Henge is again at war, under attack from the reptiles of Rozcassca. Claris Jaden, with a canine nose for adventure and a pressing need to shed the legacy of her infamous mother, leaves home to join the army.
Zann Felk and his twin sister Task, young assassins for hire, are driven by a different vengeance for the death of their parents at the hands of the mammals of Henge.
Claris makes friends among the recruits, including Kiri, apprentice to the firemage, and Falconetti, an Elemental who seems to know more about her past than she does.
But she also makes enemies. Her mother’s deeds in the last war—as the world teetered on the magic-carved edge of chaos—have only grown darker in the public mind.
The Felks have no friends. They sell their services to a radical sect led by a fanatical stegosaur mage. Their spy on the recruits, seek out local sources of magic, and kill when they can. Their employer's unstated to annihilate the people of Henge.
As their paths intersect, Claris and Zann discover how much their pasts intertwine—confusing friend with foe, twisting the truth, unleashing sick magic—till the festering wounds of both wars drive the world back to the brink of chaos.
Never loses momentum! Tight dialogue and narrative keep the pace moving forward, as does devoting alternate chapters to heroes and foes.
Ross gives us only what we need to know at the moment and piques curiosity throughout.
He takes the reader into each character’s inner thoughts, feelings and viewpoints, adding depth to the story.
Incredibly creative with names and situations.
The author writes from life experience that belies his youth, and with great candor, useful in spurring dialogue and smoking out otherwise hidden plot-lines.
The kind of escapism you want to reread (like I did!) after reaching the last page, as you are so breathless chasing the action the first time;^)
A well-written and fun epic fantasy adventure. I was swept up from the first page. The worldbuilding is engaging and detailed. The various races are distinct, as are all the characters.
Highly recommended reading for lovers of anthropomorphic fiction!