Here’s an indie fantasy book to put a smile on your face! Of Stormlarks and Silence by Constance Lopez is a lovely blend of romance and secret vengeance plot with some adventure, magic and elves thrown in. I loved it from beginning to end (and will definitely read/listen again!).
Riona has infiltrated the castle of the king who slew her parents (the monarchs of a neighbouring nation), intent on carrying out vengeance. She manoeuvres herself into the role of the prince’s chambermaid, only to discover he might not be as evil as his father. And so it goes…
This ‘undercover assassin’ premise is not my favourite, which is why it took me so long to pick up this book. But I’m SO GLAD I allowed myself to be swayed by all the much-deserved love for Of Stormlarks and Silence.
The slow-burn love story between Riona and Prince Tristan unfolds believably — because Tristan is an extremely decent person who longs to rectify all the wrongs his father continues to do. (His relationship with his niece and nephew is adorable.) Riona’s internal conflict about her mission to kill the prince she’s falling for isn’t too angst-filled — and I loved how the inevitable relationship hiccup played out. (Steam level is sweet.)
Overall, this book is nicely plotted, with twists and turns I didn’t see coming (but felt I should have afterwards). Perfect! I also loved how the primary vengeance plot played out, with everything coming together for an excellent outcome. Nicely played, Riona!
The fantasy world feels real, without being expansive, and the magic system is interesting, although I’m not sure I entirely understand it. I particularly liked the ‘kindred’ animals bonded to royalty; the stormlarks of the title in Riona’s case.
The next book in the series (Or Chaos and Cadence) features Liam and Isarrel, the intriguing half-elf. Both are significant characters in Stormlarks — particularly Liam, who is Tristan’s mage/servant and best friend. Another lovely character is Kent, Riona’s adopted uncle, who plays his role in the plot to overcome the mean king.
I listened to the audiobook, which is dual-narrated for Riona and Tristan’s POV, and I felt the two narrators complement each other well. The last third of the book is particularly exciting, and I listened well into the small hours of the morning to finish it.
To sum up, Of Stormlarks and Silence is a feel-good romantic fantasy with noble goals, adventure and a satisfying conclusion. Wonderful stuff!
NOTE: I originally wrote this review on first reading the book in August 2024. I’m playing catchup!
Ellen Gregory 