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Seed of Rage #1
Silverlegs
Will you be fast enough?
A fifteen-year-old girl with a gift for violence and nothing left to lose, Constanter is running. To escape the farm she grew up on in a remote part of the Western Lorian empire. To forget the family and the life she can never return to. She runs east, toward the distant war she knows only from the tales of travelers—a twenty-year long conflict, opposing the Western and Eastern halves of the empire.
Mistaken for a boy after she stole the gear of a dead soldier, she is captured and drafted by a band of mercenaries whose leader recognizes her innate speed and agility. Her face hidden under a mask, Constanter surrenders to the anger she wears like a second skin and becomes Silverlegs, a legendary killer, an uncontrollable weapon in the hands of power-hungry rulers and religious fanatics.
As the Western empire spirals into madness in the name of the One God, Constanter will have to choose what she truly fights for, before Silverlegs’s rage leads her down the road to hell...
----------------------
Trigger warnings:
Silverlegs is a grimdark fantasy novel set in a world inspired by the late Roman empire. The heroine evolves in an environment that is violent, classist, misogynistic, and homophobic. This book questions religious fanaticism. It contains elements of sexual violence, rape, and graphic violence.
A fifteen-year-old girl with a gift for violence and nothing left to lose, Constanter is running. To escape the farm she grew up on in a remote part of the Western Lorian empire. To forget the family and the life she can never return to. She runs east, toward the distant war she knows only from the tales of travelers—a twenty-year long conflict, opposing the Western and Eastern halves of the empire.
Mistaken for a boy after she stole the gear of a dead soldier, she is captured and drafted by a band of mercenaries whose leader recognizes her innate speed and agility. Her face hidden under a mask, Constanter surrenders to the anger she wears like a second skin and becomes Silverlegs, a legendary killer, an uncontrollable weapon in the hands of power-hungry rulers and religious fanatics.
As the Western empire spirals into madness in the name of the One God, Constanter will have to choose what she truly fights for, before Silverlegs’s rage leads her down the road to hell...
----------------------
Trigger warnings:
Silverlegs is a grimdark fantasy novel set in a world inspired by the late Roman empire. The heroine evolves in an environment that is violent, classist, misogynistic, and homophobic. This book questions religious fanaticism. It contains elements of sexual violence, rape, and graphic violence.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2019
46 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
Camilla Monk
12 books699 followersCamilla Monk is a Canadian author who rose to dubious fame with a romantic suspense series starring an OCD-ridden hitman and a wide array of strange and occasionally angry animals. These days she shares her writing time between high-octane adventures in the same vein and fantasy, her secret love (but with weird animals, too.)
She grew up in Paris in a Franco-American family, has lived in Tokyo, and spent ten years in advertising, building rickety websites for M&A boutiques and hedge funds. All of that somehow landed her in Montréal, where she keeps a close watch on the squirrels and complains on a daily basis about the egregious number of Tim Hortons.
She grew up in Paris in a Franco-American family, has lived in Tokyo, and spent ten years in advertising, building rickety websites for M&A boutiques and hedge funds. All of that somehow landed her in Montréal, where she keeps a close watch on the squirrels and complains on a daily basis about the egregious number of Tim Hortons.
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June 14, 2019Silverlegs is probably my most personal work yet, so I'm not sure what to put in this review that you guys might find even remotely funny. Here's a Life of Brian gif anyway.
I am an Ancient Rome nerd, an atheist who reads obsessively about religion, and, some might say a "survivor" (although I never liked that term). To me, Silverlegs is a point in my literary career where these three lines converge.
It is, first and foremost, 380 pages of Ancient-Rome-themed dark/epic/low fantasy porn. If you quietly masturbate under the covers to the biographies of your favorite Roman emperors at night —with your left hand of course— and you're hiding a replica of a 2nd-century gladius in your closet, you have come to the right Goodreads page, amicus. Marching legions, battle strategies, loricae, and marble everywhere: they're all waiting for you, so pop up the tissues and lotion!
At a deeper level, Silverlegs is a cautionary tale about politics and religion, witnessed through the eyes of a girl who hasn't yet the intellectual tools to understand it and tries to navigate the collapse of her world as best as she can. Constanter is our guide, but unlike her, we readers do understand the big picture of the events unfolding before her eyes —meaning that Silverlegs's premise is basically a potpourri and a retelling of the collapse of the Roman empire, concomitant with its slide into the throes of religious fanaticism, and, ultimately, its descent into the dark age.
Constanter's world is a divided empire where emperors are either tired old men or suggestible children at the mercy of religious or military leaders. Conquests and carnage are waged in the name of gods believers have yet to see, and the power rests not in the hands of those who can fight, but rather those who monopolize knowledge and political influence.
Any similarity between the tidal rise of Christianity in the post-Constantine Roman empire and the cult of Aus in its fictional Lorian counterpart is totally intentional and I'm not even sorry.
Lastly, Silverlegs is an intimate journey, a coming age built on the ashes of one's childhood. Constanter's rage is both her drive and her poison throughout her saga, and, if nothing else, I hope her internal struggle and empowerment will resonate with readers who've been down that same road, and felt the same anger at being trapped in a body someone else has broken into.
And to conclude this review: OMFG it's not medieval fantasy for once!
I am an Ancient Rome nerd, an atheist who reads obsessively about religion, and, some might say a "survivor" (although I never liked that term). To me, Silverlegs is a point in my literary career where these three lines converge.
It is, first and foremost, 380 pages of Ancient-Rome-themed dark/epic/low fantasy porn. If you quietly masturbate under the covers to the biographies of your favorite Roman emperors at night —with your left hand of course— and you're hiding a replica of a 2nd-century gladius in your closet, you have come to the right Goodreads page, amicus. Marching legions, battle strategies, loricae, and marble everywhere: they're all waiting for you, so pop up the tissues and lotion!
At a deeper level, Silverlegs is a cautionary tale about politics and religion, witnessed through the eyes of a girl who hasn't yet the intellectual tools to understand it and tries to navigate the collapse of her world as best as she can. Constanter is our guide, but unlike her, we readers do understand the big picture of the events unfolding before her eyes —meaning that Silverlegs's premise is basically a potpourri and a retelling of the collapse of the Roman empire, concomitant with its slide into the throes of religious fanaticism, and, ultimately, its descent into the dark age.
Constanter's world is a divided empire where emperors are either tired old men or suggestible children at the mercy of religious or military leaders. Conquests and carnage are waged in the name of gods believers have yet to see, and the power rests not in the hands of those who can fight, but rather those who monopolize knowledge and political influence.
Any similarity between the tidal rise of Christianity in the post-Constantine Roman empire and the cult of Aus in its fictional Lorian counterpart is totally intentional and I'm not even sorry.
Lastly, Silverlegs is an intimate journey, a coming age built on the ashes of one's childhood. Constanter's rage is both her drive and her poison throughout her saga, and, if nothing else, I hope her internal struggle and empowerment will resonate with readers who've been down that same road, and felt the same anger at being trapped in a body someone else has broken into.
And to conclude this review: OMFG it's not medieval fantasy for once!
April 28, 2021
[UPDATE: Three years and still no second book. I want to cry.]
(This review is so old and a slight mess, and um... I'm too lazy to change it. I apologize in advance)
[UPDATE 3/10/21 : WHERE. IS. THE. SECOND. BOOK.]
I'm dead, a book has destroyed me. This book has killed me. This book has obliterated my insides and is using the rest to tie their shoes with. This book was just a complete and utter, masterpiece.
Hear the warnings, my loves: rape, violence in every chapter, and tons of profanities in this book.
RATING:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.9, just because there isn't a second book yet.
WARNING! WARNING! WARNING! ABORT IF YOU HAVEN'T READ IT YET!
