Son of the Black Sword (Saga of the Forgotten Warrior)

Larry Correia writes action-adventure yarns. They're his stock in trade, and he's good at them.

This isn't his best work (which are the Grimnoir books), and it lacks the black humor of the Monster Hunter books, but it gets the job done.

It's got a Brain Damaged Ultimate Warrior with an Ultimate Weapon who, after establishing shots of him Doing His Duty (and Proving His Badassery), is thrown from his place in society, voluntarily sits in a prison cell that he could leave at any time for a year so that the Corrupt Ambitious Politician can get his grinding wheels in motion, and then moves our Brain Damaged Ultimate Warrior through a fairly predictable Path of Realization that the society he lives in is a s***-show, so that he can have the Moment of Awesome.

The worldbuilding is refreshingly non-European, but it doesn't feel 'lived in'. I think I can also spot a few "reversals" being set up for later books. The two female characters we get into the heads of are basically Plot Tokens for the Former Best Friend Turned Reluctant Badguy and for our Brain Damaged Ultimate Warrior.

I suspect that Book Two in this series will be the Recover The Annoying Woman And Fall In Love With Her volume.

I suspect that this "fantasy" series will be revealed to be an extraterrestrial colony somewhere along the line.

Overall, readable, enjoyable. If you liked Larry's other books, you'll like this one. If you've avoided Larry's other books, this might be different enough from his ouvre to be a good starting point.

In my "perfect version" of this book, Larry borrows a chunk of S.M. Stirling's toolbox, and does JUST a bit more "sociological tourism" in the culture he made. Still, for a book that's a table-setter for a series, it's not dull, and Larry avoids the AsYouKNowBobs and DataDumps.

It's hard for an established author to start a new series. But Correia, much like Butcher, was able to do so with great success. It's amazing just how different the tone feels. It's almost like a different author. Very happy with the the start of the series.

I can't claim to be a detached, disinterested critic going into this review. Larry Correia has been on the podcast that I co-host. He generously Book-Bombed! my first novel, Nethereal. A few months ago I got to hang out with Larry at the Salt Lake City Comic Con, where I gave him a signed copy of my second novel Souldancer (which, like Son of the Black Sword, is a Dragon Award winner).

Larry Correia is more than an author whose books I enjoy and whom I respect as a professional. Considering everything he's done for me, I consider Larry a personal friend. So keep in mind that this won't be an unbiased review, though it will be honest and informed by my experience as a reader and an author.

Let's begin.

Son of the Black Sword has been called Larry's first work of fantasy. That claim is only superficially accurate, however, since the other two books of his that I've read contain fantastical elements. I also have suspicions about the origins of the magic in this latest series, but saying any more would risk spoilers.

SotBS does feature the most classic fantasy setting of any Larry Correia book so far. But in keeping with the author's penchant for the delightfully unorthodox, the land of Lok draws much more heavily from far Eastern tropes and imagery than the largely shopworn trappings of standard Western fantasy. In this world, a grim order of Protectors enforce the all-encompassing Law that has replaced religion and segregates the populace into rigid castes.

The central figure in this tale is Ashok Vadal, a senior Protector and the Bearer of Angruvadal--an ancient sword made of magical black steel that stores the collected knowledge and battle experience of its past wielders. Holding either office makes a man a force to be reckoned with. Being both a Protector and an ancestor blade Bearer at the same time makes Ashok the most dangerous man alive.

Let me pause here to address those who've stereotyped Larry as a crude writer of explosion porn, and who assume that Ashok Vadal is a humorless, invincible death machine that considers killing his go-to solution for every problem.

Your assumptions about Ashok are 100% correct.

But your assumptions about Larry are marvelously wrong.

Sure, Ashok has the personality of a wood chipper, but Larry makes him sympathetic anyway. Ashok can kill any man in the world with a soup spoon, but Larry never lets the dramatic tension drop. This is certainly no Gary Stu without flaws. Ashok's not even a munchkin-style character with "flaws" that either fail to be effective hindrances or are actually blessings in disguise. He is a profoundly broken character who is equally subjugated and empowered by the Law he serves.

Ashok may as well be a granite statue with "Magical Cop" chiseled into the base. And yet, Larry Correia makes you genuinely care about his problems through top shelf world building and the masterful characterization of everyone from the stalwart yet jealous brother in arms who was denied his own ancestor blade by a cruel turn of fate to the dedicated yet evil assassin who stalks the crowded streets of a bustling capitol. Anyone who accuses Son of the Black Sword of being hack work probably thinks that rednecks prefer drinking gin.

Going much deeper into the book's plot poses major spoiler risks, so I'll restrict myself to saying that several of the twists near the end genuinely and pleasantly surprised me, and that the author took fascinating risks with multiple characters that never came off as out of character. This book definitely left me wanting more.

Son of the Black Sword is impeccably written, unquestionably fun, and undoubtedly the best of Larry's books that I've had the pleasure of reading. SotBS is Larry's masterpiece. It deserved its Dragon Award win, and it puts paid to the ridiculous claims that Larry isn't a real writer. In addition to his superlative handling of his characters, he tackles complex themes like armed citizens as a check against tyranny and quandaries arising from conflicts between positive and natural law. Don't worry. You won't find any civics lectures or suspension of disbelief-destroying scoldings here. Despite his reputation as a bruiser, Larry has a light touch.

He also has a character named Thera--a coincidence that Soul Cycle fans will find amusing :)

In terms of negatives, I'm struggling to come up with something to demonstrate that I'm not just sucking up. Okay. There's a deus ex machina near the middle that probably could've used more setting up. The resolution of one supporting character's subplot felt a little anticlimactic. That's it, really. The only thing that outright bugged me about Son of the Black Sword wasn't Larry's fault at all, and that's the front cover. Offense is taken at the substitution of Larry Elmore's gorgeous cover with yet another dust jacket that's afraid to admit it contains a work of genre fiction.

But the book's good points shine so brilliantly it's not even fair. The magic system is brilliantly simple. The secondary world setting and social structure are wholly convincing. And I didn't mention this before, because Larry, but Son of the Black Sword has some of the best action scenes I've ever read.

I haven't even begun to do this book justice. Go ahead and buy it. You know you want to.

I just couldn't get sucked into this book the way Correia's other books grabbed me. I didn't feel the characters were at all sympathetic (especially Ashok), and the Robotic Paladin of Law angle got old about a third of the way through. Unfortunately, it took until the last 10% of the book for the main character to begin to really break that automaton shell.

From an author best known for a modern gunslinging urban-fantasy setting, a foray into...well, there isn't really a genre name for this. "High Fantasy" evokes a European-derived setting; "Sword and Sorcery" doesn't really do justice to storytelling which goes way beyond a Conan-esque romp. "Son of the Black Sword" has much in common with the appeal of each, but is set in a unique society, stratified by a Hindu-style caste system and formed by two mysterious legacies: the suppression of its original religion, and the survival of some form of previous technology - in the form of the black swords.

The result is a world as compelling as any fantasy setting I've seen, with compelling action scenes and character development - and an aligning of forces clearly setting us up for a world-reshaping conflict in future volumes. Your big questions will not necessarily be answered at the end of this book - but you'll be eager to revisit the setting, so that's no problem. There's much left to reveal but I'm definitely along for the ride.

This is not my usual genre. Having said that, I must follow with: I enjoyed this book enormously, and am eager to read the sequel when it comes out in February 2019. Not only are the characters realistically written, the background and world building that went into this story are phenomenal. Deep backstory isn't usually found in an action/adventure/fantasy type of story, yet, here it is. Well timed revelations about key characters inform a story that tickles your philosophical side, while completely satisfying your desire for action. Larry Correia is a fantastic, and prolific, writer, turning out an average of 2 books every year. Miraculously, none of his books, that I have read, is formulaic in any regard, unless you consider great story writing and jaw-dropping world building to be formulaic. If you enjoy sci-fi, fantasy, adventure, and stories out of the ordinary, you NEED to pick up a copy of ANY of Larry's books. Son of the Black Sword would be a great place to start!

I just couldn't get sucked into this book the way Correia's other books grabbed me. I didn't feel the characters were at all sympathetic (especially Ashok), and the Robotic Paladin of Law angle got old about a third of the way through. Unfortunately, it took until the last 10% of the book for the main character to begin to really break that automaton shell.

I can't claim to be a detached, disinterested critic going into this review. Larry Correia has been on the podcast that I co-host. He generously Book-Bombed! my first novel, Nethereal. A few months ago I got to hang out with Larry at the Salt Lake City Comic Con, where I gave him a signed copy of my second novel Souldancer (which, like Son of the Black Sword, is a Dragon Award winner).

Larry Correia is more than an author whose books I enjoy and whom I respect as a professional. Considering everything he's done for me, I consider Larry a personal friend. So keep in mind that this won't be an unbiased review, though it will be honest and informed by my experience as a reader and an author.

Let's begin.

Son of the Black Sword has been called Larry's first work of fantasy. That claim is only superficially accurate, however, since the other two books of his that I've read contain fantastical elements. I also have suspicions about the origins of the magic in this latest series, but saying any more would risk spoilers.

SotBS does feature the most classic fantasy setting of any Larry Correia book so far. But in keeping with the author's penchant for the delightfully unorthodox, the land of Lok draws much more heavily from far Eastern tropes and imagery than the largely shopworn trappings of standard Western fantasy. In this world, a grim order of Protectors enforce the all-encompassing Law that has replaced religion and segregates the populace into rigid castes.

The central figure in this tale is Ashok Vadal, a senior Protector and the Bearer of Angruvadal--an ancient sword made of magical black steel that stores the collected knowledge and battle experience of its past wielders. Holding either office makes a man a force to be reckoned with. Being both a Protector and an ancestor blade Bearer at the same time makes Ashok the most dangerous man alive.

Let me pause here to address those who've stereotyped Larry as a crude writer of explosion porn, and who assume that Ashok Vadal is a humorless, invincible death machine that considers killing his go-to solution for every problem.

Your assumptions about Ashok are 100% correct.

But your assumptions about Larry are marvelously wrong.

