Editorial Review For Mercenary’s Journey

  

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.