Editorial Content for The Bloodforged: A Bloodbound Novel

In a world where readers are inundated with book choices, a novel needs to stand pages and spine above its competitors. Sadly, THE BLOODFORGED, the second in Erin Lindsey’s epic fantasy series, does little to engage; instead, it offers up a listless rehashing of genre tropes. Here and there, though, one finds the occasional flicker of romantic interest and battle intrigue to spice up an otherwise dull narrative.

With the threat of a foreign invasion looming over the kingdom of Alden, despite a minor victory at the end of THE BLOODBOUND, King Erik decides to split up his dream team of advisers to seek out help from allied nations. Erik and his bodyguard, Lady Alix Black, set out for the mountain nation of Harram; Alix’s husband, Erik’s half-brother, Prince Liam, heads for far-off Onnan to see why that nation hasn’t delivered its long-promised fleet. Meanwhile, back in Alden, Alix’s brother, General Rig Black, does his best to keep things stable on the homefront.

"Liam’s unfailing sense of humor, conflicted sense of duty and determination to succeed are refreshing amidst a tepid conflict."

The most entertaining part of the series’ previous installment was the love triangle between Alix, Erik and lowly scout Liam, later revealed to be Erik’s half-brother. That soap opera hook, not often seen in fantasy novels, made THE BLOODBOUND infinitely more interesting. Sadly, as the three participants in said triangle are separated in this novel, the sparks that once flew are dulled to mere embers.

In the future, Lindsey should play to strong suits: on the battlefield, portraying realistic, heart-pounding military conflicts, and in the quirky, lovably awkward character of Liam. Lindsey depicts the surprise of an ambush, the stab of a dagger and the anguish of comrades’ death with equal deftness. Rig’s desperation and clever tactics never fail to intrigue. Similarly, Liam’s bland predicament is saved by Lindsey’s excellent characterization. Liam’s unfailing sense of humor, conflicted sense of duty and determination to succeed are refreshing amidst a tepid conflict.

For the next volume of The Bloodbound, Liam will be the character to watch, especially as he reunites with Alix and Erik. One can hope that, in the process, Lindsey will stick to her strengths.