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3.83 AVERAGE
3.83 AVERAGE
A nice read. I liked the set of characters, the dark setting and the dynamic plot.
However I can't stand when the POV moves from one sentence to the next, it really pulls me out of the story every time. The prose was ok but made me often lose focus too.
A promising start, however not enough for me to continue.
However I can't stand when the POV moves from one sentence to the next, it really pulls me out of the story every time. The prose was ok but made me often lose focus too.
A promising start, however not enough for me to continue.
A stunning genre-spanning debut; grimdark meets gaslamp with stunning results.
Strong characters, a compelling plot and beautiful prose combine to create a thrilling novel. Need the second one NOW!
Strong characters, a compelling plot and beautiful prose combine to create a thrilling novel. Need the second one NOW!
dark
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Holly Tinsley's excellent We Men of Ash and Shadow. Wow, what a dedication, I've never been so emotional before even starting a book. I, too, was very fortunate to have been born to a loving and supportive father. Mine is sorely missed. The intriguing character names continue to bounce around my skull. Tarryn Leersac is my favorite, very evocative. Phonetically Tearin' (or split). People leer at his prettiness, but sometimes can't see him, like being mistaken for his dead father by his own mother, Lady Leersac, whom will get leered and ridiculed for being now an empty sack of a Lady, while she'll leer longingly for attention after losing her husband, money, friends, priviledge and mind. Henriette envisions a sophisticated parental madam, but the name is just a role she plays. Carmen, a libretto was written by Henri Meilhac and Ludovic Halévy, a depiction of proletarian life, immorality, and lawlessness where Carmen is a gypsy who seduces a soldier, interesting. Vanguard, hardly cutting edge, is shamed, stuck and burned by his past, just ash, or is he? The book title is apt, We Men of Ash and Shadow because we are just wee men of ash and shadow. Different pockets of D' Orsee are under the shadow of, occluded by, singular strongmen, a walled city and foundries belching ash. The book's name, as that of the characters, is nuanced, not anvilicious. The reader is not beat over the head, though characters in this grimdark gaslamp world are. Holly Tinsley wrItes effortlessly well, not showing off. The story builds nicely, is not forced with natural shifts. Characters are layered, through accretion, skillfully. Holly is generous, an impressive author. This is but the start, The Hand That Casts The Bone (Vanguard #2) will, I'm confident, be even better than this SPFBO finalist, continuing to flesh out the characters, literally and figuratively. Can't wait.
Oooooh this was a GOOD one! I was grinning from ear to ear as I listened to the final few lines of this stunning book. Side note: the audiobook is fabulous and RJ Bayley is a brilliant narrator (I am aware I am biased, but he really is epic!)
I liked this book most of the way through. But during the final quarter, something really clicked for me and I started to love it. I can’t quite tell you why.
I’m also not sure I actually dislike grimdark? I don’t know anymore. This year has been full of “stuff I wouldn’t normally read but huh, turns out I love it.”
We Men Of Ash And Shadow is a book I love.
HL Tinsley is a SUPERB author. Her voice is absolutely riveting, and I think I’d happily read a shopping list she’s written because of the sheer creativity and turn of phrases I’d get to experience. She has a fantastic way with words that turns descriptions into something visceral and truly immersive, and her dialogue is equally witty and hilarious.
Vanguard is the main character of this dark tale, but I didn’t like him as much as some of the other characters until the final quarter. He is the personification of survivor’s guilt, and I think once I realised that was his driving force (if you could call it that), everything fell into place. I so badly wanted him to succeed and was desperate to find out what happened in the finale that I ended up listening while cooking, eating, and running a bath so I could finish the book this evening.
Vanguard is older/past his prime, with not a lot to live for. He is rough around the edges, as to be expected, but he has a warm heart and a kindness that is rare in this city. He also has a particular set of skills - both real and magical - that keep him busy day to day, as well as fed. He is an assassin (of sorts).
The main plot took a while to get going, and in the early stages he ends up taking on an apprentice of sorts. This young lad also shares the “magical” ability of being unseen in certain situations. A good trick if you want to be paid to kill people.
