The Assassin in Grey. The Storm Itself. It’s a lot of titles for the most wanted man in the empire who is now a captured prisoner. He recounts his life story on his way to his execution. We have a coming of age story, an academy, training, a hunter on the streets, magic, intrigue….
The writing is incredible. Witty and clever that keeps you on your toes and endeared to Redlin.
Yet, it is also full of hurt and regret at times. There is a particular instance that shows power dynamics that we tend to ignore when it concerns young boys (especially those who are warriors) which broke my heart.
Grief is like a wet cloak that wraps around your body and weighs you down. Rage is like a fire. You may have to burn part of your good nature to keep it burning, but at that time I would have rather burned all my kindness away than continue to mope.
Redlin craves a life of grandeur, of consequence, of fame. He is ambitious and wants to be the best. His internal conflict and latter reflection is reminiscent of Kvothe in the NotW, and I don’t say that lightly.
There is a cryptic cynicism apparent in the narrative that I was a sucker for.
What I loved is that you can tell Steele is a fantasy connoisseur. There are references to other books, indie books, publishers, and bookstores. They were Easter Eggs that made me inwardly smile and also feel smugly proud.
Thank you so much to the author for providing the physical arc.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
March 20, 2025
My complete review of Whispers of the Storm is published at Before We Go Blog.
“I’ve always had the eyes of a killer.”
The next great grimdark antihero is born in Whispers of the Storm, Book One in the Song of the Damned series by author Z.B. Steele. Now a prisoner charged with unimaginable crimes, Redlin of the Wolves recounts his path from boyhood to his violent adult life.
Is Redlin a hero or a villain? Or something in between?
Whispers of the Storm has echoes of other great grimdark classics such as the Empires of the Dust trilogy by Anna Smith Spark. But the greatest inspiration is The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, and it is an influence of three parts. The first and most obvious influence is the protagonist himself. Like Kvothe from The Name of the Wind, Redlin recounts his life’s history as a deeply broken man, telling stories of his youth that sometimes stretch the limits of credibility. The prospect of unreliable narration hovers throughout Whispers of the Storm, much as it pervades Kvothe’s story in the Kingkiller Chronicle.
The second influence is the focus paid to the protagonist’s formative years in school as an orphaned (or effectively orphaned) boy with unusual gifts, many of which seem too good to be true.
The third influence is not an easy thing to notice. Moral ambiguity builds gradually throughout Whispers of the Storm, just as it does in the Kingkiller Chronicle, allowing both Steele and Rothfuss to present complex portrayals of gray morality through their respective protagonists.
Z.B. Steele also shares Patrick Rothfuss’s gift for storytelling. Redlin’s first-person narration flows naturally, interrupted only by the occasional interlude, bringing us back to the framing story for a brutal reminder of Redlin’s eventual, mysterious downfall. If the influence of The Name of the Wind is somehow lost on the reader, Z.B. Steele pay direct homage to Rothfuss by name-dropping Kvothe a couple of times in the middle of Whispers of the Storm.
What makes Whispers of the Storm work so well is the emotional impact of the story. Z.B. Steele succeeds in building Redlin as a sympathetic protagonist, despite his numerous faults. We know he does awful things, yet we somehow still identify with him and even root for him as readers. This makes the emotional impact of Redlin’s story hit all the much harder. It’s a tough act to pull off, but Z.B. Steele succeeds with flying colors.
Although Whispers of the Storm is the first full-length novel in Z.B. Steele’s Song of the Damned Series, it follows his prequel novella An Inkling of Flame. Frankly, you could start equally well with either book. Both Whispers of the Storm and An Inkling of Flame provide great introductions to the series and are highly recommended, especially for fans of Patrick Rothfuss as they wait—patiently or otherwise—for The Doors of Stone.
“I’ve always had the eyes of a killer.”
The next great grimdark antihero is born in Whispers of the Storm, Book One in the Song of the Damned series by author Z.B. Steele. Now a prisoner charged with unimaginable crimes, Redlin of the Wolves recounts his path from boyhood to his violent adult life.
Is Redlin a hero or a villain? Or something in between?
Whispers of the Storm has echoes of other great grimdark classics such as the Empires of the Dust trilogy by Anna Smith Spark. But the greatest inspiration is The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, and it is an influence of three parts. The first and most obvious influence is the protagonist himself. Like Kvothe from The Name of the Wind, Redlin recounts his life’s history as a deeply broken man, telling stories of his youth that sometimes stretch the limits of credibility. The prospect of unreliable narration hovers throughout Whispers of the Storm, much as it pervades Kvothe’s story in the Kingkiller Chronicle.
The second influence is the focus paid to the protagonist’s formative years in school as an orphaned (or effectively orphaned) boy with unusual gifts, many of which seem too good to be true.
The third influence is not an easy thing to notice. Moral ambiguity builds gradually throughout Whispers of the Storm, just as it does in the Kingkiller Chronicle, allowing both Steele and Rothfuss to present complex portrayals of gray morality through their respective protagonists.
Z.B. Steele also shares Patrick Rothfuss’s gift for storytelling. Redlin’s first-person narration flows naturally, interrupted only by the occasional interlude, bringing us back to the framing story for a brutal reminder of Redlin’s eventual, mysterious downfall. If the influence of The Name of the Wind is somehow lost on the reader, Z.B. Steele pay direct homage to Rothfuss by name-dropping Kvothe a couple of times in the middle of Whispers of the Storm.
What makes Whispers of the Storm work so well is the emotional impact of the story. Z.B. Steele succeeds in building Redlin as a sympathetic protagonist, despite his numerous faults. We know he does awful things, yet we somehow still identify with him and even root for him as readers. This makes the emotional impact of Redlin’s story hit all the much harder. It’s a tough act to pull off, but Z.B. Steele succeeds with flying colors.
Although Whispers of the Storm is the first full-length novel in Z.B. Steele’s Song of the Damned Series, it follows his prequel novella An Inkling of Flame. Frankly, you could start equally well with either book. Both Whispers of the Storm and An Inkling of Flame provide great introductions to the series and are highly recommended, especially for fans of Patrick Rothfuss as they wait—patiently or otherwise—for The Doors of Stone.
March 27, 2025
“My criminal mind is all I,
All I’ve ever had.
Ask one who’s known me,
If I’m really so bad.
I am.” -Gowan
He is Redlin of the wolves vanguard, legend, assassin & reaper. His is a tale of death.
Bloody, grim, disturbing and oh so violent. Steele’s humour & wit are in full display. It’s sick, sick fun.
And I’m here for it.
Anyone familiar with Z.B. Steele’s work knows exactly what to expect.
And that’s the unexpected.
Fresh off the dynamite novella of an Inkling of Flame we delve into the terror that is Redlin. I couldn’t help holding a personal grudge against this guy and this was his chance to win me over. (Read the aforementioned novella to find out why!)
Well, frankly, Redlin doesn’t give a shit about what I want. 😉
He’s kind of a selfish bastard that way and this is his story. Similar to Anthony Ryan’s Blood Song, we hear his side of his violent life.
Keep your tissues ready.
Ya right.
😆
Seriously Redlin’s story is completely captivating. He’s definitely a polarizing anti hero you can get behind. He’s had a tough go starting out in life. Watching him evolve into something better is a huge crux of the story.
It’s a battle school of brutality. Where one can possibly tap into Elemental magic. Friendships, love and betrayal await in this unconventional coming of age tale.
Lots of wonderful peeks into the cheery side of Steele’s mind here too. Almost fourth wall. Blink and you’ll miss it but he’s a guy whose appreciation and thoughtfulness in life comes through his work. He’s already become a can’t miss author for me.
I had such a great time with this and eagerly am looking forward to the sequel.
Much thanks to the author for this ARC.
Fantastic. 5 ⭐️
All I’ve ever had.
Ask one who’s known me,
If I’m really so bad.
I am.” -Gowan
He is Redlin of the wolves vanguard, legend, assassin & reaper. His is a tale of death.
Bloody, grim, disturbing and oh so violent. Steele’s humour & wit are in full display. It’s sick, sick fun.
And I’m here for it.
Anyone familiar with Z.B. Steele’s work knows exactly what to expect.
And that’s the unexpected.
Fresh off the dynamite novella of an Inkling of Flame we delve into the terror that is Redlin. I couldn’t help holding a personal grudge against this guy and this was his chance to win me over. (Read the aforementioned novella to find out why!)
Well, frankly, Redlin doesn’t give a shit about what I want. 😉
He’s kind of a selfish bastard that way and this is his story. Similar to Anthony Ryan’s Blood Song, we hear his side of his violent life.
Keep your tissues ready.
Ya right.
😆
Seriously Redlin’s story is completely captivating. He’s definitely a polarizing anti hero you can get behind. He’s had a tough go starting out in life. Watching him evolve into something better is a huge crux of the story.
It’s a battle school of brutality. Where one can possibly tap into Elemental magic. Friendships, love and betrayal await in this unconventional coming of age tale.
Lots of wonderful peeks into the cheery side of Steele’s mind here too. Almost fourth wall. Blink and you’ll miss it but he’s a guy whose appreciation and thoughtfulness in life comes through his work. He’s already become a can’t miss author for me.
