"A Sword from Red Ice" continues the "Sword of Shadows" saga with the main characters adventuring throughout the well-crafted and fascinating world. The novel unfortunately concentrates on the journeys of the primary individuals and does not engage the reader with significant action or growth. Raif Sevrance leaves behind a group and merges with other groups a couple times; Ash March finds another traveling companion; Effie Sevrance floats on a river; Vaylo Bludd, now a sympathetic clan chief, struggles with losing his family while evading capture in enemy territory; Marafice Eye has taken to the battlefield facing the clans. Raina Blackhail sections contain a little political maneuvering yet one has to admire her courage and strength in the face of such odds.
Bram Cormac along with Marafice Eye and Crope are the most engaging plotlines in the novel mostly because they have actual activity. After leaving his brother, Bram has been directed to Clan Castlemilk to begin a new life that opens many opportunities for his future. Marafice's cunning calculation leading up to and following his combats maintains the strong anti-hero theme. The few chapters involving Crope's master Baralis allude he may be an awesome sleeper, potentially a powerful influence in the realm. Angus Lok, once a solid character, is minimally addressed.
Bram Cormac along with Marafice Eye and Crope are the most engaging plotlines in the novel mostly because they have actual activity. After leaving his brother, Bram has been directed to Clan Castlemilk to begin a new life that opens many opportunities for his future. Marafice's cunning calculation leading up to and following his combats maintains the strong anti-hero theme. The few chapters involving Crope's master Baralis allude he may be an awesome sleeper, potentially a powerful influence in the realm. Angus Lok, once a solid character, is minimally addressed.
The editing could have been better, I found a couple words repeated and an asterisk. Despite the nice series summary at the beginning, a comprehensive appendix would have been useful.
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