This is a giant 3 in 1 collection of novels in the Dread Empire series. Once you realize it is actually 3 different novels, this makes more sense, as Part 1 introduces a character that gets almost completely forgotten in book 2, and is a role player in book 3.
If you are familiar with Glen Cook, then you will be familiar with this style of fantasy novel. Gritty, realistic politics and warfare at the 'low fantasy' level, with a mix of individual and army action, but where heroic figures play a role in both. Wizardry, armies and politics mix to make a sometimes confusing mess of plot, but it all flows together at the end. Getting to that end can sometimes be slow, especially when politics takes over, but the military sections of the book are really excellent. Don't expect the story to be over at the end of this book though, it isn't. ( )

A Cruel Wind is an omnibus edition of The Dream Empire trilogy, detailing the growing conflict between East and West in this particular secondary world - but focusing more on characters in the latter. Armies clash, wizards plot, assassins and monsters abound, along with other strangeness. Very consistent in quality.

This Night Shade webscription is a fantastic deal, for a 3-in-1.

A Shadow Of All Night Falling

The first Dream Empire books focuses heavily on Nepanthe and The Mocker - or whatever he wanted to call himself at the time - and their relationship.

Also the wizard Varthlokkur and his desire for the same woman.

One odd trickster-thief character, one noble, one wizard. Then the conflict that swirls around them with figures like Haroun and Ragnarson and others being introduced - and the strange, like the Star Rider.

It culminates in a different sort of bloody ending.

3.5 out of 5

October's Baby

A higher level story than the first book, if you like, as Ragnarson and friends go from low level positions to being influential leaders in major military and political roles.

Details the conflict between those opposed to, and with elements of the Dread Empire - which has its own pair of antagonistic leaders pulling it in two directions.

3.5 out of 5

All Darkness Met

Ragnarson and friends are older - and this novel starts with him finally tracking down the Mocker, and inviting him to the annual celebration, because he has a job for him.

Tensions exist in local and international politics amongst the allies.

Then there's the Dread Empire.

When assassins come calling for Ragnarson's family, he decides to act, and these actions lead to lots and lots of war, including the biggest battle they have seen.

Wizards lob powers and monsters at each other, armies slaughter each other, and not sure if anyone knows what the Star Rider is actually up to.

The best of this Dread Empire trilogy.

3.5 out of 5

4.5 out of 5

http://notfreesf.blogspot.com/2009/02... ( )