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By Blood, By Salt swaps out epic spell-slinging for sharp character drama and cultural nuance. J.L. Odom takes readers to the desert sands of Maurow, where survival often comes down to how well you navigate politics, prejudices, and your commanding officer’s death glares.
By Blood, By Salt’s protagonist, Azetla, is the ultimate underdog - a debt soldier clinging to his place in a battalion that barely tolerates him. His knack for staying alive and keeping his battalion in one piece is impressive. He’s no chosen hero—just a man who has survived 13 years of bigotry, bad odds, and life-or-death missions. His arc is gritty, and personal; It’s easy to root for him even when he’s making deals with beings he really shouldn’t trust.
Then there’s James Sivolne, the emperor’s bookish, tea-loving brother dragged into rebellion by his friend Wesley, and a mysterious figure you’ll have to discover for yourself. Their dynamic brings a touch of levity and humanity. There are more players here, but don’t expect to fall in love with every character—beyond Azetla, some personalities fade into the background, and you’ll need time to orient yourself in the sea of names.
The book starts slowly. Odom takes her time building the world—the desert setting, inspired by Middle Eastern cultures, is immersive and beautifully rendered. Language, religion, and social hierarchies are detailed, and it requires time, but also gives the story nuance. While the first quarter may feel like a slog, it’s worth(ish) sticking around. Once the battalion hits the desert, the story shifts into higher gear with tense missions, brutal hardships, and strong political intrigue. With that said, even once the action picks up, some sections still feel bogged down, and the slower moments risk losing your attention.
Ultimately, By Blood, By Salt is a good read if you’re willing to wade through its denser parts. It’s not perfect, but its blend of grit, cultural nuance, and character-driven drama is clearly well-thought-out. Just be patient.
OFFICIAL SPFBO SCORE
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