The Blacktongue Thief

“The only way to deal with this world is to laugh at it.” – Voltaire

Christopher Buehlman's The Blacktongued Thief is a delightful fusion of dark fantasy and sharp wit, a novel that embraces the traditional trappings of the genre while imbuing them with a refreshing, often surprising humor. The narrative follows Kinch Na Shannack, a thief who stumbles into a grander adventure than he ever anticipated, traversing a world rife with danger, magic, and complex moral questions. Buehlman's world-building is nothing short of fantastic; every detail, from the shadowy forests to the bustling cities, is meticulously crafted, providing a rich backdrop against which the story unfolds.

One of the novel's standout features is the interplay between its characters. Buehlman excels in creating dynamic, believable relationships, where the dialogue feels natural and the humor arises organically from their interactions. This is a world where the stakes are high, yet the characters' banter provides a much-needed levity that makes their journey as entertaining as it is perilous. The humor while rarely subtle, never detracts from the gravity of the narrative, but rather adding a layer of complexity that keeps the reader engaged. This balance is reminiscent of the work of Joe Abercrombie, yet Buehlman brings his own voice to the genre, one that is both thoughtful and sharply observant.

The audiobook, narrated by Buehlman himself is, in a word, delightful. If you're torn between the physical copy and the audiobook, let me save you the trouble—go with the audiobook. I find myself picking up my earphones more and more, and the book less and less as the story went on. Buehlman's voice breathes life into his words, capturing the humor, tension, and emotional nuances in a way that makes the story even more compelling.

5 out of 5 stars: “A darkly humorous and richly detailed fantasy, with dynamic character interactions and a standout audiobook performance that elevates the story to new heights.”