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Hero of Darkness #5
Darkblade Slayer
The Hunter will not rest until his blade pierces the demonic Sage’s heart. His pursuit leads across windswept plains, into an ancient holy vault, and through a barren mountain range. Beside him is Hailen, the mysterious child with dangerous magical abilities—abilities that are dragging the boy deep into madness. The only hope of putting an end to the Sage and curing Hailen is to reach the lost city of Enarium. It’s a terrifying race against time and monstrous foes to kill a demon, save a child, and avert the end of the world. Buy now to dive into the latest in the epic Hero of Darkness series . Hang on to your seat and take a ride into dark fantasy of the best kind! Catch up on your sleep before you turn the first page.. – Dee. W Non-stop action, deep character development, and gritty fight scenes. The Hunter will seize you by the throat and take you on a breakneck adventure. – Amazon Review If you are looking for a book with lots of twists and turns, this is your book. – Derek Williams
In the Hero of Darkness Book 1: Darkblade Assassin Book 2: Darkblade Outcast Book 3: Darkblade Protector Book 4: Darkblade Seeker Book 5: Darkblade Slayer Book 6: Darkblade Savior Book 7: Darkblade Justice In the Hero of Darkness Book 1: Darkblade Assassin (May 29 th ) Book 2: Darkblade Outcast (June 5 th ) Book 3: Darkblade Protector (June 19 th ) Book 4: Darkblade Seeker (July 10 th ) Book 5: Darkblade Slayer (August 7th) Book 6: Darkblade Savior (September 4 th ) Book 7: Darkblade Justice (October 2 nd )
In the Hero of Darkness Book 1: Darkblade Assassin Book 2: Darkblade Outcast Book 3: Darkblade Protector Book 4: Darkblade Seeker Book 5: Darkblade Slayer Book 6: Darkblade Savior Book 7: Darkblade Justice In the Hero of Darkness Book 1: Darkblade Assassin (May 29 th ) Book 2: Darkblade Outcast (June 5 th ) Book 3: Darkblade Protector (June 19 th ) Book 4: Darkblade Seeker (July 10 th ) Book 5: Darkblade Slayer (August 7th) Book 6: Darkblade Savior (September 4 th ) Book 7: Darkblade Justice (October 2 nd )
- GenresFantasy
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 7, 2018
227 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Andy Peloquin
91 books1,297 followersI am, first and foremost, a storyteller and an artist--words are my palette. Fantasy is my genre of choice, and I love to explore the darker side of human nature through the filter of fantasy heroes, villains, and everything in between. I'm also a freelance writer, a book lover, and a guy who just loves to meet new people and spend hours talking about my fascination for the worlds I encounter in the pages of fantasy novels.
Fantasy provides us with an escape, a way to forget about our mundane problems and step into worlds where anything is possible. It transcends age, gender, religion, race, or lifestyle--it is our way of believing what cannot be, delving into the unknowable, and discovering hidden truths about ourselves and our world in a brand new way. Fiction at its very best!
Fantasy provides us with an escape, a way to forget about our mundane problems and step into worlds where anything is possible. It transcends age, gender, religion, race, or lifestyle--it is our way of believing what cannot be, delving into the unknowable, and discovering hidden truths about ourselves and our world in a brand new way. Fiction at its very best!
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 21, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book I was totally engrossed in the story, the characters, the world and the fighting. I found all of it very satisfying and hard to put down. There are new characters with interesting personalities which add to the stories charm. Also I felt the Hunter’s personality massively developed in this book into something different..
At about half way through I began to question where Peloquin’s mind was when writing this book. He seemed a bit obsessed with the main character finding an ancient tomb containing erotic tastes..!! This however I found to be quite good fun making a change from all the blood and guts and it made me laugh quite a bit. It made sense in the end though..!!
A very fast paced flowing story packed with extraordinary world building in new areas to inspire the imagination. Some may say that the majority of book felt like some sort of camping expedition. But I felt it was still adventurous, often beautifully thought provoking and good to read. And the ending is absolutely amazing..
