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ShadowBane
One womb, one soul, two fates. One will rise. One will fall.
Shura and Jin are the last of a divine bloodline, operating at the bloodiest fringes of society where they wield might and magic against the demons they are sworn to destroy. For Shura, it’s the only way to restore honor to her lineage and claim her rightful place in the world. For Jin, it’s a matter of begrudging duty—and escaping the influence of the three kings vying for control of the continent.
In their pursuit of the sadistic cult behind the demons’ resurgence, the twins find themselves hunted by an ancient demon harboring a blood vendetta, and are forced to set aside past grudges and seek the kings’ alliance. When Shura discovers a chilling prophecy, she fears that even her newfound allies may not be enough to stem the rising tide of shadow.
Even the palest chance of victory will come at a brutal price. But the prophecy never foretold whose fate would settle the debt: Shura's or her brother's.
Shura and Jin are the last of a divine bloodline, operating at the bloodiest fringes of society where they wield might and magic against the demons they are sworn to destroy. For Shura, it’s the only way to restore honor to her lineage and claim her rightful place in the world. For Jin, it’s a matter of begrudging duty—and escaping the influence of the three kings vying for control of the continent.
In their pursuit of the sadistic cult behind the demons’ resurgence, the twins find themselves hunted by an ancient demon harboring a blood vendetta, and are forced to set aside past grudges and seek the kings’ alliance. When Shura discovers a chilling prophecy, she fears that even her newfound allies may not be enough to stem the rising tide of shadow.
Even the palest chance of victory will come at a brutal price. But the prophecy never foretold whose fate would settle the debt: Shura's or her brother's.
451 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
11 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
Cal Logan
1 book16 followersA full-time personal trainer and competitive powerlifter, Cal started writing seriously in 2017, drawing inspiration from history, his time spent practicing mixed martial arts, and of course, books. Cal lives in Chicago with his wife, Taylor, and his dachshund, Rizzo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 27, 2025
Demons infest these feudal lands. Forcing rival Kings to turn to the last of a divine bloodline. Ancient prophecy looms while vengeance stirs.
Make room Manji & Guts. These twins bring bloodshed…and they have a tiger! Brutal, relentless & a jaw dropping finale! Awesome!
Jin is an absolute battle beast. As miserable as they come. Wallace is his apprentice of sorts and brings some much welcome positivity! Shura is becoming a master of many skills.
Then there’s Feng. He’s a 🤬 demon killing Tiger. What more could you want?!?!
The action is off the charts. Demon destroying fun. Think Peter V Brett/Evan Winter meets Ryan Kirk’s Nightblade and ML Wangs Sword of Kaigen.
Make room Manji & Guts. These twins bring bloodshed…and they have a tiger! Brutal, relentless & a jaw dropping finale! Awesome!
Jin is an absolute battle beast. As miserable as they come. Wallace is his apprentice of sorts and brings some much welcome positivity! Shura is becoming a master of many skills.
Then there’s Feng. He’s a 🤬 demon killing Tiger. What more could you want?!?!
The action is off the charts. Demon destroying fun. Think Peter V Brett/Evan Winter meets Ryan Kirk’s Nightblade and ML Wangs Sword of Kaigen.
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January 7, 2026Overall: Highly Recommended Read
ShadowBane marks my first completed read of 2026, and what a positive way to start the year.
From the opening chapters, Cal sets a somber tone in a dangerous, mythic, Japanese-inspired world where hard choices, strong will, and endurance are the keys to survival. He draws on Japanese traditions and real cultural myths as a stepping stone, adding his own grimdark twist to folklore within his uniquely created version of the land.
The characters quickly became the element I was most immediately drawn to. We follow two POVs: twin siblings Jin and Shura—both kick-ass demon hunters who help the people of the land while the looming shadow of political intrigue hounds their every step. Cal does an excellent job separating the twins’ perspectives. Both exist in morally gray territory—flawed and haunted—yet they are distinctly different from one another.
On the surface, Jin comes across as cold, distant, and duty-bound, often solving problems through the brutality of his sword or the sharpness of his tongue. However, there is far more complexity, nuance, and vulnerability beneath that exterior, which made his side of the journey especially compelling. Shura, the more practical and reasonable of the two, struggles with challenges women often faced in traditional societies of the time—the conflict of being strong-willed in a world that expects meekness and submission.
The twins’ tensions, both from societal pressures and with each other, are well balanced by Wallace, a squire from what is essentially the Western world and the third major character in ShadowBane. His dynamic shifts depending on which twin he is interacting with, and I really enjoyed his presence. Wallace brings a much-needed sense of lightheartedness to an otherwise grim tale.
As a bonus, the group is rounded out by Feng, a tiger who serves primarily as Shura’s bodyguard in battles against demons (though Shura can definitely hold her own). Because everyone loves animal companions.
ShadowBane is a fantastic and confident debut. Cal Logan balances demon-slaying action with intimate character moments—both verbal and internal—that truly bring these characters to life. And that ending? It left me immediately ready for the sequel.
ShadowBane marks my first completed read of 2026, and what a positive way to start the year.
From the opening chapters, Cal sets a somber tone in a dangerous, mythic, Japanese-inspired world where hard choices, strong will, and endurance are the keys to survival. He draws on Japanese traditions and real cultural myths as a stepping stone, adding his own grimdark twist to folklore within his uniquely created version of the land.
The characters quickly became the element I was most immediately drawn to. We follow two POVs: twin siblings Jin and Shura—both kick-ass demon hunters who help the people of the land while the looming shadow of political intrigue hounds their every step. Cal does an excellent job separating the twins’ perspectives. Both exist in morally gray territory—flawed and haunted—yet they are distinctly different from one another.
On the surface, Jin comes across as cold, distant, and duty-bound, often solving problems through the brutality of his sword or the sharpness of his tongue. However, there is far more complexity, nuance, and vulnerability beneath that exterior, which made his side of the journey especially compelling. Shura, the more practical and reasonable of the two, struggles with challenges women often faced in traditional societies of the time—the conflict of being strong-willed in a world that expects meekness and submission.
The twins’ tensions, both from societal pressures and with each other, are well balanced by Wallace, a squire from what is essentially the Western world and the third major character in ShadowBane. His dynamic shifts depending on which twin he is interacting with, and I really enjoyed his presence. Wallace brings a much-needed sense of lightheartedness to an otherwise grim tale.
As a bonus, the group is rounded out by Feng, a tiger who serves primarily as Shura’s bodyguard in battles against demons (though Shura can definitely hold her own). Because everyone loves animal companions.
ShadowBane is a fantastic and confident debut. Cal Logan balances demon-slaying action with intimate character moments—both verbal and internal—that truly bring these characters to life. And that ending? It left me immediately ready for the sequel.
September 18, 2024
A Grimdark masterpiece of a debut novel by Cal Logan. It was a new twist into Asian mythology with the very familiar feel of a world constantly in the cusp of destruction and chaos. I loved the characters, the human condition was beautifully preserved, and plot was well paced and so incredibly digestible. What a wonderful start to Cal Logan’s writing. Amazing story….
September 21, 2024
4.5 stars
I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love grimdark. At first I wasn't sure of the genre of this book whether it was regular fantasy or something else but it became pretty clear by the end.
Let me start with the plot, and the only reason I would not rate this 5 stars. The book set up 2 major points that I hoped would resolve at the end, the demon god and the prophecy. I had my suspicions about the prophecy, and we got a few hints as to which twin will rise and which will fall, but I was bummed to realize we wouldn't get that plotline resolved (and my suspicions proven) until probably the end of the series. The last fight also underwhelmed me a bit, as I expected more from Sutoku. That said, I only predicted 1 thing with absolute certainty and that was the fate of major Gojo (the poor fop), the rest of the book was pretty unpredictable to me.
As action packed as this book is, every single scene is fleshed out, beautifully described in gory detail and absolutely fun to read. I loved reading about how Jin absolutely bodies his enemies, of Wallace's development into a warrior, Shura's cunning and Feng's reliable strength. Even if a character is rescued on the nick of time it felt organic and flowed naturally and it didn't feel like plot armour. Jin especially almost never got away unscathed.
The pacing is fast, and in those rare quiet moments we get rewarded with some (rarely found in this genre) character development.
Shura and Jin are twins, and I loved to read about their bond as well as how it gets in the way of their individual ambitions. They're polar opposites. Shura is subtle, ambitious, manipulative and headstrong, while Jin is a point-me-at-the-enemy-and-let-me-do-my-thing kind of guy, simple, focused and loyal. She goes after what she wants and she's not content with just any small thing. Her ambition grows exponentially as the book progresses, but you won't find yourself begrudging her desires. It's a natural progression of her character. Her inner thoughts about Jin, her frustration with him as well as her love for him make her human, and as much as she berates Jin for being ruthless and doing the hard and borderline evil things for the greater good, she hypocritically turns around and does worse herself. I love her duality, loved her inner war and her relationship with the adorable Feng.
Jin has the same frustrations with Shura, he hates nobles and their political games, and he hates that his sister likes playing their games. He does not suffer from ambition, he wants to be left alone and live in peace and blissful ignorance, but also carries the burden of being his nation's last chance. He loves arguably more deeply than Shura, has an unbelievable streak of loyalty that, unlike his sister, extends outside blood. He sacrifices his conscience for what needs to be done and is an absolute tank in battle. His friendship with Wallace is a treat to read and their ups and downs were the highlight of the book.
I have to say the ending, even though it did feel a bit rushed (justice for the departed!!), it gutted me. We lost beloved characters, and we've been shown that the actual villains of the story are people, not demons. People with power, and people with the disease of ambition, that wish for power at all costs.
I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love grimdark. At first I wasn't sure of the genre of this book whether it was regular fantasy or something else but it became pretty clear by the end.
Let me start with the plot, and the only reason I would not rate this 5 stars. The book set up 2 major points that I hoped would resolve at the end, the demon god and the prophecy. I had my suspicions about the prophecy, and we got a few hints as to which twin will rise and which will fall, but I was bummed to realize we wouldn't get that plotline resolved (and my suspicions proven) until probably the end of the series. The last fight also underwhelmed me a bit, as I expected more from Sutoku. That said, I only predicted 1 thing with absolute certainty and that was the fate of major Gojo (the poor fop), the rest of the book was pretty unpredictable to me.
As action packed as this book is, every single scene is fleshed out, beautifully described in gory detail and absolutely fun to read. I loved reading about how Jin absolutely bodies his enemies, of Wallace's development into a warrior, Shura's cunning and Feng's reliable strength. Even if a character is rescued on the nick of time it felt organic and flowed naturally and it didn't feel like plot armour. Jin especially almost never got away unscathed.
The pacing is fast, and in those rare quiet moments we get rewarded with some (rarely found in this genre) character development.
Shura and Jin are twins, and I loved to read about their bond as well as how it gets in the way of their individual ambitions. They're polar opposites. Shura is subtle, ambitious, manipulative and headstrong, while Jin is a point-me-at-the-enemy-and-let-me-do-my-thing kind of guy, simple, focused and loyal. She goes after what she wants and she's not content with just any small thing. Her ambition grows exponentially as the book progresses, but you won't find yourself begrudging her desires. It's a natural progression of her character. Her inner thoughts about Jin, her frustration with him as well as her love for him make her human, and as much as she berates Jin for being ruthless and doing the hard and borderline evil things for the greater good, she hypocritically turns around and does worse herself. I love her duality, loved her inner war and her relationship with the adorable Feng.
Jin has the same frustrations with Shura, he hates nobles and their political games, and he hates that his sister likes playing their games. He does not suffer from ambition, he wants to be left alone and live in peace and blissful ignorance, but also carries the burden of being his nation's last chance. He loves arguably more deeply than Shura, has an unbelievable streak of loyalty that, unlike his sister, extends outside blood. He sacrifices his conscience for what needs to be done and is an absolute tank in battle. His friendship with Wallace is a treat to read and their ups and downs were the highlight of the book.
I have to say the ending, even though it did feel a bit rushed (justice for the departed!!), it gutted me. We lost beloved characters, and we've been shown that the actual villains of the story are people, not demons. People with power, and people with the disease of ambition, that wish for power at all costs.
August 8, 2025
Absolutely awesome book!
I really loved this; was the first time I was back in a Japanese-inspired story in quite a bit, and though Cal did a great job! The trifecta of main characters were all fully fleshed out with multiple POVs that got us into their minds and explained their actions perfectly.
The story is full of demons, betrayals, backroom politics, and everything else that makes a story so vivid and engaging. I think I read the last 250 pages in 12 hours, and I only stopped to sleep.
Very much looking forwards to book 2, and sending Mr Logan my therapy bills.
I can't recommend this enough!
I really loved this; was the first time I was back in a Japanese-inspired story in quite a bit, and though Cal did a great job! The trifecta of main characters were all fully fleshed out with multiple POVs that got us into their minds and explained their actions perfectly.
The story is full of demons, betrayals, backroom politics, and everything else that makes a story so vivid and engaging. I think I read the last 250 pages in 12 hours, and I only stopped to sleep.
Very much looking forwards to book 2, and sending Mr Logan my therapy bills.
I can't recommend this enough!
November 16, 2024
An epic story of epic proportions!
ShadowBane follows the story of Shura and Jin, two Shikõken siblings – divine-blooded humans – who make their living hunting demons for the various kings and rulers of Tanikoku. Armed with katanas, axes, guns and net-cannons, they have nothing but each other, and the company of their Euran friend Wallace, a squire of sorts, and Feng, an actual tiger, as they roam the land, trying to kill first what’s trying to kill them.
Shura’s motivated by trying to prove herself, by overcoming the odds together with her brother, defeating the demons once and for all, and restoring their family’s name and honor. Jin… well, he’s motivated by more tangible things. Like food, whiskey, and whores. As long as he gets to kill things and be left alone, he’s happy.
The whole thing reads like a grimdark Japanese-inspired fantasy version of Supernatural – and it’s absolutely magnificent.
This is Logan’s debut novel and I’ve got to say, he has an incredible way with words. Every sentence feels like it’s incredible carefully planned and structured – which says a lot considering this book’s length – and everything that is said and told seems to have purpose. In one sense, it’s a bit of a struggle to read, because you’re afraid you’re going to miss some important detail if you don’t pick up on every little word, every little nuance in the way things are said, but it’s also incredibly beautiful.
Logan is also a master world builder. I can’t remember the last fantasy novel I read that had such detailed, vibrant world, with so many lands, regions, towns, country sides, rivers, mountains, people and places. For some people (read: me) it’s actually incredibly exhausting, because I find it very hard to keep track and keep things separate in my mind – especially since this is Japanese-inspired and I struggle with a lot of names being difficult to pronounce and looking similar on the page – but of course, it’s also incredibly well-executed and impressive. If you’re the kind of fantasy reader who loves to get lost in a world that will just swallow you up, this is definitely your cup of tea.
What I struggled with the most however, was the action. I love a good action scene, don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing cooler than seeing a well-written, expertly choreographed sword fight jump out at you from the page. The problem with this is just that there’s so incredibly many, and that they’re incredibly long. Shura and Jin do a lot of fighting, and I mean a lot. And it often goes on for a long while, which, while cool and exciting at the start of the book, gets a bit much toward the middle, and at times a little boring toward the end. I found it much more exciting to hear about the quarrels between them, their hopes and dreams, their troubled pasts, what they think about the future. I found myself thinking I wanted to know more about Jin as a person, rather than read another 18 pages of him lobbing the head of yet another demon. I’m exaggerating of course, but you get my drift.
Of course, the fighting is also really well-written, so if you pick up fantasy books for violent, bloody carnage, then ShadowBane is going to be right up your alley. Don’t even question it.
But the story is great, the build up to the rest of the series is exciting and Logan has created an impressive world with his debut. If you’re into epic fantasies, if you like Japanese-inspired worlds, and you’re partial to katana-swinging, demon-hunting demigod-siblings then this is the one book you’ve waited for your whole life. No doubt about it.
ShadowBane follows the story of Shura and Jin, two Shikõken siblings – divine-blooded humans – who make their living hunting demons for the various kings and rulers of Tanikoku. Armed with katanas, axes, guns and net-cannons, they have nothing but each other, and the company of their Euran friend Wallace, a squire of sorts, and Feng, an actual tiger, as they roam the land, trying to kill first what’s trying to kill them.
Shura’s motivated by trying to prove herself, by overcoming the odds together with her brother, defeating the demons once and for all, and restoring their family’s name and honor. Jin… well, he’s motivated by more tangible things. Like food, whiskey, and whores. As long as he gets to kill things and be left alone, he’s happy.
The whole thing reads like a grimdark Japanese-inspired fantasy version of Supernatural – and it’s absolutely magnificent.
This is Logan’s debut novel and I’ve got to say, he has an incredible way with words. Every sentence feels like it’s incredible carefully planned and structured – which says a lot considering this book’s length – and everything that is said and told seems to have purpose. In one sense, it’s a bit of a struggle to read, because you’re afraid you’re going to miss some important detail if you don’t pick up on every little word, every little nuance in the way things are said, but it’s also incredibly beautiful.
Logan is also a master world builder. I can’t remember the last fantasy novel I read that had such detailed, vibrant world, with so many lands, regions, towns, country sides, rivers, mountains, people and places. For some people (read: me) it’s actually incredibly exhausting, because I find it very hard to keep track and keep things separate in my mind – especially since this is Japanese-inspired and I struggle with a lot of names being difficult to pronounce and looking similar on the page – but of course, it’s also incredibly well-executed and impressive. If you’re the kind of fantasy reader who loves to get lost in a world that will just swallow you up, this is definitely your cup of tea.
What I struggled with the most however, was the action. I love a good action scene, don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing cooler than seeing a well-written, expertly choreographed sword fight jump out at you from the page. The problem with this is just that there’s so incredibly many, and that they’re incredibly long. Shura and Jin do a lot of fighting, and I mean a lot. And it often goes on for a long while, which, while cool and exciting at the start of the book, gets a bit much toward the middle, and at times a little boring toward the end. I found it much more exciting to hear about the quarrels between them, their hopes and dreams, their troubled pasts, what they think about the future. I found myself thinking I wanted to know more about Jin as a person, rather than read another 18 pages of him lobbing the head of yet another demon. I’m exaggerating of course, but you get my drift.
Of course, the fighting is also really well-written, so if you pick up fantasy books for violent, bloody carnage, then ShadowBane is going to be right up your alley. Don’t even question it.
But the story is great, the build up to the rest of the series is exciting and Logan has created an impressive world with his debut. If you’re into epic fantasies, if you like Japanese-inspired worlds, and you’re partial to katana-swinging, demon-hunting demigod-siblings then this is the one book you’ve waited for your whole life. No doubt about it.
November 7, 2024
This was a good story. Basically a brother and sister demon hunter duo defended the land against demons while navigating court politics and doomsday prophecies. I liked the main characters and the prose was pretty good too. My only complaint would be that the pacing lagged a bit, especially in the middle, but I still enjoyed the book. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a dark, action-oriented story with Japanese flavor and a brutal streak.
April 28, 2025
Fun read and debut by new author, Cal Logan. Indie publishing has become a force to be reckoned with, now more than ever. Cal's debut novel, ShadowBane, is a wonderful example of gritty storytelling, bloody action, friendship, love, loss and betrayal. But wait, this is just his debut novel! That is why I am looking forward to the next installment of the series, A Schism of Souls. Get your copy today and tell me what you think.
August 6, 2025
There is nothing better than when a badass cover accurately conveys the book’s tone, plot, or vibe, while also being such an eye catcher. ShadowBane is one such cover. One look and you know there are two characters in a Japanese-inspired world absolutely destroying the f*ck out of some demons. And wouldn’t you know it, this is essentially the plot of this book!
In a nutshell, ShadowBane is a book about twin demon hunters. In an almost Witcher-esque monster of the week feel, this story follows these twins as they help villagers/hunt demons terrorizing said villagers against the backdrop of some political machinations. That’s basically it, and let me tell you, this simple plot rocks.
Told via alternating POV from Shura and Jin perspectives, we see these very opposite behaving twins battle not just literal demons, but their own. Personally, I liked Jin’s perspective more than Shura’s but that’s because Logan did a damn good job of making me like Jin even though he is an absolute P.O.S. Ok, maybe that’s a little harsh, but Jin is very unlikable because the man is a single-focus asshole who doesn’t like to play by the rules the twins are forced into. Jin kills first, doesn’t ask questions later, much to Shura’s chagrin. Jin loathes the life he lives and wants nothing to do with the politics they find themselves in. He’s traumatized by the past, but he doesn’t let it shake his duty. He knows he’s being used, knows the only way to survive is to kill, to be the strongest one. But there is a soft underside to Jin that we only see when he is with his favored whore, and when he ‘teaches’ their squire Wallace about life like an older brother (more to come on Wallace).
Shura, on the other hand, wants to be more than what her heritage/culture demands, aka a woman in feudal Japan, aka a baby factory for sons. Shura is the brains to Jin’s brawn and Logan uses this concept to create a lot of tension. There is a certain meta-ness in the book, but it is also a great source of drama when Shura’s trust might be misplaced. Shura tiptoes being fully badass and being a weak-kneed female character in some scenes and I didn’t always connect with her scenes because of that. I do hope a theory I have about Shura’s arc comes true in the rest of the series, and if it does, then it’ll all pay off for me. But Shura and Jin’s arguments drive the emotional narrative like a Mack truck through an overpass’ struts.
Wallace is the other major character of the book. He’s the equivalent to a European squire. A young boy taken under the wings of the twins, Wallace plays the butt of Jin’s anger and Shura’s schemes, and sometimes you just feel for the boy. He’s the hopeful light in this otherwise insanely grim story. His growth arc was phenomenal.
Can’t forget about Feng, the demon slaying tiger! Good kitty.
The world Logan has built is hella cool. It is very Japanese inspired, and it was very refreshing to see how much care went into crafting it. The demon types are all Japanese myths/legends (with a couple in-world additions). The hierarchical society culture was very neat, and very historically accurate. The magic is pretty cool too. Shura has a demon sense and can summon some light magic. Jin can make flames, like on his sword. There’s also early firepower here too. Just an all-around fun world.
It’s easy to put this book squarely in the grimdark category. It’s brutal, death and blood spilled left and right. Bodies, both demon and human alike, pile up. Every character besides Wallace is firmly on the morally grey scale. It’s action-packed from the first page to the end. Even the ‘down moments’ have a simmering hatred in them, whether it’s Jin’s dislike for everyone he saves to Shura’s annoyances. I will say having the alternating POV mostly worked, but there were a couple places it did hinder the pace. And it did feel like a monster of the week vibe at times because they go from place to place. But that ending, man, Logan is a bastard, and I’m all for it!
So if you are looking for a Japanese-inspired, demon slaying, non-stop bloodletting of a story, then ShadowBane is the story you need to read ASAP. I cannot wait to see what Logan comes up with in the next book!
In a nutshell, ShadowBane is a book about twin demon hunters. In an almost Witcher-esque monster of the week feel, this story follows these twins as they help villagers/hunt demons terrorizing said villagers against the backdrop of some political machinations. That’s basically it, and let me tell you, this simple plot rocks.
Told via alternating POV from Shura and Jin perspectives, we see these very opposite behaving twins battle not just literal demons, but their own. Personally, I liked Jin’s perspective more than Shura’s but that’s because Logan did a damn good job of making me like Jin even though he is an absolute P.O.S. Ok, maybe that’s a little harsh, but Jin is very unlikable because the man is a single-focus asshole who doesn’t like to play by the rules the twins are forced into. Jin kills first, doesn’t ask questions later, much to Shura’s chagrin. Jin loathes the life he lives and wants nothing to do with the politics they find themselves in. He’s traumatized by the past, but he doesn’t let it shake his duty. He knows he’s being used, knows the only way to survive is to kill, to be the strongest one. But there is a soft underside to Jin that we only see when he is with his favored whore, and when he ‘teaches’ their squire Wallace about life like an older brother (more to come on Wallace).
Shura, on the other hand, wants to be more than what her heritage/culture demands, aka a woman in feudal Japan, aka a baby factory for sons. Shura is the brains to Jin’s brawn and Logan uses this concept to create a lot of tension. There is a certain meta-ness in the book, but it is also a great source of drama when Shura’s trust might be misplaced. Shura tiptoes being fully badass and being a weak-kneed female character in some scenes and I didn’t always connect with her scenes because of that. I do hope a theory I have about Shura’s arc comes true in the rest of the series, and if it does, then it’ll all pay off for me. But Shura and Jin’s arguments drive the emotional narrative like a Mack truck through an overpass’ struts.
Wallace is the other major character of the book. He’s the equivalent to a European squire. A young boy taken under the wings of the twins, Wallace plays the butt of Jin’s anger and Shura’s schemes, and sometimes you just feel for the boy. He’s the hopeful light in this otherwise insanely grim story. His growth arc was phenomenal.
Can’t forget about Feng, the demon slaying tiger! Good kitty.
The world Logan has built is hella cool. It is very Japanese inspired, and it was very refreshing to see how much care went into crafting it. The demon types are all Japanese myths/legends (with a couple in-world additions). The hierarchical society culture was very neat, and very historically accurate. The magic is pretty cool too. Shura has a demon sense and can summon some light magic. Jin can make flames, like on his sword. There’s also early firepower here too. Just an all-around fun world.
It’s easy to put this book squarely in the grimdark category. It’s brutal, death and blood spilled left and right. Bodies, both demon and human alike, pile up. Every character besides Wallace is firmly on the morally grey scale. It’s action-packed from the first page to the end. Even the ‘down moments’ have a simmering hatred in them, whether it’s Jin’s dislike for everyone he saves to Shura’s annoyances. I will say having the alternating POV mostly worked, but there were a couple places it did hinder the pace. And it did feel like a monster of the week vibe at times because they go from place to place. But that ending, man, Logan is a bastard, and I’m all for it!
So if you are looking for a Japanese-inspired, demon slaying, non-stop bloodletting of a story, then ShadowBane is the story you need to read ASAP. I cannot wait to see what Logan comes up with in the next book!
September 24, 2024
Find this review and more on my blog at
Worlds Unlike Our Own
.
Thank you to the author, Cal Logan, for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The last of a divine bloodline known as the Shikoken, twins Jin and Shura are skilled demon slayers, using the magic and strength of their lineage to keep them at bay. The once powerful family is now disgraced, but Shura hopes to restore their honor and reclaim their place in society by destroying the demons. For Jin, however, it’s more of a duty he’s stuck with and he resents the three kings who are always trying to control and influence them. But when they find that a cult is behind the sudden resurgence of the demons, the twins must work to convince the kings to put aside their feuds and form an alliance against the rising darkness. Jin and Shura are the target of an ancient demon seeking revenge and this alliance may be the only thing that could save them, but when Shura discovers a prophecy that predicts a dire future for one of them, even the strongest force they can muster may not be enough.
Thanks again to the author for the opportunity to read this book! I’m always on the lookout for new fantasy novels, and this sounded exactly like my type of read!
The world seems to be Japanese mythology inspired, and it’s a pity I don’t know much on the subject, because I’m sure I would understand a lot more of the context if I did. Nonetheless, it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book at all. The world building was detailed and well constructed.
I would have loved if a map had been included to track Jin and Shura’s travels. They moved around so much over the course of this book, so it was a little difficult at times to get an idea of distances and how long it took for them to move between places.
It has been a while since I read a fantasy novel with a darker mood like this one, and it was fun to return to a novel of this type again. ShadowBane was such an intense read, action-packed from beginning to end, with rather descriptive violence at times (so definitely pay attention to the content warnings in that regard).
As for the whole prophecy thing, I don’t get why Shura didn’t tell Jin about it or her visions, instead choosing to trust others with such a critical piece of information. I also found it kind of amusing how she’s just assuming her interpretation is correct whereas in my opinion the way her character is panning out, the opposite is starting to seem more likely. I’m also really curious about Shura’s headaches and what they mean.
The writing was good, and though it took me a while to fully understand the plot, I was never bored as the story had me hooked right from the first chapters. For a debut novel, I was very impressed with the narrative style. The pacing was steady, neither too fast nor slow, but I did feel that the book as a whole could have perhaps been a bit shorter.
The main characters Jin and Shura were quite the duo, and both initially started off as likeable figures. Jin was the more action oriented one, focused on slaying demons and such with not much of a head or patience for politics, while Shura was the diplomat, often smoothing the way for the twins with various kings and key political figures.
As the plot progressed however, I found Shura to be less and less likeable – still sympathetic, but the way she began to treat Jin kind of got on my nerves. I hope Jin sticks to his decision at the end of the book. Jin was definitely more morally gray of course, but he was a pretty straightforward character and didn’t involve himself in any of the scheming that Shura did, so I found his POV much easier to read.
I definitely did not see that twist coming in the last handful of chapters! It has definitely set the stage for an interesting sequel and I’m curious to see what happens next.
This demon-slaying adventure was a highly entertaining read and I would highly recommend ShadowBane for fantasy fans!
Thank you to the author, Cal Logan, for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The last of a divine bloodline known as the Shikoken, twins Jin and Shura are skilled demon slayers, using the magic and strength of their lineage to keep them at bay. The once powerful family is now disgraced, but Shura hopes to restore their honor and reclaim their place in society by destroying the demons. For Jin, however, it’s more of a duty he’s stuck with and he resents the three kings who are always trying to control and influence them. But when they find that a cult is behind the sudden resurgence of the demons, the twins must work to convince the kings to put aside their feuds and form an alliance against the rising darkness. Jin and Shura are the target of an ancient demon seeking revenge and this alliance may be the only thing that could save them, but when Shura discovers a prophecy that predicts a dire future for one of them, even the strongest force they can muster may not be enough.
Thanks again to the author for the opportunity to read this book! I’m always on the lookout for new fantasy novels, and this sounded exactly like my type of read!
The world seems to be Japanese mythology inspired, and it’s a pity I don’t know much on the subject, because I’m sure I would understand a lot more of the context if I did. Nonetheless, it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book at all. The world building was detailed and well constructed.
I would have loved if a map had been included to track Jin and Shura’s travels. They moved around so much over the course of this book, so it was a little difficult at times to get an idea of distances and how long it took for them to move between places.
It has been a while since I read a fantasy novel with a darker mood like this one, and it was fun to return to a novel of this type again. ShadowBane was such an intense read, action-packed from beginning to end, with rather descriptive violence at times (so definitely pay attention to the content warnings in that regard).
As for the whole prophecy thing, I don’t get why Shura didn’t tell Jin about it or her visions, instead choosing to trust others with such a critical piece of information. I also found it kind of amusing how she’s just assuming her interpretation is correct whereas in my opinion the way her character is panning out, the opposite is starting to seem more likely. I’m also really curious about Shura’s headaches and what they mean.
The writing was good, and though it took me a while to fully understand the plot, I was never bored as the story had me hooked right from the first chapters. For a debut novel, I was very impressed with the narrative style. The pacing was steady, neither too fast nor slow, but I did feel that the book as a whole could have perhaps been a bit shorter.
The main characters Jin and Shura were quite the duo, and both initially started off as likeable figures. Jin was the more action oriented one, focused on slaying demons and such with not much of a head or patience for politics, while Shura was the diplomat, often smoothing the way for the twins with various kings and key political figures.
As the plot progressed however, I found Shura to be less and less likeable – still sympathetic, but the way she began to treat Jin kind of got on my nerves. I hope Jin sticks to his decision at the end of the book. Jin was definitely more morally gray of course, but he was a pretty straightforward character and didn’t involve himself in any of the scheming that Shura did, so I found his POV much easier to read.
I definitely did not see that twist coming in the last handful of chapters! It has definitely set the stage for an interesting sequel and I’m curious to see what happens next.
This demon-slaying adventure was a highly entertaining read and I would highly recommend ShadowBane for fantasy fans!
September 19, 2024
TL;DR Review – Japan-inspired world, a grimdark tone, and packed to the brim with bloody action. An absolutely epic read!
Full Review:
If the Demon Slayer anime series was written in a Western style and went full grimdark, the result would be mild and cheerful compared to ShadowBane.
This book is NOT for the faint of heart: it’s packed to the brim with insanely bloody action, with violence that leaps off the page, characters that stubbornly remain unlikable to the very end, and story progression that will shock you for how dark they can go.
And yet you will love every minute you spend ripping through this story!
ShadowBane follows twin siblings Shura and Jin, last of an ancient powerful bloodline that has hunted demons and protected the world. Only their family has been cast down in shame and they are wandering demon-hunters-for-hire barely eking out a living while bleeding and suffering on every hunt.
Shura is the planner, the level-headed one, who has dreams of a better, bigger life. Jin, however, cares only for the hunt, the thrill of the chase, and the excitement of watching demons die. At the beginning, he reads as either a sociopath or psychopath, but over the course of the book, we see some fascinating insights into his character that pulls him just out of the realm of “villain” and into “anti-hero”—albeit one that is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Ultimately, though he’s much harder to like, he ends up being the more interesting of the pair because you never know what he’s going to do, but you always know he’ll have a good reason to do it.
Traveling with them is Wallace, former squire to a knight who has sworn to serve Jin and Shura in their hunting. He’s an oddly bright, optimistic character that stands out in this grim, dark world, especially when matched against Jin’s temperament. Through him, we get to explore a lot of the world and lore and history of the world.
The world is evocative of feudal Japan, and feels like it’s been ripped from the pages of Japanese history. Everything from the culture to the customs to the descriptions feels so real and genuine—if the author hasn’t lived in Japan, he’s done extensive research to make it seem as he has, which is no easy feat.
The story is very much about hunting demons—and there are always bigger, badder, harder-to-kill demons ripped out of Japanese folklore and myth—but at its core, it’s about the siblings and their dynamic. There is so much complexity and difficulty to their relationship that it can sometimes be hard to read, but that makes it all the more compelling because you want to know how they’ll move past some long-running dispute or issue and come back together to fight their true enemies.
ShadowBane was a pleasant surprise that kept me absolutely riveted all the way to the end. If you’re looking for a darker, bloodier, action-packed, Japan-inspired story, I can’t recommend ShadowBane highly enough.
Full Review:
If the Demon Slayer anime series was written in a Western style and went full grimdark, the result would be mild and cheerful compared to ShadowBane.
This book is NOT for the faint of heart: it’s packed to the brim with insanely bloody action, with violence that leaps off the page, characters that stubbornly remain unlikable to the very end, and story progression that will shock you for how dark they can go.
And yet you will love every minute you spend ripping through this story!
ShadowBane follows twin siblings Shura and Jin, last of an ancient powerful bloodline that has hunted demons and protected the world. Only their family has been cast down in shame and they are wandering demon-hunters-for-hire barely eking out a living while bleeding and suffering on every hunt.
Shura is the planner, the level-headed one, who has dreams of a better, bigger life. Jin, however, cares only for the hunt, the thrill of the chase, and the excitement of watching demons die. At the beginning, he reads as either a sociopath or psychopath, but over the course of the book, we see some fascinating insights into his character that pulls him just out of the realm of “villain” and into “anti-hero”—albeit one that is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Ultimately, though he’s much harder to like, he ends up being the more interesting of the pair because you never know what he’s going to do, but you always know he’ll have a good reason to do it.
Traveling with them is Wallace, former squire to a knight who has sworn to serve Jin and Shura in their hunting. He’s an oddly bright, optimistic character that stands out in this grim, dark world, especially when matched against Jin’s temperament. Through him, we get to explore a lot of the world and lore and history of the world.
The world is evocative of feudal Japan, and feels like it’s been ripped from the pages of Japanese history. Everything from the culture to the customs to the descriptions feels so real and genuine—if the author hasn’t lived in Japan, he’s done extensive research to make it seem as he has, which is no easy feat.
The story is very much about hunting demons—and there are always bigger, badder, harder-to-kill demons ripped out of Japanese folklore and myth—but at its core, it’s about the siblings and their dynamic. There is so much complexity and difficulty to their relationship that it can sometimes be hard to read, but that makes it all the more compelling because you want to know how they’ll move past some long-running dispute or issue and come back together to fight their true enemies.
ShadowBane was a pleasant surprise that kept me absolutely riveted all the way to the end. If you’re looking for a darker, bloodier, action-packed, Japan-inspired story, I can’t recommend ShadowBane highly enough.
September 17, 2024
In the gripping debut novel, “ShadowBane: A Schism of Souls Book 1” by Cal Logan, readers are introduced into a world where destiny intertwines with bloodlines, and the choices made shape the fate of nations. With the resonating mantra, “One womb, one soul, two fates. One will rise. One will fall,” Logan crafts a tale that captivates from the very first page to the heart-stopping conclusion.
At the heart of the narrative are Shura and Jin, the last remnants of a divine bloodline, embroiled in a ceaseless battle against the encroaching darkness. Their journey unfolds amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and ancient vendettas, as they navigate the treacherous landscape of a continent torn apart by conflict.
For Shura, the path is clear—a quest for redemption, a quest to reclaim her rightful place among the pantheon of legends. Yet, for Jin, duty weighs heavy upon his shoulders, a burden he bears begrudgingly as he struggles to break free from the machinations of power-hungry monarchs. This dichotomy brings spiritual depth into the story as readers resonate with the intertwined paths of two protagonists.
As the twins unravel the mysteries behind the resurgence of demonic forces, they find themselves ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse, pursued by an ancient evil thirsting for vengeance. Forced to forge uneasy alliances and confront long-standing grudges, Shura and Jin must confront the shadows that lurk within and without. Logan’s prose is as evocative as it is immersive, painting vivid landscapes and breathing life into a diverse cast of characters. The sprawling cities teeming with intrigue to the desolate wastelands haunted by malevolent spirits, each setting feels alive with its own history and secrets waiting to be unearthed.
But it is the thematic depth of “ShadowBane” that truly sets it apart. At its core, the novel grapples with questions of fate and free will, of the bonds that bind us and the choices that define us. As Shura uncovers a chilling prophecy that threatens to unravel everything she holds dear, the stakes are raised to dizzying heights, leaving readers on the edge of their seats until the final page is turned.
Yet, amidst the chaos and carnage, there is a glimmer of hope—a belief that even in the darkest of times, redemption is possible, and that love and loyalty can triumph over the most insurmountable of odds.
The story is needlessly a tour de force of epic fantasy, a spellbinding tale of honor and sacrifice, of betrayal and redemption. With its richly imagined world and compelling characters, it heralds the arrival of a bold new voice in the genre. Cal Logan has crafted a masterpiece that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned.
At the heart of the narrative are Shura and Jin, the last remnants of a divine bloodline, embroiled in a ceaseless battle against the encroaching darkness. Their journey unfolds amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and ancient vendettas, as they navigate the treacherous landscape of a continent torn apart by conflict.
For Shura, the path is clear—a quest for redemption, a quest to reclaim her rightful place among the pantheon of legends. Yet, for Jin, duty weighs heavy upon his shoulders, a burden he bears begrudgingly as he struggles to break free from the machinations of power-hungry monarchs. This dichotomy brings spiritual depth into the story as readers resonate with the intertwined paths of two protagonists.
As the twins unravel the mysteries behind the resurgence of demonic forces, they find themselves ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse, pursued by an ancient evil thirsting for vengeance. Forced to forge uneasy alliances and confront long-standing grudges, Shura and Jin must confront the shadows that lurk within and without. Logan’s prose is as evocative as it is immersive, painting vivid landscapes and breathing life into a diverse cast of characters. The sprawling cities teeming with intrigue to the desolate wastelands haunted by malevolent spirits, each setting feels alive with its own history and secrets waiting to be unearthed.
But it is the thematic depth of “ShadowBane” that truly sets it apart. At its core, the novel grapples with questions of fate and free will, of the bonds that bind us and the choices that define us. As Shura uncovers a chilling prophecy that threatens to unravel everything she holds dear, the stakes are raised to dizzying heights, leaving readers on the edge of their seats until the final page is turned.
Yet, amidst the chaos and carnage, there is a glimmer of hope—a belief that even in the darkest of times, redemption is possible, and that love and loyalty can triumph over the most insurmountable of odds.
The story is needlessly a tour de force of epic fantasy, a spellbinding tale of honor and sacrifice, of betrayal and redemption. With its richly imagined world and compelling characters, it heralds the arrival of a bold new voice in the genre. Cal Logan has crafted a masterpiece that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned.
September 8, 2024
I got an ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review.
The TDLR; The book delivers on the grimdark aspects of the genre, like deep tension and somewhat morally ambiguous characters, that enjoyers of darker fantasy will latch onto, while the splatterpunk influences and descriptions meld exceptionally well with the grittier world. I’d definitely recommend it for those who already enjoy grimdark, and it could be a place to jump into the genre, although the emphasis on gorier descriptions might be a turnoff for those new to grimdark. However, some of the plot feels a bit too loose in certain areas, with an “encounter of the week” vibe that doesn’t really jive with the overarching grand plot of the book that’s pushed in the second half.
I’ll start by giving high praise: I want more. The high tension that permeates even the slower, less combat-oriented chapters made it difficult to put the book down. It coats the world and every interaction between characters, and it made every resolution feel significantly more impactful. The main characters Shura and Jin, and even the side character Wallace, are all fleshed out well, with distinct and clear motivations that get progressively more revealed over time, which makes them feel both like they’ve grown across the pages and that they are still the same characters from chapter one to the final sentence.
However, as much as I like the change and growth that the main characters experience, I feel like it’s done a little too late in the book to be as impactful as it could, especially the changes in the final few chapters. There are some good subtle shifts in personality that make the characters more mysterious and intriguing, but it’s the bigger shift that really made me want to know these characters more, and it just comes too late for the story to develop enough. Obviously, it’s a set-up for a sequel where we see these “new” versions of Shura and Jin come to life, but it does leave a sour taste in my mouth that I have to wait to see them.
Additionally, the plot in the first half of the book feels too vague, with a lack of both a distinct antagonist and/or a distinct path forward muddling the waters. It seems like it’s trying to establish the world and frame it as this grim, gritty place, but there’s too many chapters of it. The prose already helps to establish that vibe, and pushing through another chapter of generic demon killing doesn’t do much to establish an actual “goal” for the characters.
The TDLR; The book delivers on the grimdark aspects of the genre, like deep tension and somewhat morally ambiguous characters, that enjoyers of darker fantasy will latch onto, while the splatterpunk influences and descriptions meld exceptionally well with the grittier world. I’d definitely recommend it for those who already enjoy grimdark, and it could be a place to jump into the genre, although the emphasis on gorier descriptions might be a turnoff for those new to grimdark. However, some of the plot feels a bit too loose in certain areas, with an “encounter of the week” vibe that doesn’t really jive with the overarching grand plot of the book that’s pushed in the second half.
I’ll start by giving high praise: I want more. The high tension that permeates even the slower, less combat-oriented chapters made it difficult to put the book down. It coats the world and every interaction between characters, and it made every resolution feel significantly more impactful. The main characters Shura and Jin, and even the side character Wallace, are all fleshed out well, with distinct and clear motivations that get progressively more revealed over time, which makes them feel both like they’ve grown across the pages and that they are still the same characters from chapter one to the final sentence.
However, as much as I like the change and growth that the main characters experience, I feel like it’s done a little too late in the book to be as impactful as it could, especially the changes in the final few chapters. There are some good subtle shifts in personality that make the characters more mysterious and intriguing, but it’s the bigger shift that really made me want to know these characters more, and it just comes too late for the story to develop enough. Obviously, it’s a set-up for a sequel where we see these “new” versions of Shura and Jin come to life, but it does leave a sour taste in my mouth that I have to wait to see them.
Additionally, the plot in the first half of the book feels too vague, with a lack of both a distinct antagonist and/or a distinct path forward muddling the waters. It seems like it’s trying to establish the world and frame it as this grim, gritty place, but there’s too many chapters of it. The prose already helps to establish that vibe, and pushing through another chapter of generic demon killing doesn’t do much to establish an actual “goal” for the characters.
September 7, 2024
I haven't read a martial arts book in a long long time and I was itching to read this book. I must say, I was suitably impressed. I loved how realistic the fight scenes were, there's something magical about Asian fighting disciplines. And I love the references to Japanese culture, really cool. This author managed to combine the Asian element with a magic and demons, and prophecy, and an age old battle between demons and humans. This is Eric Lustbader with magic, and lore, hard to resist...
We're immediately introduced to Shura and Jin twins, and their awesome 800 pound sidekick, a Tiger called Feng. Immediate action, immediate display of magic, which was already enough to intrigue me and boy does it get more exciting the further I read! This is a dark read, which I absolutely adore. There's no better way to kickstart my heart than a deeply intricate dark read. And this was, very intricate, very complex and oh so well delivered! What I particularly loved was the development of the characters, a slow trickling of who they are, what they're all about, is exceptional. So too is the plot, we're taken on an unprecedented journey of politics, betrayals, friendship and the eternal battle of fighting evil, in a vicious world. So descriptively impressive was the world building I tasted the very air!
Shura and Jin couldn't be more different in personality, he tends to shoot his mouth, while Shura is more diplomatic. But both are tough and resolute in their duty as demon slayers. Of the two, I was drawn more to Jin, he has more layers to him, his emotions and convictions, whilst maybe not accurate, make him what he is.
This read blew all my senses, there were times the emotions were so raw, my heart clenched. There were times I was so shocked I wanted to yell out. There were times I was in such despair I was wringing my hands. The brilliant progression through this magically charged world, bringing in layers of complexity to a great paced read, one where the characters as well as the excellent prose had the capacity to keep me engaged throughout and at 600 odd pages, that's no small task. A fantastic read! I'm longing for the next book. Intricate? Beautifully so. Dark? Deliciously so. Emotional? Viscerally so. Excellent? Without a question of a doubt! Did I mention impressive? Yes. . I believe I did...
We're immediately introduced to Shura and Jin twins, and their awesome 800 pound sidekick, a Tiger called Feng. Immediate action, immediate display of magic, which was already enough to intrigue me and boy does it get more exciting the further I read! This is a dark read, which I absolutely adore. There's no better way to kickstart my heart than a deeply intricate dark read. And this was, very intricate, very complex and oh so well delivered! What I particularly loved was the development of the characters, a slow trickling of who they are, what they're all about, is exceptional. So too is the plot, we're taken on an unprecedented journey of politics, betrayals, friendship and the eternal battle of fighting evil, in a vicious world. So descriptively impressive was the world building I tasted the very air!
Shura and Jin couldn't be more different in personality, he tends to shoot his mouth, while Shura is more diplomatic. But both are tough and resolute in their duty as demon slayers. Of the two, I was drawn more to Jin, he has more layers to him, his emotions and convictions, whilst maybe not accurate, make him what he is.
This read blew all my senses, there were times the emotions were so raw, my heart clenched. There were times I was so shocked I wanted to yell out. There were times I was in such despair I was wringing my hands. The brilliant progression through this magically charged world, bringing in layers of complexity to a great paced read, one where the characters as well as the excellent prose had the capacity to keep me engaged throughout and at 600 odd pages, that's no small task. A fantastic read! I'm longing for the next book. Intricate? Beautifully so. Dark? Deliciously so. Emotional? Viscerally so. Excellent? Without a question of a doubt! Did I mention impressive? Yes. . I believe I did...
November 11, 2024
It’s always a delight when a fantasy is set in a world based on a culture other than medieval Europe. In the case of Cal Logan’s debut novel “Shadowbane: A Schism of Souls,” the foundation is feudal Japan, and Mr. Logan has done an excellent job of employing that period. As anyone who’s studied it will tell you, that’s not easy; so being able to immerse oneself in this alternative version without constant hiccups is a plus.
It’s become a trend in the genre to feature so-called anti-heroes—thieves and such who reject the kind of honorable moral and ethical codes of prior eras. The two protagonists in “Shadowbane” are neither one nor the other. Rather, they are more like the rest of us, were we to see our parents butchered in front of us and then spend our childhood in the hands of those who butchered them.
The Shikoken twins—Jin the warrior, Shura the warrior-diplomat—are the last scions of a mighty house. For reasons I won’t go into, they are despised by most of the current crop of rulers and others who nonetheless depend on them to battle swarming demons and the mysterious cult of wannabe “new gods” that summon them. This is a book about war on several levels, but those with weak stomachs are warned the one on the physical level is not for those with a low tolerance for blood and gore.
However, there are other wars going on as Jin struggles with his connection to humanity, or perhaps his fear he no longer has one. His sister, meanwhile, is obsessed with her need to reclaim their family’s place in the hierarchy and will use any tool within reach, including her brother, to attain her goal. I leave it to the reader, once they’ve met the pair, which sibling is truly the most disconnected from humanity.
I had some issues with the book, mostly that the author seems so determined to make his characters suffer he occasionally ignores logic, such as the concept that people who literally live on the road are apparently incapable of living off the land they traverse. That aside, this is a well-written adventure by a talented author willing to do the hard work to build a unique world and create multifaceted characters and a tapestry of plot threads that don’t unravel. Given the ones that are, however, left dangling, I hope he’s hard at work on the next episode.
It’s become a trend in the genre to feature so-called anti-heroes—thieves and such who reject the kind of honorable moral and ethical codes of prior eras. The two protagonists in “Shadowbane” are neither one nor the other. Rather, they are more like the rest of us, were we to see our parents butchered in front of us and then spend our childhood in the hands of those who butchered them.
The Shikoken twins—Jin the warrior, Shura the warrior-diplomat—are the last scions of a mighty house. For reasons I won’t go into, they are despised by most of the current crop of rulers and others who nonetheless depend on them to battle swarming demons and the mysterious cult of wannabe “new gods” that summon them. This is a book about war on several levels, but those with weak stomachs are warned the one on the physical level is not for those with a low tolerance for blood and gore.
However, there are other wars going on as Jin struggles with his connection to humanity, or perhaps his fear he no longer has one. His sister, meanwhile, is obsessed with her need to reclaim their family’s place in the hierarchy and will use any tool within reach, including her brother, to attain her goal. I leave it to the reader, once they’ve met the pair, which sibling is truly the most disconnected from humanity.
I had some issues with the book, mostly that the author seems so determined to make his characters suffer he occasionally ignores logic, such as the concept that people who literally live on the road are apparently incapable of living off the land they traverse. That aside, this is a well-written adventure by a talented author willing to do the hard work to build a unique world and create multifaceted characters and a tapestry of plot threads that don’t unravel. Given the ones that are, however, left dangling, I hope he’s hard at work on the next episode.
September 17, 2024
ShadowBane, by Cal Logan, is an enthralling journey set in the backdrop of feudal Japan, melding the essence of historical authenticity with the allure of fantasy. The narrative follows the lives of Shura and Jin, twins bound not only by blood but by their role as formidable demon hunters in the realm of Tankikoku. Tasked by King Migataro, they confront the chilling threats of creatures like the chunari and kimengani, weaving a tale of courage and perseverance.
Logan's portrayal of Shura, enhanced by her symbiotic relationship with her white tiger, Feng, adds a unique dimension to the storyline. The novel adeptly intertwines the duo's relentless battles against demonic forces with their personal struggles, painting a vivid picture of warriors caught between duty and desire for peace. Employing a third-person narrative, the story oscillates between the perspectives of Shura and Jin, offering insights into their hardened exteriors shaped by their daunting experiences. This perspective shift deepens the reader's understanding of their internal conflicts, enhancing the narrative's complexity.
ShadowBane skillfully integrates elements of political intrigue into its core theme of demon hunting, presenting a rich tapestry of tension and conflict. The rivalry between King Oda and King Migataro adds a layer of political complexity, further entangling the twins in a web of diplomacy and war. As the story progresses towards its climax, the inevitability of a clash between the kings becomes apparent, placing Shura and Jin in a precarious position within a kingdom teetering on the brink of war.
The novel's meticulously crafted battle scenes, coupled with an undercurrent of suspense, underscore its literary merit. Character development is another of Logan's strong suits, with each persona evolving meaningfully throughout the narrative. This aspect, combined with the novel's rich setting and blend of historical and fantastical elements, makes ShadowBane a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy and Japanese history alike. Its intricate plot and well-developed characters are sure to engage readers, offering a captivating escape into a world where legends come to life.
Logan's portrayal of Shura, enhanced by her symbiotic relationship with her white tiger, Feng, adds a unique dimension to the storyline. The novel adeptly intertwines the duo's relentless battles against demonic forces with their personal struggles, painting a vivid picture of warriors caught between duty and desire for peace. Employing a third-person narrative, the story oscillates between the perspectives of Shura and Jin, offering insights into their hardened exteriors shaped by their daunting experiences. This perspective shift deepens the reader's understanding of their internal conflicts, enhancing the narrative's complexity.
ShadowBane skillfully integrates elements of political intrigue into its core theme of demon hunting, presenting a rich tapestry of tension and conflict. The rivalry between King Oda and King Migataro adds a layer of political complexity, further entangling the twins in a web of diplomacy and war. As the story progresses towards its climax, the inevitability of a clash between the kings becomes apparent, placing Shura and Jin in a precarious position within a kingdom teetering on the brink of war.
The novel's meticulously crafted battle scenes, coupled with an undercurrent of suspense, underscore its literary merit. Character development is another of Logan's strong suits, with each persona evolving meaningfully throughout the narrative. This aspect, combined with the novel's rich setting and blend of historical and fantastical elements, makes ShadowBane a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy and Japanese history alike. Its intricate plot and well-developed characters are sure to engage readers, offering a captivating escape into a world where legends come to life.
September 7, 2024
First of all, I would like to warn all the snowflakes who blush after an f-bomb or anyone who can’t stand action and gore to leave this novel be and go grab something like *Pride and Prejudice* instead, to curl up next to a fireplace for a cozy reading experience. Don’t just come here to the reviews, fuming after wasting your time by stumbling through this book, disappointed and broken. Is it written in an overly profound way? NO! Does it have too much brutality or too much blood? NO! It has the perfect amount of it, so if you can’t handle that, just don’t even bother reading it. (Okay... maybe the last violent scene is quite visual and not for the faint-hearted, but it fits the world of the novel perfectly.)
Now all of this said… This novel is written with great style and finesse. A lot of picturesque descriptions and a few awesome characters. A lot of action and fighting. Perhaps a bit too much of it. You could nearly say that the whole novel is one huge battle; there is so little in between of the main characters ripping some daemons apart or being torn to shreds themselves. Everything is described with a lot of detail and skill. Hard to believe that it is a debut novel. What I was missing, though, was a bit more depth in the storytelling and in the political intrigue. The world-building is executed more through fight scenes than storytelling. There are also a few smaller plot holes, nothing too major.
Overall, most of what we get in this novel is good, close to being great. My only problem is with things that are missing. A bit more backstory to characters and their relationships, in order to deepen their developments and have some proper character arcs. In its current form, most of it feels like a video game in which we always skip the interlude scenes while not even reading the mission objectives, just going off to kill as many enemies as possible. The rest is actually quite good. I have enjoyed it and would recommend it to everyone who likes a lot of action and doesn't shy away from brutal fight scenes. Can't wait for the next installment.
Special thanks to booksirens for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Now all of this said… This novel is written with great style and finesse. A lot of picturesque descriptions and a few awesome characters. A lot of action and fighting. Perhaps a bit too much of it. You could nearly say that the whole novel is one huge battle; there is so little in between of the main characters ripping some daemons apart or being torn to shreds themselves. Everything is described with a lot of detail and skill. Hard to believe that it is a debut novel. What I was missing, though, was a bit more depth in the storytelling and in the political intrigue. The world-building is executed more through fight scenes than storytelling. There are also a few smaller plot holes, nothing too major.
Overall, most of what we get in this novel is good, close to being great. My only problem is with things that are missing. A bit more backstory to characters and their relationships, in order to deepen their developments and have some proper character arcs. In its current form, most of it feels like a video game in which we always skip the interlude scenes while not even reading the mission objectives, just going off to kill as many enemies as possible. The rest is actually quite good. I have enjoyed it and would recommend it to everyone who likes a lot of action and doesn't shy away from brutal fight scenes. Can't wait for the next installment.
Special thanks to booksirens for the ARC in return for an honest review.
September 18, 2024
This is a stunning debut novel showcasing one of the many benefits of worldwide integration. Cal Logan is an American author who has written a fantastic Japanese-inspired fantasy novel. It is 432 pages of well-developed plot, cunning emotional arcs, and intense battle scenes that reflect his fascination with Japanese history and culture.
It is common in the high-fantasy genre to have long travel scenes and chapters that feel unnecessarily long. But Logan uses his scenes and words carefully, ensuring that all of them contribute to the gripping and addictive story. The story is fast paced with numerous gory battle scenes, monsters aplenty, and multiple near-death experiences for the main characters. However, Logan prevents burnout and overwhelm in his readers by also balancing all this action out with carefully placed quiet internal scenes, where the rage that usually festers within the main characters, Jin and Shura, is substituted for their sombre reminiscing and hopes for their uncertain futures.
There was a lot that I loved about this story. I became very invested in the mission of Jin and Shura, to win the war against the demons and the war of the Blackwood. I become increasingly frustrated by the political pushback they received from the egotistical kings and nobles and prejudiced villagers. I felt their fatigue and self-doubt as they travelled endlessly over the continent, sacrificing so much to purge villages of the plague of cultists and demons. I felt the sting of insults as their worth was questioned by the politicians who needed their demon-fighting skills so desperately, but still they refused to afford them the respect they deserved. I hoped for Jin and Shura’s loves stories, although I know, deep down that these are probably doomed. And I wept when friends were lost to betrayal and cruelty. Needless to say, I could barely put this down.
Reviewed By Georgia
October 24, 2024
4.5 Stars
One womb, one soul, two fates….that’s not just an epic tagline, it's basically the whole vibe of ShadowBane!
This wild ride throws you into a world where divine bloodlines, demonic cults, and sibling rivalries are cranked up to 11. Seriously, Game of Thrones wishes it was this intense.
Meet Shura and Jin, the last remaining heirs of a legendary bloodline, who are out here kicking demon butt with their magic, swords, and a healthy dose of sibling tension.
Shura’s all about honour and reclaiming her family’s glory (you know, casual), while Jin’s just like, “Can I please not deal with these power-hungry kings?” #Relatable. But no matter how different they are, they have one thing in common: demons want them dead. Badly.
Cue the terrifying ancient demon with a personal vendetta, plus a creepy cult lurking in the shadows and you’ve got Shura and Jin fighting for survival in a dark, gritty world where trust is a rare commodity. Their mission? Stopping the demonic chaos and figuring out a cryptic prophecy that may or may not require one of them to make the ultimate sacrifice. No biggie.
Logan nails the balance of action, magic, and heart stopping tension.
I was tearing through the pages wondering which twin is destined to fall. And let’s not forget the world-building, it's packed with shady kings, a killer cult, and more secrets than a locked chest in a pirate’s lair.
The best part? Shura and Jin’s dynamic. Their love hate relationship makes for some prime snarky banter, but beneath all the sass, there’s real depth. You feel the weight of their choices and the looming fate that’s coming for them.
And oh, that prophecy? Let’s just say Logan keeps you guessing right up until the last bloody moment. No spoilers here, but brace yourself for a twist that'll leave you gasping like you’ve been hit by a demon's curse.
If you love magic, sibling drama, epic battles, and prophecies that’ll keep you up at night, ShadowBane is your new obsession.
Plus, it’s got demons. And who doesn’t love a good demon fight? ;)
One womb, one soul, two fates….that’s not just an epic tagline, it's basically the whole vibe of ShadowBane!
This wild ride throws you into a world where divine bloodlines, demonic cults, and sibling rivalries are cranked up to 11. Seriously, Game of Thrones wishes it was this intense.
Meet Shura and Jin, the last remaining heirs of a legendary bloodline, who are out here kicking demon butt with their magic, swords, and a healthy dose of sibling tension.
Shura’s all about honour and reclaiming her family’s glory (you know, casual), while Jin’s just like, “Can I please not deal with these power-hungry kings?” #Relatable. But no matter how different they are, they have one thing in common: demons want them dead. Badly.
Cue the terrifying ancient demon with a personal vendetta, plus a creepy cult lurking in the shadows and you’ve got Shura and Jin fighting for survival in a dark, gritty world where trust is a rare commodity. Their mission? Stopping the demonic chaos and figuring out a cryptic prophecy that may or may not require one of them to make the ultimate sacrifice. No biggie.
Logan nails the balance of action, magic, and heart stopping tension.
I was tearing through the pages wondering which twin is destined to fall. And let’s not forget the world-building, it's packed with shady kings, a killer cult, and more secrets than a locked chest in a pirate’s lair.
The best part? Shura and Jin’s dynamic. Their love hate relationship makes for some prime snarky banter, but beneath all the sass, there’s real depth. You feel the weight of their choices and the looming fate that’s coming for them.
And oh, that prophecy? Let’s just say Logan keeps you guessing right up until the last bloody moment. No spoilers here, but brace yourself for a twist that'll leave you gasping like you’ve been hit by a demon's curse.
If you love magic, sibling drama, epic battles, and prophecies that’ll keep you up at night, ShadowBane is your new obsession.
Plus, it’s got demons. And who doesn’t love a good demon fight? ;)
September 17, 2024
If you love dark themes liberally laced with (very vivid) violence, this book is for you. You get plunged into mayhem very early on, and the thrill follows you relentlessly through the pages.
At its core, the book is one long monster slashing adventure. And the book is teeming with them. They are brilliantly portrayed, lurking in every corner and come in all shapes and sizes. And the things that are not monsters often have the potential to transform into them - you never know. The battle scenes are unapologetically dark and gory and no detail is muted away. "Weak things die" is the recurring motto - needless to say, this book is not for the faint of the heart.
Despite being fast paced and action heavy, the book feels closer to classic fantasy than other modern grimdark or litrpg books. The deep lore inspired by asian culture provides a great framework to bind the story and yet, at no point, the world building feels overwhelming.
Finally the combination of nuanced and morally gray characters is just amazing. The completely different personalities of Jin, Shura and Wallace complement each other very well, and the evolution of their perceptions and sentiments through the storyline makes you fall in love with them.
All in all, this was an amazing book that felt like it was written just for me. Will be eagerly looking forward to the author's future works.
At its core, the book is one long monster slashing adventure. And the book is teeming with them. They are brilliantly portrayed, lurking in every corner and come in all shapes and sizes. And the things that are not monsters often have the potential to transform into them - you never know. The battle scenes are unapologetically dark and gory and no detail is muted away. "Weak things die" is the recurring motto - needless to say, this book is not for the faint of the heart.
Despite being fast paced and action heavy, the book feels closer to classic fantasy than other modern grimdark or litrpg books. The deep lore inspired by asian culture provides a great framework to bind the story and yet, at no point, the world building feels overwhelming.
Finally the combination of nuanced and morally gray characters is just amazing. The completely different personalities of Jin, Shura and Wallace complement each other very well, and the evolution of their perceptions and sentiments through the storyline makes you fall in love with them.
All in all, this was an amazing book that felt like it was written just for me. Will be eagerly looking forward to the author's future works.
September 23, 2024
What a fantastic debut!
There are so many things about this book I like. The characters, the action, the Asian (Japanese) vibes, the animal companion, etc.
Shura, Jin, Feng and Wallace are an interesting group to be traveling together. I especially liked Wallace because he seemed like a beacon of hope in this grimdark story. A very unusual character in this subgenre,but this made it all the more enjoyable and interesting to read.
Jin was my other favorite character, although he is the total opposite of Wallace. He is dark, brooding, brutal, but also cares. He cares more than he would ever admit and it was fascinating to see how he progresses in the story.
The action in this book is awesome. It was like reading an action movie. The fight scenes are extremely well done and really bloody. It's honestly the perfect season (spooky season 👻) to read this.
A lot of the demons mentioned in the book I've recognized from Japanese folklore and the author has put a lot of time into researching the Japanese culture. The food, the demons, the culture itself - fantastic!
This goes into my Top reads for 2024🤩
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There are so many things about this book I like. The characters, the action, the Asian (Japanese) vibes, the animal companion, etc.
Shura, Jin, Feng and Wallace are an interesting group to be traveling together. I especially liked Wallace because he seemed like a beacon of hope in this grimdark story. A very unusual character in this subgenre,but this made it all the more enjoyable and interesting to read.
Jin was my other favorite character, although he is the total opposite of Wallace. He is dark, brooding, brutal, but also cares. He cares more than he would ever admit and it was fascinating to see how he progresses in the story.
The action in this book is awesome. It was like reading an action movie. The fight scenes are extremely well done and really bloody. It's honestly the perfect season (spooky season 👻) to read this.
A lot of the demons mentioned in the book I've recognized from Japanese folklore and the author has put a lot of time into researching the Japanese culture. The food, the demons, the culture itself - fantastic!
This goes into my Top reads for 2024🤩
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 14, 2024
Shadow Bane, the first book in the Schism of Souls Series.
The plot, driven by a chilling prophecy and an ancient demon’s vendetta, kept me on the edge of my seat. Well-executed twists lead to a satisfying climax, with enough unanswered questions to set up the next book. The prophecy, hinting at a brutal price and Shura and Jin’s uncertain fate, adds palpable tension.
Shadow Bane is a stellar series introduction, though it occasionally slows during exposition. However, the narrative momentum remains strong.
This was my first ever martial arts-inspired book, and while it was a very well-written and enticing read, I realized this genre isn't for me.
However, if you love this type of writing with the added bonus of demonic cults and intense prophecies, this book is well worth a read. Cal Logan’s world, rich in magic and menace, and his enthralling characters will captivate dark fantasy fans. The stage is set for an exciting continuation, which will leave you eager for more from our characters.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
The plot, driven by a chilling prophecy and an ancient demon’s vendetta, kept me on the edge of my seat. Well-executed twists lead to a satisfying climax, with enough unanswered questions to set up the next book. The prophecy, hinting at a brutal price and Shura and Jin’s uncertain fate, adds palpable tension.
Shadow Bane is a stellar series introduction, though it occasionally slows during exposition. However, the narrative momentum remains strong.
This was my first ever martial arts-inspired book, and while it was a very well-written and enticing read, I realized this genre isn't for me.
However, if you love this type of writing with the added bonus of demonic cults and intense prophecies, this book is well worth a read. Cal Logan’s world, rich in magic and menace, and his enthralling characters will captivate dark fantasy fans. The stage is set for an exciting continuation, which will leave you eager for more from our characters.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
September 3, 2024
I was asked for an honest review of ShadowBane and what I gathered was that I was in for a Japanese-mythology-inspired, fast-paced, demon-slaying adventure.
Well, I got that, but there was also a bit of a slow burn (not the romantic one but plotwise) at the beginning that left me feeling a little lost.
There were a lot of demon-slaying scenes, and I'm not complining about that.. the action was very top knotch and intense but some felt without much context, and I didn't really understand the significance until later.
The political schemes were interesting, I'm a sucker for those so...
Let's talk about Jin and Shura, our dynamic duo, they were interesting, but their motivations were a bit vague at first. I didn't quite understand why they were doing what they were doing until halfway through. That could have been intentional but it irk me a bit.
The world-building was pretty cool, deep seated in a believable atmosphere. And the nods to Japanese Mythology was great.
Shadow Bane was a fun read, I'm curious about what will happen next, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the story develops in the sequel.
Well, I got that, but there was also a bit of a slow burn (not the romantic one but plotwise) at the beginning that left me feeling a little lost.
There were a lot of demon-slaying scenes, and I'm not complining about that.. the action was very top knotch and intense but some felt without much context, and I didn't really understand the significance until later.
The political schemes were interesting, I'm a sucker for those so...
Let's talk about Jin and Shura, our dynamic duo, they were interesting, but their motivations were a bit vague at first. I didn't quite understand why they were doing what they were doing until halfway through. That could have been intentional but it irk me a bit.
The world-building was pretty cool, deep seated in a believable atmosphere. And the nods to Japanese Mythology was great.
Shadow Bane was a fun read, I'm curious about what will happen next, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the story develops in the sequel.
August 19, 2024
Violent, vicious, and deliciously visceral, ShadowBane by Cal P. Logan is a politically charged fantasy epic with strong lore elements drawn from Sengoku period Japan. Sibling demon-hunters with mythic ancestry accompanied by a loyal squire and a bad-ass Siberian tiger face a host of unique and horrific kami-inspired monsters, yet none so twisted as the past that haunts them. The heart pounding pace of their race to track down the source of this evil and the cultists heralding it in will leave your lungs raw. The intricacy of the political twists and betrayals are matched only by the stroke-by-stroke intensity of each battle, painted in exquisite detail by Logan’s blade-sharp prose. In ShadowBane, Cal P. Logan has crafted a world as deep as it is conflicted, with humanity left in a brutal struggle against demons both outward and inward. In short, this is the kind of fantasy book I crave but rarely find.
September 17, 2024
This is a huge ambitious tale, told with attention to detail and suppurb action scenes. Anyone who loves hard-edge fantasy with a mega-ton of action, this might fill the order. Logan takes on a wide ride in a land similar to Japan with Samari warriors battling demons of legends. The last two twins of the Shikoken dynasty, Jin and Shura are the only warriors trained to fight demon kind. They are aided by a Euran, Wallace and Feng, a massive tiger.
They battle across the land to find the headquarters of an ancient cult dedicated to the support of the demon army. When the site is found, politics between three different provinces threatens to derail their progress.
With the subtle political intrigue of Shogun, and the sword fighting action of the Rurouni Kenshin stories, the Shadow Bane will give you hours of exciting reading.
And this is just Book 1!
They battle across the land to find the headquarters of an ancient cult dedicated to the support of the demon army. When the site is found, politics between three different provinces threatens to derail their progress.
With the subtle political intrigue of Shogun, and the sword fighting action of the Rurouni Kenshin stories, the Shadow Bane will give you hours of exciting reading.
And this is just Book 1!
November 18, 2024
This is an incredible book.
It’s a powerful story of duty, debt, honor, sacrifice, and empathy, brimming with action, blood, sex, gore, violence, scheming, demons, politics, betrayal, cataclysm, cultists, and vengeance, wrapped up in a very well done Japanese aesthetic and an incredibly powerful plotline.
Overall I was frequently impressed with the caliber of writing and always engaged in the story, no matter how grim and gruesome.
Highly recommended, and I can’t wait for the next book (though I genuinely need a little time to decompress, so I guess the wait isn’t so bad).
It’s a powerful story of duty, debt, honor, sacrifice, and empathy, brimming with action, blood, sex, gore, violence, scheming, demons, politics, betrayal, cataclysm, cultists, and vengeance, wrapped up in a very well done Japanese aesthetic and an incredibly powerful plotline.
Overall I was frequently impressed with the caliber of writing and always engaged in the story, no matter how grim and gruesome.
Highly recommended, and I can’t wait for the next book (though I genuinely need a little time to decompress, so I guess the wait isn’t so bad).
September 25, 2024
I enjoyed that this was a character driven story, and had that element that I was looking for in a action adventure novel. The concept worked well and enjoyed the dark fantasy element, it had that mythology element that I wanted and enjoyed getting through this. I was invested in what Cal Logan wrote and can't wait for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2024
I am absolutely loving all the books coming out that involve Asian mythologies and the culture in general, so of course I wanted to read this ASAP! This book did not disappoint in that regard and was one of my favorite things about this story. The characters were amazing, and I really enjoyed the plot, it was hard to put this book down. I really look forward to reading more work by this author.
October 10, 2024
Loved the book, especially how it seamlessly weaved in Japanese mythology. A classic wandering hero’s journey through the rural villages of Japan as Jin and Shura seek to purge the demons from the country. Feng was my favorite character, always ready with a good chuff. Curious to learn more of where the saga takes them.
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