The Seven
Book 3 of “The Vagrant Trilogy”
Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Audiobook
By Peter Newman
Harper Voyager
Release Date: October 3, 2017

There is something quite satisfying about reviewing every book in a series. The ability to chronicle the growth of the tale, the author, and even, introspectively, myself is something that seldom is allowed to occur. Having reviewed both The Vagrant and The Malice, it just felt natural that I should shine a light on the last of the trilogy, The Seven. So, without any further ado, here is a glimpse at what the final installment has to offer.

In the first book, our mute hero struggled against all odds to carry a child and a relic in the form of a sword to safety. Later, that same little girl grew up to carry the sword to begin the process of healing her broken world. But now, more than ever, the powers that be have begun to marshal forces. But not in the way you might think, for much has changed and perceptions shape reality for those who were created and not born unto this world.

For many lifetimes, The Seven have slumbered. Not quite asleep and not nearly awake, the beings who have sheltered and inspired mankind have been present but apart. But something has changed, the six beings representing the remaining demi-gods have stirred and seek to make their mark upon the earth once again. Once, they were of a single mind; now, however, not everything is as cut and dry as they once thought. These near immortal leaders of the human race have judged many, if not most, unworthy. And with that judgement comes punishment. Only Vesper and the few remaining folks near her understand that this cannot be allowed to occur. For when the gods strike, former enemies find themselves bound together in a common cause.

As chance would have it, though, not even the immortal leaders see eye to eye. For while they were created by the same hands, they were imbued with different essences, as near to souls as anything else. Within these differences, compassion and empathy run deeply. This division within serves only to align each with one side or another, creating a rift that may never be bridged. This could either be a time of growth and enlightenment or the end of all things as we know it. It should go without saying that our heroes find themselves fighting not just for their own lives but for the lives of many who The Seven consider tainted. Should someone be damned for acts outside of their control or should all be accepted for who they are, regardless of how they came to be? That seems to be the unanswered question that the story pursues.

As always, Peter Newman presents the reader with an adventure wrapped in a moral dilemma. Not everything is black and white, but rather shades of grey. As the book consumes you — and trust me that is the way it works yet again — you find yourself sympathetic to all sides. In the end, however, there is only one logical choice. But will anyone survive to see it through? Danger lurks everywhere when the adversary can see you from leagues away and can feel when you touch your sentient weapon. Vesper has partnered with her former enemy but will all of their strength be sufficient to win the day? Well, I guess you will just have to read the final book to find out!

Years have passed since the Vagrant journeyed to the Shining City, Vesper in arm and Gamma’s sword in hand.

Since then the world has changed. Vesper, following the footsteps of her father, journeyed to the breach and closed the tear between worlds, protecting the last of humanity, but also trapping the infernal horde and all those that fell to its corruptions: willing or otherwise.

In this new age it is Vesper who leads the charge towards unity and peace, with seemingly nothing standing between the world and a bright new future.

That is until eyes open.

And The Seven awaken.