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Death's Flow
Sometimes, you’re your own worst enemy…
Zaleck, a young albino farmer’s son from a little backwater town, wakes up not to the comfort of his home, but to the confines of a prison cart. His limbs bound, his voice stolen by a gag, panic mounts as he contemplates his fate, unaware of why he even became a target.
Yet, amidst despair, fate — or perhaps something more arcane — intervenes as he’s freed with the help of two other Arneth and Vellis. Arneth, a scholar belonging to an obscure order of master manipulators, who wields knowledge as well as a sword, and who seems to manipulate fate itself. Vellis, a master markswoman whose prowess with the bow is matched only by the shadows of her past. Her ties to the nobility are as complex as the web of secrecy around her. An ex-soldier, she carries the weight of her skills and the burden of her past, her eyes always on the lookout for the next threat, her hand always steady.
Pursued relentlessly by their captors, in service of a dark priest from the powerful “Death Kingdom”, the trio must fight not only to survive, but also learn to trust and work together, uncovering the true reason for their capture.
Soon, they find they might even be able to hide from the slavers, but they can’t ever outrun the consequences of their actions.
Zaleck, a young albino farmer’s son from a little backwater town, wakes up not to the comfort of his home, but to the confines of a prison cart. His limbs bound, his voice stolen by a gag, panic mounts as he contemplates his fate, unaware of why he even became a target.
Yet, amidst despair, fate — or perhaps something more arcane — intervenes as he’s freed with the help of two other Arneth and Vellis. Arneth, a scholar belonging to an obscure order of master manipulators, who wields knowledge as well as a sword, and who seems to manipulate fate itself. Vellis, a master markswoman whose prowess with the bow is matched only by the shadows of her past. Her ties to the nobility are as complex as the web of secrecy around her. An ex-soldier, she carries the weight of her skills and the burden of her past, her eyes always on the lookout for the next threat, her hand always steady.
Pursued relentlessly by their captors, in service of a dark priest from the powerful “Death Kingdom”, the trio must fight not only to survive, but also learn to trust and work together, uncovering the true reason for their capture.
Soon, they find they might even be able to hide from the slavers, but they can’t ever outrun the consequences of their actions.
- GenresFantasy
237 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2024
28 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
August 14, 2024
3.5 stars.
Death's Flow written by Victor Klayin is a speculative fantasy story about an albino 'flowcaster' named Zaleck. Joining him regularly are the two powerful characters: Vellis and Arneth.
The first half of the book was really difficult to get into and I really didn't like how whiny and spoilt Zaleck acts. He is a weak and cowardly character and then he just changes. I think that needs some refinement but at the same time there are a lot of people who like that sort of thing. That is not me.
By halfway the pace of the book picks up significantly. We are thrown into an epic adventure as our characters try to stay alive
I think this has immense potential, but that it's bit there yet.
Hence why I can't give it any further stars.
Death's Flow written by Victor Klayin is a speculative fantasy story about an albino 'flowcaster' named Zaleck. Joining him regularly are the two powerful characters: Vellis and Arneth.
The first half of the book was really difficult to get into and I really didn't like how whiny and spoilt Zaleck acts. He is a weak and cowardly character and then he just changes. I think that needs some refinement but at the same time there are a lot of people who like that sort of thing. That is not me.
By halfway the pace of the book picks up significantly. We are thrown into an epic adventure as our characters try to stay alive
I think this has immense potential, but that it's bit there yet.
Hence why I can't give it any further stars.
July 18, 2024
Who knew a book with death in the title could have some of the most wholesome found family dynamics I've ever read about?
Death's Flow is a fantasy novel that really emphasizes found family (aka my favorite trope) and the coincidences that bring them together. I wasn't expecting to find it as wholesome as I did, although there were plenty of parts that almost made me cry too. It was also refreshing to read about a found family that didn't entirely consist of teenagers with questionable backstories and morals, although I do love those too.
The story follows Zaleck, a young, albino farm boy, after he is captured by slavers who intend to deliver him to a priest to complete a dark ritual. He is rescued by two other captives: Arneth, a scholar who can predict (and maybe control) the future, and Vellis, a huntress with a mysterious past. The plot is fast-paced and high-stakes (there's a reason I read it in just over 12 hours), and there's so much emotional weight packed into such a quick story. The ending is satisfying, although I noticed that there might be more books (?), and I would be more than willing to read about where the crew is off to next.
I really, really loved the characters and their dynamics. Arneth reminded me a lot of an older, wiser, balder Jude from There Will Come a Darkness. I liked seeing him interact with Derith, especially once she was dragged into the family. I also wish we got to see more of Keltrak. Vellis was such a cool character, and her dynamic with Zaleck has to be one of my favorites of all time, especially given her backstory. Zal was so sweet, and his character development was incredibly well done. I really enjoyed watching him grow to appreciate Vellis and vice versa.
Death's Flow is a fast-paced, high-stakes fantasy novel about found family, fate, and how the choices we make define us.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
4.5/5
Death's Flow is a fantasy novel that really emphasizes found family (aka my favorite trope) and the coincidences that bring them together. I wasn't expecting to find it as wholesome as I did, although there were plenty of parts that almost made me cry too. It was also refreshing to read about a found family that didn't entirely consist of teenagers with questionable backstories and morals, although I do love those too.
The story follows Zaleck, a young, albino farm boy, after he is captured by slavers who intend to deliver him to a priest to complete a dark ritual. He is rescued by two other captives: Arneth, a scholar who can predict (and maybe control) the future, and Vellis, a huntress with a mysterious past. The plot is fast-paced and high-stakes (there's a reason I read it in just over 12 hours), and there's so much emotional weight packed into such a quick story. The ending is satisfying, although I noticed that there might be more books (?), and I would be more than willing to read about where the crew is off to next.
I really, really loved the characters and their dynamics. Arneth reminded me a lot of an older, wiser, balder Jude from There Will Come a Darkness. I liked seeing him interact with Derith, especially once she was dragged into the family. I also wish we got to see more of Keltrak. Vellis was such a cool character, and her dynamic with Zaleck has to be one of my favorites of all time, especially given her backstory. Zal was so sweet, and his character development was incredibly well done. I really enjoyed watching him grow to appreciate Vellis and vice versa.
Death's Flow is a fast-paced, high-stakes fantasy novel about found family, fate, and how the choices we make define us.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
4.5/5
August 13, 2024
Why am I suddenly reading so many books that feel relatable? I did not expect to love this book as much as I did. But if I am being honest, I do have a soft spot for stories around the found-family theme. And this book reminded me of how we develop the deepest friendships in harshest of circumstances. You can meet someone at a party and hit it off, but trauma-bonding leaves a bigger imprint on one’s mind.
Let me tell you a bit about the plot.
The story begins with Zaleck, a young albino farmer’s son, waking up in a prison cart. While he is freed by two other captives: Arneth and Vellis, the trio tries to survive the chase by their captors while trying to find the reasons behind it.
The characters are the best part of the book and I found that both Arneth and Vellis had such strong personalities that I, at times, cared more for them than the main character. I especially developed a sweet spot for Vellis. Such a cool character and her interactions with Zaleck were so fun to read. The book is entrenched in magic and danger, with intense action scenes and moments of tension.
Now the writing in the book is of course such that it needs to be detailed enough to immerse the reader in the fantasy world filled with slavers and danger, but don’t for one second think that it stops being an intense roller coaster ride. The pacing of the book keeps you hooked till the end. The incredible character growth that I saw in the novel and the interesting twist of events with secrets revealed made it an entertaining read.
Let me tell you a bit about the plot.
The story begins with Zaleck, a young albino farmer’s son, waking up in a prison cart. While he is freed by two other captives: Arneth and Vellis, the trio tries to survive the chase by their captors while trying to find the reasons behind it.
The characters are the best part of the book and I found that both Arneth and Vellis had such strong personalities that I, at times, cared more for them than the main character. I especially developed a sweet spot for Vellis. Such a cool character and her interactions with Zaleck were so fun to read. The book is entrenched in magic and danger, with intense action scenes and moments of tension.
Now the writing in the book is of course such that it needs to be detailed enough to immerse the reader in the fantasy world filled with slavers and danger, but don’t for one second think that it stops being an intense roller coaster ride. The pacing of the book keeps you hooked till the end. The incredible character growth that I saw in the novel and the interesting twist of events with secrets revealed made it an entertaining read.
July 16, 2024
This review was first published on www.ginaraemitchell.com
Victor Klayin asked for my thoughts on his book "Death's Flow.” This is the first book in his Flow Tales series, a coming-of-age fantasy suitable for middle-grade readers and up.
These themes stood out to me as I read the story.
The storytelling immerses readers in a rich and intricate world created in the magical mind of Mr. Klayin.
The characters, such as Zaleck, Arneth, and Vellis, are well-developed, adding depth to their journey through their backgrounds.
The writing is skillful, with a smooth narrative flow that keeps you reading just one more page, then one more chapter. I found a few minor language quirks that can easily be overlooked, especially considering English may not be the author's first language.
"Death's Flow" provides an entertaining reading experience that captivates readers from start to finish. It's packed with action, adventure, magic, mystery, suspense, and themes of friendship discovered in the most unexpected places.
Fans of fantasy, magic, and adventure will adore this book! Grab your copy today and start turning those pages.
I received a copy of the book from the author.
Unless otherwise noted, books are from my personal bookshelves, the public library, or Kindle Unlimited.
This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Victor Klayin asked for my thoughts on his book "Death's Flow.” This is the first book in his Flow Tales series, a coming-of-age fantasy suitable for middle-grade readers and up.
These themes stood out to me as I read the story.
The storytelling immerses readers in a rich and intricate world created in the magical mind of Mr. Klayin.
The characters, such as Zaleck, Arneth, and Vellis, are well-developed, adding depth to their journey through their backgrounds.
The writing is skillful, with a smooth narrative flow that keeps you reading just one more page, then one more chapter. I found a few minor language quirks that can easily be overlooked, especially considering English may not be the author's first language.
"Death's Flow" provides an entertaining reading experience that captivates readers from start to finish. It's packed with action, adventure, magic, mystery, suspense, and themes of friendship discovered in the most unexpected places.
Fans of fantasy, magic, and adventure will adore this book! Grab your copy today and start turning those pages.
I received a copy of the book from the author.
Unless otherwise noted, books are from my personal bookshelves, the public library, or Kindle Unlimited.
This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
April 28, 2024
“Deaths Flow” is the first book I read by this author, and I can say that I ended up very surprised and fascinated by the world he has created in this story. He manages to transport us to this world full of darkness and conflict.
Let's talk a little about the characters, on one hand we have our main character Zaleck who’s life hasn’t treated him easy, at first trapped in his captivity, tied, and injured, we will continue his journey towards freedom and in search of his family Along the way, both physical and emotional struggles will arise, while he deals with his internal conflicts. For me he is a very well-constructed, complex character, who makes mistakes, to whom one becomes attached.
The rest of the characters also have their moment to shine, we have for example Arneth and Vellis, each with their own secrets and motivations, who will join Zaleck, and ending up involved in conflicts bigger than they expected.
A great story that has everything like action, adventure mystery magical abilities, politics, moments of tension, loss, grief, bonds, redemption and hope, I totally recommend it. You never get bored because something is always happening, the author manages to hook you into the story and make you unable to put the book down until you finish it.
Let's talk a little about the characters, on one hand we have our main character Zaleck who’s life hasn’t treated him easy, at first trapped in his captivity, tied, and injured, we will continue his journey towards freedom and in search of his family Along the way, both physical and emotional struggles will arise, while he deals with his internal conflicts. For me he is a very well-constructed, complex character, who makes mistakes, to whom one becomes attached.
The rest of the characters also have their moment to shine, we have for example Arneth and Vellis, each with their own secrets and motivations, who will join Zaleck, and ending up involved in conflicts bigger than they expected.
A great story that has everything like action, adventure mystery magical abilities, politics, moments of tension, loss, grief, bonds, redemption and hope, I totally recommend it. You never get bored because something is always happening, the author manages to hook you into the story and make you unable to put the book down until you finish it.
May 15, 2024
So, I just received this fantasy book called “Death’s Flow” by Victor Klayin and man, was this book awesome to read through!
The book starts off with a young boy named Zaleck, who was suddenly taken away from his home by slavers and was kept a prisoner for a long period of time. However, it was at that moment that Zaleck met up with two other prisoners named Arneth and Vellis and they ended up escaping from the slavers. It also turns out that the reason why the slavers captured Zaleck is because he is known as a flowcaster and the dark priest wants to take down all the flowcasters in the kingdom. Now Zaleck and his new allies, Arneth and Vellis, have to avoid the slavers in order to save their own lives.
Victor Klayin did such a fantastic job at writing this story! I always loved reading dark fantasy novels and I really loved the fantasy setting of this book. I also really loved how intense this book is as this book is spent on Zaleck and his new allies trying to escape from the slavers, while Zaleck learns more about his new abilities.
Overall, “Death’s Flow” is a fantastic book to read through! If you love dark fantasy novels with lots of character depth, then you should definitely read this book!
The book starts off with a young boy named Zaleck, who was suddenly taken away from his home by slavers and was kept a prisoner for a long period of time. However, it was at that moment that Zaleck met up with two other prisoners named Arneth and Vellis and they ended up escaping from the slavers. It also turns out that the reason why the slavers captured Zaleck is because he is known as a flowcaster and the dark priest wants to take down all the flowcasters in the kingdom. Now Zaleck and his new allies, Arneth and Vellis, have to avoid the slavers in order to save their own lives.
Victor Klayin did such a fantastic job at writing this story! I always loved reading dark fantasy novels and I really loved the fantasy setting of this book. I also really loved how intense this book is as this book is spent on Zaleck and his new allies trying to escape from the slavers, while Zaleck learns more about his new abilities.
Overall, “Death’s Flow” is a fantastic book to read through! If you love dark fantasy novels with lots of character depth, then you should definitely read this book!
December 21, 2024
I just received a fantasy novel titled "Death's Flow" by Victor Klayin, and I must say, it was an incredible read! Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. I do apologise for the late review, have been struggling with my health so I hope you understand.
The story begins with a young boy named Zaleck, who is abruptly taken from his home by slavers and held captive for an extended period. During his imprisonment, he meets two fellow captives, Arneth and Vellis, and together they manage to escape. It turns out the slavers targeted Zaleck because he is a flowcaster, and a dark priest is intent on eliminating all flowcasters in the kingdom. Now, Zaleck and his new friends must evade the slavers to survive.
As a criminology student, I find books that explore prison systems and the ethical implications behind them to be both fascinating and essential. Additionally, as someone who is chronically ill, I truly appreciate the representation of an albino character, which is so important.
Overall, "Death's Flow" is a fantastic read! If you enjoy dark fantasy novels rich in character development, this book is definitely worth checking out!
The story begins with a young boy named Zaleck, who is abruptly taken from his home by slavers and held captive for an extended period. During his imprisonment, he meets two fellow captives, Arneth and Vellis, and together they manage to escape. It turns out the slavers targeted Zaleck because he is a flowcaster, and a dark priest is intent on eliminating all flowcasters in the kingdom. Now, Zaleck and his new friends must evade the slavers to survive.
As a criminology student, I find books that explore prison systems and the ethical implications behind them to be both fascinating and essential. Additionally, as someone who is chronically ill, I truly appreciate the representation of an albino character, which is so important.
Overall, "Death's Flow" is a fantastic read! If you enjoy dark fantasy novels rich in character development, this book is definitely worth checking out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2024
This is a well-written book that will pull you in from the very beginning! Throughout the book, we follow Zaleck, Arneth, and Vellis as they strive to escape the slavers that captured them and to find the reason they were captured in the first place. The character development is impeccable and the world and lure so well constructed that it will feel as if you are right there beside them through all pages! Victor Klayin weaves adventure, magic, sacrifice, and suspense perfectly from start to finish. I highly recommend this book for all fantasy or adventure loving bookworms! I am looking forward to reading more from this author!
April 29, 2024
This is a fantastic, engaging, captivating, and well-written read! I highly recommend giving it a go, especially if you fall within the target audience, but even beyond that as I truly believe that there's a lot of value here for everyone! I flew through this incredibly quickly despite it being a fairly long book thanks to it being so thrilling, and I'm sure that you'll have the same experience. I'm absolutely going to check out Victor Klayin's other book as this is a fantastic introduction to his storytelling. I highly recommend this! 5/5!
May 17, 2024
his book has it all – adventure, suspense, mystery, magic, action, and fantasy. Klayin did a fantastic job of weaving these themes together into an addictive experience that will leave readers wanting more. I would recommend to anyone but especially those that have interests in one of the themes I mentioned previously. Find my full review here: https://likelystory.blog/2024/05/17/r...
June 3, 2024
A very good book. Many twists and turns with adventure and danger. Zal was kidnapped and kept drugged until a huntress and monk rescued him. Unknown to Zal, he had magic. The three traveled together trying to outwit those that came for Zal, they became his protectors. This story took twists and turns I didn't expect, and turned out better than I initially thought. This is a great adventure story that keeps you guessing at every turn.
August 29, 2024
Hooked from the very beginning!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews