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The Trials of Irody Hasp #1
Mortedant's Peril
Not yet published
Expected 21 May 26In a city of ancient automata, strange spirits, and sleeping gods, a cleric of death finds his own life on the line in this vividly imagined fantasy murder mystery from the acclaimed author of
The Bone Ships
and
Age of Assassins.
Irody Hasp is a Mortedant, a cleric tasked with reading the last thoughts of the dead—though no one thanks him for it. No Mortedant is popular, but Irody is scarcely tolerated even by the other members of his own guild, and rarely selected for anything but the lowliest of jobs.
This impoverished existence would be dismal enough—but after reading the corpse of a low-level records keeper, Irody's troubles quickly multiply when his own apprentice is murdered, and all fingers point to him as a suspect. The only way to save his own skin is to find the real culprit himself, an investigation that quickly attracts powerful enemies with few scruples, and draws him into a plot that threatens the entire corrupt yet wondrous city he calls home.
Perfect for fans of The Lies of Locke Lamora, Foundryside, and Witness for the Dead, this investigative misadventure begins a perilous new series by award-winning author RJ Barker.
Irody Hasp is a Mortedant, a cleric tasked with reading the last thoughts of the dead—though no one thanks him for it. No Mortedant is popular, but Irody is scarcely tolerated even by the other members of his own guild, and rarely selected for anything but the lowliest of jobs.
This impoverished existence would be dismal enough—but after reading the corpse of a low-level records keeper, Irody's troubles quickly multiply when his own apprentice is murdered, and all fingers point to him as a suspect. The only way to save his own skin is to find the real culprit himself, an investigation that quickly attracts powerful enemies with few scruples, and draws him into a plot that threatens the entire corrupt yet wondrous city he calls home.
Perfect for fans of The Lies of Locke Lamora, Foundryside, and Witness for the Dead, this investigative misadventure begins a perilous new series by award-winning author RJ Barker.
432 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication May 19, 2026
About the author
R.J. Barker
27 books1,830 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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August 19, 2025I was sold at "a city of ancient automata, strange spirits, and sleeping gods."
March 15, 2026
Mortedant’s Peril by RJ Barker weaves a deft tale of mystery and corruption, set in a strangely wondrous world, where three unlikely heroes band together to unravel a dark plot before it’s too late.
Irody Hasp, as a Mortedant, can see and read a deceased last thoughts and moments before their death. This is a thankless and lowly paid job but Hasp takes his abilities seriously and is highly skilled among his peers. Yet when Hasp is accused of murder he faces execution unless he can prove his innocence. Who is framing him and worse still who is trying to kill him too?
It was so refreshing to have such an obviously prejudiced and flawed character like Hasp and still find him likeable and endearing. Hasp isn’t cruel nor mean spirited but he does look down upon those of lower status and non human races. His talents as a Mortedant are under appreciated and he’s always given the jobs that no one else will take all because of some past discrepancy involving his family. Essentially he is ridiculed by his peers and he himself is looked down upon. Yet Hasp’s growth is phenomenally crafted. Barker gives a subtle gradual change to his character, his views of others alter as he learns more about them and as his knowledge and experiences broaden. He begins to treat those closest to him with more respect and by the end he even puts others before himself, which was something he would never have done at the beginning of the novel. This makes him a sympathetic character to root for.
Barker gives us some fantastic side characters too with Whisper, an Oster guard and Mirial, a street urchin. What I loved about Whisper’s non human race was that they seemed quite spiritual and in tune with the sea and nature. Her native language was quite melodic and had such beautiful meaning behind it. Despite everybody’s trepidation of her, she could see the good in people and readily gave them her loyalty and that’s what I loved most about Whisper. Mirial had the capability of being an overly defiant immature street urchin, but Barker shapes her much more clever than that, he makes her perceptive and strong willed but also eager to learn. Together they all formed such a fantastic friendship.
Of course Barker immerses us into such a fascinating world. The tiered city of Elbay is divided into rings with the lower ones being for the poor and the highest being for the rich. Further divisions are included as there are sectors for the Worshippers who follow the creed of the Howling Lord, the Spurriers who bring spiritform to life and the Mortedants. Barker’s prose vividly brings this city to life with all its oddities and wonder. Every nugget of information built up the world fantastically. It’s not a city I’d ever want to live in, but it was one I enjoyed reading about!
Barker’s signature inventive style and his heartfelt storytelling really shines in this novel. I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to discover what’s in store in future installments.
Irody Hasp, as a Mortedant, can see and read a deceased last thoughts and moments before their death. This is a thankless and lowly paid job but Hasp takes his abilities seriously and is highly skilled among his peers. Yet when Hasp is accused of murder he faces execution unless he can prove his innocence. Who is framing him and worse still who is trying to kill him too?
It was so refreshing to have such an obviously prejudiced and flawed character like Hasp and still find him likeable and endearing. Hasp isn’t cruel nor mean spirited but he does look down upon those of lower status and non human races. His talents as a Mortedant are under appreciated and he’s always given the jobs that no one else will take all because of some past discrepancy involving his family. Essentially he is ridiculed by his peers and he himself is looked down upon. Yet Hasp’s growth is phenomenally crafted. Barker gives a subtle gradual change to his character, his views of others alter as he learns more about them and as his knowledge and experiences broaden. He begins to treat those closest to him with more respect and by the end he even puts others before himself, which was something he would never have done at the beginning of the novel. This makes him a sympathetic character to root for.
Barker gives us some fantastic side characters too with Whisper, an Oster guard and Mirial, a street urchin. What I loved about Whisper’s non human race was that they seemed quite spiritual and in tune with the sea and nature. Her native language was quite melodic and had such beautiful meaning behind it. Despite everybody’s trepidation of her, she could see the good in people and readily gave them her loyalty and that’s what I loved most about Whisper. Mirial had the capability of being an overly defiant immature street urchin, but Barker shapes her much more clever than that, he makes her perceptive and strong willed but also eager to learn. Together they all formed such a fantastic friendship.
Of course Barker immerses us into such a fascinating world. The tiered city of Elbay is divided into rings with the lower ones being for the poor and the highest being for the rich. Further divisions are included as there are sectors for the Worshippers who follow the creed of the Howling Lord, the Spurriers who bring spiritform to life and the Mortedants. Barker’s prose vividly brings this city to life with all its oddities and wonder. Every nugget of information built up the world fantastically. It’s not a city I’d ever want to live in, but it was one I enjoyed reading about!
Barker’s signature inventive style and his heartfelt storytelling really shines in this novel. I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to discover what’s in store in future installments.
April 19, 2026
Mortedant’s Peril by R. J. Barker is a vividly imaginative fantasy mystery that blends eerie magic, layered intrigue, and compelling character dynamics into a thoroughly engaging read.
Set in a strange and atmospheric city filled with ancient machines, lingering spirits, and slumbering gods, the story follows Irody Hasp, a death cleric whose role is to uncover the final memories of the deceased. His work is unsettling and widely disliked, leaving him isolated even within his own order. When a routine assignment spirals into chaos and his apprentice is murdered, suspicion turns toward Irody himself. Forced to clear his name, he is pulled into a dangerous investigation that exposes both the city’s corruption and its fragile balance.
This was my first experience with Barker’s writing, and it left a strong impression. The mystery is gripping and thoughtfully constructed, but what truly stands out is the cast of characters. The supporting ensemble feels lively and distinct, with a chemistry that makes every interaction enjoyable. Despite the high stakes, their contrasting personalities create moments of warmth and humor that almost evoke a found-family dynamic.
The setting is another highlight. The city feels richly imagined and unlike anything I have encountered before. The fusion of arcane elements with hints of technology can occasionally feel elusive, but it never detracts from the overall atmosphere. Instead, it adds to the sense of mystery and wonder that permeates the story.
Interestingly, Irody’s role as a reader of the dead’s memories takes more of a backseat than expected. The narrative leans more into the politics, bureaucracy, and interpersonal tensions within his order. While I would have loved to see more of his unique abilities in action, the focus on institutional dynamics still provides plenty of intrigue.
The pacing is excellent throughout. The story moves briskly without feeling rushed, and I was never bored. Every chapter adds something meaningful, whether it is a clue, a character moment, or a deeper look into the world.
I also experienced this as an audiobook narrated by Joe Eyre, whose performance adds an extra layer of enjoyment. His voice is pleasant and expressive, and he brings particular life to the side characters, enhancing their personalities and emotional beats.
If I had to draw comparisons, the mystery has a similar pull to The Tainted Cup, while the character dynamics echo the reluctant mentor relationships found in The Silverblood Promise. The unsettling concept of accessing the memories of the dead also brings to mind The Witness for the Dead. At the same time, Barker weaves these familiar elements into something that feels entirely fresh.
This has easily become one of my favorite reads of the year, and I am genuinely excited to explore more of Barker’s work.
I’m grateful to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to experience this book early and share my thoughts.
Set in a strange and atmospheric city filled with ancient machines, lingering spirits, and slumbering gods, the story follows Irody Hasp, a death cleric whose role is to uncover the final memories of the deceased. His work is unsettling and widely disliked, leaving him isolated even within his own order. When a routine assignment spirals into chaos and his apprentice is murdered, suspicion turns toward Irody himself. Forced to clear his name, he is pulled into a dangerous investigation that exposes both the city’s corruption and its fragile balance.
This was my first experience with Barker’s writing, and it left a strong impression. The mystery is gripping and thoughtfully constructed, but what truly stands out is the cast of characters. The supporting ensemble feels lively and distinct, with a chemistry that makes every interaction enjoyable. Despite the high stakes, their contrasting personalities create moments of warmth and humor that almost evoke a found-family dynamic.
The setting is another highlight. The city feels richly imagined and unlike anything I have encountered before. The fusion of arcane elements with hints of technology can occasionally feel elusive, but it never detracts from the overall atmosphere. Instead, it adds to the sense of mystery and wonder that permeates the story.
Interestingly, Irody’s role as a reader of the dead’s memories takes more of a backseat than expected. The narrative leans more into the politics, bureaucracy, and interpersonal tensions within his order. While I would have loved to see more of his unique abilities in action, the focus on institutional dynamics still provides plenty of intrigue.
The pacing is excellent throughout. The story moves briskly without feeling rushed, and I was never bored. Every chapter adds something meaningful, whether it is a clue, a character moment, or a deeper look into the world.
I also experienced this as an audiobook narrated by Joe Eyre, whose performance adds an extra layer of enjoyment. His voice is pleasant and expressive, and he brings particular life to the side characters, enhancing their personalities and emotional beats.
If I had to draw comparisons, the mystery has a similar pull to The Tainted Cup, while the character dynamics echo the reluctant mentor relationships found in The Silverblood Promise. The unsettling concept of accessing the memories of the dead also brings to mind The Witness for the Dead. At the same time, Barker weaves these familiar elements into something that feels entirely fresh.
This has easily become one of my favorite reads of the year, and I am genuinely excited to explore more of Barker’s work.
I’m grateful to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to experience this book early and share my thoughts.
November 24, 2025
This book took me on quite the ride! As usual RJ Barker's world building is unique and incredible. Mortendant Irody Hasp is a quirky and multi-faceted main character with very relatable flaws. The side characters all have their own motivations and goals. Plenty of foreshadowing, but it does not give away the twists and turns. Wonderful for fans of intrigue and mystery as well as fantasy. It tackles many difficult topics such as classism and xenophobia as well as questioning the status quo of governance and tradition. When it was listed as being for fans of Witness for the Dead and the Lies of Locke Lamora I knew I had to get my hands on a copy, and it did not disappoint. It does not include any romantic sub-plots which its a refreshing change of pace. I would love to see this world expand, and possibly even more about Mortedant Hasp's youth which is alluded to throughout the story.
April 22, 2026
Thank you Tor and MacMillan audio for the ARC and ALC!
I loved The Tainted Cup and A Drop of Corruption, so I was SUPER excited to dive into this one! It's very similar in a lot of ways--incredibly descriptive and detailed prose, murder mystery, reluctant her of it all, etc. But this one just didn't hit quite the same for me.
I started reading this one as the ARC and then transitioned to the audiobook and found that I enjoyed the audiobook a lot more than reading it. I think the narration was a bit slow--I was at around 2.5x speed, and there's a lot of random silence at the start and end of each chapter, but it definitely was much more engaging to me. The narrator was great! If you're an audiobook listener, I definitely recommend the audiobook over reading with your eyes for this one.
Something about the way this was written just didn't work for me. It didn't have the same charm I got from The Tainted Cup. Relationships felt shallow, and I really struggled to care about...anything. When we're on a three day deadline to prove innocence or die, I shouldn't be reading the book going "Oh my GOD, we're still on day one??" It just felt so slow for such an impending and serious deadline.
I'm unsure if I'll continue this series. It was fine, but not my favorite in this fantasy sub genre.
I loved The Tainted Cup and A Drop of Corruption, so I was SUPER excited to dive into this one! It's very similar in a lot of ways--incredibly descriptive and detailed prose, murder mystery, reluctant her of it all, etc. But this one just didn't hit quite the same for me.
I started reading this one as the ARC and then transitioned to the audiobook and found that I enjoyed the audiobook a lot more than reading it. I think the narration was a bit slow--I was at around 2.5x speed, and there's a lot of random silence at the start and end of each chapter, but it definitely was much more engaging to me. The narrator was great! If you're an audiobook listener, I definitely recommend the audiobook over reading with your eyes for this one.
Something about the way this was written just didn't work for me. It didn't have the same charm I got from The Tainted Cup. Relationships felt shallow, and I really struggled to care about...anything. When we're on a three day deadline to prove innocence or die, I shouldn't be reading the book going "Oh my GOD, we're still on day one??" It just felt so slow for such an impending and serious deadline.
I'm unsure if I'll continue this series. It was fine, but not my favorite in this fantasy sub genre.
March 23, 2026
I received a free advance review copy of this book via NetGalley.
This book feels like a herald, in some ways.
THE TAINTED CUP won the Hugo for Best Novel last year, and A DROP OF CORRUPTION was another hit. Robert Jackson Bennett has revitalized interest in detective fantasy. MORTEDANT'S PERIL, on the other hand, feels like the signal that RJB isn't just a flash in the pan. Irody Hasp, Mirial, and Whisper are the perfect found family dynamic to hit in the mid-2020s, along with the zest of gothic worldbuilding, twisty murder plots, and brisk action.
Barker's writing is effective if simple. He builds the world of Elbay quickly and vividly, but rarely wowed me with his wordsmithing. He's got the sort of Sanderson-esque prose that will appeal to a wide range of readers even if it doesn't earn him artistic acclaim. Similarly, the plotting of MORTEDANT'S PERIL is layered enough to engage, but approachable enough to not overwhelm. Many of the twists and turns were easy to see coming; despite that predictability, they were often still satisfying.
The result is a fun book with a breezy pace. It's also a book with a dark backbone and dreary furnishings, opening up the potential for deeper exploration in sequels if it performs well enough. I enjoyed the read, and I'll probably read any potential sequels when they pop up.
3.5/5 stars
This book feels like a herald, in some ways.
THE TAINTED CUP won the Hugo for Best Novel last year, and A DROP OF CORRUPTION was another hit. Robert Jackson Bennett has revitalized interest in detective fantasy. MORTEDANT'S PERIL, on the other hand, feels like the signal that RJB isn't just a flash in the pan. Irody Hasp, Mirial, and Whisper are the perfect found family dynamic to hit in the mid-2020s, along with the zest of gothic worldbuilding, twisty murder plots, and brisk action.
Barker's writing is effective if simple. He builds the world of Elbay quickly and vividly, but rarely wowed me with his wordsmithing. He's got the sort of Sanderson-esque prose that will appeal to a wide range of readers even if it doesn't earn him artistic acclaim. Similarly, the plotting of MORTEDANT'S PERIL is layered enough to engage, but approachable enough to not overwhelm. Many of the twists and turns were easy to see coming; despite that predictability, they were often still satisfying.
The result is a fun book with a breezy pace. It's also a book with a dark backbone and dreary furnishings, opening up the potential for deeper exploration in sequels if it performs well enough. I enjoyed the read, and I'll probably read any potential sequels when they pop up.
3.5/5 stars
December 10, 2025
Thank you to Tor Books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
RJ Barker brings to life another fascinating world with layered characters you want to know more about rather than being sick of by the end of the nearly 500 page journey. Found family is a trope I can always get behind and enjoyed again, though I personally would’ve loved even more of the darkly gleeful crow, Harpsimast. Bottom line, this was another solid, intricate fantasy set in an interesting world with characters you invest in making it well worth the read.
RJ Barker brings to life another fascinating world with layered characters you want to know more about rather than being sick of by the end of the nearly 500 page journey. Found family is a trope I can always get behind and enjoyed again, though I personally would’ve loved even more of the darkly gleeful crow, Harpsimast. Bottom line, this was another solid, intricate fantasy set in an interesting world with characters you invest in making it well worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Actual Rating: 3.5
Ever since I read 'The Tainted Cup' last year I've had a major craving for fantasy mystery novels and been hoping to find something that would hit in that same, mesmerising way. When I first saw the premise of 'Mortedant's Peril' I was convinced that I'd found just that book; particularly as I've seen fantastic things said about the author's previous titles and been curious about trying their work for a while now. As the rating suggests this wasn't quite the hit that I'd been envisioning; at least, it wasn't initially although by the end I was besotted and craving more; a mixed experience that makes this one tricky to give a fair rating to.
When I first picked 'Mortedant's Peril' up I found myself instantly hooked. It starts off with the perspective of this novel's killer; something that beautifully sets the scene and left me longing to discover more. Then the perspective switches to that of Irody and at first I was still quite taken in by this tome. This book provided interesting details of the fantasy world and 'magic' involved within it, along with an unexpected cabbage usage. The tension built as things grew darker and increasingly dangerous yet somehow after a strong start I found my attention wandering. There were definitely elements that intrigued me dotted throughout but I couldn't find much enthusiasm to read on.
Initially I found it hard to put my finger on exactly why this happened but on reflection I think it boiled down to two things. Firstly the investigation, whilst on an urgent deadline, seemed a little meandering; especially when you'd learn something with the characters, then have to listen to them discuss it again afterwards. And secondly Irody's perspective really started to grate on me after a while. The blurb tells you that he's disliked and let's just say that it's certainly not without reason. There are things he says and thinks that are bound to make your blood boil.
Then came a point, around half way through, when everything seemed to click into place for me and I found myself growing increasingly invested. Something that, again, can be traced back to certain elements and events. Naturally I can't mention the events, due to the spoiler risk, but let's just say the introduction of two new characters majorly increased my interest levels for the setting and left me desperate to discover more. I feel like there was more focus on events, worldbuilding and the actual plot and less time spent going around in circles, almost. Plus the writing felt sharper and more immersive somehow; I believe as less time was spent on Irody thinking prejudice thoughts and running down those around him.
Which brings me onto the change in his character. At the start of this novel he's really not a particularly pleasant person. He does get the odd moment of conscience and show signs of having a heart but he also has a lot of vain, classist and prejudice views. As the events of 'Mortedant's Peril' force him to interact with those he holds those prejudice opinions towards he gradually grows as a person and realises the error of his ways. It feels like a believable growth arc and is worth mentioning as if you also struggle with his character early on, hopefully knowing that there's light at the end of the tunnel will help spur you on.
Surprisingly, given his prickly nature, by the end of 'Mortedant's Peril' there's actually a sense of found family to it almost. There's a mix of interesting characters who grow to support and care for one another, including a few moving moments between them all.
Another thing worth noting is that there are times within 'Mortedant's Peril' that things feel a little inconsistent. For example Irody always claims his 'Mortedant' status will protect him, yet people seem to look down upon those like him so it doesn't truly seem to fit. And the punishment system concerning murder struck me as pretty absurd at first, although I assumed it was simply a statement of how flawed some societies can be. In fact there's deeper meaning to it all; but you'll have to read the book for yourself to discover those truths.
I hope this review doesn't sound too negative though as after a strong start and shaky follow up - where I admittedly was doubting that this series would be for me - I found myself growing increasing enamored of this world. The character introductions that came later in the book - as well as some revelations about the core cast - really added to the fantasy stakes of this novel over all and left me truly invested in the world. As the characters grew closer, and Irody became aware of his own flawed ways, I found myself caring about the leads too and willing them on. By the end the overall mystery too was more complex than I'd initially imagined. Some things I'd guessed at, admittedly, but the scope of the scheme and specifics were certainly of a grander and more horrific nature than I ever could have guessed at.
So overall I recommend 'Mortedant's Peril' but also advice proceeding with caution. It has a rough beginning and if you struggle with it too I do truly advice carrying on (even if you do decide only to read a couple of chapters at a time and offset it with another read) but by the end its more than worth those early struggles. Its set within a fascinating world with a variety of interesting characters and a lot of creative inclusions. Its has a flawed society but those can be fascinating to experience within fantasy. Some things may look clumsy on the surfaces but by the end they generally have hidden depths. And initially Irody is a hard character to experience but trust me when I say he grows. Its odd to say but I struggled to keep going with this one after a strong start then came away truly besotted over all and craving more. So although there may have been some early hesitation on my part I definitely think this one is worth adding to your TBR overall and I'll be impatiently waiting for more within this world.
Ever since I read 'The Tainted Cup' last year I've had a major craving for fantasy mystery novels and been hoping to find something that would hit in that same, mesmerising way. When I first saw the premise of 'Mortedant's Peril' I was convinced that I'd found just that book; particularly as I've seen fantastic things said about the author's previous titles and been curious about trying their work for a while now. As the rating suggests this wasn't quite the hit that I'd been envisioning; at least, it wasn't initially although by the end I was besotted and craving more; a mixed experience that makes this one tricky to give a fair rating to.
When I first picked 'Mortedant's Peril' up I found myself instantly hooked. It starts off with the perspective of this novel's killer; something that beautifully sets the scene and left me longing to discover more. Then the perspective switches to that of Irody and at first I was still quite taken in by this tome. This book provided interesting details of the fantasy world and 'magic' involved within it, along with an unexpected cabbage usage. The tension built as things grew darker and increasingly dangerous yet somehow after a strong start I found my attention wandering. There were definitely elements that intrigued me dotted throughout but I couldn't find much enthusiasm to read on.
Initially I found it hard to put my finger on exactly why this happened but on reflection I think it boiled down to two things. Firstly the investigation, whilst on an urgent deadline, seemed a little meandering; especially when you'd learn something with the characters, then have to listen to them discuss it again afterwards. And secondly Irody's perspective really started to grate on me after a while. The blurb tells you that he's disliked and let's just say that it's certainly not without reason. There are things he says and thinks that are bound to make your blood boil.
Then came a point, around half way through, when everything seemed to click into place for me and I found myself growing increasingly invested. Something that, again, can be traced back to certain elements and events. Naturally I can't mention the events, due to the spoiler risk, but let's just say the introduction of two new characters majorly increased my interest levels for the setting and left me desperate to discover more. I feel like there was more focus on events, worldbuilding and the actual plot and less time spent going around in circles, almost. Plus the writing felt sharper and more immersive somehow; I believe as less time was spent on Irody thinking prejudice thoughts and running down those around him.
Which brings me onto the change in his character. At the start of this novel he's really not a particularly pleasant person. He does get the odd moment of conscience and show signs of having a heart but he also has a lot of vain, classist and prejudice views. As the events of 'Mortedant's Peril' force him to interact with those he holds those prejudice opinions towards he gradually grows as a person and realises the error of his ways. It feels like a believable growth arc and is worth mentioning as if you also struggle with his character early on, hopefully knowing that there's light at the end of the tunnel will help spur you on.
