I picked up Honor’s Price by Mike Rossi expecting a standard fantasy novel. Its dwarven setting and battles held my attention, and I found the story worth recommending.
A High-Stakes Dwarven Quest
The plot centers on a free dwarf clan fighting to reclaim their ancestral hold from corrupted Abyssal Dwarfs. Their fight is rooted in the clan’s home, history, and identity. Rossi gives the dwarves a clear sense of heritage and adds detail to the KoW setting.
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
Honor’s Price held my interest through the final chapters, and I’m interested to see what Mike Rossi writes next. It combines a clear quest, well-described battles, and a strong connection to the clan’s history. I recommend it to readers who enjoy dwarven fantasy or Kings of War’s Pannithor setting. I’d read a sequel if Rossi writes one.
