THE OBSIDIAN TOWER

RELEASED 4 JUNE 512 pages | Paperback/ebook Author Melissa Caruso Publisher Orbit

If you want magic and politics, in a fresh fantasy setting, with diverse characters… you should be reading NK Jemisin, AK Larkwood, RJ Barker or one of the other sets of initials that have recently reinvigorated the genre. The Obsidian Tower is a lesser work, with similar energy but lacking the stylistic chops.

This new series takes place in the same universe as Caruso’s Swords And Fire trilogy. Our narrator is one of the ruling mages of Morgrain. Ryx’s touch drains life, cursing her to a hug-free existence. When a mysterious tower in Morgrain opens for the first time in millennia, Ryx joins the Rookery, a cabal of magical investigators, to prevent war

– or worse.

The story moves at an entertaining gallop, even during diplomatic meetings, which is no easy feat. The characters are likeable, and a range of genders and romantic attractions are all represented. But the prose is clumsy and repetitive. The author tells instead of shows, piles on adverbs, and punctuates every conversation with a “skeptical eyebrow” or a “fierce nod”. Do not attempt a drinking game where you neck one each time Ryx’s thoughts are an exclamation: Pox! Merciful graces! Blood and ashes! Hells! It’s a shame, because there’s a solid adventure buried underneath. Dave Bradley