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Songs of Chaos #0.5
Last Stand of the Stone Fist
A troubled past. War in the present. A dark future.
Brode grew up a bastard in Athra, looked down upon as a child of chaos. Sent away to the dragon riders as a squire, he counted it his luckiest day when Silas Brightbark of Coedhen vouched for him to join their ranks. Now a Champion in the Order he faces the largest incursion the world has ever seen.
Sent on a far flung mission to the disputed lands, Brode and Silas discover a remote town not on any map. It's a town of outcasts, of broken people, of folk that order has forgotten. As a scourge swarm gathers nearby, Brode and Silas face the toughest fight and decision of their lives.
This ebook is available free from the author's mailing list.
Brode grew up a bastard in Athra, looked down upon as a child of chaos. Sent away to the dragon riders as a squire, he counted it his luckiest day when Silas Brightbark of Coedhen vouched for him to join their ranks. Now a Champion in the Order he faces the largest incursion the world has ever seen.
Sent on a far flung mission to the disputed lands, Brode and Silas discover a remote town not on any map. It's a town of outcasts, of broken people, of folk that order has forgotten. As a scourge swarm gathers nearby, Brode and Silas face the toughest fight and decision of their lives.
This ebook is available free from the author's mailing list.
ebook
First published January 23, 2024
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1548 people want to read
About the author
Michael R. Miller
13 books1,208 followersTwo free novellas in ebook AND audiobook for all who sign up to my mailing list. https://www.michaelrmiller.co.uk/signup
Those who use Discord can also join my server by following this link https://discord.gg/C7zEJXgFSc
Redditors can join the community here - https://www.reddit.com/r/MichaelRMiller/
Michael is ‘that guy’ who enjoys - well, enjoyed... - discussing the mad fan theories of Game of Thrones even more than the books or show, and knows more about World of Warcraft than is probably healthy.
You can contact him at michael@michaelrmiller.co.uk
www.michaelrmiller.co.uk
Those who use Discord can also join my server by following this link https://discord.gg/C7zEJXgFSc
Redditors can join the community here - https://www.reddit.com/r/MichaelRMiller/
Michael is ‘that guy’ who enjoys - well, enjoyed... - discussing the mad fan theories of Game of Thrones even more than the books or show, and knows more about World of Warcraft than is probably healthy.
You can contact him at michael@michaelrmiller.co.uk
www.michaelrmiller.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
March 23, 2021
As someone at Goodreads has uploaded this book I feel I should mention that it is only available to readers who sign up to my newsletter here https://www.michaelrmiller.co.uk/signup
The story is a prequel to Ascendant which can be read before the main book but will contain some minor spoilers. I'd encourage readers to start with Ascendant and then read Last Stand as a bonus!
Please also note, this novella did not receive professional proofreading at the time though I intend to get this done alongside the proofreading of the sequel to Ascendant.
The story is a prequel to Ascendant which can be read before the main book but will contain some minor spoilers. I'd encourage readers to start with Ascendant and then read Last Stand as a bonus!
Please also note, this novella did not receive professional proofreading at the time though I intend to get this done alongside the proofreading of the sequel to Ascendant.
May 14, 2025
Love songs of chaos. It was good to get this look at a younger brode
April 2, 2024
It's like watching Titanic – you know how it ends but you watch it anyway, same here if you read Ascendant. It's Brodie's story and why neither he nor Erdra, his earth dragon, were able to follow the first rule of the dragon riders anymore: you can't save them all. As the bastard son of a noble and a maid, always fighting for his place and some scraps of love, he isn't able to abandon the people of Red Rock, forgotten, broken and marked as insignificant as they are. In the end it's only Erdra, who chose him because of his soft heart, who stands at his side unconditionally which makes the end of this story so much more sad than hearing about it in Ascendant.
To a degree it's also Sila's story. We don't get his view but we get an idea how Brodie's mentor or friendly protector later changed sides. Abandoning Brodie wasn't exactly the betrayal we came to believe in book 1 but in hindsight his downfall was inevitable and Clesh, his short-tempered storm dragon with his superiority complex, is to blame for it as much as Sila's own weariness and arrogance. However Sila's turn from hero to villain comes much later, after the end of this book. It doesn't distract from Brodie's story which made me cry and makes his fate in book 1 so much more bittersweet.
To a degree it's also Sila's story. We don't get his view but we get an idea how Brodie's mentor or friendly protector later changed sides. Abandoning Brodie wasn't exactly the betrayal we came to believe in book 1 but in hindsight his downfall was inevitable and Clesh, his short-tempered storm dragon with his superiority complex, is to blame for it as much as Sila's own weariness and arrogance. However Sila's turn from hero to villain comes much later, after the end of this book. It doesn't distract from Brodie's story which made me cry and makes his fate in book 1 so much more bittersweet.
