Black Blade Blues

A great and interesting new heroine in urban fantasy. As a fan of Norse mythology I like this very interesting new twist on the lore of the Scandinavians, Saxons, Celts and Vikings. The plot is very good, although some of the developments are a bit repetitive. The heroine is a very interesting character, and her being lesbian makes her more interesting, although sometimes it drags on the plot. But this is a minor issue as this novel is about her and her adventures not about sex. I enjoyed the interplay of characters and mythological symbols. The reader may have to find some more information to get a good grip on what all of them mean. I look forward to new adventures with Sarah Beauhall and her friends.

I initially thought that the plot movement was slow but as I neared the end I realized that it wasn't. I am guessing that this book is the first book in a series. The main character was very well-developed. She was very realistic and one did not have to be gay in order to relate to her. I liked her because of her flaws. The secondary characters were well-developed as well. The book, in parts, reads like a great action movie -- blood, gore, enjoyable action sequences. While reading this my reactions ran the gamut -- I laughed, cried, quaked in fear, etc. This book will be loved by anyone who is battling internal demons that they need to overcome or had internal demons that they overcame.

It ain't Shakespeare, but its immensely readable and a clever new twist on the urban fantasy genre. I enjoyed it greatly. Fast read, engaging characters, and a unique plot. Can't wait to see where the series goes, as this could remain character-driven, or broaden out into a neat series with political tones, similar to George R. R. Martin. There are a lot of good plot elements that can be drawn out into different directions. Fans of urban fantasy looking for something NOT involving vampires or werewolves need look no further.

This book is very well written. The pacing is very tight and face paced without sacrificing character development. You really feel for heroine Sarah Beauhall, who isn't your typical urban fantasy heroine. The final battle is truely epic and is worthy of the word climax. If you enjoy urban fantasy, ren faires, or Norse mythology do your self a favor and read this book. You will be wanting more by the end I garuntee it.

Bottom line, the story is a lot of fun; Sarah is a strong and all-too-believable character, the supporting cast are flesh-and-blood real people, and her personal problems, including her ability to misread situations and put her foot into it, are all too convincing. The story has action, adventure, personal growth, and the good fight against the powers of exploitation and evil -- and also dwarfs -- with some wonderful surprises and more than one laugh-out-loud moment. J.A. Pitts is a storyteller in the tradition of John Myers Myers, whose sure touch and command of his craft makes the story a delight to read.