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Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I
This complete volume collects Blood of the Banshee Parts I–V.
Snatched from a crowded inn, a banshee-blooded outlaw lies unconscious in the citadel of Sanctaris, bound between life and death while Valariel orders argue over whether she is a patient, a prisoner, or something more dangerous.
Zaras Dreveliel, the bounty hunter who nearly caught her, wakes in Nocturnis with a knife wound in his back and sewage in his throat. His pursuit forces him through the haunting paths of Lunaaris, a land of rotting swamps, criminals, and creatures smarter and more loyal than people.
Auralon Dawshielth, a Lightbringer Valariel exhausted from purging plagues, returns to Sanctaris to find his mentor on trial and the girl sealed in slumber by life-binding threads.
Within the mystery of the Mists, Maggie and Salt search for answers among the dead, the forsaken, and the drowned.
Across the world of Elisar, dragons vanish, necromancy resurges, and plagues spread like ink in rainwater.
Blood of the Complete Volume I is a dark epic fantasy of grim magic, political intrigue, undead horror, dark humour, flawed protagonists, and lasting consequences.
Perfect for fans of The Witcher and Joe Abercrombie-style fantasy.
Content The journey through Elisar is paved with violence, corruption, and death. Blood of the Banshee is written for mature readers and contains dark, emotionally heavy themes throughout.
Snatched from a crowded inn, a banshee-blooded outlaw lies unconscious in the citadel of Sanctaris, bound between life and death while Valariel orders argue over whether she is a patient, a prisoner, or something more dangerous.
Zaras Dreveliel, the bounty hunter who nearly caught her, wakes in Nocturnis with a knife wound in his back and sewage in his throat. His pursuit forces him through the haunting paths of Lunaaris, a land of rotting swamps, criminals, and creatures smarter and more loyal than people.
Auralon Dawshielth, a Lightbringer Valariel exhausted from purging plagues, returns to Sanctaris to find his mentor on trial and the girl sealed in slumber by life-binding threads.
Within the mystery of the Mists, Maggie and Salt search for answers among the dead, the forsaken, and the drowned.
Across the world of Elisar, dragons vanish, necromancy resurges, and plagues spread like ink in rainwater.
Blood of the Complete Volume I is a dark epic fantasy of grim magic, political intrigue, undead horror, dark humour, flawed protagonists, and lasting consequences.
Perfect for fans of The Witcher and Joe Abercrombie-style fantasy.
Content The journey through Elisar is paved with violence, corruption, and death. Blood of the Banshee is written for mature readers and contains dark, emotionally heavy themes throughout.
- GenresFantasy
522 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Review of advance copy
This is a review based on the ARC copy I graciously received from the author ✨
Initial thoughts after finishing this book, YOU CANNOT LEAVE ME ON THIS MANY CLIFFHANGERS AHHHH 😭 Every POV was amazingly built up to the final chapter where back to back reveals take place. I was literally thinking “there can’t possibly be more” and one paragraph later I’d have my hand over my mouth in shock 😩🙏 This is how we hook readers into a sequel!! 🤭
While this novel had a slower start, the later half of the book made up for any shortcomings. You follow four main characters (but 3 POVs), Zaras, Auralon, and Maggie & Salt. Zaras is a traveling bounty hunter trailing after a banshee blooded elf while Auralon is a diplomat dealing with turmoil related to this rogue. Maggie & Salt have their own set of problems as you read about their attempts to escape cursed mists after being stranded at sea. At first their POV seems out of place but trust me when I say that their part clicks in the wildest way 😭🙏
Besides the actual plot I really enjoyed the prose of this book, every area is described with such vivid imagery it fed my imagination like crazy. Also, the dialogue in here is on point, I caught myself laughing multiple times at Cedwin’s witty remarks (the forehead scene iykyk) and just couldn’t stop. All the secondary characters were peak actually like Liora, Valindra, Cedwin, I could absorb everyone’s personality easily just from the shortest descriptions- Everyone’s demeanor was conveyed so well 👌✨
My only gripe with this novel was the amount of terminology that was thrown at you and then built upon right as you started understanding the meanings 😭 It was one of those “keep pushing through if you don’t understand” books and confusion would eventually clear up through context clues. I also could’ve benefited from a illustrated family tree, it would’ve been visually helpful to look back on during the trial scenes and I think it’d be such a cool addition to look at in a physical copy! Other than that though I throughly enjoyed this book and am excited for whenever Lament of the Light ARCs are released 💖
I deeply appreciate the author sharing her story with me!
(Psttttt Cedwin is my spirit animal, I aspire to be as impulsive as him and let the intrusive thoughts take over lolllllll 😝😂)
Initial thoughts after finishing this book, YOU CANNOT LEAVE ME ON THIS MANY CLIFFHANGERS AHHHH 😭 Every POV was amazingly built up to the final chapter where back to back reveals take place. I was literally thinking “there can’t possibly be more” and one paragraph later I’d have my hand over my mouth in shock 😩🙏 This is how we hook readers into a sequel!! 🤭
While this novel had a slower start, the later half of the book made up for any shortcomings. You follow four main characters (but 3 POVs), Zaras, Auralon, and Maggie & Salt. Zaras is a traveling bounty hunter trailing after a banshee blooded elf while Auralon is a diplomat dealing with turmoil related to this rogue. Maggie & Salt have their own set of problems as you read about their attempts to escape cursed mists after being stranded at sea. At first their POV seems out of place but trust me when I say that their part clicks in the wildest way 😭🙏
Besides the actual plot I really enjoyed the prose of this book, every area is described with such vivid imagery it fed my imagination like crazy. Also, the dialogue in here is on point, I caught myself laughing multiple times at Cedwin’s witty remarks (the forehead scene iykyk) and just couldn’t stop. All the secondary characters were peak actually like Liora, Valindra, Cedwin, I could absorb everyone’s personality easily just from the shortest descriptions- Everyone’s demeanor was conveyed so well 👌✨
My only gripe with this novel was the amount of terminology that was thrown at you and then built upon right as you started understanding the meanings 😭 It was one of those “keep pushing through if you don’t understand” books and confusion would eventually clear up through context clues. I also could’ve benefited from a illustrated family tree, it would’ve been visually helpful to look back on during the trial scenes and I think it’d be such a cool addition to look at in a physical copy! Other than that though I throughly enjoyed this book and am excited for whenever Lament of the Light ARCs are released 💖
I deeply appreciate the author sharing her story with me!
(Psttttt Cedwin is my spirit animal, I aspire to be as impulsive as him and let the intrusive thoughts take over lolllllll 😝😂)
August 16, 2026
I received the eARC copy of this novel, in return for an honest review.
This is a hugely ambitious work, that tells the story of several POVs within a damaged world, getting close to war. There are dragons, orcs, elves, and a host of other creatures that are cleverly woven into the rich story telling.
I struggled at the start to get into the way the story is told. I’m still left uncertain about the whole magic system, and how it works, but I equally feel this first book is the opening of the door to this universe which will get brighter and more layered as the story develops.
The characters are really well written and I felt attached to most of them; Sooty is a surprising favourite along with Aura and Zaras. I can’t wait to see how the third POV, Maggie and Salt become more deeply connected in future works.
Overall, this is a dark, mysterious and mystical world full of ominous plot, and more than a few hints at this being the start of something far far bigger.
This is a hugely ambitious work, that tells the story of several POVs within a damaged world, getting close to war. There are dragons, orcs, elves, and a host of other creatures that are cleverly woven into the rich story telling.
I struggled at the start to get into the way the story is told. I’m still left uncertain about the whole magic system, and how it works, but I equally feel this first book is the opening of the door to this universe which will get brighter and more layered as the story develops.
The characters are really well written and I felt attached to most of them; Sooty is a surprising favourite along with Aura and Zaras. I can’t wait to see how the third POV, Maggie and Salt become more deeply connected in future works.
Overall, this is a dark, mysterious and mystical world full of ominous plot, and more than a few hints at this being the start of something far far bigger.
August 2, 2026
Review of ARC received from author
i don’t even know where to begin with this review. this book is so beautifully written, intricate and complex that i KNOW it will stay with me. the writing and story is up there with the likes of Robin Hobb, Steven Erikson and Brandon Sanderson, and the connection i felt to all the characters was incredible.
the world-building started a little intense, as it usually does with epic fantasy, and i feel the physical book could benefit from a family tree so we remember who’s who. i liked the footnotes to provide context around the lore, but would’ve liked them to be at the bottom of the corresponding page, not at the end of the chapter. it made reading it a little more complex than it needed to be!
having said that, this book is phenomenal and i can’t wait to see what happens next. Salt, Zaras and, of course, Sooty have my whole heart, and they’re characters i will cherish as some of my favourites for a very long time.
overall a stunning story with a complex magic system and intricately woven character connections, and i loved every minute of it!
i don’t even know where to begin with this review. this book is so beautifully written, intricate and complex that i KNOW it will stay with me. the writing and story is up there with the likes of Robin Hobb, Steven Erikson and Brandon Sanderson, and the connection i felt to all the characters was incredible.
the world-building started a little intense, as it usually does with epic fantasy, and i feel the physical book could benefit from a family tree so we remember who’s who. i liked the footnotes to provide context around the lore, but would’ve liked them to be at the bottom of the corresponding page, not at the end of the chapter. it made reading it a little more complex than it needed to be!
having said that, this book is phenomenal and i can’t wait to see what happens next. Salt, Zaras and, of course, Sooty have my whole heart, and they’re characters i will cherish as some of my favourites for a very long time.
overall a stunning story with a complex magic system and intricately woven character connections, and i loved every minute of it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ARC read the first two parts of this book a few months ago, and life got in the way of me being able to finish the other three. So, I'm glad I was finally about to devour the entire completed volume, because it's well worth it.
Blood of the Banshee is an intricate, engaging, and thoroughly dark epic fantasy that plunges us into a dangerous world where eldritch horrors and ghastly threats stalk every inch of the shadows.
Banshee’s world is perfectly grimdark in tone, evoking the likes of Joe Abercrombie, Glen Cook, and Andrej Sapkowski. It’s a vast and developed landscape, and the worldbuilding is carefully threaded through the narrative, allowing us to slowly bask in a setting that feels ancient and damaged and lived-in. There are multiple references to previous disastrous events (these being Runefall and Sunfall), that support this aura of brokenness and disrepair.
We follow three main characters in total: healer Auralon, who’s overseeing the care of the titular banshee-blooded woman who is currently in the magical equivalent of a medical coma; bounty hunter Zaras, who was hunting the woman in question and now journeys across the fractured world on her trail; and Maggie, a woman who, alongside her undead companion Salt, is trapped on an island under mysterious circumstances.
Auralon is an idealistic elf who is at first dedicated to seeing his patient healed from the trauma of her capture. As questions of her identity begin to breed suspicion, resulting in a huge trial when accusations of various crimes are brought against the unconscious woman, Auralon is dragged into proceedings and finds himself invested in finding out who this woman actually is. His arc also brings necessary and considerate attention to the matter of sexual assault, as it’s very much implied that another elf, Nylrin, was trying to assault the woman during the scuffle to apprehend her.
Nylrin boasts enough political and judicial power to try to get the woman placed in his custody under the guise of her being too dangerous for anyone else, and the fact the trial hinged on this proves how easy it is for systems and governments to protect abusers whilst blaming the victims.
Zaras’s arc takes him across a sizable swathe of the continent as, in the aftermath of his target being snatched by Nylrin and his fellows, he tries to follow their trail. He’s locked into his bounty on the woman, but beyond that he gives off the impression of having no one and nothing else worth living for, giving his quest an element of lonely desperation. His path brings him into the orbit of a variety of interesting side characters, some of whose lives he changes for the better. From Zaras, a picture of this shattered world is painted in shades of blood, suffering, and the occasional glimmer of hope.
Maggie and Salt are far more enigmatic, as we don’t actually discover their true identities until the last 100 pages of the book. At first, their aim is to escape an island which seems to magically bind them. It’s implied they’ve been trapped for some time, and that Maggie is a necromancer who controls Salt, who is at this stage now undead. Maggie herself is straddling the border between life and death, and only finding a powerful artifact, a ring, will allow her to return to true life. This establishes her arc for the next book, which I’m very much looking forward to reading.
For the most part, these three are separate, but their stories begin to intersect in interesting ways. There are several plot twists that bind them, and each is irrevocably tied to the fate of the banshee-blooded woman.
This is a book that rewards attention. It doesn’t spell the answers out for you, but instead provides you with the information needed to draw your own conclusions. I absolutely love it when a book trusts its audience so deeply, and it pays off in a big way.
Thank you to the author for my ARC.
Blood of the Banshee is an intricate, engaging, and thoroughly dark epic fantasy that plunges us into a dangerous world where eldritch horrors and ghastly threats stalk every inch of the shadows.
Banshee’s world is perfectly grimdark in tone, evoking the likes of Joe Abercrombie, Glen Cook, and Andrej Sapkowski. It’s a vast and developed landscape, and the worldbuilding is carefully threaded through the narrative, allowing us to slowly bask in a setting that feels ancient and damaged and lived-in. There are multiple references to previous disastrous events (these being Runefall and Sunfall), that support this aura of brokenness and disrepair.
We follow three main characters in total: healer Auralon, who’s overseeing the care of the titular banshee-blooded woman who is currently in the magical equivalent of a medical coma; bounty hunter Zaras, who was hunting the woman in question and now journeys across the fractured world on her trail; and Maggie, a woman who, alongside her undead companion Salt, is trapped on an island under mysterious circumstances.
Auralon is an idealistic elf who is at first dedicated to seeing his patient healed from the trauma of her capture. As questions of her identity begin to breed suspicion, resulting in a huge trial when accusations of various crimes are brought against the unconscious woman, Auralon is dragged into proceedings and finds himself invested in finding out who this woman actually is. His arc also brings necessary and considerate attention to the matter of sexual assault, as it’s very much implied that another elf, Nylrin, was trying to assault the woman during the scuffle to apprehend her.
Nylrin boasts enough political and judicial power to try to get the woman placed in his custody under the guise of her being too dangerous for anyone else, and the fact the trial hinged on this proves how easy it is for systems and governments to protect abusers whilst blaming the victims.
Zaras’s arc takes him across a sizable swathe of the continent as, in the aftermath of his target being snatched by Nylrin and his fellows, he tries to follow their trail. He’s locked into his bounty on the woman, but beyond that he gives off the impression of having no one and nothing else worth living for, giving his quest an element of lonely desperation. His path brings him into the orbit of a variety of interesting side characters, some of whose lives he changes for the better. From Zaras, a picture of this shattered world is painted in shades of blood, suffering, and the occasional glimmer of hope.
Maggie and Salt are far more enigmatic, as we don’t actually discover their true identities until the last 100 pages of the book. At first, their aim is to escape an island which seems to magically bind them. It’s implied they’ve been trapped for some time, and that Maggie is a necromancer who controls Salt, who is at this stage now undead. Maggie herself is straddling the border between life and death, and only finding a powerful artifact, a ring, will allow her to return to true life. This establishes her arc for the next book, which I’m very much looking forward to reading.
For the most part, these three are separate, but their stories begin to intersect in interesting ways. There are several plot twists that bind them, and each is irrevocably tied to the fate of the banshee-blooded woman.
This is a book that rewards attention. It doesn’t spell the answers out for you, but instead provides you with the information needed to draw your own conclusions. I absolutely love it when a book trusts its audience so deeply, and it pays off in a big way.
Thank you to the author for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I truly cannot praise this book enough. Blood of the Banshee is one of those books you'll want to read again and again because you know that each time you do, you will pick up on even more of the many breadcrumbs left for you throughout. Each of the main characters stories is engaging and entertaining individually, but even more impressively so when viewed as a whole. Part 1 starts out with three separate storylines, but by the end of part 5, those storylines aren't at all as separate as they first seemed. There were at least two separate times when I was absolutely shocked I hadn't put two-and-two together sooner, to the point where I emailed the author to let her know what a sublime storyteller she is, because WOW, those interwoven storylines are IMPECCABLE.
Zaras, the first character to whom we are introduced, at first seems just like your typical bounty hunter, out for the coin, but oh boy, are you in for a treat!! He has so many layers and constantly took me by surprise in the best ways. His interactions with others along his journey have perhaps the most significant impact on the story out of all of the other characters. No interaction is too small or mundane to cause ripples seen and felt later, and the relationships he forms along his journey were all so interesting and compelling! Many of the individuals with whom he interacts and form bonds will likely become your favorites, as they did mine! (I'm looking at you, Liora and Sooty!!)
Auralon, the second main character we meet, is part of a more rigid world of law and order, but he has more to him than meets they eye, as well. (To be fair, ALL of the characters in this book do!) His sections aren't always as much about him as they are about the banshee-blooded-female around whom this story, and all of the political intrigue which accompanies it, revolves. More than any other character, I felt I was left with the most questions about him and those with whom he interacts, and I can't wait to see what the next volume of this book brings!
Last - but NOT least - we have my beloved Salt & Maggie. Their storyline gripped me from the get-go in a totally different way than the other two, and I thought it was cool how I always knew it was the end of a part when their names popped up. I think of all the characters, they have the most singularly separate and yet entirely entwined story of them all! I could read an entire tale just about them and die happy. They had the best banter and dark humor of perhaps all of the characters, and I loved every second of it.
The magical world of Blood of the Banshee is unique, intricate and inspired. There are curses that we still don't understand. Spells that are woven in ways I've never seen. Magic passed down via blood that has dangerous and lasting effects. And it isn't predictable. Even the familiar has its own unique magic I've never seen! And as a D&D player, I am EXTRA impressed by all of that!! The necromantic magic, too. Seriously. There are just so many layers and unexpected surprises. I cannot praise T.J. Hassall enough.
The writing in this book is truly sublime. I was never once bored and always wanted more. I was left with questions I still want - need!!! - answered, and some SERIOUS cliffhangers, but also feel so thoroughly satisfied and impressed with the answers I've been given thus far. To say I can't wait for volume 2 is an absolute understatement, and I will be purchasing a physical copy of this volume as soon as one is printed!! My sincere thanks to T. J. Hassall for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this absolutely incredible book.
Zaras, the first character to whom we are introduced, at first seems just like your typical bounty hunter, out for the coin, but oh boy, are you in for a treat!! He has so many layers and constantly took me by surprise in the best ways. His interactions with others along his journey have perhaps the most significant impact on the story out of all of the other characters. No interaction is too small or mundane to cause ripples seen and felt later, and the relationships he forms along his journey were all so interesting and compelling! Many of the individuals with whom he interacts and form bonds will likely become your favorites, as they did mine! (I'm looking at you, Liora and Sooty!!)
Auralon, the second main character we meet, is part of a more rigid world of law and order, but he has more to him than meets they eye, as well. (To be fair, ALL of the characters in this book do!) His sections aren't always as much about him as they are about the banshee-blooded-female around whom this story, and all of the political intrigue which accompanies it, revolves. More than any other character, I felt I was left with the most questions about him and those with whom he interacts, and I can't wait to see what the next volume of this book brings!
Last - but NOT least - we have my beloved Salt & Maggie. Their storyline gripped me from the get-go in a totally different way than the other two, and I thought it was cool how I always knew it was the end of a part when their names popped up. I think of all the characters, they have the most singularly separate and yet entirely entwined story of them all! I could read an entire tale just about them and die happy. They had the best banter and dark humor of perhaps all of the characters, and I loved every second of it.
The magical world of Blood of the Banshee is unique, intricate and inspired. There are curses that we still don't understand. Spells that are woven in ways I've never seen. Magic passed down via blood that has dangerous and lasting effects. And it isn't predictable. Even the familiar has its own unique magic I've never seen! And as a D&D player, I am EXTRA impressed by all of that!! The necromantic magic, too. Seriously. There are just so many layers and unexpected surprises. I cannot praise T.J. Hassall enough.
The writing in this book is truly sublime. I was never once bored and always wanted more. I was left with questions I still want - need!!! - answered, and some SERIOUS cliffhangers, but also feel so thoroughly satisfied and impressed with the answers I've been given thus far. To say I can't wait for volume 2 is an absolute understatement, and I will be purchasing a physical copy of this volume as soon as one is printed!! My sincere thanks to T. J. Hassall for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this absolutely incredible book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blood of the Banshee Complete Volume One was an absolutely amazing book. This is a collection of five novellas that were previously released as individual books, now being brought together in one place.
This is a dark epic political fantasy centred on power, faith, war, betrayal, survival, and consequences. This is a series that does not contain spice or romance. The book also has an index to help you understand certain aspects, such as the hierarchy of a group, as well as an appendix that includes a section that tells you the meaning of words in the world that you can use as a reference to help you understand.
You are introduced to the world of Elisar and four main characters. Zaras, Auralon, Maggie, and Salt. Maggie and Salt's storylines are together, while the other two are separate. Each storyline tells a story of its own, yet somehow all are intertwined in the end. This is a multiple POV style, so we can see the growth of everyone in a natural, progressive way.
You can feel the passion that went into this project, as the more you read, the more is revealed, and the world is further expanded upon. This is one of the most expansive worlds that I’ve read in a long while.
The side characters were also fleshed out, and there was an importance to ensure that the world truly felt lived in. Whether it was a heartfelt moment or a sorrowful one, we are allowed to experience that in full. It is weighty, and the impact is very real. It was beyond immersive.
One of my biggest highlights was the crescendo of plot points. So many things were added, and while there were minor payoffs throughout, the biggest points were all wrapped up perfectly. This was given a satisfying ending, but it leaves it open to return to this world and bring in more layers that can further expand the story.
As I read each part, it continued to get better and better as you went on. This was a book that I was dreading ending. The journey was so masterfully done that this had me unable to put this book down, and the deeper I delved, the more I loved, but the more I had to prepare to say goodbye to this book.
I can't wait to see what comes next in the world of Elisar! Bonus point: it has a map!
This is a dark epic political fantasy centred on power, faith, war, betrayal, survival, and consequences. This is a series that does not contain spice or romance. The book also has an index to help you understand certain aspects, such as the hierarchy of a group, as well as an appendix that includes a section that tells you the meaning of words in the world that you can use as a reference to help you understand.
You are introduced to the world of Elisar and four main characters. Zaras, Auralon, Maggie, and Salt. Maggie and Salt's storylines are together, while the other two are separate. Each storyline tells a story of its own, yet somehow all are intertwined in the end. This is a multiple POV style, so we can see the growth of everyone in a natural, progressive way.
You can feel the passion that went into this project, as the more you read, the more is revealed, and the world is further expanded upon. This is one of the most expansive worlds that I’ve read in a long while.
The side characters were also fleshed out, and there was an importance to ensure that the world truly felt lived in. Whether it was a heartfelt moment or a sorrowful one, we are allowed to experience that in full. It is weighty, and the impact is very real. It was beyond immersive.
One of my biggest highlights was the crescendo of plot points. So many things were added, and while there were minor payoffs throughout, the biggest points were all wrapped up perfectly. This was given a satisfying ending, but it leaves it open to return to this world and bring in more layers that can further expand the story.
As I read each part, it continued to get better and better as you went on. This was a book that I was dreading ending. The journey was so masterfully done that this had me unable to put this book down, and the deeper I delved, the more I loved, but the more I had to prepare to say goodbye to this book.
I can't wait to see what comes next in the world of Elisar! Bonus point: it has a map!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. This was a huge fantasy world. Different races, languages, religions, orders. At first it felt easy to get lost, but the story was centred around a few characters that anchored it and made it feel personal. I felt like I was reading a modern-day Tolkien.
Plot: Zaras is a bounty hunter who almost caught his bounty - Scarlet. Instead he pursues it through small villages and swamps. Auralon is a healer elf who returns to Sanctaris to find his mentor on trial and Scarlet sealed in slumber by the healers. Maggie and Salt are trying to escape the mysterious mists before they become any more dead.
Ive read a LOT of romantasies lately and they tend to read a certain (easier) way. Boy did this high fantasy book throw my head for a loop at the start. Once I'd adjusted to it, and gotten sucked in to the characters (Zaras & Sooty, Im looking at you) I was in this to the end.
This was beautifully written. Everything cleverly related to each other by a thin thread, that wasnt very apparent until the right moment. It had the high politics of Auralon's story, the dirt and mud of Zaras' very commoner-filled stories and the mystery of Maggie and Salt.
The prose and imagery were beautiful in this. Whether it was the dreary bogs, the starchy trial or the confusion on the fogs, the world was beautifully rendered.
Did I feel like I'd gotten thrown into a land where I didnt know half the words? Sure. There were lots of titles, names, jobs etc. But once I convinced my brain to stop focussing on the small things and not try to remember them all, then this story was much more enjoyable to consume.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story, world, writing and characters were beautifully done. Really keen to read more of this world. And we need an update on Sooty, stat.
And for those who want "fantasy without romance" (yes, I've seen requests for this multiple times) I'll definitely be suggesting this every time.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am leaving a voluntary review
Plot: Zaras is a bounty hunter who almost caught his bounty - Scarlet. Instead he pursues it through small villages and swamps. Auralon is a healer elf who returns to Sanctaris to find his mentor on trial and Scarlet sealed in slumber by the healers. Maggie and Salt are trying to escape the mysterious mists before they become any more dead.
Ive read a LOT of romantasies lately and they tend to read a certain (easier) way. Boy did this high fantasy book throw my head for a loop at the start. Once I'd adjusted to it, and gotten sucked in to the characters (Zaras & Sooty, Im looking at you) I was in this to the end.
This was beautifully written. Everything cleverly related to each other by a thin thread, that wasnt very apparent until the right moment. It had the high politics of Auralon's story, the dirt and mud of Zaras' very commoner-filled stories and the mystery of Maggie and Salt.
The prose and imagery were beautiful in this. Whether it was the dreary bogs, the starchy trial or the confusion on the fogs, the world was beautifully rendered.
Did I feel like I'd gotten thrown into a land where I didnt know half the words? Sure. There were lots of titles, names, jobs etc. But once I convinced my brain to stop focussing on the small things and not try to remember them all, then this story was much more enjoyable to consume.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story, world, writing and characters were beautifully done. Really keen to read more of this world. And we need an update on Sooty, stat.
And for those who want "fantasy without romance" (yes, I've seen requests for this multiple times) I'll definitely be suggesting this every time.
I received an advance review copy of this book and am leaving a voluntary review
August 1, 2026
I read this as the complete volume rather than the five individual novellas, and for me that was definitely the right choice. I loved experiencing it as one continuous story and honestly can't imagine reading it in shorter instalments, as everything flowed so well together in a full-length novel.
As with most books told through multiple points of view, I found myself connecting much more with two of the POVs than the third. I also read the digital edition, and one feature I absolutely loved was the numbered footnotes. They really elevated the reading experience because I didn't have to keep navigating to the front or back of the book to check the glossary of terms.
The themes were fantastic, blending fantasy and horror together seamlessly. The author also doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of war and death, with detailed depictions throughout, although readers are warned about this beforehand.
The cliffhanger at the end was incredibly intriguing, and I'm so invested in finding out what happens to all of the characters next. You can gradually see how each storyline begins to converge, with all the pieces of the puzzle slowly falling into place.
I also loved the variety of character arcs, from elves and humans to the many mysterious magical creatures and races. Each city/town had its own unique atmosphere, whether it felt sinister, magical, or more grounded, which made the world feel rich and immersive.
Learning about the different elven bloodlines/family was especially interesting, particularly discovering more about the Blood of the Banshee and how that bloodline evolves through the women of each family. It added another fascinating layer to the world's lore and left me eager to learn more in the next book.
As with most books told through multiple points of view, I found myself connecting much more with two of the POVs than the third. I also read the digital edition, and one feature I absolutely loved was the numbered footnotes. They really elevated the reading experience because I didn't have to keep navigating to the front or back of the book to check the glossary of terms.
The themes were fantastic, blending fantasy and horror together seamlessly. The author also doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of war and death, with detailed depictions throughout, although readers are warned about this beforehand.
The cliffhanger at the end was incredibly intriguing, and I'm so invested in finding out what happens to all of the characters next. You can gradually see how each storyline begins to converge, with all the pieces of the puzzle slowly falling into place.
I also loved the variety of character arcs, from elves and humans to the many mysterious magical creatures and races. Each city/town had its own unique atmosphere, whether it felt sinister, magical, or more grounded, which made the world feel rich and immersive.
Learning about the different elven bloodlines/family was especially interesting, particularly discovering more about the Blood of the Banshee and how that bloodline evolves through the women of each family. It added another fascinating layer to the world's lore and left me eager to learn more in the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a great book.
I would firstly like to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book early as an ARC.
When I first started reading this book I felt like there was a lot of terminology to learn to immerse yourself in the world. This was quickly overcome and I really easily got into the swing of things. If I forgot any term, there was a very handy appendix I could flip to.
The world is built in a way where I could vividly imagine it without feeling like too much of the text is just imagery. It was a careful balance between story and world building which I really appreciated. The suspense is also built steadily throughout the book with every POV building on that of the other POV in a nice way.
Although it features dark themes, there is also some humour sprinkled in which helps to break up the gloom in a nice way.
The structure is also great with differing POV’s of the main characters which I felt really flowed, I did not struggle to maintain continuity in each characters parts.
I am invested in Auralon’s story above all as I find the political aspect very intriguing, but this is closely followed by the other POV’s of Zaras, Maggie and Salt. They are all nicely linked and help to build on each other in a way which isn’t spoon fed to you but isn’t cryptic either (once again well balanced).
This is only Volume 1 of the Chronicles of Elisar series and I truly cannot wait to see how this story develops and how the cliffhangers are resolved!
I would firstly like to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book early as an ARC.
When I first started reading this book I felt like there was a lot of terminology to learn to immerse yourself in the world. This was quickly overcome and I really easily got into the swing of things. If I forgot any term, there was a very handy appendix I could flip to.
The world is built in a way where I could vividly imagine it without feeling like too much of the text is just imagery. It was a careful balance between story and world building which I really appreciated. The suspense is also built steadily throughout the book with every POV building on that of the other POV in a nice way.
Although it features dark themes, there is also some humour sprinkled in which helps to break up the gloom in a nice way.
The structure is also great with differing POV’s of the main characters which I felt really flowed, I did not struggle to maintain continuity in each characters parts.
I am invested in Auralon’s story above all as I find the political aspect very intriguing, but this is closely followed by the other POV’s of Zaras, Maggie and Salt. They are all nicely linked and help to build on each other in a way which isn’t spoon fed to you but isn’t cryptic either (once again well balanced).
This is only Volume 1 of the Chronicles of Elisar series and I truly cannot wait to see how this story develops and how the cliffhangers are resolved!
August 9, 2026
✨️Dark fantasy
✨️zero spice
✨️complex world
✨️complex characters
✨️cliffhangers
I listened to the audiobook for this completed 5 part novella series. For the best reading experience, I recommend reading the series in order or grabbing this completed part 1.
@t.j.hassall T.J. Hassall writes a very well developed story with a complex world. Each character is brilliantly crafted and valuable to the story. I recommend this to readers who enjoy complex, dark fantasy that rewards attention and is best experienced by careful reading and attention to detail. I completely enjoyed the shocking, epic conclusion to this incredible dark fantasy series and am very much looking forward to a part 2.
"If I had a dragon the last thing I would be on would be a boat."
If you get the chance to listen to the audio for this I highly recommend it. @jvwintersnarration completely transform the reading experience. Every character is distinct and absolutely incredible. Every accent and attitude is perfection. Jack and Jade make it incredibly hard to pick a favorite character because they bring each one to life so well. You will listen to this and be amazed that it is only 2 narrators.
Thank you @t.j.hassall and @jvwintersnarration for the audio copies of this incredible series. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review for you very much and am looking forward to seeing where this story goes!
#BloodoftheBanshee #fantasy #epic fantasy #darkfantasy #novella
✨️zero spice
✨️complex world
✨️complex characters
✨️cliffhangers
I listened to the audiobook for this completed 5 part novella series. For the best reading experience, I recommend reading the series in order or grabbing this completed part 1.
@t.j.hassall T.J. Hassall writes a very well developed story with a complex world. Each character is brilliantly crafted and valuable to the story. I recommend this to readers who enjoy complex, dark fantasy that rewards attention and is best experienced by careful reading and attention to detail. I completely enjoyed the shocking, epic conclusion to this incredible dark fantasy series and am very much looking forward to a part 2.
"If I had a dragon the last thing I would be on would be a boat."
If you get the chance to listen to the audio for this I highly recommend it. @jvwintersnarration completely transform the reading experience. Every character is distinct and absolutely incredible. Every accent and attitude is perfection. Jack and Jade make it incredibly hard to pick a favorite character because they bring each one to life so well. You will listen to this and be amazed that it is only 2 narrators.
Thank you @t.j.hassall and @jvwintersnarration for the audio copies of this incredible series. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review for you very much and am looking forward to seeing where this story goes!
#BloodoftheBanshee #fantasy #epic fantasy #darkfantasy #novella
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars
Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume 1
(No spoilers - I’m nice like that)
This book had me hooked from the very first page, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience this world.
I really enjoyed the way each character was introduced, and I loved watching both the characters and the story develop as the book progressed. Everything unfolded naturally, making it such an immersive and enjoyable read.
If you’re looking for a slow-burn romance or lots of spice, this probably isn’t the book for you, as the focus is much more on the fantasy, the world-building, and the story itself. Personally, I didn’t mind that at all. The plot was well thought out, the pacing never felt rushed, and there were so many memorable characters that kept me turning the pages.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable read, and I’m really glad I had the opportunity to read it. I’d definitely recommend it to fantasy readers who love engaging characters, rich world building, and a well paced story that’s easy to get lost in.
I could happily lose myself in this world all over again. 🤎
Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume 1
(No spoilers - I’m nice like that)
This book had me hooked from the very first page, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience this world.
I really enjoyed the way each character was introduced, and I loved watching both the characters and the story develop as the book progressed. Everything unfolded naturally, making it such an immersive and enjoyable read.
If you’re looking for a slow-burn romance or lots of spice, this probably isn’t the book for you, as the focus is much more on the fantasy, the world-building, and the story itself. Personally, I didn’t mind that at all. The plot was well thought out, the pacing never felt rushed, and there were so many memorable characters that kept me turning the pages.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable read, and I’m really glad I had the opportunity to read it. I’d definitely recommend it to fantasy readers who love engaging characters, rich world building, and a well paced story that’s easy to get lost in.
I could happily lose myself in this world all over again. 🤎
July 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC REVIEW
Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I
T.J. Hassall
What an incredible way to experience the first book in the Chronicles of Elisar series!
Having already read Parts 1–5 individually, I absolutely loved being able to read them all straight after one another in one complete volume. It made the story flow seamlessly, and I appreciated the world, characters, and overall journey even more.
T.J. Hassall has created such a rich and immersive world filled with grim magic, political intrigue, betrayal, and lasting consequences that kept me completely invested from beginning to end. The world-building is exceptional, and I loved the writing style. It completely pulled me into the story and made it impossible to stop reading.
Zaras still has my heart and remains my favourite character. I loved following his journey alongside the rest of the incredible cast, and watching everything connect from Part 1 through to Part 5 made this complete edition even more rewarding.
I also have to mention the cover because it is absolutely stunning and perfectly captures the dark, epic fantasy waiting inside.
If you’re a fan of dark fantasy, incredible world-building, unforgettable characters, and stories that completely immerse you in another world, then Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I is one you definitely need to add to your TBR.
I can’t wait to continue the Chronicles of Elisar!
ARC REVIEW
Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I
T.J. Hassall
What an incredible way to experience the first book in the Chronicles of Elisar series!
Having already read Parts 1–5 individually, I absolutely loved being able to read them all straight after one another in one complete volume. It made the story flow seamlessly, and I appreciated the world, characters, and overall journey even more.
T.J. Hassall has created such a rich and immersive world filled with grim magic, political intrigue, betrayal, and lasting consequences that kept me completely invested from beginning to end. The world-building is exceptional, and I loved the writing style. It completely pulled me into the story and made it impossible to stop reading.
Zaras still has my heart and remains my favourite character. I loved following his journey alongside the rest of the incredible cast, and watching everything connect from Part 1 through to Part 5 made this complete edition even more rewarding.
I also have to mention the cover because it is absolutely stunning and perfectly captures the dark, epic fantasy waiting inside.
If you’re a fan of dark fantasy, incredible world-building, unforgettable characters, and stories that completely immerse you in another world, then Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I is one you definitely need to add to your TBR.
I can’t wait to continue the Chronicles of Elisar!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 rounded up.
I got this arc from the author and I completely misunderstood the assignment. I thought this was a completed story (which it is) but it's part one of what promises to be a highly detailed and expansive world. This confusion (that was entirely my own fault) meant that I was a bit confused about the pacing as there was no way all the open threads could be wrapped up in time.
This is a fantasy world that follows multiple POVs throughout. The characterisation is clear and while it isn't obvious at the start why certain parts are being included, it beds in nicely at the end. It's well written and accessible and is very obviously book one so people who love getting into a new series should be very happy with this!
The only thing that stopped it being a full 5 was I found it exposition heavy and the dynamic action sections made more 'tell don't show' portions slower for me. But I would still recommend this to lovers of the genre or people new to it.
I got this arc from the author and I completely misunderstood the assignment. I thought this was a completed story (which it is) but it's part one of what promises to be a highly detailed and expansive world. This confusion (that was entirely my own fault) meant that I was a bit confused about the pacing as there was no way all the open threads could be wrapped up in time.
This is a fantasy world that follows multiple POVs throughout. The characterisation is clear and while it isn't obvious at the start why certain parts are being included, it beds in nicely at the end. It's well written and accessible and is very obviously book one so people who love getting into a new series should be very happy with this!
The only thing that stopped it being a full 5 was I found it exposition heavy and the dynamic action sections made more 'tell don't show' portions slower for me. But I would still recommend this to lovers of the genre or people new to it.
August 19, 2026
Review of ARC copy received from author
Well, this was a brilliant read!
At first, the different viewpoints and characters felt completely unconnected - which, in my opinion, is a good thing. If you're just getting the same story from differing viewpoints, it can get a bit...tedious, at times.
However, the further I got in the book, the more clearly they became connected - with one of the connections being rather unexpected!
Great, well-rounded characters - although the star HAS to be Sooty. It's not often you'll find a character with no real lines to speak of stealing the show, but that's exactly what happened here.
Looking forward to the next installment - those cliffhangers are borderline infuriating!
Well, this was a brilliant read!
At first, the different viewpoints and characters felt completely unconnected - which, in my opinion, is a good thing. If you're just getting the same story from differing viewpoints, it can get a bit...tedious, at times.
However, the further I got in the book, the more clearly they became connected - with one of the connections being rather unexpected!
Great, well-rounded characters - although the star HAS to be Sooty. It's not often you'll find a character with no real lines to speak of stealing the show, but that's exactly what happened here.
Looking forward to the next installment - those cliffhangers are borderline infuriating!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a masterclass in storytelling, featuring four captivating main characters whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. The narrative is filled with suspense and thought-provoking questions, keeping readers eagerly turning the pages to discover what lies ahead.
Part five is particularly remarkable, providing answers to many questions, some you didn’t even realize you had, while deftly setting the stage for future intrigue. The cliffhanger at the end is nothing short of exhilarating, leaving you with a profound sense of anticipation for what comes next.
Part five is particularly remarkable, providing answers to many questions, some you didn’t even realize you had, while deftly setting the stage for future intrigue. The cliffhanger at the end is nothing short of exhilarating, leaving you with a profound sense of anticipation for what comes next.
July 31, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The world building and fantasy elements were engaging and intriguing yet laid out well enough that there was no confusion when the point of view between chapters was changed. The ending left me wanting more and I can’t wait to see what comes next!
August 3, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this book as an advance read copy. I really wish Goodreads had the ability for partial stars as I want to give the book 4.5!
If you have the time to commit to Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I, I highly recommend it. The story follows 3 story lines, with a wide variety of characters (elves, bounty hunter, banshees, and more) in a fantasy world.
The book left off with some major cliffhangers ~ now I’ll be patiently waiting for Volume II!
If you have the time to commit to Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I, I highly recommend it. The story follows 3 story lines, with a wide variety of characters (elves, bounty hunter, banshees, and more) in a fantasy world.
The book left off with some major cliffhangers ~ now I’ll be patiently waiting for Volume II!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book before the publication date. I found the world building very interesting and I loved all the Latin names for each of the realms. It was fascinating to see the way the worlds kept developing as more and more of the plot unfolded. I liked how mysterious the character's intentions were and it would be good to find out more about their backstories, perhaps this will be revealed in the later books. Sometimes I found the plot a little difficult to follow as the frequent "jumps" made it confusing to remember what was happening to each character and how it all linked together; perhaps it will become clearer in the later novels.
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