Review: The Silverblood Promise by James Logan

I received a review copy from the publisher. This does not affect the contents of my review and all opinions are my own.

The Silverbood Promise by James Logan

Mogsy’s Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Book 1 of The Last Legacy

Publisher: Tor (May 7, 2024)

Length: 528 pages

Author Information: Website

I have been on a quest for a new epic fantasy obsession ever since The Empire of the Wolf trilogy by Richard Swan concluded, and it looks like James Logan has kindly stepped in with The Silverblood Promise. I am absolutely amazed!

This debut novel is the opening volume to The Last Legacy series which transports readers to a world of thieves and merchants, nobles and lowlifes. The publisher blurb absolutely does not exaggerate or deceive when it describes this book being perfect for fans of Scott Lynch, Nicholas Eames, and Joe Abercrombie, as I happen to be a cheerleader for all three and felt completely at home in the city of Saphrona where the story takes place. We meet Lukan Gardova, the disgraced scion of a once-prominent noble family. Already beleaguered with financial problems, the Gardovas fell even further from grace with Lukan’s expulsion from the prestigious Academy after he accidentally kills a fellow student in an ill-conceived duel.

The incident led our protagonist down a path of drink and grift, estranged from what family he had left. But when Lukan receives word that his father has been brutally murdered, his life takes on a new purpose. Robbed of his chance at reconciliation, he decides instead to honor his father’s memory by solving the mystery of his death, starting with a cryptic message written in blood. The clue leads Lukan on a journey to a foreign land where he encounters an unlikely ally in Flea, a streetwise young girl who tries to pick his pocket. Together, they are drawn deeper into the web of political and supernatural intrigue as they unravel the secrets of Saphrona.

So many reasons why I loved this book! But it was the writing that pulled me in immediately. Logan’s style is extremely readable and easy on the eyes without sacrificing detail. Rich descriptions and flowing prose meant the pages just flew right by, and much of that also had to do with the snappy pacing which kept the plot driving forward.

My enjoyment was further enhanced by the loveable characters and witty banter. Conversations reveal histories and backstories without overwhelming readers with information, and even at the breakneck speed at which things move, there is always time for in-depth character development and exploration. Lukan is the “perfect imperfect hero”, a roguish scoundrel who’s perhaps a little bit full of himself, but still delightfully endearing. Flea, on the other hand, is his sassy companion, an audacious street urchin whose personality complements Lukan’s seamlessly. It’s a winning dynamic that might be tried and true, but the bond created between them feels genuine and organic, nonetheless.

Finally, there is the world-building. Saphrona comes to life with rich immersion, and although it may not be the most original backdrop with its heavy reliance on familiar genre tropes, the city was still a fascinating place to be, where every detail appeared well thought out and custom crafted. I found myself fully engaged with this captivating blend of magic, intrigue, and danger.

As the groundwork is laid for the next volume, I can’t deny my excitement for more. James Logan has served up an impressive and exhilarating debut in The Silverblood Promise, and there are still so many layers to peel back and discover. I look forward to continuing the series.