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The Frostmarked Chronicles #1
A Dagger in the Winds
A rejected son with a hidden power.
A forgotten sorceress with the blessing of a goddess.
Forced apart for years, only together can they end winter’s reign.
Wacław has always dreamed of a purpose. Except he’s never actually dreamed. Each night, his soul leaves his body and wanders the world, free from the scorn of his father and mocking of his tribe. If only he understood why.
The entire village fears Otylia, but she prefers it that way. She’s a szeptucha, a whispering channeler of the wild goddess Dziewanna. Everyone’s abandoned her—even Wacław, her once best friend—but Dziewanna never would.
It’s been four years since Marzanna, goddess of winter, stole Otylia’s mother. The goddess’s death in spring is Otylia’s annual retribution. But when Otylia discovers Wacław bearing Marzanna’s Frostmark on what should be the last day of winter, she realizes the dark truth.
Spring will not come, and only Wacław can help her find out why.
Enter a new world rooted in Slavic mythology and folklore that’s full of powerful gods, terrifying spirits and creatures, rampaging warlords, and plenty of secrets to uncover.
A forgotten sorceress with the blessing of a goddess.
Forced apart for years, only together can they end winter’s reign.
Wacław has always dreamed of a purpose. Except he’s never actually dreamed. Each night, his soul leaves his body and wanders the world, free from the scorn of his father and mocking of his tribe. If only he understood why.
The entire village fears Otylia, but she prefers it that way. She’s a szeptucha, a whispering channeler of the wild goddess Dziewanna. Everyone’s abandoned her—even Wacław, her once best friend—but Dziewanna never would.
It’s been four years since Marzanna, goddess of winter, stole Otylia’s mother. The goddess’s death in spring is Otylia’s annual retribution. But when Otylia discovers Wacław bearing Marzanna’s Frostmark on what should be the last day of winter, she realizes the dark truth.
Spring will not come, and only Wacław can help her find out why.
Enter a new world rooted in Slavic mythology and folklore that’s full of powerful gods, terrifying spirits and creatures, rampaging warlords, and plenty of secrets to uncover.
478 pages, Hardcover
First published June 15, 2021
148 people are currently reading
923 people want to read
About the author
Brendan Noble
17 books96 followersBrendan Noble is an American epic fantasy author writing epic fantasy with inspiration from his Polish ancestry, mythology, video games of all types, and Dungeons & Dragons. He loves to explore the complexities of politics and the gray between good and evil.
Shortly after beginning his writing career in 2019, Brendan married his wife Andrea and moved to Rockford, Illinois from his hometown in Michigan. Since then, he has published three series: The Realm Reachers, The Frostmarked Chronicles, and The Prism Files.
Outside of writing, Brendan is a data analyst and soccer referee. His top interests include German, Polish, and American soccer/football, Formula 1, analyzing political elections across the world, playing extremely nerdy strategy video games, exploring with his wife, and reading.
Shortly after beginning his writing career in 2019, Brendan married his wife Andrea and moved to Rockford, Illinois from his hometown in Michigan. Since then, he has published three series: The Realm Reachers, The Frostmarked Chronicles, and The Prism Files.
Outside of writing, Brendan is a data analyst and soccer referee. His top interests include German, Polish, and American soccer/football, Formula 1, analyzing political elections across the world, playing extremely nerdy strategy video games, exploring with his wife, and reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 31, 2023
If you’re looking to read a book that has a lot of pissing contests but are not much for full blown fights, then A Dagger in the Winds might just be for you. Pissing contests galore, but with words! Yep. There is plenty of banter in between characters plus young men of various standing having at it each other. With words. You know what? I enjoyed it much more than I would have if it had come to blows every time a character attempted to show dominance.
Our male MC, Waclaw, is not one to brawl or sting with well placed words in a sentence. In fact, he’s quite the opposite. He is the Chief’s bastard son and gets a LOT of stick from the villagers, as well as his own father. So, it’s no surprise that he is actually quite shy, fearful and lacking self-confidence. But all the shunning has not made him rotten to the core. He is, in fact, rather nice. Perhaps too nice.
If you’re not thinking, oh no! a softy main character? Fear not. We have a second POV in the book. A female main character Otylia. And she. Takes. No. Shits. From. Anyone. Yeah, she’s your character to get behind on, she’s your badass. But she has also had a fairly tough time in the village.
Now… this is the place where I need to say, these 2 MCs make the character dynamics interesting. It remains consistent throughout and it’s vibing. Hard. Waclaw and Otylia are complete opposites. Not only do they have some past stuff to sort out in between each other, they also have a difficult journey to undertake together. Story, aplenty. It is essentially a version of a road trip adventure where our main characters are being put to the test and through hardships, they must learn the secrets about each other and the world around them. The only downside for me was the pace that lost some momentum around the halfway mark but even that is only a half-hearted observation because I can’t say I was entirely bored. Yes, the young ones get caught up in moments that are important to them, I understand. In the matters of the heart, it often is the case that the world could literally crumble around you, and your brain would still only be calculating the possibilities with the opposite sex.
Now, the secret sauce of this novel, however, within the 600+ pages, lies in the Slavic culture element. Let’s be honest, if you know naught about Slavic culture of folklore, it feels new, unique, fresh and romantic. It just lifts the story with some great scenes and little details. In fact, even if you are from a Slavic culture, it’ll be fun riding the wave of nostalgia. Being from Estonia, I am not directly from a Slavic culture, but I am pretty darn close and some of the things in the book simply made me smile. Good use, Brendan! Good use… It does, in my mind, also keep those traditions and way of life from the days past alive. So, my final words? I would recommend this book. It holds its own and it has much to like about it. I would also tell potential readers not to worry about page count – somehow the pages simply fly by and you will want to know how it all ends. There are no overly graphic scenes that could make more sensitive readers turn their heads away from the book, and there is no crude swearing which also appeals to some. I mean, solid. Sends a high five to Brendan Noble!
Our male MC, Waclaw, is not one to brawl or sting with well placed words in a sentence. In fact, he’s quite the opposite. He is the Chief’s bastard son and gets a LOT of stick from the villagers, as well as his own father. So, it’s no surprise that he is actually quite shy, fearful and lacking self-confidence. But all the shunning has not made him rotten to the core. He is, in fact, rather nice. Perhaps too nice.
If you’re not thinking, oh no! a softy main character? Fear not. We have a second POV in the book. A female main character Otylia. And she. Takes. No. Shits. From. Anyone. Yeah, she’s your character to get behind on, she’s your badass. But she has also had a fairly tough time in the village.
Now… this is the place where I need to say, these 2 MCs make the character dynamics interesting. It remains consistent throughout and it’s vibing. Hard. Waclaw and Otylia are complete opposites. Not only do they have some past stuff to sort out in between each other, they also have a difficult journey to undertake together. Story, aplenty. It is essentially a version of a road trip adventure where our main characters are being put to the test and through hardships, they must learn the secrets about each other and the world around them. The only downside for me was the pace that lost some momentum around the halfway mark but even that is only a half-hearted observation because I can’t say I was entirely bored. Yes, the young ones get caught up in moments that are important to them, I understand. In the matters of the heart, it often is the case that the world could literally crumble around you, and your brain would still only be calculating the possibilities with the opposite sex.
Now, the secret sauce of this novel, however, within the 600+ pages, lies in the Slavic culture element. Let’s be honest, if you know naught about Slavic culture of folklore, it feels new, unique, fresh and romantic. It just lifts the story with some great scenes and little details. In fact, even if you are from a Slavic culture, it’ll be fun riding the wave of nostalgia. Being from Estonia, I am not directly from a Slavic culture, but I am pretty darn close and some of the things in the book simply made me smile. Good use, Brendan! Good use… It does, in my mind, also keep those traditions and way of life from the days past alive. So, my final words? I would recommend this book. It holds its own and it has much to like about it. I would also tell potential readers not to worry about page count – somehow the pages simply fly by and you will want to know how it all ends. There are no overly graphic scenes that could make more sensitive readers turn their heads away from the book, and there is no crude swearing which also appeals to some. I mean, solid. Sends a high five to Brendan Noble!
January 24, 2024
A warrior shrouded in darkness. A witch sworn to revenge. A winter unbounded.
Wacław is an outcast. Born with a curse he doesn’t understand, he’s hidden his power his entire life. But when the goddess of winter unleashes the darkness within him, his only hope for answers is the girl he’s forbidden to see.
Otylia is a witch. There’s no one she hates more than the winter goddess—except her once best friend Wacław. But when she receives visions of endless blizzards and Wacław fighting by her side, she realizes he’s the key to uncovering the goddess’s plot.
Facing monsters and magic at every turn, the pair must journey with friends and rivals alike to confront the cult of winter, but Wacław’s awakened darkness grows as death consumes the living realm. To contain it, they’ll have to mend their broken relationship and delve into the mysteries of their past. Mysteries that could destroy the winter goddess . . . or themselves.
In this first book of an epic fantasy series rooted in Slavic mythology, dive into a new world with menacing magic and beasts, scheming gods, a group of allied misfits, and plenty of secrets to uncover.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Thank you Brendan Noble for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
What a story! A Dagger in the Winds is a fast-paced fantasy novel steeped in Slavic mythology that had me hooked from the first page to the end with its engaging story and complex characters.
Before reading this novel Slavic mythology was not something I had a lot of knowledge of. Thanks to Brendan Noble, I'm now interested in learning more about the fascinating stories, legends and myths surrounding Slavic lore.
The dual POVs of Wacław and Otylia brought the story together perfectly as these two traverse a world that outcasts them both, for different reasons. Each held their own in the story and brought unique views, baggage and twists that enriched the story and made it feel truly human.
Overall, A Dagger in the Winds was amazing and has me wondering how Wacław and Otylia's stories continue in this must-read Chronicle series. It is a definite must-read for high-fantasy fans who want the atmosphere of the chilling North from Game of Thrones along with the warring clans that encompass Viking fiction.
Wacław is an outcast. Born with a curse he doesn’t understand, he’s hidden his power his entire life. But when the goddess of winter unleashes the darkness within him, his only hope for answers is the girl he’s forbidden to see.
Otylia is a witch. There’s no one she hates more than the winter goddess—except her once best friend Wacław. But when she receives visions of endless blizzards and Wacław fighting by her side, she realizes he’s the key to uncovering the goddess’s plot.
Facing monsters and magic at every turn, the pair must journey with friends and rivals alike to confront the cult of winter, but Wacław’s awakened darkness grows as death consumes the living realm. To contain it, they’ll have to mend their broken relationship and delve into the mysteries of their past. Mysteries that could destroy the winter goddess . . . or themselves.
In this first book of an epic fantasy series rooted in Slavic mythology, dive into a new world with menacing magic and beasts, scheming gods, a group of allied misfits, and plenty of secrets to uncover.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Thank you Brendan Noble for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
What a story! A Dagger in the Winds is a fast-paced fantasy novel steeped in Slavic mythology that had me hooked from the first page to the end with its engaging story and complex characters.
Before reading this novel Slavic mythology was not something I had a lot of knowledge of. Thanks to Brendan Noble, I'm now interested in learning more about the fascinating stories, legends and myths surrounding Slavic lore.
The dual POVs of Wacław and Otylia brought the story together perfectly as these two traverse a world that outcasts them both, for different reasons. Each held their own in the story and brought unique views, baggage and twists that enriched the story and made it feel truly human.
Overall, A Dagger in the Winds was amazing and has me wondering how Wacław and Otylia's stories continue in this must-read Chronicle series. It is a definite must-read for high-fantasy fans who want the atmosphere of the chilling North from Game of Thrones along with the warring clans that encompass Viking fiction.
October 18, 2023
I read this for SPFBO. My review only. More about the contest and links at the bottom.
Well I wasn’t too surprised to see Dagger in the Winds make it to semi-round within our group because Bjorn has been going on and on about how good the lore was for weeks.
*
I really liked this cover. Very nice colours and art that lends to the idea this story is going to be YA/NA which to me was pretty spot on. This definitely is a coming-of-age tale, with everything that term implies- from falling in love, to learning to move on from the past, to stepping up and doing what’s right- even when it isn’t the easiest choice. And it’s all wrapped up in some seriously cool Slavic lore.
I know so little about Slavic lore and Dagger in the Wind’s story and characters are heavily entwined in their beliefs and traditions, so for me, there was a learning curve in getting a feel for the world, the names etc, and especially knowing which Gods matter enough to remember. I generally take character notes until I reach that point because I don’t know who I will need to remember for later. It can be tiring and slow going for the first little while. Also, because I use my notepad feature on my phone, times like this is when I want to scream in frustration as it auto-corrects everything.
Anyway…
Waclaw- is a Frostmarked. His dad is the chief of their tribe, and there were already hard feelings towards one another, so being Frostmarked (which is something his people and their beliefs means he is considered to be a demon) is not going to make that relationship any easier.
Otylia- is a Szeptucha, considered a witch by their people. She follows Dziwanna the goddess of the wilds.
The story is told in three parts and I’m not going to go into details on characters and plot points because as I said, there is too much lore entwined with their stories, and it would be far easier and take less time for you to just go read the book.
Part one- sees the two characters growing into their roles /being chosen and given tasks by their Goddesses, meanwhile a threat is rising in the east.
Once I settled into the story, I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and the surroundings, their rituals and lifestyle. I did feel the beginning was a bit dense at times, with a lot of names being thrown around- partly characters, partly goddesses, and partly in-world terms, but it does settle.
Part two- the journey east to meet with tribes. As fun as it was to get on the road, the middle drug a little for me, despite all the action. It became repetitive with the same arguments between the group members.
And the story falls into this pattern of fight, someone nearly dies and is saved by other, heal and h/c (hurt/comfort). If you’re into the h/c, this story is for you because it has it in spades throughout all three parts as Waclaw and Otylia, grow closer and face different problems or battles together.
We also learn some interesting history of the Gods, and Marzanna the Goddess of Winter and Death, gives Waclaw a choice that will have repercussions.
Part three-
In the mangled woods for final showdown where Waclaw has to enter the Lake of Reflection and find the Heart of its power. This was very cool and leads up to an action-packed finale and a quite unexpected turn of events that I won’t go into for the obvious spoilery reasons.
*
There were things that made the story special, and things that drug it down just teensy bit:
The battles were fun, though occasionally began to feel like filler in the middle, esp. but the end brings us a nice big lightning-powered finale and an event that I didn’t expect.
The characters for the most part, I liked, though some of the peripheral characters seemed to be there just to beak-off and cause problems, and didn’t have much in the way of growth.
A good strong edit would help thin down some of those repetitive/filler scenes and arguments. They kept the story from moving too quickly but didn’t add much either.
On the whole- I enjoyed the story once I got into it. It has the feel of a fairytale between the magic and the goddesses/gods being so involved and a part of their lives and beliefs. I don’t know where original tales and the authors imagination begin and end, but I loved the lore, and liked how it was used to tell Waclaw and Otylia’s stories.
SPFBO score-6.5 or 4 stars
Well I wasn’t too surprised to see Dagger in the Winds make it to semi-round within our group because Bjorn has been going on and on about how good the lore was for weeks.
*
I really liked this cover. Very nice colours and art that lends to the idea this story is going to be YA/NA which to me was pretty spot on. This definitely is a coming-of-age tale, with everything that term implies- from falling in love, to learning to move on from the past, to stepping up and doing what’s right- even when it isn’t the easiest choice. And it’s all wrapped up in some seriously cool Slavic lore.
I know so little about Slavic lore and Dagger in the Wind’s story and characters are heavily entwined in their beliefs and traditions, so for me, there was a learning curve in getting a feel for the world, the names etc, and especially knowing which Gods matter enough to remember. I generally take character notes until I reach that point because I don’t know who I will need to remember for later. It can be tiring and slow going for the first little while. Also, because I use my notepad feature on my phone, times like this is when I want to scream in frustration as it auto-corrects everything.
Anyway…
Waclaw- is a Frostmarked. His dad is the chief of their tribe, and there were already hard feelings towards one another, so being Frostmarked (which is something his people and their beliefs means he is considered to be a demon) is not going to make that relationship any easier.
Otylia- is a Szeptucha, considered a witch by their people. She follows Dziwanna the goddess of the wilds.
The story is told in three parts and I’m not going to go into details on characters and plot points because as I said, there is too much lore entwined with their stories, and it would be far easier and take less time for you to just go read the book.
Part one- sees the two characters growing into their roles /being chosen and given tasks by their Goddesses, meanwhile a threat is rising in the east.
Once I settled into the story, I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and the surroundings, their rituals and lifestyle. I did feel the beginning was a bit dense at times, with a lot of names being thrown around- partly characters, partly goddesses, and partly in-world terms, but it does settle.
Part two- the journey east to meet with tribes. As fun as it was to get on the road, the middle drug a little for me, despite all the action. It became repetitive with the same arguments between the group members.
And the story falls into this pattern of fight, someone nearly dies and is saved by other, heal and h/c (hurt/comfort). If you’re into the h/c, this story is for you because it has it in spades throughout all three parts as Waclaw and Otylia, grow closer and face different problems or battles together.
We also learn some interesting history of the Gods, and Marzanna the Goddess of Winter and Death, gives Waclaw a choice that will have repercussions.
Part three-
In the mangled woods for final showdown where Waclaw has to enter the Lake of Reflection and find the Heart of its power. This was very cool and leads up to an action-packed finale and a quite unexpected turn of events that I won’t go into for the obvious spoilery reasons.
*
There were things that made the story special, and things that drug it down just teensy bit:
The battles were fun, though occasionally began to feel like filler in the middle, esp. but the end brings us a nice big lightning-powered finale and an event that I didn’t expect.
The characters for the most part, I liked, though some of the peripheral characters seemed to be there just to beak-off and cause problems, and didn’t have much in the way of growth.
A good strong edit would help thin down some of those repetitive/filler scenes and arguments. They kept the story from moving too quickly but didn’t add much either.
On the whole- I enjoyed the story once I got into it. It has the feel of a fairytale between the magic and the goddesses/gods being so involved and a part of their lives and beliefs. I don’t know where original tales and the authors imagination begin and end, but I loved the lore, and liked how it was used to tell Waclaw and Otylia’s stories.
SPFBO score-6.5 or 4 stars
November 27, 2021
A Dagger in the Winds is an excellent, gripping read! The story is character-driven and fast-paced, switching between two points of view (Wacław and Otylia) but still manages to weave in the exposition and mythology seamlessly. The main characters are honestly very reminiscent of Hiccup and Astrid from the How to Train your Dragon movies, but truly, all the characters are endearing and unique with some of the most realistic friendships I’ve read. The character deal with their traumas in believable ways and aren’t flawless beings who never say or make mistakes.
The story embraces Slavic mythology and folklore, particularly the mythological archetypes of seasonal changes resulting from gods returning to the realm of the dead, and does a good job of personifying the gods and the people who follow them. Also, the villainous demons the characters encounter have great haunting descriptions!
There is quite a bit of romance present, to the extent that I’d say the romance takes up close to half the book, and I’d be lying if I said that a bulk of the romantic hype isn’t side characters prodding the two main characters in private to admit they like each other. In fact, it was an expected segue between action scenes (of which there are many), which would have bothered me more considering the danger and existential crises they face, but each scene brings such a charming view to the characters, I never found myself skimming to get to the next scene.
The action scenes are well-executed and believable, though I did feel like the characters walked off more egregious injuries than they should have, even with the assistance of a magic healer. Near death experiences are aplenty with the main characters narrowly avoiding death, or even just giving death the middle finger on many occasions. You learn early in the story that the author is more than okay with having the characters lose a fight or two, which I loved for the realism factor. Each conflict the crew encounters becomes less of a “how will they win this?” and more of a “will they survive this?” As well as significant consequences for each victory and defeat. The odds the characters face are immense, but the story doesn’t end with this book! Expect to dive right into the sequel when you finish this one!
My only drawbacks to this book were the visions. Otylia sees a series of visions very early in the book, which essentially act as a self-insert book trailer to hook readers, but for me this spoiled the book and to an extent, reading the rest of the book felt more like just filling in the blanks rather than to be shocked and surprised at anything else that happened. As a positive, I love how the characters developed and the tropes of discovering inner power, though I do feel like the visions robbed me of the surprise. The first part of the book was my favorite as the story elements weaved into the world and culture of the story with the festival and rituals before it dissipates into a bit of a generic traveling adventure with some interspersed events and fights, that are still enjoyable, but not quite as colorful as the first part, in my opinion.
From a technical standpoint, this book is well written with only a few inevitable grammatical/continuity issues that really don’t detract from the book itself at all. The writing style is very accessible with no purple prose. The chapters are all manageable lengths for when you need to take a breather from the drama and action. The author included a map and a pronunciation guide which was very helpful.
I’d recommend this book for any mythology or fantasy adventure lovers who want to fall in love with the characters as well as the world. I’m really looking forward to Book 2!
The story embraces Slavic mythology and folklore, particularly the mythological archetypes of seasonal changes resulting from gods returning to the realm of the dead, and does a good job of personifying the gods and the people who follow them. Also, the villainous demons the characters encounter have great haunting descriptions!
There is quite a bit of romance present, to the extent that I’d say the romance takes up close to half the book, and I’d be lying if I said that a bulk of the romantic hype isn’t side characters prodding the two main characters in private to admit they like each other. In fact, it was an expected segue between action scenes (of which there are many), which would have bothered me more considering the danger and existential crises they face, but each scene brings such a charming view to the characters, I never found myself skimming to get to the next scene.
The action scenes are well-executed and believable, though I did feel like the characters walked off more egregious injuries than they should have, even with the assistance of a magic healer. Near death experiences are aplenty with the main characters narrowly avoiding death, or even just giving death the middle finger on many occasions. You learn early in the story that the author is more than okay with having the characters lose a fight or two, which I loved for the realism factor. Each conflict the crew encounters becomes less of a “how will they win this?” and more of a “will they survive this?” As well as significant consequences for each victory and defeat. The odds the characters face are immense, but the story doesn’t end with this book! Expect to dive right into the sequel when you finish this one!
My only drawbacks to this book were the visions. Otylia sees a series of visions very early in the book, which essentially act as a self-insert book trailer to hook readers, but for me this spoiled the book and to an extent, reading the rest of the book felt more like just filling in the blanks rather than to be shocked and surprised at anything else that happened. As a positive, I love how the characters developed and the tropes of discovering inner power, though I do feel like the visions robbed me of the surprise. The first part of the book was my favorite as the story elements weaved into the world and culture of the story with the festival and rituals before it dissipates into a bit of a generic traveling adventure with some interspersed events and fights, that are still enjoyable, but not quite as colorful as the first part, in my opinion.
From a technical standpoint, this book is well written with only a few inevitable grammatical/continuity issues that really don’t detract from the book itself at all. The writing style is very accessible with no purple prose. The chapters are all manageable lengths for when you need to take a breather from the drama and action. The author included a map and a pronunciation guide which was very helpful.
I’d recommend this book for any mythology or fantasy adventure lovers who want to fall in love with the characters as well as the world. I’m really looking forward to Book 2!
August 15, 2023
This review was originally posted as part of my semifinalist SPFBO reveal on Queen's Book Asylum.
I’ll admit I was reluctant to read this book. I am Polish from origin and a book based on Polish mythology felt… scary. Fantasy books with “Slavic setting” often range from “I guess this is Slavic now” to borderline offensive. Which would A Dagger in the Winds turn out to be? I procrastinated, postponed, picked other reads, expecting – fearing – the worst…
I owe Brendan Noble an apology. I have never read a book based on Slavic lore that was this good. It felt like a love letter at times. Long, complicated, somewhat discombobulated love letter – but has love ever made any sense?
The worldbuilding in A Dagger in the Winds is immense. I have learned things I have never even heard about. The old, pre-xtian beliefs and Gods are all there, and, like with the Northmen, they walk around us mortals. There are szeptuchy, rusałki, utopce… and that’s a problem that might actually be mine. That’s a lot of Polish words – it sounds strange coming from me, but this made me read slower, since my subconscious sort of kept switching between languages. (I’m extremely curious how non-Slavs feel about it?) The one word I would have definitely changed was not Polish, though. It was “electricity.”
The main characters, Wacław and Otylia, are wonderful, although I wish they would spend less time agonising about, well, a lot of things. How many times can you ask your bestie the same question or evade it? Many, it turns out, and the pacing suffers from that. Their relationship is not quite the sort of relationship you’d expect – I can’t share more without spoilers, but oh boy, if you’re one of those people who say “I don’t like romance in fantasy,” you know nothing about Wacław and Otylia, Jon Snow. Kuba, Wacław’s friend, is a delight, and I would love to learn more about Xobas. Unfortunately, this doesn’t expand to the less important characters, and not just tertiary ones you meet in passing. Ara, Otylia’s best friend, is sort of there. Narcyz (a bit heavy-handed choice of a name here) is the sort of person that only ever opens his mouth to eat or say something nasty. (Wacław is surprised when for one single time Narcyz doesn’t call Otylia “a witch.”) Marek is so expendable I haven’t really noticed when he stopped being around. (Actually, I am not sure whether he was still around at the end…) A Dagger in the Winds is really about Wacław, Otylia, and the Gods, and this is where it shines.
Oh, the Gods. The burning of Marzanna’s effigy, then drowning the remains symbolises the end of winter – but what if Winter is not in the mood to end and captures Dziewanna, the Spring? Does the Summer have an opinion on that? Our protagonists are, obviously, the Chosen Ones – but sometimes being the Chosen One is not a good thing, especially when you get punished for refusing to do the bad thing. A friend of mine says that in monotheist religions the believers want to be noticed by their gods, and in the polytheist ones they do everything not to be noticed, and he’s right. Those Gods are sociopaths and if there’s something they want from you, you’re fu– unlucky. I have no idea whether the swords Jaryło carries, one for each month, are Noble’s original idea or something from the actual lore, but I loved it. I never felt I was being given a lecture, it was a plethora of wonders. In retrospect, I feel really stupid for thinking A Dagger in the Winds wouldn’t deliver.
Something I was not fond of was the political subplot, which was so sub- that even the characters sometimes seemed to forget why exactly they were on their journey. This is not to say that I’d know how to do it better, since somehow it was both necessary and superfluous. It had to be there so the book could be there. Nevertheless, maybe it’s actually because the politics didn’t take over that I have never lost interest while reading A Dagger in the Winds, although sometimes I lost the plot (sorry) (not sorry) and it contributed to the uneven pacing. (That ending felt a bit, as in a lot, too easy.) It never put me off, though, and I was rewarded. I have NOT seen the non-political ending coming. Or anything before the ending, actually.
Plot twists aplenty, one towards the end very unwelcome (I will find you, Noble, and tell you what I thought about that one and you know exactly what I mean). The uneven pacing that makes the book both fast-paced and a slow burn aside, I recommend it to fans of myth-based fantasy that delves into truly uncharted territory… and True Blood.
PS. Marzanna’s effigy is still burnt, then drowned in many communities in Poland to celebrate the end of winter, and inevitably followed by boys jumping over the fires. The Old Gods never truly die. Unless Brendan Noble decides otherwise…
(7.5/10 rounded up to 4/5)
My ratings:
5* = this book changed my life
4* = very good
3* = good
2* = I probably DNFed it, so I don't give 2* ratings
1* = actively hostile towards the reader
I’ll admit I was reluctant to read this book. I am Polish from origin and a book based on Polish mythology felt… scary. Fantasy books with “Slavic setting” often range from “I guess this is Slavic now” to borderline offensive. Which would A Dagger in the Winds turn out to be? I procrastinated, postponed, picked other reads, expecting – fearing – the worst…
I owe Brendan Noble an apology. I have never read a book based on Slavic lore that was this good. It felt like a love letter at times. Long, complicated, somewhat discombobulated love letter – but has love ever made any sense?
The worldbuilding in A Dagger in the Winds is immense. I have learned things I have never even heard about. The old, pre-xtian beliefs and Gods are all there, and, like with the Northmen, they walk around us mortals. There are szeptuchy, rusałki, utopce… and that’s a problem that might actually be mine. That’s a lot of Polish words – it sounds strange coming from me, but this made me read slower, since my subconscious sort of kept switching between languages. (I’m extremely curious how non-Slavs feel about it?) The one word I would have definitely changed was not Polish, though. It was “electricity.”
The main characters, Wacław and Otylia, are wonderful, although I wish they would spend less time agonising about, well, a lot of things. How many times can you ask your bestie the same question or evade it? Many, it turns out, and the pacing suffers from that. Their relationship is not quite the sort of relationship you’d expect – I can’t share more without spoilers, but oh boy, if you’re one of those people who say “I don’t like romance in fantasy,” you know nothing about Wacław and Otylia, Jon Snow. Kuba, Wacław’s friend, is a delight, and I would love to learn more about Xobas. Unfortunately, this doesn’t expand to the less important characters, and not just tertiary ones you meet in passing. Ara, Otylia’s best friend, is sort of there. Narcyz (a bit heavy-handed choice of a name here) is the sort of person that only ever opens his mouth to eat or say something nasty. (Wacław is surprised when for one single time Narcyz doesn’t call Otylia “a witch.”) Marek is so expendable I haven’t really noticed when he stopped being around. (Actually, I am not sure whether he was still around at the end…) A Dagger in the Winds is really about Wacław, Otylia, and the Gods, and this is where it shines.
