The Blasted Lands

Seven Forges #2

by James A. Moore

This heart-pounding sequel in the grimdark Seven Forges saga sees enemies new and old, human and inhuman, converge on the crumbling Empire of Fellein

The Empire of Fellein is in mourning. The Emperor is dead, and the armies of the empire have grown soft. Merros Dulver, their newly-appointed—and somewhat reluctant—commander, has been tasked with preparing them to fight the most savage enemy the world has yet seen.
 
Meanwhile, a perpetual storm ravages the Blasted Lands, and a new threat is about to arise. The Broken are coming—and with them, only Death.

Genres: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Fiction, High Fantasy, Adult, Science Fiction Fantasy, War

390 pages, Paperback

First published June 24, 2014

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

James A. Moore was the award winning author of over forty novels, thrillers, dark fantasy and horror alike, including the critically acclaimed Fireworks, Under The Overtree, Blood Red, the Serenity Falls trilogy (featuring his recurring anti-hero, Jonathan Crowley) and his most recent novels, seven Forges, The Blasted Lands, City of Wonders , The Silent Army and the forthcoming The Gates of The Dead (Book Three in the Tides of War Series) and A Hell Within, co-authored with Charles R. Rutledge.

Reviews

[Melissa ♥ Dog/Wolf Lover ♥ Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

That ending was pretty freaking awesome!





For the record; there wasn't enough of Drask in the book and I have already said I am in love with him from the first book.

I was thrilled to read about Andover Iron Hands and how much his life changed when he went back to be with the Sa'ba Taalor. He had to go through some trials in order to meet with one of their gods. I just think the whole thing with Andover was freaking awesome, these were my favorite parts of the book!

Swech wasn't in the book too much either but she has some stuff she's got going on and a little secret, maybe more. They will come out in later books.

I still love Merros and although he was in the book a great bit not a whole lot was going on with him. He is the leader of the army and at Empress Nachia's side. I think the Emperor was right in picking her for the Empress after his death because she's pretty bad-@ssed!

I feel like this book was leading up to some serious battles in the next two books. There are a lot of things going on with different groups and I'm not sure how it's all going to turn out, I just really hope all of the people I love won't die.

I still don't trust the wizard, Desh. I'm not sure why but I feel like something is going to come out about him later on. I may be wrong and he's a great person. We shall see.

Oh, oh and we get to find out why the Sa'ba Taalor wear the mask thingies over their faces and it's wicked cray! I mean wicked cray! I had to come back and update this part because my friend "Luke" said it better. We find out "what's behind the veil" and that's awesome cool and the reasons behind it. <---No pun intended! =)

Overall I enjoyed the book. I did have some moments where it dragged for me when it was just meh stuff with the humans and what not. I mean we got these cool people things and their gods and I want to know all of their stuff. lol

Looking forward to the next book!

MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List

[✘✘ Sarah ✘✘ (former Nefarious Breeder of Murderous Crustaceans) · Rating 4 out of 5]

● We Want to Know what's Behind the Freaking Veils then Again maybe Not Buddy Read (WWtKwBtFVtAmNBR™) with my Slightly Unhinged Fantasy Comrades (SUFC™) over at BB&B ●

Actual rating: 4.5 stars and a half. More or less.

Okay, my first resolution for 2017 is to stop writing never-ending, pit-stop requiring reviews and the Little Barnacles go:



Come on, people! Have a little trust in my supernatural strength and abilities, will you?! I can do this! Of course I can!



Oh, just shut the shrimp up.
When I told the murderous crustaceans about this terrifyingly valiant endeavour, they thought it was such an awesome idea that they actually designed a gif to celebrate:



Not only are my babies homicidal, they are quite creative, too. I feel so blessed to have such astonishingly talented troops at my disposal.

So here we go, time to get on with it and cut some serious crap.

Book 1 in this series was slightly brilliant. Most Epic Fantasy freaks seem to think it's a little sub-par, but my little self being a teensy little bit Fantasy impaired, I thought it was all sorts of dazzling. Because great, creative world building with somewhat humongous potential. And a delicious, Equally Ferocious Opportunity Cast of Characters (EFOCoC™). And and violence, blood, gore and stuff. And and and twists and turns and shocks and stuff. So yeah, you could say I kinda enjoyed book 1 ←is recapping my review for Seven Forges what I call cutting some serious crap, you ask? Sure looks like it.

Now take all the glorious stuff from ↑↑↑ (aka book 1), raise it to the shrimping power of 2, and you get The Blasted Lands:

✔ Ze plot thickens a whole freaking damn lot! Enchantingly yummy war coming right up! Woo hoo! Bring it on, you Sa'ba Taalor bastards! My Merros is going to kick your gray asses six two hundred ways to Sunday, you vicious, religious freaks. Plus, he's got Hugh Hefner Desh and his mostest excellentest bunnies sorceresses on his side. Plus plus, he's got newly appointed, uber nifty empress Nachia on his side. So watch out, you bunch of brutal zealots, you're about to get slightly slaughtered!



Afraid, you clique of fanatic savages? You should be. My Wondrously Amazing Fellein Team (WAFT™) is going to beat the shrimping crap out of you.

✔ Delightfully murderous and delectably cunning characters galore.

✔ Kick-ass sistas are doin' it for themselves, aka Cool Ruthless Chicks R Us (CRCRU™), aka so many new recruits for the harem I will have to build a new wing ASAP. Then again, some space might be freed up soon. It depends on what Evil Mr Moore is Evil (EMMiE™) is up to with my maybe-former-love Swech.

✔ Bye, bye recycling! Hello necromancy! Now that's what I call being barbarically efficient!

✔ The Freaking Veils of Utter Disgustment (FVoUT™). Shrimp knows I wanted to know what the Sa'Ba Taalor hid behind their infamous veils. Now I do know. And I might be nefarious and devious and stuff, but EW EW EW. And EW. I really didn't need to know that, Mr Moore. I knew you were slightly malevolent, but this was just too...



Exactly, dear Alfred. See, this is so sickeningly sick that even my pet raccoon is on the verge of puking his guts out. Poor baby. This doesn't mean the whole FVoUT™ business isn't cool, though. Oh no. Because, oh yes, sickeningly sick stuff can be deliciously awesome, too. Sometimes.

What else? I don't know. I kinda liked this book? Maybe. Not sure though. I think I might have to think it over before I give a definite opinion here. I'll let you know ASAP. By 2056 or something. You're welcome.

» And the moral of this I didn't Cut the Crap as Seriously as I Wanted to But it Could Have Been Much Worse so Go Me Crappy Non Review (IdCtCaSaIWtBiCHBMWsGMCNR™) is: let's dance.



P.S.: in case you haven't noticed, the book covers for this series are getting more pornalicious lickable by the minute. Bye now.

· Book 1: Seven Forges ★★★★
· Book 3: City of Wonders ★★★★
· Book 4: The Silent Army ★★

[Dan · Rating 3 out of 5]

While Merros Dulver prepares the Empire of Fellein for the possibility of war with the Sa'ba Taalor, Desh Krohan sends an expedition to the Blasted Lands to find The Mounds, the one place the gods of the Taalor forbid them to go...

I got this from Angry Robot via Netgalley

The Blasted Lands picks up where Seven Forges left off. Andover is learning the ways of the Sa'ba Taalor. Merros is in charge of the Imperial Army. And a new empress is crowned. When Tusk invites the Empire to parley, what does he have in mind?

I struggled with how to rate this book. On one hand, a lot more of the lore behind the Sa'ba Taalor is revealed: customs, religion, magic, etc. More worldbuilding is done, not quite as seamless as the first book but still very good. The characters introduced in the first book are fleshed out and do a lot to make Moore's world seemed lived in. And we finally know why the Taalor are masked a lot of the time.

There are still plenty of mysteries, however. We still don't know what's beneath the mounds but the bigger mystery is how the Empire can stand up against an enemy that's been training for a thousand years for just such a war.

All that being said, not a whole lot actually happens beyond the expedition to the Mounds, Andover's trials with the Sa'ba Taalor, and a lot of maneuvering. It did a lot to build my interest in the next book, though.

When all is said and done, it's the middle book in a trilogy and does a great job setting up the next book. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the first so I'm giving it a 3.5 out of 5.

[Gavin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Blasted Lands is the second book in the Seven Forges series and to be honest it is of a similar quality to the first. It shares all the same strengths ad weaknesses.

After the happenings at the end of the first book the Empire of Fellein and the Sa'ba Taalor are both readying for war. Merros is tasked with the responsibility of whipping the Fellein army into a force capable of matching the Sa'ba Taalor. The mage Desh Krohan and his apprentices are seeking allies to aid Fellein from various sources. Andover Lash finds himself in the heart of the Blasted Lands and comes face to face with the Gods who gave him his new hands!

Story and writing wise this sequel was similar in quality to the first book, but I must admit that I found myself growing a little bored with the happenings at times. I think this series lacks the proper hooks to keep me emotionally invested or interested in the long term. I just do not care all that much about any of the characters which definitely kills the tension for me.

On the plus side we did learn a bit more about the Sa'ba Taalor and their Gods and there was plenty of other action and magic to keep the action up.

I'm not sure if I'll bother with the third book as it seemed to take me forever to get through this one!

Rating: 3 stars.

Audio Note: David de Vries gave a similar sort of performance here as he did with the first instalment. He is consistent if a little dull.

[Choko · Rating 4 out of 5]

*** 4.44 ***

A buddy read with the violent Fantasy enthusiasts at BB&B! Let's slaughter some monsters!!!


The Empire of Fellein has a new Empress and a very new and unusual enemy - the Sa'ba Taalor, the gray monster riding veiled warriors, who have proven they do not play when it comes to playing for keeps. The Fellein people are disoriented and apprehensive. They have grown comfortable in their rule over the 12 civilized kingdoms and the strength to repel all and every threat to their supremacy. Their arrogance is still in place, only they have no true idea whom they are facing!


Merros Dulver knows the enemy better than most. He called some of them friends, one of them lover, and now held them responsible for the death of his best friend and the emperor Pathra Krous, as well as a deep feeling of betrayal. The old wizard and playboy mentor of gorgeous witches wannabe Desh Krohan, has promoted Merros to the commander of the whole army and together they have become the strength and brains behind the throne. At this point they are scrambling to figure out the best action for the realm's safety and trying to protect the right of Nachia Krous to assend to the throne... At the same time, the Sa'ba Taalor's kings are gathering to make their plans fro war, and at this time all of them are willing to work together, since their gods have asked it of them, and the Sa'ba people are nothing if not obedient to their g-ds!

Desh has sent all of his gorgeous apprentice ladies to different parts of the land in order to research as much as they can about their adversary, while his designated ambassador to the Sa'ba is traveling with Drask Silverhand and co. is walking toward the Seven Forges Mountains through the Blasted Lands, as a way to prove himself to the gods who have granted him new hands! Andover Iron Hands is slowly shedding his youth and inexperience and is becoming a worthy warrior...

"..."“What was it that Drask Silver Hand had said to him? Life is pain. Oh, how he lived just then.” ..."

In this second book of the Seven Forges series, the author gives us more world building, more players enter the field, and the world is bubbling in the verge of a war, sure to bring with it unnatural destruction and much bloodshed... We get plenty of it here as well, but it is a book that feels like a preparation, like foreplay before the big main event... I love the build up and can only hope that the event itself would be just as satisfying! I wish I had more of my favorite Swech, but even what we did get was quite exciting. Also, we learned what they hide behind the veils, and I have to tell you, it was nothing I expected and it was completely and totally creeptastik!!!

To all who are interested in the darker side of fantasy, this is definitely a worthy read, but I would recommend to read it in order, or it will make no sense. There is blood, there is violence, there is magic, and there is combat. If this sounds like something you might enjoy, do read it! It is fun:):):)


I wish you all Happy Reading and many adventures in the pages of a good book!!!

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Ok. I didn't love it but I also couldn't leave it alone. I don't normally like books where characters remain sketchy, but somehow the combination of events, characters and the world building keep me intrigued and wanting to know more.

The writing is a little jarring at times but also simple to read which keeps things flowing nicely.
Does 'Pretty good' sound Luke warm? I don't mean it to because I liked it.

I probably will be curious enough to continue with the series. Afterall, it is not as predictable as many fantasy reads out there at the moment and there are some pretty bizarre and original elements to it.

[Robin (Bridge Four) · Rating 3 out of 5]

July 2017 Amazon kindle deal of the month for $2.99

Read with the crew at at Buddies Books & Baubles

This is really just a so-so read for me fantasy wise. One the one hand some of the world stuff is interesting with the Sa’ba Taalor and the way their gods work. But on the other hand there is a lot of stuff that isn’t as interesting to me and I’m just waiting for something to happen. Maybe I’m used to more epic fantasies and so I’m used to a long wait and then the big pay out. I felt like there was a long wait but then there wasn’t really an epic payout at the end like I’m used to with a few other Fantasy writers I follow.

The Saba Taalor are the cool war culture that follows 7 different gods. Basically a god can gift you magic metal to make your hands or leg or foot better than even and more functional and stronger than your flesh ever was resistance is futile you will be assimilated. It is completely cool and I really loved some of the powers that they were shown to have in the book but that was the best and most interesting part and it is really a small part of the entire story.

As things stand the Saba Taalor seem to be better armed, stronger and maybe a smidge on the warmongering fanatical side of things but they are clearly winning at this time. The more human like creatures are struggling to come up with a solid plan and unite at least a little but no one seems to be making any progress on that front.

There are some pretty cool fights and a few moments that were a little unexpected but overall I felt like I spent a lot of time in this book waiting for something to happen.

Merros was in the city getting the guard ready to fight and didn’t really do much. The Wizard is doing a few wizardly things trying to get things prepared and showed off a few cool tricks but again he seemed to not really be doing anything either. Andover had the most action so to speak in this book and he is headed down a dark path indeed.

I’m glad we learned what is under the veils of the Sa’ba Taalor, I’m glad that there were a few new characters that get a little page time and I have a new couple to ship. I’m curious about Swech and who she is hiding as but other than that I didn’t really care about much and the big thing that happens at the end happens off in the distance so it didn’t have as emotional an impact on me as if it had happened directly to the characters we were following.

This book seemed to have a lot of filler and I hope the author works out their pacing a little better for the rest of the series. I’m still waiting for a great character to root for because as is right now I think all the characters could die in the book and I really wouldn’t care about one death more than another.

[Jody · Rating 3 out of 5]

"One cannot meet with gods and remain unaltered."

The Blasted Lands is James A. Moore's second book in the Seven Forges series. This book was very middle of the road for me. There are certain aspects that I am enjoying, but nothing has happened to really push it into that really good or great territory. I mentioned in my review of Seven Forges that it was a good foundation book for the rest of the series. I still had that same feel with this book. Like is still in that foundation phase and hasn’t taken that next step. It is right on the cusp, but hasn't reached its full potential yet. I can only handle a buildup for so long before I’m like “Get the hell on with it already.” Despite this, my expectations are still high for the remainder of the series.

A war between the Empire of Fellein and the Sa'ba Taalor seems to be inevitable after book 1, but does it really take an entire second book for these two cultures to decide if they want to fight or not. There were some interesting scenes, but it was mainly a bunch of characters running around from place to place without much happening. Sure, information was gathered and cryptic warnings given, but I want some action. I was hoping to get more information on the magic system in this book as well. The sorcerer, Desh Krohan, and his apprentices are some of the main characters. But there is absolutely no explanation as to how their magic works. There are not a lot of scenes with magic involved. But the sections when it does take place give no description as to how it’s being wielded. I am just used to some sort of clarification on what type of magic is being used, or at least its source. I guess this is one thing I will have to get over, because if it hasn’t been explained after two books, I doubt it will be.

Despite my complaints above, there are areas of the book that I did enjoy. One of my favorite parts in this installment is the Sa'ba Taalor culture. The reader gets a real in depth look into their lives, social hierarchy, and how they interact with their gods. A lot is explained about their beliefs and how they interact with each other within their society. The connection they have with their gods is the most interesting thing to me. I’m looking forward to learning more about this connection in the final two books. Another highlight for me was the interaction and banter between general Merros Dulver, sorcerer Desh Krohan, and empress Nachia Krousse. Merros would sometimes almost walk on egg shells around them, and other times tell them exactly how he felt about their situation or actions. It was an interesting back and forth that was almost comedic at times. Also, a couple of new characters have real potential to make an impact on the story moving forward. One was a mysterious character only referred to as The Pilgrim. He only had a couple of small chapters, but they were very cryptic. Another interesting character was Nolan March. A soldier in the imperial army and son of Merros Dulver’s best friend. He didn’t get a lot of page time, but Moore put a lot of emphasis on making sure the time he got had an impact. I’m excited to see where these characters fit into the story in books 3 and 4.

This series is on the edge of being really good, if not badass good. I have a feeling the next two books are going to take it to the next level. There has been too much buildup for this not to happen. All of the pieces and potential are there. I just hope the follow through is as good as I want it to be. Well, enough dawdling on the pros on cons of The Blasted Lands. Let’s see where the next book, City of Wonders, takes this journey.

Actual Rating: 3 stars ***

[Solseit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simply addicting. The story is the best element of this book, the pace of the telling the second and the cliffhanger technique is mastered. I need to go right away to the third book of the series.
One thing I appreciate is that the book are kept to the right size, this book could be particularly bad in case editing was not done properly.

[Luke Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

So what is The Blasted Lands?



A true episodic sequel, James A. Moore begins The Blasted Lands where Seven Forges ends, and only manages to write a more compelling version of the Sa'ba Taalor in the process by removing the veil and sending us deep into the heart of their mysterious culture with once disgraced now embraced Andover Lashk and his magnificent character arc. The mountainous Tusk grabs the cover of this one, with Drask the last and Swech the next, but again its the enigmatic Sa'ba Taalor as a whole who make this book part mystery part exploration adventure, and whilst they are presented to be the villains to de facto protagonist Merros Dulver's Kingdom of Fellein and their newly appointed monarch, I cannot see why the Sa'ba Taalor are not the heroes of this story, and perhaps Moore's commentary on decadent opulence being a breeding ground for evil hearts and minds contrasting with hard and humbling lands cultivating pragmatism and excellence is a subliminal one, but readily apparent nonetheless.



City of Wonders promises great things, but Moore's meandering sense of plot-related magnitude makes me think there's no true end to this tale unless he wants there to be.

Recommended for those who have read Seven Forges and couldn't get enough of the easy style and well-rounded fantasy experience the series promises to be.

[Terence · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Emperor is dead. Murdered in his own palace by someone he welcomed as a guest. Desh Krohan, Merros Dulver, and the soon to be named Empress Nachia Krous are preparing for war against the most dangerous force they've ever imagined.

The Blasted Lands is a slow burn of a book. I was expecting war to break out immediately, but instead this book was another build up book. Many secrets are revealed before the book ends and the conclusion is jaw dropping. I wish that conclusion came much sooner as I'm left to imagine the next book will be incredibly intense.

The characters largely remained the same in the book despite many of the main ones being given new roles. The one exception is Andover Lashk. He's been transformed from the beginning of Seven Forges. He was a victim and now he's becoming a predator. His personality itself is changing slower, but the lessons provided by the Sa'ba Taalor and the Daxar Taalor change him.

The Blasted Lands was good, the ending made it intriguing, and I'm looking forward to continuing the series.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Avid Reviews: www.avidfantasyreviews.wordpress.com

The Blasted Lands is the second book in the Seven Forges trilogy. I reviewed the first book in the series, Seven Forges, here:

http://avidfantasyreviews.wordpress.c...

As I mentioned in this review, Seven Forges is written in the tone of a prequel, and though I liked it, I was much more excited to read Blasted Lands. The end of Seven Forges really hooks the reader, and it is not until the last few chapters that the conflict of the series actually begins.
I am happy to affirm that I enjoyed Blasted Lands much more than the first book in the series, and Moore has finally fully engaged me in the Seven Forges series. Blasted Lands more than makes up for the action that Seven Forges lacked, and the pacing of the book is also considerably faster. Moore also expanded his world building in this book, while at the same time revealing much more about the characters and places with which the reader was already familiar. It was refreshing to read a second book in a series that avoided the “second book slump” that so many authors seem to fall into.
The rest of this review will contain major spoilers for Seven Forges; so beware if you have not yet read it.
The Blasted Lands picks up right where Seven Forges left off. A member of the Sa’ba Taalor (the race of people who inhabit the Seven Forges) has assassinated the Emperor of the Fellein Empire during a diplomatic mission. Now a war between the two peoples seems inevitable, and in many ways this war has already started. Merros Dulver is the new commander of the Fellein armies and he fears that a war with the violent and incredibly deadly Sa’ba Taalor could be a disaster for the people of the Fellein Empire. He must bring together a fractured army and teach them to fight the most savage and skilled fighters the world has ever seen, all while trying to please the new Empress and follow the whims of a mysterious wizard who has an agenda all his own.
I really recommend this book, even to those that did not enjoy the first book in the series. This series is gearing up to be a unique epic fantasy full of war, gods, magic, and monsters. There are so many different factions in this story, and I loved how Moore managed to make a large cast of characters and several different storylines work together into a cohesive and fast paced read. A map would have been helpful, as the story covers many different areas of a large world, and I became rather confused about the orientation of these places in regards to each other.
This book finally gave the reader plenty of action, a deeper look into Moore’s remarkable world, and a story on an epic scale. These were all elements that I felt were missing in Seven Forges, and The Blasted Lands is where Moore’s story really begins. The end of the book also had me on the edge of my seat, wanting more. I will definitely be reading the next book in the Seven Forges as soon as it comes out.
I am happy to rate this novel an 8/10, and I am glad my interest in this series finally paid off.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher (Angry Robot) in return for an honest review.

[Bookwraiths · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.

The Blasted Lands is that dreaded second book in a series. You know, the one that is suppose to build upon all the good things from the first installment while adding just enough new plots and lore to keep the story fresh but without actually revealing the ending that will come in a book or two. Honestly, writing a second installment in a fantasy series is a hard juggling act for any author, but in my opinion, Mr. Moore not only succeeds with The Blasted Lands but excels at it!

Naturally, the story picks up where Seven Forges ended. Pathra Krous, Emperor of the Fellein Empire is dead, killed by the Sa’ba Taalor, who emerged from the mysterious blasted lands in peace before viciously murdering their host. Now, the task falls to Drash Krohan, First Advisor to the Emperor and legendary sorcerer, to pick a capable ruler to replace Pathra. While this is always a trying task for the wizard, it is more imperative than ever, because the Sa’ba Taalor of the Seven Forges are coming!

