Silence is Silver (Shadowbinders #0.5), by Andrew Watson
19 Mar 2025The Book
Synopsis:
The Urdahl believe pain is inevitable. But if one can lean into that suffering they can achieve anything.
Beneath the desert sands, Bas has spent his entire life training to become a fully-fledged Urdahl. And now his time has come to prove his worth. First, he must drink from the Seeing Bowl to clear his clouded mind and witness visions bestowed to him by ancient deities. Next, he must prove strength of body with the Passage of the High Pass. But destiny is shrouded in red and strength of arm will not be enough to survive its true tests.
Will he ascend to a full Urdahl or will his visions of blood come to pass?
The turning season has begun.
Taking place before the events of the Shadowbinders trilogy, “Silence is Silver” is a novella for both old and new readers.
My Review
Silence is Silver is an introductory novella to the dark fantasy series Shadowbinders, written by Andrew Watson. A short read that helps the reader to meet the Urdahl tribe and their coming of age rituals, following Bas' story and his infinite doubts; a novella with a heavy focus on the atmosphere.
An interesting take for a novella that allows us to understand more about the secretive Urdahl and their beliefs about pain and valours; all while we continue following Bas as he passes the rituals that mark his transition to be a full member of the tribe, at the same time he's experiencing doubts about the validity of certain beliefs. And we will see how all play when Bas will be put between the rock and the wall.
Personally, I think it is interesting the approach that Watson took in terms of writing, trying to reinforce the atmosphere and the image woven around the Urdahl; however, it is only achieved sometimes, while in others I would like to see a different approach, as at the end, some mantras sound more like clichés.
It is refreshing how the coming of age rites/challenges are presented in this novella, and Watson shines when action is presented, making that specific part of the book really enjoyable.
Silence is Silver is an interesting novella, an introduction to the Shadowbinders' world, but which I think it would be more enjoyable after reading the first full novel in the series; if you like dark fantasy, it is worth to give it a try.
Disclaimer: This review represents my personal opinion. Score and review from the whole team might vary.
The Author/s
Andrew Watson
Andrew Watson is an author, filmmaker, photographer, and musician. He has a keen interest in creating stories through different mediums.
After graduating from Edinburgh Napier University with a Bachelor of Science with First Class Honours in Digital Media, Andrew has used his skills to work freelance on a variety of creative projects.