Oh, the Gods. The burning of Marzanna’s effigy, then drowning the remains symbolises the end of winter – but what if Winter is not in the mood to end and captures Dziewanna, the Spring? Does the Summer have an opinion on that? Our protagonists are, obviously, the Chosen Ones – but sometimes being the Chosen One is not a good thing, especially when you get punished for refusing to do the bad thing. A friend of mine says that in monotheist religions the believers want to be noticed by their gods, and in the polytheist ones they do everything not to be noticed, and he’s right. Those Gods are sociopaths and if there’s something they want from you, you’re fu– unlucky. I have no idea whether the swords Jaryło carries, one for each month, are Noble’s original idea or something from the actual lore, but I loved it. I never felt I was being given a lecture, it was a plethora of wonders. In retrospect, I feel really stupid for thinking A Dagger in the Winds wouldn’t deliver.
Something I was not fond of was the political subplot, which was so sub- that even the characters sometimes seemed to forget why exactly they were on their journey. This is not to say that I’d know how to do it better, since somehow it was both necessary and superfluous. It had to be there so the book could be there. Nevertheless, maybe it’s actually because the politics didn’t take over that I have never lost interest while reading A Dagger in the Winds, although sometimes I lost the plot (sorry) (not sorry) and it contributed to the uneven pacing. (That ending felt a bit, as in a lot, too easy.) It never put me off, though, and I was rewarded. I have NOT seen the non-political ending coming. Or anything before the ending, actually.
Plot twists aplenty, one towards the end very unwelcome (I will find you, Noble, and tell you what I thought about that one and you know exactly what I mean). The uneven pacing that makes the book both fast-paced and a slow burn aside, I recommend it to fans of myth-based fantasy that delves into truly uncharted territory… and True Blood.
PS. Marzanna’s effigy is still burnt, then drowned in many communities in Poland to celebrate the end of winter, and inevitably followed by boys jumping over the fires. The Old Gods never truly die. Unless Brendan Noble decides otherwise…
(7.5/10 rounded up to 4/5)
My ratings:
5* = this book changed my life
4* = very good
3* = good
2* = I probably DNFed it, so I don't give 2* ratings
1* = actively hostile towards the reader
November 28, 2021
This is one hell of a journey, one hell of an epic adventure and once I picked this up I was so engrossed in the story the day just slipped on by! It’s so well written and the world building is so incredible that you can actually visualise yourself there as we follow our amazing characters on their journey. An exciting storyline based on Slavic mythology and folklore and is full of powerful gods, menacing beasts, cursed forests, forbidden romance, and plenty of secrets and betrayal. I am so excited to read the next book!
December 10, 2024
In the first book of The Frostmarked Chronicles, A Dagger in the Winds, Brendan Noble took me into a rich and unique narrative of Slavic mythology, where high stakes loom and the threat of eternal winter lurks around the corner.
A rejected son harbouring a hidden power and a forgotten, lonely "witch" embark on a quest for vengeance. This captivating hook instantly captured my attention, hinting at a story rich with enchantment, intrigue, and the quest for self-discovery.
The story centres around Wacław, a young man who has always yearned for purpose but finds himself trapped in a life devoid of dreams. Every night, his spirit roams the earth, seeking refuge from his father's disdain and the mockery of his people. This extraordinary talent paves the way for an exploration of personal growth and atonement.
Otylia, on the other side, is a szeptucha (a sorceress) who channels the untamed goddess Dziewanna. Her journey is marked by the abandonment of her community and the haunting grief of losing her mother to the goddess of winter, Marzanna. This duality in her character—both fierce and vulnerable—creates a captivating dynamic with Wacław.
As the narrative unfolds, the two characters are forced to confront their linked fates. The arrival of spring hinges on their collaboration to unearth the shadowy secrets of their intertwined history. Both Wacław and Otylia are beautifully developed, and the dialogues between them and their parents are incredibly touching and provide insight in a very clever way.
A Dagger in the Winds was, without a question, an enjoyable read. That being said, I couldn't help notice some patterns in the pacing and the supporting character's actions. There was some repetition in this quest narrative, almost like a video game where we have to defeat monsters which get bigger and bigger after each stage. Also, deeper development of some supporting characters could have elevated the story.
Captivating and with a touching aspect, Noble's writing transports me to a vividly created universe full of strong gods, frightening spirits, and fierce warlords. Though the world-building is not especially complex, Slavic folklore provides a wonderful detour from the usually followed routes of more familiar mythologies in the fantasy genre. Though it is set in snowy winter time, the richness of the descriptions transformed this book into a vivid, warm experience.
In conclusion, this book is truly captivating, weaving together a beautifully crafted fantasy with themes that resonate deeply—identity, friendship, and the eternal struggle against darkness. Even though there are aspects that give away this was the first epic fantasy book Noble has ever written, it is a must-read for those who appreciate world-building, gods and the exploration of different types of love.
I want to extend my gratitude to Brendan Noble for sharing a copy of this book with me in return for an honest review. I can't wait to discover where this adventure takes me next!
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A rejected son harbouring a hidden power and a forgotten, lonely "witch" embark on a quest for vengeance. This captivating hook instantly captured my attention, hinting at a story rich with enchantment, intrigue, and the quest for self-discovery.
The story centres around Wacław, a young man who has always yearned for purpose but finds himself trapped in a life devoid of dreams. Every night, his spirit roams the earth, seeking refuge from his father's disdain and the mockery of his people. This extraordinary talent paves the way for an exploration of personal growth and atonement.
Otylia, on the other side, is a szeptucha (a sorceress) who channels the untamed goddess Dziewanna. Her journey is marked by the abandonment of her community and the haunting grief of losing her mother to the goddess of winter, Marzanna. This duality in her character—both fierce and vulnerable—creates a captivating dynamic with Wacław.
As the narrative unfolds, the two characters are forced to confront their linked fates. The arrival of spring hinges on their collaboration to unearth the shadowy secrets of their intertwined history. Both Wacław and Otylia are beautifully developed, and the dialogues between them and their parents are incredibly touching and provide insight in a very clever way.
A Dagger in the Winds was, without a question, an enjoyable read. That being said, I couldn't help notice some patterns in the pacing and the supporting character's actions. There was some repetition in this quest narrative, almost like a video game where we have to defeat monsters which get bigger and bigger after each stage. Also, deeper development of some supporting characters could have elevated the story.
Captivating and with a touching aspect, Noble's writing transports me to a vividly created universe full of strong gods, frightening spirits, and fierce warlords. Though the world-building is not especially complex, Slavic folklore provides a wonderful detour from the usually followed routes of more familiar mythologies in the fantasy genre. Though it is set in snowy winter time, the richness of the descriptions transformed this book into a vivid, warm experience.
In conclusion, this book is truly captivating, weaving together a beautifully crafted fantasy with themes that resonate deeply—identity, friendship, and the eternal struggle against darkness. Even though there are aspects that give away this was the first epic fantasy book Noble has ever written, it is a must-read for those who appreciate world-building, gods and the exploration of different types of love.
I want to extend my gratitude to Brendan Noble for sharing a copy of this book with me in return for an honest review. I can't wait to discover where this adventure takes me next!
BLOG | TWITTER | Follow me on Goodreads | HIRE ME
July 29, 2025
I originally read this book in 2021, and that's where I started my love affair with anything Brendan! His writing caught me good and solid, his style captured my imagination and his flair for the dramatic engaged me completely! Having recently read the AMAZING second book in The Realm Reachers series, I knew a reread of this series was in order. OMG did I LOVE it even more this time! My heart clenched in agony for Waclaw at the way he was treated, so vividly presented I wanted to climb into the book and shield him from all the abuse. The bond he has with Otylia is tested time and again, but they understand each other, they care for each other. The rawness of emotions jumps out in this magnificent tale, the depth and intricacies of the plot, just excellent. A world so vibrant and full of superstition, a world that is rapidly changing but so too are Waclaw and Otylia, they are becoming more. My word, the Goddess Marzanna is a piece of work! I guess I can, sort of understand, but she will stop at nothing to get what she wants. And the manipulation she uses, HECK! By the time one realises what she's all about, it's too late, her clutches are already dug in. What a tale! One of desperation, one of grief and one of trying to overcome bias.
My original review:
Totally different to the norm and thoroughly convincing. I found the book so interesting, I love any mythology linked novels, but they are usually of Greek or Norse mythology. This puts a new spin for me. Although I know little of Slavic/Polish mythology, I did enjoy how the story pans out. It was very credibly written and I wasn't left wanting. The pace is perfect, neither too fast nor slow and the world building is very descriptive. The characters are interesting and intriguing, especially Waclaw and Otylia. Waclaw is desperate for approval but never receives, from a father who rejected him at birth. Otylia is still mourning her mother's death. When strange things start happening to Waclaw, the only person who can help him get out of the clutches of the goddess Marzanna, is Otylia but as they set out on a journey to unite the tribes, for a war that is imminent, together with a few warriors, both their lives are thrown into total disarray and truths revealed. Truths that no one could have envisioned, but have a profound impact on them. I didn't foresee the events unfolding so it was a huge plus for me, I love being kept guessing and not being able to predict the outcome. Really looking forward to book 2!
