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Widdershins Adventures #2
False Covenant
It’s been over half a year, now, since the brutal murder of Archbishop William de Laurent during his pilgrimage to the Galicien city of Davillon. During that time, the Church of the Hallowed Pact has assigned a new bishop to the city—but it has also made its displeasure at the death of its clergyman quite clear. Davillon’s economy has suffered beneath the weight of the Church’s displeasure. Much of the populace—angry at the clergy— has turned away from the Church hierarchy, choosing private worship or small, independent shrines. And the bishop, concerned for his new position and angry at the people of Davillon, plans to do something about it.
But a supernatural threat is stalking the nighttime streets—a creature of the other world has come to infiltrate the seedier streets of Davillon, to intertwine its tendrils through the lower echelons of society. Faced with both political upheaval and a supernatural threat to its citizenry, the local representatives of the Church are paralyzed and the Guardsmen are in over their heads.
And then there’s Widdershins--who’s tried, and failed, to stay out of trouble since taking over Genevieve’s tavern; who’s known to the Church and the Guard both, and trusted by neither; who may, with some of her Thieves’ Guild contacts, have unwittingly played a part in the bishop’s plans; and who, along with her personal god Olgun, may be the only real threat to the supernatural evil infesting Davillon.
But a supernatural threat is stalking the nighttime streets—a creature of the other world has come to infiltrate the seedier streets of Davillon, to intertwine its tendrils through the lower echelons of society. Faced with both political upheaval and a supernatural threat to its citizenry, the local representatives of the Church are paralyzed and the Guardsmen are in over their heads.
And then there’s Widdershins--who’s tried, and failed, to stay out of trouble since taking over Genevieve’s tavern; who’s known to the Church and the Guard both, and trusted by neither; who may, with some of her Thieves’ Guild contacts, have unwittingly played a part in the bishop’s plans; and who, along with her personal god Olgun, may be the only real threat to the supernatural evil infesting Davillon.
281 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
33 people are currently reading
1230 people want to read
About the author
Ari Marmell
101 books436 followersWhen Ari Marmell has free time left over between feeding cats and posting on social media, he writes a little bit. His work includes novels, short stories, role-playing games, and video games, all of which he enjoyed in lieu of school work when growing up. He’s the author of the Mick Oberon gangland/urban fantasy series, the Widdershins YA fantasy series, and many others, with publishers such as Del Rey, Titan Books, Pyr Books, Wizards of the Coast, and now Omnium Gatherum.
Ari currently resides in Austin, Texas. He lives in a clutter that has a moderate amount of apartment in it, along with George—his wife—and the aforementioned cats, who probably want something.
Ari currently resides in Austin, Texas. He lives in a clutter that has a moderate amount of apartment in it, along with George—his wife—and the aforementioned cats, who probably want something.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
November 21, 2015
This second instalment in the Widdershins Adventures series was of a similar quality to the first. Which means it was fast paced and fun! That said, I'm no longer sure I'd call this a light fantasy series. It is full of humor and action, but has plenty of dark happenings.
Widdershins is laying low after the devastating events at the end of the first book. She is trying her best to run Genevieve’s tavern, but it is not going particularly well. The economy has taken a severe downward turn in Davillon due to the indirect economic sanctions being imposed by the Church, who are unhappy with the murder of the archbishop.
Davillon has supernatural as well as economic problems as a nightmare creature from fairy tales starts terrorising the citizens. Before too long the terrorising escalates into brutal murders and Widdershins and Olgen seem the only people capable of dealing with the creature! Just to complicate things further a noble from Widdershins past returns to the city, at the worst possible moment, seeking vengeance for a past wrong.
The story was fast paced and fun. Widdershins was her usual smart talking, ass-kicking self. Most of the secondary characters from the first book were back and as likeable as ever.
The ending was as shocking and impactfull as that of the first book! I'm eager to see where the third book will take Widdershins.
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: I listened to the Graphic Audio version of this and it was very well done.
Widdershins is laying low after the devastating events at the end of the first book. She is trying her best to run Genevieve’s tavern, but it is not going particularly well. The economy has taken a severe downward turn in Davillon due to the indirect economic sanctions being imposed by the Church, who are unhappy with the murder of the archbishop.
Davillon has supernatural as well as economic problems as a nightmare creature from fairy tales starts terrorising the citizens. Before too long the terrorising escalates into brutal murders and Widdershins and Olgen seem the only people capable of dealing with the creature! Just to complicate things further a noble from Widdershins past returns to the city, at the worst possible moment, seeking vengeance for a past wrong.
The story was fast paced and fun. Widdershins was her usual smart talking, ass-kicking self. Most of the secondary characters from the first book were back and as likeable as ever.
The ending was as shocking and impactfull as that of the first book! I'm eager to see where the third book will take Widdershins.
Rating: 3.5 stars.
Audio Note: I listened to the Graphic Audio version of this and it was very well done.
July 17, 2014
Yes, I gave it 5 stars, but still, Damn.This.Book. because:
-that twist near the end was just -- ugh, nevermind, I don't want to talk about it!
-the next book is not out yet. Where the hell is it? I need to know what happens next!
I loved this book even more than the first one, and I liked the first one a lot. The story is excellently paced with enough action and adventure to appease even the most impatient reader. Also, in comparison to the first book, I found a vast improvement in the character development, in particular, I liked Widdershins a lot more in this sequel. In Thief's Covenant she had that spunkiness that, yeah, was cute and all but to me bordered on childish a lot of the time. Not to say that she's changed so much here that she's no longer our familiar sassy thief, rather, I was just able to take her more seriously this time around and was very happy with the result. I also liked that we got to know the supporting characters on a less superficial level, especially Robin and Julien.
so, in conclusion...where the hell is the next book? I read this one as soon as it came out, which feels like a really long time ago and -- oh, and I just checked and oops, it was only last summer. but whatever, I want the next book already! Highly recommend this series.
-that twist near the end was just -- ugh, nevermind, I don't want to talk about it!
-the next book is not out yet. Where the hell is it? I need to know what happens next!
I loved this book even more than the first one, and I liked the first one a lot. The story is excellently paced with enough action and adventure to appease even the most impatient reader. Also, in comparison to the first book, I found a vast improvement in the character development, in particular, I liked Widdershins a lot more in this sequel. In Thief's Covenant she had that spunkiness that, yeah, was cute and all but to me bordered on childish a lot of the time. Not to say that she's changed so much here that she's no longer our familiar sassy thief, rather, I was just able to take her more seriously this time around and was very happy with the result. I also liked that we got to know the supporting characters on a less superficial level, especially Robin and Julien.
so, in conclusion...where the hell is the next book? I read this one as soon as it came out, which feels like a really long time ago and -- oh, and I just checked and oops, it was only last summer. but whatever, I want the next book already! Highly recommend this series.
November 14, 2013
4.5 stars at The BiblioSanctum http://bibliosanctum.blogspot.com/201...
First let me begin this review by stating how much I liked the first book of the Widdershins Adventures series, Thief's Covenant. That, however, still left me quite unprepared for how much I enjoyed this book, its follow-up. To be honest, I'm still reeling from the ending, and feeling not just a little bit heartbroken, but only because of how the story impacted me so emphatically. A book that makes me feel like this, even if it's like a punch in the gut, surely deserves my admiration and compliments!
But more on that later, after I revel in how much fun it was to return to Davillon, catching up with Widdershins and her friends. The events of the last book have not left our protagonist in a very good place, however. The guilt over the deaths of two people close to her still weighs on her conscience, and she has taken to thieving again in order to support the beloved tavern she inherited. The minor god Olgun, whose worshipper-base consists of only Widdershins, is still a constant presence in her life, enhancing her abilities to sneak and steal.
Then, reports start coming in about a creature of nightmare stalking the streets. At first, no one is hurt, but soon the attacks turn deadly. The city guard are baffled and are in way over their heads. And as much as Widdershins would like to stay out of it, trouble always ends up finding her. Drawn into a battle against a supernatural terror, she must use all her wits to save her friends and Davillon against the greatest threat the city has ever faced.
That I liked this book more than the first one is probably an accurate assessment. Don't get me wrong, Thief's Covenant was no slouch, but there were some slow parts I had to get through before I started warming up to it. I guess one advantage of subsequent books in a series is that the story can start right away, without having to go through all the motions of explaining background or character history. Unlike my experience with the first book, I was drawn in by False Covenant almost as soon as I started.
Also, I think I remember calling this a "cute" series. Time for me to re-evaluate that, perhaps. Not that there aren't a lot of light moments in these books; I still find lots to laugh about, especially in Widdershin's fiery and impulsive personality, not to mention her humorous banter with Olgun. Once again, Ari Marmell does a fantastic job pulling off their strange relationship as well as the their conversations that to all outward appearances seem one-sided. I don't think I'll ever get tired of those scenes, which are an endless source of entertainment!
However, there's a darkness to this series as well, which I'm just now starting to fully realize and appreciate. False Covenant strikes a good balance between that and the lightness, injecting mystery and even a bit of horror into the story. I found myself downright creeped out at times. This second book really raises the stakes, taking things to the next level and keeping you on your toes because you never know what might happen next. Ari Marmell doesn't pull any punches here.
Speaking of which, the ending. Ugh. It's hard merely thinking about it let alone having to write about it, which is just as well because I wouldn't want to spoil anything. Definitely, the characterization has gotten a lot better, and I feel a connection to Widdershins, feeling as she does about the other characters around her whether they are friend, foe, or not-sure-which. The book keeps you guessing, while still developing those character relationships and even some romance. It was all very engaging, which is why I find myself now still feeling so stunned. Those final scenes were phenomenally well done and suspenseful, and the way things ended was totally unexpected.
This seems to be one of those series that gets better the more I read. I'm so glad I caught up in time for the third book coming out in December, because now I can't wait to see what comes next.
First let me begin this review by stating how much I liked the first book of the Widdershins Adventures series, Thief's Covenant. That, however, still left me quite unprepared for how much I enjoyed this book, its follow-up. To be honest, I'm still reeling from the ending, and feeling not just a little bit heartbroken, but only because of how the story impacted me so emphatically. A book that makes me feel like this, even if it's like a punch in the gut, surely deserves my admiration and compliments!
But more on that later, after I revel in how much fun it was to return to Davillon, catching up with Widdershins and her friends. The events of the last book have not left our protagonist in a very good place, however. The guilt over the deaths of two people close to her still weighs on her conscience, and she has taken to thieving again in order to support the beloved tavern she inherited. The minor god Olgun, whose worshipper-base consists of only Widdershins, is still a constant presence in her life, enhancing her abilities to sneak and steal.
Then, reports start coming in about a creature of nightmare stalking the streets. At first, no one is hurt, but soon the attacks turn deadly. The city guard are baffled and are in way over their heads. And as much as Widdershins would like to stay out of it, trouble always ends up finding her. Drawn into a battle against a supernatural terror, she must use all her wits to save her friends and Davillon against the greatest threat the city has ever faced.
That I liked this book more than the first one is probably an accurate assessment. Don't get me wrong, Thief's Covenant was no slouch, but there were some slow parts I had to get through before I started warming up to it. I guess one advantage of subsequent books in a series is that the story can start right away, without having to go through all the motions of explaining background or character history. Unlike my experience with the first book, I was drawn in by False Covenant almost as soon as I started.
Also, I think I remember calling this a "cute" series. Time for me to re-evaluate that, perhaps. Not that there aren't a lot of light moments in these books; I still find lots to laugh about, especially in Widdershin's fiery and impulsive personality, not to mention her humorous banter with Olgun. Once again, Ari Marmell does a fantastic job pulling off their strange relationship as well as the their conversations that to all outward appearances seem one-sided. I don't think I'll ever get tired of those scenes, which are an endless source of entertainment!
However, there's a darkness to this series as well, which I'm just now starting to fully realize and appreciate. False Covenant strikes a good balance between that and the lightness, injecting mystery and even a bit of horror into the story. I found myself downright creeped out at times. This second book really raises the stakes, taking things to the next level and keeping you on your toes because you never know what might happen next. Ari Marmell doesn't pull any punches here.
Speaking of which, the ending. Ugh. It's hard merely thinking about it let alone having to write about it, which is just as well because I wouldn't want to spoil anything. Definitely, the characterization has gotten a lot better, and I feel a connection to Widdershins, feeling as she does about the other characters around her whether they are friend, foe, or not-sure-which. The book keeps you guessing, while still developing those character relationships and even some romance. It was all very engaging, which is why I find myself now still feeling so stunned. Those final scenes were phenomenally well done and suspenseful, and the way things ended was totally unexpected.
This seems to be one of those series that gets better the more I read. I'm so glad I caught up in time for the third book coming out in December, because now I can't wait to see what comes next.
October 22, 2015
This one is much improved over the first in the series as both the problems I had with it were removed (the time jumps) or at least improved (the intrusive authorial voice). I still like Shins as much as I did in the first, and her supporting friends were as strong or stronger here.
You can't really read this one without reading the first (at least, I strongly recommend against), so I'll keep the rest of this short. I liked the story immensely. It was creepy and dark and yet the antagonists had an appropriate amount of gray when push came to shove. I particularly liked that Shins had the chance to get at the human side of at least some of her detractors and her methods in doing so were fantastic.
This is somewhat ameliorated (not in a good way) by how it seems Marmell doesn't know any other kind of love than romantic love. Shins' life is complicated enough without some of her allies twisted by jealousy—particularly as it is pretty clear where Shins' heart lies. I get the admiration. Shins is awesome and you can't help but admire her as you get to know her. But she's also pretty good about not sending mixed signals. So at least some of those feelings should have had time to become stronger and more supportive and start looking for ways to swing towards her obvious happiness in the love that she chose.
Also, I have problems with some of the ending events. I'm not even going to spoiler tag this because it's just too big, but I think Marmell bit off more than his talent could handle. His touch is too light for some of the depth that needed to be there for events as they transpired. I almost admire the attempt but found it too jarring, instead.
Which sounds way worse than the book is. The good stuff was pretty constant and the two things I'm complaining about were occasional and thus didn't affect the rating much. Oh, I went from a four and a half down to rounding up to a four, but the final star rating didn't actually change any. It's a solid fantasy adventure book and one I relished and had a hard time putting down.
You can't really read this one without reading the first (at least, I strongly recommend against), so I'll keep the rest of this short. I liked the story immensely. It was creepy and dark and yet the antagonists had an appropriate amount of gray when push came to shove. I particularly liked that Shins had the chance to get at the human side of at least some of her detractors and her methods in doing so were fantastic.
This is somewhat ameliorated (not in a good way) by how it seems Marmell doesn't know any other kind of love than romantic love. Shins' life is complicated enough without some of her allies twisted by jealousy—particularly as it is pretty clear where Shins' heart lies. I get the admiration. Shins is awesome and you can't help but admire her as you get to know her. But she's also pretty good about not sending mixed signals. So at least some of those feelings should have had time to become stronger and more supportive and start looking for ways to swing towards her obvious happiness in the love that she chose.
Also, I have problems with some of the ending events. I'm not even going to spoiler tag this because it's just too big, but I think Marmell bit off more than his talent could handle. His touch is too light for some of the depth that needed to be there for events as they transpired. I almost admire the attempt but found it too jarring, instead.
Which sounds way worse than the book is. The good stuff was pretty constant and the two things I'm complaining about were occasional and thus didn't affect the rating much. Oh, I went from a four and a half down to rounding up to a four, but the final star rating didn't actually change any. It's a solid fantasy adventure book and one I relished and had a hard time putting down.
November 12, 2015
*** 4.40 ***
This was another very fun and fast read, and I ended up reading all night, trying to not be freaked by the storm which was destroying the trees and roofs around... But the action kept my mind occupied and before I knew it, storm was gone and the sun was creeping up the horizon. ... And the more than 250 pages were done!
This was soooo much creepy fun!!! It still is a YA Fantasy with a kick ass girl protagonists, but this go around the reminiscing is gone and the absence of time jumps has made this book more coherent and easy flowing. The writing is actually better! And the action starts rolling from the get go and does not let up until the end! I honestly enjoyed the heck out of it! And the monster, even if a bit simplistic, was just creepy and goosebumpy!!! If you like your YAF with some kick-ass action, this book is for you!!!
This was another very fun and fast read, and I ended up reading all night, trying to not be freaked by the storm which was destroying the trees and roofs around... But the action kept my mind occupied and before I knew it, storm was gone and the sun was creeping up the horizon. ... And the more than 250 pages were done!
This was soooo much creepy fun!!! It still is a YA Fantasy with a kick ass girl protagonists, but this go around the reminiscing is gone and the absence of time jumps has made this book more coherent and easy flowing. The writing is actually better! And the action starts rolling from the get go and does not let up until the end! I honestly enjoyed the heck out of it! And the monster, even if a bit simplistic, was just creepy and goosebumpy!!! If you like your YAF with some kick-ass action, this book is for you!!!
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August 5, 2015
First of all, I'll give you my actual rating: 3.5 Stars. I would've given it more, but I didn't really like Irouch. And yes, he's esential, but still.
I don't know what to write about. Well... Except that I love Widdershins, or Madeline, or Adrienne. She's soooooooo cool. And badass. Even if it's with Olgun's help.
And Olgun. You. Are. So... (ummmmm)... *bumps head against wall (purposly)* aaaaahhh mazing. Yes, that's it. 'Cause godly is quite obvious.
Anyway, I hope I can read the next books!!
I don't know what to write about. Well... Except that I love Widdershins, or Madeline, or Adrienne. She's soooooooo cool. And badass. Even if it's with Olgun's help.
And Olgun. You. Are. So... (ummmmm)... *bumps head against wall (purposly)* aaaaahhh mazing. Yes, that's it. 'Cause godly is quite obvious.
Anyway, I hope I can read the next books!!
September 23, 2017
WHY MUST MY OTP BE UTTERLY DESTROYED LESS THAN 100 PAGES AFTER THEY FINALLY SORT OF GET TOGETHER
Also, Iruoch is so creepy. I've never had a villain make my skin crawl so much.
Also, Iruoch is so creepy. I've never had a villain make my skin crawl so much.
March 24, 2018
Excellent writing,
Super scary villain, and
A great cast of characters
Honestly, this is so much better and more developed than any of the mainstream fantasy drivel you're reading.
Super scary villain, and
A great cast of characters
Honestly, this is so much better and more developed than any of the mainstream fantasy drivel you're reading.
December 8, 2018
More of the same, good and bad.
World: The world is effortless, there are no info dumps and the world just organically is presented to readers through the eyes of Shins. It is still very much a light version of "Lies of Locke Lamora" a renaissance era France, but it is well done. The setting is nice and the political structure, which is loosely defined is also well done. I wish there was more definition in the supernatural aspect of the book as the power of Olgun and the other Gods is still not really clearly defined.
Story: The banter is amazing, the chemistry between characters also, Marmell is just really good in that regard. The story is a good continuation of the last book and moves the story in a natural progression in the world building. I do like that the start of the book dealt with Shins and her feelings for Gen as I felt that was really rushed in the first book and I was not happy when Gen died, but that was the choice that Marmell made. That being said, something happens again at th end of this book which rings the same bell that book one did and it was rather irksome for me. I know in the post GRRM age we are use to deaths in books but just because you can doesn't mean it really needs to be done always as it gets tedious and becomes an issue. That being said I really enjoyed this new villain and the story behind it, I liked the past coming back to Shins and I like the church aspect of it, I like Marmell pulling character stories to make the story more meaningful, it was a good fun read. The end aside I really enjoyed the book.
Characters: Shins is a really wonderful character. She falls into the archetype of the genre but her personal voice and banter with characters makes this book stand out and is the best thing about this series so far, I just love hearing her speak. The rest of the cast was also well done, with an extension of the last book and it was done well. I really like Julian and the slow boil of the story, yeah...I liked it. The villain was done well, very creepy and easy to follow and just exciting in the action scenes, he did his job. The character relationships are great but I wish Marmell would let them linger more before well ending them, it seems like a waste.
I liked this second book, it still had some problems but I love the dialog a lot.
Onward to the next book!
World: The world is effortless, there are no info dumps and the world just organically is presented to readers through the eyes of Shins. It is still very much a light version of "Lies of Locke Lamora" a renaissance era France, but it is well done. The setting is nice and the political structure, which is loosely defined is also well done. I wish there was more definition in the supernatural aspect of the book as the power of Olgun and the other Gods is still not really clearly defined.
Story: The banter is amazing, the chemistry between characters also, Marmell is just really good in that regard. The story is a good continuation of the last book and moves the story in a natural progression in the world building. I do like that the start of the book dealt with Shins and her feelings for Gen as I felt that was really rushed in the first book and I was not happy when Gen died, but that was the choice that Marmell made. That being said, something happens again at th end of this book which rings the same bell that book one did and it was rather irksome for me. I know in the post GRRM age we are use to deaths in books but just because you can doesn't mean it really needs to be done always as it gets tedious and becomes an issue. That being said I really enjoyed this new villain and the story behind it, I liked the past coming back to Shins and I like the church aspect of it, I like Marmell pulling character stories to make the story more meaningful, it was a good fun read. The end aside I really enjoyed the book.
Characters: Shins is a really wonderful character. She falls into the archetype of the genre but her personal voice and banter with characters makes this book stand out and is the best thing about this series so far, I just love hearing her speak. The rest of the cast was also well done, with an extension of the last book and it was done well. I really like Julian and the slow boil of the story, yeah...I liked it. The villain was done well, very creepy and easy to follow and just exciting in the action scenes, he did his job. The character relationships are great but I wish Marmell would let them linger more before well ending them, it seems like a waste.
I liked this second book, it still had some problems but I love the dialog a lot.
Onward to the next book!
September 13, 2013
This and my other reviews can be found at http://amethystbookwyrm.blogspot.co.uk/
Widdershins is trying to be law abiding tavern owner after the events of Thief’s Covenant. However, a sinister creature is terrorising the city of Davillon and the fate of the city rest on her and her friends. Widdershins just cannot catch a break as everyone is distrustful towards her and Olgun; however I did like how we got to know more about her friends in this one and their feelings towards her. This is a really good book and I cannot wait to get my hands on the next one.
Widdershins is trying to be law abiding tavern owner after the events of Thief’s Covenant. However, a sinister creature is terrorising the city of Davillon and the fate of the city rest on her and her friends. Widdershins just cannot catch a break as everyone is distrustful towards her and Olgun; however I did like how we got to know more about her friends in this one and their feelings towards her. This is a really good book and I cannot wait to get my hands on the next one.
May 10, 2016
False Covenant is a good follow up to Thief's Covenant. I'm knocking half a star off my rating though because of yet another heartbreaking death of a character in this series. I'm not sure how much more of this I can take. I'm going to take a break from this series now and think about whether or not I want to continue.
April 5, 2016
That was an excellent sequel. Everything I had issue with? Gone or a natural part of the novel and plot. Love love lvoed ths. Loved how creepy Iruoch was, loved how snarky and banter-y Widdershins is.. great second novel..
June 3, 2013
Entertaining from the first page to the last! If you already loved the first Widdershins story, you'll certainly love this one! I almost could not stop reading during the last 100 pages. Even if I did not like the outcome at the end, but at some point I was sure something like this would have to happen.
I am pretty much looking forward to the next story!
I am pretty much looking forward to the next story!
May 24, 2014
2.5 stars.
WHY.
WHY THE HECK DID YOU DO THAT?????
WHY.
WHY THE HECK DID YOU DO THAT?????
January 25, 2019
Th villain in this was super creepy, and it was fast paced and entertaining, but I think I need a bit of a break before going on to the next in the series.
May 11, 2012
Our favorite thief and god are back in "False Covenant" - another adventure where the supernatural haunts the streets of Davillon, there's romance in the air, and more shenanigans with the Finders' Guild and the crew at the Witch. With this installment of the series, Marmell takes us to soaring highs and plunging lows and takes the George R R Martin school of fantasy very seriously and reminds us that no character is safe. I loved this volume in the series, and I can't wait for the next one!
Widdershins has grown considerably between the end of book one and the start of book two - when you begin the book, you already get this sense that she's matured, both physically and emotionally. And considering what happened to her over the course of book one, this is a good thing. Her relationship with Olgun seems to have matured as well, and this made for a lot of mental fist-bumping moments for whenever he helped out during a street fight or when trying to dodge Iruoch. She feels more and more like a real girl during the course of this book, and Marmell fills her out very realistically - through grief, love, first crushes and kisses, and of course, lots of thieving shenanigans.