Sure, Ashok has the personality of a wood chipper, but Larry makes him sympathetic anyway. Ashok can kill any man in the world with a soup spoon, but Larry never lets the dramatic tension drop. This is certainly no Gary Stu without flaws. Ashok's not even a munchkin-style character with "flaws" that either fail to be effective hindrances or are actually blessings in disguise. He is a profoundly broken character who is equally subjugated and empowered by the Law he serves.

Ashok may as well be a granite statue with "Magical Cop" chiseled into the base. And yet, Larry Correia makes you genuinely care about his problems through top shelf world building and the masterful characterization of everyone from the stalwart yet jealous brother in arms who was denied his own ancestor blade by a cruel turn of fate to the dedicated yet evil assassin who stalks the crowded streets of a bustling capitol. Anyone who accuses Son of the Black Sword of being hack work probably thinks that rednecks prefer drinking gin.

Going much deeper into the book's plot poses major spoiler risks, so I'll restrict myself to saying that several of the twists near the end genuinely and pleasantly surprised me, and that the author took fascinating risks with multiple characters that never came off as out of character. This book definitely left me wanting more.

Son of the Black Sword is impeccably written, unquestionably fun, and undoubtedly the best of Larry's books that I've had the pleasure of reading. SotBS is Larry's masterpiece. It deserved its Dragon Award win, and it puts paid to the ridiculous claims that Larry isn't a real writer. In addition to his superlative handling of his characters, he tackles complex themes like armed citizens as a check against tyranny and quandaries arising from conflicts between positive and natural law. Don't worry. You won't find any civics lectures or suspension of disbelief-destroying scoldings here. Despite his reputation as a bruiser, Larry has a light touch.

He also has a character named Thera--a coincidence that Soul Cycle fans will find amusing :)

In terms of negatives, I'm struggling to come up with something to demonstrate that I'm not just sucking up. Okay. There's a deus ex machina near the middle that probably could've used more setting up. The resolution of one supporting character's subplot felt a little anticlimactic. That's it, really. The only thing that outright bugged me about Son of the Black Sword wasn't Larry's fault at all, and that's the front cover. Offense is taken at the substitution of Larry Elmore's gorgeous cover with yet another dust jacket that's afraid to admit it contains a work of genre fiction.

But the book's good points shine so brilliantly it's not even fair. The magic system is brilliantly simple. The secondary world setting and social structure are wholly convincing. And I didn't mention this before, because Larry, but Son of the Black Sword has some of the best action scenes I've ever read.

I haven't even begun to do this book justice. Go ahead and buy it. You know you want to.

From an author best known for a modern gunslinging urban-fantasy setting, a foray into...well, there isn't really a genre name for this. "High Fantasy" evokes a European-derived setting; "Sword and Sorcery" doesn't really do justice to storytelling which goes way beyond a Conan-esque romp. "Son of the Black Sword" has much in common with the appeal of each, but is set in a unique society, stratified by a Hindu-style caste system and formed by two mysterious legacies: the suppression of its original religion, and the survival of some form of previous technology - in the form of the black swords.

The result is a world as compelling as any fantasy setting I've seen, with compelling action scenes and character development - and an aligning of forces clearly setting us up for a world-reshaping conflict in future volumes. Your big questions will not necessarily be answered at the end of this book - but you'll be eager to revisit the setting, so that's no problem. There's much left to reveal but I'm definitely along for the ride.

This is not my usual genre. Having said that, I must follow with: I enjoyed this book enormously, and am eager to read the sequel when it comes out in February 2019. Not only are the characters realistically written, the background and world building that went into this story are phenomenal. Deep backstory isn't usually found in an action/adventure/fantasy type of story, yet, here it is. Well timed revelations about key characters inform a story that tickles your philosophical side, while completely satisfying your desire for action. Larry Correia is a fantastic, and prolific, writer, turning out an average of 2 books every year. Miraculously, none of his books, that I have read, is formulaic in any regard, unless you consider great story writing and jaw-dropping world building to be formulaic. If you enjoy sci-fi, fantasy, adventure, and stories out of the ordinary, you NEED to pick up a copy of ANY of Larry's books. Son of the Black Sword would be a great place to start!

The first third or so of the book is concerned with setting up a deep and vibrant world. The action is there; the character building; even some obscure plot points. But the movement of the plot is opaque.

Then the big lie is revealed. And other lies start to surface. And the direction of the plot begins to become clear.

Begins. Because there are still a few tricks, a few secrets only hinted at.

It took me a while to get into the book. Once it hooked me, I was caught.

I WILL be buying the sequel as soon as it comes available.

Son of the Black Sword is the first in a series called Saga of the Forgotten Warrior by Larry Correia. Ashok Vadal is a protector in a realm that is ruled by the Law. The Law governs a society of castes from the first and most powerful to the non-people who have almost no rights. Protectors carry out the justice as demanded by the Law. As news of the non-people or the caste-less rebellions against the higher castes begin to increase, Ashok soon discovers a great secret that causes life as he knows it to unravel. As he tries to find his place in the world, he meets a variety of people that test his faith and try to manipulate him. The actions of a variety of unseen people in many different castes and with varied ambitions attempt to shape Ashok’s path in ways that he does not realize. However, he must determine the right path for himself.

I really enjoyed this novel! This is a story that is full of war, politics, magic, and history. Oddly, it felt like a combination of high fantasy and post-apocalyptic stories - the history of the people and the world that they have been living in for generations is seemingly at a breaking point in many different places. The cast of characters reminded me of chess board pieces or an elaborate war game. The actions that the different characters take don’t seem to be that influential until events begin to unfold. As the story progressed, I was engrossed by not only Ashok, who honestly can be a bit flat, but all the different characters. There was a diverse mix of characters from all the different castes and men and women both and they all seemed to have their own motivations and histories, giving them depth. One aspect of the novel that I really liked were the flash backs. They gave insight into the characters right when needed and this was a good way of giving backstory without just stating it.

The narration by Tim Gerard Reynolds was excellent. I couldn’t put my finger on why he was such a good narrator for a while. He is able to add feeling and emotion into the most mundane sentences – it was excellent. He did a good job with voicing and tone, as well. The production quality of the novel was good. One unique aspect of this novel that I wanted to touch on was the south Asian influence in terms of names and caste system. It’s unusual to hear such names and see this influence in novels ordinarily and it was especially refreshing for me. It really would’ve been nice if the accents for the characters weren’t all in shades of European – but I can’t fault the narrator too much the novel isn’t really on Earth. Overall, I would recommend this novel to anyone who likes high fantasy with ongoing action, a complex plot and interesting characters.

Audiobook purchased for review by ABR.

Please find this complete review and many others at my review blog

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Son of the Black Sword (2015) is the first Fantasy novel in the Saga of the Forgotten Warrior series. It is set in a world with various castes and casteless untouchables.

In this novel, Ashok Vadal is a Protector of the Law. He carries an ancestor blade of black metal named Angruvadal.

Mindarin is the Master of the Protectors. He replaced Ratul.

Ratul was the former Master. He got religion and fled from the Protectors.

Deveda is also a Protector. He does not carry an ancestor blade, but covets one.

Keta was a butcher. Then Ratul made him the Keeper of Names.

In this story, Ashok has a familiar dream. He is washing blood from the floor. He scrubs the blood and then squeezes the pink liquid into a bucket.

Footsteps intrude on his dream. He calls out and is answered by a local warrior. They have news of the demon.

Ashok goes to the village where the demon is killing the casteless. The local warriors are reluctant to go into the village. He goes alone and finds the demon.

The demon attacks him and then runs away. Ashok follows the creature. Then a second demon appears.

Ashok kills both demons, but loses much blood. The Heart of the Mountains slowly closes the injuries. Yet the damage will take time to heal.

Deveda meets Ashok outside the village. He has a message for Ashok. Mindarin is ill and Deveda believes that Ashok will become the Master.

Ashok rides back to the Capitol. He rides several horses to exhaustion. Weeks later, he goes into Mindarin's bedroom to find the Master very wasted.

Mindarin tells him about a letter that will present the truth about him. The Master gives him a choice between reading the letter and learning the truth or not reading the letter and becoming Mindarin's replacement.

Ashok reads the letter. He leaves the Capitol and goes home to Vadal. He kills the woman who had his mother executed.

Ashok surrenders himself into custody. He is still wearing Angruvadal, so no one bothers him. His cell door isn't even locked.

This tale has Ashok having flashbacks of his life. He remembers his acceptance by Angruvadal. He recollects his acceptance as an Acolyte of the Protectors. He recalls climbing a mountain with Deveda and three other Acolytes. He reflects on meeting Ratul at the summit and being introduced to the Heart.

Deveda becomes the new Master of the Order. He goes to see Ashok in prison. He almost fights a duel with Ashok, but changes his mind.

Then Keta tells Ashok his own name and the name of his mother and father. The next installment in this sequence has not yet been announced on the store.

Highly recommended for Correia fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of social castes, the history of the Law, and a bit of romance . Read and enjoy!

-Arthur W. Jordin

Larry Correia has found a comfortable place in the world of urban fiction, crafting bestselling, entertaining adventures for Owen Pitt in his Monster Hunter series. He also has done very well in mixing in books for the more pulpy-feeling Grimnoir Chronicles. Now he is looking to spread his already sizable wingspan a bit and set his sights on developing a line of epic fantasy works. SON OF THE BLACK SWORD is the first volley in this new conquest, and while it won’t launch him into the pantheon of fantasy greats, it does lay some groundwork for what promises to be an entertaining series.

Legend tells us that the War of the Gods ended with the demons being cast out, turning their vile hate upon mankind. The gods sent a hero to help unite the peoples of mankind in driving back the demonic forces. This history has faded to myth, if remembered at all, and gods are forgotten as the Age of Law is ushered in. This brings us to Ashok Vadal, the best of the best as Protector of the Law. He is merciless in his defense of the law, in bringing those who practice the old ways to justice. His is a world of black and white. You are obeying the Law, or you are in defiance of it. Given Ashok’s diligence, you do not want to be in defiance of the Law.

However, Ashok finds his worldview turned upside down as he starts to unravel some mysterious threads of his history, realizing that the world is far more shaded in gray than his black and white worldview had previously permitted. As he begins to question himself and why he is who he is, he also begins questioning the very Law he is sworn to uphold, coming to believe that there may be little justice in a system he now sees as corrupted and broken. As such, Ashok diverges from his just path, pushing him to walk the road of a rebellious leader.

One of the promising spins Correia provides in SON OF THE BLACK SWORD is locale. The land of Lok is spiced with a more Indian/Southeast Asia flavor as opposed to the dominant European-style fantasies that flood the market. So while Lok is indeed a creation wholly new for readers, it is tinged with a touch more of an outlier feeling than we are used to in usual fantasy, or even Correia’s previous works, which tend to be more rooted in recognizable settings and times. It is a welcome deviation from the norm.

Overall, Correia isn’t breaking any new ground in terms of fantasy. Much of the book utilizes the standard tropes of the genre. That does not mean to imply that it’s not worthwhile. Many different meals can be concocted from the same base ingredients. Correia is, above all, a storyteller, and he weaves a unique and entertaining tale. Without question, his action sequences pop on the page, his magic system has a nice wrinkle, and he has the foundations laid out for some excellent character growth as the series continues.

SON OF THE BLACK SWORD is a pretty bold step for Correia. While he could have sat back and churned out Monster Hunter books with little rest, he has pushed himself into an area that he hasn’t comfortably explored. He successfully completed this quest and, at the same time, has given readers a quick, entertaining and enticing read. I would dare say it is not quite the epic fantasy it may have intended to be, but even better --- and perhaps even more into Correia’s wheelhouse --- is seeing so many Robert E. Howard-esque elements here, making this more accurately categorized as sword and sorcery. In that light, the book is a definite hit.

Reviewed by Stephen Hubbard

As Larry Correia’s biggest fan I’ve been looking forward to his fantasy debut for a while now. If I remember properly he’s been teasing fans, talking about it on his blog for a couple years now at least. Judging by how incredibly large scale Larry’s urban fantasy and alternate history novels have been I’ve been eager to see what he could do with straight up fantasy. I can happily say that SON OF THE BLACK SWORD will not disappoint the Monster Hunter Nation and it will also likely earn Larry a lot of new fans from the fantasy genre.

Here’s the plot synopsis: After the War of the Gods, the demons were cast out and fell to the world. Mankind was nearly eradicated by the seemingly unstoppable beasts, until the gods sent the great hero, Ramrowan, to save them. He united the tribes, gave them magic, and drove the demons into the sea. Yet as centuries passed, Gods and demons became myth and legend, and the people no longer believed. The Age of Law began.

Ashok Vadal has been chosen by a powerful ancient weapon to be its bearer. He is a Protector, the elite militant order of roving law enforcers. No one is more merciless in rooting out those who secretly practice the old ways. Everything is black or white, good or evil, until he discovers his entire life is a fraud. Ashok isn’t who he thinks he is, and when he finds himself on the wrong side of the law, the consequences lead to rebellion, war—and destruction.

Ashok seems like a deceptively simple character. Trained by an order of warrior monks and chosen by the ancestor blade Angruvadal to be its bearer, Ashok is peerless. He is the best of the Protectors, a perfect soldier that carries out orders without question. The massacres he has perpetrated in obedience to the Law have earned him the nickname Black Heart. On the surface he could appear one-dimensional but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The truth is that Ashok shares literary DNA with Toru, the disgraced samurai from The Grimnoir Chronicles and Agent Franks from Monster Hunter International–my two favorite Correia characters. Ashok starts out as a tool, a weapon, but this is purposeful. When Ashok’s world is turned upside down by a terrible truth his unflinching devotion to the law serves to really complicate matters for him and everyone else.

There’s a certain humor to Ashok, despite his stoic, no-nonsense attitude (or perhaps because of it). We have a protagonist that believes so fiercely in the Law that he voluntarily turns himself in to the authorities upon committing a crime, imprisoning himself in a jail that could not possibly contain him. He’s not a good man by any means. Over the 20 years he has served as a Protector he slaughtered countless men, women, and children for a number of offenses. And yet this is the man that has been fated to lead a rebellion that will free millions of casteless from tyranny. There’s a prophecy but it’s a nice twist on the typical simple, innocent farm boy who will rise to defeat evil. Ashok has a fulfilling character arc over the course of SON OF THE BLACK SWORD and there’s still much more room for him yet to grow as the series continues.

Correia novels are notorious for ensemble casts of colorful characters–in the case of the Monster Hunter series several of the supporting characters have been so successful as to earn their own spin-off novels (MONSTER HUNTER ALPHA EBR review and MONSTER HUNTER NEMESIS EBR review). SON OF THE BLACK SWORD introduces a handful of potentially amazing characters, though the book would have benefited from giving them a greater focus. A lot of time is wisely spent developing Ashok but the others are given considerably less attention. I’m very interested to learn more about Jagdish the twice-dishonored warrior, Rada the antisocial archivist, Keta the Keeper of Names, and Thera the mysterious mercenary. Regardless, this is only the first book of the series and there is plenty of time and opportunity to further flesh out these characters. I also look forward for more to be revealed about Grand Inquisitor Omand, Sikasso the assassin and their motivations come the sequel. Correia writes some of the absolute best multi-dimensional villains you can find in genre fiction.

Those fantasy readers who have grown tired of white bread pseudo-European settings should rejoice because SON OF THE BLACK SWORD has a very obvious Asian flavor to it (for reasons that are hinted at over the course of the novel). I believe that it’s safe to say that the Writer Nerd Game Night’s Legend of the Five Rings fan fiction has had a major influence on the creation of this world (in the best possible way).

There are lots of fun nuggets of world building. Demons dwell in the ocean and as a result mankind has been confined to land for centuries. Demons occasionally strike forth from the depths and wreak havoc on coastal cities. Only the lowest of the low are condemned to live near water. “Fish-eater” is used as a derogatory term while “ocean” and “saltwater” are used as curses. Another awesome aspect of SON OF THE BLACK SWORD is the titular black sword. Ancestor blades are extremely rare relics. They are the only weapons capable of easily parting demon flesh and bearers have access to the instincts of all those to have wielded the sword before them. These black swords (such as Ashok’s Angruvadal) are the ultimate weapon/status symbol and they are a major driving force of the plot. I will admit that terms like “Inquisition” and “Protector” could have been substituted for something better fitting of the setting but that’s a minor nitpick.

The continent of Lok is ruled, not by a brutal tyrant but instead by an uncaring bureaucracy. Religion and superstition are illegal, punishable by death and the Law dictates every aspect of daily life. A rigid caste system maintains order and at the bottom of the hierarchy are the casteless. These untouchables aren’t even considered human and as a result they are treated as property less valuable than livestock. For hundreds of years the casteless have lived brief, meaningless lives toiling in fear but a Prophet has been chosen and the rebellion ignited. The history of Lok is obscured to all but a select few though myths and legends are difficult to stamp out entirely.

This wouldn’t be a very good review of a Correia book if I neglected to talk about the action. When you open SON OF THE BLACK SWORD be sure to wear a parka because you’re going to be bathed in buckets of blood. With his magical sword and Protector training Ashok is the sort of protagonist to do Conan proud. There’s a running melee through a mountain town between Ashok and an army of raiders at the end of the book that lives up to Correia’s trademark set piece battles. What I appreciate most is that the protagonists are given logical reasons for being able to surviving pitched combat that would fell an ordinary man or woman in moments. It’s fantasy, sure, but that doesn’t mean it has to be unbelievable.

The plotting is as deft as it’s ever been, Correia’s writing only continues to approve with every new release. There are a couple of awesome twists, including one with some major implications that I truly did not see coming. Hints are dropped over the course of the novel relating to the true nature of things but there are a lot of questions in need of answering. SON OF THE BLACK SWORD delivers a fun and fulfilling sword & sorcery tale while setting the stage for something even greater for the sequels to come. Correia thinks BIG and I’m confident that Saga of the Forgotten Warrior book two will serve to ramp up the scale to mammoth proportions.

Recommended Age: 14+
Language: I only remember a few minor curses (beyond the made up ones)
Violence: Robert E. Howard levels of violence
Sex: Hinted at but not shown.

Ahoy there mateys! Thought I would take a break from the e-Arc extravaganza. Though the first mate and I have very different reading tastes, occasionally we do recommend books to each other. Books the first mate introduced to me included xom-b, holes, and the perks of being a wallflower. He and I both read this one.

We were talking about the book and I enjoyed his viewpoint so I ordered him to write a review. So you get one from me and a bonus additional review from me crew. Please note that I write like I talk and the first mate writes like he thinks. Hope you enjoy!

From the Captain:

This was a recommendation by me first mate. A fun time was had reading this book. There is a sentient sword that I adore. Even if it has a funny name. Everyone wants to own this sword, but: beware making the choice to pick it up. The sword chooses who will wield it, and the consequences tend to be bloody and unfortunate for those not worthy.

Ashok Vadal is the main character. He starts out as a seemingly simplistic character that embodies the Law. However, the Law is not as it seems and is more complicated than expected. Ashok is probably one of the weirdest characters I have read about in terms of his world view and motivations. This is part of what makes him awesome. His choices get harder and harder throughout the book and how and why he chooses what to do is some of the best parts of the book.

Ashok has a complicated relationship with Devedas, his best friend. Devedas was another highlight of the book. Is he a good guy? Is he a bad guy? Only time will tell. Devedas has a sad past, is ambitious, and is subject to envy. Reading his perspective is a fun counterpoint to Ashok.

The bad guy priest is sort of stereotypical. I also found the assassins to be an annoying group with an interesting premise. However I still enjoyed this book. In particular, I liked the magic system. Oh and there is a cool librarian, so bonus for that. A fluff book with a little bit of depth. I will certainly read the next in the series.

From the First Mate:

Having greatly enjoyed Larry Correia’s Monster Hunter series and mostly enjoyed his first foray into high fantasy (Into the Storm), I approached Son of the Black Sword with somewhat mixed feelings. On the one hand, I rather like his writing style and am always eager to read more of the writers whose work I enjoy. On the other, outside of the Monster Hunter series, Correia’s work hasn’t really grabbed me.

Son of the Black Sword, much like Into the Storm before it, is an enjoyable tale that is somewhat hampered by the ever present desire on this reader’s part to ponder its endless influences. Like many a reader, I couldn’t quite stop seeing Ashok as a Judge Dredd knock-off almost to the point of expecting him to cry out “I am the LAW” at more than a few moments. The presence of the Swords and their possible origins reminded me so very much of Fred Saberhagen’s trilogy about world-changing swords. The Inquisitors have many parallels in fantasy, but it was the Mord-siths from Terry Goodkind’s Wizard’s First Rule that seemed the most apt comparison, what with the special ceremonial attire and hyper specific and grotesque social role. And on and on.

Regardless of from where Correia may have drawn various inspirations, the story and the characters are interesting and entertaining. Our good guys are quite likable and our villains are despicable. We even get a few shades-of-grey characters who are well drawn. Where the novel disappoints is only in comparison to Correia’s better work. Son of the Black Sword works through many standard high fantasy tropes but never quite deconstructs nor spins them in a way that would elevate the work to something other than a well-written run-of-the-mill high fantasy novel. Very enjoyable as long as you’re not expecting any new ground to be broken.

After reading the novel, though, I knew I had to recommend it to the Captain. Why, you may ask? Well, any novel that uses “saltwater” as a curse surely will make the Captain smile.

If ye liked this review, check out me others at [...]

Son of the Black Sword was pleasantly surprising. I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into when I chose this as my next audiobook, but Tim Gerard Reynolds can make anything sound good, so why not, right? Larry Correia was an author I hadn’t previously read or heard of, but is (unbeknownst to me at the time) known for his Monster Hunter series.

Ashok Vadal is a Protector, and impartial executor of the law and of the highest caste, but he is also the bearer of the ancestor blade named Angru’vadal. As such, he has the skills and knowledge of the fifty generations of previous sword bearers and is nigh unstoppable. Fortunate for everyone that he’s utterly dedicated to the law, eh? Ashok is a pawn in a much larger and more corrupt game than he realizes is being played and some significant (understatement) secrets have been kept from him about his past. These secrets are what ultimately drive him from the arm of the Protector order and into his new situation. Ashok was an intense MC- his dedication to justice, plus his battle prowess, and his honorable bearing gave him automatic hero status, though I did find his all consuming desire to uphold the law to be aggravating, but I am rationally inclined towards MCs that are morally grey. They seem more realistic to me, though I suppose the unquestioning zealot is just as likely.

Perhaps you may have guessed from the name and the mention of the castes, but Son of the Black Sword is influenced by Indian traditions and culture. I’ve read a scant few SFF books based off Indian culture and the last ones I can remember were Robert Jackson Bennett’s City of Stairs and City of Blades, so this was a rare treat for me. I enjoyed the world building and I like the idea of monstrous sea demons and having the best and safest cities in the desert. This is contrary to the usual portrayal of deserts as wastelands and water or the sea as the cradle of life.

Son of the Black Sword left me wanting more, so I obviously went and sought out the release date for book #2. I can’t wait to see where this story leads in the end and if you haven’t checked it out yet, do so because it was pretty awesome!

Ashok is the greatest of the Protectors: eliete warriors with superhuman fortitude utterly devoted to upholding the Law. With his magical black sword containing centuries of battle experience, it takes armies and even demons to challenge him. Yet, his greatest opponent will be the truth in the face of his convictions...

The new fantasy epic I've waited for is here. Correia has a new take on the "Chosen One" concept in fantasy: what happens after the world is saved, becomes corrupt again, and once more needs a chosen one again. He gives us a fantasy world unlike others I've seen before, and creates apparently insoluble conflicts for the hero to solve. While the fight scenes are brilliantly conceived and described, the real conflicts come between the hero's sense of law, justice and morality, as they come into conflict with each other. Ashok is fantastic: a meld of Conan, Judge Dredd and pure awesome. This doesn't have the wry humor of Correi's "Monster Hunter" series, it's dead serious and he makes it work.

Ashok is a highly efficient killing machine who begins as a single-minded 20-year veteran of The Protectors, whose mission is to serve as judge, jury, and executioners of anyone who breaks The Law. The book begins with him defeating two huge demons which only serve as a warmup to the action yet to come.

Ashok's leader gives him a choice to either take a well-deserved retirement or find out a secret that will change the entire world.

There are at least two things I really liked about this book. The first is that with the enhanced physical abilities provided by The Heart of the Mountain and the combat abilities from the ancient and sentient black sword, Angruvadal, Ashok is nearly invincible. He has incredible speed, strength, endurance, healing, and combat awareness that allows him to fight and beat up to 50 men at a time. He very much reminds me of Drizzt from the Forgotten Realms series by R.A. Salvatore because of both his skills and single-mindedness.

The other thing I liked was the background story that developed as I read. I began reading about a highly skilled swordsman who lives in a world with demons but I also learned about the history of the world, the politics, and the social-economic status of the people. There are several people that you get to know including the political Inquisitors, Ashok's previous friend from the Protectors, a librarian who searches the history books for secrets and more.

If you are looking for an action-packed, well-written new fantasy series within a beautiful yet scarred world you must read Son of the Black Sword. I give it five out of five stars.

For someone who is not now and likely never will be A Real Writer , International Lord Of Hate and Golden Gloves Kitten Puncher Larry Correia shows remarkable versatility of craft. Son of The Black Sword is a significant departure from modern run n gun urban fantasy that has formed the basis of Correia's career to date. The book is set in an old-school fantasy universe, or at least it appears to be. Elements later on suggest that we may be looking less at a fantasy universe and more at one of the subtler manifestations of Arthur C Clarke's "Any sufficiently advanced technology..." quote in recent times. The main character, Ashok is a Protector Of THe Law, a group of warrior monks tasked with upholding the extremely rigid and repressive status quo in a highly stratified society operating at iron-age tech levels. A discovery by Ashok early on throws not only his worldview but his personal identity into a blender. More on that in a second.

The action sequences are generally well done, easy to visualize thanks to the author's trademark vivid descriptive style and mostly well choreographed. Once or twice you find yourself thinking "Ummm no, that wouldn't work" but such lapses are minor and can be forgiven when held against what a generally great job he does with them.

The world and culture in which Ashok exists may well be the finest world-building Mr. Correia has ever done. Readers get enough detail to truly understand -and frankly detest- this society without getting bogged down. "Show don't tell" has been taken as holy writ here and it shows. No sane human being would WANT to live in Ashok's society but this feels as if it was written by someone who spent time actually doing so.

I have to take points off for a lack of humor. Mr. Correia normally infuses his work with a solid dose of laughs. See "Monster Hunter Nemesis" for a good example. I realize that this is a much more serious place and a much more serious subject but I still wish he had found a way to work more levity into the story.

What really MAKES this book for me is not the richly painted world or the intricate and highly believable society that maintains consistent throughout. What does it is watching Ashok grow throughout the telling of the tale. How do you function when you learn your entire life, your entire value system, indeed your very identity is based on a huge lie? Watching Ashok grow as a person, and adapt his behavior without ever truly abandoning his principles even when the foundation of those principles abandons HIM was, for me the best part of this story. The inner struggle he undergoes is well-portrayed without being overdone or emo at any point. You really feel as if you are getting a peek inside the skull of a man undergoing a MAJOR crisis of identity and conscious. In the begining Ashok is little more than an automaton. Wind him up, aim him at a problem and send in some casteless with mops afterwards. By the end of the book...well that would be spoiling it and that would be a damn shame. In summation Son Of The Black Sword was time and money well spent. I very much look forward to learning what happens next and strongly urge you to experience this latest endeavor by a major talent firsthand .

My biggest complaint about the novel is that I have to wait for part 2 and 3 to come out. Larry Correia is a very polished writer, a good story teller. I love the build to the battle on the ice, very cinematic even if that wasn't the writer's intention. I still can't get over how well Larry Correia writes action scenes. I've read people like Child to King and sometimes have to read their passages over and over before I can envision how they are trying to describe the action. I never once had to do that with this novel. I seriously can't think of anything I wish he would have done different with this book. Some minor character issues with the villains maybe? But it's a trilogy so characters that weren't as well developed in this novel I'm sure will have more depth in the next two as this first one really wasn't about them and it wasn't told through their eyes.
As far as fantasy novels go, this is a first rate adventure. I read comments about this book having nothing new in it but come on, it's a fantasy novel. It doesn't have elves, dwarves, or the other typical Tolkien things in it so it's already ahead of the curve. I still want to know what a new "fantasy" novel is supposed to mean anyways. That's like writing a cop story and saying it's not anything you haven't read before. Sons of the black sword has a lot to offer when it comes to world building, character development and honor. I can't recommend this novel enough to my fellow fantasy fans out there.

Having thoroughly enjoyed Correia's Monster Hunter series set in our contemporary social millieu and meshed to "the real world", I was very curious how he would handle sword/sorcery/fantasy set in a fully other world and was not disappointed.

I was pleased to see the local library had the hardcover version and checked it out and my only niggle was mostly with the library for gluing stuff over the fantasy world maps inside the covers. Even without the glued-in stuff, the outer cover/sleeve would have to have been removed to fully see the maps. For that reason I wished the book had a repeat of the map a few pages in so I could actually refer to all of it.

To the story: I expected it to center strongly around a main character given Correia's penchant and the title of the book and this was indeed true and what the author has done with the main character is really breaking the mold while remaining true to the essentials we expect of a "hero" book. There is an ontological feel of allegory and a sense of a much deeper philosophical skeletal structure beneath the main character's story line and the overall plot that creates depth and a sense of vast unexplored territory in both the invented physical world and the psychological and social landscape within which the characters wrestle. The book ended far too soon, and as with the MHI series, I'm drumming my fingers waiting for the next installment. You will not be able to predict the many twists and turns and that is always refreshing. There is a part of my brain that is always trying to figure out if the author knows where he is going ahead of time or if he is discovering as he goes along (either is fine, but it just fascinates me to ponder it), and I'd like to think I have a good sense of this, but Correia always leaves me unsure which really adds to my enjoyment of his books as he even leaves that metalevel unpredictable for me as well as the plot. If you like action-oriented, tragically-flawed, but ultimately heroic heroes, very evil bad guys, and complex broken people with saving graces in between you will dig this book mightily. The opening book bodes well for the series, and the created universe bodes well for future collaborations and tie-ins.

I have been looking forward to Son of the Black Sword ever since I read "The Keeper Of Names" in Baen’s Shattered Shields anthology (reviewed November last year). "The Keeper Of Names" is not only an engaging and more than competent short story, it serves as an introduction to a new venture for Larry Correia: the Saga Of The Forgotten Warrior.

Son Of The Black Sword opens with Ashok Vadal, Protector of the Law, battling demons risen from the sea. Where one was reported, two appear. Ashok is gravely injured and unable to fight both. One of the demons is distracted by another man with a spear, allowing Ashok to gain the upper hand and win the fight. Both demons are killed. It is then Ashok’s duty to kill his rescuer. The man is casteless, a non-person, and the Law prohibits non-people to touch weapons. Because the casteless’ intervention surely saved Ashok’s life, he is prepared to be merciful. If the man will put down his spear and walk away, Ashok will let him live. While they argue, the casteless man’s fate is decided by one of the warrior caste.

The incident serves as a brutal but compelling introduction to Correia’s world. It is also a hint of all that will follow. That one moment of compassion will change Ashok’s life.

Following the battle, Ashok is summoned to appear before the Lord Protector. Though he is humble enough not to want the title of Lord Protector for himself, it is assumed it will be offered to him. Ashok is not the most senior, but he is the most feared of all the Protectors. Over nearly twenty years, he has built a reputation for being the ultimate instrument of the Law. He is offered the title and a letter. After he’s read the letter, it will be his choice to either accept the appointment or retire from the Order.

When the contents of the letter expose the fallacy of his entire life, Ashok journeys to the only home he remembers and takes the Law into his own hands, setting in motion a series of events that are both unexpected and foretold. His actions put him on the wrong side of everything he believes in, but on the right side of a battle as old as time, that is between the downtrodden and their oppressors. He will become an unwitting and unwilling symbol for the casteless, for the non-persons, and a reason for them to rise up at last and take back what may rightfully be theirs.

It’s difficult to write something new when creating a world of fantasy. There is a sense every story has already been told, the mythos all pieces and parts, the magic borrowed. Son Of The Black Sword manages to entice the reader with enough familiarity – an embittered warrior, a magic sword, a prophecy – while telling a story that feels fresh. A part of this is Ashok’s character. His absolute adherence to the Law, even when it betrays him, is the fulcrum of this novel. Ironically, having such a stubborn man at the centre makes the rest of the story difficult to predict because you’re unable to guess what his tipping point will be until it happens. Until then, his action and non-action both will affect all other players and plotlines.

The lore here is fascinating and well told. I enjoyed learning the history of the world and the legend of Ramrowan. The politics are just complicated enough to feel real without being too difficult to follow. Where the book truly shines, however, is in the characters. All are well drawn and distinctively voiced. My favourite is Jagdish. He is the guy in the middle. A warrior of low rank and high aims. Unfortunately, every time his path crosses that of Ashok Vadal, his rank falls and his ambitions recede further into the distance. Jagdish is a good man, however, and one of the few who seem able to think outside of the caste box. I also got the feeling Correia enjoyed writing Jagdish as his chapters are full of the author’s trademark wit and humour.

Being a novel of the fantastically epic variety, Son Of The Black Sword serves as the beginning of the ‘Saga Of The Forgotten Warrior’. But it does deliver a complete and satisfying tale while setting up the larger story. I’m looking forward to reading on.

Reviewed for SFCrowsnest.

This is the first of a new epic fantasy by Larry Correia. He's usually writing urban fantasy or diesel pun or military action. Those forays clearly inform this book and it made for a really good fit for this genre.

I like epic fantasy, but I find that the world building can be very slow. I often see reviews where people just couldn't get through to the "good stuff". Not so here. I think Correia's urban fantasy experience informs his world building and he just gets right on with the story. Certainly there's information still to impart throughout, but I was pulled in enough from the very beginning that I never felt distracted by trying to figure out what was what and who was who. His magic system is fairly straight forward and that helps.

The world he's built is one under the rule of Law. Yes, with a capital "L". It has replaced religion (which is illegal in all forms) and is used to perpetuate a rigid caste system from which no one can escape. The lowest of the low have no caste. They're called the "untouchables", "the casteless", basically non-people. They're used for labor but easily discarded while livestock and belongings are protected against harm.

It's a world where there are demons that live in the ocean making sea travel impossible as they can board vessels and kill everyone aboard. There is also magic, but it's also illegal in most forms even though it's practiced on the sly.

And speaking of practicing on the sly, systems such as these tend to make black markets and secret organizations the norm. When authority rules absolutely, everyone is at risk of being trampled by it.

Enter a warrior who has been the most fierce guardian of the Law to date. A powerful Protector who is both feared and admired. Mostly feared. Ashok is so devoted to the Law that he doesn't even question when he has to kill an entire group of people for an infraction. He follows the Law absolutely with no doubts whatsoever as to its righteousness.

His world is about to be turned upside down.

There are other characters of course, but Ashok is the most important. He's a lot like Agent Franks in Correia's Monster Hunter International series, but there are some very important differences as well. He's definitely an "I've never failed a mission!" type of guy (a typical Agent Franks phrase for those who haven't read MHI).

The entire world from top to bottom in this series is being turned upside down and the villains have no idea what they've unleashed. I'm hoping for redemption for some and slow torturous death for others, but regardless I will be reading the whole thing.

Son of the Black Sword is the first book in a new series by author Larry Correia. I am very much a fan of the author and very much recommend not only this book but also his "Monster Hunter" and "Grimnoir" series (heck, I recommend everything he has written or co-written).

While this is a "fantasy" series the author has created a world that is not your typical "northern european" setting or Middle-Earth knock off. The world is detailed and gritty with interesting (and some frightening) characters.

The author has turned a standard fantasy trope on its head. In many stories the central character is a young person that over the course of time develops their skill and abilities and eventually fulfill their destiny. In this novel, the main character is fully grown, highly experienced, and incredibly powerful that discovers much of what he knew is wrong and is faced with a crisis of identity and the questioning of fundamental beliefs.

Plot / Spoilers

Ashok is an experienced and skilled Protector of the Law. He is tireless and unswerving in his duty and fearless in facing the demons that come from the sea and attack mankind. Imbued with power by the Order, he also bears one of the few Ancestor Blades, magical weapons of ancient craft made with the mystical black metal. A scion of a powerful noble house of the highest caste, Ashok is the ideal warrior and the emobiement of Law itself.

In a troubled time when the demons are becoming more active, where political intrigue is rife, and where the Forgotten itself is stirring, Ashok is given a choice that shatters his certainty, his identity, and his future. The victim of long ago lies, secrets, and manipulation, Ashok is both pawn and player in a world facing unimaginable change.

In this backdrop, Ashok must decide who he is and what he serves -- and this choice will change the world itself.

Larry Corriea’s Son of the Black Sword.
2016 Dragon Award Winner for Best Fantasy.

Son of the Black Sword grabs you by the lapels, drags you into the story and sets off on a wild roller coaster ride.

The plot is quick paced. The story opens strong and never lets up, moving from one development to another. There are enough details to give you a feel for what is happening and the environment, but you’re never over burdened. Larry is apparently a believer in Checkov’s gun: if he takes the time to show you something, it will show up again, somewhere somehow. I am pleased that every reveal in the story was either a total surprise (Oh, wow, not what I thought) or unexpected (man, I did *not* see that coming). On reflection, I can see where some foreshadowing was woven in, little details that were missed on the first read. But I was so engrossed in the story that I didn’t take the time to try and predict the outcome.

The characters are rich and complex. Everyone has background, motives, and desires. They talk and act as real people, complete with human flaws. Even minor characters come to life in this story.

This is book 1 of a new series. I am looking forward to seeing the more.

I am not, as a rule, much of a fan of classical style fantasy. I am glad that I ignored my bias and read this one. A must read.

I purchased this book from the publisher, not the store.

I will be honest, I didn't know what to expect when I picked up "Son of the Black Sword". I have read much of Correia's stuff, and have enjoyed most of it, so I was expecting a fantasy "Monster Hunter" book. I was wrong (happily)
Black sword deals with a world where god(s) and demons fought in heaven, and the demons were sent to earth. Without creating to many spoilers, the war on earth against the Demons was long, civilization crashed, and a character referred to as an angel of god(s) is sent down to save mankind. He does so, but as the years pass his descendants become tyrants, the people rebel, and all religion is replaced by the Law. The job of killing demons is sent to a small order of warriors who pledge to follow the law, and nothing else.

The main protagonist of the book is a warrior who was part of the Order of Protectors, who then finds out he is of the untouchable cast. Fall's transformation from a automaton of the Law to a.. well human person is very well done.

I like this book. I like the pseudo Indian world it takes place in. I love the exploration of a world where religion was banned, but man must worship something so they worship the law.

I look forward to the next book.

Son of the Black Sword is author Larry Correia's first novel in a new epic fantasy series. I've been a fan of his other works for years and his writing just keeps getting better and better. SotBS starts with plenty of action to keep you entertained, though it may seem slow at first because you don't start to discover plot points right away. Or maybe you do, but you don't realize they're relevant plot points at this stage of the book.
Larry does a great job of introducing his very unique world organically, without resorting to the info dumps some authors use. You discover how the world brutal caste system plays out both in theory and in practice, and how their form of government and religion functions. There is magic in this world, though it's mostly a used by a few very powerful figures and not a part of everyday life.
About 1/3 through the story really picks up and when you think you might know where it's going, it throws you for a twist.
I'm now waiting anxiously for the sequel.

I read quite a bit of fantasy and enjoyed this book. Mr Correia has built an interesting world with a history and rules I haven't encountered before. The main character, Ashok, is something of a Trojan horse in that the reader thinks he/she has him figured out, but about half way through the book, realizes that's not the case. The fighting scenes may not be Joe Abercrombie-good, but they are very well described. The plot is interesting, and I'm looking forward to the next volume in the series. I only wish Mr. Correia had a better editor. There were many instances of double words, mixed up sentences, and even a main character's name spelled incorrectly.

A very entertaining fantasy story; however, it suffers from "Robert Jordan-syndrome", e.g. "The Wheel of Time," where the author spends multiple pages describing fantasy world farming techniques at the cost of story pacing. Mr. Correia is nowhere near as bad, but he could definitely do with a little more "show" and less "tell." This is sad because the story is awesome. Every one of the primary characters has its own character arc, which is pretty tough to pull off, and those characters pull you back into the story when the background and plot exposition drag the story to a crawl.

Mr. Correia is a talented writer; I enjoyed his "Monster Hunter" and "Warbound" books immensely; however, I can only give "Black Sword" a low 4. Would I buy it again? Yes, absolutely.

Larry's writing career through Monster Hunter International and The Grimoire has been fun books that deliver what readers want- action, interesting characters, and situations that make good stories.
Son of the Black Sword is where he truly finds his voice. He has matured like a fine wine.
To continue the wine analogy-
I find notes of Saberhagen, Herbert, Rosenberg and Cherryh with a strong finish of Shimozawa and Mizoguchi. The story rolls off the synapses with a dark and acidic body that is full of foreshadowing of the conflicts to come.
The world of the series is fairly well described and yet leaves much to be revealed.
I wait for the next installment expectantly.
Thank you, Larry Corriea, and thank you Baen Books for giving him a shot.
All hail the International Lord of Hate!

I did love this book. I didn't expect to when I first started it, but as it progressed I was intrigued with the political side and the 'magic'. I have to admit that I will read anything Larry Correia writes, as I find his writing (and editing) excellent, as well as the storyline being coherent and with enough twists and turns to keep me guessing. Monster Hunter International will always be my #1 favorite as it was my 'first' Correia, but I will read Son of the Black Sword again. And again.

Probably while at sea, when I need to curl up and get out of the weather. I take all my favorites with me.

Thanks Larry! Another slam dunk book!

Longtime Fan - Cap'n Jan

So. Mr. Correia is, and I make no secret of this, one of my favorite authors. I have read everything he's written, including the collaborations with Kupari.

I love the MHI series, but the Grimnoir books, while interesting, weren't all that compelling to me. I was never bored, per se, but never interested enough to really give a damn how it was going to turn out. I was worried that Son of the Black Sword would be the same, and I am so so happy to say I was wrong.

This isn't just good Fantasy, it's GREAT fantasy. Fantastic world building, and Larry does a superb job of giving you just enough myth and legend (and lies) to make the world seem absolutely fleshed out without vomiting Tolkien-esque backstory or genealogy. The pacing is good, the characters are well written, and the conflict has some degree of nuance, which is something I think's been missing from his writing. Not a LOT of ethical or moral complexity mind you, this is entertainment after all, not philosophy. But enough to spice the conflict and make me actually care and question thoughts and motivations of more characters than just the main players.

I consumed this novel in a single day, moving from the couch basically to only feed and relieve myself, and while I've read SOME books like that, it isn't common for me. This book is excellent, I loved basically every page. Depending on how the next books in the saga turn out, this has the potential to easily knock MHI off it's pedestal as my favorite of Larry's works.

If you are a fan of fantasy OR any of Larry's other books, you really owe it to yourself to read. Any praise you hear is probably deserved, and I personally couldn't recommend it higher.

I’m a big fan of Larry Correia’s books in general, so when I had the opportunity to snag his upcoming epic fantasy book, the first of a new series, I bought it with little hesitation.

I’ll note here that I read an electronic Advanced Reader Copy (eARC) through Baen’s website. So I’m not going to comment on grammar or editing issues, I’m just going to talk the story.

This is a solid book. Larry Correia has created a deep world with complex issues. I’ll say right here that it is not a world I would want to live in. It is a world filled with petty tyrants, a caste system restrictive enough to get violators killed, and an overreaching bureaucracy that tries to control everything and only seems to succeed in making peoples lives miserable.

Into this world are cast a number of characters. Some good, some bad, some heroic with tragic flaws and others self-interested yet still willing to help others out. The main character is very remenicent of Agent Franks from Larry Correia’s Monster Hunter series and even more so of his Clan Crab character from his Legend of the Five Rings RPG write-up. Ashok Vadal is as much of a weapon as the sword he carries. Yet underneath that, something troubles him, dreams and visions of things that make no sense to him. He fights evil unquestioningly, until something forces him to reexamine what evil really means.

The entire book is a great read. Lots of action and adventure and just enough world-building spread in so that you get the grasp of a full, living world, without getting bogged down in the details. I highly recommend it.

It takes something original and very grim dark. No romance, complex characters and a gripping story. This is it! I get so many books and can't get through them due to, slow pace and too much childish high school romance. I like fantasy yet not the typical vampires and such. This is like a Martin RR book mixed in with a Tolkien. I can't wait for the next book to this series. Thank you for this story! I so so so so... Have been looking for something decent while waiting for years, (and i mean years, 'I've been married and divorced') for Winds of Winter.

If you like this book I recommend reading, The Mermaids Tale. Very awesome book as well!

The Monster Hunter series is good. The Grimnoir Chronicles even better (definitely set a high bar for Mr. Correia), but with this book hie knocks it out of the park. In fact, I don't think the ball has landed yet. There is action, sure, but also a grim thoughtfulness and an attention character building that, while not lacking in his other attempts, he perfects here. If the next in the series prove to be as well crafted, then I think Larry Correia will have set a benchmark for which other fantasy writers must strive. Dark, dangerous and impressive, this one stands out.

On the one hand, Correia's best writing...but not his best storytelling. The entire book is basically a prologue for something to come. I get it - "series" books are all the rage - but honestly I prefer a complete story in the first book. Not so much here. We reach some destination at the end, but only after a final rushed sprint. I will read the second book in this series, because I think the concept is sound and I came out eventually liking the story. I also trust Correia to craft a more developed concept in later works.

But...I did not like the main character because he comes across a bit daft and slow: he spends a year in prison contemplating his very existence and come away with nothing? That's daft. It's also Correia's major failing here, but for now it is not fatal. I hope.

On the plus side, the World-building is exceptional and devoid of all the "info dumps" that lessor works rely upon. If you like completely new terrain, this is a good example of how to build it right. Titles, castes, concepts and even technical matters are introduced often without any explanation, but context eventually sorts it all out. You get an understanding of this world not by lecture, but through experience. Honestly this is a major step up over Correia's other works (which I enjoy). It's great to see an author mature right before your eyes (or ears in the case of Audible).

Where things were weak: character development of our protagonist. The entire point of this book is to introduce Ashok and to develop his character within his world. Ashok starts as such a strong presence, but then becomes a wallflower to his own identity crisis for 4/5ths the book. Not "I am conflicted" wallflower, but literally "I have no thought worth mention" wallflower. He kinda gets it in the end, but the point of this entire book is Ashok and his transformation from a virtual automaton to a human. But it's not a journey - it's a languid, dead pool for most of the book and then a frenetic sprint to make up lost ground at the end. We don't get a sense that the character is maturing or even learning - he ends up operating on pure instinct at the end of the book and has almost zero opportunity for self-reflection to figure out from where that instinct wells. We lost an opportunity to understand what might have become Correia's best character yet.

Correia does the fight scenes here much better than the MHI series; we get a good sense of the action and the flow without the distraction of tracking every atom. Some of the MHI action is a little too detailed - not commenting on the graphic nature of violence, but rather the fact that the prose tracks tons of mundane and frankly useless data. Black Sword gets this right. Just enough detail to feel honest, but enough left out to let the reader fill in some details in their head. Personally, letting me fill in some blanks is what will draw me into a story. I become invested when I put the final touches into a tapestry. Too many authors provide so much detail, it becomes graffiti. Correia found that balance here.

Missing is the slapstick of MHI. There is a little levity here and there, but it is subdued and careful not to distract from the more somber tone of the story. Both styles work in their respective stories - MHI is a good series. But this is not MHI in a new universe. This is a different style of writing all together. I like them both.

Overall a good book, but one that missed an opportunity to endear the title character to me. As a testament to Correia's talent, I enjoyed the entire book even as I hoped for our main character to behave less like a dumb log, and more like a human who has reality suddenly thrust upon him.

Special Audible review: this book came to me mostly via Audible - new and routine long periods in the car has given me a newfound willingness to listen to a book. The narrator - Time Gerard Reynolds - is legions better than many others. I think he understood Ashok the same way I did: monotone indifference to his own plight. That said, he pulls it off with aplomb and kept me interested in an otherwise monotone subject. Secondary characters are handled well, and in only a few cases was it confusing who was behind a snippet of dialogue. I hope we hear Mr. Reynolds again.

I am fan of Larry Correia's work. I think he is easily one of the best action writers out there. His fight scenes are compellingly written and clearly described with an attention to detail that is often missing in other writers' work. In this, Son of the Black Sword is no different.

There are also some fairly common Correia tropes: A large, angry, violent man with a sense of honor. External, supernatural forces guiding the actions of the heroes. Duplicitous government functionaries using their position of authority for personal gain.

However, this book contains something that neither the Monster Hunter or Grimnoir series seemed to have: Sadness. Not emo-cry-in-a-corner-because-other-people-dont-understand-me self pity, but deep sadness over loss of innocence. Sure, Ashok the Black Heart does a lot of straight up ass kicking but he has been broken and violated in very tragic and fundamental ways.

Furthermore, this is easily Larry's most overtly political and spiritual book. Removed from the reality of our world and society, he has a lot of opportunities to ruminate on freedom and faith, without making the book into a preachy, libertarian screed.

I greatly enjoyed this book and look forward to future installments.

I can honestly say my only complaints with this book are that I'll have to wait so long to read the rest of the series, and that I basically barely got any sleep until it was finished. Fortunately, I've read enough of Larry's other books to know the latter issue was coming, and didn't crack it open until the weekend.

Much like with the Grimnoir series, Larry has built a very detailed world with compelling characters and an even more compelling story line. Based on the few reveals that happen in the first book, I expect that it will also resemble the Grimnoir series in having no wasted details. Larry is a man who fully embraces the concept of "Chekov's Gun".

Though he would dispute it, 'Son of the Black Sword' marks Larry Correia's first venture into 'tradditional' epic fantasy. Correia not only eschews the 'real world' urban fantasy of his beloved MHI, series, he even leaves the steampunk magic Grimnoir behind. Absolutely remarkably, there are no guns, but there is action aplenty.
Nok is a continent surrounded by demon filled oceans and with a South-Asian flavored society ruled by the (capitalized) Law. The Law mandates a brutal caste system with the casteless, who are treated worse than slaves, at the bottom.
Ashok Vadal, the hero, is a Protector, a member of the militant order dedicated to ruthlessly enforcing the Law with powers beyond that of normal men, even other members of the warrior caste. In addition, Ashok bears his ancestral sword which grants the battle skills and tactical acumen of its generations of previous wielders. He is literally fearless and utterly committed to upholding the law. But a revelation will throw his Manichean worldview into utter disarray.
The novel is strong, well-written and just plain fun. In addition to the terrific action sequences we know Correia can deliver, we are also treated to a very different fantasy world with compelling and complex characters. He resists making all of Ashok's opponents completely villainous, giving them virtues to make them well rounded.
The main complaint about the novel is that the hero is not likeable or too bland is unfair. There is a reason he is that way, but to delve into it goes into spoiler territory. I eagerly and impatiently anticipate the sequels.

I've been reading this book in small increments since August, thanks to a e-book bundle program from the publisher.

I finally got the last 25% of the book when the release date was reached, and it did not disappoint. In fact, it went in a couple ways I wasn't expecting from the earlier chapters.

The strict laws and castes of the society were set up for a specific reason after a civil war. As the generations passed, that reason not only has been forgotten, but the caste that once thought the strictures necessary no longer are allowed to even learn why those rules were put into place, even as they emulate the excesses of those their ancestors rightly objected to. And, in this case, not knowing history is dooming the world to a path much worse than merely "repeating history".

Larry Correia gets better with each book he writes.

Son of the Black Sword is a bit of a departure for Correia, being traditional fantasy rather than urban fantasy. However, it has all the action that his fans have come to expect - this time wrapped in a well developed and richly ornamented new world. Larry's plotting is always excellent, and this volume is no exception. The real delight in this book is that the characters become ever more nuanced as the story progresses.

There is a depth and epic sweep to the story reminiscent of David Eddings, Eric Flint, or David Drake.

When first we meet Ashok, he's a fascinating character, but not an entirely sympathetic one. He's sure and confident of his place in the world as a Protector of the Law. And that Law is the foremost element and guiding force in Ashok's life. Armed with a magical blade, equipped with enhanced abilities, he strides across the world of Lok killing demons and enforcing the Law. He knows know fear, never doubting his place in the world or the rightness of his actions.

Until all the Ashok knows is called into question. And the beginning of doubt is also the beginning of the ability to truly see.

The start is not so much slow as it is a gradual pulling of the reader into a complex world. Likewise, the book leaves the reader with the impression that we've only scratched the surface of what Ashok and his world have to offer us.

The biggest downside is turning the last page to find the first part of the story over - and wanting to grab Correia by the lapels to demand the next installment. (Probably not the best of ideas for someone half is size, but the urge is there, nonetheless).

This book has a significantly different rhythm than Larry's other books. The build-up is slower, more carefully establishing the characters, their place in the world, the world itself and finally the mythology/religion/history that enfolds the world. When the action begins, it carries you along like a tidal wave! The writing is some of Larry's best, building a world so well thought out, you wish you had a guidebook and a history book, just so you could learn more about it. The characters themselves are interesting, pulling you along through their lives as you turn pages, dying to know what happens next.
Will I be buying the next book in this series? Hell yes!

You're probably wondering "why did he give this book only one star?"

Well, it's a sign of protest. It was unfair of Mr. Correia to release this book without having completed more of the works. It's too intriguing to be left hanging for who-knows-how-long before reading the rest.

After reading the Monster Hunter books I though "I guess I'll read this, because when the **** is Monster Hunter Guardian going to be released?" and now I'm rather upset with him because I would much rather find out what happens in part 2 of this series.

So there, sir, there you have it.

This slow-building book really caught fire after the first 100 pages, but the ending came too soon. I enjoyed Corriea's world-building, and as usual his action sequences were detailed and entertaining. The overall story is involved and deep, featuring many characters and side-stories galore, more of them than even Brent Weeks could cram in!

I am looking forward to the next book, and am wondering if it's ever coming out.

I've read some of Larry Corriea's Grimnoir and MHI books, and enjoy them--Son of the Black Sword is the best yet. I got an ARC at Book Expo of America, and though I've sort of fallen out of love with most fantasy, this story had enough interesting, different stuff to it that it sucked me in the moment I started reading. I stayed up too late several busy days in a row because I wanted to keep reading.

I'd give it five stars if it weren't just a bit too predictable in some parts, though one development made me laugh out loud with delighted surprise because I definitely didn't see it coming.

A solid four stars; very worth the read.

This is easily best fantasy novel I've read in years. The only complaint is have is that I wanted more!

My biggest beef with most fantasy novels is the world building because there are so many ways to mess it up. It's rare to find someone who does it so well. The world in SotBS is believable (and very harsh), and the characters feel like an organic part of it.

Only Mr. Correia could write a sympathetic, relatable, and even loveable main character, who also happens to have murdered more people than some small countries.

Larry has a talent for two things in his stories. Great action / Fight Scenes, and unexpected humor injected at just the right time. This book is a break from his other series in that it's more of a traditional fantasy series. The characters are fun and flawed in different ways. My only complaint is that the story ended too soon.

I was not a fan of Correia's Monster Hunter series, but gave this book a chance on the suggestion of a good friend. After reading through it, I at first felt it fell into the trap of very cliche driven fantasy, but was surprised. The action is solid, the characterization is good, and the setting is rich. The part I enjoyed most was context of a very epic fantasy built against a culture of harsh legalism. It is a nice bit of originality in a very full genre.

A change from Larry Correia's usual urban fantasy, but the wonderful dry wit and brilliantly described combat scenes are still there. Set in a quasi-Indian extremely caste-based society, with the main protagonist a law-enforcement and demon slaying agent who goes wrong. No, he doesn't have a fit of wishy-washy modern liberal conscience. Larry C doesn't do that sort of stuff. You'll have to read it for yourself. Trust me, you won't regret it.

My only minor reservations are:
1. Ashok Vadal bears more than a passing resemblance to Agent Franks from Larry's monster hunter series. Not that there's necessarily anything wrong with that. Every literary genre from Booker prizewinners to Mills & Boon could do with a dose of Agent Franks.
2. Black swords are overdone. Angurvadal is doubtless a fine enough weapon, but it still suffers from the NACAS (Not As Cool As Stormbringer) factor.

Correia's MHI series is one of my favorite fun reads, the Grimnoir and Dead Six are also enjoyable action reads. But this book was totally excellent, just got hooked-in and dragged along, had to put it down at 3AM but still woke up and finished it. Good thing I did not have work this morning, would have been late.

Full disclosure, I've been a fan of Larry Correia for years, beginning with the publication of the first Monster Hunter novel. As much as I enjoyed the first couple MHI novels I did find them a little "unpolished." Larry's growth as a writer really shows in this latest work, Son of the Black Sword. It is an epic fantasy worthy of the title, with a grand scope, well developed and interesting characters, and a story line that builds in intensity as you go. I'm itching to learn more about such compelling characters as the Grand Inquisitor Omand, Lord Protector Davedas, Jagdish the warrior, and those around the hero, Ashok. This was an exceptional read, and the only thing I dislike is having to wait for the sequel. Highly recommended!!!

Larry Correia wrote those Monster and Magic books. I was afraid he would not be able to pull off a different "universe". He did a great job. Interesting somewhat tortured hero. Thoroughly dislikable villans. A fast enjoyable read. I am looking forward to the next one.

One of the best Fantasy books I've ever read. I was worried Larry's writing wouldn't translate well into this kind of fantasy writing, but that was more me and my expectations, which were blown out of the water, by the way.

I loved it so much, I donated it to the Library I work at to get other people interested.

My first read by LC and I could not be happier to have found such strong writing, characters, mythology, and world building. Can't wait for the next installment. I found it compelling from the start and it ends in a rush that left me wanting more.

I eventually grew bored with the monster hunter series and didn't read the last one or two. Same thing with the grimnoir books. But I like Correia enough to try out a new series and this was an awesome read. No complaints!

I've now read everything of Mr. Correia's that I can find and I have loved every book. After reading this one I am jonesing for the next and can anticipate much more action than this based on where the plot is heading. I highly recommend this book as well as all of his books. It makes me glad to support him by buying his books but if you are not sure Mr. Correia is very generous with sample chapters so that you can see if you want to buy the book. BUY THIS BOOK!

Larry has done it again. An intriguing world based around the ancient caste system of India is populated with a host of interesting characters, including one of the most dynamic main characters i've ever had to privilege to love and hate. This first novel accomplishes exactly what the start of a new series should - it draws you in with a grand plot, finishes the first important bit in a satisfactory way, but leaves enough dangling loose ends that you'll be checking the net everyday to see when the next one is coming out.

5 stars.

I really love Larry Correia and there were many four and five star reviews, so I was somewhat surprised by this book. I never got to like the characters as I like Z, Earl, and even Franks in the MHI series. I’m not sure what is lacking, but I had to work hard to get through the last half of the book. I know the story is too long and it moves too slow for a Correia book. I think the society described and the people in it are not very interesting. I am not in the least interested in any sequels.

The worst part about this book is I listened to it the week it came out and now I have to wait for the sequel. Excellent novel that doesn't just introduce a world of high fantasy but also delves into deeper issues.

This is not the authors best work. If you have never read anything buy Larry Correia please try any one of his other addictive book series. The main character is a Mary Sue, Inspector Javert by way of Conan the barbarian, and this is intentional. The story is meant to show the unlikeable Mary Sue transitioning into a thinking feeling fallible hero while at the same time fantasy world may once have been our own, once upon a time.
The writing is good enough to read to the end while the character and setting unengaging enough that I was debating what the author was trying to accomplish instead of enjoying the story.

Picked up Son of the Black Sword at my local book store 11/1 and finished reading it 11/2. A great read, well developed characters and a believable plot... I will not be verbose so as not to write about any story spoilers. READ the book and you will enjoy it. In two more days Larry will be here in San Diego for a book signing and I will be there to praise him!!!

I'm a fan of Larry's Monster Hunter International which is an entry unto itself, but despite the change in genre, Larry holds true to outstanding work and breaking from writing norms. Just when you think you've got something figured out, he pulls the rug out from underneath you by shooting it full of holes, or in this case, slashing it full of holes.

I have read most of Larry's works, the exception being his war machine stuff could never get into that game. Once again Larry hits it out of the park. The world is unique and the characters have depth. You know it's a good book when your wife asks "what was that outburst about?" And you realize you've yelled out loud at a characters choice.

I give Correia plaudits for doing something different from the standard fantasy tropes. This isn't (yet another) story of a young boy with a destiny, coming of age, fighting a great evil, in a pastiche of European medieval society. I've only read one other book (or omnibus, I guess I should say) from Correia -- his strengths are clearly in the action, rather than world building or character development. Unfortunately, those are the two things that a book like this really needs done well to succeed.

The biggest flaw in the book is that everything hinges on the character arc of Ashok. In order to have a "road to Damascus" level of conversion be believable is tough to pull off. Correia doesn't give us enough of Ashok's internal journey to do it. A big part of that, I think, is because of Correia's focus on action. There are several large time skips -- several weeks here, a year there, a more weeks there -- that could have been filled with small vignettes showing Ashok's initial wavering, doubts, and interior monologue.

Many other have written about the curiosity of the main character being the least interesting person in the book. The flatness of Ashok clearly isn't because of a lack of talent -- Correia's other characters are reasonably well developed and interesting. It is definitely a choice but -- without that interior journey I talked about above -- Ashok just isn't that interesting in most of his scenes which makes it hard to care whether he succeeds or fails in anything that might happen to him.

A lesser gripe is that the world-building feels like it has too many gaps, too many things that don't quite make sense to me. For instance, in a world where Law is so important, it is hard to square that with the (apparently) non-stop internecine warfare between petty kingdoms. The (apparently) unpopularity of the Protectors is a bit hard to square with the obvious power. (Think of the many military holy orders in our history like the Knights Hospitaller who rarely lacked for recruits.) The previous holder of The Super Magic Sword (apparently) rarely used it? Despite its overwhelming power and the constant warfare & raiding that seems to be happening. A world so bound with Law -- and with detailed record keeping -- is able to have a Lost House that disappeared a mere 5 generations ago (approximately 100 years) and no one remembers a single thing about.

Too many of the elements of the world felt like they are there because they sound cool rather than because they followed naturally from the way the world works.

The ending of the book appears to set up an unfortunately not-very-interesting-sounding "go rescue the damsel in distress" chase-across-the-continent scenario. Combined with the lacklustre main character, it is unlikely I'll continue with the series.

Ashok arrived at Jharlang. I am that far in and I fear that I will never pick up the book again because the plot is just hanging there, doing nothing. I get it, Ashok is not supposed to be a really interesting person due to his history. But does the book have to be as monochrome as his personality? I like the world Correia has built. Ugly, but real in a way. But the story just stops when Ashok gets thrown in jail. I have to admit that I like Jagdish more than Ashok, but that should be a plus not a negative. And the book sits there on my table, buried by a much more interesting book by Sansom.
I have several better books on my shelf and I will read them first.
But maybe I will come back in a couple months, pick this book up, and be pleasantly surprised with how well the author pulled all the dangling threads together and made a boring story interesting again.
Maybe.

I love Larry Correia and have read all of his books. Having said that, this one was a let down. I did not like the story line which went from the present to 20 years in the past. The main character was not what you would call warm and fuzzy. On the whole it was a difficult read.

I am a huge fan of Correia's Monster Hunter series and was excited to see a new series by him. I am just going to be blunt here...I did not like this book at all. The book is boring, full of politics, and doesn’t make much progress from the beginning to the end. Additionally it looks like this is the beginning of a series and I couldn't find any information on when another book would be released in this series.

I listened to this on audiobook and the narrator was the best part of this whole experience for me. Reynolds is amazing and does a wonderful job narrating this lackluster story. I think the only reason I actually finished this book was because I loved the way his voice sounded as he read the story.

The book starts out promising. Our main hero, Ashok, is fighting an awesome battle with two demons from the sea. I was excited and drawn in. However things quickly degenerate as secrets about Ashok’s past are revealed.

After the truth of Ashok’s past is revealed the book degenerates into a story about the oppressed Nameless and the Inquisitor that pulls the strings to re-write the histories, ensuring that the history of the Nameless caste is unknown to the general populace. At this point the story starts to jump around between Ashok and a whole bunch of other people I didn’t care a lick about.

Really I kind of wanted someone to just die so that something exciting would happen. I didn’t need to read this long story about an oppressed race who finally found a hero to set them free. There were too many characters I didn’t care about and the story was incredibly and painfully boring.

I wanted this book to be over sooo bad, by the time I got halfway through I upped the speed on Audible to 1.5x so I could get through it faster. It still felt like fffoooorrreeevvveeerrr.

Overall I really really disliked this book. It started out promising but degenerated into a slog through boring and uninteresting politics and a billion boring and uninteresting characters. It was an incredibly forgettable book and I probably won’t remember a thing about it in a couple weeks. I would recommend steering clear of this one. It was awful.

You know how an author successful in one genre tries to do something outside his wheelhouse and it falls flat? Unfortunately this is one of those books. Plodding and boring plot, unlikable characters and a lot of half formed ideas culled from Asian/Hindu mythology and caste systems. At times if felt as if the author was making up the story as he went along on the fly without an outline as to where the story should go. It lurches from fight scene to the next. The dialogue in the quieter moments is cringeworthy.

The book ends with a cliffhanger which is fine if you cared about what happens to the characters unfortunately I just don't. So I'll be skipping the next book in this series. Which is a shame Larry Correia is one of my favorite authors.

Larry Correia starts a fantasy set in a world where the oceans are filled with demons who sometimes invade land. The continent of Lok is protected with black swords that date from the time that the demons were pushed back. These magical swords pick their user by killing those that don’t meet its test. Lok has a heavily controlled caste system, and the casteless are treated worse than slaves. So when boy cleaning the blood of the potential users is picked by the sword, the Valon family he is of their family, wipes him memory, and sends him to the harsh protector guild that maintains order, hoping he’ll die. Twenty years later this Son of the Black Sword (hard from Baen), Ashok, is told the truth. He immediately confronts the family, which leads to the death of the head of the family, then believing in law above all else, he sends himself to jail and awaits his death. Unfortunately that offers an opportunity for a Judge seeking to rule the continent. This first part ends with a very exciting battle and left me hungry for the next part. Review printed by Philadelphia Weekly Press

This was painful. The story is replete with the obigatory fantasy tropes; demons.magic sword, buff but disilusioned hero...map, gotta have a map.....just did not have the spark that draws the fire of imagination and engages the reader.

Honestly, one of the worst books I've read all year. None of the characters are likable, let alone interesting. I'll settle for unlikable characters that are at least interesting. Hell, sometimes I end up loving the fact that they're unlikable. Not so here. I was bored to tears. Beyond that, the world is shoddily developed and also failed both to hold my attention or get me wondering about anything. I saw the great world-rending plot twist coming a mile away, and felt none of the impact I suppose it was intended to produce. I promise, I am not a picky reader by any stretch of the imagination. But this book was just plain awful. I only read the whole thing because a friend placed it in his top 5, and because I had already spent the money on it. I guess I also secretly hoped it would get better, at the end. Nope. It just felt like a completely meaningless and unremarkable story.

I won't deny that Mr. Correira knows how to write -- his style is polished. It's just literally everything else -- the story, the characters, the world, the magic system, everything the book is premised on -- that is a giant yawn. Steer clear of this one.

This is a 5 star book and make me not like Mr. Correia even more. Writes a good book, takes you to the edge, then just ends it leaving you hanging. Now that is TWO series he has done that to (us) me with. He really isn't a nice man as he should now be giving me a new book in each series every six months so I wouldn't have to stress over when next book is coming out! LOL In reality this is another outstanding book and the beginning of another good series. If you don't like it go back in the basement and play your video games.

Started out interesting, then things just got kinda silly, some sheltered kid knew everything about everything and was the best at everything and I got frustrated and stoped reading. Kid was pretty obnoxious.

3 years later the author appears to have abandoned this trilogy after book one. It seems to be more profitable to crank out 8 short novels during this time instead. Another author that make me not buy a book series until it's finished our almost finished.

I read and absolutely loved, Correia's monster hunter books. Own each and every one of them. I was so looking forward to reading this one after I saw the blurbs for it. However, I cannot bring myself to allow the publishing company that Correia has his contract with, to take advantage of me. Like many of the 'main stream' authors, or rather, those that aren't taking advantage of self publishing, the cost of the book is inane. The Ebook. Which costs the publishing company NOTHING to create in comparison to hardback, and paperback books. Costs more than the Paperback. That alone, will prevent me from purchasing this book, until the price is fixed to something reasonable.