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The Envoys of Chaos #0.5
The Pawns of Havoc
No Mercy, No Questions Asked.
Cork has quickly made a name for himself among the Kosellan mercenaries, but now his boss has come to him with an unusual job. Cork’s erstwhile countrymen, the Winn, have hired him to travel into the barren Frozen Lands and destroy a convoy, leaving only one survivor.
Cork isn’t sure he can trust the Winn. He feels like a pawn in their political game. However, his mother is sick and the Winn have promised to heal her if Cork does the job. And killing is what Cork does best.
To make matters worse. Cork’s crew has been decided for him: Arabella, an inexperienced and infuriating archer, and Nessa, a gloomy criminal with murder on her mind.
Cork will have to figure out how to complete the job, avoid Winn treachery, and manage conflicts with Arabella and Nessa along the way.
It's going to be chaos.
Cork has quickly made a name for himself among the Kosellan mercenaries, but now his boss has come to him with an unusual job. Cork’s erstwhile countrymen, the Winn, have hired him to travel into the barren Frozen Lands and destroy a convoy, leaving only one survivor.
Cork isn’t sure he can trust the Winn. He feels like a pawn in their political game. However, his mother is sick and the Winn have promised to heal her if Cork does the job. And killing is what Cork does best.
To make matters worse. Cork’s crew has been decided for him: Arabella, an inexperienced and infuriating archer, and Nessa, a gloomy criminal with murder on her mind.
Cork will have to figure out how to complete the job, avoid Winn treachery, and manage conflicts with Arabella and Nessa along the way.
It's going to be chaos.
137 pages, Paperback
Published May 29, 2025
About the author
Dave Lawson
6 books123 followersDave Lawson is an Oklahoma-based fantasy novelist. He received an MFA in Fiction Writing from The New School in 2009 and published some contemporary literary fiction, before spending several years doing absolutely nothing with his degree. Now, he writes what he enjoys reading--fast-paced, witty fantasy. His first fantasy novel, The Envoys of War, was published in October of 2024. He enjoys writing about conniving rakes and creative liars who do whatever they must to get what they desire. However, Dave's not like his characters. Pinky swear.
When he's not writing, he teaches high school English and Drama. He lives with his wife, Caitlin, and their dog, Rowena, who is a ball of energy. In a past life, Dave was surely a pirate.
When he's not writing, he teaches high school English and Drama. He lives with his wife, Caitlin, and their dog, Rowena, who is a ball of energy. In a past life, Dave was surely a pirate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
October 25, 2025
*I read this for SFINCS3, this is just my opinion and may not represent the whole team*
The Pawns of Havoc was a lot of fun for me, as an epic fantasy reader/writer who reads more dark than cozy. Based on what I knew about Envoys of War, the first book in the Envoys of Chaos series, I was not expecting Pawns to be as dark and morally ambiguous as it was, but considering the level of banter, the breeziness of the writing, and the touch of romance, I would classify it more as a dark sword and sorcery tale than anything resembling grimdark.
Cork’s mother is a member of the mysterious and feared Winn, but has apparently had a falling out with her people and left their island. The problem: when Winn mages leave their homeland, they suffer a wasting disease that eventually leads to death without the constant use of an expensive tonic. And though she and her son are not accepted in their new home, Cork’s mother refuses to go back to the Winn. This puts Cork in a tough spot; in order to afford the tonic, he’s been selling his sword—or rather, his giant axe. At the beginning of this novella, Cork is offered a job he can’t refuse by the very people his mother is running from—the Winn.
We’re never told why Cork doesn’t suffer the same wasting disease as his mother (is it because Cork is a fighter instead of a mage?) and we’re also not given much background about the Winn, other than their fearsome reputation. I think this may be because Pawns of Havoc is a prequel novella written specifically to tell Cork’s backstory. Cork is an easy character to root for. He’s down to earth, pragmatic, a little snarky, but generally, I found it easy to sympathize with his plight even as he started making questionable moral decisions.
I really appreciated that Lawson didn’t shy away from the moral ambiguity inherent in the plot. When it came time to go there—he went.
My only complaint is that I thought the story wrapped up a little too quickly. While the story definitely went difficult places without cheating, it didn't spend a whole lot of time dealing with the aftermath or the consequences of Cork's actions. I feel like this might also have had something to do with the story being a prequel novella, but as my introduction to the series (I haven't read Book 1), I would have appreciated an ending that was a little less neat.
I would recommend this to epic fantasy readers who like a touch of darkness to their adventure stories but who don't want to go on full-on grimdark, and also to readers looking for a light romantic subplot that isn't romantasy. Arabella and Cork's relationship was a highlight of the story for me--no enemies to lovers here, more shades of an old-fashioned historical (not the spicy kind) done sword and sorcery style.
The Pawns of Havoc was a lot of fun for me, as an epic fantasy reader/writer who reads more dark than cozy. Based on what I knew about Envoys of War, the first book in the Envoys of Chaos series, I was not expecting Pawns to be as dark and morally ambiguous as it was, but considering the level of banter, the breeziness of the writing, and the touch of romance, I would classify it more as a dark sword and sorcery tale than anything resembling grimdark.
Cork’s mother is a member of the mysterious and feared Winn, but has apparently had a falling out with her people and left their island. The problem: when Winn mages leave their homeland, they suffer a wasting disease that eventually leads to death without the constant use of an expensive tonic. And though she and her son are not accepted in their new home, Cork’s mother refuses to go back to the Winn. This puts Cork in a tough spot; in order to afford the tonic, he’s been selling his sword—or rather, his giant axe. At the beginning of this novella, Cork is offered a job he can’t refuse by the very people his mother is running from—the Winn.
We’re never told why Cork doesn’t suffer the same wasting disease as his mother (is it because Cork is a fighter instead of a mage?) and we’re also not given much background about the Winn, other than their fearsome reputation. I think this may be because Pawns of Havoc is a prequel novella written specifically to tell Cork’s backstory. Cork is an easy character to root for. He’s down to earth, pragmatic, a little snarky, but generally, I found it easy to sympathize with his plight even as he started making questionable moral decisions.
I really appreciated that Lawson didn’t shy away from the moral ambiguity inherent in the plot. When it came time to go there—he went.
My only complaint is that I thought the story wrapped up a little too quickly. While the story definitely went difficult places without cheating, it didn't spend a whole lot of time dealing with the aftermath or the consequences of Cork's actions. I feel like this might also have had something to do with the story being a prequel novella, but as my introduction to the series (I haven't read Book 1), I would have appreciated an ending that was a little less neat.
I would recommend this to epic fantasy readers who like a touch of darkness to their adventure stories but who don't want to go on full-on grimdark, and also to readers looking for a light romantic subplot that isn't romantasy. Arabella and Cork's relationship was a highlight of the story for me--no enemies to lovers here, more shades of an old-fashioned historical (not the spicy kind) done sword and sorcery style.
May 22, 2026
4.25/5
A great novella that showcases Dave's strengths as a writer!
I was really excited to get some more backstory for Cork - a side character in The Envoys of War. We follow him as a mercenary for hire as he tries to find a way to cure his sick mother. In order to do that he must take a job from the Winn - I really enjoyed getting bits of this lore and would love to see more of this world building in Dave's future books!
I was yet again impressed with Lawson's character work, their relationships & dialogue, along with the overall fun banter. I enjoyed Cork quite a bit & though he is a bit of a morally grey guy, I feel he came off as a good dude with a bad past but valid motivations.
The only thing I have a complaint about is where things got dark. I appreciated that Dave dug deeper into the dark side, enjoyed it even. I just can't help but feeling that the portions of the story that are dark were lightly glazed over from Cork's POV. Given his character ARC in this, I wanted to feel more weight to his actions & reactions in this situation. I think in this aspect the banter overshadowed the reality of the plot.
Arabella on the other hand is sweet, talkative and so genuine. She's eager to help on her first job & is a skilled archer struggling with the moral dilemmas they face on the job. I really loved her character especially in contrast to the other woman they teamed up with. Nessa. She was questionable from the start, but I did get some laughs from her hard exterior & threats to kill everyone she made contact with.
I really enjoyed the bit of romance in this and loved the gradual build up. Cork's reactions to Arabella were amusing & I loved watching her get on his nerves. Overall, this was a really fast past & fun read that digs into a favorite side character & gives a bit of extra world building. Highly recommend picking it up to see if you'd be interested in the series or if you are a fan of Cork!
A great novella that showcases Dave's strengths as a writer!
I was really excited to get some more backstory for Cork - a side character in The Envoys of War. We follow him as a mercenary for hire as he tries to find a way to cure his sick mother. In order to do that he must take a job from the Winn - I really enjoyed getting bits of this lore and would love to see more of this world building in Dave's future books!
I was yet again impressed with Lawson's character work, their relationships & dialogue, along with the overall fun banter. I enjoyed Cork quite a bit & though he is a bit of a morally grey guy, I feel he came off as a good dude with a bad past but valid motivations.
The only thing I have a complaint about is where things got dark. I appreciated that Dave dug deeper into the dark side, enjoyed it even. I just can't help but feeling that the portions of the story that are dark were lightly glazed over from Cork's POV. Given his character ARC in this, I wanted to feel more weight to his actions & reactions in this situation. I think in this aspect the banter overshadowed the reality of the plot.
Arabella on the other hand is sweet, talkative and so genuine. She's eager to help on her first job & is a skilled archer struggling with the moral dilemmas they face on the job. I really loved her character especially in contrast to the other woman they teamed up with. Nessa. She was questionable from the start, but I did get some laughs from her hard exterior & threats to kill everyone she made contact with.
I really enjoyed the bit of romance in this and loved the gradual build up. Cork's reactions to Arabella were amusing & I loved watching her get on his nerves. Overall, this was a really fast past & fun read that digs into a favorite side character & gives a bit of extra world building. Highly recommend picking it up to see if you'd be interested in the series or if you are a fan of Cork!
May 21, 2025
This review was originally published on Before We Go Blog
Dave Lawson delivers blood, banter, blossoming romance, and brutal gut punches in The Pawns of Havoc. Set twelve years before the start of The Envoys of War, this standalone prequel novella gives a glimpse into the mysterious backstory of the enigmatic Cork, and you better believe it’s not a happy tale.
Now, out of all the many exceptionally intriguing characters from The Envoys of War, Cork was easily a standout for me, so I was just about jumping with joy to get a peek into his past. We follow our broken, broody mercenary as he gets hired by his erstwhile countrymen, the notorious Winn, who promise to heal his ailing mother if he carries out their unusual job. So, together with the aspiring archer Arabella and the murderous criminal Nessa, he sets out into the barren Frozen Lands where danger, treachery and death lurk around every corner.
In The Envoys of War, Lawson already proved that he has a true gift for creating morally ambiguous characters who you just can’t help but root for (even if you want to strangle them for their actions as well), but he takes that skill to the next level in The Pawns of Havoc. I was instantly reminded why I loved Cork so much as a side character in book 1, and I think he shines even more as a protagonist here.
See, Cork might come across as just another cold-hearted, broody and snarky mercenary, but he really is so much more than that. Yes, he can be brutal and will not hesitate to get difficult shit done, but we also get to see his more tender and emotional side shine through, be that through his undying love for his mother or his growing affection and blossoming feelings for the feisty Arabella (who honestly deserves her own novella, what a gem!). Plus, I really enjoyed getting a bit of a deeper look into the culture of the enigmatic Winn, especially through the eyes of someone who has such a complicated relationship with his own people.
Moreover, the man just has one hell of a strong character voice, and the strong emotional hook planted during the very first few pages just had me fully invested in his tumultuous journey here. The Pawns of Havoc definitely goes down some darker and more disturbing paths than The Envoys of War as it examines just how far one is willing to go to protect their loved ones, but it’s also still got a ton of Lawson’s quintessential witty humour, snappy banter, and surprising heart.
Between the riveting intrigue, fun character dynamics, high-stakes action, and brisk pacing, The Pawns of Havoc just had me so hooked that I devoured this dark little adventure in one sitting. Whether you are already a fan of The Envoys of Chaos series or use this novella as an enticing taste test of Lawson’s rich imagination and strong storytelling skills, I think The Pawns of Havoc is a true treat for anyone who likes their fantasy character-driven, action-packed, and full of heart and dark humour.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Pawns of Havoc is scheduled for release on 29 May, 2025.
Dave Lawson delivers blood, banter, blossoming romance, and brutal gut punches in The Pawns of Havoc. Set twelve years before the start of The Envoys of War, this standalone prequel novella gives a glimpse into the mysterious backstory of the enigmatic Cork, and you better believe it’s not a happy tale.
Now, out of all the many exceptionally intriguing characters from The Envoys of War, Cork was easily a standout for me, so I was just about jumping with joy to get a peek into his past. We follow our broken, broody mercenary as he gets hired by his erstwhile countrymen, the notorious Winn, who promise to heal his ailing mother if he carries out their unusual job. So, together with the aspiring archer Arabella and the murderous criminal Nessa, he sets out into the barren Frozen Lands where danger, treachery and death lurk around every corner.
In The Envoys of War, Lawson already proved that he has a true gift for creating morally ambiguous characters who you just can’t help but root for (even if you want to strangle them for their actions as well), but he takes that skill to the next level in The Pawns of Havoc. I was instantly reminded why I loved Cork so much as a side character in book 1, and I think he shines even more as a protagonist here.
See, Cork might come across as just another cold-hearted, broody and snarky mercenary, but he really is so much more than that. Yes, he can be brutal and will not hesitate to get difficult shit done, but we also get to see his more tender and emotional side shine through, be that through his undying love for his mother or his growing affection and blossoming feelings for the feisty Arabella (who honestly deserves her own novella, what a gem!). Plus, I really enjoyed getting a bit of a deeper look into the culture of the enigmatic Winn, especially through the eyes of someone who has such a complicated relationship with his own people.
Moreover, the man just has one hell of a strong character voice, and the strong emotional hook planted during the very first few pages just had me fully invested in his tumultuous journey here. The Pawns of Havoc definitely goes down some darker and more disturbing paths than The Envoys of War as it examines just how far one is willing to go to protect their loved ones, but it’s also still got a ton of Lawson’s quintessential witty humour, snappy banter, and surprising heart.
Between the riveting intrigue, fun character dynamics, high-stakes action, and brisk pacing, The Pawns of Havoc just had me so hooked that I devoured this dark little adventure in one sitting. Whether you are already a fan of The Envoys of Chaos series or use this novella as an enticing taste test of Lawson’s rich imagination and strong storytelling skills, I think The Pawns of Havoc is a true treat for anyone who likes their fantasy character-driven, action-packed, and full of heart and dark humour.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Pawns of Havoc is scheduled for release on 29 May, 2025.
July 11, 2025
4.5 but GR doesn't do halves so I rounded up.
Full RTC!
Full RTC!
May 6, 2025
The Pawns of Havoc is like a battle axe.
It's brilliant, sharp, heavy at times and without embellishments, but it's also the perfect instrument for this exercise.
This is part of Cork's backstory and it's superb how much punch [cutting power?] Dave manages to squeeze in such a small page count. And we get to know more of him and we get to partake more in the worldbuilding, which always a plus.
The humor is spot on and the prose is of a higher level than his previous work "The Envoys of War".
I loved the character dynamics in the party, and I want to know more of what happens with Arabella, not asking for more Cork, because I believe we'll get it on the Envoys follow-up.
If I keep writing I'll be near making it as long as Pawns 🤣
Go grab it! It's worth your time!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's brilliant, sharp, heavy at times and without embellishments, but it's also the perfect instrument for this exercise.
This is part of Cork's backstory and it's superb how much punch [cutting power?] Dave manages to squeeze in such a small page count. And we get to know more of him and we get to partake more in the worldbuilding, which always a plus.
The humor is spot on and the prose is of a higher level than his previous work "The Envoys of War".
I loved the character dynamics in the party, and I want to know more of what happens with Arabella, not asking for more Cork, because I believe we'll get it on the Envoys follow-up.
If I keep writing I'll be near making it as long as Pawns 🤣
Go grab it! It's worth your time!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2025
Love the expansion on the lore of the Winn! Characters that are only introduced in Envoys of War.
Cork, one of the Winn (kinda), is one of my favorite characters from Envoys of War, and getting a peek into his past was so fun. He’s a good son, but an absolute DOG. 10/10 would not change a thing.
Dave once again delivers a deeply disturbing and dark tale, with so much snark and humor that you almost forget things are dark and disturbing. Almost.
Dave also tries to make you cry.
Cork, one of the Winn (kinda), is one of my favorite characters from Envoys of War, and getting a peek into his past was so fun. He’s a good son, but an absolute DOG. 10/10 would not change a thing.
Dave once again delivers a deeply disturbing and dark tale, with so much snark and humor that you almost forget things are dark and disturbing. Almost.
Dave also tries to make you cry.
June 9, 2025
“The company had made camp for the night, and she’d been shooting arrows into the trees as a bit of a laugh. Cork had stepped into the trees for a piss and had almost ended up with an arrow in his back. “She’s a pain in the arse.””
Returning to what has literally become my favorite sub genre: Indie epic fantasy prequel novella, this one was a great read. I jumped into this without having read book 1 and I really like the writing. It was accessible, crisp, and just a lot of fun. And when I say fun, I mean fun in the dark, epic fantasy kinda way - a lot of murder, a great twist, a magical religious order, and giant wolves. Coming to the characters, our main group is a giant axe wielding tank, a ruthless dagger wielding assassin who threatens to kill the members of her band every 2 minutes and a skilled archer but one who is a newbie to the mercenary profession- in short the perfect group for excellent banter.
In the vein of Joe Abercrombie, these characters are properly morally ambiguous and are forced into a plot which makes them question what they are doing. And again in a similar vein, it gets properly bloody as they travel across a harsh, unforgiving landscape. I think it’s best to go in blind, so I’ll just stop talking about the book more here. I will only say that I am perfectly hooked into this story and world and I’m glad that the main book #1 is already out there for me to read next.
Returning to what has literally become my favorite sub genre: Indie epic fantasy prequel novella, this one was a great read. I jumped into this without having read book 1 and I really like the writing. It was accessible, crisp, and just a lot of fun. And when I say fun, I mean fun in the dark, epic fantasy kinda way - a lot of murder, a great twist, a magical religious order, and giant wolves. Coming to the characters, our main group is a giant axe wielding tank, a ruthless dagger wielding assassin who threatens to kill the members of her band every 2 minutes and a skilled archer but one who is a newbie to the mercenary profession- in short the perfect group for excellent banter.
In the vein of Joe Abercrombie, these characters are properly morally ambiguous and are forced into a plot which makes them question what they are doing. And again in a similar vein, it gets properly bloody as they travel across a harsh, unforgiving landscape. I think it’s best to go in blind, so I’ll just stop talking about the book more here. I will only say that I am perfectly hooked into this story and world and I’m glad that the main book #1 is already out there for me to read next.
July 8, 2025
This review was originally posted on sffinsiders.com
Have I, along with many others, been banging on Dave’s door for more books? Yes, however I seem to do that much too often and bog myself with endless ARCs, and so this review comes out far, far later than I hoped. My apologies. Or, as Cork would say, bugger off.
Pawns of Havoc is a short prequel novella to Dave’s debut, Envoys of War, highlighting the backstory of one of the more major players; Cork, a mercenary for hire originally from the island of Winn, Cork takes on work on the mainland to help buy tonics for his mother; a dying Winn mage. Could she get healed if she went back to her homeland? Yes, but she refuses, and so Cork takes on jobs here and there bashing skulls in with his axe to keep her alive.
One such job presents itself at the beginning of the story. Cork must raid a caravan, destroy it and not just the people protecting it, but also the common folk aboard. Then, a sole survivor must be left. Normal, every day work for Cork. But then he meets his contractor, and he’s no longer so sure if what he’s doing is right. Made worse by two obnoxious yet lovable mercenaries hired alongside him.
Nessa is a rude, bloodthirsty, dagger-wielding menace. She’s also a lot of fun, and I would be lying if I said I wasn't rooting for her over the others, even when she said she was going to kill them. Arabella, the other member of their ragtag party, is prim and proper and has quite literally no experience as a mercenary. That doesn’t stop her from trying to run the show, beginning a slew of funny interactions with Cork and Nessa.
As I’ve read Envoys of War many months ago, I was already quite familiar with the world (or at least the world-building) here. While it isn’t expanded on too much, this is certainly a welcome addition to the series. They travel together through frozen wastes, bash some heads in, and try to call it a day. I’ll leave you to read and find out how that ends up.
Cork, from Envoys of War, seemed like a great guy. Funny, good with an axe, blunt in an almost charming way. I DID NOT expect him to be so unhinged with the axe here though. I welcome it entirely. The fight scenes were very well choreographed and fast-paced, leading from one page to the next until we’re finished with the book before we know it. Dave did a great job pacing this story, which can be hard for novellas when the natural progression is to pack as much in there and make it drag, or get it over with quick and make it rush. Dave does neither, yet leaves us wanting more in the best of ways.
There is a small hint of romance here, similar to Envoys of War. Though unlike Envoys of War, I thought the romantic subplot worked a lot more and felt more natural in a way. I’m just wondering if Dave is going to tell us exactly what happens between Cork and Arabella in the time between Paws of Havoc and Envoys of War…Who knows.
The character work for Cork was really good, showing us his inner turmoil, though I do wish there was a bit more to it. Mercenaries that show remorse? Crazy. But there were times it seemed Cork was progressing just to cast that away for his original bruiser stereotype of bashing skulls and taking names.
All in all, Pawns of Havoc by Dave Lawson was a joy to read, and one that went by way too quick, in the best of ways. If you liked his previous work you’ll certainly like this, and if this is your introduction to Dave’s world, go on to Envoys of War, what are you waiting for?? Perfect for fans of dungeons and dragons and stories with all sorts of things going wrong at every turn (Dave’s words, not mine), you don’t want to miss this one.
Have I, along with many others, been banging on Dave’s door for more books? Yes, however I seem to do that much too often and bog myself with endless ARCs, and so this review comes out far, far later than I hoped. My apologies. Or, as Cork would say, bugger off.
Pawns of Havoc is a short prequel novella to Dave’s debut, Envoys of War, highlighting the backstory of one of the more major players; Cork, a mercenary for hire originally from the island of Winn, Cork takes on work on the mainland to help buy tonics for his mother; a dying Winn mage. Could she get healed if she went back to her homeland? Yes, but she refuses, and so Cork takes on jobs here and there bashing skulls in with his axe to keep her alive.
One such job presents itself at the beginning of the story. Cork must raid a caravan, destroy it and not just the people protecting it, but also the common folk aboard. Then, a sole survivor must be left. Normal, every day work for Cork. But then he meets his contractor, and he’s no longer so sure if what he’s doing is right. Made worse by two obnoxious yet lovable mercenaries hired alongside him.
Nessa is a rude, bloodthirsty, dagger-wielding menace. She’s also a lot of fun, and I would be lying if I said I wasn't rooting for her over the others, even when she said she was going to kill them. Arabella, the other member of their ragtag party, is prim and proper and has quite literally no experience as a mercenary. That doesn’t stop her from trying to run the show, beginning a slew of funny interactions with Cork and Nessa.
As I’ve read Envoys of War many months ago, I was already quite familiar with the world (or at least the world-building) here. While it isn’t expanded on too much, this is certainly a welcome addition to the series. They travel together through frozen wastes, bash some heads in, and try to call it a day. I’ll leave you to read and find out how that ends up.
Cork, from Envoys of War, seemed like a great guy. Funny, good with an axe, blunt in an almost charming way. I DID NOT expect him to be so unhinged with the axe here though. I welcome it entirely. The fight scenes were very well choreographed and fast-paced, leading from one page to the next until we’re finished with the book before we know it. Dave did a great job pacing this story, which can be hard for novellas when the natural progression is to pack as much in there and make it drag, or get it over with quick and make it rush. Dave does neither, yet leaves us wanting more in the best of ways.
