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Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Merethe Walther's Trailblazer is the first book in the Baptism by Fire saga, a flintlock fantasy series. A long time ago, the "calamity" Verryg's powerful magic shattered the earth and created the Scar, providing a safe haven for the witches of New Herald. Seeking to be someone other than just a bangtail like the other witches of New Herald, Dahlia Galloway left town and became a hex slinger. After rescuing two young witches, Dahlia returns home at the calling of her old friend, Verity Owens. She soon discovers that the Scar has been bleeding black magic, witches are being murdered, and an ancient evil beneath the earth has woken up. With humans oppressing the witches again and the Ember Leviathan raising his army of monsters, Dahlia must embrace her role as a calamity and save her people.
Author Merethe Walther incorporates elements from supernatural, mystery, and Western genres into a captivating and fantastical tale of magic and mayhem. Trailblazer is a page-turner and a gripping first installment in what promises to be a riveting fantasy saga. Walther's worldbuilding is phenomenal, and rich in lore and history. The setting features various kinds of witches, each with their special abilities. If you're a fan of witches and monster stories, this is just the book you're looking for. Additionally, the characters have their own agency and leap off the pages. It's easy to get invested in their story arcs. Apart from Dahlia, I also enjoyed the characters of Verity, Lutie, Jonah, the two sisters, and the crones. The battle scenes are epic and will have readers biting their nails, wondering if their favorites will make it out alive. Highly recommended!
