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The Silent Champions #1
Shields in Shadow
Burdened with legend. Hardened by battle scars. Hellbent on bloody revenge.
As the son of a famous general, Aravon is proud to captain his own company against his people's enemy. But the experienced veteran’s march toward glory dissolves into pain as ruthless barbarians massacre every last one of his soldiers. Burning for vengeance, he leaps at the chance to spearhead a specially-trained company and pay back his tragic defeat with blood.
Desperate to not repeat his tragic past, Aravon trains his new warriors relentlessly. But the captain fears that all the tactical drills in the world may not matter when they’re forced to defend a helpless village against overwhelming odds. As his quick raids sow chaos amongst the enemy, the bloodthirsty savages threaten to make Aravon's nightmarish history repeat itself…
Can the captain take command of his fighting spirit before the kingdom falls to barbarous invaders?
Shields in Shadow is the first book in the action-packed Silent Champions military fantasy series. If you like square-jawed heroes, well-oiled military action, and epic world-building, then you’ll love Andy Peloquin’s gripping novel.
Buy Shields in Shadow to stand at the frontlines of a hero’s revenge today!
As the son of a famous general, Aravon is proud to captain his own company against his people's enemy. But the experienced veteran’s march toward glory dissolves into pain as ruthless barbarians massacre every last one of his soldiers. Burning for vengeance, he leaps at the chance to spearhead a specially-trained company and pay back his tragic defeat with blood.
Desperate to not repeat his tragic past, Aravon trains his new warriors relentlessly. But the captain fears that all the tactical drills in the world may not matter when they’re forced to defend a helpless village against overwhelming odds. As his quick raids sow chaos amongst the enemy, the bloodthirsty savages threaten to make Aravon's nightmarish history repeat itself…
Can the captain take command of his fighting spirit before the kingdom falls to barbarous invaders?
Shields in Shadow is the first book in the action-packed Silent Champions military fantasy series. If you like square-jawed heroes, well-oiled military action, and epic world-building, then you’ll love Andy Peloquin’s gripping novel.
Buy Shields in Shadow to stand at the frontlines of a hero’s revenge today!
375 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
594 people are currently reading
921 people want to read
About the author
Andy Peloquin
89 books1,281 followersI 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!
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!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
July 31, 2020
This series is like a dirty dozen/ guns of navarone type military themed fantasy. I liked Shields in Shadow so much that I ended up binge reading the entire quadrilogy. There are shades of Richard Sharp in the main character when it comes to the relentless fighting and moving from one dire situation to the another. The series has a satisfying ending too which is rare in this kind of fiction. The one criticism I have is its immense length - I feel that half of the books could have been cut away to keep the series nice and tight.
October 7, 2019
Andy Peloquin is a master of dark fantasy!
Read full review in the 2019 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 5, 2019
Duke Dyrund has big plans- hold the line against the Eirdkilrs, drive them back across the Sawtooth Mountains and rebuild Snow Pass Keep so he can unite the Northern Clans in peace.
This plan includes a specialized team led by Captain Aravon, and a whole lot of luck.
As if I wasn’t a big enough fan of the military fantasy sub-genre as it was, all you have to do to make me even happier is add covert-team to the summary!
Meet the team- They’re asked to give up a lot- family, friends, and home, for this long-term crazy idea that the duke has to restore their country.
Captain Avaron- He spent his life living under the shadow of his famous General dad and now he will spend the rest of it living in the shadows.
Snarl- the Enfield- A fox type creature with wings. He’s Avaron’s companion but the little Enfield has taken a liking to Skathi.
Draian- The Mender. His order is of healing but they also have a sect of fighters.
Zaharis- The Secret Keeper and Alchemist communicates only through hand signals. His order is all about keeping their knowledge to themselves. He was my favorite character and I loved every moment he was on-screen. (I can call it that right since it’s an ebook?)
Lt Colborn– The half Fehlen. Capable and observant.
Belthar -the giant of a man is head over heels in love with Skathi and is going to get himself killed trying to protect her in battle, and it may not be from the enemy’s blade.
Noll- the scout is an angry and an annoying little mouthpiece who sometimes realizes he’s being an idiot but it takes a while. (I wasn’t too impressed with him, can you tell? Nothing pleased me more than the beating down he got from a certain redhead)
Skathi- the prickly pear of an archer, can take care of herself just fine, thank you very much, and doesn’t need some man coming to her rescue, especially not that giant of a man Belthar.
There are enough character moments to get a good idea of the team and personalities and a few little tidbits to keep us wanting to know more about them as individuals. With this kind of set-up, I feel like there will be lots of opportunities for character insights as the series grows.
I really liked the addition of that final team member at the end of the book. It was someone whom I enjoyed their appearances throughout the story, and they fill in that gap left with the absence of the one character.
***
Being the first in a series there is a bit of overall setting-up- between introducing us to the team and their efficacies, a feel for the world and politics, enemies old and new and the battles! It’s really well-paced and you can tell this isn’t this author first rodeo because all that was so smoothly wound together!
The plot is a pretty straight-forward team story with lots of room for a series of books, hopefully involving more covert-type action- which there was surprisingly little of in this for a specialized team story.
The fights and battles are fast-paced with no sparing you the brutality and bloodshed with enough stratagem in them to make them fun to see if the plan is going to come together. I also liked the whole Blodhundr’s the unique force in the Eirdkilhrs angle- seems the Duke wasn’t the only one thinking ahead and boy are those guys nasty pieces of work.
This was an exciting popcorn read- thriller-type pacing, good gory battles, and some fun characters to root for, all in all it looks to be a great start to a series that is worth keeping an eye on.
Thank you to Andy Peloquin for the ARC!
November 17, 2025
Would have been a much better book if the entire first half wasn't dedicated to the team getting together and training. Even with so many pages about that, there is no background for anyone on the team other than the captain.
The second half of the book is fine. The local Duke gathers a "Dirty Half Dozen" to combat against marauding barbarians who are attacking and wiping out local villages.
This first book is more in the vein of a Bernard Cornwell style swords and archery battle style with little to no magic. lt held my interest enough in the second half to have hope for the second book.
The second half of the book is fine. The local Duke gathers a "Dirty Half Dozen" to combat against marauding barbarians who are attacking and wiping out local villages.
This first book is more in the vein of a Bernard Cornwell style swords and archery battle style with little to no magic. lt held my interest enough in the second half to have hope for the second book.
August 29, 2019
Some demons can only be slain by the passage of time.
Aravon, the once-proud and renowned Captain of the Legion's Sixth Company, is now sole survivor of the bloodshed and carnage allotted by the imposing Eirdkilr barbarians. The savages have one goal: to rid Fehl of the half-men - those who traveled across the Frozen Sea, and took what wasn't theirs to take. Narrowly escaping the fate of his men, Aravon finds sanctuary under the care and protection of the Duke of Eastfall, a man who bravely fought alongside his own father. With hope of securing their foothold in Fehl, and driving the barbarians back across the Sawtooth Mountains, the Duke establishes an elite force to work in the shadows, subverting the Legion Aravon once loyally served. Aravon and his team must infiltrate the Eirdkilrs from inside their own territory in order to save the entire kingdom. Against the odds, is there a chance for success, or will his fear of repeated failure, and underlying need for forgiveness and redemption hinder his path?
Shields in Shadow is a perfect example of what Military Fantasy has to offer: mathematically strategic and filled with visceral, high-energy, and bloody battles. While I originally went into this story expecting a first-class crew single-handedly picking apart the enemy from the inside, the nameless company relies on planning, subterfuge, and sheer luck to aid those that lie in the Eirdkilrs' path. With very specific information - odds, yardage, travel times, sizes of weapons (and people) - I often found myself feeling like a General leaning over a marker-covered map, listening to my Commanders tirelessly discussing battle and travel tactics. While this comprehensive and scientific approach may work for most, there were instances that began to pull me from the immersion of the story. The beginning of the book builds a powerful engine for vengeance, but at times I felt as though this concept took a backseat in the events that followed. What started as a tale of retribution essentially became the saga of Captain Aravon and his redemption.
Peloquin presents us with a diverse cast of strongly developed characters, reminiscent of a well-rounded role-playing party. Aravon, Legionnaire Captain living in his father's shadow, a true leader of men, yet broken by slaughter. Colborn, the unlikely, yet capable half-Fehlan Lieutenant, master of the lands. Belthar, the massive axe-wielding warrior with a heart of gold, always throwing himself towards the frontlines. Zaharis, the mysterious and monk-like Secret Keeper, master alchemist and honed warrior. Noll, a talented Scout of the shattered Sixth Company who deeply resents Aravon for surviving the massacre. Draian, the Mender/healer who's more comfortable fixing men than breaking them. And finally Skathi, an archer specifically trained to counter Eirdkilr ranged weapons, and sole woman on the team. In order to achieve the impossible, they must work together as a cohesive unit, despite only being acquainted with each other for a short amount of time. Witnessing the building of trust, as well as the brotherly/soldierly banter, added an appreciated levity to an otherwise dark story.
While the first third of the book introduces us to and develops the character dynamics, the rest is spent on the many highways, forest paths, and wagon trails throughout Fehl. Our group of heroes is always on the move, in hopes of staying ahead of the Eirdkilr horde and preventing the destruction it will inevitably leave in its wake. Stories told around campfires and while atop horseback are vehicles for worldbuilding, intelligently narrating the past, preparing for the present, and setting up the future. We get but a glimpse of the magic and myth infused into the world, with insights into an enigmatic race that came before - one able to harness the mysteries of creation, and the present chase to unlock those secrets. Creatures of legend grace the skies and lands, and mentions of gifts bestowed by the gods piqued my interest. I only wished these aspects were built upon more as we traveled farther into Fehlan territory.
Carefully written with sharp attention to minute details, Peloquin has created a treat for fans of the Military Fantasy sub-genre. The book ties up nicely, but the final chapter paves the way for the future of the series with a jarring unanswered question. I will admit I found myself questioning several inconstancies, mainly when it came to communication between our heroes, as well as instances of unnecessary repetition, but the underlying story kept the pages turning at a rapid pace. If you're looking for strategy and beautifully executed action, then Shields in Shadow is what you're looking for.
Note: I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a complementary advanced copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
Aravon, the once-proud and renowned Captain of the Legion's Sixth Company, is now sole survivor of the bloodshed and carnage allotted by the imposing Eirdkilr barbarians. The savages have one goal: to rid Fehl of the half-men - those who traveled across the Frozen Sea, and took what wasn't theirs to take. Narrowly escaping the fate of his men, Aravon finds sanctuary under the care and protection of the Duke of Eastfall, a man who bravely fought alongside his own father. With hope of securing their foothold in Fehl, and driving the barbarians back across the Sawtooth Mountains, the Duke establishes an elite force to work in the shadows, subverting the Legion Aravon once loyally served. Aravon and his team must infiltrate the Eirdkilrs from inside their own territory in order to save the entire kingdom. Against the odds, is there a chance for success, or will his fear of repeated failure, and underlying need for forgiveness and redemption hinder his path?
Shields in Shadow is a perfect example of what Military Fantasy has to offer: mathematically strategic and filled with visceral, high-energy, and bloody battles. While I originally went into this story expecting a first-class crew single-handedly picking apart the enemy from the inside, the nameless company relies on planning, subterfuge, and sheer luck to aid those that lie in the Eirdkilrs' path. With very specific information - odds, yardage, travel times, sizes of weapons (and people) - I often found myself feeling like a General leaning over a marker-covered map, listening to my Commanders tirelessly discussing battle and travel tactics. While this comprehensive and scientific approach may work for most, there were instances that began to pull me from the immersion of the story. The beginning of the book builds a powerful engine for vengeance, but at times I felt as though this concept took a backseat in the events that followed. What started as a tale of retribution essentially became the saga of Captain Aravon and his redemption.
Peloquin presents us with a diverse cast of strongly developed characters, reminiscent of a well-rounded role-playing party. Aravon, Legionnaire Captain living in his father's shadow, a true leader of men, yet broken by slaughter. Colborn, the unlikely, yet capable half-Fehlan Lieutenant, master of the lands. Belthar, the massive axe-wielding warrior with a heart of gold, always throwing himself towards the frontlines. Zaharis, the mysterious and monk-like Secret Keeper, master alchemist and honed warrior. Noll, a talented Scout of the shattered Sixth Company who deeply resents Aravon for surviving the massacre. Draian, the Mender/healer who's more comfortable fixing men than breaking them. And finally Skathi, an archer specifically trained to counter Eirdkilr ranged weapons, and sole woman on the team. In order to achieve the impossible, they must work together as a cohesive unit, despite only being acquainted with each other for a short amount of time. Witnessing the building of trust, as well as the brotherly/soldierly banter, added an appreciated levity to an otherwise dark story.
While the first third of the book introduces us to and develops the character dynamics, the rest is spent on the many highways, forest paths, and wagon trails throughout Fehl. Our group of heroes is always on the move, in hopes of staying ahead of the Eirdkilr horde and preventing the destruction it will inevitably leave in its wake. Stories told around campfires and while atop horseback are vehicles for worldbuilding, intelligently narrating the past, preparing for the present, and setting up the future. We get but a glimpse of the magic and myth infused into the world, with insights into an enigmatic race that came before - one able to harness the mysteries of creation, and the present chase to unlock those secrets. Creatures of legend grace the skies and lands, and mentions of gifts bestowed by the gods piqued my interest. I only wished these aspects were built upon more as we traveled farther into Fehlan territory.
Carefully written with sharp attention to minute details, Peloquin has created a treat for fans of the Military Fantasy sub-genre. The book ties up nicely, but the final chapter paves the way for the future of the series with a jarring unanswered question. I will admit I found myself questioning several inconstancies, mainly when it came to communication between our heroes, as well as instances of unnecessary repetition, but the underlying story kept the pages turning at a rapid pace. If you're looking for strategy and beautifully executed action, then Shields in Shadow is what you're looking for.
Note: I'd like to thank the author for providing me with a complementary advanced copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2022
My first read of a full length Andy Peloquin novel. The author succeeds with what he wants to do here, so 5***** from me, with full review below. There are no real spoilers, but since this book hasn't released yet I will cover the rest as a spoiler in case people don't want too much information.
Overall, this is an interesting opening to a series. It has a simplicity to it that makes it accessible to a YA audience, but at the same time has a solid military grounding that satisfied yours truly. In character, plot and worldbuilding it lacked the kind of complexity that I usually enjoy, but offers hope that these will be developed in later installments. At times there were more ‘gimmicky’ aspects thrown in which didn’t work for me – it’s hard to know what direction the author will take it in, but if this develops into a more brooding war epic from a soldier’s point of view I will be pleased!
Overall, this is an interesting opening to a series. It has a simplicity to it that makes it accessible to a YA audience, but at the same time has a solid military grounding that satisfied yours truly. In character, plot and worldbuilding it lacked the kind of complexity that I usually enjoy, but offers hope that these will be developed in later installments. At times there were more ‘gimmicky’ aspects thrown in which didn’t work for me – it’s hard to know what direction the author will take it in, but if this develops into a more brooding war epic from a soldier’s point of view I will be pleased!
June 1, 2022
Re-read.
Full of action and excitement, this is a fast paced example of the military fantasy genre and anyone who likes their novels to be full of git, blood and axes flying will surely find this right up their street. Starting with the absolute decimation of his company of men, Aravon finds himself recovered from deaths door only to lead a very different kind of company. With a company of just six, he is given the task of using subterfuge and trickery to bring the enemy down from the inside, or at least scythe down their numbers to something a little more manageable for the main army to cope with. Peloquin sets up the odds very well, with the Eirdkilr barbarian forces standing over seven foot tall and using strategies that work against the typical strictly controlled formations of the Legions armies. Year after year, the humans - or Eird, half-men as the Eirdkilr call them - have found themselves pushed further back and have lost more and more men to what is becoming to seem like a hopeless war of attrition. It is down to Aravon to tip the scales.
Some aspects of this are done really very well indeed and I count the characterisations and development of characters throughout the novel as one of these aspects. All seven of our key characters are drawn out in wonderful detail, each with their own flaws and issues and yet each playing a key part in the formation of this little band of fighters. Aravon is depicted well as a man living in the shadow of his famous father and yet trying to lead in his own distinctive and caring way. The group around him are no less individual with a giant with a heart of absolute gold, even as he flings enemies across the fields with his axe, a snarky scout with a talent for really hacking off the ladies and a chip on his shoulder, a master at sneaking through terrain and a talented and fiercely independent female archer. Adding to this you then have a Secret-Keeper with a talent for cooking up masterpieces of alchemy and tricks yet also handy with a weapon and a Mender who is deeply uncomfortable about sticking people with the pointy end of a sword. The team is chucked together and Peloquin manages to capture the building of trust and strength that comes from being thrown into impossible situations. Each and every one of the characters manages to stand out in their own right.
The story is undeniably dark with a lot of blood, gore and battle cries, but the way the relationships between characters are built adds a degree of levity to what could otherwise simply be grim slaughter after slaughter. This is very much needed because the story goes from one pitched battle to another and then another, all fighting what seem like impossible odds. When our characters aren't trying to not get killed they are journeying towards another battle in which they may well get killed. Whilst this certainly keeps you on your toes, I did find that it became rather samey after a while and lacked the depth, passion and intensity that I found so powerful in Peloquin's other series, Child of the Night Guild (full five star recommendation there). There's only so much hacking and slashing that I can take before it starts to lose the power and meaning and my limit was surpassed here. That said, Peloquin certainly knows how to write a fraught battle scene.
The world building also seemed lacking in some ways - whilst we get introduced to some of the aspects of magic and mystery, much of the background of this world hasn't yet been filled in. I would have liked to see more of this kind of attention in favour of removing a few of the hack, slash, beat 'em up scenes. What we do get is certainly interesting and I am really interested to find out more, particularly about that mysterious group of Secret Keepers, there just wasn't quite enough of it for me. That's a very personal note though as the style of writing will be far more suitable for someone who takes great joy in the violence of the action scenes. Everyone is individual and this will undoubtedly strike exactly the right notes for some people.
So, all in all? I'm interested but not enthralled. I will certainly read the follow on in the series because I really enjoyed witnessing the way the characters interacted. Peloquin has also set himself up with an intriguing mystery to solve as the potential focus of the next storyline and I am keen to see where he takes this as it could be a very different tone indeed depending on what path he chooses to take.
Full of action and excitement, this is a fast paced example of the military fantasy genre and anyone who likes their novels to be full of git, blood and axes flying will surely find this right up their street. Starting with the absolute decimation of his company of men, Aravon finds himself recovered from deaths door only to lead a very different kind of company. With a company of just six, he is given the task of using subterfuge and trickery to bring the enemy down from the inside, or at least scythe down their numbers to something a little more manageable for the main army to cope with. Peloquin sets up the odds very well, with the Eirdkilr barbarian forces standing over seven foot tall and using strategies that work against the typical strictly controlled formations of the Legions armies. Year after year, the humans - or Eird, half-men as the Eirdkilr call them - have found themselves pushed further back and have lost more and more men to what is becoming to seem like a hopeless war of attrition. It is down to Aravon to tip the scales.
Some aspects of this are done really very well indeed and I count the characterisations and development of characters throughout the novel as one of these aspects. All seven of our key characters are drawn out in wonderful detail, each with their own flaws and issues and yet each playing a key part in the formation of this little band of fighters. Aravon is depicted well as a man living in the shadow of his famous father and yet trying to lead in his own distinctive and caring way. The group around him are no less individual with a giant with a heart of absolute gold, even as he flings enemies across the fields with his axe, a snarky scout with a talent for really hacking off the ladies and a chip on his shoulder, a master at sneaking through terrain and a talented and fiercely independent female archer. Adding to this you then have a Secret-Keeper with a talent for cooking up masterpieces of alchemy and tricks yet also handy with a weapon and a Mender who is deeply uncomfortable about sticking people with the pointy end of a sword. The team is chucked together and Peloquin manages to capture the building of trust and strength that comes from being thrown into impossible situations. Each and every one of the characters manages to stand out in their own right.
The story is undeniably dark with a lot of blood, gore and battle cries, but the way the relationships between characters are built adds a degree of levity to what could otherwise simply be grim slaughter after slaughter. This is very much needed because the story goes from one pitched battle to another and then another, all fighting what seem like impossible odds. When our characters aren't trying to not get killed they are journeying towards another battle in which they may well get killed. Whilst this certainly keeps you on your toes, I did find that it became rather samey after a while and lacked the depth, passion and intensity that I found so powerful in Peloquin's other series, Child of the Night Guild (full five star recommendation there). There's only so much hacking and slashing that I can take before it starts to lose the power and meaning and my limit was surpassed here. That said, Peloquin certainly knows how to write a fraught battle scene.
The world building also seemed lacking in some ways - whilst we get introduced to some of the aspects of magic and mystery, much of the background of this world hasn't yet been filled in. I would have liked to see more of this kind of attention in favour of removing a few of the hack, slash, beat 'em up scenes. What we do get is certainly interesting and I am really interested to find out more, particularly about that mysterious group of Secret Keepers, there just wasn't quite enough of it for me. That's a very personal note though as the style of writing will be far more suitable for someone who takes great joy in the violence of the action scenes. Everyone is individual and this will undoubtedly strike exactly the right notes for some people.
So, all in all? I'm interested but not enthralled. I will certainly read the follow on in the series because I really enjoyed witnessing the way the characters interacted. Peloquin has also set himself up with an intriguing mystery to solve as the potential focus of the next storyline and I am keen to see where he takes this as it could be a very different tone indeed depending on what path he chooses to take.
February 16, 2023
This was a fun and quick enough read.
I enjoyed the characters and especially the flying pet fox.
For me personally it felt a bit shallow at times. Both in the characters that really took a while to get from two dimensional tropes to more rounded people and also in the military strategy.
For a book that leans this heavily on the military aspects it often felt a bit too quick and easily resolved.
Nevertheless I was well entertained and wanted to know what would happen next!
I enjoyed the characters and especially the flying pet fox.
For me personally it felt a bit shallow at times. Both in the characters that really took a while to get from two dimensional tropes to more rounded people and also in the military strategy.
For a book that leans this heavily on the military aspects it often felt a bit too quick and easily resolved.
Nevertheless I was well entertained and wanted to know what would happen next!
December 31, 2021
I don’t care what anyone says! I like Noll!
September 11, 2019
SPECTACULAR!! Is the first word that comes to my mind after reading this book. Mr. Peloquin does it again with his new series The Silent Champions.
Action, adventure, characters you fall in love with, warriors, friendship, and loyalty are just a few things you will find in this beautifully written book.
I highly recommend you read this if you enjoy an epic fantasy read. I for one cannot wait for the next book to come out!
Action, adventure, characters you fall in love with, warriors, friendship, and loyalty are just a few things you will find in this beautifully written book.
I highly recommend you read this if you enjoy an epic fantasy read. I for one cannot wait for the next book to come out!
January 30, 2023
Shields in Shadow draws you into the heat of battle with a gripping action and heart-pounding scenes!
Books that are filled with epic battle scenes are among my favorites and Peloquin did one helluva job! The small elite force reminds me of the band in Kings of the Wyld. In this book, each of the characters is believed dead and now work in the shadows. Each of the seven have their own specialty, unique personality, and brand of awesomeness.
Aravon and Skathi were my favorites. Aravon the born leader who must suppress his fear, his doubts, and carry the burden of guilt for the men who died under his command. Skathi, the fiercely independent archer with the fiery temper. And then there's Snarl, the little enfield (flying fox), who was cute as hell. His presence really gave the story that much more depth. It'll be interesting to see what Snarl (who is a messenger) does in future books as it grows fiercer. (I hope to see some really cool aerial attacks!!) I also hope to see more of Skathi's backstory because I'm certain it's an incredible story that could be a book in itself!
Peloquin never fails to disappoint. He truly is a master storyteller, and I'm really looking forward to see what unique twists, stories, and characters he brings to the fantasy genre. Whatever it is, I know it's going to be EPIC!!
Books that are filled with epic battle scenes are among my favorites and Peloquin did one helluva job! The small elite force reminds me of the band in Kings of the Wyld. In this book, each of the characters is believed dead and now work in the shadows. Each of the seven have their own specialty, unique personality, and brand of awesomeness.
Aravon and Skathi were my favorites. Aravon the born leader who must suppress his fear, his doubts, and carry the burden of guilt for the men who died under his command. Skathi, the fiercely independent archer with the fiery temper. And then there's Snarl, the little enfield (flying fox), who was cute as hell. His presence really gave the story that much more depth. It'll be interesting to see what Snarl (who is a messenger) does in future books as it grows fiercer. (I hope to see some really cool aerial attacks!!) I also hope to see more of Skathi's backstory because I'm certain it's an incredible story that could be a book in itself!
Peloquin never fails to disappoint. He truly is a master storyteller, and I'm really looking forward to see what unique twists, stories, and characters he brings to the fantasy genre. Whatever it is, I know it's going to be EPIC!!
September 8, 2019
Great Characters , World Building and a Story Line that leaves you wanting more
March 8, 2025
This was pure, low epic military fantasy at its finest. It had a fantastic found family dynamic, heroic heroes, and numerous action filled large and small scale battle sequences that felt well paced. The author writes in an engaging, accessible style that keeps the story moving. I really liked this world with its somewhat Viking feeling people’s and weapons, mixed with legion style fighting tactics. There also is an undertone of what kind of feels like science fiction with its references to earlier cultures and races that were more advanced in certain ways. There’s alchemy and other science based aspects that really broaden the way this world might be revealed in future books. I really enjoyed this and the narration was dynamic and exciting from the very first word, “AMBUSH!” Mr. Ralph Lister was a perfect fit here.
May 26, 2019
This book is an excellent entry into the Military Fantasy field. While it can be read as a stand alone book, it is, happily, the start of a new series by Author Peloquin
Captain Aravon is a veteran soldier in the Legion defending his people against an enemy who has suddenly changed their tactics. The Legion has not. Suffering defeat, he is offered a chance to command a new group to combat the enemy who wishes to drive his people and their allies to a utter destruction.
The book focuses on character building and the drawing together of this new group. Battles and tactics are well thought out and described, yet it is the character and world building that brings it all together and lifts this book into the extraordinary.
I enjoyed it a great deal and look forward to reading more books set in this world.
I received an ARC of the book and have chosen to review it.
Captain Aravon is a veteran soldier in the Legion defending his people against an enemy who has suddenly changed their tactics. The Legion has not. Suffering defeat, he is offered a chance to command a new group to combat the enemy who wishes to drive his people and their allies to a utter destruction.
The book focuses on character building and the drawing together of this new group. Battles and tactics are well thought out and described, yet it is the character and world building that brings it all together and lifts this book into the extraordinary.
I enjoyed it a great deal and look forward to reading more books set in this world.
I received an ARC of the book and have chosen to review it.
August 4, 2019
Received this book as an ARC. Thus is riveting story.! As I devoured page after page reading and wondering what was going to happen next ,i realized that at times i was holding my breath. This tale of soldier fighting for life and those of his comrades let alone their world, against all odds. The strange group of soldiers/warriors and a creature of myth... this is a must read tale. The strategy of war and the battles fought...this is my kind of book! Blood, guts, war, save the world and do it all with one group of legendary warriors.
June 27, 2019
I like this new trend where main characters are specialists of the field that they are in and do not make stupid mistakes because of that.
Plot wise its a strait forward story we have 7 man team with specific skills that need to help the war and somehow turn it around think of them special forces.
Now for the character we are introduces to 7 members in the team all of them have something that will help on the mission. One thing that buged me is that they all have specific trait for characterization almost one dimensional and because of that it was hard to attache to them maby next book will flesh them out more
Now the pace and action are top notch battles fell dynamic and alive everything that happens feels natural in the context of the story and i loved it.
Til the last chapter in the book i was thinking that it is 3 star book good nothing special but the last chapter pushed it to 4 start not gona spoil it but now i cant wait for the sequel.
Plot wise its a strait forward story we have 7 man team with specific skills that need to help the war and somehow turn it around think of them special forces.
Now for the character we are introduces to 7 members in the team all of them have something that will help on the mission. One thing that buged me is that they all have specific trait for characterization almost one dimensional and because of that it was hard to attache to them maby next book will flesh them out more
Now the pace and action are top notch battles fell dynamic and alive everything that happens feels natural in the context of the story and i loved it.
Til the last chapter in the book i was thinking that it is 3 star book good nothing special but the last chapter pushed it to 4 start not gona spoil it but now i cant wait for the sequel.
June 28, 2019
The set up for this world was very interesting. It wasn't annoyingly restricted by primitive ideals that is normally seen in this particular setting. The belief system and the lifestyle s of this world appears to allow for more broad thinking than what you expected from this type of story.
I felt detached from the characters though. There wasn't enough development or character interaction for me to gauge their personalities. So, can't really from a opinion.
I felt detached from the characters though. There wasn't enough development or character interaction for me to gauge their personalities. So, can't really from a opinion.
July 19, 2024
Extremely Fast Paced Action novel which hits strides with the story and plot. The characters and story has no fluff in between but keeps the emotions and action in a precise balance. The war and combat sequences reminded me of John Gwynne's shield war tactics and the build-up of tension was on point throughout the story. Much better than Darkblade Assassin.
May 23, 2019
This breath taking first book in the series The Silent Champions is what I envisage becoming a fantasy epic saga full of great battle scenes enacted between the Eirdkilrs and our masked, hence faceless and voiceless, champions of Icespire. The select group consisting of Aravon, previously a commander in the legionnaires whose guilty conscience gives him hell all the time, Colborn a half Falhan lieutenant, Belthar a giant warrior, Skathi the only female previously of the Agrotorae and a real menace with her bow and arrow, Noll the scout, also a legionnaire, Draian a healer, Zaharis a priest known as a secret keeper from the temple of whispers and of course Snarl the little enfield who was to serve as messenger. This team answered only to Prince Toran and Duke Dryund and were to be the protectors of their lands which were being overrun by the Eirdklrs and now also by the Blodhundr whose Chieftain Hrolf Hrungnir was fearsome and had no qualms about killing all half-men including their women and children in the most brutal of ways. Our cast of heroes are courageous to a fault and watch each other's backs looking out for their people against all odds. A violent book but a very heroic one, gripping from start to finish and with an ending which leaves us yearning for book 2.
August 24, 2019
Captain Aravon has been tasked with setting up a special force of soldiers, a small band of 7 to take out the vicious barbarians, the Eirdkilrs. He must train and ready his small band of warriors, and save his kingdom. Will they be able to defeat their enemies, or will the past rear its ugly head?
There is no doubt that Mr. Peloquin is a master at the written word, and it wounds me to give this book a 3 star, as I have read a couple of his other books and absolutely loved them! Sadly there isn't much depth to the characters, and the whole story is about the training for war, and the battles themselves. There is no delving in to the relationships between the characters, it's all the blood and guts of war. If you are squeamish, be forewarned...it's a bloody tale. They all do come to care for one another, but there just isn't enough about each of them, their backgrounds and such to make one invested. The one character in the story that does capture the attention is Zaharis, out of all the character's he is the most intriguing and I do hope he gets his own story.
I was given an ARC for my honest opinion.
There is no doubt that Mr. Peloquin is a master at the written word, and it wounds me to give this book a 3 star, as I have read a couple of his other books and absolutely loved them! Sadly there isn't much depth to the characters, and the whole story is about the training for war, and the battles themselves. There is no delving in to the relationships between the characters, it's all the blood and guts of war. If you are squeamish, be forewarned...it's a bloody tale. They all do come to care for one another, but there just isn't enough about each of them, their backgrounds and such to make one invested. The one character in the story that does capture the attention is Zaharis, out of all the character's he is the most intriguing and I do hope he gets his own story.
I was given an ARC for my honest opinion.
August 23, 2019
Overall rating: 5
Abiarazi....what a great tie in! Made me so happy that I knew that! I know, it’s an odd way to start a review, but it’s just one small thing of many that add up to the greatness of this read. First, these battle scenes, I felt right there watching the sheer determination of these characters. I also cheered when the commander got punched! Not a fan of battle books? Read this one and it should change your mind! I plot out my books on a calendar to ensure I finish any that have time deadlines and this book jumped out of line. Yes folks, this is truly a “ stay up to finish” tome. Loved it and looking forward to book 2. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
Abiarazi....what a great tie in! Made me so happy that I knew that! I know, it’s an odd way to start a review, but it’s just one small thing of many that add up to the greatness of this read. First, these battle scenes, I felt right there watching the sheer determination of these characters. I also cheered when the commander got punched! Not a fan of battle books? Read this one and it should change your mind! I plot out my books on a calendar to ensure I finish any that have time deadlines and this book jumped out of line. Yes folks, this is truly a “ stay up to finish” tome. Loved it and looking forward to book 2. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
September 17, 2019
An amazing read
Shields in Shadow is a fast paced action packed read. I honestly didn't think military fantasy would be my thing but Andy Peloquin delivers an amazing adventure with well developed characters and excellent story telling that pulled me in from the beginning until the end and I'm eagerly awaiting book 2!
Shields in Shadow is a fast paced action packed read. I honestly didn't think military fantasy would be my thing but Andy Peloquin delivers an amazing adventure with well developed characters and excellent story telling that pulled me in from the beginning until the end and I'm eagerly awaiting book 2!
August 14, 2019
I love this book! I really enjoyed the intensity of the battle scene right off the bat, what a way to start a book. It reminded me of the opening scene of the movie, "Saving Private Ryan". The strong entrance drives home the severity of the situation. The author, Andy Peloquin, is a master of fight scenes and battles. This book also reminds me of another movie, "The Devil's Brigade" with William Holden, where an elite group of specially trained soldiers from Canada and the U.S. parachute behind German lines and use their Guerrilla style combat. The similarity between the movie and his book stops at Guerrilla commandos. The story really took off for me when they were finally done with training and left for their first mission. The interwoven threads of suspense, intrigue, difficulties and investigative solutions sprinkled with a touch of humor makes this an exciting and entertaining read. You will not be bored, put this at the top of your 5 star books to be read list.
I was giving this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
I was giving this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2019
I loved this book! It begins and ends with non-stop action. The characters are a motley crew of "specialists," each with their own unique skill set that makes them an unstoppable force. The team has all of the characters that make them a fun loving bunch, like the guy who takes everything so seriously, the fun and innocent brute, a humble genius, a strong and independent woman, and the inappropriate knuckle head. As a veteran, I loved how the team took shots at each other through out the book. It builds camaraderie like nothing else. I almost read it cover to cover in one day, but my wife made me put it down and go to bed, cause sleeping before work is so important, just like breakfast. I was over the moon ecstatic that the story takes place in Einan, I can only imagine and dream of the introduction of some very familiar characters from the Hero of Darkness and Heirs of Destiny series. Full disclosure, I was not very pleased that Andy wasn't going to further develop the Hunter or Heirs after their series left holes in my heart, but this did the trick.
November 9, 2020
This is a highly enjoyable military fantasy. From the first chapter, the action is tense, the horror unabated. It’s as warfare should be, a bloody mess of pain. It establishes a hatred of the enemy and a strong fear of their mission. Then the story falls into the aftermath and possibly a new way for the kingdom to fight back. Can military legionaries become guerilla warfare fighters? A secret weapon of the Prince?
My biggest complaint so far is that past 30% and no magic. A choice of taste I suppose. A very adorable mythic creature though. A fox with wings! There’s possibly some healing magic, but it’s not explored much at this point. I’ll keep reading this one. I think the Secret Keeper knows old magics.
The prose is good, the writing is good and the plot is unique. The characterizations become key points early on. While I’m not quite as hooked as other readers would undoubtedly be, those who enjoy military fantasy will enjoy Shields in Shadow.
My biggest complaint so far is that past 30% and no magic. A choice of taste I suppose. A very adorable mythic creature though. A fox with wings! There’s possibly some healing magic, but it’s not explored much at this point. I’ll keep reading this one. I think the Secret Keeper knows old magics.
The prose is good, the writing is good and the plot is unique. The characterizations become key points early on. While I’m not quite as hooked as other readers would undoubtedly be, those who enjoy military fantasy will enjoy Shields in Shadow.
June 12, 2019
Fans of the Darkblade series won't be disappointed with this prequel series. Peloquin is the absolute king of fight scenes, and as nearly the whole book takes place either on the battlefield or on the way to a battlefield, there's enough gripping action to satisfy the most bloodthirsty.
One of the things I appreciate about this author is that even while writing the most thrilling battle scenes, he never descends into mere splattergore. There is a fine line here, and Peloquin treads it with the grace of a master, detailing the most horrendous scenes of carnage without ever wallowing in the gruesome for its own sake.
Those who appreciate Peloquin's work more for the characters than for the fighting won't be sorry to pick up this book either. An engaging protagonist, a good cast of supporting characters and above all the adorable Enfield give the story plenty of human interest.
One of the things I appreciate about this author is that even while writing the most thrilling battle scenes, he never descends into mere splattergore. There is a fine line here, and Peloquin treads it with the grace of a master, detailing the most horrendous scenes of carnage without ever wallowing in the gruesome for its own sake.
Those who appreciate Peloquin's work more for the characters than for the fighting won't be sorry to pick up this book either. An engaging protagonist, a good cast of supporting characters and above all the adorable Enfield give the story plenty of human interest.
May 31, 2019
i think i like it! it always takes me a minute to decide. the characters are well-rounded and i find myself caring about them, always a great sign. the rest of the series will definitely hit my "want to read" list.
July 9, 2019
Defeat, dead comrades, despair, and
near - death turn into a new chance
for vengeance, victory and a new beginning.
This is an excellent story !!
Phyllis
near - death turn into a new chance
for vengeance, victory and a new beginning.
This is an excellent story !!
Phyllis
August 18, 2019
enjoyed reading this military fantasy action packed from the start and throughout
August 28, 2019
Loved it! Excellent characters and a great story that leaves you wanting so much more to come.
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