Good characters

narrated very well, interesting story and a good setting 19c with magic and black powder.

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Just when you thought all was lost ...!

This is my first experience of Brian McClellan and I doubt it will be my last.

This first book in the trilogy takes place in the City of Landfall and is, primarily, about Mad Ben Styke, an ex Colonel in the Mad Lancers and hero of the Fatrasta war who has been buried in a work camp for a decade and the brutality he has had to endure at the hands of Lady Chancellor Lindet and her Enforcer Fidelis Jes. Then there is Vlora Flint, Commander of the Riflejacks who seems to be at odds with her situation and employers in Landfall. You also have Michel Bravis, investigator/spy, a Silver Rose of the Black Hat Secret Police who is not who he appears to be.

This book really has a diverse cast of characters and world-building is good. It is a good start to a trilogy and I will not hesitate to get the next two books.

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hooked

what can i say,
as good if not better then the powder mage books.
i downloaded book 2 before i had even finished first one

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cracking tale, brilliantly read.

there is so much mediocre, hackneyed fantasy, but this is well above average. some interesting characters, a believable world and good plot twists maintain interest throughout. good writing too, brillant performance, and, unusually, no silly names! highly recommended.

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just amazing

I can't wait for the next installment, I've always been a big fan of the powder mage trilogy and this setting seems like it's going to out scale the previous books. I was captured by the performance and I could really place myself in the characters environments. I also love that we get to revisit characters from the short stories, stike is definitely an all time favorite character period definitely would recommend

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2 people found this helpful

Explosive

Good story well narrated. New to the magic system in the book so a novel idea. Story was fast paced and main characters had good depth.

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2 people found this helpful

An original and gripping story

I took a chance on this novel as the feedback seemed mainly possitive. I found the story engaging from the offset and a very easy listen. The world and characters the writer has crafted are interesting, at times dark and yet relatable. I would definitely recomend.

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'Privileged' to read such a good book...

Finally a book from this author. I have been waiting for so long...

Brian McClellan shoots two bullets with his new novel and both reach their targets: a fantastically high standard of writing and thrilling fantasy story.

This book is not only an intelligent continuation for those who are familiar with 'The Powder Mage' trilogy, but does as well on its own, thanks to a well woven introduction to a beautifully crafted fantasy world where gunpowder and magic are intertwined.

In 'Sins of Empire' the author develops the story of some of the favourite characters from the previous books and introduces new, powerful and many layered individuals who become embroiled in this tale of intrigue, danger and loyalty.

Unlike many sequels to series set in the same world, this one does not disappoint and will command your attention till the very last pages, leaving you with a hunger for more. It is that good. It is fantasic!

The well developed Brian Sanderson-esque magic system, flows through the detailed world, weaving a complex tale full of intrigue reminiscent of Scott Lynch books, but with its own unique and sophisticated style.

Christian Rodska's narration is fair. He's rough voice fits well into dangerous events, however at times I would love to hear more enthusiasm and subtle variety.

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9 people found this helpful

What a great surprise.

Been a bit jaded with new fantasy novels recently, this book was a welcome surprise. Magic is mentioned but doesn't really play to big a part, characters were interesting and the story was fast paced. Really enjoyed the book, listened to it in a week which was good going.

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2 people found this helpful

Best of the Powder Mage books I've read so far

Great story. Great narration. Great time. Couldn't stop listening. Loved it! Can't wait to read the next. More please.

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