Usurper's Might by W.D. Kilpack III
Blurb:
The future of Mankind relies on the Guardian of Maarihk. As the Usurper's darkness rises, will Natharr and the scattered Rilari stay the path when hope becomes dire?
The Rilari are scattered, each forced down a different path as the Usurper’s power spreads across the continents like a growing storm. The Guardian of Maarihk, Ellis the Elder, Thair, and the remaining Knights of Ril fight to preserve the last fragile remnants of peace — yet even survival becomes uncertain as the darkness foretold in Natharr’s Sight draws ever closer, shadowing their every step.
Meanwhile, Nathan endures the unforgiving mentorship of one of the Empire’s greatest warriors. Driven by a hunger for ultimate vengeance, he is pushed to the edge of his limits. But as his strength grows, so does the question that haunts him: how far will he go to claim the justice he seeks — and what will it cost him when the moment finally comes?
Review:
Usurper’s Might marks book 6 of 8 in the New Blood Saga, a series that cemented its place early on as one of my all-time favourites. Despite being my least favourite instalment so far, it is still a necessary entry—one that moves various pieces into position in preparation for what is (hopefully) a grand climax.
For those new to this dark, epic fantasy series, I can’t help but draw comparisons to The Wheel of Time. However, at the risk of igniting controversy, I would argue that the New Blood Saga is more refined in terms of intrigue and pacing. Fans of Robert Jordan’s much-beloved staple will find similarly detailed descriptions of characters and settings, albeit on a smaller scale. Each consecutive entry also incorporates varying degrees of recap, which can be beneficial at times. In this latest instalment, however, it ultimately contributes to a noticeably slower pace.
As mentioned, Usurper’s Might largely consists of political and logistical organization, setting up various pieces for the conflict ahead. While necessary, it makes for the most tedious of reading within the series thus far, and I couldn’t help but wish for just a little more by the time things wrapped up. And yet, new developments (and a particularly gripping revelation) are what made this book an enjoyable experience, nonetheless.
As plot-lines expand and new characters are introduced, the scope broadens to include multiple POVs navigating through complex circumstances in order to assist with a meticulously crafted and highly secretive plan. It’s remarkable just how much foresight has been poured into this massive undertaking, which includes secret alliances, high-stakes politics, and the unexpected development of key characters. These elements and more have had a tremendous impact on my investment and overall enjoyment of the series.
I have high hopes for the final two books in the New Blood Saga, and I would strongly encourage fans of dark and epic fantasy to pick up this highly underrated series. Much of my appreciation for this series revolves around deeply moving emotional beats, as well as uniquely incorporated magical realism. It delivers an interesting blend of enchanting fantasy while steeped in a world grounded by plausible reality.
With his lengthy experience in writing craft, as well as the numerous awards achieved throughout his career, it’s no wonder that Kilpack is able to develop a work such as the New Blood Saga, with excellent prose, unique world-building, and such interesting magic systems. For those still on the fence, I would urge you to at least pick up book 1, Crown Prince, and decide from there if the series is worth continuing. It’s roughly 350 pages and should prove to be a quick read, through specific formatting and accessible prose.
As with each new installment, I will be picking up book 7 immediately upon release. It will be a tough wait, but I have faith that Kilpack will not disappoint, and that the greatest impact is yet to come.
