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Knight and Rogue #1
The Last Knight
Need a Hero? You've got one in Sir Michael Sevenson. Although there hasn't been a knight errant in over two hundred years, this young noble has decided to revive the trade. He's found himself a reluctant partner in Fisk, a clever rogue who has been given the choice of serving as Michael's squire or going to jail for a very long time. Now Michael and Fisk are on a quest to right wrongs, protect the innocent, and make the world a happier place. It's not going to be easy. On their first attempt at rescuing a damsel in distress, they break a lady out of a tower, only to discover she was there for good reason: awaiting trial for poisoning her husband. Now the would-be heroes must find Lady Ceciel and return her to justice or be condemned themselves.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published August 28, 2007
43 people are currently reading
5554 people want to read
About the author
Hilari Bell
100 books648 followersAs far as writing is concerned, I call myself the poster child for persistence. Songs of Power, the first novel I sold, was the 5th novel I'd written. When it sold I was working on novel #13. The next to sell, Navohar, was #12, and the next, A Matter of Profit, was #9. The Goblin Wood was #6, and the first Sorahb book, Flame (later renamed Farsala: Fall of a Kingdom), will be #15. You get the picture.
My reviews: Mea culpa! I got onto Goodreads years ago, and haven't been reviewing--but I now mean to start! I should add that as writer, I tend to read a bit more critically. Or at least, when I think a book is going off the rails I usually see technical, writer problems with it. In short, any time a book stops working for me, that author becomes an honorary member of my writing critique group--whether they want to or not! So I apologize in advance for any technical critiques my fellow writers may recieve.
Biography: My personal life? I was born in Denver in 1958—you can do the math. I'm single and live with my mother, brother and sister-in-law. I used to be a part time reference librarian for a mid-sized public library, but in the beginning of ’05 I achieved a writer’s dream and quit the day job. Librarian turned writer is a very schizophrenic state—when I try to urge people to buy my books, I have to beat down a lifetime of professional reflexes demanding that I tell them to check them out at the library instead.
I enjoy board gaming and fantasy gaming, both table top and live. But my favorite thing to do is the decadent version of camping my mom and I practice. We have a pop-up trailer with a fridge, a sink, a stove and (if electrical hookups are available) a space heater, heating pads and a toaster. Our motto is "No unnecessary work." We don't cook, we don't wash dishes, we don't...you name it. What we do is spend all day, every day, reading and hiking and reading some more. Camping is the only time I can get in enough reading. Well, I take that back—when it comes to reading, there's no such thing as enough.
My reviews: Mea culpa! I got onto Goodreads years ago, and haven't been reviewing--but I now mean to start! I should add that as writer, I tend to read a bit more critically. Or at least, when I think a book is going off the rails I usually see technical, writer problems with it. In short, any time a book stops working for me, that author becomes an honorary member of my writing critique group--whether they want to or not! So I apologize in advance for any technical critiques my fellow writers may recieve.
Biography: My personal life? I was born in Denver in 1958—you can do the math. I'm single and live with my mother, brother and sister-in-law. I used to be a part time reference librarian for a mid-sized public library, but in the beginning of ’05 I achieved a writer’s dream and quit the day job. Librarian turned writer is a very schizophrenic state—when I try to urge people to buy my books, I have to beat down a lifetime of professional reflexes demanding that I tell them to check them out at the library instead.
I enjoy board gaming and fantasy gaming, both table top and live. But my favorite thing to do is the decadent version of camping my mom and I practice. We have a pop-up trailer with a fridge, a sink, a stove and (if electrical hookups are available) a space heater, heating pads and a toaster. Our motto is "No unnecessary work." We don't cook, we don't wash dishes, we don't...you name it. What we do is spend all day, every day, reading and hiking and reading some more. Camping is the only time I can get in enough reading. Well, I take that back—when it comes to reading, there's no such thing as enough.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
September 9, 2025
3.5
I think these dudes have such good chemistry together even if I think the rest of the book was a little lackluster they were genuinely fun to be around and watching interact. Well, Michael might not have been having fun, but I was having fun watching.
I think these dudes have such good chemistry together even if I think the rest of the book was a little lackluster they were genuinely fun to be around and watching interact. Well, Michael might not have been having fun, but I was having fun watching.
January 16, 2019
Basic Plot: Sir Michael and Fisk rescue a damsel that maybe-yes-maybe-not ought to be rescued from a tower, then have to find her again.
This book really surprised me. A friend loaned it to me along with a few others that... were slow going... so it took me awhile to decide to read this book. I'm glad I did. This was a fun fantasy romp in a new world. A YA book that lacks sex or angst was what I needed after the others the friend loaned. This one was refreshingly free of all that *oh, the pain of existence* crap.
One of the aspects of this book that I really liked was the constant switching of perspective from chapter to chapter. The two main characters alternate narration, and each one has a VERY distinct outlook on the world and voice to speak. The superstition/mythology/magic of this world was also interesting and unique. I don't know that I've ever read anything quite like it, and I've read a lot of fantasy. This is a very low-magic world, but the magic that is there is both necessary and dangerous. This led to some interesting plot points. The plot was well-tied-together, and had a lot more complexity than I really expected from a YA novel. A good read, all in all. I've noted that there is a sequel, and I plan to hunt it down in short order.
This book really surprised me. A friend loaned it to me along with a few others that... were slow going... so it took me awhile to decide to read this book. I'm glad I did. This was a fun fantasy romp in a new world. A YA book that lacks sex or angst was what I needed after the others the friend loaned. This one was refreshingly free of all that *oh, the pain of existence* crap.
