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The Silent War #1
The Call
All her life sixteen-year-old Katja has been haunted by a strange certainty that she faces a lifetime of conflict. Her dreams foretell of monsters and terrible foes, and she hones combat skills as best she can in a peaceful village in Baldur's Coast despite not understanding who these foes are or what her purpose is.
After a demon straight from her nightmares descends on the village with terrible consequences, a strange woman with a young face and an ancient bearing arrives. The stranger promises both the answers and all the dangerous adventures her soul yearns for. With that Katja finally goes out into the wider world. Under the woman's tutelage she beings to hone her supernatural talents as well as her physical ones. But time is short. Old foes seek to step out of the shadows and seize power, and Katja's baptism of fire draws near . . .
After a demon straight from her nightmares descends on the village with terrible consequences, a strange woman with a young face and an ancient bearing arrives. The stranger promises both the answers and all the dangerous adventures her soul yearns for. With that Katja finally goes out into the wider world. Under the woman's tutelage she beings to hone her supernatural talents as well as her physical ones. But time is short. Old foes seek to step out of the shadows and seize power, and Katja's baptism of fire draws near . . .
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
73 people are currently reading
615 people want to read
About the author
Elí Freysson
24 books49 followersBorn and still living in north Iceland in 1982, Elí divides his spare time between the gym, the swimming pool, video games, walks, reading, baking and writing about himself in the third person.
His first fantasy novel was published in Iceland in 2011, followed by a self-published one each year. In 2015 he finished translating the first of a trilogy into English and published online.
And that's how history was made.
His first fantasy novel was published in Iceland in 2011, followed by a self-published one each year. In 2015 he finished translating the first of a trilogy into English and published online.
And that's how history was made.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 7, 2017
Strong action filled book. Bit too fast paced for me but Katja got me through - its not often an author captures that sense of teenage bullheadedness without coming up with an eye-rollingly tiresome pup.
December 21, 2015
The Call is an action-packed adventure story which introduces a world and a protagonist that both have a lot of potential.
It starts off slowly, and there are a couple of writing quirks early on that broke my immersion on occasion. The most noticeable problems here are several exchanges that play out in the same manner: (the mentor) Serdra notes one of (the protagonist) Katja's personality traits; Katja is shocked at how clearly Serdra understands her. Those exchanges felt like a transparent attempt to establish Katja's personality, which simply didn't work for me.
Fortunately those issues are tied to the early character building, so they become less prevalent as the story progresses. Once it gets moving the narrative becomes gripping, and the story develops well and builds to a satisfying conclusion. The action in particular is strong, especially towards the climax of the book - the focus on physical conflict plays to the strengths of the writing.
The only complaint I have with the plot is the number of times that one of Katja and Serdra's abilities causes them to just stumble into things. Mysteries and plot problems are solved by them following their magical gut instinct that draws them towards trouble, rather than by their own reasoning or discoveries. While I'd have liked to see that plot device used less often, the reliance on their ability does ensure that the action builds up at a brisk pace, and as a result it only feels like a minor issue.
The setting is engaging despite its fairly standard-fantasy feel, and the pieces of backstory revealed so far imply a deeper and more detailed history. Aspects such as the various types of magic are hinted at enough to be intriguing without losing their sense of mystery, and Katja's developing abilities are explored effectively and explained well throughout. I particularly liked the ability which Katja has an affinity for - it's a simple idea that is rarely explored; here it is put to good use at various points in the story.
The characters are believable and relatable, and Katja's internal development ties in well with the external events. However, the main thing holding me back from really connecting to the book is that Katja's characterisation seems to take a back seat to the action. I invariably prefer novels which have a focus on character development, such as those written by Robin Hobb. In this case, while the development does occur, there is little time spent exploring the changes in Katja's personality and there are very few pauses for reflection. Since the book is only 200 pages long there would have easily been space for extra development; instead the focus is on the action. It works, but I feel that there is a deeper and more satisfying story just beneath the surface that could have been set free.
Serdra works well as the enigmatic mentor, particularly because her often-repeated reason for withholding information is logical: it's better for her pupil to form her own opinions and thoughts than it is for her to be force-fed. The rest of the supporting cast aren't fleshed out much, but that's more due to the hectic pace of the story than any lack in the writing - there's simply no time for Katja to get to know anyone before she has to move on.
Overall I enjoyed The Call, despite wishing for more depth of character. It's short, fun, and full of action, and if you're looking for something fast-paced and entertaining then it's definitely worth a look.
3.5 stars (in this case rounded up).
It starts off slowly, and there are a couple of writing quirks early on that broke my immersion on occasion. The most noticeable problems here are several exchanges that play out in the same manner: (the mentor) Serdra notes one of (the protagonist) Katja's personality traits; Katja is shocked at how clearly Serdra understands her. Those exchanges felt like a transparent attempt to establish Katja's personality, which simply didn't work for me.
Fortunately those issues are tied to the early character building, so they become less prevalent as the story progresses. Once it gets moving the narrative becomes gripping, and the story develops well and builds to a satisfying conclusion. The action in particular is strong, especially towards the climax of the book - the focus on physical conflict plays to the strengths of the writing.
The only complaint I have with the plot is the number of times that one of Katja and Serdra's abilities causes them to just stumble into things. Mysteries and plot problems are solved by them following their magical gut instinct that draws them towards trouble, rather than by their own reasoning or discoveries. While I'd have liked to see that plot device used less often, the reliance on their ability does ensure that the action builds up at a brisk pace, and as a result it only feels like a minor issue.
The setting is engaging despite its fairly standard-fantasy feel, and the pieces of backstory revealed so far imply a deeper and more detailed history. Aspects such as the various types of magic are hinted at enough to be intriguing without losing their sense of mystery, and Katja's developing abilities are explored effectively and explained well throughout. I particularly liked the ability which Katja has an affinity for - it's a simple idea that is rarely explored; here it is put to good use at various points in the story.
The characters are believable and relatable, and Katja's internal development ties in well with the external events. However, the main thing holding me back from really connecting to the book is that Katja's characterisation seems to take a back seat to the action. I invariably prefer novels which have a focus on character development, such as those written by Robin Hobb. In this case, while the development does occur, there is little time spent exploring the changes in Katja's personality and there are very few pauses for reflection. Since the book is only 200 pages long there would have easily been space for extra development; instead the focus is on the action. It works, but I feel that there is a deeper and more satisfying story just beneath the surface that could have been set free.
Serdra works well as the enigmatic mentor, particularly because her often-repeated reason for withholding information is logical: it's better for her pupil to form her own opinions and thoughts than it is for her to be force-fed. The rest of the supporting cast aren't fleshed out much, but that's more due to the hectic pace of the story than any lack in the writing - there's simply no time for Katja to get to know anyone before she has to move on.
Overall I enjoyed The Call, despite wishing for more depth of character. It's short, fun, and full of action, and if you're looking for something fast-paced and entertaining then it's definitely worth a look.
3.5 stars (in this case rounded up).
December 4, 2017
After an attack on her village, a stranger comes along and informs Katja that she is part of an ancient order meant to fight in the shadows to hold back the forces of darkness, pulling Katja into an ages old Silent War.
A fairly fast paced read, mostly well written with some editing issues scattered throughout. I enjoyed Katja's training and journey with her mentor, as well as the world Freysson created. A bit slow to get going, event wise, but I was never bored. A nice start to a series I look forward to checking out further.
A fairly fast paced read, mostly well written with some editing issues scattered throughout. I enjoyed Katja's training and journey with her mentor, as well as the world Freysson created. A bit slow to get going, event wise, but I was never bored. A nice start to a series I look forward to checking out further.
