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OVERVIEW/ANALYSIS: Consider The Dust by Casey Blair is a fascinating novella about two women and their magical swords. Casey previously has been a reviewer for Fantasy Book Critic and I would like to make it clear that I know her. For the purpose of this review, I’ve done my best to remain objective about the novella and its author.

The story begins with two warriors Mai and Kiran who have magical crystal blades and differing opinions on each other’s worth, martial prowess and eventual goal. The opening of the story presents us with the premise and the reason for their antagonism. Kiran has a plan to face the crystal goddess Tara and question her about her reticence and for allowing the world to suffer. Mai on the other hand is completely flabbergasted at the illogical nature of Kiran’s quest and knowing how ill-suited Kiran is to this battle. They both however don’t give in and so we are treated to a story wherein two frenemies have to decide what it is that they ultimately want and whether they can help or harm each other.

The novella is a fast paced one wherein we are treated to a story within a story and it’s a fun one. The world and background are explained without being too infodump-ish (though this can be very heard in a novella). The story has a lot of action in it and it seems very much inspired by anime as the author notes in her afterword. I enjoyed how the action was interspersed within the dialogue and it had a cinematic scope to it.

The story is mainly held within its main characters Kiran and Mai who are enigmatic and also unpredictable. The story is of their journey as much as dethroning the goddess of the universe and it’s to the author’s credit that she makes it a seamless one. I was very intrigued by their inner monologues about each other whilst they are trying to figure what the other person is deciding to do.

One aspect wherein the story falters a bit is about the world history and magic system. The crystals which power the story, and the metaphysical structure of the world are told be the main thing but I wish there were more revelations about where and what they are (beyond what is told to us). I thought it would have helped more to understand about the story and its ending.

CONCLUSION: Consider The Dust is an action-packed story about two brilliant warriors who while being frenemies are also trying to decide what to do with each other. Filled with action, magic, and banter, this novella gives a wonderful insight into the type of writer Casey Blair is. I would love for her to explore her skills in a lengthier format.