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Silver Queendom
When you owe money to the biggest criminal in town you are going to need to step up your thieving game a notch...
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Service at the Red Rooster Inn isn't what you'd call good, or even adequate. Darin would be the first to say so, and he owns the place. Evie isn't much of a barmaid; Kat's home-brewed ale seems to grow less palatable with each new batch; and Seraphina's service at the bar leaves much to be desired. As for the bouncer, Big Tom, well, everyone learns right quick to stay on his good side.
They may be bad at running an inn, but they're the best team of con artists in the Old Queendom. When a prospective client approaches Darin with a high-paying job, he knows he should refuse. But the job is boosting a shipment of priceless imperial dream wine, the most coveted and expensive drink in the world. And, thanks to a stretch of bad luck, he's in deep to The Dame, who oversees criminal enterprises in this part of the Queendom.
If they fail, they're as good as dead, but if they succeed... well, it's enough money to get square with the Dame and make all of their dreams come true. Plus, it's an option for Darin to stick it to the empress, who he has good reason to despise.
Then again, there's a very good reason no one has ever stolen imperial dream wine...
---
Service at the Red Rooster Inn isn't what you'd call good, or even adequate. Darin would be the first to say so, and he owns the place. Evie isn't much of a barmaid; Kat's home-brewed ale seems to grow less palatable with each new batch; and Seraphina's service at the bar leaves much to be desired. As for the bouncer, Big Tom, well, everyone learns right quick to stay on his good side.
They may be bad at running an inn, but they're the best team of con artists in the Old Queendom. When a prospective client approaches Darin with a high-paying job, he knows he should refuse. But the job is boosting a shipment of priceless imperial dream wine, the most coveted and expensive drink in the world. And, thanks to a stretch of bad luck, he's in deep to The Dame, who oversees criminal enterprises in this part of the Queendom.
If they fail, they're as good as dead, but if they succeed... well, it's enough money to get square with the Dame and make all of their dreams come true. Plus, it's an option for Darin to stick it to the empress, who he has good reason to despise.
Then again, there's a very good reason no one has ever stolen imperial dream wine...
408 pages, Paperback
First published August 23, 2022
36 people are currently reading
1052 people want to read
About the author
Dan Koboldt
28 books368 followersDan Koboldt is a genetics researcher who has co-authored more than 90 publications in Nature, Science, the New England Journal of Medicine, and other journals. Every fall, he disappears into the woods to pursue whitetail deer with bow and arrow. He lives with his wife and three children in Ohio, where the deer take their revenge by eating all of the plants in his backyard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
June 7, 2023
In this book there's no world ending threats, just fun
June 7, 2022
It's been ages since I read a heist fantasy. That's why I immediately hit the request button when I saw the book on NetGalley. The cover looked cool. The plot sounded even cooler.
Silver Queendom is the kind of low heist fantasy that brightens your day and entertains. Everything in the story clicks and hits the right tone to engage the reader. We get a roguish band of protagonists based in Red Rooster Inn, (in)famous for its Ale. The fast-paced plot has twists and turns in all the right places, and the story stands on its own.
Darin owns the Red Rooster Inn, but his business and revenue sources are more diverse. He and his team are the best con artists in Old Quueendom, always happy to relieve nobles of their valuables.
Unfortunately, they rarely keep the loot. Instead, indebted to Dame, the city's most prominent and cold-blooded criminal, they try to pay the debt. After one of the heists goes wrong, Dame grows impatient.
Darin and his crew get a chance to earn BIG MONEY, but the mission is suicidal. A mysterious noble wants them to steal dream wine (the realm's most valuable substance) from the Queen.
A challenge!
Darin likes challenges, but he prefers ones you can survive. Unfortunately, time is running out, so the team accepts the challenge. Mayhem ensues.
I loved the whole team - the chapters are told from the point of view of key Red Rooster Inn employees. Darin is the brain of the operation, with a gift (although he'd call it a curse) for Metallurgy (fascinating magic). He likes to avoid attention. Evie comes from money and misses the wealth. She knows how to talk and act around high borns and has a lot of charm and sharp wit. Kat brews her own beer, which gets nastier and nastier with each new batch. She also helps orphans. Big Tom is a bouncer, and he's BIG. Most people prefer to stay on his good side. Those who don't, learn from their mistakes. There's also Seraphina, who encourages Darin to explore his magical gift.
Koboldt delivers imaginative action and cool twists (though I wouldn't call most of them shocking) and strong character interactions. Combine it with minimal world-building and you get fast-paced low fantasy goodness that can be easily devoured in one sitting.
I had a great time reading Silver Queendom. The story stands on its own but opens many possibilities for future sequels. I hope the novel succeeds and we'll get more adventures of Darin and his team.
ARC through NetGalley
Silver Queendom is the kind of low heist fantasy that brightens your day and entertains. Everything in the story clicks and hits the right tone to engage the reader. We get a roguish band of protagonists based in Red Rooster Inn, (in)famous for its Ale. The fast-paced plot has twists and turns in all the right places, and the story stands on its own.
Darin owns the Red Rooster Inn, but his business and revenue sources are more diverse. He and his team are the best con artists in Old Quueendom, always happy to relieve nobles of their valuables.
Unfortunately, they rarely keep the loot. Instead, indebted to Dame, the city's most prominent and cold-blooded criminal, they try to pay the debt. After one of the heists goes wrong, Dame grows impatient.
Darin and his crew get a chance to earn BIG MONEY, but the mission is suicidal. A mysterious noble wants them to steal dream wine (the realm's most valuable substance) from the Queen.
A challenge!
Darin likes challenges, but he prefers ones you can survive. Unfortunately, time is running out, so the team accepts the challenge. Mayhem ensues.
I loved the whole team - the chapters are told from the point of view of key Red Rooster Inn employees. Darin is the brain of the operation, with a gift (although he'd call it a curse) for Metallurgy (fascinating magic). He likes to avoid attention. Evie comes from money and misses the wealth. She knows how to talk and act around high borns and has a lot of charm and sharp wit. Kat brews her own beer, which gets nastier and nastier with each new batch. She also helps orphans. Big Tom is a bouncer, and he's BIG. Most people prefer to stay on his good side. Those who don't, learn from their mistakes. There's also Seraphina, who encourages Darin to explore his magical gift.
Koboldt delivers imaginative action and cool twists (though I wouldn't call most of them shocking) and strong character interactions. Combine it with minimal world-building and you get fast-paced low fantasy goodness that can be easily devoured in one sitting.
I had a great time reading Silver Queendom. The story stands on its own but opens many possibilities for future sequels. I hope the novel succeeds and we'll get more adventures of Darin and his team.
ARC through NetGalley
August 18, 2022
4.5 stars, very enjoyable.
* This is a review of a digital advanced copy obtained through NetGalley. You can find my full video review here: https://youtu.be/vQ0BbzPjhdc *
Silver Queendom is a book that’s all about the fun. There’s no world-ending threat, it’s just a bunch of thieves trying to keep afloat in an ocean of politics, backstabbing, crosses and double crosses, and everything else that follows someone in their particular profession.
We follow a crew based in the Red Rooster inn. Loosely speaking, Darin is the brains of the operation, Evie the beauty, and Tom the brawn. You then have Kat the brewer, and the mysterious Seraphina who looks after the inn while the crew is away.
The crew is in deep to The Dame, and they take on a job boosting a shipment of imperial dream wine to pay off the debt. We see much more than that though, including how the crew come to owe The Dame in the first place, and also a series of jobs leading up to the headline steal.
I found each of the characters here to be well-written and likeable, with little bits of backstory added in where it is natural in the story to do so, rather than just doing it because the character needs fluffing up a bit.
The world as well is quite well put together, with little bits of history and magic here and there that add to the story without overwhelming it.
The heists were also generally enjoyable, with just the right balance between cleverness and ‘realism.’
At this point, I don’t know whether there will be more to this world and these characters, Silver Queendom is not listed as being part of a series, from what I can see, but the ending definitely leaves it open for us to get more stories.
I do find that this is the type of tale where you can have that though, as you’re not relying on constant wars or global threats to give the characters a new adventure.
Overall, this was a really fun book, that I definitely recommend. There’s a nice light tone to the writing, with some good humour in the interactions between the characters and it was a very accessible writing style throughout.
* This is a review of a digital advanced copy obtained through NetGalley. You can find my full video review here: https://youtu.be/vQ0BbzPjhdc *
Silver Queendom is a book that’s all about the fun. There’s no world-ending threat, it’s just a bunch of thieves trying to keep afloat in an ocean of politics, backstabbing, crosses and double crosses, and everything else that follows someone in their particular profession.
We follow a crew based in the Red Rooster inn. Loosely speaking, Darin is the brains of the operation, Evie the beauty, and Tom the brawn. You then have Kat the brewer, and the mysterious Seraphina who looks after the inn while the crew is away.
The crew is in deep to The Dame, and they take on a job boosting a shipment of imperial dream wine to pay off the debt. We see much more than that though, including how the crew come to owe The Dame in the first place, and also a series of jobs leading up to the headline steal.
I found each of the characters here to be well-written and likeable, with little bits of backstory added in where it is natural in the story to do so, rather than just doing it because the character needs fluffing up a bit.
The world as well is quite well put together, with little bits of history and magic here and there that add to the story without overwhelming it.
The heists were also generally enjoyable, with just the right balance between cleverness and ‘realism.’
At this point, I don’t know whether there will be more to this world and these characters, Silver Queendom is not listed as being part of a series, from what I can see, but the ending definitely leaves it open for us to get more stories.
I do find that this is the type of tale where you can have that though, as you’re not relying on constant wars or global threats to give the characters a new adventure.
Overall, this was a really fun book, that I definitely recommend. There’s a nice light tone to the writing, with some good humour in the interactions between the characters and it was a very accessible writing style throughout.
August 27, 2022
3.5 stars
I love heist stories! So naturally I was very interested to check out this one. This was an enjoyable, multi POV narrative that hit many of my favourite tropes of the genre. I enjoyed the humour, primarily coming from the snarky banter between the characters.
As far as heist stories go, this one was enjoyable but perhaps not the most unique plot. I liked the story, but I've read stronger heist narratives.
I would recommend this one to readers who love heist stories and are looking for a new entertaining fantasy novel.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I love heist stories! So naturally I was very interested to check out this one. This was an enjoyable, multi POV narrative that hit many of my favourite tropes of the genre. I enjoyed the humour, primarily coming from the snarky banter between the characters.
As far as heist stories go, this one was enjoyable but perhaps not the most unique plot. I liked the story, but I've read stronger heist narratives.
I would recommend this one to readers who love heist stories and are looking for a new entertaining fantasy novel.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
July 21, 2022
I knew I was going to finish all of these books at once!
This is a fun heist with minimal actual fantasy elements. I liked the metallurgy talent but the author could have done a lot more with it. It seems like there are at least one or two other magical abilities in the kingdom that could have been explored too.
There's a good cast of characters with some good banter. I liked Tom, he was the stoic warrior with a soft interior type. Each had their own struggles and we got glimpses of their pasts and strengths. They were a likeable crew and easy to root for, just something was missing to fully flesh them out. Their personalities developed throughout the book but they themselves didn't develop. That said, they pulled off an amazing heist
The world build was ok. On a micro level I liked how some tidbits were thrown in like the red foaming mouths of the mercenary horses, the ale making, courier custom, etc. Little things to make the world seem more real.
I also feel dumb but I don't actually understand why the client wanted to have the wine stolen 😳, although the resolution was still satisfactory. I hope there's a sequel so we can see the crew in action again!
Overall - it's a fun, entertaining heist book that I would definitely recommend. It stopped short of 5 stars but I did fully enjoy the book!
This is a fun heist with minimal actual fantasy elements. I liked the metallurgy talent but the author could have done a lot more with it. It seems like there are at least one or two other magical abilities in the kingdom that could have been explored too.
There's a good cast of characters with some good banter. I liked Tom, he was the stoic warrior with a soft interior type. Each had their own struggles and we got glimpses of their pasts and strengths. They were a likeable crew and easy to root for, just something was missing to fully flesh them out. Their personalities developed throughout the book but they themselves didn't develop. That said, they pulled off an amazing heist
The world build was ok. On a micro level I liked how some tidbits were thrown in like the red foaming mouths of the mercenary horses, the ale making, courier custom, etc. Little things to make the world seem more real.
I also feel dumb but I don't actually understand why the client wanted to have the wine stolen 😳, although the resolution was still satisfactory. I hope there's a sequel so we can see the crew in action again!
Overall - it's a fun, entertaining heist book that I would definitely recommend. It stopped short of 5 stars but I did fully enjoy the book!
March 17, 2023
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Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
What an amazing find on NetGalley. If you love fantasy heist stories, Silver Queendom is the book for you. This book contains multiple POVs, a bit of magic, and great fleshed-out characters that sweep you into the story like no other.
I love the world-building in this book. It is different from what you normally read and there is some back story on how this kingdom is based.
Darin is our main character and owner of the Red Rooster Inn and employs a crew to work in the Inn and to do jobs or Heist. Each person who works in the Inn has the ability to pull off a successful heist.
Even though they are good at what they do, they are having trouble keeping up with the debt to the Dame. Because of their reputation, they were presented with a job that was dangerous and had never before been achieved. Even though it has never been achieved, it is a chance to pay off their debt and be free from the Dame.
It is not as easy as it seems, as they were together to get things in place and to accomplish what they are going to be paid to do. They come across challenges and old revelries that get in their way to pull off their biggest heist yet.
I love each and every character in this book. Each one has a unique personality and a joy to read each POV as they work together to pull off an impossible Heist.
Even though there are so many good things to say about the books, there are a few things I would point out. The POVs can get confusing, sometimes you have to read a few sentences to understand which POV it is. So, I do wish there was a better way to understand who is who.
The magic system, though great and intriguing, you don’t get much of it and much explanation of it. So, I wish there was more to it than the details because it adds to the story because the magic does assist Darin in the Heist.
I love how different this book is and would recommend this book to others who want a good book about a heist.
September 22, 2024
4.0/5
This was really fun. A heist fantasy with some great characters, pearls in the dialogue, a fitting closure, a magic system using coins and a standalone at that.
It's true it's missing epicity and some things are superficially explained which I wish they got a bit more of depth and details, but I read this for fun and it delivered what I wanted.
This was really fun. A heist fantasy with some great characters, pearls in the dialogue, a fitting closure, a magic system using coins and a standalone at that.
It's true it's missing epicity and some things are superficially explained which I wish they got a bit more of depth and details, but I read this for fun and it delivered what I wanted.
September 8, 2022
You can never go wrong with a fun fantasy heist!!
Silver Queendom follows a crew based in the Red Rooster Inn, where the quality of the ale is questionable and the service leaves something to be desired. Luckily, they have other lucrative means of making ends meet, because they are the best con artists in the Old Queendom… would be nice if they could keep their loot in their own pockets though.
This was an incredibly fun and engaging heist adventure. I really liked that we are thrown straight into the middle of a job at the start of the book, because it really set the tone for the rest of the story. The action never lets up and it’s just an extremely entertaining romp the entire way through.
One of the main draws in any heist story is often the crew for me. Like, I need to have a fun cast of characters that I can root for and who can believably pull off all these jobs by combining their personal strengths. And Silver Queendom definitely delivers on that aspect!! Darin is the brains, Evie is the beauty and Tom is the (slightly slow-witted) muscles. We get perspectives from all of these characters, plus some other additional ones, which I personally really enjoyed. Every character felt well-developed and had a very distinct voice, so that made it a very easy and fun reading experience. The camaraderie and snarky banter between these characters was also just so fun, I was immediately sold on their friendships.
I also really appreciated that we got to see these characters take on some other jobs before the big heist is introduced. By that point, we had seen them work together and I was invested in their lives and fates, so that immediately raised the stakes.
The plot itself was definitely clever and engaging, with some interesting twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. Give me all the scheming, backstabbing and double crossing, I love it.
The only thing I think could’ve been improved upon was the world building, particularly the magic system. I really liked the concept of metallurgy, where magic users can draw upon silver (though that power comes with a price!), but I never felt like I got a good grasp on it.
All in all, I had a great time with this story though. This book stands on its own really well, but there is definitely room for more stories in this world and I would personally love to return to this crew to follow their shenanigans.
I highly recommend this if you are in the mood for a lighter read with entertaining characters and an exciting romp of a heist!
Silver Queendom follows a crew based in the Red Rooster Inn, where the quality of the ale is questionable and the service leaves something to be desired. Luckily, they have other lucrative means of making ends meet, because they are the best con artists in the Old Queendom… would be nice if they could keep their loot in their own pockets though.
This was an incredibly fun and engaging heist adventure. I really liked that we are thrown straight into the middle of a job at the start of the book, because it really set the tone for the rest of the story. The action never lets up and it’s just an extremely entertaining romp the entire way through.
One of the main draws in any heist story is often the crew for me. Like, I need to have a fun cast of characters that I can root for and who can believably pull off all these jobs by combining their personal strengths. And Silver Queendom definitely delivers on that aspect!! Darin is the brains, Evie is the beauty and Tom is the (slightly slow-witted) muscles. We get perspectives from all of these characters, plus some other additional ones, which I personally really enjoyed. Every character felt well-developed and had a very distinct voice, so that made it a very easy and fun reading experience. The camaraderie and snarky banter between these characters was also just so fun, I was immediately sold on their friendships.
I also really appreciated that we got to see these characters take on some other jobs before the big heist is introduced. By that point, we had seen them work together and I was invested in their lives and fates, so that immediately raised the stakes.
The plot itself was definitely clever and engaging, with some interesting twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. Give me all the scheming, backstabbing and double crossing, I love it.
The only thing I think could’ve been improved upon was the world building, particularly the magic system. I really liked the concept of metallurgy, where magic users can draw upon silver (though that power comes with a price!), but I never felt like I got a good grasp on it.
All in all, I had a great time with this story though. This book stands on its own really well, but there is definitely room for more stories in this world and I would personally love to return to this crew to follow their shenanigans.
I highly recommend this if you are in the mood for a lighter read with entertaining characters and an exciting romp of a heist!
November 7, 2022
I quite enjoyed this tale about a band of thieves who go from one heist to another. On a more entertaining than dark note, these rogues try to avoid killing as much as possible, and rather look for the more elegant way of getting their hand on all sorts of treasures. From gems to casks, nothing is safe if your really put your mind to it!
The tone and banter really worked well for me, and while they are no Robin Hoods, they still have their heart in the right place, and do care.
Action, fun and mysteries combined with some nice twists and an interesting world made this a really fast read!
The only thing I personally missed was a little bit more character depth here and there, especially for the supporting characters.
The tone and banter really worked well for me, and while they are no Robin Hoods, they still have their heart in the right place, and do care.
Action, fun and mysteries combined with some nice twists and an interesting world made this a really fast read!
The only thing I personally missed was a little bit more character depth here and there, especially for the supporting characters.
September 1, 2022
Oh, what a diverting heist story Silver Queendom is! Dan Koboldt writes a thievery novel destined to end up in the hands of readers waiting for the next installment of The Gentleman Bastards. Silver Queendom has heart, found family, and so much humor. It’s not as dark as TGB and the humor is almost always present.
I loved all of these characters. I remember thinking at one point that I couldn’t pick a character I would be “least sad” about losing. I was afraid for every single one, as they all worked their way into my heart. There is Darin with his mischief, Evie and her quick thinking, Tom being a deadly and sweet bear of a man, Kat with her maternal tendencies, and the trail of children that followed her. Koboldt made this little family into MY family for the span of the time that I was immersed in this book.
I didn’t want to put it down! It was just so fun, so easy to consume. My only complaint is that the 400 pages went by much too fast. There’s so much more I want to learn about these characters and this world! I hope we see more installments surrounding Darin and his crew. I could use more of the laugh-out-loud humor and the banter between characters in my life.
The world-building was just how I liked it: enough to give a sense of the similarities and differences in this world compared to ours, but didn’t drone on and beat me over the head with paragraphs detailing every aspect. We learn as we go. I especially loved the way this society seemed to be heavily Matriarchal. Most of the powerful players were women and that was so nice to see.
I can’t wait to read more from Dan Koboldt. I really jive with his writing style and would recommend Silver Queendom to anyone in need of a fast and fun book. Thanks to Angry Robot for having me on this tour and sending me a review copy!
I loved all of these characters. I remember thinking at one point that I couldn’t pick a character I would be “least sad” about losing. I was afraid for every single one, as they all worked their way into my heart. There is Darin with his mischief, Evie and her quick thinking, Tom being a deadly and sweet bear of a man, Kat with her maternal tendencies, and the trail of children that followed her. Koboldt made this little family into MY family for the span of the time that I was immersed in this book.
