The Ember Blade feels like classic fantasy told in a more modern style. If you like slow burning, epic, fantasy adventures than this book is for you. There is a heist, a budding bromance, and a mottled cast of characters that I think will also appeal to a lot of regular fantasy readers. I know the blurb says “fast moving” but I think that is not a good way to describe this book. I also think the blurb on the back cover that compares this to a Sanderson novel doesn’t fit. This is a more character-focused story than it is a quick moving plot, and it certainly doesn’t have the deep world building I would expect from anything compared to Sanderson. It is, however, good— in its own way.

It feels more like Tad Williams than Tolkien, more like Robin Hobb than Brandon Sanderson. We get a great cast of characters that join together for a common purpose. We get a character arc for each of them and a bit of background as well. This all takes time, but it is done well and in an interesting way. There are a few twists and turns and lots of compelling and complex character interactions. The beginning is slow as we introduce all the characters and set up the stakes for the novel. The last 100 to 150 pages is a blast though. Fast-paced, big moments and reveals. On the flip side though, I wanted more druid stuff with Fen. I wanted a bit more from the dreadknights. I wanted a bit more direction from the plot and pacing of the overall narrative and I wanted more worldbuilding elements incorporated. Give me Cade telling more folktales, give me more background on druids and dreadknights and what they do in this society and world. This is an 800-page book with a lot going on but all in the scene or on the page so-to-speak. I wanted more told on the edges of the tale. I do think that this book would be better upon reread, now that I am familiar with all the characters and a bit more invested in them and their fates. For now though, a great first step in this series with plenty of hope and excitement for the next installment.