Review – Smoke and Summons by Charlie N Holmberg

Sandis is a vessel, a host to one of the Numina, demons from the ethereal plain. She is used as a weapon by the dire Kazen, a man who treats his vessels well, as long as they adhere to his rules.  When one of her fellow vessels is killed during an experiment, Sandis escapes to the city to find her last remaining relative, but she doesn’t know where to start.

Rone is a thief, and good enough that he gets to work amongst the upper echelons of society, picking who he works for and when. He earns enough money to support his mother, as they had initially struggled when Rone’s father walked out years before. He knows his way around the city of  Kolingrad, using both the rooftops and sewers to his advantage. Although he can take care of himself, he’s also possesses an ancient artifact, and amarinth, that grants him a minute of immortality every day, a useful device in a dangerous profession.

.This was a fun read, although aimed more at Teen or YA. It’s not particularly long, and it’s pacey, with each chapter pushing the plot along. We hear the story from both protagonists, but there’s little crossover, and helps keep the plot under wraps,Sandis is a bit needy at first, which does make some sense considering her background, but may annoy some readers. However, as the story progresses, she displays some hidden depths and talents, and kicks some serious butt down the road. The relationship is well done, as Rone goes from good samaritan to protector to awestruck companion. The bad guys are the usual stock crew, but Kazen has a sense of mystery. We never quite know what his deal is, and he hints at some big reveals for later books. Kolingrad is a dystopian city, cut off from the rest of the world, and needs some in-depth coverage, as it has been interesting so far. Sandis’ relationship with her numen, Ireth, is another plus, as she can communicate with it, despite this not being “possible” according to Kazen. There are some weird inconsistencies, such as Rone’s amarinth healing wounds when activated, yet he has this lingering shoulder injury from many years ago.

So it’s a fun read, and I think most of us will want to read book two. I’ll have the review for thiat one in a couple of weeks. Or so.

4 out of 5 stars

Now reading – Shadow of the Torturer, by Gene Wolfe