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Annals of the Nameless Dwarf #3
Curse of the Black Axe
The only thing keeping the Nameless Dwarf from once more becoming the Ravine Butcher is a helm made from the sorcerous ore, ocras, which he can never remove. Without the helm, he would succumb to the power of the black axe that caused the slaughter at Arx Gravis.
After a year of fighting in other people’s wars, Nameless receives a visit from one of the underworld tricksters—a faen—who tells him the day he has long waited for has arrived:
The philosopher Aristodeus has come up with a plan to destroy the black axe and free Nameless from the ocras helm.
With the aid of new companions and an old friend, the assassin Shadrak the Unseen, Nameless must retrieve three artifacts that, combined, will bring an end to his suffering:
The gauntlets of the fire giant, Sartis, whose lair lies in the roots of a volcano;
The invulnerable armor of the Lich Lord of Verusia—an undead tyrant with a penchant for impaling and the drinking of souls;
And the Shield of Warding, beneath which cowers a paranoid god on the fringe of the Abyss.
But things are never that simple. Each of the companions has their own reasons for joining the quests, even Shadrak, who has been bound by an irrevocable contract—
To kill the Nameless Dwarf.
After a year of fighting in other people’s wars, Nameless receives a visit from one of the underworld tricksters—a faen—who tells him the day he has long waited for has arrived:
The philosopher Aristodeus has come up with a plan to destroy the black axe and free Nameless from the ocras helm.
With the aid of new companions and an old friend, the assassin Shadrak the Unseen, Nameless must retrieve three artifacts that, combined, will bring an end to his suffering:
The gauntlets of the fire giant, Sartis, whose lair lies in the roots of a volcano;
The invulnerable armor of the Lich Lord of Verusia—an undead tyrant with a penchant for impaling and the drinking of souls;
And the Shield of Warding, beneath which cowers a paranoid god on the fringe of the Abyss.
But things are never that simple. Each of the companions has their own reasons for joining the quests, even Shadrak, who has been bound by an irrevocable contract—
To kill the Nameless Dwarf.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2016
51 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
About the author
Derek Prior
79 books212 followersInternationally bestselling and award winning author Derek Prior excels in fast-paced, high stakes epic fantasy adventure stories in which good ultimately triumphs, but always at a cost.
Taking familiar fantasy tropes as a point of departure, Prior expands upon them to explore friendship, betrayal, loyalty and heroism in worlds where evil is an ever-present reality, magic is both a curse and a blessing, and characters are tempered in battle.
Winner of best fantasy novel 2012 (The Nameless Dwarf: The Complete Chronicles)
Fantasy Faction semifinalist for the SPFBO 2018 (Ravine of Blood and Shadow)
Website: www.derekprior.us
Twitter: @NamelessDwarf
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dpprior
Taking familiar fantasy tropes as a point of departure, Prior expands upon them to explore friendship, betrayal, loyalty and heroism in worlds where evil is an ever-present reality, magic is both a curse and a blessing, and characters are tempered in battle.
Winner of best fantasy novel 2012 (The Nameless Dwarf: The Complete Chronicles)
Fantasy Faction semifinalist for the SPFBO 2018 (Ravine of Blood and Shadow)
Website: www.derekprior.us
Twitter: @NamelessDwarf
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dpprior
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 24, 2016
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.
Carnifex is a masterpiece of sword and sorcery storytelling. A visceral yet thoughtful epic of a dwarf (Carnifex), his people (the dwarfs of Arx Gravis), and a series of unusual occurrences which point toward an ominous future for our bearded protagonist. And whether you are already a fan of D.P. Prior’s Aethir books (Shader, The Nameless Dwarf, and Husk) or a newcomer to the paradoxical world of Aethir, this novel is an amazing place to start your journey, because it is as smooth a sword and sorcery brew as has been concocted in many a year.
The story begins as most fantasy tales do these days – the middle. Well, not the middle, really, but rather someplace other than the beginning. I mean, beginnings are tedious affairs. That is why it is better to skip to the point in time when things get exciting – which is exactly where Mr. Prior starts this one.
Here Carnifex Thane is a fairly content Ravine Guard (i.e. City Guard) for Arx Gravis. He is still young (but not that young anymore), has a close relationship with his aged father and his older brother, and spends a considerable amount of time drinking with his closest friends. The majority of his life is the normal routine of work, home, and pubs. In fact, nothing exciting really happens in Carn’s life, because the dwarfs don’t allow anything unusual to occur; Arx Gravis being a tightly woven community, which lives by the unspoken mantra of peace, plenty, and no outside influences.
What do I mean by “no outside influences”? Simply put: non-dwarves aren’t welcomed in Arx Gravis. No traders. No visitors. No enemies (not that the dwarfs really have any). No foreign ideas. Everything is strictly monitored and controlled by the Council of Twelve; Arx Gravis’ most sacred tenant to maintain the status quo and, in doing so, keep mistakes from being made which might lead to a repeat of the distant past when a dwarf almost helped “unmake” all of reality!
But as the novel begins, usual things are beginning to happen, no matter the dwarves best efforts to ignore them. The catalyst to it all the arrival of the human philosopher, Aristodeus, who is an old, old friend of Carn’s family. Quickly, legendary nemesis after legendary nemesis of the dwarves arise. The people of Arx Gravis constantly confronted by the spectacle that the ancient stories of their people might actually be true. Their eternal efforts to remain in limbo leaving them ill prepared to defend themselves. People die. Defenders arise. Carninex among them. And all the while Aristodeus remains an active participant of the defense, denying any involvement in the occurrences, but warning of forthcoming horrors if ancient means of defense are not rediscovered!
And while the dwarven people deal with their tormentors, Carn deals with even more personal issues. His very stable personal life beginning to quickly unravel around him; the foundation of his world slowly crumbling away, driving him down a road toward a destiny which Aristodeus whispers is more terrible than he deserves.
As most of my readers know, I am a long time lover of sword and sorcery. I also adore dwarfs. Blame Michael Moorcock and J.R.R. Tolkien if you must, but those two iconic fantasy authors mesmerized me during my formative years, leaving an indelible mark on my reading habits. So I had no doubt when I picked up Mr. Prior’s Carnifex that I would enjoy it immensely. (Damn, look at that cover!) But since many of you are not life long sword and sorcery fans, I imagine you’d like me to explain why you should try this novel out, and why you will enjoy it. To help me do this, I’ve decided to compile the
“Top Ten Reasons You Will Love Carnifex!”
10) Short, bearded guys running around going berserker on everyone, swinging around double-bladed axes which are almost as big as they are!
9) A mysterious human philosopher who seems to know too much and might be manipulating things behind the scenes!
8) A fierce dwarf fighter with a heart of gold but an ominous destiny foretold!
7) An amazing fantasy world, mixing classic fantasy elements with scifi elements! Map included!
6) Mesmerizing mythos. Good gods. Bad gods. Even one whose nightmares become reality!
5) A delicious mixture of bloody fighting and ordinary life moments, where the characters develop into real people.
4) A well developed mystery which keeps you guessing until the very end.
3) Bedazzled dwarven ladies with ringlets and bows in their beards!
2) A fast paced narrative which is very smooth upon your reading palate!
1) The realization that the finale of this story promises every more amazing things to come!
Hopefully, my top ten list has peaked your interest enough to pick up this novel. Yes, I know sword and sorcery is an acquired taste, but I’d recommend that some of you begin your sampling of it with this tale. If, however, this very eloquent and enthusiastic review hasn’t convinced you to do so, have no fear, because I already have book two of this series waiting on my e-reader and will be reviewing it soon!
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone and was not influenced by anyone else.
Carnifex is a masterpiece of sword and sorcery storytelling. A visceral yet thoughtful epic of a dwarf (Carnifex), his people (the dwarfs of Arx Gravis), and a series of unusual occurrences which point toward an ominous future for our bearded protagonist. And whether you are already a fan of D.P. Prior’s Aethir books (Shader, The Nameless Dwarf, and Husk) or a newcomer to the paradoxical world of Aethir, this novel is an amazing place to start your journey, because it is as smooth a sword and sorcery brew as has been concocted in many a year.
The story begins as most fantasy tales do these days – the middle. Well, not the middle, really, but rather someplace other than the beginning. I mean, beginnings are tedious affairs. That is why it is better to skip to the point in time when things get exciting – which is exactly where Mr. Prior starts this one.
Here Carnifex Thane is a fairly content Ravine Guard (i.e. City Guard) for Arx Gravis. He is still young (but not that young anymore), has a close relationship with his aged father and his older brother, and spends a considerable amount of time drinking with his closest friends. The majority of his life is the normal routine of work, home, and pubs. In fact, nothing exciting really happens in Carn’s life, because the dwarfs don’t allow anything unusual to occur; Arx Gravis being a tightly woven community, which lives by the unspoken mantra of peace, plenty, and no outside influences.
What do I mean by “no outside influences”? Simply put: non-dwarves aren’t welcomed in Arx Gravis. No traders. No visitors. No enemies (not that the dwarfs really have any). No foreign ideas. Everything is strictly monitored and controlled by the Council of Twelve; Arx Gravis’ most sacred tenant to maintain the status quo and, in doing so, keep mistakes from being made which might lead to a repeat of the distant past when a dwarf almost helped “unmake” all of reality!
But as the novel begins, usual things are beginning to happen, no matter the dwarves best efforts to ignore them. The catalyst to it all the arrival of the human philosopher, Aristodeus, who is an old, old friend of Carn’s family. Quickly, legendary nemesis after legendary nemesis of the dwarves arise. The people of Arx Gravis constantly confronted by the spectacle that the ancient stories of their people might actually be true. Their eternal efforts to remain in limbo leaving them ill prepared to defend themselves. People die. Defenders arise. Carninex among them. And all the while Aristodeus remains an active participant of the defense, denying any involvement in the occurrences, but warning of forthcoming horrors if ancient means of defense are not rediscovered!
And while the dwarven people deal with their tormentors, Carn deals with even more personal issues. His very stable personal life beginning to quickly unravel around him; the foundation of his world slowly crumbling away, driving him down a road toward a destiny which Aristodeus whispers is more terrible than he deserves.
As most of my readers know, I am a long time lover of sword and sorcery. I also adore dwarfs. Blame Michael Moorcock and J.R.R. Tolkien if you must, but those two iconic fantasy authors mesmerized me during my formative years, leaving an indelible mark on my reading habits. So I had no doubt when I picked up Mr. Prior’s Carnifex that I would enjoy it immensely. (Damn, look at that cover!) But since many of you are not life long sword and sorcery fans, I imagine you’d like me to explain why you should try this novel out, and why you will enjoy it. To help me do this, I’ve decided to compile the
“Top Ten Reasons You Will Love Carnifex!”
10) Short, bearded guys running around going berserker on everyone, swinging around double-bladed axes which are almost as big as they are!
9) A mysterious human philosopher who seems to know too much and might be manipulating things behind the scenes!
8) A fierce dwarf fighter with a heart of gold but an ominous destiny foretold!
7) An amazing fantasy world, mixing classic fantasy elements with scifi elements! Map included!
6) Mesmerizing mythos. Good gods. Bad gods. Even one whose nightmares become reality!
5) A delicious mixture of bloody fighting and ordinary life moments, where the characters develop into real people.
4) A well developed mystery which keeps you guessing until the very end.
3) Bedazzled dwarven ladies with ringlets and bows in their beards!
2) A fast paced narrative which is very smooth upon your reading palate!
1) The realization that the finale of this story promises every more amazing things to come!
Hopefully, my top ten list has peaked your interest enough to pick up this novel. Yes, I know sword and sorcery is an acquired taste, but I’d recommend that some of you begin your sampling of it with this tale. If, however, this very eloquent and enthusiastic review hasn’t convinced you to do so, have no fear, because I already have book two of this series waiting on my e-reader and will be reviewing it soon!
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone and was not influenced by anyone else.
July 15, 2016
Carnifex Thane is a member of the guard in the dwarven ravine city of Arx Gravis. When the Scriptorium is robbed and a sacred text goes missing, the unchanging way of life in Arx Gravis is threatened and Carnifex Thane's life soon spins out of control...
I won this in a giveaway at Bookwraith's book blog.
Confession time: While I played Dungeons and Dragons back in Hyborean Age, I'm not a fan of today's kitten squishing epic fantasy. However, pulp-style fantasy in the vein of Leiber/Howard/Moorcock? Sign me up!
Carnifex is a tragic tale of loss, fate, destiny, and cultural stagnation. Arx Gravis is a stifling Dwarf city where outsiders are forbidden. No one gets in or out. The lower one goes in the Ravine City, the rougher things get. Baresarks and pit fights are commonplace at the bottom. Carnifex Thane is the son of a miner and a member of the Red Cloaks, the guards who never see much action. Things change when a thief steals an ancient text.
Carnifex's life soon circles the drain. The way of life in Arx Gravis is questioned, a golem attacks, and a dwarf who had very little loses what little he has. And that's just the beginning.
D.P. Prior crafts a tragedy in the Elric mold. The writing reminds me of Moorcock, David Gemmell, and other fantasy writers who know how to tell a complete tale in less than six kitten-squishing tomes. The world building is very well done, seamlessly worked into the text, revealing the culture of the dwarves of Arx Gravis without beating the reader over the head with dwarven marching songs and things of that nature.
I knew nothing of The Nameless Dwarf or D.P. Prior before I entered the giveaway for this and that's a shame. Carnifex is a throwback to the days of Ace paperback fantasy and bloody good fun. Four out of five stars.
I won this in a giveaway at Bookwraith's book blog.
Confession time: While I played Dungeons and Dragons back in Hyborean Age, I'm not a fan of today's kitten squishing epic fantasy. However, pulp-style fantasy in the vein of Leiber/Howard/Moorcock? Sign me up!
Carnifex is a tragic tale of loss, fate, destiny, and cultural stagnation. Arx Gravis is a stifling Dwarf city where outsiders are forbidden. No one gets in or out. The lower one goes in the Ravine City, the rougher things get. Baresarks and pit fights are commonplace at the bottom. Carnifex Thane is the son of a miner and a member of the Red Cloaks, the guards who never see much action. Things change when a thief steals an ancient text.
Carnifex's life soon circles the drain. The way of life in Arx Gravis is questioned, a golem attacks, and a dwarf who had very little loses what little he has. And that's just the beginning.
D.P. Prior crafts a tragedy in the Elric mold. The writing reminds me of Moorcock, David Gemmell, and other fantasy writers who know how to tell a complete tale in less than six kitten-squishing tomes. The world building is very well done, seamlessly worked into the text, revealing the culture of the dwarves of Arx Gravis without beating the reader over the head with dwarven marching songs and things of that nature.
I knew nothing of The Nameless Dwarf or D.P. Prior before I entered the giveaway for this and that's a shame. Carnifex is a throwback to the days of Ace paperback fantasy and bloody good fun. Four out of five stars.
February 22, 2016
I want to get something out of the way immediately. I love dwarves. They have always been my go-to race when playing any RPG or video game, and Bruenor Battlehammer has always been one of my favourite fantasy characters of all time (screw you Drizzt). I love them so much that they even grace my walls, with Bruenor and Gimli artworks hung proudly in my office space. Dwarves fascinate me, and they excite me, from their underground cities and hardened culture though to their love of drinking and obsession with axes. They hold a special place in my heart.
So when Carnifex landed on my list of books to review I was ecstatic... yet also slightly hesitant.
You see... I've read plenty of books where my beloved dwarves were cast terribly. I won't name names or books, but after awhile you get sick of seeing them portrayed in cliched ways that induce eye rolling and groans as you read.
So the questions I had when starting Carnifex were numerous. Could Prior live up to my expectations? Would he offer something new? Or would Carnifex join the ranks of books that have failed to capture the essence of the dwarves and offer something new and interesting?
Fortunately, Carnifex not only only embraces the rich heritage of the Dwarves but also adds to it by turning many of the things that are common with dwarves in fantasy fiction on their head.
Carnifex tells the tale of Carnifex Thane, a Ravine Guard of the city Arx Gravis. Following a break in at the Scriptorium by a homunculus Thane finds himself swept up by events that will not only wreck everything that he holds dear, but also sweep him towards to an inescapable fate that will destroy and change all that the dwarves know and love.
I loved so many things about Carnifex that it is hard to know where to start. The setting is wonderfully cast, and the world building rich and layered with nuggets of information that brought smiles to my face as I read. I adored the design of the Arx Gravis, and lapped up the descriptions of it and its people with glee. Carnifex himself, along with the other main characters of this book (such Aristodeus, Lucius, and Droom) are perfectly cast, with Prior capturing their heart and soul whilst also adding layers of difference to their usual stereotypes. I also adored how Prior flipped many well known tropes on their head, such as the notion that dwarves are immutably welded to the past and resistant to change.
And holy shit... the battle scenes. THE BATTLE SCENES!!!
People don't actually realise how hard it is to write a good battle scene, but Prior makes it look easy. They are gripping, violent, and brilliantly choreographed. Throw in some magic, and tons of blood, and the result is scintillating sword and sorcery.
The plot itself was fun, adventurous, and ultimately tragic, and reminded me in many ways of Moorcock and his Eternal Champion stories. Carnifex is written with a tightness and skill that swept me along at a rapid pace, and the dialogue itself is laced with witty humour and one liners that had me cackling days after I had read them. There were no moments of boredom, which highlights just how well this book was written and edited.
The ending itself is slightly telegraphed, but that didn't detract from my overall sense of pleasure when reading the book. In actual fact it added to the sense of tragedy for me, and increased the tension as the story was swept along to its inevitable fate.
All in all Carnifex stands proudly alongside other magnificent sword and sorcery novels from the past. If Prior continues to improve he shall become a real force within the fantasy genre. I cannot wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended for fans of dwarves and sword and sorcery!
4 out of 5 stars.
So when Carnifex landed on my list of books to review I was ecstatic... yet also slightly hesitant.
You see... I've read plenty of books where my beloved dwarves were cast terribly. I won't name names or books, but after awhile you get sick of seeing them portrayed in cliched ways that induce eye rolling and groans as you read.
So the questions I had when starting Carnifex were numerous. Could Prior live up to my expectations? Would he offer something new? Or would Carnifex join the ranks of books that have failed to capture the essence of the dwarves and offer something new and interesting?
Fortunately, Carnifex not only only embraces the rich heritage of the Dwarves but also adds to it by turning many of the things that are common with dwarves in fantasy fiction on their head.
Carnifex tells the tale of Carnifex Thane, a Ravine Guard of the city Arx Gravis. Following a break in at the Scriptorium by a homunculus Thane finds himself swept up by events that will not only wreck everything that he holds dear, but also sweep him towards to an inescapable fate that will destroy and change all that the dwarves know and love.
I loved so many things about Carnifex that it is hard to know where to start. The setting is wonderfully cast, and the world building rich and layered with nuggets of information that brought smiles to my face as I read. I adored the design of the Arx Gravis, and lapped up the descriptions of it and its people with glee. Carnifex himself, along with the other main characters of this book (such Aristodeus, Lucius, and Droom) are perfectly cast, with Prior capturing their heart and soul whilst also adding layers of difference to their usual stereotypes. I also adored how Prior flipped many well known tropes on their head, such as the notion that dwarves are immutably welded to the past and resistant to change.
And holy shit... the battle scenes. THE BATTLE SCENES!!!
People don't actually realise how hard it is to write a good battle scene, but Prior makes it look easy. They are gripping, violent, and brilliantly choreographed. Throw in some magic, and tons of blood, and the result is scintillating sword and sorcery.
The plot itself was fun, adventurous, and ultimately tragic, and reminded me in many ways of Moorcock and his Eternal Champion stories. Carnifex is written with a tightness and skill that swept me along at a rapid pace, and the dialogue itself is laced with witty humour and one liners that had me cackling days after I had read them. There were no moments of boredom, which highlights just how well this book was written and edited.
The ending itself is slightly telegraphed, but that didn't detract from my overall sense of pleasure when reading the book. In actual fact it added to the sense of tragedy for me, and increased the tension as the story was swept along to its inevitable fate.
All in all Carnifex stands proudly alongside other magnificent sword and sorcery novels from the past. If Prior continues to improve he shall become a real force within the fantasy genre. I cannot wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended for fans of dwarves and sword and sorcery!
4 out of 5 stars.
June 15, 2016
My original Carnifex audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
I enjoyed this story. Prior captures the dwarven world quite well in my opinion. Neither too grim or overly comical. Their culture which is an odd amalgamation of Scottish and Viking, with a heavy masculinity, yet an almost chivalric honor for their matriarchs. An inclination for hard drinking and fighting to the tune of a bawdy song round them out nicely. The few female dwarfs we glimpse are, of course, bearded, and just as toughened as their men, yet they retain an elegance and femininity.
Carnifex is the younger son of a miner father and warrior mother. He has been brought up to fight, his muscles hardened by years of training. His elder brother Lucius is his opposite in every way, brainy, soft and learned. Their Father, Droom, was given a prophecy of his sons before their birth: their names, and their purpose.
Aristodeus, The only human we meet in this book, is a strange old wizard, and not inclined to sharing confidences. However, he has to start spilling the beans when something is found in the mines.
The characters are all well written in my opinion, and the plot is intriguing, if a little slow moving. The ending of this first book easily foreseeable well before it actually climaxes, but the rest of the series has the potential to be really great.
There's no language or sexual content to speak of, though a couple of the the bar songs they sing are a little too crass for young children.
The quality is great. Nothing to complain about. No music.
I liked Paul Woodson's narration, he has a dry earthy quality to his voice that really fit the story, and combined nicely with the dwarven atmosphere. All of his voices were excellent, and his mild Scottish inflection was well done.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
I enjoyed this story. Prior captures the dwarven world quite well in my opinion. Neither too grim or overly comical. Their culture which is an odd amalgamation of Scottish and Viking, with a heavy masculinity, yet an almost chivalric honor for their matriarchs. An inclination for hard drinking and fighting to the tune of a bawdy song round them out nicely. The few female dwarfs we glimpse are, of course, bearded, and just as toughened as their men, yet they retain an elegance and femininity.
Carnifex is the younger son of a miner father and warrior mother. He has been brought up to fight, his muscles hardened by years of training. His elder brother Lucius is his opposite in every way, brainy, soft and learned. Their Father, Droom, was given a prophecy of his sons before their birth: their names, and their purpose.
Aristodeus, The only human we meet in this book, is a strange old wizard, and not inclined to sharing confidences. However, he has to start spilling the beans when something is found in the mines.
The characters are all well written in my opinion, and the plot is intriguing, if a little slow moving. The ending of this first book easily foreseeable well before it actually climaxes, but the rest of the series has the potential to be really great.
There's no language or sexual content to speak of, though a couple of the the bar songs they sing are a little too crass for young children.
The quality is great. Nothing to complain about. No music.
I liked Paul Woodson's narration, he has a dry earthy quality to his voice that really fit the story, and combined nicely with the dwarven atmosphere. All of his voices were excellent, and his mild Scottish inflection was well done.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
March 24, 2016
If I could give another star I think I would. This story starts off with excitement from the get go.
And the creation of the characters was solid(because they're Dwarfs),great!
With the world they live in being rather unique.This story was soley about Dwarfs (which had my interest).
There was drinking and brawling.And then there was fighting.
I was really captivated by this book so much that I didn't want it to end.
Aww but it did. Now I have to find the next book.
And I would like to thank Bookwraths for the recommendation:)
And the creation of the characters was solid(because they're Dwarfs),great!
With the world they live in being rather unique.This story was soley about Dwarfs (which had my interest).
There was drinking and brawling.And then there was fighting.
I was really captivated by this book so much that I didn't want it to end.
Aww but it did. Now I have to find the next book.
And I would like to thank Bookwraths for the recommendation:)
May 22, 2017
Carnifex (Legends of the Nameless Dwarf Book 1) by D.P. Prior is where we first meet the Nameless Dwarf and get a sense of his mission now. The reader finds out a lot about his manner, some of his past, and his axe he carries. It is a great action, fantasy, epic adventure I dove into not knowing what to expect and loved it. I couldn't wait to start the next book when I finished this one.
June 18, 2016
Fantasy and dwarfs; a combination that can only create pure entertainment! Carnifex: A Portent of Blood was both fun and mysterious. The characters were well developed and the perfect amount of their history was provided just when needed; Also, their personalities were hilarious; they’re back and forth banter was great!!
“Do you know a dwarf named stupid, cause you sound just like him!”
I was provided a free copy of the e-book in exchange for an honest review, but when I saw the $1.99 audio upgrade, I couldn’t resist. I highly recommend the audio version. Paul Woodson did an excellent job of narrating and made the book even more fun!...Beth
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
“Do you know a dwarf named stupid, cause you sound just like him!”
I was provided a free copy of the e-book in exchange for an honest review, but when I saw the $1.99 audio upgrade, I couldn’t resist. I highly recommend the audio version. Paul Woodson did an excellent job of narrating and made the book even more fun!...Beth
http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com
https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
March 9, 2016
Carnifex presented an interesting question for me.
As someone who played D&D and other RPGs for years, dwarves were never really interesting to me, but for one major reason: everyone seems to play or write them the exact same way. So upon picking up Carnifex, I wondered if I was going to experience anything new, or if it was going to feel like a conglomerate of all my past experiences with dwarves in RPGs or in novels/movies.
While Carnifex does have many familiar elements of your typical dwarves, they are quickly buried under an intriguing story. Right from the opening scene, when Carnifex is looking at his reflection tinged with the blood-like light of the sun, Prior pulls you into a world of uncertainty, where the stagnant and immutable society of the dwarves is about to change forever. What we see of "typical" dwarf society is already in the process of being turned on its head, and the familiarity readers may have with dwarf-kind just makes it easier to sympathize with and understand the vastness of the sweeping changes coming upon them, and their resistance to it.
Above all, this book is written exceptionally well. Prior's style is concise and efficient, and yet he still manages to convey thoughts, emotions, and characterization brilliantly. The dialogue is used masterfully to show rather than tell, and the result is some spit-out-your-drink humor, laugh-out-loud insults, and bravado that sets up some exciting fist-fights. We get some of what we think of as making dwarves dwarves, and yet it only serves to enhance the plotline, and doesn't become or overshadow the plotline itself.
The end of this story, while I did sort of see it coming, is a delightful surprise that makes everything that happens so much deeper. It leaves the reader with a mixture of horror and conviction, where there's sympathy for both sides, and yet both sides are still to blame for the events that come to pass. There is no clear-cut good guy/bad guy line, which always serves to make a book so much more intriguing and, for me, believable.
One bit of amusement I will share is just that I had to shake my head every time Cordana is described as beautiful, right down to her beard. No matter how much I can identify and empathize with the main character, that just always makes me laugh. But that's dwarves for you.
I will certainly be interested in seeing where this series goes, because so much of the broad backstory is not resolved, serving as the backdrop for the series as a whole. I found the use of Hebrew calligraphy fascinating, and it made me so much more interested in how that might tie in to the mythology of the stories, from the "fallen serpent" and beyond.
There's so much here that's familiar, and yet it's not just cut-and-paste fantasy. Prior has weaved the start of a great series with these familiar elements that he's made his own. Definitely a success on virtually every level.
I will leave reader and author alike with one burning question: would dwarves really call themselves dwarves?
As someone who played D&D and other RPGs for years, dwarves were never really interesting to me, but for one major reason: everyone seems to play or write them the exact same way. So upon picking up Carnifex, I wondered if I was going to experience anything new, or if it was going to feel like a conglomerate of all my past experiences with dwarves in RPGs or in novels/movies.
While Carnifex does have many familiar elements of your typical dwarves, they are quickly buried under an intriguing story. Right from the opening scene, when Carnifex is looking at his reflection tinged with the blood-like light of the sun, Prior pulls you into a world of uncertainty, where the stagnant and immutable society of the dwarves is about to change forever. What we see of "typical" dwarf society is already in the process of being turned on its head, and the familiarity readers may have with dwarf-kind just makes it easier to sympathize with and understand the vastness of the sweeping changes coming upon them, and their resistance to it.
Above all, this book is written exceptionally well. Prior's style is concise and efficient, and yet he still manages to convey thoughts, emotions, and characterization brilliantly. The dialogue is used masterfully to show rather than tell, and the result is some spit-out-your-drink humor, laugh-out-loud insults, and bravado that sets up some exciting fist-fights. We get some of what we think of as making dwarves dwarves, and yet it only serves to enhance the plotline, and doesn't become or overshadow the plotline itself.
The end of this story, while I did sort of see it coming, is a delightful surprise that makes everything that happens so much deeper. It leaves the reader with a mixture of horror and conviction, where there's sympathy for both sides, and yet both sides are still to blame for the events that come to pass. There is no clear-cut good guy/bad guy line, which always serves to make a book so much more intriguing and, for me, believable.
One bit of amusement I will share is just that I had to shake my head every time Cordana is described as beautiful, right down to her beard. No matter how much I can identify and empathize with the main character, that just always makes me laugh. But that's dwarves for you.
I will certainly be interested in seeing where this series goes, because so much of the broad backstory is not resolved, serving as the backdrop for the series as a whole. I found the use of Hebrew calligraphy fascinating, and it made me so much more interested in how that might tie in to the mythology of the stories, from the "fallen serpent" and beyond.
There's so much here that's familiar, and yet it's not just cut-and-paste fantasy. Prior has weaved the start of a great series with these familiar elements that he's made his own. Definitely a success on virtually every level.
I will leave reader and author alike with one burning question: would dwarves really call themselves dwarves?
January 3, 2019
As our finalist is out now, I can put my reviews up for the SPFBO books I read for the fantasy faction batch!
I really enjoyed Carnifex. I always had a soft spot for dwarves! Not only my height makes me identify with them, but their culture seems to fit me very well too.
So I started into this one quite excited and I did get hooked right away! I liked Carnifex, and also his side characters (though some are a bit too predictable to be honest, but I'm willing to overlook that as I did like them anyway...). The world was interesting and big enough to keep me intrigued, though I hope any sequels will shed more light on the surroundings. This pretty much takes place in one city and the mines near it - so plenty of world left unexplored! For one books it is absolutely big enough, but for a series I will need a bit more exploration.
So why only 4 stars if I did like the characters, the world and the plot? BEcause the end was somehow underwhelming. There was a big finale! And then it went on for a bit longer, and that part just felt rushed and took away most of the suspense.
I also had a LOTR déjà vu here and there, even though the stories are so very different. This feels more like an UF set in a fantasy world than the big sprawling epic of Tolkien. But still I had a few thoughts like "oh, drums in the deep...". I couldn't even say if I liked or disliked those. But they were far and few between, so I won't take them into account for the rating, as they made me have a "Oh! Easter Egg!" reaction along with a "I've read that before..." one...
I really enjoyed Carnifex. I always had a soft spot for dwarves! Not only my height makes me identify with them, but their culture seems to fit me very well too.
So I started into this one quite excited and I did get hooked right away! I liked Carnifex, and also his side characters (though some are a bit too predictable to be honest, but I'm willing to overlook that as I did like them anyway...). The world was interesting and big enough to keep me intrigued, though I hope any sequels will shed more light on the surroundings. This pretty much takes place in one city and the mines near it - so plenty of world left unexplored! For one books it is absolutely big enough, but for a series I will need a bit more exploration.
So why only 4 stars if I did like the characters, the world and the plot? BEcause the end was somehow underwhelming. There was a big finale! And then it went on for a bit longer, and that part just felt rushed and took away most of the suspense.
I also had a LOTR déjà vu here and there, even though the stories are so very different. This feels more like an UF set in a fantasy world than the big sprawling epic of Tolkien. But still I had a few thoughts like "oh, drums in the deep...". I couldn't even say if I liked or disliked those. But they were far and few between, so I won't take them into account for the rating, as they made me have a "Oh! Easter Egg!" reaction along with a "I've read that before..." one...
January 20, 2016
First things first, let me get this out there...........I don't particularly like fantasy sagas that focus on Dwarves. Their society bores me a little. Well, that was the case until I decided to have a look at Carnifex.
As this is the first in the Legends Of The Nameless Dwarf series it is, in effect, an origin story. There is a good deal of set up and foreshadowing but that doesn't get in the way of a bloody good yarn.
Our hero is Carnifex, a member of the Ravine Guards. He is a likeable guy, a bit gruff maybe but I guess that's a typical Dwarf. He has a brother who is a scholar and a father who was told, in a kind of prophecy, that his sons were special (I'm really trying not to drop spoilers here)
The society of the Dwarves is very insular with absolutely nobody allowed to leave The Ravine. If any Dwarf does venture into the outside world they face exile and, more importantly, being stripped of their name (you can see where we are going here can't you) and having it erased from history.
As you would expect from a fantasy 'origin' book there is a good deal of history but not enough to bog the story down, there are 'artefacts' and monsters (mainly in the form of Golems who provide a real test to our hero.
By the end of the story I thought I had an idea of what the outcome would be but I was wrong footed I guess.
And then we come to the final scene. It's not often I'm left speechless but this was one of those times. WOW!!
I like my fantasy big and sprawling but in this instance I was happy to just spend time with the Dwarves. The city/Dwarven Homeland was believable and well thought out, the society and hierarchy worked and, to be honest, I had a bloody good time with this book.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this series, a lot.
I'm going to give Carnifex 8.5/10 stars just because I'm expecting even better in future volumes.
A very, very good 1st volume
As this is the first in the Legends Of The Nameless Dwarf series it is, in effect, an origin story. There is a good deal of set up and foreshadowing but that doesn't get in the way of a bloody good yarn.
Our hero is Carnifex, a member of the Ravine Guards. He is a likeable guy, a bit gruff maybe but I guess that's a typical Dwarf. He has a brother who is a scholar and a father who was told, in a kind of prophecy, that his sons were special (I'm really trying not to drop spoilers here)
The society of the Dwarves is very insular with absolutely nobody allowed to leave The Ravine. If any Dwarf does venture into the outside world they face exile and, more importantly, being stripped of their name (you can see where we are going here can't you) and having it erased from history.
As you would expect from a fantasy 'origin' book there is a good deal of history but not enough to bog the story down, there are 'artefacts' and monsters (mainly in the form of Golems who provide a real test to our hero.
By the end of the story I thought I had an idea of what the outcome would be but I was wrong footed I guess.
And then we come to the final scene. It's not often I'm left speechless but this was one of those times. WOW!!
I like my fantasy big and sprawling but in this instance I was happy to just spend time with the Dwarves. The city/Dwarven Homeland was believable and well thought out, the society and hierarchy worked and, to be honest, I had a bloody good time with this book.
I'm looking forward to the rest of this series, a lot.
I'm going to give Carnifex 8.5/10 stars just because I'm expecting even better in future volumes.
A very, very good 1st volume
February 7, 2017
I'm a fan of dwarves in fantasy, but it's rare to find them as the central focus of a story and harder still to find a well-written tale about them. This novel is exactly what I was searching for.
Here you'll find a fun, Sword & Sorcery adventure with lots of development and buildup before turning into a gritty, dark, hack-and-slash thriller. The latter part only occurs in the last twenty percent or so of the novel, but it's a stark contrast from the rest of the story and appears to set the stage for future events.
As soon as the protagonist took an ominous turn I found the ending to be predictable in its direction, but nevertheless it was both gripping and appalling. I just wish there was a more powerful reaction from the people involved.
While the main characters are quite different in personality, I felt a similarity in tone between this novel with Carnifex and Warhammer's Gotrek & Felix series, although I think the writing here might be a bit stronger.
Check out this story if you enjoy dwarves as central characters and are looking for a straight-up pulpy adventure with a bloody turn. I enjoyed the worldbuilding and characterization and look forward to continuing with the series.
Here you'll find a fun, Sword & Sorcery adventure with lots of development and buildup before turning into a gritty, dark, hack-and-slash thriller. The latter part only occurs in the last twenty percent or so of the novel, but it's a stark contrast from the rest of the story and appears to set the stage for future events.
As soon as the protagonist took an ominous turn I found the ending to be predictable in its direction, but nevertheless it was both gripping and appalling. I just wish there was a more powerful reaction from the people involved.
While the main characters are quite different in personality, I felt a similarity in tone between this novel with Carnifex and Warhammer's Gotrek & Felix series, although I think the writing here might be a bit stronger.
Check out this story if you enjoy dwarves as central characters and are looking for a straight-up pulpy adventure with a bloody turn. I enjoyed the worldbuilding and characterization and look forward to continuing with the series.
September 1, 2016
This is some serious AAA quality writing. This superb Sword and Sorcery story is delivered within a full fledge world that feels lived-in (you really feel that the author has though long and hard about the setting and backstory of his universe) with characters that shown depth and are whole. I don't necessarily need the best production values, the best writing or even the best action to enjoy a good/fun Sword and Sorcery story, but when a book as it all, I give a solid 5 star rating and simply recall why I love reading so much. So thank you M. Prior for Carnifex and be assured that I will follow wherever you lead me.
January 27, 2016
Carnifex is a tale of heartache, and bloodshed, written masterfully by D.P. Prior. It's the first book in the epic saga of the Nameless Dwarf. It is perhaps the best book Mr. Prior has written. The pages are filled with, suspense, humor, blood, and heartbreak. It's definitely a must read for all fans of fantasy.
October 8, 2016
Dark fantasy. Dwarfs. Blood. Betrayal. Friendship. Absence of pretty elfs.
These are things that makes this a good book.
What makes it a truly great book is the way it is done. How the story was told.
D.P. Prior knows how to impress in this book that seens to bridge old fantasy with modern.
These are things that makes this a good book.
What makes it a truly great book is the way it is done. How the story was told.
D.P. Prior knows how to impress in this book that seens to bridge old fantasy with modern.
June 16, 2016
I picked this up when it was free on Kobo for a few days. What a surprise I got. This book was amazing. Right from the get go, it was action packed. Definitely going to continue reading the rest of this series.
July 18, 2016
I am so glad I landed the complete set. These adventures and twists are intriguing and emotionally gripping, and I look forward to what happens next on their journey. Good balance with fantasy and heartfelt storylines.
January 15, 2017
Really enjoyed the world building... All the beer and the deadlifts. The last few chapters were a little rough to get through, it seemed like quite a departure from the rest of the book. I may continue the series in the future.
January 18, 2016
Ever since D.P.Prior introduced the Nameless Dwarf in various books in his Aethir canon, the story of his origins has been begging to be told. And fans of Prior’s work will be happy to learn that it’s been well worth the wait.
This first book in the saga is set in the ravine city of Arx Gravis. It’s a locale of which we’ve had tantalising glimpses in other books set in the Aethir universe, but here, finally, Prior has the time to paint it in exquisite detail. Arx Gravis is as solid in construction as the fabled scarolite its dwarven denizens extract from their mine.
Life for the dwarves of the ravine city, stagnant and unchanging for centuries, is disturbed by the incursion of a mysterious figure into the Arx Gravis scriptorium - the location of the volumes of dwarf legend and history. For Ravine Guard officer Carnifex Thane, his brother Lucius, his father Droom, and his friends Cordy, Thumil and Kal, it marks the beginning of a chain of events that will bring an end to a thousand years of stasis.
Thrown into this mix is the meddling and enigmatic philosopher Aristodeus. Like many of the supporting characters in this tale, his motives and agenda are obscured, so the reader is often left teetering on a knife edge of suspense.
I hesitate to give away too many plot elements in this review because much of the pleasure of this volume comes from observing, as one event after another leads the world view of the dwarves to slowly unravel.
Prior clearly has a deep affection for these characters and you will too. This makes it even more poignant to watch them scrabbling in vain for a toehold on the scree slope of fate as they slide inexorably towards their destiny.
It’s probably dangerous to make comparisons with earlier works without going back to re-read them, but it seems to me, in this book, Prior demonstrates the more assured voice of an accomplished story-teller. He’s honed his technical skills to the extent that now he can focus his energies on weaving a magical combination of tragedy, comedy and mythic fantasy at its best.
Whenever I have high praise for a book, I usually like to find at least one aspect of the writing to challenge, but this one’s got me stumped. I guess I could complain that it ended all too soon, but then there are three other volumes to enjoy…
This first book in the saga is set in the ravine city of Arx Gravis. It’s a locale of which we’ve had tantalising glimpses in other books set in the Aethir universe, but here, finally, Prior has the time to paint it in exquisite detail. Arx Gravis is as solid in construction as the fabled scarolite its dwarven denizens extract from their mine.
Life for the dwarves of the ravine city, stagnant and unchanging for centuries, is disturbed by the incursion of a mysterious figure into the Arx Gravis scriptorium - the location of the volumes of dwarf legend and history. For Ravine Guard officer Carnifex Thane, his brother Lucius, his father Droom, and his friends Cordy, Thumil and Kal, it marks the beginning of a chain of events that will bring an end to a thousand years of stasis.
Thrown into this mix is the meddling and enigmatic philosopher Aristodeus. Like many of the supporting characters in this tale, his motives and agenda are obscured, so the reader is often left teetering on a knife edge of suspense.
I hesitate to give away too many plot elements in this review because much of the pleasure of this volume comes from observing, as one event after another leads the world view of the dwarves to slowly unravel.
Prior clearly has a deep affection for these characters and you will too. This makes it even more poignant to watch them scrabbling in vain for a toehold on the scree slope of fate as they slide inexorably towards their destiny.
It’s probably dangerous to make comparisons with earlier works without going back to re-read them, but it seems to me, in this book, Prior demonstrates the more assured voice of an accomplished story-teller. He’s honed his technical skills to the extent that now he can focus his energies on weaving a magical combination of tragedy, comedy and mythic fantasy at its best.
Whenever I have high praise for a book, I usually like to find at least one aspect of the writing to challenge, but this one’s got me stumped. I guess I could complain that it ended all too soon, but then there are three other volumes to enjoy…
June 15, 2016
I absolutely love this book and the characters. They are wonderfully developed and many feel like they are my friends. The world they inhabit is so well described that I can see it in my mind's eye. I enjoyed it so much I went to Amazon to buy the next book in the series GEAS OF THE BLACK AXE.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the author but that fact does does change how much I love it. You may also receive books from him. Just go to his website, dpprior.com, and sign up for his newsletter. It is pain free, easy and so worth your time.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the author but that fact does does change how much I love it. You may also receive books from him. Just go to his website, dpprior.com, and sign up for his newsletter. It is pain free, easy and so worth your time.
February 21, 2017
In the novels of Deacon Shader, readers were introduced to the compelling character of The Nameless Dwarf, or simply Nameless as he came to be called, a phenomenal warrior enslaved by a cursed demonic axe and forced to commit atrocities against his own people. In this prequel, we learn the doomed warrior's name - Carnifex - and how he was set on his dark path.
While there is little new information to be gained from Carnifex , the in-depth look at Dwarven society is fascinating and the tragedy is poignant as we follow him along the way to his terrible fate.
While there is little new information to be gained from Carnifex , the in-depth look at Dwarven society is fascinating and the tragedy is poignant as we follow him along the way to his terrible fate.
March 15, 2019
A finely tuned read of a story worth the reread.
D.P. has reworked one of my favorite installments of the Nameless series. It was definitely worth the reread of this novel. I always enjoy the intertwining of his characters from other novels based in this fantasy world. I look forward to the fine tuning of his other previous works, but even more so the unknown parts of the Nameless saga that he has yet to publish .
D.P. has reworked one of my favorite installments of the Nameless series. It was definitely worth the reread of this novel. I always enjoy the intertwining of his characters from other novels based in this fantasy world. I look forward to the fine tuning of his other previous works, but even more so the unknown parts of the Nameless saga that he has yet to publish .
April 27, 2017
I love this series . It resonates deeply.
What started on a whim has become full on gluttony. I've absorbed each book I've found and devoured them all with escalating hunger for more. I can almost hear the axe calling. ..
What started on a whim has become full on gluttony. I've absorbed each book I've found and devoured them all with escalating hunger for more. I can almost hear the axe calling. ..
May 15, 2016
My father loves this books so I read this one and thought it very well written
June 26, 2017
It was good.
It helped break my game addiction. I Felt like reading this book more. I probably will read more. Bye bye
It helped break my game addiction. I Felt like reading this book more. I probably will read more. Bye bye
May 8, 2017
Intriguing!
I really liked the story, and intend to read the next book. I am still unsure of what is the truth, which only adds to my curiosity and desire to read more.
I really liked the story, and intend to read the next book. I am still unsure of what is the truth, which only adds to my curiosity and desire to read more.
April 11, 2016
Bookworm Speaks!
Carnifex. Book 1
by D.P. Prior
Acquired: From Word Slinger Publicity in exchange for an honest review
Series: Legends of the Nameless Dwarf
Paperback: 128 Pages
Publisher: D. P. Prior
Language: English
Subject: Fiction
****
The Story: For more than a thousand years, the dwarves have hidden away from the world in their ravine city of Arx Gravis.
Governed by an inflexible council whose sole aim is to avoid the errors of the past, the defining virtue of their society is that nothing should ever change.
But when the Scriptorium is broken into, and Ravine Guard Carnifex Thane sees a homunculus fleeing the scene of the crime, events are set in motion that will ensure nothing will ever be the same again.
Deception and death are coming to Arx Gravis.
The riddles that preceded Carnifex’s birth crystalize into a horrifying fate that inexorably closes in.
But it is in blood that legends are born, and redemption is sometimes seeded in the gravest of sins.
For Carnifex is destined to become the Ravine Butcher, before even that grim appellation is forever lost, along with everything that once defined him.
The Review: Let’s start off with the best part of this whole book: Freaking Dwarves!
Bookworm thinks Dwarves are probably one of his favorite races in the classic fantasy genre. Call them cliches, but they are a cliche that works and we love them. The author deserves credit for following the standard to its peak by giving the female dwarves beards.
Carnifex is a great character. What makes him especially great is that he is different from other dwarf characters encountered in popular media. While he is a fierce warrior, he is also contemplative and sensitive. He isn’t particularly loud or boisterous and he does not seem to enjoy getting drunk.
(Stepping back for a second. This was a good choice on the author’s part because while it is fun to party, getting drunk isn't something that should be glorified)
Carnifex helps break something that would otherwise be characterized as being blatantly trite, an immediately makes the character memorable. The sensitivity is particularly compelling, as not only does it add the tragic nature of the story, it is a step forward in defying stereotypes, particularly regarding men and their feelings.
That is the real strength of this book. At first glance, it seems like a generic, Tolkeinesque dwarf story utilizing standard elements from fantasy, but when read and diving in deeper, the reader realizes that this book breaks many cliches in several profound, if not the most dramatic, ways.
If there are some flaws with the character to be found, one of them would be that Carnifex can get a little too brooding at certain points. Sometimes bookworm wanted to say, “Come on you’re the hero! Suck it up!”
That may be unfair expectation of those who are genuinely experiencing depression but we are reading this stuff to escape from real world problems.
Characterization is all well and good but its made or broken by the story, and if the cover is any indication this story promises a lot of action and it delivers.
Carnifex is a member of the Ravine Guard and thusly it falls to him to protect the great city. Many a chapter abounds with him and his crew
Be warned! Some of the action scenes are pretty gory. This is a dark book, make no mistake.
The layer of mystery that surrounds these encounters adds to suspense. Carnifex spends a lot of his Ravine Guard time, chasing a mysterious homunculus whose motivations and origins are unclear.
One scene in particular is a special treat for any fan of action. Carnifex goes to one of the city’s fighting pits and engages in a bout in order to beat out his frustration. The visceral violence of the scene is really quite compelling.
While the book is indeed action packed, tragically so, the balance between the calm moments and the exciting moments is a little of, in that the transitions between such moments is oftentimes extremely sudden.
That is the main flaw of the book, its pacing. One chapter is made up of a conversations, one is chasing something through the tunnels, and the next is more talking. The characters and story introduce a lot of elements and most of the time, a lot of them at once. Sometimes, they aren't brought up again into much later in the plot, after the reader has all but forgotten about them.
The confusion summoned by reading this could be partially explained by the fact this book is one of a greater universe of previously written books. Perhaps, also it is meant to convey Carnifex’s journey through the eyes of the reader: Being swept up in a larger universe and suddenly coming into a great deal of knowledge. Such an experience would leave someone very confused in real life.
The fact remains though that this isn’t real life, it is a novel, and when we read novels, consistency is a required facet to any adventure, and this book was not consistent. This is especially apparent at the ending where frankly, Bookworm had no idea what was going on. Perhaps it is motivation to read the sequel but that should be no excuse.
Finally, the name Carnifex is just a bit silly. We get the meaning of it but it doesn’t seemed to fit the world being built. That is just a nitpick though.
Final Verdict: The convoluted ending almost gave this one three stars but this book is greater than the sum of its parts due to everything that came before it.
Four Axes out of Five
thecultureworm.blogspot.com
Carnifex. Book 1
by D.P. Prior
Acquired: From Word Slinger Publicity in exchange for an honest review
Series: Legends of the Nameless Dwarf
Paperback: 128 Pages
Publisher: D. P. Prior
Language: English
Subject: Fiction
****
The Story: For more than a thousand years, the dwarves have hidden away from the world in their ravine city of Arx Gravis.
Governed by an inflexible council whose sole aim is to avoid the errors of the past, the defining virtue of their society is that nothing should ever change.
But when the Scriptorium is broken into, and Ravine Guard Carnifex Thane sees a homunculus fleeing the scene of the crime, events are set in motion that will ensure nothing will ever be the same again.
Deception and death are coming to Arx Gravis.
The riddles that preceded Carnifex’s birth crystalize into a horrifying fate that inexorably closes in.
But it is in blood that legends are born, and redemption is sometimes seeded in the gravest of sins.
For Carnifex is destined to become the Ravine Butcher, before even that grim appellation is forever lost, along with everything that once defined him.
The Review: Let’s start off with the best part of this whole book: Freaking Dwarves!
Bookworm thinks Dwarves are probably one of his favorite races in the classic fantasy genre. Call them cliches, but they are a cliche that works and we love them. The author deserves credit for following the standard to its peak by giving the female dwarves beards.
Carnifex is a great character. What makes him especially great is that he is different from other dwarf characters encountered in popular media. While he is a fierce warrior, he is also contemplative and sensitive. He isn’t particularly loud or boisterous and he does not seem to enjoy getting drunk.
(Stepping back for a second. This was a good choice on the author’s part because while it is fun to party, getting drunk isn't something that should be glorified)
Carnifex helps break something that would otherwise be characterized as being blatantly trite, an immediately makes the character memorable. The sensitivity is particularly compelling, as not only does it add the tragic nature of the story, it is a step forward in defying stereotypes, particularly regarding men and their feelings.
That is the real strength of this book. At first glance, it seems like a generic, Tolkeinesque dwarf story utilizing standard elements from fantasy, but when read and diving in deeper, the reader realizes that this book breaks many cliches in several profound, if not the most dramatic, ways.
If there are some flaws with the character to be found, one of them would be that Carnifex can get a little too brooding at certain points. Sometimes bookworm wanted to say, “Come on you’re the hero! Suck it up!”
That may be unfair expectation of those who are genuinely experiencing depression but we are reading this stuff to escape from real world problems.
Characterization is all well and good but its made or broken by the story, and if the cover is any indication this story promises a lot of action and it delivers.
Carnifex is a member of the Ravine Guard and thusly it falls to him to protect the great city. Many a chapter abounds with him and his crew
Be warned! Some of the action scenes are pretty gory. This is a dark book, make no mistake.
The layer of mystery that surrounds these encounters adds to suspense. Carnifex spends a lot of his Ravine Guard time, chasing a mysterious homunculus whose motivations and origins are unclear.
One scene in particular is a special treat for any fan of action. Carnifex goes to one of the city’s fighting pits and engages in a bout in order to beat out his frustration. The visceral violence of the scene is really quite compelling.
While the book is indeed action packed, tragically so, the balance between the calm moments and the exciting moments is a little of, in that the transitions between such moments is oftentimes extremely sudden.
That is the main flaw of the book, its pacing. One chapter is made up of a conversations, one is chasing something through the tunnels, and the next is more talking. The characters and story introduce a lot of elements and most of the time, a lot of them at once. Sometimes, they aren't brought up again into much later in the plot, after the reader has all but forgotten about them.
The confusion summoned by reading this could be partially explained by the fact this book is one of a greater universe of previously written books. Perhaps, also it is meant to convey Carnifex’s journey through the eyes of the reader: Being swept up in a larger universe and suddenly coming into a great deal of knowledge. Such an experience would leave someone very confused in real life.
The fact remains though that this isn’t real life, it is a novel, and when we read novels, consistency is a required facet to any adventure, and this book was not consistent. This is especially apparent at the ending where frankly, Bookworm had no idea what was going on. Perhaps it is motivation to read the sequel but that should be no excuse.
Finally, the name Carnifex is just a bit silly. We get the meaning of it but it doesn’t seemed to fit the world being built. That is just a nitpick though.
Final Verdict: The convoluted ending almost gave this one three stars but this book is greater than the sum of its parts due to everything that came before it.
Four Axes out of Five
thecultureworm.blogspot.com
February 10, 2020
This was basically a reread. The book as it was was rewritten. It's still a wonderful book. Story still moves. Blood still flows. I enjoyed every minute of it.
August 30, 2017
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It is rare to find a fantasy story centered around dwarves, and I enjoyed the world building. The dwarven world was captured quite well in my opinion. Their culture is an odd mix of Scottish and Viking. Masculinity is prized, but it is a matriarchal society. Outsiders are not welcome, and this has lead to a stagnation of their culture. But exciting things are about to happen whether the dwarves want to admit it or not.
The characters were well written in my opinion, if not what we would consider traditional dwarves. Most of the dwarves I am familiar with live deep underground. These dwarves live very much like humans. I can’t decide if this adds to the story or takes away from it. But I think I am leaning more towards the non-traditional tropes adding to the dwarf mythos.
The plot was a little slow in places, but it is fun and adventurous. The battle scenes are not something to be laughed at. It can be extremely difficult to write a scene involving combat well. Prior’s are violent and gripping, however.
I will admit that when writing this review I had to step outside myself to write it well. I, personally, did not enjoy this story as well as I thought I would. That isn’t to say that Carnifex isn’t a wonderfully written work because it is, it just wasn’t for me. I may try to go back to it at another time to see if my opinion changes. This also makes it very hard to rate. Because of my lack of enjoyment I really want to give it a three, however, I am settling on a 4 because it is well written and I may come back to it at a later date.
It is rare to find a fantasy story centered around dwarves, and I enjoyed the world building. The dwarven world was captured quite well in my opinion. Their culture is an odd mix of Scottish and Viking. Masculinity is prized, but it is a matriarchal society. Outsiders are not welcome, and this has lead to a stagnation of their culture. But exciting things are about to happen whether the dwarves want to admit it or not.
The characters were well written in my opinion, if not what we would consider traditional dwarves. Most of the dwarves I am familiar with live deep underground. These dwarves live very much like humans. I can’t decide if this adds to the story or takes away from it. But I think I am leaning more towards the non-traditional tropes adding to the dwarf mythos.
The plot was a little slow in places, but it is fun and adventurous. The battle scenes are not something to be laughed at. It can be extremely difficult to write a scene involving combat well. Prior’s are violent and gripping, however.
I will admit that when writing this review I had to step outside myself to write it well. I, personally, did not enjoy this story as well as I thought I would. That isn’t to say that Carnifex isn’t a wonderfully written work because it is, it just wasn’t for me. I may try to go back to it at another time to see if my opinion changes. This also makes it very hard to rate. Because of my lack of enjoyment I really want to give it a three, however, I am settling on a 4 because it is well written and I may come back to it at a later date.
January 22, 2018
A good Read
A very good Read that kept me going on my daily commute to work. Looking forward to reading the others books in the series
A very good Read that kept me going on my daily commute to work. Looking forward to reading the others books in the series
August 14, 2017
I'd give the writing and characterization 5 stars. I'd give the world building and credibility 2 stars. The plot is interesting, but the major flaws from my POV are notable. They are no different from humans in this story other than females having beards and they carry axes in lots of cases. I found these human dwarves disappointing for a fantasy story. Dwarfs in myth, lived deep underground and avoid sunlight. These live in houses in daylight and have lives like humans.
World building, this sizable dwarf society has built an enormous tower in a very deep ravine that rest on a lake. They raise cattle and cultivate grapes for wine etc. at the bottom of the tower, but cattle and grapes require lots of space and feed on grass that require sunlight. There wouldn't be adequate sunlight in a ravine for any of this especially since they are supposed to be hiding down there. The whole episode at the end of the book never clarifies who's good and who's bad. It occurs in physical surroundings that make no sense either.
The end of the book is supposed to have some conclusion and and tie up loose ends. While it's a series, ends with more loose ends than at any point in the book.
The various beings were not ever differentiated. Even in the end, to be continued, I still had no idea who was good and who was bad.
I can't really recommend it.
World building, this sizable dwarf society has built an enormous tower in a very deep ravine that rest on a lake. They raise cattle and cultivate grapes for wine etc. at the bottom of the tower, but cattle and grapes require lots of space and feed on grass that require sunlight. There wouldn't be adequate sunlight in a ravine for any of this especially since they are supposed to be hiding down there. The whole episode at the end of the book never clarifies who's good and who's bad. It occurs in physical surroundings that make no sense either.
The end of the book is supposed to have some conclusion and and tie up loose ends. While it's a series, ends with more loose ends than at any point in the book.
The various beings were not ever differentiated. Even in the end, to be continued, I still had no idea who was good and who was bad.
I can't really recommend it.
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