Silence is Silver by Andrew Watson SFINCs2 Book Review
- Tabitha Tomala
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
This review is part of the Speculative Fiction Indie Novella Championship (SFINCS). SFINCS, pronounced “sphinx”. This is a yearly competition to recognize, honor, and celebrate the talent and creativity present in the indie community. It’s a sister competition to both SPFBO and SPSFC, and it highlights greatness in the novella format in all areas of speculative fiction (fantasy, science fiction, horror, etc.).
To see more information on my team Behind the Musings check out this post!
Blurb for Silence is Silver
The Urdahl believe pain is inevitable. But if one can lean into that suffering they can achieve anything.
Beneath the desert sands, Bas has spent his entire life training to become a fully-fledged Urdahl. And now his time has come to prove his worth. First, he must drink from the Seeing Bowl to clear his clouded mind and witness visions bestowed to him by ancient deities. Next, he must prove strength of body with the Passage of the High Pass. But destiny is shrouded in red and strength of arm will not be enough to survive its true tests.
Will he ascend to a full Urdahl or will his visions of blood come to pass?
The turning season has begun.
Taking place before the events of the Shadowbinders trilogy, “Silence is Silver” is a novella for both old and new readers.
Silence is Silver Book Review
The world of Silence is Silver is one of violence. To become a full member of the Urdahl one must be able to conquer their pain and embrace the beliefs of the clan. The trials one faces to be seen as an equal are brutal and betrayal is commonplace. Bas is seen as one of the top candidates for the clan, and being so he is also a threat to the others.
The pain readers will witness Bas endure is only the beginning as we journey through the explanation of the Urdahl culture and the final trial all coming-of-age members must complete. But even though he has lived among the clan, Bas begins to harbor doubts. And doubts are a deadly affliction to have. The Urdahl clan is cult-like as any other form of thought that does not align with their values is seen as almost a sickness. Something to be stamped out by any means necessary if they deem someone worthy.
Silence is Silver is just a fraction of the story, as this novella serves as a prequel to the Shadowbinders series. It is a read for those who enjoy darker fantasy and the struggle against one's own cultural beliefs. It is a tougher read, as Bas encounters no kindness or safe harbor in this story. His tale is one of hardship and heartbreak, yet sets the foundation for a much larger world setting.
To Purchase: Bookshop | Author's Website
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