Oh my GOODNESS! I found it. I found one of THOSE books. Y'all know what I'm talking about. The type of book you can read a thousand times and still not get tired of it. The emotions stay the same, the pain and sorrow still leave an imprint on your soul*sigh* those are the best ones. Okay, the first impression, as far as I remember I was in the middle of a devilish book slump (which was the downfall of the greatest warriors in history) and I was scrolling through YA books, trying in vain to catch something that would trance my eyes when BAM! There it was, a diamond in the rough. At first, I just noticed it by the awesomely spectacular cover but when I read the synopsis. Be still, my treacherous heart. I immediately bought it, started reading it and that was it, my soul was taken in its grip. The girl which her Mulan esque boy name is Constanter was 15 years old. Now that I mention that, they never said what her real name was...huh, more for the second book to answer I guess. Her story began so sadly, she was assaulted by her stepfather which um, Servilius I just wanna talk, that's all. She pegs him with a vase (yasssss, girl!) and runs away, resulting in she getting lost in the woods, cutting her hair, and getting captured by mercenaries. Yep, she's tough alright. Now let's...
For full review, please visit this post.
And join me in bookstragam by the name booktasticallyamazing ❤️
(This review is so old and a slight mess, and um... I'm too lazy to change it. I apologize in advance)
[UPDATE 3/10/21 : WHERE. IS. THE. SECOND. BOOK.]
I'm dead, a book has destroyed me. This book has killed me. This book has obliterated my insides and is using the rest to tie their shoes with. This book was just a complete and utter, masterpiece.
Hear the warnings, my loves: rape, violence in every chapter, and tons of profanities in this book.
RATING:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.9, just because there isn't a second book yet.
WARNING! WARNING! WARNING! ABORT IF YOU HAVEN'T READ IT YET!
Oh my GOODNESS! I found it. I found one of THOSE books. Y'all know what I'm talking about. The type of book you can read a thousand times and still not get tired of it. The emotions stay the same, the pain and sorrow still leave an imprint on your soul*sigh* those are the best ones. Okay, the first impression, as far as I remember I was in the middle of a devilish book slump (which was the downfall of the greatest warriors in history) and I was scrolling through YA books, trying in vain to catch something that would trance my eyes when BAM! There it was, a diamond in the rough. At first, I just noticed it by the awesomely spectacular cover but when I read the synopsis. Be still, my treacherous heart. I immediately bought it, started reading it and that was it, my soul was taken in its grip. The girl which her Mulan esque boy name is Constanter was 15 years old. Now that I mention that, they never said what her real name was...huh, more for the second book to answer I guess. Her story began so sadly, she was assaulted by her stepfather which um, Servilius I just wanna talk, that's all. She pegs him with a vase (yasssss, girl!) and runs away, resulting in she getting lost in the woods, cutting her hair, and getting captured by mercenaries. Yep, she's tough alright. Now let's...
For full review, please visit this post.
And join me in bookstragam by the name booktasticallyamazing ❤️
Want to read
September 24, 201924/9/19
FREE for a limited time!! Click on the link and choose your store!
http://camillamonk.com/books/silverlegs/
I've enjoyed everything I've read from Camilla Monk so far and that says a lot since she doesn't have descriptive rumpy pumpy in her books. Can't wait to see what new twist she has put on the Roman Empire. Let's hope there's some of this:
FREE for a limited time!! Click on the link and choose your store!
http://camillamonk.com/books/silverlegs/
I've enjoyed everything I've read from Camilla Monk so far and that says a lot since she doesn't have descriptive rumpy pumpy in her books. Can't wait to see what new twist she has put on the Roman Empire. Let's hope there's some of this:
December 2, 2019
+Digital ARC gently provided by Netgalley in exchange for honest review+
3.5 death is my gift stars
Hear the warnings, kids: rape , violence galore, and tons of profanities in this book.
In a Romanesque world (different names and 2 moons) a farmer girl runaway to ends recluited into a mercenary army as male warrior. Constanter was good at it. Mortal, as a matter of fact.
Uh, I'm debating with myself since yesterday how to rate this. Certainly, not my usual reading preference. I never got to watch Spartacus the series so only can compare this to that excellent HBO's Rome series for the kind of viciousness and show how the real society was. So it's a historical drama. Religion divide the Empire between 2 forces at war (you know is not that simple, but... ) ; one is monotheist and the other worship old gods.
The camp of Clearchos is brutal, the treatment between men is brutal, let alone the treatment toward women and weak men.
Putting ourselves in a historical context, the woman is worth nothing except to make marriage deals if you were high class, but if you weren't, it only remained to be wives or prostitutes. Wise women who healed with herbs were called witches and would be for many more centuries.
So, is it too surprising that a girl prefers to be a man and fight?
--
People didn’t really care for pride in my village, except maybe if someone called you a mollis or they said your wife was a witch. Beyond that, the consensus in our community was that dignity was overrated where survival was concerned. Victrix, with his fica, was the first person who ever made me see that there was pride in me, and who made me consider how much I valued it—evidently more than the two boys who scrambled to pick up the fruit and fought like dogs in the dust.
--
Constanter soon becomes known for his agility and speed as Silverlegs.
And the rage within her, is a rage against everyone and also against her. The victim no longer wants to be one, now she is a predator, but to do so in this brutal world she must still exert a more brutal violence so as not to be discovered.
--
Deep down, I knew I didn’t belong here with the winners— the predators. But I never wanted to be prey again.
--
But this is not a tale but a historical drama , do not believe there will be a happy ending. Let's just say that GRR Martin would be proud.
--------------------------------------------------
{En castellano:}
Escuchen las advertencias, niños: violación, violencia en abundancia y toneladas de blasfemias en este libro.
En un mundo románico (diferentes nombres y 2 lunas), una granjera fugitiva iletrada es reclutada en un ejército mercenario como guerrero masculino. Constanter era bueno en eso. Mortal, de hecho.
Estoy discutiendo conmigo misma desde ayer cómo calificar esto. Ciertamente, no es mi preferencia de lectura habitual. Nunca pude ver la serie Spartacus, así que solo puedo comparar esto con esa excelente serie Roma (de HBO) por el tipo de crueldad exhibido y mostrar cómo era la sociedad real. Entonces es un drama histórico. La religión divide el Imperio entre 2 fuerzas en guerra (ya sabes, no es tan simple, pero ...); uno es monoteísta y el otro adora a dioses antiguos.
El campamento es brutal, el trato entre hombres es brutal, y no digamos el trato hacia mujeres y hombres débiles.
Poniéndonos en un contexto histórico, la mujer no vale nada excepto para hacer tratos matrimoniales si eras de clase alta, pero si no lo eras, solo quedaba ser esposas o prostitutas. Las mujeres sabias que curaban con hierbas se llamaban brujas y lo serían por muchos siglos más.
Entonces, ¿es demasiado sorprendente que una chica prefiera ser hombre y pelear?
Constanter llegará a ser conocido por su agilidad y velocidad como Silverlegs.
Y la ira dentro de ella, es una ira contra todos y también contra ella. La víctima ya no quiere serlo, ahora es una depredadora, pero para hacerlo en este mundo brutal todavía debe ejercer una violencia más brutal para no ser descubierta.
Pero esto no es un cuento sino una novela dramática histórica, no creas que habrá un final feliz. Digamos que GRR Martin estaría orgulloso.
I want to read the next one.
3.5 death is my gift stars
Hear the warnings, kids: rape , violence galore, and tons of profanities in this book.
In a Romanesque world (different names and 2 moons) a farmer girl runaway to ends recluited into a mercenary army as male warrior. Constanter was good at it. Mortal, as a matter of fact.
Uh, I'm debating with myself since yesterday how to rate this. Certainly, not my usual reading preference. I never got to watch Spartacus the series so only can compare this to that excellent HBO's Rome series for the kind of viciousness and show how the real society was. So it's a historical drama. Religion divide the Empire between 2 forces at war (you know is not that simple, but... ) ; one is monotheist and the other worship old gods.
The camp of Clearchos is brutal, the treatment between men is brutal, let alone the treatment toward women and weak men.
Putting ourselves in a historical context, the woman is worth nothing except to make marriage deals if you were high class, but if you weren't, it only remained to be wives or prostitutes. Wise women who healed with herbs were called witches and would be for many more centuries.
So, is it too surprising that a girl prefers to be a man and fight?
--
People didn’t really care for pride in my village, except maybe if someone called you a mollis or they said your wife was a witch. Beyond that, the consensus in our community was that dignity was overrated where survival was concerned. Victrix, with his fica, was the first person who ever made me see that there was pride in me, and who made me consider how much I valued it—evidently more than the two boys who scrambled to pick up the fruit and fought like dogs in the dust.
--
Constanter soon becomes known for his agility and speed as Silverlegs.
And the rage within her, is a rage against everyone and also against her. The victim no longer wants to be one, now she is a predator, but to do so in this brutal world she must still exert a more brutal violence so as not to be discovered.
--
Deep down, I knew I didn’t belong here with the winners— the predators. But I never wanted to be prey again.
--
But this is not a tale but a historical drama , do not believe there will be a happy ending. Let's just say that GRR Martin would be proud.
--------------------------------------------------
{En castellano:}
Escuchen las advertencias, niños: violación, violencia en abundancia y toneladas de blasfemias en este libro.
En un mundo románico (diferentes nombres y 2 lunas), una granjera fugitiva iletrada es reclutada en un ejército mercenario como guerrero masculino. Constanter era bueno en eso. Mortal, de hecho.
Estoy discutiendo conmigo misma desde ayer cómo calificar esto. Ciertamente, no es mi preferencia de lectura habitual. Nunca pude ver la serie Spartacus, así que solo puedo comparar esto con esa excelente serie Roma (de HBO) por el tipo de crueldad exhibido y mostrar cómo era la sociedad real. Entonces es un drama histórico. La religión divide el Imperio entre 2 fuerzas en guerra (ya sabes, no es tan simple, pero ...); uno es monoteísta y el otro adora a dioses antiguos.
El campamento es brutal, el trato entre hombres es brutal, y no digamos el trato hacia mujeres y hombres débiles.
Poniéndonos en un contexto histórico, la mujer no vale nada excepto para hacer tratos matrimoniales si eras de clase alta, pero si no lo eras, solo quedaba ser esposas o prostitutas. Las mujeres sabias que curaban con hierbas se llamaban brujas y lo serían por muchos siglos más.
Entonces, ¿es demasiado sorprendente que una chica prefiera ser hombre y pelear?
Constanter llegará a ser conocido por su agilidad y velocidad como Silverlegs.
Y la ira dentro de ella, es una ira contra todos y también contra ella. La víctima ya no quiere serlo, ahora es una depredadora, pero para hacerlo en este mundo brutal todavía debe ejercer una violencia más brutal para no ser descubierta.
Pero esto no es un cuento sino una novela dramática histórica, no creas que habrá un final feliz. Digamos que GRR Martin estaría orgulloso.
I want to read the next one.
March 14, 2020
I don't know where to start. I really wanted to rate this at least a 4 star but that ending seemed to cliffhangery to me! I want moooooooooooooooooooooore. So many open ends. This could totally be a duology.
I'm really proud of Silverlegs. I won't call her/him Constanter or even... I just realized the 'female' MC never got a name. Only the 'male'.
I really don't know how to classify her honestly. I want to say it was a step in the right direction for the trans community but I think it was more that a powerless woman was tired of being prey. Plus after her rape I think she had come to hate her 'weak' female body. So sadly it doesn't seem to that she wanted to truly be a man at all... :/
I don't know how I feel about so many of the characters. I'm still processing that Gemina was boiled alive by her lover and rapist while her son tried to stop his dad who was the one boiling her.
I'm still processing that Victrix is DEAD. *I'm not crying. I'm nooot. [sniffles and wipes eyes defiantly]*
I mean a looooooot happened.
I'm really proud of Silverlegs. I won't call her/him Constanter or even... I just realized the 'female' MC never got a name. Only the 'male'.
I really don't know how to classify her honestly. I want to say it was a step in the right direction for the trans community but I think it was more that a powerless woman was tired of being prey. Plus after her rape I think she had come to hate her 'weak' female body. So sadly it doesn't seem to that she wanted to truly be a man at all... :/
I don't know how I feel about so many of the characters. I'm still processing that Gemina was boiled alive by her lover and rapist while her son tried to stop his dad who was the one boiling her.
I'm still processing that Victrix is DEAD. *I'm not crying. I'm nooot. [sniffles and wipes eyes defiantly]*
I mean a looooooot happened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2020
Fair warning : This book is not for the faintest of hearts.
3.5 stars
Blood, violent deaths and rape are very present in Silverlegs and while I expected fight scenes and things like that I didn't expect it to be so gruesome and omnipresent. This book follows a young girl running away from home being sent to be a mercenary in a war that has already begun. She will have to grow stronger and faster than the rest of the men to survive and hide her gender.
A lot happened toward the end and I'm still trying to process I'm crying and I'm a little angry too but I guess the author succeeded in making me feel for these characters. With that cliffhanger, it's clear that this book isn't actually a standalone like I thought it was but the first book in a series. I found this book interesting and I'm excited to read the next book even though I'm apprehensive . We'll see :)
(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)
3.5 stars
Blood, violent deaths and rape are very present in Silverlegs and while I expected fight scenes and things like that I didn't expect it to be so gruesome and omnipresent. This book follows a young girl running away from home being sent to be a mercenary in a war that has already begun. She will have to grow stronger and faster than the rest of the men to survive and hide her gender.
A lot happened toward the end and I'm still trying to process I'm crying and I'm a little angry too but I guess the author succeeded in making me feel for these characters. With that cliffhanger, it's clear that this book isn't actually a standalone like I thought it was but the first book in a series. I found this book interesting and I'm excited to read the next book even though I'm apprehensive . We'll see :)
(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)
July 9, 2019
The protagonist of this Romanesque story is young but this is not a children’s book. This is a story about a young girl struggling to survive in a patriarchal society and actually proving to herself that she can achieve a freedom that she never imagined. Our heroine Constanter runs away from an abusive home only to be mistaken for a boy and conscripted to a mercenary battalion fighting in a holy war that divides the Empire. It’s harsh, brutal and above all deadly in this world Constanter finds herself. Think Gladiator, think Russell Crowe and you will understand how the politics and machinations shape so many lives. There is only one choice and that’s to survive and Constanter is without a doubt born to do that. She is quick witted, fleet of foot and has the stamina that few men can compete with. Yes she’s bloodthirsty, no she’s not as physically strong as some but her journey and victories are hard fought and oh so satisfying.
Rising up from the ashes of who she was Constanter becomes Silverlegs but she’s not alone. There are a plethora of supporting characters who appear here and notably one in particular could if the author desired had become perhaps a love interest. However I hasten to say this is not a romance, it’s quite simply a raw portrayal of a society that celebrates violence and yet ignores those they oppress at their peril. . Expect language you wouldn’t use in polite company, explicit scenes and very disturbing violence. This is both dark and celebratory and I have found a new author to follow.
This voluntary take is of a copy that I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Rising up from the ashes of who she was Constanter becomes Silverlegs but she’s not alone. There are a plethora of supporting characters who appear here and notably one in particular could if the author desired had become perhaps a love interest. However I hasten to say this is not a romance, it’s quite simply a raw portrayal of a society that celebrates violence and yet ignores those they oppress at their peril. . Expect language you wouldn’t use in polite company, explicit scenes and very disturbing violence. This is both dark and celebratory and I have found a new author to follow.
This voluntary take is of a copy that I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
August 30, 2020
What does it matter to us who the boy under the mask is, when the legend is Silverlegs?
Wow. Talk about Mulan vibes but more Game of Thrones meets Gladiator. There was so much pain and blood. This book was graphic, it was painful, and everyone dies. There were trigger warnings of gore and rape. And I knew this, but it was still extremely painful to read. There was one part in particular that I couldn’t stomach. I didn’t think it could get worse. It did.
Even thought I was disgusted most of the time Silverlegs was amazing. Her hurt turned into hate and that hatred turned her into a legend. I need a second part. I need to know what happens next. I also want I don’t think I’ve ever read a book like this.
Wow. Talk about Mulan vibes but more Game of Thrones meets Gladiator. There was so much pain and blood. This book was graphic, it was painful, and everyone dies. There were trigger warnings of gore and rape. And I knew this, but it was still extremely painful to read. There was one part in particular that I couldn’t stomach. I didn’t think it could get worse. It did.
Even thought I was disgusted most of the time Silverlegs was amazing. Her hurt turned into hate and that hatred turned her into a legend. I need a second part. I need to know what happens next. I also want I don’t think I’ve ever read a book like this.
September 1, 2019
3.5 stars
I’m a fan of Monk’s Spotless series. Silverlegs could not be more different. There are no quirky characters, no humor, and no guarantee of at least a somewhat happy ending. This story is relentlessly grim and violent. The world, based loosely on the Roman Empire, is misogynistic, homophobic, and without much, if any, redeeming value. Yet Monk brings her knack for building complex characters thrown into adversity to craft a good story here. I can’t say I enjoyed it all, but it captured my attention to the last page, enough so that I will look for the next book in the series to see what happens next.
That’s what it’s all about, after all.
I’m a fan of Monk’s Spotless series. Silverlegs could not be more different. There are no quirky characters, no humor, and no guarantee of at least a somewhat happy ending. This story is relentlessly grim and violent. The world, based loosely on the Roman Empire, is misogynistic, homophobic, and without much, if any, redeeming value. Yet Monk brings her knack for building complex characters thrown into adversity to craft a good story here. I can’t say I enjoyed it all, but it captured my attention to the last page, enough so that I will look for the next book in the series to see what happens next.
That’s what it’s all about, after all.
July 10, 2019
***** 5 Stars *****
Where is the next book?!? どこ!?!
I'm going to go crazy...
Everything Camilla Monk creates is captivating to the end. Her previous stories were quirky with tons of comedy... I never expected her to write something this dark and exciting. This book is FREAKING AMAZING!
If you enjoy reading about strong females like Xena and violent storylines like Game of Thrones, PICK THIS UP!
Where is the next book?!? どこ!?!
I'm going to go crazy...
Everything Camilla Monk creates is captivating to the end. Her previous stories were quirky with tons of comedy... I never expected her to write something this dark and exciting. This book is FREAKING AMAZING!
If you enjoy reading about strong females like Xena and violent storylines like Game of Thrones, PICK THIS UP!
January 11, 2020
I loved this book so much, I worry that I won't do it enough justice with all honesty. From the very first line I was sucked in until I finished the book. It was focused on the war and action with bits of politics and religion here and there.
The story is about this girl, who we never find out what's her real name since she uses her father's name to pretend to be a boy as to not be sexually assaulted or turned into a whore by the mercenaries that finds her. She continues the charades and trains with them and has managed to build a name for herself and became part of the closed circle of the leader. Only when I finished the book did I consider that some people might find her to be a bit of a Mary Sue but I actually loved and enjoyed it so much that I wanted her to be more powerful.
Despite the characters being somewhat horrible, I couldn't help but love the gang so much and loved every banter. I was actually shocked that my ship had any potential.
The book is dark and gritty but I loved almost every part especially the banter and the gore, but disliked the sexual harassment and assault in it. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart and one should read all the trigger warnings before proceeding so they don't feel uncomfortable.
The author explains well the reasons on why she focused on certain aspects of the book and the "controversial parts" to create the setting which I actually enjoyed since it was fresh and didnt shy away from anything.
Overall, I really loved the writing style and the fast pace of the book though I wanted more from the world building. The ending killed me from the inside and reallllllllly wished it wasn't going to end that way but not every book has to have a happy ending to be a good book which is another part that I like but which hurts me so much. I definitely can't wait for next book, especially with that cliffhanger!
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with the digital copy for an honest review.
The story is about this girl, who we never find out what's her real name since she uses her father's name to pretend to be a boy as to not be sexually assaulted or turned into a whore by the mercenaries that finds her. She continues the charades and trains with them and has managed to build a name for herself and became part of the closed circle of the leader. Only when I finished the book did I consider that some people might find her to be a bit of a Mary Sue but I actually loved and enjoyed it so much that I wanted her to be more powerful.
Despite the characters being somewhat horrible, I couldn't help but love the gang so much and loved every banter. I was actually shocked that my ship had any potential.
The book is dark and gritty but I loved almost every part especially the banter and the gore, but disliked the sexual harassment and assault in it. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart and one should read all the trigger warnings before proceeding so they don't feel uncomfortable.
The author explains well the reasons on why she focused on certain aspects of the book and the "controversial parts" to create the setting which I actually enjoyed since it was fresh and didnt shy away from anything.
Overall, I really loved the writing style and the fast pace of the book though I wanted more from the world building. The ending killed me from the inside and reallllllllly wished it wasn't going to end that way but not every book has to have a happy ending to be a good book which is another part that I like but which hurts me so much. I definitely can't wait for next book, especially with that cliffhanger!
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with the digital copy for an honest review.
November 25, 2020
I need the next installment ASAP. This book is like Throne of Glass on steroids and I loved it all. It is not for the faint of heart so considered yourself warned. The writing, characters, settings, story... everything pulled me in and kept me riveted. I can't even write in an intelligent paragraph, that's how caught up in the story still am.
Update:
Silverlegs I: Sead of Rage by Camilla Monk is hands-down my favorite read of the year and I don't anticipate another book surpassing this one. Monk has a way of bringing history to life that transports the reader firmly into a particular time and place. Her descriptions are vivid but not overdone, creating a clear picture without boring the reader with too many details.
And her characters...each unique and captivating in their own right. Silverlegs herself is a fierce and fiery young woman spurred into becoming a formidable soldier by her recent past. The war between her old-self and new-self is just as captivating as the wars that take place on battlefields. I felt her rage come to life on the page and often found myself fired up alongside her.
Just as a heads-up: trigger warning for sexual assault.
I have read this story twice so far and plan on reading it again at least once more in the next few months. If you enjoy the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, you'll like Silverlegs. The protagonist is even less merciful than Aelin in ToG and the characters more intriguing. I cannot recommend this book enough. Now, bring on part two (Please?!)!
***Audiobook update: I struggled with the narrator. I have to wonder if she was hiding an accent because I swear it came out several times. My biggest issue is that her voicing for the main character sounded like Amazon's Alexa narrating. The voices for the other characters were rich and vibrant but the main character just fell flat until the back half of the book. The story was enough to convince me to push through but a weaker story would have had me giving up.
Update:
Silverlegs I: Sead of Rage by Camilla Monk is hands-down my favorite read of the year and I don't anticipate another book surpassing this one. Monk has a way of bringing history to life that transports the reader firmly into a particular time and place. Her descriptions are vivid but not overdone, creating a clear picture without boring the reader with too many details.
And her characters...each unique and captivating in their own right. Silverlegs herself is a fierce and fiery young woman spurred into becoming a formidable soldier by her recent past. The war between her old-self and new-self is just as captivating as the wars that take place on battlefields. I felt her rage come to life on the page and often found myself fired up alongside her.
Just as a heads-up: trigger warning for sexual assault.
I have read this story twice so far and plan on reading it again at least once more in the next few months. If you enjoy the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, you'll like Silverlegs. The protagonist is even less merciful than Aelin in ToG and the characters more intriguing. I cannot recommend this book enough. Now, bring on part two (Please?!)!
***Audiobook update: I struggled with the narrator. I have to wonder if she was hiding an accent because I swear it came out several times. My biggest issue is that her voicing for the main character sounded like Amazon's Alexa narrating. The voices for the other characters were rich and vibrant but the main character just fell flat until the back half of the book. The story was enough to convince me to push through but a weaker story would have had me giving up.
Want to read
September 20, 2019⚔ FREE 9/20/19 ⚔
August 28, 2019
Even though I'm usually going for lighter reads, I love this book so much! Yes, it is dark, gritty, and brutal - but the writing and storytelling is brilliant.
The setting, despite being a fantasy world, feels both familiar and realistic since it is based on Ancient Rome with enough similarites to paint a vivid picture for this Roman history dabbler.
The characters feel all too real, but you might not want to get too attached - your favorite characters likely won't make it out alive (mine didn't).
Following Constanter on her journey from fugitive to warrior was an emotional roller coaster ride that broke my heart into tiny little pieces. (Yes, I ugly-cried. More than once.)
Still, I can't wait to see what the future holds for Constanter!
The setting, despite being a fantasy world, feels both familiar and realistic since it is based on Ancient Rome with enough similarites to paint a vivid picture for this Roman history dabbler.
The characters feel all too real, but you might not want to get too attached - your favorite characters likely won't make it out alive (mine didn't).
Following Constanter on her journey from fugitive to warrior was an emotional roller coaster ride that broke my heart into tiny little pieces. (Yes, I ugly-cried. More than once.)
Still, I can't wait to see what the future holds for Constanter!
Want to read
August 15, 2019ARCs can be requested here: [closed - other review opportunities found here]
August 23, 2019
I love Camilla Monk's writing; she is an unbelievably talented author. Silverlegs is a completely different genre and tone than the Spotless series (how I found her originally) but still is a testament to her very impressive skills. I'm not even sure how to classify this book - I'm not sure if it is really fantasy or not - but mostly I come away thinking of it as an epic coming of age for a young woman in a misogynistic time/world. The politics of the world seem rooted in real history, though I honestly don't know anything about anything so couldn't tell you for sure (don't quote me on that).
I loved Constanter's progression from her escape from her childhood home to becoming Silverlegs. Her determination and will to survive was inspiring. The action and violence were as entertaining as they were horrific. I did find myself a little bored at times, wanting to skim, and I think this is at least in part due to my being a mood reader - where sometimes I want an extremely detailed world and build in between action events, and sometimes I don't. Overall I found this young woman's tale very compelling, and I like how this book ends, what the possibilities are for Silverlegs in book two. I don't think this book will be for everyone - between the violence and the situations a lot of the characters are in or have forced upon them people may want to exercise caution (it is not Spotless!) - but there is no denying it is a really well-written book. Since I would sometimes rate this a 3 and sometimes a 4 depending on my mood when read, I am going with 3.5 stars.
I loved Constanter's progression from her escape from her childhood home to becoming Silverlegs. Her determination and will to survive was inspiring. The action and violence were as entertaining as they were horrific. I did find myself a little bored at times, wanting to skim, and I think this is at least in part due to my being a mood reader - where sometimes I want an extremely detailed world and build in between action events, and sometimes I don't. Overall I found this young woman's tale very compelling, and I like how this book ends, what the possibilities are for Silverlegs in book two. I don't think this book will be for everyone - between the violence and the situations a lot of the characters are in or have forced upon them people may want to exercise caution (it is not Spotless!) - but there is no denying it is a really well-written book. Since I would sometimes rate this a 3 and sometimes a 4 depending on my mood when read, I am going with 3.5 stars.
August 9, 2019
"Silverlegs" happens to be set in a Romanian Empire like set, with all the advantages and disadvantages of living in this time. Its a book about a girl, that would rather be a man in these times, where woman and gay men were only slightly better than stock, and where only brutal strength had a say. The story is brutal, gory, fascinating and absolutely homobophic and women hating, like these times were. Its more of a historical fiction book mixed with a strong heroines story, than anything else. So if you don't like to read books about women be treated like trash, about rape of homophobe man, then this isn't the right one for you.
But I loved it. I loved the honesty of the story, the brutal truth that hid in every sentence. I loved the strong feelings one got while reading and I loved Constanter and Victoria in the end. So much. Like it was so perfect to see, that all this jugular slashing maniac soldiers also have hearts and souls and care for each other as a team.
Would I could have lost without a thought was the ending, that put me into despair and sorrow. I will never recover after this ending! The middle was also a little bit too stretched. But all in all this was a book I would totally recommend, because it was so different from my usual reads and also super exciting and gory.
In the end I can only say you have to read the authors description of the book on Goodreads, because it is hilarious, and I loved the book! It surprised me and is the perfect read for lovers of Nevernight, Kirsten Whites "And I Darken" and Victoria Schwab.
But I loved it. I loved the honesty of the story, the brutal truth that hid in every sentence. I loved the strong feelings one got while reading and I loved Constanter and Victoria in the end. So much. Like it was so perfect to see, that all this jugular slashing maniac soldiers also have hearts and souls and care for each other as a team.
Would I could have lost without a thought was the ending, that put me into despair and sorrow. I will never recover after this ending! The middle was also a little bit too stretched. But all in all this was a book I would totally recommend, because it was so different from my usual reads and also super exciting and gory.
In the end I can only say you have to read the authors description of the book on Goodreads, because it is hilarious, and I loved the book! It surprised me and is the perfect read for lovers of Nevernight, Kirsten Whites "And I Darken" and Victoria Schwab.
Read
June 26, 2019I am a very big fan of Ms. Monk and I love her Spotless series so much! However, this is so not my thing! Therefore I will not rate it at all.
NB: there is a trigger warning by the author and yes, I should have listened. The story is written as amazingly as ever, but it has very graphic scenes of violence.
NB: there is a trigger warning by the author and yes, I should have listened. The story is written as amazingly as ever, but it has very graphic scenes of violence.
July 29, 2019
This author is SO gifted with her story telling. I don't want to share too much regarding the story line, you can read the ticklers mentioned - This original novel, has background similarities to Ancient Roman times, but is a completely original book. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this novel, and appreciate the author creating a strong female character who uses/ channels her inner rage into becoming Silverlegs , a well-seasoned warrior beast, instead of a proper female. This was an amazing story about a female surviving and thriving in an man's world, but not in the stereotypical roles that females are presented with. There is action galore as Silverlegs becomes a quite renowned warrior. Friends and enemies are made. Respect is earned the hard way. The author teases me wanting more, and I, oh so, am looking forward to reading the second book. Check out her other books also - you won't be disappointed!
June 19, 2019
Well, apparently CM can write just any ol' damn thing she wants.
Doesn't matter what it's about, she's gonna go at it hard and come away the winner.
Except, I do notice that she hasn't written anything with ME as the main character. When she does, she'll be complete in her soul. I'm just sure of it!
Now.. dang. I have to wait for the next book. Again.
CRAP! (My teeth are gritted so hard right now)
Where's my coffee..
Doesn't matter what it's about, she's gonna go at it hard and come away the winner.
Except, I do notice that she hasn't written anything with ME as the main character. When she does, she'll be complete in her soul. I'm just sure of it!
Now.. dang. I have to wait for the next book. Again.
CRAP! (My teeth are gritted so hard right now)
Where's my coffee..
August 18, 2019
I'm not sure if this book was a good fit for me. Something felt missing from the storyline and I had trouble connecting to the main character. That doesn't mean I hated it, though. I just didn't love it either.
August 14, 2019
Silver Legs 1 is the first installment in Camilla Monks Seed of Rage Series. It's a book heavily influenced by Ancient Rome with a deep Grimdark twist to it. We follow our MC Constanter, a girl who escapes a life of abuse and misery, only to find herself in an army of mercenaries that has a similar attitude towards women. Her only way to survive is to pretend to be a man and hope that nobody finds out about her secret.
This was the first Grimdark book I've read for quite a while. I must admit, it was the perfect book after the recent reading slump i've had. Anyway, here's my thoughts on Silver Legs 1.
There's absolutely no holding back with this book as we experience abuse, betrayal and gory violence straight from the start. We're thrown straight into a scene of Constanter escaping her abusive family with no safe place to go. Usually I tend to stay away from books that involve sexual abuse purely because it makes me feel uncomfortable, but that wasnt the case with this book. It simply added fire to the story and made it feel realistic, which only made me love the main character even more. Especially when you see her grow from a timid girl with a ton of anger to an all out beast who takes no prisoners.
Monk really focuses on the reality of Ancient Rome and how different it was for men and women. For a woman to not only strive but to become an absolute boss in an environment that gives them little to no rights was extremely satisfying. I'm a sucker for characters who come from nothing to turn their lives around and become a legend. Which is exactly what happens when Constanter becomes the famous warrior, Silver Legs. We get to meet some minor characters that play big parts, Clearchos, the camp leader whose seen as a demigod by the soldiers. Victrix whose one of clearchos' most trusted soldiers and the man who captured Constanter. And then theres Gemina, the camp healer and the only person who knows about constanter's secret. No lie, this part made me nervous and had me on edge throughout the book.
The world building was amazing. Monk creates a fantastic Romaneque world that you can really appreciate. When the characters finally reach the city its like the scene out of Gladiator when everyone is seeing the Colosseum for the first time. It was extremely well written and simply breathtaking. Whilst we're on the subject of having our breath taken away, we should discuss the fight scenes. This book contains some of the goriest and savage deaths I've ever encountered. If you read this book and dont get goosebumps everytime Silver Legs fights, you're dead inside. I lost count of how many people had their throats slit or a blade shoved down their throat. Some of the most spine-tingling and cinematic fighting I've ever read in any book, Camilla Monk is truly an artist when it comes to battles.
Its probably best I stop here before I keep blabbering on and give too much away. But I will say this, Silver Legs is one of the best books I've read this year. I cannot thank netgalley and Yaypub enough for allowing me to review this book and I cannot wait for the next book.
If you're interested in this book, the publication date is 27/08/2019. Trust me you will not be disappointed.
This was the first Grimdark book I've read for quite a while. I must admit, it was the perfect book after the recent reading slump i've had. Anyway, here's my thoughts on Silver Legs 1.
There's absolutely no holding back with this book as we experience abuse, betrayal and gory violence straight from the start. We're thrown straight into a scene of Constanter escaping her abusive family with no safe place to go. Usually I tend to stay away from books that involve sexual abuse purely because it makes me feel uncomfortable, but that wasnt the case with this book. It simply added fire to the story and made it feel realistic, which only made me love the main character even more. Especially when you see her grow from a timid girl with a ton of anger to an all out beast who takes no prisoners.
Monk really focuses on the reality of Ancient Rome and how different it was for men and women. For a woman to not only strive but to become an absolute boss in an environment that gives them little to no rights was extremely satisfying. I'm a sucker for characters who come from nothing to turn their lives around and become a legend. Which is exactly what happens when Constanter becomes the famous warrior, Silver Legs. We get to meet some minor characters that play big parts, Clearchos, the camp leader whose seen as a demigod by the soldiers. Victrix whose one of clearchos' most trusted soldiers and the man who captured Constanter. And then theres Gemina, the camp healer and the only person who knows about constanter's secret. No lie, this part made me nervous and had me on edge throughout the book.
The world building was amazing. Monk creates a fantastic Romaneque world that you can really appreciate. When the characters finally reach the city its like the scene out of Gladiator when everyone is seeing the Colosseum for the first time. It was extremely well written and simply breathtaking. Whilst we're on the subject of having our breath taken away, we should discuss the fight scenes. This book contains some of the goriest and savage deaths I've ever encountered. If you read this book and dont get goosebumps everytime Silver Legs fights, you're dead inside. I lost count of how many people had their throats slit or a blade shoved down their throat. Some of the most spine-tingling and cinematic fighting I've ever read in any book, Camilla Monk is truly an artist when it comes to battles.
Its probably best I stop here before I keep blabbering on and give too much away. But I will say this, Silver Legs is one of the best books I've read this year. I cannot thank netgalley and Yaypub enough for allowing me to review this book and I cannot wait for the next book.
If you're interested in this book, the publication date is 27/08/2019. Trust me you will not be disappointed.
September 1, 2019
There seems to be quite a bit in the trigger warning for this book to warn me away but girl-as-boy trope is a fave of mine plus she's looking pretty bad ass on that cover so I decided that it's worth to try reading this.
This is truly a very grim & dark story right for the very beginning. In fact, I wasn't sure if I'd be able to read through if there are more rape scene and/or if it was more graphic. Yes, the rape scene was pretty much near the beginning of the book and so, it wasn't a big surprised that Constanter was absolutely raging! In fact, this rage was what I had to struggle with... I wouldn't be able to deal if rage and pain were the only 2 emotions she felt.
Constanter is very resourceful, strong, and capable. Thankfully, despite her rage at the helplessness of women in her world and her inability to trust anyone, there are some humour in this sad world. I love her snarky interactions with Vitrix and others. Most of all, I loved cheering her on in her endeavour to rise above her situation. I do have to stress that there are a lot of violence and whilst I have read worst (where I just had to skim the page or skip it altogether), let's just say there are a lot of gore in this one. They are in the middle of war.
I found the world to be quite confusing in that there are wars but Constanter didn't have a choice as to which side she's on. Nor did we ever find out exactly what each side are fighting for (besides power & wealth, if any)... Then again, Constanter came from a backwater village and she herself has no idea the who or whyfor of this war.
As the title indicates, Seed of Rage, is an angry story. It is also dark, violent, and fairly hopeless world. It did however engaged my full attention within 20% of the story and I just had to finish. I must admit, I was full of rage at the ending too and yet, I cannot wait to find out what's going to happen next. Keeping my fingers crossed for book 2 to come sooner than later!
Thanks to Xpresso Book Tours for copy of ebook in exchange of honest review
This is truly a very grim & dark story right for the very beginning. In fact, I wasn't sure if I'd be able to read through if there are more rape scene and/or if it was more graphic. Yes, the rape scene was pretty much near the beginning of the book and so, it wasn't a big surprised that Constanter was absolutely raging! In fact, this rage was what I had to struggle with... I wouldn't be able to deal if rage and pain were the only 2 emotions she felt.
Constanter is very resourceful, strong, and capable. Thankfully, despite her rage at the helplessness of women in her world and her inability to trust anyone, there are some humour in this sad world. I love her snarky interactions with Vitrix and others. Most of all, I loved cheering her on in her endeavour to rise above her situation. I do have to stress that there are a lot of violence and whilst I have read worst (where I just had to skim the page or skip it altogether), let's just say there are a lot of gore in this one. They are in the middle of war.
I found the world to be quite confusing in that there are wars but Constanter didn't have a choice as to which side she's on. Nor did we ever find out exactly what each side are fighting for (besides power & wealth, if any)... Then again, Constanter came from a backwater village and she herself has no idea the who or whyfor of this war.
As the title indicates, Seed of Rage, is an angry story. It is also dark, violent, and fairly hopeless world. It did however engaged my full attention within 20% of the story and I just had to finish. I must admit, I was full of rage at the ending too and yet, I cannot wait to find out what's going to happen next. Keeping my fingers crossed for book 2 to come sooner than later!
Thanks to Xpresso Book Tours for copy of ebook in exchange of honest review
August 19, 2019
Having long been a fan of Camilla Monk’s Spotless series, I had high expectations of Silverlegs: expectations that were, in fact, exceeded, despite the two having very little in common.
Silverlegs is set in a time and place evocative of the Roman Empire. The attitudes of the characters, including the main one are, as a result, as you’d expect: women are subjugated, homophobia is rife, and there is a clear unbending hierarchy. The brutality of the world is reflected in the attitudes of the characters and life is not seen as sacred.
Silverlegs, is a girl, whose whole mentality and choices are shaped by a brutal event that happens to her at the start of the book. This trauma drives her to become someone else and she strives to be entirely invulnerable. To an extent, she succeeds, But at a cost. To say more would be to spoil things, and I really don’t want to!
In some ways, ’Silverlegs’ is a prologue or in fact a chapter - it explains how the character becomes who she is, but there is still so much of the story to be told, and I honestly cannot wait. I read and re-read this book in the space of a weekend, and I still find the twists and turns in the story unpredictable and gut wrenching, and enjoyed delving into the psyche of all the characters.
By the way, if you liked Grace Draven’s ‘Phoenix Unbound’ I think you would enjoy this, as the time periods and worlds have similarities and both have strong determined female leads.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I did, however, also buy the book as it was just so good!
Silverlegs is set in a time and place evocative of the Roman Empire. The attitudes of the characters, including the main one are, as a result, as you’d expect: women are subjugated, homophobia is rife, and there is a clear unbending hierarchy. The brutality of the world is reflected in the attitudes of the characters and life is not seen as sacred.
Silverlegs, is a girl, whose whole mentality and choices are shaped by a brutal event that happens to her at the start of the book. This trauma drives her to become someone else and she strives to be entirely invulnerable. To an extent, she succeeds, But at a cost. To say more would be to spoil things, and I really don’t want to!
In some ways, ’Silverlegs’ is a prologue or in fact a chapter - it explains how the character becomes who she is, but there is still so much of the story to be told, and I honestly cannot wait. I read and re-read this book in the space of a weekend, and I still find the twists and turns in the story unpredictable and gut wrenching, and enjoyed delving into the psyche of all the characters.
By the way, if you liked Grace Draven’s ‘Phoenix Unbound’ I think you would enjoy this, as the time periods and worlds have similarities and both have strong determined female leads.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I did, however, also buy the book as it was just so good!
August 3, 2019
ARC provided by BookSprout in exchange for an honest review.
There's a reason why I love Camilla Monk so much - and that's because she writes so many fucking awesome books - and they just get better with every new series (confession: I liked the Spotless series probably the least of her books. That isn't to say that I didn't love it to pieces - I did! But I like Still more than I like Spotless, and now I like Silverlegs more than I like Still.)
The synopsis of this story is pretty much what's in the blurb - I'm not gonna repeat it. The heroine runs away from her home, from pretty shitty circumstances after something really awful happens to her. She lands from the frying pot into the fire when she's captured, while dressed as a boy, and forcibly drafted into Clearchos's army. And then, her story begins.
Minor spoilers ahead, though. Mostly about characters and stuff. Read at your own will.
There's a plenty lot I can say about every single aspect of this book, and how much I loved it all, but I'm gonna focus on our girl, Constanter. Just because I have a major girl-crush on her. And on Camilla, too, of course.
What I loved about the book was the sheer depth of each character - especially Silverlegs. Also, Camilla Monk's depiction of morality in this book and in the character is amazing. There is no absolute good or bad, just shades of gray. Transactions in morality are mercenary in nature; survival is the only paramount, and honor is kept (well, by most people. On most part). it's a corrupted, pragmatic form of honour, but it's honour all the same. This is what makes the people in the book so relatable, to me.
Two more things stood out for me the most in Silverlegs I: Seed of Rage. One, something I believed was masterfully done, was Constanter's motivation, and her view of the relative position of women, gay men, and those-who-are-not-quite-alpha-men, in her world. The second thing that I really liked and found an thoughtful gesture was that the whole gender-bender aspect wasn't approached in a careless, I'm-adding-this-in-my-book-because-why-not way. Instead it is an astute, meaningful inclusion. Silverleg's desire to for the world to see her past the breasts and the womb - something to be used, then locked away - manifests itself in a way that is incredible and heartbreaking to read. I loved that subplot in the book. I found myself crying over this simple, small desire of hers that takes such a powerful form throughout her journey, and over the fact that this desire is never realised in this book.
I could drone on about the other characters, I suppose, but while they were good, none of them resonated with me the way Silverlegs did (By the way. I read this book three times, and I still didn't get a single glimpse of her real name. No fair, Camilla. Me wants my idol's name). She was simply too bright a star in the sky of this book. I liked Victrix, but he, as someone embedded in the normal mores of that time, served more as a counterfoil to Silverlegs' motivations, her desires. Besides, he wasn't good enough for our girl. I guess I liked Gemina as well, and I admired her strength. But since her priority was only ever her own survival, my opinion of her changed to - Eh, I like you, but I also won't hesitate if it's you and Silverlegs and I have too choose one of you to push under a bus to save the other.
Clearchos, I hated. The boy emperor? Creepy to the power infinite. Parthicus? I'm tentatively hopeful that he won't end up hurting our girl.
And I can't wait for the sequel!
P.S. I'm going to go read the book again, and I'llrant some more add more details when I'm done
There's a reason why I love Camilla Monk so much - and that's because she writes so many fucking awesome books - and they just get better with every new series (confession: I liked the Spotless series probably the least of her books. That isn't to say that I didn't love it to pieces - I did! But I like Still more than I like Spotless, and now I like Silverlegs more than I like Still.)
The synopsis of this story is pretty much what's in the blurb - I'm not gonna repeat it. The heroine runs away from her home, from pretty shitty circumstances after something really awful happens to her. She lands from the frying pot into the fire when she's captured, while dressed as a boy, and forcibly drafted into Clearchos's army. And then, her story begins.
Minor spoilers ahead, though. Mostly about characters and stuff. Read at your own will.
There's a plenty lot I can say about every single aspect of this book, and how much I loved it all, but I'm gonna focus on our girl, Constanter. Just because I have a major girl-crush on her. And on Camilla, too, of course.
What I loved about the book was the sheer depth of each character - especially Silverlegs. Also, Camilla Monk's depiction of morality in this book and in the character is amazing. There is no absolute good or bad, just shades of gray. Transactions in morality are mercenary in nature; survival is the only paramount, and honor is kept (well, by most people. On most part). it's a corrupted, pragmatic form of honour, but it's honour all the same. This is what makes the people in the book so relatable, to me.
Two more things stood out for me the most in Silverlegs I: Seed of Rage. One, something I believed was masterfully done, was Constanter's motivation, and her view of the relative position of women, gay men, and those-who-are-not-quite-alpha-men, in her world. The second thing that I really liked and found an thoughtful gesture was that the whole gender-bender aspect wasn't approached in a careless, I'm-adding-this-in-my-book-because-why-not way. Instead it is an astute, meaningful inclusion. Silverleg's desire to for the world to see her past the breasts and the womb - something to be used, then locked away - manifests itself in a way that is incredible and heartbreaking to read. I loved that subplot in the book. I found myself crying over this simple, small desire of hers that takes such a powerful form throughout her journey, and over the fact that this desire is never realised in this book.