July 31, 2025
After establishing a relationship with the characters of Ascendant, Miller takes us back in time to a heartrending and pivotal moment of a mentor's past. Despite knowing how this particular story ends, the slow approach of the ending was still impactful and immersive.
The way that Miller has designed his magic system and the bond between riders and dragons is one of the most solid I've seen in the genre. He's taken the time to build a smart system and it shows. While this is a short installment in the Songs of Chaos overall, I think it's a great example of a novella that supplements the story without being an essential read to understand the main series.
The way that Miller has designed his magic system and the bond between riders and dragons is one of the most solid I've seen in the genre. He's taken the time to build a smart system and it shows. While this is a short installment in the Songs of Chaos overall, I think it's a great example of a novella that supplements the story without being an essential read to understand the main series.
April 3, 2024
This novella is labelled as book 0.5 in Songs of Chaos, but I was advised it might be best to read it before Unbound, book two in the series. Happily, I’d already read Ascendant and was gearing up for Unbound, so this fit in nicely for me.
This one is a bit of an origin story, essentially. We follow one of the characters from Ascendant during a specific set of events in his younger life, and those events come up in Unbound, so the novella gives a good bit of background information for when you get there.
It was a good story and I liked being able to see more about what happened rather than just having it referred to in the second main book of the series. Being able to follow along gives you more of an understanding not only of the actual events, but of the feelings involved as well. It makes what happened hit a little harder and it means something to you when those events come up again later, rather than just being told that they were important.
What I also liked about this one is that it’s a companion novella to the series but it’s quite light on the worldbuilding. I appreciate that because I have read a few companion novellas previously where I feel that you really do need to read the books in the main series first, even if the novella is a prequel, because the worldbuilding isn't necessarily explained and you need that grounding in it before reading the novella. Here, I didn't suffer from that whatsoever, I have read the first book in the series but I believe that if you haven't, and you go straight into this novella first, you won't sink, you'll be able to swim absolutely fine.
This one is a bit of an origin story, essentially. We follow one of the characters from Ascendant during a specific set of events in his younger life, and those events come up in Unbound, so the novella gives a good bit of background information for when you get there.
It was a good story and I liked being able to see more about what happened rather than just having it referred to in the second main book of the series. Being able to follow along gives you more of an understanding not only of the actual events, but of the feelings involved as well. It makes what happened hit a little harder and it means something to you when those events come up again later, rather than just being told that they were important.
What I also liked about this one is that it’s a companion novella to the series but it’s quite light on the worldbuilding. I appreciate that because I have read a few companion novellas previously where I feel that you really do need to read the books in the main series first, even if the novella is a prequel, because the worldbuilding isn't necessarily explained and you need that grounding in it before reading the novella. Here, I didn't suffer from that whatsoever, I have read the first book in the series but I believe that if you haven't, and you go straight into this novella first, you won't sink, you'll be able to swim absolutely fine.
August 5, 2022
This novella, The Last Stand of The Stone Fist, is prequel to the main book, Ascendant in the series Songs of Chaos.
It is really emotional and heartbreaking. The story follows a bastard son of a senator of the Free City of Athra. His name is Brode. Other than this name, he is known by many other names and one of them is Chaos-Bringer. Mainly this story is about him and his soul-bound dragon, Erdra. And one more thing, a dragon can speak to his or her rider with the bond between them. The love and bond between Brode and Erdra is so strong.
Across the continent, there are risings of swarms consisting of many creatures such as stingers, frayers, ghouls and juggernauts. And the Senators and the Paragons are planning to do something about these risings, planning for a solution, for once and all.
The world-building is also amazing. The Free City of Athra is magnificent, with its wonderful defences and defence mechanisms. The glimpses into this world are beautiful at Nowhere, too. It is a dwelling, for whom?? Find yourselves.
This novella can be read in just half an hour.
And what is more there, it is free on author's website. It works as a good appetizer before plunging into the main series to devour the first two books.
Click here to download this prequel novella free
It is really emotional and heartbreaking. The story follows a bastard son of a senator of the Free City of Athra. His name is Brode. Other than this name, he is known by many other names and one of them is Chaos-Bringer. Mainly this story is about him and his soul-bound dragon, Erdra. And one more thing, a dragon can speak to his or her rider with the bond between them. The love and bond between Brode and Erdra is so strong.
Across the continent, there are risings of swarms consisting of many creatures such as stingers, frayers, ghouls and juggernauts. And the Senators and the Paragons are planning to do something about these risings, planning for a solution, for once and all.
The world-building is also amazing. The Free City of Athra is magnificent, with its wonderful defences and defence mechanisms. The glimpses into this world are beautiful at Nowhere, too. It is a dwelling, for whom?? Find yourselves.
