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Soul Stones #0.1
Midnight Blade
Kingdoms rise and fall by the blade.
For Davion Callum, that blade is closer than he'd like. Ever the pawn in a scheme of epic proportions, he is given a choice to stand beside those who would wield him as a weapon or defend those who would call him friend.
When the lines blur between ally and enemy, all is not as it seems. Will he uncover the truth? And what will he do when he does?
For Davion Callum, that blade is closer than he'd like. Ever the pawn in a scheme of epic proportions, he is given a choice to stand beside those who would wield him as a weapon or defend those who would call him friend.
When the lines blur between ally and enemy, all is not as it seems. Will he uncover the truth? And what will he do when he does?
- GenresFantasyShort Stories
78 pages, Paperback
First published November 17, 2017
About the author
T.L. Branson
18 books302 followersT.L. Branson is the author of the Soul Stones series. Branson started writing when he was eighteen and has contributed articles to several blogs and websites over the years. Soul Render is his debut novel in a planned trilogy. He finds his inspiration from the kings (and queen) of story, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, George Lucas, and J.K. Rowling. Born in Pennsylvania, he currently lives in California with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 2, 2017
4 stars.
This book is the perfect choice if you love battles and manly reads. By manly reads I mean books revolving around action rather than feelings, filled with strong men ready to fight for their pride.
TL Branson writes efficiently setting the scene without unnecessary flourish. Every word is weighted and it’s a no nonsense kind of writing.
This is the second prequel in the Soul Stone universe adding another piece to the puzzle.
This short read is about Davidon Callum’s origins. Who is parents are how was his childhood and how he became Alexander Drygo’s best friend.
I read it in one sitting wondering what the whole book to come would be like. Will it only be filled with actions and battles or filled with feelings and introspection as well?
In a short story you don’t have much room to change the pace, to ponder on your thoughts, to get to really “be” in the character’s head. I’m hoping the full novel will quench my thirst for feelings and emotions. What can I say, I’m a girl and love not only action packed but emotional books as well 😉
This book is the perfect choice if you love battles and manly reads. By manly reads I mean books revolving around action rather than feelings, filled with strong men ready to fight for their pride.
TL Branson writes efficiently setting the scene without unnecessary flourish. Every word is weighted and it’s a no nonsense kind of writing.
This is the second prequel in the Soul Stone universe adding another piece to the puzzle.
This short read is about Davidon Callum’s origins. Who is parents are how was his childhood and how he became Alexander Drygo’s best friend.
I read it in one sitting wondering what the whole book to come would be like. Will it only be filled with actions and battles or filled with feelings and introspection as well?
In a short story you don’t have much room to change the pace, to ponder on your thoughts, to get to really “be” in the character’s head. I’m hoping the full novel will quench my thirst for feelings and emotions. What can I say, I’m a girl and love not only action packed but emotional books as well 😉
May 7, 2018
Wow... I really really liked this novella a lot!
The main character (Callum) troubled me at first since he seemed to be lost in his obsession to find his mother at any cost. The author did an amazing job of adding layer upon layer to his character, slowly revealing just how complex he is and also showing that judging someone before you know them is likely to end in being very wrong about that person. This novella was packed full of action and intrigue, while also taking the time to get to know those who I assume will be major players in the full-length novels of this series. Over all this was an exhilarating and intriguing read.
The main character (Callum) troubled me at first since he seemed to be lost in his obsession to find his mother at any cost. The author did an amazing job of adding layer upon layer to his character, slowly revealing just how complex he is and also showing that judging someone before you know them is likely to end in being very wrong about that person. This novella was packed full of action and intrigue, while also taking the time to get to know those who I assume will be major players in the full-length novels of this series. Over all this was an exhilarating and intriguing read.
December 5, 2017
Originally published at Risingshadow.
Because I enjoyed reading T.L. Branson's previous story, Soul Siphon, which has now been retitled as Ash and Steel, I was eager to read Midnight Blade. I was positively surprised by this story, because it's fast-paced and well written fantasy entertainment. It serves as a good introduction to the Soul Stones series, because it tells of the characters' backgrounds.
Midnight Blade is a story about Davion Callum who finds himself being used by Lord Rommel to kill the crown prince of Sunbury, Alexander Drygo. The story follows Callum as he prepares himself to do what must be done and gets to know the prince and ultimately tells of how Callum came to work for the man he was supposed to kill.
Callum is an interesting protagonist, because he is a young man who is being used by his superiors to do their dirty work. He has no choice but to obey the commands of his superiors. He doesn't anything about his parents, because he was abandoned in an orphanage eighteen years ago with a parchment that bore his name.
I enjoyed reading about how Callum had to make a choice that would affect the rest of his life, because he had become friends with his target. The author writes well about how Callum feels about his situation and what kind of a choice he makes, because he has been nothing but merely a pawn in an epic scheme. He gradually grows up to be a trustworthy man who can be counted on and who is loyal to his friends.
I like T.L. Branson's writing style, because he keeps things in motion and delivers a few surprises as the story unfolds. He writes entertaining prose that is easy to like.
I give Midnight Blade strong four stars on the scale from one to five stars, because it's a good and entertaining story that is worth reading. I look forward reading the first novel in the Soul Stones series, because this story shows promise.
If you're in need of an entertaining fantasy story, T.L. Brandon's Midnight Blade is a good choice, because it's well written entertainment. It's a quick and enjoyable read.
Because I enjoyed reading T.L. Branson's previous story, Soul Siphon, which has now been retitled as Ash and Steel, I was eager to read Midnight Blade. I was positively surprised by this story, because it's fast-paced and well written fantasy entertainment. It serves as a good introduction to the Soul Stones series, because it tells of the characters' backgrounds.
Midnight Blade is a story about Davion Callum who finds himself being used by Lord Rommel to kill the crown prince of Sunbury, Alexander Drygo. The story follows Callum as he prepares himself to do what must be done and gets to know the prince and ultimately tells of how Callum came to work for the man he was supposed to kill.
Callum is an interesting protagonist, because he is a young man who is being used by his superiors to do their dirty work. He has no choice but to obey the commands of his superiors. He doesn't anything about his parents, because he was abandoned in an orphanage eighteen years ago with a parchment that bore his name.
I enjoyed reading about how Callum had to make a choice that would affect the rest of his life, because he had become friends with his target. The author writes well about how Callum feels about his situation and what kind of a choice he makes, because he has been nothing but merely a pawn in an epic scheme. He gradually grows up to be a trustworthy man who can be counted on and who is loyal to his friends.
I like T.L. Branson's writing style, because he keeps things in motion and delivers a few surprises as the story unfolds. He writes entertaining prose that is easy to like.
I give Midnight Blade strong four stars on the scale from one to five stars, because it's a good and entertaining story that is worth reading. I look forward reading the first novel in the Soul Stones series, because this story shows promise.
If you're in need of an entertaining fantasy story, T.L. Brandon's Midnight Blade is a good choice, because it's well written entertainment. It's a quick and enjoyable read.
March 1, 2018
WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES!!!
A well written, easy to follow read with twists and turns that keep you captivated and your focus on the scenes playing out before your very eyes. So rich in detail and planned to precision that not a character was out of place and every man moved together as one. It was so realistic you could feel the breeze from the swinging of the blades. Remarkable forsight and plans moved along precisely without pause. You begin to get a feel for the characters some are not whom they appear to be. With adrenaline pumping through the veins of each man giving him the strenght he needs to puch forward. There were a few times I was biting my nails and frozen to the edge of my seat cheering some on as the battles raged. A remarkable job bringing this read to life.
A well written, easy to follow read with twists and turns that keep you captivated and your focus on the scenes playing out before your very eyes. So rich in detail and planned to precision that not a character was out of place and every man moved together as one. It was so realistic you could feel the breeze from the swinging of the blades. Remarkable forsight and plans moved along precisely without pause. You begin to get a feel for the characters some are not whom they appear to be. With adrenaline pumping through the veins of each man giving him the strenght he needs to puch forward. There were a few times I was biting my nails and frozen to the edge of my seat cheering some on as the battles raged. A remarkable job bringing this read to life.
November 15, 2017
This book is crazy good! Classic Fantasy styling with T.L. Branson's unique flair for plot and story arrangement make this one of my favorite short stories of all time! Midnight Blade is an action driven tale with real heart, that will have you reading from start to finish without stopping. This book did something that few short stories can, it gave me a few surprises in the story line so I can't help but wonder what this epic fantasy author can do with a full length novel.
Treat yourself to a feast for your mind and follow Callum through his trials and friendships. You will thank me later.
