Pennyblade by J.L Worrad

Pennyblade is a dark fantasy novel by J.L. Worrad, first published in March 2022. The story follows Kyra Cal'Adra, a highborn commrach—a member of an ancient, elf-like race—who becomes a mercenary, or "pennyblade," after being exiled from her homeland. Living among humans who value her exceptional swordsmanship but harbor prejudices against her kind, Kyra navigates a world rife with danger and discrimination. Her past, marked by forbidden love and betrayal, continually haunts her as she confronts new threats that could plunge both her former and current worlds into chaos.

The novel has garnered attention for its unflinching portrayal of a gritty fantasy world. Grimdark Magazine describes it as "a wonderful mix of high and grimdark fantasy, mixing the fae creatures you know and love with a low fantasy world and a very grimdark protagonist." However, readers should be aware that the book contains explicit content, including violence and sexual scenes, which some may find unsettling. As noted in a Goodreads review, "Pennyblade is vulgar and savage, full of unlikeable characters and disturbingly violent sexual scenes that can be uncomfortable."