A Year Less Three Days
A knight must win a broken slave's heart to save his own soul.
The story follows Lias, a former woodsman reduced to slavery after failing to save his wife. His new owner, Necromis, is a knight of the Order of the White Bear who faces a deadly ultimatum from Bonecracker. To prevent his soul from being claimed, Necromis must capture Lias's heart. The narrative explores the psychological toll of abuse and the slow, difficult process of rebuilding trust between two damaged individuals. Shaw uses the framework of supernatural bargains to examine human resilience and the capacity for change even in the darkest circumstances.
This work sits within the contemporary dark fantasy genre, published in 2024. It draws on gothic and supernatural fiction traditions, focusing on medieval-style orders like the White Bear and the grim realities of slavery in a fictionalized historical context.
📝 Description: A Year Less Three Days
💎 Our verdict on A Year Less Three Days
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers seeking intense emotional depth within a dark fantasy setting will find this book rewarding. It appeals to those interested in the complex dynamics of captor and captive, offering a nuanced look at how trust rebuilds after severe abuse. The narrative is ideal for individuals who appreciate psychological horror over traditional hero journeys, as it focuses on the slow, difficult process of healing rather than action. Those drawn to gothic atmospheres and supernatural frameworks used to examine human resilience will gain from this exploration of redemption. It provides a compelling study of two damaged individuals navigating a deadly ultimatum, making it suitable for fans of stories that prioritize internal conflict and character transformation over lighthearted adventure.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Shaw delivers a potent examination of trauma through the lens of supernatural obligation. The narrative effectively captures the psychological toll of abuse, stripping away layers of humanity to reveal the core struggle for connection. By framing the relationship between Lias and Necromis within a deadly bargain, the author heightens the stakes of their emotional intimacy. This approach suits readers who enjoy gothic tension and dark fantasy elements that prioritize character development over plot mechanics. The work succeeds in portraying the arduous path to redemption, avoiding simplistic resolutions. It is best appreciated by those willing to engage with heavy themes of resilience and the capacity for change. While not for everyone, it offers a profound look at human durability against overwhelming darkness.
📖 Read on the blog
✍️ More books by this author Alyx Jae Shaw
🏛 Books from this publisher Arian Derwydd Books, LLC
You might also like
See more →Have a question about this item?
Ask about the edition, condition, delivery or anything else — we reply by email or phone, usually within a day.