No matter the cost in blood and sacrifice...Freedom! An ancient evil long forgotten has returned to stalk the world when the dreaded tome of Morgan le Fay is unearthed. As malevolence grows and a dark plague spreads, the fragile peace in Scotland is shattered by invasion. With conquest and foul slavery at hand the only hope for humanity, at the dawn of that new age, rests upon the war-weary shoulders of bloodied Highland clans, the aid of bold Irish warriors and legendary riders of the Sidhe. The unlikely allies must make a desperate stand or see a diabolical enemy vanquish all!
Quite good for a sequel. The continuing storyline is on par with the author's beginning book and has shown me that he's not just a one shot wonder. The story takes up four years following the end of The Clans Conflict. He immediately gives us a shock (albeit welcome); I won't elaborate, you can read it for yourselves! King Gregor has a new enemy to contend with in an ambitious English general named: Phillip Rothchild. The man is more than he first appears, but his goal is the same as various English monarchs from the past. He hates Scots and desires their lands without them in it. This book has elements to it not in evidence through the first book in this trilogy. Magic makes a big appearance in the form of evil blood magic. Arthurian legend makes itself known in the appearance of certain characters all should recognize. And finally, he added a touch of undead to the mix for good measure. Although that last element isn't something I seek out, the way it's introduced and used is understandable in its context and adds a genuine tone of horror for those who encounter it. Overall, a well-written and fast-paced book. Although the second installment in a trilogy, this book, just as the first, is self-contained and stands alone without disappointment. The author was even kind enough to give us all a tease about what we can expect in the third volume whenever it is completed. I for one hope he doesn't make us wait too long for the chance to read it.
I can't say for sure if I liked the first book or this one better as I enjoyed them for different reasons. The first book (The Clans Conflict) was more like an alternate history full of skirmish and battle between Scottish clans, and a brutality from a villain I grew to truly detest. I loved it! The sequel is less hate between Highland rivals, as the villain is English (good choice!), but possesses a whole lot more. There are bits of Arthurian legend introduced, foul blood magic, undead, and even a particularly nasty demon to round things out. The new elements helped propel the story forward with plenty of bloody action and some unexpected twists toward the very end. I loved it! Each volume is self-contained with a complete story so one doesn't feel forced to purchase an entire trilogy to enjoy a good read, but these books are so good I WHAT to read the entire trilogy. You hearing Helms? Hurry up and finish the third book so I can read it!