The Crimson Court

The Realm Reachers, Book 1

By: Brendan Noble

Narrated by: Ellie Gossage

Spirits haunt the realm of Zekiaz. Flee them, fight them, or wield them. But they bow to no master.

The upstart matriarch of a fallen house, Kasia Niezik has sworn to destroy the elusive Crimson Court who assassinated her father. They are near immortal, wielding the spirits that once ended civilization a millennium ago, but she is a Reacher of the realm of Death. Their worst fear.

But to kill her deceitful foes, first she must find them.

Kasia travels to the capital, seeking allies either brave or foolish enough to help her infiltrate the Crimson elites. Whether spirit hunter, princess, or thief, though, everyone has a hidden agenda. And those with the widest smiles hold daggers behind their backs.

Step into a new world of fantasy intrigue where flintlock guns, risky magic, gaslamp technology, crystalline dragons, and dangerous spirits clash amid shadowy bids for power. Revenge is sweet, but at what cost?

©2024 Brendan Noble (P)2024 Brendan Noble

A Captivating World of Shadows, Power,and Politics

If you’re drawn to fantasy worlds filled with intricate lore and political intrigue, The Crimson Court by Brendan Noble is a great listen. One of the book’s most fascinating aspects is its reimagining of traditionally ordinary materials in our world. For me, this imaginative twist is just one of many details that make the world feel distinct and vividly realized.

The story also takes a bold approach with a darker theme but not a grim dark setting, that creates a haunting atmosphere filled with spirits trapped in a never-ending cycle. A supernatural plague spreads over the land, adding to the sense of dread and establishing a foreboding backdrop for the story’s complex conflicts. This element of creeping darkness brings to mind the White Walkers in Game of Thrones and offers listeners a similar sense of suspense and anticipation.

Beneath the supernatural turmoil lies a world steeped in political intrigue. Great Houses and warring nations struggle for power, each with its own motives, creating a tension that’s as gripping as the battles against otherworldly forces. The maneuvering within the main kingdom and among rival territories keeps the listener guessing as alliances and betrayals unfold in unexpected ways. This aspect adds depth to the story, making it more than just a battle between good and evil.

The dark powers wielded by certain figures add another thrilling dimension to the narrative. The way death is used as a weapon, both in war and personal vendettas, brings an edge to the story. These moments are haunting yet compelling, capturing the essence of a world where moral lines are often blurred. The storytelling style will resonate with fans of epic fantasy, especially those who enjoy the immersive, detailed approach seen in books like The Way of Kings.

My rating for the audiobook performance is four stars, due to some technical issues. Throughout the book, there are volume inconsistencies and occasional background noises that slightly detract from the immersion. While these issues don’t ruin the experience, they are noticeable enough to warrant a mention.

The Crimson Court is an imaginative, dark fantasy that combines supernatural elements with intricate political dynamics. Brendan Noble has created a world that feels both ancient and original. For listeners/readers who enjoy complex plots, moral conflicts, and a sense of suspense woven into every chapter, this book is a great read. I look forward to the next in the series!