One of the aspects of this book that I really liked was the constant switching of perspective from chapter to chapter. The two main characters alternate narration, and each one has a VERY distinct outlook on the world and voice to speak. The superstition/mythology/magic of this world was also interesting and unique. I don't know that I've ever read anything quite like it, and I've read a lot of fantasy. This is a very low-magic world, but the magic that is there is both necessary and dangerous. This led to some interesting plot points. The plot was well-tied-together, and had a lot more complexity than I really expected from a YA novel. A good read, all in all. I've noted that there is a sequel, and I plan to hunt it down in short order.
March 16, 2009
The characters in the The Last Knight are entirely believable, which is one of the books strongest points. Mike is just what you’d imagine a modern knight errant to be, sweet, and just slightly moronic, and his squire perfectly embodies the street wise sidekick every hero needs. The world that Bell creates is fresh and new, and the plot is hardly ever predictable (which is a great plus).
June 29, 2010
The story was ok, but when all was said and don't, I felt like it was a waste of time. I could have re-read something else and enjoyed myself more. The quote on the cover about what a great writer the author is... well, clearly that reviewer and I have a difference of opinion.
I read this genre because the world building is so much fun to read and explore. Here, there really wasn't much of that. And the characters are very flat and there isn't much development of them either.
The story is goes like this: Sir Michael is a knight errant and Fisk is his squire. Michael rescued Fisk since Fisk is really a con man. They set out to rescue Lady Ceciel and it turns out that they help a criminal escape. So, their "adventure" becomes the quest to meet the conditions of Michael father's "probation" after he rescues Fisk and Michael from their troubles when it is discovered that they helped the lady escape. They now have to recapture the Lady and bring her to the lord so that justice can be carried out.
The most exciting part of the plot was the escape from having been "cudgel-crewed". And the most interesting character is Lady Kara but we see so very little of her that we don't get a chance to know her. Fisk - we know he has a past, but we learn nothing at all and as a result it's hard to stay interested. We learn a little more about Michael because we see his father but it's still very one dimensional.
The world that is built doesn't really get described very well. We learn that there is a furred god and that there are 2 moons, and this stuff called magica. And while its a safe (and correct) inference that magica is magic, for some reason it's bad for people to do. And animals and plants and stuff can be magica but to kill either one must make a sacrifice or something will come back to harm you. It's kinda like instant karma. But, we get no additional information. Zero. It's like the author was really only sort of interested in writing a book about magic. Until we get towards the end. And then Lady Ceciel seems to have some ideas about magica but we get, what felt like, the same chapter 3 times in a row. And we still really don't learn much that adds to the story. In fact, I was slightly disturbed by the "simple ones" and the way the author dealt with them as a class of people. And it made me hard to understand how experimenting on them should be something in a YA book.
The alternating chapter narratives are a little difficult too. I don't mind alternating view points most times. But for some reason, it was often hard to track/remember. I found that many times, I had to look back to the first page of the chapter to see who's name was on it to know who's point of view I was reading.
I know this is the first in a series but I don't plan on bothering with the next. There just isn't enough of the characters to keep me interested. And the made up terms that aren't explained and the one-dimensional universe... too little to keep me interested at all.
I read this genre because the world building is so much fun to read and explore. Here, there really wasn't much of that. And the characters are very flat and there isn't much development of them either.
The story is goes like this: Sir Michael is a knight errant and Fisk is his squire. Michael rescued Fisk since Fisk is really a con man. They set out to rescue Lady Ceciel and it turns out that they help a criminal escape. So, their "adventure" becomes the quest to meet the conditions of Michael father's "probation" after he rescues Fisk and Michael from their troubles when it is discovered that they helped the lady escape. They now have to recapture the Lady and bring her to the lord so that justice can be carried out.
The most exciting part of the plot was the escape from having been "cudgel-crewed". And the most interesting character is Lady Kara but we see so very little of her that we don't get a chance to know her. Fisk - we know he has a past, but we learn nothing at all and as a result it's hard to stay interested. We learn a little more about Michael because we see his father but it's still very one dimensional.
The world that is built doesn't really get described very well. We learn that there is a furred god and that there are 2 moons, and this stuff called magica. And while its a safe (and correct) inference that magica is magic, for some reason it's bad for people to do. And animals and plants and stuff can be magica but to kill either one must make a sacrifice or something will come back to harm you. It's kinda like instant karma. But, we get no additional information. Zero. It's like the author was really only sort of interested in writing a book about magic. Until we get towards the end. And then Lady Ceciel seems to have some ideas about magica but we get, what felt like, the same chapter 3 times in a row. And we still really don't learn much that adds to the story. In fact, I was slightly disturbed by the "simple ones" and the way the author dealt with them as a class of people. And it made me hard to understand how experimenting on them should be something in a YA book.
The alternating chapter narratives are a little difficult too. I don't mind alternating view points most times. But for some reason, it was often hard to track/remember. I found that many times, I had to look back to the first page of the chapter to see who's name was on it to know who's point of view I was reading.
I know this is the first in a series but I don't plan on bothering with the next. There just isn't enough of the characters to keep me interested. And the made up terms that aren't explained and the one-dimensional universe... too little to keep me interested at all.
April 18, 2010
Even though I'm reading a lot of books in a row by this author, I did not get tired of her writing style or the patterns she uses. The books are changed just enough not to resemble each other too closely, but honest enough to feel only like witnessing her development as a writer. I think this new series is my favorite so far.
I love the characters of a knight errant and his squire traipsing the countryside, braving the adventures and the snickers alike. And how interesting for her to choose to place them in a time so far beyond knighthood that to declare such occupations would bring laughter and not respect. I also had not expected to encounter such a ruthless villain and the mystery surrounding her was enough to keep me turning the pages.
There was a fair amount of rescuing to fuel the drama, and lots of arguing between two friends for comedy. The magic was subdued, but still played a big part in shaping a world where women are valued for their ability to pass on the magic gene.
When it was over, I was glad that I had the second book to continue the adventures and mishaps that the two unlikely companions encounter.
I love the characters of a knight errant and his squire traipsing the countryside, braving the adventures and the snickers alike. And how interesting for her to choose to place them in a time so far beyond knighthood that to declare such occupations would bring laughter and not respect. I also had not expected to encounter such a ruthless villain and the mystery surrounding her was enough to keep me turning the pages.
There was a fair amount of rescuing to fuel the drama, and lots of arguing between two friends for comedy. The magic was subdued, but still played a big part in shaping a world where women are valued for their ability to pass on the magic gene.
When it was over, I was glad that I had the second book to continue the adventures and mishaps that the two unlikely companions encounter.
September 4, 2012
There be spoilers abroad:
Come gather round Lords and Lady's.
Come here the tale of brave, Sir Michael, a sort-of bumbling but brave knight and his wise, smart-mouthed squire Fisk. This unlikely pair have been partitioned to "rescue" a fair Maiden, Lady Ciecel, only maybe she's not quite so helpless or innocent for that matter. Well, they rescue her anyways, only to find out this woman is being held for probably murdering her husband with potions. After finding this out, the clueless knight is forced by his Father to right his wrongs, to seek out this maiden and bring her to justice. Only where is she? Where do these two "men" even start?
Well, I'll say the first couple of chapters of this were sort of hard to get into. The POV changes from Sir Michael and Fisk. After a while, this is fine and you get to know each of their voices, but starting off it was a bit confusing. Also, I'm not sure what the target age is for this or the target audience? I mean, it's a little wordy for middle-school, but the story feels young. I guess this is more targeted for the fella's??? But, I don't know how many high-school guys would pick this up???? Ramble Ramble.
Bottomline: This was not bad, but I'm not blown away. Sir Michael and Fisk were definitely likeable, but something is just not there for me. I don't regret reading this, but I'm not going to recommend it to anyone either, nor will I tell them not to read it. This is just one of those shrug-your-shoulders-meh-books.
3 stars. Bonus points for likeable, quirky characters.
Come gather round Lords and Lady's.
Come here the tale of brave, Sir Michael, a sort-of bumbling but brave knight and his wise, smart-mouthed squire Fisk. This unlikely pair have been partitioned to "rescue" a fair Maiden, Lady Ciecel, only maybe she's not quite so helpless or innocent for that matter. Well, they rescue her anyways, only to find out this woman is being held for probably murdering her husband with potions. After finding this out, the clueless knight is forced by his Father to right his wrongs, to seek out this maiden and bring her to justice. Only where is she? Where do these two "men" even start?
Well, I'll say the first couple of chapters of this were sort of hard to get into. The POV changes from Sir Michael and Fisk. After a while, this is fine and you get to know each of their voices, but starting off it was a bit confusing. Also, I'm not sure what the target age is for this or the target audience? I mean, it's a little wordy for middle-school, but the story feels young. I guess this is more targeted for the fella's??? But, I don't know how many high-school guys would pick this up???? Ramble Ramble.
Bottomline: This was not bad, but I'm not blown away. Sir Michael and Fisk were definitely likeable, but something is just not there for me. I don't regret reading this, but I'm not going to recommend it to anyone either, nor will I tell them not to read it. This is just one of those shrug-your-shoulders-meh-books.
3 stars. Bonus points for likeable, quirky characters.
October 6, 2010
excerpt from detailed review here:
http://angeltyuan.blogspot.com/2009/1...
I was in quite a rush to finish this book because I had bought it with the intent of gifting it to my friend the next day but instead, I became quite captivated by it myself. The mythology and world building is imaginative and original, combining a medieval setting with a unique blend of magic and quite "modern" characters who believe valiant knighthood is outdated. The character voices are distinct and sympathetic, alternating every chapter between the cynical but good-hearted "rogue" Fisk and the stupidly honest but well-meaning "knight" Sir Michael. However, they are not at all stagnant in their traits: Fisk learns to trust and sacrifice, while Michael learns to lie and manipulate. Side characters are also given depth and acknowledged as independent beings with their own character traits and personalities. The story itself was full of both plot and character twists, and it keeps you guessing as to who the real villains are and who is in league with who until the very end. This is one of those books where I would go and buy my own copy later because I enjoyed it that much.
http://angeltyuan.blogspot.com/2009/1...
I was in quite a rush to finish this book because I had bought it with the intent of gifting it to my friend the next day but instead, I became quite captivated by it myself. The mythology and world building is imaginative and original, combining a medieval setting with a unique blend of magic and quite "modern" characters who believe valiant knighthood is outdated. The character voices are distinct and sympathetic, alternating every chapter between the cynical but good-hearted "rogue" Fisk and the stupidly honest but well-meaning "knight" Sir Michael. However, they are not at all stagnant in their traits: Fisk learns to trust and sacrifice, while Michael learns to lie and manipulate. Side characters are also given depth and acknowledged as independent beings with their own character traits and personalities. The story itself was full of both plot and character twists, and it keeps you guessing as to who the real villains are and who is in league with who until the very end. This is one of those books where I would go and buy my own copy later because I enjoyed it that much.
February 7, 2018
A younger son of a minor noble sets out with noble intentions of righting wrongs wherever he might find them. Along the way, he rescues a talented rogue to be his squire. Rescuing the damsel in distress, however, turns out not to have been such a good idea....
With mystery, adventure, and truly likeable characters, I found this story well suited to my personal tastes for a light, entertaining read. I enjoyed the time I spent with it.
With mystery, adventure, and truly likeable characters, I found this story well suited to my personal tastes for a light, entertaining read. I enjoyed the time I spent with it.
Read
December 10, 2019The book was absolutely delightful. It was a buddy movie turned into a medieval themed book, not literally of course. It reveals plot twists and dilemmas from quite literally the first few chapters. It's characters are more human than I would say for much of the fantasy books I've read. I highly advise this book for any who like fantasy and who can enjoy banter.
August 14, 2017
Two guys are better than one
There’s something about stories following two guys as they combine forces that just gets me every time. Holmes and Watson, Dean and Sam Winchester, a friendship duo like that is an automatic “YES PLEASE!” for me. Hilari Bell’s Knight and Rogue series is no exception.
Hilari Bell has created two superb characters in Michael and Fisk. Michael and Fisk are opposites in most ways, often finding themselves at odds with one another over questions of morality and what constitutes a wise course of action. These debates are highly amusing, with both characters convincing me equally.
Michael is well-described and wears his heart on his sleeve. He is a noble and kind man with an unwavering sense of right and wrong. His growth and good heart endeared him to me early on and my liking only increased as the story progressed.
Fisk, on the other hand, is more in line with Bell's style of walking a tightrope line of morality. A character with secrets, many of which are hinted at and only a few of which we actually come to learn, Fisk is compulsively likable despite his often craven and self-serving acts. I am very intrigued by this character and hope we learn more about Fisk's past in the next book.
I love to hate her
Though not as main a character as Michael or Fisk, Lady Ceciel is still a very interesting character in her own right. Her actions are both objectionable and understandable, and it is impossible not to admire her intelligence in staying a step ahead of her pursuers.
Does anyone remember the scene in Jurassic Park (um, I was…am…in love with that movie) where the raptor guy realizes he was just successfully stalked by the Queen raptor and he’s about to be chow? He turns to her and admiringly says “Clever girl” right before she rips him to shreds. That’s Lady Ceciel.
Except…she is also pretty convincing. She’s not a cackling villain acting evil for the sake of being evil. She genuinely believes she is doing the morally right thing and she makes a strong argument, even as her actions turned my stomach.
This world we live in
The plot is equally interesting, successfully combining fantasy adventure with detective mystery. I found myself wanting to read more and more as new clues were uncovered and new adventures found. I didn't figure out what was really going on with the mystery aspects until either just before it happened or only as it was happening. Though long at 368 pages, I found this book to be a real page-turner and I barely felt the length.
The only complaint I really have for the book is Bell's world-building. While the rules were laid out well enough, I didn't have a clear idea of how they actually played out in daily living. There also wasn't much explanation as to why certain things were the way they were. Other features I just found silly or annoying. The characters more than make up for this, though.
Yet another series?
Yeah, it’s part of a series. I know, I know, a little part of me cries every time I hear that even though I love series. I wouldn’t worry too much about it here though. This book wraps up well and works as a standalone. There aren’t any annoying cliffhangers to worry about here and I’ve heard the same applies for the other two books in the series, both of which are published.
I want to read the next book because I enjoyed the characters and want to read more about their adventures. This is how I think authors should do series. Make me want to read the next book because the first was so good, not because the story is left unfinished. I've actually already bought the second book based on the strength of this one (something I almost never do!).
Originally posted at Small Review
There’s something about stories following two guys as they combine forces that just gets me every time. Holmes and Watson, Dean and Sam Winchester, a friendship duo like that is an automatic “YES PLEASE!” for me. Hilari Bell’s Knight and Rogue series is no exception.
Hilari Bell has created two superb characters in Michael and Fisk. Michael and Fisk are opposites in most ways, often finding themselves at odds with one another over questions of morality and what constitutes a wise course of action. These debates are highly amusing, with both characters convincing me equally.
Michael is well-described and wears his heart on his sleeve. He is a noble and kind man with an unwavering sense of right and wrong. His growth and good heart endeared him to me early on and my liking only increased as the story progressed.
Fisk, on the other hand, is more in line with Bell's style of walking a tightrope line of morality. A character with secrets, many of which are hinted at and only a few of which we actually come to learn, Fisk is compulsively likable despite his often craven and self-serving acts. I am very intrigued by this character and hope we learn more about Fisk's past in the next book.
I love to hate her
Though not as main a character as Michael or Fisk, Lady Ceciel is still a very interesting character in her own right. Her actions are both objectionable and understandable, and it is impossible not to admire her intelligence in staying a step ahead of her pursuers.
Does anyone remember the scene in Jurassic Park (um, I was…am…in love with that movie) where the raptor guy realizes he was just successfully stalked by the Queen raptor and he’s about to be chow? He turns to her and admiringly says “Clever girl” right before she rips him to shreds. That’s Lady Ceciel.
Except…she is also pretty convincing. She’s not a cackling villain acting evil for the sake of being evil. She genuinely believes she is doing the morally right thing and she makes a strong argument, even as her actions turned my stomach.
This world we live in
The plot is equally interesting, successfully combining fantasy adventure with detective mystery. I found myself wanting to read more and more as new clues were uncovered and new adventures found. I didn't figure out what was really going on with the mystery aspects until either just before it happened or only as it was happening. Though long at 368 pages, I found this book to be a real page-turner and I barely felt the length.
The only complaint I really have for the book is Bell's world-building. While the rules were laid out well enough, I didn't have a clear idea of how they actually played out in daily living. There also wasn't much explanation as to why certain things were the way they were. Other features I just found silly or annoying. The characters more than make up for this, though.
Yet another series?
Yeah, it’s part of a series. I know, I know, a little part of me cries every time I hear that even though I love series. I wouldn’t worry too much about it here though. This book wraps up well and works as a standalone. There aren’t any annoying cliffhangers to worry about here and I’ve heard the same applies for the other two books in the series, both of which are published.
I want to read the next book because I enjoyed the characters and want to read more about their adventures. This is how I think authors should do series. Make me want to read the next book because the first was so good, not because the story is left unfinished. I've actually already bought the second book based on the strength of this one (something I almost never do!).
Originally posted at Small Review
March 14, 2012
I had heard some bad reviews of this from friends and didn't have very high expectations for it. A few chapters in and I was entertained enough, curious to see where it would go. Little did I know that I would become hooked quickly, like speck of dust in a suctioning vacuum. I was strangely engrossed in it, and looking back after finishing, there really wasn't a thing that I thought should be changed.
The story of Sir Michael and Fisk, the "Knight" and "squire". Michael has a dream of adventure and travelling, and became a knight errant. There hasn't been one in over a hundred years, and people ridicule him at the thought of it. And his squire, Fisk, is regrettably looped into his life when Michael agrees to pay off his bounty. Fisk, a conniving con artist, and Michael, an honest man in search of justice. How would they expect it to turn out?? Fisk just bides his time, helping Michael when needed, and waiting oh so long for the "noble sir" to redeem him and let him go.
So for Fisk's first adventure with Michael, they rescue a classic damsel in distress, and this is where the book opens to. Only they found out shortly after that the lady was in the tower for a good reason! The Lady Ceciel was in prison, for murder. They let a freaking murdered go free!! Now these two idiots have to trek all over the countryside and back to look for her and bring her back to the authorities, or else Michael's Knight errantry will be revoked and Fisk will remain an unredeemed man.
I love the sense of adventure that this book gives, and the building relationship between Fisk and Michael is very sweet (No homo...) and HILARIOUS! There was no romance in this book, and I'm surprisingly fine with that. Sometimes too much romantic scenes can get in the way of the plot and make things complicated. The combination of the two's different personalities start to rub off on each other, with Fisk learning how to be more trusting and honorable, and Michael learns the way of the cons.
I can't wait to read the next book!! (It's a trilogy)
The story of Sir Michael and Fisk, the "Knight" and "squire". Michael has a dream of adventure and travelling, and became a knight errant. There hasn't been one in over a hundred years, and people ridicule him at the thought of it. And his squire, Fisk, is regrettably looped into his life when Michael agrees to pay off his bounty. Fisk, a conniving con artist, and Michael, an honest man in search of justice. How would they expect it to turn out?? Fisk just bides his time, helping Michael when needed, and waiting oh so long for the "noble sir" to redeem him and let him go.
So for Fisk's first adventure with Michael, they rescue a classic damsel in distress, and this is where the book opens to. Only they found out shortly after that the lady was in the tower for a good reason! The Lady Ceciel was in prison, for murder. They let a freaking murdered go free!! Now these two idiots have to trek all over the countryside and back to look for her and bring her back to the authorities, or else Michael's Knight errantry will be revoked and Fisk will remain an unredeemed man.
I love the sense of adventure that this book gives, and the building relationship between Fisk and Michael is very sweet (No homo...) and HILARIOUS! There was no romance in this book, and I'm surprisingly fine with that. Sometimes too much romantic scenes can get in the way of the plot and make things complicated. The combination of the two's different personalities start to rub off on each other, with Fisk learning how to be more trusting and honorable, and Michael learns the way of the cons.
I can't wait to read the next book!! (It's a trilogy)
March 19, 2020
I was so excited about this book. Between the cover and the description, I was expecting to have found a real gem and my next favourite read. Even worse, I was forced to pay hard-earned money because it was unavailable at any library.
I'm really not sure who this book is intended for. The story and characters (as well as the design and the layout of the book) make it seem like a more juvenile audience, but there were plenty of instances of language and crude humor that seemed to imply it was for an older audience.
I didn't find the story entertaining or particularly humorous. There was practically no character development and even though we were hinted at parts of Fisk's past, those hints of foreshadowing never became of anything. Other parts of the book did that too, where topics (such as the magica) were introduced but never really unpacked or used as a significant plotline.
There was plenty of "adventure" and "action" but even that was eventually a little dull because nothing about it ever really changed the characters or the situation. They always just moved on to the next thing. I think it had a lot of potential to be a good series, but the story doesn't feel fleshed out enough.
I stayed pretty bored throughout the book and mostly gave up around the 50% mark. From there, I skimmed through to see if things got any better. By the end, the connection between Michael and Fisk never really changed beyond acquaintances. Fisk's past was never uncovered, and Michael didn't change or grow. The plot closed as I expected, and although it ended with the intention to continue the series, I don't think I plan on reading any more.
I'm really not sure who this book is intended for. The story and characters (as well as the design and the layout of the book) make it seem like a more juvenile audience, but there were plenty of instances of language and crude humor that seemed to imply it was for an older audience.
I didn't find the story entertaining or particularly humorous. There was practically no character development and even though we were hinted at parts of Fisk's past, those hints of foreshadowing never became of anything. Other parts of the book did that too, where topics (such as the magica) were introduced but never really unpacked or used as a significant plotline.
There was plenty of "adventure" and "action" but even that was eventually a little dull because nothing about it ever really changed the characters or the situation. They always just moved on to the next thing. I think it had a lot of potential to be a good series, but the story doesn't feel fleshed out enough.
I stayed pretty bored throughout the book and mostly gave up around the 50% mark. From there, I skimmed through to see if things got any better. By the end, the connection between Michael and Fisk never really changed beyond acquaintances. Fisk's past was never uncovered, and Michael didn't change or grow. The plot closed as I expected, and although it ended with the intention to continue the series, I don't think I plan on reading any more.
December 22, 2017
I read this book to preview it for our school library (K-8). It had some language in it that might not be appropriate, and there was some talk of "bedding" wenches. Just a heads up.
The story itself is interesting. The point of view shifts from Michael, an "errant knight", and Fisk, a former conman turned into Michael's squire to avoid jail. Michael is well-meaning, always tells the truth, but is a little stupid. Fisk is clever, frequently lies, and has a hard time understanding the concept of honor in any form. It is fun to see what trouble these two get into trying to solve a crime that they unwittingly participated in part of.
The story itself is interesting. The point of view shifts from Michael, an "errant knight", and Fisk, a former conman turned into Michael's squire to avoid jail. Michael is well-meaning, always tells the truth, but is a little stupid. Fisk is clever, frequently lies, and has a hard time understanding the concept of honor in any form. It is fun to see what trouble these two get into trying to solve a crime that they unwittingly participated in part of.
April 11, 2010
A good book. A bit slow in places.
Michael is an errant knight. His father wants him to become steward for his older brother, but he does not want to live his life in the place where he was born. He and his father get into a big fight, and his father makes an off hand comment about being an errant knight. That comment set his path. It must be noted, that the age of Knights has passed.
While Michael is out doing good he comes across a trial. He sees judgement passed upon three people. The last one is Fisk, who is a con man. He sees good in Fisk and decides to pay his fee, indebting Fisk to him until he releases him. Fisk is now his Squire.
They take a task to help a woman escape from a tower where she is being held prisoner. They find out later that she is being held because she is suspect in poisoning her husband.
The journey is for them to recapture Lady Ceceil and bring her to justice. They Michael must become his brothers Steward.
Michael is an errant knight. His father wants him to become steward for his older brother, but he does not want to live his life in the place where he was born. He and his father get into a big fight, and his father makes an off hand comment about being an errant knight. That comment set his path. It must be noted, that the age of Knights has passed.
While Michael is out doing good he comes across a trial. He sees judgement passed upon three people. The last one is Fisk, who is a con man. He sees good in Fisk and decides to pay his fee, indebting Fisk to him until he releases him. Fisk is now his Squire.
They take a task to help a woman escape from a tower where she is being held prisoner. They find out later that she is being held because she is suspect in poisoning her husband.
The journey is for them to recapture Lady Ceceil and bring her to justice. They Michael must become his brothers Steward.
June 4, 2011
Hilari Bell is quickly gaining my reader-loyalty. Lighter in premise than her Farsala trilogy, this book nevertheless serves up plenty of action and intrigue as the well-meaning actions of "knight-errant" Michael and his reluctant squire Fisk lead them into a worthy adventure.
Things I really like: the resolution of their quest, the reveal of Lady Ceciel's true intentions, the development of their friendship, and the glimpse into a magic system and world that I will in all likelihood have a lot of fun exploring in the next books.
Things I really like: the resolution of their quest, the reveal of Lady Ceciel's true intentions, the development of their friendship, and the glimpse into a magic system and world that I will in all likelihood have a lot of fun exploring in the next books.
March 30, 2016
This story was ok, but ultimately didn't capture my interest the way many of Hilari Bell's other works did. Ultimately, this struck me as the most juvenile of her work, both in shallowness of theme and in writing style. It's very typical young adult fantasy, a concept and execution both that we've seen a million times. If you're into that sort of thing, you'll probably like this book, but I personally wouldn't recommend it. Go check out some of the author's other books instead.
December 20, 2020
This book is full of hilarity, topsy-turvy expectations, unlikely camaraderie, great pacing, delectable worldbuilding, and wonderfully relatable characters. The best part? Oh there are so many...the best part, I think, is the fact that the characters change along the way. They aren’t just moving through a fantasy adventure; they’re living in their world, trying to change it, being changed by it, and discovering that the world wasn’t quite what they thought it would be.
August 3, 2015
The Knight and Rogue books are probably not Hilari Bell's best, but they are absolutely my favorites. Charming, touching, complex, weird, fun. Light, until they suddenly aren't. Here you will find friendship and zany animal companions, but also a lot of moral exploration that, while not subtle, I find interesting and satisfying. I like these books.
January 13, 2020
The first adventure of Hilari Bell’s Knight and Rogue Series takes Michael, a young knight errant who is too honest for his own good on a roundabout pursuit for an accused murderess – more specifically, the one he set free while under the impression she was innocent. (Needless to say, his father wasn’t overly impressed.) Even the best of intentions – not surprisingly – didn’t do him any favours regardless of how noble they might have been.
Fisk, an indebted young man himself (for reasons that he keeps to himself), had only recently found himself a squire to the most pitifully unsavvy knight errant the thief had ever met. Not shy about sharing a mocking quip as generously as the situations might encourage, Fisk finds his loyalities to Michael under constant duress while he battles with his own desire for self-preservation. Michael, after all, isn’t exactly the streetsmart knight in shining armour Fisk might have preferred (he would’ve preferred freedom, but such was not an option, regrettably – not yet). But the knight errant did, however, save his life.
This fun-filled adventure-mystery has you wrapped up in comedic commentary while touching on genuine issues of loyalty and morality. It was a pleasure to read.
Be sure to check out the unfailingly entertaining third book in the series, Player’s Ruse. One of my favourites!
Fisk, an indebted young man himself (for reasons that he keeps to himself), had only recently found himself a squire to the most pitifully unsavvy knight errant the thief had ever met. Not shy about sharing a mocking quip as generously as the situations might encourage, Fisk finds his loyalities to Michael under constant duress while he battles with his own desire for self-preservation. Michael, after all, isn’t exactly the streetsmart knight in shining armour Fisk might have preferred (he would’ve preferred freedom, but such was not an option, regrettably – not yet). But the knight errant did, however, save his life.
This fun-filled adventure-mystery has you wrapped up in comedic commentary while touching on genuine issues of loyalty and morality. It was a pleasure to read.
Be sure to check out the unfailingly entertaining third book in the series, Player’s Ruse. One of my favourites!
October 24, 2017
Audiobook-Rezension:
"Zwei Schwerter für die Freiheit" von Hilari Bell ist eine weitgehend klassische Abenteuergeschichte.
Der fahrende Ritter Michael (jung, adelig und naiv) und sein Knapppe Fisk (clever und frech) retten Lady Ciecel aus der Gefangenschaft - um hinterher festzustelllen, dass die Dame vermutlich zu Recht in ihrem Gefängnis saß und sie hinters Licht geführt wurden. Nun sollen sie die Lady wieder einfangen, was diese selbstverständlich mit vielen Tricks zu verhindert sucht. Während Fisk sich anfangs eigentlich unfreiwillig und etwas ablehnend in Michaels Diensten befindet und auch der Ritter seinen Knappen anstrengend und vulgär findet, sind sie während ihrer Abenteuer nicht nur zunehmend aufeinander angewiesen, sondern es entwickelt sich auch eine Freundschaft zwischen ihnen.
Es sind recht interessante Charaktere, die die Autorin hier entwickelt, auch die Rahmenstory, das Mystische und die Nebencharaktere sind solide. Beide Sprecher holen zudem das meiste aus ihren Rollen heraus. Am Ende ist die Handlung aber dennoch nicht so spannend, um totale Begeisterung hervorzurufen, aber es ist eine solide Geschichte, die Spaß gemacht hat.
"Zwei Schwerter für die Freiheit" von Hilari Bell ist eine weitgehend klassische Abenteuergeschichte.
Der fahrende Ritter Michael (jung, adelig und naiv) und sein Knapppe Fisk (clever und frech) retten Lady Ciecel aus der Gefangenschaft - um hinterher festzustelllen, dass die Dame vermutlich zu Recht in ihrem Gefängnis saß und sie hinters Licht geführt wurden. Nun sollen sie die Lady wieder einfangen, was diese selbstverständlich mit vielen Tricks zu verhindert sucht. Während Fisk sich anfangs eigentlich unfreiwillig und etwas ablehnend in Michaels Diensten befindet und auch der Ritter seinen Knappen anstrengend und vulgär findet, sind sie während ihrer Abenteuer nicht nur zunehmend aufeinander angewiesen, sondern es entwickelt sich auch eine Freundschaft zwischen ihnen.
Es sind recht interessante Charaktere, die die Autorin hier entwickelt, auch die Rahmenstory, das Mystische und die Nebencharaktere sind solide. Beide Sprecher holen zudem das meiste aus ihren Rollen heraus. Am Ende ist die Handlung aber dennoch nicht so spannend, um totale Begeisterung hervorzurufen, aber es ist eine solide Geschichte, die Spaß gemacht hat.
July 24, 2018
This is the first thing I've read of Hilari Bell's since I revisited "The Goblin Stone" (a formative childhood story) and then read the rest of that series. This was my first experience with the entirely new characters of Fisk and Sir Michael, and I heartily enjoyed their adventures as they figured out Honor, Cleverness, and When It Is Best To Lie.
Things I enjoyed:
-The humor! There's a sly undercurrent especially for characters like Fisk, whose primary language is sarcasm, but also just generally, to cut the solemn/epic feel this novel could have, if it were being told a different way
-Alternating viewpoints, especially between characters who are forced into circumstances together but either a) aren't particularly fond of or b) don't understand each other is deeply good, because they spend a lot of time wondering about the other's motives, and you understand each of them better through their internal narrative of who they want to be and the external observations of who they are.
-A quick, catching story, cleverly told; I want to know more about these character's adventures, a "knight errant and squire" in the "modern" (read: still Fantasy Past) age
Things I enjoyed:
-The humor! There's a sly undercurrent especially for characters like Fisk, whose primary language is sarcasm, but also just generally, to cut the solemn/epic feel this novel could have, if it were being told a different way
-Alternating viewpoints, especially between characters who are forced into circumstances together but either a) aren't particularly fond of or b) don't understand each other is deeply good, because they spend a lot of time wondering about the other's motives, and you understand each of them better through their internal narrative of who they want to be and the external observations of who they are.
-A quick, catching story, cleverly told; I want to know more about these character's adventures, a "knight errant and squire" in the "modern" (read: still Fantasy Past) age
November 7, 2020
overall, a very charming little book, if not something i would normally pick up.
plot i think is the weakest part of this book. the pacing of the mystery is strange, with too few clues or any true work being done to figure it out in the first half. it ends up feeling like our main characters dont really have any agency, they just get bounced from one event to the next. then in the second half, its difficult to follow the solution to the mystery as it seems to come together out of nowhere.
i also had some criticisms of some of the worldbuilding, such as how people who are accused of crimes are then outside the law, the potion that makes women agreeable, and just how some of the magic was explained. magic is left incredibly vague, so that when at the ending its revealed that humans dont have magic, i was confused, since they have gifts, which i thought were magic.
the high point of this book is definitely the two main characters, fisk and michael. their journey from reluctant partners to genuinely missing one another is the highlight for me, and I found myself reading because I wanted to see them get along more than I wanted to solve the mystery.
plot i think is the weakest part of this book. the pacing of the mystery is strange, with too few clues or any true work being done to figure it out in the first half. it ends up feeling like our main characters dont really have any agency, they just get bounced from one event to the next. then in the second half, its difficult to follow the solution to the mystery as it seems to come together out of nowhere.
i also had some criticisms of some of the worldbuilding, such as how people who are accused of crimes are then outside the law, the potion that makes women agreeable, and just how some of the magic was explained. magic is left incredibly vague, so that when at the ending its revealed that humans dont have magic, i was confused, since they have gifts, which i thought were magic.
the high point of this book is definitely the two main characters, fisk and michael. their journey from reluctant partners to genuinely missing one another is the highlight for me, and I found myself reading because I wanted to see them get along more than I wanted to solve the mystery.
June 20, 2018
This was a very middle of the road kind of book. Not amazing, but had some really cool moments too. The action was non-stop, and the POV shifting was really well done. Both Sir Michael and Fisk had very distinctive voices that were a joy to read. I liked seeing their developing friendship.
What I didn't like was the lack of enjoyable, well rounded female characters. This book was quite the sausage feast. I imagine since this is just the first book in the series, the female characters who briefly appeared in this first installment will make a return and get some character development. Also, trigger warning for dubious consent. There is nothing explicit,
I might pick up the second book sometime in the future when I don't have anything else to read. Like I said, not bad, but not the best book either.
What I didn't like was the lack of enjoyable, well rounded female characters. This book was quite the sausage feast. I imagine since this is just the first book in the series, the female characters who briefly appeared in this first installment will make a return and get some character development. Also, trigger warning for dubious consent. There is nothing explicit,
I might pick up the second book sometime in the future when I don't have anything else to read. Like I said, not bad, but not the best book either.
October 22, 2025
This is not your gripping epic, your tale of mighty heroes and gripping quests and world changing events.
It's a Knight and his squire when there are no knights and squires anymore. No it isn't urban fantasy either.
But it's quite fun. The young noble, the young son with not much to look forward to yearns to travel and maybe do good deeds. He buys free a con man and takes him as a squire much to the disgust of the squire.
But while the first quest is a total screwup, they are forced to fix it and do so - not in the way they are told to do it.
They find they rather like each other, help each other and of course this leads to more books.
It is a YA, no steamy sex scenes, no torture and grimdark but it isn't quite total kiddy material either.
I will read another.
It's a Knight and his squire when there are no knights and squires anymore. No it isn't urban fantasy either.
But it's quite fun. The young noble, the young son with not much to look forward to yearns to travel and maybe do good deeds. He buys free a con man and takes him as a squire much to the disgust of the squire.
But while the first quest is a total screwup, they are forced to fix it and do so - not in the way they are told to do it.
They find they rather like each other, help each other and of course this leads to more books.
It is a YA, no steamy sex scenes, no torture and grimdark but it isn't quite total kiddy material either.
I will read another.
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March 2, 2023Two characters needing to go on a quest to fix their wrongs all the while slowly building a strong friendship sounds like an interesting book to me. I originally didn't pick this book out by myself, it was actually my sisters. She wasn't reading it though and gave it to me, and I'm very happy she did. This is one of my favorite books even after multiple re-reads.
It's funny when Michael and Fisk bicker, the book pulls you in when there's something dangerous happening, it worries you when they separate and gives a sense of relief when they finally reunite.
The ending was really nice too in my opinion and I'm most likely to get the rest of the series at some point.
It's funny when Michael and Fisk bicker, the book pulls you in when there's something dangerous happening, it worries you when they separate and gives a sense of relief when they finally reunite.
The ending was really nice too in my opinion and I'm most likely to get the rest of the series at some point.
November 12, 2019
Within the first few pages, this book reminded me very strongly of what little I know of Don Quixote. I have not actually read Don Quixote, but I have seen the Wishbone episode and the Quantum Leap episode that revolves around the story. Like the famous Spanish tale, this book involves a knight who many would think of as crazy, and his unfortunate squire. When Sir Michael's attempted heroism backfires, his real adventure as an errant knight with the unlucky squire, Fisk, begins. I really enjoyed this adventure, and I am excited to see what happens in the next one.
October 24, 2016
It was pretty interesting; I'd honestly like more info about Magica, and other things in the world. The main characters were interesting, I like how Sir Michael is kind of ridiculed for filling the knight trope, though his partner in justice could do with less cynicism; Fisk could kind of get on my nerves, but I guess the point is for the two to contrast each other, making the tale much more entertaining.
June 20, 2020
Yes, it’s YA. As such, it’s pretty good. There is character development. The world building is a trifle lacking.
Sir Michael decides to become a knight errant, totally against his father’s wishes. Fisk is essentially a shyster, but he does have some honor. He’s not happy about being a squire to an idealistic fool that drags him off into the woods and villages.
( Fisk is a city kid.) Sir Michael actually needs Fisk’s common sense to balance his lack of it!
Sir Michael decides to become a knight errant, totally against his father’s wishes. Fisk is essentially a shyster, but he does have some honor. He’s not happy about being a squire to an idealistic fool that drags him off into the woods and villages.
( Fisk is a city kid.) Sir Michael actually needs Fisk’s common sense to balance his lack of it!
May 30, 2023
The book was pretty good the book was a little long it took me a while to read it,but the book is over all a good book the way the narrator tells you the scene and what is going on keeps you hooked on the book,The narrator never gives you lack of information,the more you read in the book the more you want to read more books from the author and keep going until you read all there books.over all the book was really good i would recommend people read the last knight by hilari bell.
October 29, 2017
A nice adventure tale of a knight errant and his former thief now squire!
Some fun twists and turns although a little slow in places, a good pace overall and a really good elementary age chivalrous adventure!
Some fun twists and turns although a little slow in places, a good pace overall and a really good elementary age chivalrous adventure!
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