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The Defenders of Shannara #2
The Darkling Child: The Defenders of Shannara
***50 MILLION TERRY BROOKS COPIES SOLD AROUND THE WORLD***THE SHANNARA CHRONICLES IS NOW A MAJOR TV SERIES'Terry's place is at the head of the fantasy world' Philip PullmanNEW POWERS ARE AWAKENING. A LEGEND IS BORN . . . In a distant corner of the Four Lands, the mysterious magic of the wishsong has been detected. Paxon Leah, sworn protector of the Druid order and heir of the enchanted Sword of Leah, must travel to uncover its source - and ensure that this formidable power is not wielded by the wrong hands.But danger lies in wait, and in a fearsome clash between mortal might and dark magic, it is up to Paxon, as the High Druid's Blade, to defend the people of the Four Lands against a terrifying evil.Praise for Terry 'A master of the craft . . . required reading' Brent Weeks'I can't even begin to count how many of Terry Brooks's books I've read (and re-read) over the years' Patrick Rothfuss, author of The Name of the Wind'I would not be writing epic fantasy today if not for Shannara' Peter V. Brett, author of The Painted Man'If you haven't read Terry Brooks, you haven't read fantasy' Christopher Paolini, author of EragonThe Defenders of THE HIGH DRUID'S BLADETHE DARKLING CHILDTHE SORCERER'S DAUGHTER
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2015
368 people are currently reading
7540 people want to read
About the author
Terry Brooks
417 books77.8k followersTerry Brooks was born in Illinois in 1944, where he spent a great deal of his childhood and early adulthood dreaming up stories in and around Sinnissippi Park, the very same park that would eventually become the setting for his bestselling Word & Void trilogy. He went to college and received his undergraduate degree from Hamilton College, where he majored in English Literature, and he received his graduate degree from the School of Law at Washington & Lee University.
A writer since high school, he wrote many stories within the genres of science fiction, western, fiction, and non-fiction, until one semester early in his college years he was given The Lord of the Rings to read. That moment changed Terry's life forever, because in Tolkien's great work he found all the elements needed to fully explore his writing combined in one genre.
He then wrote The Sword of Shannara, the seven year grand result retaining sanity while studying at Washington & Lee University and practicing law. It became the first work of fiction ever to appear on the New York Times trade paperback bestseller list, where it remained for over five months.
A writer since high school, he wrote many stories within the genres of science fiction, western, fiction, and non-fiction, until one semester early in his college years he was given The Lord of the Rings to read. That moment changed Terry's life forever, because in Tolkien's great work he found all the elements needed to fully explore his writing combined in one genre.
He then wrote The Sword of Shannara, the seven year grand result retaining sanity while studying at Washington & Lee University and practicing law. It became the first work of fiction ever to appear on the New York Times trade paperback bestseller list, where it remained for over five months.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
December 28, 2015
Reyn is a wanted man. He is the possessor of some very deadly magic that many wish to wield. The Druids wish to help him understand his power, and to protect those around him form it, whereas the silver tongued wizard Arcannen wishes to exploit it for his own machinations. Both are looking for Reyn, but another group is also out for his blood. He accidently killed a young son of a mobster-like family who were hounding him; thus, in this Arcannen finds his means for manipulation.
Contrasting characters
This is set five years after The High Druid's Blade, consequently, Paxon Leah has had lots of off page character development. He is now a trusted member of the Druid order, rather than a raw recruit, and he has become their leader’s right hand man. He is the orders respected protector: he is their blade. He is now the confident wielder of the sword of Leah. He and the rest of the Druid order simply wish to help Reyn understand his magic.
On the other side of the fight is Arcannen and whereas Paxon has grown he has diminished. He is no longer the respected and feared wizard he once was. He still retains his arcane prowess, but his influence and reputation are all but spent; he has lost his far reaching connections. However, he still isn’t a man to be underestimated. There is no way to outmanoeuvre him as he is incredibly manipulative and adaptive to most situations. If that wasn’t bad enough his motives are never really clear. He tries to unleash Reyn on his enemies, but there is a hidden motif to his intentions that I can’t put my finger on. I don’t think it’s just revenge.
Brilliant Rivalry
The result is a tense battle between the two men, which is quite surprising considering they only encountered each other for about one to two pages in this. Indeed, Paxon and Arcannen harbour a rivalry that spans the series. In the first book Arcannen tried to control Paxon in the same way he is trying to use Reyn. The two never have a direct confrontation in this novel; thus, the rivalry will receive its anticipated conclusion in the next novel. Furthermore, there was quit an interesting love triangle that I’m not entirely sure is resolved. Having reached the end of the novel it is still unclear as to the sincerity of its result. It may be an extension of Arcannen’s plan or it may be genuine. I hope it’s the latter, but I do think the former would make for a much more interesting conclusion.
Overall, this is a fantasy series that I’ve really enjoyed. Having not ready much of Terry Brooks’ previous novels, this trilogy feels original to me. My opinion of this may change once I’ve read some of his previous novels, but at the moment I feel that this is an interesting series. I look forward to reading its conclusion next year.
The Defenders of Shannara
1. The High Druid's Blade- A sharp three stars
2. The Darkling Child- A solid 3.5 stars
Contrasting characters
This is set five years after The High Druid's Blade, consequently, Paxon Leah has had lots of off page character development. He is now a trusted member of the Druid order, rather than a raw recruit, and he has become their leader’s right hand man. He is the orders respected protector: he is their blade. He is now the confident wielder of the sword of Leah. He and the rest of the Druid order simply wish to help Reyn understand his magic.
On the other side of the fight is Arcannen and whereas Paxon has grown he has diminished. He is no longer the respected and feared wizard he once was. He still retains his arcane prowess, but his influence and reputation are all but spent; he has lost his far reaching connections. However, he still isn’t a man to be underestimated. There is no way to outmanoeuvre him as he is incredibly manipulative and adaptive to most situations. If that wasn’t bad enough his motives are never really clear. He tries to unleash Reyn on his enemies, but there is a hidden motif to his intentions that I can’t put my finger on. I don’t think it’s just revenge.
Brilliant Rivalry
The result is a tense battle between the two men, which is quite surprising considering they only encountered each other for about one to two pages in this. Indeed, Paxon and Arcannen harbour a rivalry that spans the series. In the first book Arcannen tried to control Paxon in the same way he is trying to use Reyn. The two never have a direct confrontation in this novel; thus, the rivalry will receive its anticipated conclusion in the next novel. Furthermore, there was quit an interesting love triangle that I’m not entirely sure is resolved. Having reached the end of the novel it is still unclear as to the sincerity of its result. It may be an extension of Arcannen’s plan or it may be genuine. I hope it’s the latter, but I do think the former would make for a much more interesting conclusion.
Overall, this is a fantasy series that I’ve really enjoyed. Having not ready much of Terry Brooks’ previous novels, this trilogy feels original to me. My opinion of this may change once I’ve read some of his previous novels, but at the moment I feel that this is an interesting series. I look forward to reading its conclusion next year.
The Defenders of Shannara
1. The High Druid's Blade- A sharp three stars
2. The Darkling Child- A solid 3.5 stars
July 11, 2015
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths Reviews
The Darkling Child is another solid installment in Terry Brooks long-running Shannara series. No, it doesn’t vary far from its predecessors in scope or tone, but if you enjoy classic fantasy with a young adult feel, then this novel will definitely satisfy you.
Set five years after events in The High Druid's Blade, Paxon Leah is now a well-respected paladin of the Druid Order; his role that of a trusted protector to the druids; and his weapon to ward off evil the Sword of Leah passed down to him from his forefathers. Standing opposite this bulwark of goodness is the dark wizard Arcannen, who might not be as powerful as he once was, but who is still an evil force to be reckoned with due to his cunning and powerful sorcery. And caught directly in between them is a young man named Reyn, who possesses a powerful magic that he does not understand and which Arcannen desperately wishes to obtain control over!
Sounds fairly simple, I know, but despite its basic, triangle dynamic, there is a degree of suspense throughout the narrative due to the unclear nature of Reyn’s power, the unexplained use Arcannen intends for him, and the machinations of a young woman, who might or might not be manipulating both Reyn and Arcannen. Added to this, Mr. Brooks transforms both Arcannen and Paxon, changing them from clear representatives of good and evil into more three dimensional characters; their individual personalities clearly having evolved during the intervening five years and their motives making each easy to empathize with. All of which means The Darkling Child is an entertaining read, but it still has flaws, though in the scope of things, they might be more correctly labeled personal preferences on my part than missteps by Terry Brooks.
First, this story is, at its core, still a standard quest fantasy. Here each of the main characters is on his own quest. Paxon Leah is on a quest to find and persuade Reyn to join the druids. Arcannen is on a quest for revenge that leads him to find and persuade Reyn to join his cause. And Reyn himself is on a quest to evade capture and learn how to use his powers. Quest, quest, and quest.
