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The Vessel: Book One
There’s a secret in Abernay Forest, one that allows Doctor Taur to create miraculous cures. When his talents reach the king’s ears, he is called to the castle, where he meets Prince Oswin and is asked to perform an impossible procedure. As he struggles to decide what to do, the castle is attacked and the king slaughtered. The prince, now in danger, sneaks Taur out and they flee.
Meanwhile, an orphaned girl named Luna spies interlopers in Abernay Forest excavating an ancient entombed creature—the source for Taur’s cures. Aware that the creature harbors a dangerous otherworlder, Luna tries to halt the excavation. But it’s too late. The wraithlike otherworlder goes free…and enters Luna, taking over her body.
Fugitives Taur and Oswin must find her before she releases a deadly plague from another world.
Meanwhile, an orphaned girl named Luna spies interlopers in Abernay Forest excavating an ancient entombed creature—the source for Taur’s cures. Aware that the creature harbors a dangerous otherworlder, Luna tries to halt the excavation. But it’s too late. The wraithlike otherworlder goes free…and enters Luna, taking over her body.
Fugitives Taur and Oswin must find her before she releases a deadly plague from another world.
- GenresMedieval
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 29, 2025
Must read!
A heart-achingly beautiful story that brings you to the edge of your seat, hoping that love will conquer all (even the plague). Peppered with excellent fight scenes, daring getaways, and a super dose of girl power, this is a must read!
A heart-achingly beautiful story that brings you to the edge of your seat, hoping that love will conquer all (even the plague). Peppered with excellent fight scenes, daring getaways, and a super dose of girl power, this is a must read!
March 29, 2026
I listened to this as an audiobook on my drive to work. Every time I arrived at work or at home, I wanted to hear the next bit. This was my third WK Greyling book. Her imagination shines through, relentlessly original in the big plot ideas, reliably confident in writing the details.
The overall idea is a story of a flawed hero and a conflicted heroine, stumbling from making a living, to surviving the attention of power, to just surviving, to saving a good slice of the world. If you are used to thinking of fantasy literature as "yet another rehash of the monomyth", this is not it. You WILL be surprised, just as I was.
Without giving away any details, there is a rich vein of contemporary themes here. Exclusion, persecution, infectious diseases, dysphoria, privilege, world-ending catastrophe, encountering something truly alien... it's all here. And there is courage, duty, love-in-spite-of-everything, compassion, lifting up those who have stumbled. Most well-written stories entertain, and have one big message - "The Vessel" entertains, AND has several.
Yes, there are some things a reader might wish to have been written differently. Some characters jump to conclusions that the reader has already drawn, but would likely be a stretch for the characters. Some things feel a bit modern (but then, this is a novel for a modern audience, using a pseudo-historical setting as a means, not an end). If you are familiar with dagger/knife fighting, some scenes might make you try to visualise how exactly a thing happened.
None of that distracts from the depth and strength of the character development. By the end, you will be cheering for the three protagonists, because each of them has overcome adversity, proved their character, and has something to look forward to.
And I am looking forward to the sequel.
The overall idea is a story of a flawed hero and a conflicted heroine, stumbling from making a living, to surviving the attention of power, to just surviving, to saving a good slice of the world. If you are used to thinking of fantasy literature as "yet another rehash of the monomyth", this is not it. You WILL be surprised, just as I was.
Without giving away any details, there is a rich vein of contemporary themes here. Exclusion, persecution, infectious diseases, dysphoria, privilege, world-ending catastrophe, encountering something truly alien... it's all here. And there is courage, duty, love-in-spite-of-everything, compassion, lifting up those who have stumbled. Most well-written stories entertain, and have one big message - "The Vessel" entertains, AND has several.
Yes, there are some things a reader might wish to have been written differently. Some characters jump to conclusions that the reader has already drawn, but would likely be a stretch for the characters. Some things feel a bit modern (but then, this is a novel for a modern audience, using a pseudo-historical setting as a means, not an end). If you are familiar with dagger/knife fighting, some scenes might make you try to visualise how exactly a thing happened.
None of that distracts from the depth and strength of the character development. By the end, you will be cheering for the three protagonists, because each of them has overcome adversity, proved their character, and has something to look forward to.
And I am looking forward to the sequel.
January 19, 2026
**ARC Reader, all opinions are my own!**
Welcome to the mystical country of Ann, a land within the same sort of setup as Medieval Europe. The technology is simple, the lordship is feudal, and the diseases are instant plagues. Like any good case of influenza circa 1918, if you get sick with it, everyone’s going to get sick with it. Landed baron and doctor Taur Abernay has had a legacy dating back to his great, great grandfather, of being able to cure even the most tenacious of plagues.
How does he do it? How is it possible? In a time of blood-letting, leeching, and sterilization via urine (this is valid, but definitely suboptimal). The forest of Abernay, hides a secret, passed down from one generation of Abernay doctor barons, to the next, the “stone cure”. Without knowledge of germ theory, nor access to the technology required to learn about them, the “stone cure” vaccinates the patients of the doctors Abernay against these plagues of unknown origin.
But what happens when a neighboring royal is turned down? What does Taur do when summoned by the king of the realm with no knowledge of the cause? It might just be time for the keepers of the super-secret “stone cure” to pay the piper, because the Vessel must be protected…
“The Vessel” is book 1 in the brand new series by W. K. Greyling centered in the country of Ann. The character development is precise and fully-fleshed out; the settings drip with detail that draws the reader into the space, making it oh-so-real; and the surprises are genuinely unexpected. I found the book really enjoyable, and got the pleasure of experiencing the audiobook which is very well-narrated. This is a solid first offering for a new series that demands more titles. Enjoy!
Welcome to the mystical country of Ann, a land within the same sort of setup as Medieval Europe. The technology is simple, the lordship is feudal, and the diseases are instant plagues. Like any good case of influenza circa 1918, if you get sick with it, everyone’s going to get sick with it. Landed baron and doctor Taur Abernay has had a legacy dating back to his great, great grandfather, of being able to cure even the most tenacious of plagues.
How does he do it? How is it possible? In a time of blood-letting, leeching, and sterilization via urine (this is valid, but definitely suboptimal). The forest of Abernay, hides a secret, passed down from one generation of Abernay doctor barons, to the next, the “stone cure”. Without knowledge of germ theory, nor access to the technology required to learn about them, the “stone cure” vaccinates the patients of the doctors Abernay against these plagues of unknown origin.
But what happens when a neighboring royal is turned down? What does Taur do when summoned by the king of the realm with no knowledge of the cause? It might just be time for the keepers of the super-secret “stone cure” to pay the piper, because the Vessel must be protected…
“The Vessel” is book 1 in the brand new series by W. K. Greyling centered in the country of Ann. The character development is precise and fully-fleshed out; the settings drip with detail that draws the reader into the space, making it oh-so-real; and the surprises are genuinely unexpected. I found the book really enjoyable, and got the pleasure of experiencing the audiobook which is very well-narrated. This is a solid first offering for a new series that demands more titles. Enjoy!
January 27, 2026
This story wastes no time establishing its tension. From secret cures hidden deep in a forest to political betrayal inside castle walls, the opening sets a moody, unsettling tone that pulls you in quickly. Doctor Taur is an especially compelling lead. He feels thoughtful, conflicted, and very human, which makes the moral weight of his choices land harder as the stakes escalate.
Luna’s storyline adds an eerie edge that elevates the book beyond a standard fantasy chase. Her possession by the otherworlder is handled with restraint, making it more disturbing than sensational. There is a quiet dread in knowing what she carries and what could be unleashed if she is not stopped. The contrast between her vulnerability and the danger she represents is one of the strongest elements of the book.
The pacing is tight and purposeful, balancing flight, discovery, and looming catastrophe without overexplaining its mysteries. The worldbuilding hints at something much larger beneath the surface, especially with the ancient creature and the implications of its power, yet it never feels overwhelming for a first book.
The Vessel is a strong opening that blends dark fantasy, moral tension, and creeping horror with confidence. It feels like the beginning of a much bigger story, and one worth continuing for readers who enjoy thoughtful fantasy with high stakes and an undercurrent of menace.
Luna’s storyline adds an eerie edge that elevates the book beyond a standard fantasy chase. Her possession by the otherworlder is handled with restraint, making it more disturbing than sensational. There is a quiet dread in knowing what she carries and what could be unleashed if she is not stopped. The contrast between her vulnerability and the danger she represents is one of the strongest elements of the book.
The pacing is tight and purposeful, balancing flight, discovery, and looming catastrophe without overexplaining its mysteries. The worldbuilding hints at something much larger beneath the surface, especially with the ancient creature and the implications of its power, yet it never feels overwhelming for a first book.
The Vessel is a strong opening that blends dark fantasy, moral tension, and creeping horror with confidence. It feels like the beginning of a much bigger story, and one worth continuing for readers who enjoy thoughtful fantasy with high stakes and an undercurrent of menace.
January 19, 2026
**ARC Reader, all opinions are my own!**
Welcome to the mystical country of Ann, a land within the same sort of setup as Medieval Europe. The technology is simple, the lordship is feudal, and the diseases are instant plagues. Like any good case of influenza circa 1918, if you get sick with it, everyone’s going to get sick with it. Landed baron and doctor Taur Abernay has had a legacy dating back to his great, great grandfather, of being able to cure even the most tenacious of plagues.
How does he do it? How is it possible? In a time of blood-letting, leeching, and sterilization via urine (this is valid, but definitely suboptimal). The forest of Abernay, hides a secret, passed down from one generation of Abernay doctor barons, to the next, the “stone cure”. Without knowledge of germ theory, nor access to the technology required to learn about them, the “stone cure” vaccinates the patients of the doctors Abernay against these plagues of unknown origin.
But what happens when a neighboring royal is turned down? What does Taur do when summoned by the king of the realm with no knowledge of the cause? It might just be time for the keepers of the super-secret “stone cure” to pay the piper, because the Vessel must be protected…
“The Vessel” is book 1 in the brand new series by W. K. Greyling centered in the country of Ann. The character development is precise and fully-fleshed out; the settings drip with detail that draws the reader into the space, making it oh-so-real; and the surprises are genuinely unexpected. I found the book really enjoyable, and got the pleasure of experiencing the audiobook which is very well-narrated. This is a solid first offering for a new series that demands more titles. Enjoy!
Welcome to the mystical country of Ann, a land within the same sort of setup as Medieval Europe. The technology is simple, the lordship is feudal, and the diseases are instant plagues. Like any good case of influenza circa 1918, if you get sick with it, everyone’s going to get sick with it. Landed baron and doctor Taur Abernay has had a legacy dating back to his great, great grandfather, of being able to cure even the most tenacious of plagues.
How does he do it? How is it possible? In a time of blood-letting, leeching, and sterilization via urine (this is valid, but definitely suboptimal). The forest of Abernay, hides a secret, passed down from one generation of Abernay doctor barons, to the next, the “stone cure”. Without knowledge of germ theory, nor access to the technology required to learn about them, the “stone cure” vaccinates the patients of the doctors Abernay against these plagues of unknown origin.
But what happens when a neighboring royal is turned down? What does Taur do when summoned by the king of the realm with no knowledge of the cause? It might just be time for the keepers of the super-secret “stone cure” to pay the piper, because the Vessel must be protected…
“The Vessel” is book 1 in the brand new series by W. K. Greyling centered in the country of Ann. The character development is precise and fully-fleshed out; the settings drip with detail that draws the reader into the space, making it oh-so-real; and the surprises are genuinely unexpected. I found the book really enjoyable, and got the pleasure of experiencing the audiobook which is very well-narrated. This is a solid first offering for a new series that demands more titles. Enjoy!
February 24, 2026
Interesting story
The story begins with the intriguing encounter of Doctor Taur and his family, who harbour a significant secret that has allowed them to assist many individuals. Summoned by the king, Doctor Taur is tasked with aiding Prince Owin. However, the king is brutally slain, placing the prince in imminent danger. Consequently, Doctor Taur flees the castle.
In the dense forest of Albernay, a girl named Luna becomes infected by a creature, causing her to spread a deadly plague. It is now up to Doctor Taur and Prince Owin to locate Luna and halt the plague before it infects everyone.
This book is exceptionally well-written, and I definitely recommend you read the book.
The story begins with the intriguing encounter of Doctor Taur and his family, who harbour a significant secret that has allowed them to assist many individuals. Summoned by the king, Doctor Taur is tasked with aiding Prince Owin. However, the king is brutally slain, placing the prince in imminent danger. Consequently, Doctor Taur flees the castle.
In the dense forest of Albernay, a girl named Luna becomes infected by a creature, causing her to spread a deadly plague. It is now up to Doctor Taur and Prince Owin to locate Luna and halt the plague before it infects everyone.
This book is exceptionally well-written, and I definitely recommend you read the book.
January 18, 2026
Set in Ann, this book follows the journey of Taur, the young Baron of Abernathy, who takes over his late father’s physician business. Taur is drawn into a power struggle between the heir’s cousin Bernard, who has taken the throne, and the rightful heir, Oswin, when he is asked to treat the heir for an unusual illness. At this time, only three people alive —Taur, his sister, and their groom —know how Taur distills his most powerful medicines—a stone hand that can take a sample of an illness, such as the plague, and deliver a cure.
Unbeknownst to most people, the stone hand belongs to a vengeful alien some call The Vessel. This alien entity possesses a young girl named Luna and begins spreading illness throughout Aure as a punishment for years of imprisonment and abuse. Meanwhile, Taur sets out on a journey to save the heir and find the source of the many plagues suddenly infesting the land. At the end of this installment in the series, the usurper still rules, the heir is still being hunted, and Luna is no longer possessed, but many questions remain regarding the alien's origins. An interesting concept and a pleasant read.
Unbeknownst to most people, the stone hand belongs to a vengeful alien some call The Vessel. This alien entity possesses a young girl named Luna and begins spreading illness throughout Aure as a punishment for years of imprisonment and abuse. Meanwhile, Taur sets out on a journey to save the heir and find the source of the many plagues suddenly infesting the land. At the end of this installment in the series, the usurper still rules, the heir is still being hunted, and Luna is no longer possessed, but many questions remain regarding the alien's origins. An interesting concept and a pleasant read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2026
I've been soooooo impressed with the way the story was unfolding that several times I had to pause, go back and re-listen cuz I wasn't sure I didn't miss something while sobbing. I can't stop thinking about the two main characters and can't stop imagining how things can go to some kind of "normal" or "happy" for them.
It's full of pain, adventure and proof of what the spirit of loyalty can look like, spirit that is lost in selfish world like ours.
Thank you so much for the opportunity and for writing such a good story!
It's full of pain, adventure and proof of what the spirit of loyalty can look like, spirit that is lost in selfish world like ours.
Thank you so much for the opportunity and for writing such a good story!
December 31, 2025
nice read
I really enjoyed The Vessel: Book One (Aure) by W.K. Greyling. It pulled me into the world quickly. The story balances danger and emotion really well, and has characters who feel easy to root for from the start. I loved the tension that builds as everything unravels, especially with the shifting loyalties and rising stakes. It left me fully invested and ready to see where the next book takes things.
I really enjoyed The Vessel: Book One (Aure) by W.K. Greyling. It pulled me into the world quickly. The story balances danger and emotion really well, and has characters who feel easy to root for from the start. I loved the tension that builds as everything unravels, especially with the shifting loyalties and rising stakes. It left me fully invested and ready to see where the next book takes things.
February 8, 2026
I've listened to, I think, 3 audiobooks by this author now and she does an amazing job each time. She's creative in a way that I can't say/remember having read or listened to any other stories about her characters and what they have to go through. I like that she can go back and forth between genres and isn't "stuck" doing just one. I can't wait for the next one.
My only real issue with the narrator was how he'd overpronounce certain words. I found that annoying.
My only real issue with the narrator was how he'd overpronounce certain words. I found that annoying.
February 24, 2026
The beginning was a bit slow and the pace only picked up slightly, but overall this was still a solid listen with a complete storyline. While it wasn’t my personal favorite from this author and didn’t grab me the same way a previous story did, I can definitely see others enjoying it more than I did.
March 29, 2026
I really enjoyed listening to the characters as they moved through the twists and turns of this story. The book is nicely narrated but my only criticism as a listener I really had to listen at the beginning of each chapter for character changes. Can’t wait for next book.
I received a copy of this audiobook from the author and I have chosen to leave my honest review.
I received a copy of this audiobook from the author and I have chosen to leave my honest review.
January 17, 2026
This is an honest review in exchange for a free download.
Really enjoyed this book. Narration was good and did well in bringing the characters to life. Interesting story line and well rounded characters.
Highly recommend.
Really enjoyed this book. Narration was good and did well in bringing the characters to life. Interesting story line and well rounded characters.
Highly recommend.
January 29, 2026
I was pulled in right from the beginning and as the story develops and the characters personalities deepen as the story moves forward. Narrator does a Great job with the various characters voices and the entire storyline.
January 31, 2026
Taur has so much going on from one drama to the next and keeping secrets along the way too. This medieval novel will show you the stigma of females and there place in that time along with fatal diseases of that time. Friendships and love are needed to help Turin on this adventure
March 15, 2026
I enjoyed the unknown of this story. There were so many twists that you don’t expect that make you not want to pause! I loved how the relationship between the two main characters unfolded and you cannot help but urge them on throughout their adventure!
July 4, 2026
I found the storyline to be interesting but at times difficult to follow. Overall an interesting story. It was a different kind of royal fairy tale and I did like that. I love the authors that brave going off the beaten path. I have listened a few of this authors books and recommended her.
July 31, 2026
Anguish and sorrow, mixed with humor.
characters, and the anguish of living lives as imposters felt very human and real. Interesting story line and characters development.
Some of the language was a bit coarse for my preferences.
Wish it had been longer!
characters, and the anguish of living lives as imposters felt very human and real. Interesting story line and characters development.
Some of the language was a bit coarse for my preferences.
Wish it had been longer!
January 20, 2026
An excellent story. I totally enjoyed it,except the ending.I hope there will be another book. Narration was very good.
February 21, 2026
Exciting story with well written characters. I enjoyed The Vessel quite thoroughly. I’m looking forward to book 2.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews