Darkness fights hardest against the lights that burn brightest.
Elian’s victory over the invading Debru came with a high cost, but for the first time in generations, hope beats in the chests of the warriors of the wandering clans. Before the dust from the battle can settle, though, the Debru reveal their true, terrifying power for the first time. Once again, the clans must flee while they desperately search for the strength to resist their destruction.
Closer to home, Samora studies the mysteries her own victory against the Debru has uncovered. Their world is not what she thought it was, and humanity’s new allies keep secrets that may decide the fate of both clan and village. The deeper she digs toward the truth, the more dangers she uncovers, and some secrets are best left buried in the past.
As the siblings seek strength and truth, the Debru begin their final push to exterminate humanity. Surrounded by enemies on all sides and discord within the clans, Elian and Samora fight for a future that is anything but certain.
I really like the direction that Kirk has taken the series so far. We continue to follow Elian & Samora and their adventure with the Hounds clan. I really liked the expansion of the world building and magic system as well. Without getting spoiler-y, I really liked how we got more of their history and why some of the major historical events happened, and how Samora can use that knowledge to help her people's war against the Debru.
My biggest complaints with Samora & Elian remain the same as they were in my review for the first novel - Samora is still too pacifistic and Elian is still too hard on himself. I thought that after they survived the conflicts of the first novel, that they would have been able to work on themselves but they seem to double down in this novel. Samora, as powerful as she is, still can't fathom fighting the debru. I'm trying to empathize with her but the debru have never shown an ounce of empathy for the humans, they don't have the resources for her to keep wasting time trying to find a non violent way to fight back against the debru. I'll give her the benefit of the doubt - her pacifism in this entry of the series led to her on an adventure that acquired much need knowledge about their history which ultimately helps them in the end. But I fear her absolute resoltuion against violence will be a hinderance in the long run. As for Elian - he quite literally took down multiple Belog at the end of the previous book and helped to save Herald and the other hounds he was questing with from an attack that certainly would have killed them had Elian not been there. Even as he realizes he enjoys being in battle and is quite an efficient fighter against the Debru & Belog. As soon as the battle is over, he tucks his tail in between his legs and is all "woe is me" which is becoming quite infuriating. It's one thing to try not to get a big head from your successes, but it's quite another to literally not believe anyone when they tell you you are great and a great fighter, and to continually put your friends at risk at the start of battles because you are asked to fight but you try to hold off. I wish Elian would just take the praise and learn that while he might not be strong enough to take on the Vada and the army of Debru by himself, but he as a hell of an asset in this war. Again, I have to remind myself that they are children and these are normal emotions for children to have, and to not understand the opposition to their feelings. But it's becoming grating as they don't really seem to learn anything in spite of their opinions.
All in all, this was a strong sequel and really sets us up for the climax in the next book.
I enjoyed the second instalment in this interesting fantasy series about the wandering clans and their struggle against invading shadow creatures. This time we get hints at the morally grey background of the dragons, who at first appeared so friendly, and a first look at a diabolical Vada creature.
Elian learns he must keep his own impetuous nature in check, while his sister, Samora, achieves a greater understanding of the magical force of Adani despite its requiring ever greater personal sacrifice. The last quarter of the book contains the majority of the action and a highly emotional tragedy, and while I was satisfied with the earlier parts of the book I wish they drew you in as much as the final section. I look forward to book 3.
Ryan Kirk has evolved into an excellent story teller! From ninja type sword masters to space ships, he has covered most of the fantasy world. This world of ancient dragons and a mystical force that is drawn upon by man to face evil is just another to ne added to his repertoire. Highly recommended!
I had a time immersed in this book. With everything happening around us it's nice to be able to forget about stuff for awhile. The characters were intriguing and the story line fast paced. Can't wait for the next book!.