Treat yourself to a feast for your mind and follow Callum through his trials and friendships. You will thank me later.
November 16, 2017
This is the second short story I've read from this author, each leading up to the first book of the Soul Stones series and I really enjoy his writing style. T.L. Branson has a strong voice, compelling characters and is a welcome new addition to the fantasy genre. I love these teasers that count down to the first book and am anxiously awaiting the next installment!
December 5, 2017
I really enjoyed Soul Siphon, so when I was offered a review copy of Midnight Blade - which is set in the same world, but earlier than Soul Siphon - I jumped at the chance.
This story is a bit longer, so there was more room for character building. The lead character is Davion Callum who also had a role in Soul Siphon. This made that I already knew what choice he would make, but I can't say I minded. Callum is easy to relate to and I rooted for him from the start. Even knowing what he'd eventually decide this is a suspenseful story.
There were several fight scenes again and these were all well written and enjoyable. I also really liked seeing more of the world and being introduced to more characters. Branson already managed to paint a picture of the world in Soul Siphon, but here that picture gets even more interesting details.
All in all this is yet another cool Fantasy story. You can read this one either before or after reading Soul Siphon in my opinion. You bet I'll be keeping n eye out for the next Soul Stones story.
This story is a bit longer, so there was more room for character building. The lead character is Davion Callum who also had a role in Soul Siphon. This made that I already knew what choice he would make, but I can't say I minded. Callum is easy to relate to and I rooted for him from the start. Even knowing what he'd eventually decide this is a suspenseful story.
There were several fight scenes again and these were all well written and enjoyable. I also really liked seeing more of the world and being introduced to more characters. Branson already managed to paint a picture of the world in Soul Siphon, but here that picture gets even more interesting details.
All in all this is yet another cool Fantasy story. You can read this one either before or after reading Soul Siphon in my opinion. You bet I'll be keeping n eye out for the next Soul Stones story.
November 24, 2017
My Disclaimer:
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book. I am voluntarily providing an honest review in which all opinions are fully my own. I am not being compensated in any way.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
What it’s about…
Midnight Blade is the story of Davion Callum’s mission to Sunbury as an assassin for King Rommel and how he became the sworn follower of his target, Prince Alexander Drygo.
Soul Siphon is the story of King Rommel of Havan’s attack on Sunbury and King Alexander’s defense using his army and his magic. This happens just as his wife has been sick and to save her he has transferred her soul into a black diamond. Now he needs the Soul Render to save her.
I understand that Kingsbane actually occurs between these two. Soul Render the novel follows after all of these.
Technical Tidbits…
The cover of Midnight Blade looked very contemporary and just not right to go with the story.
The cover of Soul Siphon was actually perfect for that book since it was all about the attack by the Havan army.
The storyline in each was okay. I thought the one in Soul Siphon felt a bit like an introduction to a series, like a prequel. Midnight Blade felt like it should be part of a novel. Yes, it does stand alone, but it really could be part of a novel easily. And yet, Midnight Blade is the earlier one.
The characters are relatively shallow. Even Davion Callum, the primary character in Midnight Blade, is fairly shallow. We know what he did and said, but we really don’t know much about him, what he feels, until the end when he swears his loyalty to the prince.
The pace was fast in both books. There was no time for sitting around flirting with pretty girls, though they tried.
The tension was right there from the beginning and stayed with you all the way to the end. It didn’t taper off either. It kept you on your toes to the point that you were ready for the next book right away.
The writing quality is very good. I think the author should stop writing short stories about the novel and just get on with the novel.
And this is where you STOP if you don’t want to see any SPOILERS…
The good, the bad, and the ugly…and how much it lit up my life… ✰✰✰✰
Enough short stories, sit down and write the book already. There comes a time when you just have to do it. Now might be a good time to do it with a third prequel due out shortly. You just might run out of story before you get to the novel.
I like to have juicy, three-dimensional characters. These characters are short of juice and dimension. We just don’t know enough about them, about their lives. They need personalities, quirks. So far they are all sort of flat, a little like paper dolls. The search for his parents had been going on his whole life, and yet Callum really didn’t react much when his suspicions about Rommel as his father were confirmed by the Prince. At least when the black diamond was taken from King Alexander, he reacted with a frantic response. They really need to show more emotion, more response to things that happen or are said. Princess Chelsea seems to be the only one free with her emotions whether it’s rebelling against her father or weeping on Davion’s shoulder.
