Available at Amazon.com

Kell’s Legend by Andy Remic
Angry Robot, 429 pages

They came from the North, and the city fell.
It is a time for warriors, a time for heroes.
Kell’s axe howls out for blood.

Hang on to your hats boys and girls; Kell’s Legend is the sort of book that grabs hold of you and does not let go. If it weren’t for the two infant children in my home, I would have read it in one sitting. If dark fantasy and balls-out action is your thing, this is the novel you have been waiting to find.

I will only describe the book in the briefest of terms to avoid any spoilers. The kingdom of Falanor is invaded by a race of clockwork vampires. Kell, an old veteran with a legendary past, is forced back into action to protect his granddaughter. The story also follows a second protagonist from the vampire side of things. I do not want to say anything that will spoil her for you, but she is an excellent character. Her story arc takes the reader deep into the strange culture of the vampires and an enjoyable contrast to Kell.

This is one of the most entertaining books I have read this year. The characters are dynamic and believable. The plot takes off at a rapid clip and does not slow down. Remic’s clockwork vampires are the most creative and interesting vampires I have seen in quite some time.

The Good

Brutal action and rapid pacing suck you into this one. The characters are well done and the vampires are creative and exciting. Saark and Kell work well together and their dialogue is fun to read. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

The Bad

This book is not at all appropriate for younger readers or for the squeamish. There are also quite a few instances of rape, which may not sit well with certain audiences.

Final Word

If dark and brutal is what you enjoy, get Kell’s Legend. The only problem you will have is waiting for the next book in the series. It is that good.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Review by James Atlantic

Tags | dark-fantasy, Reviews, vampires