Ahoy there me mateys!  I received an eArc of this fantasy novel through NetGalley in exchange for me honest musings . . .

I didn't think I needed to start any more series.  Well, I was wrong.  This was excellent.  This follows an Emperor's Justice, Vonvalt. As a Justice, Vonvalt is judge, jury, and executioner when necessary – with the help of a little bit of magic.  He travels a circuit to dispense justice.  Traveling with him is his clerk, Helena, and a guard, Bressinger.  Surprisingly the story is told from the perspective of Helena who is reminiscing at the end of her life.

The conflict of the story begins when Vonvalt makes a judgement in a small backwater town where an outlawed religion is in use.  His ruling is compassionate while being within the law and the cleric with them in incensed.  Later Vonvalt investigates a noblewoman's murder.  These stories intertwine and Helena relates how the world changed.

Helena is training with Vonalt with the idea that she will join the Justices.  However, she isn't so sure that she wants the job.  I loved Helena and Vonalt's relationship.  I also loved older Helena's commentary on her younger self.

It is hard to really explain the intricate plot and world building but I found it extraordinarily well done.  And I grew to love Helena and care about how Vonalt's choices are going to play out.  The ending was excellent.  I am very much looking forward to the next book.  Arrrr!