Second, like many Shannara tales, this is a coming-of-age story. Where book one of the series was about a young, naive Paxon Leah who had a magic sword thrust upon him and had to overcome obstacles in his path to control it (Arcannen was the obstacle there as well.), here Terry Brooks has merely inserted young Reyn into that same role. Obviously, there are distinct differences in Paxon and Reyn’s journey, but they are both coming-of-age tales.
Lastly, the main characters are really striking in their naivete. Reyn’s missteps can be overlooked to a certain extent (though his instant infatuation and sudden love for a young woman is a bit difficult to swallow), but the older, more experienced Paxon’s head scratching choices are really mystifying. Even Arcannen, who acts much more adult-like than his co-stars, does some bizarre things that brand this tale as clearly a young adult story.
Even having struck a cord with several of my personal pet peeves, I still found The Darkling Child to be a superior book to The High Druid’s Blade in almost every way. The ongoing personal conflict between Paxon and Arcannen was more well-developed; their individual personalities were more complex; Reyn was a nice addition to the cast; and a final confrontation between all the parties has been neatly foreshadowed for the next book. So, if you enjoy Terry Brooks or classic fantasy, I’d encourage you to give this one a try, because it will not disappoint but entertain.
I received this book from Del Rey and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
The Darkling Child is another solid installment in Terry Brooks long-running Shannara series. No, it doesn’t vary far from its predecessors in scope or tone, but if you enjoy classic fantasy with a young adult feel, then this novel will definitely satisfy you.
Set five years after events in The High Druid's Blade, Paxon Leah is now a well-respected paladin of the Druid Order; his role that of a trusted protector to the druids; and his weapon to ward off evil the Sword of Leah passed down to him from his forefathers. Standing opposite this bulwark of goodness is the dark wizard Arcannen, who might not be as powerful as he once was, but who is still an evil force to be reckoned with due to his cunning and powerful sorcery. And caught directly in between them is a young man named Reyn, who possesses a powerful magic that he does not understand and which Arcannen desperately wishes to obtain control over!
Sounds fairly simple, I know, but despite its basic, triangle dynamic, there is a degree of suspense throughout the narrative due to the unclear nature of Reyn’s power, the unexplained use Arcannen intends for him, and the machinations of a young woman, who might or might not be manipulating both Reyn and Arcannen. Added to this, Mr. Brooks transforms both Arcannen and Paxon, changing them from clear representatives of good and evil into more three dimensional characters; their individual personalities clearly having evolved during the intervening five years and their motives making each easy to empathize with. All of which means The Darkling Child is an entertaining read, but it still has flaws, though in the scope of things, they might be more correctly labeled personal preferences on my part than missteps by Terry Brooks.
First, this story is, at its core, still a standard quest fantasy. Here each of the main characters is on his own quest. Paxon Leah is on a quest to find and persuade Reyn to join the druids. Arcannen is on a quest for revenge that leads him to find and persuade Reyn to join his cause. And Reyn himself is on a quest to evade capture and learn how to use his powers. Quest, quest, and quest.
Second, like many Shannara tales, this is a coming-of-age story. Where book one of the series was about a young, naive Paxon Leah who had a magic sword thrust upon him and had to overcome obstacles in his path to control it (Arcannen was the obstacle there as well.), here Terry Brooks has merely inserted young Reyn into that same role. Obviously, there are distinct differences in Paxon and Reyn’s journey, but they are both coming-of-age tales.
Lastly, the main characters are really striking in their naivete. Reyn’s missteps can be overlooked to a certain extent (though his instant infatuation and sudden love for a young woman is a bit difficult to swallow), but the older, more experienced Paxon’s head scratching choices are really mystifying. Even Arcannen, who acts much more adult-like than his co-stars, does some bizarre things that brand this tale as clearly a young adult story.
Even having struck a cord with several of my personal pet peeves, I still found The Darkling Child to be a superior book to The High Druid’s Blade in almost every way. The ongoing personal conflict between Paxon and Arcannen was more well-developed; their individual personalities were more complex; Reyn was a nice addition to the cast; and a final confrontation between all the parties has been neatly foreshadowed for the next book. So, if you enjoy Terry Brooks or classic fantasy, I’d encourage you to give this one a try, because it will not disappoint but entertain.
I received this book from Del Rey and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
March 31, 2024
Jumping back into these books after reading so many various authors over the years has made me realise just how basic these books are. The plot line, the relationships and characterisations, the world building… it’s all weak.
Character progression is wholly irrelevant, interpersonal relationships are hollow and are simply there for the story development, and the way everything is glossed over.
Side note: I purchased these books years ago and I’m only reading them now as I’m moving to South Africa and am wanting to clear out my TBR pile. New Year’s Resolutions and all that. I kept these behind with the intention of donating them before I board my flight.
Character progression is wholly irrelevant, interpersonal relationships are hollow and are simply there for the story development, and the way everything is glossed over.
Side note: I purchased these books years ago and I’m only reading them now as I’m moving to South Africa and am wanting to clear out my TBR pile. New Year’s Resolutions and all that. I kept these behind with the intention of donating them before I board my flight.
June 11, 2015
High Fantasy is not a genre I read often but I have fond memories of Terry Brooks' original Shannara trilogy, read when I was a teen, and I'm looking forward to the upcoming television series adaption.
Though it can be read as a standalone, The Darkling Child is the second novel in The Defenders of Shannara trilogy that takes place several years after the previous book, The High Druid's Blade. It is also the 29th book in the Shannara saga, which Brooks intends to wrap up in just four more books.
The Defenders of Shannara features Paxon Leah, the Druid's Blade, and his nemesis, the Sorcerer Arcannen. In the Darkling Child, Arcannen who has been in hiding since Paxon foiled his grand plans for dominion over the Four Lands, is seeking revenge after his refuge is razed to the ground by an elite command of Federation soldiers. Fortuitously Arcannen stumbles across Reyn, a young man with the rare power of the Wishsong. Reyn neither understands nor can control his ability, and when Arcannen offers to mentor him, he accepts.
Meanwhile the Druid Council is alerted to the use of Wishsong and Paxon along with Druid Avelina are dispatched to find the magic user. Unfortunately they are too late to prevent Reyn from falling under Arcannen's influence but they are determined to thwart whatever nefarious plan Arcannen is using Reyn for.
Even with only vague memories of the Original Shannara series, The Darkling Child feels familiar. Brooks's world is easy to understand, the magic system makes sense, and there is enough backstory provided to create context where needed.
The plot involves fantasy's most enduring trope, a quest to prevent evil triumphing over good. Arcannen is a suitably ruthless, if uncomplicated villain and Paxon a valiant, if flawed, hero. There is plenty of action in the confrontations between the sorcerer and his enemies, a small measure of intrigue stemming from the question of Lariana's true motives, and a dose of emotion with death, guilt and romance.
I found The Darkling Child to be a quick and entertaining read but I'm not struck with the urge to continue with the trilogy. Fans may be more appreciative.
July 5, 2016
#28/29 in my Epic Shannara Quest.
Better written and plotted than the previous novel with more intense action sequences (which earns it that 3rd star), it still feels lightweight for Brooks.
Taking place five years after the events of The High Druid's Blade, this book can be read as a stand alone novel. It continues the YA feel Brooks has adopted with his Defenders of Shannara series, but it screams to be so much more.
One of the cornerstones of the series is that the backstory Brooks has spent nearly 40 years developing is not particularly important to the events related; but without that history, the reader is left with a story ranging from bland to cool for Shannara newbies and just plain throwaway for long-time readers (or binge readers like myself) of the Shannara saga.
Better written and plotted than the previous novel with more intense action sequences (which earns it that 3rd star), it still feels lightweight for Brooks.
Taking place five years after the events of The High Druid's Blade, this book can be read as a stand alone novel. It continues the YA feel Brooks has adopted with his Defenders of Shannara series, but it screams to be so much more.
One of the cornerstones of the series is that the backstory Brooks has spent nearly 40 years developing is not particularly important to the events related; but without that history, the reader is left with a story ranging from bland to cool for Shannara newbies and just plain throwaway for long-time readers (or binge readers like myself) of the Shannara saga.
March 19, 2023
While Terry does have some great ideas and some great sequences here, I was unimpressed with the book as a whole. It felt too boring, too disconnected with the first book, and too slow. This would have been a better novella I believe...or should have been significantly reworked.
Rather than follow Paxon Leah, the main protagonist of book one, we mainly follow "Reyn Frosch", who is another Ohmsford connected character who has use of the Wishsong. He becomes tempted by Arcannen to use his magic for less than legitimate purposes, and Paxon Leah is on a quest to separate Reyn from Arcannen and have Reyn learn with the Druids.
What this book does that I was most fascinated by is make Arcannen basically an Evil Allanon. In the early Shannara books, Allanon goes on a quest to recruit an Ohmsford for a quest of his choosing, and he often doesn't reveal all of the information until absolutely necessary. Arcannen does all of those things in this book with Reyn, except he is evil and obviously bad where Allanon was purely good.
This book also had a romance that was a little interesting, but overall doesn't stick out in the pantheon of Fantasy Romances (let alone Terry Brooks romances).
Overall, this was a bland addition to the Shannara series with some sequences that worked, and some that really did not. I will eventually read book 3 to finish out the trilogy and also so I can move to the final Shannara books, but I'm not really feeling this series. 6 out of 10.
Rather than follow Paxon Leah, the main protagonist of book one, we mainly follow "Reyn Frosch", who is another Ohmsford connected character who has use of the Wishsong. He becomes tempted by Arcannen to use his magic for less than legitimate purposes, and Paxon Leah is on a quest to separate Reyn from Arcannen and have Reyn learn with the Druids.
What this book does that I was most fascinated by is make Arcannen basically an Evil Allanon. In the early Shannara books, Allanon goes on a quest to recruit an Ohmsford for a quest of his choosing, and he often doesn't reveal all of the information until absolutely necessary. Arcannen does all of those things in this book with Reyn, except he is evil and obviously bad where Allanon was purely good.
This book also had a romance that was a little interesting, but overall doesn't stick out in the pantheon of Fantasy Romances (let alone Terry Brooks romances).
Overall, this was a bland addition to the Shannara series with some sequences that worked, and some that really did not. I will eventually read book 3 to finish out the trilogy and also so I can move to the final Shannara books, but I'm not really feeling this series. 6 out of 10.
July 10, 2015
This is not to the authors usual standard, I found it bland and unsatisfying. While there is some action and surprises the storyline lack the details that have made his previous books so good and I thought the character were undeveloped. The last two books I’ve read in the series make me wonder if they are just being put out because of contractual obligation. Earlier books in this series were satisfying and long, this book was neither it is kissing everything that made the earlier books great.
2.5/5 STARS: **I want to thank the author and/or the publisher for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are mine.**
2.5/5 STARS: **I want to thank the author and/or the publisher for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are mine.**
December 19, 2015
Rating:2.5/5
EDIT: Not as compelling or entertaining as its predecessor though the ending was unexpected and provided a reprieve from the very methodical and overall, slow story. Maybe someone can explain who the Darkling child is being referenced to? And why?
That book title is such a tease for those who have read the Grisha Trilogy sigh
EDIT: Not as compelling or entertaining as its predecessor though the ending was unexpected and provided a reprieve from the very methodical and overall, slow story. Maybe someone can explain who the Darkling child is being referenced to? And why?
That book title is such a tease for those who have read the Grisha Trilogy sigh
October 28, 2016
With the Shannara series ending with the next trilogy I treasure each new book I can read from this amazing fantasy set. 2nd book of this trilogy and it continues a nice story line. Good writing as always from Mr Brooks makes this a above average read. Very recommended
November 11, 2023
This was a little disappointing. The returning characters didn't do anything interesting and the new characters just weren't interesting.
3/5
3/5
May 25, 2021
The Darkling Child is the 29th book chronologically in the Shannara series. 4 stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I don’t really have very much to add to my previous review. The Defenders of Shannara trilogy was generally not as well received as the rest of the books, but I think it kind of gets a bad rap. The plot is exciting, and these are quick reads with some interesting characters- especially Arcannen. The history and study of the wishsong magic and its uses was really well done.
Next up in my Shannara re-read is The Sorcerer's Daughter
Original review below:
I gave 4 out of 5 stars to Darkling Child by Terry Brooks. It is the second stand-alone novel in the Defenders of Shannara trilogy. One drawback to the book is that I thought the ending seemed a little rushed, but it was overall satisfying and left me wanting more. I have seen many folks saying that characters had no depth, but I disagree with that. Paxon grew as a character - he matured and has become way less impetuous for one thing. It was also interesting to see Arcannen's point of view and his thoughts. You usually don't get to see what the antagonist/villain is thinking. This trilogy is quite different than the other Shannara novels and I have enjoyed the first two. Mr. Brooks has stated that this trilogy is setting up a lot of the story line to the final three novels he plans to write to conclude the Shannara series. After reading this, and the first one, I like where he is headed. Times are changing in the Four Lands! Happy reading everyone!
I don’t really have very much to add to my previous review. The Defenders of Shannara trilogy was generally not as well received as the rest of the books, but I think it kind of gets a bad rap. The plot is exciting, and these are quick reads with some interesting characters- especially Arcannen. The history and study of the wishsong magic and its uses was really well done.
Next up in my Shannara re-read is The Sorcerer's Daughter
Original review below:
I gave 4 out of 5 stars to Darkling Child by Terry Brooks. It is the second stand-alone novel in the Defenders of Shannara trilogy. One drawback to the book is that I thought the ending seemed a little rushed, but it was overall satisfying and left me wanting more. I have seen many folks saying that characters had no depth, but I disagree with that. Paxon grew as a character - he matured and has become way less impetuous for one thing. It was also interesting to see Arcannen's point of view and his thoughts. You usually don't get to see what the antagonist/villain is thinking. This trilogy is quite different than the other Shannara novels and I have enjoyed the first two. Mr. Brooks has stated that this trilogy is setting up a lot of the story line to the final three novels he plans to write to conclude the Shannara series. After reading this, and the first one, I like where he is headed. Times are changing in the Four Lands! Happy reading everyone!
June 2, 2015
The Darkling Child by Terry Brooks is the second book in his Defenders of Shannara series– a trilogy of stand alone novels loosely tied together by a small cast of recurring characters. While I actually enjoyed this book more than I have the last few Shannara books that have been published, I struggled at times to get through it. I think the fact that we only have one more Shannara book after the conclusion of the Defenders series weighed heavily upon me as I read. That being said, I started on my reread of the book not even a full 24 hours after I finished reading it the first time.
It has been 5 years since the events of the High Druid’s Blade and Paxon Leah’s run in with the dark sorcerer Arcannen, and all has been relatively quiet for the Druids in the Four Lands. But now duty sends Paxon and the Druid Avelene out into the world once more, the scrye waters that the Druids use to watch for magic have shown a disturbance, one that bears a striking resemblance to the magic of the Wishsong. Paxon will soon find himself running into old friends and enemies as he attempts find its source and ensure its safe transportation back to Paranor.
While the Darkling Child is loosely connected to the High Druid’s Blade by Paxon Leah and a few other characters, each book is clearly meant to stand on its own and I don’t think new readers will have a problem starting with either of the two books. For me this book proved to be a great reminder of why I fell in love with this series in the first place, it was nice to rediscover the magic of Shannara once again and I can only hope that Terry continues to surprise me with the last few books he releases in the series.
I think all fans of the series, new or old, will absolutely love this book, I know I did. Already I am counting down the days until the release of the last book in the trilogy, and already I am finding that wait unbearable.
The Darkling Child is set to be release on June 9th by Del Rey.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Originally posted at www.archeddoorway.com
It has been 5 years since the events of the High Druid’s Blade and Paxon Leah’s run in with the dark sorcerer Arcannen, and all has been relatively quiet for the Druids in the Four Lands. But now duty sends Paxon and the Druid Avelene out into the world once more, the scrye waters that the Druids use to watch for magic have shown a disturbance, one that bears a striking resemblance to the magic of the Wishsong. Paxon will soon find himself running into old friends and enemies as he attempts find its source and ensure its safe transportation back to Paranor.
While the Darkling Child is loosely connected to the High Druid’s Blade by Paxon Leah and a few other characters, each book is clearly meant to stand on its own and I don’t think new readers will have a problem starting with either of the two books. For me this book proved to be a great reminder of why I fell in love with this series in the first place, it was nice to rediscover the magic of Shannara once again and I can only hope that Terry continues to surprise me with the last few books he releases in the series.
I think all fans of the series, new or old, will absolutely love this book, I know I did. Already I am counting down the days until the release of the last book in the trilogy, and already I am finding that wait unbearable.
The Darkling Child is set to be release on June 9th by Del Rey.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Originally posted at www.archeddoorway.com
May 22, 2018
After I was approved to review this book, a friend informed that The Darkling Child is a book within a long series of Shannara books written by Brooks. I wasn’t sure that I would be able to follow along or even have a sense of what was really going on. In addition, there wasn’t a number order for this book on NetGalley. (They love to torture us that way.)
To my surprise, I never once felt lost or uninformed about the story. There were definitely parts that I would have been better informed had I read the first book, yes, but overall, this book was incredibly easy to read and understand. Actually, that is one of the many things I enjoyed about this fantastic story. Even the names of places and characters are easy to sound out; a terrific, and appreciated quality in my opinion.
From a speck of dirt to the fluff of the clouds, you see it, as I’m certain the author did; there is no lack of description in this book - this made an awful lot of things in the novel awesome to be a part of.
And the characters. . .
All of them were so terrific. I mean, wow! They are written perfectly. I developed just enough attachment, and have a so opinion of them according to their role and purpose to the story. Again, I felt like my relationship with them was similar, if not exact, to the author.
It’s hard to find stores that are written with such careful consideration, and I’m sure it has something to do with how long the stories of Shannara have been going on. I am definitely going to seek out other books by Terry Brooks with every intention of reading more of Shannara.
To my surprise, I never once felt lost or uninformed about the story. There were definitely parts that I would have been better informed had I read the first book, yes, but overall, this book was incredibly easy to read and understand. Actually, that is one of the many things I enjoyed about this fantastic story. Even the names of places and characters are easy to sound out; a terrific, and appreciated quality in my opinion.
From a speck of dirt to the fluff of the clouds, you see it, as I’m certain the author did; there is no lack of description in this book - this made an awful lot of things in the novel awesome to be a part of.
And the characters. . .
All of them were so terrific. I mean, wow! They are written perfectly. I developed just enough attachment, and have a so opinion of them according to their role and purpose to the story. Again, I felt like my relationship with them was similar, if not exact, to the author.
It’s hard to find stores that are written with such careful consideration, and I’m sure it has something to do with how long the stories of Shannara have been going on. I am definitely going to seek out other books by Terry Brooks with every intention of reading more of Shannara.
January 4, 2023
I wish I could stop myself from reading anymore of these books. The charachter development is so weak, the storylines beyond predictable. It is super cookie cutter mold.
I did something I dislike ever admitting to have done, I skimmed at times through the book. Because if I did not I would never end it.
Please please please Mr. Brooks please i know it is hard but please break the mold for the next book.
5 star - Perfect
4 star - i would recommend
3 star - good
2 star - struggled to complete
1 star - could not finish
I did something I dislike ever admitting to have done, I skimmed at times through the book. Because if I did not I would never end it.
Please please please Mr. Brooks please i know it is hard but please break the mold for the next book.
5 star - Perfect
4 star - i would recommend
3 star - good
2 star - struggled to complete
1 star - could not finish
May 8, 2019
The one-dimensional characters and linear plot sum to a book characterised by its protagonists' most overused action: a lot of shrugging.
June 7, 2015
Book Review by: Sharon Powers.
If you would like to view this book review with the graphics included, please go to Sharon's Love of Books at: http://sharonsloveofbooks.blogspot.com/
_______________________________________
I have looked forward to reading Terry Brooks,' second book of the Defenders of Shannara trilogy, The Darkling Child. The trilogy books, while they are considered to be stand alone books, nonetheless, are very closely connected with each other. They are connected, not through the use of a storyline, but through the exploits of a particular character, Arcanan, The Sorcerer.
"A sorcerer, you say?" "Yes." And not only that, but Arcanan is the main character of the book and appears in each book of the trilogy. Arcanan, The Sorcerer, is the antagonist. Wow! While it is not unheard of, it is a bit unusual. But, that is exactly what Terry Brooks was going for!
While making an appearance in Montreal to promote the first book of the Defenders series, The High Druid's Blade, Brooks shared with the audience the news that Arcanan, the Sorcerer, would make his appearance known in all three of the series' books. Brooks punctuated those comments by saying of Arcanan, "He is big trouble." [2]
The trilogy is really just "one long story about
what happens to Arcanan." Importantly, these
books about Arcanan, are the perfect setup for
the last trilogy of the entire Shannara Saga. [2]
Brooks further explained that the trilogy was set, chronologically, sometime after the Dark Legacy of Shannara [1. Wards of Faerie (2012); 2. Bloodfire Que- st (2013); and 3. Witch Wraith (2013)]. Of the Defenders of Shannara series, Brooks said that the Defenders series is a "pre-conclusion trilogy." That is, since he intends to end The Shannara Saga, Brooks chose to make The Defenders Trilogy the last trilogy before he releases the final three books that will decisively end the sojourn. [2]
[3]
Paxon Leah, the High Druid's Blade, is sent on a mission with Druid Avelene to find the source of the wishsong magic, detected through the scrying waters in the towers of the Druid stronghold of Paranor. Paxon and Druid Avelene travel towards the Village of Portlow to find whoever is wielding the wishsong magic, to ensure it is not being wielded by the wrong person.
This is my very well-used paperback of
Terry Brooks,' The Wishsong of Shannara.
The story introduced the magic of the wish-
song into the land of Shannara and for-
ever changed the face of fantasy storytell-
ing. The Wishsong of Shannara is the 3rd
book in the original Shannara Series. [3]
Meanwhile, in Portlow, Reyn Frosch, makes his living by being a traveling minstrel. The popular singer is so very popular because he possesses the magic and the curse of the wishsong. Unfortunately, his popularity and abilities with the wishsong, have drawn the attention of the powerful, dark sorcerer, Arcanan. It seems Arcanan wants to make use of the young man's magic to exact vengeance on the sorcerer's enemies.
Arcanan wished vengeance on the Federation's elite fighting force on the warship, The Red Slash, commanded by Dallen Usurient. Going beyond his orders, Usurient ordered the destruction of the City of Arbrox; it wasn't long, and the city was no more. Every man, woman, and child died in a bloodbath designed by Usurient to kill the Sorcerer. Arcanan.
Will Paxon and Druid Avelina be able to rescue the boy, Reyn, from the clutches of Arcanan? And will they be able to sort through all the politics sufficiently to be able to know who to trust? In the faceoff that is coming, who will survive? And just who exactly will show up for the faceoff in this dangerous game of "Tag, you're Dead"?
WHAT I THINK ABOUT THIS BOOK:
The main character is the antagonist? Really? Actually, some of our most interesting characters in literature have held that position. Take for example, Amadeus, the main character is Salieri, an an- tagonist, and Mozart is the protagonist.
Brooks' selection of Arcanan, The Sorcerer, as the main character for the book is at once delicious and juicy and provocative. Most every- one knows that the usual choice for the main character is the protagonist.
We also know from Brooks' Montreal appearance late last year, that he intended to stretch his writing muscles and give himself flexibility and interest in doing something a little different than he had been doing with the other Shannara books. So, Brooks wanted to do something different, but why this particular choice?
Janice Hardy of Janice Hardy's Fiction University, tells us that a great antagonist is more than "just a cardboard cutout[] of [an] "evil" pe[rson]." Hardy makes the argument that we might even like that dastardly antagonist. To help us understand what makes a truly great antagonist, she gives us ten traits of a strong antagonist. [4]
[5]
The strong antagonist will try to accomplish something. In The Darkling Child, Arcanan wants to control Reyn and his wishsong; his real endgame, though, is to take over Paranor and mold the Druid order to his desires.
The strong antagonist is acting on personal desires. Arcanan is described as having a cold, flinty gaze; but when it comes to his burning desire to kill the commander and crew of The Red Slash, he is motivated by vengeance. . . "for Arbrox and her people." We are privy to his passion for the people--to vindicate them and himself.
A strong antagonist is highly motivated to act. Arcanan's acting on his personal desires also serves to show just how highly motivated he was to act. We also get to see in the novel, Arcanan's extreme patience and planning (years) to achieve his goals.
[6]
A strong antagonist is trying to avoid something. Avoiding the Federation is, for Arcanan, avoiding death. Avoiding the druid order is avoiding, possibly, death; at the very least imprisonment and the withholding of his magical powers.
A strong antagonist is trying to gain something. Arcanan believes if he has control of the druid order and Paranor, he will execute better control over the magic in the land. He believes his control is the right one. Also, another gain Arcanan looks for is, in his eyes, "retribution" for wrongs done against an innocent and helpless people.
A strong antagonist is willing to adapt. Arcanan adapts many of his plans as he goes through the story; the most sensational one, however, is his taking on a person as a student when that was not what he wanted. He bargained, and changed his plans--adapting to the situation.
A compelling antagonist. [7]
A strong antagonist is compelling in some way. Arcanan is strong, not only in his determination to accomplish his goals; we've seen many people with these attributes. Arcanan saves Reyn from the thugs, but he is gentle with him and makes sure he is warm and rests. We see him continue to learn as he reads and studies his books. We even cheer him as he defeats the Federation elite troops--another rather evil group of men who murdered in the most bloody and heinous way, men women and children.
A strong antagonist is flawed in relatable ways. This is one of the more amusing human failings Arcanan reveals: after he left the Village of Portlow on business, he spoke with another character and mused that he had not even gotten "the boy's name" before leaving Portlow. Another time, Arcanan chastises Reyn and Lariana for talking--and interrupting his concentration over his reading.
[8]
A strong antagonist is hiding things. Oh, my gosh. Looking in the dictionary, I could almost believe that the definition of secretive is, "Arcanan." He withholds all manner of information from Reyn and even Lariana. Arcanan hides the fact that he has special wards up to guard against intrusion by the Federation--he hides this from everyone.
A strong antagonist is in the path of the protagonist's goal. Early on in the book, Paxon Leah and Druid Avelene go searching for the source of the wishsong. Upon arriving at Portlow, they briefly encounter the boy, Reyn, and lose him. Arcanan foils the plans of the protagonist by making off with the prize. Later, he again foils their plans when he allows the Federation to close in around him (Can you say, "Come into my parlor said the spider to the fly"?); yet, another delay for the protagonist to confront Arcanan (not now, but eventually, the antagonist and protagonist do battle). [4]
According to Shell Harris of TopTenz,
Wolverine is #8 on the "Top Ten Comic
Book Anti-Heroes (Marvel & DC)."[9]
The ANTIHERO, on the other hand, is simpler to describe.
The antihero takes part in criminal conduct to be able to do his or her heroic duties;
The antihero can be a villain recast as a hero;
The antihero generally suffers from a struggle with the moral ambiguity of his or her actions;
The reading audience can identify with an antihero because of his or her struggles;
The antihero generally experiences some event that is similar to the "turning point" for the ordinary hero. It can be because he/she uses death as a motivation to force the antihero to use violence (or threaten with financial ruin). [10]
In Terry Brooks' The Darkling Child, the clear choice for antihero would be Reyn. He does take part in criminal conduct and from the beginning struggles with the weight of using the wishsong improperly. We tend to feel sorry for Reyn because he is forced into a situation he cannot seem to escape. And, Reyn does have that "turning point," but I won't say what that turning point is, here. I don't want to spoil that for you. The conclusion seems to be that Arcanan is not the antihero, but the antagonist.
[11]
I really love how Brooks places the antagonist and the antihero so close in proximity. Equally as delightful is how well Brooks makes it work that the antagonist's interference, thwarts the plans of the druid order (namely, Paxon and Avelene). I find that Terry Brooks' choice of antagonist to be the most interesting choice he made in setting up his characters and novel.
Brooks spins a great yarn in this book; indeed, it is so throughout the entire Shannara Saga. I know this because I have read every book (many of them multiple times). But, everyone writes about Brooks' winning writing style and character development. While those things are true of Brooks' writing, with this novel, I love getting to explore a little examined topic.
Since the cover for The Sorcerer's Apprentice: Defenders of
Shannara, Book 3, has not, yet, been released, I give you this
graphic of the Disney version of The Sorcerer's Apprentice.[12]
Today, by examining the choices made for these char- acters and their place in the Shannara world, you get to see just exactly, how very talented and skilled Terry Brooks really is. I won't hide the fact that I love all of Brooks' works, their com- plexity and interest, char- acter development (many of his characters are oh, so memorable), and the easy and readable style of writing that he has used in this, and other, books. But even more, I love his unusual choice for this book in making the main character, Arcanan, The Sorcerer. I can hardly wait for next year to read part three of The Sorcerer's Apprentice: Defenders of Shannara, Book 3, and see if that book has any surprise elements in it for us. (Currently Scheduled Release Date: July 2016).
Doesn't this cup of tea look beau-
tiful? The color is just amazing.
Writing about having a cup of tea
with you, I went and brewed a pot
and poured myself a tall cup of
India's Assam Black Tea. It is so
smooth and wonderful. I'm back to
finish writing my blog post, now...
and sip my tea while I am writing.
If we were sitting together, enjoying a nice cup of tea or a cold drink, now that summer is upon us, I could blather on about innumerable things that bring joy to me from my reading experience with Terry Brooks' novels. Just think, we haven't even touched topics like his world building, suspense and tension building, why writing a great conclusion is so important (Brooks does), and how his bridge book (that is, the middle book of a trilogy) isn't flat or staid; indeed, this book was more exciting and had more of a "page turning" quality than did The High Druid's Blade: Defenders of Shannara, Book 1. So, yes, I can't wait for Book 3--it's a whole year from now!
MY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Terry Brooks' book, The Darkling Child: Defenders of Shannara, captured me from the very first page. Self-defense, murder, a manic chase scene filled with anxiety, and tension, made me breathlessness as I turned the pages. What will happen to the boy with magic in him, the magic of the "wishsong"? Brooks put the boy's magic on the page and it entranced me and held me captive until the very end.
MY RATING:
Five notes, instead of stars, for
Terry Brooks' novel, The Darkling
Child: Defenders of Shannara. [13]
Given all the reasons stated, above, I am very pleased to award a five star rating, out of five (OK. Musical notes instead of stars in honor of "the wishsong.") to Terry Brooks,' The Darkling Child: Defenders of Shannara, Book 2. I loved this book and know you will love it, too. Read Brooks' novel, and let its magic fill your mind and heart...you will long for book three, as much as I.
Thank you for joining me, today, as we had the pleasure and privilege to look at an exciting new book coming out next week. I am pre-ordering my physical copy to join my other Terry Brooks' novels on my bookshelf. Good reading, people! Please join me again, next time, as we leave the world of fantasy and take up a nonfiction book. Have I piqued your interest? I hope so, it looks to be a fun romp in the pages of nonfiction.
________________________________________________________
[14]
It is about two minutes after the 147th Running of the Belmont Stakes and I just watched American Pharoah win the race and the triple crown. Congratulations to the owners, trainers, New York and all racing fans, and to all involved with American Pharoah's running and winning. I am so happy for you all. What an exciting race!
________________________________________________________
Until next time...
This is a white Rose of Sharon with red center. [*]
...many happy pages of reading!
Be kind to one another,
you never know what sorrows or troubles
are in their heart.
My love to you all...
Sharon.
________________________________________________________
RESOURCES/SOURCES
[1] "The Darkling Child: Defenders of Shannara." [Terry Brooks] smile.amazon.com. Retrieved 06-02-15.
[2] "Terry Brooks on the End of the Shannara Saga." [Jules-Pierre Malartre; 12-12-13] denofgeek.com. Retrieved 06-04-15.
[3] "Synopsis." mmandbooks.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[4] "10 Traits of a Strong Antagonist." blog.janicehardy.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[5] "Antagonist." [graphic image] genius.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[*] "Netgalley." netgalley.com. Retrieved 06-05-14.
[6] "Project Team Member Combinations to Avoid." [graphic] coolconversationslive.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[7] "Script Notes: Major Character Types - 'Antagonist.'" [Michael Tabb; 02-13-15] scriptmag.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[8] "Breaking: AK Lawmaker - No Room for Transparency." [Shannyn Moore, 02-18-13] themudflats.net. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[9] "Top 10 Comic Book Anti-Heroes (Marvel & DC)." [shell harris, 05-11-10] toptenz.net. Retrieved 05-05-15.
[10] "The Antihero." [jacob baggett] epicheroism.wordpress.com. Retrieved 05-05-15.
[11] "Turning Point." [graphic] yoyostorerewind.com. Retrieved 05-05-15.
[12] "Mickey-fantasia.jpg." random-ness.wikia.com. Retrieved 06-06-15.
[13] "Colorful Music." pixshark.com. Retrieved 06-06-15.
[14] "2015 Belmont Stakes Logo." gopsunittanylions.com. Retrieved 06-06-15.
[15] "White Rose of Sharon Gifts." zazzle.com. Retrieved 06-02-15.
If you would like to view this book review with the graphics included, please go to Sharon's Love of Books at: http://sharonsloveofbooks.blogspot.com/
_______________________________________
I have looked forward to reading Terry Brooks,' second book of the Defenders of Shannara trilogy, The Darkling Child. The trilogy books, while they are considered to be stand alone books, nonetheless, are very closely connected with each other. They are connected, not through the use of a storyline, but through the exploits of a particular character, Arcanan, The Sorcerer.
"A sorcerer, you say?" "Yes." And not only that, but Arcanan is the main character of the book and appears in each book of the trilogy. Arcanan, The Sorcerer, is the antagonist. Wow! While it is not unheard of, it is a bit unusual. But, that is exactly what Terry Brooks was going for!
While making an appearance in Montreal to promote the first book of the Defenders series, The High Druid's Blade, Brooks shared with the audience the news that Arcanan, the Sorcerer, would make his appearance known in all three of the series' books. Brooks punctuated those comments by saying of Arcanan, "He is big trouble." [2]
The trilogy is really just "one long story about
what happens to Arcanan." Importantly, these
books about Arcanan, are the perfect setup for
the last trilogy of the entire Shannara Saga. [2]
Brooks further explained that the trilogy was set, chronologically, sometime after the Dark Legacy of Shannara [1. Wards of Faerie (2012); 2. Bloodfire Que- st (2013); and 3. Witch Wraith (2013)]. Of the Defenders of Shannara series, Brooks said that the Defenders series is a "pre-conclusion trilogy." That is, since he intends to end The Shannara Saga, Brooks chose to make The Defenders Trilogy the last trilogy before he releases the final three books that will decisively end the sojourn. [2]
[3]
Paxon Leah, the High Druid's Blade, is sent on a mission with Druid Avelene to find the source of the wishsong magic, detected through the scrying waters in the towers of the Druid stronghold of Paranor. Paxon and Druid Avelene travel towards the Village of Portlow to find whoever is wielding the wishsong magic, to ensure it is not being wielded by the wrong person.
This is my very well-used paperback of
Terry Brooks,' The Wishsong of Shannara.
The story introduced the magic of the wish-
song into the land of Shannara and for-
ever changed the face of fantasy storytell-
ing. The Wishsong of Shannara is the 3rd
book in the original Shannara Series. [3]
Meanwhile, in Portlow, Reyn Frosch, makes his living by being a traveling minstrel. The popular singer is so very popular because he possesses the magic and the curse of the wishsong. Unfortunately, his popularity and abilities with the wishsong, have drawn the attention of the powerful, dark sorcerer, Arcanan. It seems Arcanan wants to make use of the young man's magic to exact vengeance on the sorcerer's enemies.
Arcanan wished vengeance on the Federation's elite fighting force on the warship, The Red Slash, commanded by Dallen Usurient. Going beyond his orders, Usurient ordered the destruction of the City of Arbrox; it wasn't long, and the city was no more. Every man, woman, and child died in a bloodbath designed by Usurient to kill the Sorcerer. Arcanan.
Will Paxon and Druid Avelina be able to rescue the boy, Reyn, from the clutches of Arcanan? And will they be able to sort through all the politics sufficiently to be able to know who to trust? In the faceoff that is coming, who will survive? And just who exactly will show up for the faceoff in this dangerous game of "Tag, you're Dead"?
WHAT I THINK ABOUT THIS BOOK:
The main character is the antagonist? Really? Actually, some of our most interesting characters in literature have held that position. Take for example, Amadeus, the main character is Salieri, an an- tagonist, and Mozart is the protagonist.
Brooks' selection of Arcanan, The Sorcerer, as the main character for the book is at once delicious and juicy and provocative. Most every- one knows that the usual choice for the main character is the protagonist.
We also know from Brooks' Montreal appearance late last year, that he intended to stretch his writing muscles and give himself flexibility and interest in doing something a little different than he had been doing with the other Shannara books. So, Brooks wanted to do something different, but why this particular choice?
Janice Hardy of Janice Hardy's Fiction University, tells us that a great antagonist is more than "just a cardboard cutout[] of [an] "evil" pe[rson]." Hardy makes the argument that we might even like that dastardly antagonist. To help us understand what makes a truly great antagonist, she gives us ten traits of a strong antagonist. [4]
[5]
The strong antagonist will try to accomplish something. In The Darkling Child, Arcanan wants to control Reyn and his wishsong; his real endgame, though, is to take over Paranor and mold the Druid order to his desires.
The strong antagonist is acting on personal desires. Arcanan is described as having a cold, flinty gaze; but when it comes to his burning desire to kill the commander and crew of The Red Slash, he is motivated by vengeance. . . "for Arbrox and her people." We are privy to his passion for the people--to vindicate them and himself.
A strong antagonist is highly motivated to act. Arcanan's acting on his personal desires also serves to show just how highly motivated he was to act. We also get to see in the novel, Arcanan's extreme patience and planning (years) to achieve his goals.
[6]
A strong antagonist is trying to avoid something. Avoiding the Federation is, for Arcanan, avoiding death. Avoiding the druid order is avoiding, possibly, death; at the very least imprisonment and the withholding of his magical powers.
A strong antagonist is trying to gain something. Arcanan believes if he has control of the druid order and Paranor, he will execute better control over the magic in the land. He believes his control is the right one. Also, another gain Arcanan looks for is, in his eyes, "retribution" for wrongs done against an innocent and helpless people.
A strong antagonist is willing to adapt. Arcanan adapts many of his plans as he goes through the story; the most sensational one, however, is his taking on a person as a student when that was not what he wanted. He bargained, and changed his plans--adapting to the situation.
A compelling antagonist. [7]
A strong antagonist is compelling in some way. Arcanan is strong, not only in his determination to accomplish his goals; we've seen many people with these attributes. Arcanan saves Reyn from the thugs, but he is gentle with him and makes sure he is warm and rests. We see him continue to learn as he reads and studies his books. We even cheer him as he defeats the Federation elite troops--another rather evil group of men who murdered in the most bloody and heinous way, men women and children.
A strong antagonist is flawed in relatable ways. This is one of the more amusing human failings Arcanan reveals: after he left the Village of Portlow on business, he spoke with another character and mused that he had not even gotten "the boy's name" before leaving Portlow. Another time, Arcanan chastises Reyn and Lariana for talking--and interrupting his concentration over his reading.
[8]
A strong antagonist is hiding things. Oh, my gosh. Looking in the dictionary, I could almost believe that the definition of secretive is, "Arcanan." He withholds all manner of information from Reyn and even Lariana. Arcanan hides the fact that he has special wards up to guard against intrusion by the Federation--he hides this from everyone.
A strong antagonist is in the path of the protagonist's goal. Early on in the book, Paxon Leah and Druid Avelene go searching for the source of the wishsong. Upon arriving at Portlow, they briefly encounter the boy, Reyn, and lose him. Arcanan foils the plans of the protagonist by making off with the prize. Later, he again foils their plans when he allows the Federation to close in around him (Can you say, "Come into my parlor said the spider to the fly"?); yet, another delay for the protagonist to confront Arcanan (not now, but eventually, the antagonist and protagonist do battle). [4]
According to Shell Harris of TopTenz,
Wolverine is #8 on the "Top Ten Comic
Book Anti-Heroes (Marvel & DC)."[9]
The ANTIHERO, on the other hand, is simpler to describe.
The antihero takes part in criminal conduct to be able to do his or her heroic duties;
The antihero can be a villain recast as a hero;
The antihero generally suffers from a struggle with the moral ambiguity of his or her actions;
The reading audience can identify with an antihero because of his or her struggles;
The antihero generally experiences some event that is similar to the "turning point" for the ordinary hero. It can be because he/she uses death as a motivation to force the antihero to use violence (or threaten with financial ruin). [10]
In Terry Brooks' The Darkling Child, the clear choice for antihero would be Reyn. He does take part in criminal conduct and from the beginning struggles with the weight of using the wishsong improperly. We tend to feel sorry for Reyn because he is forced into a situation he cannot seem to escape. And, Reyn does have that "turning point," but I won't say what that turning point is, here. I don't want to spoil that for you. The conclusion seems to be that Arcanan is not the antihero, but the antagonist.
[11]
I really love how Brooks places the antagonist and the antihero so close in proximity. Equally as delightful is how well Brooks makes it work that the antagonist's interference, thwarts the plans of the druid order (namely, Paxon and Avelene). I find that Terry Brooks' choice of antagonist to be the most interesting choice he made in setting up his characters and novel.
Brooks spins a great yarn in this book; indeed, it is so throughout the entire Shannara Saga. I know this because I have read every book (many of them multiple times). But, everyone writes about Brooks' winning writing style and character development. While those things are true of Brooks' writing, with this novel, I love getting to explore a little examined topic.
Since the cover for The Sorcerer's Apprentice: Defenders of
Shannara, Book 3, has not, yet, been released, I give you this
graphic of the Disney version of The Sorcerer's Apprentice.[12]
Today, by examining the choices made for these char- acters and their place in the Shannara world, you get to see just exactly, how very talented and skilled Terry Brooks really is. I won't hide the fact that I love all of Brooks' works, their com- plexity and interest, char- acter development (many of his characters are oh, so memorable), and the easy and readable style of writing that he has used in this, and other, books. But even more, I love his unusual choice for this book in making the main character, Arcanan, The Sorcerer. I can hardly wait for next year to read part three of The Sorcerer's Apprentice: Defenders of Shannara, Book 3, and see if that book has any surprise elements in it for us. (Currently Scheduled Release Date: July 2016).
Doesn't this cup of tea look beau-
tiful? The color is just amazing.
Writing about having a cup of tea
with you, I went and brewed a pot
and poured myself a tall cup of
India's Assam Black Tea. It is so
smooth and wonderful. I'm back to
finish writing my blog post, now...
and sip my tea while I am writing.
If we were sitting together, enjoying a nice cup of tea or a cold drink, now that summer is upon us, I could blather on about innumerable things that bring joy to me from my reading experience with Terry Brooks' novels. Just think, we haven't even touched topics like his world building, suspense and tension building, why writing a great conclusion is so important (Brooks does), and how his bridge book (that is, the middle book of a trilogy) isn't flat or staid; indeed, this book was more exciting and had more of a "page turning" quality than did The High Druid's Blade: Defenders of Shannara, Book 1. So, yes, I can't wait for Book 3--it's a whole year from now!
MY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Terry Brooks' book, The Darkling Child: Defenders of Shannara, captured me from the very first page. Self-defense, murder, a manic chase scene filled with anxiety, and tension, made me breathlessness as I turned the pages. What will happen to the boy with magic in him, the magic of the "wishsong"? Brooks put the boy's magic on the page and it entranced me and held me captive until the very end.
MY RATING:
Five notes, instead of stars, for
Terry Brooks' novel, The Darkling
Child: Defenders of Shannara. [13]
Given all the reasons stated, above, I am very pleased to award a five star rating, out of five (OK. Musical notes instead of stars in honor of "the wishsong.") to Terry Brooks,' The Darkling Child: Defenders of Shannara, Book 2. I loved this book and know you will love it, too. Read Brooks' novel, and let its magic fill your mind and heart...you will long for book three, as much as I.
Thank you for joining me, today, as we had the pleasure and privilege to look at an exciting new book coming out next week. I am pre-ordering my physical copy to join my other Terry Brooks' novels on my bookshelf. Good reading, people! Please join me again, next time, as we leave the world of fantasy and take up a nonfiction book. Have I piqued your interest? I hope so, it looks to be a fun romp in the pages of nonfiction.
________________________________________________________
[14]
It is about two minutes after the 147th Running of the Belmont Stakes and I just watched American Pharoah win the race and the triple crown. Congratulations to the owners, trainers, New York and all racing fans, and to all involved with American Pharoah's running and winning. I am so happy for you all. What an exciting race!
________________________________________________________
Until next time...
This is a white Rose of Sharon with red center. [*]
...many happy pages of reading!
Be kind to one another,
you never know what sorrows or troubles
are in their heart.
My love to you all...
Sharon.
________________________________________________________
RESOURCES/SOURCES
[1] "The Darkling Child: Defenders of Shannara." [Terry Brooks] smile.amazon.com. Retrieved 06-02-15.
[2] "Terry Brooks on the End of the Shannara Saga." [Jules-Pierre Malartre; 12-12-13] denofgeek.com. Retrieved 06-04-15.
[3] "Synopsis." mmandbooks.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[4] "10 Traits of a Strong Antagonist." blog.janicehardy.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[5] "Antagonist." [graphic image] genius.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[*] "Netgalley." netgalley.com. Retrieved 06-05-14.
[6] "Project Team Member Combinations to Avoid." [graphic] coolconversationslive.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[7] "Script Notes: Major Character Types - 'Antagonist.'" [Michael Tabb; 02-13-15] scriptmag.com. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[8] "Breaking: AK Lawmaker - No Room for Transparency." [Shannyn Moore, 02-18-13] themudflats.net. Retrieved 06-05-15.
[9] "Top 10 Comic Book Anti-Heroes (Marvel & DC)." [shell harris, 05-11-10] toptenz.net. Retrieved 05-05-15.
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March 24, 2022
I grew up reading the Shannara series, over and over again. I gobbled up the TV series, not because it was either good or bad, but rather for the nostalgia of it. Narrated by Simon Vance (The Interview With the Vampire series) Isa brilliant narrator and made this more enjoyable than it might have been otherwise. Perhaps I've outgrownthose things of my youth, or perhaps it was the story itself, but it didn't agive me what I had hoped orthpught it would.
June 6, 2015
So I've basically been a Terry Brooks fan for life...or at least since 7th or 8th grade when I first read the "Sword", "Elfstones" and "Wishsong" of Shannnara. Since then I've read nearly all of his novels only missing a few here and there when life got in the way. As such I have a certain sense of loyalty to Brooks and to the Shannara world in general. I really liked his sort of "origin" stories where he wrote about magic in "our" world and the end of our world followed by the creation of the world known in the Shannara stories. It was a fun weaving of stories and a nice change of pace.
That said, with his past few novels, Brooks has returned to his core worlds of Shannara fantasy and magic. This latest book, "The Darkling Child" is a stand alone novel that takes place 5 years after the previous novel, "The High Druid's Blade." It involves some of the same characters but introduces new characters and new dangers. At its heart, the book has the same main villain as its predecessor, the sorcerer Arcannen. After having his plots foiled and his world turned upside down in 'High Druid's Blade', Arcannen has spent the past five years essentially hiding out and rebuilding. What his exact plans are unknown (other than an overarching goal of eventually infiltrating and either taking over or destroying the Druid Order). New plans are set in motion in this book when the Federation discovers Arcannen's location (in the same village where some other outlaws and pirates are hiding out) and they send a force to destroy them. Arcannen escapes the resulting destruction but vows revenge on those who destroyed his village.
The new element in this book is a teenage boy named Reyn who happens to bear the ancient power of the wishsong (it's never explicitly said but I presume Reyn is "the Darkling Child" of the title...though perhaps it could be argued that Paxon may still be a darkling in development). Arcannen learns of this power and seeks to subvert and use Reyn for his own purposes. The druids sense the wishsong magic and send out Paxon Leah (the "High Druid's Blade") and a druid emissary to discover the bearer of the magic, determine any risk and decide what is to be done. Paxon is especially interested in this new wishsong magic since his sister, Chrysallin, was discovered to have the wishsong in the previous novel and the implications of that discovery are still unclear to everyone involved, especially Paxon and Chrys. Thus Paxon undertakes the mission out of loyalty to the Druids but also as a mission of discovery to try and determine the risks and needs of his sister and figure out the path they should take.
Even though this is a stand alone novel with only ~300 pages, Brooks allows the book to take on a larger saga-like feel by weaving together multiple storylines each with compelling characters. While not ever character receives the same depth and treatment, they are fleshed out enough to allow each storyline to be interesting.
We follow the storyline of Arcannen, Reyn and Lariana (a teenage girl brought by Arcannen to try and 'persuade' Reyn) as Arcannen works to subvert Reyn and exact revenge against the Federation fleet that destroyed his home. We follow the story various Federation leaders (both political and military) as they work through their plots to deal with Arcannen while still 'saving face.' We follow the story of Paxon and Avelene as they search first for the bearer of the wishsong magic and then for Arcannen and Reyn jointly. The interweaving of the various stories and the jumping between main characters allows for an interesting read that draws the reader in by allowing for greater analysis of motives and personalities.
With the title of "Darkling Child", I expected a little more subverting of Reyn (or someone)...a little more "dark side" or struggle (perhaps something akin to the first Shannara novels). I was a little let down that Reyn's struggles felt a little superficial and less than supernatural. Yes they were definitely valid and compelling struggles, just less "darkling" than I expected.
Generally speaking, I feel like Brooks has plateaued a little bit in terms of his writing. That's not to say this book (or some of his other recent books) are bad. They just don't feel quite as fresh as some of his other books and series. Granted, with ~2 dozen Shannara books, there's bound to be some "sameness", especially in order to maintain cohesion of the fantasy world involved. Still, for fans of the Shannara novels, this is a great addition. And for those who are looking for an entry point, the stand alone nature would help this be a good fit.
Overall the story is exciting and fun. Some of the scenes were a bit truncated for my taste, especially after some of the build up, but that's the hazard of a shortish stand-alone. The characters' actions and motivations were generally believable and the world was cohesive and engaging. Not the best of Brooks' work but still a worthy title to bear the Shannara heritage and be part of the overall library.
***
3 out of 5 stars
That said, with his past few novels, Brooks has returned to his core worlds of Shannara fantasy and magic. This latest book, "The Darkling Child" is a stand alone novel that takes place 5 years after the previous novel, "The High Druid's Blade." It involves some of the same characters but introduces new characters and new dangers. At its heart, the book has the same main villain as its predecessor, the sorcerer Arcannen. After having his plots foiled and his world turned upside down in 'High Druid's Blade', Arcannen has spent the past five years essentially hiding out and rebuilding. What his exact plans are unknown (other than an overarching goal of eventually infiltrating and either taking over or destroying the Druid Order). New plans are set in motion in this book when the Federation discovers Arcannen's location (in the same village where some other outlaws and pirates are hiding out) and they send a force to destroy them. Arcannen escapes the resulting destruction but vows revenge on those who destroyed his village.
The new element in this book is a teenage boy named Reyn who happens to bear the ancient power of the wishsong (it's never explicitly said but I presume Reyn is "the Darkling Child" of the title...though perhaps it could be argued that Paxon may still be a darkling in development). Arcannen learns of this power and seeks to subvert and use Reyn for his own purposes. The druids sense the wishsong magic and send out Paxon Leah (the "High Druid's Blade") and a druid emissary to discover the bearer of the magic, determine any risk and decide what is to be done. Paxon is especially interested in this new wishsong magic since his sister, Chrysallin, was discovered to have the wishsong in the previous novel and the implications of that discovery are still unclear to everyone involved, especially Paxon and Chrys. Thus Paxon undertakes the mission out of loyalty to the Druids but also as a mission of discovery to try and determine the risks and needs of his sister and figure out the path they should take.
Even though this is a stand alone novel with only ~300 pages, Brooks allows the book to take on a larger saga-like feel by weaving together multiple storylines each with compelling characters. While not ever character receives the same depth and treatment, they are fleshed out enough to allow each storyline to be interesting.
We follow the storyline of Arcannen, Reyn and Lariana (a teenage girl brought by Arcannen to try and 'persuade' Reyn) as Arcannen works to subvert Reyn and exact revenge against the Federation fleet that destroyed his home. We follow the story various Federation leaders (both political and military) as they work through their plots to deal with Arcannen while still 'saving face.' We follow the story of Paxon and Avelene as they search first for the bearer of the wishsong magic and then for Arcannen and Reyn jointly. The interweaving of the various stories and the jumping between main characters allows for an interesting read that draws the reader in by allowing for greater analysis of motives and personalities.
With the title of "Darkling Child", I expected a little more subverting of Reyn (or someone)...a little more "dark side" or struggle (perhaps something akin to the first Shannara novels). I was a little let down that Reyn's struggles felt a little superficial and less than supernatural. Yes they were definitely valid and compelling struggles, just less "darkling" than I expected.
Generally speaking, I feel like Brooks has plateaued a little bit in terms of his writing. That's not to say this book (or some of his other recent books) are bad. They just don't feel quite as fresh as some of his other books and series. Granted, with ~2 dozen Shannara books, there's bound to be some "sameness", especially in order to maintain cohesion of the fantasy world involved. Still, for fans of the Shannara novels, this is a great addition. And for those who are looking for an entry point, the stand alone nature would help this be a good fit.
Overall the story is exciting and fun. Some of the scenes were a bit truncated for my taste, especially after some of the build up, but that's the hazard of a shortish stand-alone. The characters' actions and motivations were generally believable and the world was cohesive and engaging. Not the best of Brooks' work but still a worthy title to bear the Shannara heritage and be part of the overall library.
***
3 out of 5 stars
April 18, 2022
“The Darkling Child” is book two in The Defenders of Shannara trilogy. This trilogy is to be the second last trilogy in The Shannara chronicles. It’s book nineteen in the larger group of Shannara books.
As I read the first few pages of “The Darkling Child,” I heard echoes of Brin and Jair Ohmsford, and to some extent, Grainne and Pen Ohmsford. I thought perhaps it was a foreshadowing of what’s coming or maybe a reminder of things past. Regardless, for me as I read, those character’s ghosts echoed in the words on the first pages in relation to Paxon and his sister Chrysallin. The whispers of past books continue with the wishsong and the Hadeshorn. This is one thing I enjoy about The Shannara Chronicles; it is familiar, but Terry Brooks is masterful at making the familiar new.
Words I would use to describe “The Darkling Child” are revenge, love, mystery, intrigue, and death. It is another successful and worthy story for the series.
My review of "The High Druid's Blade" can be found at https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
As I read the first few pages of “The Darkling Child,” I heard echoes of Brin and Jair Ohmsford, and to some extent, Grainne and Pen Ohmsford. I thought perhaps it was a foreshadowing of what’s coming or maybe a reminder of things past. Regardless, for me as I read, those character’s ghosts echoed in the words on the first pages in relation to Paxon and his sister Chrysallin. The whispers of past books continue with the wishsong and the Hadeshorn. This is one thing I enjoy about The Shannara Chronicles; it is familiar, but Terry Brooks is masterful at making the familiar new.
Words I would use to describe “The Darkling Child” are revenge, love, mystery, intrigue, and death. It is another successful and worthy story for the series.
My review of "The High Druid's Blade" can be found at https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 11, 2025
I have been reading the Shannara books since I was a kid. This was a dark tale about revenge and using others to achieve your goals. I love how Mr. Brooks has developed the power of the wishsong over the generations of it being awakened. On to the last book in the trilogy.
June 25, 2015
The Darkling Child is the second in the Defenders of Shannara series from Terry Brooks. Paxon Leah is called upon yet again to reign in some wild magic. He and the newly appointed arch druid follow the trail of Reyn Frosch has discovered that he wields the power of the Wishsong, but cannot control its destructive powers. Sorcerer Arcannen befriends Reyn under the guise of helping him control the Wishsong, but what he really wants is power to exact revenge.
I've been a lifelong Terry Brooks fan. While youngsters were reading JRR Tolkien's books, I was reading Brooks. The Elfstones of Shannara is still one of my favorite epic fantasy books of all time. I found myself a bit torn about his books in the past 10 years. The world and magic I love are there, but the books have been getting shorter and shorter. I think Brooks works best in the 500+ page format for his fantasy works. When he's reigned in (whether by the publisher or other reasons), the books seems less important to the world of Shannara. I'm not sure if he needs to slow down and put out 1 book every 2 years or I need to let 2 or 3 pass before reading them.
I'll still be reading his books, but I really wish he'd go back to telling his stories in a longer format. If you haven't read Defenders #1, maybe wait until #3 or #4 are out before reading them.
I've been a lifelong Terry Brooks fan. While youngsters were reading JRR Tolkien's books, I was reading Brooks. The Elfstones of Shannara is still one of my favorite epic fantasy books of all time. I found myself a bit torn about his books in the past 10 years. The world and magic I love are there, but the books have been getting shorter and shorter. I think Brooks works best in the 500+ page format for his fantasy works. When he's reigned in (whether by the publisher or other reasons), the books seems less important to the world of Shannara. I'm not sure if he needs to slow down and put out 1 book every 2 years or I need to let 2 or 3 pass before reading them.
I'll still be reading his books, but I really wish he'd go back to telling his stories in a longer format. If you haven't read Defenders #1, maybe wait until #3 or #4 are out before reading them.
July 18, 2015
It was hard not to feel sorry for Reyn while reading this one. At the start it was because he was so lost, that he had no one to be there for him. Later it was because I hated how he was manipulated. By the end of the book I wasn't sure if he wasn't still being manipulated, this time by someone who had the ability to do some serious damage to him. We'll have to wait and see for future books to know for sure.
I sort of felt sorry for Paxton too. He seemed like he was lost, that people he needed to have in his life for a purpose weren't there, that he let them down. I do think with this last action he is finally on the right path.
I sort of felt sorry for Paxton too. He seemed like he was lost, that people he needed to have in his life for a purpose weren't there, that he let them down. I do think with this last action he is finally on the right path.
October 5, 2016
As a longtime fan of Brooks and in particular his Shannara series, I feel disappointed.
It's the second installment in a trilogy, but it has the feel of a stand alone novel, and not a very good one at that.
My feeling is that Brooks should end his Shannara serie, there are no more surprises, not in the magic, not in the world, not in the creatures he invents, the characters feel flat and rehashed. Allanon, the Ohmsfords Brin, Jair, Shea, the king of the silver river, Kimber Boh, Walker Boh and so many more were memorable characters, whereas I can't even remember the druid's name in this story and I just finished reading it...
It's the second installment in a trilogy, but it has the feel of a stand alone novel, and not a very good one at that.
My feeling is that Brooks should end his Shannara serie, there are no more surprises, not in the magic, not in the world, not in the creatures he invents, the characters feel flat and rehashed. Allanon, the Ohmsfords Brin, Jair, Shea, the king of the silver river, Kimber Boh, Walker Boh and so many more were memorable characters, whereas I can't even remember the druid's name in this story and I just finished reading it...
June 16, 2015
Solid four starts. Could have been even more, but Brooks has the annoying habit to build up the hype around some characters and then kill them quickly in an anticlimactic way. On the other hand the novel is clearly very well written, with great characters and absolutely incredible villain - Arcannen Rai is as bad as The Joker from "The Dark Knight" or Hannibal, possibly even worse than Brooks'own Findo Gask. But readers beware - that is not a happy fantasy book, it is extremely grim and with a downbeat ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2016
Still trying to decide whether or not he should tell his sister about all that happened to her, Paxon is sent on a mission to find out if a boy possesses the wish song magic. Of course, Arcannen gets there first. Paxon is not surprised that he would want to possess someone so potentially powerful. Many things happen to make Paxon question the path he chose. Will he leave Paranor or stay? Another great addition to the series!
June 12, 2016
3.5/5 stars (Please, Goodreads, give us half stars to work with!)
This was an enjoyable story with compelling characters. The concept of the "wish song" was intriguing and I would have liked to see it developed further. Since this book is part of the Shannara universe, perhaps that development is being saved for a later book.
In general, an enjoyable story but not ground-breaking or very memorable.
This was an enjoyable story with compelling characters. The concept of the "wish song" was intriguing and I would have liked to see it developed further. Since this book is part of the Shannara universe, perhaps that development is being saved for a later book.
In general, an enjoyable story but not ground-breaking or very memorable.
February 8, 2017
While still an entertaining listen, this book was somewhat of a disappointment as I didn't feel that the story was enhanced in a meaningful way from the initial book in this series. The main character went from someone struggling to find there way to mostly a failure at anything attempted in this novel.
3.5 stars for remaining an entertaining story.
3.5 stars for remaining an entertaining story.
October 17, 2015
Terry Brooks is a master of fantasy writing. This book, second of three, can stand on its own but would probably be more entertaining if the first one had been read. Nevertheless, it was an easy read populated by what you would expect in such a story: the bad guys, the good guys and the creatures all mix it up.
May 30, 2016
An interesting book that doesn't have too many of Brooks' usual annoyances. There is some brooding, but it doesn't go on for pages and pages. The characters are actually three-dimensional and I cared about what happened to them.
That being said, the heroes of the novel don't really have a lot to do other than follow the plot along. It's a good thing the other characters were pretty good.
That being said, the heroes of the novel don't really have a lot to do other than follow the plot along. It's a good thing the other characters were pretty good.
August 6, 2015
I found the book to be very readable but the story is flat. The characters failed to engage me very much. Overall, I found the effort average and that the story lacked direction and purpose.
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