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Blood Mercenaries #0
Blood Mercenaries Origins
This is a story of desperation.
Aeron Ironglade was just kicked out of the Wyvern Knight Corps...
...and now he's desperate to rescue Wafer, his bonded wyvern, from a corrupt commander bent on taking revenge on Aeron.
But with no money, no power, and no plan, how can Aeron possibly save Wafer from certain demise?
Meanwhile, Kent Etheridge is facing desperate choices of his own.
Magic is forbidden in Kent's country.
Normally that wouldn't be a problem...
...except that Kent is the heir to his father's lordship, and he just manifested magic powers.
If Kent can't keep his magic hidden, he'll lose everything.
When Kent's traitorous younger brother exposes his magic powers to seize the lordship for himself, Kent is forced to flee his home country.
He takes refuge in the rival country of Inoth and soon finds himself face-to-face with its beautiful mage queen...
...a queen who wants him dead.
Can Kent convince the queen to trust him despite his previous life?
Or will she execute him as an enemy of the state?
And when Aeron's plight forces him into Kent's world, will they be able to help each other survive?
Dive into this exciting new fantasy world full of twists and mayhem today. Get it now.
REVIEWS
“In every story he tells, Ben Wolf has a way of drawing you into the world he's created. The Blood Mercenaries series is no exception. It's a perfect blend of peril, death, and humor, and the cast of unique and interesting characters keep you turning pages till the end. A must read!” - Daniel Kuhnley, Author of The Dark Heart Chronicles“
These stories took me back to the days of the Forgotten Realms and Dragonlance novels, which I still regard very highly. I MUST know what happens next. Each story leaves you hanging like a season finale. I am certainly looking forward to the rest of this series!”- Chris Hall, Reader
“Not only is Ben Wolf handsome, but he’s a damn good writer as well!”- Kirk DouPonce, Reader & Cover Designer
Aeron Ironglade was just kicked out of the Wyvern Knight Corps...
...and now he's desperate to rescue Wafer, his bonded wyvern, from a corrupt commander bent on taking revenge on Aeron.
But with no money, no power, and no plan, how can Aeron possibly save Wafer from certain demise?
Meanwhile, Kent Etheridge is facing desperate choices of his own.
Magic is forbidden in Kent's country.
Normally that wouldn't be a problem...
...except that Kent is the heir to his father's lordship, and he just manifested magic powers.
If Kent can't keep his magic hidden, he'll lose everything.
When Kent's traitorous younger brother exposes his magic powers to seize the lordship for himself, Kent is forced to flee his home country.
He takes refuge in the rival country of Inoth and soon finds himself face-to-face with its beautiful mage queen...
...a queen who wants him dead.
Can Kent convince the queen to trust him despite his previous life?
Or will she execute him as an enemy of the state?
And when Aeron's plight forces him into Kent's world, will they be able to help each other survive?
Dive into this exciting new fantasy world full of twists and mayhem today. Get it now.
REVIEWS
“In every story he tells, Ben Wolf has a way of drawing you into the world he's created. The Blood Mercenaries series is no exception. It's a perfect blend of peril, death, and humor, and the cast of unique and interesting characters keep you turning pages till the end. A must read!” - Daniel Kuhnley, Author of The Dark Heart Chronicles“
These stories took me back to the days of the Forgotten Realms and Dragonlance novels, which I still regard very highly. I MUST know what happens next. Each story leaves you hanging like a season finale. I am certainly looking forward to the rest of this series!”- Chris Hall, Reader
“Not only is Ben Wolf handsome, but he’s a damn good writer as well!”- Kirk DouPonce, Reader & Cover Designer
526 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2021
86 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Ben Wolf
99 books118 followersAt the age of nine, Ben Wolf slayed his first dragon.
As the dragon perished, it bequeathed a measure of its power to Ben.
It told him, "You now have the ability to lie more creatively than any other being on this planet--except for politicians. Use this power wisely."
The dragon died with one final puff of smoke from its lungs, but Ben Wolf lived on.
For years, Ben honed his craft. At the age of twelve, he lied to his sister about having thrown darts at a poster of her favorite boy band.
At the age of sixteen, he lied to a policeman who'd pulled him over for speeding, and it got him out of a ticket.
At the age of eighteen, he lied to himself about what a good decision it was to go to Bible college and major in Pastoral Studies (that one has come back to haunt him several times).
Given the unique power he'd inherited from the dying dragon, Ben Wolf had expected his life to look very different from how it did when he turned twenty-three.
Then the dragon's words regarding his power returned to him: "Use this power wisely."