I had such a great time with this and eagerly am looking forward to the sequel.
Much thanks to the author for this ARC.
Fantastic. 5 ⭐️
April 22, 2025
This review was originally published on Grimdark Magazine
4.5 stars (rounded up)
Forget about Kvothe, forget about Vaelin Al Sorna, forget about Gabriel de Léon, Z.B. Steele is here to bring you your new favourite moody, morally grey, and slightly melodramatic bastard telling his legendary life story in Whispers of the Storm. Filled with equal parts bloody action, bittersweet introspection, and soul-stirring emotion, this gritty and gut-wrenching coming of age grimdark military fantasy is a tale for the ages that will blow you off your feet and crush your heart without remorse.
“Ah, Redlin of the Wolves. Vanguard, the Thunderblade, The Justicar’s Revenge, The Reaper in the Winds, The Assassin in Grey. The Storm Itself. It’s a lot of titles for a prisoner.”
Now, after falling head over heels in love with Z.B. Steele’s exquisite storytelling in the companion novella An Inkling of Flame, I was beyond eager to dive into this first full length novel in the Song of the Damned series. Yet despite that excitement, I also felt slightly nervous, as Whispers of the Storm follows none other than the enigmatic and hateable villain that I had just become equally terrified and morbidly fascinated by in the novella; talk about bold storytelling, we love to see it.
And I’ll be damned, if I didn’t find myself reluctantly sympathising with and rooting for the notorious monster known as Redlin of the Wolves within just a few pages. After a lifetime of death and destruction, he has finally been captured by the inquisitors and is now being led to the noose, but first the Archon demands his legendary tale to be fully unveiled at last. Will he tell the truth? Who knows, but I sure couldn’t look away from the devastatingly glorious trainwreck that he calls his life story.
“I am a man of many sins, the cause of wars, death, and turmoil. A master of magic and the deadliest man in Usmal with a blade. A Reaper of such scale that the country has never seen.”
So, I can’t sit here and pretend that Whispers of the Storm truly reinvents the wheel in any way, and yet it felt so inexplicably fresh and exciting to me. Sure, the tropes are troping, but they just trope real good. We’ve got a framed narrative, mystical elemental magic that is tied to religion and comes at a high cost, all the best found family and motley crew vibes, and not one, but two military/magical academy settings; what is not to love?!
I had an absolute blast travelling all the way back to Redlin’s childhood to witness the events that shaped him from an innocent little bookworm into the jaded reaper we know in the present. Even though the first half of Whispers of the Storm is quite a slow-burn set-up with relatively low stakes, I found myself utterly hooked by the irresistible air of intrigue, and I quickly became way more invested in all the heartfelt friendships, frustrating rivalries, and little bits of cute puppy love than was probably safe for my emotional well-being (ouch).
“Fighting a war against yourself to try to bury feelings is always a losing battle, but it is one I fought valiantly.”
Still, while I was truly gripped from page one, I think there is no denying that Steele just steps up his game and takes everything to the next level in Part 2. As Redlin enters a new stage of his training, the intriguing world of Usmal organically opens up, and soon the stakes, action and magic just increase exponentially. I really loved the smooth change in setting, and I think it’s a true testament to Steele’s exceptional skill at human storytelling that I latched onto an almost entirely new cast of characters midway through the story with zero problem.
And every time I thought my interest might start to wane, Steele (or Redlin?) managed to pull me back in with a new shocking revelation or a tantalising bit of dramatic foreshadowing that filled me with anticipatory dread. Sure, there might have been some parts that felt a bit meandering or repetitive, but as Redlin says: “You tell your entire life story and see if you don’t repeat yourself. Life is full of repetition. Same paths, same jokes, same fucking mistakes.”
If that didn’t give it away, Redlin is quite a bit of a snarky bastard, and I loved how he infused his raw and intimately vulnerable first person narration with so much surprising heart, emotion and humour. Yes, this is a brutally dark tale of a man at war with himself, and it absolutely doesn’t shy away from exploring some very sensitive topics such as war, faith, loss, regret, mental health, and even sexual trauma from a male’s perspective. But similarly to Jay Kristoff’s Empire of the Vampire or Abercrombie’s First Law series, this book is amusingly self-aware and laced with a sharp, dry gallow’s humour that just had me smiling in grim delight the entire way through.
Be it the sharp banter between young Redlin and his friends, the battle of wits between older Redlin and inquisitor Maya in the expertly executed interludes (possibly my favourite sequences of the story?), or all the little meta-level easter eggs with tuckerizations of some author friends and legendary grimdark characters/authors; it simply shows that Steele had just as much fun writing this story as I had reading it, and his eloquent, evocative and knife-sharp prose just sang to my soul and tugged on my heartstrings in all the most unexpected ways.
“It’s easier to cling to rage than it is to grief. Grief is like a wet cloak that wraps around your body and weighs you down. Rage is like a fire. You may have to burn part of your good nature to keep it burning, but at that time I would have rather burned all my kindness away than continue to mope.”
If An Inkling of Flame hadn’t already given me an inkling (sorry, I am unfortunately not as witty as Redlin) that Steele is a new rising star in grimdark, then Whispers of the Storm completely proved it. This is one of those stories that managed to transport me so fully that I completely lost track of time, and the beautifully bittersweet ending left me hungering for more in the best way possible. If you like your character-driven fantasy gritty, your (anti-)heroes a little broken, and your soul to be shattered, then the Song of the Damned series is simply an absolute must-read.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
4.5 stars (rounded up)
Forget about Kvothe, forget about Vaelin Al Sorna, forget about Gabriel de Léon, Z.B. Steele is here to bring you your new favourite moody, morally grey, and slightly melodramatic bastard telling his legendary life story in Whispers of the Storm. Filled with equal parts bloody action, bittersweet introspection, and soul-stirring emotion, this gritty and gut-wrenching coming of age grimdark military fantasy is a tale for the ages that will blow you off your feet and crush your heart without remorse.
“Ah, Redlin of the Wolves. Vanguard, the Thunderblade, The Justicar’s Revenge, The Reaper in the Winds, The Assassin in Grey. The Storm Itself. It’s a lot of titles for a prisoner.”
Now, after falling head over heels in love with Z.B. Steele’s exquisite storytelling in the companion novella An Inkling of Flame, I was beyond eager to dive into this first full length novel in the Song of the Damned series. Yet despite that excitement, I also felt slightly nervous, as Whispers of the Storm follows none other than the enigmatic and hateable villain that I had just become equally terrified and morbidly fascinated by in the novella; talk about bold storytelling, we love to see it.
And I’ll be damned, if I didn’t find myself reluctantly sympathising with and rooting for the notorious monster known as Redlin of the Wolves within just a few pages. After a lifetime of death and destruction, he has finally been captured by the inquisitors and is now being led to the noose, but first the Archon demands his legendary tale to be fully unveiled at last. Will he tell the truth? Who knows, but I sure couldn’t look away from the devastatingly glorious trainwreck that he calls his life story.
“I am a man of many sins, the cause of wars, death, and turmoil. A master of magic and the deadliest man in Usmal with a blade. A Reaper of such scale that the country has never seen.”
So, I can’t sit here and pretend that Whispers of the Storm truly reinvents the wheel in any way, and yet it felt so inexplicably fresh and exciting to me. Sure, the tropes are troping, but they just trope real good. We’ve got a framed narrative, mystical elemental magic that is tied to religion and comes at a high cost, all the best found family and motley crew vibes, and not one, but two military/magical academy settings; what is not to love?!
I had an absolute blast travelling all the way back to Redlin’s childhood to witness the events that shaped him from an innocent little bookworm into the jaded reaper we know in the present. Even though the first half of Whispers of the Storm is quite a slow-burn set-up with relatively low stakes, I found myself utterly hooked by the irresistible air of intrigue, and I quickly became way more invested in all the heartfelt friendships, frustrating rivalries, and little bits of cute puppy love than was probably safe for my emotional well-being (ouch).
“Fighting a war against yourself to try to bury feelings is always a losing battle, but it is one I fought valiantly.”
Still, while I was truly gripped from page one, I think there is no denying that Steele just steps up his game and takes everything to the next level in Part 2. As Redlin enters a new stage of his training, the intriguing world of Usmal organically opens up, and soon the stakes, action and magic just increase exponentially. I really loved the smooth change in setting, and I think it’s a true testament to Steele’s exceptional skill at human storytelling that I latched onto an almost entirely new cast of characters midway through the story with zero problem.
And every time I thought my interest might start to wane, Steele (or Redlin?) managed to pull me back in with a new shocking revelation or a tantalising bit of dramatic foreshadowing that filled me with anticipatory dread. Sure, there might have been some parts that felt a bit meandering or repetitive, but as Redlin says: “You tell your entire life story and see if you don’t repeat yourself. Life is full of repetition. Same paths, same jokes, same fucking mistakes.”
If that didn’t give it away, Redlin is quite a bit of a snarky bastard, and I loved how he infused his raw and intimately vulnerable first person narration with so much surprising heart, emotion and humour. Yes, this is a brutally dark tale of a man at war with himself, and it absolutely doesn’t shy away from exploring some very sensitive topics such as war, faith, loss, regret, mental health, and even sexual trauma from a male’s perspective. But similarly to Jay Kristoff’s Empire of the Vampire or Abercrombie’s First Law series, this book is amusingly self-aware and laced with a sharp, dry gallow’s humour that just had me smiling in grim delight the entire way through.
Be it the sharp banter between young Redlin and his friends, the battle of wits between older Redlin and inquisitor Maya in the expertly executed interludes (possibly my favourite sequences of the story?), or all the little meta-level easter eggs with tuckerizations of some author friends and legendary grimdark characters/authors; it simply shows that Steele had just as much fun writing this story as I had reading it, and his eloquent, evocative and knife-sharp prose just sang to my soul and tugged on my heartstrings in all the most unexpected ways.
“It’s easier to cling to rage than it is to grief. Grief is like a wet cloak that wraps around your body and weighs you down. Rage is like a fire. You may have to burn part of your good nature to keep it burning, but at that time I would have rather burned all my kindness away than continue to mope.”
If An Inkling of Flame hadn’t already given me an inkling (sorry, I am unfortunately not as witty as Redlin) that Steele is a new rising star in grimdark, then Whispers of the Storm completely proved it. This is one of those stories that managed to transport me so fully that I completely lost track of time, and the beautifully bittersweet ending left me hungering for more in the best way possible. If you like your character-driven fantasy gritty, your (anti-)heroes a little broken, and your soul to be shattered, then the Song of the Damned series is simply an absolute must-read.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 9, 2025
Review originally posted on SFF Insiders website.
There are few words that can accurately describe this wonderful novel. I have thought for a bit on how to accurately portray my thoughts and feelings, and so I give my humble attempt. This novel is one that will stick in your brain, encouraging you to keep reading. It will make time vanish with just a brief inhalation of breath as the scenes that unfold before the reader steal that same breath with a shock. I believe that Z.B. Steele has created a world that will be remembered with the likes of Anthony Ryan and many others. It truly is that good. I added it to my most anticipated list as soon as I saw the cover and read the description, knowing full well that I had set a high bar for it. Needless to say, it surpassed all expectations.
The strength of the novel are the characters. It is told from the perspective of one main character, but each one that is placed in the pages finds a way to latch hold of a reader's mind and heart. It is a great skill for an author to create such memorable characters and this is done in spades all throughout the book. It did not matter whether it was a friend or foe, they are so realistic that each character will do things that are good and bad. Each of them hold their own in the story, encouraging the reader to fall into the depths of their world. The pacing of the novel is good, but I can see where some readers might find the setting of a school to be a tad slower, but I found no issues with it whatsoever. It beautifully set the stage for each of the brutal fight scenes that come into play. The world is slowly brought into focus through the eyes of the character and it seems to grow in depth just as the character does. I can’t wait to experience more of it, knowing that there is a lore that is deep and intriguing just waiting to be discovered. Equal to the world, is the interesting magic that is played out in front of us. I loved the consequence of using it and can see (or guess) at many different paths that it can take us to in future installments.
I have seen the hype for this novel and I wholeheartedly add my small voice to the chorus of many that are singing its praises. This novel is the beginning of a dark but beautiful journey that will live in the minds of many for years to come. Fans of dark fantasy will be enthralled and jumping in line to discover more of what is in store for the characters and the world. There are many comparisons that can be made, but I would rather use the strength of the novel to stand on its own, carving the path it deserves. I feel as if these few words are inadequate to fully describe how invested I was in consuming each word of the novel. Hopefully they are enough to help others to discover a world teeming with danger and love, loyalty and betrayal, and so much more. It really is that good.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
There are few words that can accurately describe this wonderful novel. I have thought for a bit on how to accurately portray my thoughts and feelings, and so I give my humble attempt. This novel is one that will stick in your brain, encouraging you to keep reading. It will make time vanish with just a brief inhalation of breath as the scenes that unfold before the reader steal that same breath with a shock. I believe that Z.B. Steele has created a world that will be remembered with the likes of Anthony Ryan and many others. It truly is that good. I added it to my most anticipated list as soon as I saw the cover and read the description, knowing full well that I had set a high bar for it. Needless to say, it surpassed all expectations.
The strength of the novel are the characters. It is told from the perspective of one main character, but each one that is placed in the pages finds a way to latch hold of a reader's mind and heart. It is a great skill for an author to create such memorable characters and this is done in spades all throughout the book. It did not matter whether it was a friend or foe, they are so realistic that each character will do things that are good and bad. Each of them hold their own in the story, encouraging the reader to fall into the depths of their world. The pacing of the novel is good, but I can see where some readers might find the setting of a school to be a tad slower, but I found no issues with it whatsoever. It beautifully set the stage for each of the brutal fight scenes that come into play. The world is slowly brought into focus through the eyes of the character and it seems to grow in depth just as the character does. I can’t wait to experience more of it, knowing that there is a lore that is deep and intriguing just waiting to be discovered. Equal to the world, is the interesting magic that is played out in front of us. I loved the consequence of using it and can see (or guess) at many different paths that it can take us to in future installments.
I have seen the hype for this novel and I wholeheartedly add my small voice to the chorus of many that are singing its praises. This novel is the beginning of a dark but beautiful journey that will live in the minds of many for years to come. Fans of dark fantasy will be enthralled and jumping in line to discover more of what is in store for the characters and the world. There are many comparisons that can be made, but I would rather use the strength of the novel to stand on its own, carving the path it deserves. I feel as if these few words are inadequate to fully describe how invested I was in consuming each word of the novel. Hopefully they are enough to help others to discover a world teeming with danger and love, loyalty and betrayal, and so much more. It really is that good.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review. As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
April 1, 2025
A BEAUTIFULLY TRAGIC TALE FROM GRIMDARK'S RISING STAR
(Mild Spoiler warning) How do you put into words a story that consumed the last six days of your life? You start with saying: I read slow, like: molasses on a winter day, slow. I've never read something this size, this fast. In part, it was wanting to ensure that a fellow author got a review, and thus fulfilling the author/reader pact that is an ARC. The second, was my absolute love for the story. As I do with movies I watch, or books reviews I leave, I try to take myself out of it personally-and rate the story based on what it is. I'm not a tried and true lover of Dark Fantasy (I much prefer my noblebright literature), but we have to look at a story for what it is, and remove that personal bias.
The Plot (Summary):
Whispers of the Storm puts us in the mind of Redlin, forename only (later becoming "of the Wolves"). A man who retells the story of his life to Maya, an agent of the Archon. Without digging too deep into spoilers, I'll cover this with broad brush strokes. Redlin's life is turned upside down when a hunting expedition with his father leaves him at the threshold of the unknown-traded for a simple bag of silver. Throughout the next years of his life are woven mystique, perseverance, love, and loss, taking Redlin on a whirlwind that will take him across the realm, making him many friends, and even more enemies. The story Z.B. Steele tells is incomplete, leading us into the eventual book two - one that we'll certainly return for.
The Main Character:
Redlin is a hopeful, if tragic character. He begins seeing the world as sunshine and rainbows, growing up in what's known as a "nuclear family" structure (mom, dad, siblings, pet, etc). His world is thrown into chaos when he's left in a place he doesn't know, and guided into a future that the former hunter never planned. He's able to use the lessons of his past life to aid in his next chapter at Eilen - a war academy for the followers of Balin, the God of Ice. What he experiences at Eilen shape the rest of his journey, one that is navigated with bravery, tact, and at certain points recklessness. He's the type of friend he wishes he had, and clings on to those in his life who stood by his side. From the cocoon of a sheltered boy quickly blossoms a raging warrior, and a leader. Redlin is someone the reader can get behind, because his personality draws you in. Z.B. Steele manages to make you care for this character incredibly quickly, and you'll feverishly tear through the pages of this book to see him through every peril.
Supporting Cast:
The book is chalk filled with an incredible, and diverse supporting cast-both in terms of personality and ability. From the pragmatic, Prace, to the alluring, Mika, and the supernatural headmistress, Alessandra. But there are also his friends - Malcolm, Gare, and Rohan. Later, we'll meet Asher, Cyn'se and Yuna, Nu'uk, and Eran (who will be a favourite, trust me). This story is an ever evolving door of characters, and you will get to feel both love, and loss as Steele weaves this story.
What resonated with me:
This is a story about a boy who leaves home to join the military, not knowing what to expect. I was Redlin-this was my story, at least in my mind it was. I left home to join the military at 20, not knowing anyone or what to expect. I never had a "Prace" in my life, so I was thankful Redlin did. What follows was the story of fitting in with "the boys" and finding your place somewhere you believe you fit, but are still finding the ground on which to stand. What Steele captures through this experience is what I went through: building friendships based on camaraderie, and shared purpose, but also finding conflicting attitudes and personalities along the way. Any Veteran (or active serving) who picks up this story will immediately relate to Redlin from the moment he's pulled from his family and "gets off the bus" at Eilen.
My favourite parts:
Combat and fighting - it's fast, graphic, and entirely vivid. Steele's fighting will keep you coming back for more, and it's never a "blink and it's over" fight. The magic within, an elemental-based system known as 'Shattering' feels like a breath of fresh air. Though elemental magic isn't reinventing the wheel (I know, because I love it), the Shattering aspect is fantastic. The limited use of the substance Aether (within each user) harkens back to the MP system in Final Fantasy, and combines with with the same elements within. Even the Gods - Tidur, Samira, Odis, and Balin - can bestow greater gifts on their wielders, and feel like Summons, or Guardian Forces.
What I didn't like:
I've sat here for the last five minutes trying to figure out what I didn't like. The only part that dragged for me was around the 3/4 mark when Redlin is forced into being a Guardian, rather than a Hunter. It's a lot of court intrigue, but you do get to know the MC outside of fast paced scenes and constant combat. I wouldn't say entirely that I didn't enjoy this part, it just had a different, possibly slowed-down feel than what the first 75% was. But don't worry, it's fairly brief, and the end is an absolute whirlwind! Outside of this, I just wish there was a greater emotional resonance from Redlin when his family ultimately discarded him (likely just his father, as-at this time in history-the man's word was law). I do understand his reaction though, experiencing a thousand emotions and thoughts at once that contributed to an emotional numbness. Again, I related the scene to my own experience and what I went through.
Changing Views:
First off, if you haven't read "An Inkling of Flame" prior to this story, you need to. Not because it's crucial, but it introduces you to the events of this world (though much further into Redlin's story than Whispers), and gives you a look at Redlin's character down the road. When I began this story, I hated the character for what he did in the "prequel." But the more it went on, I began to understand him, and how the events of the story contribute to who he would eventually become. I'm still trying to decide if I outright like the character (I'm sure I'll get over myself from Inkling), but with time, Redlin of the Wolves will be a classic dark fantasy character in his own right.
To sum up:
Whispers of the Storm is a fantastic story, and an excellent entry point into his 'Song of the Damned' series. The prose was sharp, and the dialogue cracked like a whip. Each character felt unique, and different-each a product of their past life. The story is a beautiful, but dark look at personal interaction and how shared purpose often isn't enough to fully embrace the ties that bind. Steele's influences in this story are Joe Abercrombie, and Anna Smith Spark - and it isn't hard to see why.
I am so excited to have been able to be an ARC reader for the first installment in this series, and I can't thank the author enough for this amazing thrill ride of an adventure. If you love dark fantasy/grimdark or even just the genre in general, you won't want to miss this. Steele is a rising star in the Grimdark genre, and has punched his ticket to being an auto-buy in the future for me as a reader.
Edit (01 Apr 25)
MINOR SPOILERS(ish): With the implementation of my infamous "f*off" scale this book must be rated accordingly. Owing to the personal trauma this book inflicts, it has been judged with 4/5 f*offs.
- For what Redlin's father does to his son
- For what Redlin does to Gare (damn coward, Gare, not Redlin)
- For Redlin choosing Samara over Balin (after everything Alessandra did for him)
- For that ending, and leaving us like THAT!
(Mild Spoiler warning) How do you put into words a story that consumed the last six days of your life? You start with saying: I read slow, like: molasses on a winter day, slow. I've never read something this size, this fast. In part, it was wanting to ensure that a fellow author got a review, and thus fulfilling the author/reader pact that is an ARC. The second, was my absolute love for the story. As I do with movies I watch, or books reviews I leave, I try to take myself out of it personally-and rate the story based on what it is. I'm not a tried and true lover of Dark Fantasy (I much prefer my noblebright literature), but we have to look at a story for what it is, and remove that personal bias.
The Plot (Summary):
Whispers of the Storm puts us in the mind of Redlin, forename only (later becoming "of the Wolves"). A man who retells the story of his life to Maya, an agent of the Archon. Without digging too deep into spoilers, I'll cover this with broad brush strokes. Redlin's life is turned upside down when a hunting expedition with his father leaves him at the threshold of the unknown-traded for a simple bag of silver. Throughout the next years of his life are woven mystique, perseverance, love, and loss, taking Redlin on a whirlwind that will take him across the realm, making him many friends, and even more enemies. The story Z.B. Steele tells is incomplete, leading us into the eventual book two - one that we'll certainly return for.
The Main Character:
Redlin is a hopeful, if tragic character. He begins seeing the world as sunshine and rainbows, growing up in what's known as a "nuclear family" structure (mom, dad, siblings, pet, etc). His world is thrown into chaos when he's left in a place he doesn't know, and guided into a future that the former hunter never planned. He's able to use the lessons of his past life to aid in his next chapter at Eilen - a war academy for the followers of Balin, the God of Ice. What he experiences at Eilen shape the rest of his journey, one that is navigated with bravery, tact, and at certain points recklessness. He's the type of friend he wishes he had, and clings on to those in his life who stood by his side. From the cocoon of a sheltered boy quickly blossoms a raging warrior, and a leader. Redlin is someone the reader can get behind, because his personality draws you in. Z.B. Steele manages to make you care for this character incredibly quickly, and you'll feverishly tear through the pages of this book to see him through every peril.
Supporting Cast:
The book is chalk filled with an incredible, and diverse supporting cast-both in terms of personality and ability. From the pragmatic, Prace, to the alluring, Mika, and the supernatural headmistress, Alessandra. But there are also his friends - Malcolm, Gare, and Rohan. Later, we'll meet Asher, Cyn'se and Yuna, Nu'uk, and Eran (who will be a favourite, trust me). This story is an ever evolving door of characters, and you will get to feel both love, and loss as Steele weaves this story.
What resonated with me:
This is a story about a boy who leaves home to join the military, not knowing what to expect. I was Redlin-this was my story, at least in my mind it was. I left home to join the military at 20, not knowing anyone or what to expect. I never had a "Prace" in my life, so I was thankful Redlin did. What follows was the story of fitting in with "the boys" and finding your place somewhere you believe you fit, but are still finding the ground on which to stand. What Steele captures through this experience is what I went through: building friendships based on camaraderie, and shared purpose, but also finding conflicting attitudes and personalities along the way. Any Veteran (or active serving) who picks up this story will immediately relate to Redlin from the moment he's pulled from his family and "gets off the bus" at Eilen.
My favourite parts:
Combat and fighting - it's fast, graphic, and entirely vivid. Steele's fighting will keep you coming back for more, and it's never a "blink and it's over" fight. The magic within, an elemental-based system known as 'Shattering' feels like a breath of fresh air. Though elemental magic isn't reinventing the wheel (I know, because I love it), the Shattering aspect is fantastic. The limited use of the substance Aether (within each user) harkens back to the MP system in Final Fantasy, and combines with with the same elements within. Even the Gods - Tidur, Samira, Odis, and Balin - can bestow greater gifts on their wielders, and feel like Summons, or Guardian Forces.
What I didn't like:
I've sat here for the last five minutes trying to figure out what I didn't like. The only part that dragged for me was around the 3/4 mark when Redlin is forced into being a Guardian, rather than a Hunter. It's a lot of court intrigue, but you do get to know the MC outside of fast paced scenes and constant combat. I wouldn't say entirely that I didn't enjoy this part, it just had a different, possibly slowed-down feel than what the first 75% was. But don't worry, it's fairly brief, and the end is an absolute whirlwind! Outside of this, I just wish there was a greater emotional resonance from Redlin when his family ultimately discarded him (likely just his father, as-at this time in history-the man's word was law). I do understand his reaction though, experiencing a thousand emotions and thoughts at once that contributed to an emotional numbness. Again, I related the scene to my own experience and what I went through.
Changing Views:
First off, if you haven't read "An Inkling of Flame" prior to this story, you need to. Not because it's crucial, but it introduces you to the events of this world (though much further into Redlin's story than Whispers), and gives you a look at Redlin's character down the road. When I began this story, I hated the character for what he did in the "prequel." But the more it went on, I began to understand him, and how the events of the story contribute to who he would eventually become. I'm still trying to decide if I outright like the character (I'm sure I'll get over myself from Inkling), but with time, Redlin of the Wolves will be a classic dark fantasy character in his own right.
To sum up:
Whispers of the Storm is a fantastic story, and an excellent entry point into his 'Song of the Damned' series. The prose was sharp, and the dialogue cracked like a whip. Each character felt unique, and different-each a product of their past life. The story is a beautiful, but dark look at personal interaction and how shared purpose often isn't enough to fully embrace the ties that bind. Steele's influences in this story are Joe Abercrombie, and Anna Smith Spark - and it isn't hard to see why.
I am so excited to have been able to be an ARC reader for the first installment in this series, and I can't thank the author enough for this amazing thrill ride of an adventure. If you love dark fantasy/grimdark or even just the genre in general, you won't want to miss this. Steele is a rising star in the Grimdark genre, and has punched his ticket to being an auto-buy in the future for me as a reader.
Edit (01 Apr 25)
MINOR SPOILERS(ish): With the implementation of my infamous "f*off" scale this book must be rated accordingly. Owing to the personal trauma this book inflicts, it has been judged with 4/5 f*offs.
- For what Redlin's father does to his son
- For what Redlin does to Gare (damn coward, Gare, not Redlin)
- For Redlin choosing Samara over Balin (after everything Alessandra did for him)
- For that ending, and leaving us like THAT!
April 19, 2025
Books like this reminds me why I love reading, and even if I find awesome books it's very rare that I find some that just makes the world and pages disappear and I'm just stuck inside a timeless journey of a fantastic story where the time passes away. This is one of those books, and it will be one of those who always stays in my heart.
