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Nightblade #3
The Wind and the Void
The invasion is here. Already decimated by civil war, the armies of the Three Kingdoms struggle desperately to mount a defense against a force stronger than any they have fought before.
In the midst of the chaos the actions and choices of a select few will shape the future of the land. Akira prepares to give up his Lordship. Ryuu wanders the Southern Kingdom, searching for a reason to fight. Moriko sits quietly, biding her time before she leaves the Three Kingdoms for good. Finally, across the Three Sisters, Nameless fight to keep his fragile alliance of clans together.
A new age is dawning in the Three Kingdoms. An age born in blood and sacrifice. An age shaped by the wind and the void. . .
In the midst of the chaos the actions and choices of a select few will shape the future of the land. Akira prepares to give up his Lordship. Ryuu wanders the Southern Kingdom, searching for a reason to fight. Moriko sits quietly, biding her time before she leaves the Three Kingdoms for good. Finally, across the Three Sisters, Nameless fight to keep his fragile alliance of clans together.
A new age is dawning in the Three Kingdoms. An age born in blood and sacrifice. An age shaped by the wind and the void. . .
440 pages, Paperback
First published March 24, 2016
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774 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
December 18, 2017
This was a bit of a bumpy ride for me. First I was bored. Next I was annoyed. Then pissed. Eventually hooked. Next thing I know, I’m annoyed and pissed again. Finally I’m satisfied. Unfortunately the bumps along the way left me with an overall feeling of disenchantment.
There was so much potential for a gripping, compelling plot with complex themes and character development but while the brutality of war and the inevitable political and personal dilemmas created by it were touched upon, they weren’t explored in depth or with satisfying gravity. The superficial treatment of such moral conundrums was frustrating.
The moral dilemma of taking lives in order to save other lives and the ripple effect that occurs no matter which choice you make is a theme that started in Nightblade and that is revisited throughout the series. We’re told how it destroys Ryuu’s confidence and torments his soul, but I never felt it. Kirk didn’t breathe life into it in a credible way. While Ryuu continually questions the morality of killing for the greater good, we never get to see how he comes to terms with it.
I was also disturbed by the way the Azarians are portrayed. In World’s Edge, we learned that the Azarians are on the precipice of extinction due to dwindling food and resources in their homeland. We also learned that their accepted cultural norms are rather brutal and only allow for the strongest to survive. If they want to survive, they need to be tough and they need to find a new home with resources to support them. Their plight stirred empathy and compassion in me. I understood why they invaded the Three Kingdoms. I also understood that their cultural norms conflicted with the norms of the people in the Three Kingdoms, it made sense. What I didn’t understand was why Kirk turned them into such overwhelmingly horrific killers in The Wind and the Void. It felt over the top and unnecessary. It plays into a disturbing narrative that people who are different than us should be exterminated. And that was mirrored by both the Azarians and the people of the Kingdom. It was frustrating and unsettling that attempts to resolve the conflict peacefully through diplomacy were so few and far between.
I was relatively happy with the conclusion and I did appreciate that multiple sides of the political and moral dilemmas were touched upon, but I would have enjoyed The Wind and the Void more if the exploration of these complex issues had more depth and nuance.
2.5 stars rounded up.
There was so much potential for a gripping, compelling plot with complex themes and character development but while the brutality of war and the inevitable political and personal dilemmas created by it were touched upon, they weren’t explored in depth or with satisfying gravity. The superficial treatment of such moral conundrums was frustrating.
The moral dilemma of taking lives in order to save other lives and the ripple effect that occurs no matter which choice you make is a theme that started in Nightblade and that is revisited throughout the series. We’re told how it destroys Ryuu’s confidence and torments his soul, but I never felt it. Kirk didn’t breathe life into it in a credible way. While Ryuu continually questions the morality of killing for the greater good, we never get to see how he comes to terms with it.
I was also disturbed by the way the Azarians are portrayed. In World’s Edge, we learned that the Azarians are on the precipice of extinction due to dwindling food and resources in their homeland. We also learned that their accepted cultural norms are rather brutal and only allow for the strongest to survive. If they want to survive, they need to be tough and they need to find a new home with resources to support them. Their plight stirred empathy and compassion in me. I understood why they invaded the Three Kingdoms. I also understood that their cultural norms conflicted with the norms of the people in the Three Kingdoms, it made sense. What I didn’t understand was why Kirk turned them into such overwhelmingly horrific killers in The Wind and the Void. It felt over the top and unnecessary. It plays into a disturbing narrative that people who are different than us should be exterminated. And that was mirrored by both the Azarians and the people of the Kingdom. It was frustrating and unsettling that attempts to resolve the conflict peacefully through diplomacy were so few and far between.
I was relatively happy with the conclusion and I did appreciate that multiple sides of the political and moral dilemmas were touched upon, but I would have enjoyed The Wind and the Void more if the exploration of these complex issues had more depth and nuance.
2.5 stars rounded up.
December 6, 2016
This entire Trilogy was the best I'd read in 2016. Love the characters and the simple telling of the stories. The Author didn't waste words and not much of repetitions of the story, which I love. I don't want to give too much info but I highly recommend this trilogy to anyone who connects with the blade & assassins kind of world. I am!
April 6, 2016
The best book of the trilogy
I loved this series and this last book more specifically. Things were wrapped up nicely. The characters have grown so much since the first book. I was sad to read this last book. It feels like I am parting with old friends.
I loved this series and this last book more specifically. Things were wrapped up nicely. The characters have grown so much since the first book. I was sad to read this last book. It feels like I am parting with old friends.
July 19, 2023
So much has past. The Three Kingdoms torn asunder by war. Still it is not over. A force unlike any other amasses for conquest. It will take a force out of legend to survive it.
Now that was one amazing series! Brutal, unforgiving & unsettling at times. All epic. Kudos Ryan Kirk 🏆
Now that was one amazing series! Brutal, unforgiving & unsettling at times. All epic. Kudos Ryan Kirk 🏆
April 1, 2018
This series could have been so much more. The premise of the series was interesting. It just didn't fully deliver on its promise to keep you entertained.
At times, it was remedial reading and redundant. "Akira took a break from fighting. He took a moment to catch his breath." Stuff like this doesn't add much to the storyline and it happens often where a thought is, well, thought again in the next sentence. Moriko was a star and her story was better than the rest. Even the tone was different when she was the focal point - you felt it. You wanted that from the other heroes and villains, but they were not given the same energy or pulse. It just feel flat. Things were also too predictable. As noted, this could have been truly epic.
At times, it was remedial reading and redundant. "Akira took a break from fighting. He took a moment to catch his breath." Stuff like this doesn't add much to the storyline and it happens often where a thought is, well, thought again in the next sentence. Moriko was a star and her story was better than the rest. Even the tone was different when she was the focal point - you felt it. You wanted that from the other heroes and villains, but they were not given the same energy or pulse. It just feel flat. Things were also too predictable. As noted, this could have been truly epic.
March 10, 2018
A new age is dawning in the three kingdoms. An age born in blood and sacrifice. An age shaped by the wind and the void.
This is book three of the Nightblade trilogy, a fast paced high action fantasy that pulls you in and doesn't let go. I loved catching up with Ryuu, Moriko, and Akira. With an ending that got me right in the feels more than once. Looking forward to reading the Nightblade spin off books.
This is book three of the Nightblade trilogy, a fast paced high action fantasy that pulls you in and doesn't let go. I loved catching up with Ryuu, Moriko, and Akira. With an ending that got me right in the feels more than once. Looking forward to reading the Nightblade spin off books.
July 3, 2016
Great end to a good series.
August 8, 2016
Just go get this series. Sword fights, war, strategy, political intrigue, a hint of romance & characters that make sense/ even the "bad guys". Epic Feudal Japanese badassery
July 28, 2017
Fitting ending, though, not that surprising.
I like how Nameless was dealt with.
I like how Nameless was dealt with.
September 11, 2017
Just didn't grab me sorry
Loved the first book but by book 3 I had just become a little bored with characters that didn't engage me the same way.
Loved the first book but by book 3 I had just become a little bored with characters that didn't engage me the same way.
May 20, 2018
Love
What a lovely series, so much honor, self discipline, and self discovery. The growth in the characters are emphasized greatly in this last novel. All of their strengths are shown at a higher power from the prequels.
What a lovely series, so much honor, self discipline, and self discovery. The growth in the characters are emphasized greatly in this last novel. All of their strengths are shown at a higher power from the prequels.
August 21, 2017
Having loved the first book of the trilogy, and mostly enjoyed the second, I had hoped the slight dip in form of the second book would be overcome as the series comes to a conclusion. If anything, I would say the slump continues. Ryuu becomes even more irritating and self-obsessed, though the continuing development of Moriko as (in my view) the most important character was a good aspect. I really grew to like Akira more than I had thought, he does come across as someone who wants to do the right thing, personal impacts aside.
I may have zoned out for a few pages but I'm sure Tenchi had promised to tell Ryuu the secret history of the nightblades and why they left the three kingdoms - but this never seemed to arrive. This would be such an important part of the background to the whole trilogy but I don't remember the revelation I was expecting (but it could have happened as I got off the train and I wasn't concentrating).
Again, Ryan Kirk's writing style makes it easy to read, but this book was full of typos which I found quite jarring.
The plot basically mimics the first 2 stories - again the strongest opponent Ryuu has ever faced must be beaten. However, Ryuu's development to do so doesn't seem believable, "it just happens".
Again for me Ryuu mirrors Rand al Thor's character - he becomes less likeable or interesting the more powerful he gets.
Overall, I am very glad I finished the trilogy but I still feel a few too many loose ends (fairly significant ones) were left untied.
I probably will return to the world of the three kingdoms in the follow-ups but not for a while.
I may have zoned out for a few pages but I'm sure Tenchi had promised to tell Ryuu the secret history of the nightblades and why they left the three kingdoms - but this never seemed to arrive. This would be such an important part of the background to the whole trilogy but I don't remember the revelation I was expecting (but it could have happened as I got off the train and I wasn't concentrating).
Again, Ryan Kirk's writing style makes it easy to read, but this book was full of typos which I found quite jarring.
The plot basically mimics the first 2 stories - again the strongest opponent Ryuu has ever faced must be beaten. However, Ryuu's development to do so doesn't seem believable, "it just happens".
Again for me Ryuu mirrors Rand al Thor's character - he becomes less likeable or interesting the more powerful he gets.
Overall, I am very glad I finished the trilogy but I still feel a few too many loose ends (fairly significant ones) were left untied.
I probably will return to the world of the three kingdoms in the follow-ups but not for a while.
November 24, 2018
This is my first official review of any book, apart from recommendations and engagements on social media platforms like Reddit. I feel like after reading such a masterpiece as this, credit should be given where credit is due.
Coming from my recent "Kings Dark Tidings" trilogy, before them "The Rise of Sigurd", "The First Law" and the 3 stand alone books of their universe among others.. Ryan Kirk is one of my new top shelf favourite authors. The Nightblade series is one of the most gripping tales of ethics, moral, action and reaction I have ever read. It is a fantasy tale of epic proportion, and tremendous intensity.
I like to spend time reading my books. Stretching them out over long spans of time, and occasionally allowing days of intense reading to splurge myself. This time it was different. I have been reading the "Nightblade" trilogy for the past few weeks, but I only purchased "The Wind and the Void" less than two days ago, and between work and sleep, which have been minimal, I could not put it down. I finished it less than 48 hours later, and I will spend the rest of the day reflecting on what I have read.
As to the story there are several reviews that will satisfy your needs as well as they can be satisfied. I only wish to exacerbate my recommendation of this series, and give credit to its quality.
Coming from my recent "Kings Dark Tidings" trilogy, before them "The Rise of Sigurd", "The First Law" and the 3 stand alone books of their universe among others.. Ryan Kirk is one of my new top shelf favourite authors. The Nightblade series is one of the most gripping tales of ethics, moral, action and reaction I have ever read. It is a fantasy tale of epic proportion, and tremendous intensity.
I like to spend time reading my books. Stretching them out over long spans of time, and occasionally allowing days of intense reading to splurge myself. This time it was different. I have been reading the "Nightblade" trilogy for the past few weeks, but I only purchased "The Wind and the Void" less than two days ago, and between work and sleep, which have been minimal, I could not put it down. I finished it less than 48 hours later, and I will spend the rest of the day reflecting on what I have read.
As to the story there are several reviews that will satisfy your needs as well as they can be satisfied. I only wish to exacerbate my recommendation of this series, and give credit to its quality.
September 26, 2017
Great ending to a surprisingly well liked trilogy for me. I thought it was going to be too YA at first, and while there is a certain element and balance of that in the story it still holds up well. It tackles and deals with enough topics on a mature level to make it stand out from YA. From all the violence, the subterfuge, political intrigue and mainly how it deals with death. Not just someone got their head chopped off type death, but complete character development where you will journey with them, invest in them and see conflict through theirs eyes. When they die, it means something. It has more impact. And that's what played a big part in it for me. Aside all the crazy sword tricks and magically sensing and feeling, it was the realness. The sense of doom versus the sense of hope. These human situations and characteristics is what I really craved.
Would definitely read more from this author and would be interested to see what he throws out next.
Would definitely read more from this author and would be interested to see what he throws out next.
February 10, 2018
Incredible Series
"I’ve learned that finishing a story (or in this case, a trilogy) is much harder than starting one. When you start, a whole world awaits... [Every page is an adventure.]. But finishing a story is just the opposite. With a great storyteller, a good ending doesn’t leave the reader hanging. It answers the questions and closes the loops"....I just finished the third book in the NightBlade Series. Much of the above review was actually written by the author, as he reflected after finishing The Wind and the Void, and I paraphrased him, just a little, as using his own words seemed like a fitting way to give well-deserved praise and recommend this book and the incredible series.
"I’ve learned that finishing a story (or in this case, a trilogy) is much harder than starting one. When you start, a whole world awaits... [Every page is an adventure.]. But finishing a story is just the opposite. With a great storyteller, a good ending doesn’t leave the reader hanging. It answers the questions and closes the loops"....I just finished the third book in the NightBlade Series. Much of the above review was actually written by the author, as he reflected after finishing The Wind and the Void, and I paraphrased him, just a little, as using his own words seemed like a fitting way to give well-deserved praise and recommend this book and the incredible series.
April 26, 2016
This was an enjoyable series. Randomly picked it up on Amazon. Kept me entertained all the way through. I only give the final book 3 stars instead of 4 due to what I see as a large number of inconsistencies. You can only describe someone as a ruthless murderer and turn around say they aren't so many times. Moriki didn't think she loved the man Ryuu was anymore since he lost his strength to fight, but she just wanted to go live in peace. There was a lot of these kinds of things and it got pretty bad(consistency wise), but I still enjoyed it for what it was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2017
After reading the preceding volumes I was very disappointed in this one. The editing was far from perfect. The characters tended to be static rather than dynamic. I felt the author was just going from tying up one loose end to another without making it a narrative. There was little if any new plot development. It was so frustrating that a series that had been so vibrant and innovative should wind up its trilogy with such a lackluster ending.
December 13, 2016
Must read
All three books of the Nightblade series have been a pleasure to read. The story is dynamic and the characters are easy to follow and continue their development throughout. This last book is by far my favorite - all stories came to a natural conclusion and the author made an effort to leave the readers with a clear picture of where life will take the heroes.
All three books of the Nightblade series have been a pleasure to read. The story is dynamic and the characters are easy to follow and continue their development throughout. This last book is by far my favorite - all stories came to a natural conclusion and the author made an effort to leave the readers with a clear picture of where life will take the heroes.
December 26, 2016
All good things must come to an end
I have enjoyed every part of all three books, its sad to think there will be no more stories involving the amazing characters in these books but I think its better to leave the rest to the imagination so in some ways the story never ends. Thank you very much
I have enjoyed every part of all three books, its sad to think there will be no more stories involving the amazing characters in these books but I think its better to leave the rest to the imagination so in some ways the story never ends. Thank you very much
June 1, 2017
Interesting coming of age samurai tail
I enjoyed the characters yet the humor and expansion of main characters seemed to stagnate. Fighting for survival was pivotal in the first books, but would of enjoyed a little more of Ryuu's development. What I did really enjoy was the samurai aspects. Yet there was a wide world always hinted at yet left blank.
I enjoyed the characters yet the humor and expansion of main characters seemed to stagnate. Fighting for survival was pivotal in the first books, but would of enjoyed a little more of Ryuu's development. What I did really enjoy was the samurai aspects. Yet there was a wide world always hinted at yet left blank.
October 10, 2017
I enjoyed reading this series, the characters are really complex, the story is well written, the twists give me a lot to wonder and even though the two main characters are so different, they make it work and we as readers got to knew them from childhood to adulthood.
or if you like just the swordsmanship, you will find very good battles here.
or if you like just the swordsmanship, you will find very good battles here.
December 19, 2017
It is bittersweet to finish this trilogy. It was an awesome adventure, and I fell in love with the characters. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who wants to read a story with strong characters, where you can't even hate the main enemy, Nameless, because he's also an amazing character. Wish I could keep reading this! :)
March 17, 2018
The final episode in the series, and a strong outing to finish. I've really enjoyed seeing Ryuu and Moriko fight off Nameless and the Akarians. In a way the ending should have been quite obvious, but somehow the author dodges that and we get the unexpected right up to the end.
I'm looking forward to whatever this author produces next.
I'm looking forward to whatever this author produces next.
March 14, 2017
Good read
This book, like the two before it, was a fun read. A good story told well. However, it came across as a little flat and emotionally empty. I strongly suspect that will change as the author continues to write. I look forward to what he writes next.
This book, like the two before it, was a fun read. A good story told well. However, it came across as a little flat and emotionally empty. I strongly suspect that will change as the author continues to write. I look forward to what he writes next.
July 10, 2017
An enthralling series
One of the best short series of books I have had the pleasure to read in a long time. Characters are interesting and you care about them. I shall miss both Ryuu and Moroko but look forward to reading other books by this author.
One of the best short series of books I have had the pleasure to read in a long time. Characters are interesting and you care about them. I shall miss both Ryuu and Moroko but look forward to reading other books by this author.
July 28, 2017
Great story, very good characters, very smooth read
Highly recommend this series. Ryan created great characters that you learn to care about, his actions sequences were very well written, and his writing style is a very smooth read.
Highly recommend this series. Ryan created great characters that you learn to care about, his actions sequences were very well written, and his writing style is a very smooth read.
October 24, 2017
Excellent tale
I am on the road several hours a day and this trilogy made the hours seem like minutes. I would recommend these books to anyone who likes martial arts and the art of a warrior
I am on the road several hours a day and this trilogy made the hours seem like minutes. I would recommend these books to anyone who likes martial arts and the art of a warrior
December 31, 2017
This was a nice conclusion to the series with tough decisions, underdogs, and death, as well as life and healing. I think the ending of the series was done correctly, and I would be happy to read a series based in the next generation of characters.
January 19, 2018
It was a nice read. The end was a bit predictable but satisfying somehow. If you like sword fight, a bit a love story, split and the united Kingdom, invasion and enemy that is not such of one. These 3 books are for you. You can always give them a try. I think they might surprise you
March 25, 2018
The best
This trilogy was very well written I am sad it is over for now but the ending was very well written thank you Mr. Ryan Kirk you are a true author . I appreciate all you do.
This trilogy was very well written I am sad it is over for now but the ending was very well written thank you Mr. Ryan Kirk you are a true author . I appreciate all you do.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews