The Thousand Names

I really enjoyed this one. Taking a foreign legion approach to Fantasy was fascinating, and the desert setting was a nice change from the usual European inspired fantasy. Like a lot of modern fantasy this one really plays down the fantasy quite a lot - the magical and fantastical elements do appear and play a strong role in the climax, but mostly this story focusses on the day to day running of a foreign legion (‘The Colonial') and their campaigning in a North African inspired fantastical land.

The book uses two main POV characters, First Captain Marcus and the rapidly promoted Winter Ihernglass, who rises from Ranker to Lieutenant over the course of the book. In addition, a couple of other POVs are used in ‘prequal' section to each part of the novel, giving an alternative point of view from the other side of the conflict. The characters are well drawn and likeable. The different rivalries that a world weary foreign legion would possess are interestingly captured.

There are strong imperialistic overtones to the story, inherent in its setting. I know some people would object to the caricaturing of the native inhabitants, but to me this is told from the perspective of the ‘imperials' so this captures how they would view it. I post this as a warning to those who may be offended - to me this was not a big issue.

All in all I thoroughly enjoyed this - it takes in interesting setting and applies a refreshing take on fantasy. Looking forward to continuing the series!