Though I read that some reviewers preferred the first book in this duology, I have to say that I definitely preferred this one. This book literally picks up right where the last one left off. Just as if it were the next chapter, without any kind of time lapse or review. I just read the first one, so that was fine for me. I enjoyed the plot twists in this one more than I enjoyed the first book's. They felt less contrived and the action was more straight-forward. Just like the first one, there really was never a dull moment or any part where the story dragged. I do have to admit a serious eye-rolling moment though when the LOVE FOR THE CHILDREN saved the world. Gross. But that is kind of just me since I pretty much hate children. A lot of people complained about the demise of Brodas Ravenkind and that it wasn't satisfying. I can see where they are coming from I guess. It was quick and it wasn't drawn out and epic. But it made sense and was poetic justice. If you think back through and outline the plot of the book and describe Ravenkind's eventual downfall, slain by Ritol, it was sufficient punishment for his hubris. He didn't realize that Ritol had never been dismissed, so in his arrogance he "knew" he could control the Beyonder and it came back to bite him. So, I liked that. Feanna is a little too perfect to be much of a three-dimensional character (the same with Eden), but since these two weren't the main focus, it didn't detract too much. I would say that it was Feanna's "perfection" that led me to give this book 4 stars instead of 5. She's in this book a lot and she never does anything wrong or have any character growth. She's just the saintly widow taking care of the orphaned children selflessly.But in any case I did really enjoy this. A really nice little 2-book set! As with the previous book, lots of action. This author isn't afraid to make tough decisions and kill off characters you love (well, I loved them anyway).The villains are devious and cunning and altogether pretty darn smart - they use their lack of morality to their advantage. Unfortunately it seems as though everyone is constantly underestimating the bad guys. I cannot fathom why the VS or Gavin would fail to keep an eye out for their "lost" sister Cirang (what a beezy!). Cirang has showed that she is capable of lying and doing whatever she wants to get her way, so how Daia, or any one else, manages to overlook this really irks me. Also, I really wanted more storyline with Brawna! I felt that she and Gavin could have had more time together, it would have been more entertaining for the reader.Anyhow, pros were the story contained everything you enjoyed from the first book: romance, magic, lots and lots of fighting, scheming, revenge, loyalty, etc. etc. The characters (and the story) are still well written, I just feel as though things were a bit rushed at the end.I definitely agree with Gavin about the downfall of bad guy - fitting but not quite as satisfying as you would like. All in all, things were pretty clear cut. Good characters were endlessly angelic: loyal, honest, hardworking, caring, generous, and the list goes on. Bad characters were plain bad: lying, cheating, abusive, manipulative, blah blah blah. HOWEVER, I noticed that there is a novella that perhaps shines new light on to one of the more evil characters in the story, so there's hope!Lastly, the ending is a bit open ended. The universe lives on and there is more action to come, though we might not have the pleasure of reading about it. Great book, and I think a must read for older fantasy lovers (there's quite a bit of violence).
Do You like book The Wayfarer King (2011)?
Really enjoyed it. Good idea and well written. I will be looking at more books from this author.
—FANG
Very good ending to the two book series. Characters are well done and believable. Great story!
—danae_732
Little bit better that the previous, but still not worthwhile to read again.
—zzdt
I sure hope she keeps pushing the series. Great stuff.
—mavk