My original review:
Totally different to the norm and thoroughly convincing. I found the book so interesting, I love any mythology linked novels, but they are usually of Greek or Norse mythology. This puts a new spin for me. Although I know little of Slavic/Polish mythology, I did enjoy how the story pans out. It was very credibly written and I wasn't left wanting. The pace is perfect, neither too fast nor slow and the world building is very descriptive. The characters are interesting and intriguing, especially Waclaw and Otylia. Waclaw is desperate for approval but never receives, from a father who rejected him at birth. Otylia is still mourning her mother's death. When strange things start happening to Waclaw, the only person who can help him get out of the clutches of the goddess Marzanna, is Otylia but as they set out on a journey to unite the tribes, for a war that is imminent, together with a few warriors, both their lives are thrown into total disarray and truths revealed. Truths that no one could have envisioned, but have a profound impact on them. I didn't foresee the events unfolding so it was a huge plus for me, I love being kept guessing and not being able to predict the outcome. Really looking forward to book 2!
December 5, 2021
At first, this book was a bit confusing. It's all about Slavic mythology, and I've never studied that before, but, once I understood the world it takes place in, I couldn't put this book down! The romance, while a bit predictable, was great, and it's a clean romance for those of us who don't like to read uncomfortably intimate scenes. I loved how there were deep friendships that weren't romanticized, which is something the YA genre is sorely lacking. I rarely see admirable relationships between kids and their parents in books, so I loved how the main male character had a loving and respectful relationship with his mom. Percy Jackson introduced modern readers to Greek and Roman mythology, and I'm glad that The Frostmarked Chronicles has done the same with Slavic mythology. I can't wait to start the second book!
April 15, 2021
Fantasy is my favorite genre to read, and though I love classic tropes it was really refreshing and exciting to see the new angles presented in Noble’s book. The characters in this story are presented in a relatable way, and in their debut in this book it leaves the reader wanting to know what will happen next. There is a lot to be said here as well for mindful pacing. The world building and character development never detracts from the exciting narrative.
I would recommend this book to both fantasy fans looking for a new take on the genre and to anyone looking for a unique perspective on Slavic mythology and folklore.
Looking forward to the next entry and hanging out with Wacław and Otylia once again!
I would recommend this book to both fantasy fans looking for a new take on the genre and to anyone looking for a unique perspective on Slavic mythology and folklore.
Looking forward to the next entry and hanging out with Wacław and Otylia once again!
December 10, 2021
Daggers in the wind is the first novel in a new series entitled the The Frostmarked Chronicles. It is based on Slavic mythology. This is the first novel I have read by Brendan Nobel. I am very glad I ran across this series. This novel drew me in from the very first page and I admit I had a very difficult time putting it down. The plot was very well developed and had a very nice twists hidden within that the author unraveled throughout the story. The pace of the book was just plain perfect. There was always something happening and left me never feeling like the book was dragging out. On the other hand the author never rushed me through the story either. I received the novel through StoryOrigin. This is an honest review and the opinions are all my own.
November 30, 2021
I was so excited for this book and it did not disappoint. A Dagger in the Winds artfully weaves Slavic mythology into a story of feuding families, disgraced young people, and the hope of finding yourself. Both main and supporting characters are incredible and give hope that there is redemption for even the demons among them.
I highly recommend for those who enjoyed the Winternight Trilogy (Katherine Arden), the Something Dark and Holy Trilogy (Emily Duncan), or The Girl the Sea Gave Back (Adrienne Young).
I highly recommend for those who enjoyed the Winternight Trilogy (Katherine Arden), the Something Dark and Holy Trilogy (Emily Duncan), or The Girl the Sea Gave Back (Adrienne Young).
March 31, 2023
I'm sure there are readers who will fall in love with this story, mainly if they like their classic fantasy world spiced up by a real life mythology that is not that common. The world is primeval: wild, full of magic, real gods and mythical beings that are rooten in real slavic mythologies and folklore. I loved the concept of szeptuchy and the channeling.
That said, the story felt really middle grade to me, and idk if it should have?
It's not the book's fault, really, it's mine. I was too excited to get my hands on something truly slavic (I'm glaring at you, grisha trilogy), but I had my hopes up too high.
The story is taking place in this unspecified time, but there are mentions of longhouses, tribes, tunics and they have a pantheon of slavic gods, which seems like the time before the Christianization. And that is already not really my cup of tea. I hoped it would be something inspired by a later period. Just a preference.
Another thing is that the story failed to grab me right from the prologue. I don't even know these characters and there is already something dramatic happening, and I simply don't care. Why should I?
From the chapter one a plot is nowhere in sight, and every other sentence is an exposition. It felt like a slice of life genre, everything was so slow. The drowning of Marzanna took chapters upon chapters. I got very sick of names of the gods popping up 10x per page. I love worldbuilding, alright? But there was no end to this, it did not leave me rest or process things.
Characters were predictable and not really captivating. They lacked depth. Waclaw is alright, but not really memorable or interesting protagonist, I had to question why was he the POV character. Or why was he chosen. His life does not seems that hard, the "half-chief" insult does not seem insulting enough for me to pity him. His wants and motivations are not really established, so when he does that stupid decision in the beggining and ends up with a bleeding hand, I don't really see why, he just seems stupid.
Otylia is sadly "not like other girls" while being a special snowflake, looking down on people in the village, enjoying making them fear her, full of angst since her mother died, always snapping and being contrary. Not very likeable(and her origin makes her even more obnoxious).
The bad part was that since very early on, there were visions of future romance, and it felt really forced and unnecessary. Why include spoilers? Who wants to root for something that we've already seen? And if they really are endgame, it's very boring. Their bond was not established very well, but years later they are not really talking and I just... wish the romance was not involved. Let them rekindle their friendship, but childhood friends-to-lovers? Please don't.
The whole society is of course misoginistic, another minus point for me. And of course it's the girl in the end that will need to be saved.
It did not sit well with me how Otylia's friend Ara was described, and that the danger they've seen in the vision was full of stereotypes about "savage nomads" from steppes, whom are dark skinned, good with horses and bows, but do not wear armor for some reason??
And then you have the horde and if you would question even now if they are actually bad: they are riding black horses, use bones as weapons, are smiling while killing people and are taking scalps. Got it? Yikes. I really hate the use of word cultists.
It's also sad that Marzanna and death/winter is painted as evil (idigenous slavic beliefs were anything but black and white), together with the "riders from the east". It stinks of yellow peril, and idk why the antagonists could not have been inspired by vikings, franks, goths, or you know, christian crusaders???
Maybe it's bc I've read so many books, that a story like this one seems so predictable and full of cliches. People like tropes, but I would also like to be sometimes surprised, or guess things wrong. I like to be sometimes wrong.
minor complaints:
- I think using polish Ł is pointless, I doubt english speaking readers will get it's not L
- if you are using words like szeptucha, why is 'chief' called by an english word?? he could have been knyaz, vladyka or something like that?
- using: okay, seconds/minutes(but then moons instead of months), cultist, diamond and other words, as well as an egg hunt, pulled me out of the story, it just feels too modern
- using witch as a slur is really boring, i'm sorry, but it is
- also, steppes can be very cold and windy, idk if it did not meant to be a desert instead
- why is Mother and Father written with a capital letter
- switching between english and foreign (fairy and wily) is strange
- there are mentions of real slavic beings (leshy, rusalka, etc.) and then some basic demons... and it felt weird
- most of the names do not feel slavic: Otylia, Adelajda, Jacek, Arleta, Wicenty, Zenobia, Narcyz, Dariusz, Marek, Maryla, Nevenka, Natasza, Serwacy, Genowefa, Lubena, Kajetan, Kuba, Odeta, Zofia, Yuliya... a lot of them are pulled from german/greek/roman/spanish or some other language, when it would probably look better if the names used would be either single-lexeme, or dithematic names of pre-christian slavic origin
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
That said, the story felt really middle grade to me, and idk if it should have?
It's not the book's fault, really, it's mine. I was too excited to get my hands on something truly slavic (I'm glaring at you, grisha trilogy), but I had my hopes up too high.
The story is taking place in this unspecified time, but there are mentions of longhouses, tribes, tunics and they have a pantheon of slavic gods, which seems like the time before the Christianization. And that is already not really my cup of tea. I hoped it would be something inspired by a later period. Just a preference.
Another thing is that the story failed to grab me right from the prologue. I don't even know these characters and there is already something dramatic happening, and I simply don't care. Why should I?
From the chapter one a plot is nowhere in sight, and every other sentence is an exposition. It felt like a slice of life genre, everything was so slow. The drowning of Marzanna took chapters upon chapters. I got very sick of names of the gods popping up 10x per page. I love worldbuilding, alright? But there was no end to this, it did not leave me rest or process things.
Characters were predictable and not really captivating. They lacked depth. Waclaw is alright, but not really memorable or interesting protagonist, I had to question why was he the POV character. Or why was he chosen. His life does not seems that hard, the "half-chief" insult does not seem insulting enough for me to pity him. His wants and motivations are not really established, so when he does that stupid decision in the beggining and ends up with a bleeding hand, I don't really see why, he just seems stupid.
Otylia is sadly "not like other girls" while being a special snowflake, looking down on people in the village, enjoying making them fear her, full of angst since her mother died, always snapping and being contrary. Not very likeable(and her origin makes her even more obnoxious).
The bad part was that since very early on, there were visions of future romance, and it felt really forced and unnecessary. Why include spoilers? Who wants to root for something that we've already seen? And if they really are endgame, it's very boring. Their bond was not established very well, but years later they are not really talking and I just... wish the romance was not involved. Let them rekindle their friendship, but childhood friends-to-lovers? Please don't.
The whole society is of course misoginistic, another minus point for me. And of course it's the girl in the end that will need to be saved.
It did not sit well with me how Otylia's friend Ara was described, and that the danger they've seen in the vision was full of stereotypes about "savage nomads" from steppes, whom are dark skinned, good with horses and bows, but do not wear armor for some reason??