Surprisingly, given his prickly nature, by the end of 'Mortedant's Peril' there's actually a sense of found family to it almost. There's a mix of interesting characters who grow to support and care for one another, including a few moving moments between them all.
Another thing worth noting is that there are times within 'Mortedant's Peril' that things feel a little inconsistent. For example Irody always claims his 'Mortedant' status will protect him, yet people seem to look down upon those like him so it doesn't truly seem to fit. And the punishment system concerning murder struck me as pretty absurd at first, although I assumed it was simply a statement of how flawed some societies can be. In fact there's deeper meaning to it all; but you'll have to read the book for yourself to discover those truths.
I hope this review doesn't sound too negative though as after a strong start and shaky follow up - where I admittedly was doubting that this series would be for me - I found myself growing increasing enamored of this world. The character introductions that came later in the book - as well as some revelations about the core cast - really added to the fantasy stakes of this novel over all and left me truly invested in the world. As the characters grew closer, and Irody became aware of his own flawed ways, I found myself caring about the leads too and willing them on. By the end the overall mystery too was more complex than I'd initially imagined. Some things I'd guessed at, admittedly, but the scope of the scheme and specifics were certainly of a grander and more horrific nature than I ever could have guessed at.
So overall I recommend 'Mortedant's Peril' but also advice proceeding with caution. It has a rough beginning and if you struggle with it too I do truly advice carrying on (even if you do decide only to read a couple of chapters at a time and offset it with another read) but by the end its more than worth those early struggles. Its set within a fascinating world with a variety of interesting characters and a lot of creative inclusions. Its has a flawed society but those can be fascinating to experience within fantasy. Some things may look clumsy on the surfaces but by the end they generally have hidden depths. And initially Irody is a hard character to experience but trust me when I say he grows. Its odd to say but I struggled to keep going with this one after a strong start then came away truly besotted over all and craving more. So although there may have been some early hesitation on my part I definitely think this one is worth adding to your TBR overall and I'll be impatiently waiting for more within this world.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 rounded down to 4 stars for Goodreads
Mortedant’s Peril by R.J. Barker is the first in his new trilogy The Trials of Irody Hasp. A delightfully unique, layered novel, it follows the misadventures of Irody Hasp, a Mortedant - a priest-like figure who reads the last thoughts of the deceased to pass on knowledge, last wishes, and treasure locations to their bereaved loved ones. Accused of murder following the death of Hasp’s apprentice, and an attempt on his own life, Irody sets off to clear his name, acquiring friends along the way as they unravel the mysteries of the City of Elbay and the many factions within in a race against time.
Written in first person singular POV, the narration follows Irody Hasp. This is a fantasy murder mystery, and contains no spice or romantic subplot. There is no obvious LGBTQ representation. There is very little gore depicted, and no modern- day profanity used.
The publisher comps are The Lies of Locke Lamora, Foundryside, and Witness for the Dead, and I found them to be generally appropriate comps. The tone and concepts of Witness for the Dead are especially apt. The city of Elbay itself is a major part of the story and it reminded me of Josiah Bancroft’s The Books of Babel.
The world-building is robust, with a lovely quirky grittiness to it. However, there is a ton of info-dumping front-loaded into the story. The first 65-70 pages are extremely information laden, and if you do not find Tolkien’s rapturous discussion of trees engaging you may have a hard time with both the style and quantity of info dumps.
I loved the stratified city of Elbay, redolent, covered in crows, guilds, mysticism, and inequality. It’s comprised of seven layers, with the wealthy at the top and the poor at the bottom, and each higher tier viewing the ones below it as inferior. The city is very much so divided on class lines, and guild lines. The city holds a sleeping god - The Howling God - whose worshippers are called the Worshipful and believe that the god will rise and destroy the city in its waking. The city is ruled by the Roundhorn Niofa, who gave me strong Ember/Umber of Lev Grossman’s The Magicians vibes, a quasi-mythical creature that no one has seen in centuries but rules through the Ventran, invincible bronze-clad warrior constructs.
The magic system falls toward soft, as there are different types of magic employed - the Mortedants, the Spurriers, and the Howling God - containing their own rules, but the rules aren’t explained in a robust way. I thought the Spurriers were especially interesting, as they employ souls that are harnessed into technology, from quasi-alive servants, messengers, firearms, and carriages and a host of things in between. The automata almost had a steampunk feel to them. The mysticism of the city is great, and I really enjoyed the interplay between the different sects.
The prose was a little tough for me to access for the first quarter of the book. Irody, especially at the start, has an extremely annoying voice, and is generally arrogant, unaware, and unpleasant. This is definitely deliberate, as the tone of his voice shifts as the story proceeds and indicates his shifting perspectives along his character arc. But it can be rough reading especially combined with the info-dump. As I went along I got into the rhythm of the story and felt more comfortable with the prose, so I’d recommend sticking it out if you struggle with it. Despite some obnoxious traits, Irody is sympathetic, and I found him to be relatable.
The side characters provided relief and interest and helped carry me forward when I wanted to slap Irody. Irody is definitely the Main Character, but there are two Supporting Characters that do robust plot work, Mirial and Whisper. Mirial is your classic scrappy streetwise orphan from the rough part of town, and provided levity and pathos - she has attached herself to Irody through a desire to avenge her brother Malkin, Irody’s murdered neophyte. Whisper is an oster, one of the Sea People, and is a powerful warrior assigned to guard Irody Hasp after the murder of Malkin, but she later becomes a friend as they seek to find answers to the strange and terrible events occurring in the city. I definitely want to see more of the Sea People in future installments, as the peek we get of their culture and society is fascinating.
I really enjoy having female characters who are not love interests in fantasy stories, but are instead valuable members of the story on their own merit. Both Mirial and Whisper do solid plot work. There is a host of smaller side characters, some important and some not, but you have to pay attention to see which is which. The side characters feel distinct, and I like the interaction they provide.
The plot being a murder mystery was fun and interesting. It is not a dark detective style, but rather more inquisitive adventuring. Not everything is explained, but I found that added to the story. I was able to predict most of the movement but found it still engaging and thought the plot resolved well. The series is definitely designed to be serial in nature, and I’m looking forward to Irody’s further misadventures. All around a fun, interesting read with lovely world-building and enjoyable MCs.
I will definitely be getting a copy for the shelf, and hope that The Broken Binding picks it up for a signed special edition as they previously featured Barker’s The Bone Ships in their subscription service.
Mortedant’s Peril by R.J. Barker is the first in his new trilogy The Trials of Irody Hasp. A delightfully unique, layered novel, it follows the misadventures of Irody Hasp, a Mortedant - a priest-like figure who reads the last thoughts of the deceased to pass on knowledge, last wishes, and treasure locations to their bereaved loved ones. Accused of murder following the death of Hasp’s apprentice, and an attempt on his own life, Irody sets off to clear his name, acquiring friends along the way as they unravel the mysteries of the City of Elbay and the many factions within in a race against time.
Written in first person singular POV, the narration follows Irody Hasp. This is a fantasy murder mystery, and contains no spice or romantic subplot. There is no obvious LGBTQ representation. There is very little gore depicted, and no modern- day profanity used.
The publisher comps are The Lies of Locke Lamora, Foundryside, and Witness for the Dead, and I found them to be generally appropriate comps. The tone and concepts of Witness for the Dead are especially apt. The city of Elbay itself is a major part of the story and it reminded me of Josiah Bancroft’s The Books of Babel.
The world-building is robust, with a lovely quirky grittiness to it. However, there is a ton of info-dumping front-loaded into the story. The first 65-70 pages are extremely information laden, and if you do not find Tolkien’s rapturous discussion of trees engaging you may have a hard time with both the style and quantity of info dumps.
I loved the stratified city of Elbay, redolent, covered in crows, guilds, mysticism, and inequality. It’s comprised of seven layers, with the wealthy at the top and the poor at the bottom, and each higher tier viewing the ones below it as inferior. The city is very much so divided on class lines, and guild lines. The city holds a sleeping god - The Howling God - whose worshippers are called the Worshipful and believe that the god will rise and destroy the city in its waking. The city is ruled by the Roundhorn Niofa, who gave me strong Ember/Umber of Lev Grossman’s The Magicians vibes, a quasi-mythical creature that no one has seen in centuries but rules through the Ventran, invincible bronze-clad warrior constructs.
The magic system falls toward soft, as there are different types of magic employed - the Mortedants, the Spurriers, and the Howling God - containing their own rules, but the rules aren’t explained in a robust way. I thought the Spurriers were especially interesting, as they employ souls that are harnessed into technology, from quasi-alive servants, messengers, firearms, and carriages and a host of things in between. The automata almost had a steampunk feel to them. The mysticism of the city is great, and I really enjoyed the interplay between the different sects.
The prose was a little tough for me to access for the first quarter of the book. Irody, especially at the start, has an extremely annoying voice, and is generally arrogant, unaware, and unpleasant. This is definitely deliberate, as the tone of his voice shifts as the story proceeds and indicates his shifting perspectives along his character arc. But it can be rough reading especially combined with the info-dump. As I went along I got into the rhythm of the story and felt more comfortable with the prose, so I’d recommend sticking it out if you struggle with it. Despite some obnoxious traits, Irody is sympathetic, and I found him to be relatable.
The side characters provided relief and interest and helped carry me forward when I wanted to slap Irody. Irody is definitely the Main Character, but there are two Supporting Characters that do robust plot work, Mirial and Whisper. Mirial is your classic scrappy streetwise orphan from the rough part of town, and provided levity and pathos - she has attached herself to Irody through a desire to avenge her brother Malkin, Irody’s murdered neophyte. Whisper is an oster, one of the Sea People, and is a powerful warrior assigned to guard Irody Hasp after the murder of Malkin, but she later becomes a friend as they seek to find answers to the strange and terrible events occurring in the city. I definitely want to see more of the Sea People in future installments, as the peek we get of their culture and society is fascinating.
I really enjoy having female characters who are not love interests in fantasy stories, but are instead valuable members of the story on their own merit. Both Mirial and Whisper do solid plot work. There is a host of smaller side characters, some important and some not, but you have to pay attention to see which is which. The side characters feel distinct, and I like the interaction they provide.
The plot being a murder mystery was fun and interesting. It is not a dark detective style, but rather more inquisitive adventuring. Not everything is explained, but I found that added to the story. I was able to predict most of the movement but found it still engaging and thought the plot resolved well. The series is definitely designed to be serial in nature, and I’m looking forward to Irody’s further misadventures. All around a fun, interesting read with lovely world-building and enjoyable MCs.
I will definitely be getting a copy for the shelf, and hope that The Broken Binding picks it up for a signed special edition as they previously featured Barker’s The Bone Ships in their subscription service.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a free copy from Tor Books via Netgalley in exchange for a fair review. Release date May 19th, 2026.
I had mixed feelings about Barker's Bone Ships, but it had some compelling elements and his latest premise was excellent, so I thought I'd give his writing another shot. In Mortedant's Peril, Irody Hasp is the poorest and least popular Mortedant, a cleric who reads the last moments of the recently deceased. When his neophyte is unexpectedly murdered, Hasp must find the murderer among the chaotic city-state of Elbay—or due to the city's illogical justice system, he'll be executed as the last person to see Malkin.
Mortedant's Peril is structured like a mystery novel, albeit not in the Golden Age style of ferreting out clues and following leads. Instead, Hasp follows the nearly equally classic method: walk around asking questions and causing problems until the guilty party tries to kill you. And since Malkin's murderer was mixed up in a political scheme much larger than the death of one neophyte, Hasp is about to stumble into a world of trouble. Unfortunately, his inherent prejudices against everybody from the poor to foreigners to other sects of priests mean he spends a solid chunk of the novel annoying completely the wrong people until they try to kill him. Hasp is so egocentric and abrasive that he becomes an unreliable narrator through sheer force of bad judgement. But while he spends most of the novel parroting bigotry about anyone from outside the city, he also has a secret soft spot and commitment to justice. Yes, he spends two thirds of the book calling his assigned bodyguard Whisper slurs, but he'd also quietly buy her a meat pie with his last pennies. However, while a narrator determined to investigate entirely the wrong leads keeps the reader guessing, the foreshadowing was a bit heavy-handed. I like when plot twists are logical and intuitive, but I don't need a big flashing neon arrow every couple of chapters telling me that the bad guys are plotting [redacted]. I get it!!!
I'd class the worldbuilding as vaguely steampunk rather than more typically medieval fantasy, but it's rich and detailed with no cliched top hats in sight. Elbay is a tiered city segregating the rich from the poor, with mechanical marvels powered by souls, a periodic death ray that blasts everything outside the walls, and three warring sects of priests plus a mythical fourth type of priest solely devoted to pipes. Also, Hasp has a ceremonial big floppy hat. Alas, in the eternal death match between the rich and the poor in Elbay, Hasp is decidedly on the losing side: while Mortedants are famous for corruption and skimming off the estate of the deceased, Hasp lives on a low tier and can barely pay his rent. Due to his lack of wealthy connections and general abrasiveness, the officials in the priory avoid assigning him any work as a Mortedant, and without work, he can't gather even the smallest fees.
While Mortedant's Peril lacks the intense emotional stakes I tend to prefer in novels, Barker has an excellent hand with the worldbuilding and creating the labyrinthine politics of Elbay. It's a solid fantasy novel, and I liked it much more than Bone Ships. The ending of the book clearly sets it up for a series of sequels, and I'll probably read them when they come out.
I had mixed feelings about Barker's Bone Ships, but it had some compelling elements and his latest premise was excellent, so I thought I'd give his writing another shot. In Mortedant's Peril, Irody Hasp is the poorest and least popular Mortedant, a cleric who reads the last moments of the recently deceased. When his neophyte is unexpectedly murdered, Hasp must find the murderer among the chaotic city-state of Elbay—or due to the city's illogical justice system, he'll be executed as the last person to see Malkin.
Mortedant's Peril is structured like a mystery novel, albeit not in the Golden Age style of ferreting out clues and following leads. Instead, Hasp follows the nearly equally classic method: walk around asking questions and causing problems until the guilty party tries to kill you. And since Malkin's murderer was mixed up in a political scheme much larger than the death of one neophyte, Hasp is about to stumble into a world of trouble. Unfortunately, his inherent prejudices against everybody from the poor to foreigners to other sects of priests mean he spends a solid chunk of the novel annoying completely the wrong people until they try to kill him. Hasp is so egocentric and abrasive that he becomes an unreliable narrator through sheer force of bad judgement. But while he spends most of the novel parroting bigotry about anyone from outside the city, he also has a secret soft spot and commitment to justice. Yes, he spends two thirds of the book calling his assigned bodyguard Whisper slurs, but he'd also quietly buy her a meat pie with his last pennies. However, while a narrator determined to investigate entirely the wrong leads keeps the reader guessing, the foreshadowing was a bit heavy-handed. I like when plot twists are logical and intuitive, but I don't need a big flashing neon arrow every couple of chapters telling me that the bad guys are plotting [redacted]. I get it!!!
I'd class the worldbuilding as vaguely steampunk rather than more typically medieval fantasy, but it's rich and detailed with no cliched top hats in sight. Elbay is a tiered city segregating the rich from the poor, with mechanical marvels powered by souls, a periodic death ray that blasts everything outside the walls, and three warring sects of priests plus a mythical fourth type of priest solely devoted to pipes. Also, Hasp has a ceremonial big floppy hat. Alas, in the eternal death match between the rich and the poor in Elbay, Hasp is decidedly on the losing side: while Mortedants are famous for corruption and skimming off the estate of the deceased, Hasp lives on a low tier and can barely pay his rent. Due to his lack of wealthy connections and general abrasiveness, the officials in the priory avoid assigning him any work as a Mortedant, and without work, he can't gather even the smallest fees.
While Mortedant's Peril lacks the intense emotional stakes I tend to prefer in novels, Barker has an excellent hand with the worldbuilding and creating the labyrinthine politics of Elbay. It's a solid fantasy novel, and I liked it much more than Bone Ships. The ending of the book clearly sets it up for a series of sequels, and I'll probably read them when they come out.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My thanks to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for an advance copy of this novel that is a mix of fantasy and science fiction about a great city and the powers that run it, those that heal, those that create magical creatures, and those that talk to the dead.
As one gets older there are many things one wishes that one had said. Maybe told someone that they meant more to them then they ever knew. Maybe tell one last bit of advice to their children. Maybe where the money is hidden. A gift would be to know what a person is thinking when the curtain is about to be pulled for the last time. To see the love, the regrets, and again where the money is. Or any other secrets. In the world of this book, that is possible, people select people, and those sometimes better than others have the gift to talk to the dead. See the last thoughts. The emotions, and the money. And sometimes something more. Something that might make a great city collapse. Mortedant's Peril is the first in a new series The Trials of Irody Hasp by R.J. Barker and tells of a young man with a gift for talking to the dead just trying to survive in an expensive city, and the secrets that others are willing to kill him for.
Irody Hasp lives in the greatest city of all, the city of Elbay, though Hasp really has never left the city to see others. Nor left the walls of the city to be honest. Elbay is the home of the Howling God, a god who sleeps but is worshipped by many. The city sits on tiers, each one nicer than the one below with a castle at the highest point ruled by a great leader who sees and knows all. Supposedly. The town is rift with religious sects, as well as magic users, healers and people like Hasp, Mortedants, who can communicate with the dead. Once a proud group Mortedants have suffered much over the years for keeping secrets, for charging families great amounts for the secrets only the death have. Hasp is also a difficult person, shunned by his own group for being poor and for acts in the past. A simple job, passed on to him by his neophyte trainee suddenly becomes very dangerous. Hasp is accused of a crime he did not commit, and given a short period to prove his innocence. As Hasp probes he finds parts of himself he didn't know he had, friends he never thought he'd earn, and a sense that all is not right in his city, a city that might explode in violence and destruction.
A book that really surprised me, loaded with ideas, and lots of story points for future novels. And a book I really enjoyed. The writing is quite good, putting one right in the world, and not letting up until the end. Hasp is an interesting character, a snob in some places, a person sure of the world he knows, and one that changes as the book progresses. Mostly for the better. There are some sad moments, moments of real emotion, that are rare in books of fantasy like this. The magic is well thought out and described, and leave a lot to be explored in future books. Barker does a good job with the supporting characters, building them up, revealing them slowly, and giving everyone a chance to shine.
A really solid fantasy novel, with touches of steampunk, even a little eldritch horror. One I really liked and can't wait to read more of. This was my first book by R.J. Barker, something I am going to have to remedy.
As one gets older there are many things one wishes that one had said. Maybe told someone that they meant more to them then they ever knew. Maybe tell one last bit of advice to their children. Maybe where the money is hidden. A gift would be to know what a person is thinking when the curtain is about to be pulled for the last time. To see the love, the regrets, and again where the money is. Or any other secrets. In the world of this book, that is possible, people select people, and those sometimes better than others have the gift to talk to the dead. See the last thoughts. The emotions, and the money. And sometimes something more. Something that might make a great city collapse. Mortedant's Peril is the first in a new series The Trials of Irody Hasp by R.J. Barker and tells of a young man with a gift for talking to the dead just trying to survive in an expensive city, and the secrets that others are willing to kill him for.
Irody Hasp lives in the greatest city of all, the city of Elbay, though Hasp really has never left the city to see others. Nor left the walls of the city to be honest. Elbay is the home of the Howling God, a god who sleeps but is worshipped by many. The city sits on tiers, each one nicer than the one below with a castle at the highest point ruled by a great leader who sees and knows all. Supposedly. The town is rift with religious sects, as well as magic users, healers and people like Hasp, Mortedants, who can communicate with the dead. Once a proud group Mortedants have suffered much over the years for keeping secrets, for charging families great amounts for the secrets only the death have. Hasp is also a difficult person, shunned by his own group for being poor and for acts in the past. A simple job, passed on to him by his neophyte trainee suddenly becomes very dangerous. Hasp is accused of a crime he did not commit, and given a short period to prove his innocence. As Hasp probes he finds parts of himself he didn't know he had, friends he never thought he'd earn, and a sense that all is not right in his city, a city that might explode in violence and destruction.
A book that really surprised me, loaded with ideas, and lots of story points for future novels. And a book I really enjoyed. The writing is quite good, putting one right in the world, and not letting up until the end. Hasp is an interesting character, a snob in some places, a person sure of the world he knows, and one that changes as the book progresses. Mostly for the better. There are some sad moments, moments of real emotion, that are rare in books of fantasy like this. The magic is well thought out and described, and leave a lot to be explored in future books. Barker does a good job with the supporting characters, building them up, revealing them slowly, and giving everyone a chance to shine.
A really solid fantasy novel, with touches of steampunk, even a little eldritch horror. One I really liked and can't wait to read more of. This was my first book by R.J. Barker, something I am going to have to remedy.
March 5, 2026
Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.
If your TBR needs a fun and imaginative fantasy mystery full of investigative misadventures then Mortedant’s Peril by RJ Barker is the book for you. This is my first book by RJ Barker and it definitely won’t be the last.
Perfect for fans of Robert Jackson Bennett with the feel of the Tainted Cup and a splash of Witness for the Dead by Katherine Addison. It is a delightfully witty and quirky story with a well-layered mystery and fascinating world-building that steals the show. I had a really great time with it.
It follows Irody Hasp, a cleric, tasked with reading the last thoughts of the dead. Barely tolerated amongst the members of his own guild and with jobs scarce to be found, Hasp reluctantly agrees to read the corpse of a low-level records keeper. But when his apprentice is killed shortly after and Hasp is framed for the murder, he sets off to clear his name with the help of an industrious street urchin named Mirial and Whisper, a mysterious sea person assigned as his guard. With his own life on the line, Hasp unravels the mysteries of the chaotic tiered city of Elbay, its strange automata and its sleeping god and stumbles into a dangerous conspiracy that threatens the city in its entirety.
Hasp as a narrator is quite unlikeable at the start of the book, with his arrogant nature and slightly prejudiced view to those ‘below’ him in the city. That, along with the heavy levels of world building at the beginning meant it took about a third of the book to really pull me in. But once the mystery really got going and our side characters were established the plot really picked up momentum and Hasp’s perspective starts to shift subtly over time until I found myself really liking him and the dynamic between him, Miriam and Whisper.
The world feels somewhat steampunk which is always a hit for me. The City of Elbay consists of 6 tiers, segregating the rich from the poor with rumours of a sleeping god in the city’s core, a mysterious ruler in the castle at the top of the hill, a periodic deadly ring of fire blasting from the city wills, and three Priories vying for power. There is the Mortedant’s Priory, the religious priory of the Worshipful, and the Spurrier’s Priory - who harvest animal souls to power mechanical marvels and ingenious creations for the wealthy and powerful. The complex politics between the priories and the class divide in the cities are a central part of the story’s conflict and well-explored throughout the mystery. As much as Mortedant’s Peril delves into the mysteries of Elbay, there is so much more to uncover with the city, not to mention the culture of the sea people and the world beyond the city that I really look forward to in future instalments.
There were a few points in the mystery where plot conveniences took me out of the story and felt inauthentic or Hasp was particularly dense and ignorant and made me want to shake him, however as the book developed these were lightly addressed and while they weren’t totally explained or resolved the ending clearly set up elements of future books and I will definitely read them when they come out!
Overall this was a 4 star read for me. A quirky cast of characters, unique world building and a mystery that balanced foreshadowing well will with keeping the reader guessing made for a fun read and a new series to keep your eye out for!
