Lots to love about this creative fantasy/romance!

Corporal Clark Jameson is just about to graduate from the Human Empire’s military academy, he’d make a proficient sniper but has no idea what unit or job he’ll actually be assigned. His prosaic future is suddenly upended when he meets famed sniper Adam Milson (aka Iron Sight) and the even more famous magical sword wielder, Harry Browning (aka Hades), both from the highly respected Squad 42. Harry’s sword, Linsgarum, has expressed interest in Clark being his new wielder, but how can a mere commoner ever be eligible to wield such power?

I loved the idea of sentient, embodied swords that have a symbiotic relationship with their wielder and I thought the creative world building was great. Having said that, this fantasy romance wasn’t a straightforward read and it took some time to feel like I had a grasp on things. There’s a confusing but compelling opening scene, then we meet Clark’s academy classmates, the team of Squad 42, some baddies, and the High Council—that’s a fair few characters to get across, especially since most make fairly brief appearances in this shortish narrative (192 pp, around 5 hrs on audio). It’s worth being patient, though, the key ones are Clark and Squad 42. I especially liked the camaraderie of the team, I thought the dialogue was fun and engaging, I’m intrigued by Clark & Adam’s relationship, and I really liked the ‘underdog does good’ story arc. As the first in a trilogy, the story does end a little abruptly, but, given so many positives, I’m totally hooked! 🎧 Voice actor Dan Levy does a superb job of the characters, the action, and the banter.

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