Oaths of Blood by Iron is an exceptional debut novel that masterfully combines historical fiction and supernatural elements. Set during the First Crusade, the story follows mercenary captain Robert Cutnose as he fights for the Christian cause in the brutal and bloody siege of Jerusalem. However, Robert soon becomes entangled in a hidden war between the Christian Order and supernatural forces lurking beneath history’s surface.
What sets Oaths of Blood apart is its vivid world-building. The author's attention to historical detail brings to life the gritty reality of the Crusades, with complex factions such as the Christians, Saracens, and Turks, as well as richly developed characters like Robert, who stands out for his grim humor and mercenary motivations. The supernatural elements, seamlessly woven into the narrative, add a thrilling twist to the dark and grim tone of the story.
Iron’s storytelling excels in tension and pacing, starting with a siege and maintaining a relentless grip on readers through intense battle scenes. The visceral descriptions of war are brutal yet immersive, capturing the harshness of medieval warfare without glorifying the violence. Sensitive readers may find the gore off-putting, but for fans of Grimdark fantasy, the realism is a major draw.
The novel also offers a refreshing setting outside of the typical European-centric fantasy, providing a thoughtful exploration of religious conflict, heroism, and human complexity. With its well-crafted characters, supernatural intrigue, and unflinching portrayal of war, Oaths of Blood is a must-read for fans of historical fantasy. Iron's debut marks the beginning of a promising career, and the prequel novella Bridge of Kings comes highly recommended for those eager for more.
Highly recommended for Grimdark and historical fiction enthusiasts alike.
“Oaths of Blood” by Logan D. Irons is awarded an “X Marks the Book” highly recommended award from Xanadu Book Awards
About the Author
Logan is the author of the grimdark historical fantasy The Oaths of Blood Saga.
A lifelong traveler, he has visited over 50 countries for both for work and for pleasure. Lifted in Arnold’s childhood gym in Austria, asked his wife to marry him in an abandoned castle in Ireland, bartered for jewelry in a Kuwaiti souk, drank beers and sang quite poorly German songs at Oktoberfest in Munich, and burned a Viking ship during Hogmanay in Edinburgh.
Fantasy, historical fiction, and history novels dominate his library. In particular, the works of George R.R. Martin, Steven Pressfield, Bernard Cornwell, and Robert Jordan inspire his work. He currently resides in Virginia, a place with enough history to keep him busy until the end of time, with his wife, son, and a dog named Ronin the Barbarian.
If he has free time, which is rare, he throws axes (usually at targets), is physically active, and loves taking his family on adventures.
And he’s convinced his nieces he’s a werewolf…
Instagram: @logandirons
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