Whispers of the Silent Age: A Mythic Fantasy with Heart, Humor, and Unlikely Heroes
By Reinventor
Completed – 99,000 words, 40 chapters
Hello Wattpad readers (and if you’re not, get on there for this one), I was so thrilled at the story I just read, Whispers of the Silent Age. It is a ghibli-esque MxM romantasy featuring a Stoic Minotaur and a chaotic Tanuki. It features quirky banter and emotional resonance. You all know I love LGBTQ+ stories, and we especially need more MM representation in the romantasy space.
It starts from chapter one right into the story and the action, and it continues with every page. Let’s take a look in my spoiler-free review:
A Monster Who Refuses to Be One
What occurs when a cursed minotaur is released from his old prison by a cunning tanuki? The attraction of Whispers of the Silent Age, a full-length fantasy adventure that unexpectedly combines myth, comedy, and slow-burning emotional depth, is that it’s not what you’d probably expect. It’s unique and inventive, while still follow tropes that readers in the genre have come to love.
Due to a vicious curse, Ben the minotaur has been imprisoned in his labyrinth for generations, where he must kill anybody who ventures inside. But beneath his immense might lies a kind heart buried beneath years of grief, a soul that hates violence. Here comes Fuku, a sassy, flirtatious tanuki whose intentions are as hazy as his smile. He releases Ben because he needs a strong bodyguard on a perilous expedition, not out of sympathy. The worst part? He simply enjoys the vista as well.
A Duo You Don’t Forget
The central theme of the narrative is the improbable alliance between Ben and Fuku. I love them so much as characters and I love the banter between them! They have a humorous, occasionally frustrating, and unexpectedly touching dynamic. Ben’s peaceful stoicism is smashed by Fuku’s frenetic energy, and the two of them stumble, argue, and eventually develop something like trust.
The chemistry feels genuine, the banter is light, and there is a strong emotional undercurrent. Each scene they share advances the plot and emotional impact of the narrative. I found myself rooting for them to succeed – in their adventures and in their love for one another. And the payoff is so worth it to get to the end of this story!
A World Where Magic and Technology Collide
I also really enjoy the novel’s broader setting, which is a world where technology and magic are emerging and the “mystical paths” have been sealed. It had a sense of both antiquity and modernity, where mythological creatures and clockwork innovations might coexist. Fuku’s attempt to “get home” turns into a far more extensive trip through identity, history, and power. This was a lot of fun to follow.
Writing & Tone
The mood alternates between playful playfulness and thoughtful gloom. It combines elements of an epic, a romantic comedy, and a contemplative silence on purpose and freedom. In some romantic fantasy, it’s uncommon to find a balance between seriousness and humor in text. This hits the nail right on the head!
Here’s a short version recap of what I liked:
Themes That Linger
- Identity vs. Destiny — Ben refuses to be defined by his monstrous past.
- Found Family & Trust — Two misfits learning to coexist without betrayal.
- Freedom & Consequence — What it truly costs to be free, and what you owe the ones who free you.
- Love in Unlikely Places — The quiet kind that sneaks up between sarcasm and shared danger.
Verdict
Whispers of the Silent Age is the sort of tale that makes you realize why myth is still important: there is something profoundly human hidden beneath every curse, maze, and witty comment. It transforms well-known dream clichés into something intimate and genuine while being humorous, sincere, and subversively subtle.
If you enjoy slow-burning relationships (especially through a queer lens), character-driven fantasy, and mythical re-imaginings, or if you like your tricksters to have heart and your monsters to have feelings, you should definitely read this book.
5 stars — Clever, queer, charming, and quietly profound.