It appears that five stars do not really do this book much justice. I'd rate it twenty out of ten if it were possible. Alas, I have to settle for what already is.
Anyway, I'll go straight to the point - In the Shadow of Lightning is a banger of a fantasy book with enough thrill and suspense to pass for a world-class Thriller.
In recent years, Brian McClellan has made it a habit to release spectacular books, each one with a unique magic system. With his latest book, he's clearly outdone his own freakishly scary-good standards. And, in years to come, he'll be heralded as one of the very elite authors to have ever penned a letter in the genre.
In the Shadow of Lightning introduces a magic system similar to, yet vastly removed from, his flintlock Powder system of Powder Mage and Gods of Blood and Powder.
This time around, the source of the magic is glass. This probably doesn't sound very unusual if you haven't read the book. However, what's truly astounding isn't the fact that he weaves a cool magic system out of something seemingly ordinary. Instead, the main selling point is how it transforms ordinary characters into something beautiful and deadly. The characters are more than just individuals- they're symbols, mini-gods, and certainly superhuman. It's like reading a fantasy book based on MK characters- awesome stuff!
The magic is expertly segmented in the traditional manner so beautifully encapsulated in Robert Jordan's and Steven Erikson's legendary works- a style emulated to significant effect by another living legend, Brandon Sanderson.
Even better, it appears we haven't yet seen the full extent of the magic system. There's so much potential for it that my body positively vibrates with excitement as to the endless possibilities that abound for exploration in subsequent books in the series.
For the sake of spoilers, I usually avoid giving a synopsis in my book reviews. But, I'll break my own rule this time. However, fear not- there'll be no obvious spoilers!
In the Shadow of Lightning tells of the fall and rebirth of a promising war general, the cruel machines of the state, and its even crueler contraptions that threaten to turn his entire world apart. Even exile is no solace for him, as he's dragged back into the very mires that sought to drown him earlier in his life.
Back in his city-state, he launches into a series of investigations and schemings to discover his true enemies while taking up the mantle and responsibilities of a fallen matriarch to restore his good name and save his world from impending disaster and wolves looking to scavenge and reap the fruits of his labor.
His prodding and seeking bring into his path a brilliant, orphaned engineer who may hold the key to his salvation and perhaps the exorcism of the demons of his past.
In the midst of it all, a more significant battle is brewing beyond the reach and sight of mortal eyes. And, in the end, the true prize may not be just what you think...
Ahem!
This is as far as I go without giving spoilers.
Before I wrap up, I'd like to add that the characters are awesome. The entire story is told from the POV of 4 MCs. The world seems vast, but in this book, the author has barely explored more than two cities. Nevertheless, it's a truly epic adventure, with enough politicking and intrigue to make G.R.R Martin proud.
Plus, there are the trademark military and action-packed scenes we've come to know Brian McClellan for.
P.S: I know a certain bibliophilic friend who's read this book and rated it just 3 stars. She says she found the twists predictable, but I genuinely suspect her aversion for action and battle scenes came to the fore- she tends to skim these parts! Incredible, don't you think???
Anyway, don't be like her. The din, gore, and screams of battle are like a classic opera in my mind's ear. And, if you're the sort who avoids such reads, you're certainly missing out!!
There! I'm throwing shade at you! You know yourself!
