A review by stitchsaddiction
Seven Faceless Saints by M.K. Lobb

adventurous hopeful mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Seven Faceless Saints is the debut novel by MK Lobb and what an incredible one it is.

From page one, I was curious and truly invested in this fantasy world that reminded me partially of Renaissance Italy from the evocative world-building that Lobb blesses the reader with. The book gives us everything we could ask for, with a mysterious murder magical saints who have an almost cult following and a rebellion building amongst the citizens who want to destroy the corrupt system that disregards its citizens.

Not only is there the mystery of just why so many people are dying throughout the city and their deaths seeming to be hidden away? But we get a second chance romance too with our heroine and rebellious Rosanna and the Guard who was foolish enough to break her heart; Damian..

Damian has ptsd, a soldier haunted by the realities of war, and he's so beautifully written that his pain and haunted soul is one you wish to protect. Whereas Rosanna is a fierce and loyal disciple who will do what it takes to learn the truth to every doubt she's ever had and if it means the destruction of her enemies as well as the system itself? So be it.

Lobb is a master storyteller and I couldn't believe that this was her first novel because it's incredible. The twists and turns Damian and Roz (alongside the reader as we're in the dark too) encounter are done so well that you're left on the edge of your seat or up to 3am needing to know more. To ensure the duo survive the next chaotic situation they're thrust into.

Lobb has given us a series that takes you away from the chaos of reality, and ensures you're left hungering for more. I have a feeling that MK Lobb's books will find a place on my bookshelves well into the future if they're anything like Seven Faceless Saints.