If your TBR needs a fun and imaginative fantasy mystery full of investigative misadventures then Mortedant’s Peril by RJ Barker is the book for you. This is my first book by RJ Barker and it definitely won’t be the last.
Perfect for fans of Robert Jackson Bennett with the feel of the Tainted Cup and a splash of Witness for the Dead by Katherine Addison. It is a delightfully witty and quirky story with a well-layered mystery and fascinating world-building that steals the show. I had a really great time with it.
It follows Irody Hasp, a cleric, tasked with reading the last thoughts of the dead. Barely tolerated amongst the members of his own guild and with jobs scarce to be found, Hasp reluctantly agrees to read the corpse of a low-level records keeper. But when his apprentice is killed shortly after and Hasp is framed for the murder, he sets off to clear his name with the help of an industrious street urchin named Mirial and Whisper, a mysterious sea person assigned as his guard. With his own life on the line, Hasp unravels the mysteries of the chaotic tiered city of Elbay, its strange automata and its sleeping god and stumbles into a dangerous conspiracy that threatens the city in its entirety.
Hasp as a narrator is quite unlikeable at the start of the book, with his arrogant nature and slightly prejudiced view to those ‘below’ him in the city. That, along with the heavy levels of world building at the beginning meant it took about a third of the book to really pull me in. But once the mystery really got going and our side characters were established the plot really picked up momentum and Hasp’s perspective starts to shift subtly over time until I found myself really liking him and the dynamic between him, Miriam and Whisper.
The world feels somewhat steampunk which is always a hit for me. The City of Elbay consists of 6 tiers, segregating the rich from the poor with rumours of a sleeping god in the city’s core, a mysterious ruler in the castle at the top of the hill, a periodic deadly ring of fire blasting from the city wills, and three Priories vying for power. There is the Mortedant’s Priory, the religious priory of the Worshipful, and the Spurrier’s Priory - who harvest animal souls to power mechanical marvels and ingenious creations for the wealthy and powerful. The complex politics between the priories and the class divide in the cities are a central part of the story’s conflict and well-explored throughout the mystery. As much as Mortedant’s Peril delves into the mysteries of Elbay, there is so much more to uncover with the city, not to mention the culture of the sea people and the world beyond the city that I really look forward to in future instalments.
There were a few points in the mystery where plot conveniences took me out of the story and felt inauthentic or Hasp was particularly dense and ignorant and made me want to shake him, however as the book developed these were lightly addressed and while they weren’t totally explained or resolved the ending clearly set up elements of future books and I will definitely read them when they come out!
Overall this was a 4 star read for me. A quirky cast of characters, unique world building and a mystery that balanced foreshadowing well will with keeping the reader guessing made for a fun read and a new series to keep your eye out for!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Irody Hasp is a mortedant, those who can read the last thoughts of the dead. Living in Elbay, a tiered city stratified by status, Hasp is rather down on his luck and his money. He takes a job reading a dead man of a lower tier, which unbeknownst to him is the beginning of a much larger plot - and which embroils Hasp into the plot's mechanisms after his neophyte is murdered.
The worldbuilding in this novel is the definite star. Elbay is richly imagined. The reader gets a sense of the crowded working class lower tiers and the haughty upper tiers. The ringfire, the gallows, even a bit of food gives the city a medieval+steampunk+fantasy setting that I found intriguing. The three main political sects of the city are the Mortedants, the Worshipful is Elbay's religious sect (reminded me of a jab at Christianity maybe?), and the Spurriers who use alchemy to create spirit forms like walking carriages and inhuman messengers. Each sect is faceted but outwardly antagonistic against the other sects.
The characters were a hit and miss for me. I loved Whisper, she is straightforward but with depth, and I think her backstory and the story of her people would make a really neat sequel or prequel. Niofa is also a good character, grey and otherworldly and slightly mad. Irody...I have mixed feelings about. He starts out very entitled, racist, and rather annoying. He does grow through the story in that regard, but I also feel like he didn't have as much agency as it seems. He kept moving where the events led and where others told him, but hesitantly, and it wasn't until the last quarter that he really makes a few actual choices and started to grow on me. Mirial felt younger than she was, stubborn to a fault, and while she does bring a fire under Hasp she also makes very naive decisions.
The plot is a mystery story, and several breadcrumbs and red herrings are provided. The middle seemed to stretch a little long and the ending wasn't a surprise to me, maybe because things were foreshadowed a bit too much. The story fit the world well, but I can't say it was the most earth-shattering. The prose was approachable, and some really nice descriptions of the feel of the city. I did find some inconsistencies - Hasp spends a lot of money for having no money, repeated phrases (like how everyone is excited for the upcoming festival but they don't know the bigger story), and some fantasy elements not being explained in a timely manner (like the firelances). A couple of very small deux ex machina moments at the end but they were small and could be skipped over intellectually.
Overall, this is a good installment to the "fantasy mystery" subgenre that I have been enjoying seeing more of lately. My qualms about some of the characters and prose are relatively small compared to my enjoyment of the overall story. The worldbuilding is the star and I can easily see sequel books being written in this same world. If you like high fantasy and mystery plots, I think you should definitely give this is a go.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for a chance to read the eARC.
The worldbuilding in this novel is the definite star. Elbay is richly imagined. The reader gets a sense of the crowded working class lower tiers and the haughty upper tiers. The ringfire, the gallows, even a bit of food gives the city a medieval+steampunk+fantasy setting that I found intriguing. The three main political sects of the city are the Mortedants, the Worshipful is Elbay's religious sect (reminded me of a jab at Christianity maybe?), and the Spurriers who use alchemy to create spirit forms like walking carriages and inhuman messengers. Each sect is faceted but outwardly antagonistic against the other sects.
The characters were a hit and miss for me. I loved Whisper, she is straightforward but with depth, and I think her backstory and the story of her people would make a really neat sequel or prequel. Niofa is also a good character, grey and otherworldly and slightly mad. Irody...I have mixed feelings about. He starts out very entitled, racist, and rather annoying. He does grow through the story in that regard, but I also feel like he didn't have as much agency as it seems. He kept moving where the events led and where others told him, but hesitantly, and it wasn't until the last quarter that he really makes a few actual choices and started to grow on me. Mirial felt younger than she was, stubborn to a fault, and while she does bring a fire under Hasp she also makes very naive decisions.
The plot is a mystery story, and several breadcrumbs and red herrings are provided. The middle seemed to stretch a little long and the ending wasn't a surprise to me, maybe because things were foreshadowed a bit too much. The story fit the world well, but I can't say it was the most earth-shattering. The prose was approachable, and some really nice descriptions of the feel of the city. I did find some inconsistencies - Hasp spends a lot of money for having no money, repeated phrases (like how everyone is excited for the upcoming festival but they don't know the bigger story), and some fantasy elements not being explained in a timely manner (like the firelances). A couple of very small deux ex machina moments at the end but they were small and could be skipped over intellectually.
Overall, this is a good installment to the "fantasy mystery" subgenre that I have been enjoying seeing more of lately. My qualms about some of the characters and prose are relatively small compared to my enjoyment of the overall story. The worldbuilding is the star and I can easily see sequel books being written in this same world. If you like high fantasy and mystery plots, I think you should definitely give this is a go.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for a chance to read the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and to MacMillan Audio for the ARC of Mortedant's Peril by RJ Barker.
This is my first Barker novel, but it definitely will not be my last -- I plan on going backwards to his other work, as Mortedant's Peril has definitely made me a fan. I appreciate the comparisons to the Lies of Locke Lamora and also find it a match for anyone loving Robert Jackson Bennett's Ana and Din mysteries as well. I see so many people asking on Reddit for fantasy mysteries -- this book is the answer for 2026.
I also want to applaud the narration by Joe Eyre. I listened to this audiobook over 2 books because not only was the story engaging, but the narration was really well done. I enjoyed how Eyre made Whisper and Myriel (Muriel? It's always hard to write out names when I only do the audio), and Irody and all the other cast members, including crows and satyrs all feel very distinct and individual.
The book description is accurate and will lead the reader to about the 10-15% mark where the mystery will continue to grow and grow and grow. Barker does an excellent job building tension, dropping clues, creating encounters throughout the city to further the story, etc. There is no dull space, and he expertly weaves in details about the magic system, the cultural hierarchy, the god/religious system, the city itself, etc. without detracting from the action or the characters.
Irody is well thought out and well used on the page. He's damaged from his own past, accepting of his place, while also still having the ability to both acknowledge and disrespect people deemed lower than himself in ways that are very relevant to the 21st century. He's the kind of person you know who has been beat down by the system while still being miles higher than other people will ever manage, and thinking he knows what's best for others even when the truth is he's been conditioned to think less of people and without true understanding. It was nice to watch him grow and realize those were real faults in his personality. It was nice to see him create a found family and a place in the city while also navigating some wild hierarchies and cult personas and religious sects.
The plot is fast paced, and all of the 16 hours of audio are action packed and tightly plotted for maximum mystery and suspense. The mystery is well done, and while we do figure out the likely murderer early, it's the overarching and deeply embedded plot surrounding the murder that make the story. The layers build and build and build to a steep crescendo that has everything - betrayal, bribery, power-seeking, magic wielding, etc. etc.
All in all, there is a reason so many forums and fans are waiting for this book and it is well deserved as a top rated fantasy for 2026. I can't wait for the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and to MacMillan Audio for the ARC of Mortedant's Peril by RJ Barker.
This is my first Barker novel, but it definitely will not be my last -- I plan on going backwards to his other work, as Mortedant's Peril has definitely made me a fan. I appreciate the comparisons to the Lies of Locke Lamora and also find it a match for anyone loving Robert Jackson Bennett's Ana and Din mysteries as well. I see so many people asking on Reddit for fantasy mysteries -- this book is the answer for 2026.
I also want to applaud the narration by Joe Eyre. I listened to this audiobook over 2 books because not only was the story engaging, but the narration was really well done. I enjoyed how Eyre made Whisper and Myriel (Muriel? It's always hard to write out names when I only do the audio), and Irody and all the other cast members, including crows and satyrs all feel very distinct and individual.
The book description is accurate and will lead the reader to about the 10-15% mark where the mystery will continue to grow and grow and grow. Barker does an excellent job building tension, dropping clues, creating encounters throughout the city to further the story, etc. There is no dull space, and he expertly weaves in details about the magic system, the cultural hierarchy, the god/religious system, the city itself, etc. without detracting from the action or the characters.
Irody is well thought out and well used on the page. He's damaged from his own past, accepting of his place, while also still having the ability to both acknowledge and disrespect people deemed lower than himself in ways that are very relevant to the 21st century. He's the kind of person you know who has been beat down by the system while still being miles higher than other people will ever manage, and thinking he knows what's best for others even when the truth is he's been conditioned to think less of people and without true understanding. It was nice to watch him grow and realize those were real faults in his personality. It was nice to see him create a found family and a place in the city while also navigating some wild hierarchies and cult personas and religious sects.
The plot is fast paced, and all of the 16 hours of audio are action packed and tightly plotted for maximum mystery and suspense. The mystery is well done, and while we do figure out the likely murderer early, it's the overarching and deeply embedded plot surrounding the murder that make the story. The layers build and build and build to a steep crescendo that has everything - betrayal, bribery, power-seeking, magic wielding, etc. etc.
All in all, there is a reason so many forums and fans are waiting for this book and it is well deserved as a top rated fantasy for 2026. I can't wait for the next book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I went into Mortedant’s Peril drawn in by the premise, and it ended up being such a fun and unique start to a new fantasy series. As the first book in The Trials of Irody Hasp, it delivers a really engaging blend of murder mystery and fantasy, wrapped in one of the most memorable city settings I’ve read in a while.
We follow Irody, a Mortedant - a cleric tasked with reading the final thoughts of the dead. It’s a thankless, unsettling job, and Mortedants aren’t exactly beloved. Irody, unfortunately, sits even lower on that scale, usually stuck with the least desirable assignments. But after reading the corpse of a low-level records keeper, everything spirals - especially when his own apprentice is murdered in his home and Irody becomes the prime suspect.
The only way to clear his name is by finding the real killer. What follows is an investigation that quickly grows more dangerous, pulling Irody into something much bigger than he expected - something that threatens the already corrupt, magic-laced city of Elbay.
And honestly? The city is my favorite part of this book.
Elbay is layered, literally and socially, divided into rings where the poorest live at the bottom and the wealthy rule from above. There are distinct sectors for different groups: the devout (and slightly cultish) Worshippers of the Howling Lord, the Spurriers who give spiritform life, and the Mortedants themselves. The whole city gave me Dishonored vibes, which I loved.
Beyond the worldbuilding, this book has a great cast of characters. Everyone feels distinct, and I loved Mirial and Whisper - they offset Irody's personality so well, have their own motivations, and add a lot of charm to the story. There’s also a thread of humor throughout that balances the darker elements really well.
The mystery itself was genuinely fun to unravel alongside Irody. I enjoyed piecing things together, though I will say the first half felt a bit uneven at times. The pacing occasionally ebbed, or maybe it was just the way information was delivered - I needed a little time to fully settle into the prose and rhythm of the story.
That said, once it clicked, I was all in.
By the end, I was completely hooked. There are so many threads hinted at but not fully explored yet, and I have questions - the kind that make me excited to keep going with a series.
I also have to mention the audiobook narrator, who did a fantastic job bringing this story to life. The emotion, the distinct voices - it added a lot of depth and made for a really immersive listening experience.
4.5 stars
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listening copy. All thoughts are my own.
We follow Irody, a Mortedant - a cleric tasked with reading the final thoughts of the dead. It’s a thankless, unsettling job, and Mortedants aren’t exactly beloved. Irody, unfortunately, sits even lower on that scale, usually stuck with the least desirable assignments. But after reading the corpse of a low-level records keeper, everything spirals - especially when his own apprentice is murdered in his home and Irody becomes the prime suspect.
The only way to clear his name is by finding the real killer. What follows is an investigation that quickly grows more dangerous, pulling Irody into something much bigger than he expected - something that threatens the already corrupt, magic-laced city of Elbay.
And honestly? The city is my favorite part of this book.
Elbay is layered, literally and socially, divided into rings where the poorest live at the bottom and the wealthy rule from above. There are distinct sectors for different groups: the devout (and slightly cultish) Worshippers of the Howling Lord, the Spurriers who give spiritform life, and the Mortedants themselves. The whole city gave me Dishonored vibes, which I loved.
Beyond the worldbuilding, this book has a great cast of characters. Everyone feels distinct, and I loved Mirial and Whisper - they offset Irody's personality so well, have their own motivations, and add a lot of charm to the story. There’s also a thread of humor throughout that balances the darker elements really well.
The mystery itself was genuinely fun to unravel alongside Irody. I enjoyed piecing things together, though I will say the first half felt a bit uneven at times. The pacing occasionally ebbed, or maybe it was just the way information was delivered - I needed a little time to fully settle into the prose and rhythm of the story.
That said, once it clicked, I was all in.
By the end, I was completely hooked. There are so many threads hinted at but not fully explored yet, and I have questions - the kind that make me excited to keep going with a series.
I also have to mention the audiobook narrator, who did a fantastic job bringing this story to life. The emotion, the distinct voices - it added a lot of depth and made for a really immersive listening experience.
4.5 stars
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listening copy. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advance copy of the audiobook! The following is my honest review:
This book is fantastic! And, yes, it may only be April but this story has easily become my favorite of the year so far. I very rarely give out five star reviews- I always have notes- but this is unquestionably a five star read.
Barker evokes such an interesting world, steeped in lore and magic. The action takes place in a tiered city, full of divisions, separating citizens by class, with differing sects, even professions, creating further divides. Escapades around the city and are richly depicted and immersive. The author is skilled at subtly including details that not only bring depth to the world but remain relevant as the plot unfolds.
The plot and the world building are so well done, but the true highlight of the book are the characters. I really enjoyed our MMC, Irody Hasp, a man who rails against the prejudices and injustices that effect him, yet is so wildly unaware of his own biases. His inner monologue is genuinely hilarious and I loved his asides throughout the story. His story arc is artfully written and feels so authentic as his experiences and interactions broaden his perceptions.
We have some really wonderful side characters- most notably, Whisper and Mirial. I love that the author wrote these female characters who are kind and loyal, yet strong and powerful in their own right. There is a synergy between this trio that I just loved and their growth as they each bring their strengths together is so heartwarming.
This book was a breath of fresh air- fast paced and unique, laced with so much humor. It is mutually plot and character driven with a satisfying ending. And yet I absolutely can’t wait for book two!
* Note on format- I listened to the audio version of the book and it was excellent. The narrator, Joe Eyre, doesn’t narrate, he performs! The amount of voices he brought to the story was incredible, his pacing, his empahsis- executed with brilliance. And he has the unique talent as a male narrator who can perform female voices without being patronizing at all. He brought a wonderful story to life, masterfully.
* Note for parents raising readers: If you have a teenager who enjoys fantasy this would absolutely be suitable for them to read. There is no language at all, no spice, and the violence is not graphic or overwrought. I have a 15 year old who loves fantasy but avoids romantic subplots as though they’re a plague, and it’s safe on that front too. Highly recommend to upper YA age lovers of fantasy stories!
This book is fantastic! And, yes, it may only be April but this story has easily become my favorite of the year so far. I very rarely give out five star reviews- I always have notes- but this is unquestionably a five star read.
Barker evokes such an interesting world, steeped in lore and magic. The action takes place in a tiered city, full of divisions, separating citizens by class, with differing sects, even professions, creating further divides. Escapades around the city and are richly depicted and immersive. The author is skilled at subtly including details that not only bring depth to the world but remain relevant as the plot unfolds.
The plot and the world building are so well done, but the true highlight of the book are the characters. I really enjoyed our MMC, Irody Hasp, a man who rails against the prejudices and injustices that effect him, yet is so wildly unaware of his own biases. His inner monologue is genuinely hilarious and I loved his asides throughout the story. His story arc is artfully written and feels so authentic as his experiences and interactions broaden his perceptions.
We have some really wonderful side characters- most notably, Whisper and Mirial. I love that the author wrote these female characters who are kind and loyal, yet strong and powerful in their own right. There is a synergy between this trio that I just loved and their growth as they each bring their strengths together is so heartwarming.
This book was a breath of fresh air- fast paced and unique, laced with so much humor. It is mutually plot and character driven with a satisfying ending. And yet I absolutely can’t wait for book two!
* Note on format- I listened to the audio version of the book and it was excellent. The narrator, Joe Eyre, doesn’t narrate, he performs! The amount of voices he brought to the story was incredible, his pacing, his empahsis- executed with brilliance. And he has the unique talent as a male narrator who can perform female voices without being patronizing at all. He brought a wonderful story to life, masterfully.
* Note for parents raising readers: If you have a teenager who enjoys fantasy this would absolutely be suitable for them to read. There is no language at all, no spice, and the violence is not graphic or overwrought. I have a 15 year old who loves fantasy but avoids romantic subplots as though they’re a plague, and it’s safe on that front too. Highly recommend to upper YA age lovers of fantasy stories!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mortedant’s Peril is the tale where a reluctant, and unexpected, hero emerges to do the right thing.
Note: My review is based on the audiobook ARC/ALC, so please excuse any character names that may be spelled incorrectly.
Meet Irody Hasp, a Mortedant with the skills and training to read the final thoughts of the dead. Ideally, this serves to comfort the grieving or to allow the deceased to express important information they were holding back. But the reputation of the Mortedants has suffered due to disreputable members abusing their skills. The populace doesn’t trust them until they are in need.
When Hasp stumbles across the wrong corpse to read, he is targeted. An assassin kills Irody’s apprentice and tries to finish him. Unfortunately for Hasp, he lives in a dystopian hellscape, and as the last person to see the apprentice, he is accused of the murder and sentenced to death. Justice be damned, he will be flayed then executed. Somehow, he is saved and enwrapped in a larger story of partisan politics, the excesses of the rich, and religious figures abusing the faithful.
Throughout the book, we meet a variety of characters, from the adorable Whisper (my favorite bodyguard) and the fearless sprite to the despicable people willing to trade others' lives for their own petty gains.
Hasp has a massive character growth arc. We start with our Mortedant being fairly unlikable. Despite being outcast and down on his luck, he clings to his belief in superiority. He is a speciesist and a classist, and he holds himself above others because of his profession. Yet, despite his flaws, he proves that it was his defense mechanism, and he is actually caring and willing to risk his life to seek justice.
The previous works of R.J. Baker didn’t work for me nearly as well as this one did. Mortedant’s Peril was a lovely listen. Joe Erye is excellent as a narrator, delivering an engrossing performance that drew me into the world-building and try-fail cycles.
I enjoyed Mortedant’s Peril and awarded it 4 1/4 stars. I am hopeful this isn’t the last time we meet Irody and his companions.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing an audio ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Note: My review is based on the audiobook ARC/ALC, so please excuse any character names that may be spelled incorrectly.
Meet Irody Hasp, a Mortedant with the skills and training to read the final thoughts of the dead. Ideally, this serves to comfort the grieving or to allow the deceased to express important information they were holding back. But the reputation of the Mortedants has suffered due to disreputable members abusing their skills. The populace doesn’t trust them until they are in need.
When Hasp stumbles across the wrong corpse to read, he is targeted. An assassin kills Irody’s apprentice and tries to finish him. Unfortunately for Hasp, he lives in a dystopian hellscape, and as the last person to see the apprentice, he is accused of the murder and sentenced to death. Justice be damned, he will be flayed then executed. Somehow, he is saved and enwrapped in a larger story of partisan politics, the excesses of the rich, and religious figures abusing the faithful.
Throughout the book, we meet a variety of characters, from the adorable Whisper (my favorite bodyguard) and the fearless sprite to the despicable people willing to trade others' lives for their own petty gains.
Hasp has a massive character growth arc. We start with our Mortedant being fairly unlikable. Despite being outcast and down on his luck, he clings to his belief in superiority. He is a speciesist and a classist, and he holds himself above others because of his profession. Yet, despite his flaws, he proves that it was his defense mechanism, and he is actually caring and willing to risk his life to seek justice.
The previous works of R.J. Baker didn’t work for me nearly as well as this one did. Mortedant’s Peril was a lovely listen. Joe Erye is excellent as a narrator, delivering an engrossing performance that drew me into the world-building and try-fail cycles.
I enjoyed Mortedant’s Peril and awarded it 4 1/4 stars. I am hopeful this isn’t the last time we meet Irody and his companions.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing an audio ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
RJ Barker is a world builder. From the very first page, you are introduced to someplace unique, someplace you have never been, someplace you are never going to forget.
Irody Hasp is a Mortedant, someone who can divine the last words of the dead. As a member of the Mortedants' Priory, he is hired, mostly for very little coin, to perform this last rite. He and his neophyte, Malkin, take a job reading the last thoughts of one Dirrivan Murser, whose widow is hoping he will reveal some hidden stash of coin. When it doesn't quite turn out that way, the widow gets violent, and Irody and his neophyte flee for their lives.
Thus begins one Mortedant's journey into the schemes and politics of the city of Elbay, a city unlike any other, a city of seven tiers, where the higher you go, the more wealthy the residents. It's a city where the Spurriers' Priory uses arcane chemicals and the life energy of dead animals to create fantastical creatures and conveyances. It's a city where the Worshipful Priory prays for the return of the Howling God, long imprisoned within the city itself. It's a city of crows, who are protected by law; no man will kill a crow in Elbay.
Irody files a complaint to collect his fee from the murderous widow, and returns to his rooms to find his neophyte dead, and the murderer ready to add Irody to the ranks of the deceased. But Irody has a secret of his own: he dabbles in spurrying, quite illegal for anyone outside that Priory. He fends off his murderer with some chemicals, and sets off to find out who murdered Malkin, and why.
I'm not going to spoil this book for anyone, because I think readers need to come to this story with fresh eyes. I will say that if you enjoyed The Bone Ships trilogy, you will not be disappointed in Mortedant's Peril. I'm going to be eagerly awaiting the next books in this series, though. I'm not ready to leave Elbay yet.
I received this ARC as part of a Goodreads giveaway, and I am eternally grateful!
Irody Hasp is a Mortedant, someone who can divine the last words of the dead. As a member of the Mortedants' Priory, he is hired, mostly for very little coin, to perform this last rite. He and his neophyte, Malkin, take a job reading the last thoughts of one Dirrivan Murser, whose widow is hoping he will reveal some hidden stash of coin. When it doesn't quite turn out that way, the widow gets violent, and Irody and his neophyte flee for their lives.
Thus begins one Mortedant's journey into the schemes and politics of the city of Elbay, a city unlike any other, a city of seven tiers, where the higher you go, the more wealthy the residents. It's a city where the Spurriers' Priory uses arcane chemicals and the life energy of dead animals to create fantastical creatures and conveyances. It's a city where the Worshipful Priory prays for the return of the Howling God, long imprisoned within the city itself. It's a city of crows, who are protected by law; no man will kill a crow in Elbay.
Irody files a complaint to collect his fee from the murderous widow, and returns to his rooms to find his neophyte dead, and the murderer ready to add Irody to the ranks of the deceased. But Irody has a secret of his own: he dabbles in spurrying, quite illegal for anyone outside that Priory. He fends off his murderer with some chemicals, and sets off to find out who murdered Malkin, and why.
I'm not going to spoil this book for anyone, because I think readers need to come to this story with fresh eyes. I will say that if you enjoyed The Bone Ships trilogy, you will not be disappointed in Mortedant's Peril. I'm going to be eagerly awaiting the next books in this series, though. I'm not ready to leave Elbay yet.
I received this ARC as part of a Goodreads giveaway, and I am eternally grateful!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having read a couple of the author's previous series, I was ready for some great world building and a unique fantasy story and Mortedant's Peril did not disappoint. Irody Hasp is a complex protagonist to say the least, a cleric with the interesting skill of reading the last thoughts of the dead who finds himself caught up in the murder of his apprentice and if he does not find the murderer, he will hang for the crime. He picks up a pair of unlikely allies in his quest and finds that the mystery may be more than it appears, stumbling into political intrigues and ruffling the feathers of several powerbrokers. Along the way, he also seems to grow a bit as a person, from a somewhat self-centered unlikeable chap to developing empathy and even concern for those close to him. I truly enjoyed being transported into this world, meeting all of the diverse characters that Irody encounters along his quest, and I can't wait to return for the next of The Trials of Irody Hasp. Though this seems to be the first of a series, it does resolve the mystery at the center of the plot and doesn't leave readers at a cliffhanger, but there is more going on in this world-at-large so I expect the sequel to take the protagonist on another adventure or mystery perhaps linked to the broader issues that were touched on along this story.
I "read" the audiobook version of this book, or rather Joe Eyre, the narrator, read it to me and did a fabulous job of it.
I received the ALC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Macmillan Audio) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I "read" the audiobook version of this book, or rather Joe Eyre, the narrator, read it to me and did a fabulous job of it.
I received the ALC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Macmillan Audio) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.25 stars. Fantasy mystery is how I will be taking all my mysteries going forward, please and thank you.
Barker has created a unique world with interesting both human and non-human characters. While the world-building was a bit tough for me in the beginning, I am so glad I stuck with it. I adored this cast of characters and the subtle humor they brought. Swift, publicly praised punishment is standard and expected in this city - you'd better hope if you are innocent, you were not the last to see someone alive 👀
"I think they were worried he may not live to be hung if they did not execute him quickly."
Harp is not popular amongst his fellow Mortedants, and quite honestly, I could understand why at the beginning. His lack of understanding of the lower tiers made me want to smack him, but I enjoyed watching him grow into a character worth cheering on.
Harp unexpectedly finds himself in danger, which leads to a few undesired companions I would absolutely want by my side. While this is a single POV, I appreciated the distinct voices of Whisper and Mirial. Mirial is fiesty and resourceful, fueled by vengeance. Whisper is like a gentle giant who can kick major ass, but also has a tender heart. Her dedication has landed her a faithful companion award in my book.
"And we are not judged by what we must do" – the low growl of her voice filled the room –"but by what we choose to do."
I was thrilled this did not end on a cliffhanger, but I already cannot wait to spend more time with my new favorite found family when the series continues.
Thank you, Tor, for the advanced copy!
Barker has created a unique world with interesting both human and non-human characters. While the world-building was a bit tough for me in the beginning, I am so glad I stuck with it. I adored this cast of characters and the subtle humor they brought. Swift, publicly praised punishment is standard and expected in this city - you'd better hope if you are innocent, you were not the last to see someone alive 👀
"I think they were worried he may not live to be hung if they did not execute him quickly."
Harp is not popular amongst his fellow Mortedants, and quite honestly, I could understand why at the beginning. His lack of understanding of the lower tiers made me want to smack him, but I enjoyed watching him grow into a character worth cheering on.
Harp unexpectedly finds himself in danger, which leads to a few undesired companions I would absolutely want by my side. While this is a single POV, I appreciated the distinct voices of Whisper and Mirial. Mirial is fiesty and resourceful, fueled by vengeance. Whisper is like a gentle giant who can kick major ass, but also has a tender heart. Her dedication has landed her a faithful companion award in my book.
"And we are not judged by what we must do" – the low growl of her voice filled the room –"but by what we choose to do."
I was thrilled this did not end on a cliffhanger, but I already cannot wait to spend more time with my new favorite found family when the series continues.
Thank you, Tor, for the advanced copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A mystery investigation fantasy with a cast of characters that give that found-family feel, and a flawed main character who grows as a person as the novel progresses.
Right away, this story reminded me of The Tainted Cup and The Witness for the Dead, and fans of either (or both) will love this novel as much as I did!
Our main character begins the novel kind of prejudiced and bigoted, but as the story progresses we realize that this is born from him mimicking the prejudices of those around him to try to fit in. As a mortedant, he should be given respect for his position - but with his family and personal history, and a lack of funding, he is barely scraping by in terms of both money and respect. When he has only 3 days to investigate the murder of his neophyte before he is hanged for the crime, he becomes embroiled into a larger conspiracy than anyone ever saw - and he grows as a person along the way, no longer fighting for the respect of those who would never give it to him.
It’s hard to describe how phenomenal this book was to listen to through audiobook - from the very beginning I was hooked on every word. Normally, I wind up mostly only listening to audiobooks as I drive, but I wanted to know so badly what would happen next in this novel that I found myself taking longer drives, listening at work, as well as just relaxing on my bed with the audiobook playing. The voiceacting was phenomenal, and I loved the distinct voices the narrator used for each character.
A huge thank you to the author, Netgalley, and Macmillan Audio for providing me this ALC.
Sidenote: Is Whisper single, by the way? Asking for a friend. (The friend is me.) I just love her so much I only want good things to happen to her, always. She’s the new love of my life.
Right away, this story reminded me of The Tainted Cup and The Witness for the Dead, and fans of either (or both) will love this novel as much as I did!
Our main character begins the novel kind of prejudiced and bigoted, but as the story progresses we realize that this is born from him mimicking the prejudices of those around him to try to fit in. As a mortedant, he should be given respect for his position - but with his family and personal history, and a lack of funding, he is barely scraping by in terms of both money and respect. When he has only 3 days to investigate the murder of his neophyte before he is hanged for the crime, he becomes embroiled into a larger conspiracy than anyone ever saw - and he grows as a person along the way, no longer fighting for the respect of those who would never give it to him.
It’s hard to describe how phenomenal this book was to listen to through audiobook - from the very beginning I was hooked on every word. Normally, I wind up mostly only listening to audiobooks as I drive, but I wanted to know so badly what would happen next in this novel that I found myself taking longer drives, listening at work, as well as just relaxing on my bed with the audiobook playing. The voiceacting was phenomenal, and I loved the distinct voices the narrator used for each character.
A huge thank you to the author, Netgalley, and Macmillan Audio for providing me this ALC.
Sidenote: Is Whisper single, by the way? Asking for a friend. (The friend is me.) I just love her so much I only want good things to happen to her, always. She’s the new love of my life.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my first RJ Barker book, and I doubt it’ll be my last! I initially requested “Mortedant’s Peril” due to comparisons with my beloved “The Tainted Cup”, and I can see some similarities: it’s a murder mystery in a fantasy world with an ensemble cast that might or might not be trustworthy. Our main character is a speaker-to-the-dead named Irody Hasp, who is accused of murdering his young assistant. Desperate to prove his innocence, Hasp gets tangled in a grand conspiracy that exposes the classicism at the heart of its steampunk world.
I found the strongest part of this book to be the found family aspects between Hasp and his allies – his bodyguard Whisper, in particular, was an interesting and layered character. Hasp himself grew on me, but those opening chapters were rough – sanctimonious and racist, Hasp is a piece of work initially (though he improves toward the back half as he discovers that all is not as it appears). My main issue with this book was how slow it was. It shouldn’t be slow! Hasp has three days to prove his innocence. But the opening 50% nearly broke me with how moment-by-moment the interactions were as our heroes seemed to get no closer to solving anything. Not enjoying Hasp as a main character also made it hard-going.
All that said – the conclusion of this first book was well-done, and the character growth was topnotch.
I found the strongest part of this book to be the found family aspects between Hasp and his allies – his bodyguard Whisper, in particular, was an interesting and layered character. Hasp himself grew on me, but those opening chapters were rough – sanctimonious and racist, Hasp is a piece of work initially (though he improves toward the back half as he discovers that all is not as it appears). My main issue with this book was how slow it was. It shouldn’t be slow! Hasp has three days to prove his innocence. But the opening 50% nearly broke me with how moment-by-moment the interactions were as our heroes seemed to get no closer to solving anything. Not enjoying Hasp as a main character also made it hard-going.
All that said – the conclusion of this first book was well-done, and the character growth was topnotch.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 rounded up
I did really like this but this was almost unbearable slow. There were whole stretches of time where nothing at all happened; nothing got described, nothing got discovered, the plot did not advance at all. I often wonder how it’s decided to make a book a series but stretch one entry so thin. The story and the characters are great but prepare yourself for the most character driven book you’ve ever read. I’ve not read any of this authors other books, not sure if they are similar in style or not. Worth a read for sure though.
The central murder mystery is interesting and I like that that’s just the beginning of the unfolding plot. I would have liked a little more about the world and some more examples of exactly what the mortedant’s do.
I love the relationship that Irody and Whisper have. It’s the bodyguard trope but not “like that” though. Tasked with his protection, she comes to care about him so much and I hope we get more of that friendship in the next book. Unexpected found family.
I think the narrator did a fantastic job with this book. I fear without the ability to speed this along I would have considered DNFing. It’s solo narration but they do a great job bringing this to life. Highly recommend on audio.
Thank you to Netgalley and MacMillan Audio for an early copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I did really like this but this was almost unbearable slow. There were whole stretches of time where nothing at all happened; nothing got described, nothing got discovered, the plot did not advance at all. I often wonder how it’s decided to make a book a series but stretch one entry so thin. The story and the characters are great but prepare yourself for the most character driven book you’ve ever read. I’ve not read any of this authors other books, not sure if they are similar in style or not. Worth a read for sure though.
The central murder mystery is interesting and I like that that’s just the beginning of the unfolding plot. I would have liked a little more about the world and some more examples of exactly what the mortedant’s do.
I love the relationship that Irody and Whisper have. It’s the bodyguard trope but not “like that” though. Tasked with his protection, she comes to care about him so much and I hope we get more of that friendship in the next book. Unexpected found family.
I think the narrator did a fantastic job with this book. I fear without the ability to speed this along I would have considered DNFing. It’s solo narration but they do a great job bringing this to life. Highly recommend on audio.
Thank you to Netgalley and MacMillan Audio for an early copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s something immediately off about a world where reading the dead’s final thoughts is treated like a low-tier job, and that idea sets the tone right away. Irody Hasp is not an easy character to love at first - he’s prickly, a little self-important, and very aware of where he stands in a system that barely tolerates him - but that’s exactly what makes his arc so satisfying to watch unfold.
The city itself does a lot of heavy lifting here. It’s strange, layered, and just a little unsettling, with automata, spirits, and quiet power structures shaping everything in the background. The mystery pulls you through, but it’s the slow reveals - about the world, the people in it, and Irody himself - that really keep things interesting. Nothing is handed to you all at once, which makes the payoff feel earned without needing to rely on constant twists.
I listened to the audiobook, and it absolutely elevated the experience. The narrator nails Irody’s personality and gives the side characters just enough distinction to make them feel alive without overdoing it. This is a strong start to a new series, and I’m curious to see where Barker takes Irody and crew next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, the narrator Joe Eyre, and the author R. J. Barker for providing me this audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The city itself does a lot of heavy lifting here. It’s strange, layered, and just a little unsettling, with automata, spirits, and quiet power structures shaping everything in the background. The mystery pulls you through, but it’s the slow reveals - about the world, the people in it, and Irody himself - that really keep things interesting. Nothing is handed to you all at once, which makes the payoff feel earned without needing to rely on constant twists.
I listened to the audiobook, and it absolutely elevated the experience. The narrator nails Irody’s personality and gives the side characters just enough distinction to make them feel alive without overdoing it. This is a strong start to a new series, and I’m curious to see where Barker takes Irody and crew next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, the narrator Joe Eyre, and the author R. J. Barker for providing me this audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2026
Engaging read, got through this in 1 day and had a great time.
What to Expect:
An unlikeable main character - Irody is grumpy, rude and kinda pathetic but I love how his kindness peeks through. He loses his edge as the story progresses and found family elements come into play.
Murder mystery plot - Less detective deductions, more running around the city and finding trouble. I did foresee a big reveal a bit too early to find it satisfying unfortunately but I had fun none the less.
Interesting setting - Your average medieval fantasy city except add spirit magic, sea creature bodyguards, and sleeping gods. Definitely a cool mixture that I enjoyed reading about but I feel like the parts didn't fit together to form one cohesive whole. Don’t get me wrong the world building wasn’t poor by any means but at points I felt that I was reading about elements loosely stitched together.
An intriguing start to a series - This book was zoomed in on one city, the brief mentions of anything outside were vague, I assume we’ll get more in further instalments. There are definitely multiple avenues to go from here, I’m intrigued to find out what's next for Irody Hasp.
Many thanks to Tor and Netgalley for the ARC copy.
What to Expect:
An unlikeable main character - Irody is grumpy, rude and kinda pathetic but I love how his kindness peeks through. He loses his edge as the story progresses and found family elements come into play.
Murder mystery plot - Less detective deductions, more running around the city and finding trouble. I did foresee a big reveal a bit too early to find it satisfying unfortunately but I had fun none the less.
Interesting setting - Your average medieval fantasy city except add spirit magic, sea creature bodyguards, and sleeping gods. Definitely a cool mixture that I enjoyed reading about but I feel like the parts didn't fit together to form one cohesive whole. Don’t get me wrong the world building wasn’t poor by any means but at points I felt that I was reading about elements loosely stitched together.
An intriguing start to a series - This book was zoomed in on one city, the brief mentions of anything outside were vague, I assume we’ll get more in further instalments. There are definitely multiple avenues to go from here, I’m intrigued to find out what's next for Irody Hasp.
Many thanks to Tor and Netgalley for the ARC copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Irody Hasp, a Mortedant who hears the last words of the dead, finds himself caught in a sinister murder plot after reading the secrets of a deceased record-keeper. With danger around every corner and trust in short supply, he teams up with Mirial, a street urchin, and Whisper, a sea-folk mercenary to unravel the mystery. But time is running out as Irody fights to save himself, his friends, and the city of Elbay from an encroaching darkness…
This was my first time reading an RJ Barker novel - and it didn’t disappoint! The characters, setting, and plot were all brilliant. I was completely swept away on an epic adventure that takes you from the dusty streets of Elbay to the wild lands beyond, and down into the industrial tunnels of the Citycore.
The characters are loveable, with some excellent villains thrown into the mix. It’s an easy read, not too heavy, but with just the right amount of complexity to keep things interesting. The plot kept me guessing right up until the end, and it sets things up nicely for more of Irody’s adventures to come.
A perfect mix of fantasy and mystery - I can absolutely see why it’s recommended for fans of The Shadow of the Leviathans series. I can’t wait for the next instalment!
With thanks to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for the ARC.
This was my first time reading an RJ Barker novel - and it didn’t disappoint! The characters, setting, and plot were all brilliant. I was completely swept away on an epic adventure that takes you from the dusty streets of Elbay to the wild lands beyond, and down into the industrial tunnels of the Citycore.
The characters are loveable, with some excellent villains thrown into the mix. It’s an easy read, not too heavy, but with just the right amount of complexity to keep things interesting. The plot kept me guessing right up until the end, and it sets things up nicely for more of Irody’s adventures to come.
A perfect mix of fantasy and mystery - I can absolutely see why it’s recommended for fans of The Shadow of the Leviathans series. I can’t wait for the next instalment!
With thanks to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor books for approving me for this eARC.
Mortedant’s Peril is a very interesting Steam Punk style fantasy novel that follows Irody Hasp, a mortedant that can read the final thoughts of the dead.
When he is framed for his apprentice’s murder he must team up with the apprentice’s sister and a mercenary to clear his name.
In the process they become pulled into a conspiracy that threatens to kill thousands and descend the city into chaos.
If you are a fan of steam punk settings and magic systems you will enjoy this book.
The character work is well done and I actually felt the supporting characters were much more interesting than the main character who I found fairly unlikable most of the book.
While I likely will not continue the series, it is not because I think this is a bad book. I just don’t feel like the steam punk setting and magic system is for me.
I would have loved to see the mortedant and spurrier skills featured much more than they were. Unfortunately they felt a bit like an afterthought which turned this book into more of a straight murder mystery when I was hoping for more of a fantasy vibe.
Mortedant’s Peril is a very interesting Steam Punk style fantasy novel that follows Irody Hasp, a mortedant that can read the final thoughts of the dead.
When he is framed for his apprentice’s murder he must team up with the apprentice’s sister and a mercenary to clear his name.
In the process they become pulled into a conspiracy that threatens to kill thousands and descend the city into chaos.
If you are a fan of steam punk settings and magic systems you will enjoy this book.
The character work is well done and I actually felt the supporting characters were much more interesting than the main character who I found fairly unlikable most of the book.
While I likely will not continue the series, it is not because I think this is a bad book. I just don’t feel like the steam punk setting and magic system is for me.
I would have loved to see the mortedant and spurrier skills featured much more than they were. Unfortunately they felt a bit like an afterthought which turned this book into more of a straight murder mystery when I was hoping for more of a fantasy vibe.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A fun, inventive, and witty fantasy murder mystery set in the city of Elbay, where Irody Hasp, a cleric who talks to the dead (a Mortedant), is framed for the murder of his own apprentice.
To save himself from execution, Irody must uncover a conspiracy with the help of a snarky street girl and a non-human, Sea People mercenary.
For fans of The Hexologists, The Tainted Cup, and Foundryside.
An unpopular talker-to-the-dead; a chatty, street-smart urchin; and an honourable scary guard. I hear misfit crew of found family.
RJ Barker is an author who has a wild imagination and can build such an exciting and immersive world, rich with innovation and secrets to unravel.
‘And we are not judged by what we must do’ –the low growl of her voice filled the room –‘but by what we choose to do.’
Like his other books, the pacing is odd and will keep you guessing.
I struggled to visualise the city of Elbay as vividly as I was able to with Barker’s The Tide Child and Wyrdwood, but, like Barker’s author’s note says, this is a fun book he wrote in a hard time that gave him a way to escape.
This book can stand by itself satisfyingly, but this is the start of a series. Think The Hexologists by Josiah Bancroft.
Physical arc gifted by Tor.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
To save himself from execution, Irody must uncover a conspiracy with the help of a snarky street girl and a non-human, Sea People mercenary.
For fans of The Hexologists, The Tainted Cup, and Foundryside.
An unpopular talker-to-the-dead; a chatty, street-smart urchin; and an honourable scary guard. I hear misfit crew of found family.
RJ Barker is an author who has a wild imagination and can build such an exciting and immersive world, rich with innovation and secrets to unravel.
‘And we are not judged by what we must do’ –the low growl of her voice filled the room –‘but by what we choose to do.’
Like his other books, the pacing is odd and will keep you guessing.
I struggled to visualise the city of Elbay as vividly as I was able to with Barker’s The Tide Child and Wyrdwood, but, like Barker’s author’s note says, this is a fun book he wrote in a hard time that gave him a way to escape.
This book can stand by itself satisfyingly, but this is the start of a series. Think The Hexologists by Josiah Bancroft.
Physical arc gifted by Tor.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy recieved from NetGalley
4.25 rounded up. This is my first book by R.J. Barker and it certainly won’t be my last. Barker’s worldbuilding is imaginative and immediately pulls you into a world that is vast and intriguing with mysteries hidden behind every corner. Our protagonist starts off as an incredibly entitled and self-righteous individual that’s quick to dismiss those he deems are beneath him all while being ostracized by his fellow peers within the Mortidants. Despite Hasps arrogance, he quickly discovers who his true allies are once he realizes he is in over his head with the crime he’s been entangled in and the horrible truth he must uncover. The narrator, Joe Eyre, was especially skillfull in his performance with bringing this world to life. I felt like every character had their chance to stand out on their own, that only left me wanting more of them and their stories. I for sure am going to be keeping up with the rest of the series and I thank NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this advance reader copy.
4.25 rounded up. This is my first book by R.J. Barker and it certainly won’t be my last. Barker’s worldbuilding is imaginative and immediately pulls you into a world that is vast and intriguing with mysteries hidden behind every corner. Our protagonist starts off as an incredibly entitled and self-righteous individual that’s quick to dismiss those he deems are beneath him all while being ostracized by his fellow peers within the Mortidants. Despite Hasps arrogance, he quickly discovers who his true allies are once he realizes he is in over his head with the crime he’s been entangled in and the horrible truth he must uncover. The narrator, Joe Eyre, was especially skillfull in his performance with bringing this world to life. I felt like every character had their chance to stand out on their own, that only left me wanting more of them and their stories. I for sure am going to be keeping up with the rest of the series and I thank NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this advance reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Barker does a great job setting readers up to understand the world that Mortedant Hasp lives and works in. The tiered separation of the classes, the sleeping gods, and role of Mortedants in society were all very interesting and engaging. I was easily hooked by the mystery that Hasp was uncovering and felt that this novel has a satisfying conclusion with this being the first book in a series. I loved Mirial and Whisper and felt like they made excellent characters to help Hasp with his detective work. Especially Mirial, she was great and I'm hoping readers get more of her in the next book!
Joe Eyre does a great job with the audiobook narration.
Advanced Reader’s Copies (I ended up with an egalley and the audiobook) that were provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The audiobook is from Macmillan Audio and the egalley is from Tor Publishing Group/Tor Books.
Joe Eyre does a great job with the audiobook narration.
Advanced Reader’s Copies (I ended up with an egalley and the audiobook) that were provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The audiobook is from Macmillan Audio and the egalley is from Tor Publishing Group/Tor Books.
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