Throne of Darkness

Something Red #3

by Douglas Nicholas

Perfect for fans of Game of Thrones, this novel from acclaimed author Douglas Nicholas continues the gripping dark fantasy series that Kirkus Reviews describes as "a more profound Harry Potter for adults."
It's 1215 in northwest England, and mystical Irish queen Maeve and her unlikely band of warriors must protect the region from a chilling fate. Word of a threat reaches the Northern barons: King John has plotted to import an African sorcerer and his sinister clan of blacksmiths, whose unearthly powers may spell destruction for the entire kingdom. Along with her lover, Jack, her gifted niece, Nemain, and Nemain's newlywed husband, Hob (whose hidden talents will soon be revealed), Maeve must overcome a supernatural threat unlike any she's seen before.
With his characteristic blend of historical adventure and intoxicating mythological elements, Nicholas once again "goes for the throat...with brilliant writing and whip-smart plotting."
(New York Times bestselling author Jonathan Maberry). This is a richly woven tale that will leave you hungry for more.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Magic, Historical, Medieval, Science Fiction Fantasy

352 pages, Paperback

First published March 31, 2015

About the author

Douglas Nicholas is an award-winning poet whose work has appeared in numerous publications, among them Atlanta Review, Southern Poetry Review, Sonora Review, Circumference, A Different Drummer, and Cumberland Review, as well as the South Coast Poetry Journal, where he won a prize in that publication's Fifth Annual Poetry Contest.

Other awards include Honorable Mention in the Robinson Jeffers Tor House Foundation 2003 Prize For Poetry Awards, second place in the 2002 Allen Ginsberg Poetry Awards from PCCC, International Merit Award in Atlanta Review's Poetry 2002 competition, finalist in the 1996 Emily Dickinson Award in Poetry competition, honorable mention in the 1992 Scottish International Open Poetry Competition, first prize in the journal Lake Effect's Sixth Annual Poetry Contest, first prize in poetry in the 1990 Roberts Writing Awards, and finalist in the Roberts short fiction division.

He was also recipient of an award in the 1990 International Poetry Contest sponsored by the Arvon Foundation in Lancashire, England, and a Cecil B. Hackney Literary Award for poetry from Birmingham-Southern College. He lives in New York City and the Hudson Valley with his wife, Theresa, and Yorkshire terrier, Tristan.

Reviews

[PopcornReads - MkNoah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? Boy have I got a series for you! When I finished reading Something Red, Book #1 in the 13th century mythological historical series by Douglas Nicholas, it gave me the chills and had me checking all of my closets for foul magical beasts. Somehow I missed Book #2, The Wicked, last year; however, I’ve just ordered it so I’m going to quickly correct that oversight and I’ll let you know what I think. That brings us to Book #3, Throne of Darkness, which we’re reviewing today.

As my friends will tell you, I’m normally a little OCD when it comes to reading series in order but each of these books is self-contained enough that I don’t think it’s a problem with this series. In fact, even if you haven’t read Something Red, I don’t think you’ll have a problem getting into Throne of Darkness as a stand-alone. Read the rest of my review at http://popcornreads.com/?p=8277.

[Kathrin Passig · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, jetzt reicht's, den vierten Band lasse ich weg. Schon der dritte besteht ungefähr zur Hälfte aus Beschreibungen, wie Pferd, Ochse und Esel in den Stall gestellt werden, und ich will nichts mehr wissen über "Milo, the little ass Mavourneen, and the mare Tapaigh". Die andere Hälfte handelt davon, wie Jack mit seinem Hund spielt. Ein bisschen Handlung gibt es auch, aber da man schon weiß, dass Molly alles kann und ihr alles gelingt, ist es ungefähr so spannend wie bei Harry Potter. Und meine im ersten Band noch große Begeisterung für die kompetenten Frauen hat nach der ungefähr hundertsten Erwähnung von "ihr Männer dürft nicht dabei sein, wenn wir Frauen unsere weibliche Spezialfrauenmagie wirken, wir sprechen direkt mit dem Mond!" doch stark nachgelassen.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Molly and her troupe find themselves in an odd situation, conscripted by none other than the Roman Catholic Church to deal with issues involving King John. Seems the nation's ruler has enlisted the help of a sorcerer who leads a group of shapeshifters intent on ridding the country of John Lackland's northern enemies. These shapeshifters, two hundred in number, would decimate the northern lords, including Sir Jehan and Sir Odinell. Having heard of their past deeds involving issues of a more otherworldly and evil nature, the Church hopes that Molly, Nemain, Jack, and Hob can rid the country of these monstrous beings and the magus who controls them. In exchange for their help, the Church's representative promises their support for Molly and also swears forgiveness of her heathen ways.

So Molly and all are blackmailed into service, so to speak. If they are successful in their task, Molly won't burn at the stake (according to the Pope's man) and if they aren't, they'll most certainly be dead anyway. But how can Molly and team refuse when to do so would greatly impact their friends and supporters in the north?

While Nicholas doesn't delve too deeply into the history of the time, Throne of Darkness is woven around the unease and restlessness of England in 1215 and the signing of the Magna Carta. King John (for those of us who can't keep the monarchies straight) is the very same of Robin Hood fame. He's also the king who lost Normandy to France causing all sorts of upheaval. And he did indeed war with Pope Innocent III but no mention of attempted alliances with Muslim nations.

There's quite a bit of folklore in Throne of Darkness, indeed in the series as a whole. The bouda, magical white cows, and of course the Irish mythology with Molly at it's center. For a book I'd been so greatly anticipating, Throne did not disappoint. I had hoped, though, that we would finally get Molly's story in Ireland - apparently that's set for the fourth installment in the series!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can poetic writing, historical fiction and fantasy be combined to tell a compelling story? They can if the author is Douglas Nicholas. His latest novel, Throne of Darkness will appeal to Game of Throne fans as well as readers of medieval historical fiction. The third in a series, readers once again meet up with the unusual family of traveling musicians. Molly, otherwise known as Maeve the Irish Queen, her lover and occasional shape shifter Jack, as well as her granddaughter Nemain and Nemain’s new husband Hob are called to meet with an agent of the Pope. It is 1215 and King John of England is planning to wipe out the Northern barons who oppose John and his heavy taxes. The fact that John has been excommunicated is not the reason the Roman Catholic Church is willing to join forces with Molly and her pagan ways. It seems John has recruited a powerful African sorcerer who has an army of blacksmiths who possess unusual powers, powers that can not only defeat but murder many men at one time. Maeve must summon her greatest powers if she hopes to defeat such dark magic, but if she is successful not only will she protect her allies, she will also have protection from the Church, a fact that she knows will be useful to her in the future. Nichols combines cinematic attention to detail with breathtaking storytelling to produce an unforgettable tale. Filled with horrific monsters, magical powers, and historical details, Throne of Darkness is sure to please a multitude of readers.

[Gena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Third in the Queen Maeve series, Throne of Darkness brings Molly's small band into contact with a murderous group called The Cousins. These dark and sinister men are Mahometan from the Middle East hired by evil King John to help him secure the throne. Working under the Vatican's Monsignor da Panzano, Molly must use her power to stop them before all is lost and England is forever under John's rule. I enjoyed this novel almost as much as the previous two. It seemed a bit rushed towards the end for me, but I love the dynamics between Molly, Nemain, Hob, Jack and Sweetlove. The descriptive language is wonderful, allowing the reader to just fall into the past as if it were a painting. I hope there are more of these books to follow.

[Kasey Cocoa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicholas jumps right in to the plot with already established characters. The read is entertaining and full of vivid imagery. I really like the pace of the plot. The characters feel well fleshed out and have good development through the book. It is very difficult to set down once you begin reading. Although this is the third book in a series I enjoyed it immensely without having first read the previous installments. I can easily recommend this for readers of fantasy and historical fiction. Give it a read, it might be your next favorite. I received an ARC through the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion which may or may not mirror your own.

[Denny · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I knew the third book by Mr. Nicholas "Throne Of Darkness" was due out I was happy. I knew I would be reading about characters I had missed. It was as if I was reconnecting with old friends I hadn't seen in awhile. To create such characters is a gift. Mr. Nicholas has that gift. I hope he writes more adventures of Molly and company. But I will read anything he decides to write.

[Lauri · Rating 5 out of 5]

3. osa dark fantasy sarjast. Autor, tunnustatud poeet Douglas Nicholas, suri ootamatult 2016. aastal, kuid ta jättis maha selle sünge ja poeetilise keskaegsele Inglismaale paigutuva, kohati horrori ja kohati mütoloogilise - eriti keldi mütoloogilise - elemente omava 4-osalise sarja. See on täpselt selline sari, millest mitte keegi kuulnud pole, kuid mida kõik fantasyfannid tahaksid lugeda. Tegemist on intelligentse, huvitava, kohati õuduse elemente sisaldava ülilaheda asjaga.
Esimeses osas tegelesid kuninganna Molly ja tema väike lähiring ühte feodaali vaevava libarebasega. Teises osas oli tegemist juba hoopis jubedate ebasurnutega. Ning selles, 3s osas, tuleb juba võidelda berberi maagi ja tema libahüäänidest kaaskonnaga.
Väga vinge, soovitan fantasyfännidele soojalt kogu sarja. Mul on veel viimane, 4. osa ees, kus siis Molly pöördub tagasi Iirimaale. Juba ootan.

[Katharine Ott · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Throne of Darkness" - written by Douglas Nicholas and published in 2015 by Atria, Simon & Schuster. I am trying to stretch this series out as long as I can, not wanting it to ever end. It's right in my wheelhouse, action/adventure in medeival times, a doughty crew of four taking on unworldly challenges, and splendid descriptive writing. Who can ask for more? One more to go.

[Judy Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Throne of Darkness is the third book in this series following Something Red and The Wicked. It is now 1215 and our group has been contacted by a representative of Pope Innocent III with a secret mission he wants to commission Molly for. The roles of traveling musicians and healers will give Molly, Nemain, Hob, and Jack perfect access to carry out this mission, if they decide to aid His Holiness. King John is well aware that the nobles of northern England are in rebellion against him. His solution is to bring a supernatural force into his country to destroy all those who oppose him. This is evil on a large scale and the representative of the pope has made Molly an offer he thinks will convince her to accept. Molly, however, is an Irish Queen unable to return to her native land at this time so the forgiveness of the Catholic Church is not what motivates her. How will these two Irish Queens, Maeve (Molly) and her granddaughter Nemain, along with Hob, husband of Nemain, and Jack, Molly’s lover, remove this powerful evil which King John has set in place against those who don’t support him?

Interestingly enough, I received an e-ARC of this third novel through NetGalley before I had read either of the first two books. I was so intrigued by the description of Throne of Darkness that I decided to read the first two books before beginning this one. I was very impressed by both Something Red and The Wicked and gave both books a 5 star rating in reviews. Then I was ready to enjoy this one. And I did enjoy it, only not as much as the first two because by now the pattern of the storytelling was very familiar. The three novels are constructed in exactly the same way so by the time I got to this one it was obvious what would happen in which section of the book. I think new books in the series need to be set out in different ways to give readers the element of surprise and suspense to keep them (and me) from anticipating (and being correct about) the next move by the characters. I am very fond of all four of the principal characters and those returning from previous adventures are very welcome appearances, but something big needs to happen in the next book. I kept waiting through this novel for Hob to develop in a major way and yet it didn’t happen. Plus, what happened to Jack in this story was never supposed to happen again. No explanation was given for that and I would have liked to see one.

This novel was still a very good reading experience for me; it just didn’t knock my socks off. Readers new to the series can very easily begin here because enough background information is given so this story makes complete sense. I am looking forward to the fourth story in the series and will absolutely read that one too.

I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley.

[Jacqie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I didn't realize until I started it that this is in fact the third book in the Something Red series. I have the first book at home, but I wasn't afraid to jump into this one before I read that one.

Maybe that was a mistake. I've read some reviews of the first book that complain about the author taking a bit too long to set the stage. That wasn't my issue with this book. Since the characters are already established, the author jumps right into the plot. And he uses a less-than-favorite device of mine, the fight-then-flashback. In other words, he jumps right into the action with an alley fight, our hero parkouring and bouncing medieval-style off the wall and into his enemy. The fight winds down, and then.... three days earlier. Sigh. I know that authors are supposed to jump right into the middle of the story, but flashbacking right after that jump sort of nullifies the jump and slows the pace right back down again. This is also a favorite TV trope, but it's not one I enjoy.

The feel of the book is epic in the classic sense. Our heroes are larger than life. They have magic, knowledge and skills that set them apart from the rest and must face larger than life evil because of that. The writing style of the book feels like it takes a note from an older time as well. It's simple, yet grandiose at the same time.

Maybe that's what kept me from truly attaching to the book. The main female characters didn't feel like real women to me. They felt like legends. And that was true for many of the other characters as well. They are writ large, but not in an accessible way.

The book reads quickly, and I think many people will very much enjoy it. I was left somewhat cold by it.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I expected:
Actually, I was expecting a land of kings and thrones with battles for land and supremacy. With morals gone awry and maidens in distress.



What it was:
It is fact based in medieval England with the main characters travelling across the landscape of this England of olden times. The characters are realistic and yet mysterious at the same time (well three of them seem different at least). And there were Kings (and Queens) and battles.
I enjoyed this story, probably because I like stories based in this timeline and enjoy learning the intriguing little bits that one can always pick up from the real bits of information that an author puts into their tale (like caltrops - I'd never heard of these before; and a glossary of irish terms used in the book). I also liked that the book ended well, with no cliffhanger, but also knowing that there could be a further story, but if there wasn't then I was content anyway.
I really think that if you have read "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett, you may also like this book.
I would recommend this to a friend if they were into the same sorts of books as me.


I received an eARC copy of this book through NetGalley.

[Anne Monteith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book that I’ve read by this author, I enjoyed it so much that I bought the two previous novels to read. Even without reading the previous book, this book is an enjoyable read and can be read as a standalone novel. Set in 13th centaury England during the reign of King John and the author has done a remarkable job of giving the reader a look at what life was like during this time. In this novel, Molly and her family are “hired” by the church to stop the “Cousins” from destroying the Barons who are causing trouble for King John. While the Church is paying her for this service, they are also blackmailing her stating that they will overlook things that could cause her and others in her family t be burned as witches.

I’ve always enjoyed novels set during this era and by adding a supernatural/paranormal storyline the author has joined two of my favorite genres together.

5 STARS; *I received an e-ARC of from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I took me a little while to get to this, simply because I discovered it was the third book in the series and I had missed book two...I had to read the second before moving on to the third! I enjoyed this as much as the prior two in the series, which is to say, immensely.

It's a few years since book two ended, and Mistress Molly and company are summoned by an agent of the pope, seeking her assistance against King John and a band of shape-shifters he has imported from northern Africa. Although "the usual" ensues, I find the series very enjoyable, for the interaction among the characters, as well as the fairy tale aspects that the author handles so deftly.

Many thanks to the publisher and to Edelweiss, who provided a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I received "Throne of Darkness" by Douglas Nicholas, I was in the process of reading two excellent books. Once I started reading this one though, I had to put the other two on the back burner until I finished "Throne of Darkness." I got caught up in the story and found myself unable to put it down. I started the series with "Something Red," proceeded to "The Wicked," and now have once again taken a journey with Molly and her close-knit, unconventional family. I can't wait for their next undertaking against the forces of evil. A definite and well-deserved recommendation.

[David V. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received as an ARC from the publisher. started 3-3-15. Finished 3-11-15. Another good story about the troupe of musicians and warriors traveling through 13th Century England, making the countryside safe. This one starts in 1215 and ends with the signing of the Magna Carta. King John the Vile brings in shapeshifters to help him with his plot. Not a nice guy!!!! This is the 3rd book in the series and there's no lacking of adventure. Starting this book was like meeting up with old friends again.

[Bob White · Rating 5 out of 5]

50 pages in - awesome! I love the Something Red series and this is as good as the first two. More later...

[Patricia Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing series!! Rich historical detail, wonderful main characters that I love (and the secondary characters are always interesting, too) and an exciting story. I'm hoping there will be more!!!

[Richard Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's been an age since I read the two books in the series before this one but, so vivid are the characters, that all fell into place quickly. As with those two previous, this wonderful fantasy is firmly grounded in real geography and history. It was rumoured at the that John I had offered to convert to Islam in exchange for armed support, which was never offered, so despised was he by all sides. The great white bulls still form a single wild herd in Chillingham: so fierce are they that humans are forbidden contact. Were-hyenas are feared throughout Africa and feature often in local mythology. It is this grounding that makes this fantasy stand out along with observations of food, drink and shelter that ring true.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great writing and a story that moves from one action to the next BUT even better is the kind caring relationship between the four main characters. I also love the language that Molly speaks as English. The word order conveys that she is speaking English as a foreigner. The words of all the characters are thoughtful and take time , are kind of poetic, a very dramatic counterpoint to the action.

I need to read book 1 and two now!

Also the action is never fixed just to fool the reader. A steady on story.

[Paul Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars. This one felt a bit weaker than books 1 and 2.
Also there was an anachronism that irritated me where a woman chose to drink water over wine because she was pregnant. As far as I know, that was not a known thing back in 13th century England
Heck, I'm not even sure it was a known thing in 1970. Didn't that start in the 1980's or later?
If you chose to write a historical fantasy novel, at least try to get the historical part somewhat right.

[Doctor Science · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series for its writing (not surprising from a poet) and for the setting, which is almost historical-novel realistic.

The plot on this one was a little repetitive of the first two, but still *finger kiss*

[Geof Sage · Rating 4 out of 5]

Faster-paced and more ridiculous than the last two but all the better for it

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

One gets the distinct impression that Nicholas carefully constructed every sentence in this series. To date, this is hands down my favorite fantasy trilogy.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a new book if you haven't read it!
Being a column about previously published books. Perhaps recently reissued, perhaps just discovered, perhaps recommended, perhaps on sale as an ebook, or a library find.

Title: Throne of Darkness by Douglas Nicholas

Publisher: Simon and Schuster, Emily Bester Books. 327 pp

Genre: fantasy, science fiction, medieval England, English historical, series

4.5 stars

Storyline:

Douglas Nicholas is an award winning poet as well as the author of this outstanding medieval series which began with Something Red. I discovered him several years ago and was lucky to read the first two, plus e-novella The Demon back to back. I eagerly awaited the third installment but life intervened. When I rolled into Rochester Sunday my first stop was the library because I had checked their website and this book was on the shelf! I would have purchased it, indeed I would like the series, but they are hard to find. This author deserves a much wider audience. I am reminded of what a great library we have here.

We are now in 1215 northern England with the established characters of Irish queen Maeve (Molly when in English soil), Jack her lover/protector/ warrior, her gifted granddaughter Neiman and her husband Hob (Robert of England). They use the guise of traveling musicians/healers as they journey through the countryside garnering allies while tackling fantastical, supernatural beasts. This time King John is coordinating an attack on his rebellious knights and barons with an African sorcerer and the Cousins, blacksmiths who can become savage hyenas. Seemingly impossible odds.

The accurate historical detail and rich evocative prose make this a fascinating, spellbinding tale. Others have considered this a coming of age novel (Hob's story) while some say it is Harry Potter for adults. I find each thread compelling and equally important. Each novel is a complete story but again I feel reading them in order is best for the developing characterization. I find it amazing to be so easily transported back to this time period. It is a brilliant, profound adventure fantasy. Even better the next in the series Three Queens in Erin is expected March 2017. My only worry is it will be the end of the series.

Read on:

Dave Duncan's The King's Blades, The King's Daggers

Tim Powers The Drawing of the Dark and early novels

GRR Martin The Game of Thrones

[Mary MacKintosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked the Throne of Darkness up this morning at the library, and just laid it down at 10:30 p.m. This book does not disappoint, and it follows two gripping tales: Something Red and The Wicked. I am sorry to be out of 1215 England and home in the modern small town in which I live.

I have loved the character of Hob for his innocence and sense of wonder. In this third tale Hob is a young husband, but still with a fresh delight in the world and its beauty. Molly/Maeve rules this 13th century universe, thankfully, and protects her small band and the other residents of northern England from fearful threats. England's King John is unstable and willing to join with truly evil powers to assure his power over his nobles. The Church sends an emissary to Molly to ask her to use her considerable powers (of which the Church disapproves) to bring an end to the evils of the sorcerers the king has brought from Africa. If you read Nicholas' novels you will learn about life in the 13th century--food, travel, village life, weather--and people who live close to nature. It's hard to pull oneself back out of the book to reality.

[Jess (freaks over books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can I say about the Something Red series by Douglas Nicholas? It takes me FOREVER to read his books, but I still keep coming back and wanting more, because his writing, his characters, the lace of awesome Celtic folklore through his novels, make me love his books, but the PACING, the over-the-top details, I basically put this book down every time a better one came along, but I still loved it enough that I knew, in time, I would finish it. And of course, I have already marked in my calendar when his next book is coming out, because I will read that one too. I did not care very much for Something Red, I LOVED The Wicked, and this was somewhat in the middle, I liked it a lot, but did not devour it in one sitting, or two, or even three, as I normally do with books. I am very excited about Three Queens of Erin, however, and if he writes more beyond that, I will read those as well.

[Amy Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed immensely. Took just a bit to get used to the writing style, but not much. The author is a poet which I think reflects in his writing, but it isn't written as a poem, just had a poetic sense about it in the plot and somewhat in the flow of the writing, which was a good thing. I do wish I had realized that this was the third in a series. Didn't pay enough attention when I grabbed it on impulse from the Library's 14 day checkout, "new books", rack. I do plan to go back to the beginning though and read the first two in order. That is once I complete the stack of books I just checked out from the library.

[Ramoths Own · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book as much as I did the first two. I adore this authors style of writing and the second I read the first sentence of any of his books I am instantly transformed into the world of his words.
I am so happy that it isn't just a trilogy, but that each book is marked "a novel" which means that it is open ended. Each book can be a stand alone story and he gives enough background in each book without being annoying to the people that have read the other books.

I will say this, I want to be part of Molly's little family, I want to travel in her wagons and have
adventures and I can't wait for a new one.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not read the first two books in this series and didn't realize that it was a series until I saw it on Goodreads. This is a fantasy set in Ireland. Someone or something is trying to dethrone Queen Maeve. The small band of warriors who help defend her kingdom are her friends and neighbors. This fantasy tale has something for everyone who enjoys this genre.