Book & Audio Review: Sword and Shadow by Michelle Sagara

Sword and Shadow
Author: Michelle Sagara
Narrator: Khristine Hvam
Series: Wolves of Elantra (Book 2)
Publication: MIRA; Original edition (February 22, 2022); Harlequin Audio (February 22, 2022)
Length: 518 p.; 16 hours and 50 minutes

Description: Beyond the Emperor's law

In the city of Elantra, the law is upheld by a few groups, and the most feared are the Wolves—the Emperor’s executioners. The newest member of this elite force is Severn Handred.

Granted a leave of absence to pursue information about his unknown past, Severn joins a mission to an enclave well outside the boundaries of the Empire. And he will be in danger the entire time. Still, the instincts that led him to the Wolves and the sense of duty that keeps him there can’t be discarded as easily as the tabard he wears.

While he's in the heart of the West March, enmeshed in a tangled web of mysteries that have been held for centuries, Severn's belief in justice is going to be tested. It's one mortal man and his single ally against a community of immortals who will kill to keep their secrets. But they don't know who they're up against.

My Thoughts: Severn Handred is the newest of the Emperor's Wolves and is already getting involved in a number of areas that could be dangerous for him. When he is asked to travel to the West March with An'Tellerus, he knows she has an agenda. But Severn has an agenda of his own. 

An'Tellerus has promised to tell Severn about his past. All he knows is that he was raised by a Barrani until he was ten. He doesn't know anything about his parents or why he was raised by a Barrani. Severn also has a quest for another Barrani lord who is curious about the fate of one of his childhood friends. Since Severn feels he owes a debt to that lord, that becomes his first priority.

But the West March is very different from Elentra and Severn finds himself entangled in quite a few plots. Even the mysterious Green seems to have its own use for him.

This was an entertaining and intriguing fantasy. The world building is complex and fascinating. Severn is also a wonderful character. 

I alternated between the Kindle and audiobook of this one. The narration was very well done - but seeing the unfamiliar names was also very helpful in keeping track of the many characters in the story. 

Favorite Quote:

An'Tellerus laughed. "No. Never waste time with regrets if you can help it; it is idel and dark as a pastime, and it brings no peace."

I bought this one. You can buy your copy here.