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Brian McClellan
Brian McClellan is the author of the Powder Mage novels, including Promise of Blood and The Autumn Republic. He writes epic fantasy with a unique blend of magic and gunpowder.
In the Shadow of Lightning
Synopsis
Demir Grappo abandoned his powerful family, choosing a life as a grifter. But when his mother is murdered, he's forced to return and confront the dangerous politics of his family and the dwindling supply of godglass, the magic that powers civilization. He must rally unlikely allies to face powerful guilds and an unseen enemy threatening to plunge the empire into war.
Genres
Characters
TanonProtagonist
Frequently asked questions
Does In the Shadow of Lightning connect to Brian McClellan's other series?
This novel is the beginning of a new series, set in a distinct world from his Powder Mage books. While it shares some thematic elements like intricate magic systems and military strategy, it is a completely separate narrative.
Does In the Shadow of Lightning end on a cliffhanger?
The book concludes with a significant resolution to its immediate conflicts, but it also clearly sets the stage for future installments in the series. Readers will find a satisfying arc for the main storyline while anticipating what comes next.
What makes the magic system unique in In the Shadow of Lightning?
The magic in this world, known as godglass, is a finite resource that powers both technology and magical abilities, creating a unique economic and political tension. Its scarcity and the methods of its use are central to the plot and world-building.