Book Review: The Night of The Swarm by Robert V.S. Redick

The most incredible fantasy story I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading – and now it’s done.

I’ve had a difficult relationship with this series. I think I mentioned at least once or twice in all my previous reviews of Book 1, Book 2 and Book 3, how difficult I found it to grasp Redick’s writing, at least in the beginning. I don’t think I ever managed to put my finger on what it is exactly, but I think it’s a combination of run-on sentences, difficult weird choices, and convoluted language. This, combined with the fact that almost every other character is part of some conspiracy and thus has secrets to hide from one another, make the series occasionally difficult to follow.

It was particularly noticeable in the beginning with Book 1. I still kept running into the same issue as the series progressed, but you kind of get used to it, and you learn to know how an author writes, how they structure their words and sentences as you read more of them.

But anyway, I’m glad I stuck with it – because it was absolutely worth it!

Because whatever difficulties I had with Redick’s writing or language, it was entirely made up for by his incredible world building.

I think it’s not unfair to say that this epic fantasy series is completely unique. Most times, when you read a relatively recent fantasy work, you recognize things. Orcs or elves, a certain brand of magic, dragons, whatever it is – you can trace it back to the same source (usually Tolkien, but there are others). With Robert Redick and the Red Wolf Conspiracy I never felt like that once.

The short summary of the plot is that Pazel Pathkendle, a tarboy on the Chathrand, one of the most impressive ships ever constructed, is drawn into a complex political and magical conspiracy. Cue: Adventure! And yeah, it might sound like something you’ve read before, but personally at least, I was completely blown away. The world the Chathrand sails through is unique, and the plot that unfolds onboard the ship is captivating and original. I found myself being pulled in more and more, past the difficult writing and annoying language, to a story that was truly amazing.

It’s sad to see that there aren’t many people talking about these books. I couldn’t find many online forums or Wiki’s, and no one I know has even heard of them. Because I would love to sit down with someone and discuss these books, perhaps particularly this last one. It’s truly great.

If you’re looking for an incredible fantasy series to take up a couple months of your time, and you’re in the market for something you probably have never seen the likes of before, take it from me: The Red Wolf Conspiracy won’t disappoint you – as long as you can get past the sometimes clunky language.

I’m sad that I finally got to the end, but I think that’s a good thing. I’ve heard Redick as another series under his belt, so maybe I’ll go seek that one out.