This novella can be read in just half an hour.
And what is more there, it is free on author's website. It works as a good appetizer before plunging into the main series to devour the first two books.
Click here to download this prequel novella free
February 18, 2023
This is a prequel story to Ascendant, but I'd definitely recommend reading it after the first book in the series.
While the story can be read on its own regarding plot, I don't think it would have worked half as well for me if I hadn't had a grip on the world building and an attachment to a character first.
Having read it afterwards, this was a great little novella that delves into Brode's past.
It's not a happy story, but a story of war, hard decisions, and standing up for what you think right.
It managed to pull off a lot, considering the short length! You get action, friendships, emotions, grief, hope and strength.
While the story can be read on its own regarding plot, I don't think it would have worked half as well for me if I hadn't had a grip on the world building and an attachment to a character first.
Having read it afterwards, this was a great little novella that delves into Brode's past.
It's not a happy story, but a story of war, hard decisions, and standing up for what you think right.
It managed to pull off a lot, considering the short length! You get action, friendships, emotions, grief, hope and strength.
November 5, 2024
Alright, Michael, that was mean to do... but I loved it.
November 28, 2023
This is an incredibly heartbreaking story, and made me like Brode even more than I already did.
Huge shoutout to Michael R.Miller for making not only the ebook, but also the audiobook free to anyone’s who subscribes to his mailing list!
Huge shoutout to Michael R.Miller for making not only the ebook, but also the audiobook free to anyone’s who subscribes to his mailing list!
March 27, 2024
5/5 Stars
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A pinch of magic, compelling character work, epic action, and a wallop of emotional damage. The Last Stand of the Stone Fist was more than I could have hoped for.
After reading Ascendant by Michael R. Miller, I came away with a favourite character named Brode. You can imagine my excitement when I realized the author had written a novella focused on this character and their past.
Before digging into my review of this novella, I’d recommend reading this AFTER Ascendant, Book One in the Songs of Chaos Series. As this novella delves into the past of a character featured within Ascendant, you’ll get the best experience by reading the Last Stand of the Stone Fist afterwards.
Now, back to the review!
How Michael R. Miller delves into Brode’s character work was skillful. Weaving in threads from Ascendant and expanding on a past that sits heavy in Brode’s heart, made for a compelling read. His personal struggles, the difficult choices he’s faced with, the bonds he’s forged are tested, and who he is vs. The Order’s expectations were all well explored. Not only that, but they seamlessly blend with the themes and story of Ascendant, showcasing careful plotting and subtle character work.
This novella only deepened my love of Brode’s character and built onto his arc beautifully. There’s also plenty of action through war, high stakes, creatures such as the scourge and of course dragons.
In addition to reading the physical copy, I also listened to the free audiobook (available through the authors newsletter) and the performance from Peter Kenny was just as wonderful as Ascendant.
Despite knowing what type of backstory awaited me, I was still not emotionally prepared. From heartbreak to self discovery, the Last Stand of the Stone Fist is a great novella and expansion in the Songs of Chaos series.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A pinch of magic, compelling character work, epic action, and a wallop of emotional damage. The Last Stand of the Stone Fist was more than I could have hoped for.
After reading Ascendant by Michael R. Miller, I came away with a favourite character named Brode. You can imagine my excitement when I realized the author had written a novella focused on this character and their past.
Before digging into my review of this novella, I’d recommend reading this AFTER Ascendant, Book One in the Songs of Chaos Series. As this novella delves into the past of a character featured within Ascendant, you’ll get the best experience by reading the Last Stand of the Stone Fist afterwards.
Now, back to the review!
How Michael R. Miller delves into Brode’s character work was skillful. Weaving in threads from Ascendant and expanding on a past that sits heavy in Brode’s heart, made for a compelling read. His personal struggles, the difficult choices he’s faced with, the bonds he’s forged are tested, and who he is vs. The Order’s expectations were all well explored. Not only that, but they seamlessly blend with the themes and story of Ascendant, showcasing careful plotting and subtle character work.
This novella only deepened my love of Brode’s character and built onto his arc beautifully. There’s also plenty of action through war, high stakes, creatures such as the scourge and of course dragons.
In addition to reading the physical copy, I also listened to the free audiobook (available through the authors newsletter) and the performance from Peter Kenny was just as wonderful as Ascendant.
Despite knowing what type of backstory awaited me, I was still not emotionally prepared. From heartbreak to self discovery, the Last Stand of the Stone Fist is a great novella and expansion in the Songs of Chaos series.
May 31, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders
“I am the first stroke and the last shield.
No life will be beneath my aid.
When death comes, I will make it wait.”
I read Ascendant a few weeks ago and absolutely loved it. I think I’ve already driven all those around me crazy with my incessant praise for it. But if I’m honest, I was a bit nervous that this was going to be a one-off. There was going to be some magic in the first book that struck me in the moment but that wasn’t maintained over additional books in the series.
And then I read Last Stand of the Stone Fist. In the forward to this novella, Miller states that while this book happened years before Ascendant, that it was best read between Ascendant and Unbound. I went into this novella with some trepidation.
Lucky for me, Miller knocked this novella out of the freaking park! I devoured this book. Fantastic. Phenomenal!
Last Stand of the Stone Fist follows a main character from Ascendant—Brode—on one of his early missions with Silas. For those of you who have read Ascendant, this particular mission is one that is hinted at and briefly described, but most of the details were left out in the main storyline. So, there was the potential for this story to have minimal emotional impact since the majority of people reading it will already know the final outcome of the mission.
The fact that I read this novella with a literal, white-knuckled fury, getting chills during multiple scenes, is a testament to Miller’s mastery of pacing and storytelling prowess.
“Brode heard her true dragon song return: bright, melodious, and as unwavering as she was kind, and brave, and good…His world became the song, became Erdra…With her dragon song still in his mind, Brode picked up his blade and got to his feet.”
Chills. Chills again as I reread those lines while writing this review.
Brode was a fascinating character in the original series. However, much of his background was shrouded in mystery. He was the distant, hard-nosed mentor with a soft core. As a reader, you could sense that he had lived a hard life. But this novella does a phenomenal job fleshing this character out, drawing important parallels between him and Holt which provides increased meaning and additional layers to his decisions during Ascendant, and explaining why he is the man we initially meet at The Crag.
Again, I knew what was going to happen in the last few pages. I wasn’t sure if Miller was going to try to surprise me with an unexpected twist. But he didn’t. No slip-and-twist sucker punch. He held his ground and popped me right between the eyes. Its this candor and heart that won me over in Ascendant and left me cheering at the end of Last Stand of the Stone Fist. All I can say is: he’s done it again. Last Stand of the Stone Fist is an action-packed expose of the genesis of Brode, with all the heart and emotional impact we can expect from a master like Miller. 100% recommend as the perfect bridge between Ascendant and Unbound.
“I am the first stroke and the last shield.
No life will be beneath my aid.
When death comes, I will make it wait.”
I read Ascendant a few weeks ago and absolutely loved it. I think I’ve already driven all those around me crazy with my incessant praise for it. But if I’m honest, I was a bit nervous that this was going to be a one-off. There was going to be some magic in the first book that struck me in the moment but that wasn’t maintained over additional books in the series.
And then I read Last Stand of the Stone Fist. In the forward to this novella, Miller states that while this book happened years before Ascendant, that it was best read between Ascendant and Unbound. I went into this novella with some trepidation.
Lucky for me, Miller knocked this novella out of the freaking park! I devoured this book. Fantastic. Phenomenal!
Last Stand of the Stone Fist follows a main character from Ascendant—Brode—on one of his early missions with Silas. For those of you who have read Ascendant, this particular mission is one that is hinted at and briefly described, but most of the details were left out in the main storyline. So, there was the potential for this story to have minimal emotional impact since the majority of people reading it will already know the final outcome of the mission.
The fact that I read this novella with a literal, white-knuckled fury, getting chills during multiple scenes, is a testament to Miller’s mastery of pacing and storytelling prowess.
“Brode heard her true dragon song return: bright, melodious, and as unwavering as she was kind, and brave, and good…His world became the song, became Erdra…With her dragon song still in his mind, Brode picked up his blade and got to his feet.”
Chills. Chills again as I reread those lines while writing this review.
Brode was a fascinating character in the original series. However, much of his background was shrouded in mystery. He was the distant, hard-nosed mentor with a soft core. As a reader, you could sense that he had lived a hard life. But this novella does a phenomenal job fleshing this character out, drawing important parallels between him and Holt which provides increased meaning and additional layers to his decisions during Ascendant, and explaining why he is the man we initially meet at The Crag.
Again, I knew what was going to happen in the last few pages. I wasn’t sure if Miller was going to try to surprise me with an unexpected twist. But he didn’t. No slip-and-twist sucker punch. He held his ground and popped me right between the eyes. Its this candor and heart that won me over in Ascendant and left me cheering at the end of Last Stand of the Stone Fist. All I can say is: he’s done it again. Last Stand of the Stone Fist is an action-packed expose of the genesis of Brode, with all the heart and emotional impact we can expect from a master like Miller. 100% recommend as the perfect bridge between Ascendant and Unbound.
January 25, 2024
Nice novella about Brode from the main series. It’s just a taste of what the series has to offer so be sure to check out Ascendant right after.
December 28, 2021
Red Rock was a place not supposed to have existed. Yet it did, consisting of the people that nobody really cared for. Protecting them from the scourge, would take away dragon riders from a far bigger clash where even more people are at risk from the scourge. That is, til Brode and his emerald dragon took a stand on their behalf. Even if such would be their last stand.
A tense, compelling prequel novella for the Songs of Chaos series, it is an excellent introduction to a feudal world in a constant war against an invading bug scourge and the ethics involved in fighting for the greater good.
Enjoy
A tense, compelling prequel novella for the Songs of Chaos series, it is an excellent introduction to a feudal world in a constant war against an invading bug scourge and the ethics involved in fighting for the greater good.
Enjoy
August 27, 2025
I'm not crying, you're crying
Read
January 16, 2024I enjoyed this one as I'm a sucker for animal companion stories especially when it's a dragon!
The relationships reminded me very much of the Winnowing Flame trilogy, which I love.
I've not read any of the rest of the series and I'm aware that many people say you should read it after book 1. I wanted to try out the series before I committed to buying them and thankfully the author provides the ebook and audiobook free of charge on his mailing list!
After reading this book, I can safely say I want to read the rest of the series.
The relationships reminded me very much of the Winnowing Flame trilogy, which I love.
I've not read any of the rest of the series and I'm aware that many people say you should read it after book 1. I wanted to try out the series before I committed to buying them and thankfully the author provides the ebook and audiobook free of charge on his mailing list!
After reading this book, I can safely say I want to read the rest of the series.
May 28, 2024
No wonder Brode was so sulky! I completely understand it now. I loved getting more insight on Brode, but the best part of this novella is meeting Erdra, Brode's loyal dragon companion. She was so brave and protective. I honestly didn't expect so much innocence with what we know of Brode from the series. Overall, solid little story! I would like to request Silas be the next prequel novella! I can't wait for book 4!
October 29, 2023
Oops, should have read Ascendant first! I still loved it even if I didn’t know what was going on all the time (somethings did get explained but not all!). I’m sure I’ll get excited when Brode and Silas appear in the main books though, I look forward to it.
May 9, 2025
Even knowing what happens in Brodes story before reading this, I wasn't prepared for just how emotional it was. I didn't expect so much story and emotion to be packed into a novella
May 12, 2025
Fantastic novella. Even though I knew the ending, I still cried my heart out. Beautifully written.
February 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this novella which gives us the backstory of Brode and Silas.
This is a must-read story for fans of Michael R. Miller's Songs of Chaos series.
EDIT:
It's December 2023 and Michael R. Miller re-wrote the story & released it on audio. I listened to it last night and Peter Kenny's narration was fantastic. He brings so much emotion to the story, both the highs and the lows. And the end of story was very emotional: it made me cry.
The changes were small, but they had a huge impact on the emotion of the story. So, now more than ever, this story is a must read or must listen for fans of the Songs of Chaos. Just sign up for Michael R. Miller's newsletter on his website and you'll be able to download this excellent story for free (either as an ebook or an audiobook). Even if you've read this before, it's worth reading this new and improved version.
A note about reading order. This story is a prequel to the first book in the Songs of Chaos, Ascendant. So, it could be read first, but I think the emotional impact of the story would be greater if read after Ascendant.
This is a must-read story for fans of Michael R. Miller's Songs of Chaos series.
EDIT:
It's December 2023 and Michael R. Miller re-wrote the story & released it on audio. I listened to it last night and Peter Kenny's narration was fantastic. He brings so much emotion to the story, both the highs and the lows. And the end of story was very emotional: it made me cry.
The changes were small, but they had a huge impact on the emotion of the story. So, now more than ever, this story is a must read or must listen for fans of the Songs of Chaos. Just sign up for Michael R. Miller's newsletter on his website and you'll be able to download this excellent story for free (either as an ebook or an audiobook). Even if you've read this before, it's worth reading this new and improved version.
A note about reading order. This story is a prequel to the first book in the Songs of Chaos, Ascendant. So, it could be read first, but I think the emotional impact of the story would be greater if read after Ascendant.
June 14, 2023
4.0 stars—-
A touching story about my favorite character from the novels and his dragon. I read this after book 1, but before book 2, and would recommend other readers do the same unless you want a sampler of Miller’s writing style to gauge your interest in the series.
Again, this series is a hidden gem of self-publishing, marketed as “Eragon for adults”.
A touching story about my favorite character from the novels and his dragon. I read this after book 1, but before book 2, and would recommend other readers do the same unless you want a sampler of Miller’s writing style to gauge your interest in the series.
Again, this series is a hidden gem of self-publishing, marketed as “Eragon for adults”.
November 1, 2024
From me, Last stand of the stone fist by Michael R Miller gets 4.5 ⭐ 🥳🥳🥳
Fun fact! This book isn't available on #kindle at all! 👀🫣 the only way to get it is through the mailing list from the author....sooo...now I can say I'll be up to date with all the info for this series 🤷♀️🤣
Quick info: this is a #fantasy #novella in the Songs of chaos series that's semi-obligatory reading before you embark on with book 2, Unbound. 🤔
CW: gore, discrimination, mentions of child abuse, PTSD, death of a loved one, violence
#synopsis
A troubled past. War in the present. A dark future.
Brode grew up a bastard in Athra, looked down upon as a child of chaos. Sent away to the dragon riders as a squire, he counted it his luckiest day when Silas Bright ark of Coedhen vouched for him to join their ranks. Now a Champion in the Order he faces the largest incursion the world has ever seen.
Sent on a far flung mission to the disputed lands, Brode and Silas discover a remote town not on any map. A town of outcasts, of broken people, of folk that order has forgotten. As a scourge swarm gathers nearby, Brode and Silas face the toughest fight and decision of their lives.
#bookthoughts
For a 100 page epic fantasy entry in a fantasy series based on dragons...this slaps!! 🥰🤌
I really loved Brode in book 1 and seeing what happened with him and Silas, and more importantly...him and Erdra....was as beautiful as it was tragic. 🥹...poor Brode... After this battle, he never was the same...😭
This is very #characterfocused, although we get some more info on the Order, the politics of some places and the mentality prevalent in this world.
Brode and Erdra are what some may say : naive and foolish with lots of bravery and stubbornness. We can very much see this in their interactions with Silas and Clesh ( who is not my favorite 😑).
You could say that they mirror somewhat Holt and Ash in the idea of ' all lives are equal'; even though we know that they have experience with the ugly truth from Silas.
This is full of cold reality in a way #ascendant wasn't...maybe due to Brode 's perspective
What I can say...this didn't feel ya 🤷♀️..but that's just me.😅.
Anyway...enough said..after all is only 100 pages🤭.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I highly recommend you read this before moving further in the series, as per the author's advice. And if you haven't started Ascendant and say you love dragons....👀...what are you doing???😱
Fun fact! This book isn't available on #kindle at all! 👀🫣 the only way to get it is through the mailing list from the author....sooo...now I can say I'll be up to date with all the info for this series 🤷♀️🤣
Quick info: this is a #fantasy #novella in the Songs of chaos series that's semi-obligatory reading before you embark on with book 2, Unbound. 🤔
CW: gore, discrimination, mentions of child abuse, PTSD, death of a loved one, violence
#synopsis
A troubled past. War in the present. A dark future.
Brode grew up a bastard in Athra, looked down upon as a child of chaos. Sent away to the dragon riders as a squire, he counted it his luckiest day when Silas Bright ark of Coedhen vouched for him to join their ranks. Now a Champion in the Order he faces the largest incursion the world has ever seen.
Sent on a far flung mission to the disputed lands, Brode and Silas discover a remote town not on any map. A town of outcasts, of broken people, of folk that order has forgotten. As a scourge swarm gathers nearby, Brode and Silas face the toughest fight and decision of their lives.
#bookthoughts
For a 100 page epic fantasy entry in a fantasy series based on dragons...this slaps!! 🥰🤌
I really loved Brode in book 1 and seeing what happened with him and Silas, and more importantly...him and Erdra....was as beautiful as it was tragic. 🥹...poor Brode... After this battle, he never was the same...😭
This is very #characterfocused, although we get some more info on the Order, the politics of some places and the mentality prevalent in this world.
Brode and Erdra are what some may say : naive and foolish with lots of bravery and stubbornness. We can very much see this in their interactions with Silas and Clesh ( who is not my favorite 😑).
You could say that they mirror somewhat Holt and Ash in the idea of ' all lives are equal'; even though we know that they have experience with the ugly truth from Silas.
This is full of cold reality in a way #ascendant wasn't...maybe due to Brode 's perspective
What I can say...this didn't feel ya 🤷♀️..but that's just me.😅.
Anyway...enough said..after all is only 100 pages🤭.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I highly recommend you read this before moving further in the series, as per the author's advice. And if you haven't started Ascendant and say you love dragons....👀...what are you doing???😱
June 12, 2024
Last Stand of the Stone Fist is the prequel novella in the Songs of Chaos series by Michael R. Miller. As recommended by the author, I would read this book after reading Ascendant, the first book in the series as it will have a much bigger impact.
I loved this story! I’m a bit of a sucker for backstories and getting more information on what made some of my favorite characters who they are and this book delivered. The emotional impact of this story is powerful.
Brode should never have been chosen as a dragon rider and all the other riders remind him of that fact every day, except for Silas who does what he can to make him the best dragon rider he can be. The dragon rider's mission is to help fight the scourge and to keep it from spreading as much as possible.
This book is light on world-building and focuses more on the characters while giving you a taste of the magic system. You can read this book without having read any of the other books in the series and not miss out on too much, but you do get an even bigger impact when reading it along with the rest of the series.
This novella, along with the audiobook, is free on the author's website when you sign up for his mailing list.
4.5 stars
I loved this story! I’m a bit of a sucker for backstories and getting more information on what made some of my favorite characters who they are and this book delivered. The emotional impact of this story is powerful.
Brode should never have been chosen as a dragon rider and all the other riders remind him of that fact every day, except for Silas who does what he can to make him the best dragon rider he can be. The dragon rider's mission is to help fight the scourge and to keep it from spreading as much as possible.
This book is light on world-building and focuses more on the characters while giving you a taste of the magic system. You can read this book without having read any of the other books in the series and not miss out on too much, but you do get an even bigger impact when reading it along with the rest of the series.
This novella, along with the audiobook, is free on the author's website when you sign up for his mailing list.
4.5 stars
April 15, 2025
'Last Stand of the Stone Fist' by Michael R. Miller was an intense, adult short story that I genuinely appreciated—especially coming straight from 'Ascendant', which had a more youthful tone. This story dives deep into darker and more mature themes, and I found the shift refreshing. The brevity of the narrative actually enhanced the urgency and "heat of the moment" feel, making it a gripping read from start to finish. I especially enjoyed the foreshadowing—it was subtle but well-placed, hinting at larger stakes and deeper lore. I truly hope the rest of this series maintains this more grown-up tone, or at least evolves alongside the characters as the story progresses. That said, I'm still not a fan of the classism present in the world building, which feels like an unnecessary choice. As the reader I am entitled to my own opinion, and I hope this book featured the last we see of it. Otherwise, 'Last Stand' has me excited for what's to come.
I recommend this book to readers of the 'Wongs of Chaos' series and those who are interested in a short story prefacing those adventures. I can only hope that someone who only knows 'Last Stand' does not get a false impression of the remaining novels.
I recommend this book to readers of the 'Wongs of Chaos' series and those who are interested in a short story prefacing those adventures. I can only hope that someone who only knows 'Last Stand' does not get a false impression of the remaining novels.
November 20, 2025
Last Stand of the Stone Fist is exactly the kind of fantasy novella that punches far above its word count. Michael R. Miller drops you straight into a world where loyalty is tested, legends are forged, and even the most battle hardened warriors carry wounds no blade can touch.
Brode is a standout equal parts grit, guilt, and heart. As a bastard child of chaos turned Champion of the Order, he embodies that irresistible underdog energy. His bond with Silas Brightbark feels lived-in and genuine, the kind of partnership readers immediately root for.
The hidden outcast town is such a compelling narrative pivot an eerie, poignant reminder of what order overlooks, and what chaos sometimes shelters. And when the scourge swarm rises, the stakes skyrocket. Miller writes combat with clarity and emotion, but it’s the moral dilemma at the core of the story that makes it hit harder than a typical fantasy skirmish.
It’s gripping, urgent, and surprisingly soulful a powerful addition to the Songs of Chaos universe, and the kind of novella that leaves you wanting the next chapter immediately.
Brode is a standout equal parts grit, guilt, and heart. As a bastard child of chaos turned Champion of the Order, he embodies that irresistible underdog energy. His bond with Silas Brightbark feels lived-in and genuine, the kind of partnership readers immediately root for.
The hidden outcast town is such a compelling narrative pivot an eerie, poignant reminder of what order overlooks, and what chaos sometimes shelters. And when the scourge swarm rises, the stakes skyrocket. Miller writes combat with clarity and emotion, but it’s the moral dilemma at the core of the story that makes it hit harder than a typical fantasy skirmish.
It’s gripping, urgent, and surprisingly soulful a powerful addition to the Songs of Chaos universe, and the kind of novella that leaves you wanting the next chapter immediately.
December 13, 2023
It’s a shame that you can’t give very special books like this one more than five stars. From the get-go, you see the nature of the order that you come to learn throughout the series, and by the end of this amazing novella, You come to feel that chaos is probably something that the world needs. It was very good to finally get a look into what makes Brode the Brood more receptive to a young pot boy in Ascendant. Getting to read the actual story of Erdra’s final moments was emotional and showed the true depth of the rider and dragon bond. Also, getting a deeper look into Silas and Clesh’s relationship is sad and also allows you to see how they could’ve taken the path they fell to in Ascendant. This novella was very well written, and made me yearn for book 4 all the more! I absolutely cannot wait to continue this series! Michael R. Miller is a master at his craft! Check this out if you love original stories, dragons, and good action and magic!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2024
Last Stand of the Stone Fist (Songs of Chaos Book #0.5) 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌗
Michael R. Miller has become a must read author to me in the recent year. I read Ascendant as well as Unbound before picking up this novella, and I so far I think this is the best place to pick it up. Brode is a major support character in the first book, that has had a tragedy happen to him in his past. Well this story tells of that tragedy. I think picking it up after book 2 is a great place to start because it reminds you of some characters that you have been potentially missing in book 2 and it takes the story back to its roots, blight vs. humanity.
You start to see the development of a Key villain in the main series throughout this short story, and you see the humanity that they once had.
There’s not much to say about this story because it is fairly short, but it’s well worth the read. Brode and his dragon Erda become two of my favorite characters of the series in just a short amount of time.
Michael R. Miller has become a must read author to me in the recent year. I read Ascendant as well as Unbound before picking up this novella, and I so far I think this is the best place to pick it up. Brode is a major support character in the first book, that has had a tragedy happen to him in his past. Well this story tells of that tragedy. I think picking it up after book 2 is a great place to start because it reminds you of some characters that you have been potentially missing in book 2 and it takes the story back to its roots, blight vs. humanity.
You start to see the development of a Key villain in the main series throughout this short story, and you see the humanity that they once had.
There’s not much to say about this story because it is fairly short, but it’s well worth the read. Brode and his dragon Erda become two of my favorite characters of the series in just a short amount of time.
July 13, 2023
Songs of Chaos #0
Last Stand of the Stone Fist
Michael R. Miller
A Fantasy Novella
Brode is a dragon rider. In fiction Vampires, Werewolves, Unicorns, and Dragons are real and in this case dragons mind meld with human riders. It’s an equal partnership, the rider is not the dragon’s handler.
When nobles take their pleasure they have no care for the troubles they leave behind. Brode was the progeny of such a coupling and his mother’s husband beat the cause of the chaos in his home and the child’s mother for giving it birth. He resented the education Brode’s birth father provided he and his sibling and the weapons training that enabled him to rise to dragon rider. The stigma attached to being a bastard clings no matter what one later accomplishes.
This vignette follows one Brode’s assignments. Happy endings are not always guaranteed.
Last Stand of the Stone Fist
Michael R. Miller
A Fantasy Novella
Brode is a dragon rider. In fiction Vampires, Werewolves, Unicorns, and Dragons are real and in this case dragons mind meld with human riders. It’s an equal partnership, the rider is not the dragon’s handler.
When nobles take their pleasure they have no care for the troubles they leave behind. Brode was the progeny of such a coupling and his mother’s husband beat the cause of the chaos in his home and the child’s mother for giving it birth. He resented the education Brode’s birth father provided he and his sibling and the weapons training that enabled him to rise to dragon rider. The stigma attached to being a bastard clings no matter what one later accomplishes.
This vignette follows one Brode’s assignments. Happy endings are not always guaranteed.
January 14, 2024
I loved the first book in the Songs of Chaos series and when I followed Michael R Miller on Instagram I saw he had a novella about one of the characters from Ascendant, Brode. I then discovered he recommended reading it between books 1 and 2 so I read it and it didn’t disappoint.
A quick but impactful read about Holt’s teacher that really informs our understanding of not only
Brode, but the deep relationship between Dragon and Rider. It also helps build more of the world and introduces some interesting concepts I’m sure will be explored in greater detail in the second book.
A fun, yet heartbreaking read, that I recommend to fans of the series.
Last Stand of Stone Fist by Michael R Miller: 7/10
A quick but impactful read about Holt’s teacher that really informs our understanding of not only
Brode, but the deep relationship between Dragon and Rider. It also helps build more of the world and introduces some interesting concepts I’m sure will be explored in greater detail in the second book.
A fun, yet heartbreaking read, that I recommend to fans of the series.
Last Stand of Stone Fist by Michael R Miller: 7/10
July 18, 2024
Short and sweet little novella. I liked it a lot! Lots of neat things happening in this that just add to the story of Songs of Chaos. I'm confused as to why Silas Silverstrikes name was changed, but maybe that will be explained in the rest of the series. I did listen to this in the authors recommended order, after Ascendant, and before Unbound.
Note: if you listen to the audiobook version, the opening credits portion is about two minutes of epic music for some reason. I just thought that something was wrong or that it was in stereo for some reason and I couldn't hear any of the words because they would've been coming through my left earbud, which I lost and is currently sitting in a crack of stone on the side of a mountain in Wyoming.
Note: if you listen to the audiobook version, the opening credits portion is about two minutes of epic music for some reason. I just thought that something was wrong or that it was in stereo for some reason and I couldn't hear any of the words because they would've been coming through my left earbud, which I lost and is currently sitting in a crack of stone on the side of a mountain in Wyoming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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