The Shadows of the Fallen

When his guardian dies unexpectedly and he's forced to claim the throne of Xeladria, Devan is in for an uphill battle. His court is full of cutthroats who heel to the call of power, and their loyalty to his guardian was bought through fear. Herias was a Fallen, capable of annihilating them without thought. But Devan is only human. Unlike his mentor, he doesn't have earth-shattering powers and he's not that hard to kill.

Herias’ death raises bigger questions, however. Unless Herias allowed himself to be killed, no normal human could’ve done it. Worse, the assassin they captured is missing from the dungeons, and he took all the answers with him. It’s starting to look like an inside job. Those closest to Herias are the prime suspects, but those same nobles and generals have now sworn oaths to Devan, and he’s not sure which ones he can trust.

To make matters worse, there are rumblings beyond the kingdom, whispers of invasion from beyond the stars, an invasion that could wipe off all life and destroy their world, unless Devan can find a way to avert it. But when everyone believes he’s spinning tales to strengthen his position, can he keep himself alive long enough to save the world?

Shadows of the Fallen is a queer Sword and Sorcery novella about intrigues, mysteries and alliances. If you love hapless but competent characters, intrigues and conspiracies, secrets and revelations, you will enjoy this tale.