The Warded Man

The Warded Man by Peter V Brett

This book was good not great. I thought the writing was a bit bland. The majority of the book read like a 3/5 stars novel, but really picked up near the end. The writing reminded often of RPG novels. Where this book separates itself from RPG novels is in its relatively fresh ideas. Brett creates a world where demons rise from the ground every night, and humankind fights for its survival. Wards are used for protection against these nightly onslaughts; humankind for the most part hiding and trembling behind these shields.

The novel follows the development of three characters (a fourth being added near the end). They are a warrior, healer, and musician. While again this has the feel of a RPG novel, Brett does cross lines a RPG novel would not.

Despite some awkward moments and questionable logic Brett's characters and world pulled me in. The bits of history that Brett reveals I found particularly fascinating. In the end I wanted more. Even before I finished The Warded Man I went out bought the next two novels.

3.5 out of 5 stars with a slow start and strong finish