Review: A Dagger in the Winds

A Dagger in the Winds by Brendan Noble
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the first book of The Frostmarked Chronicles, A Dagger in the Winds, Brendan Noble took me into a rich and unique narrative of Slavic mythology, where high stakes loom and the threat of eternal winter lurks around the corner.

A rejected son harbouring a hidden power and a forgotten, lonely "witch" embark on a quest for vengeance. This captivating hook instantly captured my attention, hinting at a story rich with enchantment, intrigue, and the quest for self-discovery.

The story centres around Wacław, a young man who has always yearned for purpose but finds himself trapped in a life devoid of dreams. Every night, his spirit roams the earth, seeking refuge from his father's disdain and the mockery of his people. This extraordinary talent paves the way for an exploration of personal growth and atonement.

Otylia, on the other side, is a szeptucha (a sorceress) who channels the untamed goddess Dziewanna. Her journey is marked by the abandonment of her community and the haunting grief of losing her mother to the goddess of winter, Marzanna. This duality in her character—both fierce and vulnerable—creates a captivating dynamic with Wacław.

As the narrative unfolds, the two characters are forced to confront their linked fates. The arrival of spring hinges on their collaboration to unearth the shadowy secrets of their intertwined history. Both Wacław and Otylia are beautifully developed, and the dialogues between them and their parents are incredibly touching and provide insight in a very clever way.

A Dagger in the Winds was, without a question, an enjoyable read. That being said, I couldn't help notice some patterns in the pacing and the supporting character's actions. There was some repetition in this quest narrative, almost like a video game where we have to defeat monsters which get bigger and bigger after each stage. Also, deeper development of some supporting characters could have elevated the story.

Captivating and with a touching aspect, Noble's writing transports me to a vividly created universe full of strong gods, frightening spirits, and fierce warlords. Though the world-building is not especially complex, Slavic folklore provides a wonderful detour from the usually followed routes of more familiar mythologies in the fantasy genre. Though it is set in snowy winter time, the richness of the descriptions transformed this book into a vivid, warm experience.

In conclusion, this book is truly captivating, weaving together a beautifully crafted fantasy with themes that resonate deeply—identity, friendship, and the eternal struggle against darkness. Even though there are aspects that give away this was the first epic fantasy book Noble has ever written, it is a must-read for those who appreciate world-building, gods and the exploration of different types of love.

I want to extend my gratitude to Brendan Noble for sharing a copy of this book with me in return for an honest review. I can't wait to discover where this adventure takes me next!

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