This is a book you can easily get into with the comfortable and easy flowed writing that will make you don't want to put the book down. I used almost all day yesterday reading this one and just finished it today. It was never a boring moment. The fighting scene was amazing, fantastic friendship that comes and goes through a young lifetime and family betrayal. I loved it from the 1 line, and the humor through the book is fantastic. While it takes a while to get there, i found the magic system to be very intriguing, and I can't wait to see if it will evolve into something more.
I would also mention that it is a smaller moment later in the book with a brief SA, just so that has been addressed if someone should be very sensitive towards that.
This is a book that i think everyone should read at least 1 time because you can see from the first page that this is a world that ZB has putten a lot of love into. Can't recommend this enough and I think that you should read it as soon as you able to. Can't wait for the next book.
This is a book you can easily get into with the comfortable and easy flowed writing that will make you don't want to put the book down. I used almost all day yesterday reading this one and just finished it today. It was never a boring moment. The fighting scene was amazing, fantastic friendship that comes and goes through a young lifetime and family betrayal. I loved it from the 1 line, and the humor through the book is fantastic. While it takes a while to get there, i found the magic system to be very intriguing, and I can't wait to see if it will evolve into something more.
I would also mention that it is a smaller moment later in the book with a brief SA, just so that has been addressed if someone should be very sensitive towards that.
This is a book that i think everyone should read at least 1 time because you can see from the first page that this is a world that ZB has putten a lot of love into. Can't recommend this enough and I think that you should read it as soon as you able to. Can't wait for the next book.
January 7, 2026
4.5 stars! RTC
April 22, 2025
Holy cow what a ride this was. I thought I was going to enjoy this one and my expectations for it were kicked to the side and knifed left to perish like one of Redlin's foes.
There was so much to enjoy here. And I was hooked on this early on. If I didn't work weekends, this would have been banged out so quickly. It's very addictive and hard to put down. The writing in this is clever, and witty and keeps you on edge throughout. The magic system in this was really fun. Shattering seems like a powerful magic to wield and I love how it's not limitless! And all the easter eggs laid through this story was an awesome touch as well!
From the witty banter between pretty much all the characters, the action-packed scenes, and just the overall dark tone of this story, I had such a blast with this. And with the ending...come on! I need the next chapter of Redlin's tale as soon as I can get my hands on it!!
There was so much to enjoy here. And I was hooked on this early on. If I didn't work weekends, this would have been banged out so quickly. It's very addictive and hard to put down. The writing in this is clever, and witty and keeps you on edge throughout. The magic system in this was really fun. Shattering seems like a powerful magic to wield and I love how it's not limitless! And all the easter eggs laid through this story was an awesome touch as well!
From the witty banter between pretty much all the characters, the action-packed scenes, and just the overall dark tone of this story, I had such a blast with this. And with the ending...come on! I need the next chapter of Redlin's tale as soon as I can get my hands on it!!
April 27, 2025
Probably a case of not for me; the editing and all is okay, but I couldn't made myself to get into the characters and storylines
May 23, 2025
4.8 ⭐���
Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC in exchange of an unbiased review.
Now, disclaimer out of the way and score too, I don't know where to start to convey the message I want to get across... READ THIS BOOK!! NOW! [Well, not now, when it releases, should be soon!][EDIT: MARCH 25TH!]
ZB crafts an incredible book, one that compels you to read, page after page, after page, and that's the hallmark of something that resonates, that carves a hole in your chest and rummages around. It's visceral, not only in the physical aspect, but especially in the mental aspect. You will feel the crunch of the ethical and moral choices this world forces you to make.
This story is about a boy, who could be any boy, it could have been any of us, making choices, the choices he felt where the ones he had to make in order to survive.
Whispers is told by the man that boy became, and you feel throughout the telling of the story how mich it weighs him and how all of his choices affected the world, but most especially him.
It's the unreliable narrator story, done at the highest level. It pays homage to the greats of the trope, but firmly remains true to itself.
As the story progresses you start to put the pieces together, realizing what is REALLY happening and where it's going.
The entire book is littered with beautifully crafted scenes, combats and dialogues and these will make you question everything in the book, and in our world. If you let it, this book will demand of you to recognize and face many of the evils we face in our daily lives.
Whisper of the Storm is also a love letter to the genre, recognizing where its roots are burrowed, but also fertilizing it with energy and vigor rarely seen.
I beseech you to read it. Let it grip you in its prose, and throw you to be flung in the eye of the tornado.
Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC in exchange of an unbiased review.
Now, disclaimer out of the way and score too, I don't know where to start to convey the message I want to get across... READ THIS BOOK!! NOW! [Well, not now, when it releases, should be soon!][EDIT: MARCH 25TH!]
ZB crafts an incredible book, one that compels you to read, page after page, after page, and that's the hallmark of something that resonates, that carves a hole in your chest and rummages around. It's visceral, not only in the physical aspect, but especially in the mental aspect. You will feel the crunch of the ethical and moral choices this world forces you to make.
This story is about a boy, who could be any boy, it could have been any of us, making choices, the choices he felt where the ones he had to make in order to survive.
Whispers is told by the man that boy became, and you feel throughout the telling of the story how mich it weighs him and how all of his choices affected the world, but most especially him.
It's the unreliable narrator story, done at the highest level. It pays homage to the greats of the trope, but firmly remains true to itself.
As the story progresses you start to put the pieces together, realizing what is REALLY happening and where it's going.
The entire book is littered with beautifully crafted scenes, combats and dialogues and these will make you question everything in the book, and in our world. If you let it, this book will demand of you to recognize and face many of the evils we face in our daily lives.
Whisper of the Storm is also a love letter to the genre, recognizing where its roots are burrowed, but also fertilizing it with energy and vigor rarely seen.
I beseech you to read it. Let it grip you in its prose, and throw you to be flung in the eye of the tornado.
April 19, 2025
I'm already a big fan of ZB Steele's writing.
This novel however, blew me away! 5 stars isn't enough.
Redlin's story, told to inquisitor Maya (for the Archon) is stunning in it's scope and depth of emotion that only Zack can write. If you read the prequel novella An Inkling of Flame (if you haven't...you must) you know what he can do in a few pages. This full length novel expands on that and moves the story into a dark, gritty, violent tale but so deeply emotional too.
Dealing with some dark themes beyond the normal tropes we see in grimdark stories, the author handles devastating events with gentleness and a forthright nature, there is no shying away. This alone would deserve a 5 star but there is so much more to his writing that is absolutely brilliant.
I won't bother giving you a full recap of the story, better reviewers have done that already. I will say this, ZB Steele is now an auto buy author for me. I loved everything about this story!
This novel however, blew me away! 5 stars isn't enough.
Redlin's story, told to inquisitor Maya (for the Archon) is stunning in it's scope and depth of emotion that only Zack can write. If you read the prequel novella An Inkling of Flame (if you haven't...you must) you know what he can do in a few pages. This full length novel expands on that and moves the story into a dark, gritty, violent tale but so deeply emotional too.
Dealing with some dark themes beyond the normal tropes we see in grimdark stories, the author handles devastating events with gentleness and a forthright nature, there is no shying away. This alone would deserve a 5 star but there is so much more to his writing that is absolutely brilliant.
I won't bother giving you a full recap of the story, better reviewers have done that already. I will say this, ZB Steele is now an auto buy author for me. I loved everything about this story!
November 2, 2025
When I was super young, I used to annihilate my brother in wrestling. I was older, larger, and could practice WWF moves on him anytime I wanted. But as time went on, he grew to be a hell of a lot stronger than me.
On the subject of being surpassed, Whispers of the Storm by ZB Steel is a banger. I knew it was going to be good after reading Inkling. I’ve come to the conclusion that most fantasy books are carried by their dialogue, and I honestly feel ZB’s character exchanges are on par with the best of the genre. I read For a Few Days More last year, when ZB was just some dude with 1 book and like 11 ratings. Barely a year later and he’s topping the /r fantasy charts and pulling 100k KU months.
Bro is the goat and I am so proud of this dude.
On the subject of being surpassed, Whispers of the Storm by ZB Steel is a banger. I knew it was going to be good after reading Inkling. I’ve come to the conclusion that most fantasy books are carried by their dialogue, and I honestly feel ZB’s character exchanges are on par with the best of the genre. I read For a Few Days More last year, when ZB was just some dude with 1 book and like 11 ratings. Barely a year later and he’s topping the /r fantasy charts and pulling 100k KU months.
Bro is the goat and I am so proud of this dude.
March 21, 2025
In Whispers of the Storm, Z.B. Steele unapologetically wears his influences on his sleeve and man, does it just... work.
He walks a great balance of clearly setting up the full Song of the Damned series, while also telling a gripping story in this first book. There's just enough action mixed with setup and foreshadowing, so by the time I got to the end I definitely didn't want the story to end.
If you love the "learning in a school" trope in fantasy, you'll be at home here. Perhaps the most intriguing part of Whispers of the Storm is how the magic system is unveiled and explored - and how it affects Redlin and those around him.
Whispers of the Storm is an early entry for Book of the Year and it solidifies Z.B. Steele as a must-read author.
Thank you to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
9.04/10
5/5 ⭐️
He walks a great balance of clearly setting up the full Song of the Damned series, while also telling a gripping story in this first book. There's just enough action mixed with setup and foreshadowing, so by the time I got to the end I definitely didn't want the story to end.
If you love the "learning in a school" trope in fantasy, you'll be at home here. Perhaps the most intriguing part of Whispers of the Storm is how the magic system is unveiled and explored - and how it affects Redlin and those around him.
Whispers of the Storm is an early entry for Book of the Year and it solidifies Z.B. Steele as a must-read author.
Thank you to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
9.04/10
5/5 ⭐️
March 6, 2025
Was lucky enough to read this early, full RTC but ZB continues to absolutely crush.
July 21, 2025
Whispers of the Storm is a gritty, emotionally charged fantasy that pulls you deep into its world and doesn’t let go. The story begins at a rather deliberate pace, which may feel slow to some readers, particularly those who are not typically drawn to young adult narratives centered around school life. However, the initial gradual development ultimately proves rewarding as the plot deepens and the characters become more compelling.
Z.B. Steele delivers a gripping and emotionally charged, blending rich worldbuilding, layered politics, and a magic system that’s as dangerous as it is fascinating. The story explores power, isolation, and identity through a main character who’s as complex as he is compelling.
One of the standout strengths of this novel is its cast of flawed, vividly drawn characters. I did find a few characters hard to connect with, and not every subplot felt essential, but none of that took away from how gripping this was overall.
One line that stuck with me:
“I would adorn myself in an unearned crown of sympathy, I might even bow my head under its weight, but I would walk my cursed road.”
That sums up the tone perfectly—heavy, personal, and unforgettable. 🥹
It’s the kind of story that leaves you with more questions than answers—but in a good way. The ending left me with wanting more~ 😆
Z.B. Steele delivers a gripping and emotionally charged, blending rich worldbuilding, layered politics, and a magic system that’s as dangerous as it is fascinating. The story explores power, isolation, and identity through a main character who’s as complex as he is compelling.
One of the standout strengths of this novel is its cast of flawed, vividly drawn characters. I did find a few characters hard to connect with, and not every subplot felt essential, but none of that took away from how gripping this was overall.
One line that stuck with me:
“I would adorn myself in an unearned crown of sympathy, I might even bow my head under its weight, but I would walk my cursed road.”
That sums up the tone perfectly—heavy, personal, and unforgettable. 🥹
It’s the kind of story that leaves you with more questions than answers—but in a good way. The ending left me with wanting more~ 😆
March 22, 2025
A truly remarkable piece of work. This book has landed its way into my top five reads all time. ZB Steele is an instant read.
June 20, 2025
Surprisingly good
Not always a sure bet, this was a kindle unlimited read. Very reminiscent of empire of the vampire ( or even name of the wind) ,the telling of ones life story while imprisoned or maybe awaiting your fate. The characters are well defined and interesting and the plot doesn't give you a clear path to what's right or wrong. I really enjoyed the magic system in this one. There's no free use of said magic, only used sparingly and at a great cost. I also found interesting was the nod to other writers in this book. Done in a creative way. This chapter was a solid table setter to what's to come. Well done.
Not always a sure bet, this was a kindle unlimited read. Very reminiscent of empire of the vampire ( or even name of the wind) ,the telling of ones life story while imprisoned or maybe awaiting your fate. The characters are well defined and interesting and the plot doesn't give you a clear path to what's right or wrong. I really enjoyed the magic system in this one. There's no free use of said magic, only used sparingly and at a great cost. I also found interesting was the nod to other writers in this book. Done in a creative way. This chapter was a solid table setter to what's to come. Well done.
March 12, 2025
Review of Whispers of The Storm
By Z.B. Steele
Having just finished An Inkling of Flame by this author, I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for my emotional wreckage next. And I mean that as high praise, because the way he can make words wrap around your heart and squeeze, is a true gift.
One of the tropes I loved in this was found family. It’s a common one, but in this instance, it’s anything but common. Our main character, Redlin, has basically just been discarded by his father for a sack of coins. He’s been unceremoniously left in front of a fortress, after realizing this was NOT the hunting trip he thought he was going on with his father. He was 14 years old.
The story goes from his present-day journey, in chains while being asked to tell his story to an inquisitor at the behest of the Achyron. His days are numbered, and the Achyron wants to know why Redlin became what he now is.
His recollections are incredibly moving, as he describes his life going forward from the day he was abandoned. A passage that really struck me from that first night is this one. “Crawling into the empty bed, my weariness overrode my anxiety, and I fell into the deep sleep of a hurt child hoping to wake up in his mother’s arms.” WTF, Zack!?! My heart was a pulpy wreckage on the floor after this one.
His life at the Fortress, Eilen, is consumed with learning who and what he is, making friends with his roommates, one of whom is sadly the bullied one, who gets a bitter role in their dynamics.
It’s a “school” of sorts, teaching many things, one of which is warcraft, another is learning if one possesses an ability to “shatter.” And this ability is what separates the soldiers from the elite, the Vanguard.
Something interesting about Redlin is his ability to redirect people, using humor and bravado, which seems to be one of his best skills. But this is tempered with his other ability, which is to lie, and it’s a classic pain avoidance technique. He doesn’t want to hurt feelings, or put someone, including himself, in a bad light, he will either lie by omission or just outright lie. But his every action, his deepest motivating factor, is to keep those he cares about, and the world around him, safe. He’s also kind to animals, which is a big checkmark in his favor.
Something I give Zack a lot of credit for is addressing an oft glossed over topic; SA against men. So many dismiss this as something that they feel is an impossibility. I mean, the dude “responds” in an obvious way when being fondled, so it must be ok…. No. It is most definitely NOT OK. There is a scene where this happens, and the trauma experienced is very real, and debilitating, causing a panic attack, and the shame and fear it drove into his very soul made me sick for him. I wanted to wrap my hands around the throat of the entitled “noble” woman, and throttle her! It was uncomfortable to read, which was what it should elicit in the reader. Kudos to you, Zack, for bringing this topic to light.
My favorite characters, aside from Redlin, are Jord, the ancient weapons master, who still has the skills and strength of a much younger man. At least when he’s holding a broadsword. Rohan, who is one of Redlin’s roommates and fellow Vanguard. And then there are the two guards whom Redlin first met at Eilen, Prace and Isaaru. Prace loves to scare the shit out of Isaaru every chance he gets, with the results being sworn at in a most salty way. I laughed every time.
The story flows seamlessly between first and third person, as there are interludes where Redlin is talking to the inquisitor about other things besides his story. Sharing a pipe, observations of the sight beyond the windows of the carriage they’re riding in. Many of those are quite profound. And then the journey into his past rushes forward, and we are again immersed in his years learning to become a warden for a goddess, and the place he has sworn fealty to.
Please read this book. It will drag you over rocks, leaving you broken, but it will make you so glad you have found this exquisite gem along the way. Zack’s crafting of words to tell a story will blow you away. I cannot wait to see what he comes out with next, because I need more grim, dark, tragic stories with morally grey wise cracking characters to bring me to tears!
March 25, 2025
ARC received for free in return for an honest review.
This month has been one where i have struggled to read, and then i remembered i had this to read, and a little over 24 hours later, i was finished, and wow, just wow.
This transported me back to when i was just starting to properly read fantasy in all the best ways. With themes around rejection and acceptance, friendship and betrayal amongst others, this tells then starting of then tale of Redelin, as told to an inquisiter tasked with gaining his story, charting his early days from leaving his family, to being trained in a fortress devoted to one of the major gods, and the decisions he makes along the way, this is a powerful start to tale that has foreshadowed world shattering events to come, and i am 100% here for what comes next.
This month has been one where i have struggled to read, and then i remembered i had this to read, and a little over 24 hours later, i was finished, and wow, just wow.
This transported me back to when i was just starting to properly read fantasy in all the best ways. With themes around rejection and acceptance, friendship and betrayal amongst others, this tells then starting of then tale of Redelin, as told to an inquisiter tasked with gaining his story, charting his early days from leaving his family, to being trained in a fortress devoted to one of the major gods, and the decisions he makes along the way, this is a powerful start to tale that has foreshadowed world shattering events to come, and i am 100% here for what comes next.
May 12, 2025
This review is also available at Grimoire Ink Reviews.
Z kindly provided me with an ARC of Whispers of the Storm in exchange for a review, ideally before launch. Launch being the end of March and it being mid April as I write this, I think we can all agree the proposed deadline was missed. But it’s better for my sense of self to blame Z for not sending me the book earlier. Additionally, with all the love he’s getting for Whispers of the Storm and the prequel-not-quite-prequel novella An Inkling of Flame, blaming him will ensure he doesn’t get too big for his boots. (Z and I are actually friends. I have nothing but support for him.)
If you read my review of An Inkling of Flame, you’ll already suspect that I have nothing but praise for Whispers of the Storm. But you’re here, so let’s go through my thoughts on it together.
Once again, we have an intro (not a prologue — though I am not getting into that debate) that just captures your interest straightaway. And again, this intro and the following interludes take us from first person POV to third, but it’s done so, so, so well. The shift in POV really does make it feel like a proper interlude and adds another layer to the story.
But jumping from intro to interlude is getting a little ahead of myself.
The story gets going pretty quickly. Our MC, Redlin, gets sold to a school that exists to make soldiers. If they’re lucky, they get to be anything other than frontline soldiers and that is exactly where Redlin hopes not to be. In this school for war, he’s given the moniker for a deity he doesn’t follow, which is especially awkward when another deity lays claim to him and his potential for abilities. It’s like the “women want me, fish fear me” hat. Except it’s deities, everyone else, and also not a hat….ok so maybe not that similar. But also I’m getting a little ahead of myself again with the deities…
We spend the vast majority of our time in this school, and it only really starts to scratch the surface of how Redlin becomes this feared reaper in the world. I cannot wait to continue down Redlin’s story, whatever is coming next. Because while we watch him grow harder and more jaded, he’s still fiercely loyal, determined to do what is right, and protect those he cares about. So how does he become this fearsome reaper?? What are we missing?! Several books worth of content, presumably.
Evidenced by the intro and interludes, we are still working with a backwards narrative. It not only suits the story very well, getting our older Redlin to lament on the choices and actions of his past, but Z just continues to prove he is a master-in-progress at such a structure. I have no complaints about this.
What I do have complaints about is Maise. And Z owes me an apology for this. I am sure you’ll agree with me when you get to the point that this comment makes sense. If you don’t, who are you and who hurt you? I suppose I also have a complaint that Redlin goes to a place with meat pies and porridge then says ‘a hearty soup.’ and porridge is definitely not a soup. I am not debating this or taking comments on this. It’s not a soup. There was also a pocket potato (not a euphemism) but that’s not really a complaint so much as just kind of a confusing place to keep your potatoes.
Anyway, alongside our backwards narrative, we get more of Z’s excellent dialogues that manage to perfectly blend vivid emotions and humorous banter. I cannot wait to see where this story goes next and when we’ll match up past and present. I feel like I can see the final picture and two halves of the puzzle but not the pieces that make them all join.
Now, not to get too heavy on this, but there is something I have to applaud Z for tremendously. And I’m going to warn anyone with a trigger regarding SA to stop here.
To clarify, I am not applauding the SA. What I am applauding is Z brought in an enormously difficult and often overlooked topic about SA towards men. How it’s internalised, how it’s talked about when another character learns about it, how it’s coped with, and the overwhelming impact it has on just trying to exist from one day to the next after.
It was hard to read. Don’t get me wrong, just because it’s written extremely well doesn’t mean it wasn’t hard to read. But Z handled it with what I felt was a lot of care. I hope other readers will really stop to appreciate this.
Back to our regularly scheduled nonsense — did I mention the pocket potato?
It’s clear to see why some people have called Z a rising star of Grimdark. Some of us have also called him a gold retriever of Grimdark. Both are totally accurate. We know from the intro here, and from the events in An Inkling of Flame (which can be read either before or after Whispers of the Storm), we are headed for a tragedy. But it’s the smooth writing, character development, dialogue, and perfectly pulled together final product of all of that which has me knowing I’m in for heartbreak but also grabbing the clipboard like ‘Sign me the frickle up!’
Z kindly provided me with an ARC of Whispers of the Storm in exchange for a review, ideally before launch. Launch being the end of March and it being mid April as I write this, I think we can all agree the proposed deadline was missed. But it’s better for my sense of self to blame Z for not sending me the book earlier. Additionally, with all the love he’s getting for Whispers of the Storm and the prequel-not-quite-prequel novella An Inkling of Flame, blaming him will ensure he doesn’t get too big for his boots. (Z and I are actually friends. I have nothing but support for him.)
If you read my review of An Inkling of Flame, you’ll already suspect that I have nothing but praise for Whispers of the Storm. But you’re here, so let’s go through my thoughts on it together.
Once again, we have an intro (not a prologue — though I am not getting into that debate) that just captures your interest straightaway. And again, this intro and the following interludes take us from first person POV to third, but it’s done so, so, so well. The shift in POV really does make it feel like a proper interlude and adds another layer to the story.
But jumping from intro to interlude is getting a little ahead of myself.
The story gets going pretty quickly. Our MC, Redlin, gets sold to a school that exists to make soldiers. If they’re lucky, they get to be anything other than frontline soldiers and that is exactly where Redlin hopes not to be. In this school for war, he’s given the moniker for a deity he doesn’t follow, which is especially awkward when another deity lays claim to him and his potential for abilities. It’s like the “women want me, fish fear me” hat. Except it’s deities, everyone else, and also not a hat….ok so maybe not that similar. But also I’m getting a little ahead of myself again with the deities…
We spend the vast majority of our time in this school, and it only really starts to scratch the surface of how Redlin becomes this feared reaper in the world. I cannot wait to continue down Redlin’s story, whatever is coming next. Because while we watch him grow harder and more jaded, he’s still fiercely loyal, determined to do what is right, and protect those he cares about. So how does he become this fearsome reaper?? What are we missing?! Several books worth of content, presumably.
Evidenced by the intro and interludes, we are still working with a backwards narrative. It not only suits the story very well, getting our older Redlin to lament on the choices and actions of his past, but Z just continues to prove he is a master-in-progress at such a structure. I have no complaints about this.
What I do have complaints about is Maise. And Z owes me an apology for this. I am sure you’ll agree with me when you get to the point that this comment makes sense. If you don’t, who are you and who hurt you? I suppose I also have a complaint that Redlin goes to a place with meat pies and porridge then says ‘a hearty soup.’ and porridge is definitely not a soup. I am not debating this or taking comments on this. It’s not a soup. There was also a pocket potato (not a euphemism) but that’s not really a complaint so much as just kind of a confusing place to keep your potatoes.
Anyway, alongside our backwards narrative, we get more of Z’s excellent dialogues that manage to perfectly blend vivid emotions and humorous banter. I cannot wait to see where this story goes next and when we’ll match up past and present. I feel like I can see the final picture and two halves of the puzzle but not the pieces that make them all join.
Now, not to get too heavy on this, but there is something I have to applaud Z for tremendously. And I’m going to warn anyone with a trigger regarding SA to stop here.
To clarify, I am not applauding the SA. What I am applauding is Z brought in an enormously difficult and often overlooked topic about SA towards men. How it’s internalised, how it’s talked about when another character learns about it, how it’s coped with, and the overwhelming impact it has on just trying to exist from one day to the next after.
It was hard to read. Don’t get me wrong, just because it’s written extremely well doesn’t mean it wasn’t hard to read. But Z handled it with what I felt was a lot of care. I hope other readers will really stop to appreciate this.
Back to our regularly scheduled nonsense — did I mention the pocket potato?
It’s clear to see why some people have called Z a rising star of Grimdark. Some of us have also called him a gold retriever of Grimdark. Both are totally accurate. We know from the intro here, and from the events in An Inkling of Flame (which can be read either before or after Whispers of the Storm), we are headed for a tragedy. But it’s the smooth writing, character development, dialogue, and perfectly pulled together final product of all of that which has me knowing I’m in for heartbreak but also grabbing the clipboard like ‘Sign me the frickle up!’
August 1, 2025
Redlin of the wolves represents the outcasts who weren't loved, the ones who are left behind. He is a character whose purity is turned to darkness because of unfortunate circumstances and quickly forced bad decisions he can't take back.
This story is so insanely character driven in the best way possible. We still get some sick world building, a bit of political intrigue & a magic system with a dark side.
We feel the pain of Redlin. We feel his love, his creeping darkness, his regrets and then his hatred all through his own narration - retelling his life's events in which led him to his impending execution.
This story is so devastatingly excellent.
This was addicting in a slow burn and heavily emotional way for me.
The ending throws some mystery at us and I truly can't wait to see what Z.B does next with this!
This story is so insanely character driven in the best way possible. We still get some sick world building, a bit of political intrigue & a magic system with a dark side.
We feel the pain of Redlin. We feel his love, his creeping darkness, his regrets and then his hatred all through his own narration - retelling his life's events in which led him to his impending execution.
This story is so devastatingly excellent.
This was addicting in a slow burn and heavily emotional way for me.
The ending throws some mystery at us and I truly can't wait to see what Z.B does next with this!
Want to read
June 4, 2025📢 99 pennies 📢
June 4, 2025
June 4, 2025
October 28, 2025
WHISPERS OF THE STORM, follow-up to the masterful novella AN INKLING OF FLAME, is what happens when The Name of the Wind gets fucked by a Joe Abercrombie novel. While the retelling of Redlin’s younger years felt a bit too YA for me at times, it felt appropriate relative to the story; how else are you supposed to feel the trauma of a man’s youth if you’re not seeing it through his own eyes?
Overall, WHISPERS OF THE STORM is a successful start to a new grimdark fantasy series, worthy of its massive praise.
Overall, WHISPERS OF THE STORM is a successful start to a new grimdark fantasy series, worthy of its massive praise.
March 5, 2025
Omg I can’t believe it, thats one damn amazing book, couldn’t put it Z.B.Steele well I just don’t know what to say, it’s got everything and more.
Get it now, or you’ll miss out on something beyond imagining.
Get it now, or you’ll miss out on something beyond imagining.
November 27, 2025
This is a perfect book for fans of the name of the wind! Wonderful and amazing!
April 4, 2025
3.5 stelle
Sinceramente mi aspettavo un po' di più da questo libro.. avevo letto molte recensioni entusiastiche che lo comparavano a Abercrombie o Anna Smith Spark.. non c'entra nulla con loro!!! Ne per stile, molto semplice qui, ne per trama, qui appena accennata, ne per violenza o azione, qui molto poca..
E non c'entra molto nemmeno con il grimdark.. per lo meno per adesso non è così cupo.. Dico così, perché promette di essere più oscuro e intenso nei prossimi volumi..
Come per Ruthfuss o Ryan o Cornwell, il protagonista vecchio racconta la sua vita.. la prima metà devo essere sincero è molto semplice e poco entusiasmante.. Redlin finisce in una sorta di scuola militare che prepara alla guerra e altri ruoli che vengono solo accennati ma che sembrano interessanti..
Ci sono vari personaggi secondari ma non molto approfonditi.. per quanto lo stile di scrittura permette di divorare le pagine, non mi è piaciuto molto il fatto che manca di tensione, tutto gli va bene alla prima, non ci sono grandi intoppi.. ne particolari accenni a un Worldbuilding diverso dal classico medievaleggiante..
ci sono però alcuni accenni alla parte fantasy che fanno ben sparare per il "futuro"..
La seconda parte si fa un po' più interessante, con alcuni temi come religione e magia più approfonditi.. ma anche qui non mi è piaciuto molto la facilità con cui Redlin riesce in tutto.. accedere alla magia non è facile, in un paio di pagine ce la fa e inizia a usare la magia come se nulla fosse..
Sistema magico basato sugli elementi molto classico, qui coadiuvato da alcuni aspetti interessanti e un più originali collegati alle divinità, e al fatto che la magia ha un costo e può anche finire..
In definitiva il libro non è male, si legge veloce e risulta interessante.. solo che non l'ho trovato così originale, in quanto già fatto da Ryan o Ruthfuss e con più tensione e plot twist.. qui purtroppo è tutto un po' lineare, anche se nella seconda parte migliora.. la trama generale, che in Ruthfuss o Ryan per esempio è intrigante e accenna a qualcosa ci epico, qui manca, resta più un qualcosa ci politico.. anche se di intravede un possibile conflitto tra déi.. diciamo che mi è sembrato un buon libro introduttivo, e che promette di sbocciare nei volumi successivi che leggerò di sicuro..
Sinceramente mi aspettavo un po' di più da questo libro.. avevo letto molte recensioni entusiastiche che lo comparavano a Abercrombie o Anna Smith Spark.. non c'entra nulla con loro!!! Ne per stile, molto semplice qui, ne per trama, qui appena accennata, ne per violenza o azione, qui molto poca..
E non c'entra molto nemmeno con il grimdark.. per lo meno per adesso non è così cupo.. Dico così, perché promette di essere più oscuro e intenso nei prossimi volumi..
Come per Ruthfuss o Ryan o Cornwell, il protagonista vecchio racconta la sua vita.. la prima metà devo essere sincero è molto semplice e poco entusiasmante.. Redlin finisce in una sorta di scuola militare che prepara alla guerra e altri ruoli che vengono solo accennati ma che sembrano interessanti..
Ci sono vari personaggi secondari ma non molto approfonditi.. per quanto lo stile di scrittura permette di divorare le pagine, non mi è piaciuto molto il fatto che manca di tensione, tutto gli va bene alla prima, non ci sono grandi intoppi.. ne particolari accenni a un Worldbuilding diverso dal classico medievaleggiante..
ci sono però alcuni accenni alla parte fantasy che fanno ben sparare per il "futuro"..
La seconda parte si fa un po' più interessante, con alcuni temi come religione e magia più approfonditi.. ma anche qui non mi è piaciuto molto la facilità con cui Redlin riesce in tutto.. accedere alla magia non è facile, in un paio di pagine ce la fa e inizia a usare la magia come se nulla fosse..
Sistema magico basato sugli elementi molto classico, qui coadiuvato da alcuni aspetti interessanti e un più originali collegati alle divinità, e al fatto che la magia ha un costo e può anche finire..
In definitiva il libro non è male, si legge veloce e risulta interessante.. solo che non l'ho trovato così originale, in quanto già fatto da Ryan o Ruthfuss e con più tensione e plot twist.. qui purtroppo è tutto un po' lineare, anche se nella seconda parte migliora.. la trama generale, che in Ruthfuss o Ryan per esempio è intrigante e accenna a qualcosa ci epico, qui manca, resta più un qualcosa ci politico.. anche se di intravede un possibile conflitto tra déi.. diciamo che mi è sembrato un buon libro introduttivo, e che promette di sbocciare nei volumi successivi che leggerò di sicuro..
July 12, 2025
I went into this really excited after loving An Inkling of Flame, but Whispers of the Storm ended up feeling a little underwhelming for me. It’s definitely a character-driven story, but Redlin just didn’t feel deep enough for me to get truly emotionally invested.
I wanted to see more of the defining moments that made him the feared figure everyone talks about, but instead it read more like a steady memoir of his early life and assassin days. While there’s clear care in the worldbuilding and lore, the journey didn’t hit as hard as I hoped.
Still, I think readers who enjoy quieter, introspective fantasy might appreciate it more. It just wasn’t quite what I was looking for this time.
I wanted to see more of the defining moments that made him the feared figure everyone talks about, but instead it read more like a steady memoir of his early life and assassin days. While there’s clear care in the worldbuilding and lore, the journey didn’t hit as hard as I hoped.
Still, I think readers who enjoy quieter, introspective fantasy might appreciate it more. It just wasn’t quite what I was looking for this time.
Read
January 11, 2026WHISPERS OF THE STORM - Z.B. Steele
Redlin of the Wolves va camino de la horca. El hombre más malvado del Reino, quien ha asesinado a miles y ha sacrificado a otros tantos para aumentar sus poderes. Traidor. Leyenda. Asesino. Heraldo. Cabronazo. Esto último seguro. Sentaos a su lado para que os narre la historia de su vida, y sus explicaciones para todo lo que ha hecho, que no es poco.
Z.B.Steele nos trae una fórmula que me encanta. El narrador caído en desgracia que nos cuenta su vida. Un villano que se explica (no que se justifica). Obviamente huele al Nombre del Viento, a La Canción de la Sangre y al Imperio del Vampiro. Y está a la altura de todos ellos, os lo prometo.
¿Y por qué?
🖤 A diferencia de Kvothe, Vaelin al Sorna o Gabriel de Leon, Redlin of the Wolves NO es el héroe de esta historia. Es el malo. Y esta es la historia de cómo se convirtió en un cabronazo. Así he elegido leerla.
⚔️ Oh, la acción y la magia. Es perfecta. Los entrenamientos, las espadas, el control del Aether, la violencia y la furia latente. Un diez a todo.
👸🏼 El Worldbuilding y las conspiraciones entre Dioses y Facciones está muy bien creado y desarrollado para llegar hasta el polvorín que es Whispers of the Storm. Y cómo estallan.
📝 Z.B. Steele ha mamado Grimdark desde pequeñito. Hay muchas referencias obvias y otras no tanto. Bromas internas y hasta una cita de Lord Grimdark.
Si os gustan las obras de heroes caídos explicando sus desgracias, Whispers of the Storm os va a encantar.
Valoración: 🧑🦰🧑🦰🧑🦰🧑🦰🧑🦰(5 Kvothes)
Redlin of the Wolves va camino de la horca. El hombre más malvado del Reino, quien ha asesinado a miles y ha sacrificado a otros tantos para aumentar sus poderes. Traidor. Leyenda. Asesino. Heraldo. Cabronazo. Esto último seguro. Sentaos a su lado para que os narre la historia de su vida, y sus explicaciones para todo lo que ha hecho, que no es poco.
Z.B.Steele nos trae una fórmula que me encanta. El narrador caído en desgracia que nos cuenta su vida. Un villano que se explica (no que se justifica). Obviamente huele al Nombre del Viento, a La Canción de la Sangre y al Imperio del Vampiro. Y está a la altura de todos ellos, os lo prometo.
¿Y por qué?
🖤 A diferencia de Kvothe, Vaelin al Sorna o Gabriel de Leon, Redlin of the Wolves NO es el héroe de esta historia. Es el malo. Y esta es la historia de cómo se convirtió en un cabronazo. Así he elegido leerla.
⚔️ Oh, la acción y la magia. Es perfecta. Los entrenamientos, las espadas, el control del Aether, la violencia y la furia latente. Un diez a todo.
👸🏼 El Worldbuilding y las conspiraciones entre Dioses y Facciones está muy bien creado y desarrollado para llegar hasta el polvorín que es Whispers of the Storm. Y cómo estallan.
📝 Z.B. Steele ha mamado Grimdark desde pequeñito. Hay muchas referencias obvias y otras no tanto. Bromas internas y hasta una cita de Lord Grimdark.
Si os gustan las obras de heroes caídos explicando sus desgracias, Whispers of the Storm os va a encantar.
Valoración: 🧑🦰🧑🦰🧑🦰🧑🦰🧑🦰(5 Kvothes)
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