Another aspect of the magic that I really like is that natural talent plays a part, but ultimately a sacred artist’s level of power and mastery of the magic comes from effort, force of will, and smarts. There are so many ways to become powerful, so many different techniques, natural “boosters”, and other intricacies that make this magic system so interesting to read about. I think the biggest thing I enjoy about it is the breadth and scope of it. Speaking of paths to power, I have continued loving the magic system that Will Wight has crafted. Each seems to have a similar culture to Lindon’s, but what separates each tribe is the path they take to power and the different techniques and advantages that those paths afford them. We learn much about the tribes outside of Sacred Valley. I was so excited about this book because I believed the world was going to expand in this entry and that proved to be true. Soulsmith continues almost immediately where we left off last with Lindon and Yerin leaving the safety of the Sacred Valley and going out into the world beyond.

He continues to bring the world of Cradle to life in an engaging and immersive way and I will be continuing this series via audiobook in large part to his fantastic narration. I want to give a quick shoutout to the narrator, Travis Baldree. Without risk, without battle, without a willingness to fight, you will stay weak. With new powers come new enemies, and Lindon soon finds himself facing an entire sect of Golds To advance, he turns to the arcane skills of the Soulsmiths, who craft weapons from the stuff of souls. Lindon has reached Copper, taking the first step on the road to power, but the warriors of the outside world are still far beyond him. Outside Sacred Valley, ancient ruins rise from the earth, drawing sacred artists from miles around to fight for the treasures within.

Cradle soulsmith