NOT EVERYONE HAS A DESTINY.
Separated and miserable, Thanquil Darkheart and Jezzet Vel’urn both have their reasons for wanting to leave the Dragon Empire.
Jezzet flees from the wrathful fury of an Empress scorned while accompanied by the ever insidious Drake Morrass and Thanquil sets out to find and judge his one heretical loose end.
The Price of Faith by Rob J. Hayes is a stunning, convincing conclusion to The Ties That Bind trilogy. It wraps up the story in a way that feels deeply satisfying, yet leaves just enough of a tantalizing hint about what might lie ahead in the same world, within a new series.
I will soon be revisiting Where Loyalties Lie, which will show the future for some of these characters. It’s also one of those books that sticks with you long after you’ve finished.
The characters in this series are truly unforgettable. Hayes has crafted a group of protagonists who, while far from perfect, feel incredibly real. They make their way through a brutal and unforgiving world, leaving a trail of bloody chaos in their wake, yet their struggles, flaws, and motivations are what make them so relatable. They may be killers, but they’re never one-dimensional. They’re complex, flawed, and, at times, downright lovable in spite of their grim choices.
If you enjoy fantasy that is both dark and visceral, but with a perfect blend of snarky humor and sharp wit, then you’ll find The Price of Faith to be a rewarding read. The ragtag team of misfits at the heart of the story are equal parts dangerous and endearing, offering a unique mix of gore, action, and character-driven moments. Despite the grim violence they engage in, there’s something strangely compelling about their journey and their camaraderie, which keeps you rooting for them even as they make morally questionable decisions.
However, it’s important to note that this series doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to its darker themes. There’s plenty of blood, violence, death, and moments that deal with heavy subjects like sexual assault (including off-page rape). The series doesn’t shy away from the grim realities of the world these characters inhabit, and it can be a tough read in parts. It also features quite some scenes inside brothels, and mercenaries do like to talk about cocks.
For those who enjoy gritty, unflinching fantasy, it’s precisely what makes this series stand out.
Be warned, The Price of Faith is incredibly addictive. It’s the kind of book you won’t be able to put down, and before you know it, you’ll find yourself lost in its pages for hours. Don’t say I didn’t warn you if you’re late for work after starting it!
