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Land of Exile #2
A Haunt for Jackals
After capturing a jinn-devil and fleeing to the desert, Azetla has exchanged the threat of execution for the weight of high treason. Thousands of men are now under his command—for the Emperor’s brother must have both a scapegoat and a symbol to stand behind his quiet coup.
But Azetla has different plans. He means to bring his masters a war which will spread throughout the southern desert, and beyond. As Azetla gathers troops and tribes and victories, his reluctant alliance with the Sahr devil becomes an indispensable one. Few can resist the influence of her words, which reach every tongue and every tribe.
The rebellious nobility of Maurow will get more than they ever bargained for.
The Emperor’s brother, James, will become a far more ruthless man than he ever wanted to be.
And the whole southern desert will be tempted by the chance to cast off the yoke of the Empire
They need only submit to the command of a jackal and the voice of a jinn.
But Azetla has different plans. He means to bring his masters a war which will spread throughout the southern desert, and beyond. As Azetla gathers troops and tribes and victories, his reluctant alliance with the Sahr devil becomes an indispensable one. Few can resist the influence of her words, which reach every tongue and every tribe.
The rebellious nobility of Maurow will get more than they ever bargained for.
The Emperor’s brother, James, will become a far more ruthless man than he ever wanted to be.
And the whole southern desert will be tempted by the chance to cast off the yoke of the Empire
They need only submit to the command of a jackal and the voice of a jinn.
510 pages, Paperback
First published February 25, 2025
40 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Odom
2 books174 followersJ.L. Odom hails from Oklahoma. After a five year stint in the Marine Corps as an Arabic linguist, she graduated from George Washington University with a degree in International Affairs, focusing on Conflict and Security. She lives with her husband and five children wherever it is that the U.S. Army happens to send them. Her hobbies include running, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and cooking meals for a crowd.
Her inspirations are C.S. Lewis and Robin McKinley, war history (and history in general), middle eastern languages, and desert landscapes.
She can be found on instagram with the handle @jlodom.author
Her inspirations are C.S. Lewis and Robin McKinley, war history (and history in general), middle eastern languages, and desert landscapes.
She can be found on instagram with the handle @jlodom.author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 11, 2025
Book 1 was the champion of SPFBO 10, overcoming 299 other entries, and I absolutely loved it.
Book 2 is better!
Book 2 has every good thing that the first book had - intelligence, subtlety, nuance, wonderful prose, and marvellous slow-burn character work. But in this book, along with a ramping up of the action, excitement, and threat, much of the groundwork laid down in the first volume pays off.
There's far more emotion in A Haunt For Jackals, and emotion was the one thing I felt somewhat lacking in By Blood, by Salt. And that emotion is allowed to cut so deep because of the characters built in book 1 and the relationships between them.
The relationship between Azelta and Tzal is, for me, the best drawn and most intriguing one I've read since Robin Hobb's Fitz and the Fool pairing, which flourished over many books and became the vessel for Hobb's enormous talent for such things.
I use the word "relationship" because, as with Fitz and the Fool, their status is deliciously impossible to pin down. They're not friends ... or are they? They're not lovers ... but could they be? They're not enemies ... but each has so many secrets and hidden goals.
This series is fire as far as I'm concerned. Bear in mind that it's fantasy without magic, without monsters, and without the breakneck pace of many modern stories. But if you think you can enjoy something like that then I have no reservations in recommending these books as among the absolute best examples you'll find!
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January 28, 2025
I really liked the first book in the series and I'm happy to say the second book is even better.
The writing of J.L.Odom is excellent. It drew me in and I could feel every emotion, every grimace the protagonists felt and made as if I was there.
The political intrigue is even more central this time around as is the military aspect of the story.
This time we also get some great battle scenes, which although they are relatively sort they are well written and impactful
But once again the stars of the show are the characters. Every character is described with detail and believability. Especially though the two main characters are some of the best I've come across in the genre (and one of them is easily one of my favorite characters ever).
Of course no book is perfect. The pacing of the first half is really slow and I would have liked to see more chapters from the secondary characters PoV (mainly from the antagonist). Also, even though I'm ok with this choice, the book would benefit (or at least would have a broader apeal) with some fun/lighter/witty moments just to lift some of the tension from the protagonists and the reader.
As a final note I have to mention that there is no fantastical element whatsoever in this one and it is better to pick it up expecting something more like a historical fiction than fantasy.
To think that this series is Odom's debut is hard to believe. She doesn't take the easy road with the choices she makes. Her book is both complex and epic but accessible at the same time. And her character work is top-level stuff..
P.S I really hope when Odom releases the third book she will include a recap, because there are too many names and too much happening to remember all the details..
Thanks to Booksirens for sending me an advance review copy.
The writing of J.L.Odom is excellent. It drew me in and I could feel every emotion, every grimace the protagonists felt and made as if I was there.
The political intrigue is even more central this time around as is the military aspect of the story.
This time we also get some great battle scenes, which although they are relatively sort they are well written and impactful
But once again the stars of the show are the characters. Every character is described with detail and believability. Especially though the two main characters are some of the best I've come across in the genre (and one of them is easily one of my favorite characters ever).
Of course no book is perfect. The pacing of the first half is really slow and I would have liked to see more chapters from the secondary characters PoV (mainly from the antagonist). Also, even though I'm ok with this choice, the book would benefit (or at least would have a broader apeal) with some fun/lighter/witty moments just to lift some of the tension from the protagonists and the reader.
As a final note I have to mention that there is no fantastical element whatsoever in this one and it is better to pick it up expecting something more like a historical fiction than fantasy.
To think that this series is Odom's debut is hard to believe. She doesn't take the easy road with the choices she makes. Her book is both complex and epic but accessible at the same time. And her character work is top-level stuff..
P.S I really hope when Odom releases the third book she will include a recap, because there are too many names and too much happening to remember all the details..
Thanks to Booksirens for sending me an advance review copy.
