The Scarred Lands was a creative and impressively detailed setting that was brought to a close far too soon. With 5th edition the setting has been thankfully revived, and with that revival comes a beefy novel to provide us with a closer look at the setting.
The first thing to note is that the synopsis and opening chapter are misleading. The reader is led to believe that this book serves as an adaptation of the "Serpent Amphora Cycle" adventure modules that were published for the original setting. In actuality, the majority of the book is focused on the career of the Vigilante Eochaid Lenahr.
It's easy to see that this book was written by a huge fan of the setting. References to the gods, the setting's history, locations, creatures, spells and even prestige classes can be found throughout the book. It's exactly what I'd want to see in a book for the Scarred Lands and I love getting to explore the setting from an on-the-ground perspective. The banter between the characters is excellent and makes their adventures entertaining even when they aren't in battle.
As a caveat, instead of focusing on a singular plot the majority of the book is focused on the day-to-day workings of the the Vigilant companies. Those who read the book who don't already have a significant investment in the setting may find it tedious. The dialogue can also be a bit too vulgar for my liking. Making the characters' speech patterns too modern can reduce the flavor of medieval themed fantasy.
Although it's been awhile since the book was originally published, the author assures us that a follow-up is still in the making. I look forward to it, and whatever other books may come from the setting's revival. Let's hope that someday, the Scarred Lands gain the recognition that they deserve.
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