Those used to reading high fantasy titles or books that stick well within their genre will be surprised by The Thousand Names. Beyond the occasional mention of sorcerers among the enemy’s ranks, a claim unsubstantiated for the first several hundred pages, it feels more like an alternate universe book. A Napoleonic campaign in a world without the same names, continents and different structures but recognisable elements such as a European empire, dark country and black powder weapons.
The story follows a number of characters from both sides as conflict ravages the country. Both those serving the small contingent of the Vordani Empire sent to supress the rebels, and the rebelling religious force itself known as the Redeemers who have risen to rule Khandar. Both sides are struggling continuously with their own problems, with the religious fanaticism of the Redeemers risking shattering the small coalition formed by local forces and the distance of the colonials from the Empire. The troops being sent consisting of very green forces lacking in sergeants, experience and often common sense among certain leaders. As the two clash throughout the land however, it becomes clear that something more is afoot than just a colonist uprising. Politics from the Vordani’s home have begun to work behind the scenes and the enigmatic but brilliant Colonel Janus bet Vhalnich has far more planned than just supressing his foes. The sort of ambition which extends beyond the natural realm and into that of the supernatural…
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