Aside from the abysmal narration of the audio version of this novella, I enjoyed it quite a bit. This is the first of a series of novellas that preclude the Powder mage series and deals with Erica's first encounters with other powder mages and smuggling them into Adipest. It introduces us to an early Niklaus and gives us ample reason to hate him and see the origins of his history against Tamas and Erica. It was a fun quick read that I listened to while doing my morning workout. There is plenty of material and backstory for this to develop into a decent miniseries. 3.25 Stars Erika Ja Leore is a powder mage in a country where powder mages are hunted and killed on the orders of the king. She is kept alive only by respect for her position as a noblewoman and an oath taken as a child never to use her powers. But when she finds a young girl alone in the woods, hunted and afraid, she risks everything to see her to safety.This was another interesting and well-written entry into the world of the 'Powder Mage'. While this doesn't quite provide the same amount of interesting background as the other short-stories in this universe the insight into the life of a powder mage in Kez (whether a commoner hunted and killed without remorse, or a noble dealing with the tension and hatred their gift provokes) was still interesting. Continuing the pattern established with 'Hope's end' McClellan addresses one of my major concerns with 'Promise of Blood': the lack of important female characters. I liked Erika and thought she was a cool character, if something of a Mary Sue (is it really necessary for the heir to the duchy of a highly 'civilised' country to be extensively trained in every form of martial art?). However the real star of this book was 'Norrine', the young powder mage girl. I found her POV's to be extremely well-written and I though McClellan did a great job of developing her character and background without interrupting the plot. Overall this was an enjoyable read that has gotten me even more interested in reading more of this series.
What do You think about Forsworn (2014)?
Excellent work. I just love the world that Brian McClellan has created with this series.
—jfrias1216
Another cracking short story from McClellan. Can't wait for Crimson Campaign.
—joy
