The Shadow Within

The second in Karen Hancock's "Legends of the Guardian-King" is every bit as good as the first as it continues the tale of Abramm Kalladorne and his efforts to become the man that his god wishes to shape. In this installment he returns to his homeland, there to face political as well as magical battles. We are introduced to a cast of characters that we can empathize with, whether they are good, bad, or neutral. We get to see the struggles these very human people endure, and how they handle them. There is adventure and intrigue, secrets and surprising revelations. Again, I have thoroughly enjoyed the rich detail, the exciting storyline, and the author's solid, engrossing style. My only wish is that the end hadn't come so soon or been so show more abrupt. show less

Plot Summary: What happens, When & Where, Central Characters, Major Conflicts
The saga of Abramm continues, as he returns to his country to reclaim his place as the Guardian King. His brother is not going to give up his regency lightly, however, and the matter of him being a Terstan could bring the wrath of the Maritian (Church) down on him. Abramm's sister is also on her own journey, one that will eventually reunite them and bring her to a better understanding of her brother and his beliefs.
Style Characterisics: Pacing, clarity, structure, narrative devices, etc.
Alternates between Abramm's story and his sisters, with them coming together at the end. I found the sister's story boring at first and wanted to keep getting back to the show more action. Plenty of battling shadow-spawn, bad guys, and inner temptations about. Oh, and a love interest for Abramm that he spurns at first.
How Good is it?
Wonderful swashbuckling actions, bogs down in a few places. show less