Pathlighter is the initial book of the eponymous epic fantasy trilogy, written by Rob Leigh, a debut with an interesting world-building and plenty of memorable scenes. A really ambitious novel, with characters whose past will end marking their actions and a complex mythology that gives an extra layer of depth to the world.

James is convinced about being cursed by the gods, left in a decadent city; however, he serves as a lamplighter for the palace, illuminating the streets with the flame of the gods. All until a day he starts manifesting a connection with the flame, a slight amount of control; and that's not all, because chaos is unleashed over the city, with creatures returning from the myths that were deemed as just that, mythological.
With this explosive start (Rob almost doesn't let you catch a breath), all is set to start knowing our group of heroes, all from different origins, but sharing the connection with different gods; James aspired to have a simple life in the desert, but all is shattered to ashes, having to take the responsibility he didn't ask for.

With these characters, Leigh manages to create a really spectacular story, mixing themes such as grief, lost and found family with the tension of having to combat against demons while not knowing if you can trust on those in your side. The world's background is introduced slowly, in fragments that help alleviate the tension at some points, while gathering more understanding of what is happening.

I think there's a bit much exposition at some points, slowing the pace more than I would have liked; but if you like extensive world-building, this is a plus. Despite this small pet peeve, I think the balance between the different elements of the novel is quite good.

Pathlighter is a great debut novel, an epic story that will leave you craving for me; Rob Leigh has nailed his objective. Can't wait to read the second book of the Pathlighter trilogy.