Finished Blood Song by Anthony Ryan. I have no idea why this book was originally self-published. It's one of the best fantasy books I've read recently. It's a great story similar in approach to The Name of the Wind. I think I actually preferred this (though I did love The Name of the Wind). Unlike Rothfuss, Ryan didn't take forever to get to all the most interesting stuff.
It just astounds me that Ryan had to self-publish this originally. Yes, it's a little long (not too much), but it never felt overwritten. If you're looking for something that tells the story of a larger-than-life character's life like The Name of the Wind, but one that is a bit darker, grittier, and war-focused, then this is a book you should check out.
There were a few times, especially early, when the plot dragged a little bit, but I found its plot moved along pretty well. I also noticed some comma splices, which might have actually been a stylistic choice. Other than that, I have nothing to complain about.
It just astounds me that Ryan had to self-publish this originally. Yes, it's a little long (not too much), but it never felt overwritten. If you're looking for something that tells the story of a larger-than-life character's life like The Name of the Wind, but one that is a bit darker, grittier, and war-focused, then this is a book you should check out.
There were a few times, especially early, when the plot dragged a little bit, but I found its plot moved along pretty well. I also noticed some comma splices, which might have actually been a stylistic choice. Other than that, I have nothing to complain about.