January 22, 2016
I’ll admit that a lot of the straight up fantasy books I’ve read recently have been pretty sub-par and boring, so I went into this with a little skepticism. Luckily, The Call broke that rotten string with gusto. I’m not even 100% what it was about the story, bust something just pulled me in right away and constantly left me wanting to turn to the next page. Freysson is a native to Iceland and world within The Call felt very Nordic. It was dark, cold, and unforgiving. Much like I kind of picture the wilds of Iceland to be. And I loved it. So many fantasy books use very standard fantasy world settings. Freysson didn’t – at least not in my opinion – and it really set this world apart for me. There was plenty of lore and history mixed into the story to give it a lot of depth without dragging things down. Katja and Serdra bother were fantastic characters and so much fun to read. I don’t think I can say enough good things about this book. I’ll be reading the second book in the series ASAP.
September 30, 2015
Fín fantasía með ófreskjum, bardögum og dulúð.
October 4, 2016
What do you get when you mix Buffy and the Witcher together? With some good world building thrown in? This stuff. Love it.
September 12, 2018
I liked this one. Plot-wise, I thought it started a bit slow as we were given a lot of information about the main character and the ancient order that she's training to be a part of. But it didn't take long to get moving. The training with her mentor was well done. It really showed off Katja's personality. There was a good bit of action as we went through the book. There were sword fights, demon summoning, and some magic thrown in. I also liked that even though it's part of a series, there was a good ending to this one. We weren't left hanging.
May 6, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of the book through vivacious reads from the author.
This book is very different from most fantasy stories I have read.
Its a little bit slow to start but once it gets going I loved the way the 2 main characters interact.
It reminds me a bit of Buffy with the young Katja being pulled in to her calling as a warrior.
Its great to have a series with a strong female characters and this book will leave you longing for more.
This book is very different from most fantasy stories I have read.
Its a little bit slow to start but once it gets going I loved the way the 2 main characters interact.
It reminds me a bit of Buffy with the young Katja being pulled in to her calling as a warrior.
Its great to have a series with a strong female characters and this book will leave you longing for more.
December 16, 2022
Great mystery writer
I enjoyed the insubstantial "Call", as if some greater force was leading Katya onward to be more than just an awkward teen. Sensing and battling evil to allow the world to be free of demons and all those who would seek to summon them.
I found the book interesting and kept on delving further until the last page... so what is next Eli ?
I enjoyed the insubstantial "Call", as if some greater force was leading Katya onward to be more than just an awkward teen. Sensing and battling evil to allow the world to be free of demons and all those who would seek to summon them.
I found the book interesting and kept on delving further until the last page... so what is next Eli ?
February 14, 2023
I gave this an extra star because I won't be re-reading this book, but my younger self would have drooled over it. It reminded why I fell in love with reading in the first place. Its always going to be hard to beat a strong female character who defeats evil, Whether its creatures, evil people, or demons.
July 3, 2025
The Call is a gripping, fast-paced fantasy that blends prophecy, power, and personal destiny. Katja is the kind of heroine you root for, brave, haunted, and determined to rise. Elí Freysson crafts a dark and vivid world full of mystery and tension, with just enough emotional depth to keep you hooked
February 26, 2022
Couldn't put it down.
I was hooked withing the first few pages. A great introduction to an author I wasn't familiar with. I loved the characters and the world that was built for them in this book, can't wait to read the rest of this series.
I was hooked withing the first few pages. A great introduction to an author I wasn't familiar with. I loved the characters and the world that was built for them in this book, can't wait to read the rest of this series.
April 13, 2022
Good
I enjoyed the last few chapters, but felt it was difficult to plot the storyline together. Felt like I was missing something about who these people were. I am hoping to have my questions answered a bit better in the next book
I enjoyed the last few chapters, but felt it was difficult to plot the storyline together. Felt like I was missing something about who these people were. I am hoping to have my questions answered a bit better in the next book
January 9, 2020
Strong female protagonist
Short Enjoyable read. I liked aprotagonist in a fantasy story that wasn't torn from their simple life with regrets but worked hard to become the hero.
Short Enjoyable read. I liked aprotagonist in a fantasy story that wasn't torn from their simple life with regrets but worked hard to become the hero.
October 9, 2019
Great fantasy
It is good to see a fantasy that doesn't follow all the tropes. A young hero, heir to an ancient group of heroes. That is pretty trophy. But the story is not.
It is good to see a fantasy that doesn't follow all the tropes. A young hero, heir to an ancient group of heroes. That is pretty trophy. But the story is not.
June 16, 2016
4.5 * rated up.
Read my full review here:http://www.chocomeiske.com/2016/06/15...
An immersive, well written fantasy with a great cast of characters, The Call surprised me with its cadence and well-constructed sentences and flow of events. We follow a young lady of 19 by the name Katja who has heard ‘The Call’ all her life. She loves fighting and has bested everyone in her village and when monsters came calling she made short work of them. News of her conquest soon spread and she comes to the attention of a female warrior called Serdra who also answers ‘The Call’, the lust for combat in the war against evil. She takes Katja under her wing and teaches her to embrace all that she is. She also teachers her how to fight with an array of weapons and instructs her in the ways of the Redcloaks or Greycloaks, their race of people. Redcloaks battle the forces of evil and Katja finally feels she has a hold of her destiny. She works on honing her talents, both physical and supernatural while learning the history of the world and her people’s place in it. As if fighting against the evil wasn’t enough, they also fight a ‘Silent War’ against another group of persons called The Brotherhood who are determined to rid the world of all the Redcloaks if possible, and let evil reign so they could have power and control. Katja is thrown into the midst of all this and will have to sink or swim!
Read my full review here:http://www.chocomeiske.com/2016/06/15...
An immersive, well written fantasy with a great cast of characters, The Call surprised me with its cadence and well-constructed sentences and flow of events. We follow a young lady of 19 by the name Katja who has heard ‘The Call’ all her life. She loves fighting and has bested everyone in her village and when monsters came calling she made short work of them. News of her conquest soon spread and she comes to the attention of a female warrior called Serdra who also answers ‘The Call’, the lust for combat in the war against evil. She takes Katja under her wing and teaches her to embrace all that she is. She also teachers her how to fight with an array of weapons and instructs her in the ways of the Redcloaks or Greycloaks, their race of people. Redcloaks battle the forces of evil and Katja finally feels she has a hold of her destiny. She works on honing her talents, both physical and supernatural while learning the history of the world and her people’s place in it. As if fighting against the evil wasn’t enough, they also fight a ‘Silent War’ against another group of persons called The Brotherhood who are determined to rid the world of all the Redcloaks if possible, and let evil reign so they could have power and control. Katja is thrown into the midst of all this and will have to sink or swim!
November 20, 2016
Through Story Cartel I received a free copy of this novel to give my honest review on it. Overall the story has many positives. I love that the main characters are not only women, but are strong physically and mentally- society needs more characters like Katja and Serdra. The storyline is immersive and grabs your attention from the beginning. The story begins by Katja following a voice, although she is unsure as to if it is real, and follows her journey in accepting and learning about The Call, and what it all means. Freysson's work makes the world he has created easy to immerse yourself into. The cultural differences are not overwhelming and are introduced in such a way that it gives insight into the workings of their society.
Overall, not a bad book. It sets the reader up for the rest of the series.
Overall, not a bad book. It sets the reader up for the rest of the series.
November 5, 2016
If your interests turn to "believeable" sword & sorcery this is a book for you! Not all happy endings with very human issues of fear and doubt for Katharine the primary protagonist. Her mentor seeks not just to train her in combat and using her "other" abilities but, to supply her with harsh practical lessons in life and death and ways to overcome and survive. A good read!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews