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The Blacksmith's Apprentice
Eyck didn’t need anyone.
Eyck lived a good life in South Galetsy. A respected blacksmith, he spent long days making swords for the Border War, and even though he ached by day’s end, the last thing he thought he needed was an apprentice. He had his work and his best friend, Pash, and that was fine.
When Wex showed up on his stoop asking for work, Eyck agreed to take him on—no matter that Wex turned out to be prickly and secretive and an absolute bloody pain in the tail to work with. Well… mostly.
Wex didn’t want anyone.
Wex was tired of just scraping by. A freed slave and ex-convict, Wex was stubbornly determined not to let his breed caste or muteness stop him from carving out a decent life for himself. All he needed was a little help getting there.
Words like “trust”, “love, or even “desire” weren’t part of Wex’s vocabulary, and he didn’t want them to be—those words could enslave just as easily as iron. He was using the blacksmith to learn a skill, nothing more. Problem was, Wex couldn’t get Eyck out of his head.
Eyck lived a good life in South Galetsy. A respected blacksmith, he spent long days making swords for the Border War, and even though he ached by day’s end, the last thing he thought he needed was an apprentice. He had his work and his best friend, Pash, and that was fine.
When Wex showed up on his stoop asking for work, Eyck agreed to take him on—no matter that Wex turned out to be prickly and secretive and an absolute bloody pain in the tail to work with. Well… mostly.
Wex didn’t want anyone.
Wex was tired of just scraping by. A freed slave and ex-convict, Wex was stubbornly determined not to let his breed caste or muteness stop him from carving out a decent life for himself. All he needed was a little help getting there.
Words like “trust”, “love, or even “desire” weren’t part of Wex’s vocabulary, and he didn’t want them to be—those words could enslave just as easily as iron. He was using the blacksmith to learn a skill, nothing more. Problem was, Wex couldn’t get Eyck out of his head.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2022
8 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Bey Deckard
29 books770 followersArtist, dog lover, and writer of very queer, very adult fiction.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
100% human-powered creator.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
100% human-powered creator.
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December 22, 2022
The Blacksmith's Apprentice was my first book by Bey Deckard. The blurb interested me, and I ended up picking it up, not knowing what to expect.
The Blacksmith's Apprentice takes place in a world in which a strict caste system is in place. While there is a movement away from it, the effects of it still linger in society in how people of different and lower castes are treated.
Wex was a mute slave boy who was abused in so many ways and was brought his freedom by Eyck, a respected Blacksmith. He ends up leaving that night but returns to him five years later to become an apprentice. His intentions are to learn the trade and go as soon as possible. However, things change as he stays with him.
Wex has been used and abused his whole life. He doesn't trust anyone but recalls the Blacksmith's kindness. He initially felt hurt and rejected that night he gained his freedom, but as his feelings grew towards Eyck, he became scared. He does not want to be enslaved to anyone, not even to desire and love. I can understand his anger and frustrations towards Eyck. However, I loved how Eyck cared and worked to understand Wex.
I enjoyed the world-building of this series and found it unique that it was a world of Non-Human MCs. I do not think I have read anything like that in a long, long time. I was trying to imagine what the "people" in this world looked like - lots of fur and tails, that is for sure.
Overall I found this story to be very deep, interesting and engaging. There was a major plot twist towards the end that I didn't see coming. I'm glad I picked up the ARC! This was my first time reading a book by this author, and it definitely won't be my last.
Please check TWs, as this story deals with some heavy themes and topics.
The Blacksmith's Apprentice takes place in a world in which a strict caste system is in place. While there is a movement away from it, the effects of it still linger in society in how people of different and lower castes are treated.
Wex was a mute slave boy who was abused in so many ways and was brought his freedom by Eyck, a respected Blacksmith. He ends up leaving that night but returns to him five years later to become an apprentice. His intentions are to learn the trade and go as soon as possible. However, things change as he stays with him.
Wex has been used and abused his whole life. He doesn't trust anyone but recalls the Blacksmith's kindness. He initially felt hurt and rejected that night he gained his freedom, but as his feelings grew towards Eyck, he became scared. He does not want to be enslaved to anyone, not even to desire and love. I can understand his anger and frustrations towards Eyck. However, I loved how Eyck cared and worked to understand Wex.
I enjoyed the world-building of this series and found it unique that it was a world of Non-Human MCs. I do not think I have read anything like that in a long, long time. I was trying to imagine what the "people" in this world looked like - lots of fur and tails, that is for sure.
Overall I found this story to be very deep, interesting and engaging. There was a major plot twist towards the end that I didn't see coming. I'm glad I picked up the ARC! This was my first time reading a book by this author, and it definitely won't be my last.
Please check TWs, as this story deals with some heavy themes and topics.
Read
January 26, 2023No rating because it's my book, but damn I'm glad I wrote
The Blacksmith's Apprentice
. :D
So... what is the book about?
Heh - this is the top question I'm being asked. Bottom line, it's about finding someone when you weren't looking for them. Add to that some abuse and angst, a society on the cusp of revolution, some xenophobia, a bunch of priests being varying degrees of awful, ancient lore, a futile war, pirate brothers who enjoy a good hard romp, a dickish best friend, a very respectable member of the community, and an ex-slave who thinks love is a four-letter word, and you have The Blacksmith's Apprentice.
And look! It's now live on Amazon -> https://geni.us/TBAZON
So... what is the book about?
Heh - this is the top question I'm being asked. Bottom line, it's about finding someone when you weren't looking for them. Add to that some abuse and angst, a society on the cusp of revolution, some xenophobia, a bunch of priests being varying degrees of awful, ancient lore, a futile war, pirate brothers who enjoy a good hard romp, a dickish best friend, a very respectable member of the community, and an ex-slave who thinks love is a four-letter word, and you have The Blacksmith's Apprentice.
And look! It's now live on Amazon -> https://geni.us/TBAZON
December 16, 2022
Beautiful fantasy
Surprise release ( for me) by the amazing Bey Deckard!
Non human MCs, fur and tail
Ex slave
Age gap
Dub/ non con ( not between the MCs)
Hurt comfort
Hea
Surprise release ( for me) by the amazing Bey Deckard!
Non human MCs, fur and tail
Ex slave
Age gap
Dub/ non con ( not between the MCs)
Hurt comfort
Hea
January 4, 2023
*I received an ecopy of this book from the author. This has not influenced my review.*
There was some heavy, dark, messed up stuff in this story (there are trigger warnings at the beginning of the book), but the romance was so tender and patient and sweet and full of healing. And that was the main focus of the book.
Wex's past as a slave and everything he went through really did a number on him. He had a lot of complicated, sometimes self-sabotaging or seemingly counterintuitive feelings and didn't even understand things like love and affection at first. But Eyck was exactly the right person (or Kat'hoondeman) for him. Eyck was willing to give him the time and space and understanding and anything else he needed.
The book was also sexy. Part of Wex's healing was realizing sex could be enjoyable for him. (But it also never felt like sex was being pushed as a necessity for all relationships or every person, which was nice.)
Wex was mute, an effect of trauma in his past, and couldn't read or write, so he used sign language and gestures to communicate. And it wasn't unique to him, this world had an established sign language (maybe with variations) and there were other characters he sometimes ran into who knew it as well.
I believe this is the first book I've ever read about main characters who look like humanoid animals. Mainly they had fur and tails. It's not something I seek out, but I'm not opposed to it, and it was fun since it was something different for me.
There was some interesting world building and backstory that was revealed as the book progressed.
Overall, like I said this really was about the romance and healing and things changing for the better, and if you can handle the heavier stuff, it's ultimately very sweet!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes non-human species, some heavy topics, sweet m/m romance, and healing.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
There was some heavy, dark, messed up stuff in this story (there are trigger warnings at the beginning of the book), but the romance was so tender and patient and sweet and full of healing. And that was the main focus of the book.
Wex's past as a slave and everything he went through really did a number on him. He had a lot of complicated, sometimes self-sabotaging or seemingly counterintuitive feelings and didn't even understand things like love and affection at first. But Eyck was exactly the right person (or Kat'hoondeman) for him. Eyck was willing to give him the time and space and understanding and anything else he needed.
The book was also sexy. Part of Wex's healing was realizing sex could be enjoyable for him. (But it also never felt like sex was being pushed as a necessity for all relationships or every person, which was nice.)
Wex was mute, an effect of trauma in his past, and couldn't read or write, so he used sign language and gestures to communicate. And it wasn't unique to him, this world had an established sign language (maybe with variations) and there were other characters he sometimes ran into who knew it as well.
I believe this is the first book I've ever read about main characters who look like humanoid animals. Mainly they had fur and tails. It's not something I seek out, but I'm not opposed to it, and it was fun since it was something different for me.
There was some interesting world building and backstory that was revealed as the book progressed.
Overall, like I said this really was about the romance and healing and things changing for the better, and if you can handle the heavier stuff, it's ultimately very sweet!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes non-human species, some heavy topics, sweet m/m romance, and healing.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
December 21, 2022
This book has a creative, unique setting and I was impressed with all of the details the author came up with, from the religion and caste system to food and fauna. One of the MCs, Wex, has developed mutism as a result of past trauma, and I thought the author handled both the mutism and Wex’s response to his trauma very well. He deals with a lot of ableism and situations that real-life non-speakers talk about a lot, from people presuming he’s incompetent to talking about him like he’s not there. I’m glad he had a supportive friend and partner in Eyck from the beginning, because it really contrasted the difference between ableism and respectfully accommodating a disability.
Similarly, the author explored many nuances of how someone who has experienced trauma like Wex would feel in the aftermath, as well as how new trauma would affect him. He often reacts in contradictory ways that are difficult both for him and Eyck, and that I’ve read trauma survivors talking about but don’t often see in romance.
Wex was definitely the star of the book and Eyck felt less developed in comparison. The book also had a lot of different plot points, including a significant new one introduced around 80%, and I don’t think the book was long enough to accommodate all of them. The author had tons of interesting ideas that I would have loved to spend much more time exploring. Overall, though, I was captivated by this book and impressed by Wex’s character in particular.
Please make sure to read the CWs because some potentially triggering things happen on-page.
I received an ARC in exchange for this review.
Similarly, the author explored many nuances of how someone who has experienced trauma like Wex would feel in the aftermath, as well as how new trauma would affect him. He often reacts in contradictory ways that are difficult both for him and Eyck, and that I’ve read trauma survivors talking about but don’t often see in romance.
Wex was definitely the star of the book and Eyck felt less developed in comparison. The book also had a lot of different plot points, including a significant new one introduced around 80%, and I don’t think the book was long enough to accommodate all of them. The author had tons of interesting ideas that I would have loved to spend much more time exploring. Overall, though, I was captivated by this book and impressed by Wex’s character in particular.
