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A Pattern of Shadow & Light #2
The Dagger of Adendigaeth
At long last, the reason for the blessed Adept race's decline has been discovered: powerful beings known as Malorin'athgul are disrupting the Balance and preventing Alorin's Adepts from awakening to their gifts. Who are they? Where are they? And how can they be stopped when they wield a power meant to unmake the universe itself? In T'khendar...Prince Ean val Lorian has forsaken his companions in blood and battle to join the traitorous Fifth Vestal in T'khendar in the hopes of gaining some insight into the tragedies that plagued his Return. Now he must confront the man he's long thought of as his enemy and discover the role he is meant to play in the First Lord's darkly magnificent game. The Vestal Raine D'Lacourte has followed his traitorous oath-brother Bjorn through six kingdoms and into the distant realm of T'khendar seeking explanation and atonement. But the condemned realm harbors shocking secrets, and Raine soon realizes he's facing his greatest enemy yet--not in Bjorn, but in the truth. Elsewhere in Alorin...the young truthreader, Tanis, faces a new villain in the fiery-eyed man he followed from the cafe in Rethynnea; the soldier Trell struggles to reconcile his growing feelings for the girl he rescued from the river against the guilt of his unknown past; and in Tambarre, another truthreader named Kjieran van Stone treads the incense-filled hallways of the Prophet Bethamin's temple hoping to uncover a plot of treachery and betrayal before the Prophet demands his soul. The time has come for each player to claim his role in the First Lord's masterful game. All will be tested, but only time will tell how many can survive the dagger of Adendigaeth."
764 pages, Hardcover
First published October 29, 2012
304 people are currently reading
1036 people want to read
About the author
Melissa McPhail
10 books1,255 followersMelissa McPhail is the author of the best-selling epic fantasy series A Pattern of Shadow & Light. She's the mother of twin girls who think boys in books are just better, and the adoptive mother to four very large cats who basically rule the roost; and while she can never leave the house in one attempt, she's pretty darn good at spinning a tale. She's also a classically trained pianist, violinist and composer, a Vinyasa yoga instructor, and an avid tea drinker.
Melissa's fantasy series has won eight best fantasy awards and (even more importantly to her) a fiercely devoted following. She is known for being an engaged author on social media and welcomes your thoughts on her work, the speculative fiction genre or writing in general.
Look for Melissa on Twitter @melissagmcphail, Facebook at facebook.com/cephraelshand or via her website and blog at melissamcphail.com.
Melissa's fantasy series has won eight best fantasy awards and (even more importantly to her) a fiercely devoted following. She is known for being an engaged author on social media and welcomes your thoughts on her work, the speculative fiction genre or writing in general.
Look for Melissa on Twitter @melissagmcphail, Facebook at facebook.com/cephraelshand or via her website and blog at melissamcphail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
September 10, 2015
Okay, so I'm a little biased, but Book 2 in my series A Pattern of Shadow & Light is, in my estimation, even more exciting than Book 1. I feel justified in saying this because first and foremost I write to entertain, and I'm one of the pickiest readers around.
Find out if you're a piece or a player - read Cephrael's Hand: A Pattern of Shadow & Light Book One and then dive into The Dagger of Adendigaeth. If you love epic fantasy, you won't be disappointed.
Find out if you're a piece or a player - read Cephrael's Hand: A Pattern of Shadow & Light Book One and then dive into The Dagger of Adendigaeth. If you love epic fantasy, you won't be disappointed.
April 23, 2018
*Note - As I listened to this book I may have misspelled some of the fantasy names so apologies*
I picked this book up on audiobook to continue on with the series after having read and enjoyed the first one in the series a fair while back. I definitely think this is a series which is best read fairly close together, as the cast of characters and the various plot threads are ever expanding and it seems that at first it took me a while to re-familiarise myself with everyone.
We have quite a few different characters who we follow, but our main characters are Ean, Trell, Kjieran and Tanis. I think each of them had a big part to play in this story, and in particular I felt that their plots were the ones where we really saw things moving along rather than staying static.
Alongside these characters we have Alyneri, Bethomen (the Prophet), Zanthers, Eshok, Franco and many more. There are all kinds of mysteries being set up, and the Kingboard (kind of like Chess) is only just beginning to start to play.
What I like about this series is that it's certainly a solid fantasy story. The magic is all based around patterns and I like the way it fits together and allows people to wield it, unravel it or create it. We have 'Alay' which is the pure magic of the world, and then we do see some characters who use 'daijean' which is a corrupted magic. There are also different strands of magic that different magic-users can weave or use dependant on their abilities.
What I struggle with in this series is the over-exposition and scenes of torment. At some points of this book we see SOOOO much exposition that I found myself just getting a bit bored and numb to where I was and what was happening. I think this could for sure have been cut slightly in some areas and it would have made a stronger book.
In terms of the torment, we see characters constantly being tortured/controlled and kidnapped. There were so many times that characters got caught I found myself just rolling my eyes at some points and I just wish that there had been more powerful defences than defenceless kidnappings.
Another thing I want to note is that even though this series is written by a lady, the ladies she shows in the book series are pretty poorly done throughout. It's a series where there's so much potential for them, and yet they still seem to just fade into the background, which is quite frustrating.
