My sword and sorcery novel from Angry Robot Books, The Hammer and the Blade, has been out for almost two weeks.  Given that, the time seemed right for another review round-up (first round-up was here).  To say that I’ve been pleased with reviewer response to the book would be an understatement.  I’m only going to excerpt a few of the more recent reviews below, but there are lots and lots out there.  If you haven’t read the book yet, I sure hope you will.  Maybe these will convince you.

And if you have read it, I’d be grateful if you could find the time to drop a review on Amazon or Barnes and Noble.  Thanks a million.  🙂

So, without further ado:

First, Library Journal said, “Kemp (“The Twilight War” series) delivers sword and sorcery at its rollicking best, after the fashion of Fritz Leiber’s Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser.”

Publishers Weekly said, “…the strong characters, setting, and history turn what could be a cookie-cutter adventure into a gripping tale.”

Tor.com (Alex Brown) said, “[Kemp’s] created a curious and interesting world that I can’t wait to explore, and populated it with a vast cast of characters who practically burst off the page and start chatting you up. With his wise-cracking, swashbuckling protagonists, Kemp hits all the genre high notes and just a touch of the low ones…So. Much. Damn. Fun.”

Geek-life said, “There are so many things to like about this book. The characters are delicious in the way that they are under described, but never underdeveloped. The writing shows a wit and polish rarely seen these days. I knew Kemp was good, but set free in a world of his creation, he exceeds, excels, and is excellent! This book is the right length, the right pace, and just what the genre needs.”

Morpheus Tales said, “Rip-roaring fantasy adventure at its best, this is sword and sorcery at its finest.”

Roqoo Depot said, “The Hammer and the Blade presents an entertaining duo that blows Gotrek and Felix out of the water. If you like Paul S. Kemp’s books in general, this is a must read. It’s witty, fun, entertaining, and explores some interesting themes about the portrayal of women in sword and sorcery tales. I give it a five out of five.”

Adventures Fantastic said, “This is a sword and sorcery novel that reminds you why sword and sorcery is fun in the first place.  In many ways it’s a breath of fresh air.  It’s fast paced, smart, funny, and at times extremely dark.   The action and tomb robbing sequences are well done, and the conflict between Rakon and Egil and Nix is riveting.  The supporting characters are well drawn; their relationships with Egil and Nix change and grow.”

And finally, Falcata Times said, “The pace was electric, the twists organic and when you add to the mix an author with enough experience to make sure that everything feels natural as it develops really makes this a joy to read.”

Whew.  I know that’s a lot.  But hey, I want you to read the book.  Read it, please.  Read.  It.  🙂