Ravine of Blood and Shadow

Book excerpt: For centuries, the dwarves of the Ravine City have hidden away from the world above, but their self-imposed exile is about to end. Ravine Guard Carnac Thayn has always felt there was more to life than humdrum patrols and drinking in the local taverns. Told since childhood that the blood of heroes flows through his veins, he can only assume it has been diluted by beer and boredom. But when Carn is called to a murder scene and gives chase to the culprit, his unnatural speed and strength shock him to the core. The murder is no isolated incident. A volume of the city’s chronicles is stolen, only to be secretly returned. Rumblings come from the deep mines, and a troublesome philosopher arrives in a last-ditch attempt to avert the coming catastrophe. As events spiral out of control, Carn finds himself the only thing standing between the dwarves and their doom. He might even prevail if it were a matter of prowess with an axe, but the enemy is more subtle than that, and his weapons are delusion and despair. Blood will flow in rivers through the ravine. A name will be forgotten. A hero will rise. Or a destroyer. “Prior weaves a fully realized world in this rich fantasy.” (Kirkus Reviews) "A beautifully written and engrossing masterwork!" (Mitchell Hogan) Fantasy Faction semifinalist for the SPFBO 2018