And then you have the horde and if you would question even now if they are actually bad: they are riding black horses, use bones as weapons, are smiling while killing people and are taking scalps. Got it? Yikes. I really hate the use of word cultists.
It's also sad that Marzanna and death/winter is painted as evil (idigenous slavic beliefs were anything but black and white), together with the "riders from the east". It stinks of yellow peril, and idk why the antagonists could not have been inspired by vikings, franks, goths, or you know, christian crusaders???
Maybe it's bc I've read so many books, that a story like this one seems so predictable and full of cliches. People like tropes, but I would also like to be sometimes surprised, or guess things wrong. I like to be sometimes wrong.
minor complaints:
- I think using polish Ł is pointless, I doubt english speaking readers will get it's not L
- if you are using words like szeptucha, why is 'chief' called by an english word?? he could have been knyaz, vladyka or something like that?
- using: okay, seconds/minutes(but then moons instead of months), cultist, diamond and other words, as well as an egg hunt, pulled me out of the story, it just feels too modern
- using witch as a slur is really boring, i'm sorry, but it is
- also, steppes can be very cold and windy, idk if it did not meant to be a desert instead
- why is Mother and Father written with a capital letter
- switching between english and foreign (fairy and wily) is strange
- there are mentions of real slavic beings (leshy, rusalka, etc.) and then some basic demons... and it felt weird
- most of the names do not feel slavic: Otylia, Adelajda, Jacek, Arleta, Wicenty, Zenobia, Narcyz, Dariusz, Marek, Maryla, Nevenka, Natasza, Serwacy, Genowefa, Lubena, Kajetan, Kuba, Odeta, Zofia, Yuliya... a lot of them are pulled from german/greek/roman/spanish or some other language, when it would probably look better if the names used would be either single-lexeme, or dithematic names of pre-christian slavic origin
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2021
This was a great book.
November 28, 2021
In all honesty, the YA fantasy realm is very saturated- but this is a stand out novel. The unique world came to life so effortlessly with such stellar writing! I am adding this novel, as well as it's sequel, in my classroom library!
August 5, 2022
Brilliant story
Wow what can I say this is a brilliantly written book of adventure, magic, war involving both the gods and demons. It's a totally roller coaster of a ride with excitement and sorrow. I'm looking forward to seeing how this story continues in the next book 😃
Wow what can I say this is a brilliantly written book of adventure, magic, war involving both the gods and demons. It's a totally roller coaster of a ride with excitement and sorrow. I'm looking forward to seeing how this story continues in the next book 😃
March 21, 2022
A Dagger In The Winds by Brendan Noble.
I am officially addicted. I am sooo much addicted to Young Adult Fantasy that no matter how many different genre I might try, they wont make me as happy as this particular genre. So whenever I see Fantasy and Young Adult together in a book I HAVE to read it. It makes me leave all my tasks at hand just to read the next part. Sigh.
Anyway back to book, A Dagger In the Winds is a reallyyyyyyy good book for many reasons. Let me list them.
1) Badass female lead
2) friends to enemies to lovers trope
3) *insert creepy sound* World full of magic and horror
4) Action + slow burn romance + ✨✨✨
My favorite character was Otylia, as she never gave up, even in difficulty. At times, she was so alone. Everyone looking down on her but she was so good at handling in her emotions. Real raw beauty. And Waclaw. Sweet Waclaw. Living with burden of hatred, expectations and secrets still never giving up on himself. The first volume ignited the spark of a amazing journey ahead which I totally plan on reading. It promises amazing romance, action and so much more. Recommended 💯
Can't Wait To Read Part ll soon!!!!!
I am officially addicted. I am sooo much addicted to Young Adult Fantasy that no matter how many different genre I might try, they wont make me as happy as this particular genre. So whenever I see Fantasy and Young Adult together in a book I HAVE to read it. It makes me leave all my tasks at hand just to read the next part. Sigh.
Anyway back to book, A Dagger In the Winds is a reallyyyyyyy good book for many reasons. Let me list them.
1) Badass female lead
2) friends to enemies to lovers trope
3) *insert creepy sound* World full of magic and horror
4) Action + slow burn romance + ✨✨✨
My favorite character was Otylia, as she never gave up, even in difficulty. At times, she was so alone. Everyone looking down on her but she was so good at handling in her emotions. Real raw beauty. And Waclaw. Sweet Waclaw. Living with burden of hatred, expectations and secrets still never giving up on himself. The first volume ignited the spark of a amazing journey ahead which I totally plan on reading. It promises amazing romance, action and so much more. Recommended 💯
Can't Wait To Read Part ll soon!!!!!
April 30, 2021
This book is so amazing (might contain small spoilers).
Trigger points for me: Greek methodology, gods, chosen ones, golden eggs, chiefs.
This book is written in two perspectives, one of Waclaw and the second of Otylia
Waclaw is a half-chief, second-born son of high chief Jacek.
Otylia is a szeptuchy, the whispering sorcereress who is able to channel in two powers of the gods that chosen her (Dziewanna and Moskosz (mother of Dziewanna)).
These two were childhood besties, but since everyone is afraid of Otylia🧙♀️. Waclaw was forbidden to meet her and he left her at a moment where she needed him the most.
Otylia wants to take revenge on the goddess Marzanna. But then this tragic happens where Waclaw becomes one of the frostmarked of Marzanna. And Frostmarked are being banished by his father.
What is the plan of Marzanna?
Why is she interested in Waclaw? Is he a demon?
For the answer to the question above, grab a copy as soon as it releases!! I need my book 2 now!!
I received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger points for me: Greek methodology, gods, chosen ones, golden eggs, chiefs.
This book is written in two perspectives, one of Waclaw and the second of Otylia
Waclaw is a half-chief, second-born son of high chief Jacek.
Otylia is a szeptuchy, the whispering sorcereress who is able to channel in two powers of the gods that chosen her (Dziewanna and Moskosz (mother of Dziewanna)).
These two were childhood besties, but since everyone is afraid of Otylia🧙♀️. Waclaw was forbidden to meet her and he left her at a moment where she needed him the most.
Otylia wants to take revenge on the goddess Marzanna. But then this tragic happens where Waclaw becomes one of the frostmarked of Marzanna. And Frostmarked are being banished by his father.
What is the plan of Marzanna?
Why is she interested in Waclaw? Is he a demon?
For the answer to the question above, grab a copy as soon as it releases!! I need my book 2 now!!
I received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2021
📚Book Review 📖📌
Thank you so much @brendan_noble_author for sending me the arc of this book. A Dagger in the winds is the first book in the Slavic fantasy series called "The Frostmarked Chronicles" . I can't wait to know what happens next in the rest of the books in the series. I absolutely loved Otylia and Waclaw, definitely my favourites in the book. Each character has their own storyarcs, which made me deeply care for more than one character in the book. Those unpredictable plot twists were what kept me hooked to reading the story.The pace was perfect, neither too slow nor too fast. I highly recommend reading this epic slavic fantasy series to anyone who is interested in fantasy reads with a perfect blend of mythology and folklore. The author's writing style is so beautiful that as a reader I was pulled into the story right from start to finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Thank you so much @brendan_noble_author for sending me the arc of this book. A Dagger in the winds is the first book in the Slavic fantasy series called "The Frostmarked Chronicles" . I can't wait to know what happens next in the rest of the books in the series. I absolutely loved Otylia and Waclaw, definitely my favourites in the book. Each character has their own storyarcs, which made me deeply care for more than one character in the book. Those unpredictable plot twists were what kept me hooked to reading the story.The pace was perfect, neither too slow nor too fast. I highly recommend reading this epic slavic fantasy series to anyone who is interested in fantasy reads with a perfect blend of mythology and folklore. The author's writing style is so beautiful that as a reader I was pulled into the story right from start to finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
November 11, 2021
I was excited when I discovered this book. I haven't come across many fiction books that are based on Slavic folklore mythology. I've researched the topic myself, but the Polish version is rather new to me. The author has done a fantastic job of showing not only the customs of the people, but also has provided a wonderful portrayal of the gods and demons that infiltrated these ancient societies. What we think of now as demons, as Satan's helpers, are not how ancient people portrayed them. They are nature beings, controlling the elements. They are neither intuitively good nor bad. That, to me, is one thing that is shown so well throughout this story.
If you want to learn more about a mythology that is not that well-known in the western world, you'll enjoy reading this book. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
If you want to learn more about a mythology that is not that well-known in the western world, you'll enjoy reading this book. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
November 1, 2023
A Dagger in the Winds is one of Team Queen's Book Asylum's SPFBO 9 semi-finalists. Our group review can be read on Queen's Book Asylum. Our overall rating was 7/10, my personal rating is 6/10.
A Dagger of the Winds is one of those books I had no idea what to expect from. On the surface, it didn’t appeal to me, but Bjørn picked it as his semi-finalist, and every once in a while our tastes meet (see Small Miracles), so I approached with an open mind. I ended up having mixed feelings, but can’t say that I either loved or hated it. It’s somewhere in the middle, I guess.
We have two MCs, Wacław and Otylia with alternating 1st person POV chapters. They are both sixteen, living in a small village, on the verge of becoming adults in the eyes of their society. They used to be childhood friends until their rivaling fathers put an end to it. They are both outsiders in their own way – Wacław is the second son of the High Chief, born from his concubine, while Otylia is the chosen of one of the gods (Dziewanna), a szeptucha, whom people call a witch. Wacław is hard-working, quiet, caring, and unwilling to get into fights. Otylia is the cool, mysterious girl who doesn’t hold back from speaking her mind. She is also determined, strong-willed, and fierce. Probably a lot of readers will like her way more than Wacław who doesn’t have much agency throughout the book and pretty much gets his ass saved all the time. Which by the 50% mark got a bit boring, to be honest.
A Dagger in the Winds is a YA epic fantasy novel, but I think the adult audience will enjoy it just as much. There aren’t many graphic scenes, but there are figths, there is bloodshed and there is a coming-of-age undertone to it. It’s especially prominent in Wacław’s arc, who has to become a warrior, and has to come to terms with some truths about himself – though, that’s true for Otylia too, but she’s always been more at ease with herself and her path as Dziewanna’s servant. I think Noble managed to capture those mixed feelings of leaving childhood behind and the emotional journey of coming to terms with not only that but with their responsibilities too. On the other hand, I agree with the others, Wacław and Otylia needed to get to fucking move on and stop moaning about each other in their inner monologues.
Personally, I liked the first third or so that was set in the village as we got to know the characters and their culture, but I know some people will find it a bit slow maybe. Then I got bored as their journey dragged on and on and then got invested again in the last 25% or so. And yet, the ending left me a bit underwhelmed, despite some of the most emotional moments. I think we had so many similar moments up to that point, that I as a reader got numb to it, somehow. It ended on a cliffhanger too, sort of. Though, if you enjoyed the book, you sure will want to pick up the second book right after.
I felt that some trimming would have done good to this book. If it was 200 pages shorter, the pace and prose tightened up, A Dagger in the Winds could be a pretty good alternative to the Percy Jackson series, with an Eastern Europe flavor as a bonus. You don’t get much of those, so I’m giving extra credit to Noble for choosing to set his series in a world inspired by Polish mythology. How good he did with it though, I’ll leave it to Bjørn to judge. I, for one, found it fascinating.
While I had my moments with this book, I never really connected with it. I think I wanted something more from it, something less predictable maybe. As the revelations came, I kept thinking “of course” and moved on with a shrug. It came to a point where I just wondered why some of these were necessary. Apart from being super convenient for the plot. Still, for those who like epic fantasy and don’t mind it being close to the young adult spectrum, A Dagger of the Winds could be a good choice.
A Dagger of the Winds is one of those books I had no idea what to expect from. On the surface, it didn’t appeal to me, but Bjørn picked it as his semi-finalist, and every once in a while our tastes meet (see Small Miracles), so I approached with an open mind. I ended up having mixed feelings, but can’t say that I either loved or hated it. It’s somewhere in the middle, I guess.
We have two MCs, Wacław and Otylia with alternating 1st person POV chapters. They are both sixteen, living in a small village, on the verge of becoming adults in the eyes of their society. They used to be childhood friends until their rivaling fathers put an end to it. They are both outsiders in their own way – Wacław is the second son of the High Chief, born from his concubine, while Otylia is the chosen of one of the gods (Dziewanna), a szeptucha, whom people call a witch. Wacław is hard-working, quiet, caring, and unwilling to get into fights. Otylia is the cool, mysterious girl who doesn’t hold back from speaking her mind. She is also determined, strong-willed, and fierce. Probably a lot of readers will like her way more than Wacław who doesn’t have much agency throughout the book and pretty much gets his ass saved all the time. Which by the 50% mark got a bit boring, to be honest.
A Dagger in the Winds is a YA epic fantasy novel, but I think the adult audience will enjoy it just as much. There aren’t many graphic scenes, but there are figths, there is bloodshed and there is a coming-of-age undertone to it. It’s especially prominent in Wacław’s arc, who has to become a warrior, and has to come to terms with some truths about himself – though, that’s true for Otylia too, but she’s always been more at ease with herself and her path as Dziewanna’s servant. I think Noble managed to capture those mixed feelings of leaving childhood behind and the emotional journey of coming to terms with not only that but with their responsibilities too. On the other hand, I agree with the others, Wacław and Otylia needed to get to fucking move on and stop moaning about each other in their inner monologues.
Personally, I liked the first third or so that was set in the village as we got to know the characters and their culture, but I know some people will find it a bit slow maybe. Then I got bored as their journey dragged on and on and then got invested again in the last 25% or so. And yet, the ending left me a bit underwhelmed, despite some of the most emotional moments. I think we had so many similar moments up to that point, that I as a reader got numb to it, somehow. It ended on a cliffhanger too, sort of. Though, if you enjoyed the book, you sure will want to pick up the second book right after.
I felt that some trimming would have done good to this book. If it was 200 pages shorter, the pace and prose tightened up, A Dagger in the Winds could be a pretty good alternative to the Percy Jackson series, with an Eastern Europe flavor as a bonus. You don’t get much of those, so I’m giving extra credit to Noble for choosing to set his series in a world inspired by Polish mythology. How good he did with it though, I’ll leave it to Bjørn to judge. I, for one, found it fascinating.
While I had my moments with this book, I never really connected with it. I think I wanted something more from it, something less predictable maybe. As the revelations came, I kept thinking “of course” and moved on with a shrug. It came to a point where I just wondered why some of these were necessary. Apart from being super convenient for the plot. Still, for those who like epic fantasy and don’t mind it being close to the young adult spectrum, A Dagger of the Winds could be a good choice.
November 26, 2021
This rating was tough for me, but ultimately 5 stars was my decision. Just let me explain.
This was pretty rough for me to get into. The beginning part of this book had me struggling. I kept reading and thinking “I don’t care.” I did not connect to these characters and every other paragraph names of Gods were being mentioned so much that I found it hard to process who was who and what their purpose was.
BUT
This story is good; there are just some books that have a slow start. At the beginning of the book you are meeting these characters for the first time and that first impression isn’t a great one. As you read on, their decisions and feelings become more apparent. You eventually do relate to them and it was enjoyable to learn about a character instead of being told immediately.
This story is epic. The characters constantly reflect on how they were just celebrating and now they’re in the middle of a war between Gods. It feels exactly that way while reading. You don’t leave the tribe right away. You’re in their day to day life, a little longer than you’d like to be, and then the second half of the book you’re reflecting just as they are. There are so many action scenes occurring that it’s a constant up-and-down pace that makes you feel like the characters.
The “love” in this story is so young that I first thought it annoying, but it’s true to what young love is. They deny it, they’re shy and embarrassed, and they’re inexperienced. What new romance can really be definitively expressed when dealing with a war? Their journey through their feelings, however juvenile, is still exciting to see slowly unfold.
Although glimpses of what is to come is said in the book early on, there are still twists. The ending was not totally expected either. With how I started this book, I did not expect being so engulfed in this story by the end. I think this is a must read for lovers of epic tales and I look forward to the second book.
I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was pretty rough for me to get into. The beginning part of this book had me struggling. I kept reading and thinking “I don’t care.” I did not connect to these characters and every other paragraph names of Gods were being mentioned so much that I found it hard to process who was who and what their purpose was.
BUT
This story is good; there are just some books that have a slow start. At the beginning of the book you are meeting these characters for the first time and that first impression isn’t a great one. As you read on, their decisions and feelings become more apparent. You eventually do relate to them and it was enjoyable to learn about a character instead of being told immediately.
This story is epic. The characters constantly reflect on how they were just celebrating and now they’re in the middle of a war between Gods. It feels exactly that way while reading. You don’t leave the tribe right away. You’re in their day to day life, a little longer than you’d like to be, and then the second half of the book you’re reflecting just as they are. There are so many action scenes occurring that it’s a constant up-and-down pace that makes you feel like the characters.
The “love” in this story is so young that I first thought it annoying, but it’s true to what young love is. They deny it, they’re shy and embarrassed, and they’re inexperienced. What new romance can really be definitively expressed when dealing with a war? Their journey through their feelings, however juvenile, is still exciting to see slowly unfold.
Although glimpses of what is to come is said in the book early on, there are still twists. The ending was not totally expected either. With how I started this book, I did not expect being so engulfed in this story by the end. I think this is a must read for lovers of epic tales and I look forward to the second book.
I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2025
Wow, this book is long and intense. I feel like I will make a mess of review with this, but here goes.
Waclaw is the legitimate son of the chieftan who becomes a bastard because his father married for love and not for political gain. So he and his mother are forced to leave and live outside the bounds of the village. And still, this chief, who is his father who sucks at being a father, beats him until he stops being friends with his best friend because he believes she is a witch? Yeah, he deserved to die. There are no tears for that guy.
And Otylia never knew why she lost her best friend. So they are just enemies now. She lost her mom and her best friend. But she still deep in there, loves Waclaw. She just doesn't know what happened.
In this world, gods and goddesses can walk among people and be gods both. I think that might be true of a lot of folklore or stories. So Waclaw does something stupid and ends up frostmarked by the goddess Marzanna. She is the goddess of winter. The goddess they celebrate the end of. She explains that she and Jarylo, the god of spring, were siblings made to be lovers. She tells Waclaw that he has to kill Jarylo and bring her his Moonblades.
So then stuff starts happening, and the village sees war coming, so a bunch of them go to get more warriors or clans to help. Waclaw and Otylia go along to defeat Marzanna.
And I read this book the entire time wondering when the big reveal of Marzanna being right, and Jarylo actually being the bad guy like she says to happen, but instead death after death of every character( okay not every) that isn't Waclaw or Otylia. I still don't understand what is actually going on with this plot.
And there are more revelations about what Waclaw actually is, which is weird to me, and I don't understand. And revelations about Otylia and her mom, which were pretty cool.
I really enjoyed Waclaw and Otylia's ever changing and growing relationship. I loved them learning about themselves, the past, and who they could be together.
Waclaw is the legitimate son of the chieftan who becomes a bastard because his father married for love and not for political gain. So he and his mother are forced to leave and live outside the bounds of the village. And still, this chief, who is his father who sucks at being a father, beats him until he stops being friends with his best friend because he believes she is a witch? Yeah, he deserved to die. There are no tears for that guy.
And Otylia never knew why she lost her best friend. So they are just enemies now. She lost her mom and her best friend. But she still deep in there, loves Waclaw. She just doesn't know what happened.
In this world, gods and goddesses can walk among people and be gods both. I think that might be true of a lot of folklore or stories. So Waclaw does something stupid and ends up frostmarked by the goddess Marzanna. She is the goddess of winter. The goddess they celebrate the end of. She explains that she and Jarylo, the god of spring, were siblings made to be lovers. She tells Waclaw that he has to kill Jarylo and bring her his Moonblades.
So then stuff starts happening, and the village sees war coming, so a bunch of them go to get more warriors or clans to help. Waclaw and Otylia go along to defeat Marzanna.
And I read this book the entire time wondering when the big reveal of Marzanna being right, and Jarylo actually being the bad guy like she says to happen, but instead death after death of every character( okay not every) that isn't Waclaw or Otylia. I still don't understand what is actually going on with this plot.
And there are more revelations about what Waclaw actually is, which is weird to me, and I don't understand. And revelations about Otylia and her mom, which were pretty cool.
I really enjoyed Waclaw and Otylia's ever changing and growing relationship. I loved them learning about themselves, the past, and who they could be together.
Read
April 9, 2024A Dagger in the Winds is fantasy that puts its Polish and broader Slavic heritage first, and in doing so offers something unique from the slew of uninspired and rote fantasy offerings. It uses cultural influences that a lot of authors leave neglected to find the shape of a fantasy world, while still remaining a distinct and independent work.
A Dagger in the Winds reads very much like a young adult adventure, but with the strength of writing to give you a reason to stay invested in the characters. The main pair’s progression follows that familiar trend of being adept and ambitious, while lacking the communication skills and maturity needed to work together, inevitably requiring them to be challenged by events in the story and come out better on the other side. However this familiar plot progression isn’t a negative, as Brendan Noble has the skill to make it feel fresh.
I thought the setting was especially well envisioned, and the descriptions given painted a clear picture of the world. I could imagine the crunch of snow being walked on, the warm light of hearths and the wintered trees of the forest with perfect clarity – and that can only ever be thanks to the author writing it so well.
I think if there is anything that hampered my enjoyment of this, it would be that I’m just not the target audience. I tend to enjoy reading from the perspective of young characters who act their age, which A Dagger in the Winds offers, but in spite of this there has to be another level of content being offered – a sharp turn to something more mature and challenging - while this book makes no illusions about stopping at being young adult fantasy. I think for that reason I can’t leave a rating, as my ratings usually reflect my personal appreciation of a work, and in A Dagger in the Wind’s case, that appreciation has an unfair cap.
A Dagger in the Winds reads very much like a young adult adventure, but with the strength of writing to give you a reason to stay invested in the characters. The main pair’s progression follows that familiar trend of being adept and ambitious, while lacking the communication skills and maturity needed to work together, inevitably requiring them to be challenged by events in the story and come out better on the other side. However this familiar plot progression isn’t a negative, as Brendan Noble has the skill to make it feel fresh.
I thought the setting was especially well envisioned, and the descriptions given painted a clear picture of the world. I could imagine the crunch of snow being walked on, the warm light of hearths and the wintered trees of the forest with perfect clarity – and that can only ever be thanks to the author writing it so well.
I think if there is anything that hampered my enjoyment of this, it would be that I’m just not the target audience. I tend to enjoy reading from the perspective of young characters who act their age, which A Dagger in the Winds offers, but in spite of this there has to be another level of content being offered – a sharp turn to something more mature and challenging - while this book makes no illusions about stopping at being young adult fantasy. I think for that reason I can’t leave a rating, as my ratings usually reflect my personal appreciation of a work, and in A Dagger in the Wind’s case, that appreciation has an unfair cap.
Want to read
March 11, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBO9 contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
Two young friends venture into the dark woods on the eve of the spring equinox because on this night the spring gods can bee seen hunting the forest to kill the goddess of winter & death
Boy oh boy, what a uniquely interesting polytheistic fantasy. Noble does an excellent job of introducing us to some of the gods in this world without overwhelming us by using the characters’ dialogue.
The snowy atmosphere of this opening is immersive. I have an affinity for “kids at play - in over their heads” stories, and this introduces its characters in motion with a goal that is full of promise.
The prose is expressive and easy to read, which helps keep the world building from seeming complicated. Aside from the talk of the gods, there is also some interesting spirit projection magic.
This is a fantasy that assures the reader from the outset that it is bound to be anything but generic. I’m not sure our kids are going to make it through the night safe and sound, but that creates a wonderful feeling of anticipation.
I think this novel would have a broad appeal to all ages. The style is approachable. The characters feel like real people. The story has great pacing. I feel like anything could happen. I’m in!
Two young friends venture into the dark woods on the eve of the spring equinox because on this night the spring gods can bee seen hunting the forest to kill the goddess of winter & death
Boy oh boy, what a uniquely interesting polytheistic fantasy. Noble does an excellent job of introducing us to some of the gods in this world without overwhelming us by using the characters’ dialogue.
The snowy atmosphere of this opening is immersive. I have an affinity for “kids at play - in over their heads” stories, and this introduces its characters in motion with a goal that is full of promise.
The prose is expressive and easy to read, which helps keep the world building from seeming complicated. Aside from the talk of the gods, there is also some interesting spirit projection magic.
This is a fantasy that assures the reader from the outset that it is bound to be anything but generic. I’m not sure our kids are going to make it through the night safe and sound, but that creates a wonderful feeling of anticipation.
I think this novel would have a broad appeal to all ages. The style is approachable. The characters feel like real people. The story has great pacing. I feel like anything could happen. I’m in!
June 15, 2021
It started with some adjustments and "breaking me in" to Brendan's style of writing, which I ended up liking, and after some initial reservations (imaginary if I might add) where I was afraid that it will go down the road where a lot of writers follow and make a mistake, by sometimes even unconsciously, drifting towards Tolkien and similar writers with "group of people on a grand quest". Well boy was I mistaken. Brendan truly built his own world (believable Slavic world) ) where the story was fresh, unexpected and nicely rooted in Slavic mythology. As ACR I was kind of looking for holes and some pitfalls at the beginning, then the story took me over. I relaxed and enjoyed it thoroughly. And to Brendan's credit I reached that familiar feeling, where at the end of the book I was sad it ended, but still excited for the next one to see where it is going and how it will resolve.
Highly recommended for those who like mythology and wants to learn about Slavic gods and way of life, or just for pure reading fun.
Slava Rodu
Highly recommended for those who like mythology and wants to learn about Slavic gods and way of life, or just for pure reading fun.
Slava Rodu
May 18, 2023
"A Dagger in the Winds" is an excellent self-published effort that hold it's own against its trad-pubbed counterparts. Kicking off things, the cover is gorgeous and well-done, and the book itself is a mixture of Slavic mythology and epic fantasy.
The narrative follows two former friends - Waclaw and Otylia - on an epic quest that pits them against a cult of winter - and a goddess at the heart of it all. The characters in the narrative are extremely engaging and charming, and the story itself is well-paced and interesting.
There are a couple moments where the prose didn't hit as sharply as I wanted to, as well as a few moments where the characters felt like they were slipping into slightly modern language that didn't fit the setting. Neither was particularly jarring, but it did take me a little out of the story.
Still, this is a very engaging and unique series that I look forward to reading in the future.
The narrative follows two former friends - Waclaw and Otylia - on an epic quest that pits them against a cult of winter - and a goddess at the heart of it all. The characters in the narrative are extremely engaging and charming, and the story itself is well-paced and interesting.
There are a couple moments where the prose didn't hit as sharply as I wanted to, as well as a few moments where the characters felt like they were slipping into slightly modern language that didn't fit the setting. Neither was particularly jarring, but it did take me a little out of the story.
Still, this is a very engaging and unique series that I look forward to reading in the future.
July 29, 2022
I normally try to avoid comparing books to other author's works in case that book is not to the author's taste, but in this case I have to compare this work to one of the major high fantasy pillars: Wheel of Time. Like that classic, this book has AMAZING world building, an incredibly timeless tone that makes it both magical and relatable, and a cast of super realistic - flawed but loveable - characters. Otylia really spoke to me from the very beginning and drew me into both the mythology and culture of this world. I loved her refusal to let past hurts stop current friendships and promises she made from being her top priority. Full of twists and turns, and an ending that will leave you satisfied that this joinery has come to an end, and yet confident that a new one is just beginning, this is a series you will definitely want to read!
June 24, 2021
I'm giving it four because even though it has fantasy and some mythology in it that I'm not really interested in it was a pretty good book. It really wasn't out there as much as I thought the writing was really good and the characters well you will have to read for yourself and you judge how believable they really are!! This is a new author to me cause I don't really read these kinds of stories but I have to say It was almost believable!! Even Brendon Noble had me going there in a lot of the places.. Don't listen to me really who am I to judge this kind of book cause I don't make a straight diet of reading these kinds like I said,but don't tell anyone who knows me, I really liked it abilities retitled the book,goes with the story..
June 10, 2021
I started exploring Slavic mythology earlier this year and was thrilled when I stumbled across Brendan Noble's new series. I requested an arc copy of the new book for this review. I've never been a fantasy reader, but the storyline between the two main characters, the way it was woven seamlessly throughout the book, and the way Noble brings the mythology to life has me eager to read the rest of the series.
I really enjoyed the elements of the story - mystery & magic, family ties, love, powerful gods, clashing clans, loss, truth, and finding inner strength. I'm rooting for Wacław & Otylia and the return of Spring!
I really enjoyed the elements of the story - mystery & magic, family ties, love, powerful gods, clashing clans, loss, truth, and finding inner strength. I'm rooting for Wacław & Otylia and the return of Spring!
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