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The Paladins #2
Clash of Faiths
Stripped of his power, and branded a renegade by his Order, Darius seeks a way to prove his god is not the bloodthirsty deity his fellows have created. Meanwhile Jerico takes refuge with a band of rebels as Dark Paladins scour Dezrel seeking to claim his life, and the lives of all who would help him. As the silent war rages, their faith is tested, and one will succumb to the promises of a prophet who has lived for centuries...
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 26, 2011
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
David Dalglish writes what I want to read. He’s listed as a fantasy author, and his books take place in a world that includes magic, orcs, wolf-men, paladins, knights, and ancient gods, but that’s only the surface of what’s happening. I look at Dalglish’s work like this – whimsical explorations of modern-day themes and issues that both entertain and force the reader to examine what goes on in the real world around them.
Clash of Faiths, the second book in his Paladins series, is no different. It continues the story of Jerico and Darius, the paladins of Ashhur and Karak, respectively, and their struggles in the time after the attempted wolf-man invasion of Durham. Jerico finds himself up north, prisoner of a man named Kaide, who is heading up a people’s rebellion against the brutal Lord Hemman. It might not be the best of situations to be in, but at least he’s hidden from the legions of Karak who are hunting him, those who’ve recently destroyed the Citadel, leaving Jerico as possibly the last of his kind. All the while Darius is stumbling about all by his lonesome, getting into trouble and being an overall grouchypants after his run-in with Velixar, Karak’s prophet. And Velixar isn’t done with him…not in the slightest. It is the Big V’s principal goal to lead Darius back to his faith – or the Dark Side, if you will.
The story plays out in equally distributed parts, flipping from Jerico to Darius and back again, paralleling their respective struggles and demonstrating just the types of people these two faithful men are. Jerico joins forces with Kaide (who is actually one of my favorite characters Dalglish has ever created; a living, breathing, gray area of a concept) against Lord Sebastian Hemman, while Darius ends up being thrown in prison by said Lord, for the sin of not being faithful enough to Karak’s cause, even though Darius is constantly professing his love of the deity…and believing every word of it. It is there, while in prison, that Velixar comes to him once again, therefore setting the stage for the rest of the tale to play out.
The story climaxes in a final battle between Hemman’s men and Kaide’s army of farmers and merchants. Unlike most episodes of warfare in Dalglish’s novels, this one is brisk, taking up only perhaps a tenth of the text. Why is that? Because the fighting, while intriguing, isn’t the point of the book. It only serves as a metaphor for the war raging inside Darius’s head – can he love his friend even after all he’s been through, what constitutes righteousness in a faith that preaches order and conquest above adoration, and which system of belief is right, which is wrong, and does it even matter if he chooses one over the other?
This is what makes Dalglish’s books so special to me – those posed questions. And finally, we have the order of Karak shown to be what I’ve long suspected it is – a religious cult that uses suppression and mind control to grow its following. One might ask, but why would someone willingly join a cult like that? The answer is quite simple, given the context of the world it exists in: there is safety in power, in influence, and Karak offers that. The deity promises protection (and a lack of decapitation) to those who follow, while those who don’t are doomed to a lifetime of pain and flight from an aggressive enemy. Add to that the fact that the concepts of order and self-control are the tenets of the faith, and one could understand how an individual who feels unstable could look at the order as a way to heal the fractured parts within them. There are many similar cults, such as Scientology, in the world today that do much of the same. They rely on coercion and peoples’ inherent insecurities to draw them in, promising solutions to the ills of their lives, and then instill the members with an us-against-the-world mentality. If you’re not for us, you’re against us, to the extreme. It is these elements that make Dalglish’s books that much more important, not to mention insightful, than many other works of fiction.
To counterbalance Karak’s aggressive, neo-fascist nature, we have followers of Ashhur, the passive, loving god. When I first started reading these novels, I always took Ashhur to be a representation of Christianity – which I’m sure the author intended. However, the more I read, the more I realize that this is not entirely the case. In fact, you can look at it like this: Ashhur’s teachings are the manifestation of all that is good in spiritual belief; the care for others, the virtue of forgiveness, the living of life with the sole aim of being the best individual you can be. It’s an inclusive system of belief, one in which all people, even those who don’t believe, are treated as equals. Unlike the history of Christianity, Ashhur’s followers don’t actively seek to convert the people, only to show how much they care, saying that if you ever need a place to stay, a steadying hand to lead the way, someone to heal your sore and tired bones, we’ll be here with no strings attached. In other words, everyone has a chance at salvation, whether they buy into the dogma or not. And Jerico embodies this. He treats every person he meets with the same amount of respect until they prove a danger. This is also the reason why Darius has a very difficult time understanding his friend’s actions: to the dark paladin, existence is a series of trials, of sacrifices, both mentally and physically, to a demanding god. The mere concept of something like forgiveness, or even pity, are lost on him, at least on the surface. But once he dives a little deeper, he has the potential to learn that not only is he capable of changing, of becoming something other than the stormtrooper of death he is, but all people are. And that, my friends, is a beautiful thing.
I’ve gone on a bit of a tangent here, and I’m sure this sounds more like a term paper than a review, but I felt this book deserved to be broken down in this way. Every word written down means something ¬– each line of dialogue, each description, each instance of cruelty or kindness. That being said, the only thing I didn’t like about Clash of Faiths was the very end of the book. After so much flowing prose and inner turmoil, it seemed that suddenly everything happens too quickly, especially Darius’s character development. I would’ve liked some more exposition, more scenes of him questioning his faith and coming to grips with the possibility that what he’s always believed may be a lie. But that didn’t happen, and in a way that’s a shame. Darius and Jerico, and their relationship as brothers-in-spirit, deserved it.
That being said, this is still a wonderful book. It more than adds to the canon of David Dalglish’s work – it creates a template for the beliefs of the world that I’m sure will be carried on in volumes to come. The scenes that built upon what we already know about the characters were wonderful. And Velixar? Let’s just say he’s deliciously evil, and whenever he appears on the page, that scene becomes his. Also, one thing the ending did get right was introduce us to a new, potentially lethal villain, one that I’m sure will appear in the next book and wreck all sorts of ungodly havoc. Just that has me excited to continue.
In closing, Clash of Faiths is well worth a read, for both fans of Dalglish and those new to his work. It’s filled with important questions and shrewd observations of the world at large, and it is an improvement on the previous book in the series. I seriously can’t give the author any more props than to say I’m a fan for life, that everything he does strikes me where it counts, and it is always a joy to read what he puts on paper. To me he is the best fantasy author of his generation, the Stephen King of the sword-and-sorcery genre who transcends the normal tropes, and even when there are things I think can be improved, what he puts out there is second to absolutely no one.
Seriously.
Plot – 10
Characters - 10
Voice - 10
Execution - 7
Personal Enjoyment – 9
Overall – 46/50 (4.6/5)
David Dalglish writes what I want to read. He’s listed as a fantasy author, and his books take place in a world that includes magic, orcs, wolf-men, paladins, knights, and ancient gods, but that’s only the surface of what’s happening. I look at Dalglish’s work like this – whimsical explorations of modern-day themes and issues that both entertain and force the reader to examine what goes on in the real world around them.
Clash of Faiths, the second book in his Paladins series, is no different. It continues the story of Jerico and Darius, the paladins of Ashhur and Karak, respectively, and their struggles in the time after the attempted wolf-man invasion of Durham. Jerico finds himself up north, prisoner of a man named Kaide, who is heading up a people’s rebellion against the brutal Lord Hemman. It might not be the best of situations to be in, but at least he’s hidden from the legions of Karak who are hunting him, those who’ve recently destroyed the Citadel, leaving Jerico as possibly the last of his kind. All the while Darius is stumbling about all by his lonesome, getting into trouble and being an overall grouchypants after his run-in with Velixar, Karak’s prophet. And Velixar isn’t done with him…not in the slightest. It is the Big V’s principal goal to lead Darius back to his faith – or the Dark Side, if you will.
The story plays out in equally distributed parts, flipping from Jerico to Darius and back again, paralleling their respective struggles and demonstrating just the types of people these two faithful men are. Jerico joins forces with Kaide (who is actually one of my favorite characters Dalglish has ever created; a living, breathing, gray area of a concept) against Lord Sebastian Hemman, while Darius ends up being thrown in prison by said Lord, for the sin of not being faithful enough to Karak’s cause, even though Darius is constantly professing his love of the deity…and believing every word of it. It is there, while in prison, that Velixar comes to him once again, therefore setting the stage for the rest of the tale to play out.
The story climaxes in a final battle between Hemman’s men and Kaide’s army of farmers and merchants. Unlike most episodes of warfare in Dalglish’s novels, this one is brisk, taking up only perhaps a tenth of the text. Why is that? Because the fighting, while intriguing, isn’t the point of the book. It only serves as a metaphor for the war raging inside Darius’s head – can he love his friend even after all he’s been through, what constitutes righteousness in a faith that preaches order and conquest above adoration, and which system of belief is right, which is wrong, and does it even matter if he chooses one over the other?
This is what makes Dalglish’s books so special to me – those posed questions. And finally, we have the order of Karak shown to be what I’ve long suspected it is – a religious cult that uses suppression and mind control to grow its following. One might ask, but why would someone willingly join a cult like that? The answer is quite simple, given the context of the world it exists in: there is safety in power, in influence, and Karak offers that. The deity promises protection (and a lack of decapitation) to those who follow, while those who don’t are doomed to a lifetime of pain and flight from an aggressive enemy. Add to that the fact that the concepts of order and self-control are the tenets of the faith, and one could understand how an individual who feels unstable could look at the order as a way to heal the fractured parts within them. There are many similar cults, such as Scientology, in the world today that do much of the same. They rely on coercion and peoples’ inherent insecurities to draw them in, promising solutions to the ills of their lives, and then instill the members with an us-against-the-world mentality. If you’re not for us, you’re against us, to the extreme. It is these elements that make Dalglish’s books that much more important, not to mention insightful, than many other works of fiction.
To counterbalance Karak’s aggressive, neo-fascist nature, we have followers of Ashhur, the passive, loving god. When I first started reading these novels, I always took Ashhur to be a representation of Christianity – which I’m sure the author intended. However, the more I read, the more I realize that this is not entirely the case. In fact, you can look at it like this: Ashhur’s teachings are the manifestation of all that is good in spiritual belief; the care for others, the virtue of forgiveness, the living of life with the sole aim of being the best individual you can be. It’s an inclusive system of belief, one in which all people, even those who don’t believe, are treated as equals. Unlike the history of Christianity, Ashhur’s followers don’t actively seek to convert the people, only to show how much they care, saying that if you ever need a place to stay, a steadying hand to lead the way, someone to heal your sore and tired bones, we’ll be here with no strings attached. In other words, everyone has a chance at salvation, whether they buy into the dogma or not. And Jerico embodies this. He treats every person he meets with the same amount of respect until they prove a danger. This is also the reason why Darius has a very difficult time understanding his friend’s actions: to the dark paladin, existence is a series of trials, of sacrifices, both mentally and physically, to a demanding god. The mere concept of something like forgiveness, or even pity, are lost on him, at least on the surface. But once he dives a little deeper, he has the potential to learn that not only is he capable of changing, of becoming something other than the stormtrooper of death he is, but all people are. And that, my friends, is a beautiful thing.
I’ve gone on a bit of a tangent here, and I’m sure this sounds more like a term paper than a review, but I felt this book deserved to be broken down in this way. Every word written down means something ¬– each line of dialogue, each description, each instance of cruelty or kindness. That being said, the only thing I didn’t like about Clash of Faiths was the very end of the book. After so much flowing prose and inner turmoil, it seemed that suddenly everything happens too quickly, especially Darius’s character development. I would’ve liked some more exposition, more scenes of him questioning his faith and coming to grips with the possibility that what he’s always believed may be a lie. But that didn’t happen, and in a way that’s a shame. Darius and Jerico, and their relationship as brothers-in-spirit, deserved it.
That being said, this is still a wonderful book. It more than adds to the canon of David Dalglish’s work – it creates a template for the beliefs of the world that I’m sure will be carried on in volumes to come. The scenes that built upon what we already know about the characters were wonderful. And Velixar? Let’s just say he’s deliciously evil, and whenever he appears on the page, that scene becomes his. Also, one thing the ending did get right was introduce us to a new, potentially lethal villain, one that I’m sure will appear in the next book and wreck all sorts of ungodly havoc. Just that has me excited to continue.
In closing, Clash of Faiths is well worth a read, for both fans of Dalglish and those new to his work. It’s filled with important questions and shrewd observations of the world at large, and it is an improvement on the previous book in the series. I seriously can’t give the author any more props than to say I’m a fan for life, that everything he does strikes me where it counts, and it is always a joy to read what he puts on paper. To me he is the best fantasy author of his generation, the Stephen King of the sword-and-sorcery genre who transcends the normal tropes, and even when there are things I think can be improved, what he puts out there is second to absolutely no one.
Seriously.
Plot – 10
Characters - 10
Voice - 10
Execution - 7
Personal Enjoyment – 9
Overall – 46/50 (4.6/5)
November 22, 2015
4 Stars
Clash of Faiths, book two in The Paladins series by David Dalglish is a good continuation of both the story from book one, as well as the further adventures of our heroes of opposing faith.
Once again, this book gives us not one but two Paladins, one of the light (Jerico), and one (Darius) sort of the dark (Ashhur and Karak respectively.) They are supposed to be enemies and have both been outcast as a result of their friendship. The story bounces back and forth between the two men and they are both very likable for different reasons. We find our hero Darius to be a broken man without his God, and as a result he is easily swayed by Velixar, the Voice of the Lion.
This book is much less of a discovery type novel than the first. We really do not get much more world building. There is little to no additional backstory told about our main protagonists. These two areas left me wanting. Thankfully, Clash of Faiths shines with regards to readability and fun. Dalglish writes fun adventure type fantasy that leaves me wondering if the dark Elf Drizzt himself will make an appearance on these pages.
I enjoyed this book but book one is the better. I am definitely moving on to the next one as these two Paladins have much more story to tell.
Clash of Faiths, book two in The Paladins series by David Dalglish is a good continuation of both the story from book one, as well as the further adventures of our heroes of opposing faith.
Once again, this book gives us not one but two Paladins, one of the light (Jerico), and one (Darius) sort of the dark (Ashhur and Karak respectively.) They are supposed to be enemies and have both been outcast as a result of their friendship. The story bounces back and forth between the two men and they are both very likable for different reasons. We find our hero Darius to be a broken man without his God, and as a result he is easily swayed by Velixar, the Voice of the Lion.
This book is much less of a discovery type novel than the first. We really do not get much more world building. There is little to no additional backstory told about our main protagonists. These two areas left me wanting. Thankfully, Clash of Faiths shines with regards to readability and fun. Dalglish writes fun adventure type fantasy that leaves me wondering if the dark Elf Drizzt himself will make an appearance on these pages.
I enjoyed this book but book one is the better. I am definitely moving on to the next one as these two Paladins have much more story to tell.
December 23, 2017
This was a fairly good read, though it didn't quite grip my attention as much as the first book did.
There were a number of details that I really enjoyed in this book. The inner conflict of both paladins helped to build them as characters and made them more believable and realistic. It also helped to flesh out the dark god and his goals for the world, and why someone would worship/follow such a dark being. (there is an eerie mirror to some real world ideals) Introducing other rolls within the worship of the dark god also showed how diverse the faith could be, something that you don't see too often in fantasy novels. (where there are clerics and paladins and nothing much else)
Yet, despite all the interesting elements to this story and the inner conflict of both paladins, there just wasn't enough to keep my interest and invest me to the characters. I am still going to continue reading this series, but this one lacked a lot of the action of the first book, and contained a lot more politics, which I will be frank, isn't my cup of tea. But it does set up the rest of the series so we will see what comes with it.
But all in all, this was an okay book and I would recommend anyone interested in paladins should read this series.
There were a number of details that I really enjoyed in this book. The inner conflict of both paladins helped to build them as characters and made them more believable and realistic. It also helped to flesh out the dark god and his goals for the world, and why someone would worship/follow such a dark being. (there is an eerie mirror to some real world ideals) Introducing other rolls within the worship of the dark god also showed how diverse the faith could be, something that you don't see too often in fantasy novels. (where there are clerics and paladins and nothing much else)
Yet, despite all the interesting elements to this story and the inner conflict of both paladins, there just wasn't enough to keep my interest and invest me to the characters. I am still going to continue reading this series, but this one lacked a lot of the action of the first book, and contained a lot more politics, which I will be frank, isn't my cup of tea. But it does set up the rest of the series so we will see what comes with it.
But all in all, this was an okay book and I would recommend anyone interested in paladins should read this series.
February 23, 2024
Utterly engrossed with the world, characters and themes. Albeit cliche in some aspects, I am a sucker for the cliche done right. The gripping nature of Darius against or for his religion in particular has made me truly understand the phrase “The road to hell is paved with good intentions”.
April 26, 2015
"Clash of Faiths" is not a long or particularly complex book, but makes for highly entertaining reading.
As in the first book, the two main protagonists, Jerico and Darius, are good characters. Darius was the more complex in this book, a man struggling with faith and his life choices. He does a few not-so-good things, but I still liked him because of the intensity of his inner conflict. Velixar, the Voice of the Lion, is also super-creepy and interesting.
The action was well-paced and bloody without being unnecessarily gory; unfortunately, there was less action in this book than in "Night of Wolves".
The story expanded it both scope and scenery, although since the book mainly spent time preparing for a rebellion that only started at the very end, it did have a bit of a "set-up" feel rather than a complete story arc. I am still very interested in where the story goes, though.
I guess the best compliment I can give "Clash of Faiths" is that it was better than the JK Rowling book I read just a few months ago ("The Silkworm"), which is not too shabby for a self-published author.
As in the first book, the two main protagonists, Jerico and Darius, are good characters. Darius was the more complex in this book, a man struggling with faith and his life choices. He does a few not-so-good things, but I still liked him because of the intensity of his inner conflict. Velixar, the Voice of the Lion, is also super-creepy and interesting.
The action was well-paced and bloody without being unnecessarily gory; unfortunately, there was less action in this book than in "Night of Wolves".
The story expanded it both scope and scenery, although since the book mainly spent time preparing for a rebellion that only started at the very end, it did have a bit of a "set-up" feel rather than a complete story arc. I am still very interested in where the story goes, though.
I guess the best compliment I can give "Clash of Faiths" is that it was better than the JK Rowling book I read just a few months ago ("The Silkworm"), which is not too shabby for a self-published author.
January 5, 2026
Dalglish builds on the foundation laid in Book 1 with remarkable confidence and precision, deepening the world, sharpening the stakes, and allowing the narrative to grow organically rather than explosively. This is long-form storytelling done right. Methodical, intentional, and deeply rewarding. Each new layer feels earned, reinforcing the sense that Dalglish knows exactly where this story is going and is guiding us there with a steady, assured hand.
What truly elevates this installment is how the plot is used to reveal character. Dalglish doesn’t pause the story to explain motivations. He lets conflict, consequence, and belief do the work. The dual crises of faith faced by the Paladins are especially compelling, mirroring one another while remaining philosophically distinct. The idea of the Church’s two Tenets standing on the brink of holy war is endlessly fascinating, and Dalglish explores it with nuance, restraint, and emotional weight. This isn’t just gods clashing. It’s belief itself being tested, bent, and broken.
And then there are the Grey Sisters. An inspired and unforgettable addition. An all-women assassin order operating in the shadows at the behest of the Dark Paladin priests is not only incredibly cool but thematically perfect. Their presence reinforces the moral decay festering within the Church, especially as its leaders begin acting independently of divine will. That internal fracture, faith versus institution, god versus governance, is where this book truly shines.
Everything that worked in Book 1 is amplified here. Where many authors falter with sequels, Dalglish excels. Each entry strengthens the last, seamlessly setting the stage for what comes next. If this trajectory holds, and Dalglish’s track record suggests it will, this series is headed somewhere devastating, unforgettable, and absolutely magnificent. I’m already dreading the day it ends… because loving a series this much always comes with that bittersweet cost. 😄
What truly elevates this installment is how the plot is used to reveal character. Dalglish doesn’t pause the story to explain motivations. He lets conflict, consequence, and belief do the work. The dual crises of faith faced by the Paladins are especially compelling, mirroring one another while remaining philosophically distinct. The idea of the Church’s two Tenets standing on the brink of holy war is endlessly fascinating, and Dalglish explores it with nuance, restraint, and emotional weight. This isn’t just gods clashing. It’s belief itself being tested, bent, and broken.
And then there are the Grey Sisters. An inspired and unforgettable addition. An all-women assassin order operating in the shadows at the behest of the Dark Paladin priests is not only incredibly cool but thematically perfect. Their presence reinforces the moral decay festering within the Church, especially as its leaders begin acting independently of divine will. That internal fracture, faith versus institution, god versus governance, is where this book truly shines.
Everything that worked in Book 1 is amplified here. Where many authors falter with sequels, Dalglish excels. Each entry strengthens the last, seamlessly setting the stage for what comes next. If this trajectory holds, and Dalglish’s track record suggests it will, this series is headed somewhere devastating, unforgettable, and absolutely magnificent. I’m already dreading the day it ends… because loving a series this much always comes with that bittersweet cost. 😄
January 13, 2025
Not as riveting as the first, but still an awesome read.
Darius, and Jericho are separated while trying to survive the consequences of their actions in book 1.
This book focuses a lot on Darius' struggle with his failing faith; or rather his God Karak's failing faith in him. He endeavors to win back Karak's favor while staying true to his new set of morals brought upon by his friendship with Jericho. It's a great story as Darius is further dragged down into the darkness of Karak's influence until an inevitable breaking point between follower, and God.
Jericho is roped into a revolution of sorts by a group of villagers seeking retribution against an unjust King, and his corrupt knights. This finds Jericho in some ever increasingly challenging situations where he has to balance his own faith to Ashur, and the bleak reality of the world. Despite it all Jericho tries his best to remain steadfast to his own morals, and see the goodness in people; even as they use the ends to justify the means.
Like the first book this one is short & sweet. A palate cleanser of sorts between bigger, longer reads. Like the first book this story moves at a brisk pace, and we get more bits of world lore. With the promise of more of this world of Dezrel he [Dalglish] has created in his other works; I am looking forward not only to continuing this series, but consuming the other series [Breaking world/Shadowdance/Half-Orcs].
Darius, and Jericho are separated while trying to survive the consequences of their actions in book 1.
This book focuses a lot on Darius' struggle with his failing faith; or rather his God Karak's failing faith in him. He endeavors to win back Karak's favor while staying true to his new set of morals brought upon by his friendship with Jericho. It's a great story as Darius is further dragged down into the darkness of Karak's influence until an inevitable breaking point between follower, and God.
Jericho is roped into a revolution of sorts by a group of villagers seeking retribution against an unjust King, and his corrupt knights. This finds Jericho in some ever increasingly challenging situations where he has to balance his own faith to Ashur, and the bleak reality of the world. Despite it all Jericho tries his best to remain steadfast to his own morals, and see the goodness in people; even as they use the ends to justify the means.
Like the first book this one is short & sweet. A palate cleanser of sorts between bigger, longer reads. Like the first book this story moves at a brisk pace, and we get more bits of world lore. With the promise of more of this world of Dezrel he [Dalglish] has created in his other works; I am looking forward not only to continuing this series, but consuming the other series [Breaking world/Shadowdance/Half-Orcs].
July 12, 2019
While I may have marked this as only three stars, I still enjoyed this book quite a bit. There are some rather cliche moments, however, and that's the main reason for the three-star rating. Without ruining the plot, though, I very much enjoyed the political world-building that was going on in this book--leading to some really impressive character building. I've got to say that reading the epilogue was -very- worth it.
If you're looking for something to keep you up at night when you know you ought to be sleeping, this is the book to grab. It will keep you engaged, but isn't too long that you'll end up missing the world for weeks on end--assuming you fall into books and find it hard to re-emerge.
This series, so far, has just been beautifully crafted character-wise, and with this book, more of the world becomes clear. I have yet to read any of the other series' written by this author, though I expect that if I were to do so, I'd find that many of them would add to the world-building experience.
If you're looking for something to keep you up at night when you know you ought to be sleeping, this is the book to grab. It will keep you engaged, but isn't too long that you'll end up missing the world for weeks on end--assuming you fall into books and find it hard to re-emerge.
This series, so far, has just been beautifully crafted character-wise, and with this book, more of the world becomes clear. I have yet to read any of the other series' written by this author, though I expect that if I were to do so, I'd find that many of them would add to the world-building experience.
July 2, 2018
Such a fun read
The book is unpredictable and I love it, not to mention the great combat scenes and just epic ness of the paladins. I love how their faith is not just a one way street, how their devotion must be reciprocated by their deities. Would recommend to any fans of medieval fantasy or anyone looking for a new world with exciting opportunities.
The book is unpredictable and I love it, not to mention the great combat scenes and just epic ness of the paladins. I love how their faith is not just a one way street, how their devotion must be reciprocated by their deities. Would recommend to any fans of medieval fantasy or anyone looking for a new world with exciting opportunities.
May 1, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this series. I love how the characters develop throughout. I may appear generous with my rating but if I read a book or series from start to finish without stopping or complaint then how can I rate it anything but 5 Star. it helps though that this series is set in my preferred genre.
December 17, 2017
Every piece of it was better than the first part. The plot, the storytelling, the choices, the intensity. Really can't wait to read the next one. The shift in the storyline was dramatic but I think the risk was worth it.
April 23, 2020
OMG! This is so emotional!
I LOVE THIS BOOK!
Jerico's love for his fellow paladin is just...it just breaks my heart in pure love and appreciation! I love you Darius! Marry me? Nope. He probably won't. Just let it go then.
Can't wait to finish the series! Highly recommend this book.
I LOVE THIS BOOK!
Jerico's love for his fellow paladin is just...it just breaks my heart in pure love and appreciation! I love you Darius! Marry me? Nope. He probably won't. Just let it go then.
Can't wait to finish the series! Highly recommend this book.
March 22, 2018
Awesome job!
I continued through the paladin story and I have to say I loved it. It’s easy to read. Both good and dark. I lCan’t wait for more!
I continued through the paladin story and I have to say I loved it. It’s easy to read. Both good and dark. I lCan’t wait for more!
November 9, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyed
November 28, 2018
Little down after nr 1. Still tho, interresting development and a light good fantasy read :)
January 26, 2019
What a guilty pleasure. D&D in book form. Well-paced, sufficient depth of theme, and quality action-scene writing.
December 19, 2019
สนุกกว่าเล่มแรก
ดาบสีฟ้าที่ผ่าร่าง the phophet เป็นฉากที่เจ๋งดี
อ่านๆ หยุด ๆ ยังจำเนื้อเรื่องได้ตลอด
ดาบสีฟ้าที่ผ่าร่าง the phophet เป็นฉากที่เจ๋งดี
อ่านๆ หยุด ๆ ยังจำเนื้อเรื่องได้ตลอด
January 25, 2022
I enjoyed book two even better than book one of this series. Further character development and a storyline that progresses a little better.
January 9, 2023
Awesome
I like the good and evil idea. I love the friendship of the characters. Can't wait to read the next book.
I like the good and evil idea. I love the friendship of the characters. Can't wait to read the next book.
February 10, 2025
Riveting
Another good book by Dalglish. His style and approach to story telling is so unique that it makes each book exciting no matter what.
Another good book by Dalglish. His style and approach to story telling is so unique that it makes each book exciting no matter what.
March 15, 2025
I found this story good, but some smaller parts are a bit boring to me. I would not mind to read the next one.
March 28, 2025
love this series
The story line is amazing. I can’t wait to read the next book, as I love Jericho and Darius. Great read!!
The story line is amazing. I can’t wait to read the next book, as I love Jericho and Darius. Great read!!
November 21, 2021
"I still don't know our plan."
"Better you don't. It's not going to work."
#Faith #Friendship #Great Protagonists #new characters ...
The journey continues after Jericho and Darius have parted ways for their purposes. Both have their share of hardships along the way. Only time will tell, where they'll end up. (unpredictable story :D)
My assumptions that Jericho can't fight to kill were shred to pieces, and good it did. I didn't want to watch a protagonist just shielding himself. ---- That said, the friendship of the duo was challenged once more... read more to find out.
I enjoyed the story, hope you'll too. If not for the smartphone game, I may not be invested that much in reading. So very grateful for the author and the game. :D
I can't say this book better than the first in the series, because I believe it's natural to like the second book more, and the same with the books next to this one ; we're all interested in the growth of our protagonist, how many more hardships for him to face.
See you in the next book.
Thank You!
"Better you don't. It's not going to work."
#Faith #Friendship #Great Protagonists #new characters ...
The journey continues after Jericho and Darius have parted ways for their purposes. Both have their share of hardships along the way. Only time will tell, where they'll end up. (unpredictable story :D)
My assumptions that Jericho can't fight to kill were shred to pieces, and good it did. I didn't want to watch a protagonist just shielding himself. ---- That said, the friendship of the duo was challenged once more... read more to find out.
I enjoyed the story, hope you'll too. If not for the smartphone game, I may not be invested that much in reading. So very grateful for the author and the game. :D
I can't say this book better than the first in the series, because I believe it's natural to like the second book more, and the same with the books next to this one ; we're all interested in the growth of our protagonist, how many more hardships for him to face.
See you in the next book.
Thank You!
March 5, 2017
The story goes on, and gets a bit darker. No more funny werewolf lines, instead the story is thrown into a point where the victor's side (the dark paladins) have some inner problems (as much as I could say without spoilers) and their beliefs clash quite hard.
March 17, 2025
As I really enjoyed Night of Wolves, I decided to follow up with this sequel so that I could find out what happens to the protagonists Jerico and Darius after they were able to successfully fend off the wolf invasion. The book has two subplots, the first bring about Jerico and his changing relationship with both resistance and royal powers within the Northern regions, and the second about Darius and his attempt at reconciliation between him and his Dark God he worships called Karak.
Jericos' story is interesting because we get to see him go through a variety of different challenges including capture, significant injury and betrayal whilst learn more about his relationship with his God Ashhur in the process.
Meanwhile what keeps Darius's story interesting is how it retains a sense of mystery even as the lore is expanded on. We see him struggle with his faith with Karak as he is torn between his own conscience and what his religion calls him to do.
Velixinar is a very interesting character in his own right who is able to add momentum, mystery and excitement to the story in a very meaningful way. A powerful, mysterious entity with the ability to singlehandly commit genocide and an unknown relationship to Karak, he continually makes things interesting with his demonstration of awesome power and unknown partially intelllible motivations . Throughout the book, there are also some pretty exciting fight scenes involving unfair odds and uncertain outcomes to look forward too as well.
In terms of critique I would say this entry to the series isn't as strong as the first book as the story lacks the coherence and centralised narrative especially with regards to Jericos time with kaide.
All in all, an exciting storyline with a triumphant cliffhanger ending. Look forward to the next one!
Jericos' story is interesting because we get to see him go through a variety of different challenges including capture, significant injury and betrayal whilst learn more about his relationship with his God Ashhur in the process.
Meanwhile what keeps Darius's story interesting is how it retains a sense of mystery even as the lore is expanded on. We see him struggle with his faith with Karak as he is torn between his own conscience and what his religion calls him to do.
Velixinar is a very interesting character in his own right who is able to add momentum, mystery and excitement to the story in a very meaningful way. A powerful, mysterious entity with the ability to singlehandly commit genocide and an unknown relationship to Karak, he continually makes things interesting with his demonstration of awesome power and unknown partially intelllible motivations . Throughout the book, there are also some pretty exciting fight scenes involving unfair odds and uncertain outcomes to look forward too as well.
In terms of critique I would say this entry to the series isn't as strong as the first book as the story lacks the coherence and centralised narrative especially with regards to Jericos time with kaide.
All in all, an exciting storyline with a triumphant cliffhanger ending. Look forward to the next one!
February 8, 2013
Clash of Faiths is the second book in “The Paladins” series, and it continues the story of Jerico a Paladin for Ashhur, and Darius a Paladin for Karak. This book took on a darker tone as Jerico flees and Darius struggles with his faith.
The Citadel is fallen, the remaining Paladins of Ashhur are hunted and slain, and Darius is caught in a real struggle between what he thinks Karak wants and Darius’ own personal feelings of right and wrong. The more we learn about Karak, he seems to be a bit of a contradiction because his followers demand Order, but it seems like their actions are more closely related to Chaos.
While Darius tries to understand his faith in Karak, Jerico finds himself amidst a group of bandits where he must decide if there is a right or wrong in their struggle with King Sebastian. We learn a lot more about Karak and his followers, but Ashhur still remains a bit of a mystery. Also, I find it strange that Karak has priests, but we haven’t heard any mention of the same for Ashhur.
Overall, I would give this a solid 3.5 stars if allowed. Like the first book, it was better than average, but it still seemed a bit lacking. There is still an odd name or two that seems out-of-place, and I didn’t care for the ending where it seemed like the author hastily skimmed over a complete storyline, which I guess will get picked up in a future book.
The Citadel is fallen, the remaining Paladins of Ashhur are hunted and slain, and Darius is caught in a real struggle between what he thinks Karak wants and Darius’ own personal feelings of right and wrong. The more we learn about Karak, he seems to be a bit of a contradiction because his followers demand Order, but it seems like their actions are more closely related to Chaos.
While Darius tries to understand his faith in Karak, Jerico finds himself amidst a group of bandits where he must decide if there is a right or wrong in their struggle with King Sebastian. We learn a lot more about Karak and his followers, but Ashhur still remains a bit of a mystery. Also, I find it strange that Karak has priests, but we haven’t heard any mention of the same for Ashhur.
Overall, I would give this a solid 3.5 stars if allowed. Like the first book, it was better than average, but it still seemed a bit lacking. There is still an odd name or two that seems out-of-place, and I didn’t care for the ending where it seemed like the author hastily skimmed over a complete storyline, which I guess will get picked up in a future book.
January 2, 2013
Let me start by saying that I'm not really an epic/sword and sorcery fantasy junkie. I started 2012 with the goal of reading as many different genres as I could and hadn't read anything like The Paladins yet, so I gave it a try. I am SO glad I did because I would have missed out BIG TIME.
It is rare that I will buy the next in a series directly after finishing a book, but after finishing Clash of Faiths, I immediately downloaded the next one. I find the conflicts, the morality issues, the friendships...all of it...it's all fascinating to me. I can't say it strongly enough how amazing the story of two unlikely friends is told in this series. Easily one of my top ten favorites.
It is rare that I will buy the next in a series directly after finishing a book, but after finishing Clash of Faiths, I immediately downloaded the next one. I find the conflicts, the morality issues, the friendships...all of it...it's all fascinating to me. I can't say it strongly enough how amazing the story of two unlikely friends is told in this series. Easily one of my top ten favorites.
October 2, 2015
Read this in just a few days - somewhat of a record for me in these modern times. First, let me repeat sentiments from my review of the first Paladin book - Dalgish packs a nice, old school epic fantasy punch in a short amount of space. The book is only 250ish pages long (hence my being able to read it so fast), and avoids being overly complicated. At the same time, a wonderful reminder that you can have fun in fantasy still. A book doesn't need to be 1000 pages long to be enjoyable.
A bit darker than the first book, book 2 sticks with the general formula of dealing with only one major plot line successfully. Enjoy!
A bit darker than the first book, book 2 sticks with the general formula of dealing with only one major plot line successfully. Enjoy!
January 27, 2014
3 stelle
nel primo della serie è la presenza simultanea dei due paladini a rendere vivo il romanzo.
qui sono separati.. e quindi la storia perde in parte potenza.
infatti la scena migliore è il loro incontro alla fine del libro :)
non è ancora chiaro dove vada a parare dalglish: vuole scrivere un heroic fantasy o un epic fantasy?
ci parla delle avventure quotidiane dei due paladini o ci parla di come salveranno il mondo? perchè ancora non si è capito, e ritengo che questa sia una grave pecca in un romanzo
nel primo della serie è la presenza simultanea dei due paladini a rendere vivo il romanzo.
qui sono separati.. e quindi la storia perde in parte potenza.
infatti la scena migliore è il loro incontro alla fine del libro :)
non è ancora chiaro dove vada a parare dalglish: vuole scrivere un heroic fantasy o un epic fantasy?
ci parla delle avventure quotidiane dei due paladini o ci parla di come salveranno il mondo? perchè ancora non si è capito, e ritengo che questa sia una grave pecca in un romanzo
December 3, 2012
I'm going to call Dalglish one of my favorite authors now. I've read 11 of his books thus far and have been impressed to say the least.
This book was a lot of fun to read, the characters are interesting. Dalglish makes you care about them and even if you've read his other books you are still on the edge of your seat to see what happens to them as it happens. The story was fun and gripping, I can't wait to read books 3 & 4!
This book was a lot of fun to read, the characters are interesting. Dalglish makes you care about them and even if you've read his other books you are still on the edge of your seat to see what happens to them as it happens. The story was fun and gripping, I can't wait to read books 3 & 4!
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