On the HahaFiction shelf
The Maleficent Seven
Black Herran abandoned a nearly successful conquest forty years ago. Now a fanatical army threatens Tarnbrooke, and the demonologist needs her six former captains again. The town's defense depends on monsters with long memories and reasons to resent her.
From the publisher’s blurb
“When you are all out of heroes, all that’s left are the villains.”Read the full description at Angry Robot publisher description, via Penguin Random House
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What makes it funny?
Getting these villains into one company doesn't make them agreeable. Their grudges and biting arguments keep intruding on the urgent business of defense, with the weary demigod Tiarnach supplying much of the humor.
The comedy at work
Johnston borrows the familiar arrangement of seven warriors protecting a town, then gives the job to a profoundly selfish group. Cooperation has to survive the personalities of people who once helped conquer a continent.
Try this if…
For readers who want grimdark battles with argumentative company. The jokes accompany an ensemble of dangerous villains, and their appeal depends partly on enjoying people who are difficult to defend.
Good to know
Expect graphic bloodshed and cruelty alongside the gallows humor.
A few distinguishing details
- Seven villains defend a threatened town
- Old comrades with forty years of grievances
More funny fantasy
Sources & further reading
- The Maleficent Seven by Cameron Johnston on Apple Books
Book information
- Angry Robot edition
Publisher
- Publisher
Publisher
- Grimdark Magazine review
Review
- Publishers Weekly review
Review
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