In a world where writing disappears when the author dies, 22-year-old Cael Oberlan watches the last gasping breaths of his best friend. He pulls a scrap of paper out of his pocket as his friend’s signature fades. Cael only wants vengeance for his friend and to create a reality where he no longer has to bow before any man. However, the nagging suspicion that his father, who started this war, hasn’t given him the whole story about his role in this conflict threatens to unravel everything he ever thought he knew about himself and the people he is fighting to free.
As nephew of the King, 24-year-old Emil Trestinsen should be a hero. He should already hear his name echoing in celebration in the streets of the capital. In a young life already full of disappointment, the lack of recognition for ridding the kingdom of “Ruinous” Lorcen Oberlan may prove to be the final push he needs to seize his destiny. He will prove his worth to his family and his nation. He will end this rebellion and take his rightful place as the next governor of the rebels.
When 18-year-old Merily Oberlan receives letters from the frontlines, and the top one is blank, she is devastated to realize one of her loved ones has died in battle. She is determined to help bring an end to this bloody war and be strong for her people, a cultural and religious minority in the kingdom of Harfal.
What started as a simple rebellion transforms into a complicated web of lies, betrayal, and difficult decisions no one should have to make. It is a race against time and death as handwriting continues to disappear, erasing the contracts and historical records necessary for peaceful negotiations.
John (verified owner) –
Fast shipping. Book arrived in great condition. Will be shopping again in the future.
John (verified owner) –
light spoilersish* I will be honest. I was plodding along in the 1st part 1 of the book. The characters are a bit of a slow build and the two I found Interesting had one chapter as a retrospective type chapter. At that point I was thinking about a 3 or 3.25. now part 2 really started building on those core characters where I could get a feel for them. And when I decided to up this bad boy to a 4.25/5 was because of a certain character. In her chapter I could see about midway through what was coming especially knowing the author’s stated influences. And though I could see it coming as I was reading I felt myself wanting the opposite of what I knew was about to happen. And when. It did happen I let out an audible sigh (in a good way). So now I’m in. I’m ready for a grave for us all. Great 1st entry if not a little plodding at first. Would recommend.
Reed Logan Westgate –
The Traitors We Are is a phenomenally well crafted adventure in a unique setting where your writing vanishes when you die. This mechanic alone in the blurb made me pick up the book as I found it intriguing. Michael uses it deftly through out the book to tug on your heartstrings as slips of paper with a persons name goes blank, or letter is delivered from the front lines with the words gone.
Aside from the cool concept that his world revolves around, Traitors We Are is a story that captures the essence of betrayal, treachery, and grabs for power. Two factions warring, Kings and magic, ploys for power and peace undermined with deceit and treachery. It reads like a beautiful blend of Game of Thrones mixed with Winter Soldier in a fantasy setting withs gods and magic.
This is a solid five star read. I enjoyed enough it to read again and I am eagerly awaiting to see where Michael Roberti goes with this series.