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A Pattern of Shadow & Light #4
Kingdom Blades
“You cannot sculpt a piece into a Player. A Player must mold himself out of fortitude and conviction.” - Björn van Gelderan
After the events of Cephrael’s Hand, The Dagger of Adendigaeth and Paths of Alir, the realm of Alorin remains unbalanced. The Fifth Vestal Björn van Gelderan has sent his Players onto the field. Now they must hold their positions against Malorin’athgul, as well as their immortal allies.
In Kandori…Prince Ean val Lorian is bound to Björn’s van Gelderan’s game and to his sister Isabel, but Ean would rather be free of both of them. Yet he fears the game won’t let him—nor will the man he used to be. Chained by guilt on one side and duty on the other, Ean chases memories through three kingdoms in an attempt to become a Player on his own terms.
In Hallovia…Tanis of Adonnai has discovered his true identity and his nature as an Adept of four strands. He’s bound himself to the Malorin’athgul Pelas and in turn bound Pelas to his uncle Björn van Gelderan’s game. But will Pelas’s ability to bend Fate to his will be enough to oppose the intentions of his brothers, Darshan and Shail? And will Pelas be able to keep Tanis safe from the immortal Warlock Sinárr, who vowed to go to any lengths to make Tanis his concubine?
At the First Lord’s sa’reyth…Prince Trell val Lorian has been rescued from the island of Darroyhan and the mor’alir Adept Taliah hal’Jaitar and is recovering at the First Lord’s sanctuary. But while Trell is enjoying an overdue reunion with his betrothed, Alyneri, he suspects he cannot long remain off the field. If the game doesn’t summon him back, his conscience will, for he owes his life to too many others. Primary among these is the Water Goddess Naiadithine. Trell can’t help but wonder what the goddess will require of him in return for Her many graces…and if it will be a price he’s willing to pay.
As Björn’s game intensifies and wars escalate, those serving the Fifth Vestal must mold themselves into more than mere Players. They must become his Kingdom Blades.
After the events of Cephrael’s Hand, The Dagger of Adendigaeth and Paths of Alir, the realm of Alorin remains unbalanced. The Fifth Vestal Björn van Gelderan has sent his Players onto the field. Now they must hold their positions against Malorin’athgul, as well as their immortal allies.
In Kandori…Prince Ean val Lorian is bound to Björn’s van Gelderan’s game and to his sister Isabel, but Ean would rather be free of both of them. Yet he fears the game won’t let him—nor will the man he used to be. Chained by guilt on one side and duty on the other, Ean chases memories through three kingdoms in an attempt to become a Player on his own terms.
In Hallovia…Tanis of Adonnai has discovered his true identity and his nature as an Adept of four strands. He’s bound himself to the Malorin’athgul Pelas and in turn bound Pelas to his uncle Björn van Gelderan’s game. But will Pelas’s ability to bend Fate to his will be enough to oppose the intentions of his brothers, Darshan and Shail? And will Pelas be able to keep Tanis safe from the immortal Warlock Sinárr, who vowed to go to any lengths to make Tanis his concubine?
At the First Lord’s sa’reyth…Prince Trell val Lorian has been rescued from the island of Darroyhan and the mor’alir Adept Taliah hal’Jaitar and is recovering at the First Lord’s sanctuary. But while Trell is enjoying an overdue reunion with his betrothed, Alyneri, he suspects he cannot long remain off the field. If the game doesn’t summon him back, his conscience will, for he owes his life to too many others. Primary among these is the Water Goddess Naiadithine. Trell can’t help but wonder what the goddess will require of him in return for Her many graces…and if it will be a price he’s willing to pay.
As Björn’s game intensifies and wars escalate, those serving the Fifth Vestal must mold themselves into more than mere Players. They must become his Kingdom Blades.
Audible Audio
First published October 27, 2016
268 people are currently reading
752 people want to read
About the author
Melissa McPhail
10 books1,258 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 90 reviews
April 24, 2017
I read 99% of this book under the delusion that it was the final installment in this series. It wasn't until I turned the page to read the word "Epilogue" that I realized my dreams were not going to be fulfilled that night. At first I felt betrayed that I wasn't going to find out the resolution immediately but now I understand that another installment is a gift.
This book and series are really good. The world is complex and deep. The characters are poignant and rich. The story is just so good... mostly. I'd say that the story is 90% mind blowing and 10% fuck my life. But I haven't read a book that hasn't fucked my life a little.
The biggest problem with this book and series is in its verbosity. McPhail is a good writer and it shows. She also knows it and this also shows. There is a quality that leaves a sour taste when an author is a little too in love with their own words and as this series progresses that quality peeks through more and more often. There were many times in this book where the story was moving at an urgent pace however it was slowed time and again by flowery philosophy and over explanations. Sometimes intense dialogues were slowed to tortuous paces by over-explainations and descriptions. Every brow is arched, every wall is crenelated, every ceiling is groin vaulted, and every character is in a state of lassitude. I find myself skimming more often to get to the actual story.
Beside this. new characters are still being introduced! Trell's story introduced a whole platoon of characters which seem unnecessary to the story. Not only that but Trell's entire story in this book seemed irrelevant. While every other character is fighting to right the balance of the land, Trell heads into an obvious trap to rescue 500 of his father's soldiers. For what?
Seriously though, I only get so heated because I love this series. The characters are some of the best I've read and I feel emotionally attached to the welfare of this world. Moderate skimming aside this book and series are one I feel everyone should read and am surprised so few have.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
This book and series are really good. The world is complex and deep. The characters are poignant and rich. The story is just so good... mostly. I'd say that the story is 90% mind blowing and 10% fuck my life. But I haven't read a book that hasn't fucked my life a little.
The biggest problem with this book and series is in its verbosity. McPhail is a good writer and it shows. She also knows it and this also shows. There is a quality that leaves a sour taste when an author is a little too in love with their own words and as this series progresses that quality peeks through more and more often. There were many times in this book where the story was moving at an urgent pace however it was slowed time and again by flowery philosophy and over explanations. Sometimes intense dialogues were slowed to tortuous paces by over-explainations and descriptions. Every brow is arched, every wall is crenelated, every ceiling is groin vaulted, and every character is in a state of lassitude. I find myself skimming more often to get to the actual story.
Beside this. new characters are still being introduced! Trell's story introduced a whole platoon of characters which seem unnecessary to the story. Not only that but Trell's entire story in this book seemed irrelevant. While every other character is fighting to right the balance of the land, Trell heads into an obvious trap to rescue 500 of his father's soldiers. For what?
Seriously though, I only get so heated because I love this series. The characters are some of the best I've read and I feel emotionally attached to the welfare of this world. Moderate skimming aside this book and series are one I feel everyone should read and am surprised so few have.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
June 25, 2017
Having read (via Audible) the first four books in the series now I can say this is one of the more enjoyable series I have read thus far. Unlike many fantasy series the books seem to get better and better as the story progresses, with the fourth installment the best one yet. I won't give away any plot spoilers, but admittedly the story is a bit overwhelming at first in cephrael's hand where so many characters are introduced it is a bit hard to keep track of them all. However, as the story continues and their paths cross and are joined together in many cases the introduction of so many characters makes sense and later becomes essential. The story while complex is very believable, the powers unique, and the characters endearing. I can't account for the book format as I listened to the Audible version (fantastic performance) but the story really draws you in and at times I couldn't help but find myself laughing or crying along with the characters. The story can be a bit over complicated with many different moving parts, and if certain characters just spoke with others then their lives would have been much easier. (but they can't because it could destroy balance, which you will find all about if you read the series).
Regardless, it is a a series I highly recommend and am eagerly anticipating book five in the series.
Regardless, it is a a series I highly recommend and am eagerly anticipating book five in the series.
April 29, 2017
Wow. Just wow. I now regret rating books 1-3 in the series 5* because this book took the others to an entirely different level. If only the rating system could go above 5*.
Characters: 5*
Plot: 5*
Universe / World Building: 5*
Characters. What can I say that I haven't said in a previous review? The characters are complex and richly developed. There is a massive cast of characters and nearly all of them are extremely fleshed out. Every book in this series introduces new characters. Characters that I somehow quickly fall in love with. What do I love about these characters? They grow. They grow from book to book. They grow from chapter to chapter. They change. Don't assume that the motivations for a character will remain the same throughout the course of the series (or even within a book).
Plot. There are many locations and story lines throughout these books. Every time the focus switches from one plot line to another, I am momentarily angered until I realize that I have been desperately wanting to know what happened in the plot line that we are rejoining. And then the lines cross and weave to form a truly beautiful tapestry.
Universe / World building: If you know me, you know that I love stories in which the world itself has an impact on the story and isn't just used as background scenery. This series has this in spades and I have a hunch that this will be amped up even higher for the last book in the series.
Once again, this author has blown past all of expectations and delivered a masterpiece that firmly establishes her as one of the top authors in the field.
Characters: 5*
Plot: 5*
Universe / World Building: 5*
Characters. What can I say that I haven't said in a previous review? The characters are complex and richly developed. There is a massive cast of characters and nearly all of them are extremely fleshed out. Every book in this series introduces new characters. Characters that I somehow quickly fall in love with. What do I love about these characters? They grow. They grow from book to book. They grow from chapter to chapter. They change. Don't assume that the motivations for a character will remain the same throughout the course of the series (or even within a book).
Plot. There are many locations and story lines throughout these books. Every time the focus switches from one plot line to another, I am momentarily angered until I realize that I have been desperately wanting to know what happened in the plot line that we are rejoining. And then the lines cross and weave to form a truly beautiful tapestry.
Universe / World building: If you know me, you know that I love stories in which the world itself has an impact on the story and isn't just used as background scenery. This series has this in spades and I have a hunch that this will be amped up even higher for the last book in the series.
Once again, this author has blown past all of expectations and delivered a masterpiece that firmly establishes her as one of the top authors in the field.
January 1, 2017
A much more succinct addition to the series; the main players (Ean, Tanis, Trell) are more closely followed (though the pace of development feels glacial at times), and secondary PoVs are pushed to the background where they should have been for the entirety of the series.
The continued education by the author on the system(s) of magic in this series is best left to the appendices; the intuitive discovery of the rules and boundaries of elae and deyjinn by Tanis and Ean has been explained ad nauseum, yet the author continually pounds us over the head with how quickly these characters learn their craft, only to be undone by the implementation of time travel/delay.
While this book was vastly superior to the 1st and 2nd, I continue to wish for a better editor or proof reading group. A fantastic story continues to be developed almost as a patchwork; jarring and unnecessary shifts with continual use of overly contrived character rescues.
The continued education by the author on the system(s) of magic in this series is best left to the appendices; the intuitive discovery of the rules and boundaries of elae and deyjinn by Tanis and Ean has been explained ad nauseum, yet the author continually pounds us over the head with how quickly these characters learn their craft, only to be undone by the implementation of time travel/delay.
While this book was vastly superior to the 1st and 2nd, I continue to wish for a better editor or proof reading group. A fantastic story continues to be developed almost as a patchwork; jarring and unnecessary shifts with continual use of overly contrived character rescues.
December 24, 2016
omg when will book 5 be ready?
it was awesome and I'm just sad I read it so quickly. i just lost control of myself, i guess
it was awesome and I'm just sad I read it so quickly. i just lost control of myself, i guess
December 31, 2022
The most interesting thing about this book to me is watching Ms. McPhail develop as a writer. Gone are the constant eyebrow archings of earlier installments, for example, and the thesaurus appears to be more readily available. I saw the word "tetchily" used twice, when I'm not sure I've ever seen that word before (it means 'irritably,' apparently) I suppose it's why Jervis Tetch of "Batman" fame is peevishly sensitive...it's in the name.
Anyway...
A lot of things happen, but it seems like only a few of them advanced the story. This one seems like it's setting all of the pieces in the First Lord's game for the finale. Some of what happens is interesting and some is not .
Certain alliances that are made feel overly convenient, and more than a couple tense situations are resolved in deus ex machina style. The reveal of who is essentially the Final Boss is entirely telegraphed.
I will finish the epic, hoping for some genuine "wow" moments, but I have a feeling it will end up rather "meh...ok."
Anyway...
A lot of things happen, but it seems like only a few of them advanced the story. This one seems like it's setting all of the pieces in the First Lord's game for the finale. Some of what happens is interesting and some is not .
Certain alliances that are made feel overly convenient, and more than a couple tense situations are resolved in deus ex machina style. The reveal of who is essentially the Final Boss is entirely telegraphed.
I will finish the epic, hoping for some genuine "wow" moments, but I have a feeling it will end up rather "meh...ok."
May 19, 2019
You know when you read something and then feel both mind blown and ready to tear your hair out because Oh My Gods?!
Yeah, it's kind of like that.
I loved every torturously wonderful second and can not wait for the 5th and final book♡
Yeah, it's kind of like that.
I loved every torturously wonderful second and can not wait for the 5th and final book♡
August 27, 2021
As I arch my brow I am finally finished reading this series. Now will wait for the next one to come out. I took a long time to read them all. I usually don't stop until I finish a book but with these books I stopped and didn't read them with days going by sometimes. Yes I like them but the things I didn't like just put me off from reading to much at once. I don't read romance books and in some parts these books read like them. The characters were mostly likable but I found Ean a little annoying at times. Trell was ok for the most part but just like Ean he was a little annoying at times. Sebastien was the brother who had it worse than the other two I think. Most of the other characters were ok but just like the brothers they could get on my nerve at times. Still overall I enjoyed about them for the most part.
Having now read this for the second time I have liked it more just like the rest of the series but certain parts I didn't like reading a second time as well. Most of the story with Trell I liked but the second time around I did skim them a bit. I had forgotten how this one ended really and feel a little more caught up now before reading the next book. Some characters like the Shades haven't been mentioned much at all. The brother's mother has also not been talked about since the second book or so. You would think these sons would find a way to see their father and mother after so long but maybe she will write that in when it fits the storyline. There a lot of moving pieces to this story rather epic that need time to be all brought together at some point hopefully. I did read these books again for hours at a time which was different from the first time I read them. Different moods or times can affect my reading of books it seems. As a series I think I can give this four stars at least.
Having now read this for the second time I have liked it more just like the rest of the series but certain parts I didn't like reading a second time as well. Most of the story with Trell I liked but the second time around I did skim them a bit. I had forgotten how this one ended really and feel a little more caught up now before reading the next book. Some characters like the Shades haven't been mentioned much at all. The brother's mother has also not been talked about since the second book or so. You would think these sons would find a way to see their father and mother after so long but maybe she will write that in when it fits the storyline. There a lot of moving pieces to this story rather epic that need time to be all brought together at some point hopefully. I did read these books again for hours at a time which was different from the first time I read them. Different moods or times can affect my reading of books it seems. As a series I think I can give this four stars at least.
May 15, 2018
A fantastic series
Wow I really enjoyed this book. It has a varied and long list of characters but not overwhelming, a unique magical system and very cool world building. This series is must read for any fan of the fantasy genre. Please do yourself a favor and start from the beginning. I also happen to enjoy the quotes at the start of each chapter.
Wow I really enjoyed this book. It has a varied and long list of characters but not overwhelming, a unique magical system and very cool world building. This series is must read for any fan of the fantasy genre. Please do yourself a favor and start from the beginning. I also happen to enjoy the quotes at the start of each chapter.
August 16, 2018
Another awesome book full of juicy story and patterns! Really enjoyed how the storylines are developing and for a big part of the book I thought this will be the final book, but was pleasantly surprised that the pattern does not end here.
Looking forward to the next one where I expect more epic battles will happen.
Looking forward to the next one where I expect more epic battles will happen.
August 26, 2018
Written beautifully, pulling me in and twisting my emotions. Who would have ever thought that Darshan and Sinar would become favorite characters of mine? And the ending? It just hurts so because I know there is still such a long wait before book five arrives. Thank goodness Melissa McPhail decided to write. Please don't ever stop.
March 27, 2019
I cannot wait to see book 5. It should be long and in much detail like this one. The character development through this one is immense. I can sorta see where the whole thing is going, but I can't wait to finish the ride.
Start at the beginning, book 1, and if you love Fantasy, you will love this series.
Start at the beginning, book 1, and if you love Fantasy, you will love this series.
December 30, 2019
Such a talented author to weave these stories together so clearly. So much to follow in the game and so many players, but Melissa McPhail makes it easy to keep up ... and love every minute of it.
September 28, 2018
This book, this part of the series... I don't know what words to use to describe this. But the teasing knows no bounds. I could only compare the feeling to the punishment of Tantalus: hungering, wanting, needing, with food and water just mere inches away but never actually having it, teasing relentlessly with its hints of smells and alluring sights. Such a painful and enticing torture.
But amid my frustrated sighs and screams of dismay, I fricking love the story!!! It was truly and utterly amazing. If it was a story told around a campfire, it would rival the most captivating ones. It has the most subtle twists and mysteries that keeps you guessing, character and story build-ups in every turn of the page, and that thrilling sensation akin to playing mind or board games (or any games really).
Even with the ideas and perceptions that I felt connected to since it was nearly like how I perceived things, even with that constantly peaking my interest, this story was seriously well made! A great work. If it was possible to read the threads of a tapestry as if it was strings of words, this would have been it. Truly marvelous!
P.S. Also, now I understand what I've been constantly looking for in this story since the first book. This is a story of gods, not of mortals. There's less interaction between the upper class and the lower class of characters... and I mean based on the character's importance in and on the story. Sure, there's the soldiers, but I really wanted to see how the normal people view the characters. But, as what I perceived in the first book and what I just said, this is a story of deities. So... uh... xD
But amid my frustrated sighs and screams of dismay, I fricking love the story!!! It was truly and utterly amazing. If it was a story told around a campfire, it would rival the most captivating ones. It has the most subtle twists and mysteries that keeps you guessing, character and story build-ups in every turn of the page, and that thrilling sensation akin to playing mind or board games (or any games really).
Even with the ideas and perceptions that I felt connected to since it was nearly like how I perceived things, even with that constantly peaking my interest, this story was seriously well made! A great work. If it was possible to read the threads of a tapestry as if it was strings of words, this would have been it. Truly marvelous!
P.S. Also, now I understand what I've been constantly looking for in this story since the first book. This is a story of gods, not of mortals. There's less interaction between the upper class and the lower class of characters... and I mean based on the character's importance in and on the story. Sure, there's the soldiers, but I really wanted to see how the normal people view the characters. But, as what I perceived in the first book and what I just said, this is a story of deities. So... uh... xD
December 19, 2024
I would have given this series 5 stars but as it looks as though it won’t be completed and there is too much unfinished to enjoy knowing there will be no closure.
The series is very good. Well performed audiobook. At times it is slow and feels unnecessarily drawn out.
Normally i would definitely recommend this series but tragically the author lost a battle with cancer and had left us.
There were to be two more books in the series. According to the author’s website permission was given for another book to be written by Ms McPhail’s friend and assistant. That was 4 years ago. There have been a few promises to complete the sixth and, I’m assuming, final book but after such a long time and a lack of recent updates I highly doubt that it will happen.
The fifth book, The Sixth Strand, leaves not a few storylines so far from complete that reading the series without a final book ruins the entire reading of the other five books.
Until and if a final book is released I do not recommend reading the series. Too much is left unfinished and there is nothing close to closure or fulfillment leaving off after the fifth book.
The series is very good. Well performed audiobook. At times it is slow and feels unnecessarily drawn out.
Normally i would definitely recommend this series but tragically the author lost a battle with cancer and had left us.
There were to be two more books in the series. According to the author’s website permission was given for another book to be written by Ms McPhail’s friend and assistant. That was 4 years ago. There have been a few promises to complete the sixth and, I’m assuming, final book but after such a long time and a lack of recent updates I highly doubt that it will happen.
The fifth book, The Sixth Strand, leaves not a few storylines so far from complete that reading the series without a final book ruins the entire reading of the other five books.
Until and if a final book is released I do not recommend reading the series. Too much is left unfinished and there is nothing close to closure or fulfillment leaving off after the fifth book.
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March 22, 2020The most fascinating thing about book 2 is that I can't decide whether it is best to just read book 1 twice before starting book 2 or just read book 1 again and have both make much deeper sense. With this work be prepared for challenges. The Plot spans historical Epocs. The characters include god like beings who not only have a different perspective on their eternal reality but some actually get to make their reality up as they go along, literally. In book 2 the world is set out. Most of the parts are known but it is now time to get to really know some of the characters and their amazing story. One character has been reborn countless times locked in a battle with an eternal and immortal foe who always ends each battle with the character going splick. Then imagine the Tarot archetypes of The Magician and High Priestess brought to life as main characters in this drama. Look deeply into the very tangible nature of Chaos Furies from beyond the end of time who have found their way into the present where they scheme and reek havoc.
April 26, 2020
I tried to finish this series but I really couldn't take it anymore. Ever since book 1 I've struggled with this series due to the constant badgering of all the main characters. I understand that it can't all be roses and sunshine for the protagonists but the amount of torture, rape, beatings and emotional assault the characters had to deal with was just too much for me in the end.
When I read fantasy I want to escape into a wonderful world full of magic, adventures and epic storytelling but I found myself wanting to escape this world instead. The only reason I made it this far is because there was still some part of me who wanted to find out what happens to some of the characters I invested in but finally during book 4 when even the last of the characters I was eager to follow got sidelined away from any sort of resolution I gave up.
Now, a day after I put the book down, I am happy that I did and can invest my time in reading other works again. I don't regret the time I spend on these books and there are certainly a lot of great qualities in there, it just wasn't enough.
When I read fantasy I want to escape into a wonderful world full of magic, adventures and epic storytelling but I found myself wanting to escape this world instead. The only reason I made it this far is because there was still some part of me who wanted to find out what happens to some of the characters I invested in but finally during book 4 when even the last of the characters I was eager to follow got sidelined away from any sort of resolution I gave up.
Now, a day after I put the book down, I am happy that I did and can invest my time in reading other works again. I don't regret the time I spend on these books and there are certainly a lot of great qualities in there, it just wasn't enough.
February 16, 2017
Disappointingly flat
This book barely got off the ground for me, although the second half improves. There is a lot of catching up with what the main characters have been doing, but none of it evokes interest and sympathy the way the first three books do. They seem a lot more boring. Warlocks and the Shadow realm are brought into the picture, but their characters and worlds aren't that interesting. The evil characters are such plastic caricatures that they do t add much tension. An inordinate amount of time is spent working out the physics, laws and energy equations of the various sources of power which shows a prodigious amount of work by the author but one wishes it could have been more like an iceberg--9/10 of it submerged. Thanks is my favorite character because he is the least pretentious but his continual innocence begins to get implausible. Trell is also a favorite, perhaps because he is the most human. All in all a disappointment.
This book barely got off the ground for me, although the second half improves. There is a lot of catching up with what the main characters have been doing, but none of it evokes interest and sympathy the way the first three books do. They seem a lot more boring. Warlocks and the Shadow realm are brought into the picture, but their characters and worlds aren't that interesting. The evil characters are such plastic caricatures that they do t add much tension. An inordinate amount of time is spent working out the physics, laws and energy equations of the various sources of power which shows a prodigious amount of work by the author but one wishes it could have been more like an iceberg--9/10 of it submerged. Thanks is my favorite character because he is the least pretentious but his continual innocence begins to get implausible. Trell is also a favorite, perhaps because he is the most human. All in all a disappointment.
July 25, 2020
I enjoyed this book, it is one with characters worth following and a plot line which is on the brink of unfolding into something much greater but I can’t help but feel that this read contains unfulfilled potential.
This instalment of the series essentially drops characters that have been followed all through the previous books. This may help clean up the plot lines but I found I missed certain perspectives along the way. I also found the text verbacious - heavily descriptive and over detailing of the laws defined in McPhails world. I get it. They’re oh so complicated and you have a number of genius minds making strides. I am however, now starting to be annoyed by this overly refined attention to details. (These laws seem to be over ruled over by use of imagination so anything can be willed into happening regardless of the laws anyways).
My 3 star seems like an unpopular vote but I didn’t quite feel as enthralled, here’s hoping the next book is better !
This instalment of the series essentially drops characters that have been followed all through the previous books. This may help clean up the plot lines but I found I missed certain perspectives along the way. I also found the text verbacious - heavily descriptive and over detailing of the laws defined in McPhails world. I get it. They’re oh so complicated and you have a number of genius minds making strides. I am however, now starting to be annoyed by this overly refined attention to details. (These laws seem to be over ruled over by use of imagination so anything can be willed into happening regardless of the laws anyways).
My 3 star seems like an unpopular vote but I didn’t quite feel as enthralled, here’s hoping the next book is better !
January 17, 2021
Did I miss an explanation of why Isabel is no longer wearing a blindfold? I thought someone in book one said she had to wear it to retain her sanity or something to that effect. As I recall, Pelas made her a new one with sigils or something.
I agree with another reviewer that this book moved at a glacial pace. The only reason I've gone on to book five is I want to see how the battle between Alshiba and Niko turns out. (Why does Alshiba switch affection from Björn to Franco in the blink of an eye?) I've pretty much lost interest in the other characters. I think the author writes there will be a book six. OMG. She even admits the danger of sprawl and too many characters. Yes ma'am, I think that line has been crossed. Warlocks? Weren't dragons, malorin'athgul, 17 gods, Dore Maddon, wildlings, zanthyrs, et al, enough to keep track of? I do sort of miss Fynn but do we need Cassius?
Way too much bonding or binding or whatever it's called.
I agree with another reviewer that this book moved at a glacial pace. The only reason I've gone on to book five is I want to see how the battle between Alshiba and Niko turns out. (Why does Alshiba switch affection from Björn to Franco in the blink of an eye?) I've pretty much lost interest in the other characters. I think the author writes there will be a book six. OMG. She even admits the danger of sprawl and too many characters. Yes ma'am, I think that line has been crossed. Warlocks? Weren't dragons, malorin'athgul, 17 gods, Dore Maddon, wildlings, zanthyrs, et al, enough to keep track of? I do sort of miss Fynn but do we need Cassius?
Way too much bonding or binding or whatever it's called.
December 28, 2017
I loved the beginning of this series and was looking forward to this book, overall I'd say it was disappointing.
This book took me 8 months to read when if it had been much better it would have taken a month maximum. It was too easy to put it down.
There were parts I really liked, but also many spots where I skimmed or trudged through it because while it was important to the plot, it just wasn't enjoyable.
Would I recommend it? Well if you've read the rest of the series yes, and because the next book is due out in a year or so (they come every 2 years and I believe the next to be the last). I would not recommend it out of order, and the first books were great! There written at more of a college level than most books I find lately and for that they are extra enjoyable if taking longer to digest.
This book took me 8 months to read when if it had been much better it would have taken a month maximum. It was too easy to put it down.
There were parts I really liked, but also many spots where I skimmed or trudged through it because while it was important to the plot, it just wasn't enjoyable.
Would I recommend it? Well if you've read the rest of the series yes, and because the next book is due out in a year or so (they come every 2 years and I believe the next to be the last). I would not recommend it out of order, and the first books were great! There written at more of a college level than most books I find lately and for that they are extra enjoyable if taking longer to digest.
November 15, 2019
Alshiba bangs Bjorn all night, then they break up after 300 years being apart because I guess this was just the final day and she hooks up with Franco. Who then gets kidnapped and blabs about everything despite the blocks on his mind because plot. She then gets tossed off a cliff (lucky her probably Bjorn did something so she won't splat, but maybe she will) she's been utterly useless so far.
And Sail leads some Warlocks to the City World. Because no security. Burn it all down!
Ean finds Tanis, his son. Dashan is on their side now because lurve.
Why the hell is Shail such a problem when they have cosmos ending power on the good guy side... Because "balance", aka plot excuse to keep this going.
And Sail leads some Warlocks to the City World. Because no security. Burn it all down!
Ean finds Tanis, his son. Dashan is on their side now because lurve.
Why the hell is Shail such a problem when they have cosmos ending power on the good guy side... Because "balance", aka plot excuse to keep this going.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2018
Ufff I had so many complains about this book (like how 1/3rd of the book is a cheap romance novel masked as a fantasy, how the plot progression and twist STILL feel forced and bullshit at times etc.), but in the end I'll just sum it up like this - the book (and the a series as a whole so far) is a bag of great ideas and characters with somewhat poor execution.
There are so many POVs (9-10 compared to basically ~4 in the first book) and story lines here, that even 1300 pages seem too little to cram this arc in satisfactory manner.
But in the end I still enjoyed it quite a bit, and I'm being somewhat angry and very picky only because it could be so much better still.
3.8/5
There are so many POVs (9-10 compared to basically ~4 in the first book) and story lines here, that even 1300 pages seem too little to cram this arc in satisfactory manner.
But in the end I still enjoyed it quite a bit, and I'm being somewhat angry and very picky only because it could be so much better still.
3.8/5
August 24, 2018
Incredible Adult Fantasy Adventure Epic Series
Kingdom Blades digs deep into the psyche of several central characters. Motivations are questioned. New journeys, choices, discoveries are launched. Twists abound. I gave this book 5-stars because it is written in a tight format that leaves few stones unturned. I strongly suggest you read the earlier books in this series to get a better understanding of the characters and who wields the Kingdom blades. This book (series) is perfect for older teens and adult fantasy-adventure fans. I recommend it as a parting summer read and holiday stocking stuffer. I look forward to book 5.
Kingdom Blades digs deep into the psyche of several central characters. Motivations are questioned. New journeys, choices, discoveries are launched. Twists abound. I gave this book 5-stars because it is written in a tight format that leaves few stones unturned. I strongly suggest you read the earlier books in this series to get a better understanding of the characters and who wields the Kingdom blades. This book (series) is perfect for older teens and adult fantasy-adventure fans. I recommend it as a parting summer read and holiday stocking stuffer. I look forward to book 5.
March 13, 2018
Such a great series, I don't know why it has taken me so long to get around to reading it.
There is a natural tendency to compare big epic fantasies with Jordan, and in a few superficial ways A Pattern of Shadow & Light could easily be categorize in the same box. But other than the broad scope of the vision that has crafted this tale it really does stand on it's own and is quite original.
Now that I have been able to read books 1 through 4 back-to-back, I find I am bereft that I have to wait for book 5!
This series has just become one of my favorites.
There is a natural tendency to compare big epic fantasies with Jordan, and in a few superficial ways A Pattern of Shadow & Light could easily be categorize in the same box. But other than the broad scope of the vision that has crafted this tale it really does stand on it's own and is quite original.
Now that I have been able to read books 1 through 4 back-to-back, I find I am bereft that I have to wait for book 5!
This series has just become one of my favorites.
October 10, 2020
Another masterpiece. However I find it a bit strange that Melissa Mcphail is so afraid to kill any "player".
I would think one would learn from GRRM that it indeed is possible and that it actually enriches the book.
When every characters always is saved by some "miracle" it becomes tedious. It has reached a point that I know now that I just have to wait because something will save any given character. I like when I am held in suspense.
For instance a good opportunity would have been to ended The King's life whilsts he was bravely sving the Prince.
But alas both where saved.
I would think one would learn from GRRM that it indeed is possible and that it actually enriches the book.
When every characters always is saved by some "miracle" it becomes tedious. It has reached a point that I know now that I just have to wait because something will save any given character. I like when I am held in suspense.
For instance a good opportunity would have been to ended The King's life whilsts he was bravely sving the Prince.
But alas both where saved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2021
Fantastic. The best of the series so far. My only issue is character and scope creep. With most series we kind of understand who the big bad guys are 4 massive books in. Not having a new big bad character introduced at the very end of book 4.
With that said, these books are highly entertaining. I have been hybrid reading / listen too book on tap. The book on tap reader is amazing. Has really added go the experience.
The books need more Pelas and Phaedor. Two outstanding and interesting characters.
With that said, these books are highly entertaining. I have been hybrid reading / listen too book on tap. The book on tap reader is amazing. Has really added go the experience.
The books need more Pelas and Phaedor. Two outstanding and interesting characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2022
The books are enjoyable but so dang long, with so many characters, and so many viewpoints, that keeping who is doing what and where they are can be very confusing if you step away from the book for any period of time, and given that I was reading this a chapter or two at a time, that starts to become a real problem eventually. Before I move on to book 5 in a few months I will need to read a recap just to remember what everyone is doing to get up to speed.
Read
June 16, 2022Okay it all started out great, but I just have to say, this series has driven me insane. At the beginning I loved that the books were long and that they kept me entertained for a long time, but after a while I came to the realization that the author just loves to hear herself talk. I'm a little bummed that I won't finish the series, but I'm sorry I just can't do another one.
P. S. What was Feydor's laugh reminiscent of again?
P. S. What was Feydor's laugh reminiscent of again?
April 20, 2018
Ok, so I didn't absolutely love this book. Now that being said, it was still really...really good. The middle two of the series remain my favorites, but this one progressed the story and still kept me eagerly anticipating the next book. I remain a serious fan and highly recommend this series to anyone who loves fantasy fiction.
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