In Alex R. Kahler's Runebinder, the first book in The Runebinder Chronicles, magic's return has not been a blessing, but a curse. Greed unleashed monstrous Howls upon a broken world, controlled by corrupt necromancers and the powerful Kin. Hunter Tenn, battling the encroaching darkness, finds his already waning hope challenged by his unpredictable magic. His abilities attract the attention of the seductive Kin Tomás and the mysterious Hunter Jarrett, thrusting Tenn into a perilous game of power. As he fights for survival against overwhelming odds, Tenn must also grapple with his burgeoning feelings, a love that threatens to consume him as much as the war itself. This updated and expanded edition delivers a spicier, more intense experience.
Review Runebinder
Runebinder completely captivated me! From the stunning cover art – seriously, I'd buy it based on that alone – to the gripping narrative, this book was a whirlwind. The post-apocalyptic setting, ravaged by necromancers and their horrifying Howl creations, is instantly immersive. Kahler doesn't shy away from the grim reality of this broken world; the descriptions of abandoned cities and the lingering echoes of a lost civilization are both chilling and hauntingly relatable, even if the cause is magical rather than, say, nuclear war.
The magic system itself is fascinating. It's elemental, rune-based, and infused with the dark power of necromancy – a deliciously dark combination. I loved how the magic felt both powerful and dangerous, with consequences that extend beyond just flashy spells. Tenn’s struggle to control his unexpectedly potent abilities, especially considering his water-earth combination, kept me on the edge of my seat. The sheer power he wields, coupled with the vulnerability it creates, is a compelling dynamic. I found myself wishing for a deeper dive into the rules and history of the magic system, but I suspect the later books will deliver on that front.
Tenn, our reluctant hero, is wonderfully flawed and relatable. He's brave, selfless, and utterly human in his fears and doubts – a far cry from the typical invincible Chosen One. His internal struggles resonated with me; his weariness and longing for a normal life in the face of extraordinary circumstances felt authentic. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, each adding depth and intrigue to the story. Jarrett and Tomas, the two men vying for Tenn's attention, are both complex and compelling in their own right; Jarrett's established history with Tenn adds an interesting layer to their relationship, even though I did find their romance a bit rushed, a tiny stumble in an otherwise compelling story.
The pacing is fantastic. The book throws you headfirst into the action, and it never lets up. The constant threat of Howls, the political machinations of the Kin, and the ever-present shadow of the necromancers create a constant sense of tension and danger. The story's darkness is balanced by moments of genuine warmth and tenderness, particularly in the developing relationships between Tenn and the other characters. The author masterfully crafts these scenes, creating a poignant contrast to the grim realities of the world.
While I would have appreciated a slower burn for the romance, the overall impact of Runebinder is undeniable. It's a thrilling, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful story, brimming with magic, action, and compelling characters. The queer representation felt natural and integral to the story, a refreshing change of pace, and the inclusion of a seductive incubus certainly adds a unique flair. The cliffhanger, or rather, the lack thereof, left me satisfied yet eager to dive into the next installment to see how Tenn’s journey unfolds. Definitely a strong contender for one of my favorite reads of the year.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.85 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 340
- Publication date: 2024
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