Rounding out the main cast is Faelyn Titansworn, a young prince and Summoner who must master the politics of the realm—and suss out the secrets of an apparent conspiracy. Despite the prevailing male-ness, the three leads’ perspectives are distinct, as are the challenges they face, with Castien facing Blood Sorcerers, ancient magics, and the withering comments of warrior Ilyana perhaps the most compelling. Stitle deftly layers clues and connections across the storylines, and passages about how this world works grow organically from the characters.
Inevitably, all the magic, sects, shapers, beasts, ancient secrets, contemporary schemes, and more may overwhelm readers not in love with fantasy’s excesses, and diehards will find some elements edging the line between comfort-food familiar and derivative. The novel’s length feels determined by the genre rather than what this story needs. Still, Stitle’s clear love of his cast and world shines through—the result is a polished, exciting debut that, while not breaking new ground, pulses with infectious love for the ground that it claims. Promising for future volumes: the climax is pained and powerful.
Takeaway: Polished epic fantasy debut building to a pained, powerful climax.
Comparable Titles: Brandon Sanderson, R.A. MacAvoy.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A