Showing posts with label dark fantasy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dark fantasy. Show all posts

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Core Set Review

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Core Set
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Core Set? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Core Set. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Core Set ReviewI'm a fan of the Warhammer universe and though I own the 2nd edition of WHFRP, I haven't played it much. My mainstay game lately is D&D 4E, though I've played or run most of the major RPG systems from the last two decades.
I find WHFRP 3rd edition to be a splendid mix of some of my favorite aspects from other RPGs combined with a few new mechanics and unique game concepts. This game pushes the bar up for quality and design thinking and I hope it influences future RPGs.
I know the MSRP is a little high, but at Amazon prices, this is a steal! This box is HUGE and beautiful. Of course everything inside is high quality material and full color, as you'd expect from a company like Fantasy-Flight. The books are not hardcover, but they are full color with thick, glossy pages.
Certainly the books could have used another run at editing, there are lots of typos, but none so far that make the rules confusing. That's the only quality issue I've noticed so far.
The rules are simple but powerful. They offer a wealth of options for players and plenty of flexibility for the GM. I feel the rules sit somewhere between Savage Worlds and D&D 4E in complexity. The core of the rules is easy to remember: you create dice pools and roll them to determine results, the specifics and exceptions are noted on cards in front of the players. You rarely reference the books during play. Cards are used to great effect throughout the system.
Though there's a boardgame feel to the components, this is very much a true RPG. It's a nice mix between the freedom and danger offered in older RPGs and the tactical options and balance that a system like D&D 4e presents.
The system and components are tightly integrated. Everything fits together really well. The feel of the Warhammer world is definitely stitched into the rules but the GM can easily run any type of campaign he wants, not just dark and dangerous. There's plenty of room to take the system and suit it to your group's style of play.
For those of you who dislike grid combat, you're in luck. For those prefer D&D 4E style combat, it's not difficult to adjust the rules to accomodate a grid.
There's very little math involved in the game. You're not constantly rolling numbers and adding modifiers and comparing to other numbers. This is all accounted for in the construction of dice pools. The options players and GMs have in building dice pools really make the system shine.
I could say so much more. I could go on about the party system, the stance system, the way the game supports narrative play, or how fast it plays, but I'll stop here. The game does a much better job of explaining itself, and you owe it to yourself to at least check it out at your FLGS if you're on the fence.
Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Core Set Overview

Want to learn more information about Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay Core Set?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, Book 1) Review

The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, Book 1)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, Book 1)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, Book 1). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, Book 1) ReviewThis will be short - basically; Salvatore has always written some really great books - especially about the main character in most of his TSR books, Drizzt Do'Urden, but this is definitely one of his best. The Dark Elf Trilogy is great, as is the Icewindale Trilogy, but this book marks the beginning of then end (until later this year, thank goodness when he publishes a few more books about Drizzt), and has to be rated as one of his best. His first hardback, and definitely up there with one of the best Fantasy novels of all time. Salvatore at this point has matured so much in his writing about Drizzt Do'Urden that he's able to give so much more insight into the character but without having read the six books about Drizzt preceding this one, the reader may not fully understand how important the book is. The Legacy takes Drizzt back to his homeland where he has to question his people once again - it shows that he cannot escape their vile world no matter how far he runs from them. Menzoberranzen will always haunt him and his family is seeking revenge on him for getting them out of favor with Lloth. Drizzt takes it upon hmself to travel into the Underdark and solve all of his own problems. A plot that could only be awesome the way Salvatore writes it. And if you've read Homeland, Exile, and Sourjourn, then you can really appreciate his dilemma.Basically, this is far and away one of Salvatore's greatest books and holds a special place in all Salvatore fans because it was his first published hardback and a great bestseller.The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, Book 1) OverviewLife is good for Drizzt Do'Urden, better than it ever has been for the beleaguered dark elf. His dearest friend, the dwarf Bruenor, has reclaimed his throne, and his adventuring companions, Wulfgar and Catti-brie, are to be wed in the spring. Even the halfling Regis has returned. All the friends are united in the safety and prosperity of Mithril Hall, where streams of silver mithril run deep and dwarven hammers bang out the solemn rhythms of ancient and unending songs.But Drizzt did not achieve this state of peace without leaving powerful enemies in his wake. Lloth, the dreaded Spider Queen deity of the evil dark elves, counts herself among them and has vowed to end the drow's days of pleasant security.

Want to learn more information about The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, Book 1)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Child of a Dead God: A Novel of the Noble Dead Review

Child of a Dead God: A Novel of the Noble Dead
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Child of a Dead God: A Novel of the Noble Dead? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Child of a Dead God: A Novel of the Noble Dead. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Child of a Dead God: A Novel of the Noble Dead ReviewThis is supposedly the last book in the Noble Dead Series. The events in the book take place after Magiere and Leesil rescue Leesil's mother from her imprisonment in the Elven Territories. Disturbed by dreams guiding her to a mysterious castle, Magiere leads Leesil, Wynn, Chap, and their Elven protectors south. Her dreams have told her little else. On their trail is Magiere's half-brother, Welstiel, a vampire desperate to be freed from his bloodlust. For Welstiel, Magiere is the one who can guide him to this artifact.
The action was good and the description of the events was excellent. The ending was open for another adventure of Magiere and Leesil.
If you haven't read the other five books in the series, you will be confused about what is going on since the authors do not go into any real details of what happened in the previous five books. My biggest complaint about this book was that it seemed like every time you turned around there was a reminder that Welstiel was Magiere's half-brother.
Child of a Dead God: A Novel of the Noble Dead OverviewFor years, Magiere and Leesil have sought a long-forgotten artifact, even though its purpose has been shrouded in mystery. All Magiere knows is that she must keep the orb from falling into the hands of a murdering Noble Dead, her half-brother Welstiel. And now, dreams of a castle locked in ice lead her south, on a journey that has become nothing less than an obsession. Accompanying Magiere and Leesil are the sage Wynn, their canine protector Chap, and two elven assassins-turned-guardians who must fight their distrust of this sister of the dead. For forces more powerful than they are rallying around Magiere, arming her for the conflict to come. Because finding the orb may be just the beginning of the challenges that await her...

Want to learn more information about Child of a Dead God: A Novel of the Noble Dead?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Darkblade: Reign of Blood Review

Darkblade: Reign of Blood
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Darkblade: Reign of Blood? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Darkblade: Reign of Blood. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Darkblade: Reign of Blood ReviewMalus Darkblade is a dark elf warrior, ruthless and untrustworthy. Yet one battle led him to the treasure that would change his life forever, and NOT for the better. Malus Darkblade is cursed by a bestial abomination, the daemon named Tz'arkan. Malus has one year, four seasons, in which to seek out and bring back five unholy relics. If he does not, he will die. If he succeeds, the daemon will lift the curse. What Malus does not realize is that even should he succeed and the daemon keep his promise to lift the curse, things will never be the same again.
***** I had no idea that this Warhammer novel was actually all the Darkblade comics published thus far, collected into one convenient novel. I am so happy to have gotten this book! It is full of battles, gore, sorcerery, mayhem, and all the wonderful things Warhammer readers enjoy to the fullest! And remember, Malus Darkblade is a "dark elf warrior". No running off to save damsels in distress for him! Within these covers readers will find four complete books. Don't ask how many comics are within each book. I did not count. I was too busy enjoying the high rush of excitement that comes from Darkblade's adventures. The script is by Dan Abnett. The lettering and art is by Kev Hopgood. The cover is by Clint Langley. Very highly recommended reading! *****
Reviewed by Detra Fitch of Huntress Reviews.Darkblade: Reign of Blood OverviewFrom the pen of the critically acclaimed author of the Gaunt's Ghosts novels and the Inquisitor Eisenhorn trilogy. In the frozen wastes of Naggaroth the evil dark elf race dwells. These vile creatures feel no compassion, no remorse and show no mercy. Among this race of villians, Malus Darkblade stands out as a great warrior but a ruthless and untrustworthy creature, The rumours of a great treasure hidden deep in the Chaos Wastes are too tempting for him to ignore and he sets off to further expand his power and influence. Little does he know that in the Wastes, a daemon awaits with a special task for him. And when his soul is on the line, he has no choice...This action packed graphic novel contains all the Darkblade comics published so far, and is a chilling insight into the cruel world of the Dark Elves.

Want to learn more information about Darkblade: Reign of Blood?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Dragon Champion (Age of Fire, Book 1) Review

Dragon Champion (Age of Fire, Book 1)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Dragon Champion (Age of Fire, Book 1)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Dragon Champion (Age of Fire, Book 1). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Dragon Champion (Age of Fire, Book 1) ReviewE. E. Knight's Dragon Champion continues the popular tradition of animal perspective fantasy, but instead of rabbits, moles, or other woodland creatures as the protagonists, he carries it a step further with an animal which itself is a fantasy - dragons. It's a very clever concept, and like Knight's Vampire Earth series, he executes the basic concept with wit, excitement and flair.
Told from the viewpoint of Auron (later AuRon, when his wings develop and he can fly), it's a tale of a dying breed among men, Elves and Dwarves, and one dragon's quest to learn his place in the world and how he might change it.
This is not a fairy tale, for there is plenty of graphic violence, and the novel opens with a rather savage birth ritual involving survival of the fittest from a clutch of hatching dragon eggs. Knight blends his story with fascinating dragon lore, and manages to cover nearly everything you've ever heard regarding dragons, keeping the legends plausible, while maintaining his narrative pace and picaresque plot.
Knight does not make the mistake, as so often occurs in this sub-genre of fantasy, of making every human character evil. There are good and bad men, and there are good and bad dragons.
This novel is complete in itself, but my understanding is that Knight plans to continue the series with novels told from the perspectives of AuRon's surviving sister and brother, and then a grand finale fourth volume tying all three together.
Get in on the beginning, readers. It's going to be something special.Dragon Champion (Age of Fire, Book 1) OverviewAfter escaping those who killed his siblings, Young Auron, a rare, defenseless gray dragon, fears he might be the last of his breed. Armed with nothing but his claws and a boundless determination to survive, he sets off in search of his kind. But to find other dragons-or, at least, find out who's killing them off-Auron will have to search a world of mercenary elves, vicious humans, and dangers of all kinds. Finding allies in the strangest places-and himself along the way-Auron is on the trek of a lifetime.

Want to learn more information about Dragon Champion (Age of Fire, Book 1)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

The Child Thief: A Novel Review

The Child Thief: A Novel
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy The Child Thief: A Novel? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on The Child Thief: A Novel. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

The Child Thief: A Novel ReviewThe Child Thief / 978-0-061-67133-3
I usually save the 'parental warnings' in my reviews until the end, but "The Child Thief", as compelling and fascinating as it is, nonetheless requires some upfront warnings. If you are thinking of buying this novel for a child, perhaps on the grounds that it is a Peter Pan story and therefore child-friendly, be warned that this is an incredibly dark and violent novel. I'm not exaggerating when I say that nine out of every ten pages contains a depiction of rape, child molestation, violence, murder, torture, or several instances of the F-word. I certainly wouldn't say that no child or teenager on earth would be able to appreciate this novel, but I do strongly advise that you read this book yourself, beforehand, to determine whether this level of violence will be disturbing to the intended recipient.
With that out of the way, let me say that I am quick to condemn books that rely on violence, sex, and profanity in an attempt to divert the reader's attention from the fact that there is no actual plot. "The Child Thief" is not one such novel - every incidence of violence within this novel acts in service to the plot, and the end result is an incredibly compelling story that is both a re-imagining of the classic Peter Pan tale, but also remarkably true to the original in many of the details (lest we forget that Barrie's version contained quite a bit of death and murder behind the scenes).
"The Child Thief" is already being compared to novels like Maguire's Wicked, but the comparison is somewhat flimsy to my mind. Where Maguire took an evil character and re-imagined her as good (or at least 'misunderstood'), Brom has taken a traditionally good character and re-imagined him not as 'evil', but rather as 'complex'. Although Peter Pan is still an enigmatic mystery, as always, Brom has brought a humanity and complexity to the character that will haunt any reader.
Brom has taken the premise that Peter Pan steals children away to Neverland and has expanded the concept to fit within our dark reality. Here, Peter Pan does not steal away babies who fall out of their prams - he steals away children who are victims of abuse, neglect, molestation, and all the other such evils of our world that children should never have to endure. But the Neverland that Peter promises to lead these victimized children to is not an escape in the classic sense - it is supremely dangerous, and no longer in the exciting "but-we-always-escape-in-the-end" kind of danger that the Disneyesque Neverland fostered. The neglected children (here "Devils" instead of "Lost Boys", since girls are just as welcome here) are given a family and an emotionally safe haven, but every moment of their days are spent in training, in the hopes that once they leave the confines of their home they will not die immediately in this hostile world.
Along with the native monsters of Neverland, the pirates and the Captain are here, transformed by the magic of Neverland into monstrous perversions of humanity, yet Brom does not merely rely on a good-versus-evil trite tale, and here is what sets "The Child Thief" apart from the usual "re-imagining a classic character" stories. Every person and entity in "The Child Thief" is a complex character, full of good and evil impulses. The pirates capture, torture, and murder the lost children, yes, but they genuinely do not wish to be in Neverland and hope that their efforts will lead them to an escape of some kind. Peter does rescue lost and frightened children, and most of them are abjectly grateful for it, but he is recruiting children with lies and trickery to serve as cannon fodder for a war that has waged hundreds of years. There is no doubt that Peter loves the children he recruits, yet his love for them does not stop him from using them until their deaths.
Brom has woven a masterful tale here, with both the real world and the Neverland/Albion world realistically rendered, with both the good and the bad. There is not a single character in this novel which could be described as flat or two-dimensional; even the most minor and ancillary characters are vivid, complex, and contain their own unique mix of perspectives and motivations. I would label "The Child Thief" as a masterpiece for this careful characterization alone, but it is worth repeating, again, that this novel is probably the definition of a morally ambiguous novel and I don't think everyone will derive the same enjoyment out of it. For that reason, if I had to compare "The Child Thief" to another contemporary novel, I would compare it to Pullman's His Dark Materials Trilogy, for I was equally entranced with Pullman's ability to bring moral complexity to his fictional universe, and with his ability to humanize two child-murdering villains as nevertheless loving parents, in spite of their monstrous evil.
In summary, I would deeply recommend "The Child Thief" to anyone who enjoys morally ambiguous tales with complex, three-dimensional characters. If you won't be offended by the incredibly violent and profane nature of the writing, and if you won't be upset by the characterization of a beloved childhood story character as something much less perfect and much more human, then "The Child Thief" is definitely worth looking into.
NOTE: This review is based on a free Advance Review Copy of this book provided through Amazon Vine.
~ Ana MardollThe Child Thief: A Novel Overview

Want to learn more information about The Child Thief: A Novel?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

A Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy Review

A Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy A Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on A Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

A Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy ReviewA Holy Bloody Day by Malachi E. Maynard offers an original story featuring an unusual assortment of gods, demi-gods, demons, elfs etc. The story is presented in two parts. The first part revolves around a power struggle among the gods. The second part is more a coming of age story for an anointed redeemer. I found the original nature of the characters as well as the plot interesting. There are also some scenes in the novel that captured my imagination (there is a great scene where Articty fights several viper dragons).
Unfortunately, the novel is hobbled by some structural and editing issues that impeded my appreciation of the story. On the structural side, in the first section the narrative voice shifts randomly the effect of which is a very disjointed prose that is hard to follow. Throughout the novel the author relies heavily on dialogue to advance the story, which results in dialogue that feels stilted and overly explanatory. The heavy reliance on dialogue also impairs the character development. Actions occur, and relationships or emotions are stated, but there is never any view into the character's mind to reveal how the character feels which makes it difficult to emotionally engage with the characters. The editing issues are pervasive with numerous instances of usage errors, missing words, agreement issues, etc. These minor shortcomings interfered with my enjoyment of the story and render the text tedious particularly in the first section.
The novel is extremely plot and action focused with rough sketches of characters, extensive dialogue, and only a few vivid scene details. I wondered as I read it if perhaps the story might not lend itself more to a graphic novel where the emotions of characters and the scene descriptions are depicted in the images and not reflected in the text.
The second section is better written and more engaging and left me curious to see what the next installment brings. In its current state, however, this is not a novel I am comfortable recommending. I hope the author has the opportunity to rework the text and bring life to the engaging story hinted at in the novel.
A Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy OverviewA Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy by Malachi Elsu Maynard is a darkly sinister and passionate fantasy of legendary proportions. Told with a foreboding and savage beauty, rich landscapes help create a deep and haunting fire-scorched world where not everything is as it seems. This unusual and enchanting tale charts the lives of two omnipotent brothers in Zenkalen as they wage a fierce battle against evil forces.

Want to learn more information about A Holy Bloody Day: Prologue to the Unholy Fire of Blood Trilogy?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Dragon Avenger (Age of Fire, Book 2) Review

Dragon Avenger (Age of Fire, Book 2)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Dragon Avenger (Age of Fire, Book 2)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Dragon Avenger (Age of Fire, Book 2). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Dragon Avenger (Age of Fire, Book 2) ReviewDragon Avenger by E.E. Knight is the second book in the Age of Fire cycle. It tells the tale of Wistala, the sister of Dragon Champion's Auron. The book starts in the same place as the first. With the hatching of the clutch in the cave. and for the first several chapters, it tells the same story, but through Wistala's viewpoint. This time when Wistala and Auron part, she believes he is the one who dies.
Wistala takes off to find her father who flew off to exact vengeance upon the Wheel of Fire Dwarves who betrayed them. She even manages to find him, near death from his rash attack, and spends some time trying to nurse him back to health. Being a coming of age story, of course the outcome of this reunion is bound to be temporary, and it is. Wistala is forced to flee and is nearly killed by the Dragonblade. Tala, though is rescued by a kindly elf named Rainfall. and she spends the majority of the book growing up in his company. Not a lot of avenging going on yet huh? just a lot of talking cats, and mules, Well the avenging does come. Events lead to Wistala getting the opportunity to take revenge on all who have wronged her, and her family, and she takes full advantage.
I liked the book, it was a light entertaining read for the most part. It felt more like a young adult novel than Champion did. Perhaps it was because of the different feel from the Dragonelles perspective. Perhaps it was where the first book had talking wolves, this one had cats, and horses, and mules, and buzzards. Perhaps I just didn't notice it in the first book. Anyway, Knight does a nice job of expanding his world. We see different areas than we did with Auron. We learn more about the history of the land. He also creates characters that you get attached too. I found myself saddened by the loss of certain characters. Its a worthy follow up to Dragon Champion. The next book in the series is slated to be about the little maimed Copper. I look forward to it.
7 out of 10Dragon Avenger (Age of Fire, Book 2) OverviewFrom the national bestselling, award-winning author of Dragon Champion-second in the fantastic new Age of Fire series. Flung to freedom as their mother battles a group of slave-trading dwarves, young Wistala and her gray, scaleless brother, Auron, find themselves alone in the Upper World. And when Auron sacrifices himself so that she may live, Wistala must overcome her grief and fear to find others of her kind-and bring her wrath to bear on those who would destroy them.

Want to learn more information about Dragon Avenger (Age of Fire, Book 2)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

The Light of Burning Shadows: Book Two of the Iron Elves Review

The Light of Burning Shadows: Book Two of the Iron Elves
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy The Light of Burning Shadows: Book Two of the Iron Elves? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on The Light of Burning Shadows: Book Two of the Iron Elves. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

The Light of Burning Shadows: Book Two of the Iron Elves ReviewThe Calahrian Empire still teeters from the assault of the elf witch Shadow Monarch whose allies include the new even more violent Viceroy of Elfkyna. Their greatest unit against the evil insurgency, the Iron Elves, remains disdained by their people for the tattoo representing their subservience to the Shadow Monarch. The people feel this way in spite of their great victory led by Commander Konowa Swift Dragon preventing the Shadow Monarch from obtaining the Red Star at the Battle of Luuguth Jor (see A DARKNESS FORGED IN FIRE).
Instead of lifting the frost fire curse from his men by using the Red Star, Konowa gives it to the Elfkynal; angering his soldiers who saw brothers in arms die and return as shades or maimed in the battle. Prince Tykkin directs Konowa to retrieve a new Star reported in the Hasshugeb Expanse. Konowa knows the witch will seek the Star too so he needs reinforcements so he sends Iron Elves to recruit those peers who failed to return when the unit was reactivated. He tries to calm down his outraged unit who believe they should be freed first and then defeat the evil while he deems they must defeat the evil first. At the same time the Shadow Monarch sends her servant the Viceroy of Elfkyna to darken the woodlands while a new flame has arisen that eats the shadow from the body until the person expires; death in those cases does not mean returning as a shade.
Although the overarching theme does not move forward, the second Iron Elves high quest fantasy is a great tale as Chris Evans expands the author's world adding much depth to it. The story line once again focuses on Konowa and his unit who though victorious still hurt mentally and physically from the recent battle and their commander's decision on the Red Star. Fans will enjoy this fine entry as Konowa seems on the verge of PTSD caused not just by sending men to die knowing they are cursed to become shades, but also having to make difficult decisions, which keep his men in harm's way.
Harriet Klausner
The Light of Burning Shadows: Book Two of the Iron Elves Overview

Want to learn more information about The Light of Burning Shadows: Book Two of the Iron Elves?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

For a Few Demons More (The Hollows, Book 5) Review

For a Few Demons More (The Hollows, Book 5)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy For a Few Demons More (The Hollows, Book 5)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on For a Few Demons More (The Hollows, Book 5). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

For a Few Demons More (The Hollows, Book 5) ReviewIn many ways, Rachel Morgan's problems come full circle in this fifth installment of the Hallows series. With enemies drawing closer than they ever have before, her palette of choices is fast becoming slim to none. In one power play after the next, Rachel's about to fall behind enemy lines, instead of the one step ahead we've been seeing.
It's back to Cincinnati after her desperate attempt to save her pixie partner's son and her ex-boyfriend, Nick. Rachel harbors a rather nasty curse trapped in a bone prison, the focus, which threatens to twist the realities of Weres and vampires alike, both of whom squabble over it like children. With Trent vying for it, someone killing for it and our favorite demon Al lusting after it, Rachel once again has to find a way to undo another problem forced upon her. As the delicate balance between her and Ivy begins to come to a roiling boil, it's all the earth witch can do to stay this side of good, acceptable magic. With her special blood and desire to help others though, it's near impossible for her to deflect the trouble that comes looking for her with a vengeance. Unable to unload the focus on just anyone, she'll have to decide who's the best choice...and none of them are looking particularly stellar.
The first of Harrison's series to be offered in hardback, it's a worthy installment for it, tipping the scales even further towards excellent. For a Few Demons More wraps up some of the problems that Rachel has been having over the course of the other books while of course unraveling others even further. Trent comes back into play and it's a totally different side of him than readers have read before. Ceri, the powerful ex-demon familiar, shows Rachel just how much she respects her and Rachel's pack mate David takes on a major role. The demon Newt is back and we get some interesting information and insights into that character too, though whether they help or hinder the outlook on Newt is the reader's choice. Ivy's dilemma with Piscary is excruciatingly dealt with and it was a struggle at certain points to get past the powerful emotions Harrison has written surrounding Ivy and Rachel. As always, Harrison manages to insert a shocking twist, one I never saw coming, involving Rachel and another of her closest friends. For a Few Demons More is inundated with its fair share of pain, angst and utter despair and readers most certainly may feel closer to Rachel than ever before because of it. It's not without it's glimmer of hope though and some very interesting new characters are introduced that I hope will continue to make appearances in the next book, most notably a mysterious organization of demon practitioners and Dr. Ford Miller, a psychiatrist for the FIB (Federal Inderlander Bureau, the human division to deal with Inderlanders). In the end, as much as Rachel has had to deal with, she's never appeared stronger to me. As always, the once-a-year release of Harrison's Hallows series just can't come fast enough and I only hope that there will be many, many more to come.For a Few Demons More (The Hollows, Book 5) Overview

Want to learn more information about For a Few Demons More (The Hollows, Book 5)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

The Death Ray (Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Novel) Review

The Death Ray (Dungeons and Dragons Adventure Novel)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy The Death Ray (Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Novel)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on The Death Ray (Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Novel). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

The Death Ray (Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Novel) ReviewArgh!

Okay, before I dissolve into abject frustration, I'll begin with saying that this book was leagues above 'Return of the Damned.' The writing style returns to Lain's previous decent level, and the plot is a bit more involved. There is no mystery here - you are in on the bad guy's every thought and plan, but the villainy is quite well orchestrated: Bad Wizard uses Shield Golem to kill off young rivals to the soon-to-marry Duke's daughter.

But when the Duke's daughter decides that our intrepid Regdar is more to her liking than any other possible suitor, and the Duke grants a title to Regdar to make him a potential suitor (as he's currently a commoner without that title). Enter Naull, Regdar's girlfriend, and somewhat jealous of this unfolding situation, and huzzah - the set up for plot is complete.

Indeed, it unfolds quite well, with Lain's typical one-liners and cute humour all about. As usual, however, you can measure the half-life of a non-Iconic character with a pocket ruler. And the villain is a bit dim near the end in his choice of confrontations. But, this is D&D fiction, not grand literature, and it was enjoyable.

The ending, however, brings me back to that 'Argh!' I mentioned. Consider yourself warned that you'll likely find the ending extremely frustrating. Not in a badly-written way - oh no, it wasn't a cop-out ending, or a rushed ending. I'm quite sure Lain wrote this on purpose. But gosh, I could have screamed when I got there.

Very well done. And that 'Argh!' is also the sound of someone who is certainly going to buy the next one, just to see what happens next.

'NathanThe Death Ray (Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Novel) OverviewThis title chronicles the latest adventure of various iconic characters from the Dungeons & Dragons core rulebooks. This series of novels is designed to bring readers closer to the feeling of actually playing a D&D adventure. This tenth title in the novel line features the iconic characters of the fighter and the wizards, both of whom appeared in the kickoff title for the line,The Savage Caves.

Want to learn more information about The Death Ray (Dungeons & Dragons Adventure Novel)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

The Piaras Legacy Review

The Piaras Legacy
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy The Piaras Legacy? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on The Piaras Legacy. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

The Piaras Legacy ReviewI read this entire book hoping that the story would get better, but it really didn't. The plotline was good, but it was slow and predictable. I actually felt I was reading a Dungeons and Dragons game. You can tell it's the first attempt at a novel. I think, with practice this author will get much better, and that he would be an author to watch out for.The Piaras Legacy OverviewLong ago, so the legends say, the Necromancer Volnor invaded the continent of Pelacia. His legions of undead soldiers ravaged the land unchecked, until the three nations united and pushed their evil foes back into the Desert of Malator. But that was centuries ago, and few people still believe the tale. Other, more worldly matters occupy their time, such as recent attacks by renegade Kobolds. But Elac, an elf who makes his way as a merchant, is too concerned with his business affairs to become involved in international politics-until a marauding band of Kobolds attack Elac's caravan and he finds himself running for his life. Befriended by an elfin warrior named Rilen, he travels to Unity, the seat of power on the Pelacian continent. There he is joined by a diverse group of companions, and he sets out on an epic quest to solve the riddle of his heritage and save the land from the growing evil that threatens to engulf it.

Want to learn more information about The Piaras Legacy?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Keeper of Memories Review

Keeper of Memories
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Keeper of Memories? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Keeper of Memories. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Keeper of Memories ReviewI recently stumbled upon this short novel and found a compelling read. Ms. Wallace's easy reading style lent itself to a delightfully fantastic journey of young Celee. I am very excited for the next installment to find more depth to the world along side our own. Please tell me another on is in the works! When does the movie come out?Keeper of Memories OverviewThe letter changed everything.Celee has always been a loner, shy and awkward, preferring her books and computer games to real life. Everything was dull, routine and boring. Celee was content.And then the letter came.An aunt that Celee never knew existed has left her an inheritance, but with that gift comes the dreams... waking dreams that strike without warning, full of chilling cries for help.Terrified, Celee seeks help, but instead of help, she finds herself trapped in another world, the land of Wunsierth. Suddenly, Celee is no longer the loner- she's an entirely different person, the kind of person she's always hoped to be.Is Wunsierth real or is it just the product of an overactive imagination? Can Celee find her way home?Does she want to?

Want to learn more information about Keeper of Memories?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Forgotten Realms Comic: The Legend of Drizzt Volume 3: Sojourn (Forgotten Realms: Legend of Drizzt (Paperback)) (V. 3) Review

Forgotten Realms Comic: The Legend of Drizzt Volume 3: Sojourn (Forgotten Realms: Legend of Drizzt (Paperback)) (V. 3)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Forgotten Realms Comic: The Legend of Drizzt Volume 3: Sojourn (Forgotten Realms: Legend of Drizzt (Paperback)) (V. 3)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Forgotten Realms Comic: The Legend of Drizzt Volume 3: Sojourn (Forgotten Realms: Legend of Drizzt (Paperback)) (V. 3). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Forgotten Realms Comic: The Legend of Drizzt Volume 3: Sojourn (Forgotten Realms: Legend of Drizzt (Paperback)) (V. 3) ReviewCredit where credit is due - this comic book version of the legendary Drizzt novels is outstanding. The detail and perfect capture of the key elements of the novel made this version as exciting a read as the first time I read the novels.
I would highly recommend the comic book version to all dedicated Drizzt fans.Forgotten Realms Comic: The Legend of Drizzt Volume 3: Sojourn (Forgotten Realms: Legend of Drizzt (Paperback)) (V. 3) OverviewDrizzt Do'urden has abandoned the cruel Underdark for the unknown of the surface world. But as the young warrior begins his sojourn, the family he left beneath and new enemies alike pursue him. His survival depends on gaining the trust of surface dwellers - and that challenge may be greater than any battle he could fight.

Want to learn more information about Forgotten Realms Comic: The Legend of Drizzt Volume 3: Sojourn (Forgotten Realms: Legend of Drizzt (Paperback)) (V. 3)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Prince of Bryanae Review

Prince of Bryanae
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Prince of Bryanae? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Prince of Bryanae. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Prince of Bryanae ReviewI thoroughly enjoyed reading this book from cover to cover, thanks to superb world-building, nonstop action and suspense, an imaginative setting, and strong, memorable characters. I read a lot of fantasy, and Prince of Bryanae kept me engaged and intrigued as well as (or better than) anything I've ever read.Prince of Bryanae OverviewVENGEANCE FROM THE PASTAfter over a century of valiant service,the elven soldier Willow has buried her past so deeply that even she has forgotten it. But it hasn't forgotten her. Now old enemies have foundher and have kidnapped the Prince of Bryanae before her very eyes!Considered by most of Bryanae to be a traitor and coward, Willow mustconfront her fears and plunge headlong into the heart of the enemyempire to rescue the Prince and return him safely home.An armyof fierce warriors stands in her way, led by the mad and seeminglyimmortal Warlord. Willow must use every resource at her disposal if sheis to save the Prince, even if that means relying on the headstrong andlovesick Private Tamlevar, the inscrutable winged mage Suel, or thedashing but devious Captain Snyde.Willow has been honing hercombat and weaponry skills for over 150 years. Now it is time to putthat practice to good use. The fates of four races and two kingdoms hang in the balance.

Want to learn more information about Prince of Bryanae?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Slave of Chu Kutall Review

Slave of Chu Kutall
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Slave of Chu Kutall? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Slave of Chu Kutall. Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Slave of Chu Kutall ReviewIn a publishing world where it seems that just about every fantasy story out there insists on being part of some sweeping trilogy or epic series, set in worlds filled with more back history than the poor reader can keep track of, Slave of Chu Kutall is a refreshing change. What Michael McCloskey offers the reader is a world rife with fantastical creatures, fabulous weapons, magical monsters, strange lands, and most importantly, a half-orc protagonist named Nergal. Nergal escapes from a slave galley, and is forced to adapt to cultures and customs quite alien to him as he joins, somewhat unwittingly, a questing band of adventurers who seek to dispel a great evil from the local kingdom. This book will get you to laugh thoroughly as it offers glimpses into the simple-but-perceptive thought processes within Nergal's orcish mind; Nergal's struggles to understand and be understood by his companions are at turns touching and hilarious.
At first glance, the plot of this book might seem a bit trite, with its dragon-slaying, its plethora of strange races, and its quests against monsters and evil wizards. But McCloskey reminds us of why such devices became trite in the first place--he makes them fun again. As much as the book will inspire laughter, it can also get the blood pumping with action sequences reminiscent of the best of Robert E. Howard. And to a great degree, the effectiveness of both humor and action can be attributed to the depth of Nergal as a character. More than the simple gimmick of a humanized monster, Nergal routinely crosses the lines between nobility and baseness, heroism and evil, maturity and peurility, and cleverness and brute stupidity, often without noticing that there might even seem to be a contradiction between one and the other. As Nergal's tale progresses, this book will take you to strange lands, threaten you with hideous monsters, confront you with bizarre forms of intelligent life, dazzle you with spells and enchantments, thrill you with battles and duels, and keep you entertained to the very last word.Slave of Chu Kutall OverviewAfter escaping from a slave ship, the half-orc Nergal swims to shore, eager to begin his new life of freedom. When he meets a band of heroes including an elf, a beautiful warrior-priestess, and two brave knights, he isn't looking for an adventure—he's just looking for an easy meal!

But the impressionable young Nergal soon begins to feel a kinship with these heroes who are on an important mission to an abandoned castle. Dark forces are marshalling against them, and Nergal is viewed as an asset in the quest to stop the evil threatening their kingdom. He joins these unlikely companions, even though he believes that if his brutal past becomes known, his heroic friends will not hesitate to destroy him.

As he grows into a mighty force for good, Nergal must hide his past. He becomes drawn into a struggle between nations and hunts for a monk-wizard who creates deadly monsters to aid the cause of an ancient sect's draconian rule over other peoples. Nergal's adventures take him to lands unknown where he will facechallenges greater than he anticipated. But when the smoke clears, there will be nodoubts as to Nergal's true nature.


Want to learn more information about Slave of Chu Kutall?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Voyage of the Fox Rider (Mithgar) Review

Voyage of the Fox Rider (Mithgar)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Voyage of the Fox Rider (Mithgar)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Voyage of the Fox Rider (Mithgar). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Voyage of the Fox Rider (Mithgar) ReviewI believe this is Mr. McKiernan's finest work. Well thought out, plot travels along nicely without giving anything away before it's due time, and extremely well built characters. I thouroughly enjoyed this book. Even better than Iron Tower Trilogy. Recommend to all fantasy readers.Voyage of the Fox Rider (Mithgar) Overview

Want to learn more information about Voyage of the Fox Rider (Mithgar)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Dhampir (Noble Dead) Review

Dhampir (Noble Dead)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Dhampir (Noble Dead)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Dhampir (Noble Dead). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Dhampir (Noble Dead) ReviewI've read one previous novel by Barb Hendee, Blood Memories, and was impressed enough by the experience that I decided to read Dhampir. Let's begin by saying that I am not regretting that decision.
This is the first novel of a series, the next of which will not be available until January 2004. She is writing with her husband this time, J.C. Hendee, but the integration of their writing styles is seamless. If you liked the writing style of Blood Memories, you won't even notice that J.C. Hendee has come aboard. I count this as a good thing, because I liked Blood Memories quite a lot.
The story revolves around Magiere and her partner, Leesil (a half-elf), who are an awsome vampire slaying duo. Magirere is more special than she realizes; let's just say that she has some interesting ancestors. When the two decide to retire, their peaceful plans are interrupted by a trio of undead who know more about Magiere's birthright than she does herself.
This novel is set more in Tolkien's universe than in Laurell K. Hamilton's, Tanya Huff's, or P.N. Elrod's, but it should still satisfy fans of those authors. Still, it is one of the best introductory novels I've read in a long time. I hope that the rest of the series lives up to the promise.Dhampir (Noble Dead) OverviewThe launch of a major new vampire series-set in a classic fantasy universe... A con-artist who poses as a vampire slayer learns that she is, in fact, a true vampire slayer-a dhampir-whose actions have attracted the unwanted attention of a trio of powerful vampires seeking her blood.

Want to learn more information about Dhampir (Noble Dead)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Into the Labyrinth (Death Gate Cycle) Review

Into the Labyrinth (Death Gate Cycle)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Into the Labyrinth (Death Gate Cycle)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Into the Labyrinth (Death Gate Cycle). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Into the Labyrinth (Death Gate Cycle) ReviewIn all probability, people who read the first of the Death Gate Cycle books and like it, are going to want to read all of the books in the series (regardless of any flucutation in the individual books' ratings). Ditto for the reverse: if people don't like the first book, then they're probably not going to want to read any of the other books in the series. Thus, instead of individual book ratings, I've rated the whole series and given a short blurb on any specifics for each book.
Overall, this is a very good series. The authors were amazingly creative in coming up with this concept and the books are well-written, extremely interesting, and internally consistent (mostly -- see below for some exceptions). I highly recommend this series of books for everyone. My comments for the indidual books follow:
Vol. 1 -- Dragon Wing: This book covers the exploration of Arianus: the realm of Air. It introduces us to the two main characters (Haplo and Alfred) and many of the recurring characters throughout the series. It's a well-paced, well-written book that's an excellent reresentation of what to expect in most of the rest of the series. Essentially, if you like this book, you'll like the other six books. If you don't like this book, then there's no sense in reading any of the others.
Vol. 2 -- Elven Star: This book covers the exploration of Pryan: the realm of Fire. Alfred is entirely missing from this book, and Haplo isn't really the centerpiece. Instead, the book is mostly written from the perspective of the mensch and of the newly introduced (and recurring) Zifnab. The one possible weakness in the book is that Weis/Hickman wrote it such that the structure of Pryan itself is more of a mystery than Arianus was in the first book.
Vol. 3 -- Fire Sea: This book covers the exploration of Abarrach: the realm of Stone. Once again, both Haplo and Alfred are present. The characters and areas presented in this book are key elements for the entire series. An interesting book, but not a very happy one at all.
Vol. 4 -- Serpent Mage: This book covers the exploration of Chelestra: the realm of Water. Both Alfred and Haplo are on this world. But, for the most part, they follow separate plot lines. There's a lot of action taking place throughout the book and Weis/Hickman introduce some actual Sartan (besides Alfred). They also bring in an ancient evil to balance the ancient good introduced in the previous book. The most irritating thing about this book is that it ends in a cliff-hanger. The previous books tied up their worlds' activities fairly nicely. Not so in this book. It ends at a very inconvenient spot.
Vol. 5 -- Hand of Chaos: This book returns Haplo to Arianus and the people he met there earlier. Whereas the first four books of the series cover the exploration of the four realms, this book starts the synthesis of the various threads from those books into a movement towards closure. It's a good book, but, unfortunately, it doesn't do anything with Alfred. The previous book left Alfred heading towards a bad end. This book doesn't do anything with that. So, while reading the book, you constantly have this little voice in the back of your mind going "what's happening with Alfred?" Irritating.
Vol. 6 -- Into the Labyrinth: This book ranges across just about all of the worlds of the Death Gate. It brings all of the various threads from the other books to a head. Most importantly, it finally does something with Alfred. The unfortunate thing about this book is that it contains a lot of technical errors (or, more specifically, contradictions). For instance, in Dragon Wing, we're told that a person needs to be familiar with an area to use a transportation spell to get to that area. Yet, very close to the beginning of the book, one of the characters uses such a spell without ever having been to her target location. There are also several instances where the characters COULD have used such a spell, but don't. Likewise, there are problems with replication spells. In Fire Sea, Haplo and Alfred use such a spell to replicate enough food for a large group of people. Yet, in this book, no one seems to consider using a replication spell to produce more of some food. But, later on, those same people are using that same spell to replicate weapons. Plus, at one point, Xar uses a spell to just materialize both food and drink for a party. But, if such a thing is possible, why do the Patryns hunt and, apparently, farm in the Labyrinth? Also, the size of the Labyrinth seems wrong. From the previous books, it's taken hundreds (if not thousands) of years for various Patryns to traverse the hundreds of Gates in the Labryrinth. Yet, in this book, from the very beginning of the Labyrinth they can see the results of things happening at the Final Gate. There's also the problem of how people at the center of the Labyrinth would know anything about the Final Gate.
Vol. 7 -- Seventh Gate: This is the conclusion of the Death Gate series. Unforunately, I didn't much care for it. Basically, it comes across as being pretty sappy. All of a sudden, Haplo and Alfred are best buds and want to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony. Most of the various threads are tied up adequately (if not very satifyingly). But, the sudden push towards liberal "peace, love, and harmony" is trite. Of the seven books in this series, this one is the least good. Once again, I didn't much care for the tone of this book. But, since it adequatly ties up most everything that needed tying up, I'm not going to downgrade the whole series because of that.Into the Labyrinth (Death Gate Cycle) Overview

Want to learn more information about Into the Labyrinth (Death Gate Cycle)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...

Elfslayer (Gotrek and Felix) Review

Elfslayer (Gotrek and Felix)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Are you looking to buy Elfslayer (Gotrek and Felix)? Here is the right place to find the great deals. we can offer discounts of up to 90% on Elfslayer (Gotrek and Felix). Check out the link below:

>> Click Here to See Compare Prices and Get the Best Offers

Elfslayer (Gotrek and Felix) Review"Elfslayer" opens in Felix Jaeger's father's Altdorf mansion. After twenty years, Felix and Gotrek have returned to their starting point chronicled in William King's short story, "Geheimnisnacht."
Jaeger's father has a mission for his errant son. The old man is being blackmailed by a Marienburg pirate named Hans Euler and he wants his son to retrieve the incriminating papers. Felix balks at the assignment but he finally agrees to help his father. Meanwhile, Gotrek is down in the dumps, literally, drinking himself into a torpor. As we know from the previous novel "Manslayer," Gotrek missed the evil invasion of Archaon and his chance to face a daemon.
Long quickly alerts us that this novel will be a return to old haunts and a reunion with missing friends, allies, and enemies. It is also a novel replete with Longian themes--drowning, shipwrecks, imprisonment, feckless women, jealousy, bravery, and deception.
Before Felix and Gotrek leave Altdorf, they are attacked by unknown assailants. We soon learn that an old enemy has decided to seek revenge. With the assault, Gotrek begins to awaken from his stupor and the action begins. The two travel to Marienburg pursued by assassins to meet Euler. Feliz discovers another enemy in Euler and the plot, as they say, thickens. Before Felix can resolve the problem with Euler, old allies arrive. The wizard Max Schreiber, accompanied by a sorceress and an Elf, offer Gotrek the opportunity to face his glorious end. Felix is torn between serving his father or honoring his oath to Gotrek to be present at his death. He, of course, chooses to stand with Gotrek and they set set off on a quest to save the Empire with Schreiber.
The relic they seek is also being sought by Dark Elves. The action then turns to the sea. From this point, Long engages in what I can only call a melange of Jules Verne steampunk and Sabatini swordplay. He brilliantly describes an underwater city, the Black Ark of the Dark Elves, and the horrors of Dark Elf magic and ritual.
Long has concocted a nightmarish stew of villains and seamlessly presented them to us in a Sabatini-like thriller. He is one of the best writers at the Black Library and I challenge you to find a clunky sentence in the 412 pages of the novel. He ties up all of the plot threads nicely by the end but, of course, he leaves enough plot hanging that we anticipate and yearn for the next chapter of the novel.
Without giving too much away, Long convincingly presents dwarves, skaven, and dark elves. Additionally, never before have we seen a black ark described in such sinister detail.
As you might guess I highly recommend the novel. Not only is it an exciting book but I would postulate that it takes the Gotrek franchise in a new direction. Although Long is a student of William King he is refining King's themes and characters. This observation brings me to the explanation of my title for this review.
The figure in the carpet, as Henry James would say, in this novel is the seesaw. When Felix is up, Gotrek is down and when Gotrek is up, Felix is down, literally. The only time Gotrek is animated is when the likelihood of death and mayhem is near; Felix appreciates the tranquil moments, which in a Gotrek & Felix novel, are very brief indeed. However, Gotrek is the dark submerged animator of the series. It is his strength and resolve that drives the action. Long is aware of this and he consciously builds on it and structures the plot around the "humors" of the two characters in a clear and convincing way.
Finally, if you like this novel, I would suggest Gav Thorpe's "Malekith," Graham McNeill's "Defenders of Ulthuan," William King's "Trollslayer" and "Skavenslayer," and Long's Blackheart Trilogy.
I might also add, that the novels of Sabatini--"Captain Blood" in particular--might also interest you.Elfslayer (Gotrek and Felix) OverviewDwarf Trollslayer Gotrek and his human companion Felix Jaeger, Warhammer's most famous pair of heroes, head off to a new adventure facing the terrifying dark elves in the latest novel of this best-selling fantasy series.

Want to learn more information about Elfslayer (Gotrek and Felix)?

>> Click Here to See All Customer Reviews & Ratings Now
Read More...