Matthew WardFantasy · Fiction
Legacy of Steel
Synopsis
Legacy of Steel is the 2020 middle volume of Matthew Ward's Legacy Trilogy, continuing the sprawling multi-POV epic fantasy begun in Legacy of Ash. Picking up after the Republic's hard-won survival, it pits the Tressian Republic against a resurgent Hadari Empire led by Prince Kai and his ambitious daughter Melanna Saranal, while betrayal and forbidden power threaten from inside.
Reviewers have highlighted the book's propulsive pacing through a fiendishly complicated plot, praising how Ward advances his large ensemble of soldiers, nobles, and gods without losing momentum. The alliance between former foes Viktor Akadra and Josiri Trelan is tested as the conflict escalates.
Often grouped with grimdark-leaning epic fantasy, Legacy of Steel bridges the trilogy toward its conclusion in Legacy of Light.
How it reads
Prose complexity 10/10
Content warnings (2)
ViolenceGraphic Violence
Genres
Characters
Viktor AkadraProtagonist
The Republic's champion, still hiding his heretical power as he shoulders responsibility for Tressia's defence.
Josiri TrelanProtagonist
Former political prisoner now allied to Viktor, wrestling with his family's rebel legacy amid council politics.
Melanna SaranalSupporting
The Hadari prince's daughter, a determined warrior pushing the Empire toward renewed war.