Some few in Fellein try to deny the inevitability of the coming war. More than a few of the royal family wish to ignore it all together as they fight over the throne, but Drash Krohan will not tolerate any such foolishness, for he recognizes the truth. Perhaps the armies of Sa’ba Taalor will not be in Fellein in a week or a month, but without a doubt, soon the blasted lands will be crawling with them, as they come to destroy the Empire. And while General Merros Dulver seems to have the correct qualities to lead Fellein’s armies, Drash isn’t so sure that all the soldiers of the Empire will be enough to hold back the strange, grey skinned people of the Seven Forges. For, you see, the Sa’ba Taalor are a unique breed of humans, almost otherworldly in their greater strength, endurance, and reflexes and more gifted in killing than even the finest Fellein warriors. Reared in their isolated valleys, these people are an unknown quantity, devoted to their living gods and more than willing to destroy anyone or anything that stands in the way of their plans. And therein lies Drash Krohan’s most pressing task: discovering just who and what the Sa’ba Taalor really are and why they wish to destroy Fellein!

From this beginning, the story develops along multiple lines as Mr. Moore seamlessly shifts from Drash Krohan and General Dulver frantically trying to plan for the inevitable war to Andover Lashk, Fellein ambassador to the Seven Forges, living among the Sa’ba Taalor themselves. One chapter will follow Drash Krohan’s “Sisters” gathering information across the world while the next will focus on a secret expedition to the mysterious Mounds in the Blasted Lands. And inevitable, every few chapters, the mysterious Pilgrim will make an appearance, referring to the old gods awakening and his own shadowy mission; a mission that is somehow tied to the re-emergence of the Sa’ba Taalor into the world.

Without a doubt, in The Blasted Lands, Mr. Moore has woven an interesting story that not only side steps the second book letdown but is, in my opinion, even better than the first. Where Seven Forges teased a reader with the Sa’ba Taalor and their strange land, The Blasted Lands goes a long way toward fulfilling their promise, revealing much more about their culture and history as well as hinting at the origin of the waste lands themselves. And while the Sa’ba Taalor are still the stars of this show, Mr. Moore has also deftly turned the Fellein characters into more than cardboard scenery for his master race, as Drash Krohan, General Dulver and Andover Lashk shine in their own special ways. All in all, this novel was a great read, and this series is definitely one to watch for any true fantasy aficionado.

I received this book from publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE BLASTED LANDS picks up exactly where SEVEN FORGES left off.

After one of the Sa'ba Taalor murder the Emperor of Fellein, his cousin, Nachia Krous, ascends to the throne. Merros Dulver is promoted to General of the Empress's Army. Andover Lashk continues his journey to the Blasted Lands in order to learn, and thank the Daxar Taalor--in person--for the gift of his new hands.

In this second book of a projected trilogy, we learn much more about the ways of the Sa'ab Taalor, and their gods. The reason for their veils and grey skin is revealed, as well as information regarding their children and how they are raised.

In Fellein, sorcerer and advisor, Desh Krohan, remains as elusive as ever, though the "sisters" each have important missions of their own.

THE BLASTED LANDS ends with a parlay--a meeting of both representatives of the twelve kingdoms of the Fellein Empire, and the kings who serve the Daxar Taylor, in order to decide if a war between the two could be avoided.

How does a nation defend itself against an army that has been preparing itself for war for the last thousand years?

As with the second novel in any trilogy, we are left with many unresolved questions. My only complaint at the conclusion of THE BLASTED LANDS, is the fact that I have to wait for the final novel to be published.

Highly recommended!

[Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not saying I am behind in my reviews. But since I have just finished book 3 and book 2 is still not reviewed will probably give you a good indication on just how much I wanted to see what happened next after this book.

This series has me hooked, I have really enjoyed the story so far and I can already tell you, it gets even better in book 3. This is a sword and sorcery funfest. Great characters, interesting races, good world building and some hidden plots that has me second guessing on whats going on.

I am keeping this short, because now i have to go and write the review for book three.

Warning: Don't look under veils!

[Kdawg91 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a great deal, the first part of The seven forges series I loved and while this is a bit slower read and a bit more focused on the world building (which earns pluses with me) I still ate it up.


There is a SERIOUS fight coming the third installment, I so look forward to reading it.


This series is a definite beach read, pick it up.

[Jasper · Rating 5 out of 5]

originally posted at: http://thebookplank.blogspot.com/2015...

Back in 2013 I read many great books of Angry Robot and one of them was Seven Forges by James A Moore. James A. Moore has written numerous books in the Horror genre and Seven Forges was his first venture into the Epic Fantasy and one that paid off very well. When I read Seven Forges I was amazed with the story, so many elements working together and you could clearly see that James A. Moore wasn't scared to bring in some Horror elements as well. As I said in my review of Seven Forges, it had the everyting: "a perfect story of political intrigue, brutal fighting, beguiling magic and assassinations." so just to say it simply really a book with the WOW factor.


The Blasted Lands is the direct sequel to Seven Forges. In short, Seven Forges introduced the reader to the Empire of Fellein, somewhat to be compared to a normal human civilization and to the Sa'ba Taalor a ancient and very powerful warrior race. They thrive on battle. Merros was saved by a group of Sa'ba Taalor and took a retinue home to his Emperor, but it all turns sour very soon. The Empire of Fellein isn't the same anymore. because during this diplomatic mission, the Emperor of Fellein got murdered... James A. Moore gave a very alluring ending to Seven Forges forcing you to pick up The Blasted Lands one way or another.

As with its predecessor the story of The Blasted Lands is divided into multiple perspectives. So again the story is told from the different sides, which for me is always a big plus, especially now, when a war is starting to steer. I always like it when I can read how both factions think about the same subject and how they act react against each other. Anyway, one perspective that we got to learn off last time was that of Merros Dulver, who brought the Sa'ba Taalor back to Fellein. Merros has now been promoted to commander of the armies of Fellein and must train the men to become competent in fighting as the Sa'ba Taalor. Well this is impossible to say the least. In some battles it takes long for the enemy to appear but the Sa'ba Taalor are skilled and news does reach Merros and the Fellein Empire that ships with black sails loom near. Questions also arise about the fact that all the warriors in the Fellein Empire might not be enough to stop the march of the Sa'ba Taalor. Desh Krohan, the mighty sorcerer and right hand man of the Empire also has his work cut out for him. He has to choose a suitable heir to the throne, next to this Desh and his "sisters" his spies are trying to figure out what the Sa'ba Taalor could possible want with the Fellein Empire, why they seek their destruction. Then there is Andover, who lost his hands in the first book, the Sa'ba Taalor gave them back, yes they can do that, but with a catch. They are made from iron. This gift game with a price, Andover is acting somewhat as an ambassador for the Fellein Empire, walking among the Sa'ba Taalor as they school him in their culture, which isn't always pretty though. Andover's storyline is very exposing for the Sa'ba Taalor, in terms that as a reader you learn a lot of the Sa'ba Taalor themselves, what their habits are and more importantly their Gods and how they are driven by them. As I already mentioned there is a storyline told from the Sa'ba Taalor side and that is Tusk, one of the Kings of the Sa'ba Taalor. His storyline somewhat coincides with that of Andover but it is different in terms of believes, you can clearly see that he is convinced about what the Sa'ba Taalor do is the right thing. His perspective really made the whole story a complete feeling.

After this you might have lost the the direction of the book so let me capture it for you with a few sentences. The Fellein Empire is regaining strength after the assassination of the Emperor, Merros is leading the armies, and the cousin of the murdered Emperor is taking the throne. Meanwhile the Sa'ba Taalor are marching to the Fellein Empire to do their thing. But there is a chance of it all being talked out with a peaceful talk. Yes there was a chance... Some people just shouldn't be allowed to speak... (this doesn't do justice to The Blasted Lands) but is one of those book that when you talk about it too much it will be spoiled, hence it's the perfect sequel! James A. Moore puts down the pavement for the third book in this series and I just know it will be something spectacular.

Now where The Blasted Lands draws a lot of strength from is exposition. I was really waiting for this to happen. In Seven Forges, James A. Moore did kind of throw you in the depths of his story, you had to adapt on the fly and take somethings for granted without explanations. Now I can take this to a certain degree, which was almost reached in Seven Forges, luckily for me an many other readers James A. Moore drops the infobomb about the Sa'ba Taalor in The Blasted Lands. I do not mean an excess information dump at all by the way. As I already mentioned by the many different perspectives of the story you learn a lot. the Seven Forges series is a story about war but also about different cultures and by introducing Fellein characters in the ways of the Sa'ba Taalor culture for example explanations need to come to show. And this James A. Moore wrote in a very natural way. But it is not only culture that is shown. You are also presented with new surroundings, they are harsh and brutal to live in. Just a tease, you know those veils that the Sa'ba Taalor were wearing, this question gets answered and I think most of you will guess wrong of what they hide. This is directly in the lines of Horror, bit gruesome but most fitting. Andover's storyline answered so many questions also what happened with another soldier...

I do have to say when it comes down to sequel of a terrific first book I always have reservations. The second book in a series either makes or breaks it. The Blasted Lands is a book that prepares the series for the conclusion. James A. Moore did a great job with The Blasted Lands, he got me readily fired up for the sequel, which I know will be just as a success. I know I don't have to be worried here!


The Blasted Lands is the example of how I want to see sequel. Slowing the pace down somewhat, focusing on exposing the envisioned world more and more but without loosing momentum and the thread that carries the story. James A. Moor gave rise to many questions in Seven Forges and now starts answering them, he continues to develop his characters and mainly Merros and Andover's stories were the most interesting for me, they showed so much of the world and the story, I have the same feeling of when I finished Seven Forges, it's been a few days but the story is still racing through my mind and when I think about one scene, many follow-ups pop up. Few authors achieve to get me so addicted to their works. And well the ending. yes I am going to say it again WOW. There will be war and it wont be pretty.

[Lynn Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strong 4 - 4.5.
http://lynnsbooks.wordpress.com/2014/...

The Blasted Lands is the second book in the Seven Forges series written by James a Moore. My review of The Seven Forges is here. Now, if you haven't read No.1 in the series you should be warned that this review will undoubtedly contain spoilers for that book! Be warned. The first book in the series got off to a really good start. I had a few niggles and I can't say I was in love with the cliffhanger ending - given the waiting time to find out what was going to happen next - but, the wait was worth it. This book builds very effectively on the first in the series and does not suffer at all from 'second book' syndrome. On the contrary, the world building was much improved. The characters more developed. And, some of the intrigue given explanation.

In the last book we were made familiar with the Empire of Fellein and it's people and Emperor. At the same time a band of characters travelled the Blasted Lands in pursuit of knowledge of the Seven Forges where they met a race of previously unknown people - the Sa’ba Taalor. I'm not going to recap all of the previous story - just suffice to say it ended with the Empire and the people of the Seven Forges looking set to go to war. A quick recap of characters - Desh (The Magician), Merros (a soldier - now made General), the sisters (magical assistants to Desh), Tega (magical apprentice to Desh), Andover, (from the Fellein empire - lost both of his hands in an attack and received a strange gift from one of the Gods of the Seven Forges), Tusk - a king of the Sa’ba Taalor.

The Blasted Lands continues with Andover's journey, as an ambassador of Fellein to the Seven Forges where he will meet not only the people but the Gods they worship. He's going to face trials and hardship along the way and in doing so will introduce us to this strange race of people who are so devoted to the serving of their Gods that they literally have no fear of death itself. This is a really interesting race of people. Their way of life is simple. They live by fairly strict codes. They answer to their Gods implicitly, some serving only one whilst others serve a number. I'm still not quite sure what to make of Andover. In one respect I'm hoping that he will be an intermediary between the two races but on the other he seems so overwhelmed by the way in which the Sa’ba Taalor have accepted him amongst their people that it seems quite possible that he could be used by them in some way and simply go along with things in order to feel part of something. I confess even after finishing the book I'm still unsure as to what his eventual purpose will be but the journey he has made so far has certainly been fascinating and held a number of revelations - not least of which uncovering the reason why the Sa’ba Taalor hide their faces behind a veil. I won't say more!

Back in Fellein Merros, Desh and the new Empress (Nachia, cousin to the murdered Emperor) are making preparations for war - not easy with a nation that has gone soft of course and impeded by rumours of black ships attacking other parts of the empire and strange foretellings of doom by the 'sooths'. Not to mention attacks by strange monsters that seem to be the result of necromancy.

The Sa’ba Taalor are not of course standing idle. They are making their own plans and what is intriguing is that they all go about separate missions, directed by whichever God or Gods they serve and yet their ultimate purpose seems to serve the same goal. This is a ruthless set of people, cold blooded, unafraid, frankly quite scary and tough as old boots - not to mention they've got a few tricks up their sleeves when it comes to tackling any wounds they receive during the course of any skirmishes they encounter and a few ways of blending into a group or crowd of people unnoticed. There is also a bigger picture here that is revealed at the end of the book and uncovers a little bit more background - only a little, almost a teaser, but still quite a light bulb moment.

I enjoyed the first book in the series but without doubt thought this was better. In fact I really had no quibbles at all. I suppose you could argue there maybe isn't as much action in this instalment but in spite of that it's still a fast paced novel and the world building and time spent with each character definitely adds extra value.

I received a copy of this from the publisher through Net Galley. The above is my own opinion.

[Rakib Khan · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first, I got this book from NetGalley, so thank you netgalley and Angry Robots for this opportunity.
Lets be honest, I love jumping in the middle of a series (as I did with many series' such as GoT, Harry Potter etc.). I like to delve into a story already in flow, and that fact might have influenced me a bit of my liking this book, although the guest post by James A. Moore did help. But the two warring (or soon to be warring) factions were depicted very nicely in this novel through the eyes of many characters varying from the generals and rulers of each sides to very minor foot soldiers and even people relatively outside the conflict. The world building was nice and the revealing of a ancient past slowly while building up for a war was quite interesting.

'The Blasted Lands' tells the story of the start or the build up/preparations to a war. There are two factions one a massive Empire of twelve kingdoms which is the largest in the world and other is a religiously fanatic people (Sa,ba Taalor) with their seven war gods who live in the very harsh environments of the blasted lands. The setting is interesting, many ideas are new and the author tells the story in such a way that it is really hard to choose any sides in the upcoming battle. While The Sa'ba Taalor may seem very violent and fanatically religious at first, we get to learn their culture and way of life slowly and get to know why they are like this and it is so easy to sympathize with their cause. On the other hand the vast number of people of the Empire and their quite humane leaders who have their motives of saving their people are east to relate to also.

While its true that not much happens as a whole in the book, specially compared to what I can tell did happen in the first from the information in the book, but the author does build up very nicely for the next book/books in the series. It also has quite an innovative magic system and original creatures of the blasted lands which really keeps the reader curious for more information regarding them. The different cultures from other parts of the empire also gets a bit of mention along with the religious deities of the Empire itself, but once again the author keeps the mystery ever present. Each chapter has many viewpoints ranging from a few lines or paragraphs to some pages in length, while it was a bit confusing early on as I did not read the first book after I get to know the characters this was one of the things I really enjoyed. This sense of constant change and of being dropped in between a war reminded me of 'Gardens of The Moon' which is a novel I enjoyed quite a lot.

The characters are as I mentioned quite varied. the different perspectives really adds that much more to the burden of choosing sides. Through out the novel I kept asking myself who would win in the end & who do I want to win? The ending is kind of a cliffhanger which really keeps the reader wanting the next book that much more which is another plus point in my book.

One of the issues with the book is the subtle hints of needless dragging, as at times, specially toward the end it seems the author is deliberately making the story even slower and trying to keep some things from the reader for telling in the future novels. This just reminded me of 'Feast of Crows' which made me somewhat mad. On a whole, I did enjoy the book a lot, specially the prose style, world building and characters & would most definitely check out the next book/books in the series.

Overall score, 4 out of 5 stars.

For more reviews and stuff check out my blog -
http://ihate00critics.blogspot.com/

[Daniel Sharp · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book early through First Reads and figured I would write a review as thanks.

The Blasted Lands is a solid second book in a series. The book doesn't have as much action as the first one but it focuses on setting up the big conflict that appears to be coming in the next book. Merros continues to be my favorite but Andover seems to be developing into a bigger player and I look forward to seeing more of them both. Overall this book was enjoyable despite the fact that not a whole lot actually happened. It is used to develop and explain the growing conflict between the Empire of Fellein and the Sa’ba Taalor. That being said I am all in for the next book and cant wait to see whats next in the series.

[William Bainbridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book that saved me from my reading slump. Finished this book in just over 3 days after just over a month of barely reading. I want to say firstly that I will certainly be returning to the world of seven forges in the very near future for book 3 of this series. This story was exactly what I needed, fast paced, full of different perspectives and a plot that seems like it never slows down for a second. I will say that I commend James Moore for being so cutthroat in his approach and being willing to kill of characters so carelessly in order to showcase the kind of world he clearly wanted to paint, the result is a really tangible setting and a deep understanding as a reader that this is not some fantastical story where the hero will prevail, this a story of war where people will die, good and bad alike. The perspectives were all good in this book though I will say a small gripe i have is my two favorites and most interesting to me where Merros and Andover and though we got a decent amount from both I think the book could definitely have benefited from showing us more from those two in places of characters like Tega and Nolan. Merros was still the goat here in the second book and the introduction of new character Captain Callan was a very welcomed addition to a strong cast for me, I'm hoping to see more of him in the third book. The major negative here that stops it getting a five for me would have to be that this book was a set up, this is the book where although it was incredibly fast paced the action was somewhat minimal and it was a tad bit boring in places. Essentially the third book should benefit from/at the cost of this book and the ending definitely suggests that the next installment in the franchise will make up for that lack of action. I also want to say that the way Moore has developed his own race of people and carefully crafted the culture that goes along with them is really impressive and the saba taalor are really well done. Also found that i really enjoyed the political aspects explored here, far more than i would have thought i ever would. For an indie series these books have so far thoroughly impressed me.

[LJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found myself being frustrated by the agonizingly slow pace of book two in this trilogy. I really enjoyed book one and the possibilities it presented. I will continue to book three in hopes of redemption, however, with an evergrowing TBR mountain of books, it is not high on my priority list.

[Kelly]

Second in the ‘Seven Forges’ series, The Blasted Lands by James A. Moore continues where Seven Forges left off. The emperor of Fellein is dead and armies are gathering on both sides. Put in charge of the military aspect of the twelve kingdoms, reluctant general, Merros Dulver, begins to learn the truth about his empire. It’s crumbling at the edges, and at the seams. The middle appears somewhat rotten, too.

Crowning a new empress halts the rot for a while, lifting the spirits of the people. It’s not long before the rest of Nachia Krous’ family plot to remove her from the throne, however. They may not have to bother, as the Sooth has predicted the fall of her city. Add that to the list of concerns carried by her First Advistor, Desh Krohan. To the top of the list, over the fact a neighbouring kingdom has been reduced to rubble, leaving another bereft princess in Fellein. The black ships along the coast become more than a rumour. Patrols and scouts sent to rally allies find slaughter and ruin, but no bodies. One of Desh’s acolytes is sent to investigate the Mounds. The Sa’ba Taalor are forbidden to go there. Fellein’s foray has all the feel of a desperate act and the small troop encounters much danger along the way.

Most worrying of all is the threat of the Sa'ba Taalor. Will they come silently and swiftly to war? Will the legendary race of warriors show any mercy? They receive an answer in part, in the form of an invitation to parlay.

At this point, the story finally lumbers toward action, only to meet the end of the book, which is typical of a sequel, or middle book of a series. The slow pace of The Blasted Lands, while sometimes frustrating, does accurately illustrate the speed of war. It takes time to gather an army, recruit a navy and generally flap about in panic. The Sa’ba Taalor do not flap, of course. They move as directed by their mysterious gods and, for all their apparent barbarism, their preparations for war are methodical and precise.

As with the first book, I found Andover’s story to be the most compelling. The boy with the metal hands continues his journey as ambassador. Through his eyes, we meet more of the Sa’ba Taalor and learn more about their mythos and culture. I found both to be fascinating and somewhat horrifying. They are an alien people and Moore writes them well. I did wish more time had been devoted to Andover, and by the end of the book, my wish had been granted. But, as any avid reader of epic fantasy will often lament, I need more.

The Blasted Lands ends with more questions than answers. This is not necessarily a bad thing. Each book in a series should invite the reader to move forward. I do hope that the next installment comes with a swifter pace, however, with more war and less individual skirmish, more revelation and fewer questions. I appreciate the time taken to build a compelling world. Next, I’d like to inhabit it with the characters as they fight for what they believe in.

Written for SFCrowsnest.

[Amy Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the continuation of the story which was started in The Seven Forges. The world that has been created for the series is full of variety and diversity, from the characters to the landscape, and becomes more lush and vibrant in the second book. What is intriguing in the series is that each area of power is ambiguous in terms of whether they are inherently good or evil. It's interesting to watch the interplay between them. Their regional belief systems guide (or in some cases don't) how they behave. Every character has a mission, calling or reason to act, and they seem justified in the decisions they make. So who is the real “bad” guy? It isn’t clear cut, which makes the book, and the series, genius.

Where the Seven Forges introduced you to the characters, The Blasted Lands invites you to the table for an up close and personal experience with their cultures and history with a huge dose of mystery and intrigue woven into the fabric of the story. Between the Fellein and the Sa’ba Taalor, there are many characters to follow that are rich in depth and development. It doesn’t take long to rack up favorites on either side of the battle lines. And James Moore writes from the perspective of those in power to those who seemingly have none flawlessly.

And they are all on paths that are going to converge at some point. The question is how will that happen and who will survive? You have to read it to find out. And hopefully, you will fare better than me.

I actually finished the last paragraph, and was so engrossed; I didn’t realize it was the end. I hollered out loud, “That’s IT????” And proceeded to gnash my teeth. I wanted more. And now I have to wait. Impatiently. So go, buy, read, get lost in it, enjoy!

[Michael Lazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm liking this series quite a bit, and The Blasted Lands was a very good read. I really like the Sa'ba Taalor as an antagonist. Neither side can really be portrayed as "good" or "bad". They have their ways and they are nuanced in how they live. This book introduced some new characters who will obviously heavily influence the rest of the series, and opens new plots that could go in a myriad of directions. Now, I just need the next book to be released! Hopefully he can crank one out every 8-10 months.

[Geoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

ANother 4.5 out of 5.
This second novel builds on the first very well indeed.
The two nations move closer to war, supposedly on the actions and slights of both the gods and some of the less-scrupulous and/or intelligent members of the Fellein Empire.
Great pacing and characters, and less confusing than a lot of the fantasy stuff I've read... more direct and honed.
Cannot wait for the third, but it seems I have to wait until Angry Robot puts it out.

[Grace Weil · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!!!! What can I say? This was the book after Seven Forges and I could not put that book down either. This is exactly the kind of series I like to read. The Blasted Lands has mystery, action, imagination and plenty of twists. Will there be more to this series? I certainly hope so. The ending hits you like a BOMB. I am insanely crazy for MORE.

Dizzycat

[Aildiin · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's been a while since I last read a fantasy story where the situation was so bleak for the good guys after 2 whole novels but here is one.
The writing has improved a little compared to the previous novel but is still not that stellar in my view but it's good enough to want me to see how the plot will keep moving.

[Nightshade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

this book just like the first was amazing!!! That's not even the best way of describing it but it suck at describing things!! I had to stop reading it for three days just so I wouldn't get through it that fast!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Scott Goudsward · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely can't wait for Book 3 to come out!