I could drone on about the other characters, I suppose, but while they were good, none of them resonated with me the way Silverlegs did (By the way. I read this book three times, and I still didn't get a single glimpse of her real name. No fair, Camilla. Me wants my idol's name). She was simply too bright a star in the sky of this book. I liked Victrix, but he, as someone embedded in the normal mores of that time, served more as a counterfoil to Silverlegs' motivations, her desires. Besides, he wasn't good enough for our girl. I guess I liked Gemina as well, and I admired her strength. But since her priority was only ever her own survival, my opinion of her changed to - Eh, I like you, but I also won't hesitate if it's you and Silverlegs and I have too choose one of you to push under a bus to save the other.
Clearchos, I hated. The boy emperor? Creepy to the power infinite. Parthicus? I'm tentatively hopeful that he won't end up hurting our girl.
And I can't wait for the sequel!
P.S. I'm going to go read the book again, and I'll
August 26, 2019
I went into this book not knowing what to expect. I LOVE the Spotless series but the note from Camilla made it clear that this was not going to be a fluffy, light-hearted read and I was grateful for the heads up. The language and violence in many forms throughout the book mean that it is not for the faint-hearted. Having said that, these things are built gradually through the first quarter until the world has been established and so I did not find them jarring, they were simply part of the environment the characters find themselves in. I would also say the violence is never gratuitous. It was gory and, in some places, heart-wrenching. I was given enough to 'see' and feel but not so much that it slipped into being used purely for shock factor.
The development of the characters through the book, the dialogue and observations from the lead all create an incredible story that pulls you along with the heroine as her life unfolds. The author hasn't abandoned her style from previous books and there are moments of lightness created as the relationships develop.
If you like a strong heroine battling to take some control of her situation in an unforgiving world and you don't mind a no-holds-barred, survival of the fittest approach to success then don't miss this!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The development of the characters through the book, the dialogue and observations from the lead all create an incredible story that pulls you along with the heroine as her life unfolds. The author hasn't abandoned her style from previous books and there are moments of lightness created as the relationships develop.
If you like a strong heroine battling to take some control of her situation in an unforgiving world and you don't mind a no-holds-barred, survival of the fittest approach to success then don't miss this!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2019
After a violent act, our protagonist runs away from home and dons parts of a dead soldier's uniform and weapons she finds. Using her father's name, she pretends to be a boy and becomes Constanter.
Dealing with survival, the unbelievable strength a person can display in the worst of odds, our protagonist becomes good at it, good at fighting, despite herself. Women and gay men are considered inferior in this Roman Empire like fantasy. But Constanter rises above it, as she becomes a highly skilled soldier. Of course the world thinks she is a man, Silverlegs they call her now, and she must keep the secret at all costs.
Was she made for killing? Was she suited for the violence of war? Ready or not, war changes you. Killing changes you.
Blunt and captivating, in a brutal atmosphere, we are gifted with a wholly appropriate, straight to the point, and utterly personal narrative. The action scenes make you feel like you're in the thick of it, especially the battle ones, experiencing the thrill, desperation and horror all at once.
If you are a lover of the Roman era, war films and the empowerment of the underdog, than this book was made for you.
Dealing with survival, the unbelievable strength a person can display in the worst of odds, our protagonist becomes good at it, good at fighting, despite herself. Women and gay men are considered inferior in this Roman Empire like fantasy. But Constanter rises above it, as she becomes a highly skilled soldier. Of course the world thinks she is a man, Silverlegs they call her now, and she must keep the secret at all costs.
Was she made for killing? Was she suited for the violence of war? Ready or not, war changes you. Killing changes you.
Blunt and captivating, in a brutal atmosphere, we are gifted with a wholly appropriate, straight to the point, and utterly personal narrative. The action scenes make you feel like you're in the thick of it, especially the battle ones, experiencing the thrill, desperation and horror all at once.
If you are a lover of the Roman era, war films and the empowerment of the underdog, than this book was made for you.
August 27, 2019
This ARC was provided for review, but in no way affects the following impartial and unbiased review:
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5*
Let me just leave a simple note: F*ck yessss! This is a freaking masterpiece, I can't believe I didn't hear of it before being given an ARC. I am feeling blessed 😍
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Pros: Bloody, gory, violent and full of anger and revenge. Enthralling portrait of Ancient Rome and war life, sexism and homophobia at the time. Well-written characters, with a great female lead. Very down-to-earth, no sugarcoating. Amazing fight scenes that will take your breath away. Talks about important society issues. Romance takes a background seat in favor of character development.
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Cons: I mean, it broke my heart (aside from that, can't think of a con).
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Trigger warnings: rape scenes and sexual harassment; homophobia, gore and violence.
•
5*
Let me just leave a simple note: F*ck yessss! This is a freaking masterpiece, I can't believe I didn't hear of it before being given an ARC. I am feeling blessed 😍
.
Pros: Bloody, gory, violent and full of anger and revenge. Enthralling portrait of Ancient Rome and war life, sexism and homophobia at the time. Well-written characters, with a great female lead. Very down-to-earth, no sugarcoating. Amazing fight scenes that will take your breath away. Talks about important society issues. Romance takes a background seat in favor of character development.
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Cons: I mean, it broke my heart (aside from that, can't think of a con).
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Trigger warnings: rape scenes and sexual harassment; homophobia, gore and violence.
August 6, 2019
I received a copy of Silverlegs through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Silverlegs is the first novel in the Seed of Rage series by Camilla Monk. The series is mostly fantasy, but with some darker elements woven into the mix. In short, it’s a grimdark tale. It’s perfect for fans looking for something that’ll give them chills and strong emotions.
It’s a dark and violent world that Constanter has grown up in. And it seems to only get darker with each passing day. Forced to go on the run Constanter finds herself caught up in the life of being a forced soldier – all because she dressed like a boy. Now she’s trying to find a way out of this situation, ideally with her life.
I absolutely love that Silverlegs’ description came with a trigger warning. You don’t see many novels doing that these days. I wish more would do so. Silverlegs’ warnings remind us that the novel is set in a time where homophobia and sexism were common. It also warns of sexual violence, rape, graphic violence, and more. Having read the novel, these warnings are spot on.
For more reviews check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
Silverlegs is the first novel in the Seed of Rage series by Camilla Monk. The series is mostly fantasy, but with some darker elements woven into the mix. In short, it’s a grimdark tale. It’s perfect for fans looking for something that’ll give them chills and strong emotions.
It’s a dark and violent world that Constanter has grown up in. And it seems to only get darker with each passing day. Forced to go on the run Constanter finds herself caught up in the life of being a forced soldier – all because she dressed like a boy. Now she’s trying to find a way out of this situation, ideally with her life.
I absolutely love that Silverlegs’ description came with a trigger warning. You don’t see many novels doing that these days. I wish more would do so. Silverlegs’ warnings remind us that the novel is set in a time where homophobia and sexism were common. It also warns of sexual violence, rape, graphic violence, and more. Having read the novel, these warnings are spot on.
For more reviews check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
November 12, 2019
I just spent a holiday weekend devouring this book. I know I'll read it again because in my quest to see what happens next, I didn't fully appreciate the many nuances that made this book so good. The story of Constancer/Silverlegs is gritty and dark, full of hope and defeat, promise and loss, determination and strength. The writing and the story draws you in. The many characters, while confusing at times, will leave you thinking about them when you put the book down. I don't think I've ever read a book like this but I know I want to read more of it. Highly recommended.
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