The truth was, Ben hadn't been using the magnificent power wisely. He'd been using it for personal gain, and to dig himself out of bad situations (or, in the case of Bible college, to get himself into them).
So he asked himself, "What would be a wise way to use this power?"
At that very moment, a bus drove past the street in front of him. On its side was emblazoned the phrase, "You should write a novel!"
Having graduated from Bible college a year earlier, Ben took it as a divine message. What's more, he'd already written one novel at that point, and he'd enjoyed it, so he figured he might as well write a few more.
That was 2009. Now, more than ten years later, Ben has written north of ten books, including an award-winning children's book and an award-winning novel.
Awards are great, but what Ben has found even more reassuring is the consistently great feedback he's gotten from readers. They've raved about his work and told him he was the best, most creative liar they'd ever heard of.
So now Ben is on the cusp of making serious headway with his lying skills. His debut fantasy saga, the Blood Mercenaries series of dark/epic/sword & sorcery novels, is raking in tons of stellar reviews from readers everywhere.
And now you can be a part of his creative lying journey. If you've read Ben Wolf's work, love him as a person, or plain old just think he's a handsome guy (he is, and he is now making it known that it wasn't him who wrote this (but it was actually him)), then please review his books here and on Amazon.com.
Ben, who we swear didn't write this, thanks you.
As the dragon perished, it bequeathed a measure of its power to Ben.
It told him, "You now have the ability to lie more creatively than any other being on this planet--except for politicians. Use this power wisely."
The dragon died with one final puff of smoke from its lungs, but Ben Wolf lived on.
For years, Ben honed his craft. At the age of twelve, he lied to his sister about having thrown darts at a poster of her favorite boy band.
At the age of sixteen, he lied to a policeman who'd pulled him over for speeding, and it got him out of a ticket.
At the age of eighteen, he lied to himself about what a good decision it was to go to Bible college and major in Pastoral Studies (that one has come back to haunt him several times).
Given the unique power he'd inherited from the dying dragon, Ben Wolf had expected his life to look very different from how it did when he turned twenty-three.
Then the dragon's words regarding his power returned to him: "Use this power wisely."
The truth was, Ben hadn't been using the magnificent power wisely. He'd been using it for personal gain, and to dig himself out of bad situations (or, in the case of Bible college, to get himself into them).
So he asked himself, "What would be a wise way to use this power?"
At that very moment, a bus drove past the street in front of him. On its side was emblazoned the phrase, "You should write a novel!"
Having graduated from Bible college a year earlier, Ben took it as a divine message. What's more, he'd already written one novel at that point, and he'd enjoyed it, so he figured he might as well write a few more.
That was 2009. Now, more than ten years later, Ben has written north of ten books, including an award-winning children's book and an award-winning novel.
Awards are great, but what Ben has found even more reassuring is the consistently great feedback he's gotten from readers. They've raved about his work and told him he was the best, most creative liar they'd ever heard of.
So now Ben is on the cusp of making serious headway with his lying skills. His debut fantasy saga, the Blood Mercenaries series of dark/epic/sword & sorcery novels, is raking in tons of stellar reviews from readers everywhere.
And now you can be a part of his creative lying journey. If you've read Ben Wolf's work, love him as a person, or plain old just think he's a handsome guy (he is, and he is now making it known that it wasn't him who wrote this (but it was actually him)), then please review his books here and on Amazon.com.
Ben, who we swear didn't write this, thanks you.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
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January 28, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/28/2020)! 🎁
February 21, 2020
Four stories introducing the characters in the series. Each story started out a bit confusing for me, but by the end of the story, I was sorry it was ending. They are definitely not HEA stories.
I'll definitely be continuing the series.
I'll definitely be continuing the series.
September 10, 2021
Ironglade is a superbly written short story in the Blood Mercenaries Origins by Ben Wolf. From the first page, you’ll be rooting for Aeron and wondering how this broken man will possibly achieve getting his bonded wyvern back from a heavily guarded military fortress. It’s not the wyvern’s fault and yet Wafer is suffering too when his bonded rider Aeron is dishonorably discharged because of a corrupt commander. The author adds in an unsympathetic father and the real struggle of abusing drugs for relieving severe chronic pain. This story packs it all in and is hugely satisfying.
Etheridge is the second story in the Blood Mercenaries Origins, and it’s the second story that had me rooting for the MC from the first page. Ben Wolf has a way of pulling at your heart with his characters and making you want to see justice prevail. Neither story has a definite conclusion, so justice will have to be served in the future. I hope the bad guys get their just deserts. I did find the story lagged at the point where the MC falls in love, but then there’s the climax, and then bam. It was worth sticking it out. I’m looking forward to reading further. Once you begin reading, you’ll also want to know who these mercenaries are and how they meet.
