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kathydavie's review against another edition
4.0
First in the prequel trilogy, the Dragon Prophecy Trilogy, in the overall Obsidian Universe series. In this one, we finally meet Vieliessar Farcarinon, who fulfills the prophecy as its Child and prepares her world for invasion.
I suspect the next two will find the Elvenkind at war with the Endarkened and set the stage for the lack of magic in The Outstretched Shadow, the first in the Obsidian Trilogy.
My Take
There were aspects of this that were quite thrilling and others that were just annoying. Why do authors feel the need to give us incomprehensible names. Sure, I get that Tom, Dick, and Mary won't cut it, especially in tales about the elves, but names like Bolecthindial and Hamphuliadiel?? I swear, the length of this book could have been cut by at least a quarter if they had used shorter names!
And I'm probably spilling the beans that the side of the Light are Elvenkind...whoops...as Lackey/Mallory certainly don't mention it often. And possibly the reason for this is to portray them as human with all the foibles and weaknesses of man. It's for sure that humanity is not alone is wanting power or being greedy.
Another irritation is the convoluted writing that the authors use to create a sense of old-timeyness, but some of it is so torturous that I can't figure out what is being said no matter how many times I read it.
It certainly does provide a different take on elves than we usually get. This crew is so cruel and stupidly ambitious. It's as though we're getting a peek under the covers of what they're really like! Then there's the other side, the bad guys. The He Who Is, whom I assume is God, is more of an Old Testament God with his cruelty.
There's a bit in here where Lackey/Mallory are telling us of the matching uniforms Vielle has found for everyone in her huge army, and it made me think of Jordan's Mat Cauthon in the Wheel of Time series when he's struggling to find the coin to pay his men and to find the supplies to feed and clothe them. That has such a feel of reality to it. Here, there's no real effort expended or discussed at having to feed and clothe the thousands who flock to her banners. As difficult as events were in this story, Lackey/Mallory doesn't really bring it home.
It's an odd world. One in which men and women are equals, but strict classes of a medieval society exist. Women can be komen and War Princes and are addressed as "Lord", although some are also referred to as "Lady". I haven't figured out what the distinction is yet. War has been turned into a game with rules, like an exaggerated game of three-dimensional chess.
How the current Houses and their nobles treat the lower classes is awful and Vielle finds a very, very powerful tool that will form a cornerstone of her reign. It's the same with the Lightborn who are normally drawn from the lower classes. Once found, a Lightborn is kept for the nobles' use and, it seems, that their families are held hostage for their good behavior. There is so much that Vielle changes and her idea of justice spreads throughout their world, doing quite of bit of the work for her.
I love how Vielle does nothing they expect and drives the Alliance nuts trying to figure her out.
It's just incredible the work Lackey/Mallory have done to create this world. Everything from its geography, history, customs, clothing, manners, beliefs is intricately detailed. It has been a couple years since I read the other two trilogies in the overall series, and what I do remember doesn't really have much to do with this one. The elves in this are so incredibly different from the other two sets that this can stand on its own. I would recommend waiting to start the other two trilogies until you've read the whole of this one, or read them quickly together so as not to lose details.
In spite of my whining, this is a great story. I do suspect that part of my frustration stems from thinking I'm continuing the series since this story is being published after the first two trilogies: Obsidian Trilogy and Enduring Flame and it actually comes before them.
The Story
It's a race between the Endarkened and the Brightworld, the elves. Only, the elves don't know the Endarkened exist. The threat they pose. Only Queen Pelashia knew and she could only give hints to her lord to set down in his Song of Amretheion Aradruiniel. It will be up to the Child of Prophecy to save their world.
It's an introduction to the end of House Farcarinon, but Vieliessar's beginning. First in fosterage, then a return to Sanctuary where she learns the truth as well as patience. One hundred years later, as the Child of Prophecy, she seeks the throne that destroyed her father and her House.
Now, if only the Hundred Houses will support this Child as she seeks the throne of the High King.
*snort, guffaw, giggle...collapse and die laughing at the thought that these hidebound, power-hungry, greedy, self-seeking jerks could actually cooperate that long…*
Once both armies are over the mountains into Jaeglenhend, the Alliance destroys any chance they could have at a reconciliation.
The Characters
No, it only looks like I listed every character...
Vieliessar "Vielle" Farcarinon was born the day her mother died. The last of the Farcarinons. Lord Serenthon Farcarinon's death, Lady Nataranweiya's Bondmate, has already ensured the Lady's death; it's only her struggle to reach sanctuary to give birth that allows for Vielle's survival. Her family and her House have been destroyed by their own allies: Caerthalien had been their staunchest ally. When they betrayed Serenthon, they joined with Aramenthiali, Telthorelandor, and Cirandeiron and killed or imprisoned anyone who was part of Farcarinon.
Gunedwaen is the now-crippled former Swordmaster to War Prince Serenthon Farcarinon living on Caerthalien charity. He will train Vielle to become a knight and follow her to her destiny. Rithdeliel was Farcarinon's Warlord and now he is Oronviel's.
House Oronviel
War Prince Thoromarth is the first to fall to Vielle. Eiron Lightbrother is with his House and refuses Vielle. Princess Nanduil is hostage at Caerthalien. Komens Bethaerian, Diorthiel, and Dirwan are knights of his household. Terandamil Master Ranger musters the commons into infantry.
House Ivrithir: War Prince Atholfol is next. Lord Farathon commands a meisne of komen.
House Araphant: War Prince Luthilion has no heirs; he's outlived them all. Lightbrother Celeharth has been his Mage for long years; he will extort a promise from Vielle.
House Laeldor: The first treacherous House and mostly through its own fear. Vielle uses extreme measures against War Prince Ablenariel, but sends his wife, Ladyholder Gemmaire, home. His son, Prince Culence, is the heir-prince.
House Mangiralas: War Prince Aranviorch is a Less House, and usually safe from war due to its Horse Fair. Heir-Princess Maerengiel is the younger twin; Prince Gatriadde the older. Chief Warlord/Ladyholder Faurilduin is a nasty one. Camaibien Lightbrother aids Gatriadde.
The Uradabhur is a region of 30 Houses in the east
Jaeglenhend: War Prince Nilkaran is a nasty bully and his people don't wait to pledge to the High King. Moraigre Lightbrother is his Mage. Princess Telucalmo and Heir-Prince Surieniel are in his besieged Keep.
The Grand Windsward Houses
Penenjil: War Prince Melchienchiel has sent his Silver Swords.
Enerchelimier:
Nantirworiel: War Prince Methothiel may be loyal to the Alliance, but the Foxhaven Free Company, which has been providing its army, is not.
The Lightborn who swear to Vielle
Ambrant, Aradreleg, Peryn, Harwing (who hooks up with Gunedwaen), Pharadas, and Isilla. Iardalaith (and he brings House Daroldan) will train her Lightborn to fight: the Warhunt which includes Rondithiel, Bramandrin, Pantaradet, and Jorganroch.
The Free Companies
Three of the best Free Companies, mercenaries, are Foxhaven, Glasswall, and Blue Deer. Nadalforo, once First Sword of Stonehorse, pledges to Vielle.
Sanctuary of the Star
Thurion is Landbond; Berthon, the son of a knight; and, Athrothir, the son of a castellan, are the others Called from Caerthalien that year that Varuthi/Vieliessar is sent back to the Sanctuary at age 12. Iardalaith had been in training to become a knight before he was Called.
The Astromancer leads the sanctuary and is changed whenever a Vilya tree bears its fruit. Maeredhiel has served for six centuries and was there when Vielle was born; now, she is in charge of the Candidates. Rondithiel Lightbrother is one of her instructors.
Celelioniel was astromancer when Vielle was born; she has dedicated her life to the Song of Amretheion Aradruiniel, a prophecy of a child who will come. Hamphuliadiel is the Lightbrother who becomes astromancer next. An evil one, who changes all the rules. Mosirinde Peacemaker was the first official Lightborn. She set up the rules for them, created the Compact, and established the sanctuary.
House Caerthalien
War Prince Bolecthindial was Serenthon's greatest ally. And his greatest betrayer. The vicious and intelligent Ladyholder Glorthiachiel hates and despises all things Farcarinon. Prince Ivrulion is the eldest; he would have been War Prince after his father, but his being Lightborn throws him out of the succession. His son would have been Prince Huthiel. His being Lightborn is why their parents had Prince Runacarendalur. To become War Prince instead, and he's well-suited to the role with his genius at battle tactics. His first encounter with Vielle is a heart-wrenching revelation. Gwaenor is his long-lived horse. Helecanth is the chief of his personal guard. Prince Domcariel is a slow thinker, too slow for battle. Prince Gimragiel is just like his mother, just not as intelligent. Princesses Thorogalas and Angiothiel are their sisters. Carangail Lightbrother is the Lady's personal Mage. Lengiathion is Caerthalien's Warlord.
The Caerthalian Alliance (who distrust and hate each other)
Aramenthiali: Lord Manderechiel hates his second wife, Ladyholder Dormorothon who is Caerthalian. Sederet is the Heir-Prince.
Cirandeiron: War Prince Girelrian is old enough to be a great-great-grandmother to her husband, Irindandirion, who is careful to stay out of politics.
Telthorelandor: War Prince Ivaloriel is said to be quite detached whether on the battlefield or ruling his domain. He is bonded to his wife, Ladyholder Edleleorn.
Denegathaiel: War Prince Clacheu.
Sarmiorion: War Prince Ferorthaniel is at the fake parley. Ladyholder Varelotiel joins her husband after he's come over the mountains and leaves her Keep defenseless. The Glasswall Free Company, which refused a contract with her to fight, besieged their castle and plundered it. The commons tried to get shelter or help from their lord and lady's allies and were refused. So they joined Vielle. A lesson for all who play with politics.
Jovadigalas: War Prince Mindingener.
The Endarkened
Virulan is their king, First among the Thirteen. And he's as nervous of rebellion as any surface lord! Uralesse is second. Virulan does everything he can to break him, keep him subservient. Rugashag is one of the once-brothers, who becomes Virulan's consort. Shurzul, Khambaug, Bashahk, Dhasgah, Gholak, Lashagan, Marbuglor, Arzhugdu, Nagreloth, and, Orbushnu are the rest of the thirteen. All have but one goal: destroy all life and become the supreme ruler.
The Endarkened are the first race He Who Is created and if you think demon, you've got it about right. There are thirteen of them, at least at the start, and they love to torture, hurt, and destroy. They've been in hiding underground for millennia as they build up their numbers to better destroy those who live on the surface. For He Who Is wants to destroy the Brightworld, bringing the world back to what it was. Perfect. Timeless.
The Hundred Houses are the survivors of the death of the High King with High and Less constantly changing alliances, absorbing some and others breaking out down through the millennia. The Sanctuary of the Star is like a monastery where those with the inner magic, the Lightborn, Pelashia's Children, go to learn how to use their gifts. Candidates are the first level; Postulants are those with a greater magic that needs training. Komen are knights who pledge to a House. Landbonds are like serfs, tied to the land; Farmholders are a step up. Bondmates are soulmates. And fated to die together. The Flower Forests seem to be wells of power from which the Lightborn draw their magic. The Starry Hunt seems to be their idea of god(s). Elvenkind sacrifice to it for victory, for thanks, and in hope of avoiding punishment. the Silver Hooves is another religious entity upon whom they call.
High King Amretheion Aradruiniel was the last, some 10,000 years ago. After his wife, Queen Pelashia Celenthodiel, was ambushed, he went mad and was assassinated. Their children formed an alliance and swore that one of them would be his successor. For some reason, all the other nobles of the time thought the children were tainted, defiled, and they were hunted down and killed. But not all. Arwath and Calebre were two that eluded them. And Vielle is one of their descendants. Celephriandullias-Tildorangelor…*pant, pant, pant, my fingers are wearing out*…is Amretheion's city. Lost for ages.
Vielle's army have named the plains before the city, Ifjalasairaet, wind and dust. They must open the Darariel Dorankalaliel---the Fireheart Gate to gain entrance.
The Cover
The cover is a fantasy of war with a lovely sunlit day in the forest overcrowded with an armored horse and his mailed rider leaping over a crowd of men, arrows flying, bloody swords waving.
The title is both personal and prophetic with Vielle taking a reluctant vengeance as she fulfills Amretheion's words and takes the Unicorn throne with a Crown of Vengeance.
I suspect the next two will find the Elvenkind at war with the Endarkened and set the stage for the lack of magic in The Outstretched Shadow, the first in the Obsidian Trilogy.
My Take
There were aspects of this that were quite thrilling and others that were just annoying. Why do authors feel the need to give us incomprehensible names. Sure, I get that Tom, Dick, and Mary won't cut it, especially in tales about the elves, but names like Bolecthindial and Hamphuliadiel?? I swear, the length of this book could have been cut by at least a quarter if they had used shorter names!
And I'm probably spilling the beans that the side of the Light are Elvenkind...whoops...as Lackey/Mallory certainly don't mention it often. And possibly the reason for this is to portray them as human with all the foibles and weaknesses of man. It's for sure that humanity is not alone is wanting power or being greedy.
Another irritation is the convoluted writing that the authors use to create a sense of old-timeyness, but some of it is so torturous that I can't figure out what is being said no matter how many times I read it.
It certainly does provide a different take on elves than we usually get. This crew is so cruel and stupidly ambitious. It's as though we're getting a peek under the covers of what they're really like! Then there's the other side, the bad guys. The He Who Is, whom I assume is God, is more of an Old Testament God with his cruelty.
There's a bit in here where Lackey/Mallory are telling us of the matching uniforms Vielle has found for everyone in her huge army, and it made me think of Jordan's Mat Cauthon in the Wheel of Time series when he's struggling to find the coin to pay his men and to find the supplies to feed and clothe them. That has such a feel of reality to it. Here, there's no real effort expended or discussed at having to feed and clothe the thousands who flock to her banners. As difficult as events were in this story, Lackey/Mallory doesn't really bring it home.
It's an odd world. One in which men and women are equals, but strict classes of a medieval society exist. Women can be komen and War Princes and are addressed as "Lord", although some are also referred to as "Lady". I haven't figured out what the distinction is yet. War has been turned into a game with rules, like an exaggerated game of three-dimensional chess.
How the current Houses and their nobles treat the lower classes is awful and Vielle finds a very, very powerful tool that will form a cornerstone of her reign. It's the same with the Lightborn who are normally drawn from the lower classes. Once found, a Lightborn is kept for the nobles' use and, it seems, that their families are held hostage for their good behavior. There is so much that Vielle changes and her idea of justice spreads throughout their world, doing quite of bit of the work for her.
I love how Vielle does nothing they expect and drives the Alliance nuts trying to figure her out.
It's just incredible the work Lackey/Mallory have done to create this world. Everything from its geography, history, customs, clothing, manners, beliefs is intricately detailed. It has been a couple years since I read the other two trilogies in the overall series, and what I do remember doesn't really have much to do with this one. The elves in this are so incredibly different from the other two sets that this can stand on its own. I would recommend waiting to start the other two trilogies until you've read the whole of this one, or read them quickly together so as not to lose details.
In spite of my whining, this is a great story. I do suspect that part of my frustration stems from thinking I'm continuing the series since this story is being published after the first two trilogies: Obsidian Trilogy and Enduring Flame and it actually comes before them.
The Story
It's a race between the Endarkened and the Brightworld, the elves. Only, the elves don't know the Endarkened exist. The threat they pose. Only Queen Pelashia knew and she could only give hints to her lord to set down in his Song of Amretheion Aradruiniel. It will be up to the Child of Prophecy to save their world.
It's an introduction to the end of House Farcarinon, but Vieliessar's beginning. First in fosterage, then a return to Sanctuary where she learns the truth as well as patience. One hundred years later, as the Child of Prophecy, she seeks the throne that destroyed her father and her House.
Now, if only the Hundred Houses will support this Child as she seeks the throne of the High King.
*snort, guffaw, giggle...collapse and die laughing at the thought that these hidebound, power-hungry, greedy, self-seeking jerks could actually cooperate that long…*
Once both armies are over the mountains into Jaeglenhend, the Alliance destroys any chance they could have at a reconciliation.
The Characters
No, it only looks like I listed every character...
Vieliessar "Vielle" Farcarinon was born the day her mother died. The last of the Farcarinons. Lord Serenthon Farcarinon's death, Lady Nataranweiya's Bondmate, has already ensured the Lady's death; it's only her struggle to reach sanctuary to give birth that allows for Vielle's survival. Her family and her House have been destroyed by their own allies: Caerthalien had been their staunchest ally. When they betrayed Serenthon, they joined with Aramenthiali, Telthorelandor, and Cirandeiron and killed or imprisoned anyone who was part of Farcarinon.
Gunedwaen is the now-crippled former Swordmaster to War Prince Serenthon Farcarinon living on Caerthalien charity. He will train Vielle to become a knight and follow her to her destiny. Rithdeliel was Farcarinon's Warlord and now he is Oronviel's.
House Oronviel
War Prince Thoromarth is the first to fall to Vielle. Eiron Lightbrother is with his House and refuses Vielle. Princess Nanduil is hostage at Caerthalien. Komens Bethaerian, Diorthiel, and Dirwan are knights of his household. Terandamil Master Ranger musters the commons into infantry.
House Ivrithir: War Prince Atholfol is next. Lord Farathon commands a meisne of komen.
House Araphant: War Prince Luthilion has no heirs; he's outlived them all. Lightbrother Celeharth has been his Mage for long years; he will extort a promise from Vielle.
House Laeldor: The first treacherous House and mostly through its own fear. Vielle uses extreme measures against War Prince Ablenariel, but sends his wife, Ladyholder Gemmaire, home. His son, Prince Culence, is the heir-prince.
House Mangiralas: War Prince Aranviorch is a Less House, and usually safe from war due to its Horse Fair. Heir-Princess Maerengiel is the younger twin; Prince Gatriadde the older. Chief Warlord/Ladyholder Faurilduin is a nasty one. Camaibien Lightbrother aids Gatriadde.
The Uradabhur is a region of 30 Houses in the east
Jaeglenhend: War Prince Nilkaran is a nasty bully and his people don't wait to pledge to the High King. Moraigre Lightbrother is his Mage. Princess Telucalmo and Heir-Prince Surieniel are in his besieged Keep.
The Grand Windsward Houses
Penenjil: War Prince Melchienchiel has sent his Silver Swords.
Enerchelimier:
Nantirworiel: War Prince Methothiel may be loyal to the Alliance, but the Foxhaven Free Company, which has been providing its army, is not.
The Lightborn who swear to Vielle
Ambrant, Aradreleg, Peryn, Harwing (who hooks up with Gunedwaen), Pharadas, and Isilla. Iardalaith (and he brings House Daroldan) will train her Lightborn to fight: the Warhunt which includes Rondithiel, Bramandrin, Pantaradet, and Jorganroch.
The Free Companies
Three of the best Free Companies, mercenaries, are Foxhaven, Glasswall, and Blue Deer. Nadalforo, once First Sword of Stonehorse, pledges to Vielle.
Sanctuary of the Star
Thurion is Landbond; Berthon, the son of a knight; and, Athrothir, the son of a castellan, are the others Called from Caerthalien that year that Varuthi/Vieliessar is sent back to the Sanctuary at age 12. Iardalaith had been in training to become a knight before he was Called.
The Astromancer leads the sanctuary and is changed whenever a Vilya tree bears its fruit. Maeredhiel has served for six centuries and was there when Vielle was born; now, she is in charge of the Candidates. Rondithiel Lightbrother is one of her instructors.
Celelioniel was astromancer when Vielle was born; she has dedicated her life to the Song of Amretheion Aradruiniel, a prophecy of a child who will come. Hamphuliadiel is the Lightbrother who becomes astromancer next. An evil one, who changes all the rules. Mosirinde Peacemaker was the first official Lightborn. She set up the rules for them, created the Compact, and established the sanctuary.
House Caerthalien
War Prince Bolecthindial was Serenthon's greatest ally. And his greatest betrayer. The vicious and intelligent Ladyholder Glorthiachiel hates and despises all things Farcarinon. Prince Ivrulion is the eldest; he would have been War Prince after his father, but his being Lightborn throws him out of the succession. His son would have been Prince Huthiel. His being Lightborn is why their parents had Prince Runacarendalur. To become War Prince instead, and he's well-suited to the role with his genius at battle tactics. His first encounter with Vielle is a heart-wrenching revelation. Gwaenor is his long-lived horse. Helecanth is the chief of his personal guard. Prince Domcariel is a slow thinker, too slow for battle. Prince Gimragiel is just like his mother, just not as intelligent. Princesses Thorogalas and Angiothiel are their sisters. Carangail Lightbrother is the Lady's personal Mage. Lengiathion is Caerthalien's Warlord.
The Caerthalian Alliance (who distrust and hate each other)
Aramenthiali: Lord Manderechiel hates his second wife, Ladyholder Dormorothon who is Caerthalian. Sederet is the Heir-Prince.
Cirandeiron: War Prince Girelrian is old enough to be a great-great-grandmother to her husband, Irindandirion, who is careful to stay out of politics.
Telthorelandor: War Prince Ivaloriel is said to be quite detached whether on the battlefield or ruling his domain. He is bonded to his wife, Ladyholder Edleleorn.
Denegathaiel: War Prince Clacheu.
Sarmiorion: War Prince Ferorthaniel is at the fake parley. Ladyholder Varelotiel joins her husband after he's come over the mountains and leaves her Keep defenseless. The Glasswall Free Company, which refused a contract with her to fight, besieged their castle and plundered it. The commons tried to get shelter or help from their lord and lady's allies and were refused. So they joined Vielle. A lesson for all who play with politics.
Jovadigalas: War Prince Mindingener.
The Endarkened
Virulan is their king, First among the Thirteen. And he's as nervous of rebellion as any surface lord! Uralesse is second. Virulan does everything he can to break him, keep him subservient. Rugashag is one of the once-brothers, who becomes Virulan's consort. Shurzul, Khambaug, Bashahk, Dhasgah, Gholak, Lashagan, Marbuglor, Arzhugdu, Nagreloth, and, Orbushnu are the rest of the thirteen. All have but one goal: destroy all life and become the supreme ruler.
The Endarkened are the first race He Who Is created and if you think demon, you've got it about right. There are thirteen of them, at least at the start, and they love to torture, hurt, and destroy. They've been in hiding underground for millennia as they build up their numbers to better destroy those who live on the surface. For He Who Is wants to destroy the Brightworld, bringing the world back to what it was. Perfect. Timeless.
The Hundred Houses are the survivors of the death of the High King with High and Less constantly changing alliances, absorbing some and others breaking out down through the millennia. The Sanctuary of the Star is like a monastery where those with the inner magic, the Lightborn, Pelashia's Children, go to learn how to use their gifts. Candidates are the first level; Postulants are those with a greater magic that needs training. Komen are knights who pledge to a House. Landbonds are like serfs, tied to the land; Farmholders are a step up. Bondmates are soulmates. And fated to die together. The Flower Forests seem to be wells of power from which the Lightborn draw their magic. The Starry Hunt seems to be their idea of god(s). Elvenkind sacrifice to it for victory, for thanks, and in hope of avoiding punishment. the Silver Hooves is another religious entity upon whom they call.
High King Amretheion Aradruiniel was the last, some 10,000 years ago. After his wife, Queen Pelashia Celenthodiel, was ambushed, he went mad and was assassinated. Their children formed an alliance and swore that one of them would be his successor. For some reason, all the other nobles of the time thought the children were tainted, defiled, and they were hunted down and killed. But not all. Arwath and Calebre were two that eluded them. And Vielle is one of their descendants. Celephriandullias-Tildorangelor…*pant, pant, pant, my fingers are wearing out*…is Amretheion's city. Lost for ages.
Vielle's army have named the plains before the city, Ifjalasairaet, wind and dust. They must open the Darariel Dorankalaliel---the Fireheart Gate to gain entrance.
The Cover
The cover is a fantasy of war with a lovely sunlit day in the forest overcrowded with an armored horse and his mailed rider leaping over a crowd of men, arrows flying, bloody swords waving.
The title is both personal and prophetic with Vielle taking a reluctant vengeance as she fulfills Amretheion's words and takes the Unicorn throne with a Crown of Vengeance.
bookwyrm_kate's review against another edition
4.0
I haven't read a full book by either author before, but I definitely will now! So far, I'm only 60 pages in, but the world-building is amazing and the story is solidly built with intriguing characters and heavy foreshadowing. I'll update when I'm finished, but so far, I'm really enjoying it! Thumbs up to the cover art, which is gorgeous!
Updated 12/11/12:
I'm sad to be done with this book! I had other books I had to read for bookclubs, so I stretched out my reading of this book to about a month, and I really enjoyed the time I spent in this world. There were a few things that were hard to get used to at first, like the way the words "prince," "king," and "lord," aren't used with a gender bias, and are used for both men and women. Once I had that concept down, the story flowed a lot smoother for me.
The names are melodic and remind me of Tolkien's work. This definitely reads like the first in a series, and it does a lot of setting-up and introducing the land, characters, and the way things work. I was totally hooked, and I'm really looking forward to the next installments! The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is I don't picture it being the type of book that I'll read multiple times, and I didn't have much of an emotional connection with the characters. That may have been my fault for reading at such short intervals for over a full month. Don't get me wrong, I was fully invested in what was happening, I just didn't find myself loving/hating/worrying/anticipating every turn in the plot as I do when I really connect with a character.
Thank you so much for the ARC, I greatly enjoyed it, and I'll definitely recommend this book!
Updated 12/11/12:
I'm sad to be done with this book! I had other books I had to read for bookclubs, so I stretched out my reading of this book to about a month, and I really enjoyed the time I spent in this world. There were a few things that were hard to get used to at first, like the way the words "prince," "king," and "lord," aren't used with a gender bias, and are used for both men and women. Once I had that concept down, the story flowed a lot smoother for me.
The names are melodic and remind me of Tolkien's work. This definitely reads like the first in a series, and it does a lot of setting-up and introducing the land, characters, and the way things work. I was totally hooked, and I'm really looking forward to the next installments! The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is I don't picture it being the type of book that I'll read multiple times, and I didn't have much of an emotional connection with the characters. That may have been my fault for reading at such short intervals for over a full month. Don't get me wrong, I was fully invested in what was happening, I just didn't find myself loving/hating/worrying/anticipating every turn in the plot as I do when I really connect with a character.
Thank you so much for the ARC, I greatly enjoyed it, and I'll definitely recommend this book!
shadowcas's review against another edition
4.0
Now this is the book I needed to start off the new year! Crown of Vengeance is the newest addition to The Obsidian Universe - albeit still a 4-year-old novel - crafted by Mercedes Lackey and James Mallory. This happens to be a prequel to The Obsidian Trilogy. It offers a perspective into early Elven life that is not usually seen. The elves in the story are brutal, ambitious, and greedy. The numerous elven houses are locked in a constant, state of war and intrigue that at times made me forget that these were elves they were talking about. There seemed to be only two real consistencies between Crown of Vengeance elves and all other high fantasy elves: all elves are just beautiful and they all have ridiculously long unpronounceable names. I can’t really call these complaints, as an avid fantasy reader, I’ve come to expect this but man, even reading it in my head I stuttered over 90% of the names in the book.
The story itself is wonderful. Dark and twisty. It deals with a time in elvish culture where there wasn’t much to be cheerful about and our main character, Vieliessar has even less than most. Her parents were betrayed and murdered, she was forced to foster in her enemies home and then forcibly moved into a Sanctuary where she was expected to stay for the remainder of her life. From the moment of her birth, most everyone wanted her dead. But she grew up strong, level-headed, and powerful. Men feared and/or respected her. As she began to gain power, her followers loved her, were devoted to her.
And still, an unnecessary romance wasn’t shoved down our throats. Even at a Bonding, we aren’t forced to read about how wonderful it is to fall in love in the middle of war. It maintains a level of realness that just felt right. Vieliessar is trying to win a war to bring her people together, she doesn’t have time to devote to chasing a man around, regardless if he is her soulmate or not.
Crown of Vengeance had a slow start. There is a lot of world building and plot developing that does need to happen in a world as epic as the Obsidian Universe. It seemed to drag a bit but enough character building and forward movement was created to keep me interested. Once the story kicks off though, it really moves. Suddenly you’re entrenched in battle after battle and at times it seemed hard to follow who was who (those names!) but Lackey and Mallory write battles like world class composers. Each fight was elegantly written and even with the violence and gore, it was so beautiful to read. My heart raced with each moment like I was there in person.
And the ending! No spoilers but the ending was so powerfully written. I had to reread it just to really appreciate it.
4 out of 5 stars rewarded.
I took off a star for the confusion generated by the names and the slow start. This is otherwise a top-notch novel and I’m excited for the second installation coming Fall of 2017.
The story itself is wonderful. Dark and twisty. It deals with a time in elvish culture where there wasn’t much to be cheerful about and our main character, Vieliessar has even less than most. Her parents were betrayed and murdered, she was forced to foster in her enemies home and then forcibly moved into a Sanctuary where she was expected to stay for the remainder of her life. From the moment of her birth, most everyone wanted her dead. But she grew up strong, level-headed, and powerful. Men feared and/or respected her. As she began to gain power, her followers loved her, were devoted to her.
And still, an unnecessary romance wasn’t shoved down our throats. Even at a Bonding, we aren’t forced to read about how wonderful it is to fall in love in the middle of war. It maintains a level of realness that just felt right. Vieliessar is trying to win a war to bring her people together, she doesn’t have time to devote to chasing a man around, regardless if he is her soulmate or not.
Crown of Vengeance had a slow start. There is a lot of world building and plot developing that does need to happen in a world as epic as the Obsidian Universe. It seemed to drag a bit but enough character building and forward movement was created to keep me interested. Once the story kicks off though, it really moves. Suddenly you’re entrenched in battle after battle and at times it seemed hard to follow who was who (those names!) but Lackey and Mallory write battles like world class composers. Each fight was elegantly written and even with the violence and gore, it was so beautiful to read. My heart raced with each moment like I was there in person.
And the ending! No spoilers but the ending was so powerfully written. I had to reread it just to really appreciate it.
4 out of 5 stars rewarded.
I took off a star for the confusion generated by the names and the slow start. This is otherwise a top-notch novel and I’m excited for the second installation coming Fall of 2017.
greenldydragon's review against another edition
4.0
I'll admit - it's hard for Mercedes Lackey to get anything other than 5 stars from me for any of her books (although her Collegium series' last book was close to 4 stars). As the start of a new series, the beginning might throw some readers for a loop as there are a lot of LONG names and a lot of players thrown into the mix right away. Like most of Lackey's characters, I came to adore Vieliessar (and yes, even though I loved the book, I had to go look up her name to make sure I spelled it right :P) pretty quickly. Eventually all of the names begin to sort themselves out (and I'm sure the actual copy out this fall will have a map with the hundred houses explicitly laid out - which will help tremendously) and the plot moves quickly. Probably my favorite thing about this book was that it had an ending. Even though there is clearly(!!!!) more to come, the immediate conflict is resolved with only a few spare pieces left with unanswered questions. That the immediate conflict is only the start of the trilogy's (I'm assuming trilogy) overall conflict gives enough incentive to be excited for the next book, but not angry over being left with a darn cliffhanger. There are some surprises, that once I reread the book, will probably have been foreshadowed, but subtly done so that you can't blatantly guess the ending halfway through the book. Although I got an advanced digital reader copy that I'll have to turn back in eventually, I'm glad we pre-ordered the book, because it's worth it!
kellan_writes's review against another edition
4.0
There is much i could say. this is an amazing book. i have always loved merecedes lackey's works and especially her collaborations with james mallory. this one is no exception. my only real complaints are that i felt it dwelled too much on veille's refusal of the call so to speak, but i dont feel that the narrative suffered for it. though i did find myself habing to remind myself that the book took plave over a bast period of time. the characters were well fleshed out and i honestly cant wait to read the next book.
katiejaye's review against another edition
4.0
A difficult read to begin with, but slowly got to know characters and wanted to keep reading.
trunuyawkr's review against another edition
3.0
I *loved* the first 6 books in this series. When I stumbled across this latest entry while browsing through Tor's website, I felt like someone who has been told that Christmas is suddenly going to be held the next day. In fact, I tried to order the next book in the trilogy at the same time, but was extremely frustrated to discover that no matter which venue I chose, including several overseas booksellers, I would need to wait until 2014 to receive The House of Four Winds (book 2).
When Crown of Vengeance arrived, I eagerly tore into it. Unfortunately, the book does not in any way live up to its predecessors. Despite my best efforts, I never made a connection to Vieliessar, the main character. Maybe it is because elves were supposed to be more self contained, more aloof - in which case the writing captured this perfectly, as I found myself not really caring what happened to her. I missed the elaborate tea descriptions from the previous 6 books, and I could not help but wonder why everyone was using War Manners (questions allowed, rather than the circumspect "it would make good hearing....." way of speaking that was such an integral part of elven life in the earlier books). I found myself looking forward to the interludes (Endarkened vs. the Light) rather than the actual story. Poor editing didn't help the story's cause - there were several instances of characters dismounting from their destriers multiple times on the same page, and places where elves went from "him" to "her" in the same sentence.
I have still preordered the second book in the series; I'm hoping the dragons will make an appearance in this book, and help save the story. Mercedes Lackey and James Mallory are still one of my favorite author pairs; here's to hoping that this one book (out of 7 now in the story) was just an anomaly, and that the next one is as good as the originals!
When Crown of Vengeance arrived, I eagerly tore into it. Unfortunately, the book does not in any way live up to its predecessors. Despite my best efforts, I never made a connection to Vieliessar, the main character. Maybe it is because elves were supposed to be more self contained, more aloof - in which case the writing captured this perfectly, as I found myself not really caring what happened to her. I missed the elaborate tea descriptions from the previous 6 books, and I could not help but wonder why everyone was using War Manners (questions allowed, rather than the circumspect "it would make good hearing....." way of speaking that was such an integral part of elven life in the earlier books). I found myself looking forward to the interludes (Endarkened vs. the Light) rather than the actual story. Poor editing didn't help the story's cause - there were several instances of characters dismounting from their destriers multiple times on the same page, and places where elves went from "him" to "her" in the same sentence.
I have still preordered the second book in the series; I'm hoping the dragons will make an appearance in this book, and help save the story. Mercedes Lackey and James Mallory are still one of my favorite author pairs; here's to hoping that this one book (out of 7 now in the story) was just an anomaly, and that the next one is as good as the originals!
katmarhan's review against another edition
3.0
6.5/10
This is a long book with many characters who have mostly unpronounceable names (and no helpful list of characters) who live in kingdoms that also have unpronounceable names (but at least there is a map). There are old enemies and new, obscure prophecies, and more battles than I can remember.
And of course, the whole book is merely a prelude to the “real” battle between the Endarkened and the Elves, which I assume happens in the next book.
On a positive note, the battles are realistic in many ways, emphasizing how chaotic they are and the importance of things like supply lines, food and forage for people and animals, and the large numbers of support personnel an army requires. Leaders make mistakes, luck and weather are fickle, and sometimes small things really do make a difference (you know, for want of a nail…).
Many of the characters are well-drawn but other than Vieliessar, it’s difficult to feel like the reader really gets to know and care about them.
This is a long book with many characters who have mostly unpronounceable names (and no helpful list of characters) who live in kingdoms that also have unpronounceable names (but at least there is a map). There are old enemies and new, obscure prophecies, and more battles than I can remember.
And of course, the whole book is merely a prelude to the “real” battle between the Endarkened and the Elves, which I assume happens in the next book.
On a positive note, the battles are realistic in many ways, emphasizing how chaotic they are and the importance of things like supply lines, food and forage for people and animals, and the large numbers of support personnel an army requires. Leaders make mistakes, luck and weather are fickle, and sometimes small things really do make a difference (you know, for want of a nail…).
Many of the characters are well-drawn but other than Vieliessar, it’s difficult to feel like the reader really gets to know and care about them.
erinngillespie's review against another edition
4.0
This book was EPIC! and I loved it ! I am familiar with and enjoy Mercedes Lackey but I have not known James Mallory.
First , the book : The cover art is just STUNNING ! I loved the action and emotions that are felt when looking at the art. The chapters are long enough to add to the journey of the book but short enough that you still feel you are getting the book read.
The story was just epic and so well written . The start of the novel was slow and harder to read but , I think without the slow start we are readers would not feel the impatient mood that the young main character felt at the start and it would be harder to invest in the character . The study of the concept of can you be a good leader and a good person is shown here . The Authors love of horses is shown in the descriptive way she writes about horse behavior and gives the horses their own personality . The main characters struggle with being "the child of prophecy" and not losing who she is , is painfully real here . Finally I loved how this "hero" was tempted by the comfort and easiness of the life she created to the point that she sat aside the journey she needed to make to almost the point that it was too late.
The only really bad thing of this book is that I have to wait till Aug 28 to get the next one . I can see this author becoming one of my favs .
First , the book : The cover art is just STUNNING ! I loved the action and emotions that are felt when looking at the art. The chapters are long enough to add to the journey of the book but short enough that you still feel you are getting the book read.
The story was just epic and so well written . The start of the novel was slow and harder to read but , I think without the slow start we are readers would not feel the impatient mood that the young main character felt at the start and it would be harder to invest in the character . The study of the concept of can you be a good leader and a good person is shown here . The Authors love of horses is shown in the descriptive way she writes about horse behavior and gives the horses their own personality . The main characters struggle with being "the child of prophecy" and not losing who she is , is painfully real here . Finally I loved how this "hero" was tempted by the comfort and easiness of the life she created to the point that she sat aside the journey she needed to make to almost the point that it was too late.
The only really bad thing of this book is that I have to wait till Aug 28 to get the next one . I can see this author becoming one of my favs .
scarlettscattered's review against another edition
5.0
I can't wait to read this. I received my copy some months ago, but I hadn't had the time to read it before.