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The Cleric Quintet #3
Night Masks
The young priest Cadderly learns more than he ever wanted to know when he runs to the city of Carradoon for solace and finds himself besieged by resident assassins, the Night Masks. Original.
290 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1992
113 people are currently reading
2280 people want to read
About the author
R.A. Salvatore
606 books11.4k followersAs one of the fantasy genre’s most successful authors, R.A. Salvatore enjoys an ever-expanding and tremendously loyal following. His books regularly appear on The New York Times best-seller lists and have sold more than 10,000,000 copies. Salvatore’s original hardcover, The Two Swords, Book III of The Hunter’s Blade Trilogy (October 2004) debuted at # 1 on The Wall Street Journal best-seller list and at # 4 on The New York Times best-seller list. His books have been translated into numerous foreign languages including German, Italian, Finnish, Greek, Hungarian, Turkish, Croatian, Bulgarian, Yiddish, Spanish, Russian, Polish, Portuguese, Czech, and French.
Salvatore’s first published novel, The Crystal Shard from TSR in 1988, became the first volume of the acclaimed Icewind Dale Trilogy and introduced an enormously popular character, the dark elf Drizzt Do’Urden. Since that time, Salvatore has published numerous novels for each of his signature multi-volume series including The Dark Elf Trilogy, Paths of Darkness, The Hunter’s Blades Trilogy, and The Cleric Quintet.
His love affair with fantasy, and with literature in general, began during his sophomore year of college when he was given a copy of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings as a Christmas gift. He promptly changed his major from computerscience to journalism. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications from Fitchburg State College in 1981, then returned for the degree he always cherished, the Bachelor of Arts in English. He began writing seriously in 1982, penning the manuscript that would become Echoes of the Fourth Magic. Salvatore held many jobs during those first years as a writer, finally settling in (much to our delight) to write full time in 1990.
The R.A. Salvatore Collection has been established at his alma mater, Fitchburg State College in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, containing the writer’s letters, manuscripts, and other professional papers. He is in good company, as The Salvatore Collection is situated alongside The Robert Cormier Library, which celebrates the writing career of the co-alum and esteemed author of young adult books.
Salvatore is an active member of his community and is on the board of trustees at the local library in Leominster, Massachusetts. He has participated in several American Library Association regional conferences, giving talks on themes including “Adventure fantasy” and “Why young adults read fantasy.” Salvatore himself enjoys a broad range of literary writers including James Joyce, Mark Twain, Geoffrey Chaucer, Shakespeare, Dante, and Sartre. He counts among his favorite genre literary influences Ian Fleming, Arthur Conan Doyle, Fritz Leiber, and of course, J.R.R. Tolkien.
Born in 1959, Salvatore is a native of Massachusetts and resides there with his wife Diane, and their three children, Bryan, Geno, and Caitlin. The family pets include three Japanese Chins, Oliver, Artemis and Ivan, and four cats including Guenhwyvar.
When he isn't writing, Salvatore chases after his three Japanese Chins, takes long walks, hits the gym, and coaches/plays on a fun-league softball team that includes most of his family. His gaming group still meets on Sundays to play.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/rasalv...
Salvatore’s first published novel, The Crystal Shard from TSR in 1988, became the first volume of the acclaimed Icewind Dale Trilogy and introduced an enormously popular character, the dark elf Drizzt Do’Urden. Since that time, Salvatore has published numerous novels for each of his signature multi-volume series including The Dark Elf Trilogy, Paths of Darkness, The Hunter’s Blades Trilogy, and The Cleric Quintet.
His love affair with fantasy, and with literature in general, began during his sophomore year of college when he was given a copy of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings as a Christmas gift. He promptly changed his major from computerscience to journalism. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications from Fitchburg State College in 1981, then returned for the degree he always cherished, the Bachelor of Arts in English. He began writing seriously in 1982, penning the manuscript that would become Echoes of the Fourth Magic. Salvatore held many jobs during those first years as a writer, finally settling in (much to our delight) to write full time in 1990.
The R.A. Salvatore Collection has been established at his alma mater, Fitchburg State College in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, containing the writer’s letters, manuscripts, and other professional papers. He is in good company, as The Salvatore Collection is situated alongside The Robert Cormier Library, which celebrates the writing career of the co-alum and esteemed author of young adult books.
Salvatore is an active member of his community and is on the board of trustees at the local library in Leominster, Massachusetts. He has participated in several American Library Association regional conferences, giving talks on themes including “Adventure fantasy” and “Why young adults read fantasy.” Salvatore himself enjoys a broad range of literary writers including James Joyce, Mark Twain, Geoffrey Chaucer, Shakespeare, Dante, and Sartre. He counts among his favorite genre literary influences Ian Fleming, Arthur Conan Doyle, Fritz Leiber, and of course, J.R.R. Tolkien.
Born in 1959, Salvatore is a native of Massachusetts and resides there with his wife Diane, and their three children, Bryan, Geno, and Caitlin. The family pets include three Japanese Chins, Oliver, Artemis and Ivan, and four cats including Guenhwyvar.
When he isn't writing, Salvatore chases after his three Japanese Chins, takes long walks, hits the gym, and coaches/plays on a fun-league softball team that includes most of his family. His gaming group still meets on Sundays to play.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/rasalv...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 19, 2010
I think if I ever read the word "angular" again, I'm going to direct violence toward the area of Salvatore's (and possibly his editor's) crotch. I thought the descriptive shorthand for characters was bad in the second book in the series, but in this one it's done so often that I can't help but wonder if Salvatore was being paid by the reference instead of by the page or by the word or by the novel. "Angular man" in particular is so overused that I felt like I was being pranked, like I was reading some 13-year-old's fan-fiction. You probably think I'm exaggerating. I'm going to copy half of one page in its entirety for you and you can judge for yourself. I've capitalized the offending references so you can more easily skim to them.
"Cadderly does not want me there," the ANGULAR MAN lied. "He said he would meet with you alone in the hearth room before Fredegar began his work."
"Before dawn," Avery muttered distatesfully.
Rufo continued to stare at the portly headmaster's back. How had it gotten this far? Rufo didn't hate Avery--on the contrary, the headmaster had acted on Rufo's behalf many time over the last decade.
But that was behind them now, the ANGULAR MAN reminded himself. Shilmista had undeniably changed Rufo's life course, but now, looking at vulnerable Avery, the ANGULAR MAN had to pause and consider just how drastically.
"Well, I am off for the the hearth room, then," Avery announced, moving to the door.
He wasn't even carrying his mace in the loop on his belt, Rufo noted. And he hadn't yet prayed and prepared any spells.
"Truly I wish Cadderly would be more conventional," Avery remarked, his obvious fondness for the young priest showing through, and that only strengthening the treacherous Rufo's resolve. "But, then, that is his charm, I suppose." Avery paused and smiled and Rufo knew the portly man was engaged in some private recollection of Cadderly.
"Meet me in the hearth room for the morning meal," Avery instructed. "Perhaps I will be able to persuade Cadderly to dine with us."
"Just what I desire," the ANGULAR MAN muttered grimly. He moved to the door and watched Avery descend the sweeping stairway to the dimly lighted hearth room.
Rufo closed the door softly. His part was done. He had set events into motion, as the young wizard had instructed him to do. Avery's fate what the headmaster's own to deal with.
The ANGULAR MAN leaned back against the wall, desperately trying to dismiss his growing guilt.
That's only half a page. The entire book is like that. The character of Avery is twice referenced as portly just in that half a page, and our main character Cadderly is the "young priest". References to portly Avery and young priest Cadderly abound throughout the entire book as well. I know I'm a supreme nitpicker and I don't deny it, but each subsequent reference to the "angular man" made me want to throw the book across the room. I've railed against fantasy's bum rap most of my life, so it particularly pains me to see such shining examples of why fantasy literature is often dismissed as fluff.
All of that complaining aside, the story is actually much more engaging this time around. Our main character is finally coming into his own, the danger is more imminent, and the stakes are higher. The characters are as entertaining as ever and this is the point in the overall story when our characters inevitably start forcing the action as opposed to simply reacting to it. If the writing tics weren't so utterly distracting, I'd have actually rated this one a four instead of a three.
"Cadderly does not want me there," the ANGULAR MAN lied. "He said he would meet with you alone in the hearth room before Fredegar began his work."
"Before dawn," Avery muttered distatesfully.
Rufo continued to stare at the portly headmaster's back. How had it gotten this far? Rufo didn't hate Avery--on the contrary, the headmaster had acted on Rufo's behalf many time over the last decade.
But that was behind them now, the ANGULAR MAN reminded himself. Shilmista had undeniably changed Rufo's life course, but now, looking at vulnerable Avery, the ANGULAR MAN had to pause and consider just how drastically.
"Well, I am off for the the hearth room, then," Avery announced, moving to the door.
He wasn't even carrying his mace in the loop on his belt, Rufo noted. And he hadn't yet prayed and prepared any spells.
"Truly I wish Cadderly would be more conventional," Avery remarked, his obvious fondness for the young priest showing through, and that only strengthening the treacherous Rufo's resolve. "But, then, that is his charm, I suppose." Avery paused and smiled and Rufo knew the portly man was engaged in some private recollection of Cadderly.
"Meet me in the hearth room for the morning meal," Avery instructed. "Perhaps I will be able to persuade Cadderly to dine with us."
"Just what I desire," the ANGULAR MAN muttered grimly. He moved to the door and watched Avery descend the sweeping stairway to the dimly lighted hearth room.
Rufo closed the door softly. His part was done. He had set events into motion, as the young wizard had instructed him to do. Avery's fate what the headmaster's own to deal with.
The ANGULAR MAN leaned back against the wall, desperately trying to dismiss his growing guilt.
That's only half a page. The entire book is like that. The character of Avery is twice referenced as portly just in that half a page, and our main character Cadderly is the "young priest". References to portly Avery and young priest Cadderly abound throughout the entire book as well. I know I'm a supreme nitpicker and I don't deny it, but each subsequent reference to the "angular man" made me want to throw the book across the room. I've railed against fantasy's bum rap most of my life, so it particularly pains me to see such shining examples of why fantasy literature is often dismissed as fluff.
All of that complaining aside, the story is actually much more engaging this time around. Our main character is finally coming into his own, the danger is more imminent, and the stakes are higher. The characters are as entertaining as ever and this is the point in the overall story when our characters inevitably start forcing the action as opposed to simply reacting to it. If the writing tics weren't so utterly distracting, I'd have actually rated this one a four instead of a three.
July 6, 2024
In this novel, Cadderly is depressed and unsure of what his role in life is. You can tell things are serious, because he decides to grow a beard! He spends a huge chunk of this novel being a hermit and staying inside his room at this inn in Carradoon, a port town not too far from the Edificant Library, pouring over the holy bible of his religious order. Pages upon pages of him self reflecting on how he can no longer see the world the same way because of what he's done and seen, how his hands are stained with blood, blah blah. Oh yeah, and he dumped Danica in the last book for some reason. Because he needed more angst, I guess.
Cadderly's struggle in this novel just wasn't believable, and it was extremely nauseating to read. The melodramatics are on day time soap opera levels.
There's a scene in this novel where Cadderly talks to a homeless man who is a leper, and the leper goes through this rambling monologue about how horrible and unfair life is for him, and how can Cadderly possibly claim to try to cure him, when there's countless other's that need saving too? Is it up to Cadderly to try and cure the world of it's problems? How can Cadderly, whose never known things like starvation and poverty, take it upon himself to feel sympathy for a beggar such as he? How arrogant Cadderly is etc etc you get the point. Cadderly is naive and stupid. Can we move on now?
There's some things in this novel I really enjoyed, enough that I wanted to give this book at least three stars. Things in Castle Trinity become more amusing when we're introduced to Barjin's replacement - a haughty, power hungry teenage brat named Bogo Rath. That name is so incredibly stupid that it's actually kind of awesome. At this point, I think it's obvious Salvatore knew no one was taking Castle Trinity seriously, so he just had fun with this character. He even has a punk hair cut that he flips around all emo like and everything.
Poor Bogo isn't taken seriously by Dorigen or Aballister, and they frequently make fun of him by calling him Boygo ( which ironically, sounds less stupid then his original name ). His one claim to fame is that he has ties to this insidious assassin's guild in Westgate called the Night Masks, and they hire them to murder Cadderly, whose proven to be more then a nuisance to Castle Trinity.
The power struggles all the antagonists have in this novel is very interesting. Bogo wants to prove his worth to his superiors, so he threatens Kierkan Rufo to do his bidding. Rufo is an unwilling participate as usual, and just wants to be left alone. Then Bogo himself is recruited by Ghost, the Night Masks's leader, to do HIS bidding. Meanwhile, Ghost has the power to switch his soul back and forth with a giant named Vander, who is being forced to do this against his will. Watching Bogo and Ghost use their pawns to further their own agendas and try to undermine each other for a stab at power was really fun to read. Those were my favorite parts.
Unfortunately, certain events happen that take away any form of enjoyment I could possibly get from this novel.
Needless to say, this novel made me rather hate Cadderly. Hopefully his characterization improves in the next two novels.
Cadderly's struggle in this novel just wasn't believable, and it was extremely nauseating to read. The melodramatics are on day time soap opera levels.
There's a scene in this novel where Cadderly talks to a homeless man who is a leper, and the leper goes through this rambling monologue about how horrible and unfair life is for him, and how can Cadderly possibly claim to try to cure him, when there's countless other's that need saving too? Is it up to Cadderly to try and cure the world of it's problems? How can Cadderly, whose never known things like starvation and poverty, take it upon himself to feel sympathy for a beggar such as he? How arrogant Cadderly is etc etc you get the point. Cadderly is naive and stupid. Can we move on now?
There's some things in this novel I really enjoyed, enough that I wanted to give this book at least three stars. Things in Castle Trinity become more amusing when we're introduced to Barjin's replacement - a haughty, power hungry teenage brat named Bogo Rath. That name is so incredibly stupid that it's actually kind of awesome. At this point, I think it's obvious Salvatore knew no one was taking Castle Trinity seriously, so he just had fun with this character. He even has a punk hair cut that he flips around all emo like and everything.
Poor Bogo isn't taken seriously by Dorigen or Aballister, and they frequently make fun of him by calling him Boygo ( which ironically, sounds less stupid then his original name ). His one claim to fame is that he has ties to this insidious assassin's guild in Westgate called the Night Masks, and they hire them to murder Cadderly, whose proven to be more then a nuisance to Castle Trinity.
The power struggles all the antagonists have in this novel is very interesting. Bogo wants to prove his worth to his superiors, so he threatens Kierkan Rufo to do his bidding. Rufo is an unwilling participate as usual, and just wants to be left alone. Then Bogo himself is recruited by Ghost, the Night Masks's leader, to do HIS bidding. Meanwhile, Ghost has the power to switch his soul back and forth with a giant named Vander, who is being forced to do this against his will. Watching Bogo and Ghost use their pawns to further their own agendas and try to undermine each other for a stab at power was really fun to read. Those were my favorite parts.
Unfortunately, certain events happen that take away any form of enjoyment I could possibly get from this novel.
Needless to say, this novel made me rather hate Cadderly. Hopefully his characterization improves in the next two novels.
December 15, 2014
I like these books, but I have to go down on my stars a bit for one reasons: childish characters.
Maybe I'm one who, as a child, didn't like the childish characters as much. I think Pikel and his dwarven brother with the multi-colored beard (I get them mixed up), get far too much play.
I guess you could skip these chapters, but I don't play that game. So I'm just saying, expect a bit of Jar-Jar Bink stuff on this.
Maybe I'm one who, as a child, didn't like the childish characters as much. I think Pikel and his dwarven brother with the multi-colored beard (I get them mixed up), get far too much play.
I guess you could skip these chapters, but I don't play that game. So I'm just saying, expect a bit of Jar-Jar Bink stuff on this.
May 15, 2011
Did not like the character development in this book. I mean, there's nothing wrong with characters gaining powers, but Deneir is the god of knowledge and literature and whatever, not god of communicating with spirits and fire balls or whatever. And the way he just knows everything? There's just no suspense any more 'cause you already know how it's going to turn out.
Oh, and in the beginning we were lead to believe that Ghost is a formidable enemy, the way he tricked a man and earned his trust and whatever. He's supposed to be one of the best as far as assassins go. But when faced with Cadderly, he suddenly fails? I mean, the way Ghost screws up so blatantly and the way Cadderly figures out the disguise within five seconds. Just...what?
Don't even get me started on how his companions, who has way more experience in battle tactics than he ever did, suddenly becomes his inferior sidekicks towards the end of the book, and how he keeps harping on about this mercy business but justified torturing Kierkan Rufo at the end [the dude had it coming, sure, but Cadderly's rapid attitude change bothered me]...
Overall very disappointed with this book and the overwhelming Stu-ishness that has become Cadderly. He had potential to become an interesting character, seeing as how his expertise is in knowledge and not in combat. And I was intrigued by the concept of a cleric being used as a main character...It seems like the author's taken an easy way out by making Cadderly's magic more powerful so he could go back to writing what he's more comfortable with.
Oh, and in the beginning we were lead to believe that Ghost is a formidable enemy, the way he tricked a man and earned his trust and whatever. He's supposed to be one of the best as far as assassins go. But when faced with Cadderly, he suddenly fails? I mean, the way Ghost screws up so blatantly and the way Cadderly figures out the disguise within five seconds. Just...what?
Don't even get me started on how his companions, who has way more experience in battle tactics than he ever did, suddenly becomes his inferior sidekicks towards the end of the book, and how he keeps harping on about this mercy business but justified torturing Kierkan Rufo at the end [the dude had it coming, sure, but Cadderly's rapid attitude change bothered me]...
Overall very disappointed with this book and the overwhelming Stu-ishness that has become Cadderly. He had potential to become an interesting character, seeing as how his expertise is in knowledge and not in combat. And I was intrigued by the concept of a cleric being used as a main character...It seems like the author's taken an easy way out by making Cadderly's magic more powerful so he could go back to writing what he's more comfortable with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2022
I'm still chasing the high of the first book, Canticle, but events are otherwise picking up the pace as we pass the midway point in the quintet. Cadderly is struggling with his new found power and the correct way to use it, and what this means for him and his relationship (religious or otherwise) with Deneir. He has matured a great deal in the first books, and he is now definitely a (young) man rather than a boy. But, his new additional maturity allows him to have more direct conversations and deal with issues comparatively quickly. I was afraid that the issue between Danica and Cadderly would turn into one of those lingering issues that could be fixed if they would just talk to each other, and they would only come to their senses in the last few pages of the final book. I was very grateful to see that that was not the case, and also watching as Danica and Cadderly learn that they have to trust each other and work in equal partnership. That is a fantastic relationship dynamic, and one that is all-to-often overlooked.
This also introduces not only the Night Masks in general, we also get to meet Ghost and Vander, who will clearly be integral parts of this story going forward, and I can't wait.
This also introduces not only the Night Masks in general, we also get to meet Ghost and Vander, who will clearly be integral parts of this story going forward, and I can't wait.
April 2, 2022
Great tale. All based around a small group of characters. But kept exciting and wondering how things would all work out for the heroes.
Still find the clowning around of the two dwarves unnecessary and childish. Don't know if its supposed to be funny and light relief? It isn't. Unless your 12!
Still find the clowning around of the two dwarves unnecessary and childish. Don't know if its supposed to be funny and light relief? It isn't. Unless your 12!
January 12, 2021
Another good R.A. Salvatore novel -- however, the scene with the farm girl was totally unnecessary, it had no point (we already got that the Night Masks were bad) and was just wrong to throw it in there for no reason.
I like how Cadderly got his guilt under control and accepted the "song" and the power that comes with it, I also really liked Ghost's ability, as cruel as he may have been with it, it was still an interesting ability none-the-less.
I like how Cadderly got his guilt under control and accepted the "song" and the power that comes with it, I also really liked Ghost's ability, as cruel as he may have been with it, it was still an interesting ability none-the-less.
December 17, 2017
At first I was skeptical as the book just centers around the assassination attempt on Cadderly, but by the end it was my favorite of the series so far.
February 22, 2018
It is easy to tell when an author just stops trying during a series. By the third book it is clear that Salvatore has little new to add to the overarching story line and has resorted to filling space before the final showdown. The initial concept, of an assassin capable of completely possessing another individual and using him/her to commit acts of murder, is not in itself bad. However, the flow of the story is lazy and poorly explained. For instance, the character's ability to transfer consciousness is introduced in such a way as to have reduced the impact to virtually nil. This is a trend that continues throughout the book.
It pains me to say this as the first Cleric Quintet book was fantastic, introducing new characters, locations and story lines. The villains had political intrigue, the protagonists had vibrancy. But sadly, as with the Drizzt series, the story gets stale as characters maintain similar dialogue, and battle with the same challenges in book after book, and new characters offer little to shake up the repetition.
I will read the next book in the hopes that the story will develop further and offer a bit more in complexity than the middle story line.
It pains me to say this as the first Cleric Quintet book was fantastic, introducing new characters, locations and story lines. The villains had political intrigue, the protagonists had vibrancy. But sadly, as with the Drizzt series, the story gets stale as characters maintain similar dialogue, and battle with the same challenges in book after book, and new characters offer little to shake up the repetition.
I will read the next book in the hopes that the story will develop further and offer a bit more in complexity than the middle story line.
January 17, 2013
If this hadn't been a Salvatore book, I would have stop reading this series. It's hard to believe this is the same person writing these, as the Drow Series. There's NO WAY an assassin with that much power and experience would have screwed up, miss judged an opponent, and acted like that. Even in EXTREME arrogance, at some point it just gets ludicrous. This book is the first one that you start feeling "god mode" coming on. I'll explain more in the review of the first chapters in the next book. Nuts I tell you.
November 11, 2024
4/5 This is my favorite of the series so far. Cadderly is still conflicted but not nearly the Mary Sue he was in previous books.
The dark priest of Talona, Abalister, has sent a dangerous group of assassins after Cadderly this time around. One particular assassin named Ghost has the ability to take over peoples bodies. This book focuses on Cadderly developing his powers while fighting off the Night Mask assassins.
Lots of action and the cast continues to grow on me. More popcorn fantasy but still fun.
The dark priest of Talona, Abalister, has sent a dangerous group of assassins after Cadderly this time around. One particular assassin named Ghost has the ability to take over peoples bodies. This book focuses on Cadderly developing his powers while fighting off the Night Mask assassins.
Lots of action and the cast continues to grow on me. More popcorn fantasy but still fun.
August 31, 2021
Fantasy for High Schoolers
When I was in high school, playing D&D regularly with a close group of friends, I enjoyed the Cleric Quintet (and Dragonlance…and Icewind Dale…). Now however, having lived a bit of life, it all rings a bit hollow. The motivations are messy and the relationships are contrived. By the midpoint of the series, Salvatore has made his protagonist vastly overpowered. It does not bode well for future volumes.
When I was in high school, playing D&D regularly with a close group of friends, I enjoyed the Cleric Quintet (and Dragonlance…and Icewind Dale…). Now however, having lived a bit of life, it all rings a bit hollow. The motivations are messy and the relationships are contrived. By the midpoint of the series, Salvatore has made his protagonist vastly overpowered. It does not bode well for future volumes.
October 29, 2025
Night Masks, the third book of the Cleric Quintet, picks up with the story of Cadderly, the Denierian Priest of the Edificant Library, in his quest to find his purpose in the coming battles with the Castle Trinity. After experiencing so much doubt in his ability to aid his friends in adventure and war, he ran away to the solitude of Carradoon to study the book of his god, Denier, and to learn more about the powers that he has begun to experience. Little does he know, though, that Aballister, the leader of Castle Trinity, has hired the assassins of the Night Masks to hunt down and kill Cadderly. Now he must learn more about this Clerical power and test whether it will be enough to overcome the deadly prowess of this new enemy.
I think this book is great and it does a wonderful job at balancing mental struggle with physical action and excitement. It makes you feel a sense of adventure and mystery despite taking place almost exclusively in the small lakeside town of Carradoon. Previous books have highlighted Cadderly’s internal struggles with his ability to cope with the consequences of the necessary choices of adventure and battle, but, in Night Masks, the focus shifts to his struggle with faith as he wrestles with his new power from Denier.
This book tackles themes of religion and faith on multiple levels. First, in the realm of fantasy and world building, it weaves an intriguing picture of exactly how this god communicates through song and utilizes the prayers of the song to deliver power to mortals. It builds an understanding of clerical magic that is distinct and unique to that of wizards, and it’s exciting to uncover the mystery. Second, on a personal and human level, the book breaks down the complex question of what true faith looks like in a way that is highly relatable and thought provoking. It presents the juxtaposition of faith by being and embodying qualities up against the ideals of religion and following tenets, sacraments and rituals. It shows the struggle of doubt and the important role it plays in personal and faithful growth.
This book delved much deeper than I thought it would into relatable matters while still perfectly balancing the sense of adventure and action I have come to expect from R. A. Salvatore, and it was wonderful to read. Three books into the quintet and I’m only growing more invested and excited to see what is to come. I highly recommend this short series to all fantasy lovers.
I think this book is great and it does a wonderful job at balancing mental struggle with physical action and excitement. It makes you feel a sense of adventure and mystery despite taking place almost exclusively in the small lakeside town of Carradoon. Previous books have highlighted Cadderly’s internal struggles with his ability to cope with the consequences of the necessary choices of adventure and battle, but, in Night Masks, the focus shifts to his struggle with faith as he wrestles with his new power from Denier.
This book tackles themes of religion and faith on multiple levels. First, in the realm of fantasy and world building, it weaves an intriguing picture of exactly how this god communicates through song and utilizes the prayers of the song to deliver power to mortals. It builds an understanding of clerical magic that is distinct and unique to that of wizards, and it’s exciting to uncover the mystery. Second, on a personal and human level, the book breaks down the complex question of what true faith looks like in a way that is highly relatable and thought provoking. It presents the juxtaposition of faith by being and embodying qualities up against the ideals of religion and following tenets, sacraments and rituals. It shows the struggle of doubt and the important role it plays in personal and faithful growth.
This book delved much deeper than I thought it would into relatable matters while still perfectly balancing the sense of adventure and action I have come to expect from R. A. Salvatore, and it was wonderful to read. Three books into the quintet and I’m only growing more invested and excited to see what is to come. I highly recommend this short series to all fantasy lovers.
July 10, 2025
Il y a 20ans en campagne, pas d'Amazon et des librairies dégarnies. Alors le masque de la nuit est le dernier tome que j'ai lu et acquis de la série.
La relecture a été assez plaisante, c'est caricatural, assez mal écrit, les personnages sont peu creusés et les scènes de bataille confuses et trop longues. Mais il y a un vrai sens du rythme : les pages s’enchaînent vite, et le livre est court.
Je ne me souviens pas pourquoi ce tome n'a jamais été mon favori mais aujourd'hui une chose est sûr, Cadderly m'a gonflé. Il devient surpuissant trop rapidement, sans progression crédible avec des pouvoirs qui semblent n’avoir aucune limite.
J'ai aussi toujours eu l'impression de manquer d'historique ou de contexte: on ne sait pas pourquoi Pikel ne parle pas, pourquoi lui et son frère sont cuisinier et guerrier aguerris, qu'est-ce que le ghearufu...
Un aspect surprenant m'a toutefois bien plût, quoique que je doute que ce soit voulu par l'auteur : Cadderly est présenté comme un Gary Sue mais il est en fait assez prétentieux, antipathique et illogique. Il se plaint continuellement mais n'écoute pas Danica qui lui parle de ses parents tués, il doute de sa foi... parce qu'il est "trop intelligent" (alors qu'un chimpinzé comprendrait que ses pouvoirs viennent bien du livre sacré du-dit Dieu, celui qu'il entend dans sa tête et la culture dans laquelle il vit depuis qu'il est né). Sa notion de justice est très très droitière. Il refuse de tuer les masques de la nuit, mais marque à la bougie rouge Rufo, et qui annihile toute chance de rédemption et le meilleur moyen de le rendre encore plus dangereux, ce qu'il deviendra 2 tomes plus tard.
La relecture a été assez plaisante, c'est caricatural, assez mal écrit, les personnages sont peu creusés et les scènes de bataille confuses et trop longues. Mais il y a un vrai sens du rythme : les pages s’enchaînent vite, et le livre est court.
Je ne me souviens pas pourquoi ce tome n'a jamais été mon favori mais aujourd'hui une chose est sûr, Cadderly m'a gonflé. Il devient surpuissant trop rapidement, sans progression crédible avec des pouvoirs qui semblent n’avoir aucune limite.
J'ai aussi toujours eu l'impression de manquer d'historique ou de contexte: on ne sait pas pourquoi Pikel ne parle pas, pourquoi lui et son frère sont cuisinier et guerrier aguerris, qu'est-ce que le ghearufu...
Un aspect surprenant m'a toutefois bien plût, quoique que je doute que ce soit voulu par l'auteur : Cadderly est présenté comme un Gary Sue mais il est en fait assez prétentieux, antipathique et illogique. Il se plaint continuellement mais n'écoute pas Danica qui lui parle de ses parents tués, il doute de sa foi... parce qu'il est "trop intelligent" (alors qu'un chimpinzé comprendrait que ses pouvoirs viennent bien du livre sacré du-dit Dieu, celui qu'il entend dans sa tête et la culture dans laquelle il vit depuis qu'il est né). Sa notion de justice est très très droitière. Il refuse de tuer les masques de la nuit, mais marque à la bougie rouge Rufo, et qui annihile toute chance de rédemption et le meilleur moyen de le rendre encore plus dangereux, ce qu'il deviendra 2 tomes plus tard.
October 3, 2019
Jumping from one trope of the fantasy genre to another, Salvatore "takes a stab" at an assasin's guild and its assignment - for his third book of the Cleric Quintet.
I had a great time reading this one and following Cadderly on his journey of discovery, as well as rooting for him and against his pursuers. The pace is elegant and picks up speed as the noose tightens around the priest and his friends. "Ghost" is a delightful antithesis of the main character and a joy to discover through Salvatore's words.
I found a couple of faults though - your mileage may vary :
- the priest living in seclusion, reading, eating and sleeping all the time has suddenly rippling muscles ? Wow, fantasy lands !
- I had trouble understanding the Ghearufu WHILE it was bein explained in the pages by the author, and how it worked. Cadderly figured it out so easily by magical emanations and ...logic ? I found at least 1 other explanation that is more likely to come to rather than the truth that Cadderly figured out. The shadows on he shoulders - he did not know what they where or what they represented, but concluded that 2 people cannot have them in a similar manner ? We are talking about a band of thieves/assassins - I would expect all of them to have them on their shoulders. Sure, he is a cleric, Deneir made me do it, sudden insight, "identify". A bit more build up or clues would have helped a lot more with this development.
I had a great time reading this one and following Cadderly on his journey of discovery, as well as rooting for him and against his pursuers. The pace is elegant and picks up speed as the noose tightens around the priest and his friends. "Ghost" is a delightful antithesis of the main character and a joy to discover through Salvatore's words.
I found a couple of faults though - your mileage may vary :
- the priest living in seclusion, reading, eating and sleeping all the time has suddenly rippling muscles ? Wow, fantasy lands !
- I had trouble understanding the Ghearufu WHILE it was bein explained in the pages by the author, and how it worked. Cadderly figured it out so easily by magical emanations and ...logic ? I found at least 1 other explanation that is more likely to come to rather than the truth that Cadderly figured out. The shadows on he shoulders - he did not know what they where or what they represented, but concluded that 2 people cannot have them in a similar manner ? We are talking about a band of thieves/assassins - I would expect all of them to have them on their shoulders. Sure, he is a cleric, Deneir made me do it, sudden insight, "identify". A bit more build up or clues would have helped a lot more with this development.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2023
Night masks was by far the best book in the series so far. I would have given 4.5 if I could. It blended well versed language with combat and puzzle solving as the story progressed.
The development of Cadderly as instead of being a boyish figure and turning into a strong disciple was well thought out, the development of the villain in the story and not only his past, but his manifestations in both reality and the spirit realm, made for an interesting story.
The reason that it was considered 4 to me and not 5 when rounding up is because Cadderly’s powers seem to come out of no where. As the story starts he has none and then he can somehow, through what I’m guessing is divine intervention, manage to do all this crazy stuff that makes no sense that would go together. Although he’s supposed to be clerical in nature, it seems like he has many more abilities than that. Also while Cadderly developed as a character, no one else did. The fighting scenes with Danica and the Dwarves are a little bit played out at this point because they have done the same thing in every fight for 3 books now and there’s a lot of fighting.
However, with that being said, the headmaster’s revelation, the villain was very interesting in this one, their newfound friend giving them the next quest, etc. most definitely made this book great for me. I look forward to seeing in the final 2 if we can top this as we move on through the series.
The development of Cadderly as instead of being a boyish figure and turning into a strong disciple was well thought out, the development of the villain in the story and not only his past, but his manifestations in both reality and the spirit realm, made for an interesting story.
The reason that it was considered 4 to me and not 5 when rounding up is because Cadderly’s powers seem to come out of no where. As the story starts he has none and then he can somehow, through what I’m guessing is divine intervention, manage to do all this crazy stuff that makes no sense that would go together. Although he’s supposed to be clerical in nature, it seems like he has many more abilities than that. Also while Cadderly developed as a character, no one else did. The fighting scenes with Danica and the Dwarves are a little bit played out at this point because they have done the same thing in every fight for 3 books now and there’s a lot of fighting.
However, with that being said, the headmaster’s revelation, the villain was very interesting in this one, their newfound friend giving them the next quest, etc. most definitely made this book great for me. I look forward to seeing in the final 2 if we can top this as we move on through the series.
March 31, 2024
4.5 *
C9 A7 W9 P9 I9 L9 E9
Characters
There was some time for some separation of the characters between the last book and this one. They got a bit of a chance to grow as their own persons and not as a couple. Cadderly especially has spend a lot of time trying to come into his own power. For our bad guys, we're hiring out some help, we've decided we can't do it ourselves anymore.
Atmosphere
We're down in the nearest town and really we're only spending time in this one inn. There's isn't a lot of variability and not a sense of being "home" either. This book relies on things other than the atmosphere to be interesting.
Writing
It's D&D storytelling! There was a lot more choreographed fighting and other action scenes going on through this book and it is always fun to read Salvatore's action scenes.
Plot
Assassins! I honestly love when basically the whole plot is assassins.
Intrigue
This book has more action in them than the books that came before in this series and the way that all the characters just keep going and moving is what keeps this book moving forward too. Cadderly spends the whole book figuring out exactly what being in Denier's favor can do for his clerical abilities.
Logic
Things get a bit whibbly, but when you have someone figuring out how to use their magic and another guy who uses his magic just to create some chaos, things can be a bit weird.
Enjoyment
Assassins. I love Assassins.
C9 A7 W9 P9 I9 L9 E9
Characters
There was some time for some separation of the characters between the last book and this one. They got a bit of a chance to grow as their own persons and not as a couple. Cadderly especially has spend a lot of time trying to come into his own power. For our bad guys, we're hiring out some help, we've decided we can't do it ourselves anymore.
Atmosphere
We're down in the nearest town and really we're only spending time in this one inn. There's isn't a lot of variability and not a sense of being "home" either. This book relies on things other than the atmosphere to be interesting.
Writing
It's D&D storytelling! There was a lot more choreographed fighting and other action scenes going on through this book and it is always fun to read Salvatore's action scenes.
Plot
Assassins! I honestly love when basically the whole plot is assassins.
Intrigue
This book has more action in them than the books that came before in this series and the way that all the characters just keep going and moving is what keeps this book moving forward too. Cadderly spends the whole book figuring out exactly what being in Denier's favor can do for his clerical abilities.
Logic
Things get a bit whibbly, but when you have someone figuring out how to use their magic and another guy who uses his magic just to create some chaos, things can be a bit weird.
Enjoyment
Assassins. I love Assassins.
June 11, 2022
Continuing my reread of this series, I think each book has progressively gotten better. Perhaps this is because as the characters become more established, Salvatore can play around with their growth more, put them in more interesting situations, and spend less time just saying who they are. Either way, Night Masks is yet another improvement on the previous book.
I think the most compelling thing about this series is Cadderly's inner turmoil and crisis of faith. Clerics tend to be supporting characters in most D&D stories, and I really love reading something when they are front and center. It is a great exploration of what this process and discovering you are a chosen person by a god would be like.
I think what works particularly well is that Cadderly never falls into self wallowing pity the way many heroes journeys seem to.
Ghost in this story is also a really solid villain, if a bit one dimensional.
Overall, this was a fun, if not deep read, and I am looking forward to diving into book four in a few months :)
I think the most compelling thing about this series is Cadderly's inner turmoil and crisis of faith. Clerics tend to be supporting characters in most D&D stories, and I really love reading something when they are front and center. It is a great exploration of what this process and discovering you are a chosen person by a god would be like.
I think what works particularly well is that Cadderly never falls into self wallowing pity the way many heroes journeys seem to.
Ghost in this story is also a really solid villain, if a bit one dimensional.
Overall, this was a fun, if not deep read, and I am looking forward to diving into book four in a few months :)
February 4, 2017
This is the 3rd book in the Cleric Quintet series.
R.A. Salvatore has his faults - his worlds and magic systems are cookie cutter and a lot of books seem the same BUT the reason I keep coming back over and over again to Salvatore's books is character. He writes great characters that are interesting, funny, tragic and characters that I care about. In this book we've got back quite a bit of the favorites - Cadderly, Ivan & Pikel Bouldershoulder and of course we have Danica.
The entirety of the plot is Ghost and some other assassins are hired to kill Cadderly.
That's it.
That's the whole plot.
That's the whole book.
Yes we have Cadderly finally coming to terms with his god and the growth that comes with that both in character and in power. But it's essentially assassins trying to kill our heroes and that's why it got a three star rating.
I did enjoy it though and look forward to continuing my journey with Cadderly and Salvatore.
R.A. Salvatore has his faults - his worlds and magic systems are cookie cutter and a lot of books seem the same BUT the reason I keep coming back over and over again to Salvatore's books is character. He writes great characters that are interesting, funny, tragic and characters that I care about. In this book we've got back quite a bit of the favorites - Cadderly, Ivan & Pikel Bouldershoulder and of course we have Danica.
The entirety of the plot is Ghost and some other assassins are hired to kill Cadderly.
That's it.
That's the whole plot.
That's the whole book.
Yes we have Cadderly finally coming to terms with his god and the growth that comes with that both in character and in power. But it's essentially assassins trying to kill our heroes and that's why it got a three star rating.
I did enjoy it though and look forward to continuing my journey with Cadderly and Salvatore.
March 13, 2019
This book was so different from book 2. What I loved about book 2 was all of the characters andthe camaraderie. I loved the elf prince fighting with the dwarves. I loved Cadderly fighting against jealousy.
None of that is in this story. The love story of Cadderly and Danica is the only thing that pulls it through.
The dwarf brothers are still here, but they are missing the comedy. I still love them and how loyal they are. When Pikel screams "Me brudder" my heart was breaking.
The whole Ghost/ Vander thing was really hard to follow at first. I sorta gave up trying. The very end when Cadderly figures it all out is pretty cool though.
The bad guys are way more violent and awful in this book. It was better when it wasa bat creature and a sorta wicked wizard.
I'm so glad Rufo finally has consequences for his actions. Though really he is a pawn in all of it.
I really hope we go back to Shilmista in the next book. I miss the elves.
None of that is in this story. The love story of Cadderly and Danica is the only thing that pulls it through.
The dwarf brothers are still here, but they are missing the comedy. I still love them and how loyal they are. When Pikel screams "Me brudder" my heart was breaking.
The whole Ghost/ Vander thing was really hard to follow at first. I sorta gave up trying. The very end when Cadderly figures it all out is pretty cool though.
The bad guys are way more violent and awful in this book. It was better when it wasa bat creature and a sorta wicked wizard.
I'm so glad Rufo finally has consequences for his actions. Though really he is a pawn in all of it.
I really hope we go back to Shilmista in the next book. I miss the elves.
January 1, 2024
Coming as no surprise, this book is pathetically bad. Although this is not unusual with Salvatore's books, this whole series appears to be insufferable.
Theoretically, this book follows the story of Cadderly while he comes to evolving into a more mature cleric and a Chosen of Deneir, becoming aware of the powers that come along with this stature. In the meantime, he and his friends face another threat from the renowned band of assassins from Westgate, the Night Masks, and in particular by a master assassin named Ghost who is able to exchange himself with other people.
This synopsis might well do for a very good book. Unfortunately, it turns out childish and stupid.
Let's start with the plot as a whole. Like most of Salvatore's books, this one contains a very definite distinction between good and evil, so naive that not maybe only as a child I would have believed it possible. Basically, the bad guys, when they are not being ruthlessly killed, always wear some sort of wicked grin on their face. You might well imagine the good guys painted blue and the bad guys painted red, for all the subtlety of the plot.
Again like most of Salvatore's books, in the end the good guys come out basically unscathed. Yes, Headmaster Avery is dead, but he was essentially a very minor character from the beginning of the series. However, in other books, at least the MCs face some difficulties at some time, some temporary setback that they eventually overcome. Even in In Sylvan Shadows, Cadderly,Danica and Elbereth are captured and their fate is temporarily at stake. That gives at least a minor sense of suspense.
In this book there's no such thing. Every time the Night Masks attack, the whole fight goes always perfectly smooth for the MCs. No wound is ever serious, Cadderly gets exhausted by Deneir's song but that exhaustion never has any significant side effects, and so on. At a point, it seems to get just a very little interesting when Pikel is controlled by Ghost, but even that attempt is thwarted in the next page or so. There is not even the slightest momentary accident for the MCs. This makes the plot so boring and completely devoid of tension. Not to mention that a huge amount of unfavorable situations is solved by lucky strokes, a.k.a. deus ex machina.
The Night Masks are supposedly a formidable band of assassins, but if I should draw any conclusion from this book, they would basically look like the bad guys in a Bud Spencer movie. They attack in waves, but they are constantly and easily beaten by the MCs. Not that their attacks are particularly effective. Rather than a band of assassins, they look like a lowly band of brigands. For example, why would a band of formidable assassins attack two people on a boat using attacks on the water, where they are clearly visible? Or why would a formidable assassin with a crossbow leveled on Ivan take the time to wickedly greet his target, and take so much time as to allow Pikel to break the support for the chandelier (it takes some time, according to the text) and let it fall on himself? That's no fantasy, that's Hanna & Barbera.
Speaking of crossbows, there is not a single bolt from the Night Masks that scores a hit, so they are also very pathetic with weapons. Needless to say, when Danica takes a crossbow, she doesn't miss a single hit.
Ghost is the most ridiculous villain I have seen in a book. I understand that Robin Hobb hadn't yet written her books at the time of this one, but Salvatore could do something definitely less dumb than Ghost. He is described as an artist, a master, and he is completely ineffectual. First, he always acts in a very suspicious way, so that when Cadderly or, later, Ivan sees him, they immediately realize that he is up to something, and that already disqualifies him as a good assassin. Second, he procrastinates his kill very long (no reason explained, but it is clearly stated that he had had several occasions to kill Cadderly). Third, he makes plans that never take problems into account, and in the end all he does is improvise. Seriously, one would think that his targets have always been just much more inept than he is, which is already a lot. If he is an artist, then he must be along the line of Jackson Pollock.
As for the characters, they are totally stereotyped. Cadderly turns from a self-effacing person, who somehow manages to get by (which was not so bad) to a know-it-all who now has a ready solution for any inconvenience. He also has very unconvincing and selective conscience issues, more or less according to the convenience to the story. As much as a "Gary Stu" can go, I'd say. Danica is basically nothing else than her fighting prowess. The dwarves are the most annoying comic sidekicks ever, they are essentially the most basic essence of the brutal dwarf, something along the line of "kill me enemies, help me friends, get some food". Furthermore, they're supposed to be funny, but they're not if you're anything above preschool (a ridiculous example: the reference to Pikel's "amelly dwarf toes". But Pikel never wears anything other than sandals, so his toes should be no more smelly than, say, his elbows. The reference to the smelly toes is just childish, like children that say that toes smell even when they don't). I assume that Salvatore had a son or daughter in preschool while writing this book. Ghost is nothing more than the evil guy who only wants to do evil things for no particular reason (his POV parts do not say anything about his motives, other than he is an "artist"), and Bogo Rath is… well, I don't even understand what was the point of including him in the plot. No significant introspection anywhere. The only character that offers a bit of interest is actually Kierkan Rufo, who is a weakling who does evil things only because he is unable to keep control of himself.
Theoretically, this book follows the story of Cadderly while he comes to evolving into a more mature cleric and a Chosen of Deneir, becoming aware of the powers that come along with this stature. In the meantime, he and his friends face another threat from the renowned band of assassins from Westgate, the Night Masks, and in particular by a master assassin named Ghost who is able to exchange himself with other people.
This synopsis might well do for a very good book. Unfortunately, it turns out childish and stupid.
Let's start with the plot as a whole. Like most of Salvatore's books, this one contains a very definite distinction between good and evil, so naive that not maybe only as a child I would have believed it possible. Basically, the bad guys, when they are not being ruthlessly killed, always wear some sort of wicked grin on their face. You might well imagine the good guys painted blue and the bad guys painted red, for all the subtlety of the plot.
Again like most of Salvatore's books, in the end the good guys come out basically unscathed. Yes, Headmaster Avery is dead, but he was essentially a very minor character from the beginning of the series. However, in other books, at least the MCs face some difficulties at some time, some temporary setback that they eventually overcome. Even in In Sylvan Shadows, Cadderly,Danica and Elbereth are captured and their fate is temporarily at stake. That gives at least a minor sense of suspense.
In this book there's no such thing. Every time the Night Masks attack, the whole fight goes always perfectly smooth for the MCs. No wound is ever serious, Cadderly gets exhausted by Deneir's song but that exhaustion never has any significant side effects, and so on. At a point, it seems to get just a very little interesting when Pikel is controlled by Ghost, but even that attempt is thwarted in the next page or so. There is not even the slightest momentary accident for the MCs. This makes the plot so boring and completely devoid of tension. Not to mention that a huge amount of unfavorable situations is solved by lucky strokes, a.k.a. deus ex machina.
The Night Masks are supposedly a formidable band of assassins, but if I should draw any conclusion from this book, they would basically look like the bad guys in a Bud Spencer movie. They attack in waves, but they are constantly and easily beaten by the MCs. Not that their attacks are particularly effective. Rather than a band of assassins, they look like a lowly band of brigands. For example, why would a band of formidable assassins attack two people on a boat using attacks on the water, where they are clearly visible? Or why would a formidable assassin with a crossbow leveled on Ivan take the time to wickedly greet his target, and take so much time as to allow Pikel to break the support for the chandelier (it takes some time, according to the text) and let it fall on himself? That's no fantasy, that's Hanna & Barbera.
Speaking of crossbows, there is not a single bolt from the Night Masks that scores a hit, so they are also very pathetic with weapons. Needless to say, when Danica takes a crossbow, she doesn't miss a single hit.
Ghost is the most ridiculous villain I have seen in a book. I understand that Robin Hobb hadn't yet written her books at the time of this one, but Salvatore could do something definitely less dumb than Ghost. He is described as an artist, a master, and he is completely ineffectual. First, he always acts in a very suspicious way, so that when Cadderly or, later, Ivan sees him, they immediately realize that he is up to something, and that already disqualifies him as a good assassin. Second, he procrastinates his kill very long (no reason explained, but it is clearly stated that he had had several occasions to kill Cadderly). Third, he makes plans that never take problems into account, and in the end all he does is improvise. Seriously, one would think that his targets have always been just much more inept than he is, which is already a lot. If he is an artist, then he must be along the line of Jackson Pollock.
As for the characters, they are totally stereotyped. Cadderly turns from a self-effacing person, who somehow manages to get by (which was not so bad) to a know-it-all who now has a ready solution for any inconvenience. He also has very unconvincing and selective conscience issues, more or less according to the convenience to the story. As much as a "Gary Stu" can go, I'd say. Danica is basically nothing else than her fighting prowess. The dwarves are the most annoying comic sidekicks ever, they are essentially the most basic essence of the brutal dwarf, something along the line of "kill me enemies, help me friends, get some food". Furthermore, they're supposed to be funny, but they're not if you're anything above preschool (a ridiculous example: the reference to Pikel's "amelly dwarf toes". But Pikel never wears anything other than sandals, so his toes should be no more smelly than, say, his elbows. The reference to the smelly toes is just childish, like children that say that toes smell even when they don't). I assume that Salvatore had a son or daughter in preschool while writing this book. Ghost is nothing more than the evil guy who only wants to do evil things for no particular reason (his POV parts do not say anything about his motives, other than he is an "artist"), and Bogo Rath is… well, I don't even understand what was the point of including him in the plot. No significant introspection anywhere. The only character that offers a bit of interest is actually Kierkan Rufo, who is a weakling who does evil things only because he is unable to keep control of himself.
September 16, 2018
Apparently, R.A. Salvatore can't not leave his protagonists tortured and morally uncertain. Fortunately, young Cadderly grows out of it by the end; I don't know if I could have taken another two books of that.
This is a tight story, with a narrower scope than the prior two entries in 'The Cleric Quintet'. Here the threat is restricted to the core characters. Cadderly gets copious character development, as well as exponential development of his personal abilities. In the prior books I liked that he was vulnerable and not super-powered like his companions appear to be (and like Drizzt and his friends in Salvatore's other books), but going forward now he is ready to kick some ass, which is also appealing. This is also a little shorter than all of the Forgotten Realms novels published up to this point; they are consistently between 310 and 340 pages (whatever word count that works out to), but this one stops at 290, with (at least in the first printing) another 20 pages taken up by a preview of The Legacy, which was TSR's first hardcover novel and a resounding best-seller, released just one month later that Night Masks. R.A. Salvatore really carried the Forgotten Realms publishing line from the beginning.
Inconsequential note: Night Masks immediately followed The Night Parade in publication; it was a night-ful summer for TSR publishing in the summer of '92.
This is a tight story, with a narrower scope than the prior two entries in 'The Cleric Quintet'. Here the threat is restricted to the core characters. Cadderly gets copious character development, as well as exponential development of his personal abilities. In the prior books I liked that he was vulnerable and not super-powered like his companions appear to be (and like Drizzt and his friends in Salvatore's other books), but going forward now he is ready to kick some ass, which is also appealing. This is also a little shorter than all of the Forgotten Realms novels published up to this point; they are consistently between 310 and 340 pages (whatever word count that works out to), but this one stops at 290, with (at least in the first printing) another 20 pages taken up by a preview of The Legacy, which was TSR's first hardcover novel and a resounding best-seller, released just one month later that Night Masks. R.A. Salvatore really carried the Forgotten Realms publishing line from the beginning.
Inconsequential note: Night Masks immediately followed The Night Parade in publication; it was a night-ful summer for TSR publishing in the summer of '92.
May 16, 2021
Book three of the Cleric Quintet has a very interesting premise. Cadderly has grown from the childish boy we found in book 2 but he is struggling with his beliefs. He leaves the forest and the library and goes to stay in Carradoon, a nearby town, to find himself. The evil followers of Talona have no desire to leave Cadderly alone and send the Night Masks, a group of assassins, after him. One of the assassin's has a very cool magical ability, but Cadderly had been chosen by Denir and his powers are growing.
As the 3rd book in this series we're starting to see the peak of the conflict. We've got some idea of how cool Cadderly is going to turn out when hes all grown up and super powerful. While this isn't my favorite book in the series, I really like the bad guy.
As the 3rd book in this series we're starting to see the peak of the conflict. We've got some idea of how cool Cadderly is going to turn out when hes all grown up and super powerful. While this isn't my favorite book in the series, I really like the bad guy.
November 13, 2024
The series seems to have suddenly matured and come into it's own - I really enjoyed this instalment. The feared Night Masks, superior assassins, have been sent after Cadderly after he once again foils the plans of the Evil Wizards. Luckily, his friends arrive and can help him stay one step ahead of the killers.
I think Ghost is one of the scariest characters I've ever read - and that's saying something! The casual way he swaps bodies, leaving spirits to die in his own before he restores it back to health - makes you shudder just thinking about it. It was good to see Rufo finally getting a bit of comeuppance, although sad that some of the minor characters died in such ways.
Looking forward to reading the next to see how Cadderly grows into his newly found powers.
I think Ghost is one of the scariest characters I've ever read - and that's saying something! The casual way he swaps bodies, leaving spirits to die in his own before he restores it back to health - makes you shudder just thinking about it. It was good to see Rufo finally getting a bit of comeuppance, although sad that some of the minor characters died in such ways.
Looking forward to reading the next to see how Cadderly grows into his newly found powers.
February 10, 2025
Not as good as the first two books, this one felt more like a bridge between the main conflict. The main antagonist is pretty interesting, but the Night Masks collectively seem pretty ordinary and not as distinguished as mentioned in the beginning of the story. Many of the fight scenes were dull, with repetitive action sequences. There is a new character introduced and more powerful artifacts that may play a part later on. Cadderly starts to find himself as a powerful cleric, or at least gaining power through the will of his god. His power seems to grow rather rapidly, but this change is explained throughout and reasonable enough considering his importance to the overall story. Still a good entry and expecting more from the next two.
January 8, 2019
This book in the series has one of the better villains in most of the Forgotten Realms books that i have read. The idea of Ghost body hopping is a great one, and could have been used a little more effectively in the story, but did provide some interesting moments.
Pikel and Ivan started to get a little annoying - the comedy duo starting to wear a little thin. Yes, Pikel says 'Oi' a lot, and Ivan is the gruff one and they bicker and fight all the time. We got it.
Cadderly is going through a crisis of faith, and by the very nature of the journey - it is not a great one to read.
Danica has one of the best moments when she is fighting Ghost over her body.
Pikel and Ivan started to get a little annoying - the comedy duo starting to wear a little thin. Yes, Pikel says 'Oi' a lot, and Ivan is the gruff one and they bicker and fight all the time. We got it.
Cadderly is going through a crisis of faith, and by the very nature of the journey - it is not a great one to read.
Danica has one of the best moments when she is fighting Ghost over her body.
November 10, 2019
This book was really awesome just because you can see Cadderlys growth so well! His knowledge of the world, how his powers form, the responsibilities upon his shoulders and how to deal with them. He really grows a lot and it’s pretty cool to see. I did think Ghost was kind of dumb. His ability was cool but I didn’t see any depth to him. He might be a bad guy, but it’s cool when you can relate to them or like them, if that makes sense, and that is something i usually expect from Salvatore simply because of Artemis Entreri and Jarlaxle, as well as his other bad guys in Drizzt. Overall though it was a really good read!
July 11, 2023
I really feel as if this series would have been better as one volume. Each book in this series and this book more than the others is basically just one event stretched out over 300+ pages. Its very little plot and mostly just fight scenes, and low stake fights at that. I swear every time this book got to a fight scene, and they were about 10 - 20 pages apart, my eyes started drooping. This book got slightly more interesting nearer to the end and had its moments but the mere fact that I really feel it would have been better as a few chapters in a novel as opposed to its own book coupled with some gross spelling and grammatical errors have me rating this book so low.
December 15, 2019
More happens than in In Sylvan Shadows, but not much! Tons of filler fight scenes, lots of boring villains. One pretty good Cadderly/Danica relationship talk scene and one really good scene about individual faith versus institutional religion, but otherwise it feels like Salvatore is just filling in D&D madlibs.
Also, would love it if he stopped with the orientalist descriptions of Danica. Every time she shows up it's "wow look at her exotic almond eyes".
Also be ready to read the phrase "Dragon's Codpiece" more than most ever have or will again.
Also, would love it if he stopped with the orientalist descriptions of Danica. Every time she shows up it's "wow look at her exotic almond eyes".
Also be ready to read the phrase "Dragon's Codpiece" more than most ever have or will again.
January 25, 2021
While in some ways better than the first two books I am being more unforgiving. The story is okay, and the conclusion to part 3 is well wrapped up, but there are just some things about Salvatore that personal quirks that show very obviously in his writing and it’s frustrating, now that I’ve read 13 of his books that these problems are present in almost all of them. I will complete this series because I made the goal to, but there are loads more better Forgotten Realms books you could spend time reading.
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