I didn’t want to put it down! It was just so fun, so easy to consume. My only complaint is that the 400 pages went by much too fast. There’s so much more I want to learn about these characters and this world! I hope we see more installments surrounding Darin and his crew. I could use more of the laugh-out-loud humor and the banter between characters in my life.
The world-building was just how I liked it: enough to give a sense of the similarities and differences in this world compared to ours, but didn’t drone on and beat me over the head with paragraphs detailing every aspect. We learn as we go. I especially loved the way this society seemed to be heavily Matriarchal. Most of the powerful players were women and that was so nice to see.
I can’t wait to read more from Dan Koboldt. I really jive with his writing style and would recommend Silver Queendom to anyone in need of a fast and fun book. Thanks to Angry Robot for having me on this tour and sending me a review copy!
August 22, 2022
4.5/5 stars
Silver Queendom was a fun romp of a heist fantasy. It follows a team of con artists who are forced to accept bad jobs against better judgement because their debts are about to be due. Darin is the leader and mastermind with a power he refuses to use. Evie is a noblewoman laid low by her father’s debts. Tom is a fighter with a gentle heart for horses. Kat is a traveller who can’t stop rescuing orphans. Together, they make up the Red Rooster team and attempt to pull off their riskiest con yet.
It is getting quite rare to get fantasies that don’t have epic scales or world ending stakes, so getting a smaller low stakes fantasy was refreshing. We get to see them perform three increasingly intricate con jobs with wide ranging heists. The book is fast paced and told from the perspectives of each of the team. And although we get to know each of them and their backgrounds well, I did feel like I still lacked some emotional connection with them. They were fun to follow along with, with their banter and quips, but I just did not feel as invested in them as I would have liked. This was very much a plot driven story.
Silver Queendom is a low stakes heist fantasy that delivers on the fun and the elaborate heists. Although the book is a standalone, I would definitely read more as the Red Rooster team has the potential as a serial.
*I was provided a copy of the book by Angry Robot Books in exchange for an honest review.
Silver Queendom was a fun romp of a heist fantasy. It follows a team of con artists who are forced to accept bad jobs against better judgement because their debts are about to be due. Darin is the leader and mastermind with a power he refuses to use. Evie is a noblewoman laid low by her father’s debts. Tom is a fighter with a gentle heart for horses. Kat is a traveller who can’t stop rescuing orphans. Together, they make up the Red Rooster team and attempt to pull off their riskiest con yet.
It is getting quite rare to get fantasies that don’t have epic scales or world ending stakes, so getting a smaller low stakes fantasy was refreshing. We get to see them perform three increasingly intricate con jobs with wide ranging heists. The book is fast paced and told from the perspectives of each of the team. And although we get to know each of them and their backgrounds well, I did feel like I still lacked some emotional connection with them. They were fun to follow along with, with their banter and quips, but I just did not feel as invested in them as I would have liked. This was very much a plot driven story.
Silver Queendom is a low stakes heist fantasy that delivers on the fun and the elaborate heists. Although the book is a standalone, I would definitely read more as the Red Rooster team has the potential as a serial.
*I was provided a copy of the book by Angry Robot Books in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2022
This book has some brilliant points and others that disappointed me quite a bit.
TW: domestic abuse, self-harm mention,
firstly the things I loved were the characters and their chemistry. Darin, Tom, Kat and Evie have a great relationship and it all works together seamlessly. I would absolutely believe they were friends in real life.
The magic system was also super interesting, they used silver and drew magic from it. It has some side effects and our only magic wielder is not a fan of using his powers at all for this reason, which was an interesting choice that I think worked well.
I also love that this book kind of has a Matriarchal society, all of the influential and powerful people were women whereas in real life there would be men (usually), but here we see a different kind of political system which I just wish there was more of.
Now the stuff that disappointed me were things I think deserve trigger warnings in a book but anyway we have the topic of domestic abuse play a role but I don't think this was handled very well we have victim blaming and we have an incident of a character only believing the situation after witnessing the abuse from a window which just rubbed me the wrong way, to be honest.
my other issue was the mention of self-harm in a side character that just seemed to be thrown in at the end for no real reason and to no real effect other than it was unexpected.
I did however enjoy the plot and the world but I do think it could be a little more polished.
TW: domestic abuse, self-harm mention,
firstly the things I loved were the characters and their chemistry. Darin, Tom, Kat and Evie have a great relationship and it all works together seamlessly. I would absolutely believe they were friends in real life.
The magic system was also super interesting, they used silver and drew magic from it. It has some side effects and our only magic wielder is not a fan of using his powers at all for this reason, which was an interesting choice that I think worked well.
I also love that this book kind of has a Matriarchal society, all of the influential and powerful people were women whereas in real life there would be men (usually), but here we see a different kind of political system which I just wish there was more of.
Now the stuff that disappointed me were things I think deserve trigger warnings in a book but anyway we have the topic of domestic abuse play a role but I don't think this was handled very well we have victim blaming and we have an incident of a character only believing the situation after witnessing the abuse from a window which just rubbed me the wrong way, to be honest.
my other issue was the mention of self-harm in a side character that just seemed to be thrown in at the end for no real reason and to no real effect other than it was unexpected.
I did however enjoy the plot and the world but I do think it could be a little more polished.
July 24, 2022
Avis Lecture 🧐📖 "Silver Queendom", Dan Koboldt 🍷🗡️
Copie reçue en Avant Première dans le cadre de mon partenariat avec @angryrobotbooks 😍 --> sortie le 23 août 2022!
Lorsque vous devez de l'argent au plus grand criminel de la ville, vous devez améliorer votre jeu de voleur d'un cran...
Bienvenue à l'auberge du Coq Rouge, où le service tout comme sa bière laissent à désirer. Et ce n'est pas Dorin, propriétaire des lieux qui vous dira le contraire ! 😂 OK, Dorin et son équipe ne savent pas forcément gérer un business mais... Ce sont les meilleurs escrocs du Reinaume 👑
Pourtant, après l'échec d'une mission, le groupe se retrouve avec une dette énorme et pour sortir la tête de l'eau, ils vont accepter un marché qui pourrait soit les rendre ultra riches, soit ultra morts...😂
Un noble mystérieux leur demande de voler la substance la plus inestimable du Reinaume : le DreamWine, à la Reine elle même...
Une véritable mission suicide ! 😱
J'adore les Heist Fantasy (Fantasy de bracage) avec ses histoires d'escrocs et voleurs en tout genre. Et oui, on en a à la pelle et ce que j'aime beaucoup ce sont les pointes d'humour dans ces recits. Dan Koboldt m'a fait mourir de rire sur certaines scènes ! L'auteur joue énormément avec ses personnages qui sont le cœur de son roman.
Ici l'univers n'est pas très fouillé, mais c'est voulu, il s'appuie surtout sur son groupe de héros avec chacun une personnalité différente. Et je les trouve attachant pour ça. On découvre également un système de magie : la Metallurgy chez un des perso et j'ai adoré 🤩
Mais ce que j'ai préféré ? Ce sont ces réflexions intérieures des perso, maudissant leur sort et ces dialogues si pinçants et piquants ! C'était tellement drôle et très cinématographique alors qu'il ne s'agit que de dialogues ! Mais je voyais la tête des héros, leur faciès etc. Bref j'adore ! 🤩 J'adooooore le cynisme et l'autoderision ici et j'ai trouvé le rythme vraiment bien mené !
Pour moi c'est une vraie réussite !! J'ai adoré la troupe et j'espère les retrouver un jour pour une nouvelle mission! 😂
Une très bonne lecture d'été 😍
Copie reçue en Avant Première dans le cadre de mon partenariat avec @angryrobotbooks 😍 --> sortie le 23 août 2022!
Lorsque vous devez de l'argent au plus grand criminel de la ville, vous devez améliorer votre jeu de voleur d'un cran...
Bienvenue à l'auberge du Coq Rouge, où le service tout comme sa bière laissent à désirer. Et ce n'est pas Dorin, propriétaire des lieux qui vous dira le contraire ! 😂 OK, Dorin et son équipe ne savent pas forcément gérer un business mais... Ce sont les meilleurs escrocs du Reinaume 👑
Pourtant, après l'échec d'une mission, le groupe se retrouve avec une dette énorme et pour sortir la tête de l'eau, ils vont accepter un marché qui pourrait soit les rendre ultra riches, soit ultra morts...😂
Un noble mystérieux leur demande de voler la substance la plus inestimable du Reinaume : le DreamWine, à la Reine elle même...
Une véritable mission suicide ! 😱
J'adore les Heist Fantasy (Fantasy de bracage) avec ses histoires d'escrocs et voleurs en tout genre. Et oui, on en a à la pelle et ce que j'aime beaucoup ce sont les pointes d'humour dans ces recits. Dan Koboldt m'a fait mourir de rire sur certaines scènes ! L'auteur joue énormément avec ses personnages qui sont le cœur de son roman.
Ici l'univers n'est pas très fouillé, mais c'est voulu, il s'appuie surtout sur son groupe de héros avec chacun une personnalité différente. Et je les trouve attachant pour ça. On découvre également un système de magie : la Metallurgy chez un des perso et j'ai adoré 🤩
Mais ce que j'ai préféré ? Ce sont ces réflexions intérieures des perso, maudissant leur sort et ces dialogues si pinçants et piquants ! C'était tellement drôle et très cinématographique alors qu'il ne s'agit que de dialogues ! Mais je voyais la tête des héros, leur faciès etc. Bref j'adore ! 🤩 J'adooooore le cynisme et l'autoderision ici et j'ai trouvé le rythme vraiment bien mené !
Pour moi c'est une vraie réussite !! J'ai adoré la troupe et j'espère les retrouver un jour pour une nouvelle mission! 😂
Une très bonne lecture d'été 😍
November 30, 2025
I’m sorry, this was not for me. The characters were inconsistent, the storytelling was heavy-handed, the magic system wasn’t explained, and all of the resolutions were incredibly convenient. In the end, they ended up where they started so the entire story wasn’t even necessary?? I think this is a good rough draft, but needs some work.
September 3, 2022
Heisty fantasy fun times.
May 28, 2022
I love a good heist story especially when it's a heist story with magic and The Silver Queendom by Don Koboldt doesn’t disappoint. This was an easy, quick and fun read.
I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion
The book is told from the points of view of the four main people carrying out the con- Darin, the charismatic leader, a reluctant magic wielder and a magnet for trouble. Evie, the noblewoman fallen from grace, Tom, the friendly muscle and Kat, the newest recruit.
Darin and his gang pull off con after con but they always seem to end up in more trouble after each one and they hope this heist will be final.
The heists are suitably twisty and clever. The plot is fast-paced with plenty of swordfights and crossbow action. There is just a hint of romance between Darin and Evie ( which was perfect) and the magic was subtle enough to enhance the story but not overpower it. The world-building was easy to understand as is the politics. The characters were a little predictable, but I loved all of them with their little quicks.
I’m not sure if this is part of a series but I really hope we read more about Darin and the Rooster Inn gang.
Perfect for fans of
The Six crows or Hustle or Knave of Secrets ( review here)
Content warning
Reference to domestic violence, child labour
I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion
The book is told from the points of view of the four main people carrying out the con- Darin, the charismatic leader, a reluctant magic wielder and a magnet for trouble. Evie, the noblewoman fallen from grace, Tom, the friendly muscle and Kat, the newest recruit.
Darin and his gang pull off con after con but they always seem to end up in more trouble after each one and they hope this heist will be final.
The heists are suitably twisty and clever. The plot is fast-paced with plenty of swordfights and crossbow action. There is just a hint of romance between Darin and Evie ( which was perfect) and the magic was subtle enough to enhance the story but not overpower it. The world-building was easy to understand as is the politics. The characters were a little predictable, but I loved all of them with their little quicks.
I’m not sure if this is part of a series but I really hope we read more about Darin and the Rooster Inn gang.
Perfect for fans of
The Six crows or Hustle or Knave of Secrets ( review here)
Content warning
Reference to domestic violence, child labour
Want to read
May 17, 2022Con artists? A heist? A badly run inn?
Say less! I'm in.
The leader of the criminal underworld is called The Dame? Hot. I wish her all the good fortune in the world. She deserves it (probably idk i haven't read this yet).
The realm being a Queendom (as opposed to a kingdom) gives this book the je ne sais quo that pleases me immensely.
*Side note: As an Australia, it's very funny that the inn is called Red Rooster Inn because of the chicken fast food chain here called Red Rooster.
Say less! I'm in.
The leader of the criminal underworld is called The Dame? Hot. I wish her all the good fortune in the world. She deserves it (
The realm being a Queendom (as opposed to a kingdom) gives this book the je ne sais quo that pleases me immensely.
*Side note: As an Australia, it's very funny that the inn is called Red Rooster Inn because of the chicken fast food chain here called Red Rooster.
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June 3, 2022
Bottom line up front: this was a fun book.
A mix of Ocean's 11 and Lies of Locke Lamora, how can you not enjoy a good heist with plenty of intrigue and likable characters?
There was enough hinted at here for an entire series, but the book can stand on it's own.
Absolutely worth the time
A mix of Ocean's 11 and Lies of Locke Lamora, how can you not enjoy a good heist with plenty of intrigue and likable characters?
There was enough hinted at here for an entire series, but the book can stand on it's own.
Absolutely worth the time
Read
June 11, 2023In Old Queendom, even weary travellers avoid the Red Rooster Inn. Featuring an ale better served as a cleaning agent and terrible service, it’s small wonder this inn lacks patronage. As smoke and mirrors, this deformed inn that sits on a no name crossroad has a secret. Its crew consists of professional con artists. While the Red Rooster Inn fails to serve drinkable ale, Dan Koboldt successfully brews a timeless fantasy story of camaraderie and thievery in Silver Queendom.
There is no shortage of schemes and mayhem in Silver Queendom. Dark times are fermenting at the Red Rooster Inn. In this part of the Old Queendom, every criminal crew pays their homage and dues to the Gray Dame. Her wrath is legendary. Her greed insatiable and seconded only by her cruelty. Due to a series of failed missions the Red Rooster has accumulated a debt to the Gray Dame. Darin, leader of the Red Rooster, knows their time is running out. The Red Rooster crew must settle their debt and soon, or die.
Silver Queendom is told through the perspectives of the Red Rooster’s crew. At first, Dan Koboldt introduces the reader to a familiar cast of characters. We have the leader, the seductress, the muscle, and a couple of other ragtag characters. Like their inn, the characters are more than their chosen appearance. I loved learning their back stories and troubled pasts. Each crew member is genuinely likeable. Silver Queendom holds more of a kindred spirit to Kings of the Wyld compared to The Lies of Locke Lamora.
Evil has infiltrated the governing seats in the realm. In Silver Queendom, the reader will not find sympathetic villains. We have a Queen willing to let her poor starve and oppressive lords abuse their power. I wanted more complexity with these villains, particularly with Jakub Purser. Jakub is a powerful merchant with weak hands and a tendency to beat his wife. It was all too easy to root for his downfall.
Instead, Dan Koboldt shrouds his villains in mystery. How did Jakub transform himself from a nobody to the most prosperous merchant in Caron. Who is Zora? This lady who can hand over a hundred pieces of eight in silver like it was nothing. This lady who knows too much about the Red Rooster crew.
Silver Queendom is a palate cleanser with its charming main characters and fast paced action. The comedic elements and promise of heist filled adventures are why I picked up this book. The heartfelt bond between the characters is why I finished. I hope we see more of the Red Rooster crew.
First published in Grimdark Magazine https://www.grimdarkmagazine.com/revi...
There is no shortage of schemes and mayhem in Silver Queendom. Dark times are fermenting at the Red Rooster Inn. In this part of the Old Queendom, every criminal crew pays their homage and dues to the Gray Dame. Her wrath is legendary. Her greed insatiable and seconded only by her cruelty. Due to a series of failed missions the Red Rooster has accumulated a debt to the Gray Dame. Darin, leader of the Red Rooster, knows their time is running out. The Red Rooster crew must settle their debt and soon, or die.
Silver Queendom is told through the perspectives of the Red Rooster’s crew. At first, Dan Koboldt introduces the reader to a familiar cast of characters. We have the leader, the seductress, the muscle, and a couple of other ragtag characters. Like their inn, the characters are more than their chosen appearance. I loved learning their back stories and troubled pasts. Each crew member is genuinely likeable. Silver Queendom holds more of a kindred spirit to Kings of the Wyld compared to The Lies of Locke Lamora.
Evil has infiltrated the governing seats in the realm. In Silver Queendom, the reader will not find sympathetic villains. We have a Queen willing to let her poor starve and oppressive lords abuse their power. I wanted more complexity with these villains, particularly with Jakub Purser. Jakub is a powerful merchant with weak hands and a tendency to beat his wife. It was all too easy to root for his downfall.
Instead, Dan Koboldt shrouds his villains in mystery. How did Jakub transform himself from a nobody to the most prosperous merchant in Caron. Who is Zora? This lady who can hand over a hundred pieces of eight in silver like it was nothing. This lady who knows too much about the Red Rooster crew.
Silver Queendom is a palate cleanser with its charming main characters and fast paced action. The comedic elements and promise of heist filled adventures are why I picked up this book. The heartfelt bond between the characters is why I finished. I hope we see more of the Red Rooster crew.
First published in Grimdark Magazine https://www.grimdarkmagazine.com/revi...
October 4, 2022
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2022/10/04/...
Call me an old softie, but a heist novel featuring an ensemble cast of scrappy thieves will get me every single time! Is it any wonder then why I had such great fun with Silver Queendom, Dan Koboldt’s fantasy adventure starring a crew of criminals who moonlight as innkeepers? Or would that be the other way around?
Darin Fields is the owner of the Red Rooster Inn, not exactly known for its comfort or great food, but the establishment makes up for it with its other services. Those in the know come to see Darin to hire him and his associates for their special talents, and it just so happens, he and his team are currently in desperate need of work. Their latest job didn’t exactly go according to plan, leaving them deeply in debt with their local crime boss who doesn’t take kindly to people who owe her money.
Still, one has to be careful in the Old Queendom. After all, Darin isn’t the only thief in town, and this isn’t a place where you’d want to step on any toes. No job is worth getting killed over, and what good is money if you’re dead?
The foundation of any good heist story begins with the crew, and here, Silver Queendom shines. When the book opens, readers are dropped into the middle of a crime in progress, showcasing each of the character’s strengths. Darin is our leader and mastermind, the smooth talker who sometimes lets his mouth get the better of him. Luckily, he has his friends to help out. Evie formerly comes from wealth, and is a master of disguise and quick thinking. And then there’s Tom, the group’s muscle, though in reality, this mountain of a man is actually quite sweet and gentle-hearted. Finally, there’s Kat, the most recent addition to the team. Kat is an amateur brewer who just sort of fell into the whole thieving gig, but she needed a place to keep her stray orphans safe, and the Red Rooster is as good a place as any.
Of course, Darin has one more trick up his sleeve, and that is his metallurgy. Back at the inn, an old bartender named Seraphina holds down the fort whenever the crew is away on business, but she is also an experienced metallurgist who wishes to train Darin to harness his powers, even though magic is strictly forbidden in the Queendom. Only a few know Darin possesses the talent, and he in turn is very circumspect about it, which might explain why the world-building is noticeably sparse in this area. It’s too bad, because would have liked to see more explanation and detail into the magic system, which involves using the power of silver to fuel the user’s actions.
That said, the action and energy in this was high and unrelenting. The plot is not just one heist but many heists, and they simply get bigger and better. Silver Queendom is an adventure through and through, and while it does not offer the genre anything too groundbreaking or new, it was fun and oh so readable. The characters are easy to like and their relationship dynamics and backstories keep the interest strong. It’s great to see that even as the pacing flies along, character development doesn’t suffer at all for it.
Silver Queendom is my third Dan Koboldt novel and he is reliably entertaining as always! If you have a fondness for heist stories, this one is not to be missed, especially if you enjoy the good humor and camaraderie of a fantastic group of characters. Recommended for avid fantasy fans and newcomers to the genre alike.
Call me an old softie, but a heist novel featuring an ensemble cast of scrappy thieves will get me every single time! Is it any wonder then why I had such great fun with Silver Queendom, Dan Koboldt’s fantasy adventure starring a crew of criminals who moonlight as innkeepers? Or would that be the other way around?
Darin Fields is the owner of the Red Rooster Inn, not exactly known for its comfort or great food, but the establishment makes up for it with its other services. Those in the know come to see Darin to hire him and his associates for their special talents, and it just so happens, he and his team are currently in desperate need of work. Their latest job didn’t exactly go according to plan, leaving them deeply in debt with their local crime boss who doesn’t take kindly to people who owe her money.
Still, one has to be careful in the Old Queendom. After all, Darin isn’t the only thief in town, and this isn’t a place where you’d want to step on any toes. No job is worth getting killed over, and what good is money if you’re dead?
The foundation of any good heist story begins with the crew, and here, Silver Queendom shines. When the book opens, readers are dropped into the middle of a crime in progress, showcasing each of the character’s strengths. Darin is our leader and mastermind, the smooth talker who sometimes lets his mouth get the better of him. Luckily, he has his friends to help out. Evie formerly comes from wealth, and is a master of disguise and quick thinking. And then there’s Tom, the group’s muscle, though in reality, this mountain of a man is actually quite sweet and gentle-hearted. Finally, there’s Kat, the most recent addition to the team. Kat is an amateur brewer who just sort of fell into the whole thieving gig, but she needed a place to keep her stray orphans safe, and the Red Rooster is as good a place as any.
Of course, Darin has one more trick up his sleeve, and that is his metallurgy. Back at the inn, an old bartender named Seraphina holds down the fort whenever the crew is away on business, but she is also an experienced metallurgist who wishes to train Darin to harness his powers, even though magic is strictly forbidden in the Queendom. Only a few know Darin possesses the talent, and he in turn is very circumspect about it, which might explain why the world-building is noticeably sparse in this area. It’s too bad, because would have liked to see more explanation and detail into the magic system, which involves using the power of silver to fuel the user’s actions.
That said, the action and energy in this was high and unrelenting. The plot is not just one heist but many heists, and they simply get bigger and better. Silver Queendom is an adventure through and through, and while it does not offer the genre anything too groundbreaking or new, it was fun and oh so readable. The characters are easy to like and their relationship dynamics and backstories keep the interest strong. It’s great to see that even as the pacing flies along, character development doesn’t suffer at all for it.
Silver Queendom is my third Dan Koboldt novel and he is reliably entertaining as always! If you have a fondness for heist stories, this one is not to be missed, especially if you enjoy the good humor and camaraderie of a fantastic group of characters. Recommended for avid fantasy fans and newcomers to the genre alike.
January 29, 2023
3.5 stars
This was my first Dan Koboldt and I liked it. I picked this book up on a whim. I knew nothing about it, had heard nothing about it, and was super excited to bring it home after reading the synopsis. A team of con artists posing as pub workers take on the most impossible heist, to pay off insurmountable and life threatening debts. Not the most original but, lets be honest, who doesn't love a good heist novel. Unfortunately I didn't love this as much as I was hoping to. I did like it though and do not want to discourage others to read it. But I feel those who like character driven novels or well developed worlds will find Silver Queendom short of their expectations.
I tend to prefer books that are well balanced between plot, character development, and world creation. For me, Dan Koboldt's Silver Queendom fell short in the character development category. I liked his characters, they had great personalities that felt distinct from each other. But I wanted to see more interaction between them, outside of the action-packed jobs that they took on. The book focused primarily on their cons and rather than read about three different jobs, I think it would have been better to read about one longer con, thus giving Koboldt more time to develop his characters and their histories, and build stronger relationships between them. Throughout the novel we are given snippets of character pasts and glimpses of their personalities. But all of this is told, not shown, and it leaves the characters feeling flat and one dimesional. I didn't get that feeling of found-family that I love so much in these types of books. I also didn't feel invested in any of the characters and when stakes were high I wasn't terribly concerned for the characters' safety.
Overall this is a fun book and since its a stand-alone, perhaps the character development I would like to have seen was not really all that necessary for the story Koboldt wanted to tell. Its fun, if at a surface level, and I would recommend it for those plot-loving readers out there.
This was my first Dan Koboldt and I liked it. I picked this book up on a whim. I knew nothing about it, had heard nothing about it, and was super excited to bring it home after reading the synopsis. A team of con artists posing as pub workers take on the most impossible heist, to pay off insurmountable and life threatening debts. Not the most original but, lets be honest, who doesn't love a good heist novel. Unfortunately I didn't love this as much as I was hoping to. I did like it though and do not want to discourage others to read it. But I feel those who like character driven novels or well developed worlds will find Silver Queendom short of their expectations.
I tend to prefer books that are well balanced between plot, character development, and world creation. For me, Dan Koboldt's Silver Queendom fell short in the character development category. I liked his characters, they had great personalities that felt distinct from each other. But I wanted to see more interaction between them, outside of the action-packed jobs that they took on. The book focused primarily on their cons and rather than read about three different jobs, I think it would have been better to read about one longer con, thus giving Koboldt more time to develop his characters and their histories, and build stronger relationships between them. Throughout the novel we are given snippets of character pasts and glimpses of their personalities. But all of this is told, not shown, and it leaves the characters feeling flat and one dimesional. I didn't get that feeling of found-family that I love so much in these types of books. I also didn't feel invested in any of the characters and when stakes were high I wasn't terribly concerned for the characters' safety.
Overall this is a fun book and since its a stand-alone, perhaps the character development I would like to have seen was not really all that necessary for the story Koboldt wanted to tell. Its fun, if at a surface level, and I would recommend it for those plot-loving readers out there.
November 8, 2022
I have no idea how people refuse to acknowledge the existence of this beautiful book that puts the Six of Crows to shame. Before y'all get any ideas about coming after me for that comment, listen up.
Heist Fantasy is a thing and Dan Kobolt slayed. Argue with the fricking wall.
•Darin Fields is one hell of a genius. Sure he's as much of a fool but I think he makes up for it with his stunning, crafty ideas that left me *reeling*. He was so real and his past so haunting (yeah like Kaz, I can acknowledge that)
•Evie was a character that had an arc like no other. I mean I'd let her rob me blind if I could. Lmao.
•Kat would have to be my favourite character. She's such a tough woman and knows her priority right. And it's nice to have a non-teen in the party.
•Big Tom- I'd love to know his backstory. Tom's chapters were so wholesome. It's like the man speaks like he thinks (exactly like a simpleton)
•Lets just agree that Seraphina, the old crone stole hearts more often than Darin stole Silver.
•It was nice to have superpower elements that were new and unique and original.
The heist was cool because I knew I wouldn't understand shit, but I still read it alright. The heist went okay, but what garnered a standing ovation from me, was what followed. ( Of course that little bitch, Darin would do that.)
And of course he go back and do *that* (the last line of the book)
The last line of this book is the only one I'll remember forever.
I don't know who discouraged the man but, HELL IS REAL BECAUSE THIS ISNT A 6 BOOK SERIES !!
•Dan Kobolt is one of the authors I'll cherish till the end of my life.
(Just finished it and felt so many things. Gotta go cry lmao)
Heist Fantasy is a thing and Dan Kobolt slayed. Argue with the fricking wall.
•Darin Fields is one hell of a genius. Sure he's as much of a fool but I think he makes up for it with his stunning, crafty ideas that left me *reeling*. He was so real and his past so haunting (yeah like Kaz, I can acknowledge that)
•Evie was a character that had an arc like no other. I mean I'd let her rob me blind if I could. Lmao.
•Kat would have to be my favourite character. She's such a tough woman and knows her priority right. And it's nice to have a non-teen in the party.
•Big Tom- I'd love to know his backstory. Tom's chapters were so wholesome. It's like the man speaks like he thinks (exactly like a simpleton)
•Lets just agree that Seraphina, the old crone stole hearts more often than Darin stole Silver.
•It was nice to have superpower elements that were new and unique and original.
The heist was cool because I knew I wouldn't understand shit, but I still read it alright. The heist went okay, but what garnered a standing ovation from me, was what followed. ( Of course that little bitch, Darin would do that.)
And of course he go back and do *that* (the last line of the book)
The last line of this book is the only one I'll remember forever.
I don't know who discouraged the man but, HELL IS REAL BECAUSE THIS ISNT A 6 BOOK SERIES !!
•Dan Kobolt is one of the authors I'll cherish till the end of my life.
(Just finished it and felt so many things. Gotta go cry lmao)
August 27, 2022
Silver Queendom is a fantastic mixture of hi-jinks, magic and mayhem. With an impressively fleshed out bunch of characters, world building and drama, Koboldt brings you into a world that feels instantly familiar.
If, like me, you grew up devouring the Dragonlance books you can see the same kind of cadence and mannerisms of many beloved characters. I would not have been surprised at all if Tasslehoff had been part of the plot at some point.
The various POV’s are easy to follow and the gamut of heists entertaining. If I must make one complaint is the main advertised heist doesn't take precedence until halfway into the book and then it rather feels like and afterthought on the way to accomplishing the goal. Still a fun fantasy read. Highly recommend and cant wait to get my hands on some of the other titles by this author
*provided copy of book in exchange for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
If, like me, you grew up devouring the Dragonlance books you can see the same kind of cadence and mannerisms of many beloved characters. I would not have been surprised at all if Tasslehoff had been part of the plot at some point.
The various POV’s are easy to follow and the gamut of heists entertaining. If I must make one complaint is the main advertised heist doesn't take precedence until halfway into the book and then it rather feels like and afterthought on the way to accomplishing the goal. Still a fun fantasy read. Highly recommend and cant wait to get my hands on some of the other titles by this author
*provided copy of book in exchange for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
September 8, 2022
Okay, I gotta say first — what is it about fantasy heist novels that meshes SO well with the found family trope? An elite combination, to be sure.
This book was particularly spectacular in regards to humor. I laughed out loud more times than I can count, which is a feat unto itself! The tone was just perfection, and combined with the effortless low-fantasy worldbuilding, it made for such an easy, entertaining read 💫
Just in case you’re still not convinced, let’s talk about The Crew:
- charismatic, trouble-magnet leader Darin
- noblewoman fallen from grace Evie
- gentle giant Tom
- chaotic brewmaster / orphan collector Kat
- witchy grandma who makes sure everyone ate Seraphina
All in all, an exceptional thieving crew rivaling the likes of the Wolves and the Crows. Reads as a standalone, but with definite possibilities for sequels! 🤞🏻
Thank you to the author and Angry Robot Books for the complementary bingable hijinks!
This book was particularly spectacular in regards to humor. I laughed out loud more times than I can count, which is a feat unto itself! The tone was just perfection, and combined with the effortless low-fantasy worldbuilding, it made for such an easy, entertaining read 💫
Just in case you’re still not convinced, let’s talk about The Crew:
- charismatic, trouble-magnet leader Darin
- noblewoman fallen from grace Evie
- gentle giant Tom
- chaotic brewmaster / orphan collector Kat
- witchy grandma who makes sure everyone ate Seraphina
All in all, an exceptional thieving crew rivaling the likes of the Wolves and the Crows. Reads as a standalone, but with definite possibilities for sequels! 🤞🏻
Thank you to the author and Angry Robot Books for the complementary bingable hijinks!
June 6, 2022
The play:
-Steal a wagon-load of coveted (i.e. outrageously expensive) dreamwine.
The players:
-Darin, the mastermind with a tragic past.
-Evie, the royal who fell from grace.
-Kat, the infamous brew-master that has a bleeding-heart for orphans.
-Big Tom, the gentle (to his crew) giant.
-& Seraphina, the mysterious grandma-like figure who will make sure you get some sleep if she sees fit.
Who doesn't like a good heist books?! This book was smooth (at times a little too slick). Each character was well thought out. The pacing was great. The world building was solid. Overall, a well planned novel. It did not end on a cliffhanger and feels like a standalone with room for more if the author is so inclined. I docked a star because I wanted more exploration into the characters and some of the anticipation/tension fizzled out for me in the last part.
*ARC provided by Angry Robot & NetGalley.
-Steal a wagon-load of coveted (i.e. outrageously expensive) dreamwine.
The players:
-Darin, the mastermind with a tragic past.
-Evie, the royal who fell from grace.
-Kat, the infamous brew-master that has a bleeding-heart for orphans.
-Big Tom, the gentle (to his crew) giant.
-& Seraphina, the mysterious grandma-like figure who will make sure you get some sleep if she sees fit.
Who doesn't like a good heist books?! This book was smooth (at times a little too slick). Each character was well thought out. The pacing was great. The world building was solid. Overall, a well planned novel. It did not end on a cliffhanger and feels like a standalone with room for more if the author is so inclined. I docked a star because I wanted more exploration into the characters and some of the anticipation/tension fizzled out for me in the last part.
*ARC provided by Angry Robot & NetGalley.
dnf-with-no-shame
September 27, 2022DNF @ 11%
I am simply not in the mood for a heist novel.
Which is beginning to become a problem, because I thought I loved heist novels and I have been struggling with entertaining them for the entire year.
And since the thought of not liking heist novels is a depressing one, we're just gonna DNF this and pretend it never happened.
Because denial is my favourite brand of delusion.
I am simply not in the mood for a heist novel.
Which is beginning to become a problem, because I thought I loved heist novels and I have been struggling with entertaining them for the entire year.
And since the thought of not liking heist novels is a depressing one, we're just gonna DNF this and pretend it never happened.
Because denial is my favourite brand of delusion.
December 27, 2022
4.5 STARS - I really enjoyed this one! I loved how the members of the Red Rooster crew worked together and cared for each other. They all had such interesting back stories. I would have loved to learn more about Darin’s metallurgy abilities. If there is ever a sequel, I will gladly read it 😊.
April 18, 2023
Very fun. Loved the bantering.
October 10, 2024
A pleasant pastime with likeable characters that felt familiar, yet not dull.
I would recommend it to someone looking for a stand-alone easy read, in-between epics.
3.25 stars
I would recommend it to someone looking for a stand-alone easy read, in-between epics.
3.25 stars
did-not-finish
April 19, 2025DNFed at 15%. The story has a potential but I'm really struggling with the writing style.
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