What do you think?
Rate this book
Overkill
Deliverance will come…
A great flood once wiped clean the earth, destroying everything upon it. Before the deluge, in a time now forgotten, the world was a place of warriors and witches, conflicts between kingdoms, and, until their
extermination, dragons.
In this world, men may live centuries, fallen angels have begotten terrifying spawn, and sometimes, the best hope can be found in a brothel.
In the land of Transalpina, a new religion spreads, and important men are dying mysteriously, slain by what can only be the fire of dragon breath. Summoned by the Queen Garnet, the legendary warrior Gorias La Gaul returns to the place where he once saved the queen's young granddaughter from treachery and enslavement. The Princess Nykia is gone, and soon others may try to claim the throne. The queen has little choice but to turn to the only man who ever told her no.
With the aid of one of the queen's elite guard, the battle maiden Alena, and the young palace servant Orsen, the old mercenary will face pirates and traitors, monsters and foul magic in the quest to find the missing heir and learn the truth behind the disconcerting murders.
Deliverance will come for Gorias La Gaul, but for now there are women to love, secrets to discover, and killing that needs doing.
A great flood once wiped clean the earth, destroying everything upon it. Before the deluge, in a time now forgotten, the world was a place of warriors and witches, conflicts between kingdoms, and, until their
extermination, dragons.
In this world, men may live centuries, fallen angels have begotten terrifying spawn, and sometimes, the best hope can be found in a brothel.
In the land of Transalpina, a new religion spreads, and important men are dying mysteriously, slain by what can only be the fire of dragon breath. Summoned by the Queen Garnet, the legendary warrior Gorias La Gaul returns to the place where he once saved the queen's young granddaughter from treachery and enslavement. The Princess Nykia is gone, and soon others may try to claim the throne. The queen has little choice but to turn to the only man who ever told her no.
With the aid of one of the queen's elite guard, the battle maiden Alena, and the young palace servant Orsen, the old mercenary will face pirates and traitors, monsters and foul magic in the quest to find the missing heir and learn the truth behind the disconcerting murders.
Deliverance will come for Gorias La Gaul, but for now there are women to love, secrets to discover, and killing that needs doing.
Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
7 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 26, 2012
Overkill by Steven Shrewsbury
Gorias LaGaul is back and as I said in my review of Thrall, he would kick Conan’s butt. This is the second book in a dark heroic fantasy with an aging protagonist.
Gorias is a protagonist that I can identify with in many aspects. Pragmatic to a fault he is accepting of his age and doesn’t let it stop him from doing what he wants to do. I’m not sure I can identify with his ruthlessness but it certainly is effective. He has skewed soft spots that pop up with surprising frequency. He is a much, much larger than life character. That is what makes him so entertaining.
The story provide Gorias with a quest. Requested to quest by a former love, he acquiesces reluctantly. His personal code of ethics demands he remain loyal to past loves. In his case, it means a wealth of women for whom he must be loyal.
As fantasies go, there are the requisites of Dragons, monsters, demons, wizards, pirates and assorted nefarious characters. Steven adds his own personal twists to the standard hosts providing them with identities that enable them to be unique.
Action runs amuck as well as libidos, the easily offended may want to pass on this book. For the rest of us who enjoy rollicking good humor and raucous action this is a book for the must read shelf.
I highly recommend the book.
Gorias LaGaul is back and as I said in my review of Thrall, he would kick Conan’s butt. This is the second book in a dark heroic fantasy with an aging protagonist.
Gorias is a protagonist that I can identify with in many aspects. Pragmatic to a fault he is accepting of his age and doesn’t let it stop him from doing what he wants to do. I’m not sure I can identify with his ruthlessness but it certainly is effective. He has skewed soft spots that pop up with surprising frequency. He is a much, much larger than life character. That is what makes him so entertaining.
The story provide Gorias with a quest. Requested to quest by a former love, he acquiesces reluctantly. His personal code of ethics demands he remain loyal to past loves. In his case, it means a wealth of women for whom he must be loyal.
As fantasies go, there are the requisites of Dragons, monsters, demons, wizards, pirates and assorted nefarious characters. Steven adds his own personal twists to the standard hosts providing them with identities that enable them to be unique.
Action runs amuck as well as libidos, the easily offended may want to pass on this book. For the rest of us who enjoy rollicking good humor and raucous action this is a book for the must read shelf.
I highly recommend the book.
May 11, 2012
Overkill is a fast paced novel introducing Steven Shrewsbury's Gorias LeGaul to new fans in the form of a stand alone prologue. A 700 year old warrior who is known for his prowess on various fields of war and action. Be ye wizard, dragon, fellow warrior, queens or whores on the beach, battlefield, hammock, standing up... in the bushes, on a boat.. OK you get the picture! He is a well-rounded individual to put it very mildly!
With many fantasy stories reaching for epic proportions, there is a tendency to tell so much back story the actual action takes time to get ramped up. Not with this story.
"Nykia opened her door and watched her bodyguard's head roll past. She took one step out into the hall and looked to her right following a trail of blood to where it originated." (page 1)
The story starts off with the beginning tale of a princess who will soon become lost, but not before her love is professed on the back of a horse with the aging warrior Gorias. He comes in with a swoop of his dual swords to rescue the princess! But do not mistaken this for any old fantasy, it is far from it.
Step forward a few years and we have the introduction of Orsen, a well-groomed courtier who the queen has sent to bring Gorias back so she can enlist his help in finding the princess, her grand-daughter Nykia who was apparently kidnapped after he rescued her the first time and to solve the mystery of the murders by dragonfire. Since Gorias killed the last dragon, even wears the skin of a Wyvern as armor, this is baffling to all involved.
Confused? I know I was! But honestly I did not care most of the time. Gorias is a fun character to read, listen to and laugh with. Shrewsbury balanced the humor, action, mercenary behavior and lecherous actions of our hero well. Our warrior is well aware of his age and continually reminds those around him he is not invincible.
As mentioned above we have Orsen who brings equilibrium to Gorias' boisterous and crass personality with his soft court padded life one made more for velvet than chainmail and will face more than things that threaten to stain his tunic, including his lunch. Athena is one of the queens personal guards, and is perhaps my favorite character. Not a frilly little paper doll facade many royals have, and not a black wearing assassin that others have used in the past, but the daughter of a well decorated General who has served the monarchy for generations. She and her sisters guard the queen with their lives till hers end and will continue to serve the crown till they die themselves.
Oh one major note. Shrewsbury knows his weapon use and what it takes to use each one. He did his research and not just with a d20 roll. Even Orsen has been trained in a weapon appropriate for the proper protecting of ones back and kidney's while still maintaining the no blood approach to death, though he does get a bit messy in the end.
This prequel to Thrall steeps you in adventure, action of all kinds and intrigue faster than dragon's fire licking up the side of a priestess eaten away with ruthless revenge. Remember this when you pick it up because you are not going to want to stop. You will feel a bit taken away from reality and wondering at the same time what type of message is trying to be given to you betwixt and between. But I say let it go and move on you will be wondering what is next before it all ends.
There are no gentle magics and romantic flighty princesses in this tale. Even Orsen has his balls drop in the end while we find out just how large Athena's are!
Over all since I need to give this solid number I am going to give it a four. I was fluttering around a mid 3.5 because of my own issues with blending obvious modern religion into my fantasy, but at the end after the mind-boggling surprise (which I really hope are answered in the next book) I am happy to give it a four! Plus I cannot have issues with anyone who is as big of a red-head lover as Gorias is! Thanks Seventh Star Press for another great thrill! Deliverance will come for more than just Gorias, deliverance will come to many within the pages of this book!
With many fantasy stories reaching for epic proportions, there is a tendency to tell so much back story the actual action takes time to get ramped up. Not with this story.
"Nykia opened her door and watched her bodyguard's head roll past. She took one step out into the hall and looked to her right following a trail of blood to where it originated." (page 1)
The story starts off with the beginning tale of a princess who will soon become lost, but not before her love is professed on the back of a horse with the aging warrior Gorias. He comes in with a swoop of his dual swords to rescue the princess! But do not mistaken this for any old fantasy, it is far from it.
Step forward a few years and we have the introduction of Orsen, a well-groomed courtier who the queen has sent to bring Gorias back so she can enlist his help in finding the princess, her grand-daughter Nykia who was apparently kidnapped after he rescued her the first time and to solve the mystery of the murders by dragonfire. Since Gorias killed the last dragon, even wears the skin of a Wyvern as armor, this is baffling to all involved.
Confused? I know I was! But honestly I did not care most of the time. Gorias is a fun character to read, listen to and laugh with. Shrewsbury balanced the humor, action, mercenary behavior and lecherous actions of our hero well. Our warrior is well aware of his age and continually reminds those around him he is not invincible.
As mentioned above we have Orsen who brings equilibrium to Gorias' boisterous and crass personality with his soft court padded life one made more for velvet than chainmail and will face more than things that threaten to stain his tunic, including his lunch. Athena is one of the queens personal guards, and is perhaps my favorite character. Not a frilly little paper doll facade many royals have, and not a black wearing assassin that others have used in the past, but the daughter of a well decorated General who has served the monarchy for generations. She and her sisters guard the queen with their lives till hers end and will continue to serve the crown till they die themselves.
Oh one major note. Shrewsbury knows his weapon use and what it takes to use each one. He did his research and not just with a d20 roll. Even Orsen has been trained in a weapon appropriate for the proper protecting of ones back and kidney's while still maintaining the no blood approach to death, though he does get a bit messy in the end.
This prequel to Thrall steeps you in adventure, action of all kinds and intrigue faster than dragon's fire licking up the side of a priestess eaten away with ruthless revenge. Remember this when you pick it up because you are not going to want to stop. You will feel a bit taken away from reality and wondering at the same time what type of message is trying to be given to you betwixt and between. But I say let it go and move on you will be wondering what is next before it all ends.
There are no gentle magics and romantic flighty princesses in this tale. Even Orsen has his balls drop in the end while we find out just how large Athena's are!
Over all since I need to give this solid number I am going to give it a four. I was fluttering around a mid 3.5 because of my own issues with blending obvious modern religion into my fantasy, but at the end after the mind-boggling surprise (which I really hope are answered in the next book) I am happy to give it a four! Plus I cannot have issues with anyone who is as big of a red-head lover as Gorias is! Thanks Seventh Star Press for another great thrill! Deliverance will come for more than just Gorias, deliverance will come to many within the pages of this book!
July 6, 2012
Thrall came first and introduced the aging swords and sorcery hero, Gorias La Gaul. Now Overkill steps back to just before those earth-threatening events, and Gorias cries “Deliverance will come” again. Ancient history and myth bleed into a richly drawn background, deliverance threatened perhaps by the waters of Biblical flood while fallen angels and Nehilim inhabit a world that’s made gods out of underlings and forgotten its true destiny. And there’s Gorias, ancient hero in a land where everyone wants their own five minutes of fame.
Womanizer, ruthless killer, destroyer of dragons—Gorias is no lightweight hero. But honor, honesty and destiny travel with him. A missing princess, men slain by dragonfire when the dragons are all dead, evil financiers, brave female warriors (well-endowed) and pirate treasure—they all come together in this tale, richly told and somehow warmer and deeper than Thrall, as if the firewater prose has been aged in oak between the novels. There’s ribald humor, tense and well-detailed action, beautifully hinted and well-integrated mythology, beautiful women, monsters and… there’s Gorias La Gaul.
A swords and sorcery fantasy where Gaul and Albion might just be where you expect them and when might be long long ago, Stephen Shrewsbury’s Overkill is just plain fun to read.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy from the publishers.
Womanizer, ruthless killer, destroyer of dragons—Gorias is no lightweight hero. But honor, honesty and destiny travel with him. A missing princess, men slain by dragonfire when the dragons are all dead, evil financiers, brave female warriors (well-endowed) and pirate treasure—they all come together in this tale, richly told and somehow warmer and deeper than Thrall, as if the firewater prose has been aged in oak between the novels. There’s ribald humor, tense and well-detailed action, beautifully hinted and well-integrated mythology, beautiful women, monsters and… there’s Gorias La Gaul.
A swords and sorcery fantasy where Gaul and Albion might just be where you expect them and when might be long long ago, Stephen Shrewsbury’s Overkill is just plain fun to read.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy from the publishers.
May 6, 2012
--Full, non-spoiler review courtesy at Book & Movie Dimension a Blog--
It was an extreme pleasure and honor to be actually be part of the Overkill Online Book Tour especially considering had previously reviewed: Thrall by Steven L. Shrewsbury. So for those of you that were with me then and read the review know that encountered quite a equally wonderful and artsy Fantasy book.
Don't Miss!- Author Interview with Fantasy writer Steven L. Shrewsbury author of "Thrall"
With Overkill, the legend of Gorias La Gaul lives on with another novel. Something you should know is that it takes place before the actual events of Thrall. Gorias La Gaul a huge legend from being one of the mightiest dragon slayers still very much has the appeal of grandeur as ever so be assured in this book, he's still constantly assaulted out of nowhere! Man, these pesky assassins and amateur warriors trying to kill an old man like Gorias. All just so they can gain popularity for slaying the legend. This time around Gorias has come to the home place of a Queen Garnet to help solve who is murdering high nobility men named castellans in her circle. Queen Garnet also wishes Gorias would search for one of her possible still living heirs since her sister with her son are trying to usurp the throne. Gorias relents for having quite the romantic past with the Queen. The Legend sets out on a search for Nykia the granddaughter of the Queen in pirate infested corners. Although what Gorias fears most is that Queen Garnet before his journey began revealed that the death of the castellans was by fire much like a dragon would spew out! Its quite fascinating for Steven to actually let us see more of how dragons are.
Oh, and should add that Gorias gets a lot of time with a few ladies: Princess Nykia turned pirate and Alena that is a voluptuous personal guard of the Queen. Alena is so much like Gorias in personality and then not so much.
Overkill was a skillfully fantasy write that had a lot to offer. Immersing characters and places. Steven Shrewsbury is a true Fantasy writer. Read Overkill for an excellent scheme of fighting scenes, various swooning lovers that surround a warrior legend, and the imaginative adventure any Fantasy reader craves.
Overall: Amazing read!
Genre: Fantasy, Dragons
Contains: Blood and Gore Scenes, Sexually-Charged Scenes, Foul Language
It was an extreme pleasure and honor to be actually be part of the Overkill Online Book Tour especially considering had previously reviewed: Thrall by Steven L. Shrewsbury. So for those of you that were with me then and read the review know that encountered quite a equally wonderful and artsy Fantasy book.
Don't Miss!- Author Interview with Fantasy writer Steven L. Shrewsbury author of "Thrall"
With Overkill, the legend of Gorias La Gaul lives on with another novel. Something you should know is that it takes place before the actual events of Thrall. Gorias La Gaul a huge legend from being one of the mightiest dragon slayers still very much has the appeal of grandeur as ever so be assured in this book, he's still constantly assaulted out of nowhere! Man, these pesky assassins and amateur warriors trying to kill an old man like Gorias. All just so they can gain popularity for slaying the legend. This time around Gorias has come to the home place of a Queen Garnet to help solve who is murdering high nobility men named castellans in her circle. Queen Garnet also wishes Gorias would search for one of her possible still living heirs since her sister with her son are trying to usurp the throne. Gorias relents for having quite the romantic past with the Queen. The Legend sets out on a search for Nykia the granddaughter of the Queen in pirate infested corners. Although what Gorias fears most is that Queen Garnet before his journey began revealed that the death of the castellans was by fire much like a dragon would spew out! Its quite fascinating for Steven to actually let us see more of how dragons are.
Oh, and should add that Gorias gets a lot of time with a few ladies: Princess Nykia turned pirate and Alena that is a voluptuous personal guard of the Queen. Alena is so much like Gorias in personality and then not so much.
Overkill was a skillfully fantasy write that had a lot to offer. Immersing characters and places. Steven Shrewsbury is a true Fantasy writer. Read Overkill for an excellent scheme of fighting scenes, various swooning lovers that surround a warrior legend, and the imaginative adventure any Fantasy reader craves.
Overall: Amazing read!
Genre: Fantasy, Dragons
Contains: Blood and Gore Scenes, Sexually-Charged Scenes, Foul Language
May 7, 2012
First I would like to say that this is another great cover by Matthew Perry. He does amazing art for many of the Seventh Star Press Books.
I want to start by saying. That is is another story with Gorias La Gaul as was Thrall but this actually takes place before Thrall.
I love Fantasy stories and I often find that sometimes they fall short of my expectations of what a fantasy story should be. Crazy as it sounds I like my fantasy to be realistic. I know, I know how is that but what I mean by that is that the story makes sense and the author does not have to juggle the story line for it to make sense and Shrewsbury has managed to do this well. He has written action, suspense, humor, adventure and connections and they flow flawlessly from one part to the next.
This is book is what I look for in Fantasy. Magic, Dragons, action, and very very great characters. Characters that are interesting and impressive. The twists and turns kept me reading and characters keep it impressed. Nothing beats well developed characters, that I become invested in. I love that Gorias is a wicked cool warrior but there is so much more to his character then muscles and brawn.
All in all really enjoyed this book and would recommend it for an adult crowd. There is quite a bit of bloodshed which is to be expected from a book about a warrior. And some language and adult themes.
I really enjoy the author's writing style and look forward to reading more books of his in the future.
When I first read Thrall I had the thought if ever I was going to have to go into battle (heaven forbid I would be in trouble) I would totally want Gorias to have my back. For a 700+ year old guy he kicks some serious butt.
Overall I give this a 4 out of 5. I liked it quite a bit. This is a great writer. Yea for wicked good fantasy!!!!!
I want to start by saying. That is is another story with Gorias La Gaul as was Thrall but this actually takes place before Thrall.
I love Fantasy stories and I often find that sometimes they fall short of my expectations of what a fantasy story should be. Crazy as it sounds I like my fantasy to be realistic. I know, I know how is that but what I mean by that is that the story makes sense and the author does not have to juggle the story line for it to make sense and Shrewsbury has managed to do this well. He has written action, suspense, humor, adventure and connections and they flow flawlessly from one part to the next.
This is book is what I look for in Fantasy. Magic, Dragons, action, and very very great characters. Characters that are interesting and impressive. The twists and turns kept me reading and characters keep it impressed. Nothing beats well developed characters, that I become invested in. I love that Gorias is a wicked cool warrior but there is so much more to his character then muscles and brawn.
All in all really enjoyed this book and would recommend it for an adult crowd. There is quite a bit of bloodshed which is to be expected from a book about a warrior. And some language and adult themes.
I really enjoy the author's writing style and look forward to reading more books of his in the future.
When I first read Thrall I had the thought if ever I was going to have to go into battle (heaven forbid I would be in trouble) I would totally want Gorias to have my back. For a 700+ year old guy he kicks some serious butt.
Overall I give this a 4 out of 5. I liked it quite a bit. This is a great writer. Yea for wicked good fantasy!!!!!
September 21, 2014
Overkill is a amazingly written book by Steven Shrewsbury. I enjoyed reading all about the world he has created in this series and his great characters.
I love the twists and turns in this book, not to mention all the action! Everyone that has read my blog at all knows I love fantasy books and I defiantly love ones with Dragons!!! Well this one didn't let me down on either of those. Overkill was defiantly a great read and perfect fit for me!
I also really enjoy the humor in Steven Shrewsbury's books. Perfect comedic timing!
Of course I must mention my favorite character, the hunk of this story! Gorias La Gaul. *Drool* Seriously who wouldn't love this character? I love a great rounded character as the main character of a story!! And he is just perfect.
I read this book in one day and didn't want it to end. I was starring at it stunned that it was over and wanting more pages.
Steven Shrewsbury is an incredible author and I for one will read anything written by him in the future,.
I love the twists and turns in this book, not to mention all the action! Everyone that has read my blog at all knows I love fantasy books and I defiantly love ones with Dragons!!! Well this one didn't let me down on either of those. Overkill was defiantly a great read and perfect fit for me!
I also really enjoy the humor in Steven Shrewsbury's books. Perfect comedic timing!
Of course I must mention my favorite character, the hunk of this story! Gorias La Gaul. *Drool* Seriously who wouldn't love this character? I love a great rounded character as the main character of a story!! And he is just perfect.
I read this book in one day and didn't want it to end. I was starring at it stunned that it was over and wanting more pages.
Steven Shrewsbury is an incredible author and I for one will read anything written by him in the future,.
May 6, 2012
Steven Shrewsbury has created with Gorias La Gaul a larger than life character. A prequel to Thrall we get to enjoy more of Gorias and his most excellent adventures, be they bedding endless ladies or killing the bad guys in the most spectacular of fashion.
This story is great fun with many laughs, endless action and fantastically well written battle scenes. I found myself cheering Gorias on wanting to know how it ended and gaping in shock that a 700 + year old man had the stamina of a 19 year old. Go Gorias.
This is a great read for those who enjoy action, adventure, sword fighting and a great deal of humor in a story. One to add to the TBR list, I'm already looking forward to the next one in the series.
This story is great fun with many laughs, endless action and fantastically well written battle scenes. I found myself cheering Gorias on wanting to know how it ended and gaping in shock that a 700 + year old man had the stamina of a 19 year old. Go Gorias.
This is a great read for those who enjoy action, adventure, sword fighting and a great deal of humor in a story. One to add to the TBR list, I'm already looking forward to the next one in the series.
June 1, 2012
Full review at: www.readtomyhearts.blogspot.com
This book is fully of sex, gore, and magic. It is definitely for those that have strong stomachs because some parts can get a little graphic. I, personally, liked it and noticed it reminded me of the Starz series, Spartacus, as far as the graphic depth of the story.
La Gaul, our knight in shining armour, has lived for a very long time and has pretty much seen it all. He has also charmed many a women with his "natural abilities". It was a little creepy that he had so much sex with certain women, almost back to back, but this story is more of a man's novel in many ways.
This book is fully of sex, gore, and magic. It is definitely for those that have strong stomachs because some parts can get a little graphic. I, personally, liked it and noticed it reminded me of the Starz series, Spartacus, as far as the graphic depth of the story.
La Gaul, our knight in shining armour, has lived for a very long time and has pretty much seen it all. He has also charmed many a women with his "natural abilities". It was a little creepy that he had so much sex with certain women, almost back to back, but this story is more of a man's novel in many ways.
September 3, 2022
Overkill is the latest of the Gorias La Gaul stories from Steven Shrewsbury, a heroic fantasy franchise that brings back memories of Robert E. Howard's original Conan tales. Fear not if this is your first exposure to La Gaul, for his stories are able to be read as standalone novels.
In fact, this was my first exposure to the character, and I quite enjoyed it.
Gorias is a man of few words, but those he offers are chosen well. He's a direct, sarcastic, often vulgar warrior who has seen and heard it all. More than 700 years old, he still finds the world amusing, and the women it it arousing. This is no grumpy old man, dragged out of retirement, to save the world. No, this is a lustful, bloodthirsty man in the prime of life . . . dragged out of a brothel to save the world.
In a world where YA fiction seems to be overtaking the shelves, this is a deliberate throwback to the kind of pulp fantasy that long-time adult readers of fantasy can sit back and enjoy. Shrewsbury offers up a hearty mix of politics and religion, each with their own complexities, and a refreshing dose of old-fashioned "who the hell cares how it works!" magic. If there's one thing I've begun to find rather tiresome about fantasy novels over the past few years is the tendency to have to explain how magic works and somehow justify it to the reader. It's fantasy. It's not real. It's magic. Thank you, Steven, for letting us take it for granted and get on with it.
It should also be said - assuming the cover didn't give it away - that this is a book about dragons. Again, Shrewsbury bucks the historical realism trend and gives us our dragons, as mighty, ferocious, and dangerous as we want to remember them. I loved the way he worked them into the plot, and the way in which their legends have come to have very real implications, tied very much to that of La Gaul.
The story here isn't overly deep, but it's more than sufficient to carry the novel, especially one so action packed from cover-to-cover. There are plenty of twists and turns, some of them rather clever and others completely unexpected, and just enough humour (with a dash of romance) to alleviate the tension. Similarly, the characters are only as deep as they need be to carry the story, but they live and breathe upon the page - and that, more than any reams of useless lineages and life stories, is what makes them compelling.
An altogether satisfying read, and one worth looking into.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
In fact, this was my first exposure to the character, and I quite enjoyed it.
Gorias is a man of few words, but those he offers are chosen well. He's a direct, sarcastic, often vulgar warrior who has seen and heard it all. More than 700 years old, he still finds the world amusing, and the women it it arousing. This is no grumpy old man, dragged out of retirement, to save the world. No, this is a lustful, bloodthirsty man in the prime of life . . . dragged out of a brothel to save the world.
In a world where YA fiction seems to be overtaking the shelves, this is a deliberate throwback to the kind of pulp fantasy that long-time adult readers of fantasy can sit back and enjoy. Shrewsbury offers up a hearty mix of politics and religion, each with their own complexities, and a refreshing dose of old-fashioned "who the hell cares how it works!" magic. If there's one thing I've begun to find rather tiresome about fantasy novels over the past few years is the tendency to have to explain how magic works and somehow justify it to the reader. It's fantasy. It's not real. It's magic. Thank you, Steven, for letting us take it for granted and get on with it.
It should also be said - assuming the cover didn't give it away - that this is a book about dragons. Again, Shrewsbury bucks the historical realism trend and gives us our dragons, as mighty, ferocious, and dangerous as we want to remember them. I loved the way he worked them into the plot, and the way in which their legends have come to have very real implications, tied very much to that of La Gaul.
The story here isn't overly deep, but it's more than sufficient to carry the novel, especially one so action packed from cover-to-cover. There are plenty of twists and turns, some of them rather clever and others completely unexpected, and just enough humour (with a dash of romance) to alleviate the tension. Similarly, the characters are only as deep as they need be to carry the story, but they live and breathe upon the page - and that, more than any reams of useless lineages and life stories, is what makes them compelling.
An altogether satisfying read, and one worth looking into.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
May 1, 2012
To check out this review and others like it check out my site, www.ufreviews.com
I gathered from some information online that this is the second book taking place in this setting, and I have to say I am not surprised. This book was well crafting and interesting from the beginning, so it would make sense that the author would have a book before this one, and it's probably as good as this one is.
For those of you who follow my reviews, my biggest complaint recently is that not every book has a strong beginning. This book did not suffer from that at all. I think that this is really important, especially for a book like this, because it has so much more to establish with the reader than with a book that takes place in this world in modern time. By having this book start off so strong, it made me invested in the book, it's setting, and it's characters, all the more, which in turn made it easier for me to latch on and understand the world building aspects all the better.
This is definitely a book that is not short on the action front, so if you are looking for a slow and steady boring ride than this is not your book. There are a lot of unexpected events that happen within the book, which makes it even more fun for the reader, because it keeps you guessing.
One thing some books heavy on the action sometimes get wrong, is not breaking up the action. A book with all action is like a sandwich with no bread. I was glad to find that this book did have a little bit of humor in it to break up the heavy pace of action. And there is even a bit of "romantic" elements within, which both I think balance the book out pretty well.
Character wise, I think that Gorias is a pretty interesting character to follow along. He has his own personal code that he follows, which is basically what drives him within the story. he is one of those main character guys who is macho in every sense of the word. He is a strong and pretty ruthless character, but thankfully there are some other aspects to him that make him more than just the muscle of the story, and more of a well rounded character.
Overall, I think this book would be easily enjoyed by anyone who liked epic fantasy. The world building is pretty good, as are the characters. I don't think this book should go out to the YA crowd, but anyone else with an interest in fantasy should check out this book.
I gathered from some information online that this is the second book taking place in this setting, and I have to say I am not surprised. This book was well crafting and interesting from the beginning, so it would make sense that the author would have a book before this one, and it's probably as good as this one is.
For those of you who follow my reviews, my biggest complaint recently is that not every book has a strong beginning. This book did not suffer from that at all. I think that this is really important, especially for a book like this, because it has so much more to establish with the reader than with a book that takes place in this world in modern time. By having this book start off so strong, it made me invested in the book, it's setting, and it's characters, all the more, which in turn made it easier for me to latch on and understand the world building aspects all the better.
This is definitely a book that is not short on the action front, so if you are looking for a slow and steady boring ride than this is not your book. There are a lot of unexpected events that happen within the book, which makes it even more fun for the reader, because it keeps you guessing.
One thing some books heavy on the action sometimes get wrong, is not breaking up the action. A book with all action is like a sandwich with no bread. I was glad to find that this book did have a little bit of humor in it to break up the heavy pace of action. And there is even a bit of "romantic" elements within, which both I think balance the book out pretty well.
Character wise, I think that Gorias is a pretty interesting character to follow along. He has his own personal code that he follows, which is basically what drives him within the story. he is one of those main character guys who is macho in every sense of the word. He is a strong and pretty ruthless character, but thankfully there are some other aspects to him that make him more than just the muscle of the story, and more of a well rounded character.
Overall, I think this book would be easily enjoyed by anyone who liked epic fantasy. The world building is pretty good, as are the characters. I don't think this book should go out to the YA crowd, but anyone else with an interest in fantasy should check out this book.
October 25, 2012
Check out all my reviews at Kenn's Reviews
Deliverance will come - and it will be in the form of Gorias La Gaul, a 700 year old legend.
This is the 2nd book in a Fantasy Fiction series by Steven Shrewsbury. The action begins at the prologue and never lets up. Gorias provides a bit of comedy in what would be an otherwise dark tale. La Gaul never lacks for a smart assed quip or a colorful curse word. At his age he doesn’t care who he offends or how and it provides many humerous moments along the way.
The 700 year old man is quite spry for his age and his libido has yet to reach his peak. As a warrior, Gorias has killed his fair share of men, women and dragons and wears a trophy as proof. As a lover, he’s had his fair share of women, most of whom are 600 odd years younger than he. He was labeled a hero by the populous, but claims he’s no more than a very lucky man just trying to live his life. Through his travels Lord La Gaul meets up with old friends, receives a quest from a former lover to rescue a future one and kills numerous men and women, both alive and dead.
His quest is hindered by deceit, intrigue and more than a few vengeful and power hungry men, women and gods. He is assisted along the way by Alena, one the Queen’s guard, and Orsen, one of the Queen’s lackeys. Gorias’ lifetime of battles, women and whiskey has earned him top posting on many hit-lists. Not just the expected long lines cut-throats and bandits, but of fallen angels as well. Alena and Orsen have no idea just what kind of life Gorias has lead, but they are about to find out that there’s usually a hint of truth to most fables.
The storyline contains enough twists and turns to keep you guessing, but not so many as to confuse the plot. I was immersed in the book as soon as I opened it. After reading the last words I found myself thinking “I never saw that coming”. The action is kept fresh with wonderfully described battle scenes, explicit love scenes and detailed pasts relived as fables. The story flows from scene to scene with the hand of a well-practiced author.
If you love epic fantast books with dragons, pirates, swords, magic, angels and demons then I would strongly recommend this book to you. Personally, this is the first book I have read by Steven Shrewsbury, but I can guarantee it will not be the last.
Deliverance will come - and it will be in the form of Gorias La Gaul, a 700 year old legend.
This is the 2nd book in a Fantasy Fiction series by Steven Shrewsbury. The action begins at the prologue and never lets up. Gorias provides a bit of comedy in what would be an otherwise dark tale. La Gaul never lacks for a smart assed quip or a colorful curse word. At his age he doesn’t care who he offends or how and it provides many humerous moments along the way.
The 700 year old man is quite spry for his age and his libido has yet to reach his peak. As a warrior, Gorias has killed his fair share of men, women and dragons and wears a trophy as proof. As a lover, he’s had his fair share of women, most of whom are 600 odd years younger than he. He was labeled a hero by the populous, but claims he’s no more than a very lucky man just trying to live his life. Through his travels Lord La Gaul meets up with old friends, receives a quest from a former lover to rescue a future one and kills numerous men and women, both alive and dead.
His quest is hindered by deceit, intrigue and more than a few vengeful and power hungry men, women and gods. He is assisted along the way by Alena, one the Queen’s guard, and Orsen, one of the Queen’s lackeys. Gorias’ lifetime of battles, women and whiskey has earned him top posting on many hit-lists. Not just the expected long lines cut-throats and bandits, but of fallen angels as well. Alena and Orsen have no idea just what kind of life Gorias has lead, but they are about to find out that there’s usually a hint of truth to most fables.
The storyline contains enough twists and turns to keep you guessing, but not so many as to confuse the plot. I was immersed in the book as soon as I opened it. After reading the last words I found myself thinking “I never saw that coming”. The action is kept fresh with wonderfully described battle scenes, explicit love scenes and detailed pasts relived as fables. The story flows from scene to scene with the hand of a well-practiced author.
If you love epic fantast books with dragons, pirates, swords, magic, angels and demons then I would strongly recommend this book to you. Personally, this is the first book I have read by Steven Shrewsbury, but I can guarantee it will not be the last.
October 10, 2015
3 and 1/2 stars
I'm finding this one quite difficult to review. The writing itself is good, nothing to fault there. It look me quite a while, over half the book, to get into the story, the characters just weren't 'clicking' with me, so to speak. I nearly gave up quite a few times but persevered - I've read plenty of good stories with bad writing, so why not the other way round? In the end, I'm glad I finished it, because the last quarter of the book definitely picked up, and the last few chapters have left me rather desperate to read more. I don't think there's a higher compliment to an author than that and if the sequels pick up where this one left off, then I can't wait to dive in to them.
I'm finding this one quite difficult to review. The writing itself is good, nothing to fault there. It look me quite a while, over half the book, to get into the story, the characters just weren't 'clicking' with me, so to speak. I nearly gave up quite a few times but persevered - I've read plenty of good stories with bad writing, so why not the other way round? In the end, I'm glad I finished it, because the last quarter of the book definitely picked up, and the last few chapters have left me rather desperate to read more. I don't think there's a higher compliment to an author than that and if the sequels pick up where this one left off, then I can't wait to dive in to them.
July 11, 2016
Once again, Steven L. Shrewsbury doesn’t disappoint. OVERKILL is a page-turning adventure with naughty royals, dastardly wizards, and a face-to-face against the father of all dragons, Pergamus. Shrewsbury is true to his style of epic storytelling in this Howard-esque Sword & Sorcery where his plain-speaking, larger-than-life, ancient warrior, Gorias La Gaul, battles for his life and for the balance of good and evil in a world where gods and goddesses wreak havoc in the lives of men. Prepare to laugh and gasp in this tale spun of pure Shrewsbury magic. Overkill
May 13, 2012
I have read it and believe me for those who know I am a picky reader on some geners, it was amazing. Fantasy is beginning to take a hold on me and Steven's book made it more so. The battles, twists, magic, dragons and wonderful realistic characters. Steven's writing style is amazing. He knows how to grip the reader with all the action taken place. Let's face it if I was 700 years old I would want to be able to kick some ass as well.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews