Among the best novels I’ve read in 2023 was The Justice of Kings by Richard Swan. Like me, Swan is a lawyer, and armed with his legal background, he’s crafted a compelling novel about the importance of the rule of law in a sprawling medieval empire on the verge of collapse.
Central to the novel is Sir Konrad Vonvalt, an Emperor’s Justice, who roams the outer reaches of the empire enforcing the law with the combined authority of a detective, a judge, and an executioner. Despite this significant power, Vonvalt is determined to discover the truth and dispense justice in accordance with the common law. As a member of the Order of the Magistratum, Vonvalt also possesses certain arcane talents for use in solving crimes. This includes the “Emperor’s Voice,” the power to issue commands that can compel confessions, and the necromantic power to visit the realm of the dead and converse with recently deceased victims.
Naturally, the book begins with a mystery surrounding the murder of a noblewoman in a city called Galen’s Vale. As the book’s virtuous and unwavering hero, Vonvalt plays the role of Sherlock Holmes in attempting to solve the mystery. But his story is told through the perspective of his young law clerk, Helena, who serves as a Watson-like figure throughout the tale. Her observations and insights bring a fresh, youthful lens to the story, allowing readers to explore the intricate world that Swan has crafted from a perspective that is both naive and astutely observant.
Early in the novel, the pair become the targets of whoever is behind the murder, and as Vonvalt and Helena begin to peel away the layers of the mystery, they discover the murder is part of a broader conspiracy that threatens the future of the empire. Swan is setting up a more epic narrative in this story, and through a particularly harrowing scene involving Vonvalt’s necromancy, he suggests the involvement of a dark supernatural power, hinting at deeper layers yet to be uncovered in the series.
The novel dives deep into themes of law and justice, highlighting the critical importance of the rule of law in society. The tension between canon law and common law is palpably drawn, setting up a thought-provoking conflict between the Church and the state. All of these themes factor into the overarching plot.
Overall, The Justice of Kings combines elements of mystery, political intrigue, legal philosophy, and innovative magic to create a novel that is both intellectually stimulating and immensely entertaining. And it’s a close second to The Lies of Locke Lamora for the best book I’ve read this year. I’m already halfway through the sequel, The Tyranny of Faith, and I’m enjoying every minute of it!
Bill
January 9, 2024 - 4:43 pm ·After the first three chapters, I am enjoying this. Thanks for the update.
Author Joseph Finley
January 17, 2024 - 8:01 am ·Bills, I am glad you are enjoying this. I just finished the sequel, which is even better. I hope to be able to post a review on it by the end of the week!