This just really wasn't my kind of story. There was way too much lengthy discussion in which characters try to unravel the theological enigma that forms the basis of the plot. I gave it 3 stars for the parts that didn't involve this, which I enjoyed, but frankly, if Bujold weren't the author, I would've put it down after 100 or so pages. Ista makes a good enough heroine, but 'The Curse of Chalion' this is not.
This is the second book in the Chalion trilogy. It is also a stand-alone novel, but you really need to read The Curse of Chalion first to understand everything within this book in its proper context.
This book takes place shortly after The Curse of Chalion ends, and follows the character of Ista as she embarks upon a pilgrimage.
This book was good, but it wasn't great. Bujold had something going when she created the character of Cazaril. I was disappointed to see his character tossed to the absolute fringes of the storyline, to hear his name mentioned only in passing.
If you liked The Curse of Chalion, then you should like this book as well. While it took some time for me to adjust to the new story arc and cast of characters, I warmed up to them eventually. It was a good story and the plight of the brothers that Ista meets is really quite fascinating. That alone is worth the read.
Overall, I thought that The Curse of Chalion was the better book. But Paladin of Souls is still worthy of your time.
This book takes place shortly after The Curse of Chalion ends, and follows the character of Ista as she embarks upon a pilgrimage.
This book was good, but it wasn't great. Bujold had something going when she created the character of Cazaril. I was disappointed to see his character tossed to the absolute fringes of the storyline, to hear his name mentioned only in passing.
If you liked The Curse of Chalion, then you should like this book as well. While it took some time for me to adjust to the new story arc and cast of characters, I warmed up to them eventually. It was a good story and the plight of the brothers that Ista meets is really quite fascinating. That alone is worth the read.
Overall, I thought that The Curse of Chalion was the better book. But Paladin of Souls is still worthy of your time.
