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Sanctuary #4.5
Thy Father's Shadow
The world of Arkaria is a dangerous place, filled with dragons, titans, goblins and other dangers. Those who live in this world are faced with two live an ordinary life, or become an adventurer and seek the extraordinary. In the depths of the dark elven homeland of Saekaj Sovar, Terian Lepos returns home after a long estrangement from his family. Separated from his friends in Sanctuary, Terian must reconcile with his father in order to keep the family's honor from a threat brought forward by an old enemy. Faced with test after test that strains him to the breaking point, Terian must discover for himself that the line between loyalty and betrayal is thin indeed...and that sometimes, the sharpest knives are wielded by those you know best.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2014
258 people are currently reading
425 people want to read
About the author
Robert J. Crane
176 books1,168 followersRobert J. Crane was born and raised on Florida's Space Coast before moving to the upper midwest in search of cooler climates and more palatable beer. He graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in English Creative Writing. He worked for a year as a substitute teacher and worked in the financial services field for seven years while writing in his spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 30, 2023
This was pretty good, giving Terran’s background and what happened while he was away from Sanctuary. A nice filler
October 8, 2019
Science Fiction/fantasy
😲OMG!! So good 👍👍. This one you have to read! I was entranced and just completely wrapped up in the story. I love 💘 how completely tortured he is and how how even though coming from a society that rewards you for doing wrong the soul will struggle for a way to be good. This is shown in various characters throughout the series.
😲OMG!! So good 👍👍. This one you have to read! I was entranced and just completely wrapped up in the story. I love 💘 how completely tortured he is and how how even though coming from a society that rewards you for doing wrong the soul will struggle for a way to be good. This is shown in various characters throughout the series.
August 7, 2018
Such a well written book! I fell in love with the dark knight, Terian Lepos, since first meeting him in the first book. The flashbacks and hidden secrets brought this character to life. If you've read the first books, you'll love this one. I highly recommend it!
October 23, 2018
Great series
An engaging series...Keeps me wanting to know more.Next book please...full stars. I love that there are so many books in the series, I read pretty fast but don't want the adventure to end...
An engaging series...Keeps me wanting to know more.Next book please...full stars. I love that there are so many books in the series, I read pretty fast but don't want the adventure to end...
February 22, 2019
Can it get any more complicated?
This book just added to the chaos that has ensnared these characters from the series open. Even though it was only about one of the many characters it encompasses the story completely. Can't wait to start the next book
This book just added to the chaos that has ensnared these characters from the series open. Even though it was only about one of the many characters it encompasses the story completely. Can't wait to start the next book
August 22, 2020
Love Mr. crane and his captivating writing style
The details of places people and things make you feel like your actually in the story. Like you can smell the sweat and feel the fear! Great series!
The details of places people and things make you feel like your actually in the story. Like you can smell the sweat and feel the fear! Great series!
July 24, 2024
Wonderful
I'm very glad about the fill in the blanks concerning Terian. Many things lined up and were answered. I was sad about what his father went through, but when I discovered what his father was willing to sacrifice, he got what he deserved
I'm very glad about the fill in the blanks concerning Terian. Many things lined up and were answered. I was sad about what his father went through, but when I discovered what his father was willing to sacrifice, he got what he deserved
July 29, 2025
4.75 stars
This side book really helped put the dark knight and dark elves in this book. It showed why Terian the dark knight and dark elf is the way he is. Another great book with amazing back story. I am really enjoying this series.
This side book really helped put the dark knight and dark elves in this book. It showed why Terian the dark knight and dark elf is the way he is. Another great book with amazing back story. I am really enjoying this series.
October 25, 2017
Good Back Story
This is basically Terian's back story also covering the time he was away from Sanctuary. It explains a lot about what makes Terian who he is and what motivates him.
This is basically Terian's back story also covering the time he was away from Sanctuary. It explains a lot about what makes Terian who he is and what motivates him.
September 24, 2018
Loved how it focused on Terian and his side of things. Brings a new light to his character.
August 12, 2019
Good read
Terian is really mixed up Suspense keeps coming and going through the story Too much description in some part of the story
Terian is really mixed up Suspense keeps coming and going through the story Too much description in some part of the story
August 12, 2020
These “extra” books certainly tell the back stories of the characters in this series. I loved them!
February 1, 2021
Excellent
Excellent history on Terrian Lepos. Gives good insight on his mannerisms. Excellent flow, and great visualization. Very well written. Excellent read.
Excellent history on Terrian Lepos. Gives good insight on his mannerisms. Excellent flow, and great visualization. Very well written. Excellent read.
October 13, 2022
Enjoyable side-trek into Terian's backstory.
February 13, 2025
loved it
November 5, 2019
My least favorite Sanctuary character
Shows the family drama between father and son and does a great job explaining what Terrian had to go through to become a Dark Knight. I can relate well to the lo e and hate relationship between Terrian and his family.
Shows the family drama between father and son and does a great job explaining what Terrian had to go through to become a Dark Knight. I can relate well to the lo e and hate relationship between Terrian and his family.
October 23, 2015
An improvement on book 4, this installment tells the story of Terian. Overall I liked reading this book, and I think I'm now going to have to stick with this series until the bitter end because I want to know what happens. (Which in a way is frustrating, because by no means is this the best fantasy series I've read).
I still find the poor editing annoying - there are typos and extra words littered throughout. I also think the different chapters set in different time periods could have been done better - it was a bit confusing in places to have to stop and think about whether the next chapter is still 'three years ago' or if it is somewhere else. Not a major problem, but a bit messy in places.
I don't think Crane is particularly effective at building tension - so far I have correctly guessed what is going to happen in several places throughout the books. Creating a sense of mystery means not making it too obvious, and Crane just makes it too obvious what is going to happen. I won't spoil it for those of you who haven't read this yet; let me just say you won't be surprised about the whole 'soul sacrifice' business.
The thing that annoyed me most, and almost made me give this 2 stars instead of 3, is that I still don't understand why Terian felt the need to take revenge for his father. I just don't think he would feel that way, given the way things go (no spoilers, I promise!). I'm beginning to think that individual character's reactions to events just don't make sense. People seek vengeance and take offense for no good reason, I guess I will expect this as standard now.
But, those things aside, this is still quite readable and I find that I'm still hanging on to find out what is going to happen. I hope the next installment is better, but I am managing my expectations!
I still find the poor editing annoying - there are typos and extra words littered throughout. I also think the different chapters set in different time periods could have been done better - it was a bit confusing in places to have to stop and think about whether the next chapter is still 'three years ago' or if it is somewhere else. Not a major problem, but a bit messy in places.
I don't think Crane is particularly effective at building tension - so far I have correctly guessed what is going to happen in several places throughout the books. Creating a sense of mystery means not making it too obvious, and Crane just makes it too obvious what is going to happen. I won't spoil it for those of you who haven't read this yet; let me just say you won't be surprised about the whole 'soul sacrifice' business.
The thing that annoyed me most, and almost made me give this 2 stars instead of 3, is that I still don't understand why Terian felt the need to take revenge for his father. I just don't think he would feel that way, given the way things go (no spoilers, I promise!). I'm beginning to think that individual character's reactions to events just don't make sense. People seek vengeance and take offense for no good reason, I guess I will expect this as standard now.
But, those things aside, this is still quite readable and I find that I'm still hanging on to find out what is going to happen. I hope the next installment is better, but I am managing my expectations!
December 12, 2014
This story takes place during the chapters 22-33 of The Defender Vol.1 of The Sanctuary Series, the Prologue and Epilogue take place during chapter 116 of Crusader Vol.4 of the Sanctuary Series.
I really enjoyed the one-on-one aspect of this book. It is an in-depth walk into the past, present and future of Terian. That means readers who have been following the series already know what Terian does or doesn't do.
It gives us an extraordinary glimpse into his reasoning, his bizarre loyalty to his father and his internal battle that rages within him. The battle between what is morally right and what his birthright and people expect from him.
The book starts with Terian's exit from Sanctuary and his surprising re-entrance into his own society. A society with strict class structures and run by a dictator of darkness.
The richest battle for rank order, which is achieved by staying in favour with the Sovereign. If anyone disobeys, talks in a negative way about the regime or questions the laws, they can be automatically demoted. Sometimes it is just to a smaller house in a different street and sometimes it is a ticket straight to hell.
Now why would Terian want to forgo the freedom and almost democratic ruling of the Sanctuary for the strict dictatorship of his people? What could possibly make him change his mind about the tragedy that drove him away in the first place?
This is one of my favourites from the series so far. I enjoy it when Crane gives us an in-depth look into one of the characters. There is always so much baggage and background, which in turn helps to understand the paths and motivations of the extremely complex characters he creates.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of the author.
I really enjoyed the one-on-one aspect of this book. It is an in-depth walk into the past, present and future of Terian. That means readers who have been following the series already know what Terian does or doesn't do.
It gives us an extraordinary glimpse into his reasoning, his bizarre loyalty to his father and his internal battle that rages within him. The battle between what is morally right and what his birthright and people expect from him.
The book starts with Terian's exit from Sanctuary and his surprising re-entrance into his own society. A society with strict class structures and run by a dictator of darkness.
The richest battle for rank order, which is achieved by staying in favour with the Sovereign. If anyone disobeys, talks in a negative way about the regime or questions the laws, they can be automatically demoted. Sometimes it is just to a smaller house in a different street and sometimes it is a ticket straight to hell.
Now why would Terian want to forgo the freedom and almost democratic ruling of the Sanctuary for the strict dictatorship of his people? What could possibly make him change his mind about the tragedy that drove him away in the first place?
This is one of my favourites from the series so far. I enjoy it when Crane gives us an in-depth look into one of the characters. There is always so much baggage and background, which in turn helps to understand the paths and motivations of the extremely complex characters he creates.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of the author.
March 7, 2015
The world created by Robert for the Santuary Series is one of vast, sweeping landscapes, magic, gods and battles. The characters’ stories are told against that background. I confess that, although I enjoy these stories immensely, sometimes, in the heat of a battle scene, I can get a tad confused about who is supposed to be doing what, and to (or with) whom. That is not a criticism of the author – that’s just me, trying to read too quickly.
This addition however, is more character focused, and for that reason, although I still made reasonably short work of it, I felt that I was more able to keep up with the action.
Thy Father’s Shadow deals with the engaging back story of Terian Lepos, the Dark Elf and his relationship with his father. With more treachery and politics than an episode of G.o.T., this is an essential addition to the main Sanctuary series. Terian’s necessary sacrifice to complete his training is exposed bit by bit, by way of flashbacks, a tool which can sometimes be annoying and distracting, but which here, complements the story beautifully.
The author skillfully describes the strained relationship between Terian and his father, and his profound sadness and pain simply seems to radiate from the page on occasion.
This is my favourite volume of the series so far. I’m not a big fan of Terian as a character, but I do now understand his motivation. An expertly written, and touching story of family, betrayal and revenge.
This addition however, is more character focused, and for that reason, although I still made reasonably short work of it, I felt that I was more able to keep up with the action.
Thy Father’s Shadow deals with the engaging back story of Terian Lepos, the Dark Elf and his relationship with his father. With more treachery and politics than an episode of G.o.T., this is an essential addition to the main Sanctuary series. Terian’s necessary sacrifice to complete his training is exposed bit by bit, by way of flashbacks, a tool which can sometimes be annoying and distracting, but which here, complements the story beautifully.
The author skillfully describes the strained relationship between Terian and his father, and his profound sadness and pain simply seems to radiate from the page on occasion.
This is my favourite volume of the series so far. I’m not a big fan of Terian as a character, but I do now understand his motivation. An expertly written, and touching story of family, betrayal and revenge.
March 31, 2016
Before I started to read this, and, I have ended up reading it in the wrong place but never mind it did not affect the main story. I thought I would be finding out more about Cyrus and or his father as maybe he found out more himself. Wrong! This book is about Terian the dark elf who started out being a good friend of Cyrus's to unwittingly becoming his enemy after the events at Termina. I am/have not been that interested in Terian and found the first part of the book a slow read. However, as the story of his home life evolved I grew an interest in finding out more about him. From his birth as a high ranking dark elf brought about by his fathers hard work through his hard life learning about what he had to do to become a dark knight, which had him focus on the most horrendous task he would ever have to do. At that point I think I felt an empathy for him with an utter disgust that his father could stand by and make him do what he had to do. It is no wonder that the young outspoken dark knight rebelled massively and left home. From that point Terian seems to yo-yo back to Saekaj and Sovar then back out to the outside world around Sanctuary and Akaria. This book set out to give his story to the reader. It managed it brilliantly changing my opinion of him as a character. I understand him and the way he is now I could possibly guess at what kind of leader he will be later in the series but only more reading will tell.
June 30, 2014
Another good read
I love these Sanctuary stories. The characters are well written and this book is about one of my favorite characters, Terian Lepos. Terain is a true hero. His story is genuine, his thoughts, emotions, actions real. Dig in for a great series. start at the beginning or you will miss so much.
I love these Sanctuary stories. The characters are well written and this book is about one of my favorite characters, Terian Lepos. Terain is a true hero. His story is genuine, his thoughts, emotions, actions real. Dig in for a great series. start at the beginning or you will miss so much.
July 9, 2015
They Father's Shadow: The Sanctuary Series, Book 4.5
A good read. Helps to explain what happened to Terian and the culture of the Dark Elves. Wished I would have finished this book before I finished book 5, Master.
A good read. Helps to explain what happened to Terian and the culture of the Dark Elves. Wished I would have finished this book before I finished book 5, Master.
October 27, 2015
Knowing Terian's back story has made a few little things make more sense to me know. He is a complex character and one you never really understand but you feel for him and then you hate him before you feel for him again. He is someone I look forward to reading more about.
October 20, 2016
Wonderful!
Everything I have come to expect from Robert J. Crane! He puts so much thought into his worlds and characters that you feel like you reading about real people. One of my favorite stories in the Sanctuary series!
Everything I have come to expect from Robert J. Crane! He puts so much thought into his worlds and characters that you feel like you reading about real people. One of my favorite stories in the Sanctuary series!
January 9, 2021
Fits perfectly, in the Sanctuary lore. Spirited and intelligently crafted.
The title is the thing. The series is deep and wide, with wit and imagination as its stuffing! Hours of reading and enjoyment are in the offing.
The title is the thing. The series is deep and wide, with wit and imagination as its stuffing! Hours of reading and enjoyment are in the offing.
December 19, 2014
Explained a lot! Great read.
June 23, 2016
Terian Lepos is my new Sanctuary hero... Reading his story broke my heart and built my spirit all at the same time.
October 13, 2015
I am not a huge fan of terian but I loved getting to see more of why he is the way he is.
November 13, 2016
Darkness
Great story reading Terian of a House Lepos past and the society created by Mr. Crane. Great series, great author, Ian hooked
Great story reading Terian of a House Lepos past and the society created by Mr. Crane. Great series, great author, Ian hooked
January 11, 2015
Good story, good to know more about Terian, still funny, adventure and fantasy all over the place
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews