In the Shadow of Lightning (Glass Immortals 1) by Brian McClellan

Demir Grappo is an outcast—he fled a life of wealth and power, abandoning his responsibilities as a general, a governor, and a son. Now he will live out his days as a grifter, rootless, and alone. But when his mother is brutally murdered, Demir must return from exile to claim his seat at the head of the family and uncover the truth that got her killed: the very power that keeps civilization turning, godglass, is running out.

Now, Demir must find allies, old friends and rivals alike, confront the powerful guild-families who are only interested in making the most of the scraps left at the table and uncover the invisible hand that threatens the Empire. A war is coming, a war unlike any other. And Demir and his ragtag group of outcasts are the only thing that stands in the way of the end of life as the world knows it. (publisher)

This was my first book from the author even though I’ve heard good things about his books over the years. The book started a little slowly for me but picked up after a while. At first, I was a bit confused with the magic system and there are many characters so keeping track of them was difficult at first.

There are four pov’s: Demir, Kezzie, Thessa, and Idrian.
Demir is the main protagonist you could say. Demir is head of a minor guild family and returns home after his mother is murdered. He left nine years ago in a self-imposed exile after a war campaign in Holikan ends horrendously. Now he tries to solve who murdered his mother.
Kezzie is a disgraced bastard daughter and enforcer of a Vorcien guild family. She’s trying to get back into favour and is helping Demir to solve the murder.
Thessa is immune to the magic system of the world and can create godglass which is running out.
Idrian is a soldier and was part of the campaign in Holikan that ended badly. Has long ties with Demir and his family.

The magic system has godglass, glass that has different capabilities. Cureglass can heal, witglass makes you think clearly… But now sources are running out.

There are a lot of political machinations going on with all the ruling guild families, there’s a war going on, murder investigation. A lot of things going on. I have to say I wasn’t really a fan of the ending but I’m curious to see where this is heading. I enjoyed the book and I want to try his other series too.

3,5/5

Published: Tor Books (June 21, 2022)
Format: eBook
Source: Netgalley