Overall, I think this book does a good job of continuing the story, but it felt a little less exciting and a bit more drawn out. I hope this is just because it's falling into the trap of second-book-syndrome, and not an indication of the series as a whole, but I did enjoy this still and there are some stories I can't wait to continue with... 3*s from me.
I picked this book up on audiobook to continue on with the series after having read and enjoyed the first one in the series a fair while back. I definitely think this is a series which is best read fairly close together, as the cast of characters and the various plot threads are ever expanding and it seems that at first it took me a while to re-familiarise myself with everyone.
We have quite a few different characters who we follow, but our main characters are Ean, Trell, Kjieran and Tanis. I think each of them had a big part to play in this story, and in particular I felt that their plots were the ones where we really saw things moving along rather than staying static.
Alongside these characters we have Alyneri, Bethomen (the Prophet), Zanthers, Eshok, Franco and many more. There are all kinds of mysteries being set up, and the Kingboard (kind of like Chess) is only just beginning to start to play.
What I like about this series is that it's certainly a solid fantasy story. The magic is all based around patterns and I like the way it fits together and allows people to wield it, unravel it or create it. We have 'Alay' which is the pure magic of the world, and then we do see some characters who use 'daijean' which is a corrupted magic. There are also different strands of magic that different magic-users can weave or use dependant on their abilities.
What I struggle with in this series is the over-exposition and scenes of torment. At some points of this book we see SOOOO much exposition that I found myself just getting a bit bored and numb to where I was and what was happening. I think this could for sure have been cut slightly in some areas and it would have made a stronger book.
In terms of the torment, we see characters constantly being tortured/controlled and kidnapped. There were so many times that characters got caught I found myself just rolling my eyes at some points and I just wish that there had been more powerful defences than defenceless kidnappings.
Another thing I want to note is that even though this series is written by a lady, the ladies she shows in the book series are pretty poorly done throughout. It's a series where there's so much potential for them, and yet they still seem to just fade into the background, which is quite frustrating.
Overall, I think this book does a good job of continuing the story, but it felt a little less exciting and a bit more drawn out. I hope this is just because it's falling into the trap of second-book-syndrome, and not an indication of the series as a whole, but I did enjoy this still and there are some stories I can't wait to continue with... 3*s from me.
September 17, 2016
Great sequel! If you haven't caught on yet, then let me fill you in: this is a fantasy series that you should read. This is an indie book that delivers blockbuster epic fantasy at bargain basement prices.
Excellent world building, interesting magic system and an array of well developed characters. The scope of this series can be a bit overwhelming at times but it isn't difficult to follow. Besides a few editorial mistakes common in indie books, this book is spot on.
There are a very many POVs in this book, all of which are enjoyable. In most multiple POV narratives one usually has a couple favorites and then speeds through the others to get to the good stuff. In this book I was never disappointed when one chapter ended and a new POV started.
The Ean chapters got a little tedious at times as he seems to be a rather confused character and is in training for most of the book. Also we lose the mildly psychotic Franco POV early on in exchange for the conflicted truthreader, spy Kjieran. Though I loved Franco from the first book, Kjieran was a major upgrade as he allows us the meet the Prophet Bethamin and Dore Madden. Alyneri POVs are less painful this time around which was pleasant.
This series is awesome and I suggest that you get into it before it is picked up by a big publisher and the price skyrockets.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Excellent world building, interesting magic system and an array of well developed characters. The scope of this series can be a bit overwhelming at times but it isn't difficult to follow. Besides a few editorial mistakes common in indie books, this book is spot on.
There are a very many POVs in this book, all of which are enjoyable. In most multiple POV narratives one usually has a couple favorites and then speeds through the others to get to the good stuff. In this book I was never disappointed when one chapter ended and a new POV started.
The Ean chapters got a little tedious at times as he seems to be a rather confused character and is in training for most of the book. Also we lose the mildly psychotic Franco POV early on in exchange for the conflicted truthreader, spy Kjieran. Though I loved Franco from the first book, Kjieran was a major upgrade as he allows us the meet the Prophet Bethamin and Dore Madden. Alyneri POVs are less painful this time around which was pleasant.
This series is awesome and I suggest that you get into it before it is picked up by a big publisher and the price skyrockets.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
November 8, 2012
How does one begin to review a book such as The Dagger Of Adendigaeth without falling back upon much wielded cliches. To say that it is epic and fantastical would be a suitable place to begin, to say that in turning the last page left me bereft of a good friend would be a fitting place to end, whilst in between a magic lingers still.
I have always been a staunch fan of fantasy fiction for the escapism it offers and the breadth of tale that might be woven, yet in recent years I have found the genre stale and have been waiting, no praying, for a writer to challenge the status quo. To throw of the shackles of conformity and again have me believing in worlds where magic truly dwells. Without reservation this is Melissa McPhail and in both Cephraels Hand and The Dagger Of Adendigaeth she has set the bar to heady new heights in terms of compelling story telling and masterful prose.
Truly, these are the most wonderful of books.
I have always been a staunch fan of fantasy fiction for the escapism it offers and the breadth of tale that might be woven, yet in recent years I have found the genre stale and have been waiting, no praying, for a writer to challenge the status quo. To throw of the shackles of conformity and again have me believing in worlds where magic truly dwells. Without reservation this is Melissa McPhail and in both Cephraels Hand and The Dagger Of Adendigaeth she has set the bar to heady new heights in terms of compelling story telling and masterful prose.
Truly, these are the most wonderful of books.
August 5, 2014
Find the full review on The LUV'NV blog, here.
I read and reviewed the first book of A Pattern of Shadow & Light for a blog tour and immediately picked up book two because I was stunned by the author's talent and had to continue living in the world she created. It's that enrapturing. As usual, I started a book with high expectations and anticipated disappointment.
The Dagger of Adendigaeth wasn’t as good as the first book. To be honest, it was better. I’ve never been able to say that with a book two, and I’m absolutely giddy I can say it now.
More action-packed and purpose-driven, The Dagger of Adendigaeth continues A Pattern of Shadow & Light series with stabbing emotion, a deeper cutting plot, and sharp new pawns and players in the elemental, spiritual, and physical war for Alorin—all while intricately threading the characters’ lives from the first book with the new and creating another world that expands upon the first's possibilities. An escaping, drop-everything-now read!
October 10, 2014
Following from the events of Cephrael's Hand, Melissa McPhail weaves intricate patterns of intrigue and mystery, hope and despair as time and events in Alorin march inexorably on.
In The Dagger of Adendigaeth ("Dagger"), Prince Ean val Lorian throws in his lot with the traitorous Fifth Vestal, Bjorn van Gelderan, positioning himself as a player in the game of Kings. Trell of the Tides is coming to terms with his past and trying to reconcile it with his future. The Fourth Vestal, Raine D'Lacourte, has his own battles to face as many truths, long shrouded in mystery, begin to surface after he plunges into T'khendar in pursuit of his enemy. Tanis, the young truthreader, is also thrown unexpectedly into an adventure of his own when he impulsively follows a stranger with dark thoughts.
McPhail manages to juggle an amazing breadth of events in this one book, interweaving them so simply and yet so intricately that each new revelation leaves you astounded. It's as if the dangling questions you didn't know you had from Cephrael's Hand has been subtly answered - whilst she leaves enough clues that you think you know what will happen next, oftentimes you realise that there was much more to it than you thought.
I could hardly put down Dagger, sacrificing precious sleeping time to be able to read! Looking forward to reading Paths of Alir once I catch up on some sleep.
In The Dagger of Adendigaeth ("Dagger"), Prince Ean val Lorian throws in his lot with the traitorous Fifth Vestal, Bjorn van Gelderan, positioning himself as a player in the game of Kings. Trell of the Tides is coming to terms with his past and trying to reconcile it with his future. The Fourth Vestal, Raine D'Lacourte, has his own battles to face as many truths, long shrouded in mystery, begin to surface after he plunges into T'khendar in pursuit of his enemy. Tanis, the young truthreader, is also thrown unexpectedly into an adventure of his own when he impulsively follows a stranger with dark thoughts.
McPhail manages to juggle an amazing breadth of events in this one book, interweaving them so simply and yet so intricately that each new revelation leaves you astounded. It's as if the dangling questions you didn't know you had from Cephrael's Hand has been subtly answered - whilst she leaves enough clues that you think you know what will happen next, oftentimes you realise that there was much more to it than you thought.
I could hardly put down Dagger, sacrificing precious sleeping time to be able to read! Looking forward to reading Paths of Alir once I catch up on some sleep.
November 11, 2012
I jumped on purchasing this book right when it came about before it was even announced. I had been watching the month of October for when it was released and put it on my kindle as soon as possible. As with most great fantasy I was compelled to read it, to be caught up in the story line and the intricate workings of the world that Melissa McPhail had created.
Dagger is a great continuation of Cephrael's Hand. Here we learn the Laws of Patterning, the Esoterics and the underlying philosophical viewpoints of Björn and the Malorin'athgul. The stories of the Cephrael's Hand are continued throughout as the characters begin to grow in depth, their own understanding of themselves and the struggle they are involved in. Raine and Ean's stories are probably my favorite as they are both looking to their pasts to uncover the truth and help them realize their place in the First Lord's Game. The central characters are just beginning to discover or rediscover themselves and their place in the struggle that is brewing. As enemies become allies and allies become enemies the struggle for Alorin and the survival of the Adept race hangs in the balance, the First Lord's game continues and the players take their places.
This series is a rising Fantasy series that should be considered on the same level as some of the most successful fantasy series in the modern era. I highly recommend this series to all fans of the fantasy genre.
Dagger is a great continuation of Cephrael's Hand. Here we learn the Laws of Patterning, the Esoterics and the underlying philosophical viewpoints of Björn and the Malorin'athgul. The stories of the Cephrael's Hand are continued throughout as the characters begin to grow in depth, their own understanding of themselves and the struggle they are involved in. Raine and Ean's stories are probably my favorite as they are both looking to their pasts to uncover the truth and help them realize their place in the First Lord's Game. The central characters are just beginning to discover or rediscover themselves and their place in the struggle that is brewing. As enemies become allies and allies become enemies the struggle for Alorin and the survival of the Adept race hangs in the balance, the First Lord's game continues and the players take their places.
This series is a rising Fantasy series that should be considered on the same level as some of the most successful fantasy series in the modern era. I highly recommend this series to all fans of the fantasy genre.
November 23, 2012
Cephrael's Hand was amazing. I loved every word of it. Reread it more than once. And waited a long time for the sequel. The dagger is great. Well written, with good and strong characters. Some you love. Some you hate. But in the end they all fit the pattern... Melissa has a style of writing intertwining fantasy with philosophy in a way it keeps you hooked. It is relaxing yet daunting and back to relaxing. Like Yoga. Like Zen. Like life. It is always about choice. Good or bad. I read book two in a couple of days but I will read it again. Soon. Very soon. And I dare hope that sequel number 3 will follow very quickly. Great job Melissa!
August 24, 2014
I love this book the second time around as much as, if not more than, the first time I read it. If I could take everything I love and all the feels I've felt in all the books I've read and then find it in a series, it would be this one.
August 8, 2017
Three because the plot was good but all the romances felt forced and over the top. Not to mention the only LGBT relationships are all non consensual and the 'evil' characters are the only ones. I doubt I'll be continuing this series.
March 11, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Podium Publishing. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Wow. Let me just breathe for a second because I knew that this was going to be intense but I didn’t know that it was going to be THAT intense, you know what I mean? McPhail seriously knows how to make you invested in a huge epic fantasy like this. I’m so wishing that this could be made into a movie like The Lord of the Rings. I think it would do such an amazing job in that kind of format, and gives us way more fantasy trilogies to watch and root for.
I also have to say that I am always so thankful that Podehl was able to stay on as the narrator for the entire trilogy. I don’t think anyone else would be able to give such life and imagery to McPhail’s words and story the way Podehl did, and he did such a great job in this novel as well!
I feel like this book really held its own from the first one, and that the continuation of the story matched very well from what we had in the first one. There wasn’t much of a disconnect between the two, and I feel like I was able to jump right into it. I’ll definitely say that this book was really emotionally hard for me to get through not only because of the length but also just because of the plot itself, but it really worked out for me. I think that this book did an amazing job of being a sequel in its own right. It didn’t fall for the whole sequel syndrome where it’s just the piece to connect the first and the third books, so I enjoyed that as well.
I’m excited to see how this ends, and I’m betting that by the time this is all over, I’ll be sighing not only in relief, but sad that this epic journey is over!
Wow. Let me just breathe for a second because I knew that this was going to be intense but I didn’t know that it was going to be THAT intense, you know what I mean? McPhail seriously knows how to make you invested in a huge epic fantasy like this. I’m so wishing that this could be made into a movie like The Lord of the Rings. I think it would do such an amazing job in that kind of format, and gives us way more fantasy trilogies to watch and root for.
I also have to say that I am always so thankful that Podehl was able to stay on as the narrator for the entire trilogy. I don’t think anyone else would be able to give such life and imagery to McPhail’s words and story the way Podehl did, and he did such a great job in this novel as well!
I feel like this book really held its own from the first one, and that the continuation of the story matched very well from what we had in the first one. There wasn’t much of a disconnect between the two, and I feel like I was able to jump right into it. I’ll definitely say that this book was really emotionally hard for me to get through not only because of the length but also just because of the plot itself, but it really worked out for me. I think that this book did an amazing job of being a sequel in its own right. It didn’t fall for the whole sequel syndrome where it’s just the piece to connect the first and the third books, so I enjoyed that as well.
I’m excited to see how this ends, and I’m betting that by the time this is all over, I’ll be sighing not only in relief, but sad that this epic journey is over!
April 1, 2017
Even better tan the first.
This book Kicks off right were Cephraels Hand ended with Prince Ean val Lorian deciding to become a player in the Great Game by throwing in and teaming up with the infamous Fifth Vestal, Bjorn van Gelderan the most dangerous man in the the world, to begin his TrainingMontage.
Trell the Tedious is still coming to terms with his past and the need to look to the future as he tends to the injured Alyneri who he finds himself becoming increasingly entangled with. Alyneri struggles with her conflicting romances and her desire to master her healing. (In every series with a large cast of Characters there seem to be one or two you just can't get along with and I'm not going to lie this book is no exception, i found these two increasingly difficult to enjoy as the story progressed..)
Tannis really steps up his game up in Book 2. I was so proud of him, following a man with murderous thoughts he continuously finds himself in more trouble and danger then he ever considered with nobody to help him. The second Vestal Raine finds himself questioning everything the Vestals thought they understood as he searches out the truth and the deadly implications that are slowly being revealed.
The greatest additions to the book where by that of Finlar and The Pirate and interactions with Ean and The Prophet Isabel van Gelderan, Epiphany’s Prophet. Sensational stuff. I grew even fonder of these characters with every chapter. XD
This book Kicks off right were Cephraels Hand ended with Prince Ean val Lorian deciding to become a player in the Great Game by throwing in and teaming up with the infamous Fifth Vestal, Bjorn van Gelderan the most dangerous man in the the world, to begin his Training
Trell the Tedious is still coming to terms with his past and the need to look to the future as he tends to the injured Alyneri who he finds himself becoming increasingly entangled with. Alyneri struggles with her conflicting romances and her desire to master her healing. (In every series with a large cast of Characters there seem to be one or two you just can't get along with and I'm not going to lie this book is no exception, i found these two increasingly difficult to enjoy as the story progressed..)
Tannis really steps up his game up in Book 2. I was so proud of him, following a man with murderous thoughts he continuously finds himself in more trouble and danger then he ever considered with nobody to help him. The second Vestal Raine finds himself questioning everything the Vestals thought they understood as he searches out the truth and the deadly implications that are slowly being revealed.
The greatest additions to the book where by that of Finlar and The Pirate and interactions with Ean and The Prophet Isabel van Gelderan, Epiphany’s Prophet. Sensational stuff. I grew even fonder of these characters with every chapter. XD
May 27, 2019
This was hugely disappointing after how good the first book was. Seems like it could have been told in about 20% of the page count. I found it pretty dull and struggle to get through. Not sure if I will see if book 3 returns to form.
May 24, 2020
Trigger warnings: Rape, torture
Overall rating: 3 stars
Style/writing: 3.5 stars
Themes: 2.5 stars
Characters: 3 stars
Plot: 2.5 stars
Worldbuilding: 4 stars
Overall rating: 3 stars
Style/writing: 3.5 stars
Themes: 2.5 stars
Characters: 3 stars
Plot: 2.5 stars
Worldbuilding: 4 stars
May 14, 2021
Low 4 points for me a great book and it intriguing and make you want to keep reading and to find the whole story.
This book may be shorter then the first book but it's more condense. The author created a mysterious world and reveals it slowly in a way that make you wants to find out about the the world as a whole and the main characters in specific.
This book may be shorter then the first book but it's more condense. The author created a mysterious world and reveals it slowly in a way that make you wants to find out about the the world as a whole and the main characters in specific.
October 2, 2022
Audiobook, kinda lost about some of the characters I didn't realize were people I needed to keep track of. Lots of great twists throughout. Big cliff hanger. Trell's storyline is less fun now that he has met up with alineiri. Like it a lot!!
October 27, 2014
Pages: 559
Time to read: 5 Days until post on Friday – I’m happy to announce I’m on page 268! So I should definitely finish on time.
Ability to read 150-ish pages a day? – apparently I’ve still got it
At the beginning of pretty much every fantasy book I read, I have the dreaded – OH GAWD – ‘I’m going to have to learn a whole new language to read this thing & how many characters are there?!’
In this case, I got that feeling, as predicted. However, by Chapter 6, I’d figured it all out, and had no problem navigating/imagining the world in my mind again. I will admit its been quite a while since I read the first book Cephrael’s Hand, and I wished I had re-read it before reading this one. All that means of course is I’ll have to re-read it when I’m finished The Dagger of Adendigaeth.
Oh, and did I mention I really love the way the words sound in my head – place names and people names inclusive. A-den-di-ga-eth. Woot. Rhythmical and alluring.
You may receive another short update before I post my review on Friday.
Till the next time!
I’ve read Cephrael’s Hand, and reviewed it before I worked for Novel Publicity. You can find that post here. It seems to be from when I first started reviewing books online. So rather than review it for this tour, I’ll be giving you my thoughts on The Dagger of Adendigaeth.
So far, it reminds me of Age of Wariors (as super old rpg game) which has come back to Steam. That’s right. It all comes back, again and again and again.
I’m also seriously considering re-reading and posting about Cephrael’s Hand again.
I never did do anything the ‘right way.’
What else do I HAVE to say about this book?
Overall, the book is well written, there’s a LOT of character development, and a lot of characters. Secondary characters are well developed too, so if that’s a gripe you have with other novels in the fantasy genre – be assured, this is NOT one of them.
Naming of the worlds, characters, items etc. is phonetic. Say it out loud once, and it will make sense reading it after that. A-den-di-ga-eth. The names and unique words are also rather rhythmic, so once you’re a few chapters in you should have no problem reading along, and the names and/or apostrophes don’t interfere much. I know apostrophes in fantasy genres get a bad rap, but in this case, I think, they exist to help with pronunciation. It was expertly and effectively executed.
Cover designs – I think the old vs. the new speaks for itself. While I was a little saddened (not really all that much) by the presentation of a character front and centre on the first book, when you look at it and the second book side by side I was astounded.
A) These covers are by FAR better than the first
B) The second book has and even better cover than the first in the series
C) I can’t WAIT to see the third.
Oh, and I can’t wait to read the third.
A note to potential readers – this is not a light read, nor is the genre typically a light read. Fantasy novels have to build a world, build the characters, build a plot line, and make all of those other-worldly and unique. Fantasies are not generally light and airy and easy to read. If you want to get into the genre, pick up some classics. It doesn’t need to be Tolkein, and I’d recommend Ursula K. LeGuin’s Earth Cycle as a good entry point. It’s a short work, and in three parts, but will give you a good and easy-ish introduction. Then read some of her longer works.
McPhail’s Cephrael’s Hand and Dagger of Adendigaeth were equally compelling. The synopsis at the front was helpful as I didn’t remember entirely the first book. I can tell you that I was impressed enough by the second book I’ll be re-reading the first before reading the next installment. It takes a lot to write three books that can be read separately or together. McPhail has done this perfectly.
I loved both the action and the descriptive sections. I also enjoyed the depth of character development. If I could give this book all the stars in the sky I would – but I don’t out of a professional connection with Novel Publicity. I still REALLY loved the book, and wanted to share my thoughts. It scores very high in my world, and scores very high in its genre. (Those can be two different things.)
I’d encourage anyone who reads this book to leave an honest review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. There’s always a lot of buzz about professionalism and bullying between bloggers and authors. I know it happens, but this is definitely one author who has always been supportive and professional. She can take your constructive criticism and really is looking for ways to improve. There’s no clearer indication of this than the way she has interacted with bloggers and reviewers via social media – AND the way The Dagger of Adendigaeth improves upon a number of things in Cephrael’s Hand. If you’re questioning reading the second & third book – don’t.
Pick them up and start reading now.
Time to read: 5 Days until post on Friday – I’m happy to announce I’m on page 268! So I should definitely finish on time.
Ability to read 150-ish pages a day? – apparently I’ve still got it
At the beginning of pretty much every fantasy book I read, I have the dreaded – OH GAWD – ‘I’m going to have to learn a whole new language to read this thing & how many characters are there?!’
In this case, I got that feeling, as predicted. However, by Chapter 6, I’d figured it all out, and had no problem navigating/imagining the world in my mind again. I will admit its been quite a while since I read the first book Cephrael’s Hand, and I wished I had re-read it before reading this one. All that means of course is I’ll have to re-read it when I’m finished The Dagger of Adendigaeth.
Oh, and did I mention I really love the way the words sound in my head – place names and people names inclusive. A-den-di-ga-eth. Woot. Rhythmical and alluring.
You may receive another short update before I post my review on Friday.
Till the next time!
I’ve read Cephrael’s Hand, and reviewed it before I worked for Novel Publicity. You can find that post here. It seems to be from when I first started reviewing books online. So rather than review it for this tour, I’ll be giving you my thoughts on The Dagger of Adendigaeth.
So far, it reminds me of Age of Wariors (as super old rpg game) which has come back to Steam. That’s right. It all comes back, again and again and again.
I’m also seriously considering re-reading and posting about Cephrael’s Hand again.
I never did do anything the ‘right way.’
What else do I HAVE to say about this book?
Overall, the book is well written, there’s a LOT of character development, and a lot of characters. Secondary characters are well developed too, so if that’s a gripe you have with other novels in the fantasy genre – be assured, this is NOT one of them.
Naming of the worlds, characters, items etc. is phonetic. Say it out loud once, and it will make sense reading it after that. A-den-di-ga-eth. The names and unique words are also rather rhythmic, so once you’re a few chapters in you should have no problem reading along, and the names and/or apostrophes don’t interfere much. I know apostrophes in fantasy genres get a bad rap, but in this case, I think, they exist to help with pronunciation. It was expertly and effectively executed.
Cover designs – I think the old vs. the new speaks for itself. While I was a little saddened (not really all that much) by the presentation of a character front and centre on the first book, when you look at it and the second book side by side I was astounded.
A) These covers are by FAR better than the first
B) The second book has and even better cover than the first in the series
C) I can’t WAIT to see the third.
Oh, and I can’t wait to read the third.
A note to potential readers – this is not a light read, nor is the genre typically a light read. Fantasy novels have to build a world, build the characters, build a plot line, and make all of those other-worldly and unique. Fantasies are not generally light and airy and easy to read. If you want to get into the genre, pick up some classics. It doesn’t need to be Tolkein, and I’d recommend Ursula K. LeGuin’s Earth Cycle as a good entry point. It’s a short work, and in three parts, but will give you a good and easy-ish introduction. Then read some of her longer works.
McPhail’s Cephrael’s Hand and Dagger of Adendigaeth were equally compelling. The synopsis at the front was helpful as I didn’t remember entirely the first book. I can tell you that I was impressed enough by the second book I’ll be re-reading the first before reading the next installment. It takes a lot to write three books that can be read separately or together. McPhail has done this perfectly.
I loved both the action and the descriptive sections. I also enjoyed the depth of character development. If I could give this book all the stars in the sky I would – but I don’t out of a professional connection with Novel Publicity. I still REALLY loved the book, and wanted to share my thoughts. It scores very high in my world, and scores very high in its genre. (Those can be two different things.)
I’d encourage anyone who reads this book to leave an honest review on Amazon and/or Goodreads. There’s always a lot of buzz about professionalism and bullying between bloggers and authors. I know it happens, but this is definitely one author who has always been supportive and professional. She can take your constructive criticism and really is looking for ways to improve. There’s no clearer indication of this than the way she has interacted with bloggers and reviewers via social media – AND the way The Dagger of Adendigaeth improves upon a number of things in Cephrael’s Hand. If you’re questioning reading the second & third book – don’t.
Pick them up and start reading now.
June 16, 2015
This book, like the first, is absolutely magical. If you've finished the first and are on the fence about continuing the series, or are wondering if you should start in on Cephrael's Hand, I highly encourage you to dig in! If you have ever liked a fantasy novel or story, you will love these books--and I found that this sequel was even more intense and interesting than the first. And that was already a hard act to follow!
I have fallen so in love with Melissa's panorama of fully-fleshed-out characters that I have cried and laughed and found my heart nearly beating out of my chest. Last night as I read the finale, I hollered "No!" and grabbed at my boyfriend's arm for support without noticing that I'd done either of these things for at least a minute, I was so engaged. The characters are each so unique that you won't get lost in a sea of them, as you might in some fantasy novels; and even if you do feel a little puzzled, Melissa has included some fantastic references in the back for you to better understand the incredible world she's built.
Her writing style is very fluid and eloquent. I highlighted the crap out of my book so I could refer later to some of the most beautiful lines I'd found, like this one I just found at random by flipping the pages just now: "Oaths fluttered as moths mingling in the night, speculation as the hiss of pale wings singed by fire." The form of magic she employs in her universe is extremely unique and imaginative. The characters grow and change in sync with the progression and evolution of the story. It's one of those books that are so complex and well-layered that even the slightest description is a spoiler, and which hint at details while rarely making blatant statements, giving you just enough on which to form your own powerful conclusions and opinions. I love everything about these clever books, and at the end of both this one and the first, and at every significant juncture in the plot, I've been left wondering: How can she top that?
These are a blast to read. If you love books, you will love this one, too. I highly recommend you buy it on Amazon Kindle and download the Kindle app on your phone. The book is $4, the app is free, and you will want to have this book with you everywhere, even if it's just to sneak a page or two in.
I have fallen so in love with Melissa's panorama of fully-fleshed-out characters that I have cried and laughed and found my heart nearly beating out of my chest. Last night as I read the finale, I hollered "No!" and grabbed at my boyfriend's arm for support without noticing that I'd done either of these things for at least a minute, I was so engaged. The characters are each so unique that you won't get lost in a sea of them, as you might in some fantasy novels; and even if you do feel a little puzzled, Melissa has included some fantastic references in the back for you to better understand the incredible world she's built.
Her writing style is very fluid and eloquent. I highlighted the crap out of my book so I could refer later to some of the most beautiful lines I'd found, like this one I just found at random by flipping the pages just now: "Oaths fluttered as moths mingling in the night, speculation as the hiss of pale wings singed by fire." The form of magic she employs in her universe is extremely unique and imaginative. The characters grow and change in sync with the progression and evolution of the story. It's one of those books that are so complex and well-layered that even the slightest description is a spoiler, and which hint at details while rarely making blatant statements, giving you just enough on which to form your own powerful conclusions and opinions. I love everything about these clever books, and at the end of both this one and the first, and at every significant juncture in the plot, I've been left wondering: How can she top that?
These are a blast to read. If you love books, you will love this one, too. I highly recommend you buy it on Amazon Kindle and download the Kindle app on your phone. The book is $4, the app is free, and you will want to have this book with you everywhere, even if it's just to sneak a page or two in.
August 27, 2015
This series is very reminiscent of the Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. The magic systems are nearly identical. The protagonist Ean is a hero of lost ages reborn... Very much like Rand from Wot.
And yet despite the fact that these series are almost telling the same exact story, I still gave Melissa's book 4 stars. Why? Because she is doing a better job of it than RJ even came close to doing.
Let me just throw in a disclaimer that I despise the Wheel of Time books (and have not read all 14.) What I have read was poorly written. The characters were either boring or laughably stupid. The female characters are probably what actually made me decide to stop reading for good. And I have heard that later on in the series, Jordan managed to write entire books without moving the plot forward a smidge.
All of this stupidity is absent from a Pattern of Shadow and Light. The characters are developed in a way that makes them seem authentic. The female characters are written at least respectably, although for being written by a female author, I'm little disappointed in how ridiculously Alyneri behaves, but I'm willing to give the benefit of the doubt and say its due to her age and not her sex.
Other little things could use tightening up. I was happy to read about less brows being arched in book 2 than in book 1 (another way that Melissa is better than Jordan... At least by book 2 she slowed down with the arched brows. Im not sure the the female characters in Wot ever stopped sniffing incessantly.)
Overall it's not a bad read, especially given that it's self published and there doesn't seem to be a 5 year wait between books. I can't shake the feeling that I'm reading another WoT, so I can't give it 5 stars, but for $3.99 each I can't complain. I'm starting book 3 now.
And yet despite the fact that these series are almost telling the same exact story, I still gave Melissa's book 4 stars. Why? Because she is doing a better job of it than RJ even came close to doing.
Let me just throw in a disclaimer that I despise the Wheel of Time books (and have not read all 14.) What I have read was poorly written. The characters were either boring or laughably stupid. The female characters are probably what actually made me decide to stop reading for good. And I have heard that later on in the series, Jordan managed to write entire books without moving the plot forward a smidge.
All of this stupidity is absent from a Pattern of Shadow and Light. The characters are developed in a way that makes them seem authentic. The female characters are written at least respectably, although for being written by a female author, I'm little disappointed in how ridiculously Alyneri behaves, but I'm willing to give the benefit of the doubt and say its due to her age and not her sex.
Other little things could use tightening up. I was happy to read about less brows being arched in book 2 than in book 1 (another way that Melissa is better than Jordan... At least by book 2 she slowed down with the arched brows. Im not sure the the female characters in Wot ever stopped sniffing incessantly.)
Overall it's not a bad read, especially given that it's self published and there doesn't seem to be a 5 year wait between books. I can't shake the feeling that I'm reading another WoT, so I can't give it 5 stars, but for $3.99 each I can't complain. I'm starting book 3 now.
October 21, 2014
McPhail just keeps getting better. The Dagger of Adendigaeth builds magnificently upon the foundation laid in Cephrael’s Hand. The world gets more complex, the tale gets more compelling and in a strange way becomes even more solid and believable. By the time I had finished reading the book I found myself believing in elae, the Malorin’athgul and the Returning. This is fantasy at its best spanning across time to take its place among the greats. My only criticism – and I paid for the book so I know I have the currently available Kindle version is that there are quite a few grammatical or spelling errors that McPhail’s editor should have picked up and weeded out. They were a minor distraction and not enough to break the reader’s sense of suspended disbelief, but they were irritating nonetheless and all that keeps this book from getting my ultimate recommendation, although I would still highly recommend it.
March 24, 2015
If anything, this book was better than the first. The characters have come into their own, the stories are more entrenched, I've become more invested in the whole thing.
Sorta Spoilers????
I have only one complaint. I'm never really afraid for a major characters life. I get that they are 'Players' and are kinda important for storyline, but I have no fear. I hate to compare to George RR Martin, but one thing you never had with his books was a feeling that, it'll be OK. It makes for a harsher read, but one where dangerous situations mean characters...any characters, can die, means I as a reader fear for my favorite characters. Now I know a lot of people disliked that in his books, but i think the suspense is ridiculous when in tense situations. Even Tolkien didn't really kill off main characters.
Sorta Spoilers????
I have only one complaint. I'm never really afraid for a major characters life. I get that they are 'Players' and are kinda important for storyline, but I have no fear. I hate to compare to George RR Martin, but one thing you never had with his books was a feeling that, it'll be OK. It makes for a harsher read, but one where dangerous situations mean characters...any characters, can die, means I as a reader fear for my favorite characters. Now I know a lot of people disliked that in his books, but i think the suspense is ridiculous when in tense situations. Even Tolkien didn't really kill off main characters.
September 11, 2013
Absolutely awesome book! I just HAD TO HAVE it after I finished the first book so I immediately hunted it down on Amazon kindle and downloaded it when I finished book 1.
So glad I did.
I love how you can see how everything is slowly coming full circle, in a very round about, long, action packed way.
I love all the characters, although sometimes I'd get so hooked on one character that when the chapter ended and the next chapter was about a different character I'd get frustrated as I just wanted to carry on with what I was reading.
Either way, though totally worth it!!
So glad I did.
I love how you can see how everything is slowly coming full circle, in a very round about, long, action packed way.
I love all the characters, although sometimes I'd get so hooked on one character that when the chapter ended and the next chapter was about a different character I'd get frustrated as I just wanted to carry on with what I was reading.
Either way, though totally worth it!!
February 10, 2014
I have just finished reading Dagger after going through Cephrael just prior and I am so glad I found these treasures. The world, the characters, the mystery, the emotions, everything just pulls and tugs and wars within you just as the battle between good and evil rages on the pages. The worst thing about two ending is that I have to WAIT for book three. To say this was a good book is a serious understatement!
May 29, 2017
Loved the first book, but this one just dragged on for me. I really didn't care about Kirin's [sp? I listened to the audiobook] story, and the whole 'sexy/bondage times with the prophet' stuff was just lost on me.
Ian's training took way too long, and don't be me wrong, i love a good training montage, but it was just so drilled into minutiae of some fantasy magical system, it just reached a breaking point for me.
Again, loved the first book, but this one just didn't do it for me.
Ian's training took way too long, and don't be me wrong, i love a good training montage, but it was just so drilled into minutiae of some fantasy magical system, it just reached a breaking point for me.
Again, loved the first book, but this one just didn't do it for me.
January 4, 2016
This series is so unbelievably good - I can't believe I haven't heard more about it. The characters are fantastic and the plot just keeps twisting & turning. For such long books, they just really keep your interest piqued with every chapter, and I couldn't put this book down. I can't wait to get the next book so I can see how my favorite characters are faring.
July 2, 2016
Enjoyable read
This is the second book and as such is a tweener. It just sets the stage for what is going to happen in the next book. It was a bit long, there are only so many times you can reread the same drama of what a character is going thru. I just wanted it to move on. But overall have enjoyed the story of the first two books and will read the third.
This is the second book and as such is a tweener. It just sets the stage for what is going to happen in the next book. It was a bit long, there are only so many times you can reread the same drama of what a character is going thru. I just wanted it to move on. But overall have enjoyed the story of the first two books and will read the third.
June 27, 2014
This second installment in Melissa's epic tale was spell binding. I was hooked from the very beginning. I found myself developing bonds with many of the characters. There are certain loathsome fiends that I hope in the third book find the justice they deserve!
December 24, 2012
I loved this book! I love the story. I like how I still haven't figured out how it will end. This book is a great sequel. I'm getting more involved with the characters. I like how the story is making the characters blossom and grow. Can't wait for the third book.
February 3, 2013
Absolutely loved this book! I've finished the book over 3 weeks ago and can't get the realm or kingdoms out of my head. Amazing characters and story line. Melissa McPhail is an ingenious author. I look forward to a book 3.
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