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The King's Justice
The King's Justice
A cause for celebration among Stephen R. Donaldson’s many two original novellas—his first publication since finishing the Thomas Covenant series.
In “The King’s Justice,” a stranger dressed in black arrives in the village of Settle’s Crossways, following the scent of a terrible crime. He even calls himself Black , though almost certainly that is not his name. The people of the village discover that they have a surprising urge to cooperate with this stranger, though the desire of inhabitants of quiet villages to cooperate with strangers is not common in their land, or most lands. But this gift will not save him as he discovers the nature of the evil concealed in Settle’s Crossways.
The “Augur’s Gambit” is a daring plan created by Mayhew Gordian, Hieronomer to the Queen of Indemnie, a plan to save his Queen and his country. Gordian is a reader of entrails. In the bodies of chickens, lambs, piglets, and one stillborn infant he sees the same the island nation of Indemnie is doomed. But even in the face of certain destruction a man may fight, and the Hieronomer is utterly loyal to his beautiful Queen—and to her only daughter. The “Augur’s Gambit” is his mad attempt to save a kingdom.
In “The King’s Justice,” a stranger dressed in black arrives in the village of Settle’s Crossways, following the scent of a terrible crime. He even calls himself Black , though almost certainly that is not his name. The people of the village discover that they have a surprising urge to cooperate with this stranger, though the desire of inhabitants of quiet villages to cooperate with strangers is not common in their land, or most lands. But this gift will not save him as he discovers the nature of the evil concealed in Settle’s Crossways.
The “Augur’s Gambit” is a daring plan created by Mayhew Gordian, Hieronomer to the Queen of Indemnie, a plan to save his Queen and his country. Gordian is a reader of entrails. In the bodies of chickens, lambs, piglets, and one stillborn infant he sees the same the island nation of Indemnie is doomed. But even in the face of certain destruction a man may fight, and the Hieronomer is utterly loyal to his beautiful Queen—and to her only daughter. The “Augur’s Gambit” is his mad attempt to save a kingdom.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 13, 2015
78 people are currently reading
1032 people want to read
About the author
Stephen R. Donaldson
149 books2,722 followersStephen Reeder Donaldson is an American fantasy, science fiction, and mystery novelist; in the United Kingdom he is usually called "Stephen Donaldson" (without the "R"). He has also written non-fiction under the pen name Reed Stephens.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION:
Stephen R. Donaldson was born May 13, 1947 in Cleveland, Ohio. His father, James, was a medical missionary and his mother, Ruth, a prosthetist (a person skilled in making or fitting prosthetic devices). Donaldson spent the years between the ages of 3 and 16 living in India, where his father was working as an orthopaedic surgeon. Donaldson earned his bachelor's degree from The College of Wooster and master's degree from Kent State University.
INSPIRATIONS:
Donaldson's work is heavily influenced by other fantasy authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien, Roger Zelazny, Joseph Conrad, Henry James, and William Faulkner. The writers he most admires are Patricia A. McKillip, Steven Erikson, and Tim Powers.
It is believed that a speech his father made on leprosy (whilst working with lepers in India) led to Donaldson's creation of Thomas Covenant, the anti-hero of his most famous work (Thomas Covenant). The first book in that series, Lord Foul's Bane, received 47 rejections before a publisher agreed to publish it.
PROMINENT WORK:
Stephen Donaldson came to prominence in 1977 with the The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, which is centred around a leper shunned by society and his trials and tribulations as his destiny unfolds. These books established Donaldson as one of the most important figures in modern fantasy fiction.
PERSONAL LIFE:
He currently resides in New Mexico.
THE GRADUAL INTERVIEW
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION:
Stephen R. Donaldson was born May 13, 1947 in Cleveland, Ohio. His father, James, was a medical missionary and his mother, Ruth, a prosthetist (a person skilled in making or fitting prosthetic devices). Donaldson spent the years between the ages of 3 and 16 living in India, where his father was working as an orthopaedic surgeon. Donaldson earned his bachelor's degree from The College of Wooster and master's degree from Kent State University.
INSPIRATIONS:
Donaldson's work is heavily influenced by other fantasy authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien, Roger Zelazny, Joseph Conrad, Henry James, and William Faulkner. The writers he most admires are Patricia A. McKillip, Steven Erikson, and Tim Powers.
It is believed that a speech his father made on leprosy (whilst working with lepers in India) led to Donaldson's creation of Thomas Covenant, the anti-hero of his most famous work (Thomas Covenant). The first book in that series, Lord Foul's Bane, received 47 rejections before a publisher agreed to publish it.
PROMINENT WORK:
Stephen Donaldson came to prominence in 1977 with the The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, which is centred around a leper shunned by society and his trials and tribulations as his destiny unfolds. These books established Donaldson as one of the most important figures in modern fantasy fiction.
PERSONAL LIFE:
He currently resides in New Mexico.
THE GRADUAL INTERVIEW
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
January 24, 2016
3.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum http://bibliosanctum.com/2016/01/24/b...
While my own personal experience with Stephen R. Donaldson is admittedly limited, his name is definitely no stranger in our household. My husband is a big fan of his Thomas Covenant books, which is probably the series Donaldson is best known for. Myself, I’ve only read the first book Lord Foul’s Bane as well as a couple books in his Gap series, so it’s safe to say that I’m still relatively new to his work.
Still, I was interested to read more. And what I’ve seen is enough for me to get a sense of his style and the tone of his stories—namely, frequently dark and brutal—so I had a good idea of what to expect going into The King’s Justice, Donaldson’s latest book which collects two new and original novellas. This a fantastic format if you are curious to give a new author a try or if you simply want to read more without having to commit to a longer series, especially since many of Donaldson’s are very heavy and can take quite an emotional toll.
The King’s Justice
This title story tells of a mysterious black-clad stranger arriving in the village of Settle’s Crossways to investigate a string of terrible murders. Known only as “Black”, he claims to be in the king’s service and proceeds to question the denizens of the town, using his powers of interrogation to make them reveal what they know to him. A new evil has made its home in this place, and Black will follow its trail to the ends of the earth even if it kills him—and it damn well might. But the king’s justice needs to be served and Black will not stop until his job is done.
This story is close to what comes to mind when I think of Stephen R. Donaldson. It’s a bleak and savage tale, delving into the darker side of human nature while also juxtaposing that with the esteem of one man’s hunt for justice. This is the shorter story of the two in this novel, and the events go by quickly. If you want to know more, you’ll find yourself out of luck because the plot is so streamlined and lean, but the result is a simple and elegant tale that gets straight to the point. Also not for the faint of heart, but readers familiar with Donaldson’s probably know that already.
The Augur’s Gambit
This second tale is much longer, almost twice as long as The King’s Justice and therefore may appeal more to readers looking for more character and story development. It follows the protagonist Mayhew Gordian, a Hieronomer to the Queen of Indemnie. His position requires him to read her majesty’s fate in the entrails of animals (and in one case, a stillborn baby) and every single time he sees the same message: Indemnie is doomed. Fiercely loyal to the crown, Gordian decides to launch his own investigations into who might be plotting against his queen and her daughter, the alluring Princess Excrucia (lovely name, isn’t it?)
The Augur’s Gambit may be longer, but it is also takes its time getting off the ground. The protagonist Gordian is not exactly an energetic character either, which hinders the pacing some more, though the narrative is not without some hints of humor, of the dark and ironic sort. The women are by far the more interesting characters here, with Queen Inimica’s confounding plot of proposing marriage to every single one of her barons as a means to uncover treachery, and of course Excrucia and the seductive hold she seems to have on our narrator. I didn’t find myself as drawn to this tale as I’d hoped, but it was nonetheless an interesting and complex tale of intrigue, complete with a couple unexpected surprises.
The short fiction format doesn’t always work for me, but I had a good time with these stories. All told, from what I’ve read of his work, The King’s Justice feels distinctively Stephen R. Donaldson. If you’re a fan, I would highly recommend grabbing this book to complete your collection, and for new readers curious about his writing, these two novellas would be an excellent place to start.
While my own personal experience with Stephen R. Donaldson is admittedly limited, his name is definitely no stranger in our household. My husband is a big fan of his Thomas Covenant books, which is probably the series Donaldson is best known for. Myself, I’ve only read the first book Lord Foul’s Bane as well as a couple books in his Gap series, so it’s safe to say that I’m still relatively new to his work.
Still, I was interested to read more. And what I’ve seen is enough for me to get a sense of his style and the tone of his stories—namely, frequently dark and brutal—so I had a good idea of what to expect going into The King’s Justice, Donaldson’s latest book which collects two new and original novellas. This a fantastic format if you are curious to give a new author a try or if you simply want to read more without having to commit to a longer series, especially since many of Donaldson’s are very heavy and can take quite an emotional toll.
The King’s Justice
This title story tells of a mysterious black-clad stranger arriving in the village of Settle’s Crossways to investigate a string of terrible murders. Known only as “Black”, he claims to be in the king’s service and proceeds to question the denizens of the town, using his powers of interrogation to make them reveal what they know to him. A new evil has made its home in this place, and Black will follow its trail to the ends of the earth even if it kills him—and it damn well might. But the king’s justice needs to be served and Black will not stop until his job is done.
This story is close to what comes to mind when I think of Stephen R. Donaldson. It’s a bleak and savage tale, delving into the darker side of human nature while also juxtaposing that with the esteem of one man’s hunt for justice. This is the shorter story of the two in this novel, and the events go by quickly. If you want to know more, you’ll find yourself out of luck because the plot is so streamlined and lean, but the result is a simple and elegant tale that gets straight to the point. Also not for the faint of heart, but readers familiar with Donaldson’s probably know that already.
The Augur’s Gambit
This second tale is much longer, almost twice as long as The King’s Justice and therefore may appeal more to readers looking for more character and story development. It follows the protagonist Mayhew Gordian, a Hieronomer to the Queen of Indemnie. His position requires him to read her majesty’s fate in the entrails of animals (and in one case, a stillborn baby) and every single time he sees the same message: Indemnie is doomed. Fiercely loyal to the crown, Gordian decides to launch his own investigations into who might be plotting against his queen and her daughter, the alluring Princess Excrucia (lovely name, isn’t it?)
The Augur’s Gambit may be longer, but it is also takes its time getting off the ground. The protagonist Gordian is not exactly an energetic character either, which hinders the pacing some more, though the narrative is not without some hints of humor, of the dark and ironic sort. The women are by far the more interesting characters here, with Queen Inimica’s confounding plot of proposing marriage to every single one of her barons as a means to uncover treachery, and of course Excrucia and the seductive hold she seems to have on our narrator. I didn’t find myself as drawn to this tale as I’d hoped, but it was nonetheless an interesting and complex tale of intrigue, complete with a couple unexpected surprises.
The short fiction format doesn’t always work for me, but I had a good time with these stories. All told, from what I’ve read of his work, The King’s Justice feels distinctively Stephen R. Donaldson. If you’re a fan, I would highly recommend grabbing this book to complete your collection, and for new readers curious about his writing, these two novellas would be an excellent place to start.
December 24, 2015
Read by Scott BrickDescription: In The King's Justice, a stranger dressed in black arrives in the village of Settle's Crossways, following the scent of a terrible crime. He even calls himself "Black," though almost certainly that is not his name. The people of the village discover that they have a surprising urge to cooperate with this stranger, though the desire of inhabitants of quiet villages to cooperate with strangers is not common in their land, or most lands. But this gift will not save him as he discovers the nature of the evil concealed in Settle's Crossways.
The King's Justice: And we open with 'Black' riding hard through torrential rain in the gloom towards Settle's Crossroads.Oh my, what atmosphere Donaldson can build, I had forgotten just how good he is at the dark, the gory and the twisted. This almost felt like a gothic western."He's full of holes!"
Description: The "Augur's Gambit" is a daring plan created by Mayhew Gordian, Hieronomer to the Queen of Indemnie, a plan to save his Queen and his country. Gordian is a reader of entrails. In the bodies of chickens, lambs, piglets, and one stillborn infant he sees the same message: the island nation of Indemnie is doomed. But even in the face of certain destruction a man may fight, and the Hieronomer is utterly loyal to his beautiful Queen--and to her only daughter. The "Augur's Gambit" is his mad attempt to save a kingdom.
"...and to her lips she had purposefully
nailed a gleaming smile..."
A gothic tale of royalty and seersayers richly imbued by courtly language which only Donaldson can pull off in these modern sms speke times.An awful amount of offal smeared through these two tales: great reading for the festive period.
4* The King's Justice
4* Lord Foul's Bane (The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever, #1)
4* The Illearth War (The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever, #2)
4* The Power That Preserves (The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever, #3)
4* The Wounded Land (The Second Chronicles of Thomas Covenant #1)
5* The One Tree (The Second Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, #2)
4* White Gold Wielder (The Second Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, #3)
4* Gilden-Fire
4* The Mirror of Her Dreams (Mordant's Need, #1)
4* A Man Rides Through (Mordant's Need, #2)
November 30, 2015
Stephen R. Donaldson is one of my favorite authors, and has been since the late 70s with the start of The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant. Whether he’s writing extremely long, elaborate novels or shorter, concise novellas, his writing is complex and thoughtful. He’s able to make a novella or short story seem like a novel simply by his descriptions and word choice. His use of language is fascinating, and the reader is forced to slow down to think about it and take it all in. Not many authors can claim this vital skill.
The first of two novellas in this book, The King’s Justice, is the tale of a gifted man called “Black” who combats evil in various forms. He has been “shaped”, that is, trained and marked with metallic inlays and tattoos that give him the power to compel people and follow the scent of evil as it pervades the land. This story had the feel of a western: a nameless man rides in, sees a small town in distress, and does the right and moral things to bring justice. The narrative is simple, with no flair or flourish. My only complaint is minor: King’s Justice is written in present tense, which was somewhat distracting.
The second novella, The Auger’s Gambit, was a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy tale set on the remote island nation of Indemnie. High drama, political maneuverings, obscure prophecies, and an intricate plot that continually ratchets up until the explosive finale make this a tale that I’ll definitely read again and again. There are so many plot points that it will almost be a fresh read every time as new details are discovered and tied into what the reader already knows.
I’m not sure what Donaldson has planned next, but this book is a good way appease his fans as we (impatiently) wait for his next big project.
The first of two novellas in this book, The King’s Justice, is the tale of a gifted man called “Black” who combats evil in various forms. He has been “shaped”, that is, trained and marked with metallic inlays and tattoos that give him the power to compel people and follow the scent of evil as it pervades the land. This story had the feel of a western: a nameless man rides in, sees a small town in distress, and does the right and moral things to bring justice. The narrative is simple, with no flair or flourish. My only complaint is minor: King’s Justice is written in present tense, which was somewhat distracting.
The second novella, The Auger’s Gambit, was a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy tale set on the remote island nation of Indemnie. High drama, political maneuverings, obscure prophecies, and an intricate plot that continually ratchets up until the explosive finale make this a tale that I’ll definitely read again and again. There are so many plot points that it will almost be a fresh read every time as new details are discovered and tied into what the reader already knows.
I’m not sure what Donaldson has planned next, but this book is a good way appease his fans as we (impatiently) wait for his next big project.
August 24, 2015
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Reviewed for Science Fiction Book Club.
Reprinted with permission of Bookspan LLC.
********************************************
These two novellas by Stephen R. Donaldson are just the thing for those of us who don't mind a little blood and gore with our fantasy.
The King's Justice tells the story of a man called Black who has a long and mysterious past, and who continues to be loyal to his King and uphold the duties he was given so long ago. The kingdom that Black serves has been divided into two schools of "religion", those that worship the dark and those that worship the bright. However, there is another scent on the wind, one that smells of blood and heat, and which carries with it a sense of terror and disquieting purpose. Black in tracking, ready to do battle against whatever new force is preying on his people.
This story was down-right creepy and had me flipping pages well into the night. I am not one to shy away from most dark fantasy but there are some elements of this story that turned my stomach. There is a murdered child, and that's tough for a parent to read, I don't care who you are. Black is on the trail of these killers and a final reckoning occurs but there is more killing and torture than I usually can deal with. I guess this lets you know how vivid the writing is and how well-written this really is.
The second story is "The Augur's Gambit" and is about Mayhew Gordian, a reader of entrails, a "hieronomer", who is pledged to serve his queen, the beautiful Inimica Phlegathon DeVry. Mayhew has foreseen a looming disaster, one that will cause great loss and devastation to his beloved country, Indemnie. Unfortunately, his vision doesn't tell him exactly what is coming, only that his people are in great danger. Meanwhile, Queen Inimica is using her wiles to try to engage herself to one (or all???) of her barons and the court intrigue is confusing and at times hilarious. Mayhew's greatest ally is Inimica's only daughter and heir to the throne. Together they come up with an outrageous plan to save their people and their country, in spite of their Queen's seemingly selfish and contrary decisions.
I enjoyed this story and the descriptions of the land and the residents of The Domicile, the castle where Mayhew lived with the Queen and her court. As with any good fantasy, I felt invested in the quest to find a way to save these people and I was rooting for Mayhew and the princess. Their relationship was one that I would like to see more of, should Mr. Donaldson decide to write more about the land of Indemnie.
Reviewed for Science Fiction Book Club.
Reprinted with permission of Bookspan LLC.
********************************************
These two novellas by Stephen R. Donaldson are just the thing for those of us who don't mind a little blood and gore with our fantasy.
The King's Justice tells the story of a man called Black who has a long and mysterious past, and who continues to be loyal to his King and uphold the duties he was given so long ago. The kingdom that Black serves has been divided into two schools of "religion", those that worship the dark and those that worship the bright. However, there is another scent on the wind, one that smells of blood and heat, and which carries with it a sense of terror and disquieting purpose. Black in tracking, ready to do battle against whatever new force is preying on his people.
This story was down-right creepy and had me flipping pages well into the night. I am not one to shy away from most dark fantasy but there are some elements of this story that turned my stomach. There is a murdered child, and that's tough for a parent to read, I don't care who you are. Black is on the trail of these killers and a final reckoning occurs but there is more killing and torture than I usually can deal with. I guess this lets you know how vivid the writing is and how well-written this really is.
The second story is "The Augur's Gambit" and is about Mayhew Gordian, a reader of entrails, a "hieronomer", who is pledged to serve his queen, the beautiful Inimica Phlegathon DeVry. Mayhew has foreseen a looming disaster, one that will cause great loss and devastation to his beloved country, Indemnie. Unfortunately, his vision doesn't tell him exactly what is coming, only that his people are in great danger. Meanwhile, Queen Inimica is using her wiles to try to engage herself to one (or all???) of her barons and the court intrigue is confusing and at times hilarious. Mayhew's greatest ally is Inimica's only daughter and heir to the throne. Together they come up with an outrageous plan to save their people and their country, in spite of their Queen's seemingly selfish and contrary decisions.
I enjoyed this story and the descriptions of the land and the residents of The Domicile, the castle where Mayhew lived with the Queen and her court. As with any good fantasy, I felt invested in the quest to find a way to save these people and I was rooting for Mayhew and the princess. Their relationship was one that I would like to see more of, should Mr. Donaldson decide to write more about the land of Indemnie.
December 8, 2021
I liked Auger's Gambit better than the title story. I was able to know and care about the characters and understand them, good and evil. Not that there was not much to figure out and surprises as well. And the ending ... well, I won't spoil it for you. Great read.
December 13, 2015
I've been a Donaldson fan forever and I very much enjoyed these stories.
The first novella, The King's Justice, is a dark fantasy. Another reviewer described it as reminiscent of a western. I agree: a western told told in rich nearly-poetic language. Its tone is is greatest strength. I highly, highly recommend listening to the audiobook version, read by Scott Brick, who knows exactly how to incant a story like this.
The second novella, The Augur's Gambit, is a story of intrigue in the Queen's court, much in the same spirit as Daughter of Regals or Mordant's Need. Daughter is one of my favorite Donaldson stories, and this one is great fun as well.
In both of the stories I would have liked to have more of the story. Each could have been a full-length novel. But Donaldson makes the novellas work by hinting at much more history and background than he told directly. This is the case at whatever length Donaldson writes because he always imagines much more than he can ever get fully on the page.
These stories are very enjoyable and I heartily encourage you to try them.
The first novella, The King's Justice, is a dark fantasy. Another reviewer described it as reminiscent of a western. I agree: a western told told in rich nearly-poetic language. Its tone is is greatest strength. I highly, highly recommend listening to the audiobook version, read by Scott Brick, who knows exactly how to incant a story like this.
The second novella, The Augur's Gambit, is a story of intrigue in the Queen's court, much in the same spirit as Daughter of Regals or Mordant's Need. Daughter is one of my favorite Donaldson stories, and this one is great fun as well.
In both of the stories I would have liked to have more of the story. Each could have been a full-length novel. But Donaldson makes the novellas work by hinting at much more history and background than he told directly. This is the case at whatever length Donaldson writes because he always imagines much more than he can ever get fully on the page.
These stories are very enjoyable and I heartily encourage you to try them.
September 28, 2015
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
This book contains two novellas. One is a good old fashioned hack and slasher, with an almost invincible swordsman trying to stamp out some evil magic imported by a desert nomad.
The second is a nearly gothic type tale about a hieronomist who foresees doom for his island. Despite his best efforts, a foreign power invades the land...
Both are superior tales of their type, very entertaining.
This book contains two novellas. One is a good old fashioned hack and slasher, with an almost invincible swordsman trying to stamp out some evil magic imported by a desert nomad.
The second is a nearly gothic type tale about a hieronomist who foresees doom for his island. Despite his best efforts, a foreign power invades the land...
Both are superior tales of their type, very entertaining.
October 7, 2015
I have always loved Stephan R. Donaldson books, so I was so happy win a first read copy of this book. I love the two novellas in this book, I would love to hear more stories in both of these worlds, I don't think these stories are set in the same would, but I could be wrong. I think Donaldson is a great novel writer but he is also really good short story and long story writer.
October 8, 2015
More great work from Donaldson. Both novellas included in this volume are very strong. Thanks, Goodreads, for the free book!
December 1, 2024
Stars: 2.5 out of 5
I didn't know what to expect when I started this book. I just knew it's been languishing on my TBR list for a while, and my local library had it in stock. When I started reading, I realized that these two novellas have nothing to do with each other and don't even share the same world (as far as I can tell). Unfortunately, my experience with both novellas was rather underwhelming, which rather surprised me, since I loved previous works by this author.
The first novella, The King's Justice, was just... off for me. Probably because it was written in that dreaded third-person omniscient POV that lets the reader get into everybody's head all at once. Ironically, this makes it a lot harder to connect with the characters. Plus, there was just nothing to connect with in this novella. Black is a black hole (pun intended). He has no motivations or desires separate from accomplishing his mission, and he doesn't particularly care about anyone else either. And that whole story is told in a dry, sort of clinical way that doesn't help with empathy. I didn't know enough about this world or the characters to get invested, and I didn't particularly care about the good guys or how they were different from the bad guys. Maybe if we'd had a bit more background to the story, or if Black was a bit more... relatable, I would have liked this more.
The second novella, The Augur's Gambit, is the longer of the two and does its characters more justice. At least, they seem more human, more flawed, and more relatable. It was a welcome change after the King's Justice, and I was ready to enjoy the story... Then it got mired in page upon page of needless descriptions and info dumps. So much so that by the time something started to happen, I was already checked out of the story. I knew the stakes, as well as the history of that world in excruciating detail, but I didn't care about the characters anymore.
So this was a rather disappointing read, but at least it's one more book off my TBR list.
I didn't know what to expect when I started this book. I just knew it's been languishing on my TBR list for a while, and my local library had it in stock. When I started reading, I realized that these two novellas have nothing to do with each other and don't even share the same world (as far as I can tell). Unfortunately, my experience with both novellas was rather underwhelming, which rather surprised me, since I loved previous works by this author.
The first novella, The King's Justice, was just... off for me. Probably because it was written in that dreaded third-person omniscient POV that lets the reader get into everybody's head all at once. Ironically, this makes it a lot harder to connect with the characters. Plus, there was just nothing to connect with in this novella. Black is a black hole (pun intended). He has no motivations or desires separate from accomplishing his mission, and he doesn't particularly care about anyone else either. And that whole story is told in a dry, sort of clinical way that doesn't help with empathy. I didn't know enough about this world or the characters to get invested, and I didn't particularly care about the good guys or how they were different from the bad guys. Maybe if we'd had a bit more background to the story, or if Black was a bit more... relatable, I would have liked this more.
The second novella, The Augur's Gambit, is the longer of the two and does its characters more justice. At least, they seem more human, more flawed, and more relatable. It was a welcome change after the King's Justice, and I was ready to enjoy the story... Then it got mired in page upon page of needless descriptions and info dumps. So much so that by the time something started to happen, I was already checked out of the story. I knew the stakes, as well as the history of that world in excruciating detail, but I didn't care about the characters anymore.
So this was a rather disappointing read, but at least it's one more book off my TBR list.
November 30, 2015
Stephen R. Donaldson, in his first work since wrapping up his 10 volume magnum opus about leper Thomas Covenant, has produced two novellas, published together under the title of the first: The King’s Justice.
In the title story, a mysterious man called Black rides into the village of Settle’s Crossways, where a young boy has recently been murdered. Black has been “shaped” by the nameless king of this land, who a few generations earlier put an end to a war between sorcerers using the powers of the Dark and the Bright, which are now worshipped as complementary gods. As he unravels the mystery of the murder, Black uncovers a twisted plan to reach beyond the balance imposed by the king to awaken other elemental powers of destruction.
A spare narrative reminiscent of the first three books of Stephen King’s Dark Tower series, “The King’s Justice” was a thrilling read.
The other novella, “The Augur’s Gambit,” returns to one Donaldson’s favorite themes: the obscure plans of powerful rulers who must keep their loyal advisers and family in the dark while simultaneously trusting them to prevail despite this lack of information. On the island nation of Indemnie, Mayhew Gordian, a reader of entrails or “hieronomer,” has discovered for his queen, Inimica Phlegathon DeVry, that a horrible doom awaits her people. While she inexplicably goads the five barons of the island to civil war, Mayhew must work with her daughter Excrucia to find a way to save Indemnie without massive bloodshed.
Written in the first-person using highly stylized language, “The Augur’s Gambit” is a little less accessible, but ultimately rewarding in its own right, especially for those who love labyrinthine court dramas with a dash of magic.
In the title story, a mysterious man called Black rides into the village of Settle’s Crossways, where a young boy has recently been murdered. Black has been “shaped” by the nameless king of this land, who a few generations earlier put an end to a war between sorcerers using the powers of the Dark and the Bright, which are now worshipped as complementary gods. As he unravels the mystery of the murder, Black uncovers a twisted plan to reach beyond the balance imposed by the king to awaken other elemental powers of destruction.
A spare narrative reminiscent of the first three books of Stephen King’s Dark Tower series, “The King’s Justice” was a thrilling read.
The other novella, “The Augur’s Gambit,” returns to one Donaldson’s favorite themes: the obscure plans of powerful rulers who must keep their loyal advisers and family in the dark while simultaneously trusting them to prevail despite this lack of information. On the island nation of Indemnie, Mayhew Gordian, a reader of entrails or “hieronomer,” has discovered for his queen, Inimica Phlegathon DeVry, that a horrible doom awaits her people. While she inexplicably goads the five barons of the island to civil war, Mayhew must work with her daughter Excrucia to find a way to save Indemnie without massive bloodshed.
Written in the first-person using highly stylized language, “The Augur’s Gambit” is a little less accessible, but ultimately rewarding in its own right, especially for those who love labyrinthine court dramas with a dash of magic.
September 17, 2020
Stephen Donaldson has been one of my favourite authors for a long time. This book combines two short stories The Kings Justice and The Augurs Gambit. The Kings Justice is the shorter of the two, about a mysterious stranger riding into town to seek justice for a murdered child. Known only as Black , which is fitting as the storyline is very dark, he reminds me a lot of the gunslinger out of Stephen King's dark tower series.i would love to see the character of Black given a full book to develop the character full.
The Augurs Gambit is almost twice the length giving him room to bring together and develop a fantastic band of characters and is classic Donaldson. Mayhew an advisor to the Queen of Indemnic, must face his fears when the island is on the brink or civil war and invasion. When Slew and Vail enter the story as bodyguards who reminded me of the bloodguard from the Convenant series. In fact there seemed alot of parallels the whole way through. The story started slowly but ended compelling.
The Augurs Gambit is almost twice the length giving him room to bring together and develop a fantastic band of characters and is classic Donaldson. Mayhew an advisor to the Queen of Indemnic, must face his fears when the island is on the brink or civil war and invasion. When Slew and Vail enter the story as bodyguards who reminded me of the bloodguard from the Convenant series. In fact there seemed alot of parallels the whole way through. The story started slowly but ended compelling.
March 10, 2016
Дедушка Дональдсон нечасто радует нас новыми вещами, а в формате рассказа (для него рассказ - это все, что меньше ста страниц) совсем редко выступает. И тут вдруг большая удача, две свежие новеллы под одной обложкой! Одна - мрачный мистический вестерн, другая про хитросплетения дворцовых интриг. Первая просто хорошая, а вторая шедевральная. Закрученный сюжет, живые персонажи, необычный мир, бессчетное число интересных мыслей по самым разным поводам, от управления государством до значимости исторических документов.
Написано, конечно, мастерски. Если не знать заранее, то никогда не догадаешься, что обе вещи вышли из-под одного пера, настолько различается стиль.
Приятно видеть, что Дональдсон реабилитировался после, скажем так, не совсем удачного финала цикла Томаса Ковенанта и снова показывает молодежи, что такое хорошая умная фентези.
Написано, конечно, мастерски. Если не знать заранее, то никогда не догадаешься, что обе вещи вышли из-под одного пера, настолько различается стиль.
Приятно видеть, что Дональдсон реабилитировался после, скажем так, не совсем удачного финала цикла Томаса Ковенанта и снова показывает молодежи, что такое хорошая умная фентези.
August 31, 2021
Two novellas by master storyteller Stephen R. Donaldson. The first, The King's Justice, is about Black, a mysterious knight seeking to solve a crime and bring balance to the realm. The second, the Augur's Gambit, is about the people of an island paradise who are seeking for a way to deal with prosperity and peace before it destroys everything they have achieved. Both stories are expertly crafted, compelling, and entertaining, a treat for Donaldson fans, and a great way for new readers to hop on board and see what they have been missing.
May 7, 2018
Could not finish it. The further I got into it, the more it annoyed me. Should have left it in the bargain bin where I found it.
October 8, 2024
This collection of novellas was my introduction to Stephen R. Donaldson, though I do have most of his other works on my shelves. I thought it would be a good way to tip my toes into his waters, and I was not disappointed.
The titular story, The King's Justice, was the one I was most looking forward to reading. A mysterious stranger arrives in town in pursuit of some evil. While relatively straightforward, the world and forces behind it are very interesting, and I was disappointed that there aren't more stories set in that world.
The other story, The Augur's Gambit, I was uncertain if I would like. It deals with an augur who sees the future and foretells nothing but doom for his people. With the Queen and a small cast of characters, he does everything he can to save them. The world isn't as interesting as the prior story, but the story itself is a lot better. It's slow and takes its time, but it does a good job of drawing you in and making you feel the despair the characters must feel. The Queen herself is a standout character, being complex and a necessary evil.
The titular story, The King's Justice, was the one I was most looking forward to reading. A mysterious stranger arrives in town in pursuit of some evil. While relatively straightforward, the world and forces behind it are very interesting, and I was disappointed that there aren't more stories set in that world.
The other story, The Augur's Gambit, I was uncertain if I would like. It deals with an augur who sees the future and foretells nothing but doom for his people. With the Queen and a small cast of characters, he does everything he can to save them. The world isn't as interesting as the prior story, but the story itself is a lot better. It's slow and takes its time, but it does a good job of drawing you in and making you feel the despair the characters must feel. The Queen herself is a standout character, being complex and a necessary evil.
September 7, 2022
The King's Justice by Stephen R. Donaldson is actually two novellas in one book. The first is "The King's Justice" and the second is "The Augur's Gambit". Both tales have one thing in common in that they are about heroes that are not really nice people. Although not very nice they both have loyalty to their respective monarchs and their respective kingdoms. Thus they will do whatever is necessary to protect those kingdoms. Both stories were well well written but are very different from one another. If you are a fan of Stephen R. Donaldson's Thomas Covenant series you will also enjoy these two novellas.
December 2, 2017
THE KING'S JUSTICE intrigued me because it is actually a collection of two novellas. Length-wise it comes out to about the same number of pages as a shorter novel so it's still a pretty good value proposition. I was pleased to find that while both THE KING'S JUSTICE and THE AUGER'S GAMBIT have similar tones and themes, they play out in very different narrative structures and feature two distinctly separate leads.
While not mind-blowing or even terribly deep, it was easy to appreciate the creativity in the characters and story as well as the consistency and coherence in each episode's respective magic systems.
If you're a reader like me who has been having a hard time finding time for books or are simply not a fan of the longer, sweeping tales that have dominated modern fantasy writing, then this book may provide some quality entertainment. The novellas are short and focused, but they strike a lot of the same notes as a full length novel and are structured in such a way that they have an intriguing opening act, a compelling and revelation-filled middle, and climactic final sequence that builds upon everything that has happened up to that point. They may not stimulate a lot of philosophical thought or make you question aspects of life, but I found them to be pretty entertaining and I loved that I could get the same satisfaction from reading a novel out of a far more condensed narrative. I think this could also make a decent side read if you are the type that's into the elaborate epics of Martin, Sanderson, and other modern fantasy rock-stars.
While not mind-blowing or even terribly deep, it was easy to appreciate the creativity in the characters and story as well as the consistency and coherence in each episode's respective magic systems.
If you're a reader like me who has been having a hard time finding time for books or are simply not a fan of the longer, sweeping tales that have dominated modern fantasy writing, then this book may provide some quality entertainment. The novellas are short and focused, but they strike a lot of the same notes as a full length novel and are structured in such a way that they have an intriguing opening act, a compelling and revelation-filled middle, and climactic final sequence that builds upon everything that has happened up to that point. They may not stimulate a lot of philosophical thought or make you question aspects of life, but I found them to be pretty entertaining and I loved that I could get the same satisfaction from reading a novel out of a far more condensed narrative. I think this could also make a decent side read if you are the type that's into the elaborate epics of Martin, Sanderson, and other modern fantasy rock-stars.
February 10, 2019
****No spoilers****
I have been a fan of Donaldson's since the early 2000s when I discovered Donaldson's Chronicles series, first six books of which I consider to be at the very top of the fantasy genre in scope, language, genius, and characterization. In fact, my wife and I named our only daughter in part after his character Linden Avery. Like I said, a fan of Donaldson's work.
That said, I just read this book, though it's been out a while. I really liked it. The book has two novellas, the first a sort of spaghetti western mashup with dark fantasy. The cover art I take to be the main character from this novella, Dark. If you like the genre of the mysterious outsider riding into town, misunderstood, deadly, and ultimately bringing justice to the provincial residents, this is the story for you.
The second story, however, is of much higher quality. Just read it for the language alone, frankly, though the story is intriguing as well. Donaldson really shows his chops with writing style on this one, and I say this as a PhD in rhetoric who wrote his dissertation on writing style. Not many authors could pull off the flawless delivery of the effete, self-referential, queen's servant like this. It's a pleasure just to listen to Donaldson play virtuoso level music with language. He has long been known for his voluminous vocabulary, but I think he just proved that he has equal facility with language construction and tone. Ultimately, I had a few questions about the plot at the end that I felt were unanswered, but it's still a fascinating and charming read. Highly recommended.
I have been a fan of Donaldson's since the early 2000s when I discovered Donaldson's Chronicles series, first six books of which I consider to be at the very top of the fantasy genre in scope, language, genius, and characterization. In fact, my wife and I named our only daughter in part after his character Linden Avery. Like I said, a fan of Donaldson's work.
That said, I just read this book, though it's been out a while. I really liked it. The book has two novellas, the first a sort of spaghetti western mashup with dark fantasy. The cover art I take to be the main character from this novella, Dark. If you like the genre of the mysterious outsider riding into town, misunderstood, deadly, and ultimately bringing justice to the provincial residents, this is the story for you.
The second story, however, is of much higher quality. Just read it for the language alone, frankly, though the story is intriguing as well. Donaldson really shows his chops with writing style on this one, and I say this as a PhD in rhetoric who wrote his dissertation on writing style. Not many authors could pull off the flawless delivery of the effete, self-referential, queen's servant like this. It's a pleasure just to listen to Donaldson play virtuoso level music with language. He has long been known for his voluminous vocabulary, but I think he just proved that he has equal facility with language construction and tone. Ultimately, I had a few questions about the plot at the end that I felt were unanswered, but it's still a fascinating and charming read. Highly recommended.
October 10, 2017
In The King's Justice, a stranger dressed in black arrives in the village of Settle's Crossways, following the scent of a terrible crime. He even calls himself "Black," though almost certainly that is not his name. The people of the village discover that they have a surprising urge to cooperate with this stranger, though the desire of inhabitants of quiet villages to cooperate with strangers is not common in their land, or most lands. But this gift will not save him as he discovers the nature of the evil concealed in Settle's Crossways.
The "Augur's Gambit" is a daring plan created by Mayhew Gordian, Hieronomer to the Queen of Indemnie, a plan to save his Queen and his country. Gordian is a reader of entrails. In the bodies of chickens, lambs, piglets, and one stillborn infant he sees the same message: the island nation of Indemnie is doomed. But even in the face of certain destruction a man may fight, and the Hieronomer is utterly loyal to his beautiful Queen--and to her only daughter. The "Augur's Gambit" is his mad attempt to save a kingdom.
The "Augur's Gambit" is a daring plan created by Mayhew Gordian, Hieronomer to the Queen of Indemnie, a plan to save his Queen and his country. Gordian is a reader of entrails. In the bodies of chickens, lambs, piglets, and one stillborn infant he sees the same message: the island nation of Indemnie is doomed. But even in the face of certain destruction a man may fight, and the Hieronomer is utterly loyal to his beautiful Queen--and to her only daughter. The "Augur's Gambit" is his mad attempt to save a kingdom.
March 9, 2018
I read the first Thomas Covenant trilogy many years ago, and part of the second trilogy not quite so many year ago. So this is the first thing I've read by Donaldson in a long time. And it reinforces why I love to read his writing: it's lyrical. Each character has a voice, each story has a tone, and his writing is poetry as much as it is prose. You sink into his worlds like a deep, comfortable chair. Settle in.
Each of these novellas stands on its own, and each exists in an interesting world that has different rules. They are both intriguing. I love-love-love Black in "The King's Justice." The type of magic Donaldson invests him with, and the way it works, is innovative and thought provoking. "The Augur's Gambit," told by hieronomer (think entrails) Mayhew Gordian, reminded me of Gene Wolf's Shadow of the Torturer and also had an interesting take on the repercussions of unending prosperity. All in all, a very enjoyable read ... but too short!
Each of these novellas stands on its own, and each exists in an interesting world that has different rules. They are both intriguing. I love-love-love Black in "The King's Justice." The type of magic Donaldson invests him with, and the way it works, is innovative and thought provoking. "The Augur's Gambit," told by hieronomer (think entrails) Mayhew Gordian, reminded me of Gene Wolf's Shadow of the Torturer and also had an interesting take on the repercussions of unending prosperity. All in all, a very enjoyable read ... but too short!
March 29, 2018
So this is 2 novellas in one book. The first story "The King's Justice" is a wonderful read. I was very into the world building and really wanted to find out more about Black and what happened to him. He is such a fascinating character, and I must have his back story. I totally give this story 4 stars!
The second story is "The Augur's Gambit" and it was not connected to the first story at all. This is story had everything to interest me, but it couldn't build anything out of it. Really, an intelligent queen, mystical stuff, drama/politics, an augur and whatnot else. Yet the entire story dragged on and was written poorly. I started skipping pages and skim reading to find out what happened. So, 1 star for that one.
The second story is "The Augur's Gambit" and it was not connected to the first story at all. This is story had everything to interest me, but it couldn't build anything out of it. Really, an intelligent queen, mystical stuff, drama/politics, an augur and whatnot else. Yet the entire story dragged on and was written poorly. I started skipping pages and skim reading to find out what happened. So, 1 star for that one.
June 21, 2019
This was purely an impulse buy, I bought it based solely on the author's name. I had enjoyed the Thomas Covenant stories many years ago, and had not read anything else by the author since.
This book includes two stand-alone stories. I thought the first (The King's Justice) was really good, and by itself was well worth what I paid for the book. The second story (The Auger's Gambit), however, I liked even more, and my only real disappointment at the end was that there was no more to follow.
This book has revived my interest in Mr. Donaldson's works, and I plan to fill my personal library with any of his books I have missed to date.
This book includes two stand-alone stories. I thought the first (The King's Justice) was really good, and by itself was well worth what I paid for the book. The second story (The Auger's Gambit), however, I liked even more, and my only real disappointment at the end was that there was no more to follow.
This book has revived my interest in Mr. Donaldson's works, and I plan to fill my personal library with any of his books I have missed to date.
February 2, 2021
I'd forgotten how much I missed the writings of Stephen R. Donaldson, and not sure how I missed this one until now!
And, while I loved the Thomas Covenant saga (warts and all), it's refreshing to see Donaldson stretch his creative legs again in a stand-alone fashion. Both these novellas offered a glimpse of a new world, and I'm hopeful that we get more in this vein.
As an aside, if you're a Donaldson fan, and haven't read the "Mordants Need" duology, do yourself a favor and do so! :)
And, while I loved the Thomas Covenant saga (warts and all), it's refreshing to see Donaldson stretch his creative legs again in a stand-alone fashion. Both these novellas offered a glimpse of a new world, and I'm hopeful that we get more in this vein.
As an aside, if you're a Donaldson fan, and haven't read the "Mordants Need" duology, do yourself a favor and do so! :)
February 7, 2017
Donaldson is a gifted storyteller. in both of these novellas, he managed to create a believable fantasy world that both made sense and maintained mystery while telling a full story in less than 150 pages. His vocabulary is extensive, but the story remains accessible and doesn't feel wordy. I very much enjoyed the stories, but they are not for younger audiences.
September 3, 2022
Stephen R. Donaldson is an author who (for better or worse, depending on how you feel about its deliberately unlikable protagonist) is largely identified by his three Thomas Covenant trilogies. It’s such a massive epic, and such a defining force in the fantasy genre, that it’s easy to forget he’s also written a pair of lighter portal fantasies (Mordant’s Need), an even darker science fiction saga (The Gap Cycle), a contemporary mystery series (The Man Who), and multiple short stories and novellas.
The King’s Justice is his latest collection, pairing two wildly different novellas in a surprisingly slender volume. Together, they make for an interesting read, showcasing two sides of his narrative talent.
First up we have the title story, The King’s Justice, which actually has something of an Old West feel to its flavor of traditional fantasy. Here we encounter a mysterious figure in black, known only as Black, who arrives in the village of Settle’s Crossways on the trail of murder. This was a dark, violent sort of tale, complete with magical compulsions and abhorrent sacrifices, that walks the sword’s edge between justice and vengeance. For such a short novella, there’s actually a lot of history and mythology hinted at in its pages, making it feel bigger than its page count. The narrative here is simple, without unnecessary flairs or flourishes, but it fits the rather sad and angry events that drive it.
The Augur’s Gambit, meanwhile, is an almost gothic fantasy tale of politics and prophecies. Mayhew Gordian is hieronomer to the Queen, reading her fate in the bloody entrails of beasts and (in one dark case) stillborn babes. Queen Inimica, meanwhile, is a woman desperately seeking to preserve her doomed kingdom through a complex (and somewhat comic) plot of marriages. In between them is the Queen’s plain-faced daughter, who serves to breathe some life into the rather dour, sterile narrative of Mayhew. It’s an interesting story, but slowly paced, and held back by the weakness of its narrator. While I wouldn’t mind revisiting the lush world of Indemnie, it would have to be with a more engaging guide, and there would have to be more going on to move the story forward.
While not nearly as bleak as the Thomas Covenant stories, these are still dark tales with a lot of edge. Fortunately, they’re also imaginative and well-crafted, making them solid additions to Donaldson’s shelf.
Originally reviewed at The Speculative Herald
The King’s Justice is his latest collection, pairing two wildly different novellas in a surprisingly slender volume. Together, they make for an interesting read, showcasing two sides of his narrative talent.
First up we have the title story, The King’s Justice, which actually has something of an Old West feel to its flavor of traditional fantasy. Here we encounter a mysterious figure in black, known only as Black, who arrives in the village of Settle’s Crossways on the trail of murder. This was a dark, violent sort of tale, complete with magical compulsions and abhorrent sacrifices, that walks the sword’s edge between justice and vengeance. For such a short novella, there’s actually a lot of history and mythology hinted at in its pages, making it feel bigger than its page count. The narrative here is simple, without unnecessary flairs or flourishes, but it fits the rather sad and angry events that drive it.
The Augur’s Gambit, meanwhile, is an almost gothic fantasy tale of politics and prophecies. Mayhew Gordian is hieronomer to the Queen, reading her fate in the bloody entrails of beasts and (in one dark case) stillborn babes. Queen Inimica, meanwhile, is a woman desperately seeking to preserve her doomed kingdom through a complex (and somewhat comic) plot of marriages. In between them is the Queen’s plain-faced daughter, who serves to breathe some life into the rather dour, sterile narrative of Mayhew. It’s an interesting story, but slowly paced, and held back by the weakness of its narrator. While I wouldn’t mind revisiting the lush world of Indemnie, it would have to be with a more engaging guide, and there would have to be more going on to move the story forward.
While not nearly as bleak as the Thomas Covenant stories, these are still dark tales with a lot of edge. Fortunately, they’re also imaginative and well-crafted, making them solid additions to Donaldson’s shelf.
Originally reviewed at The Speculative Herald
Disclaimer: Thanks to Angry Robot for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
December 21, 2021
I don't know what to think. Both novellas read like digest versions of full-length novels. I would have enjoyed them more *as* novels. I suspect the author really liked these ideas, but time and other manuscripts got in the way of fully developing them, so he polished them into reasonable shape for publication. Or his publisher said "hey, you have another book left on your contract, what have you got?" and this was the result (slap me for being cynical, sorry). I'm not going to dissect the plots/characters/world building, other reviewers have done that better than I might, read their reviews.
I will point out one thing that struck me, though (and it's related to "polish", mentioned previously: in the entire book, I didn't find a single misspelling or grammatical mistake. That hasn't happened since all the editors and proofreaders were sent to the reeducation camps I mean laid off in all the publishing house mergers in the early 21st century. If you told me these novellas were written in the 1980's and just sitting around since then, waiting to be a book, I'd believe it unreservedly. The quality of pre-publication this book shows hasn't existed for two decades or more. When I mentioned this to my peers it was pointed out that such may be the quality of wordsmithery by the author, not an editorial staff. If true then *wow* that's a level of manuscript mastery rarely seen today and this book, indeed all this author's works, are worth reading just for that perfection alone.
Nobody (alive that I can recall) does it better. Makes me feel sad for the rest who, despite a platoon of editors and beta-readers, still can't fix all the errors before publication. (and yes I know that was a Carly Simon oblique reference, I'm old, get off my lawn). If you get a chance, pick this book up and revel in the way it used to be.
I will point out one thing that struck me, though (and it's related to "polish", mentioned previously: in the entire book, I didn't find a single misspelling or grammatical mistake. That hasn't happened since all the editors and proofreaders were sent to the reeducation camps I mean laid off in all the publishing house mergers in the early 21st century. If you told me these novellas were written in the 1980's and just sitting around since then, waiting to be a book, I'd believe it unreservedly. The quality of pre-publication this book shows hasn't existed for two decades or more. When I mentioned this to my peers it was pointed out that such may be the quality of wordsmithery by the author, not an editorial staff. If true then *wow* that's a level of manuscript mastery rarely seen today and this book, indeed all this author's works, are worth reading just for that perfection alone.
Nobody (alive that I can recall) does it better. Makes me feel sad for the rest who, despite a platoon of editors and beta-readers, still can't fix all the errors before publication. (and yes I know that was a Carly Simon oblique reference, I'm old, get off my lawn). If you get a chance, pick this book up and revel in the way it used to be.
April 3, 2024
I've been having a hard time reading lately. This is very unusual for me, but every book I pick up, doesn't grab me. So I opted to go to my all time fave Donaldson.
This book has two novellas. The first is shorter than the second which is much longer.
1. The King's Justice - Black is on the hunt for the evil that has been murdering people and taking their livers to use in a ritual. Black has tattoos which give him supernatural powers and he uses them to coerce information. Interesting but I wish Black's character was more fleshed out. This would make a great full length book. It's kind of "The Gunslinger" - ish,
2. The Augur's Gambit - This was a longer tale and would have made a great full length book. There are elements of the novel's "Mirror of Her Dreams/ A Man Rides Through" in it. We have a Queen who is trying to save her land/ people and she is making decisions that seem unreasonable, but have a purpose and remaining a secret is part of the plan.
I love Donaldson and have been reading him since I was in my 20's. I don't think I can give him any bad reviews because I feel like I know his mind intimately. Weird but I think that happens between readers and authors sometimes. Anyhoo. I would recommend.
Blood gore violence. Some romance, all safe. No sex
This book has two novellas. The first is shorter than the second which is much longer.
1. The King's Justice - Black is on the hunt for the evil that has been murdering people and taking their livers to use in a ritual. Black has tattoos which give him supernatural powers and he uses them to coerce information. Interesting but I wish Black's character was more fleshed out. This would make a great full length book. It's kind of "The Gunslinger" - ish,
2. The Augur's Gambit - This was a longer tale and would have made a great full length book. There are elements of the novel's "Mirror of Her Dreams/ A Man Rides Through" in it. We have a Queen who is trying to save her land/ people and she is making decisions that seem unreasonable, but have a purpose and remaining a secret is part of the plan.
I love Donaldson and have been reading him since I was in my 20's. I don't think I can give him any bad reviews because I feel like I know his mind intimately. Weird but I think that happens between readers and authors sometimes. Anyhoo. I would recommend.
Blood gore violence. Some romance, all safe. No sex
October 24, 2025
Donaldson seems to be trying to write in the style of a previous time. Way previous. But, at least for me, it doesn’t really work. Especially in The King’s Justice. It makes the characters rather stilted, which is a major problem because the story is told imostly from Black’s point of view. It’s only near the end that I started to feel a connection to him. Even then his personality is rather stark. He does what he does because…well, pretty much just because.
Fortunately, it works better with Augur’s Gambit, maybe because the story is longer. What also helps is that there are more characters, each with their own distinct personalities. The story is told from the point of view of Mathew Gordian, the augur, who risks all to save all. It still took a while for me to get into the story. So much of it is the setting up of the kingdom’s history and that of its main citizens.
So, not a bad book, but not a great one. A disappointment, though, considering how much I’ve loved Donaldson’s other works.
Fortunately, it works better with Augur’s Gambit, maybe because the story is longer. What also helps is that there are more characters, each with their own distinct personalities. The story is told from the point of view of Mathew Gordian, the augur, who risks all to save all. It still took a while for me to get into the story. So much of it is the setting up of the kingdom’s history and that of its main citizens.
So, not a bad book, but not a great one. A disappointment, though, considering how much I’ve loved Donaldson’s other works.
August 20, 2024
Two stories, novellas, from Stephen Donaldson. These were first published in 2017, so written relatively recently. As with the Thomas Covenant series of books these stories are effectively about good versus evil, the first story explicitly, the second more implicitly.
The first reads like a story set in the American Wild West. I can see the main character, Black, in the King’s Justice being played by Clint Eastwood. I clearly have a vivid imagination. Here the good guys are very good, the bad guys…
The second story made me think of the late Tudor period, with Elizabeth the First on the throne. Here there is a bit more grey in the characterisations, at least for most the principal protagonists.
Both have magic in the stories, each with a different type.
If the Thomas Covenant novels were too dense for you to get on with, or just too large, try these they are much easier to read.
The first reads like a story set in the American Wild West. I can see the main character, Black, in the King’s Justice being played by Clint Eastwood. I clearly have a vivid imagination. Here the good guys are very good, the bad guys…
The second story made me think of the late Tudor period, with Elizabeth the First on the throne. Here there is a bit more grey in the characterisations, at least for most the principal protagonists.
Both have magic in the stories, each with a different type.
If the Thomas Covenant novels were too dense for you to get on with, or just too large, try these they are much easier to read.
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