Where do I even begin?

Ballad of the Blade isn’t like anything I’ve read in a really long time. It follows multiple characters in the same world as they battle the struggles, injustices, and unknown. Ballad of the Blade is fast paced and the mystery of it all drew me in from the start. I can truly say I was surprised as pieces started to come together in the book. As someone who can usually predict the outcome of novels, I wasn’t able to predict where a lot of this book was going and what was going to happen next.

On top of all of that, it was really well written. I found myself immersed in the world and never got pulled out due to the writing style or dialogue.

If you are a fan of The Witcher, you might like Ballad of the Blade.

I truly think this is going to be one of the next high fantasy internet sensations!

Ballad of the Blade was a thrilling read! I was fully engaged from start to finished. Andrew Meritt's characters are each unique and brought this dark fantasy to life. I was initially drawn in by the promise of multi-character POV and a not so happy ending, which Meritt delivered!
I can't pick just one favorite character, they each have their own voice and quirks that make them relatable and lovable.
Every battle was an immersive experience where I felt every hit and dodge of the characters, their heartbreak was my heartbreak, and I laughed right alongside them. The character development and worldbuilding were fantastic, and I was enthralled by how complex of a plot Meritt crafted.
I truly cannot wait for the second installment to follow these characters on their journeys to new lands.

From the very first chapter, Ballad of the Blade pulled me in completely. The writing is sharp, emotional, and full of energy. I was so drawn in that I ended up reading passages aloud just to share the excitement. It is rare to find a fantasy novel that feels both fresh and classic, but this one manages it effortlessly. I never got bored while reading. If anything, I had to pace myself to make the experience last longer. The plot made sense and had a natural flow, with enough unanswered questions to build momentum for the next installment. The story length felt just right, with no scenes that dragged or felt unnecessary. The characters are vivid and distinct, each with their own strong presence and voice. This book reminded me of why I fell in love with the fantasy genre in the first place. After a long stretch of reading for work or turning to lighter books for escape, Ballad of the Blade rekindled that old spark. It is emotional, exciting, and beautifully written from start to finish. If you are looking for a story with strong characters, immersive worldbuilding, and a plot that keeps you hooked, this is absolutely worth picking up. I cannot wait to read and own the full series.

I couldn't put the book down! At first, I was worried the multi-POV style would be confusing, but the author did an amazing job of giving each character such a distinct voice, I would have known who was speaking without the name being put at the beginning of the chapter. Andrew has created a world and cast of characters that feel real, allowing the reader to be fully immersed in the story. The characters touch your heart and then rip it in two, just to glue it back together again. I laughed, cried, and almost threw the book across the room in frustration multiple times reading this. Since reading Ballad of the Blade for the first time, I have thought about it often, wishing for the sequel to be written already! You won't regret reading this book. You'll make friends and enemies, experience love and loss, and I guarantee you'll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the next installment!

Ballad of the Blade is a mult- POV fantasy that I couldn't put down! The characters are rich in description, had me laughing, crying, and had me wanting to know what was in store for them. The world-building is top-notch, and the action felt fresh and exciting. I can’t wait to see more from this author and see what’s next in book 2!

Ballad of the Blade is an action-packed fantasy with plot twists that will make you throw the book at the wall only to immediately pick it back up. I wasn't a fan of the amout of POV-switching at first, but I got used to it quickly. The plot is compelling and intense from page 1, and it is well-written, with fun and relatable characters and clear stakes. I can't wait for book two!

This book was a thrilling ride of magic, companionship, violence, and courage. There was never a dull moment; it was consistently entertaining. With a multi-POV structure, it was impossible to be bored. The characters had so much substance, there was no way to hate any of them. Whether you want to laugh, cry, or be horrified, this is the book for you.

In a world filled with violence and betrayal at every turn, a few brave souls learn how to persevere and hold onto hope in the face of loss and heartbreak. A heart stopping and emotional page turner, I couldn't put this one down!

Great read! I don't always get on with multiple POVs but it really worked for this story, helping with the general character descriptions and world building. The pacing was perfect, I don't think there was one but that I thought wasn't needed. This will definitely be re read at some point in prep for the next one!

The plot was well thought out and engaging, the characters were all unique and interesting, the world-building was great, and the dialogue was witty with good banter between characters. The dark humor really made me enjoy this story, even in its most intense parts.

This book gripped me with the first sentence. Magic is dead but this book is full of twists and turns that has me guessing until the very end!
The characters are so captivating and interesting and you are just waiting with bayted breath to see what will happen to them next!
The magic system is unlike anything I have read before and made me excited to dive into this book!
Love that Gothic feel? Love a gripping plot? This book is for you!

This was everything that I was looking for and enjoyed from the description and cover, it was everything that I was hoping for and was invested in the world and characters. It was everything that I wanted from the genre and thought worked overall feel worked together to tell the storyline. Andrew P Meritt has a strong writing style and glad I got to read this.

Thanks for the opportunity to read, Ballad of the blade by Andrew meritt.

This graphic, story is split into chapters that develops each person's story from their perspective. Each chapter moves quickly and in some instances, quite gorily to tell their tale.

In the vain of Joe Abercrombie, the story can be brutal at times, but it adds.to the tone and realism.

While relatively short, its worth a look

Andrew Meritt’s Ballad of the Blade is a dark fantasy epic that fulfills its promise of being a story of blood and bone. The novel has a wide cast of morally gray characters, including an assassin, a debt-ridden bard, and an enslaved gladiator. The immersive world building is revealed piece by piece. The plot has lots of action, shocking twists, and betrayals. Fans of dark fantasy will enjoy this first installment in the series A Serenade of Smoke.

First of all… that title and cover? Stunning. I was already intrigued before page one, and once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down.

If you love:
⚔️ assassins, slaves, justiseers, musicians & men with no memory
✨ multiple POVs that actually work
🌍 immersive world-building
🔥 an epic debut that leaves you begging for more
…then Ballad of the Blade is exactly what you’re looking for!!

This is easily one of the best fantasy books I’ve read this year. It’s intriguing from the very first page, and while the POV shifts threw me off a little at the start, once I found my footing, the story pulled me in completely. Every character feels essential, their journeys distinct but beautifully woven together, each chasing the truth about magic in their own way.

The writing is rich and detailed, with world-building that feels alive and layered. Perfect groundwork for what promises to be an incredible series. And the banter between the characters? Sharp, witty, and the perfect balance to the darker themes. It gave me so much life in between the tension and bloodshed.

My only complaint? Having to wait for the next book after that ending. Cruel. Brilliant. Heartbreaking.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 — captivating, addictive, and an incredible debut. I needed the sequel yesterday.

Wow this book utterly shocked me! I dove into it with no expectations and finished it absolutely hooked with this storyline and the characters. I enjoyed the systems and the world that Andrew built in this book, the reader gets thrown into the world and immediately we're drawn into this adventure.

There wasn't a moment where something wasn't happening in this book, it was perfectly paced without feeling like it was dragging on or slowing down.

Thank you NetGalley for an eARC!

Ballad of the Blade was a breath of fresh air among the numerous fantasy books that exist today. I loved that the plot was unique, the world-building was first rate, and the characters were detailed and well done. This book grabs you from the start and makes it difficult to go back to reality. I read this book in one sitting and now I am in need of more. I loved the multiple POVs, it let you get into each characters head and build that attachment the author will use against you later on.

Ballad of the Blade is the kind of grimdark fantasy that makes you want to thank the author for the emotional trauma. This isn't just a book; it's a chiropractor's dream, leaving you gripping the pages so tightly you'll need an emergency back adjustment. 💆‍♀️
On World-Building & Tone 🗺️
Meritt doesn't just build a world; he builds a sandbox full of broken glass and then shoves his characters' faces in it. The tone is less "epic adventure" and more "everyone is probably going to die a terrible, brutal death." 💀 It's a deliciously bleak setting where magic is a source of chaos and the gods are more concerned with their own squabbles than helping anyone. 😠 The political intrigue is as sharp as the blades 🔪, and it makes you feel deeply for every poor soul trying to navigate this mess.
On Characters & Plot 🧑‍🤝‍🧑
This book's cast is a delightful band of misfits, ranging from a professional stab-enthusiast to a guy who apparently forgot to write down his past in his diary. 🤷‍♂️ Their stories intertwine with the kind of reckless abandon that suggests the author had a "How many bad things can I make happen?" checklist. ✅ The plot is a relentless rollercoaster of misery, betrayal, and very sharp objects. It moves at a breakneck pace 🚄, leaving you utterly exhausted but desperate for the next chapter. If you enjoy your fantasy with a healthy dose of suffering and zero happily-ever-afters, this is the book for you. Just make sure you've got a good therapist on speed dial. 🛋️

What. A. Debut!

I haven't read anything like this in a while, dark, gritty and utterly captivating!
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A story told from multiple POV's that drip feeds the reader with tidbits of information and mystery in each chapter, which all comes together in an epic, mind bending, conclusion.
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This is a dark epic fantasy, there's action, gore, and a plethora of rather inventive expletives, with a sprinkling of dark, witty humour mixed in.
All the characters are morally grey, there's no 'good' or 'bad' and I loved the unlikely friendships that were formed from that.
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The ONLY reason, and it hurts, that I couldn't give it full 5 stars was because it took me a minute to get used to the multiple POV's. However, once I had, it flowed seamlessly and I really had so much fun reading this!
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Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this early and rekindling my love for epic fantasy...and somehow also making me love a moose..!




Thank you @netgalley for the eARC.

A different kind of fantasy that is very immersive and actioned packed. Following multiple characters on their journeys through all sorts of terrain and encounters. The author has thought about every detail, giving you a very 3D view of his book.

It is hard to follow at first with the multiple character angles but once you get used to changing between them you look forward to the next chapter.
It is also not the sort of book you can read a few pages and then put it down for a while, you need to concentrate and remember who is doing what where. I think we all expect happy endings but aren't tragic ones also enjoyable? In this case the ending was different to what I expected and it wasn't happy but I still loved it.

It is well written and very descriptive, you really do get a sense of the setting and what each character is like/looks like, I loved the details it really kept me wanting to know more. Fantasy books tend to be lengthy, so it didn't surprise me that this book is also on the thick size, I would normally shy away but I think it just means you get a good story that doesn't feel rushed or crammed into fewer pages.

I hope the author has made a start on the next instalment.

4.7/5

This is not my usual but, from the beginning it kept pulling me into it further. There have been a few humorous jokes in the dialogue that had me laughing and lingering the entire day that really kept me coming back because of the character. There are multiple characters to follow along with and at some point they come back together. I found it most intriguing about the moons and what more they could do; following along with the story line, it made sense. This storyline is in no way predictable the moment you think you know what is going to happen, it switches up; I love it. The world building is top tier, dialogue never dry, and the descriptive writing is all the way there. I felt as if I was right in front of the scenes that unfolded. I want another book. I feel like I’m no longer a dark fantasy virgin anymore.

Thank you NetGalley and mostly Andrew for this read. Keep going. 🫶🏽

Set in the richly imagined world of the Serenade of Smoke series, The Ballad of the Blade captured my imagination from page one. With a sprawling cast of morally gray characters, Meritt crafts a tale told from shifting perspectives and intricately woven plot lines. As the story unfolds, momentum builds and separate threads gradually converge culminating in a finale that’s both rewarding and impactful.
Despite the numerous happenings in the plot, Meritt handles them all with finesse. The pace is fast-paced, yet the story never feels rushed. One of the novels' strengths lies in its characters; they’re bold, layered, and full of personality. Their banter is sharp and their well-timed humor makes the emotional beats hit harder and the action scenes even more exhilarating.
As the pieces fall into place the ending leaves just enough unanswered to spark anticipation for what’s next. There’s something special about a book that surprises you, moves you, and leaves you wanting more. The Ballad of the Blade is one of my favorite reads of 2025.

Thank you so much for allowing me to read your book. I absolutely loved the multiple narratives, and how you took the time to let each character grow and develop. I normally can tell how the book is going to end, but this book has so many twist that I didn’t know what was going to happen next. By the end of the book I thought everything came together wonderfully. I will definitely recommend this book to my friends!!

"Gotta build 'em up before you tear 'em down."

Ballad of the Blade was an addictive read, resplendent with engaging characters, a unique universe, and "dead" magic. I grew attached to the varied and rich characters (despite the warning not to), and flew the pages of their intertwining adventures and obstacles. The plot and world building struck a perfect balance of captivating and intricate without getting esoteric. I can't believe this only Meritt's debut novel, but I plan to follow him through as many installments of A Serenade of Smoke as he's willing to write!

Ballad of the Blade is a gripping dive into dark fantasy—one that blends morally ambiguous characters, a richly layered world, and pulse-pounding intrigue. The novel introduces a cast so vividly drawn that it's easy to find someone to root for, even when they’re far from heroic. An assassin haunted by shadows, a debt-ridden bard, and a gladiator bound by chains—all converge in a realm where magic is feared, structures are crumbling, and survival hinges on wit as much as strength.
One of the book’s standout qualities is its ability to deliver a compelling narrative from the very first page. Readers describe it as so engaging that they were drawn into page-turning sessions and reluctant to stop. Meritt’s use of multiple points of view enhances the sense of an epic tapestry weaving together disparate threads into a unified journey. Though at first the POV-switching unsettles, the distinctiveness of each voice quickly brings clarity and immersion.
The world-building is revealed gradually and effectively, each chapter folding more complexity into the setting and the hidden magic running underneath its surface . If you're drawn to dark fantasy with gothic undertones—featuring shadowy conspiracies, chilling monsters, and emotional stakes—Ballad of the Blade delivers in spades
At times, the sheer number of characters and shifting perspectives can feel overwhelming or dilute narrative focus. One reviewer reflected that the story sometimes lacks a cohesive “red line,” making it feel like a crowded tapestry without a single thread to follow. However, that complexity is also part of the novel’s strength—for readers who savor layered storytelling, the payoff is worth the effort.
Final Thoughts

Ballad of the Blade is an electrifying introduction to Andrew P. Meritt’s Serenade of Smoke series, brimming with morally gray protagonists, dark magic, and ruthless intrigue. Its narrative structure may demand patience, but the worldbuilding, action, and emotional depth more than compensate.

I’m happy to award it four stars—a darkly enchanting fantasy that sets up anticipation and excitement for Book Two.

This is a great recommendation if you’re into the darker, grittier side of fantasy. Think of it as **high-stakes, morally gray epic fantasy** where survival is the only true goal.

*Ballad of the Blade* throws you into a world where magic is supposedly dead, but it’s really just waiting to explode. You follow a wide cast of characters—an assassin, a debt-ridden bard, an enslaved gladiator—all completely tangled up in a web of politics and ancient secrets.

