A review by optimalbook
Of Blood And Fire by Ryan Cahill

fast-paced

3.75

I enjoyed the ride overall, though it has a few issues that keep it from being an instant favorite. Surprisingly one of the issues was the length -- this book could have used an extra 100-200 pages to really flesh out the supporting characters and world. The pace was very brisk and in many instances new cities and characters would be rapidly introduced and before we have a strong sense of who they are we are in a new location with new characters. The book also wears a lot of it's inspirations on its sleeves with many concepts and figures being used whole cloth from authors like Robert Jordan or Tolkien. Since the pacing is so fast, it didn't feel like these elements had time to really develop their own take to make them more distinct. 

That said, I have heard that book one is by far the weakest and Cahill really comes into his own later on. Moreover, I think Calen and his relationship to Dann, Rist, Aeson and others is pretty well fleshed out and refreshing. There is a strong focus on not just friendship, but mental health and how it's acceptable for men to show emotions. There are also several times throughout the book that some of Cahill's writing really hit home for me, and I enjoyed the slight subversions from the Classic/Traditional Fantasy roots he's pulling from. 

I will be continuing the series and am looking forward to see Cahill improve and shape his world more into his own vision.