James Burbidge
This is an impressive third volume in the projected five of the Traitor Son Cycle. Cameron continues to juggle the threads effectively and opens up the scope of the world significantly in this novel while tying off a number of threads, some major, some minor, which had been developed through the first couple of books. There are now pointers to completely different levels of conflict and interaction, and some of the deep history of his world is beginning to show itself as well. As always (as befits a reenactor and an ex-military officer) Cameron's battle and armed combat scenes are convincing and realistic, and much of this book hovers on the edge of direct conflict even when it is not engaged in it, as the canvas is largely that of a developing civil war. However, his world is gritty without tipping over into being grim. The style is effective and under control, and Cameron provides for agency across a wide range of characters -- male, female, different ethnicities, human, nonhuman. All in all, an extremely worthwhile read, and I look forward to the next installment in the series.
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Cary Campbell
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This is one of the best books I've ever read. It's the 3rd book in a series of 5 by Miles Cameron, who spent his whole life studying material for this series. He is a master at the English language and a devoted student of Tolkien. He also engages in real life medieval fencing and jousting tournaments, so when he writes about war there is a unique authenticity to it. If you love Fantasy novels, magic, knights, Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones type stuff, then you will love this series! You will need patience at times, at least in the first two books there were some slow parts, but your patience will be rewarded time and again! Starting on Book 4 now!
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