I will admit, my only slight negative is there isn’t much more magic than that. It is clearly fantasy, set in a second world, but there isn’t a lot that would name this fantasy other than the main characters can occasionally be invisible.
That being said, more magic probably wouldn’t have worked in this particular setting and story, so it’s a personal gripe rather than a dig at the book!
While I’m talking about characters, I really have to shout that I LOVED so many of the side characters. Paulette. Kosik. Henriette. Vince. Sanderson. The barman of the Ring ‘O Bastards. Even Mandego! Actually, especially Mandego. (Apologies for any misspellings - audiobook!)
I’m also really annoyed with myself for liking Taryn to begin with. He’s the second main character, and I connected hard with him in the opening chapters - trying to look after his mother whose mental faculties are not all there. He’s often forgotten, hurt, ignored, and worse due to her deteriorating mental state, and my goodness I really wanted to hug him. As someone who grew up with alcoholic and abusive parents, it really struck a chord with me and I was completely behind him and his thoughts.
Until I wasn’t.
And I realised what he was.
And then I was annoyed at myself for falling for his charm and vulnerability and charisma and then realising the truth of it. And aaarrrggghhhh!
There were times when I thought, “no, the book isn’t going to go there, is it?” And it went there.
And I suppose that’s what turns it from a dark fantasy to grim dark because it does not shy away from the brutality of the people in this place. Characters make decisions that are difficult to grapple with, yet you can understand what they’re doing and why (although hopefully from somewhere detached !)
Oh an Mrs. Brown! Aaaahhh!
The characterisation of some of humanity’s…uglier side is so well done in We Men Of Ash And Shadow. So well done, in fact, that I found it triggering in certain areas (Taryn’s thoughts, especially regarding Paulette, are so on the nose it’s terrifying), and much like a car crash, I found it difficult to look away because the writing was so very, very good.
This is a horrible city in a horrible world full of mostly horrible people. Some truly are evil. Others simply do what they must to survive. And there are a handful who try to make it a better place - futile as that may be.
Wherever I thought the story was going, it went somewhere else. It kept it feeling very unpredictable and unique, and after a while I was simply swept up in whatever was going to happen, and enjoying the ride every step of the way.
Thematically, it covers everything from war, loss, revolution, survivor’s guilt, psychopaths, mental health/trauma, culture changes, and a plethora of other themes that were all extremely well done.
These are not stereotypical, tropey characters. These are people who have very ugly sides to them and are incredibly flawed, and that makes them real. It can also make it difficult to read about in certain places, especially if you have any experience within those themes.
Other reviews talk about head-hopping breaking immersion, and while, yes, that does happen, for me it really didn’t detract from what was an incredibly enjoyable tale. Additionally, with the audiobook narration, I was never unsure who was speaking/acting, and my enjoyment was never tainted.
Overall, this was absolutely brilliant, and I will definitely be reading the sequel in the new year - definitely on audiobook, too!
I liked this book most of the way through. But during the final quarter, something really clicked for me and I started to love it. I can’t quite tell you why.
I’m also not sure I actually dislike grimdark? I don’t know anymore. This year has been full of “stuff I wouldn’t normally read but huh, turns out I love it.”
We Men Of Ash And Shadow is a book I love.
HL Tinsley is a SUPERB author. Her voice is absolutely riveting, and I think I’d happily read a shopping list she’s written because of the sheer creativity and turn of phrases I’d get to experience. She has a fantastic way with words that turns descriptions into something visceral and truly immersive, and her dialogue is equally witty and hilarious.
Vanguard is the main character of this dark tale, but I didn’t like him as much as some of the other characters until the final quarter. He is the personification of survivor’s guilt, and I think once I realised that was his driving force (if you could call it that), everything fell into place. I so badly wanted him to succeed and was desperate to find out what happened in the finale that I ended up listening while cooking, eating, and running a bath so I could finish the book this evening.
Vanguard is older/past his prime, with not a lot to live for. He is rough around the edges, as to be expected, but he has a warm heart and a kindness that is rare in this city. He also has a particular set of skills - both real and magical - that keep him busy day to day, as well as fed. He is an assassin (of sorts).
The main plot took a while to get going, and in the early stages he ends up taking on an apprentice of sorts. This young lad also shares the “magical” ability of being unseen in certain situations. A good trick if you want to be paid to kill people.
I will admit, my only slight negative is there isn’t much more magic than that. It is clearly fantasy, set in a second world, but there isn’t a lot that would name this fantasy other than the main characters can occasionally be invisible.
That being said, more magic probably wouldn’t have worked in this particular setting and story, so it’s a personal gripe rather than a dig at the book!
While I’m talking about characters, I really have to shout that I LOVED so many of the side characters. Paulette. Kosik. Henriette. Vince. Sanderson. The barman of the Ring ‘O Bastards. Even Mandego! Actually, especially Mandego. (Apologies for any misspellings - audiobook!)
I’m also really annoyed with myself for liking Taryn to begin with. He’s the second main character, and I connected hard with him in the opening chapters - trying to look after his mother whose mental faculties are not all there. He’s often forgotten, hurt, ignored, and worse due to her deteriorating mental state, and my goodness I really wanted to hug him. As someone who grew up with alcoholic and abusive parents, it really struck a chord with me and I was completely behind him and his thoughts.
Until I wasn’t.
And I realised what he was.
And then I was annoyed at myself for falling for his charm and vulnerability and charisma and then realising the truth of it. And aaarrrggghhhh!
There were times when I thought, “no, the book isn’t going to go there, is it?” And it went there.
And I suppose that’s what turns it from a dark fantasy to grim dark because it does not shy away from the brutality of the people in this place. Characters make decisions that are difficult to grapple with, yet you can understand what they’re doing and why (although hopefully from somewhere detached !)
Oh an Mrs. Brown! Aaaahhh!
The characterisation of some of humanity’s…uglier side is so well done in We Men Of Ash And Shadow. So well done, in fact, that I found it triggering in certain areas (Taryn’s thoughts, especially regarding Paulette, are so on the nose it’s terrifying), and much like a car crash, I found it difficult to look away because the writing was so very, very good.
This is a horrible city in a horrible world full of mostly horrible people. Some truly are evil. Others simply do what they must to survive. And there are a handful who try to make it a better place - futile as that may be.
Wherever I thought the story was going, it went somewhere else. It kept it feeling very unpredictable and unique, and after a while I was simply swept up in whatever was going to happen, and enjoying the ride every step of the way.
Thematically, it covers everything from war, loss, revolution, survivor’s guilt, psychopaths, mental health/trauma, culture changes, and a plethora of other themes that were all extremely well done.
These are not stereotypical, tropey characters. These are people who have very ugly sides to them and are incredibly flawed, and that makes them real. It can also make it difficult to read about in certain places, especially if you have any experience within those themes.
Other reviews talk about head-hopping breaking immersion, and while, yes, that does happen, for me it really didn’t detract from what was an incredibly enjoyable tale. Additionally, with the audiobook narration, I was never unsure who was speaking/acting, and my enjoyment was never tainted.
Overall, this was absolutely brilliant, and I will definitely be reading the sequel in the new year - definitely on audiobook, too!
DNF
This was a tough one for me to stop but I had to. It had everything I wanted. It was practically Sin City meets Assassin's Creed with a few dystopian themes running in it. The story is about a hardened assassin who uncovers a mystery that could unravel this gaslight city. The writing and descriptions are done very well and I could envision myself there.
However, the main flaw is that every chapter is filled with giant info dumps. There would be pages upon pages of description with little dialogue in between. It's the true highlight of "show don't tell' except there was nothing but telling in this book. I may give this another try but I can't finish this at the moment.
This was a tough one for me to stop but I had to. It had everything I wanted. It was practically Sin City meets Assassin's Creed with a few dystopian themes running in it. The story is about a hardened assassin who uncovers a mystery that could unravel this gaslight city. The writing and descriptions are done very well and I could envision myself there.
However, the main flaw is that every chapter is filled with giant info dumps. There would be pages upon pages of description with little dialogue in between. It's the true highlight of "show don't tell' except there was nothing but telling in this book. I may give this another try but I can't finish this at the moment.
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
4.5/5 stars
This was such a great book!!
The title was the first thing that attracted me to this book. Along with an epic cover, I was really intrigued by this novel.
I listened to We Men of Ash and Shadow on audiobook and I have to say that RJ Bailey is a brilliant narrator. He really brought this story and the characters to life. His performance brought an added layer to the story.
In terms of the plot, I really enjoyed the dark narrative that surrounds the story. The elements of mystery and conspiracy that are central to this book. Nothing comes across as troupe-y or cliche.
A cast of deeply flawed characters combine to make a cast of deeply interesting group. Vanguard is a genuinely passionate and remorseful person. The murderer/mentor/protector/deserter has many layers and I hope his character is explored more in the sequel.
The one slight thing that lets this book down is it's world building. Although the city of D'orsee is explored pretty well, I found myself wanting to know about what happens outside of the walled city . I have heard that this is addressed in the sequel though, so I look forward to that.
I would definitely recommend this book, especially to any grimdark fantasy fans.
This was such a great book!!
The title was the first thing that attracted me to this book. Along with an epic cover, I was really intrigued by this novel.
I listened to We Men of Ash and Shadow on audiobook and I have to say that RJ Bailey is a brilliant narrator. He really brought this story and the characters to life. His performance brought an added layer to the story.
In terms of the plot, I really enjoyed the dark narrative that surrounds the story. The elements of mystery and conspiracy that are central to this book. Nothing comes across as troupe-y or cliche.
A cast of deeply flawed characters combine to make a cast of deeply interesting group. Vanguard is a genuinely passionate and remorseful person. The murderer/mentor/protector/deserter has many layers and I hope his character is explored more in the sequel.
The one slight thing that lets this book down is it's world building. Although the city of D'orsee is explored pretty well, I found myself wanting to know about what happens outside of the walled city . I have heard that this is addressed in the sequel though, so I look forward to that.
I would definitely recommend this book, especially to any grimdark fantasy fans.
This book is different than my normal books that I tend to read. But that being said, I was hooked. It is a dark ride that has a great story of redemption hidden within the shadows of this amazing story. It is the story of John Vanguard, hitman for the man in charge. He is assigned to track down the murderer of two men. During his investigation, he will discover characters that you will come to love (or hate) and a mystery that is worth delving into.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. I was fortunate enough to win a copy but had seen it around, also seeing that it was a finalist in the SPFBO #7. It had been on my radar ever since. It will not disappoint if you like: steampunk vibes, grimdark, and serial killers!! I am a sucker for all of these and was glad to see this book deliver in a new and unique way, while still telling a story of good vs bad.
Warnings:
I would not recommend if you are sensitive to:
language
As always, happy reading.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. I was fortunate enough to win a copy but had seen it around, also seeing that it was a finalist in the SPFBO #7. It had been on my radar ever since. It will not disappoint if you like: steampunk vibes, grimdark, and serial killers!! I am a sucker for all of these and was glad to see this book deliver in a new and unique way, while still telling a story of good vs bad.
Warnings:
I would not recommend if you are sensitive to:
language
As always, happy reading.
dark
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book is different than my normal books that I tend to read. But that being said, I was hooked. It is a dark ride that has a great story of redemption hidden within the shadows of this amazing story. It is the story of John Vanguard, hitman for the man in charge. He is assigned to track down the murderer of two men. During his investigation, he will discover characters that you will come to love (or hate) and a mystery that is worth delving into.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. I was fortunate enough to win a copy but had seen it around, also seeing that it was a finalist in the SPFBO #7. It had been on my radar ever since. It will not disappoint if you like: steampunk vibes, grimdark, and serial killers!! I am a sucker for all of these and was glad to see this book deliver in a new and unique way, while still telling a story of good vs bad.
Warnings:
I would not recommend if you are sensitive to:
language
As always, happy reading.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. I was fortunate enough to win a copy but had seen it around, also seeing that it was a finalist in the SPFBO #7. It had been on my radar ever since. It will not disappoint if you like: steampunk vibes, grimdark, and serial killers!! I am a sucker for all of these and was glad to see this book deliver in a new and unique way, while still telling a story of good vs bad.
Warnings:
I would not recommend if you are sensitive to:
language
As always, happy reading.