Review: Salvation's Dawn by Joe Jackson

Salvation’s Dawn is an epic fantasy with a strong female lead that’s – and this is something new for me – not a human. While, of course, I’ve read plenty of books about vamps, faeries, goddesses, aliens and such, I don’t think I can remember a character as epic as Karian. (By the way, I love her unusual name.) Her description alone was a promise of a big adventure full of magic and sharp swords and sorcery. I don’t want to give away too much, since the author will do it way better (and his writing style is impressively rich). But I’ll just say, a strong female character who has wings AND human feelings?? Hell yeah, I’m up for a book like that!

In the beginning, when I read about Kari’s looks and race, I must admit I’d expected another female general, tough as granite, and just as bold. Imagine my surprise when underneath the armor was actually a lady, educated, faithful, and with a higher purpose. She was simple and pretty easygoing (all things considered) and could be awkward and unsure, just like any of us, simple humans. I liked it.

Kari’s new friends were just as interesting for me. To say they were badass would be a huge understatement. Their looks alone guaranteed that; but there were also the things they could do. Hellfire AND sense of humor – not something you see every day in a book.

Of course, the world-building reminded me of TES 3 and 4. Oblivion was the only game I played for a long period of time, and it connected in a really good way with the book in my head. It made it easier to imagine, I think, and added to the rich picture that the author painted in my head. I stopped gaming years ago, but I do miss the fantasy creatures and their magic. Not just the races, but the whole scenery had a Morrowind-ish air to it, and it was awesome to read something like that. I think I could even hear the soundtrack somewhere in the back of my head as I read))

I don’t want to share too much on the plot, so that I don’t spoil anything for you. The book begins with action and a mystery, then slows down a bit as we get to meet Kari and her new squad and learn a lot about the world and its history. It was so beautifully written and read so easily that I didn’t mind lengthy explanations at all. The plot picks up after a few chapters, and that history comes in handy when the actual action starts.

If you’re looking for a new team of fantasy characters to fall in love with, this book is for you. And if you don’t mind a draconic protagonist (which looks awesome on the cover, by the way) who shows plenty of human emotions, and is kind of adorable, though still a kickass – you should totally give this one a try!

I received a copy of the book from the author for reviewing.

#review #fantasy