Synopsis:
THESE THREADS ARE SOAKED IN BLOOD.
The Astaris Empire is fracturing, its realm flogged by war and fanaticism. Empress Seline and her Gold Council vie to maintain control, but what is control for a nation built on blood and lies?
In the east, the storied Rhaavi people cling to their independence, but as the ruinous First Legion of the Empire arrives at their walls, hope is decimated. Even so, Yuei, the dragonrider, and Rizu, the shadow guardian, will lay down their lives to protect their home. And Kirana, High Chieftainess of the Rhaavi, vows to lead her people through . . . no matter the cost.
Elsewhere, the prodigious Hatsun pursues an education at the fabled Great Library of the Awakened. But he quickly learns that curiosity is both a boon and a burden as his studies unveil cataclysmic secrets about the world that could change everything.
This book marks the first chapter of The Tapestry of the Tarnished. Here is a tale spanning the whole of the Ring: A circle of continents rife with war and unrest. A world colored by magics and mythical creatures. A place you will fear, yet not wish to leave.
Review:
It’s interesting when you read the review of indie fantasy. As in all things, we are drawn to comparisons. To seek that which the reader of our reviews will know, and slap that label onto a book to give some credence to our viewpoint. Often before I write a review, but only after I have considered my content, I find it interesting to read the comparisons made by others. For The Winds of War, there is a long list of heavy-hitters, both in the traditional publishing world and those gaining traction in the indie. Powerful stuff, one and all, and this book now has enough weight behind it to carry it into the hands of those readers who love their fantasy dark and filled with political machinations amid the action.
But here’s my issue.
This is Winter’s book. His world, his intricately crafted history. Welling with characters that draw you in on all sides, and demands your attention for the sheer authorly skill it has taken. When you read this novel, and I insist you do, come into with an open mind of what you will experience. The opening chapter hits hard. Others are laced with history and backstory, more with promised payoffs that unravel much later. Decisions made along the way will delight or infuriate because they are made by people, not cardboard cutouts with little depth to their purpose. Yes, the setup takes time. A story world this rich has to.
Like all books, there is a caveat. Multi-POV books are either your thing or not. The Winds of War has many, each unique, and as stated, the characters fleshed out. It worked for me: the switches well-timed, the time spent together meaningful. But it may not suit everyone.
Like I said, this is Winter’s book. Nobody else’s. Read it.
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