RUTH F. (ruthy) reviewed on 4/12/2008 + 56 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

I enjoyed this book. It is a good example of a third book of a trilogy that really works. The first 2 books obviously lead up to the third, but in this case it is a culmination of the details and the character development that goes before adding to the finale. Generally, the reader gets to see how in the first book the main character is a despondent guilt-ridden foreigner interested only in seeking his death and relief of the burdens of guilt for sins he thinks he's guilty of in exchange for the monetary reward for those he wronged. In the second book, the main character grows and slowly realizes that his life has been "directed" from the beginning by uncaring gods (he thinks). In the third, he realizes that no matter the oaths he took (or why he took them) and the geas that was put upon him as a result, his honor and his integrity demand that he follow through with his resolve and dedication to the people he swore to protect even though they might not all be his native countrymen. I really liked the build up because I could see the development and the realization along with the main character. In the first book, I thought it was just an easy escapist fantasy read...but as it progressed the story really became enjoyable from a critical angle. Some might not agree with my analysis, but I have to say that many other series writers could learn a thing or two from Ms. Bray in terms of story development and character building. The world the story takes place in and the "swords and sorcery" are not very complicated. But that really doesn't matter to the story. I cheered for the main character and was surprised along with him along the way. Loved it.

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