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The Khorasan Archives #2
The Black Khan
The second novel in Ausma Zehanat Khan’s powerful epic fantasy quartet, a series that lies “somewhere between N. K. Jemisin and George R. R. Martin” (Saladin Ahmed), in which a powerful band of women must use their magic to defeat an oppressive dark regime
To fight against the cruel and superstitious patriarchy known as the Talisman, members of the resistance group known as the Companions of Hira have risked their lives in a failed attempt to procure the Bloodprint—a dangerous text that may hold the secret to overthrowing the terrifying regime. Now, with their plans in ashes, the Companions of Hira have scattered, and the lives of two brave women at the center of the plot—Arian and Sinnia—face unprecedented danger.
Yet a spark of hope flickers in the darkness—the Bloodprint has survived. It is hidden in Ashfall, the seat of Rukh, the Black Khan, whose court is ruled by intrigue and conspiracy. Treacherous enemies ruthlessly maneuver for power behind the throne, including the autocratic Grand Vizier; the deadly and secretive Assassin; the Khan’s deposed half-brother; and the commander of Ashfall’s army, who is also Rukh’s oldest friend.
The Companions of Hira must somehow reunite, break through Talisman lines, and infiltrate Ashfall. A master of treachery himself, the Black Khan joins forces with these powerful women to manipulate them for his own ends. But as Ashfall comes under siege, he is forced to make a deadly calculation . . . one that could cause irrevocable damage to the Companions and their fight for freedom.
To fight against the cruel and superstitious patriarchy known as the Talisman, members of the resistance group known as the Companions of Hira have risked their lives in a failed attempt to procure the Bloodprint—a dangerous text that may hold the secret to overthrowing the terrifying regime. Now, with their plans in ashes, the Companions of Hira have scattered, and the lives of two brave women at the center of the plot—Arian and Sinnia—face unprecedented danger.
Yet a spark of hope flickers in the darkness—the Bloodprint has survived. It is hidden in Ashfall, the seat of Rukh, the Black Khan, whose court is ruled by intrigue and conspiracy. Treacherous enemies ruthlessly maneuver for power behind the throne, including the autocratic Grand Vizier; the deadly and secretive Assassin; the Khan’s deposed half-brother; and the commander of Ashfall’s army, who is also Rukh’s oldest friend.
The Companions of Hira must somehow reunite, break through Talisman lines, and infiltrate Ashfall. A master of treachery himself, the Black Khan joins forces with these powerful women to manipulate them for his own ends. But as Ashfall comes under siege, he is forced to make a deadly calculation . . . one that could cause irrevocable damage to the Companions and their fight for freedom.
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 4, 2018
22 people are currently reading
1136 people want to read
About the author
Ausma Zehanat Khan
18 books923 followersAusma Zehanat Khan is a British-born Canadian living in the United States, whose own parents are heirs to a complex story of migration to and from three different continents. A former adjunct professor at American and Canadian universities, she holds a Ph.D. in International Human Rights Law, with the 1995 Srebrenica massacre as the main subject of her dissertation. Previously the Editor in Chief of Muslim Girl Magazine, Ausma Zehanat Khan has moved frequently, traveled extensively, and written compulsively. Her new crime series debuted with 'Blackwater Falls' in November 2022. She is also the author of 5 books and 1 novella in the Esa Khattak/Rachel Getty mystery series, including the award-winning 'The Unquiet Dead'. And she is the author of The Khorasan Archives fantasy series, beginning with 'The Bloodprint'. She has also written a middle grade non-fiction book called 'Ramadan'.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 11, 2020
Part 2 The continuing saga of The Khorasan Archives. Book 1 was brilliant but book 2 The Black Khan was everything I look for in a fantasy.
Arian, Sinnia, and The Silver Mage have all been saved from the Authoritan's clutches. Arian and Daniyar were helped by Lania, the sister Arian searched for for years. Although not unscaved. Daniyar has been bled in the blood rites to steal his magic, and forced to fight and kill to keep Arian safe. Sinnia was rescued by two sisters, who are also sisters of the claim. And now they are all returning to Ashfall which is preparing for a long siege by the Talisman.
The Black Khan Prince of Khorasan has possession of the Bloodprint, and wishes to tap into its power with the help of Arian the First Companion of the Claim. He also wants to make her his Queen consort even knowing that she loves the Silver Mage ( Daniyar ). The Black Khan is a confusing character, sometimes he seems to be a good guy, but other times extremely bad. Ashfall is under attack, and seems bound to fall.
This story is filled with bloody scenes, ritual magic, torture, assault, and rape. These are your trigger warnings, so if you are sensitive to happenings in books this may not be for you. However if you enjoy, gladiator fighting, deep dark characters, great adventure, and love in its purest and most devoted forms, you might love this as I did. The first book has a lot of world building, so it's a little slower paced at first, but once you it, you get lost in the pages.
I was given this book in exchange for a fair but honest review all opinions are solely my own and have no ill intent towards the author, publisher, or promoters of this book. To my surprise it only gets better. Sometimes second books can be a let down, but in this case it far out shined book 1. I will be gladly moving on to book 3 The Blue Eye. I would recommend this book to anyone age 14 and up. This is not a fantasy meant for young readers, but parents are the best judge of what their children, should or shouldn't read.
Arian, Sinnia, and The Silver Mage have all been saved from the Authoritan's clutches. Arian and Daniyar were helped by Lania, the sister Arian searched for for years. Although not unscaved. Daniyar has been bled in the blood rites to steal his magic, and forced to fight and kill to keep Arian safe. Sinnia was rescued by two sisters, who are also sisters of the claim. And now they are all returning to Ashfall which is preparing for a long siege by the Talisman.
The Black Khan Prince of Khorasan has possession of the Bloodprint, and wishes to tap into its power with the help of Arian the First Companion of the Claim. He also wants to make her his Queen consort even knowing that she loves the Silver Mage ( Daniyar ). The Black Khan is a confusing character, sometimes he seems to be a good guy, but other times extremely bad. Ashfall is under attack, and seems bound to fall.
This story is filled with bloody scenes, ritual magic, torture, assault, and rape. These are your trigger warnings, so if you are sensitive to happenings in books this may not be for you. However if you enjoy, gladiator fighting, deep dark characters, great adventure, and love in its purest and most devoted forms, you might love this as I did. The first book has a lot of world building, so it's a little slower paced at first, but once you it, you get lost in the pages.
I was given this book in exchange for a fair but honest review all opinions are solely my own and have no ill intent towards the author, publisher, or promoters of this book. To my surprise it only gets better. Sometimes second books can be a let down, but in this case it far out shined book 1. I will be gladly moving on to book 3 The Blue Eye. I would recommend this book to anyone age 14 and up. This is not a fantasy meant for young readers, but parents are the best judge of what their children, should or shouldn't read.
September 30, 2018
So often the second book in a series falls short of the first, but with The Black Khan, this is most certainly not the case. The Blooodprint was a 5-star read and so is The Black Khan. The writing, the characters, the complexity...it's all there, and it all works. More than anything it's the WOMEN that make this series. They are strong, capable, intelligent, flawed beings who will stop at nothing in their quest for justice. It's just the thing we need right now to inspire the woman in this world to keep fighting. The third installment cannot be published soon enough!!!
Note: I received an ARC of this book from Harper Voyager in exchange for an unbiased review. (Thank you, Harper Voyager!)
Note: I received an ARC of this book from Harper Voyager in exchange for an unbiased review. (Thank you, Harper Voyager!)
January 15, 2021
Lots to love here. The world building is incredibly lush, with customs, costumes, landscapes and architecture really vividly portrayed. The themes of language, faith and loyalty are interestingly played out, posing moral and ethical dilemmas for many of the characters. There were a few scenes that forced me out of the world - the presence of too much beauty and some dodgy decision making in the time of crisis. But a very solid extension of the series and a great set up for book 3.
February 2, 2021
This is the sequel to The Bloodprint and I just loved it so much
This book picks up right where the Bloodprint ends and it is a dark book and so painful to read at times but I loved it so much. We see what happens to each of the characters after the ending of the Bloodprint and what they suffer through as they were betrayed by the Black Khan and left as prisoners. Arian and Sinnia have been separated and are unable to help each other. Daniyar is also a prisoner with Arian and is forced to fight to the death every night while Arian is forced to watch. Sinnia has been taken and is being tortured and honestly the first half of the book was incredibly difficult to read at times. But it shows how far people will go to show their dominance and control. Even twisting holy words which advocate for justice to suit their needs.
I did love seeing that Daniyar and Arian really care for each other and that they are willing to endure so much for each. We see that they truly love each other even though Arian will always choose the companions and her responsibilities she still does love Daniyar. It’s such a bittersweet relationship because they have such immense responsibilities that means they can’t be together truly but they are also drawn to each other no matter what happens to them.
Sinnia and Arian’s friendship and sisterhood is such a beautiful thing to see in books, I love seeing wonderful female friendships. There is no jealousy or resentment between them, they love each other and support each other through everything. I also loved seeing Sinnia with the two sisters who saved her when she was being tortured. I hope we get to see more of them in the next book.
The Black Khan has the Bloodprint and has taken it to Ashfall to help with the siege by the Talisman. He is a complex and confusing character, I’m still not sure how I feel about him. At times it seems that he is trying to do what is right and other times it seems as though he has ulterior motives and will sacrifice anyone and everything to gain what he desires. He pursues Arian even though she makes it clear that she is not interested and in love with Daniyar. He refuses to allow his sister to go and study and fulfil her dreams of joining the companions and studying. He is very misogynistic but also allows women in positions of power and is very contradictory. I think he does only what will keep him in power.
This story is as enthralling as The Bloodprint. I loved seeing the characters again and seeing how they interact after everything they have been through. I also liked seeing the new characters and particularly loved the Black Khan’s sister. The ending of this book is devastating and left me wrecked me. I am actually terrified of reading the next book. But also looking forward to seeing what will happen next.
This book picks up right where the Bloodprint ends and it is a dark book and so painful to read at times but I loved it so much. We see what happens to each of the characters after the ending of the Bloodprint and what they suffer through as they were betrayed by the Black Khan and left as prisoners. Arian and Sinnia have been separated and are unable to help each other. Daniyar is also a prisoner with Arian and is forced to fight to the death every night while Arian is forced to watch. Sinnia has been taken and is being tortured and honestly the first half of the book was incredibly difficult to read at times. But it shows how far people will go to show their dominance and control. Even twisting holy words which advocate for justice to suit their needs.
I did love seeing that Daniyar and Arian really care for each other and that they are willing to endure so much for each. We see that they truly love each other even though Arian will always choose the companions and her responsibilities she still does love Daniyar. It’s such a bittersweet relationship because they have such immense responsibilities that means they can’t be together truly but they are also drawn to each other no matter what happens to them.
Sinnia and Arian’s friendship and sisterhood is such a beautiful thing to see in books, I love seeing wonderful female friendships. There is no jealousy or resentment between them, they love each other and support each other through everything. I also loved seeing Sinnia with the two sisters who saved her when she was being tortured. I hope we get to see more of them in the next book.
The Black Khan has the Bloodprint and has taken it to Ashfall to help with the siege by the Talisman. He is a complex and confusing character, I’m still not sure how I feel about him. At times it seems that he is trying to do what is right and other times it seems as though he has ulterior motives and will sacrifice anyone and everything to gain what he desires. He pursues Arian even though she makes it clear that she is not interested and in love with Daniyar. He refuses to allow his sister to go and study and fulfil her dreams of joining the companions and studying. He is very misogynistic but also allows women in positions of power and is very contradictory. I think he does only what will keep him in power.
This story is as enthralling as The Bloodprint. I loved seeing the characters again and seeing how they interact after everything they have been through. I also liked seeing the new characters and particularly loved the Black Khan’s sister. The ending of this book is devastating and left me wrecked me. I am actually terrified of reading the next book. But also looking forward to seeing what will happen next.
November 12, 2018
The Black Khan is the sequel to The Bloodprint, which was released last year. It picks up right where the first book left off and starts with absolutely gut-wrenching action scenes. I spent much of my time reading with my fist between my teeth to keep from gasping or crying or yelling. The plot is dark and twisty and you're never sure who to trust.
The major players from The Bloodprint are here, along with a large cast of new characters. The new characters are well-developed, each with his or her own set of complex motivations. They feel real. That is, perhaps, the best compliment I can give - this feels like a living history. You can see, smell, and hear everything that occurs on the page because Khan breathes life into her world. She carefully crafts this world in such detail that it plays like a film in the reader's mind, but without getting so bogged down that it feels like a dry textbook. At the heart of The Black Khan is the magic of language, The Claim. Khan's own use of language in her storytelling is just as magical.
While The Bloodprint introduces us to Khorasan and a world where women are subjugated by the Talisman, The Black Khan is even darker. Here we get an up close look inside the borders of the Authoritan's lands of North Khorasan, his prisons, and systems of torture. We see the machinations of the courtiers in Rukh's lands of West Khorasan, and get an even more detailed look at the inner workings of Hira. It's dark and violent, but we also meet the resistance groups. The ending promises hope, and that is what will keep me reading. I'm sure there is more death, pain, suffering, destruction, and heartbreak to come, but there is also a light that offers hope, a promise of salvation for the people, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
This is a planned four book series. I know there are a lot of people who don't like to start series until they are all finished, and I understand that. I do. I hate the wait between finishing a book and the publication of the next installment of the story of a year (or more). I have shed more than one tear over a press release stating a book's publication date has been delayed. But allow me to throw a plug out there for all authors - even if you don't want to start reading the series until all the books are written, buy the ones that are out now and buy the others as they are released. Authors are not guaranteed their subsequent novels will see the light of day, regardless of the plans they have for their fictional world, and publishers make those decisions based on sales of the previous books. If everyone waited until the entire series was published, it would never happen. So, on behalf of one of my favorite authors and, in fact, on behalf of all authors, if you've read a blurb of a book that intrigues you and you are the kind of person who buys books, pick up a copy even if you don't crack the cover until the story is complete. Help ensure we all get to hear the ending.
The major players from The Bloodprint are here, along with a large cast of new characters. The new characters are well-developed, each with his or her own set of complex motivations. They feel real. That is, perhaps, the best compliment I can give - this feels like a living history. You can see, smell, and hear everything that occurs on the page because Khan breathes life into her world. She carefully crafts this world in such detail that it plays like a film in the reader's mind, but without getting so bogged down that it feels like a dry textbook. At the heart of The Black Khan is the magic of language, The Claim. Khan's own use of language in her storytelling is just as magical.
While The Bloodprint introduces us to Khorasan and a world where women are subjugated by the Talisman, The Black Khan is even darker. Here we get an up close look inside the borders of the Authoritan's lands of North Khorasan, his prisons, and systems of torture. We see the machinations of the courtiers in Rukh's lands of West Khorasan, and get an even more detailed look at the inner workings of Hira. It's dark and violent, but we also meet the resistance groups. The ending promises hope, and that is what will keep me reading. I'm sure there is more death, pain, suffering, destruction, and heartbreak to come, but there is also a light that offers hope, a promise of salvation for the people, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
This is a planned four book series. I know there are a lot of people who don't like to start series until they are all finished, and I understand that. I do. I hate the wait between finishing a book and the publication of the next installment of the story of a year (or more). I have shed more than one tear over a press release stating a book's publication date has been delayed. But allow me to throw a plug out there for all authors - even if you don't want to start reading the series until all the books are written, buy the ones that are out now and buy the others as they are released. Authors are not guaranteed their subsequent novels will see the light of day, regardless of the plans they have for their fictional world, and publishers make those decisions based on sales of the previous books. If everyone waited until the entire series was published, it would never happen. So, on behalf of one of my favorite authors and, in fact, on behalf of all authors, if you've read a blurb of a book that intrigues you and you are the kind of person who buys books, pick up a copy even if you don't crack the cover until the story is complete. Help ensure we all get to hear the ending.
January 19, 2019
This one just didn't click with me. With one exception there's nothing really wrong with it, it just didn't grab me at all. The story of political intrigue around various factions in a fantasy Middle Eastern setting is perfectly competent, but I wasn't interested.
The exception? Khan's choice of names is dreadful. She gives major characters names I found way too similar (Danya, Dariya, Darius). The army of the One-Eyed Preacher (another name that didn't work) is called the Talisman. An inner-city region is called the Hazing. It's very distracting to just stick words that have clear meanings onto something and redefine them. Even if I'd liked Black Khan, this would have been very annoying.
The exception? Khan's choice of names is dreadful. She gives major characters names I found way too similar (Danya, Dariya, Darius). The army of the One-Eyed Preacher (another name that didn't work) is called the Talisman. An inner-city region is called the Hazing. It's very distracting to just stick words that have clear meanings onto something and redefine them. Even if I'd liked Black Khan, this would have been very annoying.
May 2, 2020
I liked reading this better than the first book, but that could be because I have a hard copy of this book rather than reading the ebook version like the first.
The love/lust between groups of characters didn't fit well for me and distracted from the rest of the story. I couldn't see how it added anything except maybe to make me feel slightly uncomfortable and voyeuristic. I would also have liked more detail about the claim and how it works rather than just being vaguely religious.
For the most part I did enjoy the story and look forward to reading the next installment, but feel that the promise of the premise wasn't completely upheld.
The love/lust between groups of characters didn't fit well for me and distracted from the rest of the story. I couldn't see how it added anything except maybe to make me feel slightly uncomfortable and voyeuristic. I would also have liked more detail about the claim and how it works rather than just being vaguely religious.
For the most part I did enjoy the story and look forward to reading the next installment, but feel that the promise of the premise wasn't completely upheld.
May 5, 2019
I ADORE these books - the grandeur, the romance, the mystery and magic, but especially the female friendships, empowerment, and rebellion. Arian is not here for your misogynist crap and I love her so much. I really don't want to like Rukh but ... I sorta ... do. A lot. He needs to get his crap together, though. This series always makes me feel things, and that's probably the best compliment I can give a book. If I'm still frustrated with a character, mourning another, and swooning over a third some hours later, it's a darn good book. I need the next one NOW!
May 5, 2021
Trigger and content warnings are under spoiler tags.
I really enjoyed The Bloodprint, the first book in The Khorasan Archives series by Ausma Zehanat Khan, that I couldn't wait too long before picking up the second book, The Black Khan. For the most part, I was thoroughly impressed with The Bloodprint, but with the sequel, Khan really steps things up a notch. It was absolutely epic!
The Black Khan picks up where The Bloodprint left off. Arian, Daniyar and Sinnia have all been captured in the lands ruled by the Authoritarian. As such, the first part of this book is very dark and disturbing. Each of them suffer at the hands of the Authoritarian and the Khounum, who turned out to be Arian's older sister, Lania. Arian is collared, unable to use the Claim, kept at her sister's side when not being tortured by the Authoritarian. Daniyar is also tortured, and forced to fight to the death for her with the Authoritarian's soldiers night after night. Sinniar is, unsurprisingly, tortured in her prison cell, and injected with drugs she soon finds herself addicted to. It really isn't easy reading at all.
But with The Black Khan, the scope of the story becomes wider. The Bloodprint mainly focused on Arian's Audacy (mission) to find the sacred text of the title, a quest story, staying mainly with Arian, Sinnia and Daniyar as narrators. But with The Black Khan, we see what's going on elsewhere, particularly with the Black Khan himself, Rukh. After his betrayal of Arian and her companions to take the Bloodprint for himself, he returns to the city he rules, Ashfall, to find the Talisman army almost at the gates, and orders left by his commander, Arsalan - who accompanied him to Black Aura for the Bloodprint - neglected. There are no soldiers at the wall, no defences in place, and with war imminent, Ashfall is seriously unprepared and in incredible danger.
Two of my favourite things about high fantasy are court politics and intrigue, and the strategising for war, and The Black Khan has both in spades! I bloody revelled in it! There is so much going on all at once for Rukh. He wanted the Bloodprint because he knew it would be the only thing to defend against the Talisman. As the Black Khan, he is also the Dark Mage, but in his pursuit of the Bloodprint, he's neglected to work on his powers, and is desperate to have his powers woken to defend his city. All the while, his enthusiastic and sweet-hearted younger sister, Darya, is continuing to get things wrong. Darya always seems to manage to talk out of turn, or behave in a way that isn't proper for the Black Khan's sister. She is constantly admonished and rebuked, but she only wants to help her brother, and has the best of intentions - even if Rukh forbids her from joining the Council of Hira, her deepest desire. Arsalan has a huge amount of work on his hands as he has to get the Zhayedan army ready to protect Ashfall from the imminent Talisman onslaught. At the same time, there are others at court who have their own agendas, their cataclysmic machinations taking place right under Rukh's nose.
Honestly, there is so, so much going on in this book, and it's just so epic! There are quite a number of narrators, new characters introduced, and subplots to follow. I'm generally not a fan of more than three prominent narrators, as it tends to get confusing, and you end up having to wait for several chapters to find out what's happening in a certain place with certain characters until you're back with their narration. However, this isn't the case with The Black Khan. While it often switches between narrators, for the majority of the time, the story focuses on one location at a time, rather than jumping around all over the place. So, for example, when the story is focusing on Ashfall, the narration will switch between Rukh, Arsalan, and Darya, and a few other narrators we see less often, events playing out as they would but seen from someone else's perspective. I really, really appreciated this, as we're not left hanging with mini-cliffhangers throughout the story it will take pages and pages to see the outcome of. You're right there, in it continually.
As such, I was constantly sitting on the edge of my seat. The tension in this book just builds and builds. Khan is such an incredible writer; this story is so well plotted, and incredibly gripping, and I just couldn't tear myself away. I absolutely love what Khan does with Rukh. He is not a good guy. He will absolutely use underhand tactics, betray trust, and use people as pawns, and I bloody can't stand him! But I understood him. Rukh has a duty to his people, and he will absolutely do whatever it takes, no matter the cost, to defend his city. I appreciated his sense of duty, and how smart he is to make the maneuvers he does. I don't like the guy, but I respect him, and I can't deny his narration was absolutely one of my favourites, despite how despicable he can be. I also adored Arsalan! He is a guy you want on your side in a fight, most definitely. Also incredibly smart, his strategising was just beautiful! But I also just loved him as a character, and really felt for him and the predicament he's put in. His subplot is heartbreaking. Mate, I just want to give the guy a hug.
Honestly, I could just go on and on about this book, but I'm starting to worry about spoilers. The Black Khan is just bloody incredible and so exciting! Honestly, I loved it so much, I immediately bought the fourth book in the series, The Blue Eye, because I couldn't wait to see what happens next. Do not sit on this series! It's amazing!
I really enjoyed The Bloodprint, the first book in The Khorasan Archives series by Ausma Zehanat Khan, that I couldn't wait too long before picking up the second book, The Black Khan. For the most part, I was thoroughly impressed with The Bloodprint, but with the sequel, Khan really steps things up a notch. It was absolutely epic!
The Black Khan picks up where The Bloodprint left off. Arian, Daniyar and Sinnia have all been captured in the lands ruled by the Authoritarian. As such, the first part of this book is very dark and disturbing. Each of them suffer at the hands of the Authoritarian and the Khounum, who turned out to be Arian's older sister, Lania. Arian is collared, unable to use the Claim, kept at her sister's side when not being tortured by the Authoritarian. Daniyar is also tortured, and forced to fight to the death for her with the Authoritarian's soldiers night after night. Sinniar is, unsurprisingly, tortured in her prison cell, and injected with drugs she soon finds herself addicted to. It really isn't easy reading at all.
But with The Black Khan, the scope of the story becomes wider. The Bloodprint mainly focused on Arian's Audacy (mission) to find the sacred text of the title, a quest story, staying mainly with Arian, Sinnia and Daniyar as narrators. But with The Black Khan, we see what's going on elsewhere, particularly with the Black Khan himself, Rukh. After his betrayal of Arian and her companions to take the Bloodprint for himself, he returns to the city he rules, Ashfall, to find the Talisman army almost at the gates, and orders left by his commander, Arsalan - who accompanied him to Black Aura for the Bloodprint - neglected. There are no soldiers at the wall, no defences in place, and with war imminent, Ashfall is seriously unprepared and in incredible danger.
Two of my favourite things about high fantasy are court politics and intrigue, and the strategising for war, and The Black Khan has both in spades! I bloody revelled in it! There is so much going on all at once for Rukh. He wanted the Bloodprint because he knew it would be the only thing to defend against the Talisman. As the Black Khan, he is also the Dark Mage, but in his pursuit of the Bloodprint, he's neglected to work on his powers, and is desperate to have his powers woken to defend his city. All the while, his enthusiastic and sweet-hearted younger sister, Darya, is continuing to get things wrong. Darya always seems to manage to talk out of turn, or behave in a way that isn't proper for the Black Khan's sister. She is constantly admonished and rebuked, but she only wants to help her brother, and has the best of intentions - even if Rukh forbids her from joining the Council of Hira, her deepest desire. Arsalan has a huge amount of work on his hands as he has to get the Zhayedan army ready to protect Ashfall from the imminent Talisman onslaught. At the same time, there are others at court who have their own agendas, their cataclysmic machinations taking place right under Rukh's nose.
Honestly, there is so, so much going on in this book, and it's just so epic! There are quite a number of narrators, new characters introduced, and subplots to follow. I'm generally not a fan of more than three prominent narrators, as it tends to get confusing, and you end up having to wait for several chapters to find out what's happening in a certain place with certain characters until you're back with their narration. However, this isn't the case with The Black Khan. While it often switches between narrators, for the majority of the time, the story focuses on one location at a time, rather than jumping around all over the place. So, for example, when the story is focusing on Ashfall, the narration will switch between Rukh, Arsalan, and Darya, and a few other narrators we see less often, events playing out as they would but seen from someone else's perspective. I really, really appreciated this, as we're not left hanging with mini-cliffhangers throughout the story it will take pages and pages to see the outcome of. You're right there, in it continually.
As such, I was constantly sitting on the edge of my seat. The tension in this book just builds and builds. Khan is such an incredible writer; this story is so well plotted, and incredibly gripping, and I just couldn't tear myself away. I absolutely love what Khan does with Rukh. He is not a good guy. He will absolutely use underhand tactics, betray trust, and use people as pawns, and I bloody can't stand him! But I understood him. Rukh has a duty to his people, and he will absolutely do whatever it takes, no matter the cost, to defend his city. I appreciated his sense of duty, and how smart he is to make the maneuvers he does. I don't like the guy, but I respect him, and I can't deny his narration was absolutely one of my favourites, despite how despicable he can be. I also adored Arsalan! He is a guy you want on your side in a fight, most definitely. Also incredibly smart, his strategising was just beautiful! But I also just loved him as a character, and really felt for him and the predicament he's put in. His subplot is heartbreaking. Mate, I just want to give the guy a hug.
Honestly, I could just go on and on about this book, but I'm starting to worry about spoilers. The Black Khan is just bloody incredible and so exciting! Honestly, I loved it so much, I immediately bought the fourth book in the series, The Blue Eye, because I couldn't wait to see what happens next. Do not sit on this series! It's amazing!
November 29, 2020
The second book in the Khorasan Archives, THE BLACK KHAN picks up where THE BLOODPRINT left off, with the leads betrayed and in mortal peril. This was actually the most engaging part of the book for me, as there was a lot of emotional character development here as the leads were pushing to breaking point under the torture.
The Ashfall sequences didn't engage me as much. Primarily, it was because the customs and arguments seemed to completely disregard the army at the gates, removing all the tension because they just plodded along with traditions and arguments that stymied the plot. With the raft of new characters introduced, I struggled to follow along because I was chaffing at them to do something about the danger, not bicker.
The other issue I had was the supposed tension between Arian and the Black Khan. Given all he'd done, and Arian was in love with Daniyar, their exchanges just didn't work for me. I could tell there was supposed to be a tension between them, that there was supposed to be a charge between them, from the way it was written. So their interactions fell flat as it was incomprehensible why that was supposed to be there.
The majority of the book avoids the massive head-hopping problem of the previous book. Most scenes kept to the same character's point of view (POV) throughout, which made it much easier than the first book to follow what was happening. There were also a lot of POV characters - 9 at my count - which meant the book was really broad, following lots of threads. I could generally juggle it all.
The battle of Ashfall was engaging, but it did fall back into the head-hopping problem so prevalent in the first book. There was one particular chapter (alas, the most important for the battle) that jumped character so regularly that I read it three times and was still really confused.
It also completely forgot two of the POV characters who were pretty important in the first half, because they were no longer in the same geographic region, nor working towards the same Ashfall goal. In fact, in the final 30 chapters (60 chapter book), those two POVs had one chapter. I had forgotten about them when that chapter arrived late.
The ending also sat a bit... odd on me. I think it's because the different character tensions hadn't been sitting right on me, and had undermined the Arian-Daniyar relationship for me. While Arian's big yell at every was satisfying for her taking the Black Khan and Ilea to task, her go at Daniyar fell flat, because the info that tipped her over came at the end of all the head-hopping.
The final chapter sets up at least three main plot threads for the third book, and I am intrigued enough to keep reading. There is an engrossing quality to the story, even if the writing style doesn't click with me.
The Ashfall sequences didn't engage me as much. Primarily, it was because the customs and arguments seemed to completely disregard the army at the gates, removing all the tension because they just plodded along with traditions and arguments that stymied the plot. With the raft of new characters introduced, I struggled to follow along because I was chaffing at them to do something about the danger, not bicker.
The other issue I had was the supposed tension between Arian and the Black Khan. Given all he'd done, and Arian was in love with Daniyar, their exchanges just didn't work for me. I could tell there was supposed to be a tension between them, that there was supposed to be a charge between them, from the way it was written. So their interactions fell flat as it was incomprehensible why that was supposed to be there.
The majority of the book avoids the massive head-hopping problem of the previous book. Most scenes kept to the same character's point of view (POV) throughout, which made it much easier than the first book to follow what was happening. There were also a lot of POV characters - 9 at my count - which meant the book was really broad, following lots of threads. I could generally juggle it all.
The battle of Ashfall was engaging, but it did fall back into the head-hopping problem so prevalent in the first book. There was one particular chapter (alas, the most important for the battle) that jumped character so regularly that I read it three times and was still really confused.
It also completely forgot two of the POV characters who were pretty important in the first half, because they were no longer in the same geographic region, nor working towards the same Ashfall goal. In fact, in the final 30 chapters (60 chapter book), those two POVs had one chapter. I had forgotten about them when that chapter arrived late.
The ending also sat a bit... odd on me. I think it's because the different character tensions hadn't been sitting right on me, and had undermined the Arian-Daniyar relationship for me. While Arian's big yell at every was satisfying for her taking the Black Khan and Ilea to task, her go at Daniyar fell flat, because the info that tipped her over came at the end of all the head-hopping.
The final chapter sets up at least three main plot threads for the third book, and I am intrigued enough to keep reading. There is an engrossing quality to the story, even if the writing style doesn't click with me.
November 30, 2018
I don't know if I can express how much I loved this book.
It has earned a place in my favorite's folder, hands down! So, a huge THANK YOU to Avon/Voyager at Harper Collins giveaway, for introducing me to Ms. Khan and her extraordinary writing.
THE BLACK KHAN is an amazingly fractured, yet perfectly crafted continuation in THE KHORASAN ARCHIVES. Usually the second book in a series lags and drags, but this dark beauty absolutely did NOT. Now I'm dying for number three!!!
This book demonstrated the determination of woman who fight and stand strong despite the cruelty in their man-dominated, woman-belittling world. As it was written of Sinnia:
"Her eyes blazed with contemptuous conviction that said there was no man who could defeat her."
And she meant it. Read the book, you'll know what I mean. Sinnia's one tough, loyal woman.
And Arian's own convictions despite the pull of her heart are undeniable:
"Love me for who I am, or your love means nothing at all."
She knows what's right, despite her own desires and strives no matter the heartache to see it to fusion. Love how she doesn't stand aside and let any man (or woman really) shield and protect her. She's a fighter and puts herself out there to defend others. I loved when she rephrased Daniyar's words as SHE protected HIM:
"I will suffer no man to touch you. For you are mine alone."
THE BLACK KHAN is amazing, I loved it!! (if you couldn't tell already).
It's one you don't want to put down and when you have to (even for a little bit) it still buzzes about your head, pulling you back into its world.
This second installment of THE KHORASAN ARCHIVES is full of strength and refusal to give up hope amidst a world devastated by a war of slavery and torture. No matter the characters involved (for a few more join the fray), the pace never slows down. Ms. Kahn simply makes you want to read more of each new face, even ones you're probably not supposed to like.
Wonderful series!!!!!!
It has earned a place in my favorite's folder, hands down! So, a huge THANK YOU to Avon/Voyager at Harper Collins giveaway, for introducing me to Ms. Khan and her extraordinary writing.
THE BLACK KHAN is an amazingly fractured, yet perfectly crafted continuation in THE KHORASAN ARCHIVES. Usually the second book in a series lags and drags, but this dark beauty absolutely did NOT. Now I'm dying for number three!!!
This book demonstrated the determination of woman who fight and stand strong despite the cruelty in their man-dominated, woman-belittling world. As it was written of Sinnia:
"Her eyes blazed with contemptuous conviction that said there was no man who could defeat her."
And she meant it. Read the book, you'll know what I mean. Sinnia's one tough, loyal woman.
And Arian's own convictions despite the pull of her heart are undeniable:
"Love me for who I am, or your love means nothing at all."
She knows what's right, despite her own desires and strives no matter the heartache to see it to fusion. Love how she doesn't stand aside and let any man (or woman really) shield and protect her. She's a fighter and puts herself out there to defend others. I loved when she rephrased Daniyar's words as SHE protected HIM:
"I will suffer no man to touch you. For you are mine alone."
THE BLACK KHAN is amazing, I loved it!! (if you couldn't tell already).
It's one you don't want to put down and when you have to (even for a little bit) it still buzzes about your head, pulling you back into its world.
This second installment of THE KHORASAN ARCHIVES is full of strength and refusal to give up hope amidst a world devastated by a war of slavery and torture. No matter the characters involved (for a few more join the fray), the pace never slows down. Ms. Kahn simply makes you want to read more of each new face, even ones you're probably not supposed to like.
Wonderful series!!!!!!
June 11, 2022
This book has a slow start; until about 75 pages in, I was frustrated and quite bored by the lack of plot progression. From that point onward, however, the narrative picks up significantly, and I was completely absorbed by the remainder. All my favourite characters from the first book are in attendance, and I was particularly pleased by the amount of narrative space dedicated to the enigmatic and manipulative Rukh, who may be this series' best character. Arsalan, one of the new characters, promises to be another fan-favourite, and I very much enjoy his complex dynamic with the eponymous Khan.
Khan's world-building is rich and detailed, and I have loved spending hours immersed in the sights and sounds of this vibrant setting. The romance sub-plot is ridiculously cheesy, but I'm completely invested in it, and I was happy to see Daniyar take a leading role in the events of this instalment.
I only have two (minor) complaints about this novel. The first is that some character names (e.g. Larisa and Lania, and Darya and Daniyar) are so similar that I found myself frequently confused; this is particularly problematic for minor or new characters. The second is that, while I love the romance in this book, Daniyar's single-minded, slavish devotion to Arian becomes rather uncomfortable in light of her frequently callous treatment of him. The author implicitly glorifies his loyalty in a manner that feels dangerously like a double-standard: in contemporary society, women are (rightly) encouraged to leave, and speak out against, relationships that diminish their value and self-worth; surely, we shouldn't advocate for men, by contrast, to remain in such situations. Here's hoping that this unfortunate dynamic is redressed in the next instalment. I'll certainly run out to buy it as soon as possible.
Khan's world-building is rich and detailed, and I have loved spending hours immersed in the sights and sounds of this vibrant setting. The romance sub-plot is ridiculously cheesy, but I'm completely invested in it, and I was happy to see Daniyar take a leading role in the events of this instalment.
I only have two (minor) complaints about this novel. The first is that some character names (e.g. Larisa and Lania, and Darya and Daniyar) are so similar that I found myself frequently confused; this is particularly problematic for minor or new characters. The second is that, while I love the romance in this book, Daniyar's single-minded, slavish devotion to Arian becomes rather uncomfortable in light of her frequently callous treatment of him. The author implicitly glorifies his loyalty in a manner that feels dangerously like a double-standard: in contemporary society, women are (rightly) encouraged to leave, and speak out against, relationships that diminish their value and self-worth; surely, we shouldn't advocate for men, by contrast, to remain in such situations. Here's hoping that this unfortunate dynamic is redressed in the next instalment. I'll certainly run out to buy it as soon as possible.
November 29, 2018
The Black Khan, Book Two of the Khorasan Archives by Ausma Zehanat Khan
The second book in a possible four book series, The Black Khan, again features Arian a strong female protagonist who is facing implacable misogynist foes. Arian’s vocal power, called the Claim, is muted by a villain called the Authoritarian. This, second book, shows how Arian and her allies deal with the search for the Bloodprint which for better terms is the bible of the Claim.
Arian is a driven character who is nearly overwhelmed with guilt over the loss of her sister in a Talisman raid when they were children. In this book she meets her sister but the reunion has mixed results. The Silver Mage finds himself defending Arian while sublimating his own desires.
The problem with reading series one book at a time is continuity. The first fifty pages of this book were taxing my memory as to who these people were and what were they trying to do. There are a lot of characters and subplots. After I got into the book, I was able to sort them out but with some difficulty.
The book was interesting but not captivating. Some of the deprivations and behavior could have been pulled from headlines regarding religious zealots across the world. That sadly provided some gritty reality to the story.
Treachery and duplicity seem to be the traits most valued by the bulk of the characters in the book.
The second book in a possible four book series, The Black Khan, again features Arian a strong female protagonist who is facing implacable misogynist foes. Arian’s vocal power, called the Claim, is muted by a villain called the Authoritarian. This, second book, shows how Arian and her allies deal with the search for the Bloodprint which for better terms is the bible of the Claim.
Arian is a driven character who is nearly overwhelmed with guilt over the loss of her sister in a Talisman raid when they were children. In this book she meets her sister but the reunion has mixed results. The Silver Mage finds himself defending Arian while sublimating his own desires.
The problem with reading series one book at a time is continuity. The first fifty pages of this book were taxing my memory as to who these people were and what were they trying to do. There are a lot of characters and subplots. After I got into the book, I was able to sort them out but with some difficulty.
The book was interesting but not captivating. Some of the deprivations and behavior could have been pulled from headlines regarding religious zealots across the world. That sadly provided some gritty reality to the story.
Treachery and duplicity seem to be the traits most valued by the bulk of the characters in the book.
October 30, 2019
I read this in print when it came out last year, and just finished my reread via audiobook to refresh my memory of the events of The Black Khan, in preparation for The Blue Eye which released last week. I loved the story, as I love all of Ausma Zehanat Khan's novels, and you can find a longer review of that also on Goodreads. The audiobook I like less. While I appreciate hearing the names of characters and places read aloud, especially words that I am unfamiliar with, there are other common words that the narrator pronounces oddly. This takes me out of the story and is like nails on a chalkboard. Words definitely have power, but I think the narrator does the novel a disservice. If you have never read the book, I strongly recommend reading it in print as I would hate for there to be anything to distract you from the tale itself. As a means to reread, though, the audio is acceptable, and now I'm as ready as I was last year to begin Book 3 and I can't wait to meet the Mage of the Blue Eye.
October 19, 2018
Power is a major theme of the series and focused on with more intensity in The Black Khan. The machinations of power, both magical and political, are a focus of both the Authoritan arc in the first act of the novel and the Ashfall assault arc in the third act. Possessing power isn’t what makes a person evil, but rather the desire to gain more power—an idea only emphasized by the key passage of the Claim quoted above. The Black Khan wrestles with power in a very different manner than The Bloodprint: while the latter focused on how power is stripped away via destruction of knowledge and the decline of literacy, the former examines the pursuit of power and the price paid—both by the seeker and by the seeker’s demands.
Read my full review at Tor.com.
Read my full review at Tor.com.
July 20, 2024
A 3.5. They had me in the first half, but I don’t like Rukh enough to get into the whole Ashfall battle situation. The nizam and Darius plot line seemed slightly pointless because I totally believe Rukh would’ve done that without their goading. Pissed that Darius had 0 purpose other than the Bloodprint thing at the end. I feel like the author kept mentioning him so ominously throughout the whole second half that he would have a much bigger role to play in the series. Anyway, I do really love everyone else’s characters and stories, just not the actual Black Khan lol
January 30, 2025
Really 2.5 stars. Better than the first, as it obvs didn’t need as much world building but not having it on the beginning of the whole series means the plot is still super confusing. Too much is going on, it should’ve been simplified like was the black aura plotline really necessary? And the interplay in the characters isn’t working for some of them like I’m sorry are supposed to feel sorry for Rukh at some points bc there is no way. Some parts are really waffly and some writing although poetic, it doesn’t add any meaning.
December 30, 2019
I like the Islamic/Middle East roots of this fantasy series. The Claim and the One are obviously rooted in islamic philosophies while the focus on strong females is an answer to the misogyny of Middle eastern culture. No quite sure i enjoy the rather bosom heaving romance between Arian and the Silver Mage although i do get the attempt to redefine romance beyond sexuality.
February 19, 2019
OMG AND NOW I HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE!!!
I love this series, but kind of wish I'd discovered it after all the books were written - at least then I wouldnt have to wait to find out what happens next!
I love this series, but kind of wish I'd discovered it after all the books were written - at least then I wouldnt have to wait to find out what happens next!
October 11, 2019
Much better than the first installment and better pace. Characters went through major dramatic changes that tested their purposes and values. Nothing was black and white and could see their perspectives from their point of view. look forward to the sequel.
September 30, 2018
So begins the wait for the next book. Arian is such a fantastic character.
December 4, 2018
I was hoping that The Black Khan was the end, but now I have to wait until the next book is available.
The saga continues FULL steam ahead.
The saga continues FULL steam ahead.
November 28, 2018
Great book
August 5, 2019
Loving this series!
December 8, 2019
(3.5 stars) I struggled a bit with the first novel in the series (The Bloodprint), but The Black Khan really steps it up a notch. The ending makes me eager to read the next book in the series!
July 19, 2020
3.75 Stars
May 18, 2021
A lot better than the first book.. easier to read and more of an adventure format.
August 13, 2021
Something about this book was just *off*, but I can’t quite verbalise exactly what.
CW: violence; blood; death; torture; sexual assault
CW: violence; blood; death; torture; sexual assault
October 4, 2021
Holy shit this was exciting
November 15, 2021
Really enjoyed this, but at turns the world building and descriptions was a bit too much.
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