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The Coldfire Trilogy #1-3

The Coldfire Trilogy: Black Sun Rising/ When True Night Falls/ Crown of Shadows

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Fantasy

First published January 1, 2002

5 people are currently reading
350 people want to read

About the author

C.S. Friedman

49 books1,276 followers
Celia S. Friedman is a science fiction and fantasy author. She has also been credited Celia S. Friedman and Celia Friedman.

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5 stars
223 (67%)
4 stars
82 (24%)
3 stars
19 (5%)
2 stars
7 (2%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
Profile Image for Cat Noe.
430 reviews21 followers
June 9, 2016
One more suggestion from a friend, this came with the claim that it contained one of the best dark characters in the world of fiction. I suppose that's more or less true. The world itself is extremely fun, good concept, well-constructed.

I have to rate this as a set; it's difficult to read any other way. The first half of the first book drags, but once you get through the initial setup, it pulls you right in, and becomes next to impossible to put down. More than worth the effort of surviving the first chapters.
13 reviews
February 1, 2021
It was after starting the Game of Thrones that I had given up on multiple book series. I got into the fourth book, and it was just too much battle, gore, and names. Then last year I rediscovered libraries (just in time for them to close!), and got directed to the Erikson books of the Malazan Empire. I also was rummaging in the attic, and found the Coldfire Trilogy, which I had never read.

I think that C S Friedman has done a wonderful job of a new premise that she carries through very well. The protagonists are developed, and supported in their quest by a good ensemble. She has some twists along the way, but nothing to jar one loose from the story. And as I have gotten older, I find I prefer works that do not have a bleak and dismal end.

This trilogy was most enjoyable, and I recommend.
Profile Image for Troy.
14 reviews
February 16, 2023
The Coldfire Trilogy by C.S. Friedman is a gripping, dark and thought-provoking series that explores the complex relationship between magic and technology. The world-building is expertly crafted and filled with vivid, imaginative details that draw the reader in from the very first page. The main characters are well-developed, multi-dimensional, and engage the reader with their struggles, triumphs and personal journeys.

The first book, "Black Sun Rising", sets the stage for the story and introduces the reader to a world where magic and technology co-exist in a delicate balance. The protagonist, Damien Vryce, is a brilliant and morally conflicted mage who finds himself caught up in a conflict between the ruling church and a powerful technomancer. The plot is fast-paced and filled with unexpected twists and turns, making it impossible to put down.

In the second book, "When True Night Falls", the story delves deeper into the world of magic and technology, exploring the ethical and moral implications of their use. The character development continues, and the relationships between the main characters are further explored, adding depth and richness to the story.

The final book, "Crown of Shadows", brings the story to a climactic and satisfying conclusion, tying together all the threads of the story and providing answers to the many questions raised throughout the series. The ending is both surprising and emotionally impactful, leaving the reader with a sense of closure and satisfaction.

In conclusion, the Coldfire Trilogy is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and science fiction. C.S. Friedman has created a rich and imaginative world, filled with memorable characters and a compelling story that will keep the reader engaged from start to finish. Whether you're a fan of magic, technology, or just a good story, this series is sure to captivate and enthrall.
Profile Image for Paul Russell.
31 reviews2 followers
March 20, 2017
I have very much enjoyed the first book, and so far, the second but have not yet finished. Friedman is a wonderful writer, and this series thus far is one of my favorite things she's done.
Profile Image for LOL_BOOKS.
2,817 reviews54 followers
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June 3, 2016
I HAVE LOTS OF BOOK FEELS RIGHT NOW BUT I'M LOL LATEST.

LOL THE COLDFIRE TRILOGY. IHNI HOW I DIDN'T READ IT BEFORE, IT'S EVERYTHING IL. ONE OF THE BEST ENEMIES TO FRANDS ARCS I'VE EVER READ, THAT SCIFI/FANTASY THING WHERE THEY GO TO AN ALIEN WORLD WHERE THERE SEEMS TO BE MAGIC AND A RLY FUN MADE UP RELIGION.
Profile Image for James Maxon.
Author 9 books43 followers
June 21, 2011
A dark read with a tint of light. Some very good imagery regarding the presence of a spiritual world.
11 reviews1 follower
July 28, 2012
Love, love, love this trilogy! Got very involved with the characters.
Profile Image for David.
7 reviews
October 24, 2012
What a novel and interesting view of magic and the supernatural. The methodology is very unique and thought provoking.
12 reviews
November 6, 2012
If you are a fantasy fan, then you must read this series!
Profile Image for Evan.
167 reviews12 followers
July 3, 2014
Without a doubt, one of the best trilogies I have ever read. Quite possibly the best, in fact.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews

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