ABANDONED. Fantasy - Dwarf convict runs from capitol city, machines ballistae to fight elves

[Tom]

I read this book about 2010 and can't remember everything accurately. I believe the plot was as follows.

Dwarf lives in an advanced society in a capitol city (controlled by elves?) and all the dwarves are builders. They can machine tools and toys to amazing tolerances, microns by hand. This particular dwarf commits some crime, and either goes on the run of is caught and is sentenced to die but escapes prison and leaves the city.

He runs into a group of humans who have a large castle. He settles down and prepares to resist anyone chasing him by preparing the castle to defend a siege. He machines a many number of ballistae to be used against an attacking army.

Can't remember the rest, any help is great! I know this was the first book in a series, think the title might have referenced a metal.

[Kris]

Tom, is this book for adults or teens?

[Tom]

Kris wrote: "Tom, is this book for adults or teens?"

Think it was adult fiction

[Kris]

Tom, please post a new comment if you're still looking for this book - or if you found it.

Tom (OP) last posted in the group in July 2020. Moving to Abandoned folder.