Requiem is the third story in the Blood Mercenaries Origins, and it’s the first one where I wasn’t sure how I felt about the MC. Mehta is an assassin known as Requiem. His thirst for blood has made him less discriminatory when it comes to who or what he kills. Can a bloodthirsty killer be redeemable? You’ll have to decide for yourself. There’s a lot of fighting and bloodshed in this one, but the story held my attention right to the end. Ben Wolf has created an intriguing morally gray MC. All the characters are interesting, and one, in particular, makes this story palatable. Will Mehta have his revenge in the end? You’ll have to read the series to find out.
Shatterstone is the fourth story in the Blood Mercenaries Origins. The story follows Garrick, a formidable mercenary who is part troll. The opening scene is entertaining and I liked the characters, but I didn’t feel a heart connection toward Garrick until the final chapters. A big portion of the story is an Indiana Jones type of adventure. Although it’s well written, it wasn’t for me. It got really interesting toward the final chapters. I loved the reference to the girl from Requiem. If I read further in the series, I’d like to see more of her. Shatterstone ends on a cliffhanger. If you read the stories in order, you can guess what happens next. Ben Wolf is a great storyteller and I’m so glad to have read this introduction to his Blood Mercenaries series.
Etheridge is the second story in the Blood Mercenaries Origins, and it’s the second story that had me rooting for the MC from the first page. Ben Wolf has a way of pulling at your heart with his characters and making you want to see justice prevail. Neither story has a definite conclusion, so justice will have to be served in the future. I hope the bad guys get their just deserts. I did find the story lagged at the point where the MC falls in love, but then there’s the climax, and then bam. It was worth sticking it out. I’m looking forward to reading further. Once you begin reading, you’ll also want to know who these mercenaries are and how they meet.
Requiem is the third story in the Blood Mercenaries Origins, and it’s the first one where I wasn’t sure how I felt about the MC. Mehta is an assassin known as Requiem. His thirst for blood has made him less discriminatory when it comes to who or what he kills. Can a bloodthirsty killer be redeemable? You’ll have to decide for yourself. There’s a lot of fighting and bloodshed in this one, but the story held my attention right to the end. Ben Wolf has created an intriguing morally gray MC. All the characters are interesting, and one, in particular, makes this story palatable. Will Mehta have his revenge in the end? You’ll have to read the series to find out.
Shatterstone is the fourth story in the Blood Mercenaries Origins. The story follows Garrick, a formidable mercenary who is part troll. The opening scene is entertaining and I liked the characters, but I didn’t feel a heart connection toward Garrick until the final chapters. A big portion of the story is an Indiana Jones type of adventure. Although it’s well written, it wasn’t for me. It got really interesting toward the final chapters. I loved the reference to the girl from Requiem. If I read further in the series, I’d like to see more of her. Shatterstone ends on a cliffhanger. If you read the stories in order, you can guess what happens next. Ben Wolf is a great storyteller and I’m so glad to have read this introduction to his Blood Mercenaries series.
August 13, 2024
Blood Mercenaries Origins is split into four short stories: one for each Blood Mercenary. While it doesn’t go back to the formative years of the group, it shows the time leading up to how they were brought together.
The first story, “Ironglade”, is about Aeron Ironglade and how he was able to reconnect with Wafer after he was released from the Govalian Army. It also gives us a bit more of a back story of Kallie, and Aeron’s relationship with his parents.
We are introduced to Kent Etheredge in the second story. “Etheredge” explains how Kent was exiled from his homeland Muroth and ended up in Inoth. Along the way, he learns to use the magic and has awoken in him and learns what love is.
“Requiem” broke my heart, honestly. A man, with the birth name Mehta, is taken at a very young age from his family. He learns how to be a brutal killer to appease Xyon. When his time comes to give the ultimate sacrifice to Xyon, he realizes there is more to live for. He escapes, only to find his way to a newly orphaned young girl. She gives him a reason to live, and reasons to not want to kill just to kill.
Garrick Shatterstone wants notoriety and is willing to do what he needs to do in the final story of the book, “Shatterstone”. When he is betrayed by an associate, he realizes that he does have a heart, and it is not made of stone.
Author, Ben Wolf asked me which of the four main characters was my favorite, and I honestly could not answer him. I felt a connection to every one of them. They were all given an unfair hand, and all have handled it differently.
The entire book is full of high adventure, and I appreciated the look into the countries that are the backdrop of the Blood Mercenaries Trilogy. I only hope the differences in personalities can mesh together to make the next three books as entertaining as Volume 0.
The first story, “Ironglade”, is about Aeron Ironglade and how he was able to reconnect with Wafer after he was released from the Govalian Army. It also gives us a bit more of a back story of Kallie, and Aeron’s relationship with his parents.
We are introduced to Kent Etheredge in the second story. “Etheredge” explains how Kent was exiled from his homeland Muroth and ended up in Inoth. Along the way, he learns to use the magic and has awoken in him and learns what love is.
“Requiem” broke my heart, honestly. A man, with the birth name Mehta, is taken at a very young age from his family. He learns how to be a brutal killer to appease Xyon. When his time comes to give the ultimate sacrifice to Xyon, he realizes there is more to live for. He escapes, only to find his way to a newly orphaned young girl. She gives him a reason to live, and reasons to not want to kill just to kill.
Garrick Shatterstone wants notoriety and is willing to do what he needs to do in the final story of the book, “Shatterstone”. When he is betrayed by an associate, he realizes that he does have a heart, and it is not made of stone.
Author, Ben Wolf asked me which of the four main characters was my favorite, and I honestly could not answer him. I felt a connection to every one of them. They were all given an unfair hand, and all have handled it differently.
The entire book is full of high adventure, and I appreciated the look into the countries that are the backdrop of the Blood Mercenaries Trilogy. I only hope the differences in personalities can mesh together to make the next three books as entertaining as Volume 0.
February 24, 2021
I didn’t think I’d fall in love with the characters as much as I did. I love Pa from Aeron’s story and how he was willing to sacrifice his livelihood to help his son get Wafer back. In Kent’s story I felt for him more than I thought I was going too. He not only was framed by his brother for murdering his father, but also witnessed his love Aveyna killed by her son. And both happened IN FRONT OF HIM. like can he get a break. But Mehta. I LOVE THIS MAN WITH MY ENTIRE BEING. Not only does he leave his cult life, he protects a small child from being killed from his former cult members and then basically adopts her into his family he ends up going back too. And the scene when she helps him suppress his urge to murder her in cold blood was just so beautiful!! BUT BOY WAS I MAD WITH GARRICK’S STORY. He had to kill off Irwin and Colburn. I figured going into this book, some of the backstories were going to be sad. But 3 out of the 4. REALLY?? I really wanted them to live and see them again.
But overall this book and their stories were very well executed and I can’t wait to read the series now!!
But overall this book and their stories were very well executed and I can’t wait to read the series now!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2020
Four high action stories about underdogs who find themselves in positions where they have to make choices that will not only define them, but define the lives of those around them. Kent is by far my favourite character! Not only was his novella the most gripping (poor guy couldn't catch a break), but I felt his POV was set up and woven into the coming plot really nicely.
I seriously admire the world-building gone into this book. There's unique creatures, a complex political and military system wrought with tensions at the boarders, and a magic system that has both social and political implications depending on which country or kingdom you're in. It's the kind of book that I would love to explore in person. Looking forward to diving into the official saga!
I seriously admire the world-building gone into this book. There's unique creatures, a complex political and military system wrought with tensions at the boarders, and a magic system that has both social and political implications depending on which country or kingdom you're in. It's the kind of book that I would love to explore in person. Looking forward to diving into the official saga!
May 24, 2025
I absolutely adore this book due to the nature of the relationship between Wafer and Aeron. Mr Ben Wolf had me almost instantly with the dog metaphors. And it was an enjoyable arc.
Then came Kent. He was instantly in my brain as a mixture of Doctor Strange and Elsa - yes, I mean Queen Elsa. The princess who tries to hide her powers in order to ascend the throne. I was deeply pulled into his character arc as well, and was thrilled when Aeron and Wafer showed up.
These stories are compelling and entertaining. I'm kind of new to science fiction, but I found these accessible. The names weren't too hard to figure out the pronunciation, and I had an easy time imagining the worlds that were being described.
Then came Kent. He was instantly in my brain as a mixture of Doctor Strange and Elsa - yes, I mean Queen Elsa. The princess who tries to hide her powers in order to ascend the throne. I was deeply pulled into his character arc as well, and was thrilled when Aeron and Wafer showed up.
These stories are compelling and entertaining. I'm kind of new to science fiction, but I found these accessible. The names weren't too hard to figure out the pronunciation, and I had an easy time imagining the worlds that were being described.
December 10, 2025
Aeron Ironglade’s story grabbed me immediately. His fall from the army, his fierce loyalty to Wafer, and his determination to fight his way back make him an incredibly compelling hero. The worldbuilding is vivid, the stakes are high, and the mix of wyverns, magic, and classic sword-and-sorcery feels perfect for fantasy fans. The origin tales leading into the Blood Mercenaries series are exciting and full of heart especially Aeron’s quest to reunite with his wyvern. A fantastic, adventurous read!
March 1, 2021
Stories of how we became mercenaries would fi the tales of these men.
The independent origin stories of these men were well crafted, and drew me in quickly. Just as I got caught up in the pivotal ending of each man's story, I was left on a cliff. A cliff from which the view of their stories could go anywhere. Looking forward to their exploits together
The independent origin stories of these men were well crafted, and drew me in quickly. Just as I got caught up in the pivotal ending of each man's story, I was left on a cliff. A cliff from which the view of their stories could go anywhere. Looking forward to their exploits together
April 8, 2020
This is a fantastic book about men that aren't afraid to do the right thing, no matter the cost to themselves. They offer their skills and services to help those that aren't strong enough to fight off the ice dragons that hate anything warm. It's a wonderful book that you will enjoy reading.
February 15, 2021
Adventure fantasy
An imaginative action adventure full of fantasy, whimsy and violence. The first book I've read by this author as stated it is a preview and set up for following stories, lots of betray and death
An imaginative action adventure full of fantasy, whimsy and violence. The first book I've read by this author as stated it is a preview and set up for following stories, lots of betray and death
December 3, 2025
Can I give it more than 5 stars!? This was truly fun. I loved all four of the origin stories and the shameless plug at the end for the authors other books. It had me giggling. I so need to read the other books now. These characters and the world are so well written! Loved it!
October 7, 2020
I’m a sucker for origin stories, and Ben Wolf delivers with the Blood Mercenaries. Four characters that are so different, but all fascinating. And soon they will all collide. Excited to keep going!
December 9, 2020
Good book.
Adventure, action and a fantastic world to play in. Loved all the characters and the storylines. Great introduction to the series.
Adventure, action and a fantastic world to play in. Loved all the characters and the storylines. Great introduction to the series.
July 11, 2022
Origins is a must-read for anyone who enjoyed the main Blood Mercenaries series. And, well - anyone who enjoys fantasy of the sword & sorcery variety. Read on !
December 30, 2022
I am excited to read the next book! the characters are so lovable and deep already and this was just the beginning.
April 28, 2025
Each of the characters was interesting to get to know. I'm looking forward to their future adventures!
October 24, 2025
Dove into some very unique and fun characters that lead to very fun places….
March 16, 2024
** 4-4.5 stars **
Wondrous introduction to the four characters who are to feature in the series to follow:
Aeron Ironglade - an Leartherwing, dishonourably discharged & forced to part from his bonded wyvern whose debilitating injury led him to substance dependency.
Kent Etheridge- a deposed nobleman with accidental magical abilities, tricked and banished from his land & stripped of his birthright
Mehta - a stolen orphan raised as a formidable Xyonate assassin with insatiable blood lust to 'sift' all who crosses his path
Garrick Shatterstone - a half-blood troll who was sent on a mission as a mercenary but ended up a victim of betrayal
Ben Wolf is a talented story teller and the four books are action-packed, intricate and highly addictive.
I hope to read the rest of the books in the series.
Wondrous introduction to the four characters who are to feature in the series to follow:
Aeron Ironglade - an Leartherwing, dishonourably discharged & forced to part from his bonded wyvern whose debilitating injury led him to substance dependency.
Kent Etheridge- a deposed nobleman with accidental magical abilities, tricked and banished from his land & stripped of his birthright
Mehta - a stolen orphan raised as a formidable Xyonate assassin with insatiable blood lust to 'sift' all who crosses his path
Garrick Shatterstone - a half-blood troll who was sent on a mission as a mercenary but ended up a victim of betrayal
Ben Wolf is a talented story teller and the four books are action-packed, intricate and highly addictive.
I hope to read the rest of the books in the series.
March 30, 2024
I read the first book in the Blood Mercenaries Series, then discovered this volume so doubled back, read this (fantastic) and then the first again after getting the insights into the characters from this volume. I highly recommend this book before the series, as it gives so much dimension to the characters, how they evolve, and for me, a deeper investment in the choices and movement of the key players. A wild series with unexpected histories, and unusual alliances. I loved it!!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews