Times have changed for Alwyn Scribe. Once an outlaw, he’s now a spymaster and sworn protector of Lady Evadine Courlain, whose visions of a demonic apocalypse have earned her the fanatical devotion of the faithful.
Yet Evadine’s growing fame has put her at odds with both Crown and Covenant. As trouble brews in the kingdom, both seek to exploit her position for their own ends.
Sent to the Duchy of Alundia to put down a rebellion, Alwyn must rely on old instincts to fight for his new cause. Deadly feuds and ancient secrets are laid bare as war erupts, a war that will decide the fate of the Kingdom of Albermaine and, perhaps, prevent the coming of the prophesied Second Scourge. - from Netgalley.com
Yet Evadine’s growing fame has put her at odds with both Crown and Covenant. As trouble brews in the kingdom, both seek to exploit her position for their own ends.
Sent to the Duchy of Alundia to put down a rebellion, Alwyn must rely on old instincts to fight for his new cause. Deadly feuds and ancient secrets are laid bare as war erupts, a war that will decide the fate of the Kingdom of Albermaine and, perhaps, prevent the coming of the prophesied Second Scourge. - from Netgalley.com
Thanks to Netgalley.com and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for a review.
This is the second book of this trilogy regaling the life of Alwyn Scribe. It follows in a simple timeline after The Pariah, advancing the story of the main character. Anthony Ryan has done a wonderful job (again) of creating an epic story and taking the readers on a fantastical journey. Most of this story reminds me of the Arthurian days of legend, where religion and politics fought for control of the country, with large battles against a Duke, or Earl, that did not agree with whatever policy. Ryan does a great job of describing these issues from the viewpoint of our main character, though at this point in the tale he is higher ranking than most.
Ryan has done a wonderful job of worldbuilding. Much of the lands he writes about is easily created in my mind, as well as characters, places and events. I enjoy the lack of reliance upon, the little availability/use of "magic", and how it is used/practiced. The battles were well described, though somewhat slowed down the story for me. Though, looking back, I see how some of it is required for the pacement of this part of the story.
Characters were well developed, and believable for the most part. From zealots, to beggars, the range of personalities, of side characters, or others of minimal interaction, add insight to the growth and developement of the story, as well as the main character. Overall was easy to read and understand, though some concepts maybe above the heads of the teen crowd.
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