The Shadows of the Apt series as a whole has been one of the most inventive and utterly unique series I've had the pleasure of reading - and - despiteThe Shadows of the Apt series as a whole has been one of the most inventive and utterly unique series I've had the pleasure of reading - and - despite SEAL OF THE WORM being book 10 (and the final) there was well enough content and stories to warrant further installments. This is both a sign of quality writing, engaging plotting, and conceptually brilliant world building.
Unlike my reviews for other books in the series I won't focus on the plot as I'm likely to give something away but I will say that SEAL OF THE WORM concludes The Shadows of the Apt in the best way possible. All the plot threads converge and seamlessly intertwine culminating in a tense and action packed conclusion.
There is capacity for author Adrian Tchaikovsky to explore events such as the Twelve Year war and numerous threads post SEAL OF THE WORM which could lead to a new chapter in the epic saga that is Shadows of the Apt - here's hoping.
In a word: Exceptional, I can't recommend SEAL OF THE WORM and the 9 books preceding enough - they are simply a must read for fans of fantasy fiction.
The fifth volume in this magnum opus that is A Song of Ice and Fire reinstates Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, and Tyrion Lannister as lead characters wThe fifth volume in this magnum opus that is A Song of Ice and Fire reinstates Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, and Tyrion Lannister as lead characters whose stories take place, for the better part, alongside those told in A FEAST FOR CROWS. Taking a step away from the bloody state of Kings Landing, A DANCE OF DRAGONS takes readers to the frozen and deadly cold winds of the Wall where Jon Snow is Lord Commander of the Nights Watch, and some other unruly guests. To the south of Westeros in the free city states of Slavers Bay, the promise of dragons is unleashed with unforeseen consequences. Daenerys is a Queen without a King in a land of dwindling food supply and murderous sellswords. Tyrion Lannister, much like the majority of the novel, finds himself far away from Kings Landing, battered and without his Lannister gold, his wits, the only thing keeping him from being little more than a circus act or source of entertainment for wild companies of men looking for a distraction from their bloody occupation.
There’s a host of lesser characters and some nice cameos but the sheer number did make the book hard to follow in parts - partly due to the breadth of storytelling and the well defined and complex narrative attributed to this deeply rich world GRRM has so painstakingly created. Each character means something, the deaths, trials, and tribulations all have a significant impact on the broader endgame which makes every chapter, every piece of dialogue, and every murderous action a must to savour and enjoy.
I read large chucks of A DANCE WITH DRAGONS deliberately slowly in order to take in as much as I could and I think this is essential for developing a full appreciation and understanding of what GRRM is trying to achieve with these books. It’s one long sweeping tale which encompasses every nook and cranny of Westeros’ past, present and future – from times of peace to warfare with secretary, sorcery, and the fantastical in-between and all around.
The 9th installment in the Shadows of the Apt series continues the momentum of the previous books. While it didn't pack the same punch as DRAGONFLY FAThe 9th installment in the Shadows of the Apt series continues the momentum of the previous books. While it didn't pack the same punch as DRAGONFLY FALLING and THE SCARAB PATH (my two favourite books in the series) it did have a number of shock and awe moments that I didn't see coming, despite being a long-time series reader.
Tchaikovsky thrusts the plentiful cast into all out war spanning multiple fronts with varied forms of conflict. There's magic, traditional warefare (both on land and in the skies) and face to face combat. There are casualties, and for readers of THE AIR WAR (book #8), some of those 'second generation' Collegium characters may not be around as long as first thought.
Che and Seda, the beetle and the wasp Empress find themselves in the forests of Etheryon and Nethyon in search of a powerful magic seemingly guarded/owned by the mysterious Argastos, a War Master of sorts who holds a supernatural-like grip on their respective quests. Accompanied by their faithful band of warriors, both are faced with bloodshed, heartache and a doom far greater than any wasp-Lowland conflict could result in.
While Stenwold continues to fight valiantly against the might of the wasp empire as they march towards Collegium, Sarn (Ant city state), and Princep Salma. Aided by the force of the Spiderlands, General Tynan and his Second Army are ruthless in their mission to expand upon the empires influence and boundary. However, the alliance with Mycella and her spiders is far from strong with deception a possibility throughout proceedings.
As usual there is a lot going on in these books which at times made it hard to take in all the crucial events/character exchanges. However, I found that by reading large chunks at a time, the story read seamlessly and I was able to retain much more than reading in small bursts.
WAR MASTER'S GATE sets the scene for the next installment perfectly (THE SEAL OF THE WORM). Without giving anything away, the series looks set to head in a completely different direction - given the ramifications of WAR MASTER'S GATE, I'm interested to see how Tchaikovsky brings his wounded and segregated characters back to the battlefield.
A great and epic read - as usual. Shadows of the Apt is my all time favourite fantasy series.
I should have loved this book and I'm disappointed that it left a sour taste in my mouth. The Straight Razor Cure had all the ingredients catering towI should have loved this book and I'm disappointed that it left a sour taste in my mouth. The Straight Razor Cure had all the ingredients catering towards my fiendish-like obsession with noir/darker crime fiction mixed with an equally dark fantasy setting; drug dealings, missing persons, criminal gangs, police corruption, sorcery, skulduggery, and an urban setting backdrop not for the fainthearted. So why didn't it work? I found ex lawman Warden two dimensional with his rise in the criminal underworld somewhat shallow and unfounded, while the back-story into the war felt out of place with the plot (there was linkage but it just didn't work for me). Perhaps my biggest compliant in the fact it read like a second or third book in a series rather than book 1; there was just too many ideas floating around here and too much story to cram in that I lost my way in some passages. 2/5 stars....more
INHERITANCE: Or The Vault of Souls is a more mature and fantasy-fashionable novel than its predecessors in that Paolini incorporates more core fantasyINHERITANCE: Or The Vault of Souls is a more mature and fantasy-fashionable novel than its predecessors in that Paolini incorporates more core fantasy elements; magic, epic battles, the fall and rise of kingdoms, politics, many mythical creatures, and dangerous adventures ensure INHERITANCE is never dull nor a one sided affair. The POV storytelling gets bumped up a notch too with Roran, Eragon, Arya, Nasuda amongst others given chapters to tell their side of events – of note is the confrontation between Murtagh, Galbatorix, and Nasuda told from Nasuda’s perspective.
INHERITANCE is a satisfying conclusion to the Inheritance Cycle. Paolini goes to great lengths to ensure no stone is left unturned as he ties up all loose ends. From Roran’s blood debt, Katrina’s murderous (intent) father, to the epic battle between Eragon and Galbatorix – the reader can finish the book with a high degree of closure. True, the ending is somewhat open ended to allow for further exploration of lands beyond Alagaesia and the fate of the Dragon Riders but I didn’t mind that. I also enjoyed reading more of the chemistry between Eragon and Arya – it was refreshing to see Paolini not conform to the typical fairytale ending for their relationship.
Like any ending to an epic fantasy, characters are changed or lost forever while others rise to prominence. In INHERITANCE, the results of the final confrontation reshape Alagaesia and provide subtle hints that history could repeat itself despite the way the cards fell. Paolini, himself said that he’s far from done with the place setting, and he’s given himself plenty to work with in future novels.
The Inheritance Cycle isn’t as high fantasy or as in-depth and blood thirsty as say the Fire and Ice series by George R.R Martin or the Godless World trilogy by Brian Ruckley yet it is satisfying and enjoyable in isolation to those aforementioned fantasy epics. It’s YA yet mature enough for the experienced reader and provides a nice form of escapism into a well constructed far away place. 5 stars....more
The third installment in the Mira Chambers story sees Mira and her friends on the trail of Kitching, a man responsible for kidnapping Freddy Leopard -The third installment in the Mira Chambers story sees Mira and her friends on the trail of Kitching, a man responsible for kidnapping Freddy Leopard - a resident of Serenity and Maddy Sanchez - the matron. Both have formed a strong bond with Mira over the preceding two novels (DIAMOND EYES and HINDSIGHT), as such Mira, loyal and dedicated to her friends no end, commits to doing whatever it takes to return them to safety. Even if that means putting herself in harms way.
With Lockman aiding her hunt for Maddy and Freddy, the former military trained and self confessed guardian of Mira not only adds another dimension to the story but exemplifies Mira's continued growth and path towards normalcy since leaving Serenity. My only gripe with these two is the continued romantic tension which had a tendency to detract from the story.
The arms race for Mira as a powerful military weapon is still evident throughout this latest instalment, yet author A.A. Bell manages to keep both Garland (military general) and Kitching (rogue bad guy) on equal footing for her services. Having the ability to see the past by virtue of the fragile X syndrome allows Mira to ability to view past crimes which prove to be invaluable to military intel.
Kitching hatches his plot early and uses some crafty devises to throw off the scent of his true intention - namely a murder and elaborate scheme to weaponise and reproduce Mira's ability.
There are some great twists and turns in LEOPARD DREAMING. As the title suggests Freddy Leopard plays a large part. Having the ability to hear the future, makes him a prime target for Kitching - that combined with Mira's ability to see the past makes them pivotal to Kitching's plans.
A.A. Bell also introduces an interesting family dynamic that will throw readers off balance and breathe a breath of fresh air into some of the characters. I won't detail it any further as to avoid spoilers.
Whilst I enjoyed LEOPARD DREAMING, the romantic overtones (and multiple instances thereof) did play a little on the natural progression of the story. Despite this, the pacing was fine and plotting well suited to Mira's plight. I look forward to reading what A.A. Bell comes up with next.
Originality in epic fantasy is a hard thing to accomplish yet the Lightbringer series does just that. There is so much to like about the premise and eOriginality in epic fantasy is a hard thing to accomplish yet the Lightbringer series does just that. There is so much to like about the premise and execution. Whereas some fantasy tombs get beaded down by inconsequential dialogue and scenes, author Brent Weeks makes each word count towards a deeper evolution, be it towards the universe, plots, lore, or characters. One thing that’s becoming abundantly clear with this series is that Weeks HAS got to write more in this setting. Despite the first two books being large in page count I got the feeling that we’re only now seeing where this series is headed.
THE BLINDING KNIFE picks up where THE BLACK PRISM left off with a world on the verge of more war and a Prism fading from existence while his begotten (hmm) son Kip trains for the elite Blackguard forces while stumbling towards a greater destiny than even Gavin can imagine. Liv has switched sides and is aiding the battle against Gavin and his Gods while Karris is still the fearsome member of the Blackguards from THE BLACK PRISM yet more defined. I could go on but wont in fear of letting out spoilers.
Of THE BLACK PRISM I wrote:
The first book in the Lightbringer series is fantastic. The concepts are creative, the characters a joy to read, and the plot a never ending road of twists, turns, deceit, culminating in traditional fantasy epic violence. THE BLACK PRISM will shock and awe, just give it some time. (Nov 2012, Just A Guy That Likes To Read - Review link below)
Safe to say THE BLINDING KNIFE doesn’t deviate from the successful formulate of book 1 but builds upon a diverse and interesting merger of fantastical concepts, religion, relationship, and war. Right up there with the best fantasy series I’ve read to date.
Four years have passed since the Prince of Thorns, Jorg Ancrath forged his place atop a fractured and broken throne won with the blood of his brothersFour years have passed since the Prince of Thorns, Jorg Ancrath forged his place atop a fractured and broken throne won with the blood of his brothers and those who dared to stand in his way. Now, the Price of Arrows threatens all that the newly proclaimed King Jorg has taken. Marching twenty thousand strong to his doorstep, the Price of Arrowshas Jorg’s number but not his thirst and talent for bloodshed. KING OF THORNS pits Jorg against a worthy foe, albeit a mere mortal who just might cut the killing king down to size. Might.
KING OF THORNS is really a novel of two tales. For the better part, the present day battle and attempted take-over of Jorg’s kingdom is secondary to the throw-back chapters of four years prior. Despite the aptly titled, King of Thorns, more than half is a direct sequel to PRINCE OF THORNS with a dedicated and elaborate focus on Jorg forging alliances with other amenable states in the preparation of war some three months after taking the throne. This does well to link the allegiances we see in the present day confrontation and gives context to the relationships between the newer characters introduced across the Broken Empire.
As for the ‘wedding day’ story arc set in the present, as the chapter title suggest, this is a single event of monolithic proportions which, not only provides Jorg with a wife and Queen to his kingdom, but a clever and strong minded companion who aides the war effort in more ways than one. Author Mark Lawrence does a great job at providing some redeemable qualities to his very tainted and horribly violent lead character – the introduction of the bride-to-be helps with that.
Initially I was taken aback by the continued references to the back-story, after all there is a whole book dedicated to the Prince prior to becoming King yet as the novel progresses these chapters became more and more relevant and enhanced the present day storyline.
While the fantastical elements are obvious, the medieval, strategic warfare, and futuristic components add a nice touch to KING OF THORNS, making this one of the more enjoyable and distinct concepts in the genre.
‘A Feast for Crows’ could aptly be described as the Westeros book of revelations. Past armies are reborn, alliances ever tested, tied, severed, abolis‘A Feast for Crows’ could aptly be described as the Westeros book of revelations. Past armies are reborn, alliances ever tested, tied, severed, abolished altogether – the incestuous nature of betrothal and subsequent marriage is becoming akin to ‘Bold and the Beautiful’. If you're seeking instant gratification from a fantasy series it is not forthcoming in this book. There is a saturation of inconsequential dialogue and convoluted history to the realm both of its many deceased characters and ever changing environs. Touted as half a book comprising the events around Kinds Landing, clocking in at over 770 pages, a ‘half a book’ this should not be. One cant help but wonder if some strict editing would've expedited the storyline.
The enormous cast of characters led to distraction. For what is an entertaining and deeply plotted theme centred around a few, it felt like too many subplots were hatched in order to expand the universe without adding much by way of entertainment.
The tone of the series is that each book blends in with its predecessor, as a result it’s hard to pinpoint a single distinguishing factor to separate events. ‘A Game of Thrones’ was heavily focused around the Starks (serving well as a point of reference and separation); of the series, this is the most ‘complete’ book with the subsequent editions acting more as a progression of seemingly open-ended events (though there is eventual closure).
For all its shortcomings, ‘A Feast for Crows’ does have many excellent passages, great character depth, intriguing plot, and high scale entertainment value. Unfortunately, George R R Martin took an exorbitant amount of time to unveil his shocking revelations and twists, and buried crucial scenes amongst long-winded exchanges that were often hard to enjoy. Still a pivotal piece in the overall series that establishes some tantalising new plot elements and well worth a read for fans of the series - 3 stars. ...more
Not since 'A Game of Thrones' has Westeros been bathed in so much blood and hate. Martin recreates the suspense of the landmark Fire and Ice installmeNot since 'A Game of Thrones' has Westeros been bathed in so much blood and hate. Martin recreates the suspense of the landmark Fire and Ice installment while furthering the cause of the Brothers of the Black and the horrors that haunt the land beyond the wall. Of all the books in the series, this takes the mantle as the king of shock and awe. Martin freely confines to readers to not grow accustomed to major characters- within the pages of 'A Storm of Swords 2: Blood and Gold' many strong characters will perish while others continue their rise prominence. Despite a few lapses in action where passages read as filler content, this is the most fast paced book in the series so those momentary distractions can be overlooked. Much like 'Storm of Swords 1' Martin continues to draw on the fantastical to breathe new life into depleted characters - a treat to fans and serious fantasy readers alike. As far as series books go, this one does a great job at reinventing the cast and world (to a certain extent) to add a new plot dimension and perspective to the matters concerning the realm. 4.5 stars....more
The graphic novel adaptation of A GAME OF THRONES Vol.1 got it right for the most part. The story is true to the source material though condensed to sThe graphic novel adaptation of A GAME OF THRONES Vol.1 got it right for the most part. The story is true to the source material though condensed to suit the medium yet the tone and overall message is well conveyed. Vol.1 follows events up until Daenerys conformance/acceptance with Drogo as her husband. Understandably, the full adaptation is to be just as epic as the novels themselves, as a result Vol.1 feels a little like half a book (because it is).
My biggest gripe with the graphic novel adaptation of A GAME OF THRONES is the artists depiction of the others. To me they look to resemble more of a superhero/villain than the menacing, nightmare inducing wards of winder that I envisioned in the novel and subsequently portrayed in HBO’s adaptation in season 1 of the TV series.
The characters translated well though there the look was a tad same-same with the long hair and amount of facial hair on a number of male characters. Again, a minor gripe. That aside, the artwork is pretty decent, the covers for the independent issues look fantastic and the earlier panels depicting the end to the Targaryen rein really added something to the story.
