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Low Country Trilogy #1
A Low Country
Everything went to hell in the first week.
After four years on the road, Sharla was looking forward to settling down and trying her hand at a steadier occupation. When Claws raid her town and take her lover, Renn, she knows it's time for action. She's tired of running. Now, she'll take a stand.
To do this, she'll have to follow the Claws across the tablelands. This is a land of bandits, mages, and monsters. If she wants to travel this country and rescue Renn, she'll need help. An army of Watchmen would be nice. Maybe even a drug cartel.
However, she also knows it's best to keep things small. The more allies she has, the more she risks a future knife between the ribs.
After all, this is Low Country.
After four years on the road, Sharla was looking forward to settling down and trying her hand at a steadier occupation. When Claws raid her town and take her lover, Renn, she knows it's time for action. She's tired of running. Now, she'll take a stand.
To do this, she'll have to follow the Claws across the tablelands. This is a land of bandits, mages, and monsters. If she wants to travel this country and rescue Renn, she'll need help. An army of Watchmen would be nice. Maybe even a drug cartel.
However, she also knows it's best to keep things small. The more allies she has, the more she risks a future knife between the ribs.
After all, this is Low Country.
308 pages, ebook
First published March 1, 2023
43 people are currently reading
504 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Shank
7 books46 followersIn middle school, Morgan finally broke away from incoherent clumps of algebra to fill a composition notebook with his first handwritten novel. Since then, he's imagined his own Skyrim rather than fumble through objective studies.
For reasons unknown to anyone, he somehow found his way into a trucking gig, and he now enjoys a day job hauling freight. When he’s not trucking or writing, Morgan spends his time dabbling in landscape photography, running Spartan Races, and staring at the mountains that surround his hometown of Harrisonburg, VA, in the USA, which provide ample inspiration for his fantasy novels.
For reasons unknown to anyone, he somehow found his way into a trucking gig, and he now enjoys a day job hauling freight. When he’s not trucking or writing, Morgan spends his time dabbling in landscape photography, running Spartan Races, and staring at the mountains that surround his hometown of Harrisonburg, VA, in the USA, which provide ample inspiration for his fantasy novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 24, 2023
Review originally on JamReads
A Low Country is the initial book in the fantasy western series, Low Country Trilogy, written by Morgan Shanks, one of the SPFBO9 participants. And not going to lie, this book was mostly a cover pick, and I'm glad to say that the content is at the same level; I found myself having great fun while reading the adventures of those characters in a Western setting, full of action and surprises.
Sharla only wanted to start from zero and set in a place after four years on the road; but when the Claw raids her town and kidnaps her lover, Renn, she decides it's time to take a stand and stop running.
But rescuing Renn is not going to be an easy task, as she will have to pursue the Claws across the land; she needs a crew, hiremen that she can only pay using money she decided to not touch. Once she gets a group of skilled outlaws, all it's ready for the mission. If this task was almost impossible, you need to add that the Watchmen are prosecuting the same groups of Claw when they find out about Sharla. And their leader, Coronel, has something in the past with her.
With this premise, we have a fun adventure, which mixes half the classic tropes of the Western genre (such as the setting, the group of outlaws, and the native antagonists), mixed with other elements that I found personally really interesting, such as the drug cartels as the way to control the land (which add a layer of politics that is certainly compelling) and some from the fantasy subgenre, such as the magical creatures and the rune-borns (mages who born with a limited number of spells in their blood). I would call the setting a low fantasy one, because it is true that the magical elements are relatively scarce.
Pacing is in an excellent spot, and the writing of Shank, despite not being the most elaborate one, does an excellent job of driving the adventure towards a good port; action scenes are well written, and clear, but with a sense of tension implied.
Personally, if I don't find this book a five-star read is due to how the characters are done. I feel they are underdeveloped, mostly as a consequence of the short length of the book; outside of Sharla and the Coronel, I would say the rest are mostly archetypical, they fulfill a role but lack some characteristics that would have made them more complete.
Said that, A Low Country is a great novel, perfect for those that are looking for reading something closer to a Western film. I enjoyed greatly while reading it, and honestly, I want to read the sequel as soon as possible.
A Low Country is the initial book in the fantasy western series, Low Country Trilogy, written by Morgan Shanks, one of the SPFBO9 participants. And not going to lie, this book was mostly a cover pick, and I'm glad to say that the content is at the same level; I found myself having great fun while reading the adventures of those characters in a Western setting, full of action and surprises.
Sharla only wanted to start from zero and set in a place after four years on the road; but when the Claw raids her town and kidnaps her lover, Renn, she decides it's time to take a stand and stop running.
But rescuing Renn is not going to be an easy task, as she will have to pursue the Claws across the land; she needs a crew, hiremen that she can only pay using money she decided to not touch. Once she gets a group of skilled outlaws, all it's ready for the mission. If this task was almost impossible, you need to add that the Watchmen are prosecuting the same groups of Claw when they find out about Sharla. And their leader, Coronel, has something in the past with her.
With this premise, we have a fun adventure, which mixes half the classic tropes of the Western genre (such as the setting, the group of outlaws, and the native antagonists), mixed with other elements that I found personally really interesting, such as the drug cartels as the way to control the land (which add a layer of politics that is certainly compelling) and some from the fantasy subgenre, such as the magical creatures and the rune-borns (mages who born with a limited number of spells in their blood). I would call the setting a low fantasy one, because it is true that the magical elements are relatively scarce.
Pacing is in an excellent spot, and the writing of Shank, despite not being the most elaborate one, does an excellent job of driving the adventure towards a good port; action scenes are well written, and clear, but with a sense of tension implied.
Personally, if I don't find this book a five-star read is due to how the characters are done. I feel they are underdeveloped, mostly as a consequence of the short length of the book; outside of Sharla and the Coronel, I would say the rest are mostly archetypical, they fulfill a role but lack some characteristics that would have made them more complete.
Said that, A Low Country is a great novel, perfect for those that are looking for reading something closer to a Western film. I enjoyed greatly while reading it, and honestly, I want to read the sequel as soon as possible.
December 14, 2023
wonderful weird west!
A terrifying raid takes a personal turn. Saddling up with posse of roughnecks a dangerous journey begins. For these lands contain fierce creatures. Also the worst of men.
Yeehaw! Badass adventure loaded with cartels & dirtbags! A top notch weird west! Great!
A terrifying raid takes a personal turn. Saddling up with posse of roughnecks a dangerous journey begins. For these lands contain fierce creatures. Also the worst of men.
Yeehaw! Badass adventure loaded with cartels & dirtbags! A top notch weird west! Great!
August 22, 2023
Sharla ha vagato per quattro anni tra villaggi e deserti, ma ora ha deciso di fermarsi, stanca di una vita di stenti, per porre radici assieme a Renn, un ragazzo che sembra promettere più di una fugace notte nelle polverose stanze di una locanda. Quando il progetto sembra poter prendere forma in maniera concreta, un’incursione di una tribù degli Artigli – figure assimilabili agli Indiani d’America – pone a ferro e fuoco la cittadina e ne rapisce gli abitanti, tra cui lo stesso Renn.
Sharla comincerà così un viaggio allo scopo di salvare l’amato, un viaggio ricco d’insidie dove gli alleati, specie molto rara e sempre pronta a piantare un coltello nella schiena, saranno più rari di mostri e fuorilegge.
Morgan Shank ha deciso di puntare su una cosa, ed è evidente sin dalle prime pagine: il ritmo del racconto (complice una lunghezza contenuta, poco più di duecentocinquanta pagine) è sin da subito serrato, travolgente. Gli eventi si susseguono senza sosta, perché dopo un’incursione seguirà una fuga, e dopo ancora uno scontro che porterà a dialoghi dagli arguti botta e risposta.
La prosa dell’autore è precisa e non lascia spazio a parole inutili: ogni termine è scelto con cura, e le frasi sono asciugate dove possibile per ricavarne situazioni estremamente visive e soddisfacenti.
Il manipolo di personaggi (un eterogeneo gruppo di antieroi) è ben caratterizzato, con ciascuno di essi che riesce a ritagliarsi quel tanto di spazio che basta per rendersi protagonista convincente dei momenti a lui dedicati.
Lo stesso si può dire del worldbuilding, che non risulta complesso ma comunque stratificato quel tanto che basta da lasciarsi apprezzare, per un mondo che, se amate i paesaggi dell’Ovest americano, saprà affascinarvi in breve tempo.
A Low Country è una prova solida, un’avventura divertente e frenetica, una terra bruciata da tramonti insanguinati, da magie riscoperte e alleanze insperate.
Cavalcate con Sharla, non ve ne pentirete.
Sharla comincerà così un viaggio allo scopo di salvare l’amato, un viaggio ricco d’insidie dove gli alleati, specie molto rara e sempre pronta a piantare un coltello nella schiena, saranno più rari di mostri e fuorilegge.
Morgan Shank ha deciso di puntare su una cosa, ed è evidente sin dalle prime pagine: il ritmo del racconto (complice una lunghezza contenuta, poco più di duecentocinquanta pagine) è sin da subito serrato, travolgente. Gli eventi si susseguono senza sosta, perché dopo un’incursione seguirà una fuga, e dopo ancora uno scontro che porterà a dialoghi dagli arguti botta e risposta.
La prosa dell’autore è precisa e non lascia spazio a parole inutili: ogni termine è scelto con cura, e le frasi sono asciugate dove possibile per ricavarne situazioni estremamente visive e soddisfacenti.
Il manipolo di personaggi (un eterogeneo gruppo di antieroi) è ben caratterizzato, con ciascuno di essi che riesce a ritagliarsi quel tanto di spazio che basta per rendersi protagonista convincente dei momenti a lui dedicati.
Lo stesso si può dire del worldbuilding, che non risulta complesso ma comunque stratificato quel tanto che basta da lasciarsi apprezzare, per un mondo che, se amate i paesaggi dell’Ovest americano, saprà affascinarvi in breve tempo.
A Low Country è una prova solida, un’avventura divertente e frenetica, una terra bruciata da tramonti insanguinati, da magie riscoperte e alleanze insperate.
Cavalcate con Sharla, non ve ne pentirete.
October 7, 2024
Fun western fantasy
In short, this book felt like old West meets low fantasy. There are mages but mostly it's a romp of cowboys and natives, fighting over native territory, processing their past deeds, and maybe trying to do a little good. I love books where crews come together and this one throws a few surprises to keep it interesting.
In short, this book felt like old West meets low fantasy. There are mages but mostly it's a romp of cowboys and natives, fighting over native territory, processing their past deeds, and maybe trying to do a little good. I love books where crews come together and this one throws a few surprises to keep it interesting.
March 5, 2023
*Full Disclosure: I read this book in an e-book format as an ARC back in December, but was not able to review it until now. I appreciate Morgan Shank for allowing me to read it in ARC format, and want to acknowledge that I am turning in an honest review. *
What a story! You expect some self-published books to be cheesy, poorly plotted, and too whacky. This book is none of those things! Instead, Morgan Shank demonstrates the writing chops that many traditionally published writers don't have. He is able to blend subgenres in a way that is unique and yet feels natural to the story.
When it comes to cast, the main character of Sharla is relatable and gritty. However, my favorite character to follow was Kine Tarroful. Kine has this ruggedness that many Sheriffs in Westerns have that made him fit the piece perfectly. I also really enjoyed getting to read about the villains, as well as the team that Sharla puts together to go save her loved one.
The worldbuilding in this is deep and well thought out. The author is able to explain what needs to be explained for this book to work, but leaves a lot of room open for future novels set in this world to explore the map (which is terrific) and to explore the people and governments.
I was able to provide a Blurb to the author which I will put below:
"Morgan has something special here. Not only does he have a good Fantasy story, he has also perfectly blended the Western themes that are so indelible to American literature. What an entertaining read!”
I mean exactly what I said there. I loved reading this book and cannot wait to see what Morgan Shank has in store! He is certainly going places. 4.5 out of 5!
What a story! You expect some self-published books to be cheesy, poorly plotted, and too whacky. This book is none of those things! Instead, Morgan Shank demonstrates the writing chops that many traditionally published writers don't have. He is able to blend subgenres in a way that is unique and yet feels natural to the story.
When it comes to cast, the main character of Sharla is relatable and gritty. However, my favorite character to follow was Kine Tarroful. Kine has this ruggedness that many Sheriffs in Westerns have that made him fit the piece perfectly. I also really enjoyed getting to read about the villains, as well as the team that Sharla puts together to go save her loved one.
The worldbuilding in this is deep and well thought out. The author is able to explain what needs to be explained for this book to work, but leaves a lot of room open for future novels set in this world to explore the map (which is terrific) and to explore the people and governments.
I was able to provide a Blurb to the author which I will put below:
"Morgan has something special here. Not only does he have a good Fantasy story, he has also perfectly blended the Western themes that are so indelible to American literature. What an entertaining read!”
I mean exactly what I said there. I loved reading this book and cannot wait to see what Morgan Shank has in store! He is certainly going places. 4.5 out of 5!
June 8, 2024
An action packed western-fantasy adventure that excelled in some departments and never felt lacking in any way.
Fans of the western genre will be very happy to know that Shank has nailed not just the atmosphere and the scenery, but also that freedom and lawlessness that we associate with the wild west.
The characters are interesting and even though this not a long book, I felt connected to most of them and that's mainly due to how believable they came across and how nice dialogue interactions were written.
The worldbuilding and lore weren't overly developed in this installment but what we got felt satisfying enough.
A nice series that fans of the genre will most likely enjoy.
7,3/10
Fans of the western genre will be very happy to know that Shank has nailed not just the atmosphere and the scenery, but also that freedom and lawlessness that we associate with the wild west.
The characters are interesting and even though this not a long book, I felt connected to most of them and that's mainly due to how believable they came across and how nice dialogue interactions were written.
The worldbuilding and lore weren't overly developed in this installment but what we got felt satisfying enough.
A nice series that fans of the genre will most likely enjoy.
7,3/10
May 24, 2023
A total of 3.3 on my scoring system. So a rounded down 3.
I have struggled with this genre previously, but I was completely suckered in my that fantastic book cover.
Overall this book is good. The author definitely writes action scenes fantastically well and managed to pace an all-out action Western really well.
For my personal taste I need to connect to characters and unfortunately this missed the mark slightly for me. Whilst I enjoyed the Colonel's character , no one else really landed for me.
I think this will be a popular spfbo9 entry and those who love, balls to the wall action, will definitely enjoy this one
I have struggled with this genre previously, but I was completely suckered in my that fantastic book cover.
Overall this book is good. The author definitely writes action scenes fantastically well and managed to pace an all-out action Western really well.
For my personal taste I need to connect to characters and unfortunately this missed the mark slightly for me. Whilst I enjoyed the Colonel's character , no one else really landed for me.
I think this will be a popular spfbo9 entry and those who love, balls to the wall action, will definitely enjoy this one
July 11, 2023
I found this book to be a ton of fun. The action starts at the rip and never lets up, the book feeling like a wild chase from there. Which is what I personally expect from a Western piece.
My one critique is that I wish the world was a bit more fleshed out. Low Country was explained in great detail and was well executed. But there were a couple of times when places outside the action were mentioned and discussed briefly, but I didn't know if the narrative was talking about a country, city, or continent. It was nothing to take from the story itself, just something I wish we got a little more explanation of.
The characters were well-developed and well-rounded. I felt invested in Sharla early on and loved the ensemble that grew around her as the story progressed. Each arc had a pretty straightforward plot that all came together to meet for an exciting ending. If you're a fan of anything Western, there's no way you can go wrong with this, and even if you're not, this is just an all-around fun ride from start to finish. I highly recommend it.
My one critique is that I wish the world was a bit more fleshed out. Low Country was explained in great detail and was well executed. But there were a couple of times when places outside the action were mentioned and discussed briefly, but I didn't know if the narrative was talking about a country, city, or continent. It was nothing to take from the story itself, just something I wish we got a little more explanation of.
The characters were well-developed and well-rounded. I felt invested in Sharla early on and loved the ensemble that grew around her as the story progressed. Each arc had a pretty straightforward plot that all came together to meet for an exciting ending. If you're a fan of anything Western, there's no way you can go wrong with this, and even if you're not, this is just an all-around fun ride from start to finish. I highly recommend it.
September 22, 2023
Another great fantasy Western
I can now say I've read three fantasy Westerns and I've enjoyed all of them. A Low Country has a great blend of those Western vibes and fantasy elements of magic and dragon-like creatures. This is a shorter novel but there's a lot packed into it. Jyrak was one of my favorite characters. There were also several good lines and pieces of dialogue I really enjoyed. It took me a while to like Sharla. I felt like her introduction didn't show off a lot of her personality because the first several chapters didn't have a lot of dialogue or thoughts from her, but toward the end, I liked her a bit more. I did feel like she did Renn dirty by just leaving him after she had spent all that time going to find him. Their romance also didn't really feel that strong to me, but that might have been intentional given how she ends things with him. I'm interested to see what happens in book two.
I can now say I've read three fantasy Westerns and I've enjoyed all of them. A Low Country has a great blend of those Western vibes and fantasy elements of magic and dragon-like creatures. This is a shorter novel but there's a lot packed into it. Jyrak was one of my favorite characters. There were also several good lines and pieces of dialogue I really enjoyed. It took me a while to like Sharla. I felt like her introduction didn't show off a lot of her personality because the first several chapters didn't have a lot of dialogue or thoughts from her, but toward the end, I liked her a bit more. I did feel like she did Renn dirty by just leaving him after she had spent all that time going to find him. Their romance also didn't really feel that strong to me, but that might have been intentional given how she ends things with him. I'm interested to see what happens in book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2025
A western fantasy adventure with bandits, rogues, and wizards.
A Low Country is a very promising start to the Low Country Trilogy by Morgan Shank. The world is incredibly gritty, straight from the familiar dunes, bluffs, and buttes of an old western film. The infusion of fantasy into this world is such an interesting mix, and it brings a lot of depth and intrigue.
Shank's prose is direct, and it really sells the no-nonsense, cutthroat world that our characters live in. You feel every grain of sand, every punch to the gut, and every splatter of blood (of which there are plenty). The dialogue of this book was also incredibly engaging. Quick-witted banter and deep conversations both held an equally fast grip on my attention, and it gave extra nuance to our main cast of characters.
Sharla and Kine both stood out as the most well-rounded characters. Both of their conflicts and backstories fueled a lot of mystery and served for very good development down the line. Both of their arcs were fully believable. My favorite character had to be Arlon. His banter with Sharla definitely made for some of the most lively scenes.
The action of this book is also very well done. Each setpiece is carefully put into place, and they are not used as substitution for character moments. The choreography and description of each action scene gives the reader a very clear sense of the brutal, bloody, and flat-out cool action unfolding.
One thing I would have liked to see a bit more of was a bit more distinction between some characters, particularly in Sharla's crew. Aside from Sharla and the people with the most spoken lines, it felt like the rest of the group was waiting in the wings for something that didn't quite materialize. They were either killed off or they just drifted along with the plot.
Overall, A Low Country is a very unique and enjoyable western fantasy that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I'm very interested to see where the story goes.
A Low Country is a very promising start to the Low Country Trilogy by Morgan Shank. The world is incredibly gritty, straight from the familiar dunes, bluffs, and buttes of an old western film. The infusion of fantasy into this world is such an interesting mix, and it brings a lot of depth and intrigue.
Shank's prose is direct, and it really sells the no-nonsense, cutthroat world that our characters live in. You feel every grain of sand, every punch to the gut, and every splatter of blood (of which there are plenty). The dialogue of this book was also incredibly engaging. Quick-witted banter and deep conversations both held an equally fast grip on my attention, and it gave extra nuance to our main cast of characters.
Sharla and Kine both stood out as the most well-rounded characters. Both of their conflicts and backstories fueled a lot of mystery and served for very good development down the line. Both of their arcs were fully believable. My favorite character had to be Arlon. His banter with Sharla definitely made for some of the most lively scenes.
The action of this book is also very well done. Each setpiece is carefully put into place, and they are not used as substitution for character moments. The choreography and description of each action scene gives the reader a very clear sense of the brutal, bloody, and flat-out cool action unfolding.
One thing I would have liked to see a bit more of was a bit more distinction between some characters, particularly in Sharla's crew. Aside from Sharla and the people with the most spoken lines, it felt like the rest of the group was waiting in the wings for something that didn't quite materialize. They were either killed off or they just drifted along with the plot.
Overall, A Low Country is a very unique and enjoyable western fantasy that kept me engaged from beginning to end. I'm very interested to see where the story goes.
June 4, 2023
Magnifico romanzo grimdark auto pubblicato..
La qualità della scrittura è davvero elevata, da autore affermato.
Morgan ha trasportato il western americano nel suo mondo fantasy, mondo molto più vasto che potrà contenere storie di ogni tipo, e con questa qualità, spero siano numerose..
Le Low Country sono desertiche, ostili alla vita, piene di canyon, pullulanti di banditi e Claws (i nativi, i pellerossa del suo mondo) e di bestie strane e letali..
Lontane dalle verdi foreste del Nord, lontane dalla capitale, e lontane degli interessi del re.. dimenticate e desolate..
Qui si ambienta la vicenda raccontata, un western in piena regola, senza pistole, ma con spade, asce, archi e balestre..
E non mancano i maghi!!
Il sistema magico, semplice ma efficace, si basa su rune che un mago può accumulare nei suoi libri, e perciò sono limitate, perché possono esaurirsi visto che ad ogni uso si consumano, e vanno ad influenzare gli elementi naturali.. dando vita a combattimenti grafici e cinematografici..
Il ritmo è notevole, pieno di azione, (combattimenti ben fatti e crudi), ma non stanca, dosato alla perfezione, e la trama è solida e con un finale perfettamente adeguato..
I due personaggi principali sono ben costruiti, un po' meno i secondari, ma sempre ben fatti..
Il bello è che tutto ciò avviene in sole 230 pagine (per quanto ben zeppe di caratteri) e fin dalle primissime pagine di catapultati nella vicenda che si delinea pian piano, ma che fin da subito ti fa sputare polvere, sudare copiosamente e avvertire la puzza delle Low Country..
Mi fa ricordato molto Red Country di Abercrombie per ambientazione, sarcasmo e stile.. per i miei gusti uno dei più riusciti romanzi self degli ultimi periodi!!
La qualità della scrittura è davvero elevata, da autore affermato.
Morgan ha trasportato il western americano nel suo mondo fantasy, mondo molto più vasto che potrà contenere storie di ogni tipo, e con questa qualità, spero siano numerose..
Le Low Country sono desertiche, ostili alla vita, piene di canyon, pullulanti di banditi e Claws (i nativi, i pellerossa del suo mondo) e di bestie strane e letali..
Lontane dalle verdi foreste del Nord, lontane dalla capitale, e lontane degli interessi del re.. dimenticate e desolate..
Qui si ambienta la vicenda raccontata, un western in piena regola, senza pistole, ma con spade, asce, archi e balestre..
E non mancano i maghi!!
Il sistema magico, semplice ma efficace, si basa su rune che un mago può accumulare nei suoi libri, e perciò sono limitate, perché possono esaurirsi visto che ad ogni uso si consumano, e vanno ad influenzare gli elementi naturali.. dando vita a combattimenti grafici e cinematografici..
Il ritmo è notevole, pieno di azione, (combattimenti ben fatti e crudi), ma non stanca, dosato alla perfezione, e la trama è solida e con un finale perfettamente adeguato..
I due personaggi principali sono ben costruiti, un po' meno i secondari, ma sempre ben fatti..
Il bello è che tutto ciò avviene in sole 230 pagine (per quanto ben zeppe di caratteri) e fin dalle primissime pagine di catapultati nella vicenda che si delinea pian piano, ma che fin da subito ti fa sputare polvere, sudare copiosamente e avvertire la puzza delle Low Country..
Mi fa ricordato molto Red Country di Abercrombie per ambientazione, sarcasmo e stile.. per i miei gusti uno dei più riusciti romanzi self degli ultimi periodi!!
April 3, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders.
With enough yee-haws to go around, A Low Country is sure to scratch that itch for those who want a little more wild west with their fantasy novels.
Following Sharla, a resident of the Old West analogue called Low Country, our plot boils down to one of revenge and rescue. A group of bandits called the Claws raids Sharla’s town and kidnaps her lover, and so she puts together a team to track down the Claws, take them down, and bring her lover home. Matters are complicated by the presence of not only drug cartels running a turf war, but also the colonel Kine of the law-abiding Watchmen, who has a pronounced interest in Sharla’s comings and goings. What follows is a fast-paced journey with betrayals, justice, magic, and secrets that is sure to excite.
The weird western setting of A Low Country is really where Shank shines. The inspiration from Red Country by Joe Abercrombie is immediately apparent in this book. We have the typical arrangement of sheriffs, bandits, shootouts, and standoffs, but the Low Country has such a well-defined and -explored history in the span of a couple hundred pages. Themes of ambition, duty, greed, and family are at the heart of this book, and while none of it is revolutionary, all of it is done remarkably well. Action scenes are exciting, too, with intense moments, high stakes, and inventive rune-based magic leaping off the page. Several scenes are quite pulse-pounding, and their frequency really helps elevate the rest of the novel.
Some small issues do run the book aground before it could reach new heights, though. While the prose is well-written, repetitive phrases rear their ugly heads enough for it to be noticeable, specifically the constant use of “as though he/she/it was/were etc.” Additionally, character arcs, apart from Sharla and Kine’s, felt a bit undercooked, which may have been a consequence of the shorter length of the novel. And while the main plot threads are tied up nicely, some of the subplots felt a little underbaked and rushed.
That said, none of these issues are really to the detriment of the book overall, and it might be a bit more nitpicky. The interwoven narratives of Sharla and Kine are written very well, and there’s enough here for Shank to put his own spin on the fantasy/western mashup genre and keep it fresh. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but given how well it’s written, it didn’t need to. It didn’t stay too long, but it didn’t overstay its welcome either.
And at the end of the day, A Low Country is simply a fun read. It’s fast-paced with a lot of heart and some really memorable moments, and I’m certainly looking forward to continuing with the series in the future.
With enough yee-haws to go around, A Low Country is sure to scratch that itch for those who want a little more wild west with their fantasy novels.
Following Sharla, a resident of the Old West analogue called Low Country, our plot boils down to one of revenge and rescue. A group of bandits called the Claws raids Sharla’s town and kidnaps her lover, and so she puts together a team to track down the Claws, take them down, and bring her lover home. Matters are complicated by the presence of not only drug cartels running a turf war, but also the colonel Kine of the law-abiding Watchmen, who has a pronounced interest in Sharla’s comings and goings. What follows is a fast-paced journey with betrayals, justice, magic, and secrets that is sure to excite.
The weird western setting of A Low Country is really where Shank shines. The inspiration from Red Country by Joe Abercrombie is immediately apparent in this book. We have the typical arrangement of sheriffs, bandits, shootouts, and standoffs, but the Low Country has such a well-defined and -explored history in the span of a couple hundred pages. Themes of ambition, duty, greed, and family are at the heart of this book, and while none of it is revolutionary, all of it is done remarkably well. Action scenes are exciting, too, with intense moments, high stakes, and inventive rune-based magic leaping off the page. Several scenes are quite pulse-pounding, and their frequency really helps elevate the rest of the novel.
Some small issues do run the book aground before it could reach new heights, though. While the prose is well-written, repetitive phrases rear their ugly heads enough for it to be noticeable, specifically the constant use of “as though he/she/it was/were etc.” Additionally, character arcs, apart from Sharla and Kine’s, felt a bit undercooked, which may have been a consequence of the shorter length of the novel. And while the main plot threads are tied up nicely, some of the subplots felt a little underbaked and rushed.
That said, none of these issues are really to the detriment of the book overall, and it might be a bit more nitpicky. The interwoven narratives of Sharla and Kine are written very well, and there’s enough here for Shank to put his own spin on the fantasy/western mashup genre and keep it fresh. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but given how well it’s written, it didn’t need to. It didn’t stay too long, but it didn’t overstay its welcome either.
And at the end of the day, A Low Country is simply a fun read. It’s fast-paced with a lot of heart and some really memorable moments, and I’m certainly looking forward to continuing with the series in the future.
April 15, 2025
Absolutely loved A Low Country!
The Western setting pulled me in right away with its gritty, atmospheric vibe, and the motley crew surrounding Sharla made for a fun and unpredictable journey. Each character brings something unique to the table, and their dynamic really worked for me.
The fight scenes were sharp, intense, and really well written—some of my favorite parts of the book.
Kine was a standout for me, especially because of his past with Dormun and an unexpected twist. I won't say more because this would spoiler the reading experience a lot for those of you who want to read this book at some point.
This is a strong start to the series, and I’m definitely in for the long haul. Can’t wait to see where it goes next!
The Western setting pulled me in right away with its gritty, atmospheric vibe, and the motley crew surrounding Sharla made for a fun and unpredictable journey. Each character brings something unique to the table, and their dynamic really worked for me.
The fight scenes were sharp, intense, and really well written—some of my favorite parts of the book.
Kine was a standout for me, especially because of his past with Dormun and an unexpected twist. I won't say more because this would spoiler the reading experience a lot for those of you who want to read this book at some point.
This is a strong start to the series, and I’m definitely in for the long haul. Can’t wait to see where it goes next!
December 29, 2024
I love having this series on my shelf. The covers are awesome!
Seeing fantasy westerns always gives me nostalgic feelings for the G.F. Unger stories I used to swipe from my dad. While those hadn’t been fantasy books, this is still the closest I’ll get to that experience again. I don’t remember much about them besides the chases on horseback and the action scenes, which Shank does really well in this book. It was usually really easy to picture what was going on, which isn’t always the case for me. I often just imagine blobs doing things while reading a book. 🤣
I did struggle to connect to some of the characters though. I prefer more character and emotional development, which was drowned out by the action, action, action in this. If you like a quick plot with exciting action scenes though, then this will definitely hit the spot though. It’s set in a really interesting world with a magic system that I’d love to learn more about.
Seeing fantasy westerns always gives me nostalgic feelings for the G.F. Unger stories I used to swipe from my dad. While those hadn’t been fantasy books, this is still the closest I’ll get to that experience again. I don’t remember much about them besides the chases on horseback and the action scenes, which Shank does really well in this book. It was usually really easy to picture what was going on, which isn’t always the case for me. I often just imagine blobs doing things while reading a book. 🤣
I did struggle to connect to some of the characters though. I prefer more character and emotional development, which was drowned out by the action, action, action in this. If you like a quick plot with exciting action scenes though, then this will definitely hit the spot though. It’s set in a really interesting world with a magic system that I’d love to learn more about.
November 8, 2024
Probably not quite four stars for me, but I want to encourage an author who is not established, but has the stones to try.
I appreciated the Western meets Fantasy vibe. Dark and gritty, but not too dark and gritty.
It took me a while to catch the cadence of the novel (for lack of a better word), but it seemed to become more readable as I went. I’ll be checking out the second of the trilogy at some point.
I appreciated the Western meets Fantasy vibe. Dark and gritty, but not too dark and gritty.
It took me a while to catch the cadence of the novel (for lack of a better word), but it seemed to become more readable as I went. I’ll be checking out the second of the trilogy at some point.
February 29, 2024
A very fun western-style fantasy with high-stakes and a seriously impressive atmosphere throughout. The emotional depth between particular characters - Kine and Gaskar; Sharla and Arlon - was thorough and captivating and should have its own commendation to Shank's writing. There were a number of interesting themes going on as well, including the use of mages, magic, tribal cultures and native spirits, which although I felt could have been expanded upon more, I have no doubt that they will feature and evolve more in the next installment - which I have lots of desire to read very soon!
Very impressed; a quick and fun read.
Very impressed; a quick and fun read.
March 10, 2023
New series off to a great start!
Great story full of wonderful characters, an interesting magical system, tons of fighting, non-human chaos mages, crooked watchmen, man eating wyrm larvae and tigoras(?), and a bunch of dysfunctional people. Can't think of a better way to spend a few hours.
Great story full of wonderful characters, an interesting magical system, tons of fighting, non-human chaos mages, crooked watchmen, man eating wyrm larvae and tigoras(?), and a bunch of dysfunctional people. Can't think of a better way to spend a few hours.
August 22, 2024
TL;DR Review: Insanely fast paced action, complex and damaged characters, and a breathtaking Wild West-flavored world.
Full Review:
I didn’t just read A Low Country—I inhaled it.
It certainly helped that it’s on the shorter end of fantasy, around 250 pages. But really, the book (and the rest of the series) is wonderfully bingeable because of three things done SO VERY RIGHT:
1. The characters.
From the beginning, we see just how damaged our main protagonist, Sharla, really is. There’s a beautiful sense of poetry in the way that she loses herself in horsemanship and music, but it’s eminently clear that it’s just her way of trying to drown out her traumatic past (an abusive father she had to murder to save her mother, who never once fought back). She is strong but flawed, headstrong but vulnerable at times, determined but still human and very, very breakable. From her first whirlwind ride to chase the savage Claws who stole her lover to the final epic battle scene, we’re along with Sharla for a deeply emotional ride, one of growth and change the happens slowly but with amazing poignance.
But we also get to see from the POV of Kine Tarroful, Colonel of the Watchmen who are trying their best to keep order in Low Country, even if that means making deals with drug-running cartels and bloodthirsty bandits. From his perspective, we see the sort of “do what has to be done to keep peace” even if that means signing a decades-long deal with many devils.
Inevitably, their paths are going to cross, and Sharla’s crew of outlaws and desperadoes will draw Kine’s attention. And the result is…much, much more complex than you could possibly expect going into it.
The character work done in A Low Country is truly amazing, and it was Sharla and Kine that anchored me instantly to the story and drew me into the world.
2. The world.
The world of Low Country feels immediately like the Wild West. From vast deserts to whipping sandstorms to towering buttes to great canyons, any cowboy fiction lover will be at home from the first page.
But there’s a really lovely sense of wonder woven subtly through it. Though the terrain is harsh and unforgiving, filled with deadly creatures and countless threats, it also conceals magic and beauty in abundance.
Seeing the world through Kine’s eyes, we’re treated to the gritty and grimdark. Sharla’s POV, however, allows us to marvel right along with her at all the wonders this arid world has to offer.
It’s never boring or “samey”—on the contrary, every moment we spend exploring the world only makes it feel more alive and unique in a way I absolutely loved.
3. The action.
This is one of the greatest strengths of the book, especially when paired with the complex, powerfully-written characters.
A Low Country is packed with countless action scenes, and each one has a frenetic, almost frantic, chaotic pacing. It’s like you’ve been dropped into the middle of one of Joe Abercrombie’s biggest battles—everything is happening all at once on all sides, and so fast you can barely keep track of it.
I found myself ripping through the book because the tight, sparse writing of the action scenes left me breathless. It was one of those “blink and you’re done and 50 pages farther along” stories that proved so captivating for an action-loving reader like me.
A Low Country is a VERY strong offering in the grimdark fantasy genre, and it’s Wild West flavor makes it a true standout. It’s a spectacular look at flawed, vulnerable humans wrapped up in a stunningly vivid world and a non-stop adventure that will keep you spellbound from the first page to the last.
Full Review:
I didn’t just read A Low Country—I inhaled it.
It certainly helped that it’s on the shorter end of fantasy, around 250 pages. But really, the book (and the rest of the series) is wonderfully bingeable because of three things done SO VERY RIGHT:
1. The characters.
From the beginning, we see just how damaged our main protagonist, Sharla, really is. There’s a beautiful sense of poetry in the way that she loses herself in horsemanship and music, but it’s eminently clear that it’s just her way of trying to drown out her traumatic past (an abusive father she had to murder to save her mother, who never once fought back). She is strong but flawed, headstrong but vulnerable at times, determined but still human and very, very breakable. From her first whirlwind ride to chase the savage Claws who stole her lover to the final epic battle scene, we’re along with Sharla for a deeply emotional ride, one of growth and change the happens slowly but with amazing poignance.
But we also get to see from the POV of Kine Tarroful, Colonel of the Watchmen who are trying their best to keep order in Low Country, even if that means making deals with drug-running cartels and bloodthirsty bandits. From his perspective, we see the sort of “do what has to be done to keep peace” even if that means signing a decades-long deal with many devils.
Inevitably, their paths are going to cross, and Sharla’s crew of outlaws and desperadoes will draw Kine’s attention. And the result is…much, much more complex than you could possibly expect going into it.
The character work done in A Low Country is truly amazing, and it was Sharla and Kine that anchored me instantly to the story and drew me into the world.
2. The world.
The world of Low Country feels immediately like the Wild West. From vast deserts to whipping sandstorms to towering buttes to great canyons, any cowboy fiction lover will be at home from the first page.
But there’s a really lovely sense of wonder woven subtly through it. Though the terrain is harsh and unforgiving, filled with deadly creatures and countless threats, it also conceals magic and beauty in abundance.
Seeing the world through Kine’s eyes, we’re treated to the gritty and grimdark. Sharla’s POV, however, allows us to marvel right along with her at all the wonders this arid world has to offer.
It’s never boring or “samey”—on the contrary, every moment we spend exploring the world only makes it feel more alive and unique in a way I absolutely loved.
3. The action.
This is one of the greatest strengths of the book, especially when paired with the complex, powerfully-written characters.
A Low Country is packed with countless action scenes, and each one has a frenetic, almost frantic, chaotic pacing. It’s like you’ve been dropped into the middle of one of Joe Abercrombie’s biggest battles—everything is happening all at once on all sides, and so fast you can barely keep track of it.
I found myself ripping through the book because the tight, sparse writing of the action scenes left me breathless. It was one of those “blink and you’re done and 50 pages farther along” stories that proved so captivating for an action-loving reader like me.
A Low Country is a VERY strong offering in the grimdark fantasy genre, and it’s Wild West flavor makes it a true standout. It’s a spectacular look at flawed, vulnerable humans wrapped up in a stunningly vivid world and a non-stop adventure that will keep you spellbound from the first page to the last.
July 4, 2024
“Brilliant,” Keryn said. “A crew of seven goes into Laken, wants to find toughs to follow them into a land no one’s been to so they can find a tribe no one can track. This gets better and better.”
First of all, I love the cover, not just for Book 1 but for all the books in the trilogy. Take a bow Jeff Brown.
Ever since I read Cold West, I’ve been looking to delve more into fantasy-westerns and I finally picked this one up. It has a proper wild wild west feel to it and is a plot-driven novel. Right from the first chapter, the book keeps advancing the plot with no slow moments. The action scenes are very well done, especially a tavern fight that spills onto the town and then the whole town becomes involved in it. It was a lot of fun following the rag-tag crew and the dialogue was good.
The prose is also so accessible that it is pretty much effortless to read. Everytime I picked up the book I was able to cross more than 50 pages and I finished the book within 2 days. There are different types of magic systems with limitations and dragon-like creatures called Tigoras and Wyrms (baby dragons.) The politics of the book is also set up very well with different drug cartels ruling different areas, warring indigenous tribe factions and an almost rogue military army that all come together in the climax.
The character work unfortunately is what makes this a mixed reading experience for me. We follow Sharla for the majority of the book and it is her story but her motivations and backstory are not explained well at all and there are no emotional moments to stop and connect with the character. By contrast, I liked Colonel Kine a lot more- he’s definitely a major character but doesn’t get as much page time as Sharla and yet his motivations, backstories and overall character development was much more well rounded. Even Jyrak, my second favorite, despite essentially being a side character, had emotional moments that connected him to the reader and he was just overall more fun than Sharla too. Sharla, on the other hand, was constantly thrust from one danger to another but I wasn’t engaged enough to worry about her arc. Even after the grand climax battle, I don’t feel like Sharla’s arc was at a satisfying place.
In the wise words of Travis Baldree, “Books with tons of fight scenes have to work very hard to avoid tedium.” This is where I felt the book missed its mark for me because the characters are majorly the same after every fight scene, big or small. I am still interested enough in the world and magic/ magical creatures that I might pick up the rest of the books in the trilogy.
First of all, I love the cover, not just for Book 1 but for all the books in the trilogy. Take a bow Jeff Brown.
Ever since I read Cold West, I’ve been looking to delve more into fantasy-westerns and I finally picked this one up. It has a proper wild wild west feel to it and is a plot-driven novel. Right from the first chapter, the book keeps advancing the plot with no slow moments. The action scenes are very well done, especially a tavern fight that spills onto the town and then the whole town becomes involved in it. It was a lot of fun following the rag-tag crew and the dialogue was good.
The prose is also so accessible that it is pretty much effortless to read. Everytime I picked up the book I was able to cross more than 50 pages and I finished the book within 2 days. There are different types of magic systems with limitations and dragon-like creatures called Tigoras and Wyrms (baby dragons.) The politics of the book is also set up very well with different drug cartels ruling different areas, warring indigenous tribe factions and an almost rogue military army that all come together in the climax.
The character work unfortunately is what makes this a mixed reading experience for me. We follow Sharla for the majority of the book and it is her story but her motivations and backstory are not explained well at all and there are no emotional moments to stop and connect with the character. By contrast, I liked Colonel Kine a lot more- he’s definitely a major character but doesn’t get as much page time as Sharla and yet his motivations, backstories and overall character development was much more well rounded. Even Jyrak, my second favorite, despite essentially being a side character, had emotional moments that connected him to the reader and he was just overall more fun than Sharla too. Sharla, on the other hand, was constantly thrust from one danger to another but I wasn’t engaged enough to worry about her arc. Even after the grand climax battle, I don’t feel like Sharla’s arc was at a satisfying place.
In the wise words of Travis Baldree, “Books with tons of fight scenes have to work very hard to avoid tedium.” This is where I felt the book missed its mark for me because the characters are majorly the same after every fight scene, big or small. I am still interested enough in the world and magic/ magical creatures that I might pick up the rest of the books in the trilogy.
January 22, 2024
A Low Country by Morgan Shank
Adventurous, challenging, hopeful, inspiring, reflective, sad, and tense.
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0 Stars
I didn't know what I was getting into...when I picked up this book.
I had a feeling it was a Western/Fantasy, so in that I was correct...and it seems that I love this mixture of genres.
I want to say at the beginning...I really loved the arc that Sharla took within this story. She is her own person...and her agency isn't tied to anyone. That was refreshing.
Low Country, as a place...is not a place that I'd choose to live in. Not actually sure if ANYONE would, if they had the ability to make that decision.
There were a number of "bad guys" in this story, and each time they were faced by our protagonist, she did her best to do "the right thing".
I also love how the reader doesn't know the full extent of who Sharla is...and as the story is told, it is revealed.
Sharla is NOT a damsel in distress, though that really IS her secret weapon, IF she wanted to used it...though she likes things a little sharper.
Loved the worldbuilding and the lore of this land. It was approachable, but also has a mystic about it. We've been here before vibe, but once you are in the midst of it, you realize you were wrong...there is SO much more there (some good, but a LOT bad).
The drug cartel aspect of this story was interesting. There really isn't a good way to make that group "lily white" in my mind. I can see them as filling the void, but there had to have been a BETTER way, IMO.
I will be picking up the sequel to this story later in the week. Don't want to lose the momentum that I currently have.
Adventurous, challenging, hopeful, inspiring, reflective, sad, and tense.
Medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0 Stars
I didn't know what I was getting into...when I picked up this book.
I had a feeling it was a Western/Fantasy, so in that I was correct...and it seems that I love this mixture of genres.
I want to say at the beginning...I really loved the arc that Sharla took within this story. She is her own person...and her agency isn't tied to anyone. That was refreshing.
Low Country, as a place...is not a place that I'd choose to live in. Not actually sure if ANYONE would, if they had the ability to make that decision.
There were a number of "bad guys" in this story, and each time they were faced by our protagonist, she did her best to do "the right thing".
I also love how the reader doesn't know the full extent of who Sharla is...and as the story is told, it is revealed.
Sharla is NOT a damsel in distress, though that really IS her secret weapon, IF she wanted to used it...though she likes things a little sharper.
Loved the worldbuilding and the lore of this land. It was approachable, but also has a mystic about it. We've been here before vibe, but once you are in the midst of it, you realize you were wrong...there is SO much more there (some good, but a LOT bad).
The drug cartel aspect of this story was interesting. There really isn't a good way to make that group "lily white" in my mind. I can see them as filling the void, but there had to have been a BETTER way, IMO.
I will be picking up the sequel to this story later in the week. Don't want to lose the momentum that I currently have.
July 17, 2023
I picked this up because I was in the mood for a western themed fantasy story and this delivered on both of those elements. The magic in this story was intriguing and I enjoyed the story when we got to see displays of magic, which happened frequently. The western elements were fun too, and I thought the descriptions of the towns and landscapes we explored were great, I was able to picture them clearly in my mind.
There is quite a bit about the history and lore of the world that we're left out of knowing. I found myself wishing we could have explored that further. I know this is the beginning of a trilogy, so I hope the author gives us more of the lore as the story progresses. I was also slightly frustrated with some of the character motivations. I felt we were told something about a character, only to have it pivot a chapter later and it was done in a way that felt slightly jarring. That may come down to a few story elements that aren't my personal favorite.
I enjoyed it overall, and it was a quick read. If you're in the mood for a western with some strong fantasy elements, it won't disappoint!
There is quite a bit about the history and lore of the world that we're left out of knowing. I found myself wishing we could have explored that further. I know this is the beginning of a trilogy, so I hope the author gives us more of the lore as the story progresses. I was also slightly frustrated with some of the character motivations. I felt we were told something about a character, only to have it pivot a chapter later and it was done in a way that felt slightly jarring. That may come down to a few story elements that aren't my personal favorite.
I enjoyed it overall, and it was a quick read. If you're in the mood for a western with some strong fantasy elements, it won't disappoint!
July 12, 2023
Shank does a tremendous job with blending fantasy and western elements in a secondary world. It all felt seamless. Some of the creatures in this world, are bone chilling. Even though I have seen them in other fantasy novels, the way they were described felt different from other books.
The magic system felt unique, and I liked how there was a cost to using magic. I still have so many questions and wish Shank elaborated a little more. I am also not sure on how runeborns/runemasters differ from Claw mages and how they access aether to spell cast. I assume this all will be elaborated later in the trilogy, but I wish Shank added more ground rules to the magic system in book 1.
Despite loving the world Shank created, I found it difficult to be engaged with this book. I was never successful with connecting with the characters. There were so many cool action scenes, but I realized early on I didn’t care what happened to the characters. I also found it difficult to accept Sharla’s motivations to save Renn. Knowing how the book ends, it makes a little more sense as the plot unfolds. However, I wish the plot was written differently since I never could accept her reasoning and it felt too insta-love for me.
I am a character-driven reader so I will add a caveat where if you are a plot driven then you probably won’t have the same issues.
Overall, good concept for a world, where fantastical elements are combined seamlessly in a western setting. I would recommend this for plot-driven readers who are looking for a fast and action-packed book.
The magic system felt unique, and I liked how there was a cost to using magic. I still have so many questions and wish Shank elaborated a little more. I am also not sure on how runeborns/runemasters differ from Claw mages and how they access aether to spell cast. I assume this all will be elaborated later in the trilogy, but I wish Shank added more ground rules to the magic system in book 1.
Despite loving the world Shank created, I found it difficult to be engaged with this book. I was never successful with connecting with the characters. There were so many cool action scenes, but I realized early on I didn’t care what happened to the characters. I also found it difficult to accept Sharla’s motivations to save Renn. Knowing how the book ends, it makes a little more sense as the plot unfolds. However, I wish the plot was written differently since I never could accept her reasoning and it felt too insta-love for me.
I am a character-driven reader so I will add a caveat where if you are a plot driven then you probably won’t have the same issues.
Overall, good concept for a world, where fantastical elements are combined seamlessly in a western setting. I would recommend this for plot-driven readers who are looking for a fast and action-packed book.
May 11, 2023
This novel has the unique ability to straddle both Western and fantasy genres absolutely perfectly. Readers of both or either would be easily and readily satisfied. The magic and the world blend seamlessly together to form a beautifully imagined landscape.
The high point of the story was definitely its characters: I won't give away spoilers, but there is never a dull moment as each person peels backs a layer of themselves, revealing themselves to be more than what they are at first glance. They slowly, and often painfully, disrobe themselves of the burdens of Low Country to let us see their innermost workings.
Lovers of action won't be disappointed either, as the soft magic system and shoot'em up (with crossbows though, not guns) will get your heart racing and fingers turning the pages.
a real scintillating read for those looking for the juxtaposition of traditional fantasy and western coming together to form something wholly new and fresh
Loved this novel.
The high point of the story was definitely its characters: I won't give away spoilers, but there is never a dull moment as each person peels backs a layer of themselves, revealing themselves to be more than what they are at first glance. They slowly, and often painfully, disrobe themselves of the burdens of Low Country to let us see their innermost workings.
Lovers of action won't be disappointed either, as the soft magic system and shoot'em up (with crossbows though, not guns) will get your heart racing and fingers turning the pages.
a real scintillating read for those looking for the juxtaposition of traditional fantasy and western coming together to form something wholly new and fresh
Loved this novel.
September 1, 2024
A Low Country … a fantasy western. Now that might come as a surprise, but it’s also the second western style fantasy I have read in the last month, and they could not be more distant in style. The smooth prose of Morgan Shank draws you into some interesting characters, whose backgrounds and motivations are revealed at a perfect pace as the story emerges. There is no doubt you feel like there’s going to be a showdown every few pages or so, and the author does not disappoint, but it keeps you engaged through each encounter as battleaxes and crossbows replace six-shooters and Winchester rifles. On top of this, the magic fits, never too powerful or overwhelming and balanced just right to engage the reader in the possibilities. Overall, there could be more flesh on the bones, but then this is a trilogy and Low Country leaves you wanting more, and for that I gave it five stars.
December 19, 2024
Probably more like a 3.5, but I'll round up. I've not had much experience reading fantasy with such a western feel, but this was a fun one! The action scenes are fantastic, the pacing is quick, and the prose seamless and easy to read. It took me a while to start to care about or understand the characters well. Though I didn't like Kine (not a good dude), he was the most compelling character. I think Shank started to touch on some of the more fantastical components of his world as we dealt with the Runemasters and creatures in the canyon. I look forward to learning a little bit more about this world. I probably do too much world building comparison to Sanderson, but he's got the unfair advantage of aggressively long books, so with that in mind, I'll say the worldbuilding for A Low Country is a 4/5. Overall, a super fun and quick read!
June 6, 2023
A western masquerading as a fantasy novel, A Low Country is an exciting and absorbing ride. A warlike tribe leaves our main character, Sharla, with her lover taken captive and she's going to face the titled, "Low Country," to get him back. She's gritty and knows her way around a fight, but knows that she needs allies to feasibly get him back, and making allies in an area where no one can be trusted is a tall order in and of itself.
The characters are somewhat minimal, but with enough detail to give them some personality, The fighting is frenetic with vivid battle scenes, and the world building manages to be interesting too.
Recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are somewhat minimal, but with enough detail to give them some personality, The fighting is frenetic with vivid battle scenes, and the world building manages to be interesting too.
Recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 13, 2023
This fantasy western was a surprise on many levels. It was a little slow to get started, but all that setup was needed when things really began taking off around chapters 4/5. You'll find traditional western tropes like blood money, hiring "toughs", running from the law, and raids on towns. Surprises include magic users (and a unique system for it), monsters, and traditional adventure party archetypes.
Sharla is the main character whose town is raided, her lover taken, and she sets out to bring the stolen people home. She needs a few hired toughs, and one of these is my favorite character. There are a couple neat twists and of course, trouble backgrounds.
If you're looking for a new twist on fantasy, give this a try!
Sharla is the main character whose town is raided, her lover taken, and she sets out to bring the stolen people home. She needs a few hired toughs, and one of these is my favorite character. There are a couple neat twists and of course, trouble backgrounds.
If you're looking for a new twist on fantasy, give this a try!
October 13, 2024
A western disguising itself as low fantasy. A savage frontier land filled with bandits, cartels, native tribes trying to reclaim their lands, giant flying lizards, and a rescue mission to boot. What's not to love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's fast paced with lots of well written, intense action scenes. The main protagonist was well fleshed out but I do wish a bit more time was spent with the other characters. But that's only because I felt connected enough to them to want to learn more.
A Low Country was a great blend of fantasy and the wild west. I'm definitely going to continue with this series!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's fast paced with lots of well written, intense action scenes. The main protagonist was well fleshed out but I do wish a bit more time was spent with the other characters. But that's only because I felt connected enough to them to want to learn more.
A Low Country was a great blend of fantasy and the wild west. I'm definitely going to continue with this series!
March 15, 2023
Morgan Shank has written a very solid entry into the Western Fantasy genre! There are guns and magic, monsters both literal and figurative...there are families both natural and found, complicated friendships and alliances, love and loss...
And all of it is set against a dramatic American West-inspired landscape that is by turns savage and delicious. The female-led cast of characters are unique and fully realized: they have regrets and hopes and desperate goals, and flaws.
This is a really good read!!
And all of it is set against a dramatic American West-inspired landscape that is by turns savage and delicious. The female-led cast of characters are unique and fully realized: they have regrets and hopes and desperate goals, and flaws.
This is a really good read!!
December 13, 2024
Gutted I couldn't get into it. Loved the world-building potential of the blend of fantasy and western, (a more medieval Gunslinger? less exoteric Deadlands? toned-down Evil West? guaranteed banger in my book), and Shank definitely knows how to write action. I just couldn't connect with any character, the plot, the motivations, and some world-building choices really broke my suspension of disbelief - cartel being the best example. Finished it out of stubbornness, because I quit on this book at page 50. and had to drag it for another 180 pages. Gutted.
5/10
5/10
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