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The Silence of Killing
War rages along the western border of Thume, claiming the lives of thousands as the kingdom hangs by a single thread. From the front lines, a soldier is sent home to carry the names of the dead. It should be the easiest mission he's had since the war began. But when enemy forces lay siege to his city, he is forced to make a desperate escape alongside unlikely his younger brother, an old bookkeeper, and a disgraced monster hunter. Together, they become irreversibly swept into a conflict larger than they could ever imagine.
Meanwhile, to the east, a princess seeks to reignite the flame of her rule. To do so, she must stand against both her nation's growing adversary, and her newly divided court.
Meanwhile, to the east, a princess seeks to reignite the flame of her rule. To do so, she must stand against both her nation's growing adversary, and her newly divided court.
- GenresFantasy
469 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2025
11 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
James Mecca
1 book14 followersJames Mecca is full-time veterinary student, and a part-time writer. He is a devout defender of sharks, a devout lover of TTRPG’s, and a devout critic of poorly-synced traffic lights. He believes that all restaurants should adopt the ‘free bread’ policy. His favorite dinosaur is a parasaurolophus. If you care. James has a great many hobbies, though he is mediocre at most of them.
Not to include writing, of course.
Not to include writing, of course.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 24, 2025
Excellent new fantasy book! I was honestly not expecting much from this book but I was wonderfully surprised with the story and writing. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Super underrated book. Give it a read!
Super underrated book. Give it a read!
July 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review: A Gut-Wrenching Masterpiece
The Silence of Killing delivers a brutal, emotional, and beautifully constructed journey through war, grief, and destiny. I went in expecting dark fantasy and what I didn’t expect was how deeply I’d connect with these characters and how wrecked I’d be by the time it ended.
From the opening line, I was hooked: “Soldiers do not die beautifully.” That tone stays consistent throughout. A harsh, unflinching look at what violence, survival, and loyalty really cost. The action scenes? Absolutely stunning. Gritty and cinematic, with a perfect balance of tension and emotion. The fighting is written beautifully it’s immersive and intense without ever losing heart.
But it’s the characters who really shine. Aetrius is such a compelling anti-hero he didn’t choose the quest, it chose him. His reluctant leadership and internal battles make him impossible not to root for. His dynamic with Sariel and Orn is both powerful and painful, especially as layers of trust, trauma, and moral struggle are slowly peeled back.
And the twists? Relentless. This book plays with trust and betrayal in the most satisfying (and gut-wrenching) ways. Every reveal had me reeling. Secrets cut deep, betrayals hit harder, and just when you think you’ve got a handle on the plot, then bam. Everything shifts.
The themes of autonomy, war trauma, and destiny are handled with nuance. The world is harsh, but Mecca doesn’t glorify suffering, he examines it. From the haunting PTSD of a battle-scarred horse to the cost of using magic, the emotional toll is palpable. I had to pause more than once to catch my breath, especially toward the end. And that final chapter? My jaw hit the floor.
The emotional impact is as heavy as the swords the characters carry. And I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m anxiously awaiting the next book.
💬 Fav Quotes
• “Soldiers do not die beautifully.”
• “Rat bastard.”
• “This journey is only to be taken once, and only to be taken by you. There is no other.”
• “It does not do to dwell on what could have been. No man holds no power over yesterday. He must not allow it to hold power over himself.”
• “Oh, Sparrow. Why does the sea beat against the shore? Why do the mountains stretch into the sky? Why does the songbird sing?… Such is their purpose… You are a woman, and if you do not wish to be Queen, you do not need to be.”
• “Careful that you do not confuse guidance for command. The Gods would make you their pawn… if you but give them the chance.”
• “Toryn of Stonehaven, son of Varrow.”
The Silence of Killing delivers a brutal, emotional, and beautifully constructed journey through war, grief, and destiny. I went in expecting dark fantasy and what I didn’t expect was how deeply I’d connect with these characters and how wrecked I’d be by the time it ended.
