The world of Arkaria is a dangerous place, filled with dragons, titans, goblins and other dangers. Those who live in this world are faced with two choices: live an ordinary life or become an adventurer and seek the extraordinary.
As the war heats up in Arkaria, Vara is forced to flee after an ancient order of skilled assassins infiltrates Sanctuary and targets her. Cyrus Davidon accompanies her home to the elven city of Termina and the two of them become embroiled in a mystery that will shake the very foundations of the Elven Kingdom – and Arkaria.
My Feelings:
First, I want to comment on the cover. It is breathtaking. The warrior standing in front of the window, the light shining in through behind him is beautiful. If you have read the other two books, then you know that this cover is very symbolic with the story.
I really like how the story starts out in present time, with Cyrus reminiscing about his time with the Guild. We really get to see how he has matured through the many adventures he has had.
This story has so much going on and Vara's big secret is finally revealed, which leaves me feeling sad for everyone, especially Cyrus.
The fight scenes in this novel are amazing. Crane knows how to craft the scene where you actually feel like you are there. You can feel the fire from the wizards, hear the swords swooshing through the air; it is all just in plain sight for you to see.
Another really good part is the dialogue between the characters. They are funny, secretive, and sometimes a little bit scary; but everything to make a high fantasy story seem modern. That is one reason I like this series so much it is set in a different world but it still shares some similarities with our own world.
Cyrus Davidon, our main protagonist, always has a special place in my heart, but it is the "supporting actors" that really have captured it.
Vaste the troll is hilarious! He always has the wittiest comments and the most insightful thoughts throughout the novel.
Aisling is a clever and seductive dark elf who I think could give Cyrus a run for his money if he ever did give her a chance. In fact I find myself more drawn to the dark elves than the more snobby elves, except Vara.
I am absolutely in love with Terian and I am looking forward to seeing him more in the story line in the next books.
There is some romance in this story but this novel is by no means a romantic story. Champion finally gives us a glimpse into what makes Vara tick and how she truly feels about Cyrus and the others in Sanctuary.
This is a great novel with strong female and male characters, lots of magic and some huge losses that affect everyone.
They meet new allies, lose old friends and make even more enemies-all in a day's work for the members of the Sanctuary Guild.
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Shay@ 365 Books A Year
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