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The Executioner's Song #2

The Executioner's Apprentice

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Executioners search for justice, not vengeance. Finn questions why it can’t be both. As apprentice to the master executioner, Finn struggles to understand his place in the city as he searches for truth in those sentenced. The job is more complicated than he ever imagined. He’s proven his understanding of the basics, but for him to serve as an executioner—if that’s what he wants—he needs mastery.Distracted by his search for a way to heal his still ailing mother despite the hegen magic, he finds himself at odds with the master executioner. When assigned his first solo case, he knows he needs to impress Meyer. An investigation into a fire that burned through an entire section of the city leads Finn to learn of a greater threat to Verendal—and the entire kingdom. When only Finn believes there’s more to the fire, can he save the city or will his quest for vengeance finally lead to his downfall?

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First published January 26, 2021

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D.K. Holmberg

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Lana.
2,710 reviews57 followers
February 12, 2021
Finn has been accepted as the executioner's apprentice by the executioner's court after Master Meyer used his right to choose him and save him from execution. Now he was set on finding evidence which will incriminate Bellut, the man who framed him and one of the jurors. Master Meyer kept emphasizing that their role was not one of vengeance but one which sought to see justice being served in the name of the King who they worked for. However Finn was like a dog with a bone and he just would not relent, questioning everything time and time again even when he overstepped the boundaries of his position, risking angering Master Meyer. When a fire killed people and demolished a whole section of the city, he knew something was afoot and was sure that the man who was burnt for the crime was not the mastermind behind this arson attack. His need to find out the truth was taking up too much of his time, time he should have spent studying, however he was going to make sure he would get to the bottom of this threat. I love this series, and I love that Finn is learning so much and becoming a changed man, once apart from the crew he worked with. Goes to show how a person can change once given a chance in life. I am dying to read book 3 now especially with Jasmine in the picture now!
Profile Image for Kristin Campbell.
Author 8 books179 followers
August 20, 2021
So good!

I usually write a review for the first and last book in a series, but this so good that I can't help it. The struggle between past, present, and future, old friends and new, solving crimes, it creates this story that is hard to stop reading. The choices and unlikely acquaintances made--unlikely alliances to save others--makes this series hard to put down!
64 reviews2 followers
January 26, 2021
In the interest of full disclosure, I reviewed an electronic Advanced Readers' Copy of the book before its release, provided by the author without charge in exchange for an honest review. I reviewed the first book in this series, after which I bought the book in paperback, as I enjoyed it enough that I wanted to be able to share it and read it again in the future. I am retired from a career in the field of law enforcement and found this book thoroughly entertaining.

This is the second book in The Executioner's Song series, following The Executioner's Right. The book focuses on the point of view of Finn, a former thieving gang member who was rescued at the moment of his scheduled execution by the master executioner, to serve as apprentice to the master executioner. In the first book, Finn struggled to cope with his family problems, contacts from his thieving days, and unease from what was behind the jobs that lead to his arrest. In this book, Finn grows into his apprenticeship, as he continues to searches for truth behind the jobs that lead to his arrest as well as those in his former gang. As Finn continues his apprenticeship, he finds the job is more complicated than he ever imagined, but he is given opportunities to prove his mastery in his new profession, all while struggling with his troubled sister and dying mother.

The book finds Meyer, the master executioner, taking Finn outside of the city as well, introducing new characters. Largely, the book focuses on established characters, which become more refined and developed, as the plot thickens with new evidence that leads to interesting action. I loved the first book in the series, and found myself readily immersed in this continuation of the story. As I've noted in other reviews of D.K. Holmberg's books, I think he is especially gifted in telling a complete story with each book, so that the reader is not left feeling that there is too much unresolved or untold after completing the book, and that remains true with this book. Certainly, I can see there are plot hooks set for future books, and as one continues to read a series, one becomes more invested in the developed characters. Yet, the book comes to a satisfactory conclusion, such that if this book were the end of the series, I would be satisfied, but would be happy to learn more about the characters.

While there is a compelling story, there was not excessive or gratuitous violence, sexual content, or strong language, with any such content necessary to advance the plot or provide situational context. I don't know if this book is marketed as Young Adult or Fantasy, but it would fit both well. I believe this series particularly would be particularly useful to induce thoughtful conversations about morality, mortality, socio-economic status, prejudice, and sexual societal roles, with a young adult in your household or within a book club. I would have no reservations whatsoever with a teenage child in my care reading this series.

I'll be purchasing this book on Amazon today so I can share it and read it again. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
Profile Image for Vicky.
Author 26 books59 followers
January 29, 2021
THE EXECUTIONER’S APPRENTICE by D.K. Holmberg
Fiction, Fantasy, 2nd in series
4****

Blurb: As apprentice to the master executioner, Finn struggles to understand his place in the city as he searches for truth in those sentenced. The job is more complicated than he ever imagined. He’s proven his understanding of the basics, but for him to serve as an executioner—if that’s what he wants—he needs mastery. Distracted by his search for a way to heal his still ailing mother despite the hegen magic, he finds himself at odds with the master executioner. When assigned his first solo case, he knows he needs to impress Meyer. An investigation into a fire that burned through an entire section of the city leads Finn to learn of a greater threat to Verendal—and the entire kingdom. When only Finn believes there’s more to the fire, can he save the city or will his quest for vengeance finally lead to his downfall?

Thoughts: I thought this was a really good book, well written with interesting characters and amazing worldbuilding. So why not five sparklers? For one thing, because it was confusing at first. This is the second in the series and it becomes quickly obvious that you need to read the first book to really understand what is going on in the story. Yes, the author does a decent job of weaving in some of the background, but it is definitely not a stand-alone book. However, because I did find it so well-written, I will probably end up going back and buying the entire trilogy so that I have the beginning/middle/end of the story instead of just the middle.

That being said, it is very well-written. In this book, the main character, Finn, is learning his job as an executioner involves not just carrying out executions, but searching for truth—basically, investigating the crime and then presenting the evidence to the jury—which I found interesting. There are a lot of undercurrents going on in the story which I wish I knew. Things that were probably explained in the first book.

Recommendation: I can definitely recommend this book – but only if you read the first one first! Reading the second one without the benefit of the first is just too confusing. So pick up the entire trilogy and enjoy.

Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and are not influenced by anyone.


Profile Image for Michelle Nelms.
121 reviews2 followers
January 26, 2021
Full disclosure, I did receive this book as an Advance Read Copy in exchange for an honest review.

This is the second book in the series. Finn is coming more into his role as the executioner's apprentice, but still struggling with some of the events from the first book. He's still torn, though in a different way, between his past and future.

In this book, he's given his first cases in both his official role as executioner's apprentice and his unofficial role as healer. He's given more autonomy than he's had before and he definitely feels the responsibility.

He doesn't want to disappoint Meyer, but he also wants to get more information than others believe is necessary. Every answer he finds leads to more questions and paints a larger picture.

**Mild spoilers below**

By the end of the book, Finn has grown a substantial amount and he's finally ready to move forward and be fully present in his role as executioner's apprentice. He's very smart and has shown he has a way of looking at things that no one else has considered. He's uncovered a plot against the throne that others would not have pieced together because they would not have continued looking.

I liked the acknowledgement that there can be a darkness to the job and that an executioner needs to be aware of that within himself. I kind of did not like that Meyer was so blindsided, but it may be that he walks so honorable a path he wouldn't suspect such behavior from people around him.

All in all, a solid second book and I'm looking forward to the third.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,513 reviews88 followers
January 27, 2021
A much anticipated book 2 in the series and it didn't disappoint! Finn has many challenges to overcome as he learns what is required of him as the Executioner's apprentice. He struggled to reconcile between justice and vengeance as he starts to realise there is a fine line between them. He questions his place in his new appointment and what the future hold for him. Master Meyer, the Executioner, tasks Finn with his first solo case and Finn unwittingly uncovers a far more devious plot. As he tries to get to the truth, he pursues all avenues, against the advice of Master Meyer. Finn is forced to take matters into his own hands as he comes to realise he needs to know who conspired with whom and why. Terrific character building as the story unfolds. Not only for Finn but for his sister Lena as well, as she also finds a new path. Master Meyer is still an enigma both compassionate but tough, he follows the rules of the King's justice. There is a lot unknown about Meyer, which I look forward to see unravelling in this series. Bring on book 3! 
Profile Image for Angela.
3,097 reviews11 followers
May 24, 2021
Finn appears to be settling into his life as an executioner's apprentice. He's still learning about the job and figuring things out along the way but for the most part his life seems to have more questions then answers. I don't understand his attitude, he gives Meyer, the guy who literally saved his life and keeps his mom and sister safe, trouble and while nothing has come of it so far, it might not hurt him to be reminded of those facts as he appears to have turned into a brat. Also in the previous book Finn mentions hanging out and helping his sister with their mom more, but that doesn't seem to have happened considering how often he's out "investigating" what he shouldn't have and again making questionable choices. We also don't learn what happened to his dad this time either, he might be in jail, exiled, or dead and there's no looking into it as of yet. Maybe the third book wraps that up. Its a solid enough book but its just not clicking for me and at this stage I'm not sure if I'm going to finish the trilogy.
1,739 reviews15 followers
January 25, 2021
This book was a very good story. You find that there is a lot more to an executioner. You think wielding the sword Justice, tying a hangman's knot or perhaps applying the lash to the back of the convicted are the skills needed. However as the apprentice learns, you also need to be an investigator. Sometimes the tools of investigation are crude. Sometimes they are learning how to ask the right questions and read the prisoner for lies in the response.

There is even the benevolent side where the executioner can help heal those who are sick or injured.

The reader even discovers the love and loyalty to his city of birth. The driving motivation is to be of service to the king. Specifically to apply the king's justice.

This book is a testament to how well the apprentice is learning those lessons. We travel with the apprentice as he moves through his day, serving the king, but also caring for his family. There are certainly difficult decisions.

Enjoy the read.
Profile Image for Elda.
1,203 reviews6 followers
January 26, 2021
More than an exciting adventure!
This next book in The Executioner’s Song series from Mr. Holmberg, a master story teller, we follow Finn along his journey to become an executioner. He learns many lessons in this book about justice, vengeance and the possible differences or similarities between the two. We also find his sister Lena stepping up to demonstrate her knowledge and abilities. Some sadness and also much success in finding and punishing guilty people and freeing innocent ones. Mr. Holmberg has a unique way of holding on to the details just enough to hold your interest and only showing the details when absolutely necessary to the furtherance of the story. An additional intense moment was when Finn and Meyer have to travel outside the city to sentence a person. A few surprise twists and turns later will keep you glued to the story until the ultimate ending. This one will have you throwing your fist into the air yelling “yyyesss”.
194 reviews1 follower
January 26, 2021
As the executioner's apprentice, Finn struggles to find his place in society, and to understand the distinction between justice and vengeance. When Finn can independently investigate a huge fire that took lives, he slowly uncovers a conspiracy at the highest level. But Master Meyer doesn't believe him, and meanwhile his mother is slowly wasting away... will Finn be able to cope?
The Executioner's Apprentice is the second book in The Executioner's Song epic fantasy series. It’s a successful blend of historical fiction and fantasy, described with humour and suspense. I look forward to the rest of the series.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lana Kamennof-sine.
831 reviews28 followers
April 6, 2021
D.K. Holmberg delivers another riveting story in this, the second book in the Executioner’s Song series. Now I managed to read this book after the first & third in the series so could appreciate the additional information but can also say that the skill in the writing allows each book to stand alone. It’s a period of growth for Finn in all aspects of his life; family, friends, work and he doesn’t disappoint. The depth of what’s being experienced is hinted at and as a reader confess I always pause to consider not only Finn’s experience but what my response might be if in a similar ethical/moral situation. There is always a relevance. It just doesn’t get any better.
4,381 reviews20 followers
January 27, 2021
Finn is back and still working on learning all there is to do with his job. Of course things are not straight forward as he learns in this story as he tries to discover the truth and it leads to disturbing news. The characters are still compelling as we learn more about the main ones as the story goes. The story is engaging and just drew me in as I had to see what would happen next and what Finn would figure out. Would he save the day and survive to the end both in body and spirit. Just well written story. Entertaining and addicting with a dash of mystery and suspense.
442 reviews4 followers
April 8, 2021
The apprentice and the master still have conflicts centering around Finn's need for revenge. Finn is changing, for the better if he would just not be so adamant on showing his need for revenge against Bellut. In the end it all works out, but the road there makes for a bumpy relationship between the two. Details of the town and it's surrounding area make you feel like you could walk out your door and be there. The changing dynamic between Finn and his old crew after the arrests in the last book are noticeable. And sometimes he's not sure it matters anymore because he has a new focus. I enjoyed this book, it was slower paced than the first and did not seem to involve as many characters.
402 reviews3 followers
December 14, 2022
A very good follow up to The Executioner's Right as Finn learns his craft as an executioner and tries to help his sister Lena caring for his sick mother under Master Meyer's roof and with his healing talents. Finn's investigative skills are brought to the fore as he pursues the plot against the king and his involvement with the Hegen deepens as he saves Jasmine who is of the people and his old friends from the crew now realise he is no longer one of them and has become his own individual, not Shuffles any more.
Profile Image for Bigred6126.
1,381 reviews3 followers
January 26, 2021
Excellent! This was a great novel. Verandal is a unique world full of unique characters. They are full of depth and are easy to love and hate. I definitely recommend the books. Even though Finn is a young man he really grew up in this book. He's the same person he's always been but now he's grown a backbone and is learning how important his station is.

I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
566 reviews4 followers
January 27, 2021
Things seemed to be looking up for our main character Finn or are they.
Distracted by his search for a way to heal his still ailing mother despite the hegen magic, he finds himself at odds with the master executioner.
When only Finn believes there’s more to the fire, can he save the city or will his quest for vengeance finally lead to his downfall?
This second book moves on a but quicker ,exciting and interesting ,what will happen next.
Definitely a must read.
Profile Image for K Saju.
652 reviews4 followers
January 31, 2021
Had received part one and two together, as the first didn't disappoint, went ahead immediately with the second one.
Though this can be read as a standalone, reading the first would be ideal as there are some references made to earlier charcters. Enjoyed the character buildup of Finn, he has been provided now more responsibility and the way he tackles his job and personal life has been well handled.
Recommended read
597 reviews6 followers
Read
February 4, 2021
Very good! Memorable and full of thoughtful insights.

I rarely judge a book to be worthy of five stars. Since we only have five stars to rate with and since e consider all books to be judged equally, five is tantamount to perfection. In these books Holmberg has crafted exquisite world-building, memorable characters, natural sounding dialog, and several quotable passages worth repetition. I expect to see these books on store shelves decades into the future.
Profile Image for Daniel Decker.
13 reviews
January 26, 2024
Excellent read, after being reminded of Finn Jagger in Blade and Bone I decided to continue the Executioners Song series and am so glad I did. Getting to know how Finn got the nickname the Hunter and his progression from the thief in Executioners Right, makes me want to jump right into Executioners Blade, but I have other books and series that need to be read/continued. DK Holmberg has become one of my favorite authors.
Profile Image for Ron.
742 reviews2 followers
January 27, 2021
Finn continues his apprenticeship with the master executioner. But the next case he is involved in could endanger everything he holds dear.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this rollercoaster of a story. Can Finn unravel the mystery before the mysterious clients plans come to fruition. Definitely recommend this story
Profile Image for Frances.
319 reviews6 followers
February 2, 2021
I am so glad to see fins growth throughout this book. I am looking forward to the next book to see fin hopefully come to except himself fully. I also love his sister she is strong and smart and hopefully she gets an happy ending. I want more magic in the next book we keep getting hints of it and I love that the magic people wear lots of colors so they stand out.
191 reviews1 follower
February 2, 2021
Justice or vengeance

Finn is now coming into his own. He is happy to have his mother and sister near. The story starts getting more complicated.
Finn has discovered something but master Meyer is not sure and wants him to have purf before he goes ahead. This was a fast moving story and I wanted to finish it to find out what would happen.
87 reviews
May 16, 2021
Another good story

I enjoyed this story- following Fin as he continues his transition from thief to Executioners apprentice. He is learning that there is more to being an executioner than he believed. This story ends with Fin finally wielding the Sword of Justice. Now his apprenticeship progresses to more ... perhaps Joureyman is next....
183 reviews
July 1, 2021
The Song Continues

The story of Finn continues. Plots started in the first book begin to bear fruit. Finn deals with the conflict between who be was and who he is becoming. The author does a great job of weaving the different strands of the plots into one harmony. I recommend this book.
Profile Image for fred jones.
1,737 reviews11 followers
January 26, 2021
An excellent book, lots of twists and turns in this 2nd book in the series. This is becoming a favourite series with great characters and an entertaining involving story.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and an leaving a voluntary honest review.
37 reviews
February 7, 2021
Very good

Often as one works through a series, moments of disappointment appear. Such is not the case here. Characters grow and are revealed, the leading players grow, and the reader again looks forward to the next story.
Profile Image for Carole Eshenbaugh.
254 reviews
March 29, 2021
Second better than first

This was a book that kept you on your toes. As Finn moves from thief to executioner. He is growing with a better understanding of his position and who he is. Of course he saves the day.
142 reviews1 follower
April 30, 2021
Executioners Song Book 2

This book was faster pace than book 1. I enjoyed the twist and turns leading to the final chapters where I was surprised of who was responsible for the death and destruction that had been carried out. Looking forward to book 3.
99 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2021
Excellent book

There was a lot happening in book two. We learned more about the main characters and some plot lines were tied up. New questions arose and I'm looking forward to the next book
245 reviews1 follower
February 16, 2021
Finn wants justice/revenge for the wrongs done to the old crew and himself. can he find the right path to do the right thing? Great story line and characters. ready for the next installment.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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