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The Sundering #3
The Adversary
As the chaos of the Sundering rages around her, young warlock Farideh faces a more personal turmoil wrought by a deal she made with a devil years ago. Hoping to protect her twin sister, she leaves everything she holds dear to assist a wizard in a scheme that pits the devils of the Nine Hells against the gods above.
But when Farideh casts the spell to enter the wizard’s remote mountaintop fortress, she picks up a stowaway &mdahs; a Harper agent named Dahl who isn't so inclined to follow devilish demands. Dahl attempts to escape only to run into a village of odd people, lurking behind an impenetrable wall.
Forced to gaze into the villagers’ souls, Farideh points out the ones who seem different, only to watch as the wizard’s guard carts them off to fates unknown. Are these villagers or prisoners? Are they blessed or doomed by the gods? As the wizard’s guessing game proves more and more diabolical, Farideh resolves to unravel his secrets — even if it means she’ll lose her own soul to the Nine Hells.
In this third book of the Sundering series kicked off by R.A. Salvatore and the dark elf Drizzt, SCRIBE award-winning author Erin M. Evans thrusts her signature character Farideh into a maelstrom of devilish politics and magical intrigue that will have far-reaching implications for the future of the Forgotten Realms.
But when Farideh casts the spell to enter the wizard’s remote mountaintop fortress, she picks up a stowaway &mdahs; a Harper agent named Dahl who isn't so inclined to follow devilish demands. Dahl attempts to escape only to run into a village of odd people, lurking behind an impenetrable wall.
Forced to gaze into the villagers’ souls, Farideh points out the ones who seem different, only to watch as the wizard’s guard carts them off to fates unknown. Are these villagers or prisoners? Are they blessed or doomed by the gods? As the wizard’s guessing game proves more and more diabolical, Farideh resolves to unravel his secrets — even if it means she’ll lose her own soul to the Nine Hells.
In this third book of the Sundering series kicked off by R.A. Salvatore and the dark elf Drizzt, SCRIBE award-winning author Erin M. Evans thrusts her signature character Farideh into a maelstrom of devilish politics and magical intrigue that will have far-reaching implications for the future of the Forgotten Realms.
507 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
February 3, 2016
Not much development for Farideh (but that may be a side-effect of being part of a "RSE" (Realms-Shaking-Event, which happens in every edition of the Forgotten Realms D+D RPG.)
But at least we learn a little about the Sundering event (which is basically just to upgrade the Forgotten Realms fiction from 4E to 5E.)
But at least we learn a little about the Sundering event (which is basically just to upgrade the Forgotten Realms fiction from 4E to 5E.)
July 8, 2015
Originally published at Tales to Tide You Over
This is the third of the Sundering series I’ve read, and I’m thinking it comes in as my favorite. We’re thrust into disaster after disaster from the very start because the main focus is on a tiefling, Farideh, who never looks before she leaps, so determined to do what’s right that she doesn’t take the time to think things through. Of course, she’s rarely given the time she needs either. Then there’s the Harper Dahl who comes with a history rich with disaster and a self-destructive streak miles wide, Lorcan who is a devil half-blood driven by emotions he doesn’t believe he can have, Farideh’s sister with her own issues, and more.
Sure, this is an adventure fantasy with horrible things happening, people needing a rescue, people forced to do things they would prefer not to and suffering the consequences should they balk. It’s complex, complicated, and twisty. Deals with devils are rarely simple, and all the clauses in the world won’t cover every eventuality. But ultimately this is a people novel. It’s about the kind of trouble that comes through rash choices, and learning to live with the consequences at the same time as trying to mend what went wrong.
It’s rare that a novel can startle me into a laugh, and I wasn’t expecting it of this one as much of what happens falls into the dark paths of choosing the best of the worst when lives are at stake, but still there have been several times when the characters’ interactions just hit me the right way. There are things the characters say that stand out as poignant or telling, and yet though they have broader implications, are also perfect for the moment and that character.
Though Farideh is known in the Forgotten Realms universe, she’s new to me. What I came out of this book with is a wish to check out more of Erin M. Evans’ stories, and a sense of a rich history of which I know enough to make this book solid just in the glimpses offered, and yet I’m intrigued to discover more. The characters are complicated, well-rounded, and faced with the kinds of choices that make black and white a simple world for simple people who have never experienced anything more difficult than whether to share their breakfast meats or hoard them. I’ve already recommended the book to my son, and I suspect he’s not the first to hear about how much I enjoyed the rich characters and events put into play here.
P.S. I received this title from the publisher through Net Galley in return for an honest review.
This is the third of the Sundering series I’ve read, and I’m thinking it comes in as my favorite. We’re thrust into disaster after disaster from the very start because the main focus is on a tiefling, Farideh, who never looks before she leaps, so determined to do what’s right that she doesn’t take the time to think things through. Of course, she’s rarely given the time she needs either. Then there’s the Harper Dahl who comes with a history rich with disaster and a self-destructive streak miles wide, Lorcan who is a devil half-blood driven by emotions he doesn’t believe he can have, Farideh’s sister with her own issues, and more.
Sure, this is an adventure fantasy with horrible things happening, people needing a rescue, people forced to do things they would prefer not to and suffering the consequences should they balk. It’s complex, complicated, and twisty. Deals with devils are rarely simple, and all the clauses in the world won’t cover every eventuality. But ultimately this is a people novel. It’s about the kind of trouble that comes through rash choices, and learning to live with the consequences at the same time as trying to mend what went wrong.
It’s rare that a novel can startle me into a laugh, and I wasn’t expecting it of this one as much of what happens falls into the dark paths of choosing the best of the worst when lives are at stake, but still there have been several times when the characters’ interactions just hit me the right way. There are things the characters say that stand out as poignant or telling, and yet though they have broader implications, are also perfect for the moment and that character.
Though Farideh is known in the Forgotten Realms universe, she’s new to me. What I came out of this book with is a wish to check out more of Erin M. Evans’ stories, and a sense of a rich history of which I know enough to make this book solid just in the glimpses offered, and yet I’m intrigued to discover more. The characters are complicated, well-rounded, and faced with the kinds of choices that make black and white a simple world for simple people who have never experienced anything more difficult than whether to share their breakfast meats or hoard them. I’ve already recommended the book to my son, and I suspect he’s not the first to hear about how much I enjoyed the rich characters and events put into play here.
P.S. I received this title from the publisher through Net Galley in return for an honest review.
February 17, 2014
You can find this review and others on The Nomadic Reader.
Book three in The Sundering series was a welcome change from the incredible doom and gloom that I felt in the first two books. You’re introduced to two tiefling, Farideh and her sister Havilar. While the book is third in the series you’re more than welcome to read it out of order, the books (like the previous ones) only loosely tie together (they all take place in the same ‘world’). The world is still filled with doom and gloom but there are hints of romance and characters that I didn’t absolutely disdain which always helps.
Farideh makes a pact (or two, or three) with a devil in order to keep those she cares about safe from harm. Of course making pacts with devils never turns out the way you want it to, and she soon finds herself in over her head, serving a wizard who is rounding up the Chosen of the Gods for a purpose that she can’t figure out. Her sister is bent on rescuing her, along with her old patron, a group of harpers who think she is a traitor, and a red wizard. Each person has their own reason for finding Farideh, with their own outcome of the events.
I can honestly say this third book is my favorite so far. The characters were colourful and came alive in a way that I didn’t see in the previous books. It was nice to see characters that were not all good or all evil; they made mistakes, and paid for those mistakes. I found myself ‘rooting’ for each character as they neared their goal and while the ending may have been predictable, I was satisfied with how it carried out.
This book released in December, so it’s a great time to pick it up. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I thank NetGalley as well as the publishers for the opportunity.
