The Crimson Campaign, the second book in the Powder Mage trilogy by Brian McClellan, continues the story following the aftermath of the events in the first book, Promise of Blood. The plot delves deeper into the lives of the main characters, focusing on their individual struggles and growth amidst a backdrop of war, politics, and magical powers. The writing style is fast-paced, filled with action scenes that keep the readers engaged while exploring themes of power, loyalty, and sacrifice.

The narrative follows a diverse cast of characters, each dealing with personal challenges and facing external threats. From the military campaigns led by Field Marshal Tamas and his son Taniel to the political maneuvering in the city of Adopest, the story weaves together multiple plotlines that converge to create a gripping tale of adventure, intrigue, and magic. With elements of fantasy, war, and political intrigue, The Crimson Campaign offers a richly detailed world where characters must navigate complex relationships and make difficult choices to survive in a world on the brink of chaos.

Characters:

The characters are multi-dimensional, grappling with personal and external conflicts, showcasing significant development throughout the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is fast-paced and character-driven, with a focus on action and world-building.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a war against invading forces, with characters dealing with personal conflicts and larger military strategies.

Setting:

The setting consists of a rich fantasy world that reflects historical elements, complete with complex political and magical dynamics.

Pacing:

Overall, pacing improves significantly, with early slow moments giving way to intense action and engagement later on.

Adamat stood perfectly still in the middle of a deep hedgerow outside of his own summer house and stared through the windows at the men in the dining room. The house was a two-story, three-bedroom aff...

Notes:

The Crimson Campaign is the second book in Brian McClellan's Powder Mage trilogy.

The series features a unique magic system involving gunpowder or "powder mages."

The book follows multiple points of view including Tamas, Taniel, and Inspector Adamat.

Taniel's storyline is particularly compelling due to his struggles with addiction and family trauma.

Tamas faces self-doubt and vulnerabilities while leading his army behind enemy lines.

The book explores themes of family loyalty, love, and revenge.

Character growth is significant; Taniel transforms from a self-absorbed man to someone willing to sacrifice for his country.

Ka Poel, a mysterious companion of Taniel, has magic powers that remain partially unexplained, increasing her allure.

Female characters receive more focus in this installment, including Nila, who develops significantly over the course of the story.

The plot deals with a war against invading forces known as the Kez, adding political intrigue to the narrative.

The pacing improves significantly in the second half of the book, with intense action sequences that keep readers engaged.

Readers noted the book doesn’t stand alone well, recommending reading the first book first for context.

The series has been described as 'The French Revolution with Wizards,' featuring political and social themes within a fantasy setting.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include violence, gore, adult language, and themes of torture and addiction.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance in the story, particularly between Taniel and his companions, which adds depth to character relationships.

From The Publisher:

"Just plain awesome" - Brandon Sanderson

A staggering defeat on the border of Adro and Kez leaves Tamas and his powder mages in grave danger and cut off from all aid. Meanwhile, deadly political games threaten his allies at home.

When invasion looms. . .

Tamas's invasion of Kez ends in disaster when a Kez counter-offensive leaves him cut off behind enemy lines with only a fraction of his army, no supplies, and no hope of reinforcements. Drastically outnumbered and pursued by the enemy's best, he must lead his men on a reckless march through northern Kez to safety, and back over the mountains so that he can defend his country from an angry god, Kresimir.

But the threats are closer to home. . .

In Adro, Inspector Adamat wants only to rescue his wife. To do so he must track down and confront the evil Lord Vetas. He has questions for Vetas concerning his enigmatic master, but the answers will lead Adamat on a darker journey.

Who will lead the charge?

Tamas's generals bicker among themselves, the brigades lose ground every day beneath the Kez onslaught, and Kresimir wants the head of the man who shot him in the eye. With Tamas and his powder cabal presumed dead, Taniel Two-shot finds himself as the last line of defense against Kresimir's advancing army.

The Crimson Campaign continues the most acclaimed and action-packed new epic fantasy series in years, following on from Promise of Blood - an adrenaline-fuelled debut of flintlock mages, civil war, and cold-blooded murder in a world where gods walk the earth.

Ratings (24)

Incredible (11)
Loved It (10)
Liked It (2)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (27):

Read It (26)
Want To Read (1)

What can you read after
The Crimson Campaign?

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Activity

Recommendations

My Stuff

Account

More