Good, but not my favourite book of Kay's. I find that his newer material is really lacking in the development and pacing of his earlier works. There were definitely positive points to this book many of the individual characters are well developed. On the other hand some of the other prominent characters seem to be developed to no purpose. The small meandering side stories of the some of the minor or previously unintroduced characters was a bit annoying. The ending concept of everyone falling in love with someone or the other in a huge rush felt a little contrived as well. I was surprised as Kay is normally one who is not afraid to end on a note other than the fairy tale ending. This is a good read it's just not great and to be fair I am compairing this to his other works which were superb. ( )

Set in The Northlands, a place somewhat akin to medieval Scotland, Wales or Ireland, this is a story of various people's beginnings or ends of their lives. Incorporating strong attributes from past historical cultures (Vikings, Anglo-saxons and Celts all appear and feature strongly) these lands are brutal and fierce.

The characters are, as in most fantasy, all on a mission, either of revenge or redemption, salvation or forgiveness.

There is Bern Thorkellson, punished for his father's crimes and out to find a better place for himself in this hard world. Alun ab Owyn, who has the title of 'heir' thrust upon him when his brother is killed. King Aeldred is desperate for his people to achieve education and a higher learning but has to deal with the threat of invasion and killing among his people.

Within these main characters stories, there are many more, men and women, who are affected by their choices and behaviours as a threat looms over everything that they are all searching for. And then there are the faeries, that watch over this all.

I was engrossed in the stories of the people from the word go, and whilst it read as a Norse legend, I didn't find it dissatisfying at all. Each hero had a flaw, each villain a motive and each person a chance to change what is, or should, be. The faerie elements are beautifully written and the ending both appropriate and well received. I also very much liked the way 'incidental' stories are slotted into the overall narrative, a highly enjoyable touch. The strong female characters were also much appreciated.

Some people have said this isn't his best work but I found it engrossing and compelling. I appreciated the wildness of the setting, the tale that was being told and the people involved in it. If Tigana is supposed to be better, I can't wait to read it as this is already getting my top marks.

In one line: Engrossing fantasy with deep characters, drawing on Norse and Celtic ideas. ( )

What can I say, an exceptionally good book by an author who is consistently good. There's a lot of depth to each of the characters and a wonderful story.

This one is just about perfect. ( )

http://www.piruett.se/2008/12/02/en-b... ( )

A very good story, but perhaps caught up a bit too much in the fact that it is a story. Sometimes it is written as the story were writing itself and the outcome were pre-ordained, but we don't know what it is. Even so, its a well written tale, with very engaging characters. ( )