3.77
Part of "Eddie LaCrosse" series
"The Sword-Edged Blonde" by Alex Bledsoe is a unique blend of fantasy and detective noir that follows the story of Eddie LaCrosse, a swordsman for hire with a mysterious past. When a queen from Eddie's past hires him to find her missing daughter, he is thrust into a world of political intrigue, danger, and magic. Bledsoe's writing style is reminiscent of classic detective novels, with a hard-boiled protagonist and a gripping plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. However, the addition of fantasy elements, such as magic and mythical creatures, sets this book apart from traditional noir. Eddie LaCrosse is a complex and well-developed character, with a dark past that is slowly revealed throughout the novel. He is a skilled swordsman and a cynical detective, but he also has a moral code that drives him to seek justice, even when it puts him in harm's way. The world-building in "The Sword-Edged Blonde" is exceptional, with a richly detailed fantasy world that feels both familiar and fresh. Bledsoe skillfully combines elements of classic fantasy, such as knights and castles, with his own unique twists, such as a society where magic is outlawed. Overall, "The Sword-Edged Blonde" is a thrilling and engaging read that combines the best elements of fantasy and detective noir. Fans of both genres will appreciate Bledsoe's unique vision and his ability to create a compelling story with complex characters and a richly detailed world. If you're looking for a fresh take on fantasy or a gritty detective novel with a twist, "The Sword-Edged Blonde" is definitely worth checking out. It's a standalone novel, but it also sets the stage for a series of books featuring Eddie LaCrosse, so there's plenty more to explore in this fascinating world...
Clive Barker
The Thief of Always
If you enjoyed the blend of fantasy and noir elements in 'The Sword-Edged Blonde', you might like 'The Thief of Always'. This book also features a captivating blend of genres, with a coming-of-age story at its core. The protagonist, a young boy named Harvey Swick, is lured into a mysterious mansion filled with marvels and monstrosities, and he must navigate this fantastical world to regain his freedom.
Learn MoreR. Scott Bakker
The Darkness That Comes Before
Fans of 'The Sword-Edged Blonde' who are looking for a more epic and darker fantasy story should consider 'The Darkness That Comes Before'. This book introduces a richly detailed world with complex characters and a deep, intricate plot. The story follows a warrior-priest, Anasurimbor Kellhus, as he navigates a world on the brink of war and uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to consume everything.
Learn MoreScott Lynch
The Lies of Locke Lamora
If you're looking for a fantasy heist story with a similar blend of humor and action as 'The Sword-Edged Blonde', 'The Lies of Locke Lamora' is an excellent choice. The story follows a group of con artists known as the Gentlemen Bastards as they plan and execute elaborate heists in a fantastical city filled with danger and intrigue.
Learn MoreJoe Abercrombie
The Blade Itself
Fans of 'The Sword-Edged Blonde' who are looking for a gritty, violent, and darkly humorous fantasy story should consider 'The Blade Itself'. This book introduces a world filled with morally ambiguous characters, political intrigue, and brutal violence. The story follows a retired torturer, a barbarian warrior, and a disgraced nobleman as they navigate a world on the brink of war.
Learn MoreJoe Abercrombie
The First Law Trilogy
If you enjoyed 'The Blade Itself' and are looking for more books in the same world, consider reading the rest of the First Law Trilogy, which includes 'Before They Are Hanged' and 'Last Argument of Kings'. These books continue the story of the characters introduced in 'The Blade Itself' and delve deeper into the world's politics, religion, and magic.
Learn MoreRichard K. Morgan
The Steel Remains
Fans of 'The Sword-Edged Blonde' who are looking for a dark, violent, and sexually explicit fantasy story should consider 'The Steel Remains'. This book introduces a world filled with morally ambiguous characters, political intrigue, and brutal violence. The story follows a gay, middle-aged warrior, a young female warrior, and a damaged priest as they navigate a world on the brink of war.
Learn MoreGlen Cook
The Black Company
If you enjoyed the noir elements and the gritty worldbuilding in 'The Sword-Edged Blonde', you might like 'The Black Company'. This book introduces a world filled with morally ambiguous characters, political intrigue, and brutal violence. The story follows a group of mercenaries known as the Black Company as they navigate a world filled with danger and intrigue.
Learn MoreMark Lawrence
The Broken Empire
If you enjoyed the dark, violent, and morally ambiguous world of 'The Sword-Edged Blonde', you might like 'The Broken Empire'. This series introduces a world filled with political intrigue, brutal violence, and a protagonist who is both intelligent and ruthless. The story follows a young man named Jorg as he navigates a world filled with danger and intrigue.
Learn MoreBrian McClellan
The Powder Mage Trilogy
Fans of 'The Sword-Edged Blonde' who are looking for a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy story with a unique magic system should consider 'The Powder Mage Trilogy'. This series introduces a world filled with political intrigue, brutal violence, and a unique magic system that allows characters to manipulate gunpowder. The story follows a variety of characters as they navigate a world filled with danger and intrigue.
Learn More