Seventhblade

This stirring fantasy debut from video game writer Laird serves as a condemnation of settler colonialism, a celebration of Indigenous wisdom and practices, and a testament to the power of a mother’s love. T’Rayles, a “halfsoul” (or part human, part god) of Indigenous Ibinnashae heritage, is devastated to learn that her son has apparently died on a hunting trip with other young men from their village. Then she learns that his death was in fact a murder, spurring her into a quest for revenge that takes her to the settler city that gives the book its name. As T’Rayles accumulates allies and enemies, readers gradually learn the history of the Ecrelians’ colonialist intrusion and subjugation of the Ibinnas. Some of the characterization falls flat, like the almost cartoony Elraiche, a vain and selfish exiled god who intercedes in T’Rayles’s quest and takes over as narrator for some chapters. Still, Laird delivers a gripping tale with a strong message that fantasy readers who enjoy action and adventure will relish. It’s a promising start. Agent: Marilyn Biderman and Amanda Orozco, Transatlantic Agency. (June)