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The Minstrel's Song #2
Second Son
In an attempt to manipulate the future, a family and a nation are forced to decide between two brothers. Guided by a prophecy spoken hundreds of years before, the King and Queen of Llycaelon have set their course. Their goal: to fulfill the prophecy and save their nation from a dire fate. Rhoyan has always understood and accepted his own role as second born and perpetual prince. He looks forward to the day when he will be a warrior in his older brother’s guard. When Rhoyan is sent on a quest filled with unimaginable danger, nobody anticipates the greater repercussions. As Rhoyan journeys far across the seas on his appointed trial, he will battle creatures of legend, suffer shipwreck, endure captivity, and lay claim to a fallen star. When tragedy strikes, Rhoyan must struggle to return home believing his quest has failed. However, the home he left no longer awaits him and the true test of his strength and character has only just begun. Long before Aom-igh needed a champion, Llycaelon had a Second Son.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2014
16 people are currently reading
401 people want to read
About the author
Jenelle Leanne Schmidt
20 books259 followersCome along with me on an epic adventure. We will face dragons (we might even ride them), we will pilot airships. We will fight villains. We will join a pirate crew. We will wield magical swords. We will fight the forces of evil.
And we will be home in time for dinner.
But we will not go home unchanged.
Fantastical adventures ahead! But be warned:
Safe Return Doubtful!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
During the days, I wrangle four small hobbits and help them along on their adventures.
Basically, I'm Gandalf.
But come evenings, when the hobbits are sleeping... I become my alter-ego: PLOT WIZARD (still a wizard, just a different kind)... and adventures await in the pages I scribble upon.
I'm a dreamer, a relentless opener of doors in the hope of someday finding passage to Narnia, and story girl.
I love hanging out on Goodreads, but it's not the best for actual conversation. If you want to chat books with me, come find me on instagram: @JenelleLSchmidt or at my blog: https://jenelleschmidt.com/blog
And we will be home in time for dinner.
But we will not go home unchanged.
Fantastical adventures ahead! But be warned:
Safe Return Doubtful!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
During the days, I wrangle four small hobbits and help them along on their adventures.
Basically, I'm Gandalf.
But come evenings, when the hobbits are sleeping... I become my alter-ego: PLOT WIZARD (still a wizard, just a different kind)... and adventures await in the pages I scribble upon.
I'm a dreamer, a relentless opener of doors in the hope of someday finding passage to Narnia, and story girl.
I love hanging out on Goodreads, but it's not the best for actual conversation. If you want to chat books with me, come find me on instagram: @JenelleLSchmidt or at my blog: https://jenelleschmidt.com/blog
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 20, 2019
Reread aloud, April 2019
:) :) :)
Original review
I loved this book! *hugs it*
It’s somehow a very unique fantasy novel! I mean, it’s like a classic fantasy quest type of thing, and there’s dragons and other wonders and so on, but something about it felt... new. And different. And there’s not one particular quest, it’s more following Brant through his life and a series of quests and adventures, which gave it an interesting and unique overall arc to the story. And it’s quite well written, too! I was super impressed with how the author’s writing improved from book one (which I also enjoyed immensely! But the writing in this one is noticeably better, in the best way. :D) and just very easy to read. :)
Brant himself is my favorite for the most part—he’s just a great hero! :) I love the interesting things that come of comparing his home country and training with other places, and adding to his mysterious and generally epic air. :D He was a wonderful character in King’s Warrior and Yorien’s Hand, and just... I love getting his story! ^_^ I so enjoyed reading about his childhood up to being the King’s Warrior. Fabulous.
Plus, in the second half, Brant and Arnaud being friends when they were younger IS THE ABSOLUTE BEST! ^_^ I also loved getting to see things about the past of some of the other King’s Warrior characters, like how Princess Kamarie’s mother and father met! SO GREAT! :D And, of course, the minstrel Kiernan Kane makes a fabulous cameo! Love that minstrel fellow! ^_^
This is kind of like if Aragorn had a prequel about his youth, or if we saw Gwydion (from Prydain) out learning things when he was young. And I absolutely love that! :D Getting to see Brant wander across all of the various lands in this delightful fantasy world, learning things and meeting friends old and new, and generally becoming the wise, epic warrior we know from King’s Warrior. He’s one of my favorite characters of all time, and I just loved seeing his backstory! ^_^
Oh, oh! And when Brant talks with the Forest! I loved that part! :D One of my faves! ^_^
I find it amusing how I actually read these in reverse chronological order. XD I started with Yorien’s Hand, which takes place after King’s Warrior; then I read King’s Warrior; then I read Second Son, which is chronologically before King’s Warrior. XD ...Now I kind of want to read the other two again! :O
A funny thing about prequels... I can never decide if they’re best read before or after the main Book One... because both ways are so enjoyable! I’m definitely glad that I read King’s Warrior before this, since a lot of the sad things in Second Son I wasn’t AS sad about as I would have been if I hadn’t already known how certain things end up in Brant’s life. Somehow, a lot of the sadness in this book is okay, simply because it IS a prequel and I know that a lot of the characters in it aren’t in later ones and therefore are probably dead later so I try not to get TOO attached to them... And so on. And something about it being the sad backstory of a hero, makes it easier to bear because it’s PAST and not currently happening. (Kind of like the older myths of The Silmarillion are easier to bear because they’re not NOW in the time of LOTR and The Hobbit.) If that makes any sense at all to anyone other than me. XD Some of it WAS sad, by its nature, but I didn’t actually mind. (The most heartbreaking thing of all, of course, was Brant and his brother. Which of course I knew about due to King’s Warrior, but... yeah, I’ll just go over here and cry for a bit. Ahem.)
There’s joy and heartbreak, humor and epic quests, and just everything a fantasy novel needs! :) Overall, I just really, really, really enjoyed this book! ^_^ I definitely recommend it to anyone who loves epic fantasy or just a good adventure, because it’s fabulous. :D
(Review originally posted on The Page Dreamer as part of a double review for this and King's Warrior, complete with bookish photography... https://thepagedreamer.wordpress.com/...)
:) :) :)
Original review
I loved this book! *hugs it*
It’s somehow a very unique fantasy novel! I mean, it’s like a classic fantasy quest type of thing, and there’s dragons and other wonders and so on, but something about it felt... new. And different. And there’s not one particular quest, it’s more following Brant through his life and a series of quests and adventures, which gave it an interesting and unique overall arc to the story. And it’s quite well written, too! I was super impressed with how the author’s writing improved from book one (which I also enjoyed immensely! But the writing in this one is noticeably better, in the best way. :D) and just very easy to read. :)
Brant himself is my favorite for the most part—he’s just a great hero! :) I love the interesting things that come of comparing his home country and training with other places, and adding to his mysterious and generally epic air. :D He was a wonderful character in King’s Warrior and Yorien’s Hand, and just... I love getting his story! ^_^ I so enjoyed reading about his childhood up to being the King’s Warrior. Fabulous.
Plus, in the second half, Brant and Arnaud being friends when they were younger IS THE ABSOLUTE BEST! ^_^ I also loved getting to see things about the past of some of the other King’s Warrior characters, like how Princess Kamarie’s mother and father met! SO GREAT! :D And, of course, the minstrel Kiernan Kane makes a fabulous cameo! Love that minstrel fellow! ^_^
This is kind of like if Aragorn had a prequel about his youth, or if we saw Gwydion (from Prydain) out learning things when he was young. And I absolutely love that! :D Getting to see Brant wander across all of the various lands in this delightful fantasy world, learning things and meeting friends old and new, and generally becoming the wise, epic warrior we know from King’s Warrior. He’s one of my favorite characters of all time, and I just loved seeing his backstory! ^_^
Oh, oh! And when Brant talks with the Forest! I loved that part! :D One of my faves! ^_^
I find it amusing how I actually read these in reverse chronological order. XD I started with Yorien’s Hand, which takes place after King’s Warrior; then I read King’s Warrior; then I read Second Son, which is chronologically before King’s Warrior. XD ...Now I kind of want to read the other two again! :O
A funny thing about prequels... I can never decide if they’re best read before or after the main Book One... because both ways are so enjoyable! I’m definitely glad that I read King’s Warrior before this, since a lot of the sad things in Second Son I wasn’t AS sad about as I would have been if I hadn’t already known how certain things end up in Brant’s life. Somehow, a lot of the sadness in this book is okay, simply because it IS a prequel and I know that a lot of the characters in it aren’t in later ones and therefore are probably dead later so I try not to get TOO attached to them... And so on. And something about it being the sad backstory of a hero, makes it easier to bear because it’s PAST and not currently happening. (Kind of like the older myths of The Silmarillion are easier to bear because they’re not NOW in the time of LOTR and The Hobbit.) If that makes any sense at all to anyone other than me. XD Some of it WAS sad, by its nature, but I didn’t actually mind. (The most heartbreaking thing of all, of course, was Brant and his brother. Which of course I knew about due to King’s Warrior, but... yeah, I’ll just go over here and cry for a bit. Ahem.)
There’s joy and heartbreak, humor and epic quests, and just everything a fantasy novel needs! :) Overall, I just really, really, really enjoyed this book! ^_^ I definitely recommend it to anyone who loves epic fantasy or just a good adventure, because it’s fabulous. :D
(Review originally posted on The Page Dreamer as part of a double review for this and King's Warrior, complete with bookish photography... https://thepagedreamer.wordpress.com/...)
March 9, 2019
This is the sort of book that you recommend to random people on the street without even bothering to introduce yourself first. I have accumulated at least three restraining orders from complete strangers since reading it.
Hold on--before you call your lawyer to file one of your own, let me explain. First off, I should mention that at the time of this review, I haven't actually read Book 1 of The Minstrel's Song yet, though I'm very much looking forward to doing that. I've been told that it's not actually necessary to start with Book 1, and wanted to jump to this one because of a read-along event on Facebook, hence my out-of-order reviewing.
Without further ado, then, here are the reasons why you should read this book:
A whole bunch of engaging characters. Second Son has a fairly large cast, though it doesn't ever feel bloated thanks to a strong and coherent focus on just a few main players. These primary characters are intriguing, well-rounded people who undergo a great deal of personal change and growth over the course of the novel. The secondary characters, however, are no less interesting, even the ones who are only around for a few chapters. Epic fantasy by its very nature requires characters you care about in order to work properly. Second Son has that in spades. You'll find yourself deeply invested in these characters right from the beginning...even when one or two of them start making very bad decisions...
A truly remarkable "villain" arc. I won't say too much about this because of spoilers. Basically, there's one character I won't name who starts out as a protagonist but gradually heads down a dark path throughout the entire novel. It's very hard to handle this sort of arc properly (*cough* Anakin Skywalker *cough*), but here, it's handled with great skill and feels completely believable. In fact, it's so good that you'll probably feel a little morally conflicted yourself as you read it. I never stopped wanting this character to be happy, even at the end of the book when things were at their darkest.
Subversion of expectations. This happens on many levels, and I won't spoil all the ways in which it's done, but suffice it to say that you won't see a great number of startling twists coming. I gasped more than once as I read. The usual tropes of the genre are either avoided or turned on their head more than once. That's not to say, however, that there aren't plenty of good old-fashioned epic-fantasy elements present here in all their glory. This book doesn't savagely deconstruct tropes; it simply does clever things with them.
Terrific worldbuilding. I want to visit this book's universe. And possibly move there. A lack of variety is frequently a problem in fantasy books, but the world of The Minstrel's Song is far from a one-note swords-and-sorcery realm. There are multiple nations and cultures here, each beautifully realized thanks to both elements woven in from real-world civilizations and clever original material. Magic and magical creatures are included in a unique fashion that adds to the sense of mystery and adventure pervading the story.
Great set-up for future stories. There's a "cinematic universe" feel to Second Son. I spotted quite a few references to events that had come before, as well as intriguing plot threads that were clearly intended to set up future stories. All of these are stories that I very much want to read, since they involve both places and characters that I've grown familiar with by reading Second Son. Also, the ending of this book is handled well--not all the major plot threads are wrapped up, but the conclusion doesn't feel disappointing as a result. I was left wanting to read more, but I didn't feel cheated in any way.
In short, read this book at once. Don't make me chase you down in the street. I'll be far too busy reading the rest of The Minstrel's Song to do that anyway.
Hold on--before you call your lawyer to file one of your own, let me explain. First off, I should mention that at the time of this review, I haven't actually read Book 1 of The Minstrel's Song yet, though I'm very much looking forward to doing that. I've been told that it's not actually necessary to start with Book 1, and wanted to jump to this one because of a read-along event on Facebook, hence my out-of-order reviewing.
Without further ado, then, here are the reasons why you should read this book:
A whole bunch of engaging characters. Second Son has a fairly large cast, though it doesn't ever feel bloated thanks to a strong and coherent focus on just a few main players. These primary characters are intriguing, well-rounded people who undergo a great deal of personal change and growth over the course of the novel. The secondary characters, however, are no less interesting, even the ones who are only around for a few chapters. Epic fantasy by its very nature requires characters you care about in order to work properly. Second Son has that in spades. You'll find yourself deeply invested in these characters right from the beginning...even when one or two of them start making very bad decisions...
A truly remarkable "villain" arc. I won't say too much about this because of spoilers. Basically, there's one character I won't name who starts out as a protagonist but gradually heads down a dark path throughout the entire novel. It's very hard to handle this sort of arc properly (*cough* Anakin Skywalker *cough*), but here, it's handled with great skill and feels completely believable. In fact, it's so good that you'll probably feel a little morally conflicted yourself as you read it. I never stopped wanting this character to be happy, even at the end of the book when things were at their darkest.
Subversion of expectations. This happens on many levels, and I won't spoil all the ways in which it's done, but suffice it to say that you won't see a great number of startling twists coming. I gasped more than once as I read. The usual tropes of the genre are either avoided or turned on their head more than once. That's not to say, however, that there aren't plenty of good old-fashioned epic-fantasy elements present here in all their glory. This book doesn't savagely deconstruct tropes; it simply does clever things with them.
Terrific worldbuilding. I want to visit this book's universe. And possibly move there. A lack of variety is frequently a problem in fantasy books, but the world of The Minstrel's Song is far from a one-note swords-and-sorcery realm. There are multiple nations and cultures here, each beautifully realized thanks to both elements woven in from real-world civilizations and clever original material. Magic and magical creatures are included in a unique fashion that adds to the sense of mystery and adventure pervading the story.
Great set-up for future stories. There's a "cinematic universe" feel to Second Son. I spotted quite a few references to events that had come before, as well as intriguing plot threads that were clearly intended to set up future stories. All of these are stories that I very much want to read, since they involve both places and characters that I've grown familiar with by reading Second Son. Also, the ending of this book is handled well--not all the major plot threads are wrapped up, but the conclusion doesn't feel disappointing as a result. I was left wanting to read more, but I didn't feel cheated in any way.
In short, read this book at once. Don't make me chase you down in the street. I'll be far too busy reading the rest of The Minstrel's Song to do that anyway.
March 4, 2019
This book has epic qualities yet is easily approachable for someone, like me, who seldom touches the brick-thick tomes of fantasy lore. It is the story of two brothers, young princes, whose lives are affected by an ancient prophecy which powerful and influential people misinterpret to the detriment of both brothers. So very realistic! I mourned for the young princes, yet their stories are fascinating blends of triumph and failure. The narrative kept me reading even though after reading book 1, I knew (in general) what would become of them both.
To me, the strongest element of this story is the portrayal of how our choices and actions, not prophecies, form our lives and destinies.
This story is clean, exciting, packed with magic and battles--ideal for young teen readers. I recommend it to all lovers of epic fantasy.
To me, the strongest element of this story is the portrayal of how our choices and actions, not prophecies, form our lives and destinies.
This story is clean, exciting, packed with magic and battles--ideal for young teen readers. I recommend it to all lovers of epic fantasy.
June 15, 2022
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, but while I was excited to continue, it just took me a while (read: 4 years :p) to get around to this second one.
I'm very glad that, despite taking way too long to get to it, I remembered that the second book is technically a prequel, and that I also remembered the characters plenty well enough to appreciate getting to see their origins. (Yes, I do have a long memory for story, why do you ask? :p)
This book is a nice, thick, fantasy adventure, and that was exactly what I was in the mood for when I started it, so I settled right in and really enjoyed it. Jenelle did a great job showing us what many of the characters in "King's Warrior" (especially Brant) were like when they were young and how they developed into the people they would become years later. It all flowed very naturally. There were many fun parts and some emotional ones, too. As always, I especially thought the world was built well and very engaging.
Possibly the only issue I had was that there were some places in the story where I thought the pacing could have been improved. I never mind a long romp in a fantasy adventure, but there was a chapter or two near the middle that I had trouble focusing on because they were largely summarizing a passage of time, or something along those lines. And especially as the story reached its final two or three chapters and characters were recognizably becoming the people we meet at the beginning of "King's Warrior", I started skimming a lot because it just felt like I already knew this stuff.
Overall, though, I found this a very pleasant read. It had enough action and excitement to keep things interesting, balanced with good character building moments, and I just plain enjoyed it. Looking forward to the third book! Hopefully, I won't take four more years to get to it! XD
Content Advisory:
Language:
None
Sexual/Romance:
Nothing sexual. What romance is in the story is extremely sweet, clean, and not focused on the physical other than characters thinking someone is beautiful or handsome.
Violence:
Swordplay and battles occur throughout. There are occasionally some brief mentions of blood. There are several major character deaths. I won't name names, but three of these death scenes are on the lengthy and emotional side (but not yucky) as the person who is dying lives long enough to say some final words. A couple of these same deaths are on the sudden side. Two people die by getting shot by an arrow (minimal description). Someone gets run through with a sword in a cold-blooded act of murder. (moderate description, but not graphic). A character has a false vision that a young woman's body is laying on the ground with her throat slit (brief mention of blood) but this is a trick by some evil beings.
Magic:
This is a fantasy world with fantasy creatures (including wizards, dragons, unicorns, etc) that do have "magical" powers, but it's made clear that these powers are natural to them and passed along genetically. No spells spoken or anything like that. The actions of the individual determine whether they're good or bad. The magic itself is neutral. There is one group of humans who have some limited magical ability, but again, it's natural to them.
Spiritual:
The author is a Christian and there are mentions throughout the book of a higher power that is clearly representative of God.
I'm very glad that, despite taking way too long to get to it, I remembered that the second book is technically a prequel, and that I also remembered the characters plenty well enough to appreciate getting to see their origins. (Yes, I do have a long memory for story, why do you ask? :p)
This book is a nice, thick, fantasy adventure, and that was exactly what I was in the mood for when I started it, so I settled right in and really enjoyed it. Jenelle did a great job showing us what many of the characters in "King's Warrior" (especially Brant) were like when they were young and how they developed into the people they would become years later. It all flowed very naturally. There were many fun parts and some emotional ones, too. As always, I especially thought the world was built well and very engaging.
Possibly the only issue I had was that there were some places in the story where I thought the pacing could have been improved. I never mind a long romp in a fantasy adventure, but there was a chapter or two near the middle that I had trouble focusing on because they were largely summarizing a passage of time, or something along those lines. And especially as the story reached its final two or three chapters and characters were recognizably becoming the people we meet at the beginning of "King's Warrior", I started skimming a lot because it just felt like I already knew this stuff.
Overall, though, I found this a very pleasant read. It had enough action and excitement to keep things interesting, balanced with good character building moments, and I just plain enjoyed it. Looking forward to the third book! Hopefully, I won't take four more years to get to it! XD
Content Advisory:
Language:
None
Sexual/Romance:
Nothing sexual. What romance is in the story is extremely sweet, clean, and not focused on the physical other than characters thinking someone is beautiful or handsome.
Violence:
Swordplay and battles occur throughout. There are occasionally some brief mentions of blood. There are several major character deaths. I won't name names, but three of these death scenes are on the lengthy and emotional side (but not yucky) as the person who is dying lives long enough to say some final words. A couple of these same deaths are on the sudden side. Two people die by getting shot by an arrow (minimal description). Someone gets run through with a sword in a cold-blooded act of murder. (moderate description, but not graphic). A character has a false vision that a young woman's body is laying on the ground with her throat slit (brief mention of blood) but this is a trick by some evil beings.
Magic:
This is a fantasy world with fantasy creatures (including wizards, dragons, unicorns, etc) that do have "magical" powers, but it's made clear that these powers are natural to them and passed along genetically. No spells spoken or anything like that. The actions of the individual determine whether they're good or bad. The magic itself is neutral. There is one group of humans who have some limited magical ability, but again, it's natural to them.
Spiritual:
The author is a Christian and there are mentions throughout the book of a higher power that is clearly representative of God.
September 13, 2016
Very Nice!
Excellent style, well written, fantastic story. It reads as a fairy tale for adults with a great moral and lots of wisdom.
Excellent style, well written, fantastic story. It reads as a fairy tale for adults with a great moral and lots of wisdom.
Read
February 27, 2019I don't rate my own books (because of course I love them) but I hosted a read-along of this on my blog and you can bet I'm gonna count it towards my reading challenge!
January 14, 2016
After being teased by Brant's past all throughout the first book, I was really happy to get a whole book dedicated to this frustratingly enigmatic man.
It's equal parts epic and heartbreaking as you learn the gritty details of how Brant came to be the man he is. I loved getting a closer look at Llycaelon, it's history, and military traditions. Besides Llycaelon, we get to venture out with Brant and explore the world that Jenelle has created. And it's fascinating.
Even though it's a prequel, we get to see some familiar faces from book 1. As soon as I finished this book, I thought about going back to read the first book now that I had a context for a few things. Brant is a fascinating character that quickly made it onto the favorite character list. I'm really glad we got his story.
Recommended for anyone who loves fantasy, adventure, and stories about family.
It's equal parts epic and heartbreaking as you learn the gritty details of how Brant came to be the man he is. I loved getting a closer look at Llycaelon, it's history, and military traditions. Besides Llycaelon, we get to venture out with Brant and explore the world that Jenelle has created. And it's fascinating.
Even though it's a prequel, we get to see some familiar faces from book 1. As soon as I finished this book, I thought about going back to read the first book now that I had a context for a few things. Brant is a fascinating character that quickly made it onto the favorite character list. I'm really glad we got his story.
Recommended for anyone who loves fantasy, adventure, and stories about family.
December 31, 2015
Follow Brant as he grows up and matures, as he attends lessons and has adventures, as he finds his way to where we first meet him in King's Warrior.
Read my full review here: http://dollsbooksthingsthatmatter.blo...
Read my full review here: http://dollsbooksthingsthatmatter.blo...
January 3, 2019
This book was as fine as anything (and that's only somewhat hyperbole). There's a fair bit of intrigue, brilliant writing, memorable and well-developed characters, excellent worldbuilding elements, a more than decent plot, severe misunderstandings, believable whatchamacallits, and swords! So, really, it's a wonderful book. You should read it.
February 7, 2014
I really like how this story pulls me in to another world and another time. I like the characters and all the twists and turns in their lives. Love the fact that this is the second book in a SERIES of 4 books--so there will be more adventures to come!
August 6, 2015
I liked this a lot more than the first book! It was fun to learn more about Brant. Although, this seemed more like a prequel than a continuation of the series.
July 23, 2015
Great read! Found it difficult to put it down and am looking forward to more from Jenelle Schmidt!
September 30, 2022
Second Son was such a beautiful, epic adventure! Seriously, I just finished listening to it, and I think my brain's still reeling from the experience this story was. Truly, this is a testament to the author's writing skills and to the narrator's acting skills. I knew I liked this duo after I finished listening to the first book in the series, and I was eager to see where the story was going. However, I also learned that this one was a prequel to the first one, but that shouldn't be read before King's Warrior or I'd otherwise spoilt it for myself. After having finished Second Son, I wholeheartedly agree with that advice. Rhoyan's adventure is one of a kind, and I loved getting to know not only his life as a prince and all the preparations that came with it but mostly his life as part of Llycaelon and what a distinct society it was from what we knew of Aom-igh. I definitely enjoyed learning all the aspects of sword-fighting and riding horses, among other things, but I also loved following Rhoyan's lessons and his meetings with some interesting characters of the mythological sort. Of course, coming from reading the first one, I knew how it'd all play out with Ky and other characters, but this never diminished my enjoyment of this book. It is necessary for this story, as the first, and I guess, with this series, to be told in multiple POVs, since it helps to keep the story going (especially when it spans so many years as this one), while it also helps understand the changes and unique situation with Rhoyan's rite of passage. Still, I think seeing how things started to tie with characters introduced in the previous book may have been one of my favorite parts, and I especially enjoyed when it all began to click together (from how Kamarie's parents met, to Dylanna and the rest of her sisters, or even the "beginning" of the "King's Warrior").
As for Benjamin Fife narrating this book, as with the previous one, he did a fantastic job here as well. I love the different range of voices he can create for all the characters that keep popping up in the story, but I was especially impressed with how we can follow Rhoyan's growing years with how he matures his voice according to his age. I again enjoyed his voices for the talking animals/mythological creatures, such as dragons and even gryphons (still my favorites!). Oh, and I'll forever be grateful for all the music and singing that are the final touches to bringing this story to life.
Overall, a truly beautiful prequel/sequel (it's a 99% to 1% ratio, with only the Epilogue being pretty much the sequel), perfect for fans of the author, narrator, this series, and/or Epic Fantasy. I can't wait to start the next one! ~ 5 stars!
As for Benjamin Fife narrating this book, as with the previous one, he did a fantastic job here as well. I love the different range of voices he can create for all the characters that keep popping up in the story, but I was especially impressed with how we can follow Rhoyan's growing years with how he matures his voice according to his age. I again enjoyed his voices for the talking animals/mythological creatures, such as dragons and even gryphons (still my favorites!). Oh, and I'll forever be grateful for all the music and singing that are the final touches to bringing this story to life.
Overall, a truly beautiful prequel/sequel (it's a 99% to 1% ratio, with only the Epilogue being pretty much the sequel), perfect for fans of the author, narrator, this series, and/or Epic Fantasy. I can't wait to start the next one! ~ 5 stars!
April 8, 2021
Second Son is the second installment in The Minstrel’s Song series by Jenelle Leanne Schmidt. In fact, it is a prequel to book one telling the backstory of Brandt. I am not a huge fan of prequels. They often do not live up to the standard of the first book in the series, but not so here. Second Son is an amazing book in its own right possessing the strength of a standalone novel.
Synopsis:
Brandt is the younger of two sons born to the King and Queen of Llycaelon. More than 500 years before his birth, a prophecy was told that a second son would take the throne and save the kingdom. Brandt is the first, second son born since the prophecy was foretold.
Brandt loves his older brother and has no desire to rule the country. He leaves home for training and ends up traveling far and wide on many adventures. Brandt has a good heart and is loved by all he meets.
His brother’s heart turns against Brandt, and bitterness consumes him. Will he order Brandt’s death in a jealous rage? Will Brandt find happiness in a faraway land?
Story Review:
Brandt’s adventures will keep you coming back for more. The pacing of Second Son is perfect. I enjoyed reading about his successes and failures, his joys and sorrows. Brandt endures much throughout the course of Second Son. Even when he barely survives life’s trials, Brandt keeps an attitude of gratefulness, curiosity, and loyalty.
Narration Review:
Benjamin Fife narrates Second Son. He does an amazing job! His narration is spot on, and there are no production errors in the book. I was so totally engrossed in the story that the narrator faded away, and I found myself battling sea monsters right alongside Brandt.
Source:
I received a free copy of this book at my request in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis:
Brandt is the younger of two sons born to the King and Queen of Llycaelon. More than 500 years before his birth, a prophecy was told that a second son would take the throne and save the kingdom. Brandt is the first, second son born since the prophecy was foretold.
Brandt loves his older brother and has no desire to rule the country. He leaves home for training and ends up traveling far and wide on many adventures. Brandt has a good heart and is loved by all he meets.
His brother’s heart turns against Brandt, and bitterness consumes him. Will he order Brandt’s death in a jealous rage? Will Brandt find happiness in a faraway land?
Story Review:
Brandt’s adventures will keep you coming back for more. The pacing of Second Son is perfect. I enjoyed reading about his successes and failures, his joys and sorrows. Brandt endures much throughout the course of Second Son. Even when he barely survives life’s trials, Brandt keeps an attitude of gratefulness, curiosity, and loyalty.
Narration Review:
Benjamin Fife narrates Second Son. He does an amazing job! His narration is spot on, and there are no production errors in the book. I was so totally engrossed in the story that the narrator faded away, and I found myself battling sea monsters right alongside Brandt.
Source:
I received a free copy of this book at my request in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2021
The narrator, Benjamin Fife, provided me a copy of Second Son by Jenelle Leanne Schmidt to listen to and give an honest review as I have previously reviewed Kings’s Warrior (book 1 of The Minstrel’s Song) here. As soon as I started listening to this second book I immediately felt like an old friend was reading to me. Mr Fife has such an expressive voice for the different characters, but reads through the descriptions so smoothly that one can just slip into the scene and be immersed in the story. He is one of my favorite narrators!
While this is book two in the series, I don’t see any reason that one couldn’t begin reading or listening to Second Son without the background understanding of King’s Warrior. The characters are vibrant and the setting is easy to imagine. The conflict is steadily built through the story and no prior history is needed. That being said, a richer understanding is achieved for those lucky enough to read the series in order.
When the narrator provided me the complimentary copy of this book, he let me know he was in the process of recording the fourth book. I have a couple more books on my TBR clamoring for my attention, but book three, Yorien’s Hand, is on my TBR list as well as book four, The Minstrel’s Call. This is a fantastic series and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in engaging fantasy series. The character development is awesome, the world building is fantastic, and the action steadily pulls the story forward.The books are appropriate for any library or public classroom.
While this is book two in the series, I don’t see any reason that one couldn’t begin reading or listening to Second Son without the background understanding of King’s Warrior. The characters are vibrant and the setting is easy to imagine. The conflict is steadily built through the story and no prior history is needed. That being said, a richer understanding is achieved for those lucky enough to read the series in order.
When the narrator provided me the complimentary copy of this book, he let me know he was in the process of recording the fourth book. I have a couple more books on my TBR clamoring for my attention, but book three, Yorien’s Hand, is on my TBR list as well as book four, The Minstrel’s Call. This is a fantastic series and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in engaging fantasy series. The character development is awesome, the world building is fantastic, and the action steadily pulls the story forward.The books are appropriate for any library or public classroom.
March 14, 2021
Standalone Sequel/Prequel Better than 1st Vol
Disclaimer: This audiobook was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the series but it takes place before and leads to the events of the first book. You can read this book and enjoy the tragic tale of two princes lives ruled by prophecy and the disparate paths that their lives are pushed into. It is riveting unto itself.
You can also of course enjoy this book after reading book one. There are still surprises, mysteries unveiled and some seeds planted perhaps for future volumes. Either way you read these two books, on their own or in either order you are in for a treat. It is a testament to Jenelle Leanne Schmidt's writing that she is able to write the stories in such a way that neither spoils the other, but both expand on each other.
The story itself is tighter written than the first even though it includes several time jumps and covers decades rather than days. There are a reduced number of viewpoint characters. There is a focus on the two brothers and the journey each one goes through as a result of a centuries old prophecy. The second half of the story focuses on one of the brothers and a humble citizen of another kingdom. Both halves of the novel inform each other but they each feel distinct. This builds upon the mythology and history of the world while continuing to develop character. I can't wait to see where it leads.
This is an excellent novel and Benjamin Fife is back as narrator. He gives each character a unique voice and even gets to voice another fascinating dragon.
Disclaimer: This audiobook was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the series but it takes place before and leads to the events of the first book. You can read this book and enjoy the tragic tale of two princes lives ruled by prophecy and the disparate paths that their lives are pushed into. It is riveting unto itself.
You can also of course enjoy this book after reading book one. There are still surprises, mysteries unveiled and some seeds planted perhaps for future volumes. Either way you read these two books, on their own or in either order you are in for a treat. It is a testament to Jenelle Leanne Schmidt's writing that she is able to write the stories in such a way that neither spoils the other, but both expand on each other.
The story itself is tighter written than the first even though it includes several time jumps and covers decades rather than days. There are a reduced number of viewpoint characters. There is a focus on the two brothers and the journey each one goes through as a result of a centuries old prophecy. The second half of the story focuses on one of the brothers and a humble citizen of another kingdom. Both halves of the novel inform each other but they each feel distinct. This builds upon the mythology and history of the world while continuing to develop character. I can't wait to see where it leads.
This is an excellent novel and Benjamin Fife is back as narrator. He gives each character a unique voice and even gets to voice another fascinating dragon.
February 24, 2021
This is the second book in the series, a prequel of sorts to King's Warrior that can be read as a stand-alone. I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series. It's obvious the author has grown in skill. There were still a lot of characters, but a lot fewer than the first book with the focus on the two brothers. This made it easier to connect with them emotionally, and I appreciated that.
This story is about two brothers, a prophecy, conspirators turning things upside down, adventures, mystical creatures, heartache, hope, and beginnings and endings. I enjoyed seeing how close these two brothers started their lives, watch them train and grow as warriors, then drift apart as a prophecy drives a wedge between them.
Once again, I found that the narrator really made the story come alive for me. Good differentiation of voices without it sounding forces or over the top. He puts emotion into the reading so that it feels more like listening to a classic radio show instead of someone reading you a story.
All in all, I give SECOND SON a solid 4 on my scale.
1-5 scale and what it means:
1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive
3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love
4: Solid mind candy / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
This story is about two brothers, a prophecy, conspirators turning things upside down, adventures, mystical creatures, heartache, hope, and beginnings and endings. I enjoyed seeing how close these two brothers started their lives, watch them train and grow as warriors, then drift apart as a prophecy drives a wedge between them.
Once again, I found that the narrator really made the story come alive for me. Good differentiation of voices without it sounding forces or over the top. He puts emotion into the reading so that it feels more like listening to a classic radio show instead of someone reading you a story.
All in all, I give SECOND SON a solid 4 on my scale.
1-5 scale and what it means:
1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive
3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love
4: Solid mind candy / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
June 26, 2021
Book one of the Minstrel's Song series, Second Son lays the foundation for the conflict between the two kingdoms and tells the story of how Brandt became Brandt. Brandt was born Rhoyan, the second son of the king and queen of Llycaelon, who grows up unaware of an ancient prophecy that speaks of the coming of a second son who will save the kingdom. That may not seem like a big deal, but there haven't been two sons born to Llycaelon until now. Both brothers are trained and sent on adventures chosen to test their fitness for the throne. Both are changed as they face trials that reveal what is in their hearts.
I loved this book. I loved the first one a lot, but I found this one easier to follow because it was told through the vantage points of the two brothers. Jenelle writes wonderful characters. Seamus and Brandt were both written beautifully and portrayed so sympathetically. Both experienced so many adventures and so many hardships, some of their own making, but many not. And since I've already read book one and know how this story ends, it took away some of my anxiety for the characters and what they were going through. But what incredible things they both saw and experienced. I expect to be recommending and rereading this book many times in the future.
I received a free audiobook from Benjamin Fife who has become one of my favorite audiobook narrators. As always his rendition of this story was perfection. I have written this review freely and willingly.
I loved this book. I loved the first one a lot, but I found this one easier to follow because it was told through the vantage points of the two brothers. Jenelle writes wonderful characters. Seamus and Brandt were both written beautifully and portrayed so sympathetically. Both experienced so many adventures and so many hardships, some of their own making, but many not. And since I've already read book one and know how this story ends, it took away some of my anxiety for the characters and what they were going through. But what incredible things they both saw and experienced. I expect to be recommending and rereading this book many times in the future.
I received a free audiobook from Benjamin Fife who has become one of my favorite audiobook narrators. As always his rendition of this story was perfection. I have written this review freely and willingly.
July 6, 2021
*Audiobook Review*
Second Son is the second book in the series, but since it focuses on the childhood of main character Brant, it actually comes first In the timeline. But don't read it first. It will spoil the big twist at the end of King's Warrior.
I had originally skipped this book because I wanted to follow the main story line. I see now that was a mistake.
Second Son dropped so much lore and had character development that would have added to my enjoyment of Yorien's Hand. So I'm amending my opinion. You should absolutely read these books in publication order.
Brant's character is so much deeper than I realized. He goes through so much in this book. He is royalty, he's a slave, he loves, and he knows loss.
Second Son would be an interesting read on it's own, even without the larger series to complete it. I believe it can standalone, but it also fits perfectly into the larger mythos that the author has constructed for it.
As always, Benjamin Fife is a joy to listen to. He really shows his acting chops in this one, where he gets to play many roles, all of which require deep emotion. And he delivers stunning performances for each.
*Thank you to the author Jenelle Leanne Schmidt and Story Origin for providing me with a free reviewer code. The opinions expressed here are my own honest evaluation of the listening experiance.*
Second Son is the second book in the series, but since it focuses on the childhood of main character Brant, it actually comes first In the timeline. But don't read it first. It will spoil the big twist at the end of King's Warrior.
I had originally skipped this book because I wanted to follow the main story line. I see now that was a mistake.
Second Son dropped so much lore and had character development that would have added to my enjoyment of Yorien's Hand. So I'm amending my opinion. You should absolutely read these books in publication order.
Brant's character is so much deeper than I realized. He goes through so much in this book. He is royalty, he's a slave, he loves, and he knows loss.
Second Son would be an interesting read on it's own, even without the larger series to complete it. I believe it can standalone, but it also fits perfectly into the larger mythos that the author has constructed for it.
As always, Benjamin Fife is a joy to listen to. He really shows his acting chops in this one, where he gets to play many roles, all of which require deep emotion. And he delivers stunning performances for each.
*Thank you to the author Jenelle Leanne Schmidt and Story Origin for providing me with a free reviewer code. The opinions expressed here are my own honest evaluation of the listening experiance.*
March 9, 2021
Fantastic Sequel with a Prequel
Really beautifully written book two to a great fantasy adventure series. I would recommend if you haven't read the first book to read that one before book two... although this book is a prequel to the first book it tells so much of the history that it would take some of the fun mystery out of the first book, the author put them in the correct order. Second Son is a really emotional rollercoaster with plenty of adventure and magical creatures. It really was a lot of fun to learn the past of the characters I grew to love in the first book. It's a clean (free of bad language, graphic violence, and bedroom scenes) and completely family friendly fantasy adventure series - I'd say PG level and would recommend to any readers 3rd grade and up.
The Benjamin Fife does an incredible job with the voice differentiation, acting and really breathes an extra something into the story that only ups the entertainment value of listening. He has quickly become one of my favorite narrators.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Really beautifully written book two to a great fantasy adventure series. I would recommend if you haven't read the first book to read that one before book two... although this book is a prequel to the first book it tells so much of the history that it would take some of the fun mystery out of the first book, the author put them in the correct order. Second Son is a really emotional rollercoaster with plenty of adventure and magical creatures. It really was a lot of fun to learn the past of the characters I grew to love in the first book. It's a clean (free of bad language, graphic violence, and bedroom scenes) and completely family friendly fantasy adventure series - I'd say PG level and would recommend to any readers 3rd grade and up.
The Benjamin Fife does an incredible job with the voice differentiation, acting and really breathes an extra something into the story that only ups the entertainment value of listening. He has quickly become one of my favorite narrators.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
March 31, 2021
While this story is a prequel, I definitely recommend listening to or reading the first book before this one, as it's pretty quick to spoil some major stuff from the last book. Like, within the first few minutes stuff is spoiled.
So anyway, onto this book... I really loved getting the brothers' relationship and more world-building stuff about the dark kingdom. The first half of the book was really great with the developing family tragedy that drives the last book.
I do have to say the last battle was a bit of a disappointment compared to the final battle and conclusion in the last one... I guess it makes sense that a prequel can't really top it. Overall, I would say the second half in some spots weaker than the first because by that point we're more in territory the last book discussed, even if just obliquely.
Fife's book definitely adds another dimension with the life he gives all the characters.
I received a free copy of the audio book for an honest review.
So anyway, onto this book... I really loved getting the brothers' relationship and more world-building stuff about the dark kingdom. The first half of the book was really great with the developing family tragedy that drives the last book.
I do have to say the last battle was a bit of a disappointment compared to the final battle and conclusion in the last one... I guess it makes sense that a prequel can't really top it. Overall, I would say the second half in some spots weaker than the first because by that point we're more in territory the last book discussed, even if just obliquely.
Fife's book definitely adds another dimension with the life he gives all the characters.
I received a free copy of the audio book for an honest review.
February 13, 2022
WELL TOLD ADVENTURE, RECOMMENDED SERIES.
Another satisfying, well described tale narrated by Benjamin's Fife. He truly makes this authors entertaining and well written books come to life. This story is history, myth, mystery and intrigue in full colour and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters feel like family and I suffered along side them the highs and lows of their grief and joys. I especially liked the mythical creatures cloaking themselves as wizards. Just like book one l listened to it twice. l have added this series to my favourites. Bookshelf worthy. Good long clean adventure series, good value and thoroughly entertaining.
Another satisfying, well described tale narrated by Benjamin's Fife. He truly makes this authors entertaining and well written books come to life. This story is history, myth, mystery and intrigue in full colour and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters feel like family and I suffered along side them the highs and lows of their grief and joys. I especially liked the mythical creatures cloaking themselves as wizards. Just like book one l listened to it twice. l have added this series to my favourites. Bookshelf worthy. Good long clean adventure series, good value and thoroughly entertaining.
February 9, 2023
Audiobook: I enjoyed this second book of "The Minstrel's Song" series. Belief in a prophecy played an important role in the lives of the King and Queen of Llycaelon, and that belief caused many hardships, not only for themselves, but also for their sons. I liked the main protagonist, Rhoyan, and the growth that he underwent throughout the story. There were some surprising twists and turns. I appreciated all the fantastic creatures that made an appearance in the tale. Benjamin Fife's narration was spectacular, and his performance added to the story's entertainment. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
August 13, 2021
I loved finding out the back story of Brandt. And getting teases about who the Minstrel might be … I was amazed how much was packed into this book. We find out about his childhood, how he was molded into the man we saw in King’s Warrior. We see his friendship develop with Arnod, Arnod’s rise to being king …. and more. The action never stopped. I kept thinking the story was done, but there was more! But it never seemed to drag. Looking forward to the next book in the series! You could easily read this book first. I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.
July 6, 2022
This is the second story to a beautifully written fantasy series by Jenelle Leanne Schmidt. This story focuses on Brant's early years and adds tons of lore to the overall series. The characters continue to be written well, the world continues to develop in leaps and bounds, and the overall story continues to develop into a lovely series. I look forward to reading and listening to book 3 in the series! Audio Version: Benjamin Fife always does a fantastic job narrating and this book and series is no exception.
December 26, 2019
Jenelle Leanne Schmidt’s second installment in her Minstrel’s Song series embodies everything I love in an indie book, especially a sequel/prequel: improved writing, large cast of characters, sudden and unforeseen connections to previous books, and—most importantly—an engaging and unique plot.
So, let’s get this out of the way first: I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Though I had struggled a bit with the first book, the majority of the problems I had were gone. The narration flowed very well, the characters were at times still a little sickening-sweet (though not all of them) and yet the dialogue felt very natural, and their development was spot-on. There were a slew of terrific lines—evocative, philosophical, sometimes just humorous—that ramped up my enjoyment that much further. If King’s Warrior captured any modicum of your attention, you need to get this book. I will continue to recommend this series to those seeking solid indie fantasy.
I did still have some issues: there lingered some minor cases of unnecessary repetition, where either dialogue and narration told you the same thing twice, or the narration alone did. Occasionally, the descriptions of characters’ emotions felt a little on-the-nose, but nothing eye-rolling. And it felt like the story wandered for a bit about half-way through with a new POV character and the addition of yet another plot line that did not always require the central POV. Though there are numerous POV characters, Rhoyan’s felt like the central plot; so, when his story hit a couple climactic scenes, and then his importance faded a bit (he was still present, but a little sidelined), it felt like the story should have been done, but with over a quarter of the book still to go. A final gripe: the number of marriages, children, and deaths were a little staggering, to me—might just be the vestiges of how long I was single and weary of those types of stories, but even so. Be prepared for that.
By the end, however, Jenelle had won me back with a terrific and satisfying conclusion. The story arc made sense, and left me eager for the next installment, if a little heart-broken at the bittersweet mix of plotlines. She did a fantastic job tying everything up that needed to be, while leaving enough open for the next—a difficult task, that she pulled off masterfully.
I give Second Son a solid 3 stars out of 5, standing it against giants like Elizabeth Moon, Pat Rothfuss, and Robert Jordan.
So, let’s get this out of the way first: I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Though I had struggled a bit with the first book, the majority of the problems I had were gone. The narration flowed very well, the characters were at times still a little sickening-sweet (though not all of them) and yet the dialogue felt very natural, and their development was spot-on. There were a slew of terrific lines—evocative, philosophical, sometimes just humorous—that ramped up my enjoyment that much further. If King’s Warrior captured any modicum of your attention, you need to get this book. I will continue to recommend this series to those seeking solid indie fantasy.
I did still have some issues: there lingered some minor cases of unnecessary repetition, where either dialogue and narration told you the same thing twice, or the narration alone did. Occasionally, the descriptions of characters’ emotions felt a little on-the-nose, but nothing eye-rolling. And it felt like the story wandered for a bit about half-way through with a new POV character and the addition of yet another plot line that did not always require the central POV. Though there are numerous POV characters, Rhoyan’s felt like the central plot; so, when his story hit a couple climactic scenes, and then his importance faded a bit (he was still present, but a little sidelined), it felt like the story should have been done, but with over a quarter of the book still to go. A final gripe: the number of marriages, children, and deaths were a little staggering, to me—might just be the vestiges of how long I was single and weary of those types of stories, but even so. Be prepared for that.
By the end, however, Jenelle had won me back with a terrific and satisfying conclusion. The story arc made sense, and left me eager for the next installment, if a little heart-broken at the bittersweet mix of plotlines. She did a fantastic job tying everything up that needed to be, while leaving enough open for the next—a difficult task, that she pulled off masterfully.
I give Second Son a solid 3 stars out of 5, standing it against giants like Elizabeth Moon, Pat Rothfuss, and Robert Jordan.
April 11, 2021
To be honest, I liked the first book better. The second book is just a more detailed backstory about all the characters we were introduced to in the first book. Since I already knew how everything tied together and ended, I found it boring and didn't feel like I got to know the characters any better.
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
March 1, 2019
A good book. Not an amazing one, but still enjoyable. It took me a long time to connect with some of the characters, and the plot is kind of slow — it has to be, though, to cover as much ground as it does. It's not the best book I've ever read, but I'm glad I did read it, if only so I can get to the more recent ones.
March 15, 2021
This has a great world and wonderful characters. It was nice to get some of the back story for the book before this one. We now understand some of the characters better. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I am very intrigued and would like to know where it goes from here. The narrator does a wonderful job.
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