There is a small hint of romance here, similar to Envoys of War. Though unlike Envoys of War, I thought the romantic subplot worked a lot more and felt more natural in a way. I’m just wondering if Dave is going to tell us exactly what happens between Cork and Arabella in the time between Paws of Havoc and Envoys of War…Who knows.
The character work for Cork was really good, showing us his inner turmoil, though I do wish there was a bit more to it. Mercenaries that show remorse? Crazy. But there were times it seemed Cork was progressing just to cast that away for his original bruiser stereotype of bashing skulls and taking names.
All in all, Pawns of Havoc by Dave Lawson was a joy to read, and one that went by way too quick, in the best of ways. If you liked his previous work you’ll certainly like this, and if this is your introduction to Dave’s world, go on to Envoys of War, what are you waiting for?? Perfect for fans of dungeons and dragons and stories with all sorts of things going wrong at every turn (Dave’s words, not mine), you don’t want to miss this one.
August 19, 2025
I was gifted a free (autographed!!!) paperback copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
From the very first scene, this book lured me in. Despite the guarantee of a dark world with violence and gore, this book commences with a different and closer sense of conflict which makes the reader see the softer side of the protagonist Cork Winn. Due to unspecified reasons, Cork's mother abandons the Winn mage (creepy cult) island. As either a punishment or some kind of mystery magic debt, she is suffering from a crippling chronic skin disease that is slowly killing her.
Cork is officially also considered to be a member of the cult due to his strange tattooed arms. However, so far he has not suffered from any visible physical ailment like his mother. The book never specifies the exact reason why she is suffering so much, whereas he remains healthy. Given Cork is never revealed to use ice manipulation or healing spells, either he is not considered to be a full Winn because his biological father is a normal person or he was never initiated.
At any rate, the love revealed by Cork towards caring for his mother is touching and instantly makes the reader care about him. I believe this was a brilliant way to begin the book. Not every action story needs to commence in a battlefield and this first chapter easily reveals Cork's motivations.
Things get weird when Cork's boss orders him to accept a job in exchange for a huge monetary reward. Sufficient money to purchase the tonic that keeps his mother alive for a few years. Like any job that seems too good to be true, the strings attached involve an unpleasant task, annoying coworkers and constantly being observed by two Winn. Whether the job was legit or not, all signs point it was a setup to further punish him for his mother's decisions.
I love how the author combines action, the relatively dreary wasteland, and how Cork battles against the way society forces men to hide their true emotions in public. Prosewise the book is immaculate and there isn't anything wrong I could say of it. I like the author's writing style that combines moving everything forward with polished prose that doesn't veer too much into purplely velvety territory. Arabella is described by the protagonist to be annoying, although every scene she seems pretty decent. Any complaints from Cork seem to stem more from his tendency towards hiding his emotions and not so because of Arabella. The third partner Nessa is violent, haughty and reminded me of Raven from Teen Titans if the character had become a villain instead of superhero.
If there was any complaints I had from this book, it might be the lack of POV chapters from Arabella. I would have loved a chapter where she confronts Nessa, which would have further cemented the big AHA! scene later in the book of why Nessa ended up the way she did. It isn't that the book handles the trio interactions poorly, but by only having Cork as the POV the entire book, I was yearning a bit for a softer female perspective in this dangerous world filled with brigands and thugs.
Anyhow, if readers don't mind that issue, it was a fabulous read and I would certainly like to read the full-fledged series sometime.
From the very first scene, this book lured me in. Despite the guarantee of a dark world with violence and gore, this book commences with a different and closer sense of conflict which makes the reader see the softer side of the protagonist Cork Winn. Due to unspecified reasons, Cork's mother abandons the Winn mage (creepy cult) island. As either a punishment or some kind of mystery magic debt, she is suffering from a crippling chronic skin disease that is slowly killing her.
Cork is officially also considered to be a member of the cult due to his strange tattooed arms. However, so far he has not suffered from any visible physical ailment like his mother. The book never specifies the exact reason why she is suffering so much, whereas he remains healthy. Given Cork is never revealed to use ice manipulation or healing spells, either he is not considered to be a full Winn because his biological father is a normal person or he was never initiated.
At any rate, the love revealed by Cork towards caring for his mother is touching and instantly makes the reader care about him. I believe this was a brilliant way to begin the book. Not every action story needs to commence in a battlefield and this first chapter easily reveals Cork's motivations.
Things get weird when Cork's boss orders him to accept a job in exchange for a huge monetary reward. Sufficient money to purchase the tonic that keeps his mother alive for a few years. Like any job that seems too good to be true, the strings attached involve an unpleasant task, annoying coworkers and constantly being observed by two Winn. Whether the job was legit or not, all signs point it was a setup to further punish him for his mother's decisions.
I love how the author combines action, the relatively dreary wasteland, and how Cork battles against the way society forces men to hide their true emotions in public. Prosewise the book is immaculate and there isn't anything wrong I could say of it. I like the author's writing style that combines moving everything forward with polished prose that doesn't veer too much into purplely velvety territory. Arabella is described by the protagonist to be annoying, although every scene she seems pretty decent. Any complaints from Cork seem to stem more from his tendency towards hiding his emotions and not so because of Arabella. The third partner Nessa is violent, haughty and reminded me of Raven from Teen Titans if the character had become a villain instead of superhero.
If there was any complaints I had from this book, it might be the lack of POV chapters from Arabella. I would have loved a chapter where she confronts Nessa, which would have further cemented the big AHA! scene later in the book of why Nessa ended up the way she did. It isn't that the book handles the trio interactions poorly, but by only having Cork as the POV the entire book, I was yearning a bit for a softer female perspective in this dangerous world filled with brigands and thugs.
Anyhow, if readers don't mind that issue, it was a fabulous read and I would certainly like to read the full-fledged series sometime.