From the opening line, I was hooked: “Soldiers do not die beautifully.” That tone stays consistent throughout. A harsh, unflinching look at what violence, survival, and loyalty really cost. The action scenes? Absolutely stunning. Gritty and cinematic, with a perfect balance of tension and emotion. The fighting is written beautifully it’s immersive and intense without ever losing heart.
But it’s the characters who really shine. Aetrius is such a compelling anti-hero he didn’t choose the quest, it chose him. His reluctant leadership and internal battles make him impossible not to root for. His dynamic with Sariel and Orn is both powerful and painful, especially as layers of trust, trauma, and moral struggle are slowly peeled back.
And the twists? Relentless. This book plays with trust and betrayal in the most satisfying (and gut-wrenching) ways. Every reveal had me reeling. Secrets cut deep, betrayals hit harder, and just when you think you’ve got a handle on the plot, then bam. Everything shifts.
The themes of autonomy, war trauma, and destiny are handled with nuance. The world is harsh, but Mecca doesn’t glorify suffering, he examines it. From the haunting PTSD of a battle-scarred horse to the cost of using magic, the emotional toll is palpable. I had to pause more than once to catch my breath, especially toward the end. And that final chapter? My jaw hit the floor.
The emotional impact is as heavy as the swords the characters carry. And I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m anxiously awaiting the next book.
💬 Fav Quotes
• “Soldiers do not die beautifully.”
• “Rat bastard.”
• “This journey is only to be taken once, and only to be taken by you. There is no other.”
• “It does not do to dwell on what could have been. No man holds no power over yesterday. He must not allow it to hold power over himself.”
• “Oh, Sparrow. Why does the sea beat against the shore? Why do the mountains stretch into the sky? Why does the songbird sing?… Such is their purpose… You are a woman, and if you do not wish to be Queen, you do not need to be.”
• “Careful that you do not confuse guidance for command. The Gods would make you their pawn… if you but give them the chance.”
• “Toryn of Stonehaven, son of Varrow.”
July 13, 2025
Excellent debut fantasy novel all things considered. A bit overstuffed and I kind of wish there were more moments to slow down with some of the characters- Orn and Sariel as examples but above all it's absolutely thrilling and I really sped through the back half of the book. A lot of intense action and confidence in how the story is laid out. From the prologue the world feels lived-in and considered and then more detail is put on top that just makes for good lore that sticks with you. I would really be interested in the next book because it all comes to a head at the end that it leaves you wanting more.
July 20, 2025
"Everywhere we go is filled with death, old friend,” Aetrius mumbled. "We carry it with us."
The Silence of Killing is a remarkable debut fantasy from James Mecca. It shows how far imagination and determination can take one indie author and that traditional publishing houses are not needed to tell a great story. It shows how traditional publishing can often hold back a story from reaching its potential. Especially for a book that doesn’t have a romantic subplot.
This story is action-packed and tense from the opening chapter. There’s a grim-dark smear to this bright fantasy world as a war draws to a close and our characters scramble to survive the upheaval. This is a classic, familiar fantasy world in a lot of ways with elves, dwarves, and humans, but it shines in its monsters. The aranor, prannick, and so many more are such unique monsters to populate an otherwise familiar world.
The ending left me reeling and was easily the strongest part of this story. It felt like a prologue to a greater story in a lot of ways and I’m excited to see where this story leads us next.
The Silence of Killing is a remarkable debut fantasy from James Mecca. It shows how far imagination and determination can take one indie author and that traditional publishing houses are not needed to tell a great story. It shows how traditional publishing can often hold back a story from reaching its potential. Especially for a book that doesn’t have a romantic subplot.
This story is action-packed and tense from the opening chapter. There’s a grim-dark smear to this bright fantasy world as a war draws to a close and our characters scramble to survive the upheaval. This is a classic, familiar fantasy world in a lot of ways with elves, dwarves, and humans, but it shines in its monsters. The aranor, prannick, and so many more are such unique monsters to populate an otherwise familiar world.
The ending left me reeling and was easily the strongest part of this story. It felt like a prologue to a greater story in a lot of ways and I’m excited to see where this story leads us next.
November 29, 2025
If you have ever felt intimidated by stories like Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, or other fantasy epics, allow yourself to start here. This is a grimdark fantasy, with violence and gore, epic sword fights, politics, and monsters, but it is a perfect beginning to something bigger. I think there’s something in this book for everyone. I loved the twists and turns this story took, even when it gutted me emotionally. This is a beautifully solid debut novel. Multiple POVs were masterfully spun together between a soldier and his younger brother, a bookkeeper/librarian, and a fierce lady knight, and a young queen newly made.
This story is grounded and realistic despite the epic scope. There is deep sincerity to the lore; the creatures and monsters around the characters were so unique and the world building and lore felt endless. There was so much to explore! The political landscape was intricate and impressive, with full lineages that felt genuinely real which can be tricky to achieve in writing when we’re switching POVs and locations.
The biggest impact this story left on me however came from the story of love. Although I’m a sucker for world building and quests, I was drawn in completely by the bonds created within this story. There was true heartache between brothers, between friends and strangers. All of the characters left marks but I felt deeply attached to Surriel, our lady knight. Seeing her wrestle with vulnerability was compelling, as she was outwardly a cold and fierce knight. Her hesitation to emotionally connect with the adventuring party yet her steadfast determination to protect them against any obstacle was a fantastic characterization. Juxtaposed against Surriel, we have our new queen Elena. She’s vulnerable and set adrift in a swiftly evolving kingdom at war, but she quickly becomes a fierce opponent.
Although the last few chapters ripped my heart out and stomped on it, I can’t recommend enough that you read this book. There’s more coming and I’m extremely excited to follow this epic journey.
This story is grounded and realistic despite the epic scope. There is deep sincerity to the lore; the creatures and monsters around the characters were so unique and the world building and lore felt endless. There was so much to explore! The political landscape was intricate and impressive, with full lineages that felt genuinely real which can be tricky to achieve in writing when we’re switching POVs and locations.
The biggest impact this story left on me however came from the story of love. Although I’m a sucker for world building and quests, I was drawn in completely by the bonds created within this story. There was true heartache between brothers, between friends and strangers. All of the characters left marks but I felt deeply attached to Surriel, our lady knight. Seeing her wrestle with vulnerability was compelling, as she was outwardly a cold and fierce knight. Her hesitation to emotionally connect with the adventuring party yet her steadfast determination to protect them against any obstacle was a fantastic characterization. Juxtaposed against Surriel, we have our new queen Elena. She’s vulnerable and set adrift in a swiftly evolving kingdom at war, but she quickly becomes a fierce opponent.
Although the last few chapters ripped my heart out and stomped on it, I can’t recommend enough that you read this book. There’s more coming and I’m extremely excited to follow this epic journey.
October 3, 2025
This book is incredibly impressive, especially being the first one by this author. The characters were quickly likable and relatable to a level that you became attached from the start. The beginning reels you in very quickly and the rest of the story keeps your attention very well, especially towards the end. There were many plot twists which left my jaw on the floor. The scenes were described eloquently and intensely - with darker scenes leaving my stomach churning, and more beautiful ones making me feel as if I were right there with the characters. You can feel the pain each character goes through, and the complex emotions addressed in this book are beautifully scripted. I think my favorite thing about this book was the bravery of tackling deep and difficult subjects - most importantly war, death, and killing. The emotional pull and depictions seem to come from a deeper place than just the authors imagination, and lead you to think about your own life and the world we live in today. Besides the deeper subjects, this book offers a charming yet heart-wrenching tale of friendship, family, love, and having the courage to continue on in the face of tragedy.
October 12, 2025
For a debut novel, Silence of Killing is an impressive and captivating read. The author's world-building stands out as a major strength rich, immersive, and thoughtfully constructed, it pulls you in from the first few chapters and doesn’t let go. While the story unfolds at a slower pace, it allows room for depth and atmosphere, creating a sense of tension that builds gradually and pays off in the latter half of the book.
The characters are another highlight. Each one feels fully realized, with distinct personalities, motivations, and arcs that evolve naturally throughout the story. The relationships and internal conflicts add layers of emotional weight, making the narrative feel grounded and human, even in a fantastical or high-stakes setting.
Although marketed as a standalone, Silence of Killing reads more like the beginning of a larger saga. There are threads left open and a world vast enough to explore further, which leaves you hoping this is just the first installment in a new series.
Overall, a strong and compelling debut. If this is the author's starting point, their future work is definitely something to watch.
The characters are another highlight. Each one feels fully realized, with distinct personalities, motivations, and arcs that evolve naturally throughout the story. The relationships and internal conflicts add layers of emotional weight, making the narrative feel grounded and human, even in a fantastical or high-stakes setting.
Although marketed as a standalone, Silence of Killing reads more like the beginning of a larger saga. There are threads left open and a world vast enough to explore further, which leaves you hoping this is just the first installment in a new series.
Overall, a strong and compelling debut. If this is the author's starting point, their future work is definitely something to watch.
August 17, 2025
“I will show my enemies how good they have made me at killing.”
First of all, I will be suing for emotional damage. Because what the helly?! That was a freaking roller coaster. My jaw was on the floor and I had to close the book MULTIPLE TIMES.
As far as a debut novel goes, this far exceeded my expectations, and going in they were high, thanks to a few other book club members raving about this book. My favorite part of reading fantasies is always the creatures, and Mecca did not disappoint in this aspect. Each one was unique and so vastly different and terrifying.
The exploration of familial bonds, both through blood and chosen, along with the loss of innocence during wartime really stuck with me throughout the entirety of the story. The pacing was well thought out and I absolutely cannot wait to see how the rest of this epic saga continues. I need some comeuppance big time.
First of all, I will be suing for emotional damage. Because what the helly?! That was a freaking roller coaster. My jaw was on the floor and I had to close the book MULTIPLE TIMES.
As far as a debut novel goes, this far exceeded my expectations, and going in they were high, thanks to a few other book club members raving about this book. My favorite part of reading fantasies is always the creatures, and Mecca did not disappoint in this aspect. Each one was unique and so vastly different and terrifying.
The exploration of familial bonds, both through blood and chosen, along with the loss of innocence during wartime really stuck with me throughout the entirety of the story. The pacing was well thought out and I absolutely cannot wait to see how the rest of this epic saga continues. I need some comeuppance big time.
September 13, 2025
4.5⭐️
Sorry for the mess, I’m just picking up the shattered pieces of my heart off the floor.
The Silence of Killing is a sweeping, action-packed, and emotionally charged debut fantasy. I was hooked from the very first page, with a perfect balance between thrilling battles and meaningful character development.
As a certified horse girl, one of my favorite characters was Ilmur, a loyal steed who embodied the profound bond between human and animal. The relationships among the characters felt raw and well-developed, which made the plot twists interspersed throughout the story all the more astonishing.
With its artfully executed action scenes, vivid characters, and emotional impact, this is a debut I won’t forget. I can’t wait to read the sequel!
Sorry for the mess, I’m just picking up the shattered pieces of my heart off the floor.
The Silence of Killing is a sweeping, action-packed, and emotionally charged debut fantasy. I was hooked from the very first page, with a perfect balance between thrilling battles and meaningful character development.
As a certified horse girl, one of my favorite characters was Ilmur, a loyal steed who embodied the profound bond between human and animal. The relationships among the characters felt raw and well-developed, which made the plot twists interspersed throughout the story all the more astonishing.
With its artfully executed action scenes, vivid characters, and emotional impact, this is a debut I won’t forget. I can’t wait to read the sequel!
October 2, 2025
In a poetic take on fantasy, James Mecca has truly stunned with his debut novel. In this Lord of the Rings-esque adventure, I came to love the beautiful characters who have suffered, learned, loved, and lost and was easily able to imagine myself alongside them on their journey through their fantastical world. This was truly a book that had me hoping against all hope that our heroes would accomplish all they set out to do and that they would find peace in their fates. I am eagerly awaiting James Mecca's next works and cannot wait to support every word he ever writes!
October 10, 2025
I was lucky enough to read and earlier iteration of this story and I'm so impressed with the way James followed through for a very strong opener to what I'm sure will be an incredible series. I loved weaving back and forth into this characters stories and I can't wait to see where the next installment takes them.
I'm also very grateful to be able to tell the author directly when I'm mad he killed someone I liked
I'm also very grateful to be able to tell the author directly when I'm mad he killed someone I liked
October 7, 2025
This wasn’t a book I would typically read but I am so glad I did. I am a slow reader (typically a book a month) but I finished this in 7 days. I was not only pulled in immediately but sat for the whole thing. Sometimes I get bored when reading & need to take a break but not with this book, I could not get enough!!! James told this story beautifully, absolutely no notes.
November 19, 2025
This book is fantastic. High fantasy with lovable characters that make you scared and sad whenever something bad happens to them. Mecca masterfully adds heart, humor, and a full pantheon of human experience through his characters and leaves you wanting more.
August 29, 2025
I’m not sure if I finished this book, or it finished me! It’s action packed, with the last bit causing me quite an adrenaline rush (along with a lot of expletives and shouts of “nooo!”)
The characters are compelling - some I rooted for, some I absolutely hated. The writing is vivid without being flowery, so my imagination went wild. There are all kinds of creatures, there’s political intrigue, backstabbing, war, a quest, what else do you need in a fantasy?!
If you want something with a Game of Thrones vibe but is a much faster, easier read, then this book is for you.
Now when are we getting book 2 Mr. Mecca?!
The characters are compelling - some I rooted for, some I absolutely hated. The writing is vivid without being flowery, so my imagination went wild. There are all kinds of creatures, there’s political intrigue, backstabbing, war, a quest, what else do you need in a fantasy?!
If you want something with a Game of Thrones vibe but is a much faster, easier read, then this book is for you.
Now when are we getting book 2 Mr. Mecca?!
June 4, 2025
An achingly beautiful and captivating epic fantasy, The Silence of Killing will fully immerse you in the lives of its characters and sweep you along for a truly life changing story. The landscapes and creatures of Aeolin leap off the page, and the characters will become so dear to you, you won’t want the book to end.
Everything about this book feels alive and buzzing with adventure and emotion. Reading it feels like living in the shoes of an assassin, a princess, a magic wielding Lightbringer. The world building is unique and mystical, but still pays homage to classic, well loved fantasy lore. In its pages, you’ll encounter otherworldly creatures both familiar, and brand new.
Lovers of found family, high fantasy, and classic hero adventure tales will love this book. Just prepare to feel the FULL range of human emotions. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you may throw the book. But then you’ll quickly go pick it back up and finish it, and run here to demand the sequel immediately.
More than just a fantastical adventure, The Silence of Killing is a story of the perseverance of love, sacrifice for good, and the pursuit of life in the darkest of times. A story that reminds us that even from the ashes, life springs.
In sum, I hope everyone reads this wonderful book. And I hope, if you do, you love it as much as I do.
Everything about this book feels alive and buzzing with adventure and emotion. Reading it feels like living in the shoes of an assassin, a princess, a magic wielding Lightbringer. The world building is unique and mystical, but still pays homage to classic, well loved fantasy lore. In its pages, you’ll encounter otherworldly creatures both familiar, and brand new.
Lovers of found family, high fantasy, and classic hero adventure tales will love this book. Just prepare to feel the FULL range of human emotions. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you may throw the book. But then you’ll quickly go pick it back up and finish it, and run here to demand the sequel immediately.
More than just a fantastical adventure, The Silence of Killing is a story of the perseverance of love, sacrifice for good, and the pursuit of life in the darkest of times. A story that reminds us that even from the ashes, life springs.
In sum, I hope everyone reads this wonderful book. And I hope, if you do, you love it as much as I do.
June 16, 2025
Great 1st book
If you like fantasy read this book. Can't wait to see how this all turns out. Hope the author keeps writing.
If you like fantasy read this book. Can't wait to see how this all turns out. Hope the author keeps writing.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews