Synopsis
James is convinced that the gods have cursed him, left to fend for himself in a squalid city-state in the clutches of a corrupt theocracy. As a lamplighter, James serves the palace by illuminating the streets each night with a flame from the gods’ temple. Despite his disdain for the gods, he feels a connection with the flame, and a surprising yet small amount of control over its brightness.
For him, a quiet life weathering the desert was all he had to look forward to. That is, until others appear. From distant corners of the world, each has connective power to the gods, and each a past of great consequence. A soldier, an idealist, a hero, and a monster.
Each squabbles according to their own desires, but cannot afford to exist alone any longer. Ancient devils and horrors beyond time have come to reclaim the world from the gods, but the forms they take and power they wield are anything but understood.
The debut epic fantasy novel of author Rob Leigh, Pathlighter depicts a world struggling to grapple with the consequences of an unknown past and uncaring gods, featuring nuanced characters and a story of self-realization, found family, betrayal, and hope.
Review
When I came across “Pathlighter” by Rob Leigh on Instagram and that Felix Ortiz did his cover art, I knew the time Rob put in to do things right with his debut novel. That is when I reached out to him and I am so glad I did.
I had no idea what to expect when I dove “head-first” into “Pathlighter”, which I love. Rob Leigh gives his readers a great history lesson in the world of Iarus, steeped in religious fortitude and how he resents those involved.
There are themes of loss, tragedy, betrayal, and family. I found myself getting lost in the story of James and what he endures, not only personally, but through his friends and journeymen, alike. The devil-like creatures are horrifying as well as the Charodon, which you’ll learn about when you read. The Gods are unwilling, the world full of consequences of a past to be discovered, and a captivating story that will be hard to put down. I am so thrilled for Rob Leigh, not only as an up-and-coming author, but for you all the discover his talent as I have.
If you enjoy deities, mythology, and religion in your books, here is a must-read for you.
Still With You.ailice says
The themes include loss, tragedy, and betrayal, which feel terrible to me, but this story expresses a love of life and a yearning for justice in such a sad literary style.