February 13, 2025
With the second installment of her Land of Exile series, A Haunt for Jackals, J.L. Odom firmly solidifies herself as one of my favorite new authors of the past few years.
Middle books in trilogies often suffer from an overburdened sense of set up or filler, but this book grabs hold of its reader and throws us back into the thick of the tension. Like its predecessor, book two pulls us into the harsh world of its characters, picking up on the growing tensions and alliances we left at the climax of By Blood, By Salt.
The plot of the book does meander a bit more than the first, which felt a bit jarring at several points. But I never felt as though it was enough to pull me away from the immersion of the character development and building conflict.
I love this series. I love the characters, I love the deeply rooted themes of faith, belief, honor, sacrifice, and truth. Tzal is easily one of my favorite characters in fantasy, and the depth to which Odom portrays all of her characters, but particularly Tzal, often took my breath away as I read. Tzal is the epitome of how warrior women can be written powerfully flawed and beautiful.
Azetla's strong narrative anchor serves as a guiding light through the story, surrounded by a secondary cast that comes off the page, each designed meticulously by the author. We are introduced to several new perspectives in this book, and each one added another layer of depth and history. Odom's ability to create a lived in world has truly impressed me on a level I don't find as often as I'd like. Her world and theme work reach close to some of the genre greats that I've read and loved: Steven Erikson, Daniel Abraham, and Fonda Lee.
I have no doubt that the final installment of this series will be powerful, and end up on my list of all time favorite fantasy works.
Middle books in trilogies often suffer from an overburdened sense of set up or filler, but this book grabs hold of its reader and throws us back into the thick of the tension. Like its predecessor, book two pulls us into the harsh world of its characters, picking up on the growing tensions and alliances we left at the climax of By Blood, By Salt.
The plot of the book does meander a bit more than the first, which felt a bit jarring at several points. But I never felt as though it was enough to pull me away from the immersion of the character development and building conflict.
I love this series. I love the characters, I love the deeply rooted themes of faith, belief, honor, sacrifice, and truth. Tzal is easily one of my favorite characters in fantasy, and the depth to which Odom portrays all of her characters, but particularly Tzal, often took my breath away as I read. Tzal is the epitome of how warrior women can be written powerfully flawed and beautiful.
Azetla's strong narrative anchor serves as a guiding light through the story, surrounded by a secondary cast that comes off the page, each designed meticulously by the author. We are introduced to several new perspectives in this book, and each one added another layer of depth and history. Odom's ability to create a lived in world has truly impressed me on a level I don't find as often as I'd like. Her world and theme work reach close to some of the genre greats that I've read and loved: Steven Erikson, Daniel Abraham, and Fonda Lee.
I have no doubt that the final installment of this series will be powerful, and end up on my list of all time favorite fantasy works.
July 27, 2025
This book read like a rare treasure, brimming with so many quotable lines I hardly know how to do it justice without copying half the volume here.
To me the main strength of the first book was the writing and the world building. Both the plot and the characters felt a little fuzzy, hazy there, enticing the eyes with something exciting but I couldn’t really make out the exact contours of them. I couldn’t really tell exactly what I was seeing, what was truly happening. Like a mirage shimmering in the distance.
But in this second book? Boy, we have most definitely arrived! And the mirage turned out to be not only real but even more impressive than the first glimpses suggested. Not wanting to include spoilers, I’m not going to say much about the plot, only that it gathered strength like a coming storm, satisfyingly setting the stage for the third volume. We also delve deeper into the main characters’ backgrounds, gaining a better understanding and appreciation for their qualities, complex personalities, and actions.
Given the craftsmanship, I was already floored by the fact that By Blood, By Salt was the author’s first book, but I feel that in A Haunt For Jackals her skills dazzle even more. As is often the case with second books, A Haunt For Jackals feels more confident. Odom fearlessly showcases her inspiring talent, leaving this fellow newbie author to stare open-mouthed with eyes glued to the page, trying to keep up while taking it all in. Things that especially stood out in terms of the writing:
The beauty of the prose is spectacular, just as it was in the first book.
“You were stitched into darkness from birth. You’ll never get out.”
“Riada’s mind was a torrent, and it was always with great difficulty that he had to wait for others to climb to the conclusions he had long since reached.”
“Her voice was cold and pelting, like winter rain.”
Odom also has a great talent for what I’d call little gems of stories within the main story. Which is to describe stories told in just a paragraph or two that still manage to move the reader, especially when they involve a character we already know a little about.
“In the fourth week, the Sahr watched Mali treat a scorpion sting, and called her something for the first time. She had never used Mali’s actual name. Not once. This time she called Mali, Taya. Mali asked widely, but never discovered the exact meaning of the word only that it was not Trekoan or Makarish. It was, she suspected, the Sahr’s native tongue. But the Sahr used it like a title. A profession. A purpose. Others began to call her Taya as well. “You think your arm is broken? Go get the Taya. Taya Mali.” And she felt joy and belonging in that vile Sahr devil’s word. She would not relinquish it for her life.”
Another thing I noticed is how fully the characters live in the present moment. (An enviable ability!) They all observe each other carefully down to the smallest changes in body language, or tone of voice and remember these observations.
In real life most people tend to pay very little attention to others and are only aware of their own reactions and feelings in a conversation, even if that. Many go through emotions without actually being aware of how they feel and why, their answers and reactions flowing through them without triggering awareness, while in these books conversations are often as carefully thought out and executed as swordplay. This in my opinion lends the characters an extra layer of intelligence and impresses the reader further. Eventually I came to think of it as a hallmark of the series’ style. Like in the musketeers books and movies, where duels are peppered with witty observations and elegant banter, as if the characters were enjoying afternoon tea rather than fighting for their lives. Or like how in martial art movies even the least important side-characters could kick your arse in less than sixty seconds. Here this intelligent awareness and the speculative dialogues are the core superpowers.
And finally, something that was apparent in the first book already, but maybe even more noticeable here. The author’s passion and understanding of the power of words and languages shines through the pages with the force of genuine magic. It’s love in its purest form, which leaves no reader untouched. I was very impressed by the first book, but I think I enjoyed this even more. When the third book comes out, I’ll be on it like a hawk.
To me the main strength of the first book was the writing and the world building. Both the plot and the characters felt a little fuzzy, hazy there, enticing the eyes with something exciting but I couldn’t really make out the exact contours of them. I couldn’t really tell exactly what I was seeing, what was truly happening. Like a mirage shimmering in the distance.
But in this second book? Boy, we have most definitely arrived! And the mirage turned out to be not only real but even more impressive than the first glimpses suggested. Not wanting to include spoilers, I’m not going to say much about the plot, only that it gathered strength like a coming storm, satisfyingly setting the stage for the third volume. We also delve deeper into the main characters’ backgrounds, gaining a better understanding and appreciation for their qualities, complex personalities, and actions.
Given the craftsmanship, I was already floored by the fact that By Blood, By Salt was the author’s first book, but I feel that in A Haunt For Jackals her skills dazzle even more. As is often the case with second books, A Haunt For Jackals feels more confident. Odom fearlessly showcases her inspiring talent, leaving this fellow newbie author to stare open-mouthed with eyes glued to the page, trying to keep up while taking it all in. Things that especially stood out in terms of the writing:
The beauty of the prose is spectacular, just as it was in the first book.
“You were stitched into darkness from birth. You’ll never get out.”
“Riada’s mind was a torrent, and it was always with great difficulty that he had to wait for others to climb to the conclusions he had long since reached.”
“Her voice was cold and pelting, like winter rain.”
Odom also has a great talent for what I’d call little gems of stories within the main story. Which is to describe stories told in just a paragraph or two that still manage to move the reader, especially when they involve a character we already know a little about.
“In the fourth week, the Sahr watched Mali treat a scorpion sting, and called her something for the first time. She had never used Mali’s actual name. Not once. This time she called Mali, Taya. Mali asked widely, but never discovered the exact meaning of the word only that it was not Trekoan or Makarish. It was, she suspected, the Sahr’s native tongue. But the Sahr used it like a title. A profession. A purpose. Others began to call her Taya as well. “You think your arm is broken? Go get the Taya. Taya Mali.” And she felt joy and belonging in that vile Sahr devil’s word. She would not relinquish it for her life.”
Another thing I noticed is how fully the characters live in the present moment. (An enviable ability!) They all observe each other carefully down to the smallest changes in body language, or tone of voice and remember these observations.
In real life most people tend to pay very little attention to others and are only aware of their own reactions and feelings in a conversation, even if that. Many go through emotions without actually being aware of how they feel and why, their answers and reactions flowing through them without triggering awareness, while in these books conversations are often as carefully thought out and executed as swordplay. This in my opinion lends the characters an extra layer of intelligence and impresses the reader further. Eventually I came to think of it as a hallmark of the series’ style. Like in the musketeers books and movies, where duels are peppered with witty observations and elegant banter, as if the characters were enjoying afternoon tea rather than fighting for their lives. Or like how in martial art movies even the least important side-characters could kick your arse in less than sixty seconds. Here this intelligent awareness and the speculative dialogues are the core superpowers.
And finally, something that was apparent in the first book already, but maybe even more noticeable here. The author’s passion and understanding of the power of words and languages shines through the pages with the force of genuine magic. It’s love in its purest form, which leaves no reader untouched. I was very impressed by the first book, but I think I enjoyed this even more. When the third book comes out, I’ll be on it like a hawk.
December 28, 2025
Wow, this was really good.
I hope to see J.L Odom get more recognition in the years to come.
I read many a popular author and series this year, it's fitting to read a lesser known one and find it better than many of them.
A Haunt for Jackals is a very good sequel and a very good novel both at the same time. It builds on the first installment in unexpected ways, only in retrospect do pieces fit and things make sense. This first novel charted a story that had all intention of going the distance, and I didn't expect it.
I love the characters, especially watching their pieces finally come into place. True character development.
I also think military fantasy is something I really like.
I hope to see J.L Odom get more recognition in the years to come.
I read many a popular author and series this year, it's fitting to read a lesser known one and find it better than many of them.
A Haunt for Jackals is a very good sequel and a very good novel both at the same time. It builds on the first installment in unexpected ways, only in retrospect do pieces fit and things make sense. This first novel charted a story that had all intention of going the distance, and I didn't expect it.
I love the characters, especially watching their pieces finally come into place. True character development.
I also think military fantasy is something I really like.
April 19, 2025
Stories in the Old Testament tend to have mysterious depths between the lines that awaken the imagination. When the Bible refers to someone like David or Joseph or Noah as having “found favor” with God, what would that actually look like on a daily basis? When Noah was adrift in the floodwaters, or when Moses wandered the desert, or when Joseph lived as a slave—what must it have been like to live through it?
J.L. Odom’s Land of Exile series marinates in moments like these. The in-between, the hopeless times, the times when it feels God is nowhere to be found and can’t possibly be listening.
The main character, Azetla, feels like an amalgam of many Old Testament biblical figures. The steadfastness of Daniel, the leadership of Moses, the subjugation of Joseph, with more sprinkled in as well.
This story is told like a slowly unfolding flower—or perhaps we start at the tip of the iceberg which reveals more and more depth as the story progresses. The pace is slow and methodical and character-driven. Lots of politics, complex cultures, interpersonal dramas, and internal monologues. There is action, but it’s written with a removed tone that evokes the shape of it rather than describing the literal.
This is fantasy with a historical flare—parallels to the real world make this feel like it takes place in ancient times. If you need your fantasy to have dragons and complex magic systems, then you’ll have to look elsewhere. If you love historical fiction and want to dip your toes into fantasy, this would be a great place to start.
J.L. Odom’s Land of Exile series marinates in moments like these. The in-between, the hopeless times, the times when it feels God is nowhere to be found and can’t possibly be listening.
The main character, Azetla, feels like an amalgam of many Old Testament biblical figures. The steadfastness of Daniel, the leadership of Moses, the subjugation of Joseph, with more sprinkled in as well.
This story is told like a slowly unfolding flower—or perhaps we start at the tip of the iceberg which reveals more and more depth as the story progresses. The pace is slow and methodical and character-driven. Lots of politics, complex cultures, interpersonal dramas, and internal monologues. There is action, but it’s written with a removed tone that evokes the shape of it rather than describing the literal.
This is fantasy with a historical flare—parallels to the real world make this feel like it takes place in ancient times. If you need your fantasy to have dragons and complex magic systems, then you’ll have to look elsewhere. If you love historical fiction and want to dip your toes into fantasy, this would be a great place to start.
November 4, 2025
I enjoyed this second book even more than the first. Our characters, cultures, and world are explored thoroughly. The plot moves along at a pace that precisely fits my tastes. I cannot recommend this series enough.
March 17, 2025
A Haunt for Jackals
By J.L. Odom
5 stars! and I will be shocked if this doesn’t end up being my favorite book of the year 😊
These characters are just phenomenal and the world building continues to impress me. We get to learn more backstory which I was so here for! Tzal brings us on a journey from heart wrenching to heart warming and everything in between.
I really appreciate how much detail Odom brings to each of the tribes to make everything seem so real and rounded. But she also doesn’t get bogged down in trying to show every little thing. Such a balanced glimpse into different cultures and religions.
I don’t want to give anything away, but let’s just say everything I loved about book one was here and then some.
Oh, and I absolutely teared up near the end 😭
I can’t wait for the next book!!!
By J.L. Odom
5 stars! and I will be shocked if this doesn’t end up being my favorite book of the year 😊
These characters are just phenomenal and the world building continues to impress me. We get to learn more backstory which I was so here for! Tzal brings us on a journey from heart wrenching to heart warming and everything in between.
I really appreciate how much detail Odom brings to each of the tribes to make everything seem so real and rounded. But she also doesn’t get bogged down in trying to show every little thing. Such a balanced glimpse into different cultures and religions.
I don’t want to give anything away, but let’s just say everything I loved about book one was here and then some.
Oh, and I absolutely teared up near the end 😭
I can’t wait for the next book!!!
July 31, 2025
Wow just wow. I couldn’t put this book down. Odom gives you more depth in her characters here versus the first one. You understand their motivations and their past trauma. Action packed and fun. Incredible story. Can’t wait for the 3rd book.
July 27, 2025
“Azetla sometimes doubted whether the God of Masheva ever spoke straight into the soul of someone fallen so far from home and holiness as he. Usually silence and ambiguity engulfed his prayers. Tonight he was reminded that it was sometimes easier to endure the silence than it was to have it broken. For then, something might be told to you—or asked of you—and it would show all the more how much of a coward and a hypocrite you really are.”
I wish I could write a review that would put into words how I feel about this book after reading it for the second time. But if I could do that…I would be a writer. The ideal thing would be to copy/paste all of my favorite quotes - but it was surprisingly hard to find any that wouldn’t be considered spoilers. To even try to describe the book is difficult for me. It is what I would call a slow burn…and yet I could not put it down or quit turning the pages. Even on my *second* read. Actually…even *more* on my second read.
One of my favorite things is the way J.L. Odom writes battle scenes. We get to experience the battle from different POVs - which is definitely nothing new when it comes to fantasy. However, the way she makes each POV feel like a different personality is what really stood out to me. I don’t forget whose POV I’m reading because their thoughts and actions feel like *them*. Also she draws so much emotion into the battles…I felt immersed in the battle scenes like I don’t remember experiencing before. I sometimes struggle to stay focused on battle scenes when I’m just being given an epic blow by blow that lasts several pages. This was never the case in A Haunt for Jackals…in fact the entire book just drew me into this world and made me feel a part of everything. The characters? I know them. I know their personalities, remember their thoughts and the things that they said, I feel like I could predict their actions because it just feels like I know them that well. Azetla has flown all the way up my favorite characters of all time list. I am not sure what spot he’s at but he’s definitely somewhere at the top.
We get a new “POV” in this book with the addition of a backstory. I LOVED it. Wow. I’ve always been a fan of giving a flashback here and there which gives little insights along the way. And that epilogue … I seriously cannot wait until 2026 for book 3! I’m confident I will have to re-read book 1 & 2 at least once before then.
I wish I could write a review that would put into words how I feel about this book after reading it for the second time. But if I could do that…I would be a writer. The ideal thing would be to copy/paste all of my favorite quotes - but it was surprisingly hard to find any that wouldn’t be considered spoilers. To even try to describe the book is difficult for me. It is what I would call a slow burn…and yet I could not put it down or quit turning the pages. Even on my *second* read. Actually…even *more* on my second read.
One of my favorite things is the way J.L. Odom writes battle scenes. We get to experience the battle from different POVs - which is definitely nothing new when it comes to fantasy. However, the way she makes each POV feel like a different personality is what really stood out to me. I don’t forget whose POV I’m reading because their thoughts and actions feel like *them*. Also she draws so much emotion into the battles…I felt immersed in the battle scenes like I don’t remember experiencing before. I sometimes struggle to stay focused on battle scenes when I’m just being given an epic blow by blow that lasts several pages. This was never the case in A Haunt for Jackals…in fact the entire book just drew me into this world and made me feel a part of everything. The characters? I know them. I know their personalities, remember their thoughts and the things that they said, I feel like I could predict their actions because it just feels like I know them that well. Azetla has flown all the way up my favorite characters of all time list. I am not sure what spot he’s at but he’s definitely somewhere at the top.
We get a new “POV” in this book with the addition of a backstory. I LOVED it. Wow. I’ve always been a fan of giving a flashback here and there which gives little insights along the way. And that epilogue … I seriously cannot wait until 2026 for book 3! I’m confident I will have to re-read book 1 & 2 at least once before then.
January 20, 2025
“She knew that if you told the demons you would like to hear their voices…they would let you. And then they would not stop letting you.”
What a wild ride! I loved the first book in this series and this was a great follow-up. There is so much action and you can tell the author really knows what she is talking about. The two main characters are so unique and their development is amazing.
I gave this installment in the series four stars because it was a little difficult to follow at times. There are so many characters, places, and plot lines that it’s hard to keep track of everything. The included map is super helpful for reference and I believe the author is adding a list of important characters, so that is helpful to have as well.
The ending was so worth getting to and it all came together into a twist!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What a wild ride! I loved the first book in this series and this was a great follow-up. There is so much action and you can tell the author really knows what she is talking about. The two main characters are so unique and their development is amazing.
I gave this installment in the series four stars because it was a little difficult to follow at times. There are so many characters, places, and plot lines that it’s hard to keep track of everything. The included map is super helpful for reference and I believe the author is adding a list of important characters, so that is helpful to have as well.
The ending was so worth getting to and it all came together into a twist!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 8, 2025
I rate this book 4.5.
A Haunt for Jackals drew me in from the very first page and never let go. The story is full of political tension, the world is vividly detailed, and the characters are complex and compelling.
There are a few moments where the pacing slightly dips, but it never detracts from the tension or the richness of the world. Themes of trust, survival, and hidden truths give the story additional depth~ it’s thought-provoking as well.
The writing itself strikes a perfect balance between immersive and engaging. Odom builds suspense steadily, drawing you deeper into the story with each chapter. The plot twist near the end completely blindsided me 😱. It was clever, unexpected, and elevated the entire story, leaving me thinking about it long after I finished.
I absolutely love Tzal~ she is brilliantly layered, full of depth, and one of the most compelling female protagonists I’ve encountered in a long time. Every choice she makes, every secret she carries, kept me completely invested in her journey.
Another captivating aspects of the story is Tzal’s relationship with Azetla. Their connection is layered and interesting, full of tension, loyalty, and unspoken understanding. Watching how their bond evolves adds another favorite part of the story for me.
A Haunt for Jackals drew me in from the very first page and never let go. The story is full of political tension, the world is vividly detailed, and the characters are complex and compelling.
There are a few moments where the pacing slightly dips, but it never detracts from the tension or the richness of the world. Themes of trust, survival, and hidden truths give the story additional depth~ it’s thought-provoking as well.
The writing itself strikes a perfect balance between immersive and engaging. Odom builds suspense steadily, drawing you deeper into the story with each chapter. The plot twist near the end completely blindsided me 😱. It was clever, unexpected, and elevated the entire story, leaving me thinking about it long after I finished.
I absolutely love Tzal~ she is brilliantly layered, full of depth, and one of the most compelling female protagonists I’ve encountered in a long time. Every choice she makes, every secret she carries, kept me completely invested in her journey.
Another captivating aspects of the story is Tzal’s relationship with Azetla. Their connection is layered and interesting, full of tension, loyalty, and unspoken understanding. Watching how their bond evolves adds another favorite part of the story for me.
August 12, 2025
Can a second book in a series be better than the first?
The first book, By Blood By Salt was a solid 4 start read. A Haunt for Jackals exceeded beyond that and I believe this will be one of my favourite reads of the year.
The first book, By Blood By Salt was a solid 4 start read. A Haunt for Jackals exceeded beyond that and I believe this will be one of my favourite reads of the year.
November 22, 2025
A Haunt for Jackals ably extends everything that was good about the first book. Azetla has thrown his lot in fully with the coup, becoming an army commander with no rank laboring under a sentence of death. His task is to weld the unruly southern tribes into an alliance capable of defeating an empire, using little more than diplomacy and the skills of the despised translator-assassin Tzal.
This book is really Tzal's book, flashing back to that enigmatic figure's birth and harsh upbringing. Though she's called a devil, and used as a tool and slave, she has her own fascinating fatalism; a desire to spit in the eyes of all the gods and dare them to bring her down.
The plot: intrigue, battles, the fate of empires, continues, but this book shines in the quiet moments of character building, with conversations between Azetla and Tzal, and those moments of camp life where human concerns run up against grand destinies.
This book is really Tzal's book, flashing back to that enigmatic figure's birth and harsh upbringing. Though she's called a devil, and used as a tool and slave, she has her own fascinating fatalism; a desire to spit in the eyes of all the gods and dare them to bring her down.
The plot: intrigue, battles, the fate of empires, continues, but this book shines in the quiet moments of character building, with conversations between Azetla and Tzal, and those moments of camp life where human concerns run up against grand destinies.
August 17, 2025
How do I say this? Oh, yeah, hell yes. This was so good. Azetla and Sal for the win. I can feel the pain coming in book three. My only retrete is it’s not published yet. J. L. Odum is a genius. This is such a good book.
Strong recommend.
Strong recommend.
June 4, 2025
Just as good if not better than the first. The writing style is so captivating and it was wonderful to dive more into the psychology of our main characters. I need book 3 ASAP!
January 25, 2025
A Haunt for Jackals by J.L. Odom
This is a fantastic sequel. I love the detail and care the author has put into her books. I know she’s spent a long time working on these and you can tell. An example of this is how the different cultures and people groups feel fully defined even if we barely see them. The amount of attention to detail, even in small things is a testament to her writing talent. The little unimportant things help to make this world feel real and that’s one of the reasons I love her books. You truly feel like you’re there.
The story itself is going in some fascinating directions. I loved the flashbacks to Tzal’s childhood. I’m really hoping to hear some of Azetla’s story in the next book.
For much of the book, I wondered whether the hints the author was dropping about a certain aspect of the story were foreshadowing or a clever red herring. Without saying which it was, I’ll say I was thrilled with how it turned out.
The problem with being an ARC reader, is that if it’s a book in a series, you have to wait that much longer for the next book! And I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in this phenomenal series!
This is a fantastic sequel. I love the detail and care the author has put into her books. I know she’s spent a long time working on these and you can tell. An example of this is how the different cultures and people groups feel fully defined even if we barely see them. The amount of attention to detail, even in small things is a testament to her writing talent. The little unimportant things help to make this world feel real and that’s one of the reasons I love her books. You truly feel like you’re there.
The story itself is going in some fascinating directions. I loved the flashbacks to Tzal’s childhood. I’m really hoping to hear some of Azetla’s story in the next book.
For much of the book, I wondered whether the hints the author was dropping about a certain aspect of the story were foreshadowing or a clever red herring. Without saying which it was, I’ll say I was thrilled with how it turned out.
The problem with being an ARC reader, is that if it’s a book in a series, you have to wait that much longer for the next book! And I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in this phenomenal series!
March 18, 2025
I do not have the language chops that J.L. Odom has to adequately describe my complete reaction and review for the second installment in the Land of Exile series, regardless, I'll try. The characters, primarily Tzal and Azetla, are phenomenal. Both characters are flawed and complex, yet wonderfully realized. Without saying a word, the tension in the room was grossly felt by myself as the reader with the tension ramped up when Tzal and Azetla were on the page together. Just brilliant and, again, hard to really describe (words are hard for me). Despite the mystery of the Sahr devil being an important and defining feature of her character, the unveiling of Tzal's past was perfectly crafted in this installment. For both characters, the flourishing of two outcasts in a complex political and military environment is astonishing to witness and completely believable given the context and motivations of those "in power". I was completely riveted by the story and world throughout. J.L. Odom has crafted a wholly unique and fasinating tale with powerful themes of faith, sacrifice, companionship, and truth.
Similar to book 1, A Haunt for Jackals is easily in the running for my book of the year!!!!!
Similar to book 1, A Haunt for Jackals is easily in the running for my book of the year!!!!!
July 17, 2025
Wow. I usually have so much to say to friends or family after reading a book but a simple, “you have to read it,” is the only thing I can conjure without talking their ears off. I can’t remember the last time a book had me rereading whole chapters to make sure I didn’t miss some key information hinted at. It’s such rare fun to find a book that reminds me why I got back into reading again. It’s all together an even rarer quality that inspires me to start writing again.
Book one was amazing and this book surpasses it. I’m hungry and eager for the next installment. JL Odom has cemented my complete faith in her wherever she takes this series.
Book one was amazing and this book surpasses it. I’m hungry and eager for the next installment. JL Odom has cemented my complete faith in her wherever she takes this series.
August 27, 2025
A very good sequel. I have a hard time listening to these. They actually require me to pay attention in order to follow them, so I’m more likely to miss things if I’m doing anything else while listening. That being said, this book adds so much to the series. What we’re introduced to in book one is taken and deepened and advanced. Character relationships, histories, and so much more continues to be developed in this heavily militaristic and action filled story. The ending makes me super excited for the next book, and seeing where this series will go. I need to get these and do a reread on physical, because I think I’ll enjoy them quite a bit more that way, and grasp more of the intricacies. Again, 4* is more of a placeholder for me than an actual rating.
August 13, 2025
This is an excellent series. It's one story carrying two plots that run parallel simultaneously.
It's like looking at a photo negative and a photo at the same time.
What's there and obvious is good. What's suggested is even better.
There's the literal story: one of battles and power plays...all good. But then there's the story that's not told but only hinted at and page by page the shape and scope of the under story becomes clearer. It's really an excellent reading experience.
Odom is very good. I look forward to her future work.
It's like looking at a photo negative and a photo at the same time.
What's there and obvious is good. What's suggested is even better.
There's the literal story: one of battles and power plays...all good. But then there's the story that's not told but only hinted at and page by page the shape and scope of the under story becomes clearer. It's really an excellent reading experience.
Odom is very good. I look forward to her future work.
April 19, 2025
In this next installment of the Land of Exile series, we continue to follow Azetla and the "Sahr Devil", Tzal as they begin their building the military for the eventual coup against the emperor.
As a review of the basis of the story this continues as a military fantasy that draws inspiration from the Middle East or Arabic countries. Told from multiple points of view following a growing battalion of men with mixed religions, loyalties, beliefs, and views that are now trying to unite people and tribes that have not been able to for time untold.
THe many deep themes of racism, religious segregation, and hatred for those that are different or believe in something different than the majority of society continue but in a way become softened in the name of uniting for a common cause. Characters continue to grow and change and as a reader we are able to see what they struggle with internally and the decisions they ultimately make.
The criticism I have is though it stayed within the realms of a military fantasy, it felt that in frequently lapsed into a religious book and became very "preachy". Many references were made about gods and beliefs and then trying to revert thinking back to the idea of one god. The author started to do more telling than showing and it started to feel like a preaching of beliefs subltely hidden a military fantasy.
I still very much enjoyed the writing and will be picking up the next book to see where these characters go. I will say that the author is very good at building characters that you become emotionally invested in and fall in love with.
Thank you for Book Sirens and the author and publisher for the advanced copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As a review of the basis of the story this continues as a military fantasy that draws inspiration from the Middle East or Arabic countries. Told from multiple points of view following a growing battalion of men with mixed religions, loyalties, beliefs, and views that are now trying to unite people and tribes that have not been able to for time untold.
THe many deep themes of racism, religious segregation, and hatred for those that are different or believe in something different than the majority of society continue but in a way become softened in the name of uniting for a common cause. Characters continue to grow and change and as a reader we are able to see what they struggle with internally and the decisions they ultimately make.
The criticism I have is though it stayed within the realms of a military fantasy, it felt that in frequently lapsed into a religious book and became very "preachy". Many references were made about gods and beliefs and then trying to revert thinking back to the idea of one god. The author started to do more telling than showing and it started to feel like a preaching of beliefs subltely hidden a military fantasy.
I still very much enjoyed the writing and will be picking up the next book to see where these characters go. I will say that the author is very good at building characters that you become emotionally invested in and fall in love with.
Thank you for Book Sirens and the author and publisher for the advanced copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 4, 2025
I think this is the beginning of a very fruitful career. I enjoyed the first book with some detachment, but this one is so sharp and witty, its like a shard of desert-baked obsidian (I'm sorry, my prose falls well short of Odom's).
The prose in here is so sharp and powerful, it makes the book. The rest of the book is awesome, but in my opinion the prose elevates the whole book to another level. It is amazing how exact a description, a metaphor, a phrase can be. When the text reeks of context and environment, that is a very special thing. The isn't a line of this book that made me doubt the world, or the story.
Also, there is definitely enough mystery in here to make a great discussion. So many things are left ambiguous.
The prose in here is so sharp and powerful, it makes the book. The rest of the book is awesome, but in my opinion the prose elevates the whole book to another level. It is amazing how exact a description, a metaphor, a phrase can be. When the text reeks of context and environment, that is a very special thing. The isn't a line of this book that made me doubt the world, or the story.
Also, there is definitely enough mystery in here to make a great discussion. So many things are left ambiguous.
September 4, 2025
Oh wow! J.L. Odom has done it again with another masterpiece in this amazing series. It's truly unbelievable for such a new author.
I found this book very tough to review and organize my thoughts, as many of them are the same as for book one, this one is just done even better. So, it goes without saying that if you liked the first one, you will love this.
The author's experience as a military linguist really shines through here, especially for Tzal, who truly excels in this one. It was great getting her characters background and seeing how she almost switches her personality based on the language she's speaking. All the characters are deep, complex, and excellently executed.
It's really great to compare how the characters see themselves versus how others see them.
This is pure military fantasy at its best. The world is gritty and full of religions (with different sects within them), cultures, politics, expansive and diverse history, and, of course, battles and strategy. The author's experience really shines through; everything feels so real. If you're looking for realism, this is definitely it. Every problem is solved in a realistic and believable way, through skill and strategy rather than some random magical powers. If you're looking for a lot of magic, this isn't the book for you.
It's everything a book two should be, it takes everything from book one and builds on it, answering questions while creating new ones, and leaving you desperate for book three with that ending.
If I had to criticize anything, it might be that some of the side characters from book one don't get enough time, but there are a lot more POVs here, so it's to be expected. Also, some people may find the pacing a bit slow. I personally didn't, as for me it made sense with everything that was going on, the politics, strategy, etc. so it worked for me. I'm happy with things being somewhat slow if it makes sense, and it definitely did here.
Overall, Odom totally smashed it out of the park again, and I can't wait for the conclusion of this trilogy. At the same time, I'm equally dreading it because I love these characters so much, I don't want it to end.
I found this book very tough to review and organize my thoughts, as many of them are the same as for book one, this one is just done even better. So, it goes without saying that if you liked the first one, you will love this.
The author's experience as a military linguist really shines through here, especially for Tzal, who truly excels in this one. It was great getting her characters background and seeing how she almost switches her personality based on the language she's speaking. All the characters are deep, complex, and excellently executed.
It's really great to compare how the characters see themselves versus how others see them.
This is pure military fantasy at its best. The world is gritty and full of religions (with different sects within them), cultures, politics, expansive and diverse history, and, of course, battles and strategy. The author's experience really shines through; everything feels so real. If you're looking for realism, this is definitely it. Every problem is solved in a realistic and believable way, through skill and strategy rather than some random magical powers. If you're looking for a lot of magic, this isn't the book for you.
It's everything a book two should be, it takes everything from book one and builds on it, answering questions while creating new ones, and leaving you desperate for book three with that ending.
If I had to criticize anything, it might be that some of the side characters from book one don't get enough time, but there are a lot more POVs here, so it's to be expected. Also, some people may find the pacing a bit slow. I personally didn't, as for me it made sense with everything that was going on, the politics, strategy, etc. so it worked for me. I'm happy with things being somewhat slow if it makes sense, and it definitely did here.
Overall, Odom totally smashed it out of the park again, and I can't wait for the conclusion of this trilogy. At the same time, I'm equally dreading it because I love these characters so much, I don't want it to end.
June 9, 2025
A Haunt for Jackals is as much a masterpiece as book 1! Odom's writing style is my favorite kind of prose to read, but also the kind that is so hard to find. I'd say it's kind of like Harper Lee meets Stephen Lawhead.
Every scene is crafted to be as memorable as possible, and they stick in my head with vivid detail long after I've passed them. Every character is deliciously complex and surprised me at every turn, and each backstory is meticulously fleshed out.
This book is a bit more brutal than I'd normally read (it is military fantasy, after all), but I found that it gave the tender moments a deeper impact.
While this book might feel slow-paced to some, the current of tension never abates, and the twisting plot and fascinating characters keep me thoroughly invested...not to mention the Biblical allusions, explorations of themes like faith, trust, and courage, and the rich cultural landscape inspired by the Middle East.
I'm so eager for book 3—the trilogy's conclusion is sure to be epic!!
Every scene is crafted to be as memorable as possible, and they stick in my head with vivid detail long after I've passed them. Every character is deliciously complex and surprised me at every turn, and each backstory is meticulously fleshed out.
This book is a bit more brutal than I'd normally read (it is military fantasy, after all), but I found that it gave the tender moments a deeper impact.
While this book might feel slow-paced to some, the current of tension never abates, and the twisting plot and fascinating characters keep me thoroughly invested...not to mention the Biblical allusions, explorations of themes like faith, trust, and courage, and the rich cultural landscape inspired by the Middle East.
I'm so eager for book 3—the trilogy's conclusion is sure to be epic!!
July 20, 2025
How am I?... well I don't rightly know. Adrift the sea of aftershock. How was this book? Absolute brilliance! A sequel for the top shelf, bottom shelf, back shelf, front and center - all of it!!
The plot did not slow. The character love and appreciation did not wane. Highlights? Way too many. Ya know, if everything is highlighted then nothing is.... well take that as a sign - the whole tale is worth every word. I was unable to distinguish a good section from a bad. I just let the highlighter go dry. Ever should I come back for a point of reference I will simply need to reread the whole story.
Odom knows how to let the arrow fly, nailing the metal head deep in one's heart, soul, and peripheral feels that weigh down like air too heavy. My gosh. I don't know if ever I have been hit so hard by a book in such a way. Though I did not cry in this series and have cried in others, this book kicks like a horse, sparks like a hammer on hot steel, and rages like a forge fire- contained but hot beyond measure. An inferno of craft, precision, and sublty.
The plot did not slow. The character love and appreciation did not wane. Highlights? Way too many. Ya know, if everything is highlighted then nothing is.... well take that as a sign - the whole tale is worth every word. I was unable to distinguish a good section from a bad. I just let the highlighter go dry. Ever should I come back for a point of reference I will simply need to reread the whole story.
Odom knows how to let the arrow fly, nailing the metal head deep in one's heart, soul, and peripheral feels that weigh down like air too heavy. My gosh. I don't know if ever I have been hit so hard by a book in such a way. Though I did not cry in this series and have cried in others, this book kicks like a horse, sparks like a hammer on hot steel, and rages like a forge fire- contained but hot beyond measure. An inferno of craft, precision, and sublty.
February 26, 2025
I quite liked the first book, so I knew I would enjoy this one as well. It ended up blowing me away though and I absolutely loved it! I was torn between reading it as fast as I could and lingering over every word, because I didn’t want it to end. The writing style is beautiful and immersive, and I was highlighting all over the place. I’m still thinking about it and I actually reread the last two chapters last night.
The story starts shortly after the end of the first book, with Azetla in a position of power, yet still distrusted and looked down upon by most. This book does exactly what a sequel/second book should do, which is take everything that was set up in the first one and expand on it in a fulfilling way. The pace is on the slower side yet I never felt bored.
The world is rich and all the different tribes, languages, and religions help make it filled out and real. Once again though, the map in the front of the book is very handy. I will say that although this is labeled as a fantasy, there’s really no magic or anything and it almost has a historical feel to it.
The characters, as I mentioned in my post about the first book, are definitely the highlight! Azetla and Tzal are honestly now some of my favorite characters. They start off distrusting and almost hating each other but are kind of forced to work together, as they are both seen as outcasts of a sort. By the end of the book they have definitely started to trust each other and form a bond, which I was so invested in. The side characters are also really good. We get several of their PoVs throughout the book, which allows us to see the main characters and world in a slightly different way. One character I was very intrigued by was James, the emperor’s brother and the face of the coup although not necessarily the driving force behind it, who I would have liked to see a bit more of.
One thing I actually appreciated was the fact that the characters, who are soldiers/fighters, had a sense of ruthlessness. Not that they enjoy it but they realize that they are basically at war and don't have the luxury of mercy. It occasionally annoys me when characters who are supposed to be soldiers or even assassins act super wishy washy about actually doing it.
Also, there was something that was being hinted at throughout the story, which I guessed early on. I think it was done really well though and I loved the scene where it's actually revealed!
All in all, while this series might not be for everyone, I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend reading both it and the first book!
eARC received in exchange for an honest review
The story starts shortly after the end of the first book, with Azetla in a position of power, yet still distrusted and looked down upon by most. This book does exactly what a sequel/second book should do, which is take everything that was set up in the first one and expand on it in a fulfilling way. The pace is on the slower side yet I never felt bored.
The world is rich and all the different tribes, languages, and religions help make it filled out and real. Once again though, the map in the front of the book is very handy. I will say that although this is labeled as a fantasy, there’s really no magic or anything and it almost has a historical feel to it.
The characters, as I mentioned in my post about the first book, are definitely the highlight! Azetla and Tzal are honestly now some of my favorite characters. They start off distrusting and almost hating each other but are kind of forced to work together, as they are both seen as outcasts of a sort. By the end of the book they have definitely started to trust each other and form a bond, which I was so invested in. The side characters are also really good. We get several of their PoVs throughout the book, which allows us to see the main characters and world in a slightly different way. One character I was very intrigued by was James, the emperor’s brother and the face of the coup although not necessarily the driving force behind it, who I would have liked to see a bit more of.
One thing I actually appreciated was the fact that the characters, who are soldiers/fighters, had a sense of ruthlessness. Not that they enjoy it but they realize that they are basically at war and don't have the luxury of mercy. It occasionally annoys me when characters who are supposed to be soldiers or even assassins act super wishy washy about actually doing it.
Also, there was something that was being hinted at throughout the story, which I guessed early on. I think it was done really well though and I loved the scene where it's actually revealed!
All in all, while this series might not be for everyone, I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend reading both it and the first book!
eARC received in exchange for an honest review
June 9, 2025
This was excellent. Again, the dynamic around the two main characters (Azetla and Tzal) is compelling and intense. My only minor quibble is that it's so good that it makes some of the larger actions feel lesser. J.L. has done an outstanding job crafting her world through these two books - differing peoples, differing religions, differing prejudices - it's very deep and thoughtful.
May 6, 2025
A fantastic follow up. This hands down needs to get in more hands as this is clearly one of the best novels I have read.
J.L. Odom has captured a style with flavors of Frank Herbert that I cannot stop thinking about. She has garnered my trust as an author and I anxiously await her next novel.
J.L. Odom has captured a style with flavors of Frank Herbert that I cannot stop thinking about. She has garnered my trust as an author and I anxiously await her next novel.
January 18, 2026
I still need to gather my thoughts but there is no chance that this doesn’t end up on my 2026 top 10 books list. The odds that this is number 10 is astonishingly low. Yes it’s January.
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