
'Promise of Blood' by Brian McClellan is set in a world where a revolution has just taken place, led by Field Marshall Tamas, a powder mage with a personal vendetta. The aftermath of the revolution brings about unexpected complications, challenging the characters' motives and loyalties. The story is filled with action, intrigue, and unique magic systems, including powder mages and other individuals with various powers. The plot unfolds through the perspectives of multiple characters, each with conflicting motives, adding depth to the narrative.
The writing style in 'Promise of Blood' is described as fast-paced, engaging, and with intricate world-building. The magic system, reminiscent of Brandon Sanderson's works, adds a unique touch to the story. The characters are well-developed, and the plot keeps readers entertained with unexpected twists and a mix of action, politics, and magic. Overall, the book sets the stage for an epic fantasy series filled with intriguing characters and a gripping storyline.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include violence and themes of attempted rape, which could be triggering for some readers.
Has Romance?
There are elements of romance present, particularly in the dynamics between Taniel and Ka Poel, but the focus remains primarily on the overarching plot and political intrigue.
From The Publisher:
"Just plain awesome" - Brandon Sanderson
Civil unrest cripples the citizens of Adro in the aftermath of the revolution that obliterated the monarchy. Now, Field Marshal Tamas and his lieutenants must confront the true cost of freedom in book one of the Powder Mage Trilogy.
It's a bloody business overthrowing a king. . .
Field Marshal Tamas' coup against his king sent corrupt aristocrats to the guillotine and brought bread to the starving. But it also provoked war with the Nine Nations, internal attacks by royalist fanatics, and the greedy to scramble for money and power by Tamas's supposed allies: the Church, workers unions, and mercenary forces.
It's up to a few. . .
Stretched to his limit, Tamas is relying heavily on his few remaining powder mages, including the embittered Taniel, a brilliant marksman who also happens to be his estranged son, and Adamat, a retired police inspector whose loyalty is being tested by blackmail.
But when gods are involved. . .
Now, as attacks batter them from within and without, the credulous are whispering about omens of death and destruction. Just old peasant legends about the gods waking to walk the earth. No modern educated man believes that sort of thing. But they should. . .
Winner of the David Gemmell Morningstar Award for Best Debut Fantasy.
Ratings (67)
Incredible (18) | |
Loved It (25) | |
Liked It (12) | |
It Was OK (10) | |
Did Not Like (1) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (136):
Read It (69) | |
Currently Reading (2) | |
Want To Read (53) | |
Did Not Finish (2) | |
Not Interested (10) |
3 comment(s)
This book lived up to the hype it was given.
Set during a very colonial feeling world, with your standard type of magic as well as a newer form using gunpowder, this novel brings new air to an almost stale genre.
World building and Character building are done well, and because the story follows four prime characters, it is just enough to keep on track, not to mention that their paths cross enough that they are connected unlike most fantasy these days.
In a time when everyone is either trying to be the next Tolkien, Rowling, Meyers, or whoever is popular, it si nice to have someone else decide to do something familiar enough that it is comfortable and yet new enough to make you feel excited about reading Fantasy again.
As for me, I am a powder mage fan, and you should become one as well.
3.5 stars (rounded down for the purpose of this review). The pacing was uneven and while I did find some of the characters intriguing, there were times when the book failed to hold my interest. I finished it, unlike last time, but I doubt I'll be reading any further into this series.
This book waffles between trying to be a hard magic and soft magic story, and the worldbuilding and themes are weaker for the contradiction.
Lots of interesting premises (tension between science and religion, betrayal and loyalty, father-son relationships, cultural perceptions), but just enough was off balance in the execution to stop me from loving this book.
Reminded me of Mistborn Era 2.
My full video review with detailed thoughts.
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