Honest review of Dog of War

In Dean Kastle's Dog of War, the first book in the Dog of War Epic, readers are thrust into the brutal world of Geth, a sellsword with a past as grim as his present. Haunted by betrayal and scorn, Geth finds himself unexpectedly offered a chance at redemption: protecting a young king besieged by enemies. This perilous task plunges Geth into a whirlwind of political intrigue, savage warfare, and deadly magic. With unrelenting fight scenes and gallows humor reminiscent of Abercrombie and Sanderson, Kastle delivers a gritty and masterful debut. Prepare for a thrilling adventure filled with assassinations, duels, and epic battles as Geth fights to survive and perhaps even find something resembling peace.

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4.1 / 39 ratings

Review Dog of War

Dog of War completely captivated me! From the very first page, I was hooked by Geth, the underdog sellsword. Kastle masterfully paints him as a flawed but ultimately sympathetic character, someone you root for despite his rough edges and past mistakes. The scorn and discrimination he faces aren't just background noise; they’re integral to his character, making him instantly relatable and creating a powerful sense of empathy. He's not your typical heroic fantasy protagonist, and that's precisely what makes him so compelling.

The writing itself is fantastic. Kastle's described as a "warrior poet," and that's incredibly apt. The action sequences are visceral and exciting, truly bringing the battles to life. I could practically feel the clash of steel and the adrenaline of the fight. But it’s not just brute force; the author balances the intense action with moments of witty dialogue, particularly between Geth and his companion (whose name I won't spoil!). These lighter moments provide a welcome counterpoint to the grim realities of war and the constant threat of death, adding layers of humor and keeping the pace brisk and engaging.

What truly sets this book apart, though, is the depth of the world-building. While the focus remains firmly on Geth's journey, we get tantalizing glimpses of the broader world, its intricate politics, and the diverse cultures within. This isn't just a story about a single warrior; it's a story about a world on the brink, and the desperate struggle for survival within it. The hint of romance adds another layer of emotional complexity, further enriching Geth's character arc and giving the story a heart that beats alongside the relentless action.

Some readers mentioned the book feeling a bit like real life, with the powerful exploiting the powerless – and I agree. It’s a gritty, unflinching portrayal of war and its consequences, but it’s not gratuitous or overly bleak. Instead, it uses that grim reality to highlight the strength and resilience of its characters. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with memorable villains you'll despise and heroes you'll cheer for. It's clear that Kastle has crafted a rich and fascinating world with compelling characters.

While some readers had difficulty connecting with the protagonist, I found him to be a refreshingly realistic and flawed anti-hero. His journey of self-discovery and redemption is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. I wholeheartedly recommend Dog of War to anyone who enjoys gritty fantasy with compelling characters, intense action, and a touch of humor. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you finish reading, leaving you eagerly anticipating the next installment. Five stars from me too!

Information

• Dimensions: 5 x 0.92 x 8 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 365
• Publication date: 2024

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