The book is **fast-paced, action-packed**, and unafraid to go dark. The multiple viewpoints keep the story constantly shifting, and the world-building is revealed in just the right measured doses. Expect plenty of shocking twists and turns that will make you immediately want to start the next book.

**Perfect for:** Fans of *Game of Thrones* or *The First Law* trilogy. It's an instant hook for dark fantasy enthusiasts.

This is definitely a action packed booked. It is fast paced but never felt rushed. You did a really great job with all of the battle scenes. With the different pov's I loved how each character had a lot of development. We got to learn a lot about them this way and see who they really are. Cross and David were definitely my favorite characters. The world building was super interesting. I really liked how the moons kept being brought up and being a big part of the story. The ending was a wild ride that had me jaw dropped for so long. I was not expecting anything that happened. I highly recommend this book is you are wanting a gritty multi-pov epic adventure. Want wait to read what you do next!! Thank you Andrew P Meritt and Netgalley for the opportunity to be a part of the ARC team!❤️❤️

This book was nothing like what I thought it would be. High fantasy, beautifully written, with imagery to die for! It was a little difficult to follow at first because you are following multiple characters with multiple POVs but after a bit that gets easier. Thank you so so much for this opportunity to read and review this book!

This story was so well written. It starts out a little bit confusing because you have multiple POV’s. But hang in there. Once you get to know these characters you will be so immersed in this world. It’s almost as if you were reading multiple stories at one time and from different characters in each story. It’s also amazing how the stories start to interconnect. It sounds confusing, but Andrew Meritt did such an amazing job that you don’t stay confused long.
This story is definitely for fans of Game Of Thrones and The Wheel of time series. It’s a very high fantasy story and it will keep you sucked into the world. Just keep an eye out for the Trickster.

4⭐️!

The Ballad of the Blade is a challenging book to describe because it contains so much to digest. The characters. The story. The complexity of how each character is related to the overall plot and the world.

There were so many character POVs, and it wasn't until the seventh chapter that I realized I needed to take notes to keep track of all the characters. It probably wasn't necessary, but I wanted to make sure that I could refer to the little details of what happens within each character's POV, and how each character becomes intertwined with another. I absolutely loved the moments when certain characters met or were mentioned in another character's POV. I feel like I'm more involved in the story because I'm familiar with the nuances of most of the characters. This was also terrible because I became attached to the characters. Having so many character POVs achieves a rare phenomenon of not knowing who has plot armor. I was always on the edge of my seat reading this.

Mr. Meritt was able to deliver a dark, epic fantasy novel that didn't rely on world-building to envelop the reader in the story. Instead, he had the reader learn through the characters and almost become part of the journey alongside them. This novel is particularly suited for those who love the genre, as I fear that those who aren't fans may not appreciate the book for what it is.

Thank you to NetGallery and Mr. Andrew P Meritt for this e-ARC!

I enjoyed reading this so much, but I have to say: This book was insane.

I don't know that I've ever read a book with more than 4 POVs before (that I've noticed anyway), so keeping up with 11 (if I counted right) ?!? Was a trip.

I was really worried that would make the book hard to digest, but I was pleasantly surprised. I will say it took me a little while before I could keep the names straight, but again that's a learning curve I was more than happy to cross!

This was unlike anything I've ever read and I enjoyed it immensely.

Thanks so much to Andrew Meritt and NetGalley for this ARC!

Well. I definitely feel like I have been George RR Martin-ed. You know what I mean, a large, expansive world with complex characters, varying POVs, and unexpected throat punches along the way. This is a grimdark, fast-paced mosaic of storylines that come closer and closer together as the book moves along. It makes for an exciting page-turning adventure that keeps your attention and the questions coming. I am very curious to know what is going to happen next, and I hope there is a second book soon.

This world is dark, filled with a slave-owning ruling class, guilds that control the people, bounty-hunters (Justicseers) who are employed by the ruling class (in fact, it is mentioned a couple of times that the ruling family cared more for their horses than for their slaves), and the OAM (Order of Appropriate Magic) who makes sure there is no magic going on anywhere. From chapter one, you go from POV to POV as the threads of the story slowly unfurl a story of mystery, magic, and character development. There is plenty of adventure, dark-ish humor (in my opinion), and close calls, which culminated in an ending that left me turning the page, saying, "What? Wait! That's it?! What happens next?!" If you are a fan of Joe Abercrombie, George RR Martin, Richard Swan, or other grimdark authors, you may want to give this a read; you might just find yourself a new author to read.

Thank you, NetGalley and Andrew P Meritt, for the eArc. These opinions are mine.

Ballad of the Blade is sure to join the greats of high fantasy!

I wanted to read and review this book after reading the blurb and being fully captivated. Then I got a little more intrigued when the author asked if I read high fantasy, if I was okay with multi-pov, if I like grimdark. An epic fantasy journey that is dark and gritty at times, filled with action and lots of characters? Sign me up! Great world building, beautifully written....ummm, yes, that's up my alley.

In all honesty I found the multiple POV very well done, the first chapters are each dedicated to one of these voices. In that time the character adn their story is created and is so unique from each of the others that you wonder how it will all work together, how they will all connect. But in the end it all does come together, seamlessly, beautifully, and absolutely perfectly. These characters were so well developed and multi-dimensional and the stories of each, though individual, in the end came together beautifully. The multiple POV only added to the world building and beauty of this book.

I expected, I don't know, a slow entry, extensive world building, lots of explanation. But that is not at all what Merritt does in this book. From the first few pages you are thrown into heart pounding action! I loved the descriptive writing that was just enough. I loved the fact that this author writes for emotional impact and description that is not simply telling but is more like experiencing.

At one point in my reading journey my husband asked me if I wanted to come watch an action movie with him and our older kids. I called from the other room, "No thanks, I'm in the middle of something big right now I can't leave this movie". He just laughed knowing my term for movie is a really well written book that is so great I can picture everything in my head, down to the character and scenery and feeling. But, in full disclosure, I read way to late and ended up having to drink chammomile and lavender tea to shut my mind off from continuing to think about this book book past the point of putting it up for the evening.

My only complaint? Well, now that I've tasted and seen this world, fallen in love with the characters (there are a lot and they are so well developed I could not pick a favourite because there's something I like about each one) I can't wait for the continuation of this series.

Wow! This book was soooo good! I was worried the 500+ pages would be too much. However, at the end of this book, I wished there was more time with the characters without waiting for the next book. In the beginning of the book, I worried I would not be able to keep the many characters straight. However, the characers were well developed and had very intriguing individual personalities. I found myself cheering for most of them. The story moves along quickly, with a lot of intrigue. Wondering what happens and how the characters will interact is part of the fun. The ending was surprising, but understandable. I look forward to the next book in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Andrew Meritt for the opportunity to read this book! It was amazing! I want to start by thanking the author for personally reaching out to me before allowing me to read the book. He took the time to make sure that I saw the trigger/content warnings for his book. That meant a lot to me as a reader because it shows that he care about the mental well-being of his readers.

Regarding the story...I cannot wait for the next book in the series! It starts off rolling with the tavern scene (IYKYK) and jumps straight into the main story. I will say that by the end, I have never wanted to be a Bard more. The book definitely is an epic and reads like an epic. I appreciate the lists in the back of the book.

<b>Overview:</b> The Order of Appropriate Magic has dedicated thousands of years to destroying magic. And anything they couldn't destroy, they hid, convincing the realm that magic was dead.

Now: a promising initiate who asks too many questions, a hired assassin who cannot trust anyone, a bard in terrible debt, a scholar hiding from society, a man with no memory of who he is, an irreverent bounty hunter and a slave gladiator fighting for his freedom all find themselves thinking the same questions.

Is magic truly dead?

<b>My thoughts:</b> Truthfully, this took a while to warm into. But once it got underway, there was no putting it down!

There are so many POVs to get your head around straight away. The story, location, characters and action jump very rapidly - just let the story sweep you up and go along for the ride. The world is rich and vibrant (for all the scum and villainy humans seem to turn it into). So many details that just made everything seem expansive yet familiar - I adored the money system, which is an odd phrase, but you'll understand.

Once you get a solid grasp on who everyone is.... I don't want to say this is a <i>fun</i> book. It has really humorous parts and great banter. But it is gutwrenching and heartbreaking. It's beautifully written, so you fall in love with the prose just as much as the characters. And then both betray you.

This book is VIOLENT with a capital V. Every chapter involves bloodshed or death, and no one is spared. This is not a 'happily ever after' tale - to quote The Simpsons:
"Is this a happy ending or a sad ending?"
"It's an ending, that's enough."

My only critique is that there were so many stories to establish and characters to follow that it felt like it took a long time to get to the climax and action. And once there, I wanted more, but instead it eased off (as much as this book can ease off) and left everything primed for the next book, which, in all fairness, is a tactic I cannot hold against the author. There were some characters that I felt the POVs, while enriching and rounding out the world, could have been sacrificed to simply get more time elsewhere at the end.

Don't read this book if you're feeling fragile or PMSing. Or maybe do if you need a good cry or want to live vicariously through those causing bodily harm in excruciating detail. There's something for everyone. Just don't get attached.

4.5 stars

this book was so much fun, i went into it expecting a quick pace, bloodshed and plenty of action.. safe to say it completely delivered on all of those things. i was warned that there would be a lot of POVs, but i prefer multiple POVs anyways and i think the author did a great job balancing everyone. there wasn’t a time where i couldn’t tell who was who, because each person felt completely distinct. my favorite characters are 100% Tanya, Cross and Scarlett, but i also have the biggest soft spot for chaotic David and all of his (many) antics.

it surprised me how attached i grew to certain characters, it got to a point where i didn’t want the book to end cause i knew that would mean i’d have to leave them eventually. the found family in here when it came to Cross and how Tanya and David kept teaching him new words had me in my feels. Scarlett also had the most interesting arc in my opinion, i adored her moose Roland too. i also enjoyed getting the flip side of things by way of Gerard and Nathan. the storyline came together so smoothly in the last section with all the little connections falling into place. i think the plot will only get more intriguing from here. i was honestly staring at the wall when i finished it.. i can’t wait for book two.

woah. WOAH. this book was not at all what i expected going into it and i loved every second of it. there are six distinct povs and at times i had to go back and remind myself who was who but it is SO worth it when it clicks into place. the way each story is so unique within the same world but also. when to weave into the others’ was done so brilliantly.

this world is dark, gritty, and gory. it’s wonderful. seriously. i was hooked from the start and found myself rooting and falling for so many of these characters. this is epic fantasy at its finest. i would’ve loved more on the religion(s) of the world and how it all relates to the magic system. i’m really excited for more of that hopefully in the future. i’m very grateful to have received this arc.

An intense fantasy adventure that hooked me from the very first chapter. I was warned about trigger warnings and multiple POVs from the beginning, and I’ll be honest, multiple POVs aren’t my favorite and this book had quite a few. BUT the characters and their stories were written so well that I had no problem following all of them. I enjoyed reading about every character (especially Scarlett and Roland). The violence? Impeccably written. I’m a fan of gruesome, gory scenes and gosh this book is filled with them. But I was loving every minute of them. The storyline/plot is so unique, I was never bored reading this book. Highly recommend picking up Ballad of the Blade!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book completely surprised me in the best way possible. The writing is beautiful and the worldbuilding is incredible — rich, immersive, and full of depth. It does take a little time to get used to the multiple POVs and characters, but once everything starts to click, it’s impossible to put down. The way the different storylines begin to intertwine is so satisfying and keeps you turning the pages. Fans of epic, high fantasy worlds like Game of Thrones or The Wheel of Time will absolutely love this one.

I was given this book as an ARC, in exchange for an honest review.

Well, that was an adventure! I read the blurb for this book, and liked the way it sounded, so asked for a copy. The cover attracted me to it, and I'm glad I came across it, as it was so muchfun!.

We are given several different POVS, which at the beginning, I found quote confusing, as they didn't seem to have any relationship to each other....until they did.

David is a bard, a cheeky, cocky, good hearted bard, with a gambling debt, a sharp tongueand an eye for the ladies.

Tanya is basically an owned mercenary assassin working for a shady organisation, who don't take kindly to nosy employees.

We first see these 2 meet when Tanya gives him a note from the organisation she works for, and then things get very interesting.

We are also introduced to Rigel Cross. A behemoth of a man born into slavery, and used as a fighter in an arena. Lovely...not!

Gerard is a Justiseer, and he is actually very good, but so bloody unlucky, and cannot seem to keep hold of his marks, or their heads!! 🤣

Sarlett...oh Scarlett, you really have it tough my lovely, don't you. Or do you? Her arc is lonely and complicated, and terrifying.

Finally, we have Nathan. God knows where he's from, but he's an epic hunter, who has no memory of where he comes from or what he did before losing his memory. He happens upon a village who are being terrorised by a "monster" the villagers have dubbed "Elrontis". Said creature has been killing memebers of the village, and Nathan believes he's been sent to help.

We then have the OAM. Their job is to hunt and remove anything remotely magic, but they are believed to be fraudulent by most...after all, no one has EVER seen magic, so what on earth are they needed for? As far as anyone knows, they just collect taxes, to build an opulent dwelling for all their members. They want to make sure magic stays dead....surely that's a good thing....

As all of our characters stories develop, in a dark and gritty world, they gradually overlap each other, culminating in a vicious fight, where no one escapes unscathed.

Throughout the story, we are looked down upon by 3 moons, Huna, Sirius & Aura. That's the only thing we have to go one for the first part of the book, so we know they are all on the same planet, at least!

Good gods or god, (whichever you find most believable), the journey we go on is full of blood, gore, loss and pure conedy gold in places...looking at you David & Tanya...but Andrew, what the actual?!!!! I mean, come on, that's hardly playing fair is it!! ⚔️🗡

Do yourself a favour, and give this book a go. You'll be be confused to all hells at first, but by the time you turn the last page, you'll be fuming there aren’t more to turn, especially with that damn epilogue!!

Such a well written story, and fabulous character development. An imaginative unusual tale, that will stay with me for a while.

The Review

I loved the shifting perspectives of each chapter in this novel. Anytime a novel adapts a multiple POV style of storytelling, readers are given the chance to view the story from unique perspectives that change as each character sees a situation through their own lens. The dynamics between the characters were well ranged, from humorous and competitive at times in the dialogue to chilling and haunting all at once. The powerful imagery in the author’s writing really did an incredible job of bringing this story to life and the world it inhabits.

The world-building and powerful themes this story comprises will really drive the narrative forward. The unique implications of magic and its impact on the world, as well as the changes that result when it is stripped away politically and socially, are fleshed out in shocking ways in the story. The visceral, gritty detail the author puts into this narrative helps lend realism to themes of survival against all odds and of facing challenges and hardships, such as slavery and corrupt leaders.

The Verdict

Powerful, haunting, and compelling, author Andrew Meritt’s “Ballad of the Blade” is a must-read dark fantasy novel and a great start to a brand new series. The twists and turns, and the visceral tone of the story overall, capture a harrowing tale of shifting perspectives and overlapping storylines, resulting in a cohesive, massive world that readers can easily get lost in.

It was wild in the best way possible. This book opens in such a crazy way.

From the very first chapter, I was completely pulled in. The world is gritty, broken, and totally immersive. A place where magic is not just feared, it’s dead. Long gone. What’s left behind is chaos, decay, and people trying to claw their way through the ruins. The tension is real, and it never lets up.

There are multiple POVs, each distinct and engaging. Their paths collide in ways I didn’t expect, and each perspective added new depth and intrigue to the story. I never found myself wishing to get back to a certain character, I genuinely enjoyed them all, which is rare for a multi-POV fantasy.

The writing is sharp and atmospheric, with just the right balance between action and emotion. If you’re into the darker side of fantasy, with morally gray characters, ruined worlds, and high-stakes survival, this is absolutely one to check out.

Fans of ACOTAR, The Witcher, or even The Broken Empire trilogy will feel right at home here. I can’t wait for the next one!

Thank you for letting me arc read @andrewpmeritt! 📖✨

This book features several POVs, which surprisingly didn't confuse me much. My only complaint is that it took too long for the storylines to connect in a way that made sense. I was left with more questions than answers, and the magic element I expected didn't really appear until the end.

That said, each individual storyline pulled me in and made me connect with the characters' lives and struggles. The book contains some very dark and gory moments — which didn't bother me, though a few scenes definitely shocked me.
There's also an intriguing element of mystery woven throughout, which will have me picking up the second book.
The level of detail and the storytelling were both impressive.

Overall, this was an intriguing, dark, and gritty fantasy read that kept me invested to the end.

Thank you to NetGalley and Andrew for my ARC copy and my honest review.
Expected Publishing date: October 14, 2025.

This book was so so good. There is incredible world building and I can confidently say that I have not read a fantasy/sci fi book similar to this magic world and system. There are so many POVs but I found myself enjoying each one. Typically with multi POV books I struggle with at least one characters POV who I am just not interested in reading about, but the author did an amazing job at keeping each POV interesting and held my attention! I will say with so many POVs I did struggle to get really emotionally attached to the characters. I was sad and shocked at some points during the book especially towards the end, but because there is a huge range of POVs I personally think if I had spent more time with the characters I would have been more emotionally wrecked.

With it being a first book in the series it starts off quite slow allowing readers to get acquainted with the world, characters, politics, etc. Once acquainted the book picks up FAST. The second half of the book flew by for me and it has left me wanting to know what happens!

This book is graphic and gory. No one is safe. Please check trigger warnings if needed! I will be recommending this dark and gritty fantasy. I look forward to the second.

If you're a fan of The Witcher, Ballad of the Blade might be right up your alley.

I genuinely believe this could be one of the next big high fantasy sensations on booktok!

Huge thanks to NetGalley and Andrew for the ARC of Ballad of the Blade!

This was definitely a rollercoaster of a book. The beginning was thick with all the different POVs and I struggled because I had no clue what was going on. I ended up having to keep a journal for the first quarter of the book to really piece together the different stories. It felt like a lot of work just to figure it out.
Once you get past the first quarter of the book the stories start to flow together. I didn't need my journal to help keep track of what was going on. It became enjoyable at this point.
The characters are loveable and some you loath! There were several parts that smacked you in the face and really threw you through a complete plot twist. It makes you laugh and pulls some major heart strings. You root for the ones you love and cry from devastation.

I don’t know where to start. Ballad of the Blade is hard to describe because there is so much to digest. It is a dark, epic fantasy that doesn’t rely on world-building. There are so many different POVs you learn through the characters as you go. It makes it a little hard to follow at first but once you get an understanding of who is who it’s much better. Thank you Net Galley and Andrew Merritt for the ARC!

This was an amazing and original adventure fantasy that still managed to be fun and humorous despite the darkness and violence in this world. There were so many characters I loved - the multi POV style wasn’t a problem for me as all the characters felt real and their voices were distinct. I wasn’t prepared for that ending! I can’t wait to read future books in this series.

What a fantastic read! Andrew really smashed it with this book!

From page one I was sucked into a wild ride that I could not have expected and did not want to end. I didn't see where we were going at all the entire story, and that was awesome. There is mystery, struggle, riddles (love it), humour, and personal growth.
The Trickster... Scarlett... Tanya... Cross and Gerard are my personal favourites.

Will you enjoy Ballad of the Blade? My favourite reads are the Red Rising series, Scythe series, and Warhammer (Dan Abnett). Now also Ballad of the Blade.


Thank you Andrew, for a brilliant treat and for the chance to read and review it! I thoroughly enjoyed it, have ordered my copy, and can't wait for the next!
Thank you to Netgalley as well!

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the free ARC in exchange for a review.

I loved this new fantasy novel! The different perspectives kept the plot engaging and interesting, and allowed me to connect with multiple characters. I was saddened by some of what happened in the ending but am really looking forward to reading the next one!

A couple of the chapters were from the perspective of some side characters and seemed unnecessary in the grand scheme of things, but they were still entertaining to read through. Also, this book is very violent and gory, which I don’t normally enjoy, but the fight scenes were really well-written.

I enjoyed Tanya’s character a lot and hope that there are more women characters in the next novel. I also really liked the animal characters and hope there are more! Furthermore, the concept of three moons and their unique characteristics was creative and intriguing.

Overall, this novel has become one of my favorites and I highly recommend it to fantasy fans!

Ballad of the Blade is the debut novel by Andrew P. Meritt, and it does not disappoint. It was the perfect level of gritty and dark, with some parts literally making my skin crawl and others had my jaw on the ground. It only took me two days to read, and for two nights in a row, I stayed up late (waaayyyy past my bed time!) to continue reading, as I was well and truly hooked! While nearing the end of the book, I was also told multiple times by my smart watch that I needed to relax as my stress levels were in the red! If that isn’t a sign of a good book, I don’t know what is!

The pacing of the story was really good, as it allowed for each of the characters to shine, as well as the plot to continue at a steady pace. I loved the fact that the book was multi-POV, as it allows you to see the plot from all of the key players perspectives. I also feel that it allows you to get to know each character on a more ‘personal’ level. In this story, there are no “good” guys, with each of the characters having questionable morals (some more than others!). What makes it better, is that it’s the characters I least expected to be problematic that caused me to gasp in utter shock!

There are some characters that I felt more connected to than others, and that is because of the way they interacted with one another. For instance, David and Tanya had the BEST banter between them, and they added a much needed comic relief during their chapters. While reading this book, I looked up the type of humour used in it, and discovered a new favourite word! Galgenhumor, which is a German word that translates to “gallows humour”. This is essentially where humour is used in the face of adverse experiences – definitely fitting for describing the interactions between these two characters. What I also loved about them, was them teaching Cross the meanings of words he’s never come across. This little found family was one of my favourite parts of Ballad of the Blade, as it felt authentic.

The ending really wasn’t what I expected – but I guess that’s what is amazing about Meritt’s writing. You never actually know what to expect. Just when you feel like you have it all figured out, the rug his quite literally pulled from under you! If you’re expecting a “happily ever after”… Don’t. It’s not that kind of book!

I feel that Ballad of the Blade gives off some major Game of Thrones vibes, without the overly complicated and convoluted plot. Even though you are kept guessing throughout, it was definitely a much more accessible and enjoyable read that has made me ridiculously excited for the next installment of the A Serenade of Smoke series! I feel like book 2 needed to be out yesterday! 😂

Overall, I absolutely loved Ballad of the Blade. The world building was amazing, and the characters were well written and believable. The ending left me heartbroken, but very much ready for the next book! This book really does have everything, from some pretty graphic gore, to some absolutely wonderful expletives – with “thunderc*nt” being my absolute favourite.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars

Ballad of the Blade is a truly action-packed, gritty, multi-POV epic fantasy that kept me hooked from start to finish. The pacing is fast without ever feeling rushed, and there was never a moment where I felt bored. The battle scenes, in particular, were incredibly well done; clear, impactful, and easy to visualize without becoming overwhelming.

One of the biggest strengths of this book is its character development. With so many different POVs, I loved how much time we got to truly know each character and understand who they are beneath the chaos of the world. Each perspective felt purposeful, and seeing events through different lenses added so much depth to the story. Cross and David were easily my favorite characters, and I found myself especially invested whenever their chapters came up.

The worldbuilding was fascinating and immersive. I really loved the recurring presence of the moons and how they played an important role in the atmosphere and mythology of the story; it added a unique layer to the world and made it feel expansive and alive.

The ending was an absolute wild ride. I was genuinely shocked by how everything unfolded and sat there with my jaw dropped for far longer than I care to admit. I did not expect the direction the story took, and it left me eager for what comes next.

Overall, I highly recommend Ballad of the Blade to readers who enjoy dark, gritty, multi-POV fantasy filled with action, complex characters, and high stakes. I can’t wait to see where Andrew P. Meritt takes this story next.

Thank you to Andrew P. Meritt and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. ❤️

Ballad of the Blade
by Andrew P Meritt
The Order wanted everyone to believe that magic is dead. A group of unlikely individuals will embark on a journey to find out if it's true.
This book is everything I want in my fantasy books. It starts off with a bang and doesn't let up until the end. It's violent, dark, brutal and mysterious and I loved every minute of it..
There is a select few authors I will read anything they put out and Andrew P Meritt has made that list. Doing that with a debut novel is incredible.
Thank you to NetGalley and Andrew P Meritt for the opportunity to read this book in return for any honest review.