4/5 stars
Book three in The Sundering series was a welcome change from the incredible doom and gloom that I felt in the first two books. You’re introduced to two tiefling, Farideh and her sister Havilar. While the book is third in the series you’re more than welcome to read it out of order, the books (like the previous ones) only loosely tie together (they all take place in the same ‘world’). The world is still filled with doom and gloom but there are hints of romance and characters that I didn’t absolutely disdain which always helps.
Farideh makes a pact (or two, or three) with a devil in order to keep those she cares about safe from harm. Of course making pacts with devils never turns out the way you want it to, and she soon finds herself in over her head, serving a wizard who is rounding up the Chosen of the Gods for a purpose that she can’t figure out. Her sister is bent on rescuing her, along with her old patron, a group of harpers who think she is a traitor, and a red wizard. Each person has their own reason for finding Farideh, with their own outcome of the events.
I can honestly say this third book is my favorite so far. The characters were colourful and came alive in a way that I didn’t see in the previous books. It was nice to see characters that were not all good or all evil; they made mistakes, and paid for those mistakes. I found myself ‘rooting’ for each character as they neared their goal and while the ending may have been predictable, I was satisfied with how it carried out.
This book released in December, so it’s a great time to pick it up. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I thank NetGalley as well as the publishers for the opportunity.
4/5 stars
November 26, 2013
An epic series, epic authors, dark fantasy that is detailed and deep, book three of The Sundering, The Adversary by Erin M. Evans is following in step with its predecessors! , Farideh is drawn into a world of deceit, magic and mayhem as she is taken prisoner in Netheril, only to discover that the Chosen of the gods are being held and exploited for their secret powers. Will she make it out alive? Can she be rescued? Can she trust those who claim to be her ally? Is this one more time the fates have dealt her a wicked hand?
In keeping with the pace of the previous books, this is does not race across the pages, but does rely on very intense detail and intrigue. The characters were flawed, and not always completely likable, but there is the sense of inner strength that comes through in the expansive dialogue throughout.
Erin Evans has done a very good job of adding to the depth of the series, with a sense of darkness and chaos throughout, sure to assist in the revival of the Forgotten Realm!
I received an Arc edition from Wizards of the Coast in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Sundering, Book 3
Publication Date: December 3, 2013
Publisher: Wizards of the Coast
ISBN: 9780786963751
Genre: Dark Fantasy-Adults
Page Count: 432
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
In keeping with the pace of the previous books, this is does not race across the pages, but does rely on very intense detail and intrigue. The characters were flawed, and not always completely likable, but there is the sense of inner strength that comes through in the expansive dialogue throughout.
Erin Evans has done a very good job of adding to the depth of the series, with a sense of darkness and chaos throughout, sure to assist in the revival of the Forgotten Realm!
I received an Arc edition from Wizards of the Coast in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Sundering, Book 3
Publication Date: December 3, 2013
Publisher: Wizards of the Coast
ISBN: 9780786963751
Genre: Dark Fantasy-Adults
Page Count: 432
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
May 12, 2014
While this is the third book in The Sundering series, it's also the continuation of the series of stories Erin M. Evans told with these characters before. As such, it's entirely possible there are plenty of other readers like me who had never read any of her other stories and are only reading this one because they started the series with the first entry by R. A. Salvatore. Unfortunately, it seems no one told Evans that, as the first third or so of this book is a jumbled mess of poorly-explained exposition that is only effective at telling the audience absolutely nothing about these characters and their relationships other than that they know each other. It picks up a bit after that once the book's story picks up and becomes more important than the backstory; there's decent action and a fun, twisting plot, and the characters are enjoyable. It's a little over-long and drags in places, but the end picks up. Overall I felt like this book was effective as part of The Sundering, but it didn't do anything at all in terms of making me want to read any of this author's other stories with these characters.
July 6, 2014
A dialogue heavy fantasy themed romance novel
Let me start by saying I have not read much of this author. I typically stick to Ed Greenwood, R.A. Salvatore, Richard Byer, Patricia Briggs, Paul Kemp, and Curtis Jobling. I mention the authors because it is important to understand my background before I start my review. I didn't care for this book. I found it to be dialogue heavy without much substance. The two main characters were annoying and constantly complaining about their situation. They come off as frustrated teenagers trying to save the world. Don't get me wrong I usually go for that type of thing, I am a huge fan of Percy Jackson but the constant inner monologue and this needless self sacrificing attitude bothered me to no end. The books saving grace were the side characters that were infinitely more interesting and the occasional funny dialogue written for everyone's favorite devil. Again not my favorite book and enough to turn me away from this author in the future.
Let me start by saying I have not read much of this author. I typically stick to Ed Greenwood, R.A. Salvatore, Richard Byer, Patricia Briggs, Paul Kemp, and Curtis Jobling. I mention the authors because it is important to understand my background before I start my review. I didn't care for this book. I found it to be dialogue heavy without much substance. The two main characters were annoying and constantly complaining about their situation. They come off as frustrated teenagers trying to save the world. Don't get me wrong I usually go for that type of thing, I am a huge fan of Percy Jackson but the constant inner monologue and this needless self sacrificing attitude bothered me to no end. The books saving grace were the side characters that were infinitely more interesting and the occasional funny dialogue written for everyone's favorite devil. Again not my favorite book and enough to turn me away from this author in the future.
June 11, 2021
I really like the Brimstone Angels series, but this installment definitely isn't my favorite. I'm not sure why, I think it's because a lot of the conflict is solely Farideh wanting to "protect" this person and "protect" that person, when a lot of the issues could have been resolved by her just having open communication...she claims to love her family and friends, but doesn't realize that a lot of the actions she takes puts them in really bad places, probably worse off than they would have been otherwise.
I really wanted her to have some sort of happy ending with Lorcan or Dahl, but I guess we're going to have to wait another book...or two...at this point, she getting on my damn nerves and shouldn't be with either. I'd really like to read the series again from Havilar's POV.
P.S. I know this is an important plot point, but I HATED the being frozen for seven years bit. It would have worked better in later books, but it happened too soon and I feel let down by all that we as readers probably missed in terms of their character growth.
I really wanted her to have some sort of happy ending with Lorcan or Dahl, but I guess we're going to have to wait another book...or two...at this point, she getting on my damn nerves and shouldn't be with either. I'd really like to read the series again from Havilar's POV.
P.S. I know this is an important plot point, but I HATED the being frozen for seven years bit. It would have worked better in later books, but it happened too soon and I feel let down by all that we as readers probably missed in terms of their character growth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2017
This is a helluva a good series in the FR universe. I really enjoy Evan's writing style, and the book narration is great. Highly recommend this series for any FR fans or those that just dig good fantasy.
November 30, 2023
Again a good book let down by the author's love of plot complexity at the expense of clear narrative creation.
June 29, 2018
tw: self harm
December 19, 2013
In reading Erin Evans contribution to the The Sundering series, her book The Adversary turned out to be a mixed bag. Evans does a masterful job of sharing setting and action with the reader through her use of imagery and choice of diction. Her character development however is a long and painful process that detracts from the plot as a whole.
In the opening of the book, as well as at several points throughout the book, Evans does a superb job of using all five senses to create a tableaux vivant for the reader. This quality allows the readers to feel as if they are actually experiencing what is being described. This is a wonderful and rare trait that only a few fantasy authors have mastered. Additionally, Evans has a well-developed vocabulary which she also uses to good effect. In several places, it is obvious that she chooses to use the best word rather than a simpler, less descriptive word that would be more easily understood by the reader. Both of these qualities drew me in early on and provided excellent moments of respite throughout the novel.
The great detractor in this book was the far too overly developed scenes where the characters’ relationships are introduced and explored. Now some of this may have to do with the fact that Evens is the only female writer in The Sundering series. Her style may too sharply contrast the other masculine writers. Along that same line of thinking, it may be that she is following in the footsteps of to highly accomplished authors. More likely, it is my dislike for the penchant of female fantasy authors to wax romantic rather than adventurous in this genre of writing. There are exceptions of course, but this seems to be an unfortunately common trait.
When I find myself skipping ahead pages to get past the deluge of motivations, feeling, and interpretations of each character examined in a myriad of minute details, there is a serious problem. If, as a reader, you are looking for wondrously good description wrapped around intricate character development through interaction and relationship this is likely the book for you. If you are more into a plot that steadily moves forward in a non-brooding fashion that can interconnect earlier elements of the series, you may wish to look elsewhere.
Dr. Nicholson reviews academic, Christian living, and fiction books for a variety of publishers in an array of formats. He is never paid for any of his reviews. For more reviews or information, visit Dr. Nicholson’s blog at drtnicholson.wordpress.com.
The book for this review was provided free of charge by Wizards of the Coast through NetGalley.com. This book was provided without the expectation or requirement of a positive response. Thank you to both the publisher and NetGalley.com for the opportunity to both read your advanced copy and to provide this unpaid evaluation. All opinions in this review reflect the views of the author and not NetGalley.com or the publisher.
In the opening of the book, as well as at several points throughout the book, Evans does a superb job of using all five senses to create a tableaux vivant for the reader. This quality allows the readers to feel as if they are actually experiencing what is being described. This is a wonderful and rare trait that only a few fantasy authors have mastered. Additionally, Evans has a well-developed vocabulary which she also uses to good effect. In several places, it is obvious that she chooses to use the best word rather than a simpler, less descriptive word that would be more easily understood by the reader. Both of these qualities drew me in early on and provided excellent moments of respite throughout the novel.
The great detractor in this book was the far too overly developed scenes where the characters’ relationships are introduced and explored. Now some of this may have to do with the fact that Evens is the only female writer in The Sundering series. Her style may too sharply contrast the other masculine writers. Along that same line of thinking, it may be that she is following in the footsteps of to highly accomplished authors. More likely, it is my dislike for the penchant of female fantasy authors to wax romantic rather than adventurous in this genre of writing. There are exceptions of course, but this seems to be an unfortunately common trait.
When I find myself skipping ahead pages to get past the deluge of motivations, feeling, and interpretations of each character examined in a myriad of minute details, there is a serious problem. If, as a reader, you are looking for wondrously good description wrapped around intricate character development through interaction and relationship this is likely the book for you. If you are more into a plot that steadily moves forward in a non-brooding fashion that can interconnect earlier elements of the series, you may wish to look elsewhere.
Dr. Nicholson reviews academic, Christian living, and fiction books for a variety of publishers in an array of formats. He is never paid for any of his reviews. For more reviews or information, visit Dr. Nicholson’s blog at drtnicholson.wordpress.com.
The book for this review was provided free of charge by Wizards of the Coast through NetGalley.com. This book was provided without the expectation or requirement of a positive response. Thank you to both the publisher and NetGalley.com for the opportunity to both read your advanced copy and to provide this unpaid evaluation. All opinions in this review reflect the views of the author and not NetGalley.com or the publisher.
February 27, 2014
I am getting a little more settled with this series. Ms. Evans did a better job pulling the plot lines that came before her into her installment. This book really felt like it was supposed to be one of the series while being a standalone story. However, (don't you just hate those) I stumbled to get into this story from a writing perspective. Paul Kemp so far has had the best writing.
For this installment, I was back to the internet for research on the vast races that appear in the D&D landscape. Our main protagonist is a tiefling. Completely foreign to me, but I wanted to know what the background of the race was to understand how they fit into the relationship. I also took a brief look at what other stories these main characters had come from. They are the closest in the relational timeline to the plot point of the entire series, so far. Ms. Evans didn't need to "jump" her characters so far forward into time. I do feel the manner in which the time warp occurred was quite clever.
The initial chapters are a solid attempt at bringing some of the past story to the current reader. Unfortunately, I found the experience stumbling and choppy. I had a hard time distinguishing between moments of foreshadowing with moments of flashbacks despite the different fonts from the font (couldn't resist some wordplay and I promise it will make more sense when you read it). I forced myself to march on through the first third of the book. Then it started to simmer. The heat of the Hells warmed the story line and I found myself vested in the characters. Then the concluding third of the novel absolutely boiled over. The action was smooth and quick and got my heart pumping for the characters. There was a clear wrap up while leaving the ending open to the next author.
I give this book a mid-level review. The price tag is once again hefty and the first third is slogging but the conclusion makes it very much worth the read. Buy it to own the whole set but rent it from the library by itself.
Check out more from Erin M Evans and The Adversary at her blog or the excellent Wizard of the Coasts product page.
For this installment, I was back to the internet for research on the vast races that appear in the D&D landscape. Our main protagonist is a tiefling. Completely foreign to me, but I wanted to know what the background of the race was to understand how they fit into the relationship. I also took a brief look at what other stories these main characters had come from. They are the closest in the relational timeline to the plot point of the entire series, so far. Ms. Evans didn't need to "jump" her characters so far forward into time. I do feel the manner in which the time warp occurred was quite clever.
The initial chapters are a solid attempt at bringing some of the past story to the current reader. Unfortunately, I found the experience stumbling and choppy. I had a hard time distinguishing between moments of foreshadowing with moments of flashbacks despite the different fonts from the font (couldn't resist some wordplay and I promise it will make more sense when you read it). I forced myself to march on through the first third of the book. Then it started to simmer. The heat of the Hells warmed the story line and I found myself vested in the characters. Then the concluding third of the novel absolutely boiled over. The action was smooth and quick and got my heart pumping for the characters. There was a clear wrap up while leaving the ending open to the next author.
I give this book a mid-level review. The price tag is once again hefty and the first third is slogging but the conclusion makes it very much worth the read. Buy it to own the whole set but rent it from the library by itself.
Check out more from Erin M Evans and The Adversary at her blog or the excellent Wizard of the Coasts product page.
February 6, 2014
The Adversary by Erin M. Evans is one of the more frustrating and infuriating fantasy novels I have ever read, even other Dungeons and Dragons novels. That's a good thing. In fact, it is a very good thing.
Evans turns everything you think you know about Farideh and Havilar on the head and leads you through a series of twists and turns that keep you riveted and anxious. Some of these twists are expected, but some take you by surprise and may cause you to tear frantically back through the pages you already read to see if you missed clues that would have allowed you to have seen them coming.
A great plot is not without great characters, and there again Evans delivers. In fact, The Adversary is arguably Evans' greatest work when it comes to character development. In addition to Farideh and Havilar, the richly developed cast includes a broad spectrum of family and friends, uneasy allies, bitter enemies, and everything in between. The heroes are not always clearly good. The villains are not always clearly evil. In fact, Evans seems to delight in developing characters that fall clearly in shades of grey and who can be both hero and villain as the situation dictates. Better yet, in The Adversary we often get glimpses into the reasons why the characters are the way they are.
Only two other regular authors in the Dungeons and Dragons universe do this as well; R. A. Salvatore and Elaine Cunningham. It is fairly easy to imagine that if the Harpers subseries had continued that The Adversary could easily find a place sliding in place next to Cunningham's work. It is also fairly easy to imagine that if Salvatore and Evans ever co-wrote a Dungeons and Dragons novel together in a way that combined their talents it would probably set a new standard for the series.
Evans turns everything you think you know about Farideh and Havilar on the head and leads you through a series of twists and turns that keep you riveted and anxious. Some of these twists are expected, but some take you by surprise and may cause you to tear frantically back through the pages you already read to see if you missed clues that would have allowed you to have seen them coming.
