Following the devastating events of White Sands, Red Steel, Keith C. Blackmore's Savage plunges readers into a brutal, unforgiving world. He-Dog and Chop, the sole survivors of Foust, are hunted relentlessly across the harsh landscape of Big Rock by vengeful beastmen. Haunted by loss and burdened by their past, they embark on a perilous journey across the ocean to the mythical Sanjou island, seeking refuge and a legendary treasure. This gripping sequel to the He-Dog Chronicles is a grimdark adventure filled with violence, despair, and the unwavering will to survive. Can He-Dog and Chop conquer their inner demons and unite against overwhelming odds to find salvation in a world teetering on the brink of chaos?
Review Savage
Wow, what a ride! Savage, the second installment in Keith C. Blackmore's He-Dog Chronicles, completely blew me away. Picking up right where White Sands, Red Steel left off, it throws you headfirst back into the brutal, breathtaking world Blackmore has crafted. Honestly, I felt like I never left; the transition was seamless, and I instantly reconnected with He-Dog and Chop, their pain and weariness palpable on every page.
The description promises a "grimdark adventure," and it delivers on that promise tenfold. This isn't a story for the faint of heart; it's raw, visceral, and unflinching in its depiction of violence and loss. But within that darkness, Blackmore shines a light on the enduring strength of the human spirit – or, in this case, the canine spirit. He-Dog's journey is one of profound grief and relentless determination, a testament to the resilience found even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. His emotional scars are as vividly portrayed as his physical ones, and it's this depth of characterization that truly elevates the story.
Blackmore's writing style is addictive. The pacing is masterful; the suspense builds steadily, keeping you on the edge of your seat, desperate to know what happens next. He has a knack for creating incredibly memorable characters, even the fleeting ones, and then, just when you've become invested in them, he throws a curveball. This isn't a criticism, though; it's a testament to his skill in mirroring the unpredictable nature of life and war. The emotional impact of these moments is potent, and it speaks to a talent for storytelling that few authors possess. Several reviewers mentioned comparisons to Joe Abercrombie, and I completely agree; there's a similar grit and unflinching realism, a refusal to shy away from the grim realities of the world.
The world-building in Savage is simply exceptional. Big Rock is a vividly realized landscape, harsh and unforgiving, yet brimming with a strange, almost poetic beauty. The threat posed by the beastmen is chillingly effective, adding another layer of tension to an already fraught narrative. The mystery surrounding the Sanjou island tantalizes, promising adventure and the possibility of redemption. It's the kind of world that stays with you long after you've finished reading, its images and sounds lingering in your mind.
Overall, Savage is a phenomenal read. It's a gripping, emotionally resonant story that will leave you breathless and begging for more. Blackmore has cemented his place as a favorite author of mine, and I eagerly anticipate the next chapter in He-Dog's saga. This isn't just a book; it's an experience. If you enjoy gritty, character-driven fantasy with a healthy dose of action and suspense, then look no further. Just be warned: you might find yourself needing a bit of time to recover after you finish!
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.94 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 420
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Podium Publishing