Iorich is the twelfth book in Steven Brust

Steven Brust

Steven Karl Zoltán Brust is an American fantasy and science fiction author of Hungarian descent. He was a member of the writers' group The Scribblies, which included Emma Bull, Pamela Dean, Will Shetterly, Nate Bucklin, Kara Dalkey, and Patricia Wrede; he also belongs to the Pre-Joycean...

's Vlad Taltos series, set in the fantasy world of Dragaera

Dragaera

Dragaera is the fictional world in which a series of novels by Steven Brust is set. The word "Dragaera" can refer to the planet, the Dragaeran Empire, or its former capital, Dragaera City.-Species:...

. It was published in 2010. Following the trend of the series, it is named after one of the Great Houses and usually features that House as an important element to its plot. The Iorich are renowned for their quest for justice and the rules of law. Initially released in hardcover, rather than being followed by a normal mass-market paperback, a trade paperback was released.

Plot introduction

Vlad must uncover the true motives behind the mysterious arrest of one of his friends, and in the process try to find justice—whatever that is.

Plot summary

Aliera has been arrested for practicing Elder Sorcery. The Empire was previously aware of her involvement with this ancient magic, so, naturally, confusion arises over the timing of, and true motivation for, her arrest. Aliera seems unwilling to defend herself, and neither Morrolan or Sethra step in to help her situation. Vlad's curiosity (and respect for his friend) lead him to initiate an investigation into the matter and engagement of an advocate to defend Aliera (despite her objections).

Along the way Vlad finds out that the entire affair is all to do with a plot between the Orca, Jhereg and Left hand of the Jhereg.