Please make sure to read the CWs because some potentially triggering things happen on-page.
I received an ARC in exchange for this review.
January 16, 2023
I have such mixed feelings about this book. Overall I thought it was well written, and Wex's struggles both with his disabilities and his trauma felt realistically portrayed. I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Wex and Eyck with its ups and downs, and thought the book had interesting lore and worldbuilding that supported the story of the characters and the relationship rather than overshadowing it.
My issue with this book was the last 25%. And it's not because I thought the last quarter of the book was necessarily bad, but rather it was an issue of setup, expectations, and payoff. The book's title is "The Blacksmith's Apprentice". The blurb is all about the blacksmith and his titular apprentice. The first three-quarters of the book is primarily focused on them and their relationship. But at 75% it felt to me like the focus, and even the genre, of the book drastically shifted, which took me aback. The society and worldbuilding was now in focus, and the relationship between Wex and Eyck was moved to the sidelines at the most critical part of the book. I guess to me the first part of the book felt like a romance in a speculative fiction setting, and the last part felt like speculative fiction with a romance subplot, if that makes sense. In some cases plot twists and subverted expectations heighten the story, but in this case I'm not sure that it worked for me, which was a shame.
My issue with this book was the last 25%. And it's not because I thought the last quarter of the book was necessarily bad, but rather it was an issue of setup, expectations, and payoff. The book's title is "The Blacksmith's Apprentice". The blurb is all about the blacksmith and his titular apprentice. The first three-quarters of the book is primarily focused on them and their relationship. But at 75% it felt to me like the focus, and even the genre, of the book drastically shifted, which took me aback. The society and worldbuilding was now in focus, and the relationship between Wex and Eyck was moved to the sidelines at the most critical part of the book. I guess to me the first part of the book felt like a romance in a speculative fiction setting, and the last part felt like speculative fiction with a romance subplot, if that makes sense. In some cases plot twists and subverted expectations heighten the story, but in this case I'm not sure that it worked for me, which was a shame.
December 23, 2022
This was ... a ride.
We find ourselves in a harshly caste-oriented society where everybody has fur, fangs, and tails. Each caste has fur of a specific color and is held to be suited for one specific kind of work. MC1, Eyck, buys the much younger MC2, Wex, from his abusive highest-caste owner; he hopes to train Wex as his apprentice in blacksmithing, but Wex runs away for reasons that I admit are not entirely clear to me but that seem to have something to do with Eyck's rejection of his offer of sex?
Anyway, five years pass during which Wex has many unpleasant off-page adventures -- as we later learn, these involve near starvation; imprisonment; desperation sex work; and rape. He turns up at Eyck's place again and this time sticks around as Eyck's apprentice. He can't speak or write, but uses a kind of sign language that Eyck somehow picks up with remarkable speed, and naturally love and sex ensue.
It's a rough road, though, mainly because Wex is very unhappy about feeling attraction/desire again, given his past experiences. He seeks out sex that he finds unpleasant, namely subbing for some kinky brothers. Is it incest if the brothers don't interact sexually with each other while they spit-roast Wex? It is, right? Anyway I tagged for it. (The brothers are perfectly nice people -- Wex makes them think that he's into it.) Wex is also roofied and gang-raped later on -- not on-page, but we get more than enough detail, thank you.
And then the narrative takes what I've got to say is the wildest left turn I have ever encountered. I won't spoil it but will just say that I don't think any society would so readily accept having its entire conception of itself undone overnight. Though who knows.
All in all, this is an extremely strange book. I can't say I was ever bored, so there's that.
Thanks to GRR for the ARC.
We find ourselves in a harshly caste-oriented society where everybody has fur, fangs, and tails. Each caste has fur of a specific color and is held to be suited for one specific kind of work. MC1, Eyck, buys the much younger MC2, Wex, from his abusive highest-caste owner; he hopes to train Wex as his apprentice in blacksmithing, but Wex runs away for reasons that I admit are not entirely clear to me but that seem to have something to do with Eyck's rejection of his offer of sex?
Anyway, five years pass during which Wex has many unpleasant off-page adventures -- as we later learn, these involve near starvation; imprisonment; desperation sex work; and rape. He turns up at Eyck's place again and this time sticks around as Eyck's apprentice. He can't speak or write, but uses a kind of sign language that Eyck somehow picks up with remarkable speed, and naturally love and sex ensue.
It's a rough road, though, mainly because Wex is very unhappy about feeling attraction/desire again, given his past experiences. He seeks out sex that he finds unpleasant, namely subbing for some kinky brothers. Is it incest if the brothers don't interact sexually with each other while they spit-roast Wex? It is, right? Anyway I tagged for it. (The brothers are perfectly nice people -- Wex makes them think that he's into it.) Wex is also roofied and gang-raped later on -- not on-page, but we get more than enough detail, thank you.
And then the narrative takes what I've got to say is the wildest left turn I have ever encountered. I won't spoil it but will just say that I don't think any society would so readily accept having its entire conception of itself undone overnight. Though who knows.
All in all, this is an extremely strange book. I can't say I was ever bored, so there's that.
Thanks to GRR for the ARC.
January 20, 2023
4.25 stars. This story takes place in a non-human fantasy world, and what a wonderful fantasy scenery it was!
There are different kinds of creatures from different breeds, Leveks, Kirmen, Duvals, Ulvels, up to nine… to be honest, there’s more just read the story!
There is a caste system, there’s slavery, abuse and r
Eyck is a blacksmith, one day he saved a slave from his cruel owner by buying him and setting him free. The boy left, to return five sun cycles later. A lot has happened to Wex he can’t talk about, literally, because he can’t speak. With visual signs, they understand each other.
Eyck is a gentle guy, well respected in the community, he’s willing to take Wex as his apprentice.
Wex is a grown-up guy now, with fur and fangs, he’s grumpy and mistrustful. His past was awfully hurtful. He doesn’t want to be touched by Eyck. He wants to be educated and leave as soon as possible.
He’s confused by his feelings for Eyck. To take some of his heat off he seeks his release with others.
Eyck is a bit jealous, so it’s him who can’t touch, others can. He has to take a step back and lock his attraction away. Easily said with Wex in his face the whole day.
It doesn’t matter how grumpy Wex acts, Eyck is only showing kindness and warmth.
Very gently something sweet is blooming.
The world created was stunning, and quite challenging, with non-human creatures, imagine soft fur, fangs, and sensitive tails. Different breeds and social classes, but recognizable. There’s an unexpected turn that was quite surprising.
The connection between Eyck and Wex was amazingly built up. Their sexual interactions are arousing and hot. Both guys are somewhat complicated characters and quite engaging.
Again, a stunningly detailed world and society are created, cleverly crafted, and worked out.
The plot and subplots were captivating and well-developed.
Overall a story I only put down when finished.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
There are different kinds of creatures from different breeds, Leveks, Kirmen, Duvals, Ulvels, up to nine… to be honest, there’s more just read the story!
There is a caste system, there’s slavery, abuse and r
Eyck is a blacksmith, one day he saved a slave from his cruel owner by buying him and setting him free. The boy left, to return five sun cycles later. A lot has happened to Wex he can’t talk about, literally, because he can’t speak. With visual signs, they understand each other.
Eyck is a gentle guy, well respected in the community, he’s willing to take Wex as his apprentice.
Wex is a grown-up guy now, with fur and fangs, he’s grumpy and mistrustful. His past was awfully hurtful. He doesn’t want to be touched by Eyck. He wants to be educated and leave as soon as possible.
He’s confused by his feelings for Eyck. To take some of his heat off he seeks his release with others.
Eyck is a bit jealous, so it’s him who can’t touch, others can. He has to take a step back and lock his attraction away. Easily said with Wex in his face the whole day.
It doesn’t matter how grumpy Wex acts, Eyck is only showing kindness and warmth.
Very gently something sweet is blooming.
The world created was stunning, and quite challenging, with non-human creatures, imagine soft fur, fangs, and sensitive tails. Different breeds and social classes, but recognizable. There’s an unexpected turn that was quite surprising.
The connection between Eyck and Wex was amazingly built up. Their sexual interactions are arousing and hot. Both guys are somewhat complicated characters and quite engaging.
Again, a stunningly detailed world and society are created, cleverly crafted, and worked out.
The plot and subplots were captivating and well-developed.
Overall a story I only put down when finished.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
December 22, 2022
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews. Bey Deckard always does slightly dark to dark romance really well. This one is one of his gentler books... we get to see Wex falling for his blacksmith despite his lack of trust in people. There are some darker parts of how Wex handles his feelings, but the sweetness later on makes up for it.
December 25, 2022
The good
+ Wex being a prickly hedgehog
+ Eyck seeing right through Wex's prickly behavior
+ Wex's strength
+ Eyck
+ Wex integrating in their little town and getting accepted. He deserved nothing less
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o The dubcon (maybe noncon) scenes between Wex and were described in a lot of detail, every time. I found those very hard to read and think they were too detailed. A little less detail or a lower frequency would also have gotten the point across
The bad
- Pash.
- Wex didn't want sex. He said he didn't and wouldn't like it. Eyck didn't accept this. He didn't wonder if maybe Wex was asexual. He didn't say it was okay if Wex wasn't asexual, but still didn't want to have sex. No, he made it his mission to make Wex regard sex as something pleasurable, instead of just accepting that Wex didn't need sex in his life to make him happy
- The first time they had sex, Wex said, very clearly, no penetration. Eyck heard this, and tossed it out the window so he could rim Wex. Afterwards, when Wex had a negative reaction to sex (which is completely logical, regarding his past), Eyck had a hissy fit because... I don't even really know why. He just did. What the hell? Also, this sexual encounter was achieved by Eyck bullying Wex into it, which is probably not the best approach with someone who has never had consensual sex in his life
- After their first time trying something sexual, Eyck decided he would be okay with their relationship never having a sexual element in it at all. Of course, that meant their second time having sex included Eyck topping Wex. Why??? I just don't understand why this had to happen. If it was so important that Wex know sex can also be fun, couldn't they just have started with some masturbation while watching each other?
- Wex topped Eyck, even though Eyck wasn't really into that. It felt too much like Wex using Eyck, which was very uncomfortable when taking Wex's past into account
- The ending was really sudden. It felt like the main plot didn't start until 75%, and was then resolved quickly before the book ended. It didn't feel resolved to me, and because it was so rushed, it also didn't feel as heavy and important as it should have
Quotes
x "arty fish oil intelligence"
There were a lot of good ideas in this book. However, I think the execution fell short. I didn't like Pash, who played a big role as Eyck's best friend. I didn't like the way they explored their sexual connection, which was a rather big part of their relationship development. And I didn't like the way the main plot point introduced around 75% was rushed to a quick conclusion, as it was definitely the most interesting part of the book. Unfortunately, this book didn't work for me, and I wouldn't recommend it.
+ Wex being a prickly hedgehog
+ Eyck seeing right through Wex's prickly behavior
+ Wex's strength
+ Eyck
+ Wex integrating in their little town and getting accepted. He deserved nothing less
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o The dubcon (maybe noncon) scenes between Wex and were described in a lot of detail, every time. I found those very hard to read and think they were too detailed. A little less detail or a lower frequency would also have gotten the point across
The bad
- Pash.
- Wex didn't want sex. He said he didn't and wouldn't like it. Eyck didn't accept this. He didn't wonder if maybe Wex was asexual. He didn't say it was okay if Wex wasn't asexual, but still didn't want to have sex. No, he made it his mission to make Wex regard sex as something pleasurable, instead of just accepting that Wex didn't need sex in his life to make him happy
- The first time they had sex, Wex said, very clearly, no penetration. Eyck heard this, and tossed it out the window so he could rim Wex. Afterwards, when Wex had a negative reaction to sex (which is completely logical, regarding his past), Eyck had a hissy fit because... I don't even really know why. He just did. What the hell? Also, this sexual encounter was achieved by Eyck bullying Wex into it, which is probably not the best approach with someone who has never had consensual sex in his life
- After their first time trying something sexual, Eyck decided he would be okay with their relationship never having a sexual element in it at all. Of course, that meant their second time having sex included Eyck topping Wex. Why??? I just don't understand why this had to happen. If it was so important that Wex know sex can also be fun, couldn't they just have started with some masturbation while watching each other?
- Wex topped Eyck, even though Eyck wasn't really into that. It felt too much like Wex using Eyck, which was very uncomfortable when taking Wex's past into account
- The ending was really sudden. It felt like the main plot didn't start until 75%, and was then resolved quickly before the book ended. It didn't feel resolved to me, and because it was so rushed, it also didn't feel as heavy and important as it should have
Quotes
x "arty fish oil intelligence"
There were a lot of good ideas in this book. However, I think the execution fell short. I didn't like Pash, who played a big role as Eyck's best friend. I didn't like the way they explored their sexual connection, which was a rather big part of their relationship development. And I didn't like the way the main plot point introduced around 75% was rushed to a quick conclusion, as it was definitely the most interesting part of the book. Unfortunately, this book didn't work for me, and I wouldn't recommend it.
December 18, 2022
The Blacksmith's Apprentice was unlike anything I have read lately. I absolutely loved this charming & moving story about a bereaved blacksmith and the enslaved Kirmen he befriends by offer of apprenticeship. Eyak and Wex are world's apart in social status. Eyak is a respected part of the Kat'hoondeman community. Wex is a dirty, good for nothing mixed stock (not purebred) and therefore the lowest in the Kat'hoondeman chain. On the surface level The Blacksmith's Apprentice is a really sweet love story that definitely has a lot of pitfalls and challenges along the way. Especially for young Wex, his muteness being a devastating and challenging aspect to the story. I am unable to show this book in all it's glory. There is just so much to it! It really reminded of Of Mice And Men for a moment, but then in true Bey Deckard fashion did a 360. Taking us on a voyage of hidden truth's & unjust cruelty of their kind. I was riveted throughout the entire book, it was steamy, profound and otherworldly. I highly recommend this book! These Kat'hoondeman's are a saucy bunch!
Please pay attention to CW, there are some heavy subjects matters.
Please pay attention to CW, there are some heavy subjects matters.
dnf
February 8, 2023DNF @ 6%.
Okay, so I didn’t read the blurb before starting this book… but I’ve read it now. As well as friends’ reviews and I think that I just don’t wanna read this.
Also, the blurb describes how they met differently than what actually happens in the book… which happens immediately so I’m not sure why the blurb describes it that way. Wex doesn’t ask for a job, Eyck buys Wex from his master after witnessing him being beat and then declares he needs an apprentice.
Okay, so I didn’t read the blurb before starting this book… but I’ve read it now. As well as friends’ reviews and I think that I just don’t wanna read this.
Also, the blurb describes how they met differently than what actually happens in the book… which happens immediately so I’m not sure why the blurb describes it that way. Wex doesn’t ask for a job, Eyck buys Wex from his master after witnessing him being beat and then declares he needs an apprentice.
on-pause
June 14, 2023Pause at 41%. I was not prepared for such an unconventional storyline.
January 17, 2023
This was a nice trek into something a little different for me. Kat'hoondeman instead of human beings as the MCs in this alt-universe that at times reads a little historical English but also not. It manages to deliver a good sense of time and place for the reader. The MCs are interesting, as is the world.
Bey Deckard can always been counted on to deliver different styles and different characters and he does that yet again in The Blacksmith's Apprentice.
Blog review at-
Bey Deckard can always been counted on to deliver different styles and different characters and he does that yet again in The Blacksmith's Apprentice.
Blog review at-
December 25, 2022
ARC Review: “The Blacksmith’s Apprentice” by Bey Deckard.
This was a new author for me, but I’m always up for a fantasy book. I was not prepared for the big twist on this fantasy story, though. I loved it!
I loved the slow development of Eyck & Wex’s relationship. The author did a beautiful job of breaking our hearts with Wex’s past, furthering the heartbreak with the situations of the present, and healing us slowly along with Wex as Eyck’s patience and care worked their wonders. I really appreciated the psychology behind Wex’s complicated and often discordant feelings toward intimacy & desire. Experiencing his growth alongside him was a fulfilling journey.
And then - THEN - just when you think the story is closing, the reader is hit with the biggest twist I’ve encountered in a very long time.
This book just launched & is ready for you to dive into! With a whole new world of creatures, classes, cultures, and characters, you won’t regret checking it out.
*thanks to @gay.romance.reviews for the ARC!*
This was a new author for me, but I’m always up for a fantasy book. I was not prepared for the big twist on this fantasy story, though. I loved it!
I loved the slow development of Eyck & Wex’s relationship. The author did a beautiful job of breaking our hearts with Wex’s past, furthering the heartbreak with the situations of the present, and healing us slowly along with Wex as Eyck’s patience and care worked their wonders. I really appreciated the psychology behind Wex’s complicated and often discordant feelings toward intimacy & desire. Experiencing his growth alongside him was a fulfilling journey.
And then - THEN - just when you think the story is closing, the reader is hit with the biggest twist I’ve encountered in a very long time.
This book just launched & is ready for you to dive into! With a whole new world of creatures, classes, cultures, and characters, you won’t regret checking it out.
*thanks to @gay.romance.reviews for the ARC!*
December 25, 2022
I loved this book because it is a very very specific type of story that I love, but I can't actually SAY what type it is without spoiling it. But, bravo. An intruiging world, wonderful characters, stellar prose. I just wish it was a little longer. I wanted more.
I wonder if many people will get all the refrences or who will get the "joke" about the species name. I'm so glad I thought to check on Bey Deckard's website to see if he had published something new. This was sweet in that also-dark way that only Bey Deckard does IMHO to perfection. I cant' wait to see what he comes up with next
I wonder if many people will get all the refrences or who will get the "joke" about the species name. I'm so glad I thought to check on Bey Deckard's website to see if he had published something new. This was sweet in that also-dark way that only Bey Deckard does IMHO to perfection. I cant' wait to see what he comes up with next
July 25, 2023
** 3.5 Stars **
September 1, 2023
See my web site for my review of “The Blacksmith's Apprentice.”
December 18, 2022
I was wowed away by Bey Deckard's The Blacksmith's Apprentice. This was so original, so unique. It was AAMMAAZZZING!!! The world building was incredible and interesting. The story just sucks you in. It just sucks you with everything. All the emotions. Then it knocks your breath away with so many surprises.
October 26, 2022
Dark and creative, and so lovely,
full review to come
full review to come
December 30, 2022
3.75 stars
I think this is the first book I have read from this author and I liked it. It’s pretty long and i did feel that it slowed down in parts and then the sped up in others as my interest was captured at certain times. It took me a little bit to get into as the first half of the book was very much about the two guys getting to know each other, and with Wex’s past this was needed. It didn’t stop me reading as the world the author had created was interesting to me.
I liked both characters, and both are damaged in their own way. Wex’s was easier to see as he had suffered from his birth due to the colour of his fur. Eyck was suffering at the start due to the death of his wife, and truely was a good man, he wanted to be better and do right by everyone, he felt terrible when he couldn’t remember what had happened between the two guys on the first night. I was also glad to see this from Wex’s side and liked that he had a plan to make sure he was never a slave again. Wex’s mood swings throughout this part, while understandable after everything he had been through and him accepting that he actually wanted someone made him a harder character to like at the time as he was throwing everything back at Eyck, and making him pay for Wex’s confusion.
It did feel like this one went through stages, we had the getting to know you stage and then they got together and it was just sex sex sex and then we had the ending. Unfortunately I felt the ending was a little bit rushed, a new and extremely interesting plot development that challenged their whole caste system and way of life was introduced and then the next chapter it was a year later and everything had been decided. I just felt this needed more work and a longer look at how it effected the people.
Still an enjoyable read and I would like to go back and reread this one in the future and see if I pick up other parts I have missed.
*** Arc provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
I think this is the first book I have read from this author and I liked it. It’s pretty long and i did feel that it slowed down in parts and then the sped up in others as my interest was captured at certain times. It took me a little bit to get into as the first half of the book was very much about the two guys getting to know each other, and with Wex’s past this was needed. It didn’t stop me reading as the world the author had created was interesting to me.
I liked both characters, and both are damaged in their own way. Wex’s was easier to see as he had suffered from his birth due to the colour of his fur. Eyck was suffering at the start due to the death of his wife, and truely was a good man, he wanted to be better and do right by everyone, he felt terrible when he couldn’t remember what had happened between the two guys on the first night. I was also glad to see this from Wex’s side and liked that he had a plan to make sure he was never a slave again. Wex’s mood swings throughout this part, while understandable after everything he had been through and him accepting that he actually wanted someone made him a harder character to like at the time as he was throwing everything back at Eyck, and making him pay for Wex’s confusion.
It did feel like this one went through stages, we had the getting to know you stage and then they got together and it was just sex sex sex and then we had the ending. Unfortunately I felt the ending was a little bit rushed, a new and extremely interesting plot development that challenged their whole caste system and way of life was introduced and then the next chapter it was a year later and everything had been decided. I just felt this needed more work and a longer look at how it effected the people.
Still an enjoyable read and I would like to go back and reread this one in the future and see if I pick up other parts I have missed.
*** Arc provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
December 17, 2022
This is a new to me author, I picked this up based solely on the blurb, and let's just say I didn't really know what to expect. I certainly got a lot more than I initially thought I would (in a really good way).
I loved the slow reveal of the world and its people in this book. Too often in a fantasy book you get so much exposition, setting up the world and the people and I loved how this was built up as the story went along. This isn't an easy read in places, Wex has such a hard life up and the things that happen to him aren't easy to witness, this just makes him all the more intriguing a character and I ended up really just wanting the best for him. Wex is so damaged, and I loved how Eyck just wanted to take care of him and no lie, it was hard seeing Wex come to terms with that and his destructive behaviour.
I liked the supporting cast of characters too, for the most part. I also really liked how the story turned on its' head with the surprise reveal, I wasn't expecting that but it really made everything come together and make sense.
The only thing I really struggled with was 'seeing' the characters, I couldn't really get a firm grasp on how they would look with the fur and tails but this was pretty minor in the grand scheme of things.
I received an ARC and this was my honest review.
I loved the slow reveal of the world and its people in this book. Too often in a fantasy book you get so much exposition, setting up the world and the people and I loved how this was built up as the story went along. This isn't an easy read in places, Wex has such a hard life up and the things that happen to him aren't easy to witness, this just makes him all the more intriguing a character and I ended up really just wanting the best for him. Wex is so damaged, and I loved how Eyck just wanted to take care of him and no lie, it was hard seeing Wex come to terms with that and his destructive behaviour.
I liked the supporting cast of characters too, for the most part. I also really liked how the story turned on its' head with the surprise reveal, I wasn't expecting that but it really made everything come together and make sense.
The only thing I really struggled with was 'seeing' the characters, I couldn't really get a firm grasp on how they would look with the fur and tails but this was pretty minor in the grand scheme of things.
I received an ARC and this was my honest review.
December 20, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
It’s been a minute or two since Bey Deckard released a book and all I had to do was hear his name and I was ready to read. This is an intriguing story on many levels as the society here is not human and the characters are covered in fur and have tails. After that, however, they do have many human qualities and at times it can be easy to forget they are not human.
The story builds upon itself and is wrapped in many layers as Eyck and Wex grow their relationship. The society is built on a caste system and Wex has only ever known cruelty. He has never been able to be his own person and he has a lot of trauma. His voice was “taken” from him after repeated acts of violence and he feels lost and alone all of the time. Eyck has his work and some friends, but after his wife died, he has lived for his work. The men are drawn to each other from the start, but they both have many reasons for running from their feelings.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
It’s been a minute or two since Bey Deckard released a book and all I had to do was hear his name and I was ready to read. This is an intriguing story on many levels as the society here is not human and the characters are covered in fur and have tails. After that, however, they do have many human qualities and at times it can be easy to forget they are not human.
The story builds upon itself and is wrapped in many layers as Eyck and Wex grow their relationship. The society is built on a caste system and Wex has only ever known cruelty. He has never been able to be his own person and he has a lot of trauma. His voice was “taken” from him after repeated acts of violence and he feels lost and alone all of the time. Eyck has his work and some friends, but after his wife died, he has lived for his work. The men are drawn to each other from the start, but they both have many reasons for running from their feelings.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
December 16, 2022
3.5 very interesting concept, but I could never really 'see' the characters. The romance of the blacksmith and the apprentice was really well done and I enjoyed that part of the story. You have to suspend disbelief a bit as it's hard to understand how Wex was able to communicate so well with Eyck via sign language when Eyck had no prior knowledge at all. I mean, just long, complex paragraphs. How? Still, I was cruising along until we got to about 80% and the discovery etc etc. Meh. I guess. I get that it was really liberating; it was just the least interesting part of the book to me. Truly, I never really got into Wex and Eyck being whatever they were with tails etc. Like, it wasn't fantasy where they had powers, but it wasn't very sci fi where they had other things going on. They were just a blacksmith and blacksmith apprentice with fur and a tail...so I couldn't really fit them anywhere. The story would have been more interesting to me if they were just human. Happy they got their happy ending though, as I did love them together as a couple.
December 30, 2022
I really didn't know what to expect from this novel, especially when descriptions of the characters' fur and tails started to crop up.
The novel raises some challenging issues such as religion, segregation, slavery, as well as same-sex relationships. Deckard has used a 'fantasy' setting to highlight these issues and then smacks one big wallop at the end to disrupt it all and highlight how dumb it is to judge someone just based on how they look.
The main characters are Eyck and Wex. Their relationship changes throughout the novel from saviour/slave, blacksmith/apprentice to lovers. Despite both characters carrying some baggage, Wex is the character holding on to a lot of trauma At first, I wasn't sure I liked Wex but then that turned out to be the reason why I did like him. Deckard used Wex (I believe) to emphasise the point that there is no one type of victim or trauma. It can appear in different ways and manifest differently from person to person.
I was surprised by how much I did enjoy this book, even with the twist! I had a bad feeling the twist would ruin it, but it really didn't.
The novel raises some challenging issues such as religion, segregation, slavery, as well as same-sex relationships. Deckard has used a 'fantasy' setting to highlight these issues and then smacks one big wallop at the end to disrupt it all and highlight how dumb it is to judge someone just based on how they look.
The main characters are Eyck and Wex. Their relationship changes throughout the novel from saviour/slave, blacksmith/apprentice to lovers. Despite both characters carrying some baggage, Wex is the character holding on to a lot of trauma At first, I wasn't sure I liked Wex but then that turned out to be the reason why I did like him. Deckard used Wex (I believe) to emphasise the point that there is no one type of victim or trauma. It can appear in different ways and manifest differently from person to person.
I was surprised by how much I did enjoy this book, even with the twist! I had a bad feeling the twist would ruin it, but it really didn't.
January 4, 2023
🤔 …The Blacksmith’s Apprentice is a dark, heavy, challenging story to read. At times I struggled with it but mostly the struggle was due to those darker, heavier elements. That said, I found this one extremely hard to put down. Even amidst my frustration with the caste system, classism, systemic oppression and brutalization and growing anger with Eyck’s best friend Pash, I was captivated and completely immersed. And just as the plot seemed to become a bit more than I could bear, it turned in such a way that I was mentally shouting, “YES! Yes, that’s what I want to see! Thank you Bey for this turn of events!” It was the push back and justice I longed to see.
I’m not sure about a rating. As I said, the darker elements were sometimes a bit emotionally challenging and there were times when I was not only frustrated with Pash, but Eyck as well. Still, as I said I was thoroughly engaged and ultimately really appreciated the social statements. I’m not sure if I land on 3 stars or slightly higher so for now I’m giving it 3 stars but know it’s actually at least 3+.
I’m not sure about a rating. As I said, the darker elements were sometimes a bit emotionally challenging and there were times when I was not only frustrated with Pash, but Eyck as well. Still, as I said I was thoroughly engaged and ultimately really appreciated the social statements. I’m not sure if I land on 3 stars or slightly higher so for now I’m giving it 3 stars but know it’s actually at least 3+.
December 21, 2022
So I will say, I can appreciate the authors writing style, and the story they went for. I think the pacing just didn’t work for me, making the story feel longer than it should have been. Then you get to this huge plot twist, which was interesting and made sense, but it was a little too late for me?
Something that kept me reading though was the disability and use of sign language. Very well done.
I didn’t love Wex going to sell himself for a while there just to avoid his feelings, and the gang rape scene kinda just felt like a plot device. Especially when he seems to rapidly recover with no emotional trauma after… I think that’s really where my interest diminished, because even after all of that it could have been elevated by some serious emotional scars that Eyck could have soothed. It just felt very detached to me, unfortunately.
I would be interested to see what this author does with a more condensed book, where the plot is spread more throughout the book rather than the end.
Something that kept me reading though was the disability and use of sign language. Very well done.
I didn’t love Wex going to sell himself for a while there just to avoid his feelings, and the gang rape scene kinda just felt like a plot device. Especially when he seems to rapidly recover with no emotional trauma after… I think that’s really where my interest diminished, because even after all of that it could have been elevated by some serious emotional scars that Eyck could have soothed. It just felt very detached to me, unfortunately.
I would be interested to see what this author does with a more condensed book, where the plot is spread more throughout the book rather than the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2022
There’s a lot to appreciate about this book. For me, two things really shine:
The world building is imaginative, cleverly scaffolded, and prone to more than a few twists and turns. You learn a lot about it from just this book, and it’s mesmerizing enough that I’d also love to see other stories set in this world.
The relationship and character development. Heed the content warnings, as there are many difficult, traumatic events, some on page, many off, that are shaping forces in the society as a whole and in Wrex’s life in particular. Navigating traumas old and new is messy, devastating, and unpredictable: one step forward, ten steps back, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see him find strength and equilibrium and eventually, something good and stable with Eyck.
Overall, a powerful & immersive read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
The world building is imaginative, cleverly scaffolded, and prone to more than a few twists and turns. You learn a lot about it from just this book, and it’s mesmerizing enough that I’d also love to see other stories set in this world.
The relationship and character development. Heed the content warnings, as there are many difficult, traumatic events, some on page, many off, that are shaping forces in the society as a whole and in Wrex’s life in particular. Navigating traumas old and new is messy, devastating, and unpredictable: one step forward, ten steps back, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see him find strength and equilibrium and eventually, something good and stable with Eyck.
Overall, a powerful & immersive read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 25, 2022
I have to start by saying the detail and complexity of the world building in this book was impressive! I felt drawn into a complete world of furry creatures and society standards. The caste system is pretty much out in the open as your fur color designates where one falls in society. Wex the main character is a mute who falls at the bottom and Eyck is the blacksmith who initially rescues him. Wex however does not understand trust and flees. This decision drives the story and the characters, but I was sad that Wex made this decision. Wes comes back to Eyck and Eyck takes him in to learn his trade and from there they grow together. It might sound odd, but their story is actually a very realistic one set in a fantasy world.
December 31, 2022
A really stunning achievement by this author here. We are introduced to a completely developed world with non-human characters in it. Everything is incredibly detailed and well thought out including the caste system and how a freed slave/ex-convict would try to rebuild his life and find a way to earn a living. The fact that Wex is also mute opens up the opportunity for the author to explore the ways he is treated as "less than" compared to those who can talk - less intelligent, less of an individual deserving respect and less entitled to love and acceptance. Watching him return to Eyck for a job and then seeing the relationship develop between the two of them was amazing. Definitely an author on my watch list.
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