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The Vagrant Gods #1
The Bladed Faith
A usurped prince prepares to take up the mantle of a deadly assassin and reclaim his kingdom, his people, and his slain gods in this epic fantasy from a USA Today bestselling author.
Cyrus was only twelve years old when his gods were slain, his country invaded, and his parents—the king and queen—beheaded in front of him. Held prisoner in the invader's court for years, Cyrus is suddenly given a chance to escape and claim his revenge when a mysterious group of revolutionaries comes looking for a figurehead. They need a hero to strike fear into the hearts of the imperial and to inspire and unite the people. They need someone to take up the skull mask and swords and to become the legendary "Vagrant"—an unparalleled hero and assassin of otherworldly skill.
But all is not as it seems. Creating the illusion of a hero is the work of many, and Cyrus will soon discover the true price of his vengeance.
Cyrus was only twelve years old when his gods were slain, his country invaded, and his parents—the king and queen—beheaded in front of him. Held prisoner in the invader's court for years, Cyrus is suddenly given a chance to escape and claim his revenge when a mysterious group of revolutionaries comes looking for a figurehead. They need a hero to strike fear into the hearts of the imperial and to inspire and unite the people. They need someone to take up the skull mask and swords and to become the legendary "Vagrant"—an unparalleled hero and assassin of otherworldly skill.
But all is not as it seems. Creating the illusion of a hero is the work of many, and Cyrus will soon discover the true price of his vengeance.
469 pages, Paperback
First published April 5, 2022
328 people are currently reading
12210 people want to read
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February 8, 2022
ARC provided by the publisher—Orbit—in exchange for an honest review.
The Bladed Faith is a familiar and action-packed revenge story executed magnificently.
Every time I think about how many books David Dalglish has published to this day, I always feel like I have a LOT to catch up on. I’m serious. The Bladed Faith, the first book in The Vagrant Gods trilogy is Dalglish’s 29th published novel, and prior to this novel, I’ve read only The Keepers trilogy. I have mentioned several times that The Bladed Faith is one of my most anticipated books of 2022. True; one of the reasons behind this anticipation is because I enjoyed The Keepers trilogy. But more importantly, what made me so excited for this release is how passionate Dalglish has been towards his work the past two years. And fortunately, not only did I receive the honor to host the stunning cover art reveal (illustrated by Chase Stone and designed by Lauren Panepinto) for this book, but I also got the blessing to read this early. I am not disappointed by this. The Bladed Faith is a great first book to a trilogy, and it shows promises that the sequels will be more explosive and larger in scope. Check out what David Dalglish has to say about The Bladed Faith:
Has the passage above sparked your interest yet? Well, it should! The story in The Bladed Faith revolves around the revenge story of a usurped prince named Cyrus Lythan. Cyrus was only 14 years old when his country was invaded. In the invasion, his parents and gods were slain in front of him. After years of being held prisoner in the invader’s court, a mysterious group of revolutionaries breaks him free, and they provide him the chance for revenge. Cyrus must train and become the figurehead of their rebellion. He has to become a hero to unite the people and strike back, and he’ll don the skull mask and twin swords to become the legendary “Vagrant”—an assassin of otherworldly skill. Creating an illusion of a hero is obviously not an easy task, and Cyrus will discover the price of his vengeance.
Dalglish has mentioned that writing The Bladed Faith feels like a homecoming for him. But in a way, I think there are a lot of familiar elements in The Bladed Faith that will make readers feel at home. The Bladed Faith does not bring anything new to the genre, and it might not become a classic for veteran fantasy readers. But the found family, training montage, clash of faith, and revenge story imbued into the narrative have been polished wonderfully. No battle school trope was involved, but the training montage in the first third of the novel has to be my favorite part of the entire novel.
I do think that Dalglish has a way with characterizations. I know that this will be subjective to each reader, but Dalglish's way of characterizing his characters—good or evil—does click with me, and they make the narrative he puts out more engaging. This was the same in The Keepers trilogy, and it is the same again here. Honestly speaking, I liked Cyrus Lythan and his revenge story. However, it was the main supporting characters that excelled more for me.
Picture: Characters of The Bladed Faith by RB Illustration
Cyrus is accompanied by several important characters in his mission. First, the ruthless Stasia Ahlai, the Ax of Lahareed. And then the faithful Paladin, Rayan Vayisa. But my favorite of them all will have to be the relatively virtuous Mari Ahlai, the Lioness and a God-whisperer with the power to channel Edarius's skill to hunt her enemies. I do honestly think that Mari is one of Dalglish's most well-written characters so far. There was something about her that always felt so kind-hearted and terrifying at the same time, and I loved reading her narration.
Lastly, I have to talk about the battle scenes. From my experience and my analysis, the battle scenes in The Bladed Faith could end up being a double-edged blade depending on its reader. There is nothing wrong with the battle scenes per se; Dalglish's battle scenes were well-written, vivid, violent, and exhilarating. However, I would definitely prefer more interactions and development for the characters. The Bladed Faith contained many battle scenes, and the pacing did feel slightly imbalanced because of it. If you don't like reading many action scenes in the first installment of a series, The Bladed Faith could end up as a mixed bag for you.
For the first book of a series, I tend to prefer more characterizations and world-building than having more battle scenes. As I said, Dalglish's characterizations were praise-worthy, and I loved the characters he has crafted in The Bladed Faith. I did wish we saw them interact more to deepen their respective relationship further. This, of course, does not change my opinion that the battle scenes were well-written, especially in the climax sequence. I hope a more equal balance between characterizations, actions, and world-building will be achieved in the sequel to come in 2023 because I do enjoy reading the character's journeys, and I want to feel even more immersed in the crimson carnage on The Island of Thanet.
Picture: Map of The Island of Thanet by Sam Swords
Overall, The Bladed Faith is a well-executed revenge story charged with endearing characters and bloody action sequences. It's a story about reigniting the candle of hope when darkness invades. Faith and hope rested upon the skull mask and the twin blade wielded by Cyrus Lythan, and I think The Bladed Faith should rightfully earn a spot in reader's hearts who love reading a fantasy novel embedded with found family, incredible training montage, and great assassins. I look forward to reading the sequel as soon as it's released.
P.S:
The author told me that I'm featured in this book as a drunken sailor named Kirt for a few pages. I've read the scene, and I'm truly thankful for this honor.
You can pre-order this book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US | Blackwells (Free International shipping)
The quotes in this review were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Andrew, Annabeth, Ben, Blaise, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Element, Elias, Ellen, Ellis, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Jennifer, Joie, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Meryl, Mike, Miracle, Neeraja, Nicholas, Oliver, ReignBro, Reno, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Scott, Shawna, Xero, Wendy, Wick, Zoe.
The Bladed Faith is a familiar and action-packed revenge story executed magnificently.
“People say it is in the daylight that things are laid bare, but I’ve found truths are best revealed when the moon is high.”
Every time I think about how many books David Dalglish has published to this day, I always feel like I have a LOT to catch up on. I’m serious. The Bladed Faith, the first book in The Vagrant Gods trilogy is Dalglish’s 29th published novel, and prior to this novel, I’ve read only The Keepers trilogy. I have mentioned several times that The Bladed Faith is one of my most anticipated books of 2022. True; one of the reasons behind this anticipation is because I enjoyed The Keepers trilogy. But more importantly, what made me so excited for this release is how passionate Dalglish has been towards his work the past two years. And fortunately, not only did I receive the honor to host the stunning cover art reveal (illustrated by Chase Stone and designed by Lauren Panepinto) for this book, but I also got the blessing to read this early. I am not disappointed by this. The Bladed Faith is a great first book to a trilogy, and it shows promises that the sequels will be more explosive and larger in scope. Check out what David Dalglish has to say about The Bladed Faith:
“As I mentioned earlier, each series of mine tends to have a goal or idea that I’m trying out for how I want to tell the story. For The Vagrant Gods, I decided it would be less of an experiment and more of a culmination. I would take what I loved from my various series and try to create what I would view as the definite path forward. This would be the series that, if you asked me what a definitive Dalglish novel was, I would no longer point to A Dance of Cloaks, or The Broken Pieces. It would be this book. This trilogy. A band of powerful friends/ family like the Eschaton Mercenaries of The Half-Orcs and Shadowdance. The religious conflict of The Paladins. The anything-goes philosophy of The Keepers. And as always, my over-the-top battles, in a setting that would allow me to stretch my chops, like the aerial battles of The Seraphim. It’s a new world with new characters, but for so much of it, it felt more like a homecoming.”—David Dalglish
Has the passage above sparked your interest yet? Well, it should! The story in The Bladed Faith revolves around the revenge story of a usurped prince named Cyrus Lythan. Cyrus was only 14 years old when his country was invaded. In the invasion, his parents and gods were slain in front of him. After years of being held prisoner in the invader’s court, a mysterious group of revolutionaries breaks him free, and they provide him the chance for revenge. Cyrus must train and become the figurehead of their rebellion. He has to become a hero to unite the people and strike back, and he’ll don the skull mask and twin swords to become the legendary “Vagrant”—an assassin of otherworldly skill. Creating an illusion of a hero is obviously not an easy task, and Cyrus will discover the price of his vengeance.
“To wear that new face. To become a heroic killer stalking the streets of Vallessau. You will be a rumor at first, one we will seed with whispers in the right ears in the right places. You’ll fight alongside my chosen elite as their figurehead leader, and receive all the glory for your combined exploits. Together, you will challenge even paragons. With every kill, you will make real the rumors that we have sown. And then our whispers will change. Who might this killer be? What identity does the cloak and skull hide?”
Dalglish has mentioned that writing The Bladed Faith feels like a homecoming for him. But in a way, I think there are a lot of familiar elements in The Bladed Faith that will make readers feel at home. The Bladed Faith does not bring anything new to the genre, and it might not become a classic for veteran fantasy readers. But the found family, training montage, clash of faith, and revenge story imbued into the narrative have been polished wonderfully. No battle school trope was involved, but the training montage in the first third of the novel has to be my favorite part of the entire novel.
“I am not training you to win sanctioned duels, Cyrus. You will not fight in an arena with fair odds, equal numbers, and rules of engagement. You will kill men and women who want you dead. It will be brutal, chaotic, and make a mockery of your sense of time. Some moments will last an eternity. Other decisions you will make so rapidly, you won’t know you are making them. Every swing, every block, every parry, and every dodge must be perfect. Anything less is death. Thanet’s resistance has clung to life by its fingertips after Lycaena’s execution. I will not build you up just so you may hang from the Dead Flags, the slain prince whose corpse marks the end of the rebellion. You will be a phantom killer. A merciless shadow. A god among mortal men.
I do think that Dalglish has a way with characterizations. I know that this will be subjective to each reader, but Dalglish's way of characterizing his characters—good or evil—does click with me, and they make the narrative he puts out more engaging. This was the same in The Keepers trilogy, and it is the same again here. Honestly speaking, I liked Cyrus Lythan and his revenge story. However, it was the main supporting characters that excelled more for me.
“These children didn’t yet know the sting of impossibility. They didn’t know the dread of the unrepentant and the determined ugliness of the Uplifted. They would, in time. When they did, Rayan prayed his stories of hope and forgiveness might bring them comfort.
Picture: Characters of The Bladed Faith by RB Illustration
Cyrus is accompanied by several important characters in his mission. First, the ruthless Stasia Ahlai, the Ax of Lahareed. And then the faithful Paladin, Rayan Vayisa. But my favorite of them all will have to be the relatively virtuous Mari Ahlai, the Lioness and a God-whisperer with the power to channel Edarius's skill to hunt her enemies. I do honestly think that Mari is one of Dalglish's most well-written characters so far. There was something about her that always felt so kind-hearted and terrifying at the same time, and I loved reading her narration.
“When I hunt, there is pleasure in the blood upon my tongue… War makes monsters of us all, but that is why I become the Lioness. I hunt so no one else must be a monster. I hunt so others may know peace, and love, and live in the joy of their gods and the beauty of their rituals. For me, that is enough to grant my soul peace.”
Lastly, I have to talk about the battle scenes. From my experience and my analysis, the battle scenes in The Bladed Faith could end up being a double-edged blade depending on its reader. There is nothing wrong with the battle scenes per se; Dalglish's battle scenes were well-written, vivid, violent, and exhilarating. However, I would definitely prefer more interactions and development for the characters. The Bladed Faith contained many battle scenes, and the pacing did feel slightly imbalanced because of it. If you don't like reading many action scenes in the first installment of a series, The Bladed Faith could end up as a mixed bag for you.
“The wise can rebuild a better world from the ashes, but for there to be ashes, we must first burn down the old and the rotten. I say we get to burning.”
For the first book of a series, I tend to prefer more characterizations and world-building than having more battle scenes. As I said, Dalglish's characterizations were praise-worthy, and I loved the characters he has crafted in The Bladed Faith. I did wish we saw them interact more to deepen their respective relationship further. This, of course, does not change my opinion that the battle scenes were well-written, especially in the climax sequence. I hope a more equal balance between characterizations, actions, and world-building will be achieved in the sequel to come in 2023 because I do enjoy reading the character's journeys, and I want to feel even more immersed in the crimson carnage on The Island of Thanet.
Picture: Map of The Island of Thanet by Sam Swords
Overall, The Bladed Faith is a well-executed revenge story charged with endearing characters and bloody action sequences. It's a story about reigniting the candle of hope when darkness invades. Faith and hope rested upon the skull mask and the twin blade wielded by Cyrus Lythan, and I think The Bladed Faith should rightfully earn a spot in reader's hearts who love reading a fantasy novel embedded with found family, incredible training montage, and great assassins. I look forward to reading the sequel as soon as it's released.
“The life we wish for, and the life we have, will never meet… If your parents weren’t king and queen, they might have survived Thanet’s invasion. They also might have been soldiers who died defending against the initial wave of boats. They might have been priests executed in the early days when the Dead Flags filled not a crossroad but whole streets. We cannot judge ourselves by the unreal worlds we spin about ourselves. In this world, the real world, your parents were cut down before your eyes. Your sorrow is real, as is your pain. It could have broken you, but it didn’t. You lived on. You grew. You are not defined by your doubts, Cyrus, but the path you walked to bring you to where you are now.”
P.S:
The author told me that I'm featured in this book as a drunken sailor named Kirt for a few pages. I've read the scene, and I'm truly thankful for this honor.
You can pre-order this book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US | Blackwells (Free International shipping)
The quotes in this review were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Andrew, Annabeth, Ben, Blaise, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Element, Elias, Ellen, Ellis, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Jennifer, Joie, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Meryl, Mike, Miracle, Neeraja, Nicholas, Oliver, ReignBro, Reno, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Scott, Shawna, Xero, Wendy, Wick, Zoe.
October 17, 2023
My thanks to Orbit books, David Dalglish and Netgalley.
Did I love this book? No. Heck, I really didn't even like it much.
I did like the different p.o.v. It tends to keep the story moving forward in the slow times. And boy howdy, did this book have some slow times.
Too much training and not enough character building. Then too much fighting, and "again" not enough character development.
I was frustrated 😞. I was happy to see some humor.
I'll admit that the last 25% of the story was better. The revelations will keep me ready and waiting for the next book!
It saved this story for me. Brought it from 2* up to 3*.
Did I love this book? No. Heck, I really didn't even like it much.
I did like the different p.o.v. It tends to keep the story moving forward in the slow times. And boy howdy, did this book have some slow times.
Too much training and not enough character building. Then too much fighting, and "again" not enough character development.
I was frustrated 😞. I was happy to see some humor.
I'll admit that the last 25% of the story was better. The revelations will keep me ready and waiting for the next book!
It saved this story for me. Brought it from 2* up to 3*.
April 5, 2022
I didn't finish this book. It finished me.
Full review on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVTdX...
Full review on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVTdX...
May 31, 2022
Original review posted on my blog Out of This World SFF:
https://outofthisworldrev.blogspot.co...
I have to admit to being a bit of a latecomer with regard to David Dalglish's books. But better late than never as they say because he is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors in the genre. His last series, The Keepers, really made me stand up and take notice because of its brilliant world-building and magic. Even though each book was fairly lengthy I flew through each one in record time, the story was that enthralling. So when I saw that David had a brand new book coming out, I simply could not get my hands on it fast enough.
THE BLADED FAITH is very much a fantasy story about revenge and the time and dedication it takes to obtain it. When the small island nation of Thanet is viciously invaded and eventually colonized by the extreme theocratic Everlorn Empire, things seem more than hopeless. Especially when the people of Thanet's gods and rulers are executed in front of their very eyes. Prince Cyrus eventually escapes and it is there where the story truly takes shape as he begins the process of becoming a force of inspiration to try and rally his homeland. But it won't be easy as the Everlorn Empire has not acquired its territory by peacefully integrating those that it conquers. The choice they offer is not an appealing one - convert to the twisted religion which guides its rulers and submit completely, or die.
This book kind of reminded me of another series that I really adore, The Last War by Mike Shackle. There is a very similar theme to it with regard to one country being decisively taken over by another and then the aftermath that results from that both in the daily life of the conquered and also the conquerors. That being said, this is no carbon copy and Dalglish definitely lays out his own unique and intriguing story to revel in. The religious fanaticism aspect was one that I found really compelling and also disturbing at times when you see just how blinded by faith people can become.
The characters in THE BLADED FAITH are what made me want to pick this book up at all hours of the day and night. I mean, I was angry when I had to stop reading it. Besides Cyrus, we also are introduced to some others who have their own motivations when it comes to resisting. Possibly even some within the empire itself. These characters were especially intriguing to me as it gave another perspective of the story which showed that maybe not everyone is on board with what the empire espouses.
Speaking of characters, they don't get much more despicable and evil than the Imperator Magus and those who serve under his command. I HATED this dude with the fire of a thousand suns. If you like your villains to be complete a-holes, then Magus fits the bill perfectly and you will wish terrible things to happen to him every time you read a scene with him in it. To be able to create someone this unlikable is a real testament to David Dalglish's writing chops in my opinion.
When I finally turned the last page of THE BLADED FAITH I was left with a sense that I had just read a truly magnificent beginning of what promises to be a phenomenal fantasy series. Dalglish has made me a believer and I now feel compelled to read every single book that he has ever written. Maybe I'll do that as I wait for the next juicy installment in this one. If you are looking for an exciting and interesting new fantasy series to start, I suggest preordering this immediately. You won't find many better opening books and you are going to want to have this one downloaded or shipped the day that it is released, trust me. Unforgettable characters, astonishing world-building, wondrous magic, and top-notch writing should make this a welcome addition to any fantasy lover's TBR shelf!
https://outofthisworldrev.blogspot.co...
I have to admit to being a bit of a latecomer with regard to David Dalglish's books. But better late than never as they say because he is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors in the genre. His last series, The Keepers, really made me stand up and take notice because of its brilliant world-building and magic. Even though each book was fairly lengthy I flew through each one in record time, the story was that enthralling. So when I saw that David had a brand new book coming out, I simply could not get my hands on it fast enough.
THE BLADED FAITH is very much a fantasy story about revenge and the time and dedication it takes to obtain it. When the small island nation of Thanet is viciously invaded and eventually colonized by the extreme theocratic Everlorn Empire, things seem more than hopeless. Especially when the people of Thanet's gods and rulers are executed in front of their very eyes. Prince Cyrus eventually escapes and it is there where the story truly takes shape as he begins the process of becoming a force of inspiration to try and rally his homeland. But it won't be easy as the Everlorn Empire has not acquired its territory by peacefully integrating those that it conquers. The choice they offer is not an appealing one - convert to the twisted religion which guides its rulers and submit completely, or die.
This book kind of reminded me of another series that I really adore, The Last War by Mike Shackle. There is a very similar theme to it with regard to one country being decisively taken over by another and then the aftermath that results from that both in the daily life of the conquered and also the conquerors. That being said, this is no carbon copy and Dalglish definitely lays out his own unique and intriguing story to revel in. The religious fanaticism aspect was one that I found really compelling and also disturbing at times when you see just how blinded by faith people can become.
The characters in THE BLADED FAITH are what made me want to pick this book up at all hours of the day and night. I mean, I was angry when I had to stop reading it. Besides Cyrus, we also are introduced to some others who have their own motivations when it comes to resisting. Possibly even some within the empire itself. These characters were especially intriguing to me as it gave another perspective of the story which showed that maybe not everyone is on board with what the empire espouses.
Speaking of characters, they don't get much more despicable and evil than the Imperator Magus and those who serve under his command. I HATED this dude with the fire of a thousand suns. If you like your villains to be complete a-holes, then Magus fits the bill perfectly and you will wish terrible things to happen to him every time you read a scene with him in it. To be able to create someone this unlikable is a real testament to David Dalglish's writing chops in my opinion.
When I finally turned the last page of THE BLADED FAITH I was left with a sense that I had just read a truly magnificent beginning of what promises to be a phenomenal fantasy series. Dalglish has made me a believer and I now feel compelled to read every single book that he has ever written. Maybe I'll do that as I wait for the next juicy installment in this one. If you are looking for an exciting and interesting new fantasy series to start, I suggest preordering this immediately. You won't find many better opening books and you are going to want to have this one downloaded or shipped the day that it is released, trust me. Unforgettable characters, astonishing world-building, wondrous magic, and top-notch writing should make this a welcome addition to any fantasy lover's TBR shelf!
December 1, 2022
The Bladed Faith was a book I was looking forward to reading after having previously read other works by the author.
Anticipation for this release was built up due to how well received the author’s previous trilogy was. This book consistently showed up in the recommendations of other books I enjoyed, so I just knew I had to get my hands on it.
Our novel starts with a vivid and tense scene that dashes the hopes of our young prince, Cyrus, whose kingdom burns down around him. An invading empire destroyed everything he loves and put to death the gods of the small island nation like they have to numerous nations before. Cyrus must break his own shackles before he can contest the iron grip of the empire.
Cue the arduous training montage.
Cyrus joins Thorda and his daughters, Stasia and Mari, and the rebellion they are spearheading against the super soldiers of the empire that has crushed many of Thorda’s rebellions before. The empire has never known defeat, and not only do they subjugate conquered nations, but they trample their religion and kill their gods.
Will Cyrus become a symbol of vengeance and hope for his people or will he be used and trampled on in another of Thorda’s failed revolutions? He has to determine if he is truly willing to lose it all to get his revenge.
The book featured a vast array of characters where the POV chapters conveyed a unique voice for each character. Even though some characters felt like tropes, they were still interesting to read even if a few started to become generic. The diverse cast had diverse pasts as well that were enjoyable to read, with some that would make for interesting spinoffs.
I enjoyed how well combat scenes were written, and I liked how training for our main character wasn’t a simple time skip of a few months. The author took time and made our protagonist human even though he had to contend against god-slaying super humans.
There was a lot of things to like about this book as I think it is the author’s best work to date. The start of the book was fantastic, but it started to meander in the middle before finally taking off again with a strong ending.
The premise and plot aren’t the most unique, but the afterword of the book gives a better understanding on how the book was written and explains why it wasn’t meant to be unique in the first place.
There were some unnecessary POVs in the novel that didn't really contribute to the story, but it was nice getting into the mindset of some supporting characters. I wasn’t really a fan of the main character’s romance (which came out of left field). I thought Stasia’s romance plot was more interesting.
Certain scenes felt out of place compared to the pacing of the novel such as the parties or even just celebrating with the group.
The opening scene of the book was poignant and set up the novel well. I was satisfied with the ending and felt like it set up the next book too. The novel did include some surprise twists, though the only one that was surprising was the history of the island nation.
I enjoyed reading the afterword of the book, as it was interesting to read the process in which he developed the book with writing short stories about each character first and having to rewrite the entire setting.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of this series. I have read quite a bit of the author's other books, and this felt like him maturing and finding his footing as an author with a more complete novel.
I would recommend this book to fans of the author and fans of fantasy books in general, as this was one of the better releases this year.
Find this book and other titles within our catalog.
Anticipation for this release was built up due to how well received the author’s previous trilogy was. This book consistently showed up in the recommendations of other books I enjoyed, so I just knew I had to get my hands on it.
Our novel starts with a vivid and tense scene that dashes the hopes of our young prince, Cyrus, whose kingdom burns down around him. An invading empire destroyed everything he loves and put to death the gods of the small island nation like they have to numerous nations before. Cyrus must break his own shackles before he can contest the iron grip of the empire.
Cue the arduous training montage.
Cyrus joins Thorda and his daughters, Stasia and Mari, and the rebellion they are spearheading against the super soldiers of the empire that has crushed many of Thorda’s rebellions before. The empire has never known defeat, and not only do they subjugate conquered nations, but they trample their religion and kill their gods.
Will Cyrus become a symbol of vengeance and hope for his people or will he be used and trampled on in another of Thorda’s failed revolutions? He has to determine if he is truly willing to lose it all to get his revenge.
The book featured a vast array of characters where the POV chapters conveyed a unique voice for each character. Even though some characters felt like tropes, they were still interesting to read even if a few started to become generic. The diverse cast had diverse pasts as well that were enjoyable to read, with some that would make for interesting spinoffs.
I enjoyed how well combat scenes were written, and I liked how training for our main character wasn’t a simple time skip of a few months. The author took time and made our protagonist human even though he had to contend against god-slaying super humans.
There was a lot of things to like about this book as I think it is the author’s best work to date. The start of the book was fantastic, but it started to meander in the middle before finally taking off again with a strong ending.
The premise and plot aren’t the most unique, but the afterword of the book gives a better understanding on how the book was written and explains why it wasn’t meant to be unique in the first place.
There were some unnecessary POVs in the novel that didn't really contribute to the story, but it was nice getting into the mindset of some supporting characters. I wasn’t really a fan of the main character’s romance (which came out of left field). I thought Stasia’s romance plot was more interesting.
Certain scenes felt out of place compared to the pacing of the novel such as the parties or even just celebrating with the group.
The opening scene of the book was poignant and set up the novel well. I was satisfied with the ending and felt like it set up the next book too. The novel did include some surprise twists, though the only one that was surprising was the history of the island nation.
I enjoyed reading the afterword of the book, as it was interesting to read the process in which he developed the book with writing short stories about each character first and having to rewrite the entire setting.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of this series. I have read quite a bit of the author's other books, and this felt like him maturing and finding his footing as an author with a more complete novel.
I would recommend this book to fans of the author and fans of fantasy books in general, as this was one of the better releases this year.
Find this book and other titles within our catalog.
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August 31, 2022Totally worth the read!
March 5, 2025
4.75/5
The Bladed Faith by David Dalglish is a fast paced revenge story that'll keep you on edge of the seat throughout. Outstanding series opener for the The Vagrant Gods series
First of all huge thanks to the publisher and author for approving my request on NetGalley and it goes without saying that this is my unbiased review / opinion.
When his parents and Gods were slain by the Mighty Everlorn Empire in front of his eyes during the Invasion of Thanet... Cyrus, the Prince becomes something more the people of Thanet need in their desperate time. He becomes their Hope. He becomes The Vagrant Prince.
WHAT WORKED FOR ME IN THIS BOOK
Pacing / Writing: From page 1 to page 460 there was never a lull moment in The Bladed Faith. Not a single unnecessary scene. The Pacing was fast without ever being rushed. Breathing time between the fights and the ramp up of tension before a big confrontations were all executed properly. Action sequences were explosive, the world building was really well done and the writing was simple and direct which never affected the flow of the story.
Characters: Even though the story is about Cyrus it doesn't mean secondary characters didn't get enough page time. Each character is unique with a distinct voice and a proper arc. You'll feel sad for them. you'll feel frustrated by their action and you'll feel happy when they feel happy. Also, the conversation between the main characters were really fun to read. Each character has a factor that drives them through the rebellion that adds a shade to their character... Revenge for Cyrus and Thorda, Love for Stasia and Mari and Belief for Rayan. Also, the antagonists of this story, oh my... you would love to hate them. They are just plain cruel. It was really something to see the world from their POV.
And also, I loved the training montage of Cyrus even though it's a small part of the book it was written really well and makes you root for the guy and I'm a sucker for a weak character who becomes the badass after sheer hardwork 😅
WHAT DIDN'T WORK FOR ME IN THIS BOOK
A minor nagging, I saw the big reveal coming a 50 pages or so before. But that didn't affect my overall enjoyment at all.
FINAL WORLD: After reading The Bladed Faith, one thing I know for certain is that I should definitely start the other works by David Dalglish. The Bladed Faith is Razor sharp.
The Bladed Faith by David Dalglish is a fast paced revenge story that'll keep you on edge of the seat throughout. Outstanding series opener for the The Vagrant Gods series
First of all huge thanks to the publisher and author for approving my request on NetGalley and it goes without saying that this is my unbiased review / opinion.
When his parents and Gods were slain by the Mighty Everlorn Empire in front of his eyes during the Invasion of Thanet... Cyrus, the Prince becomes something more the people of Thanet need in their desperate time. He becomes their Hope. He becomes The Vagrant Prince.
WHAT WORKED FOR ME IN THIS BOOK
Pacing / Writing: From page 1 to page 460 there was never a lull moment in The Bladed Faith. Not a single unnecessary scene. The Pacing was fast without ever being rushed. Breathing time between the fights and the ramp up of tension before a big confrontations were all executed properly. Action sequences were explosive, the world building was really well done and the writing was simple and direct which never affected the flow of the story.
Characters: Even though the story is about Cyrus it doesn't mean secondary characters didn't get enough page time. Each character is unique with a distinct voice and a proper arc. You'll feel sad for them. you'll feel frustrated by their action and you'll feel happy when they feel happy. Also, the conversation between the main characters were really fun to read. Each character has a factor that drives them through the rebellion that adds a shade to their character... Revenge for Cyrus and Thorda, Love for Stasia and Mari and Belief for Rayan. Also, the antagonists of this story, oh my... you would love to hate them. They are just plain cruel. It was really something to see the world from their POV.
And also, I loved the training montage of Cyrus even though it's a small part of the book it was written really well and makes you root for the guy and I'm a sucker for a weak character who becomes the badass after sheer hardwork 😅
WHAT DIDN'T WORK FOR ME IN THIS BOOK
A minor nagging, I saw the big reveal coming a 50 pages or so before. But that didn't affect my overall enjoyment at all.
FINAL WORLD: After reading The Bladed Faith, one thing I know for certain is that I should definitely start the other works by David Dalglish. The Bladed Faith is Razor sharp.
January 8, 2023
4.0 Stars
It's always a wonderful experience when a book hooks me in from the first chapter. This was one of those times!
This novel had a fantastic setup that made me immediately sympathetic to the main character. Revenge narratives are such a common fantasy plot, yet I was hooked as I I was reading the trope for the first time.
I really enjoyed the cast of characters. The main character was immediately likeable, but I found the supporting character perspectives to be nearly as compelling. Told of multiple perspectives, I appreciated how cohesive the narrative felt. It was clear how the perspectives were interconnected which made the larger story easy to follow.
Overall I really enjoyed this one and would definitely read more by this author. I'm looking forward to the next novel in the series, which should come out next year. While this was not the most innovative fantasy, this classic narrative still managed to fully capture my attention. I highly recommend this one to anyone else who loves a good revenge plot.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
It's always a wonderful experience when a book hooks me in from the first chapter. This was one of those times!
This novel had a fantastic setup that made me immediately sympathetic to the main character. Revenge narratives are such a common fantasy plot, yet I was hooked as I I was reading the trope for the first time.
I really enjoyed the cast of characters. The main character was immediately likeable, but I found the supporting character perspectives to be nearly as compelling. Told of multiple perspectives, I appreciated how cohesive the narrative felt. It was clear how the perspectives were interconnected which made the larger story easy to follow.
Overall I really enjoyed this one and would definitely read more by this author. I'm looking forward to the next novel in the series, which should come out next year. While this was not the most innovative fantasy, this classic narrative still managed to fully capture my attention. I highly recommend this one to anyone else who loves a good revenge plot.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
April 28, 2022
The Bladed Faith is a new release from David Dalglish and it centers on Cyrus, a deposed prince in an island nation whose family is killed as a larger empire takes over and slays their patron gods. Cyrus is spirited away into a rebellion as Vagrant, the face of revenge against the Everlorn Empire, as the rebellion plans to loosen the grip that the Empire has across the world. Cyrus must learn how to be Vagrant, and how to work with his rag-tag team of revolutionaries each with their own skills in order to maximize the ability to stir the people against the Empire.
I kept almost DNFing Bladed Faith. It took me nearly the whole month to finish it. The beginning is very good and then the next 20-25% is a very long training section. It just went on and on and on. I also found the characters to be interesting separately but I never found their dynamic together to be elevated. We kept being told how much they liked and cared about each other but I never really felt it. I'm also tired of teens getting really strong fast, montage aside. The main character is a spoiled prince until he's 14 and then he spends about three years training, and then suddenly he is able to defeat some of the world's strongest fighters; I hate this trope. It just feels very unearned to me, and is such a slant towards younger fantasy protagonists. Skip forward a decade and have a 25 year old protagonist instead of 18. It will still get read, I promise.
I did really like the world, and the magic, and one of the villains, Sinshi. The last 10% of the book did some really interesting things and I may read the second book because of it...but for so much of the middle 60% of this book I was pretty bored. 6/10
I kept almost DNFing Bladed Faith. It took me nearly the whole month to finish it. The beginning is very good and then the next 20-25% is a very long training section. It just went on and on and on. I also found the characters to be interesting separately but I never found their dynamic together to be elevated. We kept being told how much they liked and cared about each other but I never really felt it. I'm also tired of teens getting really strong fast, montage aside. The main character is a spoiled prince until he's 14 and then he spends about three years training, and then suddenly he is able to defeat some of the world's strongest fighters; I hate this trope. It just feels very unearned to me, and is such a slant towards younger fantasy protagonists. Skip forward a decade and have a 25 year old protagonist instead of 18. It will still get read, I promise.
I did really like the world, and the magic, and one of the villains, Sinshi. The last 10% of the book did some really interesting things and I may read the second book because of it...but for so much of the middle 60% of this book I was pretty bored. 6/10
June 11, 2022
The first book in Dalglish latest series, The Vagrant Gods. Since both the Seraphim and the Keepers are highly loved series for me, this one was one of my, if not the most anticipated releases of the year.
And sadly, I must say it didn’t quite live up to my expectations. Granted, they were kind of unfair, being sky high. It took over half the book to really get in the groove. Not because the plot was bad or I disliked the characters, both of those were great. It came down to the pacing and how fast the plot moved, especially in the beginning. The first chapter concerns the invasion of Cyrus’ home. Then immediately in the second chapter it’s already been two years. And for the next 140-150 pages, another 3-some years pass.
We see nothing of Cyrus’ time as a captive, only what little is told afterwards. We get the ivasion but then immediately comes his rescue, training and time jumps until Cyrus is “deemed” ready to actively join the rebellion group. I would have liked actually seeing his time being the invader’s hostage to grow an emotional connection with Cyrus and his cause, and the training part to be less jumpy. It felt smoother once we were past that part but still took me a while to find my footing.
And sadly, I must say it didn’t quite live up to my expectations. Granted, they were kind of unfair, being sky high. It took over half the book to really get in the groove. Not because the plot was bad or I disliked the characters, both of those were great. It came down to the pacing and how fast the plot moved, especially in the beginning. The first chapter concerns the invasion of Cyrus’ home. Then immediately in the second chapter it’s already been two years. And for the next 140-150 pages, another 3-some years pass.
We see nothing of Cyrus’ time as a captive, only what little is told afterwards. We get the ivasion but then immediately comes his rescue, training and time jumps until Cyrus is “deemed” ready to actively join the rebellion group. I would have liked actually seeing his time being the invader’s hostage to grow an emotional connection with Cyrus and his cause, and the training part to be less jumpy. It felt smoother once we were past that part but still took me a while to find my footing.
April 4, 2022
Read full review over at Fantasy Book Critic
OVERVIEW/ANALYSIS: I have read a preliminary draft of the story and then I got to read the finished version. I must confess foremost, I’m a David Dalglish fan so my opinion is a bit subjective. I’ll do my best to be objective as well. Now that disclaimer is out of the way. I can safely proclaim that this book definitely has all the highlights of David Dalglish's beloved works:
- Insane action
- Magic and magically infused weapons
- Gods and a lot more going on in the background
- Characters who are three dimensional, going through a lot internally and externally
- Tightly plotted stories that will have big reveals down the line
So there we go, now if you want my first impressions, I will tell you this book is possibly one of the best ones to be released in 2022. If you think that’s hyperbole, allow me to explain why I think so. Firstly I want to give kudos to Orbit books, they always have been knocking it out of the park with their covers. Finally we have a US publisher whose cover rival the UK ones and arguably can be considered the better with many of their products. David has always been blessed by Orbit with stupendous covers and here with The Bladed Faith, we get possibly one of my favourite covers of all time. I mean look at this full cover spread by ChaseStone.
So let’s talk about the story, which begins with an invasion that soon turns into a bloodbath of divine proportions. The small island Of Thanet has been invaded by the continental empire of Gadir. However Thanet has been blessed with two gods: Endarius the Lion & Lycaena the Butterfly who have blessed and kept the island populace safe. Things go sideways and crown prince Cyrus sees his gods and family slaughtered brutally before being taken as a hostage. Next we are introduced to Mari and Stasia, sisters from a foreign country who have come to Thanet to help against the Gadir invasion. Mari and Stassia hate the empire, having seen its insidious spread. They will do everything to resist and they do that with the axe and claw....That’s all I can say without any major spoilers about the plot.
The story is mainly focused around these three characters Cyrus, Mari and Stassia amidst other POV and non-POV characters. Each of them are unique and have different facets as they strike to lift the Gadir imperial yoke. But things are never easy and especially not when the Gadir empire is fueled by its immortal emperor and his near god-like progeny. This book deals with colonialism, and displays it rather brutally (as was the case with history). David Dalglish makes no apologies for showing such brutalities but handles it deftly and without making it a spectacle.
The story is dark and violent as Cyrus is slowly and surely transformed into a symbol of resistance with the help of the sisters and their reclusive father Thorda Ahlai. The readers are given a front row seat to the making of a legend and the guile & deception that goes behind in making it.
"You will be a phantom killer. A merciless shadow. A god among mortal men."
Cyrus’ ascent into becoming the Vagrant will not be slowed down by anyone including Cyrus himself. David Dalglish is playing the long game with this series and for those who are a world filled with Gods, magic, paladins, action involving magical weapons will find this intriguing. For those who are looking for a little something deeper will also find it and more. The action sequences while being similar to his previous books are more subdued. Yes there's still fights showcased but nothing like what we have come to expect from books set in the world of Dezrel (but that's only for now). It's the silence in between the action sequences, that really makes this book a much stronger book IMHO than his previous works.
Lastly while I’ve been gushing about this book, I have to point out that this book is just the first. While it has a very satisfying climax and a stunner of an epilogue including the very last line. There’s a lot (and I mean A LOT) that is left lingering and unanswered. I would point out again that this is not a simple straightforward story of revenge and gods. Tis’ that and so much more, I’ve have gotten to read the next book and can only say that this is just the opening stunner of a story that will outshine what comes before.
Also to in the interest of objectivity, I must also pinpoint that for me while this book didn't have any drawbacks. For many readers, this book might be quite dark, and considering where we are with the pandemic. This might be a book to read with a happier state of mind. There's also some really gruesome scenes and colonial after effects which again might be too much for many readers.
CONCLUSION: The Bladed Faith is gripping, violent and action-packed. It is also about colonialism, PTSD, fighting the good fight & what it truly means to put your life on the line for what’s right. This is David Dalglish at his finest and the Vagrant Gods trilogy promises to be his best story that he’s published so far.
February 15, 2022
I received an ARC from Netgalley / Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review.
This novel had the potential to be quite good. I think it could have been a very interesting exploration of religion, conquest, and revolutionary politics. The "god-whispering" and faith-based magic system are intriguing concepts. Dalglish is also capable of being quite vivid; the fight scenes in particular were a lot of fun to read. Unfortunately, none of this was enough to make the story consistently enjoyable.
In his author's note, Dalglish mentions how he came up with the characters and wrote a handful of scenes that appear in the novel before he ever came up with a plot or a developed setting. This is very apparent in the novel. Almost every aspect of the story felt underdeveloped.
Some specific issues:
-The plot moves very slowly until the very end of the book, when a bunch of new plot points (e.g., Sinshei’s plot to take the throne, Stasia being a demigod, Cyrus turning into a god) are suddenly introduced and left unaddressed. It seems like this book was just a drawn-out introduction to the upcoming sequel.
-While the fight scenes were fun, I do think they were overused. There were 3-4 chapters at the end of the book that basically described the exact same fight scene from different points of view. This didn’t move the plot forward and was pretty frustrating after a while.
-The "rules" of the magic system are not explained at all. Since magic plays a rather integral role in the plot, the lack of clarity was frustrating. All we really know is that magic is somehow linked to the gods and/or worship/faith. However, faith alone does not seem to be enough to grant someone powers. Most of the citizens of Thanet and the empire do not appear able to use magic at all, despite being deeply religious. Generally, it seems like characters' ability to use magic depended entirely on what was convenient to the plot.
-The gods are not explained either. They take physical form and apparently can be killed—but not really? They are supposed to be mighty enough to cause entire religions to be built around them, but can also be captured and executed within hours of an invasion by humans who have been on ships out at sea for six entire months. Humans can be made into gods or at least be made "god-like". Gods can also mate with humans somehow. Nothing related to the gods made sense, which really broke my immersion in the story.
-The central conflict of this novel (Cyrus & Thanet vs. the Empire) feels flimsy. This is for two primary reasons:
1. We do not get to experience (directly or through flashbacks) Cyrus’ treatment at the hands of the Empire after his parents are executed. Cyrus references a few vague instances wherein Gordian behaved cruelly, but nothing is elaborated upon. We are basically just told over and over that Cyrus is angry. Basically, Dalglish “tells” way more than he “shows”, making empathizing with/ caring about Cyrus difficult.
2. The Empire is not a strong enemy. Every “bad guy” — from the soldiers to the actual antagonists— is a one-dimensional bully. They are cruel for the sake of cruelty. While it may be believable for some of the bad guys to behave like this, entire societies/cultures are not that simplistic. Also, they lose almost every battle with the protagonists. Large groups of the Empire’s soldiers are frequently decimated by a group consisting of fewer than 10 individuals. How were they able to conquer entire nations if their fighting ability is this pathetic?
The book clearly tries extremely hard to be nuanced. Because it tries so hard, the complete lack of nuance and insight kind of slaps you in the face. Honestly, it seems like Dalglish read a couple of news stories about some bigoted Evangelicals being homophobic and then decided an entire empire could be formed based solely on that belief. The insinuation that all polytheistic religions are somehow “kinder” than monotheistic religions or that they lead to less bigotry is also ridiculous. Dalglish’s childish take on religion (in a book marketed to adults) really ruined the immersion for me.
I do think this book had potential. Dalglish should take more time to flesh out his setting (particularly the values/beliefs of the different societies in his world) and the motivations of his characters. He should also explain more about the gods and the magic because they are integral to the plot. Most of all, he should resist the urge to overgeneralize complex topics like religion, especially in the obvious ways he does in this book. If he keeps these things in mind, I think the sequel will be a genuinely fun and engaging story.
This novel had the potential to be quite good. I think it could have been a very interesting exploration of religion, conquest, and revolutionary politics. The "god-whispering" and faith-based magic system are intriguing concepts. Dalglish is also capable of being quite vivid; the fight scenes in particular were a lot of fun to read. Unfortunately, none of this was enough to make the story consistently enjoyable.
In his author's note, Dalglish mentions how he came up with the characters and wrote a handful of scenes that appear in the novel before he ever came up with a plot or a developed setting. This is very apparent in the novel. Almost every aspect of the story felt underdeveloped.
Some specific issues:
-The plot moves very slowly until the very end of the book, when a bunch of new plot points (e.g., Sinshei’s plot to take the throne, Stasia being a demigod, Cyrus turning into a god) are suddenly introduced and left unaddressed. It seems like this book was just a drawn-out introduction to the upcoming sequel.
-While the fight scenes were fun, I do think they were overused. There were 3-4 chapters at the end of the book that basically described the exact same fight scene from different points of view. This didn’t move the plot forward and was pretty frustrating after a while.
-The "rules" of the magic system are not explained at all. Since magic plays a rather integral role in the plot, the lack of clarity was frustrating. All we really know is that magic is somehow linked to the gods and/or worship/faith. However, faith alone does not seem to be enough to grant someone powers. Most of the citizens of Thanet and the empire do not appear able to use magic at all, despite being deeply religious. Generally, it seems like characters' ability to use magic depended entirely on what was convenient to the plot.
-The gods are not explained either. They take physical form and apparently can be killed—but not really? They are supposed to be mighty enough to cause entire religions to be built around them, but can also be captured and executed within hours of an invasion by humans who have been on ships out at sea for six entire months. Humans can be made into gods or at least be made "god-like". Gods can also mate with humans somehow. Nothing related to the gods made sense, which really broke my immersion in the story.
-The central conflict of this novel (Cyrus & Thanet vs. the Empire) feels flimsy. This is for two primary reasons:
1. We do not get to experience (directly or through flashbacks) Cyrus’ treatment at the hands of the Empire after his parents are executed. Cyrus references a few vague instances wherein Gordian behaved cruelly, but nothing is elaborated upon. We are basically just told over and over that Cyrus is angry. Basically, Dalglish “tells” way more than he “shows”, making empathizing with/ caring about Cyrus difficult.
2. The Empire is not a strong enemy. Every “bad guy” — from the soldiers to the actual antagonists— is a one-dimensional bully. They are cruel for the sake of cruelty. While it may be believable for some of the bad guys to behave like this, entire societies/cultures are not that simplistic. Also, they lose almost every battle with the protagonists. Large groups of the Empire’s soldiers are frequently decimated by a group consisting of fewer than 10 individuals. How were they able to conquer entire nations if their fighting ability is this pathetic?
The book clearly tries extremely hard to be nuanced. Because it tries so hard, the complete lack of nuance and insight kind of slaps you in the face. Honestly, it seems like Dalglish read a couple of news stories about some bigoted Evangelicals being homophobic and then decided an entire empire could be formed based solely on that belief. The insinuation that all polytheistic religions are somehow “kinder” than monotheistic religions or that they lead to less bigotry is also ridiculous. Dalglish’s childish take on religion (in a book marketed to adults) really ruined the immersion for me.
I do think this book had potential. Dalglish should take more time to flesh out his setting (particularly the values/beliefs of the different societies in his world) and the motivations of his characters. He should also explain more about the gods and the magic because they are integral to the plot. Most of all, he should resist the urge to overgeneralize complex topics like religion, especially in the obvious ways he does in this book. If he keeps these things in mind, I think the sequel will be a genuinely fun and engaging story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2022
“You will be a phantom killer. A merciless shadow. A god among mortal men.”
At first I was worried this was going to be YA with Endarius a lion god, and Lycaena the butterfly goddess, but what I actually read was a stunningly, violent, revenge story full of blood and gore.
Anytime I read a well written fantasy with classic well loved tropes, but done in a modern way, I fall in love with Fantasy all over again. Who doesn’t love a reluctant hero, older mentor, great found family, or a magical relic?!?! Not to sound like a broken record but especially when a male author can represent women in such a strong and powerful way! It shouldn’t be “refreshing” to see women equally included in military or warrior roles, especially in Fantasy, but Dalglish did this VERY well. Then there’s the beautiful representation of same sex couples, and even a religious priest protecting a trans women. I thought this would be a typical, violent, alpha male, revenge plot, but it was so much more.
After young Cyrus the prince of Thanet, witnesses his beloved parents and his god brutally slain, and his kingdom invaded, he remains captive by the conquering Everlorn Empire. Fatefully, leaders of a long brewing rebellion rescue Cyrus and vow to train and sculpt him into the powerful symbol of their rebellion, The Vagrant. David Dalglish created such an endearing, reluctant hero in Cyrus. While overcoming great odds and internal battles, your heart aches for this poor young man. But honestly the emotional insight is so exceptional with all of the amazing characters, you really feel and understand exactly why the characters make every single decision.
Without a doubt my favorite characters are sisters Stasia the (bloodthirsty) Ax of Lahareed, and sweet (yet ferocious) Mari the god whisperer. These two deserve their own series. But not to be outdone by loyal Rayan a paladin of Lycaena. I’m also VERY intrigued by Arn the “Heretic” and Soma the horrible paragon.
It should almost go without saying that the sword training, epic fights and battles are incredible. And the gorgeous descriptions of Thorda’s crafted weapons had me drooling. I’m very excited to read more of Dalglish’s work because I loved his writing style and battle scenes.
Thank you to David Dalglish and Orbit Books for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
At first I was worried this was going to be YA with Endarius a lion god, and Lycaena the butterfly goddess, but what I actually read was a stunningly, violent, revenge story full of blood and gore.
Anytime I read a well written fantasy with classic well loved tropes, but done in a modern way, I fall in love with Fantasy all over again. Who doesn’t love a reluctant hero, older mentor, great found family, or a magical relic?!?! Not to sound like a broken record but especially when a male author can represent women in such a strong and powerful way! It shouldn’t be “refreshing” to see women equally included in military or warrior roles, especially in Fantasy, but Dalglish did this VERY well. Then there’s the beautiful representation of same sex couples, and even a religious priest protecting a trans women. I thought this would be a typical, violent, alpha male, revenge plot, but it was so much more.
After young Cyrus the prince of Thanet, witnesses his beloved parents and his god brutally slain, and his kingdom invaded, he remains captive by the conquering Everlorn Empire. Fatefully, leaders of a long brewing rebellion rescue Cyrus and vow to train and sculpt him into the powerful symbol of their rebellion, The Vagrant. David Dalglish created such an endearing, reluctant hero in Cyrus. While overcoming great odds and internal battles, your heart aches for this poor young man. But honestly the emotional insight is so exceptional with all of the amazing characters, you really feel and understand exactly why the characters make every single decision.
Without a doubt my favorite characters are sisters Stasia the (bloodthirsty) Ax of Lahareed, and sweet (yet ferocious) Mari the god whisperer. These two deserve their own series. But not to be outdone by loyal Rayan a paladin of Lycaena. I’m also VERY intrigued by Arn the “Heretic” and Soma the horrible paragon.
It should almost go without saying that the sword training, epic fights and battles are incredible. And the gorgeous descriptions of Thorda’s crafted weapons had me drooling. I’m very excited to read more of Dalglish’s work because I loved his writing style and battle scenes.
Thank you to David Dalglish and Orbit Books for the opportunity to read this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Read
March 5, 2024That was really good. Damn.
Read
September 28, 2021I was lucky enough to be given an ARC of this one by Orbit.
This book was FANTASTIC! It was like Final Fantasy meets Green Arrow! Not that there was any archery, but the whole displaced prince thing.
I got that same thrill I did when reading the Night Angel trilogy, of witnessing a legendary assassin in the making.
The book has a style of prose that is just easy to slip into. It's not complicated. That may sound like a bad thing to some, but it's not. The ease and flow of it allow you to be absorbed into the world quickly and completely.
There's some really cool magic too. For those of you who have played the games, it reminded me of the summons magic from Final Fantasy.
And to top it off, David Dalglish made me really care for the characters. There were times when I feared for their lives and was ready to hunt David down and scream 'WHYYYYY?!?!?!' at him. I didn't because that would be weird, but I thought about it. :D
All in all, a thrilling, action-packed, stabby, magical tale about a conquering empire and a city that refuses to give in.
I can't wait for the sequel.
This book was FANTASTIC! It was like Final Fantasy meets Green Arrow! Not that there was any archery, but the whole displaced prince thing.
I got that same thrill I did when reading the Night Angel trilogy, of witnessing a legendary assassin in the making.
The book has a style of prose that is just easy to slip into. It's not complicated. That may sound like a bad thing to some, but it's not. The ease and flow of it allow you to be absorbed into the world quickly and completely.
There's some really cool magic too. For those of you who have played the games, it reminded me of the summons magic from Final Fantasy.
And to top it off, David Dalglish made me really care for the characters. There were times when I feared for their lives and was ready to hunt David down and scream 'WHYYYYY?!?!?!' at him. I didn't because that would be weird, but I thought about it. :D
All in all, a thrilling, action-packed, stabby, magical tale about a conquering empire and a city that refuses to give in.
I can't wait for the sequel.
October 5, 2024
I reviewed the series as a whole -without spoilers- here
April 5, 2022
The Bladed Faith is the first in David Dalgishes’ new series, Vagrant Gods. Dalglish, who has proven himself a master of action over the last several years (and is fresh off the phenomenal finale of his last series, The Keepers) has managed to publish yet another fascinating fantasy series. I came for the amazing cover and intriguing synopsis and stayed for the fantastic fight sequences, intriguing storyline, and compelling characters.
The Keepers was my first Dalglish read, and ever since I have considered the author to be a master of action scenes – both in quantity and quality. I point out the “quantity” because, to me, that is so important. Part of the reason I love great fight scenes is due to the fact that, in my opinion, if done correctly they make the pacing so much better. And Dalglish does it right. The buildup, the tension, the violence, the after effects; it all contributes to the rhythm of the narrative that I enjoy best. One that is fast and furious.
Of course, the quality is important, also, and this is another area where the author always shines. The detail and descriptions are on point, and so much emotion is brought into play. On the surface these scenes are violent and bloody, often brutal, but the reader also gets ongoing internal monologue from the characters, which I really enjoy. As a reader, I want to know what is going on in the minds of the characters, especially when they are face-to-face with an enemy. This is when emotions are highest, and I love seeing the characters show those emotions while demonstrating their fighting skills.
Of course, none of that would matter if I did not care about the characters. This is another strong suit that the author demonstrates: the ability to make the reader give a damn. Dalglish accomplishes this by developing characters with strong motives. We get that in these characters, as well; vengeance, love, hate, and affecting change are all reasons that are explored in the pages of The Bladed Faith. And they are all character motivations I love to read about.
The storyline was really intriguing, as well, and I love how many moving parts there are. The more components a plot has, the more opportunity for an author to add levels of drama. Dalglish does a great job using of those different elements to keep things interesting.
One small aspect I noticed is that I think in some of the in-between developmental times, the story feels a little rushed. This is kind of nit-picky, as everything is really well put together for the most part. It just seems like at certain parts the author runs through things a little quickly. It does not affect the story much, in my opinion, I just would have liked for that down time to be a little more thorough.
All in all, The Bladed Faith is a great read. Dalglish is back at it, bringing savage characters with sharp blades and storylines with catastrophic consequences. The Vagrant Gods series has so much promise, and I am excited to see where it goes from here. This is a must read for fans of fantasy.
The Keepers was my first Dalglish read, and ever since I have considered the author to be a master of action scenes – both in quantity and quality. I point out the “quantity” because, to me, that is so important. Part of the reason I love great fight scenes is due to the fact that, in my opinion, if done correctly they make the pacing so much better. And Dalglish does it right. The buildup, the tension, the violence, the after effects; it all contributes to the rhythm of the narrative that I enjoy best. One that is fast and furious.
Of course, the quality is important, also, and this is another area where the author always shines. The detail and descriptions are on point, and so much emotion is brought into play. On the surface these scenes are violent and bloody, often brutal, but the reader also gets ongoing internal monologue from the characters, which I really enjoy. As a reader, I want to know what is going on in the minds of the characters, especially when they are face-to-face with an enemy. This is when emotions are highest, and I love seeing the characters show those emotions while demonstrating their fighting skills.
Of course, none of that would matter if I did not care about the characters. This is another strong suit that the author demonstrates: the ability to make the reader give a damn. Dalglish accomplishes this by developing characters with strong motives. We get that in these characters, as well; vengeance, love, hate, and affecting change are all reasons that are explored in the pages of The Bladed Faith. And they are all character motivations I love to read about.
The storyline was really intriguing, as well, and I love how many moving parts there are. The more components a plot has, the more opportunity for an author to add levels of drama. Dalglish does a great job using of those different elements to keep things interesting.
One small aspect I noticed is that I think in some of the in-between developmental times, the story feels a little rushed. This is kind of nit-picky, as everything is really well put together for the most part. It just seems like at certain parts the author runs through things a little quickly. It does not affect the story much, in my opinion, I just would have liked for that down time to be a little more thorough.
All in all, The Bladed Faith is a great read. Dalglish is back at it, bringing savage characters with sharp blades and storylines with catastrophic consequences. The Vagrant Gods series has so much promise, and I am excited to see where it goes from here. This is a must read for fans of fantasy.
January 19, 2023
Stars: 2 out of 5
DNF at 45%.
There are the makings of a good book in there, that's why I am not giving it a one star review, but the execution was sorely lacking, at least for my taste.
First of all, it drags. Even the battles move slowly and the narrative parts between them are never-ending. We get a long training montage at the beginning of the book that was interesting for the first 10 pages, but rapidly lost my goodwill after it dragged and dragged.
I think the reason for that is because even though the characters acquire new skills and evolve physically, they never grow mentally. I found that the character development is next to null in this book. I never got to bond with the characters because I was never allowed in their heads. What drives them?
Why does Cyrus decide to endure this harsh training? Just because he was told that he could become the avenger of his people? He didn't strike me as someone that selfless and patriotic at the beginning of the book. I would understand this better is I was privy to his inner thoughts and doubts instead of just his relentless training. Same goes for all the other characters. They are kind of there and going through the motions, but I can't picture them in my head. They are not "alive" to me. I am a character-driven reader, I don't do well with books that lack those. I can forgive a lot of flaws and plot-holes as long as I'm invested in the characters. Here, I wasn't.
Don't get me wrong, there are some interesting ideas in this book. The whole idea of the origin of divinity is one I would have loved to know more about. This is one of the reasons I kept reading for as long as I did. But then I caught myself skipping pages upon pages and stopping just to read the major plot points. That's when I knew that it was time to abandon ship.
PS: I received an advanced copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
DNF at 45%.
There are the makings of a good book in there, that's why I am not giving it a one star review, but the execution was sorely lacking, at least for my taste.
First of all, it drags. Even the battles move slowly and the narrative parts between them are never-ending. We get a long training montage at the beginning of the book that was interesting for the first 10 pages, but rapidly lost my goodwill after it dragged and dragged.
I think the reason for that is because even though the characters acquire new skills and evolve physically, they never grow mentally. I found that the character development is next to null in this book. I never got to bond with the characters because I was never allowed in their heads. What drives them?
Why does Cyrus decide to endure this harsh training? Just because he was told that he could become the avenger of his people? He didn't strike me as someone that selfless and patriotic at the beginning of the book. I would understand this better is I was privy to his inner thoughts and doubts instead of just his relentless training. Same goes for all the other characters. They are kind of there and going through the motions, but I can't picture them in my head. They are not "alive" to me. I am a character-driven reader, I don't do well with books that lack those. I can forgive a lot of flaws and plot-holes as long as I'm invested in the characters. Here, I wasn't.
Don't get me wrong, there are some interesting ideas in this book. The whole idea of the origin of divinity is one I would have loved to know more about. This is one of the reasons I kept reading for as long as I did. But then I caught myself skipping pages upon pages and stopping just to read the major plot points. That's when I knew that it was time to abandon ship.
PS: I received an advanced copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2024
Action-Packed ✓ Battling Gods ✓ Epic Fights ✓ Mentor – Apprentice ✓ Revenge Story ✓
Check out my Blog
“You’ve kept your kindness despite this world’s hate. You’ve kept your vulnerability despite this world’s cruelty. Holding on your humanity amid death and war … that is so much harder than rage.”
What is the Book about?
Cyrus was only twelve years old when his gods were slain, his country invaded, and his parents—the king and queen—beheaded in front of him. Held prisoner in the invader’s court for years, Cyrus is suddenly given a chance to escape and claim his revenge when a mysterious group of revolutionaries comes looking for a figurehead. They need a hero to strike fear into the hearts of the imperial and to inspire and unite the people. They need someone to take up the skull mask and swords and to become the legendary “Vagrant”—an unparalleled hero and assassin of otherworldly skill.
But all is not as it seems. Creating the illusion of a hero is the work of many, and Cyrus will soon discover the true price of his vengeance.
Rating
Plot ★★★★☆
Characters ★★★★☆
Excitement ★★★★☆
Atmosphere ★★★★★
Writing Style ★★★★☆
Favourite Character
Stasia and Mari
My thoughts while reading it
In the sprawling expanse of epic fantasy, David Dalglish’s “The Bladed Faith” unfurls its narrative with a symphony of Elden Ring-esque gods, engaging in a celestial battle against an invading land. Picture it – goddesses resembling ethereal butterflies, and lions adorned with feathers, all clashing in a cosmic ballet of unimaginable proportions. Could the beginning of a book get any more epic? And yet, this is not just a tale of divine warfare; it’s a saga intertwined with the valour of paladins, warriors of faith combating new foes with the might of their religion and wielding a power that transcends the mortal realm. One can’t help but wonder if this is a book or a portal to a wondrous gaming fantasy world. The boundaries blur, and the reader is immersed in a tale where reality and fantasy converge seamlessly.
“The Bladed Faith” immerses readers in a fantastical world reminiscent of Elden Ring, where gods hold sway, paladins roam, and god-whisperers channel divine power. Dalglish’s worldbuilding is a standout feature, providing a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama. The realm he crafts is not just a setting; it’s a character in itself, breathing life into the narrative and enhancing the overall reading experience. The clash between the divine and the profane unfolds in a crescendo of battles that resonate with the spirit of Elden Ring’s awe-inspiring conflicts. But there’s more – the art of god-whispering, an ethereal practice that adds an extra layer of mystique to the narrative. Religion emerges as a central and thought-provoking theme in the novel. The inclusion of paladins and god-whisperers adds depth, creating a dynamic interplay between faith and action. Dalglish skilfully integrates religious elements, making them integral to character motivations and plot developments. The exploration of the influence of religion on individuals and societies adds layers of complexity to the story.
Yet, amid the grandeur of this epic world, it’s the beautifully crafted characters that anchor the narrative in the realm of profound storytelling. David Dalglish unfolds as a rich tapestry of fantasy, weaving a tale of a young man named Cyrus who starts off as a character devoid of distinct traits but undergoes a profound transformation under the influence of powerful mentors. The narrative is a spellbinding exploration of the impact of external forces on an impressionable youth, with unexpected twists and turns that add depth and excitement to the unfolding story. The most intriguing aspect of the novel lies in its meticulous portrayal of Cyrus’s malleability. As he navigates through the challenges posed by influential figures, readers witness a nuanced and realistic evolution of the protagonist. The author skillfully navigates the complexities of these relationships, particularly highlighting the harsh tutelage of Thorda, which adds layers to Cyrus’s character and makes his journey all the more compelling.
The Author not only delivers a compelling narrative centered around Cyrus but also introduces remarkable supporting characters that contribute to the novel’s depth. Stasia and Mari, in particular, emerge as standout figures, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the story. The dynamic between the two sisters, Stasia and Mari, adds an epic layer to the story. Mari, the quiet and nurturing god-whisperer, stands in stark contrast to Stasia, the emotional and warrior-like sibling. Their relationship and shared history contribute significantly to the emotional resonance of the narrative. The dichotomy between the two sisters creates a compelling tension that enhances the overall depth of the novel. Stasia, with her emotional depth and warrior spirit, emerges as a particularly engaging character, leaving readers wanting more of her presence in the spotlight. It’s regrettable that these characters, especially Stasia, do not receive sufficient individual attention to showcase their own narratives. The novel could have been even more impactful if it had delved deeper into their backgrounds and personal journeys. Despite the missed opportunity to explore their individual stories more deeply, the chemistry between all characters enriches the overall tapestry of David Dalglish’s fantasy adventure.
“The Bladed Faith” stands as a beacon in the realm of fantasy literature, drawing inspiration from the grandiosity of Video Games and crafting a narrative that resonates with the thunderous echoes of divine conflict. In conclusion, it is a masterfully crafted fantasy novel that seamlessly combines elements of transformation, divine influence, and the intricate dynamics between religion and action. With its well-realized world, compelling characters, and a thought-provoking exploration of faith, this book is a must-read for enthusiasts of the fantasy genre.
Reading Recommendation? ✓
Favourite? ✓
Check out my Blog
“You’ve kept your kindness despite this world’s hate. You’ve kept your vulnerability despite this world’s cruelty. Holding on your humanity amid death and war … that is so much harder than rage.”
What is the Book about?
Cyrus was only twelve years old when his gods were slain, his country invaded, and his parents—the king and queen—beheaded in front of him. Held prisoner in the invader’s court for years, Cyrus is suddenly given a chance to escape and claim his revenge when a mysterious group of revolutionaries comes looking for a figurehead. They need a hero to strike fear into the hearts of the imperial and to inspire and unite the people. They need someone to take up the skull mask and swords and to become the legendary “Vagrant”—an unparalleled hero and assassin of otherworldly skill.
But all is not as it seems. Creating the illusion of a hero is the work of many, and Cyrus will soon discover the true price of his vengeance.
Rating
Plot ★★★★☆
Characters ★★★★☆
Excitement ★★★★☆
Atmosphere ★★★★★
Writing Style ★★★★☆
Favourite Character
Stasia and Mari
My thoughts while reading it
In the sprawling expanse of epic fantasy, David Dalglish’s “The Bladed Faith” unfurls its narrative with a symphony of Elden Ring-esque gods, engaging in a celestial battle against an invading land. Picture it – goddesses resembling ethereal butterflies, and lions adorned with feathers, all clashing in a cosmic ballet of unimaginable proportions. Could the beginning of a book get any more epic? And yet, this is not just a tale of divine warfare; it’s a saga intertwined with the valour of paladins, warriors of faith combating new foes with the might of their religion and wielding a power that transcends the mortal realm. One can’t help but wonder if this is a book or a portal to a wondrous gaming fantasy world. The boundaries blur, and the reader is immersed in a tale where reality and fantasy converge seamlessly.
“The Bladed Faith” immerses readers in a fantastical world reminiscent of Elden Ring, where gods hold sway, paladins roam, and god-whisperers channel divine power. Dalglish’s worldbuilding is a standout feature, providing a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama. The realm he crafts is not just a setting; it’s a character in itself, breathing life into the narrative and enhancing the overall reading experience. The clash between the divine and the profane unfolds in a crescendo of battles that resonate with the spirit of Elden Ring’s awe-inspiring conflicts. But there’s more – the art of god-whispering, an ethereal practice that adds an extra layer of mystique to the narrative. Religion emerges as a central and thought-provoking theme in the novel. The inclusion of paladins and god-whisperers adds depth, creating a dynamic interplay between faith and action. Dalglish skilfully integrates religious elements, making them integral to character motivations and plot developments. The exploration of the influence of religion on individuals and societies adds layers of complexity to the story.
Yet, amid the grandeur of this epic world, it’s the beautifully crafted characters that anchor the narrative in the realm of profound storytelling. David Dalglish unfolds as a rich tapestry of fantasy, weaving a tale of a young man named Cyrus who starts off as a character devoid of distinct traits but undergoes a profound transformation under the influence of powerful mentors. The narrative is a spellbinding exploration of the impact of external forces on an impressionable youth, with unexpected twists and turns that add depth and excitement to the unfolding story. The most intriguing aspect of the novel lies in its meticulous portrayal of Cyrus’s malleability. As he navigates through the challenges posed by influential figures, readers witness a nuanced and realistic evolution of the protagonist. The author skillfully navigates the complexities of these relationships, particularly highlighting the harsh tutelage of Thorda, which adds layers to Cyrus’s character and makes his journey all the more compelling.
The Author not only delivers a compelling narrative centered around Cyrus but also introduces remarkable supporting characters that contribute to the novel’s depth. Stasia and Mari, in particular, emerge as standout figures, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the story. The dynamic between the two sisters, Stasia and Mari, adds an epic layer to the story. Mari, the quiet and nurturing god-whisperer, stands in stark contrast to Stasia, the emotional and warrior-like sibling. Their relationship and shared history contribute significantly to the emotional resonance of the narrative. The dichotomy between the two sisters creates a compelling tension that enhances the overall depth of the novel. Stasia, with her emotional depth and warrior spirit, emerges as a particularly engaging character, leaving readers wanting more of her presence in the spotlight. It’s regrettable that these characters, especially Stasia, do not receive sufficient individual attention to showcase their own narratives. The novel could have been even more impactful if it had delved deeper into their backgrounds and personal journeys. Despite the missed opportunity to explore their individual stories more deeply, the chemistry between all characters enriches the overall tapestry of David Dalglish’s fantasy adventure.
“The Bladed Faith” stands as a beacon in the realm of fantasy literature, drawing inspiration from the grandiosity of Video Games and crafting a narrative that resonates with the thunderous echoes of divine conflict. In conclusion, it is a masterfully crafted fantasy novel that seamlessly combines elements of transformation, divine influence, and the intricate dynamics between religion and action. With its well-realized world, compelling characters, and a thought-provoking exploration of faith, this book is a must-read for enthusiasts of the fantasy genre.
Reading Recommendation? ✓
Favourite? ✓
April 18, 2022
4.5 star rounded up. If you like epic high fantasy with evil empires, uprisings, stealthy assassin training, LGBT rep, and gods who are actually tangible beings in the world and directly involved in events then this book is FOR YOU!!
In this world each kingdom has their own patron gods and goddesses who not only guide their subjects but impart magical gifts as well. For quite some time now there is an evil emperor known as the God Incarnate who has been invading and murdering these pantheons of deities and subverting the populace into worshipping him. The most recent conquest is in the small island nation of Thanet. The first 10-15% of this book was some of the most epic fantasy I have read in ages. It literally felt like the book equivalent of epic boss battles in Elden Ring with the lion god Endarius (who I picture like Maliketh in my head cannon) and Lycaena (who reads like the Goddess of Rot but with less rot) fighting to save their realm side-by-side with their paladins...it was literally so awesome. Then we had all of the world building learning about the evil God Incarnate trying to kill the deities of every other realm....like come on. We follow our main character Cryus, prince of this small kingdom, and a group of loveable misfits as they foment rebellion to try to break the stranglehold of the evil empire.
This book is such a good time, I would highly recommend and keep your eyes peeled for a full video review on my YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/RodgersReads).
In this world each kingdom has their own patron gods and goddesses who not only guide their subjects but impart magical gifts as well. For quite some time now there is an evil emperor known as the God Incarnate who has been invading and murdering these pantheons of deities and subverting the populace into worshipping him. The most recent conquest is in the small island nation of Thanet. The first 10-15% of this book was some of the most epic fantasy I have read in ages. It literally felt like the book equivalent of epic boss battles in Elden Ring with the lion god Endarius (who I picture like Maliketh in my head cannon) and Lycaena (who reads like the Goddess of Rot but with less rot) fighting to save their realm side-by-side with their paladins...it was literally so awesome. Then we had all of the world building learning about the evil God Incarnate trying to kill the deities of every other realm....like come on. We follow our main character Cryus, prince of this small kingdom, and a group of loveable misfits as they foment rebellion to try to break the stranglehold of the evil empire.
This book is such a good time, I would highly recommend and keep your eyes peeled for a full video review on my YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/RodgersReads).
October 18, 2024
This was my introduction to David Dalglish and I have to say it was a bit of a rollercoaster. The premise for this book hooked me immediately. I'm always down for a revenge story. Also the first chapter of this book is an absolute banger that sets the hook early. After that it became a bit more mixed. I really liked the world building here with physical manifestations of gods being responsible for magic and a conquering empire that wishes to absorb new lands and kill said gods.
What I didn't like was the choice to start the story with a protagonist being so young. This inevitably leads to far too many training chapters for the main character that frankly became pretty boring. I assume this is something writers choose to do to parry the "mary sue" charge, but it's unnecessary. Just start with an older protagonist who has had training. After that the plot does pick up and more characters are introduced that were some of my favorites in the book especially Arn. Unfortunately, Cyrus, is the main character and the one I found by far the flattest and least interesting. In the author's note it states in the original idea of the story he wasn't the main character and I think it shows.
What I liked was the combat and action in this book. Dalglish has a way of writing it that makes it interesting. Also the way he incorporates the world building and magic elements into the fighting gave it a nice interesting wrinkle. The plot was fine too, but nothing really super outstanding. A lot of the elements were things I've read and seen before. Doesn't make them bad really just mostly predictable in terms of story beats. There was one reveal that was pretty good that I didn't expect. Also I can admit the middling to poor audio performance hurt this book. It makes Dalglish's writing and dialogue seem stilted when really it can be pretty good. Once I switched to eyes only for the last 200 pages I had a great time.
Overall I think this is pretty entertaining B-tier style fantasy. I had a good time but it's nothing too profound. I will be picking up book 2 in January though but likely from the library or when it goes on sale.
What I didn't like was the choice to start the story with a protagonist being so young. This inevitably leads to far too many training chapters for the main character that frankly became pretty boring. I assume this is something writers choose to do to parry the "mary sue" charge, but it's unnecessary. Just start with an older protagonist who has had training. After that the plot does pick up and more characters are introduced that were some of my favorites in the book especially Arn. Unfortunately, Cyrus, is the main character and the one I found by far the flattest and least interesting. In the author's note it states in the original idea of the story he wasn't the main character and I think it shows.
What I liked was the combat and action in this book. Dalglish has a way of writing it that makes it interesting. Also the way he incorporates the world building and magic elements into the fighting gave it a nice interesting wrinkle. The plot was fine too, but nothing really super outstanding. A lot of the elements were things I've read and seen before. Doesn't make them bad really just mostly predictable in terms of story beats. There was one reveal that was pretty good that I didn't expect. Also I can admit the middling to poor audio performance hurt this book. It makes Dalglish's writing and dialogue seem stilted when really it can be pretty good. Once I switched to eyes only for the last 200 pages I had a great time.
Overall I think this is pretty entertaining B-tier style fantasy. I had a good time but it's nothing too profound. I will be picking up book 2 in January though but likely from the library or when it goes on sale.
April 21, 2022
First, love the cover. It's what drew me to this book. Then the description, as if written for me.
And well all the promise is true. If you pick this up you'll get a fast paced tale of tragedy and revenge that keeps you hooked even if there are lots of genre tropes and lots of stuff that is predictable. But be ready for lots of violence and gore. And there is an obvious cliffhanger at the end so if you're not a fan of those best to wait for all three books. In a way wish I did.
Cheers.
And well all the promise is true. If you pick this up you'll get a fast paced tale of tragedy and revenge that keeps you hooked even if there are lots of genre tropes and lots of stuff that is predictable. But be ready for lots of violence and gore. And there is an obvious cliffhanger at the end so if you're not a fan of those best to wait for all three books. In a way wish I did.
Cheers.
March 18, 2023
Very underwhelming. I expected so much more from the world, the Gods, and mostly the magic. The ending was good... but 400 pages of meh for a solid 50 page ending. I hate that. Not sure if I'll pick up 2...
March 31, 2022
Review to come!
April 6, 2022
*4.5
Find this review at Forever Lost in Literature!
The Bladed Faith was such a great and truly riveting story that I’m not kicking myself for not reading Dalglish’s other books already when I had the opportunity! The Bladed Faith is a book about revolutions, rebellion, and fighting for what’s right no matter the cost it will take to get there. The stakes are extraordinarily high, and the characters in The Bladed Faith are not afraid of those stakes or anyone who poses a threat to them.
In The Bladed Faith, we follow the orphaned and usurped prince Cyrus as he has the opportunity to be molded into a revolutionary figure known as “Vagrant” that will serve as a source of inspiration and strength to his kingdom to fight back against their oppressors of the Everlorn Empire. The Everlorn Empire is particularly brutal in how they invade a nation, as they take care to slaughter the gods of each land they invade in front of their devotees in order to jumpstart the breaking of their spirits, as the Everlorn Empire intends to eventually mold them into following their own religion.
We largely follow the perspectives of Cyrus, Stasia, Mari, and Rayan, though there are other characters that are important to follow in this book as well. I was particularly drawn to Rayan for his loyalty and overall demeanor, but I truly enjoyed following each and every one of these characters. I think Dalglish did excellent work in creating characters that I found myself fully invested in and rooting for every step of the way, as well as characters that all felt multi-dimensional and truly able to stand apart from one another. Because of their many differences, I found myself really enjoying watching the relationship between various characters and how different aspects of their personalities worked with others. For instance, Stasia is a tough, hardened warrior, while her sister, Mari, is a somewhat quieter and more peaceful person (well… for the most part), so seeing how those two interacted and how their relationship was affected by that was really compelling to watch. And if you love having an antagonist to hate, trust me when I say you’ll absolutely loathe the villain character of The Bladed Faith.
In addition to the great characters, plot, and world-building, it is the pacing and writing in this book that I think really set it over the top for me enjoyment-wise. I really couldn’t put this book down due to the fact that there was constantly something compelling happening that had me hooked. It’s not that there’s constant action–although there’s plenty of action to keep you entertained–but rather that there’s just always something interesting and important to the plot happening that makes every page feel important. There’s also plenty of information thrown at us along the way as well about the world and its history, but I never found it overwhelming, and instead felt that it worked well in the story and only added to the depth of the world and our characters.
This book is full of political intrigue, religion, and of course rebellion. It is also a book full of tough, compelling characters from many different backgrounds that come together to fight together for a greater cause than any of them. Not only do they want to free Cyrus’ kingdom from their oppressors, but also on a much grander scale they want to take back the land that the Everlorn Empire has overtaken, spreading to regions even further and wider than Cyrus was aware of. There are some pretty big twists and discoveries that Cyrus is confronted with throughout the story–and in particular some pretty big things at the end of the story–that make this story feel much bigger than what we get to see in this first installment, which is already pretty big. I was also captivated by the world-building in The Bladed Faith and am particularly excited to see how Dalglish will continue to expand this world-building in future books.
Overall, I’ve given The Bladed Faith 5 stars! I’m excited to see where Dalglish where take this story in the future because it has some pretty huge potential, and I have high hopes that things are going to get even more epic as the series continues. Also–I guess it’s time to start diving into David Dalglish’s backlist while I wait for more!
Find this review at Forever Lost in Literature!
The Bladed Faith was such a great and truly riveting story that I’m not kicking myself for not reading Dalglish’s other books already when I had the opportunity! The Bladed Faith is a book about revolutions, rebellion, and fighting for what’s right no matter the cost it will take to get there. The stakes are extraordinarily high, and the characters in The Bladed Faith are not afraid of those stakes or anyone who poses a threat to them.
In The Bladed Faith, we follow the orphaned and usurped prince Cyrus as he has the opportunity to be molded into a revolutionary figure known as “Vagrant” that will serve as a source of inspiration and strength to his kingdom to fight back against their oppressors of the Everlorn Empire. The Everlorn Empire is particularly brutal in how they invade a nation, as they take care to slaughter the gods of each land they invade in front of their devotees in order to jumpstart the breaking of their spirits, as the Everlorn Empire intends to eventually mold them into following their own religion.
We largely follow the perspectives of Cyrus, Stasia, Mari, and Rayan, though there are other characters that are important to follow in this book as well. I was particularly drawn to Rayan for his loyalty and overall demeanor, but I truly enjoyed following each and every one of these characters. I think Dalglish did excellent work in creating characters that I found myself fully invested in and rooting for every step of the way, as well as characters that all felt multi-dimensional and truly able to stand apart from one another. Because of their many differences, I found myself really enjoying watching the relationship between various characters and how different aspects of their personalities worked with others. For instance, Stasia is a tough, hardened warrior, while her sister, Mari, is a somewhat quieter and more peaceful person (well… for the most part), so seeing how those two interacted and how their relationship was affected by that was really compelling to watch. And if you love having an antagonist to hate, trust me when I say you’ll absolutely loathe the villain character of The Bladed Faith.
In addition to the great characters, plot, and world-building, it is the pacing and writing in this book that I think really set it over the top for me enjoyment-wise. I really couldn’t put this book down due to the fact that there was constantly something compelling happening that had me hooked. It’s not that there’s constant action–although there’s plenty of action to keep you entertained–but rather that there’s just always something interesting and important to the plot happening that makes every page feel important. There’s also plenty of information thrown at us along the way as well about the world and its history, but I never found it overwhelming, and instead felt that it worked well in the story and only added to the depth of the world and our characters.
This book is full of political intrigue, religion, and of course rebellion. It is also a book full of tough, compelling characters from many different backgrounds that come together to fight together for a greater cause than any of them. Not only do they want to free Cyrus’ kingdom from their oppressors, but also on a much grander scale they want to take back the land that the Everlorn Empire has overtaken, spreading to regions even further and wider than Cyrus was aware of. There are some pretty big twists and discoveries that Cyrus is confronted with throughout the story–and in particular some pretty big things at the end of the story–that make this story feel much bigger than what we get to see in this first installment, which is already pretty big. I was also captivated by the world-building in The Bladed Faith and am particularly excited to see how Dalglish will continue to expand this world-building in future books.
Overall, I’ve given The Bladed Faith 5 stars! I’m excited to see where Dalglish where take this story in the future because it has some pretty huge potential, and I have high hopes that things are going to get even more epic as the series continues. Also–I guess it’s time to start diving into David Dalglish’s backlist while I wait for more!
April 18, 2022
The Bladed Faith was a worthwhile read.
Want to read
November 30, 2021I'm a sucker for kickass character art.
July 29, 2022
Woke garbage staring around page 38. I didn't read the rest.
August 28, 2022
Rep: bi mc(?), lesbian mc, gay side character
CWs: gore, violence, homophobia, transphobic violence, misgendering
CWs: gore, violence, homophobia, transphobic violence, misgendering
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