Pennyblade by J.L. Worrad

(Titan Books, 2022)

Reviewed by Susan Peak

This book is about relationships and power, with relationships in the foreground. There are two key sets of relationships: between Kyra and her twin brother Kyran, and between Kyra and two women: Shen and Sister Benadetta. At the opening of the story, Kyra is in effect exiled from her home and making a living as a mercenary—a ‘pennyblade’. This exile has come about through the machinations of Kyra’s grandmother, who wants the family, of which she is head, to increase its power; Kyra was reluctant to cooperate.

The structure is one of switching in time from one chapter to another, giving the background as the main story is told. This is handled very well. As a technique, it can be intrusive, but Worrad makes the story flow well, and I found it added to the interest of the story as the two timelines converged. The story as a whole is well-written and engaging.

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Review from BSFA Review 20 - Download your copy here.