Have you ever started a book and realized, halfway through the first chapter, that you’d be staying up way too late to finish it? That was me with Honor’s Price by Mike Rossi. I picked it up expecting a standard fantasy romp, but quickly found myself neck-deep in dwarven lore, epic battles, and a story that felt both classic and fresh all at once. By the end, I knew this was something I wanted to recommend.
A High-Stakes Dwarven Quest
The plot centers on a free dwarf clan fighting to reclaim their ancestral hold from corrupted Abyssal Dwarfs. You really feel for these characters: they’re not just fighting because they “have to,” but because this is their home, their birthright, and a massive part of their identity. I loved how Rossi brought that sense of heritage to life—there’s a real depth to these dwarves that goes beyond the usual tropes, and it truly fleshes out the KoW lore in a way that makes the universe richer and more interesting.
Heart-Pounding Combat and Great World-Building
Rossi’s biggest strength might be how he writes combat. His action scenes feel vivid, with every strike and clash described in a way that makes you lean in (if you follow his podcast, you probably already know he’s a martial artist, so perhaps that plays into some of how he describes combat so vividly). If you enjoy wargaming or tabletop battles, you’ll recognize those tense, strategic moments reflected in the story. The pace never lets up. One minute you’re learning about dwarven traditions and the next you’re in a fierce melee, cheering them on as if you’re there.
Characters and Motivation
I like how Rossi balances plot momentum with character moments. Some of them could use a touch more backstory, sure, but it never slows down the action. In fact, the mystery around certain characters kept me turning pages, hoping to find out more. The clan feels authentic in its unity—there’s no shortage of loyalty, bickering, and pride, which makes the group dynamic fun to read.
Why You Should Give It a Try
If you’re into dwarven fantasy, Kings of War (Pannithor), or just enjoy reading about underdogs taking on impossible odds, Honor’s Price is worth it. You’ll especially appreciate the way Rossi blends the feel of tabletop gaming with rich storytelling. It’s exciting, immersive, and has a real heart beneath all the battle cries.
Closing Thoughts
In the end, Honor’s Price left me excited to see what else Mike Rossi has up his sleeve. This is the kind of book that surprises you with how much it packs in: a meaningful quest, vivid battles, and a sense of heritage that grounds the fantasy elements in real emotional stakes. If you’re looking for your next big read, I highly suggest jumping into this dwarven adventure. Chances are, you won’t want to leave until you’ve turned the last page—and even then, you’ll be ready for the sequel. (There will be a sequel, right?)
