Audio Book Review: of 2 Riyria Chronicles Tales: The Jester & Professional Integrity

The Jester

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Publish Date:  July 17, 2014, Audiobook January 17, 2014

Format:  Audiobook - 54 mins
Narrated By:  Tim Gerard Reynolds

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  2.5 in Riyria Chronicles series (stand alone in series); 1st Book ~ The Crown Tower, 2nd Book ~ The Rose and the Thorn

Impression:  Quick fill for my fantasy need with my favorite duo.

Synopsis:
WHO WILL HAVE THE LAST LAUGH?
Stop me if you’ve heard this one. A thief, a candlemaker, an ex-mercenary, and a pig farmer walk into a trap…and what happens to them is no joke. When Riyria is hired to retrieve a jester’s treasure, Royce and Hadrian must match wits with a dwarf who proves to be anything but a fool. Difficult choices will need to be made, and in the end those who laugh last do so because they are the only ones to survive.

This is a standalone short story of 7,200 words, originally published in the Unfettered anthology. No prior knowledge of The Riyria Revelations or The Riyria Chronicles is required to enjoy it to its fullest, making this a perfect introduction for new readers or a chance for Riyria veterans to spend a little more time with old friends. The Jester is a story of adventure, bonds of friendship, and a recognition that the choices we make dictates the future we find.

First Sentence:
Hadrian discovered the most fascinating thing about plummeting in total darkness wasn't the odd sense of euphoria from the free fall or the abject terror from anticipating sudden death but that he had the time to contemplate both.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles

Audible (free here)


My Thoughts and Summary:
Royce and Hadrian are wandering around the caves carved by a dwarf. A dwarf jester to be exact. They are looking for a way out, but were hired by the woman with them to find the treasure. Myra and Wilmer have the map pieces, but this place is a labyrinth full of puzzles, and choices that are life or death making.

I was thrilled to be back with Royce and Hadrian again. They are my favorite fantasy duo.

Tim is a wonderful voice for fantasy. He portrayed the personality of the characters well. He also did voice differences in tone to differentiate the characters. He was an enjoyable listen as my attention went to the story and not his voice, a great combination!

With this being a short story we don't get all the details of all the trials they've crossed; traps, wolves, and more. We do get the major gist of the events they went through by the injuries they've all endured, although Myra and Royce seem to be fairing better than Hadrian and Wilmer.

We are on the run though, from a huge monster of some kind. We hear the constant drum of it's feet as it nears them. They end up locked in a room with three options and water rising. What choice will they make? What choice would you make?

We do get some Royce and Hadrian banter, there personalities are the same as ever. Hadrian aways wanting to help, and Royce, well Royce is Royce. But what I did pick up on was they didn't feel the center of the story. Other characters felt to take over more, Myra and her sense of humor. She was a strong character here. And the banter between her and all the others is strong. She's even pushy to get her way. This story was more of the craftiness of a dwarf jester and tribulations they need to go through on this mission.

My favorite part is the ending where Royce has one comment for Hadrian.

Do you have to read others to read/listen to this one? No. There are drops of their first job and how long they've been working together at this point, but nothing you need to know before this story. Michael Sullivan has created this to be a stand alone short story, and it is that.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Professional Integrity

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Publish Date:  Audiobook June 3, 2015

Format:  Audiobook - 1 hr 18 mins
Narrated By:  Tim Gerard Reynolds

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  2.6 in Riyria Chronicles series (stand alone in series); 1st Book ~ The Crown Tower, 2nd Book ~ The Rose and the Thorn

Impression:  Back in the saddle with Royce & Hadrian, true and true.

Synopsis:
One of the genre's favorite pairs returns in a classic fantasy short for both Riyria veterans and first-time readers.

Several years have passed since the war-weary mercenary Hadrian and cynical ex-assassin Royce joined forces to start their thieves-for-hire organization better known as Riyria. Things have gone well enough for the team as they do "jobs" for various nobles throughout Elan. Usually that means stealing something, but when a young heiress asks them to steal her…well, that's a first for the pair. All is not as it seems, but Royce is determined to get the bottom of what's actually going on. After all, he has his professional integrity at stake.

Originally released in the Blackguards anthology published by Ragnarok Publications, this is a standalone short story of 10,800 words. No prior knowledge of The Riyria Revelations or The Riyria Chronicles is required to enjoy it to its fullest, making this a perfect introduction for new readers or a chance for existing fans to spend a little more time with old friends.

First Sentence:
"Say that again." Hadrian said.

Purchase At:
Amazon 

Audible (free here)


My Thoughts and Summary:
Kristin, a young woman, wants Royce and Hadrian to kidnap her. She'll pay, of course. She wants a man to know she exists. Hoping the plan to disappear, her father the Lord panic, and the young man come to her rescue. What Royce and Hadrian uncover in her place is far more dangerous than a simple job. And a deeper plan than they expected to find.

Tim Gerard Reynolds, once again, is the narrator for our duo. He does an amazing job with the dry humor banter between Royce and Hadrian. His emotion shows for our men, Royce a bit not carring and Hadrian a bit of caring and worry. Along with doing a voice tone difference for Kristin. His pacing is well done. I slipped right into the world of Royce and Hadrian with ease here.

This is the classic Royce and Hadrian we know! Royce cracks me up with his observation of Kristin along with his offhand honesty. We do, for a flash, see a softer side of Royce. *gasp* For a moment as the look crosses his face, but then it's gone. Hadrian is as caring as ever. He just can't say no. And the tall tale 'easy job' he always things he's getting them into becomes so much more. We get to see Hadrian's talent with disarming and a quick look at him with a sword.

Do you have to read others before this? No. This one can stand on it's own. It will give you a great feel for the characters personalities. If you loved this story, I highly suggest picking up all the books in the world with them. This is what you'll get.

There are hints to Royce and Hadrian, how they are now along with touches of their history or hinting at a history is present. There's even a drop referencing The Jester, nothing big but a nice way to tie everything together.

Michael has done a wonderful job with the duo here. Boy, this story really re-awoke my love for the characters.

Book Review: The Rose and the Thorn

The Rose and The Thorn

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Publisher:  Orbit Books

Publish Date:  September 5, 2013

Format:  eARC

Series:  2nd in Riyria Chronicles;  Book 1 ~ The Crown Tower, Short Story ~ The Viscount and the Witch;

associated with Riyria Revelations - Book 1 ~ The Crown Conspiracy, Book 2 ~ Avempartha, (Book 1 & 2 through Orbit books ~ Theft of Swords) Book 3 ~ Nyphron Rising, Book 4 ~ The Emerald Storm, (Book 3 & 4 through Orbit books ~ Rise of Empire) Book 5 ~ Wintertide, Book 6 ~ Percepliquis (Book 5 & 6 through Orbit books ~ Heir of Nevron)

Recommendation:  OH YES!! Whether you read the starting series or not, this is a great story to learn some scary pasts and see Royce and Hadrian work their magic as a team.

Book Synopsis:
A DEAR FRIEND IS BRUTALLY BEATEN.  TWO THIEVES WANT ANSWERS.  RIYRIA IS BORN.

One year earlier, two thieves were saved from certain death by the compassion of a stranger.  Unable to forget the woman who saved their lives, Royce and Hadrian now return to Gwen DeLancy and are shocked when she refuses to speak to them.  Baffled, the two thieves discover Gwen has been brutally beaten by a powerful noble -- beated so badly she can't face them.  But Gwen doesn't know about Royce's past, doesn't understand how much he cares for her, and doesn't realize what he is capable of -- but she's about to find out.

The Rose and the Thorn is the second book in a new series, The Riyria Chronicles, based on characters from The Riyria Revelations.  Unlike the previous series, which was a carefully choreographed interconnected series of books, the Chronicles are designed to be stand-alone series that can be read independent of each other or the prior novels.

First Sentence:
Reuben should have run the moment the squires came out of the castle keep.

Purchase At:
Amazon  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

**I offered to beta read the book for the author with the love I feel for this world.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Reuben Hilfred, a stable boy whom the Squires look down upon as he's of no money and his father never married his mother, is coming of age to enter the castle soldiers.  He admires the young princess from a far never thinking he'll get close to her, until the day he is told to ride with her on her outing our of the castle grounds.  Not knowing how to use a sword, he still puts his life on the line to save the princess.  Reuben makes some strong friends in this act, and one who he wants to see him as more ends up blaming him in the end for not doing more when she wanted.  The Autumn Gala is approaching and is Reuben's first on-duty day, to celebrate in honor of the new chancellor too.

Royce and Hadrian return to see Gwen, who saved their lives and they can't forget, for the first time since death was knocking at their doors.  To learn there is more going on than expected when Gwen had the girls turn them away.  There is a man out looking for one of Gwen's girls who has not returned home, and his actions have stirred Royce and Hadrian to action.  Royce's past comes to knowledge here as he does what he feels needs done to the men who have harmed Gwen, and a warning to any who might.

We meet and see the big play in Melford history Reuben Hilfred has.  His back story is very important to our characters.  I knew he was important, but *whistle* this important?  I never would have thought. Wow.

We see Royce and Hadrian. Royce... wow!  We see a darker side of Royce here, which I love seeing.  But Royce also learns, do to results of his actions, that there is more than acting and killing.  To think and use words to get action as well.  Hadrian learns others aren't always "good" and innocent as he likes to give everyone credit for before really knowing them.

There is a thread between all the characters and I like seeing the connection to Gwen's place; through Rose.

Royce and Hadrian pick up a new associate along the way of returning to Medford.  Have you read the short story The Viscount and the Witch?  There is a chapter in this story that is that short story.  So you will recognize it immediately.  And it's great to see where that short story leads too.

I loved seeing the Pickering's again.  The father and the boys.  Goodness do I love their spirit and fun.  They are really kind people.  It's great to see Alric and Arista young and carefree before their mother's and father's death.  Simply Royal children.

If you've not read any books with these characters by Michael, do so.  You can start anywhere and grow with them in their world.  For those who have read Riyria Revelations, there are still surprises we didn't know of before.  Read them!  This story can be read before or after the Riyria Revelations.  If after, you will see all the ground work laid of the happenings in the series.  You could read this one before or after The Crown Tower as well.  There are hints to happenings in The Crown Tower, but not spoiled beyond what you already know is to happen.  This story is strictly focused on this books happenings and does come to a close.

Seeing the back story unfold leaves me wondering if Michael's had these written for years before the Riyria Revelations.  The back story fits PERFECTLY with the series.  Good grief the happenings, they bring me right back to the world and the feelings I had in the Riyria Revelations, even more worries as I know what will happen in the series.  But...* speechless*  Wow.  To see the threads unfold here and what leads to what's to come.  Amazing talent from Michael.

Love seeing the preparations for what's to come, filling in the back story of the characters, and the growth of what we love in this world.  Well, WELL worth reading, before or after the Riyria Revelations.

Book Review: The Crown Tower

The Crown Tower

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Publisher:  Orbit Books

Publish Date:  August 2013

Format:  eARC

Series:  1st in Riyria Chronicles; short story ~ The Viscount and the Witch; associated with Riyria Revelations - Book 1 ~ The Crown Conspiracy, Book 2 ~ Avempartha, (Book 1 & 2 through Orbit books ~ Theft of Swords) Book 3 ~ Nyphron Rising, Book 4 ~ The Emerald Storm, (Book 3 & 4 through Orbit books ~ Rise of Empire) Book 5 ~ Wintertide, Book 6 ~ Percepliquis (Book 5 & 6 through Orbit books ~ Heir of Nevron)

Recommendation:  OH YES!! Whether you read the starting series or not, this is a great story to learn how the characters all met.

Book Synopsis:
TWO MEN WHO HATE EACH OTHER.  ONE IMPOSSIBLE MISSION.  A LEGEND IN THE MAKING.

A warrior with nothing to fight for is paired with a thieving assassin with nothing to lose.  Together they must steal a treasure that no one can reach.  The Crown Tower is the impregnable remains of the grandest fortress ever built and home to the realm's most valuable possessions.  But it isn't gold or jewels the old wizard is after, and this prize can only be obtained by the combined talents of two remarkable men.  Now if Arcadias can just keep Hadrian and Royce from killing each other, they just might succeed.

The Crown Tower is the first book in a new series, The Riyria Chronicles, based on characters from The Riyria Revelations.  Unlike the previous series, which was a carefully choreographed interconnected series of books, the Chronicles are designed to be stand-alone stories that can be read independent of each other or the prior novels.

First Sentence:
Hadrian Blackwater hadn't gone more than five steps off the ship before he was robbed.

Purchase At:
Amazon - Print & Ebook  /  Barnes & Nobles  /  Book Depository

*I beta read this book, as I offered to read for author because I love this world so highly.  Then for honest review from publisher.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Hadrian returns to Vernes from Calis to visit Arcadias in Sheridan at the university, an old friend of his fathers and family.  Hadrian travels by barge up the river with jewel merchants who claim the strange dark caped man is the killer Vernes is looking for.  Hadrian believes in all people, but when people start disappearing and dying Hadrian wonders of this man.

Gwen is a young prostitute who wants out from under the employment of her boss, and the men he lets in his establishment.  When another girl is killed and he threatens Gwen, she decides it's time to make her move.  But she can't leave Medford.  She's waiting for something, someone.

Royce is quiet, sneaky, quick, and deadly thief.  He has an evil in his eyes.  He trusts no one but himself.

Arcadias puts the fighter and the thief together, thinking they would be a good team.  They might be good for each other, IF they can accomplish the job as a team, not separate, and live through it.

Gwen younger before she's on her own.  Her life in Medford as a Calian, the prejudiced is so strong.  How Gwen has come to her own, a hard story.  Gwen's tale of coming to Medford and learning her talent.

We follow Hadrian and Gwen more than Royce.  But Royce is the one we always have a mysterious feel of, and he's not much of a talker.  It takes a bit to get our favorite duo together and the banter flowing, but when they do, the blooming of their quick wits are there.

Oh, for those who have read the first six (or three Orbit) books, we know the secrets and get to see the forming of them.  Those who haven't read the books will have so many clues to what's to come.  You will WANT to know more about these characters.  I love seeing the clues now and Michael has dropped more in to connect later in the series as well.

We learn more of Calis being Hadrian fresh off ship from there.  Even touches from Gwen as her mother was from there.

Through the over all story plot there are mini-plots, which Michael is amazing at.  I really enjoyed these as they are used to tell the story of our characters growth, personalities, world drawing, and to bring the characters together.  There's the murderer mystery going on with Hadrian on the barge.  Gwen fighting for her own life and those of the girls around her, then coming into her own.  Also, Hadrian and Royce meeting and training and trying to compromise to do the job Arcadias requests.  There is even troubles at the university that stir.

The secrets in Gwen's character!  Oh my.  She has links that I had never really thought of.  Great. Wonderful. Amazing to see this.  Her story is a secret that is well to be known.  And the grace she is left with, that person could be explained in reading the series - if you haven't yet.

I don't know how Michael does it, but when we finally get Royce and Hadrian banter it is wonderful!  Just like old friends for me.  They click so easily for me as a pair, even when they hate each other and think of ways to kill the other.

This is an amazing addition to the Riyria world.  The way it all began.  I could say you could read this one before or after the series, but if after you might catch more connections.

Cover Reveals I've Missed (2)

And another round of new covers I've missed... Fantasy Style this time!


Goodness do I love seeing Royce and Hadrian again.  Great pair to read.  And these are just awesome to see the beginnings of the team.  Trust me. ;)

The Crown Tower

The Riyria Chronicles #1

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Due Out:  August 6, 2013

Description:

TWO MEN WHO HATE EACH OTHER. ONE IMPOSSIBLE MISSION. A LEGEND IN THE MAKING.

A warrior with nothing to fight for is paired with a thieving assassin with nothing to lose. Together they must steal a treasure that no one can reach. The Crown Tower is the impregnable remains of the grandest fortress ever built and home to the realm’s most valuable possessions. But it isn’t gold or jewels the old wizard is after, and this prize can only be obtained by the combined talents of two remarkable men. Now if Arcadias can just keep Hadrian and Royce from killing each other, they just might succeed.

The Riyria Revelations and The Riyria Chronicles are two separate, but related series, and you can start reading with either Theft of Swords(publication order) or The Crown Tower (chronological order).

The Rose and the Thorn

The Riyria Chronicles #2

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Due Out:  September 17, 2013

Description:

TWO THIEVES WANT ANSWERS. RIYRIA IS BORN.

For more than a year Royce Melborn has tried to forget Gwen DeLancy, the woman who saved him and his partner Hadrian Blackwater from certain death. Unable to get her out of his mind, the two thieves return to Medford but receive a very different reception --- Gwen refuses to see them. The victim of abuse by a powerful noble, she suspects that Royce will ignore any danger in his desire for revenge. By turning the thieves away, Gwen hopes to once more protect them. What she doesn't realize is what the two are capable of --- but she's about to find out.

The Riyria Revelations and The Riyria Chronicles are two separate, but related series, and you can start reading with either Theft of Swords(publication order) or The Crown Tower (chronological order).



This is a new series by Michael, and I'm really looking forward to diving into a new world and creation with him.  I do enjoy a good science fiction too.

Hollow World

Hollow World #1

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Due Out:  January 20, 2014

Description:

Ellis Rogers is running out of time, even for a man with his own time machine.

A Detroit factory worker, who has always played it safe and done the right thing, finds himself rewarded with unemployment, a loveless marriage, and a terminal illness. Now with nothing to lose he’s willing to take an insane gamble. All he has to do is press the red button, and if he survives, he could find more than just a cure for his disease. Ellis could discover a future that challenges his understanding of what it means to be human, what it takes to love, and the cost of paradise. 

Welcome to Hollow World, a science fiction thriller from the bestselling author of The Riyria Revelations.

Have you Heard?

The amazing Michael J. Sullivan is continuing with stories in the world we've fallen in love with.  Sweet, right!

I'm excited, but I don't know if I can wait until August 2013.  Wow, that's one looooong wait.  But I'm relieved and thrilled he's back in this world.

If you would like to read what Michael is sharing about this, you can at his blog.  This is where our duo first meet.  Exciting tale, I do think. :)

The Crown Tower

Volume One of the Riyria Chronicles

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Due Out:  August 2013

The Teaser:

Two men who hate each other.
One impossible mission.
A legend in the making.

A warrior with nothing to fight for is paired with a thieving assassin with nothing to lose. Together they must steal a treasure that no one can reach. The Crown Tower is the impregnable remains of the grandest fortress ever built and home to the realm’s most valuable possessions. But it isn’t gold or jewels the old wizard is after, and this prize can only be obtained by the combined talents of two remarkable men. Now if Arcadias can just keep Hadrian and Royce from killing each other, they just might succeed.

Then you know you find an authors writing you enjoy, so you start digging for more work, well I did that with Michael.  Michael has also added anthologies to his list.  I found there are a few Anthologies to come with stories by him in.  No, they are not Riyria Revelation world stories, but that's okay they are fantasy and I love my fantasy.  And there are additional amazing authors in these as well...

The first is already available:

Twists and Turns

A Red Adept Reviews Collection

Edited by:  Lynn O'Dell

Released:  April 10, 2011

Description of what you'll find in it:

A collection of nine short stories resulting from the "Red Adept Reviews Twists Contest."

The contest rules were simple: Submit a short story with a twist similar to those found in stories by O'Henry.

"Building God" by Jessica Billings: A machine predicts the future of mankind.

"Should Have Seen It Coming" by Brendan Carroll: A man's wife leaves him unexpectedly.

"Granny Theft Auto" by T.L. Haddix: A klepto-grandma steals a police car.

"The Unbroken Mirror" by C.S. Marks: A prelude to the Alterra series

"Fired" by Lynn O'Dell: Getting fired has its repercussions.

"42jorie" by John Philpin: A man meets a special woman online.

"Leo's Wife" by Patrica Sierra: A bigamist's wife is confronted after his death.

"Traditions" by Michael J. Sullivan: A young girl embarks on a journey to fight a dragon.

"A Long, Lonely Time" by J.R. Tomlin: A woman finds a very special door in her attic.


The next is yet to be released, there is quite the cast of authors in this one and also benefits a cancer fighter:

Unfettered

Edited By:  Shawn Speakman

Due Out:  2013

Description of benefit and what you'll find:

You define life or it defines you.

In Shawn Speakman’s case, it was both.

Lacking health insurance and diagnosed with Hogdkin’s lymphoma in 2011, Shawn quickly accrued a massive medical debt that he did not have the ability to pay. That’s when New York Times best-selling author Terry Brooks offered to donate a short story Shawn could sell toward alleviating those bills—and suggested Shawn ask the same of his other friends.

Unfettered is the result, an anthology built to relieve that debt, featuring short stories by some of the best fantasy writers in the genre.

Every story in this volume is new and, like the title suggests, the writers were free to write whatever they wished. Authors contributing are Terry Brooks, Patrick Rothfuss, Brandon Sanderson, Jacqueline Carey, Tad Williams, Geno & R.A. Salvatore, Naomi Novik, Peter V. Brett, Daniel Abraham, Lev Grossman, David Anthony Durham, Peter Orullian, Blake Charlton, Eldon Thompson, Michael J. Sullivan, Robert V.S. Redick, Carrie Vaughn, Mark Lawrence, Kevin Hearne, Jennifer Bosworth, and artist Todd Lockwood, who donated artwork as well as a story.

With the help of stalwart friends and these wonderful short stories, Shawn has taken the gravest of life hardships and created something magical. Unfettered is not only a fantastic anthology in its own right but it’s a testament to the generosity found in the science fiction and fantasy community—proof that humanity can give beyond itself when the need arises.

After all, isn’t that the driving narrative in fantasy literature?

Anything else I find I'll share.

Book Review: The Viscount and the Witch

The Viscount and the Witch

By:  Michael J. Sullivan

Publisher:  Ridan Publishing

Publish Date:  October 2011

Format:  eShort Story

Genre:  Fantasy

Series:  1st in The Riyria Chronicles

Recommendation:  YES!  I love revisiting and learning of Royce and Hadrian's beginnings.  And seeing their personalities again.

Book Synopsis:
Eleven years before they were framed for the murder of a king, before even assuming the title of Riyria, Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater were practically strangers.  Unlikely associates, this cynical thief and idealist swordsman, were just learning how to work together as a team.  In this standalone first installment of The Riyria Chronicles, Royce is determined to teach his naive partner a lesson about good deeds.  Join Royce and Hadrian in this short story (5,400 words) about one of their earliest adventures.

First Sentence:
A woman wielding a broom charged at them, looking as much like a witch as anyone Hadrian had ever seen.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Hadrian always a soft heart stops to see what the ragged dressed woman, tripping through the brush, is calling to him and Royce, his partner of just about a year, for help.  There is an unknown man in her barn and she fears for her life.  Hadrian wants to go take care of the problem, Royce is ready to move on but lets Hadrian learn a lesson on people.

I'm not going to say to much as it's such a short read and if I do I just might give it all way.  I want you to go read this quick read for yourself and enjoy it.

First and foremost, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO READ THE SERIES TO READ THIS.  Actually, you could read this to get a taste of Hadrian and Royce.

I loved getting to see these two characters again, Hadrian and Royce.  I love them, Hadrian and his big soft heart and Royce with his syndicalism of the two.  But the two together are fun.  There are jokes, the familiarity of the two carrying on together, and a great story as well.  I love the way Royce is and the mystery with him. Even knowing Royce after five books of the series I still love the mystery here. And do want to know more!

The nice thing about this short story is mention of some of the future characters in the series.  You are introduced to some names and who they are, which will give you a little background for when you read the series.  And yes, I think once you read this short story you will want the series.  Michael has created amazing characters and a great world here that all should read.  I do hope you go check this out.

Also included with this short story is the first chapter of Theft of Swords, to be released in November, then the next two books each month after.

So, do you want to read this short story?  Well, just your luck as it's a free download! Yep! Absolutely Free!  Follow this link over to the site and download the version that works best for you.  Do enjoy!


I read this short story for my own enjoyment.


This book qualifies for the Speculative Fiction Reading Challenge hosted by Floor to Ceiling books.

Short Story Released!

I have to share this!

You all know how much I've enjoyed reading the Riyria Revelations by Michael J. Sullivan.  Yes, they keep coming up around here.  But I really have enjoyed the books.  And I'm patiently (trying to be) waiting for the last and final book of the series.  As many of you are waiting for the series to start with Orbit books (November, and each month after for 3 till out).

I have a special treat!
While we are all waiting Michael has a short story from when Royce & Hadrian first started as a team.  The Viscount and the Witch.

I think you can read this alone as it's before the Riyria Revelations and shouldn't spoil anything, from the sounds of it.  I'll be looking to pick this one up.

It's on Amazon for only $.99.  Yes, 99 cents!  Want it?  

Go to Amazon and order it up now!  

And Ridan Publishing has the book for Free if you would like to go there.  

Yes, they are ebooks and different formats but it's only a short story of 5,400 words. :)

Synopsis:
Eleven years before they were framed for the murder of a king, before even assuming the title of Riyria, Royce Melborn and Hadrian Blackwater were practically strangers. Unlikely associates, this cynical thief and idealist swordsman, were just learning how to work together as a team. In this standalone first installment of The Riyria Chronicles, Royce is determined to teach his naive partner a lesson about good deeds. Join Royce and Hadrian in this short story (5,400 words) about one of their earliest adventures.