Synopsis
Ambitious Phi Hunter and perpetual lone wolf, Ex, finds his road to glory interrupted when a heavily pregnant runaway enlists his help to escape through the ghost-infested forest…
Ex, the youngest member of the Phi Hunters Order, has spent his life slaying the ghosts and demons of Suyoram Kingdom. While he takes great pride in his mystical trade, collecting dwindling bounties and peddling butchered spirit organs lacks the glory he craves. He’s determined to hunt down Shar-Ala, a demon of nightmares, of madness – who has eluded even Ex’s masters.
In a provincial village along the way, Arinya, a charming muay-boran champion, manages to save Ex him from a brutal ass-kicking, despite being nine months pregnant. In return, she asks him to escort her through the dangerous, spirit-filled forest, where ghosts salivate over the scent of the unborn.
Feeling responsible for Arinya’s safety, Ex vows to help her return home. But as more of Arinya’s secrets emerge, and the elusive demon nears, Ex must face dangers from both men and monsters, or lose not only the respect and sanctuary of his guild, but also the woman he’s trying not to fall in love with.
The Last Phi Hunter is a mythic dark fantasy, equal parts smart, exhilarating, and delightfully fun.
Review
I would like to thank Angry Robot Books and NetGalley for the advance reader copy!
“The Last Phi Hunter” is a fantastic debut novel from author Salinee Goldenberg. Coming into this novel, I did not have much knowledge on Thai folklore however that did not hinder my enjoyment of the book whatsoever. Goldenberg paints the world so vividly that I felt I could see the demons myself! Her writing just oozes magic and you feel like you are right there beside the main character, Ex, the entire journey. The world and different magical aspects of it are described lusciously. It really made me want to book a flight to Thailand immediately! The fight scenes are extremely well done and do not hold back. The mythology was fascinating and it left me wanting even more! In conclusion, “The Last Phi Hunter” is a captivating and impressive debut novel that immerses readers in a richly detailed world of Thai folklore, weaving a spellbinding tale of magic, adventure, and love that will leave you eager for more.
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