Final thought: A nice representation of the source material which felt a little light in areas but understandable given the length of A GAME OF THRONES (novel). Recommended for fans of the series, newcomers may struggle with story. ...more
George R R Martin had fun with this instalment – the evidence is in the dialogue and actions of the characters who manage to find moments of jocularitGeorge R R Martin had fun with this instalment – the evidence is in the dialogue and actions of the characters who manage to find moments of jocularity amidst the chaos of war. Tyrion Lannister is his usual swashbuckling self with a sharper sense of violence honed through bloody battle and everyday dealing with his treacherous domesticated life. Robb Stark breaks an oath and gains comfort of the flesh – a choice sure to have ramifications on the war effort. While King Joffrey continues to echo the sentiments of a mad King – perhaps his fate will mirror that of Arrys (one can but hope)? Fan favourites continue to evolve (Arya, Jon, Robb Stark, Sansa, Cersei. Davos the Onion Knight etc.) while newer faces begin their slow rise to prominence (such as The Red Viper, Lady in Red, Stannis, Samwell etc.) through an intrinsically finely weaved web of violence, betrayal, magic, love, and duty.
Continuing the series evolution, the fantastical elements are becoming paramount to the core plot with a heavy emphasis on the unnatural and the mythic tales of wet nurses springing true from storybook to reality. There is a subtle beauty to the way Martin sneaks in these creatures of man and monster alike. So gentle is the hand that caresses their introduction that I had to reread certain passages as to ensure I didn’t misinterpret or skim over what was happening (this was not a chore and further enhanced Martins storytelling ability – this book is loaded with worthwhile double-takes). A particular interest of mine is the mysterious landscape over the Wall. Thankfully, the Brothers of the Black, Wildlings, and Others feature relatively frequently in this instalment.
Martin did have a tendency to exhaust the readers’ ability to follow the detailed and elaborate history of his well defined world and complex cast of characters by devoting generous passages to the multitude of back-stories. That said; I did enjoy reading the Kingslayers tale of how is moniker was attained and retained and the perception of his honour that both curses and praises him.
Dubbed as more a companion piece to ‘A Clash of Kings’ rather than a true sequel (as per the author intro) with chapters detailing events amidst the feverish battles of the previous book, I felt ‘A Storm of Swords: Steel and Snow’ actually worked well as a sequel as many of its entries were a direct result of the preceding books outcomes. Much like the previous instalments, if not more so, ‘A Storm of Swords: Steel and Snow’ has left me craving more of this world and its deep and violent history – 4 stars....more
A story within a story within the larger Dark Tower journey that expands on the rich and mythical world that Roland and his ka-tet traverse on their wA story within a story within the larger Dark Tower journey that expands on the rich and mythical world that Roland and his ka-tet traverse on their way to the dark tower. While not adding much by way of progressing the core theme throughout the Dark Tower novels, THE WIND THROUGH THE KEYHOLE is an enjoyable and interesting sidestep off the beaten path. Here Roland tells a tale of a Skin-Man (someone who has the ability to morph into an animal) and his mission to rid a small town of its murderous rampage as a young gunslinger. While telling this tale, Roland as comforting a young boy tells of another tale where an impoverished farm boy endures monumental loss and shows great courage as he travels amongst all manner of strange creatures in a darkly dense forest to seek the truth behind his father’s passing and in turn see what it takes to be a gunslinger.
While King openly states THE WIND THROUGH THE KEYHOLE can be read as a standalone without having read the previous Dark Tower books (Gunslinger through Wizard and Glass), I think the reader wouldn’t be able to appreciate the story without being fully aware of Roland and his trials to date.
I really enjoyed this addition to the Dark Tower series. As a stop gap between Wizard and Glass and Wolves of the Calla, it didn’t add too much apart from further expanding upon this beautifully crafted world yet the story within a story within a larger story was fantastic and a must for fans of the series. I hope King continues to revisit this series with further tales along these lines. ...more
An epic of monolithic proportions, George R.R. Martin's 'A Game of Thrones' is the perfect fusion of all things genre fiction dressed with a slight liAn epic of monolithic proportions, George R.R. Martin's 'A Game of Thrones' is the perfect fusion of all things genre fiction dressed with a slight literary overtone. This is large scale adventure with a rich and vibrant cast of the likes I've never read and is as interesting and captivating as the headlines profess. I was apprehensive at first due to the large character count but Martin executes each POV so well that each sidebar interlocks and morphs into a single web-like tale born of blood and retribution. The Starks of Winterfel control proceedings but the Lannister characters are equally as enjoyable to read. It's hard trying to define which conceptual tale or 'house' I liked the best - if any, the notion of the 'Wall' and its purpose to keep out the 'Others' - those mysterious and violent characters who inhabit a world of perpetual winter, enthralled me and had me salivating for more. Jon Snow and the other members who have sworn the Black are an interesting band of misfits and honourable men - Martin has set this ragtag group up for something special - I cant wait to see how it's elaborated in future installments. 5 Stars....more
‘The Air War’ is the latest look at aviation fantasy in the Shadows of the Apt which comprises all the elements typical of this format from kamikaze c‘The Air War’ is the latest look at aviation fantasy in the Shadows of the Apt which comprises all the elements typical of this format from kamikaze characters, fierce air battles, and spiralling suspense at G-Force speed. Tchaikovsky’s first foray into air battle was in ‘Blood of the Mantis’ which tested the turbulence without going to the extremes of full scale warfare across multiple cities as depicted in ‘The Air War’. From Solarno, to Myna, all the way to Collegium, the cities of the Lowlands and environs – no sky is safe as the Wasp initiated war extends its boundaries with devastating results.
Taki and the fly-kinden rise to greater prominence than previous instalments with a number of characters contributing heavily towards the story that previously held minor or no roles. This helped to keep the series fresh and provided a means to expand upon the world building and deep characterisation of those who inhabit the Lowlands and environs. There is a not so subtle nod at the recreation of the successful band of mixed kinden popularised in ‘Empire of Black and Gold’ and ‘Dragonfly Falling’ with Straessa (ant/spider half-breed), Eujen (Bettle), Gerethwy (woodlouse), and Averic (wasp) the new breed of students at Collegium. Despite being new characters, Tchaikovsky does a great job at developing and making the reader care about them. Eujen is probably the most interesting, almost a younger Stenwold-like idealist.
The early battle in Myna is reminiscent of the ferocious land based encounters in ‘Dragonfly Falling’, with the exception being Myna’s battle is a mixture of ground and airborne assault. Tchaikovsky is a master of detailing combat through flawless narrative and picture perfect realism. While Collegium itself is touted as a place of peace and intellectual stimulus yet at its core, it’s politicking threatens to rot its very foundation. In an attempt to maintain a semblance of normalcy amidst times of war by clinging to order and bureaucracy, Stenwold himself undergoes an interesting change of perception.
There are many good things in 'The Air War' – the highlights of which are primarily focused on the full frontal warfare and interesting characterisation of key playerS on both side of the confrontation. I found myself cheering equally for fly-kinden wasp sympathisers (Pingge) just as much as I did Taki and Laszlo. I also liked the reference to ‘Makerist’ as a form of political view. ‘The Air War’ is building towards something big. Empress Seda, while not playing a large role, does lay the foundation for further interesting plot threads to unfold in future instalments. I cant wait for more. 5 stars
More information about the Shadows of the Apt series can be found at this wiki (which is also mentioned in the acknowledgements section of ‘The Air War’). http://shadowsoftheapt.wikia.com/wiki...
Despite the breadth and epic proportions of the fantastical world and vast characters, 'A Clash of Kings' felt like it ended abruptly. If anything, MaDespite the breadth and epic proportions of the fantastical world and vast characters, 'A Clash of Kings' felt like it ended abruptly. If anything, Martin had the capacity to further expand on the back, middle, and future plot threads yet approached the second installment in a tame and teasing manner. Clocking in at 873 pages long - it takes a certain kind of book and a damn good writer to maintain my interest for each of those many page turns and Martin did just that. Sequels, by nature, are hard to live up to their predecessors, however, 'A Clash of Kings' bucks that trend with a follow-up that's just as good if not better in my option.
From exposure of new characters (the Lady in Red for instance) to the emergency of little known characters (Theon), 'A Clash of Kings' maintains the novelty and freshness of 'A Game of Thrones' while giving the reader a little more food for thought. Houses not touched upon in 'A Game of Thrones' rise to prominence and yield an ungodly sword across the vast and unforgiving Westeros.
More than ever does ancient Rome creep into the story telling. Had it not been for the fantastical elements one could almost mistake the novel's purpose as a work of fiction. Change a word here, a word there and the lines of fantasy and fact could easily be swayed. That said, I particularly enjoyed the newer elements of fantasy and magic in this installment and am keen to see where they progress as I read through the series.
Much like 'A Game of Thrones' I struggle to define a single moment more captivating than the rest - however, the notion of the Wall and the lands beyond does make for particularly good storytelling as does the colourful characters of House Greyjoy. All in all, this book is unputdownable - a true epic page turner that hints at much more than it gives away. 5 stars. ...more
Destiny’s Rift, while having all the hallmarks of a typical fantasy series is atypical in its devotion to delving deep into its characters. The secondDestiny’s Rift, while having all the hallmarks of a typical fantasy series is atypical in its devotion to delving deep into its characters. The second book in the Broken Well Trilogy is just as good as the first.
Bel, touted as the blue haired savoir; a powerful fighter and leader of men who’ll destroy the Shadowdreamer, is a far more complex and interesting character than the first book reveals. His clean imagine, perhaps isn’t so. While Losara, the Shadowdreamer, continues to grow into his power and influence, his motivation isn’t quite as unjust as you’d think.
The plot largely centers on Bel’s quest to find the Stone of Evenings Mild, a powerful artifact which has the ability to forge Bel and Losara together, the two having been separated from one entity in the first book. Naturally Losara, wants this power for himself and sets out to thwart Bel. There are monsters, dragons, diamond spiders, and all manner of fanatical beasts along the way which make for entertaining and fun fantasy reading.
My rating: 5/5 stars, this trilogy goes from strength to strength. I love the fact that the world building isn’t over complicated and that the writing is reader friendly (very easy and quickly consumed)....more
I didn’t find this as good as ‘Eragon’ and ‘Eldest’ despite the many enticing revelations given light throughout the course of novel. ‘Brisinger’ feltI didn’t find this as good as ‘Eragon’ and ‘Eldest’ despite the many enticing revelations given light throughout the course of novel. ‘Brisinger’ felt bogged down with inconsequential narrative and overtly description passages which had little impact on the natural progression of the story. Despite the multiple threads comprising the plot, I did get lost at times as to why a certain course of event was taking place, this detracted from the flow from pace of the Varden’s plight.
Regardless of its shortcomings, ‘Brisinger’ does have many good moments which gives the reader a greater insight into the development of a rider and his many journeys which map his true being. Dwarves, Elves and Ugles are expanded upon in fight, politics and magic resulting in a well more rounded cast of characters with further endearing qualities and added depth than the previous instalments. A few new characters make an appearance as well and have an instant impact on proceedings to keep the hero and villain perspective fresh.
Not to give too much away – Nasuada earns her mantle as leader of the Varden and displays a darker, more edgier side than we’ve previously seen while the horrific nature of the Empire and its followers is further defined – exemplified by willing amputee aspiring monks and brutal blood sacrifices. There is a definite movement towards the darker side of fantasy in Eragon’s latest outing – all for the better in my opinion (especially with the introduction of zombie-like battle fodder).
Personally – A story comprising solely of the warrior that Roran Stronghammer has become and his battles wouldn’t fare poorly on the series – Paolini has done a great job of establishing a character whose role has evolved into something as prominent as Eragon himself, giving the reader two protagonists to champion.
‘Brisinger’ would have benefited by quickening the pace and compressing the dialogue – perhaps a more minimalist Eragon would serve better? Despite this, the story is entertaining and the world wholly enjoyable – 3.5 stars. ...more
A shift in perspective does nothing to damper the quality of the Hunger Games Series. The resurfacing of a fallen District will rise to prominence oncA shift in perspective does nothing to damper the quality of the Hunger Games Series. The resurfacing of a fallen District will rise to prominence once more. From the ashes of homes and building debris will see a hero evolve like none has come before. The symbol for freedom and hope, recognised; a better way of life; realised – the Mockingjay and the revolution spread their wings from the depths of despair, flaunting hope in a world that knows none.
The viewpoint limits the warfare to which the reader is exposed which left me feeling somewhat cheated, nonetheless it did add a sense of authenticity to the plight as in modern warfare, not every soul is thrown into battle. I liked the play on propaganda as a weapon and the reaction the ‘propos’ had on the inhabits of the Districts (and the Capitol by in large) – a nice direction to take rather than using the easy option of in showcasing full scale battle epic scenes which tend get old rather quickly.
‘Mockinghjay’ maintains the momentum and induces many a shock and awe moment as we delve deeper into this ravaged and harsh world. Truths become questioned and lies, the foundation of government – Collins mastered the trickery and blurred the battlelines to such an extent, picking the deserved winner wasn’t as clear-cut as first thought. Just when you think you’ve predicted the ending, something happens to derail your train of thought – this is a very well executed fantasy/horror/romance/thriller mash-up of a novel, which like those before it, lives up to the hype and delivers time and time again, 5 stars. ...more
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