At about half way through I began to question where Peloquin’s mind was when writing this book. He seemed a bit obsessed with the main character finding an ancient tomb containing erotic tastes..!! This however I found to be quite good fun making a change from all the blood and guts and it made me laugh quite a bit. It made sense in the end though..!!
A very fast paced flowing story packed with extraordinary world building in new areas to inspire the imagination. Some may say that the majority of book felt like some sort of camping expedition. But I felt it was still adventurous, often beautifully thought provoking and good to read. And the ending is absolutely amazing..
September 13, 2021
I really should have down graded for the abysmal, horrible hook of an ending but the rest of the book was so good that I just can't bring myself to.
Be ready to jump right into the next book when you finish this one, otherwise the ending is painful.
Be ready to jump right into the next book when you finish this one, otherwise the ending is painful.
March 16, 2019
Great book
In this book Hunter is trying to get to the city to kill the Sage and save the world but he has to travel for weeks to get there. He has to fight his way across the deserts and mountains to finally reach the city. I recommend this book to everyone.
In this book Hunter is trying to get to the city to kill the Sage and save the world but he has to travel for weeks to get there. He has to fight his way across the deserts and mountains to finally reach the city. I recommend this book to everyone.
August 8, 2018
Action, fear, anger, remorse, rage, and gut wrenching pain, and then, yet more unrelenting action.
Good guys, bad guys, and guys who are a big dollop of both, all this and more I can promise you in this story
The Hunter is half man, half demon spawn, and he's all angry. He's an assassin who has quit his job, in order to save the life of a young boy, an extremely special young boy, this young boy is suffering from a condition common to his people, the condition is beginning to overtake the boy and the Hunter is struggling to save him.
Hailen (the 6 year old boy whom the Hunter saved from powerful demons in the previous books) has a malady which is slowly destroying him, sending his mind into complete madness, leading ultimately to death. The condition is called the Irrsinnon. The Hunter believes that there may be a cure in The Lost City of Enarium - a city that has been lost for over a thousand years - and so he will travel the dangerous heights of the Empty Mountains, all for the sake of the boy. He hopes to find the answers to the boys future and his own past. He plans to kill a certain someone and find a certain someone else. All in the city. If he makes it, hopefully before the demon inside him drives him insane as it screeches and wails into his mind. Poor guy, he has a lot on his plate, and these are just the start of his woes.
The story of the Hunter is a story of personal change. Of the Hunter attempting to find himself after having his memories cruelly wiped clean. It's a story of his long and dangerous journey to seek a cure for the boy he has come to look upon as his son. Its about finding the good amongst the evil within himself. He must battle his own personal demon; both as part of himself; and seperately as a part of the dagger he carries at his hip. A dagger which in a real sense, is an intrinsic part of who and what he is.
I love this series and I'm utterly invested in the Hunter. The poor guy goes thru hell and back for the ones he cares about and keeps getting knocked back, time after time. I am dying to know what is in store for him in each book. It's really riveting reading. Each page holds such huge potential and I find myself ending each paragraph or chapter, and realising that I have been totally engrossed again, my tea's gone cold, with no clue as to what's been going on around me!
Finally, when I got to the end of the book, I was so sad because it had ended, but more than that, it ended on a momentous cliffhanger! Oh my goodness, I cried out, Mr Peloquin, no you can't torture me this way...but he did, and he has. Oh the pain of the wait for the next book...ugh!
It's hugely satisfying reading. It's brilliant! This book is by far the best of the series thus far.
Good guys, bad guys, and guys who are a big dollop of both, all this and more I can promise you in this story
The Hunter is half man, half demon spawn, and he's all angry. He's an assassin who has quit his job, in order to save the life of a young boy, an extremely special young boy, this young boy is suffering from a condition common to his people, the condition is beginning to overtake the boy and the Hunter is struggling to save him.
Hailen (the 6 year old boy whom the Hunter saved from powerful demons in the previous books) has a malady which is slowly destroying him, sending his mind into complete madness, leading ultimately to death. The condition is called the Irrsinnon. The Hunter believes that there may be a cure in The Lost City of Enarium - a city that has been lost for over a thousand years - and so he will travel the dangerous heights of the Empty Mountains, all for the sake of the boy. He hopes to find the answers to the boys future and his own past. He plans to kill a certain someone and find a certain someone else. All in the city. If he makes it, hopefully before the demon inside him drives him insane as it screeches and wails into his mind. Poor guy, he has a lot on his plate, and these are just the start of his woes.
The story of the Hunter is a story of personal change. Of the Hunter attempting to find himself after having his memories cruelly wiped clean. It's a story of his long and dangerous journey to seek a cure for the boy he has come to look upon as his son. Its about finding the good amongst the evil within himself. He must battle his own personal demon; both as part of himself; and seperately as a part of the dagger he carries at his hip. A dagger which in a real sense, is an intrinsic part of who and what he is.
I love this series and I'm utterly invested in the Hunter. The poor guy goes thru hell and back for the ones he cares about and keeps getting knocked back, time after time. I am dying to know what is in store for him in each book. It's really riveting reading. Each page holds such huge potential and I find myself ending each paragraph or chapter, and realising that I have been totally engrossed again, my tea's gone cold, with no clue as to what's been going on around me!
Finally, when I got to the end of the book, I was so sad because it had ended, but more than that, it ended on a momentous cliffhanger! Oh my goodness, I cried out, Mr Peloquin, no you can't torture me this way...but he did, and he has. Oh the pain of the wait for the next book...ugh!
It's hugely satisfying reading. It's brilliant! This book is by far the best of the series thus far.
September 28, 2018
For the Hunter all roads lead to the lost city of Enarium and the trail of the Sage and his evil plan. Along with the hunter young Hailen is with him . The sweet young boy who has magical powers that are driving him mad slowly . Along the way they are chased by a knight that wants him dead. They travel over windswept plains and mountains that could kill you as you try and cross . All to save the child and end the hell that is the Sage . But there is more to the city like a mystery woman that knows more and has a past that the hunter needs to find out
This is the five in the series and it just keeps getting better with each book. The characters have grown and become more complex. The Hunter is more then a killer that he was in the first books . He has grown and become more then just the killer . He has become a hero and a bit more . I really like where the author has taken the Hunter . He really has expanded the character adding more layers to him with each book . We see more sides of him . He takes on such a parental role with Hailen . Which is such a sweet side to him. Don't get me wrong he is still the Hunter and will do anything to protect those who are in his care . There is a surprise waiting for him that will send the Hunter in a totally different direction. I will not tell you but it has been mentioned in other books . There are old enemies chasing the Hunter that will set you on edge through out the book . Trust me you will be cheering when these enemies are taken care of .
This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time . This series has grown so much, and the story line is so good . I love how the author can weave a tale that will have you second guessing enemies and then not being real sure about the friends The author brings back old enemies that you thought were gone and uses them to their full advantage . Just fyi there is some horribly written poetry in this book but it is suppose to be there . So don't stop reading because you hit the horrible poetry . You will figure it out soon enough . Be prepared to fall into a fast paced dark fantasy that will keep you up all night long . Where there are no easy decisions and if you decide wrong you and all those you care fore can be is despair . So if you like dark fantasy book that will challenge you and books that you can't put down this is the series for you , You have to read the books in order to understand what is going on but you will get them done fast .
This is the five in the series and it just keeps getting better with each book. The characters have grown and become more complex. The Hunter is more then a killer that he was in the first books . He has grown and become more then just the killer . He has become a hero and a bit more . I really like where the author has taken the Hunter . He really has expanded the character adding more layers to him with each book . We see more sides of him . He takes on such a parental role with Hailen . Which is such a sweet side to him. Don't get me wrong he is still the Hunter and will do anything to protect those who are in his care . There is a surprise waiting for him that will send the Hunter in a totally different direction. I will not tell you but it has been mentioned in other books . There are old enemies chasing the Hunter that will set you on edge through out the book . Trust me you will be cheering when these enemies are taken care of .
This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time . This series has grown so much, and the story line is so good . I love how the author can weave a tale that will have you second guessing enemies and then not being real sure about the friends The author brings back old enemies that you thought were gone and uses them to their full advantage . Just fyi there is some horribly written poetry in this book but it is suppose to be there . So don't stop reading because you hit the horrible poetry . You will figure it out soon enough . Be prepared to fall into a fast paced dark fantasy that will keep you up all night long . Where there are no easy decisions and if you decide wrong you and all those you care fore can be is despair . So if you like dark fantasy book that will challenge you and books that you can't put down this is the series for you , You have to read the books in order to understand what is going on but you will get them done fast .
August 10, 2018
In Book 5, of Andy Peloquin's Hero of Darkness Saga, Darkblade Slayer once again takes us back to the Hunter's and Hailen's journey to find a permanent cure for Hailen's mystical illness and solve the mystery of the Hunter's past. But that isn't all that are in stakes. The evil and deranged Demon, the Sage is hell bent on bringing back Kharna, the Destroyer of Worlds. If he succeeds in bringing back this Demon God, then everyone, good or bad will be dead. The Hunter can't let this happen as he has lived an eternity of regrets and must finally right the wrongs.
As the Hunter has now realized that the true power in destroying Kharna lies in the mythical city of Enarium, he, along with Hailen and several friends embark on a dangerous and treacherous journey to get there. Along the way they will meet familiar enemies and reluctant allies who could either help or destroy their path.
What I liked about Darkblade Slayer is that the writing is still top notch and the descriptive fighting is still exciting to read. Andy clearly has a natural talent in writing explicit battle scenes and the use of weaponry and martial arts. The Hunter's skill has always been extraordinary and it's such a joy to read about the Hunter's powers as well as his vulnerabilities. You will still find the provocative voice of the Demon that lives inside the Hunter as well as the constant desires for blood and gore from Soulhunger, his trusty Demonblade. This time however, the Hunter has trained himself to push back the insistent pleadings of the Demon's voice so that he can refrain from unnecessary killings and protect Hailen at the same time.
For those who haven't read the Hero of Darkness series might find it a bit confusing if you start off somewhere in between. So I recommend you start reading from book one so you can continue along with the Hunter's journey to redemption and resolution.
Thank you, Andy for the ARC!
As the Hunter has now realized that the true power in destroying Kharna lies in the mythical city of Enarium, he, along with Hailen and several friends embark on a dangerous and treacherous journey to get there. Along the way they will meet familiar enemies and reluctant allies who could either help or destroy their path.
What I liked about Darkblade Slayer is that the writing is still top notch and the descriptive fighting is still exciting to read. Andy clearly has a natural talent in writing explicit battle scenes and the use of weaponry and martial arts. The Hunter's skill has always been extraordinary and it's such a joy to read about the Hunter's powers as well as his vulnerabilities. You will still find the provocative voice of the Demon that lives inside the Hunter as well as the constant desires for blood and gore from Soulhunger, his trusty Demonblade. This time however, the Hunter has trained himself to push back the insistent pleadings of the Demon's voice so that he can refrain from unnecessary killings and protect Hailen at the same time.
For those who haven't read the Hero of Darkness series might find it a bit confusing if you start off somewhere in between. So I recommend you start reading from book one so you can continue along with the Hunter's journey to redemption and resolution.
Thank you, Andy for the ARC!
January 28, 2022
What I enjoy most about Andy Peloquin's books is they are never the same. The "Hero of Darkness Series" is one of his earlier series that has been reworked and updated. I find it interesting that The Hunter doesn't follow your regular assassin profile. First, he is half demon although that might be a prerequisite for being an assassin and second, he is compassionate and has a heart. Though some serial killers have been known to have a family and carry on a normal life. Mr. Peloquin has a nice piece written about Serial Killers vs. Assassins: What's the Difference, in is blog dated August 13. 2021. His hero's often express conflict of emotions, as they analyze the situation through an internal dialogue. They most often try to do the right thing and are in conflict with some moral belief verses an addiction or they can have overpowering dark thoughts they struggle with. I love how his hero's come to emotional maturity and often times brings his whole team up from darkness or the hero's team or friends will help lift up the hero out of his darkness. "Darkblade Slayer" is no different, but the Hunter's story is quite different from Mr. Peloquin's other series.
Mr. Peloquin's stories are full of action, intrigue, mystery, and edge of your seat thrills. He always keeps me guessing. Whether this is the first time for you to read Andy Peloquin's book or you are an avid fan you are sure to enjoy the series.
Mr. Peloquin's stories are full of action, intrigue, mystery, and edge of your seat thrills. He always keeps me guessing. Whether this is the first time for you to read Andy Peloquin's book or you are an avid fan you are sure to enjoy the series.
September 20, 2018
Another book in the saga of Hero of Darkness.
The Hunter of Voramis is, well... hunting the Sage, the demon that controls all the demons and their human henchmen in Einan and wants to unleash a war of conquest and destruction. His search for revenge takes him to the Lost City of the Serenii, but on the way he must face an old acquaintance whose only goal is to end the life of the Hunter to carry out her own revenge.
With each book, the Hunter becomes more and more human, fighting the demon within him for the control of his own mind. We see how our anti-hero becomes the protector not only of Hailen, but even of some of his enemies.
As usual, the author gives us another well written book, with a perfect sequence, descriptions that make the reader feel like a silent character that accompanies the protagonists in their adventures.
The Hunter of Voramis is, well... hunting the Sage, the demon that controls all the demons and their human henchmen in Einan and wants to unleash a war of conquest and destruction. His search for revenge takes him to the Lost City of the Serenii, but on the way he must face an old acquaintance whose only goal is to end the life of the Hunter to carry out her own revenge.
With each book, the Hunter becomes more and more human, fighting the demon within him for the control of his own mind. We see how our anti-hero becomes the protector not only of Hailen, but even of some of his enemies.
As usual, the author gives us another well written book, with a perfect sequence, descriptions that make the reader feel like a silent character that accompanies the protagonists in their adventures.
March 23, 2019
Stellar entertainment in this new volume of the Darkblade series. I'm hooked on these books, every bit as much as I once was on the Heralds of Valdemar. They are all terrific; I'm reading the series in order, but Peloquin knows his job, and you could pick up this or any other book without having read any of the others and not be at a loss - backstory is skilfully woven in, without any of those nasty core dumps one sees from less competent novelists.
Another thing I really love about this series is that, unlike a lot of modern fantasy work, it's nice and clean. Plenty of swordfights but no porn; the few times anyone does have sex in the books, it's handled with grace and reticence.
I've been following this author since his first book, and I just become more addicted with each one.
Another thing I really love about this series is that, unlike a lot of modern fantasy work, it's nice and clean. Plenty of swordfights but no porn; the few times anyone does have sex in the books, it's handled with grace and reticence.
I've been following this author since his first book, and I just become more addicted with each one.
August 28, 2018
The Hunter is on the chase after the Sage. With Hailen in tow, he discovers that he is being pursued himself. He can't allow anyone to stop him since Hailen is still as risk of the madness overtaking him. There are some interesting new characters and Andy keeps up with the excitement and battle scenes in this fifth book.
May 7, 2019
A crazy journey
The journey takes it toll on all involved I think. The wonderful description, the blood, the Gore, the tenderness, the belief all go into the writing of this book. You would be a fool to miss it I crave bedtime now just to be able to find out what happens in the next bit. But oh no the ending!!!!!
The journey takes it toll on all involved I think. The wonderful description, the blood, the Gore, the tenderness, the belief all go into the writing of this book. You would be a fool to miss it I crave bedtime now just to be able to find out what happens in the next bit. But oh no the ending!!!!!
August 1, 2019
The road to Enarium is a non-stop thrill ride with old acquaintances, new characters, and monsters of nightmares! We get to catch up with 2 old friends from Darkblade Assassin and Outcast and are introduced to another character with his own book. This one is a game of cat and mouse the entire ride, while the Hunter is trying to "tomb raider" his way into Enarium.
September 23, 2019
Keeps pulling you in. In this the Hunter has to follow the Sage to Enarium through various hardships with the innocent Hailen. If that wasn't enough the Cambionari are behind him too. Will he manage to reach it?
The books speeds through and you just don't feel like stopping at all. The story keeps getting interesting and we get to learn new things at every step.
The books speeds through and you just don't feel like stopping at all. The story keeps getting interesting and we get to learn new things at every step.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2018
Awesome awesome
I couldn't stop reading as the action keeps going while the Hunter keeps going, striving to save Hailan and the world from the sage and the Destroyer. Can't wait for the next book.
I couldn't stop reading as the action keeps going while the Hunter keeps going, striving to save Hailan and the world from the sage and the Destroyer. Can't wait for the next book.
August 9, 2018
The Hunter struggles onward. He finally gets where he wants to be, then he dies! What, there's one story left and he's dead? What the hell, Andy! If you want to know what I'm talking about, then pick up this great adventure and join us. It's an outstanding story that keeps you wanting more. Enjoy!
August 10, 2018
This is number 5 and I have to admit getting better with every single one. He shall be sorely missed as the next one is the last. I am expecting a seriously dramatic climax. Very highly recommended.
November 23, 2018
Awesome! Nonstop action. Wonderful characters. Practically impossible to put down! Love this series!
April 20, 2022
Enjoyed it a fair bit more than the fourth book, especially the later parts.
Felt like there was finally some progress and change on the Hunter's inner struggles.
Felt like there was finally some progress and change on the Hunter's inner struggles.
May 18, 2022
Another great instalment in the Hero of Darkness saga, excellent.
August 14, 2019
"Look at what I've become. So different from who I was before." The Hunter is seeking answers to his past and on a quest to save the world from evil with a child he's sworn to protect. His journey takes him to a place where he fights relentlessly to free the world from the demons who wish to destroy all humanity. The Hunter will go to ends Einan to stop them. This book has it all; thrills, horror, gore, tenderness and heartfelt moments that are gut-wrenching leaving the reader cheering on the Hunter in his journey.
September 25, 2023
The Hunter is travelling with Hailen to the city of Enarium, the lost city of the Serenii, to find the cure for Hailen before the madness over took him, and the irrsinnon was the curse that gripped all Elevasti. He was also hunting the Sage, the mastermind behind the Abiarazi's plan to free Kharna, the Great Destroyer. The Sage was the demon who had used him to kill the Warmaster and Master Eldor his old friend and mentor and for that Hunter vowed he would kill the Sage but he knew he had to do so before the Withering was upon them. Furthermore the woman from his past was still calling him to go to her in the North. Also turns out that Hailen is not just Elevasti but a Melechha and it seems he was the hope for the future and the destiny of the world rested on this vulnerable child's shoulders. They travelled through the empty mountains in search of the lost city with Sir Danna and her warrior priests in tow and out for his blood. So much depended on their arrival in time in Enarium but they only had Taivoro's book full of crazy coded words to aid them. Poor Hunter he tried so hard yet nothing ever came easy to him in life! A very exciting track through the desolate mountains, hounded by the priests and the stone guardians, and the clock was ticking. Brilliant story which gets more exciting as we near the end of this massive dark grim epic saga!
August 17, 2018
Dark Blade book # 5
Another great read. This one less intense than book #4 but lacking none of the suspense, action or outright awesomeness. Andy Peloquin is a master storyteller. This is of course dark fantasy and it takes you in and holds you to the end. It is adult in nature in its subject matter and descriptive but not crass, cured or vulgar! Tastefully written as it can be while at the same time clearly communicating what's taking place. If you like dark fantasy give it a test drive but fasten your seat belts!👍👍 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Another great read. This one less intense than book #4 but lacking none of the suspense, action or outright awesomeness. Andy Peloquin is a master storyteller. This is of course dark fantasy and it takes you in and holds you to the end. It is adult in nature in its subject matter and descriptive but not crass, cured or vulgar! Tastefully written as it can be while at the same time clearly communicating what's taking place. If you like dark fantasy give it a test drive but fasten your seat belts!👍👍 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 21, 2019
Improved
Story improved with this book. Not so much repeat. Demon becoming more humane. Did finish very suddenly though. Still think could have been shorter series.
Story improved with this book. Not so much repeat. Demon becoming more humane. Did finish very suddenly though. Still think could have been shorter series.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews