Sands of Bone (The Oaths of Blood Saga)
12th century. Chapter One opens with, “The smoke singed the Christians’ noses, throats, and lungs, every part of them stripped raw and coated in ash.” This vivid, harsh opening presages this novel accurately. Book Two of the Oaths of Blood Saga starts in medias res at the end of a terrible battle between the Saracens, led by the honorable Saladin, and Christian knights as they struggle over control of the Holy Land during Crusades. Robert Cutnose, the long-lived, animal-infused protagonist of this novel, as well as the first book (which I haven’t read), reveals his expertise as a hard-nosed military man from the first page. All the blood, guts, and misery of what must have occurred in history itself is played out with convincing realism. Familiar names from history, such as Saladin, Balian de Ibelin, King Guy, and Lord Raynald all make their appearance in three dimensions. Billed as an “action-packed grimdark historical fantasy,” the novel certainly lives up to its advertising.
Although the Crusades in this world are part of a centuries-long shadow war between two factions, this novel is light on fantasy and heavy on historical detail, gory battle scenes, and desperate struggles for survival. The tale weaves in and around historical happenings deftly, and ratchets up the stakes with skill. If you’re into sweaty fighting with a touch of fantasy, this is the series for you.