A great plot is not without great characters, and there again Evans delivers. In fact, The Adversary is arguably Evans' greatest work when it comes to character development. In addition to Farideh and Havilar, the richly developed cast includes a broad spectrum of family and friends, uneasy allies, bitter enemies, and everything in between. The heroes are not always clearly good. The villains are not always clearly evil. In fact, Evans seems to delight in developing characters that fall clearly in shades of grey and who can be both hero and villain as the situation dictates. Better yet, in The Adversary we often get glimpses into the reasons why the characters are the way they are.
Only two other regular authors in the Dungeons and Dragons universe do this as well; R. A. Salvatore and Elaine Cunningham. It is fairly easy to imagine that if the Harpers subseries had continued that The Adversary could easily find a place sliding in place next to Cunningham's work. It is also fairly easy to imagine that if Salvatore and Evans ever co-wrote a Dungeons and Dragons novel together in a way that combined their talents it would probably set a new standard for the series.
September 16, 2014
I haven't written any reviews on Goodreads yet, despite the number of books I've read since joining, but The Adversary made me feel like perhaps I should remedy that. I don't know that I remember the last time I was so hungry for another installment in a book series as I have been after each of Erin M. Evans' Brimstone Angels books, and this one was no exception.
More than anything, I'm a sucker for well-written characters and character interaction. It's something that I work very hard at in my own writing, an it's something that Evans has in spades. The Adversary kicks all this great character writing up a couple notches by having Farideh and Havilar trapped in the Hells for seven and a half years following a rash decision, leaving their friends and loved ones to presume the worst. I'm not ashamed in admitting that I got a bit choked up when Mehen saw his girls alive for the first time since they disappeared, or that I wasn't silently cheering when Brin and Havi finally had their "talk". I'm not ashamed because it speaks to how well Evans makes you care about her characters, and what happens to them.
It would be possible to argue that the book seems cluttered in spots (some reviews already have), but I'm inclined to disagree. Do the plans of all the devils seem a touch convoluted? Absolutely, but that's the brilliance of it! The hells are written as a realm of complete subterfuge, filled with nothing but cowards and scoundrels that wear seven different faces out of necessity.
The long and short of this review is this: If you want fun swords and sorcery with great characters and infernal undertones, go buy this book. Actually, go buy the first two, then this one, and then the fourth installment when it comes out next month.
More than anything, I'm a sucker for well-written characters and character interaction. It's something that I work very hard at in my own writing, an it's something that Evans has in spades. The Adversary kicks all this great character writing up a couple notches by having Farideh and Havilar trapped in the Hells for seven and a half years following a rash decision, leaving their friends and loved ones to presume the worst. I'm not ashamed in admitting that I got a bit choked up when Mehen saw his girls alive for the first time since they disappeared, or that I wasn't silently cheering when Brin and Havi finally had their "talk". I'm not ashamed because it speaks to how well Evans makes you care about her characters, and what happens to them.
It would be possible to argue that the book seems cluttered in spots (some reviews already have), but I'm inclined to disagree. Do the plans of all the devils seem a touch convoluted? Absolutely, but that's the brilliance of it! The hells are written as a realm of complete subterfuge, filled with nothing but cowards and scoundrels that wear seven different faces out of necessity.
The long and short of this review is this: If you want fun swords and sorcery with great characters and infernal undertones, go buy this book. Actually, go buy the first two, then this one, and then the fourth installment when it comes out next month.
March 19, 2014
The Adversary is the third book in the multi-author Sundering epic fantasy series. Like the previous two books, this is the first I have read by this author and also like the first two books, it continues the story of characters from another series by the author. As a result, it took me a while to orient myself and really get into the tale.
However, unlike the previous two books in this series, The Adversary felt like once I got to know the characters a bit, I wasn’t as handicapped by lack of previous knowledge. The story felt less tied to author Erin M Evan’s previous series and more to the other books in this Sundering series. It finally felt like there really is an over-arching storyline here and not just a showcase for the different authors’ works.
At times, I found the pacing a bit slow. But that was okay – there’s a lot going on here and a whole lot of characters to keep track of and, by taking it slow through some of the build-up to the real action, it prevented the reader from getting lost. It also gave me a chance to get to know the characters and to care about what happens to them.
With this novel, I finally feel like I’m starting to understand what is happening in the Forgotten Realms and where this is all heading. It kind of feels like the previous two books were meant to set the parameters of the series and, with The Adversary, we are finally finding our way to the core of the story. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series to find out where it will take me.
However, unlike the previous two books in this series, The Adversary felt like once I got to know the characters a bit, I wasn’t as handicapped by lack of previous knowledge. The story felt less tied to author Erin M Evan’s previous series and more to the other books in this Sundering series. It finally felt like there really is an over-arching storyline here and not just a showcase for the different authors’ works.
At times, I found the pacing a bit slow. But that was okay – there’s a lot going on here and a whole lot of characters to keep track of and, by taking it slow through some of the build-up to the real action, it prevented the reader from getting lost. It also gave me a chance to get to know the characters and to care about what happens to them.
With this novel, I finally feel like I’m starting to understand what is happening in the Forgotten Realms and where this is all heading. It kind of feels like the previous two books were meant to set the parameters of the series and, with The Adversary, we are finally finding our way to the core of the story. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series to find out where it will take me.
February 14, 2014
The third in the Sundering event and it is getting better book by book.
Farideh and Havilar are heirs to a very powerful warlock and because of this they are very important to all demons from the Underworld. The twin sisters couldn't be more different and some of the decisions made by Farideh threaten to break their tight bond. It is irrelevant why she makes those choices, because in the end everyone perceives her deeds to be those of traitor.
The two women also have romantic interactions going on throughout the book. Fortunately those relationships never overshadow the spectacular plot.
Farideh is actually bound to a devil called Lorcan. He isn't exactly Mr Charming but then that is exactly what makes him so interesting and attractive. The ultimate bad boy attitude with the powers of hell to back him up. He also has this completely psychotic sister called Sairche, she and her brother spend all their time trying to out-do, out-bargain and even out-kill each other.
Havilar is attracted to someone who is unobtainable to her, due to her social class and this problem takes her attention away from her own powers and the strife her sister has placed them both in.
There is so much intricate plot-weaving going on from the start to the end, which made this an extremely good read. I highly recommend it and look forward to the next book in the Sundering series.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
Farideh and Havilar are heirs to a very powerful warlock and because of this they are very important to all demons from the Underworld. The twin sisters couldn't be more different and some of the decisions made by Farideh threaten to break their tight bond. It is irrelevant why she makes those choices, because in the end everyone perceives her deeds to be those of traitor.
The two women also have romantic interactions going on throughout the book. Fortunately those relationships never overshadow the spectacular plot.
Farideh is actually bound to a devil called Lorcan. He isn't exactly Mr Charming but then that is exactly what makes him so interesting and attractive. The ultimate bad boy attitude with the powers of hell to back him up. He also has this completely psychotic sister called Sairche, she and her brother spend all their time trying to out-do, out-bargain and even out-kill each other.
Havilar is attracted to someone who is unobtainable to her, due to her social class and this problem takes her attention away from her own powers and the strife her sister has placed them both in.
There is so much intricate plot-weaving going on from the start to the end, which made this an extremely good read. I highly recommend it and look forward to the next book in the Sundering series.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.
January 1, 2014
This is the third book in the Sundering series, but you don't have to read the first two in order to enjoy this one.
As with the other books, the theme of the story is Forgotten Realms/D & D, a sub-genre (if you want to consider it as such) of fantasy/sci-fi. The three books do have some interrelated parts, but not to the extent you must read all three to understand what is going on-this is a standalone story, and can be read as such.
Out of the three released so far, this was probably my least favorite. Part of it is primarily because more romantic themes are introduced as part of the book than the previous two, but I suspect most of it is because the author decided the characters contained within required much more substantial background information than the other books in the series. Well, perhaps required is a bit strong of a word-the author decided to recite a lot of the background for her characters, and I found it to detract from the story. Even though this was my first Erin Evans book, I really didn't want to read soooo many pages worth of what happened previously to the primary character in the book, a tiefling.
Don't get me wrong-tieflings make great characters to stick within stories, and I did LIKE the book. I just didn't enjoy it as much as the first two in the series.
As with the other books, the theme of the story is Forgotten Realms/D & D, a sub-genre (if you want to consider it as such) of fantasy/sci-fi. The three books do have some interrelated parts, but not to the extent you must read all three to understand what is going on-this is a standalone story, and can be read as such.
Out of the three released so far, this was probably my least favorite. Part of it is primarily because more romantic themes are introduced as part of the book than the previous two, but I suspect most of it is because the author decided the characters contained within required much more substantial background information than the other books in the series. Well, perhaps required is a bit strong of a word-the author decided to recite a lot of the background for her characters, and I found it to detract from the story. Even though this was my first Erin Evans book, I really didn't want to read soooo many pages worth of what happened previously to the primary character in the book, a tiefling.
Don't get me wrong-tieflings make great characters to stick within stories, and I did LIKE the book. I just didn't enjoy it as much as the first two in the series.
June 27, 2014
http://martysreads.blogspot.com/2014/...
As near as I can tell, the books of the Sundering are united by one thing only: each a stanza of prophecy in the place called Faerun. Different authors and different players, all in a world full of Gods, godlings, and those plotting to become godlings -- and the demon counterparts of the same.
Faith in a god, when in Faerun, imparts some magic to the believer. In each book, this is manifestly different. Faerun might be a world or a universe, when you account for all the differences.
In this book, minor deities and demons create pacts with people. Pacts are the surest thing to ever be described as "be careful what you wish for." The details of a pact run 30 clauses and better, every word potentially losing your life or your soul. And this book works with many pacts, all participants trying for an advantage. Tangled webs of pacts in process -- oh yes, that's a big part of this book.
It took me awhile to like this book. But, it had a clear plot, interesting characters, Havi and Fari easy enough to remember, and I ended up liking it far more than the previous Sundering stories. The last pages had a startling surprise, too!
As near as I can tell, the books of the Sundering are united by one thing only: each a stanza of prophecy in the place called Faerun. Different authors and different players, all in a world full of Gods, godlings, and those plotting to become godlings -- and the demon counterparts of the same.
Faith in a god, when in Faerun, imparts some magic to the believer. In each book, this is manifestly different. Faerun might be a world or a universe, when you account for all the differences.
In this book, minor deities and demons create pacts with people. Pacts are the surest thing to ever be described as "be careful what you wish for." The details of a pact run 30 clauses and better, every word potentially losing your life or your soul. And this book works with many pacts, all participants trying for an advantage. Tangled webs of pacts in process -- oh yes, that's a big part of this book.
It took me awhile to like this book. But, it had a clear plot, interesting characters, Havi and Fari easy enough to remember, and I ended up liking it far more than the previous Sundering stories. The last pages had a startling surprise, too!
July 20, 2016
Erin M. Evans' latest Brimstone Angels novel is also the third in WotC's world-shaking event called The Sundering, and The Adversary does a brilliant job of bringing those storylines together and driving them forward. Readers of the previous Brimstone Angels books will feel shoulder-to-shoulder with the characters from the outset, but Erin has done a marvellous job of welcoming new readers into the fold without any awkward story-slowing blocks of exposition; the book starts at a cracking pace and doesn't let up.
Erin creates engaging characters as well as whipping up a thrilling tale, and The Adversary is no exception; there's sibling rivalry, devilish deals, intrigue and espionage, despicable villains, and a real sense of overarching menace that grows throughout the book. Most importantly, all of this fits together wonderfully into a multilayered plot; Erin creates tough situations for her characters and doesn't offer any easy escapes, meaning each resolution is hard-won and all the more satisfying. The Adversary is enthralling, exciting and almost impossible to put down. Definitely recommended.
Erin creates engaging characters as well as whipping up a thrilling tale, and The Adversary is no exception; there's sibling rivalry, devilish deals, intrigue and espionage, despicable villains, and a real sense of overarching menace that grows throughout the book. Most importantly, all of this fits together wonderfully into a multilayered plot; Erin creates tough situations for her characters and doesn't offer any easy escapes, meaning each resolution is hard-won and all the more satisfying. The Adversary is enthralling, exciting and almost impossible to put down. Definitely recommended.
August 24, 2021
Note that I've been reading the Brimstone Angels series, not The Sundering series.
Three stars might be generous, unfortunately. This book suffered from being a part of two series written by different people. It feels like the authors didn't plan everything together from the start, and this book comes off differently from the previous two.
My main complaint about the writing is that there are unnecessarily cryptic passages where it's not clear what's happening, when it's happening, and whether it's actually happening. These passages seem important, though, so their lack of clarity is frustrating. Perhaps if I'd returned to read the earlier Sundering books I would feel differently.
The character interactions didn't feel authentic to me. Instead they leaned toward a style of "problem creation" that is used in a lot of TV dramas: have the characters be incapable of communicating anything clearly to each other, even people they trust, and then they will make poor decisions based on incomplete or incorrect information. It got old.
I'm trying to decide whether to read the next book.
Three stars might be generous, unfortunately. This book suffered from being a part of two series written by different people. It feels like the authors didn't plan everything together from the start, and this book comes off differently from the previous two.
My main complaint about the writing is that there are unnecessarily cryptic passages where it's not clear what's happening, when it's happening, and whether it's actually happening. These passages seem important, though, so their lack of clarity is frustrating. Perhaps if I'd returned to read the earlier Sundering books I would feel differently.
The character interactions didn't feel authentic to me. Instead they leaned toward a style of "problem creation" that is used in a lot of TV dramas: have the characters be incapable of communicating anything clearly to each other, even people they trust, and then they will make poor decisions based on incomplete or incorrect information. It got old.
I'm trying to decide whether to read the next book.
April 1, 2014
Third book of The Sundering series left me with mixed feelings. First, there were way too many details that were lost on me throughout the book, all the way through the very end. Lots of names (particularly from the Hells) that mean nothing to someone who just met these characters.
Second, there is way too much "teen angst" in this book. Does he love me, do I love him, how can we love each other, etc. It's minimal, but this isn't my thing.
Finally, on a positive note, I loved exploring this "infernal" side of Dungeons & Dragons. Pacts, schemes, portals, planes, etc. It was actually quite a bit of fun! As with the previous two Sundering books, I'm curious to read more about the Brimstone Angels. All in due time.
On to the next book of The Sundering...
Second, there is way too much "teen angst" in this book. Does he love me, do I love him, how can we love each other, etc. It's minimal, but this isn't my thing.
Finally, on a positive note, I loved exploring this "infernal" side of Dungeons & Dragons. Pacts, schemes, portals, planes, etc. It was actually quite a bit of fun! As with the previous two Sundering books, I'm curious to read more about the Brimstone Angels. All in due time.
On to the next book of The Sundering...
July 11, 2016
This book was a struggle to finish. It took me three times as long to complete because it was so bad! It was as if I were given bits and pieces of a much larger book that passed as this one novel. I know there are more books in the series by the author, but you can't just write a novel assuming that the reader has read them already. The story was so freaking convoluted it made no sense. I just power read through the last hundred pages just to finish it!
July 14, 2014
There are way too many characters in this book for me to keep track of!
Not real happy with this one. :/
Not real happy with this one. :/
September 26, 2019
Just use a damn glove, you imbecile. My thoughts on the book.
This was my impression after the first couple pages: "I hate tieflings and not that interested in warlocks and infernal stuff, but so far, this is not half bad! Decent writing, good characterization, adult microthemes, believable reactions. It shows that it was written by a woman.
If it keeps up, I might just have to check out Erin's other books! We'll see how decent her DnD is."
Boy oh boy how it changed by the end.
It was extremely tedious. I'm not even sure how long it is compared to for example the previous Sundering book, but it felt at least five times longer. The events dragged on, even though the story was ok.
The main problem was the characters. The side characters were cool, if a bit underdeveloped, reading Erin's previous works probably would have helped there. Except Mehen, this clanless tough guy was just way too much of a cliché, and in general I don't fancy dragonborn in my DnD, they don't belong.
But the main characters... holy shit. Some aspects were written extremely well, some not so well, but it was all annoying. I had flashbacks for Fitz, another well written character, which didn't make him any more bearable. I understand that these are teenagers / young adults. I get it. They do act like it for sure. But it's still annoying as hell, and they are extremely pigheaded for their lack of wisdom.
For Havilar, I have some advice. First of all, use a god damn glove. There is no point in killing your hand, people use gloves for handling weapons and tools all the time for this exact reason: skin protection. Second, what exactly did you expect to happen with Brin? If you don't want to just ask, then stop tormenting yourself. You are almost 27, act like it. I get not having the courage, but then don't feel sorry for yourself.
And for Farideh... get off your fucking high horse. The martyr syndrome was entirely way too much. Doing stupid things to feel important and needed, yes, these are well understood and realistic motivations. But making your protagonist a halfwit is not endearing.
Farideh is such a well written "big sister syndrome" sufferer. "I have to fix this" all mopey and pushing everyone away, always jumping into the next fuckup right away. Perfectly written, and I hate her. It's Robin Hobb again.
I'm really not sure why didn't someone stopped and shouted these two stupid woman's heads off. Just get a grip ffs.
There were some general grievances as well, with the writing.
The action scenes were chaotic in the wrong sense. Morgan writes meticulous combat, calculated, clear. His heroes tend to be grizzled veterans, who don't lose their cool while fighting. Abercrombie writes beautiful chaos where you feel exactly how experienced the pov character is (usually not experienced enough), and it is just a cacophony of blood and fear, but you still catch the general situation. Here, it's just words after words, and you have no clue what is happening, who is where, even though the writing expects you to keep up with these details it doesn't provide.
The Draconic words seeping into their language were annoying as shit. First of all, don't italicize it, it just makes it stand out and weird. Second, when they are talking between themselves, what language do they speak? If they don't speak Draconic, then where did they learn to swear? They are really out of place in the text.
Then the poisoning scene, the wizard's finest is penetratingly smelly. The victim even holds the cup up to their face and says something, how the hell did they not catch a whiff of something funny happening?
And then there was this whole pov fuckup. We are supposed to do close 3rd person, right? Reading the emotions of the character and see from their point of view. When Shar's little girl makes Farideh all depressed, it is extremely wacky. I get it, Farideh is under her influence and she also has terrible memories from her time with Rhand. But for fucks sake, the narration shouldn't point to the little girl being the danger to Rhand and not the other way when we are in Farideh's pov. Extremely dissonant. She wants to save her, but all we, the reader get is that she holds all the power in the conversation.
This was my impression after the first couple pages: "I hate tieflings and not that interested in warlocks and infernal stuff, but so far, this is not half bad! Decent writing, good characterization, adult microthemes, believable reactions. It shows that it was written by a woman.
If it keeps up, I might just have to check out Erin's other books! We'll see how decent her DnD is."
Boy oh boy how it changed by the end.
It was extremely tedious. I'm not even sure how long it is compared to for example the previous Sundering book, but it felt at least five times longer. The events dragged on, even though the story was ok.
The main problem was the characters. The side characters were cool, if a bit underdeveloped, reading Erin's previous works probably would have helped there. Except Mehen, this clanless tough guy was just way too much of a cliché, and in general I don't fancy dragonborn in my DnD, they don't belong.
But the main characters... holy shit. Some aspects were written extremely well, some not so well, but it was all annoying. I had flashbacks for Fitz, another well written character, which didn't make him any more bearable. I understand that these are teenagers / young adults. I get it. They do act like it for sure. But it's still annoying as hell, and they are extremely pigheaded for their lack of wisdom.
For Havilar, I have some advice. First of all, use a god damn glove. There is no point in killing your hand, people use gloves for handling weapons and tools all the time for this exact reason: skin protection. Second, what exactly did you expect to happen with Brin? If you don't want to just ask, then stop tormenting yourself. You are almost 27, act like it. I get not having the courage, but then don't feel sorry for yourself.
And for Farideh... get off your fucking high horse. The martyr syndrome was entirely way too much. Doing stupid things to feel important and needed, yes, these are well understood and realistic motivations. But making your protagonist a halfwit is not endearing.
Farideh is such a well written "big sister syndrome" sufferer. "I have to fix this" all mopey and pushing everyone away, always jumping into the next fuckup right away. Perfectly written, and I hate her. It's Robin Hobb again.
I'm really not sure why didn't someone stopped and shouted these two stupid woman's heads off. Just get a grip ffs.
There were some general grievances as well, with the writing.
The action scenes were chaotic in the wrong sense. Morgan writes meticulous combat, calculated, clear. His heroes tend to be grizzled veterans, who don't lose their cool while fighting. Abercrombie writes beautiful chaos where you feel exactly how experienced the pov character is (usually not experienced enough), and it is just a cacophony of blood and fear, but you still catch the general situation. Here, it's just words after words, and you have no clue what is happening, who is where, even though the writing expects you to keep up with these details it doesn't provide.
The Draconic words seeping into their language were annoying as shit. First of all, don't italicize it, it just makes it stand out and weird. Second, when they are talking between themselves, what language do they speak? If they don't speak Draconic, then where did they learn to swear? They are really out of place in the text.
Then the poisoning scene, the wizard's finest is penetratingly smelly. The victim even holds the cup up to their face and says something, how the hell did they not catch a whiff of something funny happening?
And then there was this whole pov fuckup. We are supposed to do close 3rd person, right? Reading the emotions of the character and see from their point of view. When Shar's little girl makes Farideh all depressed, it is extremely wacky. I get it, Farideh is under her influence and she also has terrible memories from her time with Rhand. But for fucks sake, the narration shouldn't point to the little girl being the danger to Rhand and not the other way when we are in Farideh's pov. Extremely dissonant. She wants to save her, but all we, the reader get is that she holds all the power in the conversation.
April 27, 2018
I gave this story two stars, which, actually, made me rather sad. I really enjoy Evans' prose, and her characters, but this book fell flat, especially if you came into it on the heels of Lesser Evils (Brimstone Angels #2). I read the series in sequence, and the reason the Adversary really disappointed me, was because I don't feel any character has transitioned beyond their original archetype... at least not enough for my liking.
The story consists of Farideh making multiple decisions without any forethought, and honestly, the first decision she was seduced by Sairche - I totally bought that. But when everything continuously blows up in her face for every decision she's made since book one, the kid doesn't even bat an eyelash, just says "don't come for me." or something of the like. She has the potential to be such a great heroine, and this is her sophomore year, I expected more than freshman mistakes. Especially when it came to Lorcan - which - every time he was on the page, I could barf. He is so predictable and still Farideh desires him. So, sweetie, either sleep with him or don't, but don't not do it because of your "moral character" don't do it because he is a complete jerk. Also, a character with wasted potential.
I really feel the potential Lorcan and Havilar bromance that should have happened in this book completely got derailed by romance plotlines, which was a shame - because I have been waiting for the two fighters to throw down and have some beers since book one.
Then there's Havilar's plotline... I have to drop a complement first, I think the seven year time jump, was done exquisitely. I loved the tension that boiled from it with Havi and Brin, I would have left Lorcan out of it too though, and seen what kind of cambian he'd become in Farideh's absence, but that's just me. But back to Havi and Bryn. You cannot have it both ways, you cannot have this boy (who is supposed to be a man, but honestly still behaves like the boy from book one with a beard) who loves Havi and follows her around but lacks the balls to approach her and say he loves her first - he waits until she's literally so emotionally overwhelmed and tells him to reciprocate. Bleh. Then, he boo-hoos about missing her, loving her, waiting for her... but he DIDN'T. He got engaged, albeit politically, and slept with three other people - I am so, so sorry. But if he had any inkling or desire for her to be alive - c'mon bro. Seven years is not a long time, in any fantasy setting, for someone who loves someone to wait. Look at Mahen - he waits for his love and shows through actions. He also waits until after they have sex to drop the engagement mic, poor choice.
Brin was another character I had such high hopes for. But again, missed the mark by a mile. I wish he would have been killed in this book, he doesn't really propel the plot in any way and is just an anchor to a character who has more potential growth than himself.
I really enjoyed Dahl, every time he was on the page, and every action he took was the right one. I am a little cheesed that the whole rod thing - the gift Dahl gave to Farideh at the end of the last book, that Lorcan took credit for - didn't come to fruition, but meh.
I had a hard time finishing this book, and might not continue the series. If I do, I am skipping the next one, even though it will have some amazing side plot - it is too much focus on the Brin mess, and I adore Havi too much to suffer through X number of pages of that crap.
The story consists of Farideh making multiple decisions without any forethought, and honestly, the first decision she was seduced by Sairche - I totally bought that. But when everything continuously blows up in her face for every decision she's made since book one, the kid doesn't even bat an eyelash, just says "don't come for me." or something of the like. She has the potential to be such a great heroine, and this is her sophomore year, I expected more than freshman mistakes. Especially when it came to Lorcan - which - every time he was on the page, I could barf. He is so predictable and still Farideh desires him. So, sweetie, either sleep with him or don't, but don't not do it because of your "moral character" don't do it because he is a complete jerk. Also, a character with wasted potential.
I really feel the potential Lorcan and Havilar bromance that should have happened in this book completely got derailed by romance plotlines, which was a shame - because I have been waiting for the two fighters to throw down and have some beers since book one.
Then there's Havilar's plotline... I have to drop a complement first, I think the seven year time jump, was done exquisitely. I loved the tension that boiled from it with Havi and Brin, I would have left Lorcan out of it too though, and seen what kind of cambian he'd become in Farideh's absence, but that's just me. But back to Havi and Bryn. You cannot have it both ways, you cannot have this boy (who is supposed to be a man, but honestly still behaves like the boy from book one with a beard) who loves Havi and follows her around but lacks the balls to approach her and say he loves her first - he waits until she's literally so emotionally overwhelmed and tells him to reciprocate. Bleh. Then, he boo-hoos about missing her, loving her, waiting for her... but he DIDN'T. He got engaged, albeit politically, and slept with three other people - I am so, so sorry. But if he had any inkling or desire for her to be alive - c'mon bro. Seven years is not a long time, in any fantasy setting, for someone who loves someone to wait. Look at Mahen - he waits for his love and shows through actions. He also waits until after they have sex to drop the engagement mic, poor choice.
Brin was another character I had such high hopes for. But again, missed the mark by a mile. I wish he would have been killed in this book, he doesn't really propel the plot in any way and is just an anchor to a character who has more potential growth than himself.
I really enjoyed Dahl, every time he was on the page, and every action he took was the right one. I am a little cheesed that the whole rod thing - the gift Dahl gave to Farideh at the end of the last book, that Lorcan took credit for - didn't come to fruition, but meh.
I had a hard time finishing this book, and might not continue the series. If I do, I am skipping the next one, even though it will have some amazing side plot - it is too much focus on the Brin mess, and I adore Havi too much to suffer through X number of pages of that crap.
July 18, 2024
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 2.0 of 5
This was one of the oldest books in my TBR-ARC queue - back from the days before I was more careful about not selecting books that were part of a series. This particular book is book number three in The Sundering series which apparently was started by author R.A. Salvatore, and I have not read any of the previous volumes.
Farideh (a character from a different series, created by author Erin M. Evans) is thrust quickly and decidedly into a maelstrom of political intrigue and magical turmoil in this third book of an epic series. She is taken prisoner only to discover that the other prisoners being held captive with her are no ordinary folk - they all have special powers and are being held captive so that their enslavers can exploit those powers.
Farideh's sister, Havilar, is seeking to find and rescue Farideh, while Farideh is making a pact with some questionable Gods in order to save herself and her friends.
Everyone seems to have an ulterior motive for whatever it is they are doing and Farideh's pacts might just come back to haunt her.
I'm really not a big epic fantasy fan and I've never really gotten into reading D&D-based novels, despite liking the Sword&Sorcery genre and having played a lot of D&D. I think a D&D game is really personal - it means a lot to those involved in the game, but it never means as much to those who hear about it later, and the books from the genre are like listening to someone tell about their D&D game.
This particular book is really slow to get moving. In part it might be that it comes across as more of a study in character rather than an epic adventure. Perhaps because I didn't know any of these characters from their previous appearances, I really didn't care about them or what happened to them. And if you don't care, it's hard to get in to reading about them.
Looking for a good book? If you like D&D adventure novels, you might want to read the previous books in this series because The Adversary by Erin M. Evans does not stand out.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This was one of the oldest books in my TBR-ARC queue - back from the days before I was more careful about not selecting books that were part of a series. This particular book is book number three in The Sundering series which apparently was started by author R.A. Salvatore, and I have not read any of the previous volumes.
Farideh (a character from a different series, created by author Erin M. Evans) is thrust quickly and decidedly into a maelstrom of political intrigue and magical turmoil in this third book of an epic series. She is taken prisoner only to discover that the other prisoners being held captive with her are no ordinary folk - they all have special powers and are being held captive so that their enslavers can exploit those powers.
Farideh's sister, Havilar, is seeking to find and rescue Farideh, while Farideh is making a pact with some questionable Gods in order to save herself and her friends.
Everyone seems to have an ulterior motive for whatever it is they are doing and Farideh's pacts might just come back to haunt her.
I'm really not a big epic fantasy fan and I've never really gotten into reading D&D-based novels, despite liking the Sword&Sorcery genre and having played a lot of D&D. I think a D&D game is really personal - it means a lot to those involved in the game, but it never means as much to those who hear about it later, and the books from the genre are like listening to someone tell about their D&D game.
This particular book is really slow to get moving. In part it might be that it comes across as more of a study in character rather than an epic adventure. Perhaps because I didn't know any of these characters from their previous appearances, I really didn't care about them or what happened to them. And if you don't care, it's hard to get in to reading about them.
Looking for a good book? If you like D&D adventure novels, you might want to read the previous books in this series because The Adversary by Erin M. Evans does not stand out.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2019
Perhaps closer to 4.5/5, but I'm rounding up to 5 to support the book.
Because this is truly an awesome novel. It's only my second Forgotten Realms novel, but it was such a fresh breath after The Crystal Shard. Finally women exist, and do things apart from running away in fear and getting fucked by men! I know, I know, the bar is incredibly low, but I really am happy to be reading about women, by women.
So... Devils and schemes, creepy wizards, divine powers, love triangles, sisterhood, parental love, the powers of the Hells, and the goodness within an unfortunate tiefling who keeps getting things wrong... What more could a girl ask for? Farideh is a likeable, if somewhat tragic protagonist, and her sister Havilar is truly lovely. I also came to really like Dahl, Brin, and Mehen, and I had no trouble liking Lorcan. I should be honest here: I have a very weak spot for tieflings, and an even weaker spot for pairs of sisters, and I absolutely adore the Devils of the Forgotten Realms. So I suppose this book was practically made for me. However, even if you don't obsess over these things as much as I, The Adversary still has exciting battles, shocking twists, and really juicy inter-personal drama. It's a truly awesome fantasy novel.
It is the third book in the Brimstone Angels series, but the most easily accessible one. I picked it up at a nerdy bookstore, having read nothing else of the series, and I had very little trouble keeping up. If you have a basic grip on the Forgotten Realms, or even if you don't, I think you'll be okay starting with this one if you fancy it.
It is also the third in The Sundering series, but as I understand it, this isn't really a series, but rather an anthology of stand-alone books, so don't be scared off by the fact that The Adversary is the third book in two different series.
Because this is truly an awesome novel. It's only my second Forgotten Realms novel, but it was such a fresh breath after The Crystal Shard. Finally women exist, and do things apart from running away in fear and getting fucked by men! I know, I know, the bar is incredibly low, but I really am happy to be reading about women, by women.
So... Devils and schemes, creepy wizards, divine powers, love triangles, sisterhood, parental love, the powers of the Hells, and the goodness within an unfortunate tiefling who keeps getting things wrong... What more could a girl ask for? Farideh is a likeable, if somewhat tragic protagonist, and her sister Havilar is truly lovely. I also came to really like Dahl, Brin, and Mehen, and I had no trouble liking Lorcan. I should be honest here: I have a very weak spot for tieflings, and an even weaker spot for pairs of sisters, and I absolutely adore the Devils of the Forgotten Realms. So I suppose this book was practically made for me. However, even if you don't obsess over these things as much as I, The Adversary still has exciting battles, shocking twists, and really juicy inter-personal drama. It's a truly awesome fantasy novel.
It is the third book in the Brimstone Angels series, but the most easily accessible one. I picked it up at a nerdy bookstore, having read nothing else of the series, and I had very little trouble keeping up. If you have a basic grip on the Forgotten Realms, or even if you don't, I think you'll be okay starting with this one if you fancy it.
It is also the third in The Sundering series, but as I understand it, this isn't really a series, but rather an anthology of stand-alone books, so don't be scared off by the fact that The Adversary is the third book in two different series.
September 27, 2022
The Adversary is a bit unique and unusual in that it's the third book in TWO series. This title is the third in the Brimstone Angel series and the third of The Sundering series. I've read the first two books in The Sundering series, so no problem there, but have not read the previous Brimstone Angel books and that was a problem.
I can't speak to how this title fits in the Brimstone Angel series but would say this book makes me less likely to go back and read that series. It also doesn't really seem to move the overarching plot of The Sundering along very much either, which was disappointing. There are too many carry-over characters (and in general, too many unnecessary characters) introduced in this book for me to ever really get a feel for them. Everything, including the overall plot, just seemed a little all over the place. If you've read the first two Brimstone Angels books, this might have a different feel for you.
Additionally, all the characters in this novel are just. so. whiny! I can dig a good anti-hero and don't mind a little angst but it's just busting at the seams in The Sundering. Every other page is basically a riff on "I don't want to leave you but I must ::sob::" Followed by long internal monologues about abandonment, self-doubt and literally and figuratively, daddy issues. If you're not on anti-depressants when you start The Sundering you will be by the end, for various reasons.
Even the action sequences seem haphazard and cobbled together in random sequences, which felt forced to give the laundry-list of characters in the book a chance to do a thing.
In the end, it's just too much and trying to hard.
I can't speak to how this title fits in the Brimstone Angel series but would say this book makes me less likely to go back and read that series. It also doesn't really seem to move the overarching plot of The Sundering along very much either, which was disappointing. There are too many carry-over characters (and in general, too many unnecessary characters) introduced in this book for me to ever really get a feel for them. Everything, including the overall plot, just seemed a little all over the place. If you've read the first two Brimstone Angels books, this might have a different feel for you.
Additionally, all the characters in this novel are just. so. whiny! I can dig a good anti-hero and don't mind a little angst but it's just busting at the seams in The Sundering. Every other page is basically a riff on "I don't want to leave you but I must ::sob::" Followed by long internal monologues about abandonment, self-doubt and literally and figuratively, daddy issues. If you're not on anti-depressants when you start The Sundering you will be by the end, for various reasons.
Even the action sequences seem haphazard and cobbled together in random sequences, which felt forced to give the laundry-list of characters in the book a chance to do a thing.
In the end, it's just too much and trying to hard.
September 17, 2017
NOTE: I have not read the previous books in this series. I picked this one up from a family member and didn't actually realize it was the third book until quite a bit into it, otherwise I would have put it aside and looked for the first two books. As it is I'm glad I didn't, I'm okay with jumping in to the third arc of this campaign.
I enjoyed this book, as the characters were engaging, and the world of the Sundering is an interesting one (borrowed from the Wizards of the Coast RPG Dungeons and Dragons).
I believe I was able to enjoy it mostly because I'm familiar with many of the book's character types/creatures due to having watched over 100 episodes of the Critical Role D&D show. I think a lot of the details of the situations would have been lost on me had I not already been familiar with the creatures (drows and erinyes' were particularly glossed over in the book).
I recommend the read if you are familiar with D&D, or are looking for something interesting to kill some time with. Otherwise, check out the podcasts of actual D&D games (Critical Role, The Adventure Zone, etc) as the critical successes/failures of the player characters and non-player characters drive the story much more unpredictably and therefor enjoyably (at least for me).
BUT that being said, the epilogue was surprisingly interesting. As a person that dislikes typical prologues/epilogues, I usually don't read them. But I'm glad that I read this one. I may seek out the next in the series, solely because of the information revealed in the epilogue, so well done there.
I enjoyed this book, as the characters were engaging, and the world of the Sundering is an interesting one (borrowed from the Wizards of the Coast RPG Dungeons and Dragons).
I believe I was able to enjoy it mostly because I'm familiar with many of the book's character types/creatures due to having watched over 100 episodes of the Critical Role D&D show. I think a lot of the details of the situations would have been lost on me had I not already been familiar with the creatures (drows and erinyes' were particularly glossed over in the book).
I recommend the read if you are familiar with D&D, or are looking for something interesting to kill some time with. Otherwise, check out the podcasts of actual D&D games (Critical Role, The Adventure Zone, etc) as the critical successes/failures of the player characters and non-player characters drive the story much more unpredictably and therefor enjoyably (at least for me).
BUT that being said, the epilogue was surprisingly interesting. As a person that dislikes typical prologues/epilogues, I usually don't read them. But I'm glad that I read this one. I may seek out the next in the series, solely because of the information revealed in the epilogue, so well done there.
July 31, 2017
So, here is book three... I still like the main character and her friends. I do. That is the best plus for this book and the series. That said, I hated most of this book and it was a slog to get through. The plot starts with Farideh yet again defending her abuser, but beyond that, there is another fatal flaw. The plot depends, hinges on, her being just dumb. She makes a deal with a devil early in the book. She repeatedly demonstrates a lack of understanding that Devils will trick you. She also doesn't trust the people around her to be competent, not even her sister who has repeatedly saved Farideh's life. The whole set up is based on her basic failing of decision making, but beyond that, she keeps making false assumptions and bad choices through the whole book.
It is not all bad. Dahl is more interesting in this one than the last. The bits with the Harpers are nice. The story of whats going on with the Chosen is also neat. Havilar's struggle to regain her footing is believable and interesting. There are things to like here.
That said, the fact the plot hinges on Farideh's bad decision making and the constant trope of finding one's abuser attractive just wore me down. I am not certain I could read any more of this series.
It is not all bad. Dahl is more interesting in this one than the last. The bits with the Harpers are nice. The story of whats going on with the Chosen is also neat. Havilar's struggle to regain her footing is believable and interesting. There are things to like here.
That said, the fact the plot hinges on Farideh's bad decision making and the constant trope of finding one's abuser attractive just wore me down. I am not certain I could read any more of this series.
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