Review Request: Heirs of the Promise

Kilal has returned to the Sunlight Domain after ten years of exile. He is an Arbiter, a race gifted with the ability to carve intricate runes of power into their skin, carvings he must endure to fulfil his oath and defend the realm. But time is running out. An impending invasion of Ash fallen threatens to end his world. Kilal must face this doom, the Heirs of the Promise  – a mysterious group that has corrupted his fellow arbiters – and his own fragile sanity.

Some authors just have “it.” That certain sort of writing chutzpa, or swagger; an almost magical ability to keep you reading any theme. Langdon Franz is one of these. Heirs of the Promise is a quasi dystopian, quasi fantasy, quasi super-hero novel (so many qua’s in there, I sound like a duck). Not my normal cup of tea, but the strength of his dialogue and his character and world building, is just simply impressive. All throughout the book I got Jim Butcher Dresden vibes (and if you don’t know Jim Butcher, shame on you!).

Let’s start with the positives. First the main protagonist Kilal is a great character. He’s quite clearly a few clowns short of a congress, but he is immediately likeable. His interactions with the supporting cast – all of who are well fleshed out- are believable, and engaging. More-so, Franz really understands timing. He knows how to use quiet moments. He understands the effect of a good setting on setting tension, or releasing it. It is all in all, well orchestrated.

There are minor problems, or perhaps just quibbles. First, it was hard for me to get through the first chapter, but this was more due to me being squeamish than anything. Second, there is some questionable editing here and there, mainly with the usage of caps. However, these are minor problems. After-all, when I have to start using grammar to insult someone’s work I’ve already lost the argument.

In short, this is a book that is hard to put down. You want great characters? Check. You want an engaging plot-line, where there is real tension, and real stakes? Check. I will be eagerly awaiting the sequel, and I am sure if you give this book a chance, you will too.

Purchase Links:
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