Valley of the Shadow

The Desolate Empire #2

by Christina Ochs

A captive prince. A desperate princess. An alliance that will shake the foundations of an empire.

In the wake of battle, Kendryk finds himself the prisoner of Empress Teodora. As war ravages Terragand, Kendryk’s guilt is matched only by his fear that he will never see his family again. Gwynneth, in possession of a valuable captive but sworn to keep him close, faces Teodora’s wrath as she waits in anguish for relief.

But when Gwynneth’s rescue comes, the empire will never be the same again.

A tide of religious upheaval sweeps across the land, bearing men and women toward their fates. The delicate joy shared by Janna and Braeden will be shattered; the king of a neighboring kingdom will walk the edge of madness; and an oath of vengeance will bind three unlikely allies together in a desperate attempt to curb Teodora’s ambitions once and for all.

The Desolate Empire, Christina Ochs’ epic fantasy series, continues in Book 2:Valley of the Shadow.

Genres: Fantasy, Ebooks

587 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 15, 2016

About the author

Get a free ebook of the prequel when you join my reader's group!
Click the link below to get started:
http://christinaochs.com/prequel

Reviews

[Seon Ji (Dawn) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series.

It is just as great as the first book. Although I have classified this series as "fantasy" it truly has no classification it is unique. There are great battles which are wonderfully written, there are Princes and nobility, there is some romance and alot of tragedy.

I can see how much of an influence George RR Martin has on this author, especially with regards to killing off characters you would never think would die. I like this. Lots of surprises.

There were no editing issues that I noticed, the pace was staedy, the characters seemed real and the antagoinsts even had a bit (if not much) humanity.

I eagerly await the third book which seems to be due out this spring.

I am happy to report that this one doesn't leave the reader hanging so much at the end as did the first. (I was relieved that the next book was available LOL.)

I really like this author and am following her both on GR and Book Bub.

[Amy Braun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been eagerly waiting to read the next instalment in Christina Ochs series, and it was worth the wait! I thought her various, unique, dimensional characters had gone through hard times before. Boy, was I ever wrong! The stakes became astronomical, the adventure and action intense, and the drama painful because not everyone makes it out alive. There was one particular farewell that really hurt me, and made the final chapter even more difficult to bear. It didn't quite make me want to throw my ereader across the room, but there were a couple isntances where I had to re-read certain chapter to make sure what I thought happened actually happened, and that was when the feels kicked in with steel-toed boots.

Every character has fantastic growth, new ones are eager, and I even found myself feeling a little sorry for Teodora at some points. If you've read the first book, Rise of the Storm, you know how insane that idea is. Oh, and if you're wondering if our dear empress gets any worse? SHE TOTALLY DOES.

I always look forward to Ochs contributions to the Weekend Writing Warrior community (wewriwa.com). She's an amazing writer, and her love for the series is awesome. Her characters and interest in history make for a truly fantastic read, and I recommend this to all fantasy lovers. Especially if you like Game of Thrones. There are points that will touch your heart, make you gasp, hurt you, and make you want to stand up and cheer. Of course, this leaves with one more major question... What happens next?!

[Kate M. Colby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received a free electronic copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Valley of the Shadow by Christina Ochs is the second book in The Desolate Empire series. You can read my review of the first book, Rise of the Storm, on my website or Goodreads page. In the spirit of avoiding spoilers, this review will use intentionally vague language and focus more heavily on my reactions to the novel as opposed to its content.

Picking right up where Rise of the Storm left off, Valley of the Shadow begins by following the aftermath of a large battle. Throughout the novel, the characters on either side of the empire's opposing forces attempt to lobby for their side, as well as find a piece of happiness and respite from the misery of war.

Stylistically, Valley of the Shadow reads much like its predecessor - the chapters are short and the perspectives rotate, keeping the reader moving quickly, but smoothly, through the action. There is never a dull moment, and each chapter leaves the reader anxiously awaiting the next turn of events.

As for the characters, Ochs continues their development with steadiness and grace. More and more layers of their personalities are revealed as they are put through harrowing trials and given small victories. It's probably evident from my language, but several of the characters face traumatizing events. The overall mood of Valley of the Shadow is rather bleak, and things seem to go from bad to worse for characters on both sides of the war. However, through it all, Ochs offers enough moments of comedy (and a few key victories) to balance out the heartache. And, as I already alluded, the resulting character development from these tragedies is inspiring and satisfying.

Overall, I enjoyed Valley of the Shadow just as much, if not more, than Rise of the Storm. The pace is quick, without being neck-snapping, the characters are complex and appropriately lovable or hate-able, and the conclusion wraps up enough plot lines to be satisfying, but leaves enough open to have the reader anxious for the next book. As always, Ochs's writing style is eloquent enough to captivate the reader, but straight-forward enough as to not get in the way of the story. Her world is detailed and only becomes more interesting as she reveals more of it to the reader.

For those of you on the fence about reading Rise of the Storm or Valley of the Shadow, I'll leave you with this final thought: This series is Game of Thrones without the literal magic (so far) and with tasteful fade-to-black that keeps it appropriate for all ages. I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys fantasy, action, medieval-style tales, and good old-fashioned sword fighting.

[Whitney McGruder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I noticed Och’s organization style in Rise of the Storm, and she continues this into this novel. I enjoy seeing what everyone is thinking when the chapter focuses on their POV, but you also get a strong feeling about how other characters view them, too. Getting inside Teodora’s mind is intriguing and frightening all the same.

Speaking of Teodora, I would say that she makes the story interesting and fast-paced. At this point of the story, it’s her versus the rebels, so her rage and anger drives the plot. In fact, the characters on her side are constantly tasked with keeping key prisoners alive as well as whole towns and villages from getting destroyed. It’s not a job for the faint of heart. Even though I despise Teodora, it’s those feelings that made me realize that Ochs has devised quite the villain.

Another thing I enjoyed overall was Och’s ability to keep readers 100% up to speed with politics and war strategy. Never have I read a book where the strategy and results of said strategy were clearly explained—the explanation isn’t dumbed down in any way, so readers can easily follow each side’s mindset to the point where they feel like they’re a part of the intrigue as well.

I usually have a section that outlines things I didn’t enjoy, but to be honest, I couldn’t find anything that particularly bugged me. A few typos, but not distracting enough to cause a commotion. I would say that her organization of the overall story and her chapters makes it so you can easily trace and enjoy each character arc and the ending is satisfying. Everyone is accounted for, so all loose ends are tied, but with enough plot to graciously hand the baton to the next book, Hammer of the Gods.

Overall, Christina Ochs does it again by continuing the story of war, religion, and free will. Usually, there’s always a slight preference to an author’s first book over the rest, but she evenly spreads out her writing style and skills into this book without skipping a beat. Her storytelling style is controlled and engaging. If you loved Rise of the Storm, this sequel will not disappoint.

This novel is ultimately appropriate for young adults and older; intercourse and rape is mentioned but not explained in detail, in case that’s not your thing.

I would highly recommend picking up Valley of the Shadow.

[Damian Southam · Rating 4 out of 5]

As one might guess, had they read Rise of the Storm, essential for complete understanding of the story thus far, Prince Kendryk's horse did a right ol' number on his leg when Empress Teodora shot him out from under Kendryk. The Inferrara rulers, women included, have some degree of competency and a fierce thirst in the affairs of active battle. I'm sure to Kendryk's chagrin he'd have rathered anyone but Teodora being the one to take him down. Its probably fair to say however, that she'd have killed anyone in her forces, including Generals and the like, had they attempted any such thing. After all, her temper tantrums are as well known as was her thirst for Kendryk's death.

With the loss on the battlefield Princess Gwynneth is entrenched so her correspondence to her royal family in Norovaea, now takes on a bigger scope as her older brother Arryk now takes on a character's point of view. Added to these new additions are a change in some of those carrying over from Rise of the Storm. Young Anton now gains a more important role in shaping the outlook on events; and Teodora's also seem to increase in frequency. Most others remain although some have less frequency in appearance.

Whilst some characters are celebrating, others grieve, convalesce, reevaluate and continue their course unchanged respectively. For the dethroned Kendryk and Gwynneth they continue their existential crisis, with Edras now mostly counselling Gwynneth as they come to better understand one another, much like he had Kendryk. Braedyn and Janna take some time out to enjoy honeymoon bliss and the joys of bringing their own first child into the world. Janna, as much as an advocate for what is right over that which is wrong, still sees the skewed outlook she developed because of what consequences befell her due to rebellion. Braedyn, having always been the equivalent of a mercenary, also continues to sit the fence; seeing only the rights of those who pay his prince as those he invests his interest in. Like many characters though, the costs for his unchecked loyalty may be quite high.

Both these latter characters are perhaps the greatest examples thus far of how the status quo is maintained even when the supporters know that what they're doing is fundamentally wrong. Whilst the Kronland rulers refused to mount and maintain support for Terragand's fight against the corruption, Teodora might finally shifted the tide further against her in her handling of her political fight against Kendryk. She abolishes their charter outright, showing the other rulers that their own sovereignty is by no means fixed. As Kendryk's health improves under the ministrations of Sybil, his unwillingness to barter sees a rapid decline in the conditions in which he is kept.

Gwynneth's position slowly approaches critical as her provisions stowed for a lengthy seige, begin to dwindle and rot in the face of no external support. King Arryk, now crowned following the long approaching, departs for a rescue effort. Once gain the forces collected are untried and untested, whittling away at the effectiveness of the numbers they can build. As has been the case in conflict on the battlefield thus far, the empire continues to have the greatest number of experienced forces, if only because they're seasoned veterans and not necessarily the youngest or fittest. As Orlon stated in his decision to forego a rescue of Kendryk whilst he was in transit to the capital, his forces are well equipped but would still need to number at four times that of the empire's before they could offer any effective resistance. So despite his great personal motivation to teach Teodora a long overdue lesson, he also continues to sit on the fence.

The games of nobles and rulers are in many ways, just that: games. Much like a chess board and pieces these vested parties manipulate the pieces that will line up for the White in one instance, but may well be the Black in the next. Kings, Queens, Princes, and Princesses commit to their political wrangling to draw to them the Rooks, Knight, Castles and so forth, which in war are often the Dukes, Duchesses, Counts, and Bishops who all have their own pawns. These are made up of the generals, captains and commanders of the cavalry, infantry and mercenaries who have thousands upon thousands soldiers who follow the orders from above. When Black meets White on the checkered playing board, its mostly the pawns doing the dying. Yes, at times the Kings, Queens, Princes, Princesses, Rooks, Knights, Castles and so forth are caught by the opposing side; but for every twice they're captured or defeated on the playing board, only around once do they lose their lives or face gorture or hardh punishment. The other occasion sees them living in moderate comfort as political hostages against further playing, or released to go home to start recruiting again.

The greatest casualties are among the general populace who have no interests in the wars. Oh it might be played on such terms as two opposing faiths, or too much or too little taxes, or any of the myriad propaganda. At the end of the day its the everyday men doing most of the dying, the everyday women experiencing the greatest rapine and hostage, and the children being endlessly orphaned or forced into menial slavery. Add to that the number of horses and other animals slaughtered, the former in the defeat and losses of the cavalry, the latter in the collection of food, plus the devastation to the land, the endless trees for fire and siege equipment, the other elements used to make oil, ammunition, gun powder and the many other resources necessary to field armies and battles, and you're left with untold loss, grief and pain. Most decisions get made too lightly, decision makers happy to make mistakes because it makes them more cautious or knowledgeable for the next round of hate. Grievances far and wide, many for the sake of saving face, or simply so they have a reasonable grievance to make. Perhaps if the death and extreme punishment were to start at the top of the ladder, then the self same decision makers would be less likey to prompt the new ones into making the same mistakes.

Valley of the Shadow of thoroughly entertaining and is a revealing expose of the machinations of war. It strongly pursued and highlights the devastation and loss with little regard for sensibilities of readers sho might be aware of the costs of conflict but who would prefer not to be exposed. Its impossible to read the many perceptions of the great number of characters involved and still remain unaffected by their stories. Still very much a historical fiction I'd be lying if I didn't say I'm still waiting to see how it fits into historical fantasy. Not that there's necessarily anything wrong with the story, its just that baring brief speculations about one little encountered character, and the prophetic vision given in a dream throughout the first book, there's be no direct fantasy element yet. Still, the story is unavoidably moving and judged on its own merits and the storytelling style within, the series has been enjoyable to read.

[WayneM0 · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars ~ no hesitation.

This had me hooked from the first page. Great action, suspense and an immense world with lots of new and old characters.

The worldbuilding is just fantastic and while there are a lot of kingdoms, and places to remember they are very vividly brought to life. There are some familiar places but also new ones which always reflect the kingdom they represent.

The characters are great and in this one we get a more in depth look at some of the main recurring characters like Kendryk, Gwynneth and Teodora. You get a more rounded portrayal of Teodora here which is ok (although thankfully she is still pretty bad ) but thank heavens Daciana is still evil personified. Anton and Braedon are seen a bit more and there are some good additions as new characters (Arryk and Mattilla are notable ones). They all blend in well together and some of the numerous characters threads are starting to wind together.

There is action, twists, turns, surprises and a bit of drama and suspense as well. Even to the last page the surprises keep coming (and a cliffhanger ending ~ I love cliffhanger endings)
The pacing is really good and moves along at a good pace. The action is well interlaced with the more political aspects of it. The political machinations are especially well written as to be suspenseful and not boring.

I really liked the first in this series but this one took that and ramped it up a few notches. Well worth the read and highly recommended.

[Tim Lumsden · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS!!! Really Great!!! Enjoyed very much!!!

Even better than book 1. The adventures of our cast of characters continues; Prince Kenndryk, Princess Gwyneth, the Empress, Prince Arryk, Janna, Count Orland and all the rest. Intrigue, battles, love, loss.... and be forewarned; Ms. Ochs does not hesitate killing off a main character or 2! But for those who love history, as I do, a great read!!! HAPPY READING!!!!
Tim

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in Christina Ochs' epic tale set in the time-frame of the Thirty Years War. The story continued to unfold, keeping me glued to the turning pages. Characters I'd fallen in love with, along with others I'd learned to despise, marched on toward their fates. Sometimes I was angry, sometimes I was sad. This book really left me with a feeling of needing to see some vengeance dished out. But in this world, allies change and you can't be sure of whom you can count on. Power is a horribly addictive thing.

Ochs' writing is superb. Hollywood, take note; this needs to be a television mini-series.

[Jodi Woody · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read book one in the Desolate Empire as part of a boxed set with various authors. I liked it enough to get Valley of the Shadow which is book two. Good writing, a lot of battle strategy and characters to keep track of. I give it four stars, I really like it and will be reading book three. There is some implied sexual content, no swearing, and there is violence. I can recommend for teens and up.