The Dark Cry of Aristid by William Brian Johnson
@billieb1986,
@Bethb19861, @WeatherViking,
A forgotten village strikes a desperate bargain - and brings down the wrath of the gods.
The village of Elta was once the first protection against giant attacks in the kingdom. But since the threat has been extinguished, the village has been forgotten... just when the villagers need protection the most. A late summer hailstorm destroys the crops and livestock that will take Elta through the winter. The White Citadel refuses aid. To stave off starvation, the local midwife turns to witchcraft forbidden by the Allfather. Lofn summons an ancient entity by accident. She is found guilty and sentenced to execution. When her burning at the stake goes horribly awry. The investigative arm of the White Citadel dispatches the magistrate during Elta’s endless night and it ignites a civil war and threatens to start a war between the gods. The Dark Cry of Aristid is based on Norse mythology and folklore. For readers of Tolkien, Glen Cook, and Grimdark adventures.
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5 out of 5 (exceptional)
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
The village of Elta is under the rule of the White Citadel. The villagers must do what they're told or face the serious consequences of their actions, including who they worship. They are forbidden to use magic unless they have permission from the overseer, there are however certain people in the village that are gifted with magic and still believe in the old ways.
I found I liked this book from the start the opening chapter 1 is supposed to ease you in and let you get settled, but I found that straight away it was pulling me in and I wanted to find out more about the characters and the village itself. There are so many avenues this book could go! The way it's finished could leave it open for a series, it's one I would continue to read if the author were to go down that route.
I like the support that the villagers give each other in the hard times they suffer.
It's a book I recommend
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Like a crow in a field of glass.
Brian Johnson is a storm photographer, writer, teacher, adventurer. He's kind of an evil version of Robert Fulghum.
Questions, comments, concerns for my eternal soul? Contact me at father_thunder[at]cox.net.