'Seven Blades in Black' by Sam Sykes is a grim dark fantasy novel that follows the protagonist Sal the Cacophony on her quest for revenge against her former comrades who betrayed her. The story is set in a fascinating world filled with magic, killer ostriches, and steampunk elements. Sal, a broken yet strong female character, makes a deal with a demon to achieve her goal, leading to a tale of action, adventure, and magic in a world torn between the Imperium and the Revolution.

Characters:

The characters are multifaceted, with the protagonist being a deeply flawed yet determined individual, supported by a diverse cast that adds depth to the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style combines a sarcastic and immersive first-person narrative with elements of dark humor, making it engaging but sometimes challenging due to its choppiness.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a central quest for revenge where the protagonist, aided by a magical entity, battles against those who have betrayed her in a creatively imagined world.

Setting:

The setting combines post-apocalyptic features with a wild west vibe, enriched by a unique and imaginative magic system.

Pacing:

Overall, the pacing is fast-paced and engaging, though some sections might feel less urgent, which can lead to a sense of stretching.

From the walls of Imperial Cathama to the farthest reach of the Revolution, there was no citizen of the Scar who could think of a finer way to spend an afternoon than watching the walls get painted wi...

Notes:

The main character is Sal the Cacophony, a sarcastic and cynical woman on a revenge quest.

It's set in a gritty, dark fantasy world resembling the Wild West.

The story includes a unique blend of magic and gunplay, often described as 'gun fu'.

Sal has made a deal with a demon, adding an intriguing supernatural element to the plot.

The narrative features a complex magic system and interesting worldbuilding, with bizarre creatures like killer ostriches.

It contains a blend of humor and dark themes, characteristic of 'grimdark' fantasy.

The book explores themes of betrayal, revenge, and the consequences of power.

Sal's quest is driven by the theft of her magical powers, making it personal and relatable.

The writing style is noted for its high level of sarcasm and wit, which enhances the storytelling.

The book incorporates LGBTQ+ elements, with a prominent bisexual female protagonist.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of physical trauma, emotional abuse, the forceful removal of one's soul, and other dark themes.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance, particularly a lesbian romance that is woven through the main plot.

From The Publisher:

Acclaimed author Sam Sykes returns with a brilliant new epic fantasy that introduces an unforgettable outcast mage caught between two warring empires.

Her magic was stolen. She was left for dead.

Betrayed by those she trusts most and her magic ripped from her, all Sal the Cacophony has left is her name, her story, and the weapon she used to carve both. But she has a will stronger than magic, and knows exactly where to go.

The Scar, a land torn between powerful empires, where rogue mages go to disappear, disgraced soldiers go to die and Sal went with a blade, a gun, and a list of seven names.

Revenge will be its own reward.

Ratings (3)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (1)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (20):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (12)
Not Interested (5)

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Seven Blades in Black

Sam Sykes