LAST OF THE TASBURAI

Khan’s wide-reaching fantasy, his debut novel, draws on a number of real-world cultures.

Many different nations and cultures share the Avantolian peninsula. The Republic of Avantolia is home to both an increasingly tyrannical government and the ancient and sacred order of Tasburai warriors. Kronnoburg, on the other hand, is a monarchical state under the rule of Princess Elsta Mik. Both states are suffering varying measures of political instability. The Athenian Archipelago, the Pathan Province, the Empire of Duria, and Krakonite also share the peninsula. In times long past, the nations were united by the threat of the Magrog, a dark race of demon masters. Many years ago, however, an alliance across the peninsula, aided by the Tasburai order, seemingly exterminated this threat. Grandmaster Suri-Yi was instrumental in this conflict. But now, she and her apprentice, Adan, find themselves at the center of a plot to subvert the Tasburai. Simultaneously, mysterious events point to the possibility that the Magrog were not truly defeated. In to this confluence of events stumbles Ylva, plucky thief and daughter of the Robin Hood–esque Olaf. Her theft of a Tasburai sword sets off a chain of events that, fate willing, may just save the peninsula from threats both within and abroad. This story’s diversity is one of its strengths, and Khan ably handles the portrayal of different cultures and characters. Though there are a number of standard fantasy tropes included in the narrative, the thoughtful worldbuilding keeps them mostly fresh. The characters, while often compelling, have a tendency to dip into stereotype. Princess Elsta, for example, can verge on the caricature of the spoiled noblewoman. Other female characters, however, are refreshing takes on archetypes often reserved for male cast members. All in all, Khan’s novel, with its well-executed plot, offers an entertaining if not engrossing story.

A sturdy start to a promising epic fantasy series, with diverse characters and a solid storyline.