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In the absence of a hero…
Do you take up the cause?
Or do you run for the hills?


A magic sword. A world divided. A legendary King. This is no Camelot and Skye is no Guinevere, but the world is dark and divided, and it does need a hero.

With the government burying itself in bunkers underground and technology lost to all but a sacred few, it seems hope of that hero grows dimmer. Skye has been waiting for a champion to come ever since brigands destroyed her home and sent her running into the hands of a despot.

...But that same despot is searching for a weapon of incredible magic.

And he's looking for Skye.

Time is running out.

It's time to act and Skye is ready to fight. Even if it means taking possession of a sword possessed of magic both terrible and frightening. A sword offered by a powerful sorcerer who wants to put it into her hands.

A sword that turns her into that hero.

But does she have what it takes to wield its power without losing herself to it? Or will her hesitation cost the nation in blood?

If you love stories reminiscent of the Arthurian legend but saturated with apocalyptic flavors of the future, you will want to give this a try.

Pick up your copy today.

166 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 28, 2019

19 people are currently reading
56 people want to read

About the author

Thea Atkinson

109 books326 followers
Thea is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling Author. She used to have a black lab at her feet when she wrote, warming up the calves. It can be cold in rural Nova Scotia. Now it's just a cuppa tea keeping her warm.

Her urban fantasy pulses with dark themes and action-packed intrigue. Her characters are always deeply wounded creatures struggling for redemption.

Hang out with her on Instagram or Facebook or follow her on Amazon. Grab a free book at her website.

Find her on the web:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B0046DIT0U
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaatkinso...
TT: http://https://www.tiktok.com/@theaat...
<<<>>>

a special shout out to Brenda Levy Tate for the awesome author photo wherein I don't look too dog-lady crazy.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Cali Jewel.
5,250 reviews40 followers
February 14, 2021
Action packed, emotionally thrilling and exciting adventure filled with witty and engaging charters, witty dialog, heart racing twists and exciting turns. Really enjoyed this roller coaster journey from beginning to end and so hard to put down.
Profile Image for Chrissy.
1,390 reviews62 followers
June 23, 2019
A dystopian vision of the future as magic begins to return

Skye is a mercenary of sorts. She hires out to odd jobs in a world where barter is the currency. The world changed when one man decided that the Earth would be a better place without technology and set up a series of EMP devices to ensure that happened. When technology failed, magic started to return slowly at the margins of humanity. Without money and technology the world revolves around trading what you owned or a skill you had to get what you needed, sometimes bartering items you go in trade.

Skye doesn’t think of herself as a good person, but the people of New Denver think she is. She takes things in barter and makes sure they get to the people who need it the most, moving goods around subtly, without realising that her goodness is being witnessed by her community. She feels outside that community without realising that she may be at the heart of it.

The reason Skye doesn’t like herself is that she used to be a Ruby Skull. A member of Hunter’s judiciary. They travelled the country punishing the lawless without mercy. There was no room for compassion in the Ruby Skulls and Skye hated that. She ran away knowing that one day Hunter would track her down and make her pay for her desertion.

It seems that Hunter has come to punish her at last.

This is a story of sorrow, guilt and redemption. It is the story in the power of mercy over the ruthless application of the law and the power of kindness to heal a community.

The book is written fluidly and draws the reader in. Skye is an odd hero as internally she doesn’t feel like one and listening to her internal voice you might believe she isn’t a worthy hero either. But as her actions are uncovered you start to doubt her self image and see her more clearly. It’s a subtle process and cleverly executed. However, that dissonance between her internal voice and the view point of others meant that she kept herself isolated, which in turn made me, as a reader, feel disconnected from her as the protagonist. I think that might change in a second book as she begins to feel more connected to her community. We shall have to see.
Profile Image for Debra Martin.
Author 29 books250 followers
July 10, 2019
Ms. Atkinson is a favorite author of mine and I was excited to see her publish a new series. She never disappoints and I’ve read quite a few of her books. In "Sword of Honor" we meet Skye, a young woman shaped by tragedy, just trying to survive in this post-apocalyptic tale. Skye has done some very bad things in the name of justice for self-proclaimed Chief Justice, Hunter Wolfe, but when he ordered violence for violence sake instead of any justice served, Syke has had enough and defected from his crew. Trouble is, no one leaves Hunter's crew and lives to tell the tale. Now Skye is not only trying to survive, but she's on the run from Hunter. Hunkering down in New Denver, Skye believes she's safe, that is, until Hunter comes into town. Can Skye survive a confrontation or will she just run again?

This was another kick-ass story from Miss Atkinson. Never one to shy away from the harshness of life, the author brings New Denver to life in all its messiness. There is no technology left and it was inventive how the author bartered everyday materials between the citizens of New Denver. Throw in some magic, the Lady of the Lake and Excalibur and you've got a tale that is hard to put down. I adore Arthurian lore so this was an added plus in my book. My only minor complaint was this story wasn't longer. I can't wait to see what adventures Skye is up to in book 2. Definitely a Recommended read for fans who love post apocalyptic tales.
Profile Image for Michelle Dohring.
239 reviews3 followers
June 23, 2023
Skye Shade lives in a dystopian world. All technology has been destroyed and lost. It is now like the Middle Ages. Skye is a mercenary. She has worked for some tyrants to survive.

Skye now lives in New Denver. She barters items to help people. She thinks she does it in a way that no one will notice. She is running from her past. She tries to make up for what she did in her past by helping people. Unfortunately the man she used to work for, Hunter Wolfe, is looking for her. No one leaves his employ and lives. He is a supposed man of justice. The justice he metes out is usually lethal. He is hunting Skye and wants to execute her.

Skye finds the Lady in the Lake and is given Excalibur. Will Excalibur make her strong enough to defeat Hunter and his Blood Sword?
The story started out slowly and drags through most of the book. Towards the end it picks up with the impending battle with Hunter. Will Skye survive her battle with Hunter? Will she be able to save the town? There is also a potential romance in the future for Skye with Lance the blacksmith. Will Skye allow herself to become vulnerable to someone?

This is the first book in The Queen of Skye and Shadow series. The story has some action but not enough to keep you wanting to read the series. The book was ok but I did not care for it. I do not think I will read the next book in this series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews71 followers
January 22, 2021
☄️☄️ONE REFRESHING WILD RIDE☄️☄️
Blazing bunkers boo! Thea blows through fast and furious with this kickass tilt-her-world, delivering one helluva smackdown, pulling out all the stops and raising the stakes, holding your attention from start to finish, jetting this jewel to a whole new level. Jumping hurdles and swinging hoops, attentive to the arduous struggles and thrilling triumphs, exposing the deadly twists and perilous turns unfold, allies are forged and battle lines drawn, hurling this hot number into the eye of the tempest, blowing it into a frenzy with mind-blowing results, wrapping this puppy up sleek, shiny and tight. Shenanigans and anarchy descend in a flurry of mayhem and mishaps, crumbling perimeters and bombing barriers solidify as limitations are amplified and tested, breaking out the big guns, heavy artillery and ammo aplenty, holding the line and kicking up dust, propelling this bad boy to life brilliantly. The characters are complex, genuine and original with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity, adding enough spice for an extra punch. Throw in 100% on point realism, painting colorful scenarios so vividly descriptive with graphic detail its like you're living it with them instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Remarkable job Thea, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Profile Image for Shayay.
2,837 reviews55 followers
May 3, 2021
Entertaining story set in a dystopian world! I enjoy dystopians for the most part; don’t care for reading about how women are generally treated in dystopian worlds, but this book wasn’t too bad on that front so far. There is some talk that may be triggering for some readers. Skye is the main character; she had a horrific past that led her to make some difficult and often times bad choices, those bad choices are now coming back to haunt her. There’s some dangerous people after her, so she’s going to need to use her ingenuity to survive. There’s also a magical element to the story. Skye tries to hide that she has a big heart, but it shines through in many ways. She’s a loner, but others have noticed her kindness, so she may find some help in unexpected places. There’s also a bit of action to the story. Overall, I appreciate Skye’s character, and the overall premise for this series. I’m looking forward to the next book!
Profile Image for Crystal Bookreader Amason.
193 reviews1 follower
May 21, 2019
You know those books that play in your head like a movie? They feel so real and in the moment? This is one of those books! The author skillfully revisions a dystopian sword in the stone. A fresh new perspective and approach. Thea Atkinson has created a new aged magical dystopian wild west. Theres a new brand of justice in town.
Skye, very much a outsider, has been living in New Denver. Trying to blend in yet keep everyone at by using her looks and ill mannered ways. But at her core is her heart and her small acts of kindness do not go unnoticed by the towns folk. When her past and present collide you truly see what everyone is made of. Skye is in for some surprises and unexpected support. Sky, Dallas Myste, Sadie and Martin are the most interesting of characters. I look forward to getting to know them better. This is the beginning of a legendary series with endless possibilities.
Profile Image for Evelyn Dotson.
2,084 reviews16 followers
February 26, 2020
Skye lives in New Denver where the world of technology is gone! The people have gone back to rudimentary ways for survival. They barter for what they need. Skye has done jobs for the “mayor” but also manages to barter with people. When she barters, she ensures people will receive what they need. She is kind and generous to others. She is running from her past and the gang she used to run with. Hunter and the Red Skulls mete out their justice through killing and maiming. They enjoy the cruelty, evil and vile acts they commit. When Hunter appears, the townspeople try to get Skye to leave. A dead man appears with a solution…a prophecy! The prophecy is about her and what will occur! How will it happen? How will she defeat the bad men? Is the prophecy truly about her? I received this as an ARC and am leaving a voluntary review.
6,029 reviews41 followers
April 5, 2021
Our heroine just wants to be left alone, but she can't help lending aid occasionally. That does not escape notice and soon she is drawn into bigger plans.

This is book one of the series, so a good place to start.

This book is an interesting blend of the modern dystopian story with sword and sorcery fantasy. The story is well written and easy to read, although occasionally jarring as it mixes the familiar with the decidedly not. The story moves at a fast pace, sometimes almost too fast, and it certainly keeps you on your toes. I really enjoyed the characters, particularly our heroine, and look forward to seeing them grow in future books. Overall, a highly enjoyable start to the series.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
Profile Image for Natalie Noblett.
153 reviews8 followers
December 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this twist of the Sword in the Stone story set in a post apocalyptic type world. Different than other books I've read by Thea but still full of action and great writing. We follow Skye as she is becoming settled in New Denver after fleeing Hunter and his band of Justice seekers. She used to be part of Hunter's team until his idea of Justice became twisted and he used it as an excuse to execute punishment and death on the towns around him. It's not long however until Hunter finds Skye and comes to execute her for what he sees as a betrayal by leaving him. Skye thinks she's on her own and is surprised when the town are determined to support her and back her plans to stand up to Hunter and his gang.
Profile Image for Beth.
493 reviews25 followers
February 3, 2021
Skye has been on the run and hiding from her old life. She's currently in New Denver and has been able to stay longer than normal and managed to build a reputation for herself in the months there. Everything changes the day she finds a dead man on the steps of the library in Old Denver and then finds out that her old mentor is coming for her. In the midst of running again, Skye is pulled into what could loosely be considered a coup. This book is about Skye overcoming her own fear and low sense of self-worth to help the people around her. There is some action, magical swords and a hint of a romantic partner- not a lot just a little bit of maybe someday.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tahnia Ross.
2,184 reviews10 followers
February 9, 2021
Skye ran away after her mother died. She scrabbled to survive until a named Hunter found her and took her under his wing. Hunter wanted to enact justice in a lawless world and Skye thought that was a good thing. Until she realized that the justice Hunter dished out was cold and compassionless. So she ran and eventually ended up in New Denver. She moved back into the house she lived in with her grandma and mom. Then Hunter came for her. This is a wonderful story that could appeal to anyone though it does end in a cliffhanger. Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carlynne Toomey.
462 reviews4 followers
May 2, 2019
I loved this story! I'm a huge Arthurian legend fan and also a fan of dystopian future stories. Ms. Atkinson brings both of these worlds together in a well written, totally believable way. Her characters are so well developed that you immediately connect to them and root for their causes. Her world building is realistic and believable. If you like Arthurian legend stories and dystopian stories, I can't recommend this enough! I totally loved this story and can't wait for future stories in this series!
Profile Image for Karen.
21 reviews12 followers
July 29, 2022
Even though Skye was tutored in the emotionless realm of a Ruby Skull Judge, she finds she has a conscious and leaves that life - something you are not allowed to do. Now in hiding and keeping others at bay with her seeming dispassionate, she inadvertently reveals her rally character to her adopted town.

The question is, when the Ruby Skulls arrive in town, are they willing to sacrifice her to save themselves from the Skull's brand of "justice"?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
544 reviews2 followers
May 29, 2019

A fantastic, adventurous read that’s written with a refreshing, unique and riveting take on the dystopian world. Skye is intense, a bit flawed, giving, but has a strength of character and heart that you will find engaging and real. I love how the story is written is with such vivid and detailed complexity, that it completely draws you in and refuses to let you go till the very last page. But will still have you craving more and rushing back to read the story over again.
Profile Image for Destiny Shaw.
Author 2 books3 followers
January 22, 2021
Skye lives in a technology free world, where magic is coming back. I would consider this a YA novel. Her backstory broke my heart and you could definitely understand how she got where she is. I was kept guessing throughout the story, which I loved! Great take on an old legend. This does end with a cliffhanger.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,559 reviews21 followers
January 25, 2021
I liked this story of a post apocalyptic world with a dash of the paranormal/magic. It is the story of Skye who opens the story describing herself as a hard keep to herself girl who had returned to her Denver roots. The world described here was interesting and I kept reading to see what was going to happen, would Skye survive, and would she end up a hero. Lots of entertaining and odd characters also pop in too.
Profile Image for William Vegvari.
415 reviews5 followers
January 26, 2021
Loved this one also. Thea is a great writer which I've been reading for the past few weeks and I'm hooked.
This story had me there watching from the side-lines. You are right there with the characters and when you finish the story a sadness comes to you wishing you didn't have to leave.
If you wish to go on an adventure / thrill ride this is a story for you.
Highly recommended

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,895 reviews4 followers
May 5, 2021
Skye is a warrior and helped as she thought she was helping but finally has had enough. She leaves and looks fir a place to live alone. But she does acts of kindness here and there that gets noticed. Now she’s gotten noticed by the man she had left but no one leaves him! He’s coming and she’s going to get pulled into things that she doesn’t want!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sydney Hopke.
1,391 reviews18 followers
May 28, 2019
WOW! Magic, swords, bad guys and a woman who's just trying to stay alive. When the bad guy finds her and the town protects her she realizes it's time but is she ready? The author does a great job telling this story so you see it very clearly. You don't always get that in a book and it's wonderful when it happens. Can't wait for more, much more!!
659 reviews3 followers
May 31, 2019
In a society that has been tore down through the years and the lawlessness was the strongest survive the chaos. Skye was like a warrior and did things that most wouldn't do but was tired of people being treated unfairly and mean. Good characters jump out in this story and the storyline is exceptional. Good writing-good reading.
Profile Image for Jacqulyn.
43 reviews
October 20, 2019
This is the beginning of a fight for freedom. Skye's story is full of the richness of a woman coming of age and unexpectedly finding herself in the middle of a quest pitting good against evil. Add a mysterious sorcerer and a legendary sword and the odds begin to build toward an epic fight. Skye has a strong female presence and indomitable spirit. Well worth the read.
Profile Image for Suez.
840 reviews
January 31, 2021
Skye becomes a ruthless warrior to survive. Until - don’t miss any of her journey it’s filled with pain, sorrow, loss and guilt - as she runs, from her past, justice and the bad things she’s done. Can she be redeemed? Who can she trust? Is it safer for everyone, for her to keep running? I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
10.9k reviews127 followers
February 14, 2021
This is the 1st book I've read written by Thea Atkinson; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Witch-at-Heart .
1,580 reviews21 followers
February 16, 2021
Fantastically depicted post-apocalyptic society with a survival of the fittest mentality. Can one girl rise to save them all? Our MC Skye must decide if she is not only up to the challenge but does she even want to be the hero. The characters are very well written and the world building is vivid and well done. I look forward to more.

I received this book from Booksprout for an honest review.
Profile Image for Scarolet Ellis.
7,445 reviews53 followers
February 19, 2021
Sword of Honor by Thea Atkinson is a wonderful story that I have loved reading. This is book number on in this wonderful start to a brand new series that I am so hooked on and can not wait to read the rest. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about western romance and fantasy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
105 reviews
April 25, 2021
Retrieving excalibur from the Lady of the lake, Skye sets out to catch her enemy Hunter, on the backfoot. The fight that ensues shows Skye as the true leader that she is. A great continuation of the story that makes you want the next book to see what happens.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Cary.
Author 11 books20 followers
May 28, 2019
First of all: Skye, she is awesome. Second, the way the story flows. Third, how it grabs you from page one and doesnt let you go until you have to close it because it is finished. I really want more of this series!!!
142 reviews
February 5, 2021
A kick-ass retelling story of sword in the stone. Fab story, which draws the reader in. Looking forward to reading more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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