We also see the world expand a little more in this volume to outside of Davillon itself as a city - we know that it's a Galicien city, but up until the end of the book, we don't know much of anything that happens outside of it. The way that Marmell sets this up is heartbreaking, but necessary - we lose a very dear character, but it's only to make Widdershins grow and ready for her for yet another journey to come in book 3. We also see the reach of the Church and the Hallowed Pact, along with the other fables of Davillon literally come to life in the streets. For a tiny god, Olgun seems to attract a lot of trouble, as does Widdershins, and we see that in the world that Marmell expands around us. We see the economic effects of the Church's meddling, and how that trickles down from the very top of the aristocracy down to the poorest urchins on the street. Well done in your worldbuilding, sir.
Now to my favorite part - Marmell once again proves that he's not afraid to kill his darlings in order to get the payoff he wants. And yeah, I'll admit, I did get angry/teary-eyed at the end of this book in terms of the darling he offed. I think a lot of fans of book one will feel the same way by the end of book two, but will also recognize that it was necessary in terms of reinforcing both to Widdershins herself and to us as the audience that no one is safe and anyone can be taken out at anytime. (I call this the George R R Martin School of Fantasy and Worldbuilding.) Sad? Yes. But utterly necessary as the characters and the world itself cannot grow without this sacrifice. You know an author has achieved his goal when you love a character so much you get angry when he dies.
Final verdict? Fans of book one, you simply cannot miss this second one. But beware: there will be a LOT of feelings to deal with at the end of this installment. To newcomers, definitely read book one first, as you might feel more than a bit lost here. "False Covenant" is out in June from Pyr/Prometheus books in North America - definitely not a sequel to miss this year!
(posted to goodreads, shelfari, and birthofanewwitch.wordpress.com)
Widdershins has grown considerably between the end of book one and the start of book two - when you begin the book, you already get this sense that she's matured, both physically and emotionally. And considering what happened to her over the course of book one, this is a good thing. Her relationship with Olgun seems to have matured as well, and this made for a lot of mental fist-bumping moments for whenever he helped out during a street fight or when trying to dodge Iruoch. She feels more and more like a real girl during the course of this book, and Marmell fills her out very realistically - through grief, love, first crushes and kisses, and of course, lots of thieving shenanigans.
We also see the world expand a little more in this volume to outside of Davillon itself as a city - we know that it's a Galicien city, but up until the end of the book, we don't know much of anything that happens outside of it. The way that Marmell sets this up is heartbreaking, but necessary - we lose a very dear character, but it's only to make Widdershins grow and ready for her for yet another journey to come in book 3. We also see the reach of the Church and the Hallowed Pact, along with the other fables of Davillon literally come to life in the streets. For a tiny god, Olgun seems to attract a lot of trouble, as does Widdershins, and we see that in the world that Marmell expands around us. We see the economic effects of the Church's meddling, and how that trickles down from the very top of the aristocracy down to the poorest urchins on the street. Well done in your worldbuilding, sir.
Now to my favorite part - Marmell once again proves that he's not afraid to kill his darlings in order to get the payoff he wants. And yeah, I'll admit, I did get angry/teary-eyed at the end of this book in terms of the darling he offed. I think a lot of fans of book one will feel the same way by the end of book two, but will also recognize that it was necessary in terms of reinforcing both to Widdershins herself and to us as the audience that no one is safe and anyone can be taken out at anytime. (I call this the George R R Martin School of Fantasy and Worldbuilding.) Sad? Yes. But utterly necessary as the characters and the world itself cannot grow without this sacrifice. You know an author has achieved his goal when you love a character so much you get angry when he dies.
Final verdict? Fans of book one, you simply cannot miss this second one. But beware: there will be a LOT of feelings to deal with at the end of this installment. To newcomers, definitely read book one first, as you might feel more than a bit lost here. "False Covenant" is out in June from Pyr/Prometheus books in North America - definitely not a sequel to miss this year!
(posted to goodreads, shelfari, and birthofanewwitch.wordpress.com)
December 17, 2014
After really enjoying the way gods were presented in Thief's Covenant, I was excited to continue learning about them in False Covenant. Based on the blurb it seemed like the focus would be even more on the occult side of the the world, and I certainly wasn't disappointed on that front! A dark, shadowy figure is terrorizing the people of Davillon, but oddly no one is killed or even injured. That's because it's just a ruse set up by the new bishop in order to turn the people back to the Church. However, an actual dark, shadowy figure appears and that one has no qualms about killing anyone and everyone, including young children. Of course, Widdershins has a run in with this creature and is soon falsely linked to it. Now she has to prove her innocence while also trying to stop this horrific being before it strikes again.
So I thought that the demon in the first book was disturbing, but really, that one has nothing on the monster stalking the citizens of Davillon in False Covenant. No one knows exactly what he/it is, so they call him/it Iruoch, after a common children's tale. Iruoch is manlike but with gaunt features and fingers like spider legs. It also sucks people dry. The monster also seems to be followed by a chorus of invisible children. I don't know about you all, but anytime children are involved in a horror story, I'm immediately terrified. If this were a movie, I'd have to change the channel. The author really outdid himself with this villain. Not only is Iruoch absolutely terrifying, but he's an extremely tough opponent that Widdershins' can't handle on her own, even with the help of her personal god. That final battle scene was a nailbiter (if I bit my nails)!
While I quite enjoyed this demonic plot along with the accompanying religious intrigue (if you want to call it that), I was less impressed with the other, smaller plotline happening. After the events of Thief's Covenant, Widdershins has inherited the tavern, The Flippant Witch. It's not doing so well, since Shins it certainly not a business woman. Then a mysterious male appears and is not only trying to take the tavern from her, but challenge her to a duel hoping to remove her from the picture permanently! This story isn't in the forefront for very long, which I was glad, since it added very little to the overall story. It just seemed like one more worry for Widdershins to deal with on top of being accused of murder...again, while also avoiding being murdered herself.
I'm definitely enjoying this series! Widdershins seems to get herself into trouble a lot, since she's always in the wrong place at the wrong time. She's also made quite a few enemies in her years as a thief, who want nothing more than to bring her down a notch or two. The ending of False Covenant is a little open ended, but not in a cliffhanger sort of way. It's clear that Widdershins has some stuff she needs to deal with, but there are certainly more adventures awaiting her outside of Davillon.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
So I thought that the demon in the first book was disturbing, but really, that one has nothing on the monster stalking the citizens of Davillon in False Covenant. No one knows exactly what he/it is, so they call him/it Iruoch, after a common children's tale. Iruoch is manlike but with gaunt features and fingers like spider legs. It also sucks people dry. The monster also seems to be followed by a chorus of invisible children. I don't know about you all, but anytime children are involved in a horror story, I'm immediately terrified. If this were a movie, I'd have to change the channel. The author really outdid himself with this villain. Not only is Iruoch absolutely terrifying, but he's an extremely tough opponent that Widdershins' can't handle on her own, even with the help of her personal god. That final battle scene was a nailbiter (if I bit my nails)!
While I quite enjoyed this demonic plot along with the accompanying religious intrigue (if you want to call it that), I was less impressed with the other, smaller plotline happening. After the events of Thief's Covenant, Widdershins has inherited the tavern, The Flippant Witch. It's not doing so well, since Shins it certainly not a business woman. Then a mysterious male appears and is not only trying to take the tavern from her, but challenge her to a duel hoping to remove her from the picture permanently! This story isn't in the forefront for very long, which I was glad, since it added very little to the overall story. It just seemed like one more worry for Widdershins to deal with on top of being accused of murder...again, while also avoiding being murdered herself.
I'm definitely enjoying this series! Widdershins seems to get herself into trouble a lot, since she's always in the wrong place at the wrong time. She's also made quite a few enemies in her years as a thief, who want nothing more than to bring her down a notch or two. The ending of False Covenant is a little open ended, but not in a cliffhanger sort of way. It's clear that Widdershins has some stuff she needs to deal with, but there are certainly more adventures awaiting her outside of Davillon.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
February 20, 2013
Just finished False Covenant, the second Widdershins novel, which I read immediately after receiving it since I liked the first book, Thief's Covenant. These are YA books, which I don't normally read, but the first sounded interesting (kind of like my own Throne of Amenkor series) so I decided to check them out. I'm glad I did.
The premise of this book is that Widdershins, a thief in the city of Davillon, has taken control of her friend's bar and is discovering that it isn't as easy to run as she thought it would be. Part of this is her own lack of experience running a bar, but most of it is because the Church has declared Davillon off limits to traders and travelers because of the recent murder of the visiting archbishop. The city is in desperate need of an economic boost. Unfortunately, after fending off a summoned demon the year before, another supernatural creature has begun stalking the streets, preying on everyone but targeting children in particular. And it appears that Widdershins and her own personal god Olgun may be the only ones capable of stopping its reign of terror. But Widdershins is distracted by a budding romance with a local guardsman . . . and an aristocrat and excellent duelist intent on killing her for a crime against his family.
As you can see, lots going on, and Widdershins quick wit and sparkling personality is still front and center here. She's one of the best parts of these books, but in this case I'd have to say the creature that's stalking the city steals the limelight. It's what snags your attention in this novel and keeps you reading. It's cruel and deadly and the fact that it's main focus is stalking children (not to mention all of its physical features and voice) is downright creepy as well as horrific. I'm sure that it will haunt some readers' dreams, even though this is a YA book.
That said, this wasn't as intense in terms of horror as the first book, and it certainly didn't feel as fast paced. It rockets right along, but still felt somewhat relaxed. One aspect that has also changed is that there aren't multiple timelines with the author having us jump from one to the other. In the first book, this was rather distracting, honestly, so the linearity of this book was better. But somehow it didn't have the same impact as the first. It just wasn't as . . . gritty and dirty and rough as the first. I rather enjoyed that roughness.
So, I enjoyed the book, but it wasn't as satisfying as the first (even factoring in the sometimes confusing time jumps in the first). This book was more tame in comparison. A fun read--Widdershins and her antics with her personal god are always fun--and with a goodly touch of horror with the creature stalking the streets, but just not as satisfying as the first.
The premise of this book is that Widdershins, a thief in the city of Davillon, has taken control of her friend's bar and is discovering that it isn't as easy to run as she thought it would be. Part of this is her own lack of experience running a bar, but most of it is because the Church has declared Davillon off limits to traders and travelers because of the recent murder of the visiting archbishop. The city is in desperate need of an economic boost. Unfortunately, after fending off a summoned demon the year before, another supernatural creature has begun stalking the streets, preying on everyone but targeting children in particular. And it appears that Widdershins and her own personal god Olgun may be the only ones capable of stopping its reign of terror. But Widdershins is distracted by a budding romance with a local guardsman . . . and an aristocrat and excellent duelist intent on killing her for a crime against his family.
As you can see, lots going on, and Widdershins quick wit and sparkling personality is still front and center here. She's one of the best parts of these books, but in this case I'd have to say the creature that's stalking the city steals the limelight. It's what snags your attention in this novel and keeps you reading. It's cruel and deadly and the fact that it's main focus is stalking children (not to mention all of its physical features and voice) is downright creepy as well as horrific. I'm sure that it will haunt some readers' dreams, even though this is a YA book.
That said, this wasn't as intense in terms of horror as the first book, and it certainly didn't feel as fast paced. It rockets right along, but still felt somewhat relaxed. One aspect that has also changed is that there aren't multiple timelines with the author having us jump from one to the other. In the first book, this was rather distracting, honestly, so the linearity of this book was better. But somehow it didn't have the same impact as the first. It just wasn't as . . . gritty and dirty and rough as the first. I rather enjoyed that roughness.
So, I enjoyed the book, but it wasn't as satisfying as the first (even factoring in the sometimes confusing time jumps in the first). This book was more tame in comparison. A fun read--Widdershins and her antics with her personal god are always fun--and with a goodly touch of horror with the creature stalking the streets, but just not as satisfying as the first.
June 26, 2012
First I have to say, evil author alert (in a good way of course!). This time I stopped reading and shouted no!!! (and by now my poor bf is used to me going crazy over a book). So he "listened" while I rambled on and cursed the author and then hurried and finished the rest of the book. I think Marmell might just take the first place for biggest shock in a book this year. *still in shock*. Well done there.
As for the book, I do like Widdershins and her constant companion Olgun, and I am so curious about him. I do want to know more about this Northern God that no one knows about anymore. And Widdershins is kick-ass and cool. A great thief, not so great at keeping a tavern though. And a knack for getting into trouble, with everyone! This time with the church, among others as things are not good in Davillion at the moment.
There is action, adventure and even a hint of romance, a tiny hint but hey I do not need much and I like Julian who is everything she should stay away from, a Guard. But there is something there and he is also someone she can trust. And of course I like him, he is also a great side character to just have around. Poor Widdershins needs some good people around her.
Now I starting to feel at a loss for words again. Great book, and it sure made me want more. I need more! More please with sugar on top. Like now.
Final thoughts:
Recommended series that will keep you on the edge of your seats. Widdershins is my kind of heroine. Go forth and read.
As for the book, I do like Widdershins and her constant companion Olgun, and I am so curious about him. I do want to know more about this Northern God that no one knows about anymore. And Widdershins is kick-ass and cool. A great thief, not so great at keeping a tavern though. And a knack for getting into trouble, with everyone! This time with the church, among others as things are not good in Davillion at the moment.
There is action, adventure and even a hint of romance, a tiny hint but hey I do not need much and I like Julian who is everything she should stay away from, a Guard. But there is something there and he is also someone she can trust. And of course I like him, he is also a great side character to just have around. Poor Widdershins needs some good people around her.
Now I starting to feel at a loss for words again. Great book, and it sure made me want more. I need more! More please with sugar on top. Like now.
Final thoughts:
Recommended series that will keep you on the edge of your seats. Widdershins is my kind of heroine. Go forth and read.
March 10, 2015
False Covenant is even better than Thief's Covenant. The news of 2 more Widdershins's books helps to mitigate the sadness of finishing book 2.
I had forgotten that the horror in False Covenant is not subtle. I should not like these books. I do not like books with multiple points of view, deaths of multiple liked characters, monsters that would give Buffy's the Gentlemen (Hush) nightmares, and only bits of romance. False Covenant is so well written and so enthralling that it overcomes all those negatives to earn 5 huge stars. If you are ignoring this series because it is labelled YA fantasy, you are an idiot. The Widdershins books are an incredible dark fantasy series, and Marmell is an awesome writer.
I had forgotten that the horror in False Covenant is not subtle. I should not like these books. I do not like books with multiple points of view, deaths of multiple liked characters, monsters that would give Buffy's the Gentlemen (Hush) nightmares, and only bits of romance. False Covenant is so well written and so enthralling that it overcomes all those negatives to earn 5 huge stars. If you are ignoring this series because it is labelled YA fantasy, you are an idiot. The Widdershins books are an incredible dark fantasy series, and Marmell is an awesome writer.
July 26, 2016
Really fantastic, much better than the first book. Excellent pacing, the character development improved quite a bit (although our main character is still a bit of a Mary Sue) and there was a lot of good, tense action. Romance was in the air as well, but not in a bludgeoning sort of way that you might expect; it was just a little bit sweet.
April 4, 2016
This series is great. Love the twists and turns,the plot, the world-building and the character development. This author is also not afraid to shake things up and 'make sacrifices' where necessary. Its unexpected but works. Love the writing style and the fast-paced irreverent humour found in the voicesof the characters. Looking forward to Book 3.
May 6, 2012
I liked this one better than the first book. It moved a bit faster and was a more interesting story line. Good series..looking forward to the next one.
March 5, 2015
Pretty terrifying actually, Great writing however
November 18, 2016
כל דמות שנייה מאוהבת בגיבורה. הטון הקליל די לא מופיע בספר הזה. ההפקה של גראפיק אודיו עדיין מעולה. ממשיך לספר השלישי.
February 17, 2014
Originally posted at http://thebookplank.blogspot.com/2014...
A few weeks ago I read the first book in the Widdershins Adventure series by Ari Marmell, Thief's Covenant, and was pleasantly surprised with the story that he managed to put down. I read only one of Ari Marmell's earlier works, In Thunder Forged, set in the Iron Kingdoms franchise, but I was hooked onto his writing style from the go. In Thief's Covenant, Ari Marmell completely builds his own universe and does so superbly, there was the making of a nice and solid foundation for the series that really starts paying off in the sequel False Covenant.
In Thief's Covenant, Ari Marmell introduced us to a young female Adrienne Satti. But Adrienne has much more going on about her character, Adrienne is also, or I should say maybe primarily goes about as the thief Widdershins. Thief's Covenant really established a baseline for Widdershins character, showing all that she went through in the past, Widdershins life so far has been far from easy, being falsely accused of crimes she didn't commit, always on the run and no family left except a few good friends. Ari Marmell showed this with many flashback taking us back to different past events from 8 years back till only a year back, but never loosing the focus on the present storyline. I very much enjoyed reading about the first of Widdershins adventure, because when you look on the whole and especially with a focus on the end of the story, there was a very strong transformation for not only the story but also for Widdershins herself. The story underwent a nice change with revealing who was behind the plotline and caused the betrayal, as for Widdershins, she grew tremendously by all the events that she went through. All in all a very solid start. Thief's Covenant left enough room for the sequel to pick up, there were some nice leads especially with some of the things that Widdershins now has to face on her own...
As for False Covenant, it's a direct sequel to Thief's Covenant so I advice you to read that one first before jumping in the Widdershins Adventure series. False Covenant opens just as what I have come to expect from Ari Marmell, with a nice tinge of action. Now that Widdershins is running the tavern, The Flippant Witch, that she inherited from Genevieve, she realizes that it is much harder than she possibly could have guessed. Although she puts much effort in running The Flippant Witch in legal ways, to fully support it, Widdershins does have to opt for less legal means to acquire enough funds to keep it running. This brings me to the opening of False Covenant, where you see an example of an heist gone wrong with two differen parties of the guild and Widdershins "friend" goes to some extremes that shouldn't have been taken in the first place to acquire his treasure. This directly leads to a confrontation in the Guild, and Widdershins was already distrusted by the Thief's Guild but after these events is even more so. Added to this is the fact that a Demonic threat is on the rise in the dark alleys and streets of Davillon, with Widdershins past from the first book, she has been picked the ideal candidate to sort out this threat. But Widdershins doesn't know how to go about this to say the least.
I must say that I was again very pleased with how the character of Widdershins was shown in False Covenant. The first book was on the short side and the sequel is also under the 300 pages, but even though the books are short, there isn't a lack of development at all. Ari Marmell has a way of writing what he wants, when he wants and to the point, without sacrificing anything in the form of pacing, action and storytelling, it's actually very detailed, this is probably owed to the great world/character building that was done in the first book. We got to learn about Widdershins character as one who is on many parts very strong and determined but also has a very emotional side going on for all that she had to withstand so far. In False Covenant, Ari Marmell is set out to explore her character in much more ways. Widdershins is thrown literally in the depths of running The Flippant Witch without her role model Genevieve and this plays heavy parts on her, added to this is the fact that she is rejected by most people, the Guard, the Church and her own Guild, she is on her own and has a hard time. But she isn't one to sit down, cry and mope about it, she goes out and tries to do the best she can and this is something that I really like about Widdershins, the can-do attitude. There is always something you can do, and sitting around moping wont get you anywhere. Besides Widdershins there are several other recurrent characters that make the scene but I have to say the the focus is really on Widdershins, she drives the story further, but this doesn't take away the fact that characters likes; Robin and Julien are left forgotten, they do take roles more in the back you still see and hear enough about them that they make up for an solid supporting cast. Overall Ari Marmell, doesn't stop his development of all the characters, and though the ending is something completely different than I would have guessed, I think Widdershins will only come back much, much stronger in Lost Covenant.
As for the main plot of the story, the Demonic threat that haunts the streets of Davillon, I must say I was impressed with how Ari Marmell showed this in False Covenant and especially how it all came to be. The Demonic threat is known as the, Iruoch, sort of the boogeyman from a childhood fairytale. But this real-life incarnation is much more deadly then your innocent story. The Iruoch is a spider-like limbed Demon, that sucks the life out of people turning them into leather carapaces. In the beginning when you are introduced to the Iruoch, you see him being drawn to the city of Davillon, but as to why and now, remains to be told. The great thing about Iruoch and that he is a bit of world-weird, he came over to me as a bit childish but deadly too say the least, or he might just be playing it. Only later you see Iruoch take on a much more coldly calculated role and I threw away my thoughts of the childish air away. As the story finishes and Widdershins and her friends near the final battle with the Iruoch it becomes clear how he came into being and I was almost screaming yes out loud, I really really liked the idea behind it, it's not with magic at all, as I was thinking... Well done and well played is all I can say!
Also what I have come to enjoy was the relation between Olgun and Widdershins. Widdershin is the only believer left in the god Olgun and in turn Olgun lives in Widdershins, granting her boosts here and there to help her out of difficult situations. But there are restraints, Olgun doesn't make Widdershins invincible, it only gives an edge. Like I said I was very pleased with the restraints that were made on this godhood, Widdershins knows this and makes her that much more human. What made the relation between Olgun and Widdershins great to read about was how they conversed and the witty and fast remarks that Olgun gave Widdershins and vice versa we very enjoyable to read about. This does continue in the sequel, however for me it was in a bit different way, it wasn't bad perse, but I missed the comments of Olgun this time, it felt more a bit like one way traffic and it lost something.
False Covenant is just as it predecessor, a great read that I can recommend to everyone. If you had thoughtthat you were in for a few surprises in Thief's Covenant, wait till you read False Covenant. Ari Marmell keeps his story exciting and engaging to read, leading you on one moment and then dropping a nice plot twist. His writing style and make up of the story was just one big adventure and when I look at how Thief's Covenant was put together with the flashback I have to say that False Covenant read just a bit better, once you were in the flow of the book it was over too soon. Added to writing style is the rich world that you get to navigate at the hand of a great protagonist Widdershins, someone who a lot of young kids will find a true adventurer in. Widdershins character is a lot of fun to read about, fun might not be the right word for the sad things that happen in her life, but it does make her a solid character that the Widdershins Adventure can safely build on. False Covenant does leave the series on an open ending. Can't wait to start in Lost Covenant, I think it will nicely broaden the scope of the story.
A few weeks ago I read the first book in the Widdershins Adventure series by Ari Marmell, Thief's Covenant, and was pleasantly surprised with the story that he managed to put down. I read only one of Ari Marmell's earlier works, In Thunder Forged, set in the Iron Kingdoms franchise, but I was hooked onto his writing style from the go. In Thief's Covenant, Ari Marmell completely builds his own universe and does so superbly, there was the making of a nice and solid foundation for the series that really starts paying off in the sequel False Covenant.
In Thief's Covenant, Ari Marmell introduced us to a young female Adrienne Satti. But Adrienne has much more going on about her character, Adrienne is also, or I should say maybe primarily goes about as the thief Widdershins. Thief's Covenant really established a baseline for Widdershins character, showing all that she went through in the past, Widdershins life so far has been far from easy, being falsely accused of crimes she didn't commit, always on the run and no family left except a few good friends. Ari Marmell showed this with many flashback taking us back to different past events from 8 years back till only a year back, but never loosing the focus on the present storyline. I very much enjoyed reading about the first of Widdershins adventure, because when you look on the whole and especially with a focus on the end of the story, there was a very strong transformation for not only the story but also for Widdershins herself. The story underwent a nice change with revealing who was behind the plotline and caused the betrayal, as for Widdershins, she grew tremendously by all the events that she went through. All in all a very solid start. Thief's Covenant left enough room for the sequel to pick up, there were some nice leads especially with some of the things that Widdershins now has to face on her own...
As for False Covenant, it's a direct sequel to Thief's Covenant so I advice you to read that one first before jumping in the Widdershins Adventure series. False Covenant opens just as what I have come to expect from Ari Marmell, with a nice tinge of action. Now that Widdershins is running the tavern, The Flippant Witch, that she inherited from Genevieve, she realizes that it is much harder than she possibly could have guessed. Although she puts much effort in running The Flippant Witch in legal ways, to fully support it, Widdershins does have to opt for less legal means to acquire enough funds to keep it running. This brings me to the opening of False Covenant, where you see an example of an heist gone wrong with two differen parties of the guild and Widdershins "friend" goes to some extremes that shouldn't have been taken in the first place to acquire his treasure. This directly leads to a confrontation in the Guild, and Widdershins was already distrusted by the Thief's Guild but after these events is even more so. Added to this is the fact that a Demonic threat is on the rise in the dark alleys and streets of Davillon, with Widdershins past from the first book, she has been picked the ideal candidate to sort out this threat. But Widdershins doesn't know how to go about this to say the least.
I must say that I was again very pleased with how the character of Widdershins was shown in False Covenant. The first book was on the short side and the sequel is also under the 300 pages, but even though the books are short, there isn't a lack of development at all. Ari Marmell has a way of writing what he wants, when he wants and to the point, without sacrificing anything in the form of pacing, action and storytelling, it's actually very detailed, this is probably owed to the great world/character building that was done in the first book. We got to learn about Widdershins character as one who is on many parts very strong and determined but also has a very emotional side going on for all that she had to withstand so far. In False Covenant, Ari Marmell is set out to explore her character in much more ways. Widdershins is thrown literally in the depths of running The Flippant Witch without her role model Genevieve and this plays heavy parts on her, added to this is the fact that she is rejected by most people, the Guard, the Church and her own Guild, she is on her own and has a hard time. But she isn't one to sit down, cry and mope about it, she goes out and tries to do the best she can and this is something that I really like about Widdershins, the can-do attitude. There is always something you can do, and sitting around moping wont get you anywhere. Besides Widdershins there are several other recurrent characters that make the scene but I have to say the the focus is really on Widdershins, she drives the story further, but this doesn't take away the fact that characters likes; Robin and Julien are left forgotten, they do take roles more in the back you still see and hear enough about them that they make up for an solid supporting cast. Overall Ari Marmell, doesn't stop his development of all the characters, and though the ending is something completely different than I would have guessed, I think Widdershins will only come back much, much stronger in Lost Covenant.
As for the main plot of the story, the Demonic threat that haunts the streets of Davillon, I must say I was impressed with how Ari Marmell showed this in False Covenant and especially how it all came to be. The Demonic threat is known as the, Iruoch, sort of the boogeyman from a childhood fairytale. But this real-life incarnation is much more deadly then your innocent story. The Iruoch is a spider-like limbed Demon, that sucks the life out of people turning them into leather carapaces. In the beginning when you are introduced to the Iruoch, you see him being drawn to the city of Davillon, but as to why and now, remains to be told. The great thing about Iruoch and that he is a bit of world-weird, he came over to me as a bit childish but deadly too say the least, or he might just be playing it. Only later you see Iruoch take on a much more coldly calculated role and I threw away my thoughts of the childish air away. As the story finishes and Widdershins and her friends near the final battle with the Iruoch it becomes clear how he came into being and I was almost screaming yes out loud, I really really liked the idea behind it, it's not with magic at all, as I was thinking... Well done and well played is all I can say!
Also what I have come to enjoy was the relation between Olgun and Widdershins. Widdershin is the only believer left in the god Olgun and in turn Olgun lives in Widdershins, granting her boosts here and there to help her out of difficult situations. But there are restraints, Olgun doesn't make Widdershins invincible, it only gives an edge. Like I said I was very pleased with the restraints that were made on this godhood, Widdershins knows this and makes her that much more human. What made the relation between Olgun and Widdershins great to read about was how they conversed and the witty and fast remarks that Olgun gave Widdershins and vice versa we very enjoyable to read about. This does continue in the sequel, however for me it was in a bit different way, it wasn't bad perse, but I missed the comments of Olgun this time, it felt more a bit like one way traffic and it lost something.
False Covenant is just as it predecessor, a great read that I can recommend to everyone. If you had thoughtthat you were in for a few surprises in Thief's Covenant, wait till you read False Covenant. Ari Marmell keeps his story exciting and engaging to read, leading you on one moment and then dropping a nice plot twist. His writing style and make up of the story was just one big adventure and when I look at how Thief's Covenant was put together with the flashback I have to say that False Covenant read just a bit better, once you were in the flow of the book it was over too soon. Added to writing style is the rich world that you get to navigate at the hand of a great protagonist Widdershins, someone who a lot of young kids will find a true adventurer in. Widdershins character is a lot of fun to read about, fun might not be the right word for the sad things that happen in her life, but it does make her a solid character that the Widdershins Adventure can safely build on. False Covenant does leave the series on an open ending. Can't wait to start in Lost Covenant, I think it will nicely broaden the scope of the story.
March 22, 2025
J'étais curieuse de voir ce que nous réservait encore une fois le personnage de Widdershins et je dois dire que je n'ai pas été déçue !
Même si l'univers me plaisait beaucoup dans le premier tome, j'avais été gênée par les (trop) nombreux flash-backs qui empêchaient l'intrigue d'évoluer et qui m'avaient quelque peu perdue plusieurs fois en cours de route. Dans ce second tome, tout est différent. Il n'y a aucun flashback, l'intrigue se déroule de manière chronologique et sans temps mort.
À la fin du premier tome, Widdershins avait beaucoup souffert et perdu de nombreux proches... Dans cette suite, ses blessures sont encore très douloureuses et l'affectent énormément. Elle se raccroche à ce qu'elle a de plus précieux : c'est-à-dire son amie Robin, la sorcière désinvolte et l'établissement dont elle a hérité. Mais n'est pas gérant qui veut et elle va l'apprendre à ses dépends, quitte à être obligée de renouer avec son passé de voleuse pour tenter de remettre l'établissement à flot...
Bien entendu, rien ne se passera comme elle l'avait prévu ou plutôt comme elle l'aurait souhaité. Plusieurs événements se produisent simultanément : tout d'abord, un noble qui apparaît du jour au lendemain et se met à la suivre comme son ombre, sans que l'on ne sache ni qui il est ni ce qu'il veut. Enfin, des rumeurs commencent à courir le long des rues de Davillon, sur une créature qui se plairait à terroriser les gens, jusqu'au jour où les meurtres se mettent à pleuvoir sans que l'on puisse les empêcher.
Notre Widdershins va donc se retrouver mêlée à tout cela, toujours tiraillée entre deux feux : son envie de se « ranger » pour mener au mieux son activité de gérante et sa nature de voleuse qui la rattrape.
Olgun et plusieurs des amis de Widdershins, ainsi que d'autres personnages plutôt inattendus, vont s'associer à elle pour tenter de mettre un terme à l'hécatombe, mais rien n'est simple et la tâche semble, cette fois, insurmontable.
Widdershins m'a beaucoup touchée dans cette histoire. Elle m'a semblé bien plus « humaine » que précédemment et j'ai apprécié aussi le fait qu'elle éclipse un peu moins les autres personnages. Les autres sont tous attachants à leurs manière également, mais je ne m'expliquerai pas là-dessus, car je risquerais de révéler des détails qu'il ne faut pas dévoiler !
J'ai trouvé le rythme soutenu et l'écriture fluide et agréable. Je n'avais plus envie de lâcher mon livre, tant j'étais impatiente de découvrir le fin mot de cette histoire captivante !
La fin était vraiment intense, très riche en émotions et j'ai versé ma petite larme ! J'ai vraiment hâte de découvrir la suite des aventures de Widdershins qui, une fois encore, n'a pas été épargnée.
Même si l'univers me plaisait beaucoup dans le premier tome, j'avais été gênée par les (trop) nombreux flash-backs qui empêchaient l'intrigue d'évoluer et qui m'avaient quelque peu perdue plusieurs fois en cours de route. Dans ce second tome, tout est différent. Il n'y a aucun flashback, l'intrigue se déroule de manière chronologique et sans temps mort.
À la fin du premier tome, Widdershins avait beaucoup souffert et perdu de nombreux proches... Dans cette suite, ses blessures sont encore très douloureuses et l'affectent énormément. Elle se raccroche à ce qu'elle a de plus précieux : c'est-à-dire son amie Robin, la sorcière désinvolte et l'établissement dont elle a hérité. Mais n'est pas gérant qui veut et elle va l'apprendre à ses dépends, quitte à être obligée de renouer avec son passé de voleuse pour tenter de remettre l'établissement à flot...
Bien entendu, rien ne se passera comme elle l'avait prévu ou plutôt comme elle l'aurait souhaité. Plusieurs événements se produisent simultanément : tout d'abord, un noble qui apparaît du jour au lendemain et se met à la suivre comme son ombre, sans que l'on ne sache ni qui il est ni ce qu'il veut. Enfin, des rumeurs commencent à courir le long des rues de Davillon, sur une créature qui se plairait à terroriser les gens, jusqu'au jour où les meurtres se mettent à pleuvoir sans que l'on puisse les empêcher.
Notre Widdershins va donc se retrouver mêlée à tout cela, toujours tiraillée entre deux feux : son envie de se « ranger » pour mener au mieux son activité de gérante et sa nature de voleuse qui la rattrape.
Olgun et plusieurs des amis de Widdershins, ainsi que d'autres personnages plutôt inattendus, vont s'associer à elle pour tenter de mettre un terme à l'hécatombe, mais rien n'est simple et la tâche semble, cette fois, insurmontable.
Widdershins m'a beaucoup touchée dans cette histoire. Elle m'a semblé bien plus « humaine » que précédemment et j'ai apprécié aussi le fait qu'elle éclipse un peu moins les autres personnages. Les autres sont tous attachants à leurs manière également, mais je ne m'expliquerai pas là-dessus, car je risquerais de révéler des détails qu'il ne faut pas dévoiler !
J'ai trouvé le rythme soutenu et l'écriture fluide et agréable. Je n'avais plus envie de lâcher mon livre, tant j'étais impatiente de découvrir le fin mot de cette histoire captivante !
La fin était vraiment intense, très riche en émotions et j'ai versé ma petite larme ! J'ai vraiment hâte de découvrir la suite des aventures de Widdershins qui, une fois encore, n'a pas été épargnée.
April 1, 2014
This was a must-read for me after reading Thief’s Covenant! I literally could not wait to get back home and order this book straight away (since I was on holiday when I read the first one)! False Covenant of course did not disappoint me at all as it gave me everything the first book had and more – action, intrigue and of course a touch of supernatural.
The story – 4/5 stars:
Goodness! The world of Widdershins has swept me in the book as soon as I started! Honestly, the world setting and a thief as the main character just marvels my reader sensors. As for the story – there seemed to be a more solid plot this time, an improvement from last time. The horrendous murders were quite an interesting concept and they kept teasing the reader as to who or what exactly was terrorising the streets of Davillon. I really have to be honest – this is by far the best book in the series and definitely one of the best I have read.
I have to say though…I did predict the plot partially. What I mean by that is I knew who let loose the creature which hunted the streets, but I didn’t really know what it was until it was explained (although that little children’s rhyme at the beginning of the book should be a pretty good indicator…).
Why the 4 stars then, you ask? Well…
Eheh…yeah ¬w¬’ That’s pretty much why 1 star has been deducted from this section. Well what do you expect? This book was evil!
The characters – 4.5/5 stars:
Why 4.5 and not the whole 5 or 4? Well… I’ll leave that to the end of this section, but it IS a spoiler!
Widdershins/Adrienne: She’s back for more! Only this time she apparently gives up her old ways of being a thief *rolls eyes and mutters ‘Like that’ll happen’*. If you read the first book, you would understand why (and how she got the tavern). I have to say…having Widdershins in a somewhat ‘romance’ mode did not suit my taste much. I mean…emotions? Ain’t nobody got time for those?
On a more serious note – I like how her character is progressing. Although still quite childish, the recent losses have made her mature more which is a nice development. The problem is though…why do so many people Widdershins knows and cares for have to die? I mean really, Marmell? You trying to bully your characters? Why?
Olgun: Well Olgun is Olgun – the wannabe deity (although technically he is one, he’s not that powerful as Widdershins is literally his only follower…). The same old communications system used; can’t really complain since it works and does its job to convey the words/feelings it needs to convey.
Julien: Seems in this book he gets more cameo time (although considering the end…ironic…). He seems to be the main love interest for Widdershins throughout the entire book (although I could tell this was bound to happen with the little interactions Julien and Widdershins had in the first book). I’m glad that Marmell tried to explore this character more, though. It gave him more of a personality and a little bit more depth (although not too much since he was still not exactly the centre of attention). The chemistry between him and Widdershins? …….Meh, I don’t like romance so maybe it’s just me cringing at their sweet-talk.
Renard: My darling of the series! (gosh I love this character…) He…doesn’t get much cameo time again but it’s better than the first book! He’s still as awesome as ever and added to the little slip of his true identity at the end of the previous book, it made it more interesting with how he operated with Widdershins and the rest of the Guild.
The Antagonist: I can’t believe I’m saying this but…I absolutely ADORED the antagonist! (I know I’m supposed to hate him but hey ho – it was a love hate relationship). Seriously, that thing is pretty amusing!
Robin: …..Yeah…can’t say I enjoyed her presence made more frequent.
Others: Well… let’s admit it – these guys are just extras and to get the plot moving. I really couldn’t care too much about that nobility peacock going around and looking for Widdershins or the whole sidestory of his. Either way…meh.
Writer’s technique – 4/5 stars:
Still using the same sort of style which I like. Marmell has an interesting way with words and I really like how he describes the settings, especially the ball ones. His fight scenes are even better than last time and I really enjoyed that as a treat.
I have to admit that I was a bit disappointed that Marmell has decided to write the story normally and chronologically unlike in the last book (which was partially why I love the book). I guess I probably just expected something similarly clever from this book but…well it didn’t spoil the read for me with the puzzles being absent. I suppose Marmell did try to make it up a little by having a sort of mini-murder mystery and a brilliant villain.
Overall – 5/5 stars:
Now, why would I give 5/5 stars when none of the above sections add up to it in any shape or form? The explanation is simple – this book is just amazing (and I am de-e-efinitely not doing that because of the awesome villain *averts eye contact*).
Marmell, being the evil author he is, once again has sent me on an emotional journey as characters were killed off one by one. Cruel? Perhaps, but that’s just how this book rolls. The ending though…oh don’t even TALK about the ending! The twist near the end left me speechless and…well depressed really…although I could not see a better way to end this book yet continue the series.
To summarise:
My emotions were wild on this one. It is definitely a fun and worthwhile roller-coaster of 'feels'.
Original review: False Covenant Review on my Book Fox blog
April 24, 2021
Dat male gaze, man, dat male gaze. It's no way near as bad as the first half of Storm Front (Dresden Files 1) but it's there. It was there in book one as well, but it was only slightly bothersome in there. In this one, however, Marmell has used the sentence: look at her like she was smuggling ... in her cleavage once too often. What would such an expression even look like (besides incredibly creepy and dirty)? Even more, why would a woman think this during situations and interactions where she's nearly arrested or on the brink of death (or at all, it just felt unrealistic)? And it got worse. There was a 13-year-old girl described in a way that makes me more than a little bit uncomfortable. Why does a child need to be objectified by describing her curves?
Ari Marmell, do we need to check on you?
And how is it that the way men objectify women always feels uncomfortable to me? I don't get it.
Outside of this little rant about descriptions, I really enjoyed this book. I love stories where mythological creatures (in-world or real on our planet) are dark and brutal and are a huge component of the plot. A bit of explicit gore doesn't bother me much. The Erawok disturbed me to no end. And I loved it.
I feel like the character dynamics got more complex, which I really like but also more cliche between certain characters. Characters calling Widdershins annoying (which she kinda can be) but being acting like a teen while being an adult themselves feels a bit strange. It would be realistic but said adult is a priestess so I'd expect a bit more from that character. At least their guild leader points it out multiple times. Puts them in their place. That was pretty satisfying.
All in all a solid sequel, but I do hope I don't have to read objectification of a 13-year-old or the sentence: smuggling something in her cleavage again in the series.
Ari Marmell, do we need to check on you?
And how is it that the way men objectify women always feels uncomfortable to me? I don't get it.
Outside of this little rant about descriptions, I really enjoyed this book. I love stories where mythological creatures (in-world or real on our planet) are dark and brutal and are a huge component of the plot. A bit of explicit gore doesn't bother me much. The Erawok disturbed me to no end. And I loved it.
I feel like the character dynamics got more complex, which I really like but also more cliche between certain characters. Characters calling Widdershins annoying (which she kinda can be) but being acting like a teen while being an adult themselves feels a bit strange. It would be realistic but said adult is a priestess so I'd expect a bit more from that character. At least their guild leader points it out multiple times. Puts them in their place. That was pretty satisfying.
All in all a solid sequel, but I do hope I don't have to read objectification of a 13-year-old or the sentence: smuggling something in her cleavage again in the series.
January 28, 2025
4 stars out of 5
Widdershine is back in this sequel, bringing even more adventures, mischief, and charm. However, all is not well in the city. Something dark has crept in following the events of the first book, and its consequences are beginning to unfold. Despite the usual upbeat and humorous moments that fans of the series love, this installment introduces some heartbreaking and emotional scenes that really elevate the story. The balance between lightheartedness and deeper emotional moments adds a layer of depth that was unexpected but much appreciated.
I listened to the audiobook version and I have to say, the performance was excellent. , and the pacing really brought the story to life. It made for a highly immersive experience, and I found myself eagerly anticipating the next chapter.
All in all, Widdershine 2 builds on the foundation laid by the first book, with an intriguing mix of fun and tension. I’m excited to see where the next adventure takes us!
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