I understand that Kingsbane will explain a bit more of the magic system that the King uses in Soul Siphon. I had thought at first that it seemed random. The King used it to drain a soul from one person. Another time he used it to bolster the courage of his personal guard by pouring his magic into them. Another time he helped one of the guard shoot further in the same way. I understand that it is a kind of tether between the magic user and the other person that acts as a conduit and that the magic can make the soul or life force go either way, to or from the magic user. So, I guess, explained in that way, it isn’t random. The magic user determines who he interacts with and which way the magic flows. I’m curious about the origin of the magic and how Alexander ended up with it. And if anyone else has it.
Did Davion and Chelsea end up together? Is the wife Alexander is so worried about in the black diamond Evangeline? Does he get her out and does he save her? Why did Sunbury think that King Rommel was dead? Prove to me that you haven’t run out of story and that this is just the beginning.
Recommended.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book. I am voluntarily providing an honest review in which all opinions are fully my own. I am not being compensated in any way.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
What it’s about…
Midnight Blade is the story of Davion Callum’s mission to Sunbury as an assassin for King Rommel and how he became the sworn follower of his target, Prince Alexander Drygo.
Soul Siphon is the story of King Rommel of Havan’s attack on Sunbury and King Alexander’s defense using his army and his magic. This happens just as his wife has been sick and to save her he has transferred her soul into a black diamond. Now he needs the Soul Render to save her.
I understand that Kingsbane actually occurs between these two. Soul Render the novel follows after all of these.
Technical Tidbits…
The cover of Midnight Blade looked very contemporary and just not right to go with the story.
The cover of Soul Siphon was actually perfect for that book since it was all about the attack by the Havan army.
The storyline in each was okay. I thought the one in Soul Siphon felt a bit like an introduction to a series, like a prequel. Midnight Blade felt like it should be part of a novel. Yes, it does stand alone, but it really could be part of a novel easily. And yet, Midnight Blade is the earlier one.
The characters are relatively shallow. Even Davion Callum, the primary character in Midnight Blade, is fairly shallow. We know what he did and said, but we really don’t know much about him, what he feels, until the end when he swears his loyalty to the prince.
The pace was fast in both books. There was no time for sitting around flirting with pretty girls, though they tried.
The tension was right there from the beginning and stayed with you all the way to the end. It didn’t taper off either. It kept you on your toes to the point that you were ready for the next book right away.
The writing quality is very good. I think the author should stop writing short stories about the novel and just get on with the novel.
And this is where you STOP if you don’t want to see any SPOILERS…
The good, the bad, and the ugly…and how much it lit up my life… ✰✰✰✰
Enough short stories, sit down and write the book already. There comes a time when you just have to do it. Now might be a good time to do it with a third prequel due out shortly. You just might run out of story before you get to the novel.
I like to have juicy, three-dimensional characters. These characters are short of juice and dimension. We just don’t know enough about them, about their lives. They need personalities, quirks. So far they are all sort of flat, a little like paper dolls. The search for his parents had been going on his whole life, and yet Callum really didn’t react much when his suspicions about Rommel as his father were confirmed by the Prince. At least when the black diamond was taken from King Alexander, he reacted with a frantic response. They really need to show more emotion, more response to things that happen or are said. Princess Chelsea seems to be the only one free with her emotions whether it’s rebelling against her father or weeping on Davion’s shoulder.
I understand that Kingsbane will explain a bit more of the magic system that the King uses in Soul Siphon. I had thought at first that it seemed random. The King used it to drain a soul from one person. Another time he used it to bolster the courage of his personal guard by pouring his magic into them. Another time he helped one of the guard shoot further in the same way. I understand that it is a kind of tether between the magic user and the other person that acts as a conduit and that the magic can make the soul or life force go either way, to or from the magic user. So, I guess, explained in that way, it isn’t random. The magic user determines who he interacts with and which way the magic flows. I’m curious about the origin of the magic and how Alexander ended up with it. And if anyone else has it.
Did Davion and Chelsea end up together? Is the wife Alexander is so worried about in the black diamond Evangeline? Does he get her out and does he save her? Why did Sunbury think that King Rommel was dead? Prove to me that you haven’t run out of story and that this is just the beginning.
Recommended.
November 23, 2017
This month was full of wonderful and not so wonderful moments, and because of NaNoWriMo, I didn't have the chance to read as many books as I would have wanted. Plus, I wasn't really in the mood to read anything at all; at least none of the books on my TBR list intrigued me enough to pick it up.
But, a couple of weeks ago, T. L. Branson contacted me and requested a review of his Soul Stones latest story which will be published on the 5th of December.
As I enjoyed his previous short story, I decided to give this one a go as well, so T. L. was kind enough to sent me an ARC of his book, Midnight Blade, and for that I am super grateful and honoured.
As the synopsis of the book states...
"Kingdoms rise and fall by the blade.
For Davion Callum, that blade is closer than he'd like. Ever the pawn in a scheme of epic proportions, he is given a choice to stand beside those who would wield him as a weapon or defend those who would call him friend.
When the lines blur between ally and enemy, all is not as it seems. Will he uncover the truth? And what will he do when he does?"
Right from the beginning of this story, the suspense is extremely high and the plot twists succeed one another. There's a lot of description and much more showing rather than telling, which essentially helped me to truly feel everything throughout the book and follow the characters and the unfolding of the plot.
I honestly enjoyed the fact that there's the element of mystery and that coming-of-age feeling in this high fantasy novel; a young man who's searching for his mother but still has to stay focused on his duty.
Also, the world-building, the different houses, the kings and lords, the conspiracies and the plots reminded me a lot of George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, which -of course- is amazing, at least in my mind's eye.
There's a lot of action, which of course is understandable, since we're talking about an epic story, but in my humble opinion, there should be at least a teeny tiny essence of romance, as well, in order to tempt the female readers a bit more. Even J. R. R. Tolkien included romance in his masterpieces. Sure there are bits and pieces of romance towards the end but, personally, I'd like some more since I didn't manage to actually feel that, which is a shame since I genuinely felt and saw every battle scene!
Other than that, on what comes to the technicalities of this book, there were some abrupt changes of POV here and there, but nothing to extended that would or could drive me off entirely.
The story was quite fast-paced, there was beautiful narration and very vivid descriptions, though I felt like some points were too pretentiously written.
Overall, I enjoyed Midnight Blade much more than Soul Siphon, whose book review you can read by following that link, and I highly recommend it if you like high fantasy, epic stories, with a lot of action, battles, kingdoms and empires.
You can get you Midnight Blade by followingthat link, either in Kindle format of paperback.
Once again, I wanna thank T. L. Branson for sending me his book to review! It was my absolute pleasure and I look forward to reading his upcoming novel!
December 5, 2017
Midnight Blade by T.L. Branson is another short story that is inspired by the world and characters of the upcoming release of the first book in the Soul Stones series, Soul Render.
I had previously read Ash and Steel, another short story in this world, and absolutely loved it. When Mr. Branson reached out to me with a copy of Midnight Blade, I was pumped!
This read made me even more antsy for the release of Soul Render!
Full disclosure: I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my rating in any way.
My final thoughts:
I absolutely loved this short story! I cannot wait to get my hands on Soul Render so I can dive back into this world yet again! If you haven't yet, I highly recommend checking out these short stories!
I had previously read Ash and Steel, another short story in this world, and absolutely loved it. When Mr. Branson reached out to me with a copy of Midnight Blade, I was pumped!
This read made me even more antsy for the release of Soul Render!
Full disclosure: I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my rating in any way.
My final thoughts:
I absolutely loved this short story! I cannot wait to get my hands on Soul Render so I can dive back into this world yet again! If you haven't yet, I highly recommend checking out these short stories!
April 10, 2018
This is the first of the four prequel stories to the upcoming series. I was curious about this story and this author. This is not my usual preference, but I was open to new literary experiences, and I gave it a try. I am so incredibly glad I did! And I am so glad I waited for all four stories to be out before I started reading because I could not stop!
First of all, the author is an amazing story teller and a writer. The story is gripping, interesting and beautifully written. It is all happening in a masterfully created world populated by well developed characters. The author has even provided a map of the world. And the author made me care about the characters. He made me care a great deal what happens to them, especially when it comes to Callum and Drygo.
Callum and Drygo, and their friendship, are the focus of this story, two kindred souls on the opposite sides of society, like pauper and the prince, two young men in dire need of someone to care for them as persons, and someone they can trust. As opposed to Drygo, Callum has had an exceptionally difficult life, an orphan, abandoned by his mother as a baby, not knowing anything about his parents, and currently in a service of a corrupt warlord as a disposable swordsman. Callum's pure soul and exceptional swordsmanship get the attention of the right person and his life finally attains some meaning. Nothing good lasts forever, so this newly acquired meaning is tried and tested in a truly epic way.
There are numerous other characters of greater or lesser importance and they are all well developed. The battle scenes are impressive and the story itself is full of action. Descriptions are so vivid, not just battles, but everything, that I could see it clearly in my head. Reading this book was an amazing experience. And again I have to mention the connection I felt with the characters. The story had me glued to my Kindle from first to last page and I immediately continued with the next.
So far it does not seem important to read the stories in order, but I recommend it for the better understanding of the characters: Midnight Blade, Kingsbane, Ash and Steel, or Soul Siphon set, which apart from the first three, includes Sentinels of the Stone, the fourth prequel novella. The first two books of the series have been announced Soul Render (Soul Stones, #1) and Soul Shade (Soul Stones, #2).
First of all, the author is an amazing story teller and a writer. The story is gripping, interesting and beautifully written. It is all happening in a masterfully created world populated by well developed characters. The author has even provided a map of the world. And the author made me care about the characters. He made me care a great deal what happens to them, especially when it comes to Callum and Drygo.
Callum and Drygo, and their friendship, are the focus of this story, two kindred souls on the opposite sides of society, like pauper and the prince, two young men in dire need of someone to care for them as persons, and someone they can trust. As opposed to Drygo, Callum has had an exceptionally difficult life, an orphan, abandoned by his mother as a baby, not knowing anything about his parents, and currently in a service of a corrupt warlord as a disposable swordsman. Callum's pure soul and exceptional swordsmanship get the attention of the right person and his life finally attains some meaning. Nothing good lasts forever, so this newly acquired meaning is tried and tested in a truly epic way.
There are numerous other characters of greater or lesser importance and they are all well developed. The battle scenes are impressive and the story itself is full of action. Descriptions are so vivid, not just battles, but everything, that I could see it clearly in my head. Reading this book was an amazing experience. And again I have to mention the connection I felt with the characters. The story had me glued to my Kindle from first to last page and I immediately continued with the next.
So far it does not seem important to read the stories in order, but I recommend it for the better understanding of the characters: Midnight Blade, Kingsbane, Ash and Steel, or Soul Siphon set, which apart from the first three, includes Sentinels of the Stone, the fourth prequel novella. The first two books of the series have been announced Soul Render (Soul Stones, #1) and Soul Shade (Soul Stones, #2).
January 9, 2018
This was not a swords and sorcery book but definitely a very good all swords read. The fights in this book are spectacular but what struck me most is the fact that Callum, an orphan , ordered to kill at his boss's demand is sent to kill a target but instead finds himself befriended. For the first time in his life he is treated as a friend, a brother even and his loyalties change! The piece of paper he had always clung to, in search of who he was, became suddenly redundant as he started to look forward to a future. One which he would forge for himself immaterial of his past and no ones pawn any more. A short novel but so brilliantly written, had to be read in one sitting as it kept me on the edge of my seat all along so to speak! Look forward to reading more from this great author.
November 21, 2017
After reading another short story by T.L. Branson "Soul Siphon" I very much enjoyed Midnight Blade. There is a lot of fun history between Callum and Alexander. I love that you get to read about how they met and the interesting circumstances that lead up to their relationship. Even if you haven't read Soul Siphon this book, Midnight Blade, is a lot of fun. You have high stakes, mystery, confusion with alliances, battles, romance and surprise. This is a pretty short story and I love all the elements. These characters are very real and interesting. T.L. Does an excellent job at setting the stage for his upcoming novel, Soul Render. I highly recommend this book
I was given a free copy of this book by T.L. Branson himself, previous to the release, for the purposes of writing an hones review.
I was given a free copy of this book by T.L. Branson himself, previous to the release, for the purposes of writing an hones review.
January 7, 2018
Great writing!
As one who is not familiar with the intricacies of battle, I was still able to follow what was happening due to the great writing skills of this author. In this short story the reader learns how Drygo and Callum become acquainted and then trusted friends. We also learn the unfortunate way Drygo became king. I highly recommend reading this short story. Lots of palace intrigue, battle maneuvers, and ultimate betrayals. I fully intend to read more stories by this author.
As one who is not familiar with the intricacies of battle, I was still able to follow what was happening due to the great writing skills of this author. In this short story the reader learns how Drygo and Callum become acquainted and then trusted friends. We also learn the unfortunate way Drygo became king. I highly recommend reading this short story. Lots of palace intrigue, battle maneuvers, and ultimate betrayals. I fully intend to read more stories by this author.
September 5, 2019
"Terrific" !
Davion Callum has spent his whole life trying to find out who his parents are. He now has a chance to prove himself and achieve advancement in the employ of a very powerful and dangerous man. All the time still searching for information on his parents . Instead he is thrown into a plot that should get him killed. The storytelling is awesome with a thrilling plot full of intrigue, betrayal and a discovery of an unlikely friendship. The characters are engaging and brought to life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
Davion Callum has spent his whole life trying to find out who his parents are. He now has a chance to prove himself and achieve advancement in the employ of a very powerful and dangerous man. All the time still searching for information on his parents . Instead he is thrown into a plot that should get him killed. The storytelling is awesome with a thrilling plot full of intrigue, betrayal and a discovery of an unlikely friendship. The characters are engaging and brought to life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
October 13, 2019
From the opening paragraph, with a minimum of words, you are drawn into a heart pounding world of excitement, suspense and twists of fate!
This author has created a world out of the Middle Ages, brimming with tense excitement, deceit, constant shifting of loyalties, and plots that grab your attention with breath taking speed and surprises galore! I had to read it in one sitting! Now that I've caught my breath, I'm eager to continue the second book, savoring the knowledge, I won't be disappointed!!!
This author has created a world out of the Middle Ages, brimming with tense excitement, deceit, constant shifting of loyalties, and plots that grab your attention with breath taking speed and surprises galore! I had to read it in one sitting! Now that I've caught my breath, I'm eager to continue the second book, savoring the knowledge, I won't be disappointed!!!
January 18, 2018
Another excellent novella
This author weaves such an amazing story! I felt like I was holding my breath until the last page. The story of Callum and Drygo's budding 'bromance' is interwoven with falling in love, the take over of a kingdom, and finding ones true self. While that in itself is enough reason to crack open this book, you'll also find vivid fight scenes and the occasional comedic moment. I cannot wait for his debut novel!
This author weaves such an amazing story! I felt like I was holding my breath until the last page. The story of Callum and Drygo's budding 'bromance' is interwoven with falling in love, the take over of a kingdom, and finding ones true self. While that in itself is enough reason to crack open this book, you'll also find vivid fight scenes and the occasional comedic moment. I cannot wait for his debut novel!
July 18, 2019
This is the first book I have read by this author and I really don't know what took me so long to read this! It was awesome! I never would've thought that I would like short stories but I was very wrong about that. I loved this, great story line and characters. Drygo, Chelsea and Callum....love, love, love them!! Lot's of action and suspense tucked in this story and I am looking forward to the next one!
April 11, 2018
I don't normally do short stories unless they're part of a series I'm already sucked in to. This is the second of Branson's shorts that I've read and I enjoyed seeing some familiar characters and settings and get a little more back story. I'm looking forward to reading the first full novel from this series.
July 30, 2018
Great Read!
A short story in the "Soul Stones Origins" I started with "Ash has Steel" and it was so good I had to read the rest. Each one has been great. T.L. Brandon is one to follow. Never boring, story does not stall, good descriptive action. A pleasure to read. Leaves you wanting more. This story " Midnight Blade" has been a favorite.
A short story in the "Soul Stones Origins" I started with "Ash has Steel" and it was so good I had to read the rest. Each one has been great. T.L. Brandon is one to follow. Never boring, story does not stall, good descriptive action. A pleasure to read. Leaves you wanting more. This story " Midnight Blade" has been a favorite.
February 25, 2019
Quick read.
While I enjoyed the book, it was perhaps a bit too close to teen-level reading. Choppy sentence structure and without a lot of depth but, with that being said, it was a fun read and easy page turn. I’ll next move on to the second book in hopes the writing style matures, as the author shows some promise.
While I enjoyed the book, it was perhaps a bit too close to teen-level reading. Choppy sentence structure and without a lot of depth but, with that being said, it was a fun read and easy page turn. I’ll next move on to the second book in hopes the writing style matures, as the author shows some promise.
September 26, 2018
Fabulous start
What a great short story. Callum is searching for any lead to his parents, all he has is a piece of parchment with his name written on it. Is that enough to help him find out anything? Read the book to be taken on an amazing adventure. Highly recommend.
What a great short story. Callum is searching for any lead to his parents, all he has is a piece of parchment with his name written on it. Is that enough to help him find out anything? Read the book to be taken on an amazing adventure. Highly recommend.
January 14, 2018
A short story with a lot to say! I can't wait to see how everything turns out in the Soul Stone series.
July 30, 2019
Callum is a new favorite
Really enjoyed the backstory of Callum and the Prince. Can't wait to find out what kind of badassery Callum will be up to in future booksn
Really enjoyed the backstory of Callum and the Prince. Can't wait to find out what kind of badassery Callum will be up to in future booksn
February 14, 2021
I've done a review last year on another short story by this author and I absolutely loved it. I must say that this time I'm rather sad not to say the same. It still was quite enjoyable, yet there was something different and I didn't like the change. And because of that I won't be doing my usual full report on the book but mostly just what I thought of it and so on.
First of all, this is a short story which is set in the past of the previous story and is focused on Callum. I guess that is the biggest part I disliked in this book, because I really liked Drygo so much in the previous story. And again I'm not a great fan of third person narratives, it's really hard for me to focus and concentrate on things when it's set like that. I prefer first person books where I can see through the character's eyes and completely fall into the universe of a novel. But then again, it's just me and my inability to keep track of things.
I must say, even though I enjoyed the Soul Siphon, Midnight Blade is different in the way it was written, in the little things. It was the stiffness of the words and the frame to frame actions that made it hard for me to see a clear picture. I said it already and I will say it again, I want a colourful image in my head. In Soul Siphon I had an image, a grey one, but still. Here in Midnight Blade it's hard to see most of the scenes really.
Now all that might make it seem like I don't liked the book at all, yet that is so not true. I still love the way everything is written, with a few improvements this story could be so much better!
Even though I can't say that I loved it, I also can't say that I hated it. I say that it was mostly enjoyable with a few greyish moments. I've been thinking for a while now what rating to give, so I'll probably keep at three stars, I'm still very anticipating the full novel with Drygo, but for now this was not the best read.
I recommend this book to anyone who liked historical fiction AND A LOT OF ACTION. Yes, this was very action filled and that is one of the pros AND cons of the story. It's just 63 pages long, so if, unlike me, you're a fast reader go ahead and try it out, it might even become one of your next favourites!
First of all, this is a short story which is set in the past of the previous story and is focused on Callum. I guess that is the biggest part I disliked in this book, because I really liked Drygo so much in the previous story. And again I'm not a great fan of third person narratives, it's really hard for me to focus and concentrate on things when it's set like that. I prefer first person books where I can see through the character's eyes and completely fall into the universe of a novel. But then again, it's just me and my inability to keep track of things.
I must say, even though I enjoyed the Soul Siphon, Midnight Blade is different in the way it was written, in the little things. It was the stiffness of the words and the frame to frame actions that made it hard for me to see a clear picture. I said it already and I will say it again, I want a colourful image in my head. In Soul Siphon I had an image, a grey one, but still. Here in Midnight Blade it's hard to see most of the scenes really.
Now all that might make it seem like I don't liked the book at all, yet that is so not true. I still love the way everything is written, with a few improvements this story could be so much better!
Even though I can't say that I loved it, I also can't say that I hated it. I say that it was mostly enjoyable with a few greyish moments. I've been thinking for a while now what rating to give, so I'll probably keep at three stars, I'm still very anticipating the full novel with Drygo, but for now this was not the best read.
I recommend this book to anyone who liked historical fiction AND A LOT OF ACTION. Yes, this was very action filled and that is one of the pros AND cons of the story. It's just 63 pages long, so if, unlike me, you're a fast reader go ahead and try it out, it might even become one of your next favourites!
June 10, 2019
Awesome
Action packed with treachery and transgressed will fighting for The kingdom and realm as moving through the story of intrigue.
Action packed with treachery and transgressed will fighting for The kingdom and realm as moving through the story of intrigue.
Read
March 27, 2019Midnight Blade, my first read from author T.L. Branson. Entertaining read, well-written with captivating, well-developed main characters. On to Kingsbane! (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
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