Life For A Life

by Andy Peloquin

The Hunter, legendary assassin of Voramis, does not forgive or forget. But his thirst for vengeance against a deceitful client could lead to consequences far graver than he realizes.

Fans of Joe Abercrombie, Brandon Sanderson, and Brent Weeks will love the Hunter…

Genres: Fantasy, Short Stories

ebook

Published January 1, 2017

About the author

I am, first and foremost, a storyteller and an artist--words are my palette. Fantasy is my genre of choice, and I love to explore the darker side of human nature through the filter of fantasy heroes, villains, and everything in between. I'm also a freelance writer, a book lover, and a guy who just loves to meet new people and spend hours talking about my fascination for the worlds I encounter in the pages of fantasy novels.

Fantasy provides us with an escape, a way to forget about our mundane problems and step into worlds where anything is possible. It transcends age, gender, religion, race, or lifestyle--it is our way of believing what cannot be, delving into the unknowable, and discovering hidden truths about ourselves and our world in a brand new way. Fiction at its very best!

Reviews

[MikeLikesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short story. It is 0.5 of the Hero of Darkness series. This story introduces us to Hunter, an assassin. He is double crossed by a nobleman and things go from bad to worse. It is an exciting story, action packed and fast paced. I really liked it and l’m ready to get into the series.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never double cross an assassin or at least not the Hunter!! This prequel to the Hero of Darkness series is full of action from start to finish.

[Zachary · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hunter is an assassin who has an anti-hero fantasy world equivalent to Punisher and Constantine. That being said, this was right up my alley for interests.
I enjoyed the simple story behind this short, as well as the magic used and The Hunter's brutal drive to fulfill his mission at hand. After everything bad he has done in his life and line of work, he does appear to have a soft side.
I'll have to continue the story in the Hero of Darkness series.

[Theo A · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 A solid, action-heavy prequel short story wherein an Assassin, the Hunter of Voramis, after making an example out of a high profile client who tries to cheat him out of his purse, and with the guilt about the collateral damage left in his wake, stumbles into what becomes a very important relationship that carries immense weight in the first book in the Darkblade series.

[Jord MiddleofNowhere · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome introduction into the world of the Hunter. Free when you sign up to his newsletter, I feel like I came out as the winner. Fast paced and exciting, it definitely leaves one excited to read the bigger books!! Great writing and a great character.

[Todd · Rating 3 out of 5]

lnteresting novella featuring an assassin on an assignment

[KMart Vet · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Life For A Life" by Andy Peloquin, readers are immersed in a world of epic battles and grimdark intrigue. The Hunter, a legendary assassin of Voramis, seeks vengeance against a treacherous client, setting off a chain of events that could have dire repercussions. The story weaves together captivating battle scenes, an assassin with a surprising tender side, and a satisfying ending that leaves you yearning for more. If you enjoy dark and intense fantasy with a touch of vulnerability, this is one to delve into.

[Sean Alexander · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life for a Life is darker than most of what I read, however, it has a good pace, interesting characters, and fairly descriptive. A very nice introduction to thee character Hunter, it also begs the question is Hunter evil because of what he does? He does what he does for the good, at least so far? I look forward to reading more of Andy's works, as soon as I can.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life For A Life is an intense and intriguing story that grips you from beginning to end. The Hunter’s relentless pursuit of vengeance keeps you on edge, while the twists and turns leave you constantly wondering what will happen next. The balance of revenge, danger, and the search for a new path after inadvertently causing another’s downfall adds depth to the narrative. The action is relentless, the stakes are high, and the story leaves you craving more. I’m definitely looking forward to what comes next!

[Angel Haze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing!! One of the best shorts I've ever read!! Right from the first sentence, you are drawn into the action and IT DOES NOT STOP! See what happens when a dark assassin is double-crossed . . .

If you love assassins, anti-heroes, Brandon Sanderson, Brent Weeks, you're going to want to check this out!! It was short, fast-paced, and a helluva ride!

[CiCi | bookameme · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to Read & Filled With Action

Quotes:📖
His actions had caused the death of one child this night; he wouldn't let his inaction cause another.

Thoughts: 💡
A short story shouldn’t be this good. It’s graphic and bloody, with loads of action. I haven’t read any of the other Darkblade novels but something tells me that all the little details we get in the story will be important for the series.

Writing Mechanics: ✍️
I wanted to try this to see if I would like Andy’s writing style, and the answer is yes. He created a short story that was articulate with commendable grammar and casual diction that was easy to read.
There were only around 8k words in the story, but he still created a clear and concise plot filled with action and a small twist. The main character also had a surprising amount of depth that provided a clear picture of his motivation, scruples, and abilities.

Fun Bits:
⚜️ Cold, Calculating MC
⚜️ Action Packed
⚜️ Interesting Magic Weapon

Important Note:✨
This a short companion story for the Darkblade series.


Stats:📊
Character Dev: 4,5 💙💙💙💙/5
Genre: Dark Fantasy Short Story📕
Tropes: Assassin, Revenge Plot📘
Published: 2017 🗓️
POV: 🕺
Formats: 📱 (available in author’s newsletter)
Pages: 29 📄
CW: Violence, Gore, Death⚠️

[OldBird · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hunter is on a mission of his own. He's been double-crossed. He's out to make sure it doesn't happen again. But there are consequences caused by his actions, and just maybe they shed some light upon his darkened soul. He won't like what he sees.

Wow, what a ride! The Hunter of Voramis is a calculating, cold sort of character whose main passion is for the thrill of the fight and the inevitable demise of his target. Goaded on by his mysterious soul-stealing dagger, he puts his skills to use with deadly effect. There's a definite hint of R.A. Salvatore's Artemis Entreri; clever, competent, a little arrogant, but not above a dash of self-reflection. For a short story, there's plenty of punchy action which never feels overdone. The only tiny criticism I have would be that of word repetition in quick succession, but this is no way a deal-breaker. It is really well-written fantasy similar to the Forgotten Realms novels or the Night Angel books of Brent Weeks.

If you like your characters grim and your fantasy dark, this looks like one to watch.

-Free from the author's newsletter-

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️🌠
(3.5 stars)

Minor spoilers (just read the novella! It's not that many pages 👌):
This is a mini novella, by Andy peloquinn, following an assassin on a job of revenge.
A fast-paced and action packed, yet self-contained narrative that was mighty enjoyable. Our main character is presented as the best at what he does, and while he finds himself in situations he didn't foresee, he still manages to get the upper hand every time.

The action was well paced and described in gory yet not gratuitous detail. Leaving you excited but not disgusted at just how well our main boy beats these bad guys!

While I enjoyed the overall story, I'd love to see our boy in his element in a well planned and well executed (pun intended) assassination. In this, we do see him successful in his endeavour, though he even says himself that his recklessness isn't his normal approach to a job.

I'd say I'd love to read more from this author, but it turns out I already have one of his books on my TBR! 😁❤️

[Vicky Quenault · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short story may work well as a prologue to a book, but on its own it didn’t inspire me.
The use of similes was a little clumsy and the description of the surroundings was too thorough. I personally find when an author gives only a few details my mind fills in the blanks automatically, but when there are too many details I get caught up in trying to see the room and it pulls me out of the story.
I felt the protagonist was unlikeable and his assertions he would never harm a child were a little hollow. His fight scene was wildly unrealistic and his superiority made him even more detestable.
Its entirely possible that he is supposed to be a bad guy that is redeemed in further works, but without those good deeds to offset his character here I was left with nothing but dislike. Perhaps if he hadn’t wished that he didn’t look at the child so as not to feel obligated to save her life I would have softened towards him.

[Jeremy Schwab · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was sent my way when I signed up for Andy's newsletter recently. Darkblade Assassin has been on my radar and this frantic, expertly executed, romp through the shadows has solidified my thoughts on this world Peloquin has crafted...this Assassin is a must read character!

The Hunter and his magically enhanced dagger bring judgment and vengeance with a precision that is nothing short of spectacular! His services come at a high cost, and for the love of the gods...don't neglect to hold up your end of the deal, because he always holds up his. 😈

This short 36 or so page introduction to our Assassin's world paints a vivid picture of vengeance, expertly executed precision action and yes...even some emotion. All packed into this quick one night mission, you will no doubt feel out of breath because of the sheer pace and level of action in this! The shadows have eye's, make sure you pay your debts. 🔥📚 4.5⭐

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short story prequel to the Dark Blade Assassin series about the Hunter of Voramis however even in such a short story life is full of action wherever the hunter appears. His blade work is flawless and so unrelentless and his soul hungry dagger just urges him on to more killing. He will not be crossed and hates those who cheat him especially out of payment for his dirty assassin work. This villain is a rogue after my own heart and I just love the Hunter of Voramis and his escapades because even though he might seem vile to some he has his heart in the right place and does his best for those who live in lower Voramis down in the gutters. For me this guy is a real hero and his tales are something to really enjoy!

[Yaniv · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good short story, and the first I read by this author. As expected for grim dark, it was absolutely packed with action and gore. The reader is introduced to the Hunter's (a master Assassin) mission, and what he's willing to do to make others understand not to cheat him (a whole lot). I also enjoyed the fact that while bodies were piled up in a hurry, the ending surprised me as less dark than I thought it would be (is that a thing in the sub-genre? if not it was nice to end on a less horrific note).
I totally recommend it if you're looking for a fast read and don't mind extremely bloody scenes.

[Mary T · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hunter has entered the residence of Lord Eddarus Frightened a maid who lead him th the lord's study. He let her go when they heard her baby cry and went on th kill Lord Eddarus for having renegged on payment of an assassination. At least twenty of his men died in the process and a fire started that killed the maid and her child. In his escape he finds another baby whose mother has also died. This short story leads into the series "Darkblade Assassin"
I received this book for free from the author and voluntarily reviewed

[Alan Behan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cracking short story from the Heros Of Darkness series, what ever you do you don't fxxk with the The Hunter of Voramis and a greedy greedy Noble Lord Eddarus has just made the biggest mistake of his life, soul hunger is thirsty and he might just get his fill tonight, a little read about guilt of a lost innocence and an innocence saved, fantastic bloody sword fighting, Andy Peloquin really makes you feel for his characters, even if he's a blood thirsty killer, very fast paced and quite enjoyable, highly recommend....😁

[André · Rating 4 out of 5]

In my opinion as a reader it is difficult to write an engaging short-story. Often the characters feel flat and/or you don't really get a feel for the world the story takes place in and/or it feels like an appetizer for the actual (bigger) story.

Nothing of that with Life For A Life. Yes, it is a prologue to the Darkblade Assassin, but it works well as a story of its own. You get enough of a glimpse into The Hunter's character, and the city of Voramis and it has plenty of action.

It definitely makes me want to dive into the series.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a terrific short story !! The idea that an assassin, ( presumably a person of little or no conscience ) can actually have unbreakable limits, is an interesting premise. It reinforces the possibility that there is still some vestige of humanity present. The rescue performed just strengthens
the description of the main character.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.



Phyllis S.

[Emmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

[I received a free copy]

A dark introduction into the story of an assassin with magical powers and a bloodthirsty knife that grants him additional abilities.
Clean, adult, dark fantasy, prequel short story.

Favourites:
- Sword & abilities: I enjoyed the hints at the magic system. A knife that can leech some kind of essence from it's victim, (though a bloodthirsy weapon isn't necessarily a new one for me), and give the bearer enhanced abilities. I liked it and it made me curious to know where and how he'd gotten the knife.
- Inner conflict: the story hands us a good set-up for future inner conflict of the MC. Something goes very wrong because of his actions, and now he has to deal with the consequences and the burden on his conscience.

What I missed:
- Action overkill: I can appreciate a good amount of action. For sure, I like the action packed stories. But this short story was filled with a little too many action details. I found myself skimming some paragraphs of fighting descriptions for this reason.
- Character depth: The side characters, even the big baddie, felt somewhat flat to me, and I also found myself a little confused about the MC's motivations during the first half of the story, so the connection was a bit lacking for me personally.

Sexual content: none
Coarse language: mild
Violence and gore: moderate to extreme

Conclusion
I wasn't blown away by this, but it wasn't bad either. If you like the action sequences to take up most of the story and you like the idea of a bit of a darker plot with a morally grey, very capable assassin, then this might be totally your thing.

[Lisa Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC, I am leaving my honest review. Captivating and suspenseful, this story will keep your attention as the Hunter stalks his prey. The Lord that has done him wrong. His plan goes a bit astray, and challenging, but will he succeed in taking down his sought out vengeance, or will his plans backfire before his blade can capture the soul it wants. Prepare for a late night reading cover to cover as you get pulled into the action!

[GG · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written and intriguing glimpse into the Hunter and where some of his self imposed limits come from. It also shows the problems inherent in trying to double cross an assassin.

As often with Author Peloquin's work, the fight scenes in particular are well-executed and easy to imagine. It's even easier to believe one wouldn't want to be in the midst of all the blood, flying steel, etc!

[Lisa Cashen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This excellent short story is the prequel to Andy's 'Hero Of Darkness' series. I just love the idea of an MC not being a hero type but actually an assassin for hire with almost no qualms about his targets. I'm definitely intrigued to follow his story and find out more about his soul-stealing dagger.

[Chris Orme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent short fantasy story about an Assassin seeking revenge on a client that betrayed him. Got free for signing up to the authors mailing list & got another free omnibus of his work for joining a free fantasy book club that got email about. Will definitely try the longer novels & see how they pan out on a longer story. But, this is a decent quick read if you fancy a dose of fantasy.

[Suzi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was very good for a short prequel story!

I was already sold when I saw the main character referred to as "a mix of Durzo Blint meets Ezio Auditore" but I was also completely engrossed from the first page.

This was a great intro to the author's writing, and I'm downloading the first book in the series straight away!

[Olivia Marie Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god, I could not put this book down. I zipped through it in only a few hours! It’s a short story, a prequel to the main series, but still. If this is just the beginning, I can’t wait to see what’s next!

[Christine Ku · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm not much of a short story reader and a short story really has to be above the average for me to like it. In terms of this short story, write-up is solid and pace is quick but otherwise it's just an average story.

[Frank Torrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short, but very interesting Fantasy story. The main character, The Hunter, is a complex and troubled "Hero"(?), but one who keeps his word and acts (according to his own code) with as much honor as an assassin can.

It's a good read and, also, a good introduction to this series.