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Paladin's Legacy #4
Limits of Power
Elizabeth Moon is back with the fourth adventure in her bestselling fantasy epic. Moon brilliantly weaves a colorful tapestry of action, betrayal, love, and magic set in a richly imagined world that stands alongside those of such fantasy masters as George R. R. Martin and Robin Hobb.
The unthinkable has occurred in the kingdom of Lyonya. The queen of the Elves—known as the Lady—is dead, murdered by former elves twisted by dark powers. Now the Lady’s half-elven grandson must heal the mistrust between elf and human before their enemies strike again. Yet as he struggles to make ready for an attack, an even greater threat looms across the Eight Kingdoms.
Throughout the north, magic is reappearing after centuries of absence, emerging without warning in family after family—rich and poor alike. In some areas, the religious strictures against magery remain in place, and fanatical followers are stamping out magery by killing whoever displays the merest sign of it—even children. And as unrest spreads, one very determined traitor works to undo any effort at peace—no matter how many lives it costs. With the future hanging in the balance, it is only the dedication of a few resolute heroes who can turn the tides . . . if they can survive.
Praise for Limits of Power
“It’s easy to become fully immersed in, and absorbed by, the [Moon’s] great strength lies in the patient accumulation of telling detail, yielding an extraordinarily rich picture of the world’s politics, philosophy, military structure, history, magic and alien cultures, where men and women stand as equals even in force of arms.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Thoughtful and deeply character driven, full of personal crises as heartbreaking and hopeful as any dramatic invasion . . . Moon deftly avoids big literary explosions, preferring instead a slow boil that builds pressure without relief. There are plots within plots, but the complex story is never confusing. Fantasy fans will be delighted by this impressive foray.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Praise for Elizabeth Moon
“This is an excellent series, and Echoes of Betrayal is particularly well done. [Elizabeth Moon is a] consistently entertaining writer, and this book lives up to her standards.” — San Jose Mercury News
“Moon’s characters navigate an intricate maze of alliances and rivalries. . . . Close attention to military detail gives the action convincing intensity.” —The Star-Ledger , on Kings of the North
“A triumphant return to the fantasy world she created . . . No one writes fantasy quite like Moon.” —The Miami Herald , on Oath of Fealty
The unthinkable has occurred in the kingdom of Lyonya. The queen of the Elves—known as the Lady—is dead, murdered by former elves twisted by dark powers. Now the Lady’s half-elven grandson must heal the mistrust between elf and human before their enemies strike again. Yet as he struggles to make ready for an attack, an even greater threat looms across the Eight Kingdoms.
Throughout the north, magic is reappearing after centuries of absence, emerging without warning in family after family—rich and poor alike. In some areas, the religious strictures against magery remain in place, and fanatical followers are stamping out magery by killing whoever displays the merest sign of it—even children. And as unrest spreads, one very determined traitor works to undo any effort at peace—no matter how many lives it costs. With the future hanging in the balance, it is only the dedication of a few resolute heroes who can turn the tides . . . if they can survive.
Praise for Limits of Power
“It’s easy to become fully immersed in, and absorbed by, the [Moon’s] great strength lies in the patient accumulation of telling detail, yielding an extraordinarily rich picture of the world’s politics, philosophy, military structure, history, magic and alien cultures, where men and women stand as equals even in force of arms.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Thoughtful and deeply character driven, full of personal crises as heartbreaking and hopeful as any dramatic invasion . . . Moon deftly avoids big literary explosions, preferring instead a slow boil that builds pressure without relief. There are plots within plots, but the complex story is never confusing. Fantasy fans will be delighted by this impressive foray.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Praise for Elizabeth Moon
“This is an excellent series, and Echoes of Betrayal is particularly well done. [Elizabeth Moon is a] consistently entertaining writer, and this book lives up to her standards.” — San Jose Mercury News
“Moon’s characters navigate an intricate maze of alliances and rivalries. . . . Close attention to military detail gives the action convincing intensity.” —The Star-Ledger , on Kings of the North
“A triumphant return to the fantasy world she created . . . No one writes fantasy quite like Moon.” —The Miami Herald , on Oath of Fealty
483 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
114 people are currently reading
1440 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Moon
140 books2,616 followersElizabeth Moon was born March 7, 1945, and grew up in McAllen, Texas, graduating from McAllen High School in 1963. She has a B.A. in History from Rice University (1968) and another in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin (1975) with graduate work in Biology at the University of Texas, San Antonio.
She served in the USMC from 1968 to 1971, first at MCB Quantico and then at HQMC. She married Richard Moon, a Rice classmate and Army officer, in 1969; they moved to the small central Texas town where they still live in 1979. They have one son, born in 1983.
She started writing stories and poems as a small child; attempted first book (an illustrated biography of the family dog) at age six. Started writing science fiction in high school, but considered writing merely a sideline. First got serious about writing (as in, submitting things and actually getting money...) in the 1980s. Made first fiction sale at age forty--"Bargains" to Marion Zimmer Bradley's Sword & Sorceress III and "ABCs in Zero G" to Analog. Her first novel, Sheepfarmer's Daughter, sold in 1987 and came out in 1988; it won the Compton Crook Award in 1989. Remnant Population was a Hugo nominee in 1997, and The Speed of Dark was a finalist for the Arthur C. Clarke Award, and won the Nebula in 2004.
She served in the USMC from 1968 to 1971, first at MCB Quantico and then at HQMC. She married Richard Moon, a Rice classmate and Army officer, in 1969; they moved to the small central Texas town where they still live in 1979. They have one son, born in 1983.
She started writing stories and poems as a small child; attempted first book (an illustrated biography of the family dog) at age six. Started writing science fiction in high school, but considered writing merely a sideline. First got serious about writing (as in, submitting things and actually getting money...) in the 1980s. Made first fiction sale at age forty--"Bargains" to Marion Zimmer Bradley's Sword & Sorceress III and "ABCs in Zero G" to Analog. Her first novel, Sheepfarmer's Daughter, sold in 1987 and came out in 1988; it won the Compton Crook Award in 1989. Remnant Population was a Hugo nominee in 1997, and The Speed of Dark was a finalist for the Arthur C. Clarke Award, and won the Nebula in 2004.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
December 2, 2015
Sob sob sob, that was so sad, my poor heart. :(
This book was much better than the previous one. It still wasn't Paks Trilogy perfection, but it was better.
I could wish that every character we know didn't suddenly have magic and special powers, but oh well. xD This was the kind of book that you can tell is leading up to the end of the series, because not much happens, it is all just setting things up. Thank goodness for finally having an ending that doesn't cut off mid scene. I enjoyed this one a lot better and I'm now itching to read the final book in the series.
This book was much better than the previous one. It still wasn't Paks Trilogy perfection, but it was better.
I could wish that every character we know didn't suddenly have magic and special powers, but oh well. xD This was the kind of book that you can tell is leading up to the end of the series, because not much happens, it is all just setting things up. Thank goodness for finally having an ending that doesn't cut off mid scene. I enjoyed this one a lot better and I'm now itching to read the final book in the series.
October 6, 2014
This is a good series and it continues a longer story that Ms. Moon began (and I'm not sure how much of it was planned as there was a long interval between publication of the "beginning") with The Deed of Paksenarrion and the two prequels (though I really never got into the prequels). This book picks up the story (in a pattern Ms. Moon has set) at the exactly moment the last book ended. King (formerly Duke) Keri Phelan is in a "pickle" (seemingly) as things ended and that is the first thing we have to deal with.
To say much here about the story/plot itself or even the characters this far into the series would almost have to entail spoiler. What happens with each one even who participates would tip the hand. I will say a couple of things "in general" to help (I hope) give an idea of how things are going.
First let me say that in spite of one concern I have this is still going among my favorites. I became hooked on the story of Paksenarrion and have followed the story ever since. I will also say that I'm glad to see Pacs make a reappearance here and have hope that the next volume might tell us where she's been as it obviously has something/a lot to do with the continuing storyline.
The concern/concerns I have is that the story is spinning out with several new threads and has really only tied up a couple. Ms. Moon has not lost control of the story and it stays very interesting. I was caught u8p in the story from the first and wish I had the next waiting. Ms. Moon has told this story from the first with a multiplicity of viewpoints and as noted she handles them well. Unlike many books told from several points of view this one doesn't really have one I'm not interested in.
All that being said I think my experience with Robert Jordan has made me wary of "multiplying story threads". LOL
The way the book ends? Well, it just "ends", stops with the action "in action". It's more like the end of a chapter than the end of a novel, frustrating.
So...as always with this series of books highly recommended...and hope that the next volume comes out soon...and of course I live that long.
By the way, if you haven't read The Deed of Paksenarrion while you don't have to to follow this series I would highly recommend it..it's one of those books I feel is "not to be missed".
Enjoy.
To say much here about the story/plot itself or even the characters this far into the series would almost have to entail spoiler. What happens with each one even who participates would tip the hand. I will say a couple of things "in general" to help (I hope) give an idea of how things are going.
First let me say that in spite of one concern I have this is still going among my favorites. I became hooked on the story of Paksenarrion and have followed the story ever since. I will also say that I'm glad to see Pacs make a reappearance here and have hope that the next volume might tell us where she's been as it obviously has something/a lot to do with the continuing storyline.
The concern/concerns I have is that the story is spinning out with several new threads and has really only tied up a couple. Ms. Moon has not lost control of the story and it stays very interesting. I was caught u8p in the story from the first and wish I had the next waiting. Ms. Moon has told this story from the first with a multiplicity of viewpoints and as noted she handles them well. Unlike many books told from several points of view this one doesn't really have one I'm not interested in.
All that being said I think my experience with Robert Jordan has made me wary of "multiplying story threads". LOL
The way the book ends? Well, it just "ends", stops with the action "in action". It's more like the end of a chapter than the end of a novel, frustrating.
So...as always with this series of books highly recommended...and hope that the next volume comes out soon...and of course I live that long.
By the way, if you haven't read The Deed of Paksenarrion while you don't have to to follow this series I would highly recommend it..it's one of those books I feel is "not to be missed".
Enjoy.
December 18, 2012
I love that the world which seemed so straight forward in the original Paksenarrion series continues to get more complex. The only reason I can't give this five stars, is that it feels like a book setting up the big finish in the next installment. I honestly don't know how Mrs. Moon is going to tie everything up in a single volume but I can't wait to find out.
A wonderful scene with King Kieri, and continued development of Arvid were among the highlights of book 4 for me.
A wonderful scene with King Kieri, and continued development of Arvid were among the highlights of book 4 for me.
December 16, 2021
Very good, the entire series is superb!
July 15, 2013
Its difficult in many ways to review a fourth volume of a multi novel series, which appears to have no end in sight. Elizabeth Moon originally wrote a very well received trilogy about Paksenarrion in 1988 and 1989. Paksennarrion was a warrior, who became a Paladin for her God and fought many battles.
In 2010, Moon set out to write a series of novels about many of the other warriors who lived at the time of Paksenarrion and expand on their lives, loves and land. The prior books in this four book series dealt with Kieri Phelan, the half elf, half human mercenary soldier who led Paksenarrion in battle, but was now able to to reclaim his heritage and land as a ruler and King. Dorrin, another soldier, who had magic, was able to oust her evil family from her lands and reclaim ruler ship. Then there was Stammel, a soldier who had been blinded in battle but could still see, by virtue of his Gods, to kill his enemies.
There are many characters in these books and in the first three books, Moon primarily focused on Phelan, Mikel and Dorrin, with some other characters.
This fourth book in the series focuses on Arvid, a former thief, who helped Paks escape from a real bind and Arcolin, the current leader of the mercenary soldiers and a noble in Mikeli's land.
Moon shifts around the focus of the story from character to character and does not provide any introduction or summary of what went on before in the beginning of the novel. This is an issue because it takes a long time to get your footing, remember who the long list of characters is and who are their enemies and especially what went on before.
By the time, I got one third of the book in, I finally found my footing and enjoyed the Arcolin and Arvid story arcs. Moon has always enchanted with her descriptions of how the religious soldier orders and the paladins interact with Gird, who talks to them. These scenes are always amusing. Arvid's travails as clearly a chosen one in the service of Gird are probably the best scenes in the novel, but there are many other segues back to other characters in prior books as well.
If you have read the prior volumes in Paladin's Legacy, you must read this story.
Its that good, but if you have never heard of Paks or Moon, then go back and read the Deed of Paksenarrion first before you start on this four book series.
In 2010, Moon set out to write a series of novels about many of the other warriors who lived at the time of Paksenarrion and expand on their lives, loves and land. The prior books in this four book series dealt with Kieri Phelan, the half elf, half human mercenary soldier who led Paksenarrion in battle, but was now able to to reclaim his heritage and land as a ruler and King. Dorrin, another soldier, who had magic, was able to oust her evil family from her lands and reclaim ruler ship. Then there was Stammel, a soldier who had been blinded in battle but could still see, by virtue of his Gods, to kill his enemies.
There are many characters in these books and in the first three books, Moon primarily focused on Phelan, Mikel and Dorrin, with some other characters.
This fourth book in the series focuses on Arvid, a former thief, who helped Paks escape from a real bind and Arcolin, the current leader of the mercenary soldiers and a noble in Mikeli's land.
Moon shifts around the focus of the story from character to character and does not provide any introduction or summary of what went on before in the beginning of the novel. This is an issue because it takes a long time to get your footing, remember who the long list of characters is and who are their enemies and especially what went on before.
By the time, I got one third of the book in, I finally found my footing and enjoyed the Arcolin and Arvid story arcs. Moon has always enchanted with her descriptions of how the religious soldier orders and the paladins interact with Gird, who talks to them. These scenes are always amusing. Arvid's travails as clearly a chosen one in the service of Gird are probably the best scenes in the novel, but there are many other segues back to other characters in prior books as well.
If you have read the prior volumes in Paladin's Legacy, you must read this story.
Its that good, but if you have never heard of Paks or Moon, then go back and read the Deed of Paksenarrion first before you start on this four book series.
July 8, 2013
There are two dangers when you read a series as it comes out. First, you get tired of waiting and loose interested. The effort of rereading everything every few years just so the new book makes sense is tiring. The other danger is getting too exciting during the delay and being let down when the book isn’t the best thing you’ve ever read. There is a very small handful of authors I read who completely skip over this problem, and Elizabeth Moon is one of them.
For one thing, her stories are so original and three dimensional that they become a part of your memories, your experiences even, and there’s no chance of forgetting where you left off. For another, at this point I doubt she knows how to write a mediocre book. When someone asks which her best book is, you have to hold back a hysterical giggle as you hand them her complete works. The fourth book of the Paladin’s Legacy series, Limits of Power, more than met my expectations. It answered enough questions or at least acknowledged them and thrust the story forward with action and character growth.
Limits of Power picks up directly after the ending of Echoes of Betrayal with Kieri, Arian, and Dorrin’s swords covered in iynisin blood and the Lady of the Elves dead on the floor. Naturally, everything promptly gets worse. The elvenhome is gone and strange patterns built into the palace seem to have the ability to transport people. But isn’t only in Chaya that things are going awry. All over the world, people are developing magery, throwing the Girdish into crisis. The Marshal-General, stunned by some of her follows attitudes and actions, begins to explore the possibility of changing the Code. However, changing centuries of teaching and tradition doesn’t happen quickly, and Prince Camwyn of Tsaia desperately needs their verdict because he has become a mage also, and his entire family’s right to rule is in question.
The thing that endears all the Paksworld books to me is that they take huge, sprawling political and history events and tell them through the eyes of individuals. You never get bogged down reading about how one country’s customs are affecting another country’s ability to flourish. Instead, you get to learn about it from the eyes of a main character. You get to see it as a source of frustration, relief, or pride. And I think what I love most is the fact that none of the characters have the entire picture, so each brings a very different perspective. The Marshal-General is struggling to reevaluate not just her followers’ beliefs toward magery, but her own as well. Nearly all the adults are scared by why this new surge of mages means, but Camwyn, while scared he might be banished or executed, kind of enjoys his new found powers the way only a teenager can.
This was a new and fascinating aspect of the story that Limits of Power brought to the surface. For the most part, the earlier three books focused on older characters who have seen enough and learned enough to be deeply concerned by all that’s happening around them. They understand that seemingly unconnected events probably are related and that mostly likely the occurrences they are dealing with are really part of something much larger and more dangerous. And certainly, we’ve see that evil has no compulsions about targeting children and youths, but Limits of Power repeatedly touched on how the next generation perceived the events around them…and it was surprising.
Dorrin’s three Squires were put through the wringer in the last books, but all of them are bouncing back with an almost shocking indifference to the fact their entire world seems to be at war. Beclan was stripped of his title and disowned (sort of) by his family, but that doesn’t stop him from flirting his way through the king’s court. Daryan was maliciously crippled and healed through a little understood magic using bits of wood. Yet he thinks the fact his thumbs grow is the coolest thing. And of course Camwyn’s ridden in a dragon and can fly, and he’s deeply taken with the magics that surround him. Again and again, we catch a glimpse that the real changes are going to come from kings or the Marshals, but from the next generation. That even while the adults face the worst crisis in living memory, the youths are bouncing back already and begin to accept their changed world and to delight in all its new wonders.
So yes, I’m very eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, and all the other Paksworld books that might follow. But unlike so many series, I finished Limits of Power with a sense of satisfaction. The action moved forward, the world was broadened, the characters deepened, and my own thoughts widened. And there is less a sense of “I need the next book NOW” and more a sense of “the next book will be more than worth the wait.”
Republished from www.lytherus.com
For one thing, her stories are so original and three dimensional that they become a part of your memories, your experiences even, and there’s no chance of forgetting where you left off. For another, at this point I doubt she knows how to write a mediocre book. When someone asks which her best book is, you have to hold back a hysterical giggle as you hand them her complete works. The fourth book of the Paladin’s Legacy series, Limits of Power, more than met my expectations. It answered enough questions or at least acknowledged them and thrust the story forward with action and character growth.
Limits of Power picks up directly after the ending of Echoes of Betrayal with Kieri, Arian, and Dorrin’s swords covered in iynisin blood and the Lady of the Elves dead on the floor. Naturally, everything promptly gets worse. The elvenhome is gone and strange patterns built into the palace seem to have the ability to transport people. But isn’t only in Chaya that things are going awry. All over the world, people are developing magery, throwing the Girdish into crisis. The Marshal-General, stunned by some of her follows attitudes and actions, begins to explore the possibility of changing the Code. However, changing centuries of teaching and tradition doesn’t happen quickly, and Prince Camwyn of Tsaia desperately needs their verdict because he has become a mage also, and his entire family’s right to rule is in question.
The thing that endears all the Paksworld books to me is that they take huge, sprawling political and history events and tell them through the eyes of individuals. You never get bogged down reading about how one country’s customs are affecting another country’s ability to flourish. Instead, you get to learn about it from the eyes of a main character. You get to see it as a source of frustration, relief, or pride. And I think what I love most is the fact that none of the characters have the entire picture, so each brings a very different perspective. The Marshal-General is struggling to reevaluate not just her followers’ beliefs toward magery, but her own as well. Nearly all the adults are scared by why this new surge of mages means, but Camwyn, while scared he might be banished or executed, kind of enjoys his new found powers the way only a teenager can.
This was a new and fascinating aspect of the story that Limits of Power brought to the surface. For the most part, the earlier three books focused on older characters who have seen enough and learned enough to be deeply concerned by all that’s happening around them. They understand that seemingly unconnected events probably are related and that mostly likely the occurrences they are dealing with are really part of something much larger and more dangerous. And certainly, we’ve see that evil has no compulsions about targeting children and youths, but Limits of Power repeatedly touched on how the next generation perceived the events around them…and it was surprising.
Dorrin’s three Squires were put through the wringer in the last books, but all of them are bouncing back with an almost shocking indifference to the fact their entire world seems to be at war. Beclan was stripped of his title and disowned (sort of) by his family, but that doesn’t stop him from flirting his way through the king’s court. Daryan was maliciously crippled and healed through a little understood magic using bits of wood. Yet he thinks the fact his thumbs grow is the coolest thing. And of course Camwyn’s ridden in a dragon and can fly, and he’s deeply taken with the magics that surround him. Again and again, we catch a glimpse that the real changes are going to come from kings or the Marshals, but from the next generation. That even while the adults face the worst crisis in living memory, the youths are bouncing back already and begin to accept their changed world and to delight in all its new wonders.
So yes, I’m very eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, and all the other Paksworld books that might follow. But unlike so many series, I finished Limits of Power with a sense of satisfaction. The action moved forward, the world was broadened, the characters deepened, and my own thoughts widened. And there is less a sense of “I need the next book NOW” and more a sense of “the next book will be more than worth the wait.”
Republished from www.lytherus.com
October 6, 2014
This is a good series and it continues a longer story that Ms. Moon began (and I'm not sure how much of it was planned as there was a long interval between publication of the "beginning") with The Deed of Paksenarrion and the two prequels (though I really never got into the prequels). This book picks up the story (in a pattern Ms. Moon has set) at the exactly moment the last book ended. King (formerly Duke) Keri Phelan is in a "pickle" (seemingly) as things ended and that is the first thing we have to deal with.
To say much here about the story/plot itself or even the characters this far into the series would almost have to entail spoiler. What happens with each one even who participates would tip the hand. I will say a couple of things "in general" to help (I hope) give an idea of how things are going.
First let me say that in spite of one concern I have this is still going among my favorites. I became hooked on the story of Paksenarrion and have followed the story ever since. I will also say that I'm glad to see Paks make a reappearance here and have hope that the next volume might tell us where she's been as it obviously has something/a lot to do with the continuing storyline.
The concern/concerns I have is that the story is spinning out with several new threads and has really only tied up a couple. Ms. Moon has not lost control of the story and it stays very interesting. I was caught u8p in the story from the first and wish I had the next waiting. Ms. Moon has told this story from the first with a multiplicity of viewpoints and as noted she handles them well. Unlike many books told from several points of view this one doesn't really have one I'm not interested in.
All that being said I think my experience with Robert Jordan has made me wary of "multiplying story threads". LOL
The way the book ends? Well, it just "ends", stops with the action "in action". It's more like the end of a chapter than the end of a novel, frustrating.
So...as always with this series of books highly recommended...and hope that the next volume comes out soon...and of course I live that long.
By the way, if you haven't read The Deed of Paksenarrion while you don't have to to follow this series I would highly recommend it..it's one of those books I feel is "not to be missed".
Enjoy.
To say much here about the story/plot itself or even the characters this far into the series would almost have to entail spoiler. What happens with each one even who participates would tip the hand. I will say a couple of things "in general" to help (I hope) give an idea of how things are going.
First let me say that in spite of one concern I have this is still going among my favorites. I became hooked on the story of Paksenarrion and have followed the story ever since. I will also say that I'm glad to see Paks make a reappearance here and have hope that the next volume might tell us where she's been as it obviously has something/a lot to do with the continuing storyline.
The concern/concerns I have is that the story is spinning out with several new threads and has really only tied up a couple. Ms. Moon has not lost control of the story and it stays very interesting. I was caught u8p in the story from the first and wish I had the next waiting. Ms. Moon has told this story from the first with a multiplicity of viewpoints and as noted she handles them well. Unlike many books told from several points of view this one doesn't really have one I'm not interested in.
All that being said I think my experience with Robert Jordan has made me wary of "multiplying story threads". LOL
The way the book ends? Well, it just "ends", stops with the action "in action". It's more like the end of a chapter than the end of a novel, frustrating.
So...as always with this series of books highly recommended...and hope that the next volume comes out soon...and of course I live that long.
By the way, if you haven't read The Deed of Paksenarrion while you don't have to to follow this series I would highly recommend it..it's one of those books I feel is "not to be missed".
Enjoy.
May 10, 2013
Magic is on the rise and people's lives are being destroyed indiscriminately. The elves have suffered a terrible loss and their home is threatened to disappear without someone to hold the taig. It is difficult to tell who is friend and who is foe.
This is a world were many creatures exist with different levels of ability. The threat comes when one species is more magically inclined. Jealousy and infighting has risen to new heights, in an effort to calm the tensions engagements were arranged between the elves and the humans. Although the ½ breeds are looked down upon and it doesn't help the building tension. Some relief comes when dragons intercede and help bridge the divide.
As human's start to show magical abilities, they are persecuted and or killed. Hiding abilities leaves many of the characters in a precarious position. There is extreme mistrust of all magical abilities except healing, but even there is a thin line.
Limits of Power was a highly complex and slow moving fantasy. Not reading past installments in this series, I found it difficult to follow. But once I caught on I found the plot very ingruing and enjoyable storyline. There was a lot of character interactions, rehashing (catching up) and getting reacquainted and not a lot of action. Limits of Power is a nice, enjoyable but complex fantasy read.
This ARC copy of Limits of Power was given to me by Edelweiss and Random House - Del Ray in exchange for an honest review. Publish Date June 11, 2013.
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
This is a world were many creatures exist with different levels of ability. The threat comes when one species is more magically inclined. Jealousy and infighting has risen to new heights, in an effort to calm the tensions engagements were arranged between the elves and the humans. Although the ½ breeds are looked down upon and it doesn't help the building tension. Some relief comes when dragons intercede and help bridge the divide.
As human's start to show magical abilities, they are persecuted and or killed. Hiding abilities leaves many of the characters in a precarious position. There is extreme mistrust of all magical abilities except healing, but even there is a thin line.
Limits of Power was a highly complex and slow moving fantasy. Not reading past installments in this series, I found it difficult to follow. But once I caught on I found the plot very ingruing and enjoyable storyline. There was a lot of character interactions, rehashing (catching up) and getting reacquainted and not a lot of action. Limits of Power is a nice, enjoyable but complex fantasy read.
This ARC copy of Limits of Power was given to me by Edelweiss and Random House - Del Ray in exchange for an honest review. Publish Date June 11, 2013.
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
September 19, 2015
The main characters in this one seem to be Arvid and Arcolin, who have both really grown on me. I've seen a review or two complaining about the lack of character development, but a lot of Kieri's and Dorrin's arcs have already happened (at least it seems that way before book 5). Arcolin went through a lot of growth or else realised it had happened, and although I've never disliked him I like him better now. I always had a tendency to like Arvid as the elegant, somewhat dark-and-plotty one. Watching his relationship with the Girdish faith is also pretty funny. And yes, he goes through character growth too.
I like young Camwyn, one of the new viewpoint characters! I hope we get to see much more of him. He and Aris are fun.
Lots of interesting plot developments.
I could have used a few more cities named in the map though. Where the heck is Dwarfwatch? The only north-south pass marked in the topographic details seems to be the one at Valdaire.
I like young Camwyn, one of the new viewpoint characters! I hope we get to see much more of him. He and Aris are fun.
Lots of interesting plot developments.
I could have used a few more cities named in the map though. Where the heck is Dwarfwatch? The only north-south pass marked in the topographic details seems to be the one at Valdaire.
August 25, 2017
More swords, more sorcery, and dragons!
This book is more about Paksenarrion's companions than Paks; for me that is more of a feature than a bug. I am so happy that Ms. Moon is sharing more of this world with us. Can't wait for more about Arvid, and the gnomes.
This book is more about Paksenarrion's companions than Paks; for me that is more of a feature than a bug. I am so happy that Ms. Moon is sharing more of this world with us. Can't wait for more about Arvid, and the gnomes.
August 31, 2018
Moon does an excellent job of rotating her multiple viewpoint characters and keeping track of everything that's happening. My personal favorite is Arvid "I Don't Want to Serve Your God, I'm a Member of the Thieves' Guild, Please Leave Me Alone" Semmison, who keeps earning paragon points and getting approving comments from Gird despite announcing every third chapter that he's not a good person, he doesn't want to serve a god, why is this happening to him and where the hell did he pick up this plucky orphan child anyway...
April 30, 2014
The Eight Kingdoms are under threat. Throughout the north, magic is re-emerging after centuries of absence, popping up in family after family-even those with no known mage parentage. Nor is it confined to the privileged classes, but is appearing in rich and poor alike. This is bad enough in lands where such powers are not considered illegal, but now some kingdoms are instituting pogroms, killing everyone in whom the powers emerge, no matter how young or old they might be.
And with one very determined traitor at work, intent on undoing any effort at peace no matter how many lives it costs, the future hangs in the balance. It is only the dedication of a few resolute heroes who can turn the tides... if they can survive.
The story continues where it left off in Echoes of Betrayal, with each of the smaller lines of the make up the greater whole cloth of the story being followed. Arcolin, King Kieri & Queen Arian of Lyonya, Duke Verrakai, King Mikeli of Tsaia, Arvid and Dattur, all of their stories crisscross throughout the book. Like the other books in the series it can be a bit confusing at first, when you leave one character's story and go back in time to the next character's story, as the events for each are happening simultaneously.
In Lyonya they must deal with the iynisins treacherous attack on the Lady. The attack which was successful, killing the Lady (and therefore the elvenhome), and almost having Kieri blamed for the murder of his own grandmother. There is also the aftermath of the war with Pargun, Queen Arian's miscarriage by poison, plans for river trade, and preparation of defenses for Lyonya should Alured the Black attempt the invade via the river in his potential bid to take over the entire land.
Arcolin has his hands full becoming a Duke, leading his entire Company so that it is all in the south for the fighting season, finding an acceptable wife, and learning the Law for reasons that become clear as time goes on. As well he has dealings with Arvid, former Thieves Guildmaster turned Girdish. Arvid and the gnome Dattur left the Inn where they had been guests to move in with Fox Company for more protection from retaliation from the local Thieves Guild; Arvid had taken his revenge upon the local Guild, recovering his stolen goods and something totally unexpected.
Duke Verrakai has suddenly adopted the one of her young squires as her heir, the only way to save the young squire's life according to law. Dorrin and her new heir go see Kieri, King of Lyonya and her former Duke and commander, and exchange what news they can while still maintaining loyalty to their respective kingdoms.
King Mikeli of Tsaia has his hands full, between the royal regalia that Duke Verrakai brought to him as a gift, and the sudden resurgence of mage talents across his kingdom and others. As more and more young people begin to show talents as mages, controversy runs rampant, leaving the King in a very tough spot. Should he support the pogroms to kill anyone manifesting a Mage talent, which is basically the law, or should he and the Marshal-General work to alter law and perceptions about mages? If he follows the letter of the law things would go from bad to heinous in a heartbeat.
Elves have come from the holding that was discovered in Luap's scrolls, the scrolls Paks had been given as a reward. These Elves demand that all humans be recalled so that they may close the gate to protect from greater damage by the iynisins, and that includes the be-spelled human magelords. Of course no one knows how to awaken the magelords, and don't know if they even should, knowing nothing about them. However it may be a good idea to wake the magelords, as all the youngsters showing ability will need an adult to train them, and Dorrin is the only adult magelord people know and remotely trust, and she is already overwhelmed with jobs. The royal regalia is becoming more restless and demanding, and has begun speaking to a few others that we know of; there is real fear that Alured the Black wants this regalia, and may become unstoppable if he gets it and can use it. And it is looking more and more likely that this is a real possibility. The continuation of this epic fantasy remains strong and engaging, though it is starting to feel as if this story is nearing a conclusion. I remain undecided about this story ending yet, but will let the Crown of Renewal tell me what it can.
July 22, 2016
1/11/14 ** Finished. I'd read other reviews that were less complimentary of this book - critique was that it seemed that there was too much summarizing to more quickly deliver background info needed for the final book. I disagree. More reflective w/ characters spending more time thinking/talking about problems for which they have no solutions; less action. However, some surprising plot twists, most of which were well foreshadowed. Can't wait for the concluding volume.
1/9/14 ** I'm seeing a parallel between the magery (illegal magic) in Moon's Paladin's Legacy series with gender identity in our culture. One of the things that I most appreciate about good literature is the way that it can provide both a window and a mirror for our own culture - and Limits of Power has had me thinking a lot about our own society. I woke up numerous times over night thinking about this, so I suppose I should write it. Then maybe my mind will "check it off" and leave me alone.
As early as 1988, in A Sheepfarmer's Daughter Moon portrayed same-gender couples as a natural part of society. As more people have come out, and as I've re-read Moon's books, I've appreciated her courage in including gay/lesbian characters. Though she doesn't explicitly link gender identity and magery, the religious and legal strictures against the having mage-powers seem to echo the conditions LGBT individuals face in America. Likewise, those children and adults in whom the magic appears haven't chosen those powers; instead, they are born with magic and it appears as the individuals enter adolescence. A major theme in Limits of Power (and I assume Crown of Renewal) is the efforts of individuals to halt the bigotry and violence toward those displaying mage-powers. These efforts provide a mirror for the same journey we face with regard to LGBT members of our own communities.
Hate/fear > Distrust > tolerance > acceptance = our path. We need to remember that tolerance is different than acceptance. Our goal is that being known as gay or straight isn't worth a comment because all are accepted as part of our community.
1/9/14 ** I'm seeing a parallel between the magery (illegal magic) in Moon's Paladin's Legacy series with gender identity in our culture. One of the things that I most appreciate about good literature is the way that it can provide both a window and a mirror for our own culture - and Limits of Power has had me thinking a lot about our own society. I woke up numerous times over night thinking about this, so I suppose I should write it. Then maybe my mind will "check it off" and leave me alone.
As early as 1988, in A Sheepfarmer's Daughter Moon portrayed same-gender couples as a natural part of society. As more people have come out, and as I've re-read Moon's books, I've appreciated her courage in including gay/lesbian characters. Though she doesn't explicitly link gender identity and magery, the religious and legal strictures against the having mage-powers seem to echo the conditions LGBT individuals face in America. Likewise, those children and adults in whom the magic appears haven't chosen those powers; instead, they are born with magic and it appears as the individuals enter adolescence. A major theme in Limits of Power (and I assume Crown of Renewal) is the efforts of individuals to halt the bigotry and violence toward those displaying mage-powers. These efforts provide a mirror for the same journey we face with regard to LGBT members of our own communities.
Hate/fear > Distrust > tolerance > acceptance = our path. We need to remember that tolerance is different than acceptance. Our goal is that being known as gay or straight isn't worth a comment because all are accepted as part of our community.
August 18, 2016
This really is an odd series. Things happen, many of them quite exciting, but the overall pace is weird and slow. The POV shifts apparently arbitrarily, not so much building to some kind of climax as just hopping all over the world, now here, now there, without any obvious connecting threads or sensible transitions. It is like the author just had this big tangle of Stuff, and didn't really feel the need to straighten it out into a Story.
Which, I realize, makes it sound like I hated the book. Quite the opposite! The characters are excellent, and the big tangle of Stuff Happening in the World is interesting, and clearly going somewhere, even if it goes meanderingly. Having such a large world, with main characters so widely divided geographically, and with no quick means of travel or communication, must have been a challenge for the author. Still, it would have been nice to see a clearer throughline, drawing connections between what the King is doing in this land and the Mercenary Captain in this other, while the Honorable Thief is doing a third thing somewhere entirely else.
Which still is placing emphasis on the parts I found weakest, rather than what I enjoyed. Ah well, I can't help it. It's a solid series, and this was a solid entry into it, and I'm definitely interested to see how Moon wraps everything up in the final installment.
Which, I realize, makes it sound like I hated the book. Quite the opposite! The characters are excellent, and the big tangle of Stuff Happening in the World is interesting, and clearly going somewhere, even if it goes meanderingly. Having such a large world, with main characters so widely divided geographically, and with no quick means of travel or communication, must have been a challenge for the author. Still, it would have been nice to see a clearer throughline, drawing connections between what the King is doing in this land and the Mercenary Captain in this other, while the Honorable Thief is doing a third thing somewhere entirely else.
Which still is placing emphasis on the parts I found weakest, rather than what I enjoyed. Ah well, I can't help it. It's a solid series, and this was a solid entry into it, and I'm definitely interested to see how Moon wraps everything up in the final installment.
April 21, 2018
This is the penultimate novel in the series and it continues to build to the conclusion in the final novel but extending the stories of there main characters and bringing in more events and plot points that should make for a great finish.
This book focuses on the renewal of imagery and the impending invasion of the black pirate Allerud which will be the climax of the final book I expect.
As in all the books the characters grow and are real, the action is solid but not overwhelming and the authenticity of the book is so well done. These are real people doing real things and the details are sufficient to give you a real feel for life in this world.
I look forward to finishing this series and expect it will be one of my favorites.
This book focuses on the renewal of imagery and the impending invasion of the black pirate Allerud which will be the climax of the final book I expect.
As in all the books the characters grow and are real, the action is solid but not overwhelming and the authenticity of the book is so well done. These are real people doing real things and the details are sufficient to give you a real feel for life in this world.
I look forward to finishing this series and expect it will be one of my favorites.
August 2, 2015
I absolutely love these series, which have not lost any allure since the beginning, and have to say that this close to the end I am as interested as I was in the beginning. however, this is the first volume which strayed away from the world's rules a bit and got tad confusing... Apart from that, I am very impressed with the ability of the author to describe intricate feelings and relationships with the same simplicity and understated elegance which she applies to her obvious bread and butter specialty of military craft and strategy. I do miss the romance to which I am drawn in my preferred literature, but it somehow works here even without it.... Let's see how Ms. Moon wraps it all up :-)
June 30, 2013
Definitely a middle book - things are beginning to come together in the wider story arc, so there's not much in the way of resolution here.
I have to stay, my usual complaint in fantasy series is that characters don't communicate and tell each other what is going on when simply sharing information would solve so much. I guess that's a sign of a not very good author, creating tension and conflict when so simple a solution would solve it all. That is NOT a problem here. Couriers and scribes get a very good workout.
I have to stay, my usual complaint in fantasy series is that characters don't communicate and tell each other what is going on when simply sharing information would solve so much. I guess that's a sign of a not very good author, creating tension and conflict when so simple a solution would solve it all. That is NOT a problem here. Couriers and scribes get a very good workout.
Read
July 5, 2013Absolutely dying for this to come out!!! I really don't think I can wait for June. I just reread the entire series AGAIN.
July 8, 2013
The latest volume in the Paksiverse is up to her usual standard ... well thought out,interesting character development, I can hardly wait for the next!
Read
November 18, 2020It's definitely been too long since I finished the last book written in this series. Had to go back to my review to get back into what had already happened, and I still missed a few things. Lots of character growth and development going on here.
The most obvious "victim" of change is Arvid, the former Master of the Thieves' Guild, who has been marked by Gird for something important. He meets up with Count Arcolin (who has taken over Kieri Phelan's Fox mercenaries) in the south, and works there as a sutler for a time, while studying in one of the granges of Gird nearby. I'm pretty certain Moon is using him to illustrate the nature of Christ's forgiveness and how God works in the lives of forgiven sinners to mold them into the people suited for the tasks he has prepared for them. Arvid remains mystified as to "Why Me?" and what possible use a former criminal can be to a lawful good god, but Arcolin and others have a bit more experience with the process. Eventually, he has to flee north with his son when the guild sends too many assassins after him. But that's probably just where Gird needs him, anyway.
Sergeant Stammel is one whose journey through physical blindness has put him in exactly the spot where the gods want him to be, to save a village from pirates.
King Kieri has a huge mess to clean up after the murder of his grandmother the Lady of the Elves, and the collapse of the Elvenhome with her passing. He can finally also begin to dig into some of the secrets the elves have been keeping for centuries, and start to develop his elf magic gifts, as well. On the more mundane side, he needs to forge some alliances in order to withstand the coming storm when the pirate formerly known as Alured decides to come calling with his armies out of the south. He and his queen, Arian, must also conceive another heir to the throne soon, to replace the one that was murdered by poison, discover the identity of the traitor, and protect his kingdom and family.
King Mikeli also needs to produce an heir, but to do that, he must first find a wife. Plenty of prospects available, but he needs to blend politics and his own desire for a true helpmeet to find just the right one. In the meantime, his younger brother and heir, Camwyn, finds that his unsuspected mage powers are awakening, and he keeps them concealed from his brother and the nobles of the kingdom, fearing the banishment that befell his friend, Beclan.
Beclan is developing well, however, as Dorrin Verrakai's squire, being groomed to become her heir someday, as she has no desire to wed. Dorrin is still weeding out the last of the Verrakai mages and repairing the damage they did to the land and the Duchy.
Arcolin takes the Foxes south for a contract, and in addition to hiring the former thief, he finds out that he is now Prince of the tribe of gnomes whom he rescued after the Dragon cast them out of their stony domain. He has to learn gnomish law and language before he can be effective wearing that hat, but he certainly gives it the old mercenary school try. He also gets a "promotion" to Duke, with the attendant increase in duties.
Paksennarion turns up a couple of times on minor errands, but continues to be a minor player in the drama.
The only downside to this novel is that it seemed Moon rushed the last chapters a bit. The first 90% of the book is full of detailed action, daily routines, long conversations, and covers most of summer and fall, while winter breezes by quickly, with only the briefest of details, in the last pages. I think she's rushing us along to the spring campaign, when Alured of Immer's forces are expected to attack.
The most obvious "victim" of change is Arvid, the former Master of the Thieves' Guild, who has been marked by Gird for something important. He meets up with Count Arcolin (who has taken over Kieri Phelan's Fox mercenaries) in the south, and works there as a sutler for a time, while studying in one of the granges of Gird nearby. I'm pretty certain Moon is using him to illustrate the nature of Christ's forgiveness and how God works in the lives of forgiven sinners to mold them into the people suited for the tasks he has prepared for them. Arvid remains mystified as to "Why Me?" and what possible use a former criminal can be to a lawful good god, but Arcolin and others have a bit more experience with the process. Eventually, he has to flee north with his son when the guild sends too many assassins after him. But that's probably just where Gird needs him, anyway.
Sergeant Stammel is one whose journey through physical blindness has put him in exactly the spot where the gods want him to be, to save a village from pirates.
King Kieri has a huge mess to clean up after the murder of his grandmother the Lady of the Elves, and the collapse of the Elvenhome with her passing. He can finally also begin to dig into some of the secrets the elves have been keeping for centuries, and start to develop his elf magic gifts, as well. On the more mundane side, he needs to forge some alliances in order to withstand the coming storm when the pirate formerly known as Alured decides to come calling with his armies out of the south. He and his queen, Arian, must also conceive another heir to the throne soon, to replace the one that was murdered by poison, discover the identity of the traitor, and protect his kingdom and family.
King Mikeli also needs to produce an heir, but to do that, he must first find a wife. Plenty of prospects available, but he needs to blend politics and his own desire for a true helpmeet to find just the right one. In the meantime, his younger brother and heir, Camwyn, finds that his unsuspected mage powers are awakening, and he keeps them concealed from his brother and the nobles of the kingdom, fearing the banishment that befell his friend, Beclan.
Beclan is developing well, however, as Dorrin Verrakai's squire, being groomed to become her heir someday, as she has no desire to wed. Dorrin is still weeding out the last of the Verrakai mages and repairing the damage they did to the land and the Duchy.
Arcolin takes the Foxes south for a contract, and in addition to hiring the former thief, he finds out that he is now Prince of the tribe of gnomes whom he rescued after the Dragon cast them out of their stony domain. He has to learn gnomish law and language before he can be effective wearing that hat, but he certainly gives it the old mercenary school try. He also gets a "promotion" to Duke, with the attendant increase in duties.
Paksennarion turns up a couple of times on minor errands, but continues to be a minor player in the drama.
The only downside to this novel is that it seemed Moon rushed the last chapters a bit. The first 90% of the book is full of detailed action, daily routines, long conversations, and covers most of summer and fall, while winter breezes by quickly, with only the briefest of details, in the last pages. I think she's rushing us along to the spring campaign, when Alured of Immer's forces are expected to attack.
January 24, 2025
Audio, narrated by Angela Dawe
It was hard to adjust to yet another narrator. If I wasn't so eager to continue the story, it might have discouraged me from audio. She had some strange cadences, and her pronunciation of a lot of the names was very different from previous interpretations. That was irritating.
However, I still very much enjoyed the story. This world is well executed and well thought out, and I love seeing how things begun in earlier books are starting to bear fruit. The dragon and gnomes are super cool, and I'm very excited they're both getting more of the story.
I will say I am starting to get frustrated by the broad scope of the story and the large cast. I like everyone and care about their threads, but because of the size of the cast, it feels like almost nothing happens before its time to move on to the next person. It really bogged down the pacing and made me quite impatient. I don't see how one more book will be enough to wrap up all the threads started in book one.
It was hard to adjust to yet another narrator. If I wasn't so eager to continue the story, it might have discouraged me from audio. She had some strange cadences, and her pronunciation of a lot of the names was very different from previous interpretations. That was irritating.
However, I still very much enjoyed the story. This world is well executed and well thought out, and I love seeing how things begun in earlier books are starting to bear fruit. The dragon and gnomes are super cool, and I'm very excited they're both getting more of the story.
I will say I am starting to get frustrated by the broad scope of the story and the large cast. I like everyone and care about their threads, but because of the size of the cast, it feels like almost nothing happens before its time to move on to the next person. It really bogged down the pacing and made me quite impatient. I don't see how one more book will be enough to wrap up all the threads started in book one.
June 11, 2020
This series just gets better as it goes along. It is only beyond the midway point that we actually get to see the antagonist/mastermind behind all the conflict in this world, and in this novel, I believe we only have him for two scenes. It was gripping that first scene I tell you. As I was reading this book I always had in the back of my mind the simple question, would we ever see Stammel ever again. I was really hoping to possibly see him in some pivotal role with Dragon in the final novel doing some super heroism thingy, but now that’s impossible, which for some reason pissed me off at the end of this novel, but it still did not take away from the fact that this was very well written and thought out. I really enjoyed plowing through this book and I can’t wait for the finale. A war on at least 3 fronts sparks the possibility for some really cool action and I can’t wait. Onwards!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2018
can you believe my regular library doesn't have book 5? i'm going to have to go to Another Library. absurdities
-idiot boys :( where are the gwenno and dorrin plots i deserve
-did arcolin really need a book 4 plot involving his lineage. also a completely practical marriage
-elves. they're boring
-paks is backs
-if marshal-general doesn't survive book 5 i'll be unhappy
at this point this is a pretty alright fantasy series that is high on the practicality and slow build of plot, but is much less focused on... The Feels (indefinable quality that i am weak to). i could use more Feels honestly. (more dorrin)
i guess we'll see how book 5 resolves things (or not? is this series over? i don't know anything)
bye
-idiot boys :( where are the gwenno and dorrin plots i deserve
-did arcolin really need a book 4 plot involving his lineage. also a completely practical marriage
-elves. they're boring
-paks is backs
-if marshal-general doesn't survive book 5 i'll be unhappy
at this point this is a pretty alright fantasy series that is high on the practicality and slow build of plot, but is much less focused on... The Feels (indefinable quality that i am weak to). i could use more Feels honestly. (more dorrin)
i guess we'll see how book 5 resolves things (or not? is this series over? i don't know anything)
bye
May 24, 2017
Lengthy conversations and descriptions; WORTH IT.
Moon's books are sometimes difficult to get into, or in the midst of a three page long conversation you wonder, "Why the hell am I reading this?". But by the end of it, you're begging for more books. Wildly imaginative, and you truly feel absorbed in her world. Looking forward to reading her other books; I was bad and started with this series. I think it will be great fun to read its predecessors, and seeing how it all ties up in this series.
Moon's books are sometimes difficult to get into, or in the midst of a three page long conversation you wonder, "Why the hell am I reading this?". But by the end of it, you're begging for more books. Wildly imaginative, and you truly feel absorbed in her world. Looking forward to reading her other books; I was bad and started with this series. I think it will be great fun to read its predecessors, and seeing how it all ties up in this series.
April 15, 2021
https://wordnerdy.blogspot.com/2021/0...
Wow, this was satisfying and exciting in a large number of ways, and it’s not even the last volume in the series. I particularly loved the wry humor of the gods talking to people, and everything with Arcolin and the gnomes. And I legit cried in one scene toward the end which I cannot discuss bc spoilers. I can’t wait to get to the final book and see how rising good magic and FRIENDSHIP will defeat EVIL. A.
Wow, this was satisfying and exciting in a large number of ways, and it’s not even the last volume in the series. I particularly loved the wry humor of the gods talking to people, and everything with Arcolin and the gnomes. And I legit cried in one scene toward the end which I cannot discuss bc spoilers. I can’t wait to get to the final book and see how rising good magic and FRIENDSHIP will defeat EVIL. A.
May 10, 2021
I am a big fan of fantasy and science fiction novels especially if they are long and have several books in the series. I really enjoy a series of books that I can immerse myself in and I first picked up an Elizabeth Moon novel because it was long and part of a multi-novel series. I continue to read her books because I find them engrossing and highly enjoyable.
July 20, 2021
Advances the series, but listening to the audiobook version makes it painfully obvious that there is too much "telling" and not enough "showing". Relies on extended dialogues to progress action and keep the reader informed of the various subplots and characters. I'm relieved to be finished this at the second try, and hoping the final volume is an improvement.
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August 11, 2021As always, I thoroughly enjoyed Elizabeth Moon's writing. I am disappointed that my library has so few of her books. I have read the entire Paladin's series, as well as other books by her. Will continue to look for new ones. She is a terrific writer, with sympathetic characters, lots of action, as well as moral considerations.
September 9, 2023
I'll be sad to say goodbye to these characters
There's only one more book left and I'm praying that all this beautiful character development doesn't end with a thousand loose ends. Such a wonderful story so far, stories within stories but I don't see how one more book is going to wrap it all up. It feels like we're only half way through.
There's only one more book left and I'm praying that all this beautiful character development doesn't end with a thousand loose ends. Such a wonderful story so far, stories within stories but I don't see how one more book is going to wrap it all up. It feels like we're only half way through.
November 25, 2023
While I like this world, I feel like it is getting a bit ridiculous with all the magic that just keeps popping up. The story seems bogged down in too much magic, part of it's charm before was that the magic was rare, it was interesting, it was curious. Now everyone has magic and who knows what it is for or why it is there. Kinda boring now, instead of special or purposeful.
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