Book Review- Western Shore by Juliet E. McKenna
July 27th 2007 07:59
Synopsis
Warlord Daish Kheda has been building political alliances, working to consolidate power over his new realm. Although he has saved his people from the twin evils of wizardry and dragons, he feels tainted by association with forbidden magic and fears he may bring great ill-fortune to his people. So Kheda resolves to once more join his Northern wizard allies in the hope of removing the dragon threat once and for all, and to seek whatever purification he can find. Only time can tell whether he will be condemned for his actions, or whether magic is less a sin than he was brought up to believe... He tells his son in secret that he may not return, and sets his face to the future. (net sourced)
This is book three out of a series of four and I must admit to being pretty excited when I saw it on the shelf at the local library. I have read the previous two, Southern Fire and Northern Storm over the last couple of years and quickly settled down to start reading. Its nice to follow such a well written series as you get to see how the characters grow and change through time and also the challenges they face.
Speaking of characters, Juliet has created very likeable and interesting characters that you take an interest in and care about. Each character is fresh and unique and even the minor ones, such as slaves or villagers are people that you remember. The attention to detail is just outstanding, ranging from the knowledge of plants, healing, signs and portents Kheda has, to styles of lore, magic and dragons that are part of the plotline.
Yes I did mention dragons and these are ones with a difference and the story is all the better for it although I won't say too much more as wouldn't want to spoil anyones enjoyment. (The black dragon is a bit a sly sneaky one though)
Its nice to see that using magic does have a price, as I have read too many books in the past where magic is used without no consequences to be paid. Well in this series, there are always consequences of actions, with the the ever present question of has it been worth it?
The politics, intrigue and constant problems this causes Kheda is again so well written, I can't say more than that.
Overall, an amazing piece of work and well worth your time reading the entire series, a must buy for the bookshelf of any collector of really good fantasy.
Book 1
Book 2
Book 4
I will now have to hunt out book 4 so I can find out what happens to Kheda, Risala, Velindre and Naldeth. Also have to say what a fantastic cover design too.
kiwiauthor rating 9/10 (books 1-3)
Heath
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