October 12, 2025
After loving The Envoys of War, I knew I had to grab this one the moment the audiobook was released and I was not disappointed!
This one follows Cork, a side character in Envoys although I believe this story is set before the events of Envoys. Where Envoys have more silly streaks this one also has plenty of humour and great character work.
It's a novella and a quick read but that doesn't mean there isn't loads of action and heart packed into it. I particularly enjoyed some of the more serious internal monologue from Cork after things had gone to sh!t, it helped flesh out sides of him I had worried wouldn't ever be addressed despite all the bloody mayhem.
As with Envoys, the characters all had strong voices and solid motivations. I've seen some people call this dark but I think gritty fits better. The darkness is only applied in faint streaks in my opinion, as a seasoning that isn't overpowering the banter and fun battles.
This one follows Cork, a side character in Envoys although I believe this story is set before the events of Envoys. Where Envoys have more silly streaks this one also has plenty of humour and great character work.
It's a novella and a quick read but that doesn't mean there isn't loads of action and heart packed into it. I particularly enjoyed some of the more serious internal monologue from Cork after things had gone to sh!t, it helped flesh out sides of him I had worried wouldn't ever be addressed despite all the bloody mayhem.
As with Envoys, the characters all had strong voices and solid motivations. I've seen some people call this dark but I think gritty fits better. The darkness is only applied in faint streaks in my opinion, as a seasoning that isn't overpowering the banter and fun battles.
April 22, 2025
ARC Review
This prequel novella is filled with love, heartbreak, hatred, and adventures. This is set before the Envoys of War, and you follow our favorite side character, Cork.
This was a fantastic novella with Cork's life before book 1, faced paced, keeps you on the edge, funny, awesome characters you don't want to miss, and an epic small adventure.
This prequel novella is filled with love, heartbreak, hatred, and adventures. This is set before the Envoys of War, and you follow our favorite side character, Cork.
This was a fantastic novella with Cork's life before book 1, faced paced, keeps you on the edge, funny, awesome characters you don't want to miss, and an epic small adventure.
March 8, 2026
Really great pacing with fun dashes of humor, all leading to a final showdown that had me gripping the edge of my comfy reading chair. Even though it’s a novella, Lawson uses the real estate in a wonderful way to present the world and these characters with impressive voice.
March 27, 2025
full review to come, but 4.5 stars rounding up! A fast-paced, engaging novella focused on one of my favorite characters from Envoys. Hell yes.
April 8, 2026
Another Fun Adventure
In this novella, we get to spend time with one of my favorite characters from The Envoys of War, Cork. Fighting for his family and friends, he’s powerful but has a heart of gold. Looking forward to seeing where Dave Lawson takes this series next.
In this novella, we get to spend time with one of my favorite characters from The Envoys of War, Cork. Fighting for his family and friends, he’s powerful but has a heart of gold. Looking forward to seeing where Dave Lawson takes this series next.
July 15, 2026
A fun and bloody little novella!
I needed something light and easy to do a listen/read combo and this was an excellent pick. Cork is a very likeable MC with a wonderful and unique voice. It’s not often I get quickly attached to a character, especially in the space of a novella, so this is a testament to great writing by Lawson.
As a way to hook someone into the main novel this is well crafted as I want to know more, so I’m off to read/listen to the next book now.
I needed something light and easy to do a listen/read combo and this was an excellent pick. Cork is a very likeable MC with a wonderful and unique voice. It’s not often I get quickly attached to a character, especially in the space of a novella, so this is a testament to great writing by Lawson.
As a way to hook someone into the main novel this is well crafted as I want to know more, so I’m off to read/listen to the next book now.
June 23, 2026
Go and pick up one of Daves books! He promises Chaos and delivers!
May 29, 2025
Surprisingly dark yet solid novella
Damn this was good. I was a little iffy at first because it’s one pov and I think Dave’s strongest writing skill in Envoys was a distinct narrative voice for each character but the story here didn’t call for that. Very impressed with the last few chapters
Damn this was good. I was a little iffy at first because it’s one pov and I think Dave’s strongest writing skill in Envoys was a distinct narrative voice for each character but the story here didn’t call for that. Very impressed with the last few chapters
June 27, 2025
Another solid story in the Envoys of Chaos world! Dave knows how to write a fun, blood-soaked, sharp-tongued adventure while also providing some great moments of character introspection. This was a good time and a worthy addition to the series.
May 8, 2025
Just pretend...
Read
November 28, 2025rtc
January 19, 2026
This is a novella from The Envoys of Chaos series. And if this is a good glimpse into what I can expect from the Novel, then I am stoked!
Novellas, by nature, really rely on character work and the ability to set the stage efficiently. I felt like Lawson did an excellent job on both those fronts. He gave us just what we need to be invested while holding enough back to keep the reader curious.
Cork, our main character, could have been type caste as the typical big enforcer with not much going on in the brain pan. But what the reader got instead was a look into what makes that kind of man and what drives him.
The world building that we got to enjoy was excellent and I can’t wait to dive into it more in the novel!
Since I don’t want to spoil, I’ll leave it there. Go check it out!
Thanks to the author for the audiobook. Definitely recommend.
Novellas, by nature, really rely on character work and the ability to set the stage efficiently. I felt like Lawson did an excellent job on both those fronts. He gave us just what we need to be invested while holding enough back to keep the reader curious.
Cork, our main character, could have been type caste as the typical big enforcer with not much going on in the brain pan. But what the reader got instead was a look into what makes that kind of man and what drives him.
The world building that we got to enjoy was excellent and I can’t wait to dive into it more in the novel!
Since I don’t want to spoil, I’ll leave it there. Go check it out!
Thanks to the author for the audiobook. Definitely recommend.
March 30, 2026
This was a good time and I had fun with this. It’s a fairly short and easy to read novella about a Mercenary sent on a mission to destroy a caravan in the frozen lands. Faced with saving his sick mother Cork and two companions, the lady Arabella and the murderous Nessa the make their way to complete their mission. Lawson is able to pack plenty of world building and enough layers to make the story interesting and the characters compelling enough to want to read the full series, The Envoys of Chaos. I think Lawson writes an entertaining battle as well.
I would say it’s definitely hard for novellas to soar to the highest of heights but this one does what it sets out to accomplish. A story that’s a fun time and a good entry point to his larger series.
I would say it’s definitely hard for novellas to soar to the highest of heights but this one does what it sets out to accomplish. A story that’s a fun time and a good entry point to his larger series.
June 13, 2026
I know some people are probably going to yell at me for reading the prequel first, but honestly, I’m really glad I did.
I’ve had Envoys of War sitting on my shelf for a while, but I just hadn’t gotten around to picking it up. When I saw the audiobook for The Pawns of Havoc, it felt like the perfect opportunity to dip my toes into the world, get a feel for Lawson’s writing style, and see what all the hype was about. If this novella is any indication, I have a feeling this is going to be an incredibly immersive series.
This book had so many of the things I love in a dark fantasy. Even at under 200 pages, it never felt lacking. The characters felt fully developed, the world was intriguing, and I never felt like I was sacrificing depth for a shorter story.
One of my favorite things was the character work. Give me a grumpy but lovable MMC and I’m already invested. Add in witty banter, sharp dialogue, and a cast of characters that are genuinely entertaining to follow, and I’m sold. I also loved the darker atmosphere and gritty fantasy elements balanced with just enough humor to keep things fun. And while romance isn’t a major focus, there are a few subtle hints that fit perfectly.
In regard to the audio aspect, the narrator did an incredible job bringing the story to life. The performance made it easy to get lost in the world and kept me completely engaged from start to finish.
Overall, this was such a fun introduction to the series and exactly what I was hoping it would be. I can already tell I’m going to have a great time with Envoys of War, and I’m looking forward to diving back into this world very soon.
I’ve had Envoys of War sitting on my shelf for a while, but I just hadn’t gotten around to picking it up. When I saw the audiobook for The Pawns of Havoc, it felt like the perfect opportunity to dip my toes into the world, get a feel for Lawson’s writing style, and see what all the hype was about. If this novella is any indication, I have a feeling this is going to be an incredibly immersive series.
This book had so many of the things I love in a dark fantasy. Even at under 200 pages, it never felt lacking. The characters felt fully developed, the world was intriguing, and I never felt like I was sacrificing depth for a shorter story.
One of my favorite things was the character work. Give me a grumpy but lovable MMC and I’m already invested. Add in witty banter, sharp dialogue, and a cast of characters that are genuinely entertaining to follow, and I’m sold. I also loved the darker atmosphere and gritty fantasy elements balanced with just enough humor to keep things fun. And while romance isn’t a major focus, there are a few subtle hints that fit perfectly.
In regard to the audio aspect, the narrator did an incredible job bringing the story to life. The performance made it easy to get lost in the world and kept me completely engaged from start to finish.
Overall, this was such a fun introduction to the series and exactly what I was hoping it would be. I can already tell I’m going to have a great time with Envoys of War, and I’m looking forward to diving back into this world very soon.
May 27, 2025
In The Pawns of Havoc, Dave Lawson pulls no punches. This tightly woven prequel to The Envoys of War throws us into the frigid wilds of the Frozen Lands and into the heart of one of the series' most enigmatic characters-Cork.
Cork takes centre stage with a story that’s equal parts harrowing and heartfelt. Haunted by his past and desperate to save his dying mother, he finds himself in the service of the Winn, his estranged people, on a mission laced with secrets, danger, and impossible choices. Alongside him are Arabella, a fiery archer with a heart of gold, and Nessa, a walking nightmare with a bloodied blade. Their dynamic crackles with tension and reluctant camaraderie as they face what lies ahead.
Lawson’s greatest strength lies in his characters, and The Pawns of Havoc is a testament to that. Cork isn’t just a brooding mercenary—he’s raw, layered, and painfully human. His voice is sharp, his pain palpable, and his loyalty bone-deep. There’s humour here too, cutting through the bleakness like a blade, and moments of unexpected tenderness that make the gut punches land even harder.
Fast-paced, and emotionally rich, this novella proves Lawson can deliver character-driven fantasy. Whether you’re a fan of the series or new to the world, The Pawns of Havoc is a sharp, haunting read that leaves its mark in all the best ways.
Cork takes centre stage with a story that’s equal parts harrowing and heartfelt. Haunted by his past and desperate to save his dying mother, he finds himself in the service of the Winn, his estranged people, on a mission laced with secrets, danger, and impossible choices. Alongside him are Arabella, a fiery archer with a heart of gold, and Nessa, a walking nightmare with a bloodied blade. Their dynamic crackles with tension and reluctant camaraderie as they face what lies ahead.
Lawson’s greatest strength lies in his characters, and The Pawns of Havoc is a testament to that. Cork isn’t just a brooding mercenary—he’s raw, layered, and painfully human. His voice is sharp, his pain palpable, and his loyalty bone-deep. There’s humour here too, cutting through the bleakness like a blade, and moments of unexpected tenderness that make the gut punches land even harder.
Fast-paced, and emotionally rich, this novella proves Lawson can deliver character-driven fantasy. Whether you’re a fan of the series or new to the world, The Pawns of Havoc is a sharp, haunting read that leaves its mark in all the best ways.
July 3, 2025
Cork is stuck between a rock and a hard place. Tired of risking his neck, but desperate to help his sick mother, he takes on yet another mercenary mission: kill a convoy in the Frozen Lands. Simple... except for the two companions he's required to take with him. Arabella is woefully inexperienced but good with a bow and Nessa's only thought is murder.
Gripping from the start, we sucked in to Cork's miserable little life and watch with bated breath as he handles dreadful things like socializing. Lawson has outdone himself with this one. Everything in this novella hits right. The personal stakes, the nuanced characterization, and the concise plot come together to create a truly memorable story.
My favorite part was watching Cork deal with two very different personalities in Arabella and Nessa while juggling his own baggage. I also really liked seeing a bit more of Cork in general since he was introduced in The Envoys of War fairly late.
I don't want to say much else for risk of spoilers, but the ending was visceral and satisfying.
The Pawns of Havoc is a great addition to the Envoys of Chaos series by deepening the world started with The Envoys of War. I recommend The Pawns of Havoc to anybody who likes witty banter, action-packed fights, and crushing emotions.
Gripping from the start, we sucked in to Cork's miserable little life and watch with bated breath as he handles dreadful things like socializing. Lawson has outdone himself with this one. Everything in this novella hits right. The personal stakes, the nuanced characterization, and the concise plot come together to create a truly memorable story.
My favorite part was watching Cork deal with two very different personalities in Arabella and Nessa while juggling his own baggage. I also really liked seeing a bit more of Cork in general since he was introduced in The Envoys of War fairly late.
I don't want to say much else for risk of spoilers, but the ending was visceral and satisfying.
The Pawns of Havoc is a great addition to the Envoys of Chaos series by deepening the world started with The Envoys of War. I recommend The Pawns of Havoc to anybody who likes witty banter, action-packed fights, and crushing emotions.
September 8, 2025
Such a fun read and a great introduction to the Envoys of War universe! Lawson has a great talent of establishing world, character, and plot with an economy of words. Despite being just shy of 130 pages, the detail and depth of the story were not lacking and I felt fully immersed in it. I'm excited to see what Lawson does with more page space in Envoys of War and future novels.
December 21, 2025
4.6. This made me desperate to read Envoy, I was so hooked. I loved the epic fantasy feel in bite sized form here. Cork is an amazing character and the (light) romance was an added bonus. I wouldn't call it grimdark but it has an edge to it. Dave's prose, especially his dialogue are chef's kiss. Full review to come.
February 19, 2026
Cork was one of the highlights of Envoys of War. Getting to learn a little bit more about his backstory and watch more of his personality was just such a fun time. I really enjoyed this book and as always, the narration was stellar!
April 7, 2026
The Pawns of Havoc tells a tale of three mercenaries, Cork, Arabella and Nessa, hired to put an end to a convoy by killing all the people travelling with it, keeping just one alive to tell what happened. Cork, the main character is morally grey but with a hint of conscience - he didn’t enjoy killing a sixteen year old, or the boy’s parents he had spoken with in the pub the night before, but he still did it. We learn in this novella that his actions are driven by desperation to help his sick mother. She is a Winn mage and has a sickness which befalls the Winn when they move away from their homeland. The clients for this job also happen to be Winn mages, bloodthirsty, scary types with animal companions called wolvinn who will tear your throat out on a good day!
Despite the dark nature of the job they are hired for, there is a hint of humour and a slow-burning romance in the novella which was a nice touch. I would have liked to have seem the fallout and consequences to the murderous job they undertook, but the novella does not include any.
This novella is a prequel to Lawson’s main series and covers the backstory of one of its characters entertainingly.
Despite the dark nature of the job they are hired for, there is a hint of humour and a slow-burning romance in the novella which was a nice touch. I would have liked to have seem the fallout and consequences to the murderous job they undertook, but the novella does not include any.
This novella is a prequel to Lawson’s main series and covers the backstory of one of its characters entertainingly.
July 13, 2026
I can't wait for more of this world...4.5 stars
The Pawns of Havoc surpassed my expectations. It is truly impressive what Dave Lawson has achieved in only around 100 pages. This prequel novella follows Cork, who is trying to make money for his sick mother by working as a mercenary. He is tasked to travel to the Frozen Lands and destroy a convoy, leaving only one survivor. But the job isn't quite as simple as it appears, as it seems the Winn are behind this job. We learn that the Winn are powerful mages, and I enjoyed the mystery around them and how creepy they came across.
What really stood out to me was the characters. Cork can come across as brutal and harsh, but we get to see the heart he has beneath all that and a conscience. Arabella, a daughter of a cobbler who just wants to experience and see more of the world, joins Cork on his mission. Her introduction was hilarious. She is talkative (which can get on some people's nerves), bubbly, feisty, intelligent, kind, and great with a bow and arrow. I loved her character, as she also seemed to bring out a softer side of Cork. Their initial interactions made me laugh so much, and I was really surprised how attached I became to them in such a short read.
“Look, Connick. Your name is Connick, right?” Arabella asked. “Cork.” Arabella frowned. “Pity. I like Connick better.”
I loved Dave Lawson's writing, which is also very accessible for newer readers. The world is vivid, the story engaging and fast-paced. The humour was brilliant, and I was laughing so much in the beginning. The story then seamlessly takes a darker turn.
I was provided with a free audiobook from the author, but all opinions are my own. Thank you to the author for also providing me with the audiobook for The Envoys of War, which I hope to get to soon.
The Pawns of Havoc surpassed my expectations. It is truly impressive what Dave Lawson has achieved in only around 100 pages. This prequel novella follows Cork, who is trying to make money for his sick mother by working as a mercenary. He is tasked to travel to the Frozen Lands and destroy a convoy, leaving only one survivor. But the job isn't quite as simple as it appears, as it seems the Winn are behind this job. We learn that the Winn are powerful mages, and I enjoyed the mystery around them and how creepy they came across.
What really stood out to me was the characters. Cork can come across as brutal and harsh, but we get to see the heart he has beneath all that and a conscience. Arabella, a daughter of a cobbler who just wants to experience and see more of the world, joins Cork on his mission. Her introduction was hilarious. She is talkative (which can get on some people's nerves), bubbly, feisty, intelligent, kind, and great with a bow and arrow. I loved her character, as she also seemed to bring out a softer side of Cork. Their initial interactions made me laugh so much, and I was really surprised how attached I became to them in such a short read.
“Look, Connick. Your name is Connick, right?” Arabella asked. “Cork.” Arabella frowned. “Pity. I like Connick better.”
I loved Dave Lawson's writing, which is also very accessible for newer readers. The world is vivid, the story engaging and fast-paced. The humour was brilliant, and I was laughing so much in the beginning. The story then seamlessly takes a darker turn.
I was provided with a free audiobook from the author, but all opinions are my own. Thank you to the author for also providing me with the audiobook for The Envoys of War, which I hope to get to soon.
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