A review by mks
Gatherer of Clouds by Sean Russell

4.0

The sequel to The Initiate Brother, the story picks up immediately after the conclusion of the first book. This book contains more action and concludes the plotline of the first book, though I have to say that I found the wrap-up of the story-line of the invading desert army, to be very short and ultimately disappointing. Though I can understand that it was really just a thematic reason to drive the events of the story, the character of "The Great Khan" of the barbarians, so far unglimpsed, was given a very brief moment in the sunlight before disappearing again.

Also, one of the main characters of the story - Lord Shanto Motoru, is given a very unsatisfying ending, dying "off camera" in a way that may be heroic, but seems futile. Perhaps that was part of the message, about the random horror of war, where death plays no favorites.

I don't want to leave an impression of disappointment. The book has many flaws, especially for someone who wants to see loose threads tied up, and I am hoping (though 20+ years later, perhaps in vain) for a continuation of the story in another duology. Its definitely a book to add to your list of must-reads.

A bonus for us Canadians, the author is a Toronto boy, though now is lives in Vancouver. Its always great to read fellow Canadian authors.