Orcs by Stan Nicholls

The volume is a compendium of three books of the Orcs: First Blood series. It includes Bodyguard of Lightning, Legion of Thunder, and Warriors of the Tempest. The story is set in Maras-Dantia, populated by various races who do not get along well with each other. There is an ongoing struggle between two religious factions, the Unis and Manis, and involves various races. Apparently, according to the elder races, Maras-Dantia is losing its magic and killing the land because of the invasion and abuse of the humans. The Manis, who have humans among its followers, believe this as well and are seeking to restore some of the power lost because of the human settlements.

This edition also features a short story called The Taking which tells about Coilla's first day with the Wolverines and a short interview of the author.

Bodyguard of Lightning

In the first book, the members of the orc warband, the Wolverines, are introduced. Touted as the best orcs in Queen Jennesta's army, they were sent on a mission to recover an artifact in a human settlement. The leader Stryke and his colleagues Alfray, Jup, Haskeer, Coilla and others, were successful in retrieving the artifact. But because they did not return on time, Queen Jennesta thought she was betrayed. What's more, the warband was set upon by a band of kobolds on their way back who ran off with the artifact. This theft convinced Stryke that the artifact means a great deal to the queen and must hold some power. 

Legion of Thunder

By now they already have an idea what the artifact might be but the Wolverines now have to decide what to do with that knowledge. Still uncertain but feeling they have no choice, the group decides to search for more Instrumentalities or stars. Stryke also believes that they can use the stars to bargain with Jennesta or use it for something else.

Queen Jennesta is just one of their worries however. Setting off on this new mission also puts them against whoever owns the other stars.

Warriors of the Tempest

The adventures of Stryke and the Wolverines have stirred the minds of their fellow orcs in Jennesta's army as well as their newfound enemies. They now have to complete all the five instrumentalities to see what will happen. It is not yet clear what the artifacts can do but Stryke and the others can't turn back now even when the odds are against them.

***

The choice of orcs as the lead characters is a welcome change. I'm quite fond of the orcs myself from some games and dismayed that other media like books always give them the role of enemies. This series is consistent in showing how the orcs think about and interact with humans. I was apprehensive that later on they would welcome a human into their ranks or a human would ally with the Wolverines and join their adventures but thankfully that did not happen.

Most of the orcs are likable and Stryke has just enough brains and bravery to make him a good lead character. Queen Jennesta on the other hand is too cruel and extremely evil. Therefore it makes her role less effective, boring and predictable. She isn't a contemplative type as well so her actions are just evil for evil's sake.

The author uses some names that are quite similar to some real-world myths and religions. Some of his metaphors seem out of place as well, like the use of ninepins (bowling) to describe something in the third book.

Each book provides very little clue to the instrumentalities. There is just enough information for the story to move on. Readers are as much in the dark as the Wolverines on what to do until the final scene in the third book.

The strong point of the series is its action scenes. It has some good one-on-one combats and large-scale fights that were delivered quite well by the author. There are very few casualties in the Wolverines in all their fights however, but I think this just adds to their reputation as the best fighters among all the races of the fantasy genre. 

Despite having interesting protagonists, the direction of the story seems predictable even in the first book. The only thing that kept me going is to discover what the instrumentalities were for, so I guess the author's tactic in not giving too much away succeeded.

Rating: 7 out of 10

Grania: She-king of the Irish Seas by Morgan Llywelyn

History tells of a woman who defied tradition to follow her heart's desire and succeeded. Grania was the daughter of the Black Oak Dubhdara and Mairgret of clan O Malley. When most women were expected to fulfill their roles and housewives, Grania instead wanted to sail the seas. At a very young age she was known for her willfulness and insight. A natural leader known for her charisma and unconventional means to get what she wanted, she was a constant object of admiration and sometimes resentment of men and women alike. 

First married to Donal O Flaherty, Grania has had her share of lovers like most heroes portrayed in adventure stories. Although I'm not fond of romance, Grania's affairs seem intriguing and more often her treatment of the men is refreshing for a lead female character. She still retains her qualities of being a woman, a mother, and a wife ---aspects that give her more advantage over the male leaders who are also after power. It is only fitting therefore that a female also tell her story.

The point-of view sometimes jumps from one character to another within the same paragraph, but the lapses are minor nuances compared to the other qualities of the book. The timeline also jumps in some instances, highlighting only the important events of Grania's life; but this is to be expected in a book that tells her story.

There is no need for the reader to do some research if he is not familiar with Grania. The author already provides that, but if you've read a bit about her already you'll find this book even more rewarding.

There is an attempt in the book to compare Grania to Elizabeth I of England. This is an excellent comparison and quite empowering for the female reader. Although they were both women of power and means, they suffered the same prejudice that some still go through today: being labeled as weaker because of their sex. Both Grania and Elizabeth however were women who ruled as kings, even performed feats greater than the men who surrounded them. Yet they're not so alien and distant to women like myself  because of the prejudices they had to live with.

I've previously read books by Morgan Llywelyn (Druids, Red Branch, and The Elementals) and I've always found her writing so enjoyable. If you've also enjoyed her previous book(s), Grania won't disappoint.

I recommend this book to those who like history in general and historical fiction novels. I also recommend the books by Llywellyn I've enumerated above.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Lightning by Dean Koontz

Laura Shane was born on a night of a freakish lightning storm. Her life since then has been filled with both despair and mystery. Despite losing her mother and later her father at an early age, Laura grew up to be a strong and positive woman. Through most of the trying times of her life, from her birth then an incident with a store robber and more, Laura feels like she's being watched over by someone. This guardian appears during some of her life-threatening encounters and what's more puzzling is that he does not seem to age even as years pass. Ever since his last appearance however, Laura begins to doubt the existence of this blond, blue-eyed, gun-toting guardian.

Lightning's pace is consistent from start to finish even when the timeline jumps from days to years sometimes. Laura's fantastic experiences may be a bit exaggerated but they are consistent with the idea in which the story revolves. The technical details explaining the guardian's appearances is explained well but the book will not drown the reader in unnecessary information. It is partly historical fiction and sci-fi, both of which were handled just enough not to make me cringe with embarrassment. The last part seems protracted though.

The book has some excellent lines. This passage in particular is my favorite:

"... there are two things that different kinds of people believe that are the worst... some people believe the best way to solve a problem is with violence... 

Pacifism... pacifists believe you should never lift a hand against another human being no matter what he has done or what you know he's going to do.

You try to avoid violence. You never start it. But if someone else starts it, you defend yourself, friends, family, anyone who's in trouble."

Like most of the author's books in the 1980s, Lightning has vivid action scenes, the skillful choice of words to get his points across, witty humor, and unforgettable characters. The book has all the familiar Koontz trademark that fans of his earlier books love.

Rating: 8 out of 10

Bulfinch's Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch

This collection of the majority of European mythology will make the lover of myths cry out for joy. Bulfinch's Mythology includes Greek and Roman myths; Norse; Celtic; Arthurian and British legends (Beowulf, Hereward and Robin Hood); tales of Charlemagne's Paladins; and a few Egyptian and Eastern (Zoroastrian/Persian, Hindu, Buddhist) myths and legends.

The stories are limited however and only the more popular tales are included. It is a general overview of most myths but the focus, as expected, is still on Classical Mythology. The pages dedicated to the Greek and Roman gods take up most of the book, followed by Charlemagne's Peers.

Despite my disappointed to find that I'd be reading stories I'm already familiar with, the book does have its surprises. There is a chapter dedicated to monsters and how myths are formed. Some of the epics are summarized, much to my dismay, but it might be a good introduction for readers who find the longer versions too tedious. Egyptian and eastern myths are scarce as mentioned, but it is in this book that I have read about Charlemagne's Paladins or Peers for the first time.

The book lacks so many things but it is still a must-read for mythology lovers like myself. If you've already read most of the stories here, meeting the gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters all over again is still rewarding. The author provides some analyses as well but it is not the purpose of the book. Overall, the Bulfinch's Mythology is a good but limited introduction of of popular myths and legends.

Rating: 8 out of 10

Greece: Temples, Tombs and Treasures

Greek history enthusiasts will find this beautiful volume an invaluable addition to their collection. Filled with vivid illustrations and photos, the book is a general outline of history of ancient Greece from its prehistory until Alexander's death. 

It contains mostly descriptions of major architectural and archaeological finds and a narration of events at the time they were built or made. The book is informative but not detailed enough for the scholarly purposes. It however provides a good overview of architectural styles, art and a condensed history of the area.

I recommend this both for casual and scholarly reading. If you are interested in mythology, the book also mentions a few things. The text is easy to understand and reader friendly (however, the reader might want to check some updates on the progress of the study of finds).

Rating: 9 out of 10

San Antonio Spurs 2014 NBA Champions

Even more than months after the San Antonio Spurs won their fifth title, I still feel like everything is a dream. As a long-time fan of Tim Duncan, last year's loss to Miami Heat still feels like a nightmare whenever I think about it.

It took me more than a month to recover after that loss. I'm just a fan and I felt terrible so I can't imagine what it was like for the players. People who did not believe and appreciate them said it was the end of the line for the "old" guys. Duncan and Manu Ginobili were passe. They said some might retire or go to other teams, but they proved them wrong again. Of course I didn't wanna believe all the bad things they wrote but it was not easy to keep thinking like that after that kind of loss. They said it would not be easy to recover from that nightmare. Of course it wouldn't be, but how the players will deal with that will say a lot about them individually and their spirit as a team.

Whatever the unbelievers and haters said, we fans knew that our Spurs players were made of a tougher sort of material. Yes, most people would not easily forget a game 6 loss like that. Yes, they're still humans and they made mistakes in that series. But unlike other teams that suffered a big loss, the Spurs are tougher.

They kept saying no, they can't bounce back 'cause they're old. The joke about old players is old. Yes, we can see that our superstars are aging. But how many superstars can claim that their team is still a title contender even at the twilight of their careers? Besides not everyone on the team is old. The younger guys proved that they were more than just talented. They were willing to be coached and to play team basketball. Just look at Kawhi Leonard now.

2014 Western Conference Champions

When they won the 2014 Western Conference Finals, I heard some people say that it was an easy match for them because some players in the other team were not at their best. But have they forgotten their old players joke? Wasn't my team old and slow and boring? Tony Parker wasn't even at his best in the series against Oklahoma City Thunder, so why do people still deny that the Spurs are good? Didn't the other team have the season's MVP? We won but people criticized the team and the fans and still glorified the losers.

Even getting there was not easy. I almost thought they'd lose to the Dallas Mavericks. And I was surprised they cruised through the second round. But what amazed me more is the kind of basketball they played throughout the season.

Yes I know they've been playing beautiful basketball for years. That's why I became a fan in 2002 after all! The passing and ball movement, the defense, the unselfish superstars---I've watched all that for years. I was delighted to find however that they improved all of that. And this is the season after that loss in 2013. Who said the Spurs can't bounce back?

Even when people were praising their team basketball, there were still those who claim that the Spurs were not talented enough to beat Miami Heat in a rematch. Well guess what? Even the world's best player for the past few years can't beat a team with experience and spirit. Old and boring my ass.

The Big Three: Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili

In fact, the rematch was a disappointment partly because the Heat played like they did not want to win and partly because Spurs were just too damn good for them this year. I expected more heat from the Heat, but I think they looked old and lost. They relied too much on their superstars but the superstars weren't as good as the boring players after all. If I was a Heat fan I'd be ashamed of that performance. My Spurs last year may have lost in the Finals, but we weren't that terrible!

If this season was a redemption tour for the Spurs, they more than redeemed themselves in the eyes of their fans and critics. The critics can keep writing them off for next season if they want, but we've got new talent and experienced superstars. Keep saying boring and old if you want until the Spurs beat your team/s (then you'd start saying your team was just not at its hundred percent, duh). I didn't even mention yet the records they made this season on their way to the championship.

Congratulations my San Antonio Spurs! I never once regretted sticking with you guys and waiting for seven years for a fifth championship. The future looks bright with a talented kid like Leonard but we'll wait and see what kind of career he makes with a great team like the Spurs. 

2014 Lineup:

Jeff Ayres

Aron Baynes

Marco Belinelli

Austin Daye

Boris Diaw

Tim Duncan

Manu Ginobili

Danny Green

Cory Joseph

Kawhi Leonard

Patty Mills

Tony Parker

Tiago Splitter

Coach: Gregg Popovich

Assistant Coaches:

Jim Boylen

Chip Engelland

Chad Forcier

Sean Marks

Ime Udoka

Athletic trainer:

Will Sevening

Strength and conditioning coach:

Matt Herring

2014 AWARDS:

NBA Coach of the Year (Gregg Popovich)

NBA Executive of the Year Award (R.C. Buford)

NBA Finals MVP (Kawhi Leonard)

All-NBA Second Team (Tony Parker)

NBA All-Defensive Second Team (Kawhi Leonard)

A Feast for Crows by George R.R. Martin

In the third book, Joffrey Baratheon was poisoned at his wedding feast and Tyrion Lannister was accused by his sister of the crime. The guest Oberyn Martell became Tyrion's champion but was killed by Gregor Clegane. Tyrion escapes with help of his brother Jaime. Tyrion however confronted and killed his father and Shae.

Brienne of Tarth searches for the Stark sisters to keep her promise to Catelyn and Jaime.

Arya Stark goes to Braavos because she has nowhere to go and she remembered the offer given to her previously.

Sansa Stark escapes King's Landing and pretends she's Petyr Baelish's daughter. During their stay at  the Eyrie, Littlefinger murdered Lysa Arryn. Now they both have to keep up the pretense of being father and daughter. 

Cersei Lannister thinks she's in control of the realm, but she's ran out of friends and allies and sees enemies everywhere she turns. Maybe Cersei's hold is finally slipping away especially now that Jaime is tired of taking part in her schemes.

Samwell Tarly has to go to Oldtown to keep Aemon Targaryen safe from Melisandre's plans and he has to train as the new maester for the Watch. He's scared of the trip however and of the consequences when his father finds out of Jon Snow's plans for him.

Seastone Chair or Iron Islands is empty. Balon Greyjoy's death left people undecided who should succeed him. The brothers Evron and Victarion and daughter Asha want the throne. To solve this and to gain the blessing of his god, Aeron calls a Kingsmoot.

Dorne wants to avenge Oberyn Martell but the Lord of Sunspear Doran Martell does not want any trouble with King's Landing. Plotters want to create trouble to start the war Doran does not want.

***

A Feast for Crows tells the aftermath of the events in the previous three books of A Song of Ice and Fire series. The "crows," which are the survivors, are scavenging for scraps. Some of the characters affected by the wars are initiating change and some are just picking up where they left off. The stories are set mostly in King's Landing, Dorne, Braavos and the Iron Islands.

The book introduces several new characters and is told from different points-of-view. * The tone of the narrators is more like a preparation of big things to happen like those that culminated in book three, but is a close-up of just half of the story. In fact, I do not know what to make of the sudden change of pace and style in this fourth installation. The pace is slower. The characters are certainly more introspective than in the previous three books. It is a style I'm quite familiar with (and quite fond of) in other series I've read, but I do not know yet how will this affect the succeeding books in this series. 

There is more magic, less large-scale battles, and a sudden focus on the different religions and gods both old and new  and who seem to suddenly play  important roles. The prophecies and dreams, particularly those involving Cersei and Daenerys, seem to be more significant. Some people and traditions are introduced, adding more diversity to the world that was introduced to the reader.

I can't help but notice as well the gap between releases of each book in the series. It might not be such an issue (okay, it is if you've waited for years unlike me who started the series just recently) if not for the change in style and pace in this book. I think by now however, the readers who are already hooked with the series are willing to endure the wait to find out what will happen to their favorite character.

Rating: 8 out of 10

*

The Prophet (Aeron Greyjoy/Damphair)

The Captain of the Guards (Areo Hotah)

Cersei

Brienne

Samwell

Arya

Jaime

Sansa

The Kraken's Daughter (Asha Greyjoy)

The Soiled Knight (Ser Aerys Oakheart)

The Iron Captain (Victarion Greyjoy)

The Drowned Man (Aeron)

The Queenmaker (Arianne Martell)

Alayne (Sansa)

The Reaver (Victarion)

Cat of the Canals (Arya)

The Princess in the Tower (Arianne)

A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin

Jaime Lannister, defeated and captured by Robb Stark was released by Catelyn under oath. Overconfident and unquestionably a good warrior and talker, his life is about to change in his trip back to King's Landing with Brienne of Tarth and cousin Cleos Frey supposedly to Jaime's advantage. His moniker Kingslayer continues to haunt him despite his attempts to hide it.

Catelyn Stark is second guessing herself. Maybe she was a bad mother who made wrong decisions. Only the outcome of the war can tell if what she has done for her family was right.

Arya Stark is still on the run. What she has witnessed of the world so far only served to make her tougher and colder.

Tyrion Lannister, betrayed again despite what he has done for the realm, thinks he has found solace in a few allies and a woman whom he thinks adores him. It's just a matter of time until his enemies move to take him out of the game.

Davos Seaworth thought everything was lost until he recalled what he had given up to serve his king Stannis. He resolves to stay by Stannis's side and counteract or lessen Melisandre's influence.

Sansa Stark feels more alone now that the people at King's Landing have no use for her. Wiser than before but still gentle at heart, she has to keep playing her part in whatever role is given to her. Thinking she found allies in the Tyrells, she is disappointed but not surprised that Queen Cersei still has other plans for her.

Jon Snow joined the Wildlings as a request of Qhorin Halfhand. He still feels he's lost like he has always been. Not only has he lost his chance of returning to his family, but he might also lose the Night's Watch. Once an outcast, he is still an outcast. 

Daenerys finally finds the power she has always had: being a woman and a Targaryen. Everything seems to be going well for her, but she still cannot forget that the dragon has three heads. Her victories are dampened by that threat of another betrayal and the reality of ruling the conquered peoples.

Brandon Stark is still growing accustomed to his newfound power but it does not quell his longing for home and family. He has to go on a journey with new friends because he is compelled by a task he does not yet know.

Samwell Tarly has to be strong now. With no one to rely on, he has to face dangers mortal and otherwordly and prove he does not need to be brave and to be a skillful warrior to be a man of the Night's Watch.

***

Told from the point-of-view of eleven characters like the previous two books of A Song of Ice and Fire series, the third installment by far has the most action, twists and revelations. The character-driven story has kept up its excellent portrayal of unforgettable characters in a world that seems always torn by chaos and permeated with an ever-present feeling of despair.

The author may not be very skilled at vivid descriptions of hand-to-hand combat or large-scale battles, but his talent at spinning intrigues and surprising twists for his characters is an enjoyable experience. In the other two books, the threat of the White Walkers and the identity of the Wildlings were not yet apparent as they were overshadowed by the more immediate threat of war among the former subjects of King Robert Baratheon. In A Storm of Swords however, more players in the story are introduced and the reader's view of the world is still expanding.

So far, this third book is my favorite in the series because it's more action-filled and is a successful attempt to try to piece together all the individual stories. By this time, it's much more interesting to make hypotheses on the possible direction of the story and the ending of the series.

Rating: 9 out of 10

A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin

The land is split into six factions after King Robert Baratheon's passing. The current king of the Iron Throne is Joffrey, Robert's supposedly eldest son. But rumors about his parentage spread doubts of his claims. They believe that Jofrey and his siblings are products of incest and have no right to the throne. The others vying for the title take center stage. Stannis Baratheon, Renly Baratheon, Robb Stark, Daenerys Targaryen, and the Greyjoys all want a piece of the action.

Stannis and Renly are convinced each has a legitimate claim to the throne when rumors of incest spread. After the execution of Ned Stark, the North rose in rebellion and proclaimed Robb King of the North.Meanwhile, Ned's ward Theon decided it was ripe time to please his father by handing him Winterfell. Far away from King's Landing, Daenerys and her khalasar set out to find what the future has prepared for them. Thus begins her journey to power. Her challenge is to gather enough resources and people to her cause.

The story like the previous book is told from the point-of-view of several characters. Most of the names will be familiar to the reader.

Tyrion Lannister escaped the clutches of Catelyn Stark after he was accused of trying to murder Brandon. He's back at King's Landing to maintain a semblance of order after the mess made by his nephew Joffrey. Tyrion has a chance to redeem himself. He thinks his talents have been recognized when he was appointed as King's Hand. Now he has to protect himself and his interests to fulfill his duties.

Bran Stark has to be tough and wise when he is given the task as Lord of Winterfell. But he is just a boy and his brothers and his mother are far away. He doubts his capabilities and is unsure of being accepted by his subjects because of his condition.

Arya Stark has to survive and pretend she's a nobody until she's safe, but in a land plunged in chaos, staying alive will not be easy. She has always been strong and quick-witted for a little girl, but she will be tested greatly.

Sansa Stark's world of knights, ladies and adventure is shattered by betrayal and lies. The truth was there all along but she endured and pretended. However she has to keep playing the gullible young lady until she has a chance to escape.

Jon Snow joined the Night's Watch which set out to investigate and perhaps confront the threat beyond the Wall. They are outnumbered, inexperienced and they don't exactly know what they're up against. Jon's mettle will be tested when he has to choose once again between honor and duty and his heart's desire.

Catelyn wants to be at her younger children's side but her eldest needs her. More than even her wisdom as a mother is needed to try to stop the impending war and to find the best possible way to see the safety of Robb from the trouble she started.

Davos Seaworth is a loyal and honest friend and adviser of Stannis. He swears to do whatever it takes to protect Stannis from himself and his enemies, even those posing as allies like Melisandre.

This second installment of A Song of Ice and Fire series has the same pace as the first book. It's character-driven and full of tension and action from start to finish. As readers get to know the returning and new characters even more, the world in which the story is set expands with every history and information provided.

Use of magic is more evident with the introduction of Melisandre, yet the theme is still more about power struggle and politics. Like I mentioned in my previous review, if you're into vivid battle scenes involving magic and fantastical creatures, the book scarcely has any of that. Not yet at least. 

Despite the promise of large-scale battles, the only let-down in the book is the way the battle at King's Landing was delivered. The Battle at the Black Water was told from the first person perspective and so it was limited. It only confirmed what I already though of how the fights will be handled in the first book. It's a sad reminder that the next large-scale battles to come would be treated the same way. If you watch the television series, it might make up for the lack of a satisfying action scene in the book.

Still, for those who are contented with just the unforgettable characters, A Clash of Kings has not disappointed in that aspect. 

Rating: 7.5 out of 10

A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

Ned Stark is a benign lord of his subjects at Winterfell and a loving husband and father. A good friend of King Robert Baratheon, he just wants to live his peaceful life away from politics and intrigues at King's Landing even when he has proven he was a good warrior and administrator. His loyalty, honesty and love for the king however will be tested in storms to come. Given the choice of revealing a secret that would shatter the realm and start a war or to remain quiet for the safety of his family, it seems he would pick the obvious. But forces he could not control are mounting up the pressure that would ultimately involve not just they key players of the court but everyone else and pit one man or woman against another in a battle for the throne and the redemption of hurt loved ones. In the midst of all the human struggle is a greater threat known to and recognized only by a few.

This first installment of A Song of Ice and Fire series is told from the point-of-view of eight characters; namely, Bran, Catelyn, Daenerys, Eddard, Jon, Arya, Tyrion, and Sansa. The series follows two major storylines; the first is the fight for control of the Iron Throne of the seven kingdoms after the death of the king and the threat beyond the Wall, whether the threat is posed by the Wildlings, White Walkers or both, is for the readers to find out.

Brandon Stark is a boy of 7 who dreams of becoming a knight. He loves to climb and explore. When he fell one day it signalled the beginning of a struggle started by two influential women of the realm.

Catelyn of houses Tully and Stark is a strong, determined mother and wife of a family she unknowingly broke apart because of love.

Daenerys Stormborn, 13, lived a life in terror of her brother and assassins real and imagined. This exiled princess learns at a young age that the world is a cruel place.

Jon Snow, 14, a bastard son who struggles to be accepted and loved but who wants to just disappear at the same time. He is a member of a loving family yet not entirely a part of it.

Arya Stark is a feisty girl of 9 who wants to become a fighter. She's strong and smart for her age yet the same qualities might just get her into trouble.

Sansa Stark is a gentle lady who wants to please everybody. Kind at heart but naive and idealistic. How long her world of chivalric knights and courtly glamour last will depend on the people and herself living up to that fantasy.

Tyrion Lannister is shunned all his life because of his appearance. Sometimes he's too smart for his own good. He only wants to be a good son and useful to the realm, but nobody wants him.

The characters are colorful and closely resemble real people. Their ambitions, fears and happiness are consistent with real human emotions and how people would usually react when confronted with problems. His characters is what makes the book special. The human drama (the book is more about it than magic or fighting) that make up the soul of the book. The lack of good action scenes, magic, and even the originality in its storylines (the fight for the throne and a threat from inhuman forces) are compensated by the distinct and unforgettable characters. It is not setting-driven even if there are two storylines; it is character-driven. Moreover, the characters can't be classified as exclusively good or bad. Magic and combat are not the dominating elements in the book. Combat and what little semblance of magic is in this first volume are just hinted at. There are very few fight scenes in this part of the series, but even those few are passable at best. Imagery is not as good as what you would expect from a high fantasy series. Major battles are skipped altogether and narrated only after it took place. A sufficient and practical tactic, but the point-of-view is limited and sometimes biased. If you're looking forward to huge battles written skillfully, you'll be disappointed in that regard.

The pace is different for every character and dependent on who is telling the story. Sometimes a lot of things happen in a day but there are moments when the events span weeks or months.

For the characters to be effective, the world they live in should have an elaborate history. The book did not fail to provide that backdrop.

The series has an Arthurian and Middle Ages feel to it especially because the story is mostly told from the POV of noblemen who are at the center of action. There's no POV from the common people. The court intrigues, clothing, festivities and setting remind me of legends of chivalric knights. If you're a fan of adaptations set in the Middle Ages or medieval literature in general, you will find a lot of parallels here.

Almost throughout the book the feeling of near hopelessness is persistent. There is a stark contrast between people with power and the commoners that it almost makes you feel like you are nothing when you don't have anything. Sometimes I find myself asking if there's no middle ground at all. There's some balance in this tilt of power however. Although some characters might have more wits, resources and power than the others, that does not guarantee their safety. Everyone can be a victim. Not only is it a game of power, wealth, influence and brains, but luck as well.

Rating: 8 out of 10

Shelton and Cassie

Me and my boyfriend. I used violet, blue and red ballpens.

My deviantArt Link: http://fav.me/d8067r6