The world of Arkaria is a dangerous place, filled with dragons, titans, goblins and other dangers. Those who live in this world are faced with two live an ordinary life, or become an adventurer and seek the extraordinary. After an ambush in the human capital of Reikonos deprives Cyrus Davidon of his beloved sword, Praelior, he and Sanctuary find themselves surrounded once more by countless enemies, including their old allies in the guild of Goliath. As the chaos rises, and their foes close in, Cyrus and his guildmates are once more left fighting for their own survival against all the world – an impossible battle, and one they are unlikely to win.
Robert J. Crane was born and raised on Florida's Space Coast before moving to the upper midwest in search of cooler climates and more palatable beer. He graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in English Creative Writing. He worked for a year as a substitute teacher and worked in the financial services field for seven years while writing in his spare time.
This was a really good book, a bit more thinking involved but more background supplied for some characters. Still lots of action against huge odds but it works.
There is so much that has happened in this book, so much trauma but also so much that makes you laugh out loud. Cyrus who grew up on his own in the society of arms, not allowed to have a group to bond with has gone through life the same way. After years of being at Sanctuary though he has friends and those he would do anything to protect. Now married to Vara it seems that the whole world is against Cyrus until Vara and the other officers of Sanctuary declare themselves heretics to support him. There is so much he learns throughout this story, the biggest being Larana the druid from the kitchen is really Quinneria, his mother. Who herself was declared a heretic sorceress. Working together with those still remaining at Sanctuary, those from Emerald Fields and Terian and his dark elves they set out to remove the label of heretic. Obviously, there is much blood and tears, fighting and magic on the go in all of the things they face. It all comes to a climax trying to end Malpravus - who is ever so slightly bonkers and his Goliath army. Cyrus and the other officers along with Terian, Aisling and Quinneria finally get the better of him in the big blowout magically hewn fight off. Thinking it is all over is when the worst possible events takes place. The God of War decides Cyrus must pay for not being loyal to him. Cyrus's world is ripped apart, Sanctuary is destroyed, there is nothing left. Or, is there? Cyrus is at the ruied Sanctuary building, all he wants to do is die. He is arguing with Vaste when Alaric reappears. So what is to come, and only one more book in the series. The only thing certain is Vara is no longer there. Will Alaric mend Sanctuary and Cyrus's broken heart. Will Cyrus learn about Aislings secret. I just wish I could read it now and find out, but that is not possible! Amazing series so far, I cannot wait to see how it concludes.
This book is a monster. 527 pages. But it doesn't feel that long. And the story and action packed within those pages? Wow.
Despite the events of this tale, it felt less frenetic, more measured. It's a story of discovery too, with Cyrus discovering not only who his true friends are, but also that he is much more than just a warrior with a powerful sword.
And at the end? Well. Even though I knew it was coming, there were tears. I'm not sure that I have yet completely forgiven the author for that. But the twist? (Yes reader, there is a twist.) Let's just say that I'm pleased that we don't have to wait an age for Legend, which is due in June.
For me, this is the most accomplished volume in the series.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The stakes for our heroes just keep rising and they keep stepping up. The moment happens in this book. Though before that happens they go on a vengeful ride and deliver the justice their guild deserves. This book also has two giant reveals. which i won't spoil. The action and situations the characters are put in were great once again. The banter was fine. Reading some characters together was gold. No complaints or negative issues. Just sadness for one character. I am very excited to see how this series ends.
The God of War killed Vara!! He did it to punish Cyrus. And it almost killed Cyrus too. They defeated all their enemies, even Golitha and it's evil leader. And Cyrus has his mother back. She's been there all along, hiding in plain sight. This is one of the best books I've ever read. I can't wait to read the next book. Why has Alaric returned now? And how did he get away from Bellarum? Highly recommended for all.
Poor Cyrus....I justed finished book 7 and i am reeling over his loss. I dont know how he manages to go on...guess ill find out in book 8. I hope this guy can find some happiness...having said that, this story is awesome! The battle scenes are sometimes longer and more detailed than i would like, but Crane has done a beautiful job with the characters in this story.
Hold your breath for this one. It kept me on the edge of my seat and literally waking up at 3 A. M. To read because I couldn't sleep until I found out what happened next. Couldn't believe how it ended even though I knew already that Sanctuary was destroyed and that Vara dies it was still a shock reading the story and sad.
Very political in the beginning so very slow for me, but sometimes we need all the setup so we can empathize with the characters. Action packed at the end and tons of great banter with Vaste. I love the characters in this whole series and am excited for the last book!
I for one am completely under this author's spell. Hopefully book eight will sign my release and bring to a satisfactory end the torment faced by the main characters in the book and myself as a follower.
When I started reading this series I really didn't have high hopes for it. Not in comparison to the other series I've read. Well, I was proven wrong yet again because the author has woven a tale that's been getting better and better.
I've read the first seven books in one week. Of course, I'm talking about the Sanctuary Series. I love you❤ Robert Crane. Please tell me there's more than eleven. I think I read 45 "Girl in the Box". Love, love , love Vara, Cyrus, Terian, hell, all of them!
This was truly action-packed, on the edge of your sit adventure. The betrayal of those you don't expect , the death of some unexpected and the return of someone you thought walked away.
Sad ride for Cyrus things starting to spiral out of control.. cant wait to see Cyrus out of the dismal funk. He needs to find his own way and not go the pre-chosen path hes been attempting for years.
A very good read with great characters. Lots of action and continually Changing plot twists.Crane is a great writer and knows how to keep his readers entertained.
I hate and love this book. I hate it for the fact that, even though we knew it was coming, that death was unbelievable heartbreaking, and unforgivable (I'm looking at you Robert J. Crane!). The final battle with Malpravus gave me goosebumps, what an absolute thrill to read! And the twist at the end! I'm looking forward to reading the last book, but it will be very sad as well. Vaste remains my favourite character, let's keep those jokes coming!
Also, not sure if anyone knows, but will these books ever be available as a boxed set? As I understand it they are only available on Kindle right now. This is an amazing series and deserves a spot on my book shelf!
Another good read, we get to learn more about Cyrus from his time in the Society of Arms to his heritage that is revealed in a spectacular way - this has been planned so well and is obvious once it is mentioned.
The whole world of Sanctuary and the Emerald Fields is turned upside down with them being branded Heretics for breaking rules that before seemed impossible and for Cyrus everything is suddenly catching up to him, even his own God.
This had me in tears at points and then the twist had me pausing mid-sob everything has been planned and there is so much more to be uncovered.