https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DX9CM963
Editorial Review For Mercenary’s Journey
In Mercenary’s Journey, Colby Shillingburg introduces
Markus, a weary mercenary who tries to avoid heroism but keeps getting pulled
into it anyway. The story begins in the kingdom of Takar, a busy mix of humans,
elves, dwarves, and orcs where Markus’s sarcasm and skill with a blade make him
stand out. His job for a desperate elf soon turns into a bigger hunt involving
bandits, hidden relics, and a wyvern guarding a cave full of secrets. The book
mixes danger, humor, and dry banter through battles and uneasy friendships.
Shillingburg’s strongest point is pacing. The action moves
smoothly, but there’s always time for a sharp line or a quiet moment of
thought. The dialogue feels natural, even when it’s laced with sarcasm, and the
fight scenes are easy to picture without bogging down in detail. Markus’s
cynicism keeps the story grounded, and his reluctant sense of right and wrong
gives him more depth than most sword-swingers.
This book fits squarely into classic fantasy, complete with
taverns, quests, and dangerous relics. But it plays with expectations by
leaning on character interactions instead of endless worldbuilding. The humor
cuts through the seriousness, giving the tone a welcome bite.
Readers who enjoy fantasy adventures with a bit of grit and
a main character who’d rather have a drink than a destiny will like this one.
It works for anyone who prefers their heroes flawed, their companions
mismatched, and their monsters a little too real.
Overall, Mercenary’s Journey is the kind of fantasy
story that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still knows how to tell a good
tale. It’s a solid start for a series and proof that a bit of cynicism can go a
long way when saving the world.