Synopsis
Tell me how it happened…
Layne was a soldier, conscripted to fight under the Fox in a vengeance fueled march. He, and his friends, were due for a fated confrontation, one that has ended in blood and loss. Now, the inquisitors want to hear every detail of his conscription, his training, and the duel against the assassin in grey.
A backwards narrative full of banter and blood Z.B. Steele presents An Inkling of Flame, a Song of the Damned novella.
Review
An Inkling of Flame is a grimdark fantasy that lives up to that term. It’s filled with tragedy, heartache and pain. A very real-world exploration of themes like finding oneself, friendship, duty, and sacrifice. I could go on for a while about how this novella broke me. But allow me to say this. An Inkling of Flame is a masterpiece in storytelling. I’m someone who likes stories that have lighter topics, but this story drew me in and kept me hooked.
The main characters, Layne, Sharp, Spark, Harwood, their personalities shine in every word and page. Spark may be my favorite in the story. I can relate with her, and I can see how she gravitated to the other characters. Layne and then Sharp would be a close second, sorry Harwood, you were great too! As I understand it, An Inkling of Flame is a prequel to Z.B. Steele’s book Whispers of the Storm. As I have yet to read that story, I just got a taste of his series. The ending of An Inkling of Flame seems to tie into the main book, which I really appreciated.
To give it a one sentence review, I’d say. A heartbreaking tale of friendship, war, and loyalty. If you like grimdark, and are ready to feel some feels, I would definitely recommend this story. It’s beautifully dark and complex. Believe me, again, I could go on, but suffice it to say, this story deserves recognition.
About the Reviewer
S.R. Arrkewey is an epic fantasy author who wishes to captivate readers with intricate worlds and compelling characters. Living in a quiet, secluded cottage nestled by an imposing mountain, Arrkewey finds inspiration in the wonders of the cosmos and the whisper of the stories that flow over the whole of the multiverse.
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