Baldur’s Gate 3: Astarion
Tie-in Novel
Hardcover | Kindle Edition | Audiobook
Written by T. Kingfisher; Audiobook narrator: Neil Newbon
Publisher: Random House Worlds; Random House Audio (Audiobook)
Release Date: September 29, 2026

I do not know how you all feel about this resurgence of older Dungeons & Dragons themes, but I am absolutely loving it. Granted, Baldur’s Gate 3 is not new per se, but the constant development and expansion is heartwarming to say the least. In Baldur’s Gate 3: Astarion, we get a deep dive into the life (and afterlife) of one of the newer characters introduced back in 2023. I have not read anything by author T. Kingfisher previously, but I can see why they have won so many awards, though I did have a few concerns early on. I will explain this below.

The woeful protagonist being a vampire is a trope that mostly falls under the fully embraced fiend concept. In this case, Astarion is not quite a vampire, but possesses many of the traits of one, as he is technically a vampire spawn and in thrall to an ancient evil creature with a sadistic streak. Initially, I was concerned about the near-constant sexual references, even with the overt sexuality of the character, but it was almost always a superficial reference and not explored too much. That said, there is one scene that pushed the boundaries of what I would consider necessary to the storyline. As I had no prior knowledge of the author, I did not realize that she laces her work with it casually. Not something I am accustomed to with regards to D&D-related books. But let me also be clear that this was the only thing that I found to be a challenge, as I loved everything else about this novel.

The main goal of the book is the quest for the blood of a dead god, but so much happens along the way. The two timelines of character progression are spectacularly built to slowly allow the reader to see what pivotal experiences helped contribute the hot mess that Astarion is after more than two centuries. His life and subsequent death are laden with poor decisions and abrupt cessation of several successes that forced him into a world that he would never have chosen for himself. I will say that the humorous and lighthearted banter he affects is likely the best indicator of self-deprecation that I have read, the undercurrents are anger and fear; they bleed through the dialogue, allowing the reader a glimpse at the truth.

The other spawn, his “brothers and sisters,” are decently developed, coloring in the life he leads outside of the quest. The infighting, bickering, and decidedly dangerous interactions all amount to one deadly home life. There are many outings and other interactions that contribute to the overall story and they, too, are extraordinarily eloquent in their presentation. Shapeshifters, undead, and celestial beings abound, a quest that is perilous, and a checkered family history; what more can you ask for in a fantasy story? Thousands of skeletons and wax mummies, that’s what! So, so many skeletons. Baldur’s Gate is not for the faint of heart or weak limbed.

This would have been a perfect D&D novel, if not for the pseudo-dark fantasy romance vibe running underneath the main story. That said, I would not hesitate to pick up another of Kingfisher’s books. Any fan of the video game or the role-playing setting will enjoy the expansion of the setting. This comes out in time for it to be a gift this holiday season or even a “just because” present. I look forward to more stories featuring Astarion, he has definitely got some to share. I hope this helps you decide to go grab it for yourself or a loved one.

From the Publisher: The roguish charlatan Astarion will free himself from a centuries-long fate of servitude or die (a second time) trying—in this decadently dark fantasy adventure by award-winning author T. Kingfisher.

You’re too pretty to die.

Astarion Ancunin was supposed to be a magistrate, not a vampire spawn. He was supposed to serve the law, not the vicious vampire lord Cazador Szarr. And he was supposed to drink fine wine, not rat blood. Alas—the city of Baldur’s Gate cares little for what’s supposed to happen.

Though he has been powerless to resist his master’s bidding, haunting the nighttime streets to fetch warm blood, Astarion has never surrendered his hope. One day, this nightmare must end. He just has to find out how.

When the vampire lord announces a twisted competition for his favor, an opportunity presents itself in the form of a rare prize . . . and an unlikely alliance. The blood of a dead god is buried deep beneath Baldur’s Gate, and, to get it, Astarion will need the help of a handsome Aasimar paladin named Hahn den Suriel.

There are just a few problems. Astarion is not supposed to trust his fellow spawn. He’s not supposed to go out into the city for his own ends rather than the vampire lord’s. And he’s certainly not supposed to strike a deal with a stranger whose golden eyes can snare even a blackened, undead heart.

But the city of Baldur’s Gate cares little for what’s supposed to happen.

272 pages; Book Dimensions: 6.13 x 0.69 x 9.25 inches

AUDIOBOOK:
Narrated by Neil Newbon — the multi-award-winning actor who brought Astarion to life in Baldur’s Gate 3 — this captivating audiobook offers listeners a rare chance to experience the story through the very same voice that defined the game. Listening Length: 8 hours

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A complimentary copy of this book was provided to Geeks Of Doom by the publisher for consideration. The publisher did not pay for this review, and the publisher had no influence over the reviewer’s opinions or the content of the review.