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The Executioner's Song #4
The Executioner's Rebellion
Executioners bring order to chaos, but will Justice be enough to stop what’s coming?
As executioner within Verendal, Finn takes on more responsibility, especially now that he’s saved the kingdom from repeated attack, but he still struggles with his place within the city.
When protests erupt within Verendal, with those from the poorer sections clashing with Archers, Finn finds himself investigating a very different kind of crime than he’s ever pursued. Worse, it’s one that might involve witchcraft he doesn’t understand, and this time his usual tactics won’t be enough. Asked to be more than the Hunter, he doesn't know what that means for him.
Finn must find those responsible before the city falls into chaos, but it might be too late to keep the violence from spreading throughout the kingdom.
As executioner within Verendal, Finn takes on more responsibility, especially now that he’s saved the kingdom from repeated attack, but he still struggles with his place within the city.
When protests erupt within Verendal, with those from the poorer sections clashing with Archers, Finn finds himself investigating a very different kind of crime than he’s ever pursued. Worse, it’s one that might involve witchcraft he doesn’t understand, and this time his usual tactics won’t be enough. Asked to be more than the Hunter, he doesn't know what that means for him.
Finn must find those responsible before the city falls into chaos, but it might be too late to keep the violence from spreading throughout the kingdom.
514 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2021
143 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 1, 2021
In the interest of full disclosure, I received advanced reader copies of the first three books, in exchange for honest reviews, after which I purchased each of the books in print because I liked them so much. The day this book was released, I had not yet received such a review copy, so I bought it anyways on Kindle, because I loved the series enough that I did not want to wait to for the print version to go on sale. Of course, I then received the link for a review copy later in the day. Mixups happen : )
I've loved every book in this series, and this continues the streak!
This series is a great view of a justice system for a Medieval society influenced by magic. Earlier in the series, Finn was saved from execution by Master Executioner Meyer, to serve as his apprentice. This book, the fourth in the series, continues to follow Finn, aka Hunter, as he serves as a journeyman under Meyer. The author continues to expand the scope of the underlying unrest that Finn uncovered in the first book, as well as the territory outside of the city in which Finn exercises his duties. This expansion allows both for the world seen through Finn's eyes to grow, as well as for development of both Finn and the secondary characters. The expansion is also demonstrated in the interest others take in his investigative prowess, as observed by the King, people within the city, and even those Finn is investigating. With each book, the author has managed to generate greater excitement in the magnitude for the potential harm to the city and kingdom if Finn fails in his investigations.
The book includes one brief romance (no sexual content) but really probes a growing connection between Finn and the hexgen community, including his relationship with Esmerelda. The book also provides development for both Meyer and Finn's sister.
This author does not glorify violence in this series. That is not to say there is no violence, but it is not the focus of the book. Scenes with violence are quick, fairly tersly described, with no glorification or sensationalization of the violence. I don't recall any significant strong language, so if there is any, it is in passing and contributes to the story. I feel this entire series is completely appropriate for a Young Adult audience. It is a series in which magic is not widely and publicly used but in which magic is known to exist and used. The author does well to keep the focus on the various characters and their actions and motives, and not on some elaborate description of the hows and whys of the magic operation.
As a father and former foster parent, I would have no problem reading this book and this series with teenagers/young adults, as it would provide plenty of opportunities to talk about a host of moral issues and social issues.
I've loved every book in this series, and this continues the streak!
This series is a great view of a justice system for a Medieval society influenced by magic. Earlier in the series, Finn was saved from execution by Master Executioner Meyer, to serve as his apprentice. This book, the fourth in the series, continues to follow Finn, aka Hunter, as he serves as a journeyman under Meyer. The author continues to expand the scope of the underlying unrest that Finn uncovered in the first book, as well as the territory outside of the city in which Finn exercises his duties. This expansion allows both for the world seen through Finn's eyes to grow, as well as for development of both Finn and the secondary characters. The expansion is also demonstrated in the interest others take in his investigative prowess, as observed by the King, people within the city, and even those Finn is investigating. With each book, the author has managed to generate greater excitement in the magnitude for the potential harm to the city and kingdom if Finn fails in his investigations.
The book includes one brief romance (no sexual content) but really probes a growing connection between Finn and the hexgen community, including his relationship with Esmerelda. The book also provides development for both Meyer and Finn's sister.
This author does not glorify violence in this series. That is not to say there is no violence, but it is not the focus of the book. Scenes with violence are quick, fairly tersly described, with no glorification or sensationalization of the violence. I don't recall any significant strong language, so if there is any, it is in passing and contributes to the story. I feel this entire series is completely appropriate for a Young Adult audience. It is a series in which magic is not widely and publicly used but in which magic is known to exist and used. The author does well to keep the focus on the various characters and their actions and motives, and not on some elaborate description of the hows and whys of the magic operation.
As a father and former foster parent, I would have no problem reading this book and this series with teenagers/young adults, as it would provide plenty of opportunities to talk about a host of moral issues and social issues.
July 5, 2021
Another Engaging Installment
Fair Notice: I received an Advance Read Copy (ARC) of this book in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoy this series. In this book, we see Finn, the Executioner's apprentice, being pulled in many directions again. It mirrors the first book a little, in that he's still struggling to find his way even though he's been in his role for years now.
The city is experiencing unrest and multiple protests. Citizens and archers are dying as a result. Finn is tasked by the king with investigating the protests and trying to find the least deadly solution to stop the protests.
The pacing for the first half of this book felt a little slow to me. That's not to say there isn't any action; there's plenty throughout the book. But the first half feels a little slower and it's hard to see the pieces of the book coming together at first. The second half, I couldn't put the book down and everything started fitting into place. I literally finished the last third of the book in one sitting. I think the pacing of the story and the feeling that there were a lot of pieces that looked like they may not have been related at the beginning worked well to mirror Finn's inner struggle to find his own path and the resolution of the book seems to mirror him grounding himself and finding that path.
I love the characters and that Holmberg breathes such life and complexity into them. I always enjoy Finn's interactions with Esmeralda and the people. I was glad to see Garrett, the Priest of Heleth, featured a little more in this book.
This is a good series. Finn didn't choose to be an executioner at first but he has learned a lot about his role, his kingdom, and himself throughout the books. His journey has been interesting to follow and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Fair Notice: I received an Advance Read Copy (ARC) of this book in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoy this series. In this book, we see Finn, the Executioner's apprentice, being pulled in many directions again. It mirrors the first book a little, in that he's still struggling to find his way even though he's been in his role for years now.
The city is experiencing unrest and multiple protests. Citizens and archers are dying as a result. Finn is tasked by the king with investigating the protests and trying to find the least deadly solution to stop the protests.
The pacing for the first half of this book felt a little slow to me. That's not to say there isn't any action; there's plenty throughout the book. But the first half feels a little slower and it's hard to see the pieces of the book coming together at first. The second half, I couldn't put the book down and everything started fitting into place. I literally finished the last third of the book in one sitting. I think the pacing of the story and the feeling that there were a lot of pieces that looked like they may not have been related at the beginning worked well to mirror Finn's inner struggle to find his own path and the resolution of the book seems to mirror him grounding himself and finding that path.
I love the characters and that Holmberg breathes such life and complexity into them. I always enjoy Finn's interactions with Esmeralda and the people. I was glad to see Garrett, the Priest of Heleth, featured a little more in this book.
This is a good series. Finn didn't choose to be an executioner at first but he has learned a lot about his role, his kingdom, and himself throughout the books. His journey has been interesting to follow and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 25, 2021
Who or what is causing mayhem? Is it the Alainsith or those who are opposed to a peace with them, is it witchcraft? The story starts off strong and keeps you intrigued throughout. It's not fast paced, rather a good steady pace, taking one further and further into it. Finn is convinced there's something amiss when a prisoner is found to have hung himself, none of it adds up for Finn. He notices that there are instigators that are setting fire to buildings and a growing anger towards the Archers, who are the city police. As he investigates, he finds the attacks to be coordinated and he notices symbols of a black rose and thinks this is significant. When Finn is attacked leaving a village where bizarre things are happening, he barely escapes with his life but something or someone came to his aid. Neither Esmeralda nor Master Meyer have any clue as to what or why. Finn is directly charged by the king to uncover who the Black Rose is. I have found that Finn's character has become more and more confident as the series progresses and I love his need to uncover the truth and how he can't let go of his instinct, telling him there's more to this.His sister Lena, is also coming into her own as a skilled healer. I so enjoy the intricacies of the plot, the unraveling and the storyline. I particularly like Finn and his inner turmoil, from his time as a thief to the present, as he tries to find the balance of being an Executioner's apprentice, duty and loyalty. As Finn discovers, there are other forces at work but their goal is yet to be determined. I am really looking forward to the conclusion of this wonderful series!
July 7, 2021
i saw this book series through an instagram ad, and compared the author to another that i loved- so I checked it out.
i am so glad i did, this series got me out of my reading funk.
the development is perfect. i love the pacing, how nothing just happens over a year and the person becomes perfect in what feels like overnight. the fact this has taken place (now) over seven years? wonderful.
it constantly has me thinking "what's going to happen next" or "who did it" the whole time.
i love lena and how she's progressed over these first few books, and i can't wait to see where she ends up in the final book.
as for this book in particular, i loved the self doubt that finn faced and how he struggled with looking back at where he came from and where he is presently and how what he's done has shaped him, and has changed him as well. it was wonderful character building- especially since (as i stated earlier) he has been doing this such a long time at this point.
i also love the fact that he relies on esmerelda, and how he's grown comfortable with the hegen , because of how his views were of them in the first book. and judging from what the next book is hinting i am so excited to see him delve more into their side of everything and see how he continues to grow.
i am so glad i did, this series got me out of my reading funk.
the development is perfect. i love the pacing, how nothing just happens over a year and the person becomes perfect in what feels like overnight. the fact this has taken place (now) over seven years? wonderful.
it constantly has me thinking "what's going to happen next" or "who did it" the whole time.
i love lena and how she's progressed over these first few books, and i can't wait to see where she ends up in the final book.
as for this book in particular, i loved the self doubt that finn faced and how he struggled with looking back at where he came from and where he is presently and how what he's done has shaped him, and has changed him as well. it was wonderful character building- especially since (as i stated earlier) he has been doing this such a long time at this point.
i also love the fact that he relies on esmerelda, and how he's grown comfortable with the hegen , because of how his views were of them in the first book. and judging from what the next book is hinting i am so excited to see him delve more into their side of everything and see how he continues to grow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2021
I’m sitting on pins and needles!
There is a rebellion going on in the city that Finn is tasked to investigate. So many twists reveal truths at a gradual yet steady pace. Little by little the truth comes out but Finn is still in a conundrum as to who is the leader and why the Alainsith buildings have been targeted for destruction. These are ancient structures yet were very sound and should not have collapsed as they did. He learns that witchcraft is involved some how but he needs to investigate further. The Black Rose plays a significant part of all this including all the protests and rebellions in the city. But who is the leader of the Black Rose movement and where are the funds coming from? Unfortunately all the answers won’t be discovered until the next book in this series. Mr. Holmberg sure knows how to draw out the suspense. As usual, this is a very well written book. Mystery and suspense all around and even a little romance. But we are promised all the answers will be found in the next and last book of this series. I will be sitting on pins and needles until then.
There is a rebellion going on in the city that Finn is tasked to investigate. So many twists reveal truths at a gradual yet steady pace. Little by little the truth comes out but Finn is still in a conundrum as to who is the leader and why the Alainsith buildings have been targeted for destruction. These are ancient structures yet were very sound and should not have collapsed as they did. He learns that witchcraft is involved some how but he needs to investigate further. The Black Rose plays a significant part of all this including all the protests and rebellions in the city. But who is the leader of the Black Rose movement and where are the funds coming from? Unfortunately all the answers won’t be discovered until the next book in this series. Mr. Holmberg sure knows how to draw out the suspense. As usual, this is a very well written book. Mystery and suspense all around and even a little romance. But we are promised all the answers will be found in the next and last book of this series. I will be sitting on pins and needles until then.
September 14, 2021
It was a nice change for the main character to get out of the city for once. Things have changed drastically from the last book. Finn is settled into his new role and has come to expect the respect his job brings with it, but the status quo is changing and political and religious unrest has reared its ugly head and brought about the normal violence to go with it. Lurking underneath is an unknown change that is striking at the old buildings and power that they contained that kept them from crumbling for centuries. This part of the plot is more of a build-up and I expect that things will become more clear in the next book. Finn's main role beyond being an apprentice is hunting down the instigators and is known for becoming somewhat obsessed by finding out the how's and whys. This book is a transitional phase for Finn and I didn't think it would really happen. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
June 29, 2021
Verendahl is under assault from inside. The populace is in an uproar and the King's solution is to kill the leaders of the revolt - but who are they?
Finn doesn't like that solution, so it's time to hunt for the truth. The author shows the way through his eyes and actions. More happens to him than one could reasonably expect, yet his searching for the truth has clearly unnerved those who oppose the King. He serves the King, but his real desire is to serve the people. Finn is searching for a way to have both happen. Even his best contacts cannot provide the insight he needs. His searching does bring him closer to the truth, but in a very uncomfortable way.
Another great read as we learn how the kingdom and the city really work. There is also a lot going on outside the city, and it all appears connected. There truly is much more to this Executioner than executions.
Finn doesn't like that solution, so it's time to hunt for the truth. The author shows the way through his eyes and actions. More happens to him than one could reasonably expect, yet his searching for the truth has clearly unnerved those who oppose the King. He serves the King, but his real desire is to serve the people. Finn is searching for a way to have both happen. Even his best contacts cannot provide the insight he needs. His searching does bring him closer to the truth, but in a very uncomfortable way.
Another great read as we learn how the kingdom and the city really work. There is also a lot going on outside the city, and it all appears connected. There truly is much more to this Executioner than executions.
December 20, 2022
As part of his journeyman training Finn is sent out to perform an execution in an outlying village and questions the motive of the criminal he is to execute. He is attacked on his return journey but is saved by allies unknown (Behran and Aleinsith most probably) and returns to Meyer and Lena injured. The city is in turmoil, revolution and rebellion everywhere lead by the Black Rose. Finn comes to depend more on the help of the Hegen in the form of Esmerelda and works in conjunction with her instead of being indebted as was always the case previously. His romantic aspersions toward Jamie or Jaime (the name seems interchangeable) is not to be as she is part of the problem the king has tasked him to investigate but he has his duty to perform despite his feelings. Magic is coming into his life more and more and I will have to read the last part to find out the conclusion.
July 15, 2024
Another great work by d.k. Holmberg
Enthralling read great characters written well as always by Holmberg his storytelling is always intriguing and enthralling the undercurrent of continuous threat to the city and the uprising of witchcraft is a dark dramatic crime fantasy that ensnares your mind from the first page of the first book Fin is a mastercrafted character in this world and his growth is phenomenally written
D.k. Holmberg is an absolute genius at storytelling and character building all the books I've read of his are amazing reads and I'm still trying to get through as many as I can
Enthralling read great characters written well as always by Holmberg his storytelling is always intriguing and enthralling the undercurrent of continuous threat to the city and the uprising of witchcraft is a dark dramatic crime fantasy that ensnares your mind from the first page of the first book Fin is a mastercrafted character in this world and his growth is phenomenally written
D.k. Holmberg is an absolute genius at storytelling and character building all the books I've read of his are amazing reads and I'm still trying to get through as many as I can
June 26, 2021
Finn is back and trying to find out the truth for another mystery. I enjoyed all the new and old characters and watching Finn do his thing. Especially since the mystery of what was going on kept me glued to the end. And of course Finn does not just have a mystery or two to solve as things are going crazy around him in the city and he must deal with all that too on top of his job. Love the twists, the danger, the surprises and how it all fits together to deliver a great story that kept me glued and guessing to the end.
June 30, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this one. I love how Finn's mind works. The new attacks in the story but the same thing going on. The Hunter is an excellent nickname. This one does have a lot of repetitive information about Finn's previous life. I'm excited to see his relationship with the Hegen is becoming more. I can't wait to see what happens in the final book.
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 10, 2021
Rebellion of the Soul
Holmberg has the ability to make you see the internal conflicts affecting his hero. In this volume of his Executioner Series he has Finn investigating what is behind the poor people rebelling against the,I situation in life. He is told that there is nothing to investigate but he continues and must face his own fears.
I couldn’t put it down once I got to the 3 rd chapter.
Holmberg has the ability to make you see the internal conflicts affecting his hero. In this volume of his Executioner Series he has Finn investigating what is behind the poor people rebelling against the,I situation in life. He is told that there is nothing to investigate but he continues and must face his own fears.
I couldn’t put it down once I got to the 3 rd chapter.
July 14, 2021
The executioners Rebellion was a fast paced story. Finn wants to find out about the black rose and what it is and how to stop it. Finn starts to figure out who he is and what his purpose is. The ending was not expected at all.
Just when you think Finn has found someone to talk to it is all turned upside down. The characters are all believable and are each finding their place.
Just when you think Finn has found someone to talk to it is all turned upside down. The characters are all believable and are each finding their place.
July 26, 2021
Another thrilling adventure for Finn the city is in turmoil with protests springing up in the outer sections. Finn however must leave the city to travel to a village to carry out the king's justice.
Will he uncover who is behind the unrest before it's to late. He's been tasked by the king to get to the bottom of it. Great story which moves at a pace plenty of twists and turns definitely recommend
Will he uncover who is behind the unrest before it's to late. He's been tasked by the king to get to the bottom of it. Great story which moves at a pace plenty of twists and turns definitely recommend
January 29, 2022
Good story but the pacing of the writing so slow! I would have liked more back story on Meyer and other characters but I got a plodding pace mostly around Finn. I will finish the series because I do want to know what all this was leading to but the fifth book would have to be fantastic to make this ride really worth the time.
July 22, 2021
Just what was needed
Finn continues to fill the shoes of an execution but in his own way. This is a coming of age story but so different. The dialog between the characters is so well written. Sad we have to wait until dec. But I am sure it will be worth the wait.
Finn continues to fill the shoes of an execution but in his own way. This is a coming of age story but so different. The dialog between the characters is so well written. Sad we have to wait until dec. But I am sure it will be worth the wait.
July 29, 2021
Stupendous
Again, a thoroughly enjoyable read that grips the reader with suspense almost nonstop. The only disappointment I had was when I realized I can’t read the epic conclusion to finish this incredible story.
Again, a thoroughly enjoyable read that grips the reader with suspense almost nonstop. The only disappointment I had was when I realized I can’t read the epic conclusion to finish this incredible story.
October 11, 2021
Upgrade lead character
Overall the books story lines are good characters have good depth but Finn for lead character is to weak for his job as investorgater needs to be able to take care of himself better in fight situations to be lead character the hunter
Overall the books story lines are good characters have good depth but Finn for lead character is to weak for his job as investorgater needs to be able to take care of himself better in fight situations to be lead character the hunter
September 25, 2022
Well executed!
I am hastily writing this review as I have already downloaded the final book and can't wait to see how this series concludes! Great books by a great author, I recommend you read all of them!
I am hastily writing this review as I have already downloaded the final book and can't wait to see how this series concludes! Great books by a great author, I recommend you read all of them!
July 10, 2021
Book 4 but I enjoyed this one.
It’s hard to do reviews during a series. This book I enjoyed the character growth. A little predictable at the end but still good.
It’s hard to do reviews during a series. This book I enjoyed the character growth. A little predictable at the end but still good.
July 17, 2021
Great
What can I say? D. K. Holmberg writes these great stories and gives you plenty of action and finishes the book leaving you wanting more. Thanks
What can I say? D. K. Holmberg writes these great stories and gives you plenty of action and finishes the book leaving you wanting more. Thanks
July 26, 2021
Another great addition to the series. The story line and writing path is wonderfully done. I can't wait for the final book.
September 17, 2021
The saga continues. Finn is a terrific character.
September 30, 2021
More like 4 1/2 stars.
November 20, 2021
Love the suspense
Really like the unexpected aspects of the executioners life. Kind of gives you a new perspective on life in general. Walk a mile in someone else's shoes...
Really like the unexpected aspects of the executioners life. Kind of gives you a new perspective on life in general. Walk a mile in someone else's shoes...
December 22, 2021
This series has started to grow on me so much, i really love the story. It could be so much more, so much developed than it is, but as it is it's still great. can hardly wait for the next one.
March 2, 2022
Very slow. Not much happened in this book. Seemed to drag and then the last two chapters rushed the end of the book.
November 4, 2023
A cracking read
This story is very good, Holmberg builds the tension well and delivers in spades. I look forward to the conclusion in book 5
This story is very good, Holmberg builds the tension well and delivers in spades. I look forward to the conclusion in book 5
July 21, 2021
The Executioner's Rebellion is the 4th book in The Executioner's Song epic fantasy series.
Finn is sent to the small town of Weverth for a sentencing. A man is accused of desecrating the dead, but he claims they needed to be cleansed. Although Finn suspects witchcraft is being used, he finds no proof and has to execute the man.
Meanwhile, protests erupt within Verendal, with those from the poorer sections clashing with Archers. Houses are being burnt down, the image of a black rose keeps popping up all over town, and the stonework of old Alainsith buildings starts to crumble down. All these events might involve witchcraft Finn doesn’t understand, and this time his usual tactics won’t work...
The Executioner's Right is a successful blend of historical fiction, fantasy and mystery, described with humour and suspense.
Finn is sent to the small town of Weverth for a sentencing. A man is accused of desecrating the dead, but he claims they needed to be cleansed. Although Finn suspects witchcraft is being used, he finds no proof and has to execute the man.
Meanwhile, protests erupt within Verendal, with those from the poorer sections clashing with Archers. Houses are being burnt down, the image of a black rose keeps popping up all over town, and the stonework of old Alainsith buildings starts to crumble down. All these events might involve witchcraft Finn doesn’t understand, and this time his usual tactics won’t work...
The Executioner's Right is a successful blend of historical fiction, fantasy and mystery, described with humour and suspense.
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