Once they were a band of mercenaries who shook the pillars of the world through cunning, alchemical brews, and cold steel. Whoever met their price won.
Now, their glory days behind them, scattered to the wind, and their genius leader in hiding, they are being hunted down and eliminated one by one.
A lifetime of enemies has its own price.
Adrian Selby brings us into an unforgettable new world filled with magic, mystery, intrigue, bloodshed and betrayal.
About the Author
Born and raised in Barry, South Wales, Adrian studied creative writing and philosophy at university before embarking on a career in videogames. He has worked for several big-name studios as a producer. He lives with his family on the south coast of England.
Industry Reviews
"Uniquely dark and gritty fantasy. An intriguing debut."--Bibliosanctum "A lot to enjoy, especially if you are a fan of dark, gritty, old-soldier stories."--Fantasy Faction "Grim mercenaries and badass alchemists brought to life by a bold, assured storyteller."--Peter Newman, author of The Vagrant "Wears its grimdark on its sleeve ... a thrilling tale of adventure, betrayal, triumph and loss."--Interzone "Absolutely fascinating and incredibly original."--Sense of Wonder "Contemporary and grimdark as it comes."--British Fantasy Society "Original and effective ... relish the well-choreographed action scenes."--Library Journal "I give it nothing but the highest recommendation."--Grimdark Magazine "Not your typical grimdark fantasy....While it's a complex tale, this is also an immensely readable one, and should appeal to fans of the immersive world-building of Brandon Sanderson. Selby constructs his world on a personal, visceral level, making sure we feel everything that happens to the narrators."--BarnesandNoble.com Betrayal and retribution epitomize Selby's epic fantasy/thriller debut, set in an Earth-like, barbaric, drugged-up society reliant on plant-based narcotic concoctions for addictive potions and deadly poisons. His detail-heavy, conversational dialogue in memoir/journal design and his militant, Berserker-ish characters keep pages turning. Perfect for fans of Joe Abercrombie.--RT Book Reviews "Set in a brutal world of subtle magic, clashing empires, and commercial interests, this is an impressive fantasy debut. Selby demonstrates the command of style, character, plotting, and world building of a seasoned author."--Booklist