A Crucible of Souls

July 13, 2015
Hogan’s debut, appearing for the first time in print after digital self-publication in 2013, is a multiple-narrator tale of sorcery and madness that draws upon grimdark and adventure-quest epics in equal parts—but not in the best ways. Caldan, an orphaned boy with rare powers, is taken in by monks and allowed to train at an exclusive monastery. But when he comes of age and commits a terrible crime, he’s cast out and sent to find the truth behind his parents’ murders. Culture shock thrusts the novice sorcerer into a larger network of dark plots and murderous intent, all centered on destructive sorcery, a barbaric art long thought impossible. Hogan’s description of raw magic ability, which is given nuance by its frequent connection to alchemical properties, will remind many readers of Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series. In fact, much of the book’s slow setup consists of a series of patchwork tropes hustled along through Hogan’s frequently clunky expository dialogue. Once some patchy worldbuilding is established, the book becomes somewhat more readable, aside from the gratuitous violence—sometimes sexual—inflicted on women for the purpose of motivating male characters.

December 1, 2015

Caldan, a young man raised in a monastery, accidentally injures a nobleman's son with a wooden sword and is expelled to survive on his own. His parents were murdered violently years ago, but he doesn't know why or how. Luckily Caldan received a well-rounded education from the monks, and his background in sorcery, tactical gaming, and craftsmanship enable him to snare an apprenticeship with the Sorcerers' Guild. When his city is attacked, Caldan and his friends must try to defend themselves from evil. Originally self-published, this fantasy novel won the Australian 2013 Aurealis Award for Best Fantasy Novel. It's a perfect crossover adult fantasy title for teens-a coming-of-age story about a teenager with unknown powers and great friends. Caldan is a likable main character, and readers will root for him and hope that he finds love and happiness. Give this to teenagers who are patiently waiting for the sequel to Patrick Rothfuss's The Name of the Wind (Penguin, 2007). Caldan's world is shady and violent but not as menacing as that of Lev Grossman's The Magicians (Viking, 2009). This novel does end in a cliff-hanger-the second installment, Blood of Innocents, will be published in February 2016. VERDICT Highly recommended for fantasy fans.-Sarah Hill, Lake Land College, Mattoon, IL

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