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The Five Warrior Angels #2
The Blackest Heart
Gladiator. Assassin. Thief. Princess. And the Slave. The Five Warrior Angels have been revealed, one by one the mystical weapons they once wielded are being found, and an ancient prophecy is finally being fulfilled.
Or is it? For when it comes to recorded history, much is intended to manipulate and deceive.
Returning to the kingdom of Gul Kana, Princess Jondralyn has suffered a devastating loss, discovering that not all prophecy is to be assumed, not all scripture to be trusted. At the same time, her younger sister, Tala, has found faith within herself while facing off against villains, who are using her for their devices.
Hawkwood, the former Bloodwood Assassin, is captured. And the knight, Gault, betrayed by the Angel Prince, can only wonder of the fate of his daughter who has fallen into terrible hands.
All while Nail embarks upon the deadliest quest the Five Isles has ever known.
Or is it? For when it comes to recorded history, much is intended to manipulate and deceive.
Returning to the kingdom of Gul Kana, Princess Jondralyn has suffered a devastating loss, discovering that not all prophecy is to be assumed, not all scripture to be trusted. At the same time, her younger sister, Tala, has found faith within herself while facing off against villains, who are using her for their devices.
Hawkwood, the former Bloodwood Assassin, is captured. And the knight, Gault, betrayed by the Angel Prince, can only wonder of the fate of his daughter who has fallen into terrible hands.
All while Nail embarks upon the deadliest quest the Five Isles has ever known.
960 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2019
190 people are currently reading
3267 people want to read
About the author
Brian Lee Durfee
3 books2,335 followersBrian Lee Durfee is an artist and writer raised in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Monroe, Utah. He has done illustrations for Wizards of the Coast, Tolkien Enterprises, Dungeons & Dragons, Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust (Denali National Park), and many more. His art has been featured in SPECTRUM: Best in Contemporary Fantastic Art #3 and Writers of the Future Vol 9. He won the Arts for the Parks Grand Canyon Award and has a painting in the permanent collection of the Grand Canyon Visitors Center-Kolb Gallery. Brian is the author of the fantasy series, Five Warrior Angels, published by Simon & Schuster's SAGA Press. He lives in Salt Lake City. - See more at: http://brianleedurfee.weebly.com/inde... and/or http://authors.simonandschuster.com/B...
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December 2, 2022
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Review copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'm absolutely stunned by this 960 pages marvel.
Seriously, The Forgetting Moon was awesome already, but The Blackest Heart triumphed over its predecessor in every possible way. I don’t even have words to express how grateful I am that the author sent me these two books, which weren’t even on my radar, to review; it’s truly serendipitous that I found a new ongoing favorite series because of it.
Picture: My signed copy of The Blackest Heart!
The Blackest Heart is the second book in The Five Warrior Angels series by Brian Lee Durfee. Taking place two weeks after the end of The Forgetting Moon, the identities of the five warrior angels have been fully revealed. Or have they? If you think the prophecies trope will only give away the main story, you better reconsider that notion immediately. Unpredictability was actually one of the strongest factors of the plot; what I thought was going to be simple ended up becoming more complex due to insane text manipulation and deception. Upon finishing this book, I honestly have no idea who or which prophecies to believe. Durfee deftly implemented how brutal, complex, and dangerous the differences in faith and religion can be. The result? 960 pages of glorious epic fantasy.
The first book took its time with providing the necessary groundwork for the series. Although I loved and consider The Forgetting Moon one of the strongest first installments to an epic fantasy series I’ve come across, there were admittedly a few moments in it where the pacing felt a bit too slow; that’s not the case with The Blackest Heart. In this massive sequel, I was so completely addicted, hooked, and captivated by every single character’s POV that taking a break from reading it became a challenge. Durfee has put the pedal to the metal regarding every single factor to create an outstanding sequel that grew in complexities, tensions, and characterizations. One of the methods that Durfee used to achieve this stunning improvement was by including a new perilous quest undertaken by the Company of Nine, an obvious nod to The Fellowship of the Rings that put a smile upon my face. No need to worry about it being a copycat, the Company of Nine and their quest were more of a great tribute to quest based fantasy; Durfee has input more than enough originality to make this specific quest his own unique take on it.
It wasn’t only the story and world that grew larger in scope. The number of characters in the series received the same treatment; there were around 130 character names in the glossary. However, don’t be intimidated by this fact, because Durfee has done a spectacular job of making sure that they were easy to remember by focusing the storytelling on several central characters rather than every single character. The learning curve of this series isn’t like reading Malazan Book of the Fallen; if you’re good with A Song of Ice and Fire you should be good with this series. The characterizations were simply fantastic. The majority of each character’s development was unpredictable. Let’s take one of the side character, Liz Hen, as an example. I despised Liz Hen so much in The Forgetting Moon and the first half of The Blackest Heart; little did I know that Durfee’s talent for characterizations would shine through the most through her character development, and she doesn’t even have a POV chapter. Then there’s Beer Mug, another amazing character who didn’t even have any dialogue because he’s a loyal dog, but my god, the things he did in the name of loyalty and friendship should earn him the treats of gods. Also, excluding new POV chapters, Gault and the Bronachell’s POV received the most improvement.
Because of the terrific characterizations, the brutality and struggles the characters faced became palpable. I feel like it’s getting rarer for me to find an author that tortures their characters this much. The pain and wounds inflicted upon them were written extremely well; the groundwork laid for them in the first book totally worked. I feel like I’ve come to know them as ‘real’ people and beings, and I felt their pain, sadness, fury, and fear. Although I wouldn’t categorize this series as grimdark, the characters do retain their morally grey traits and the story did go in darker directions in this novel; there were close to zero moments of happiness or solace to be found here. Sure, there was some comic relief situations that made me laugh, and the friendship formed between the Company of Nine was heartwarming, but that’s pretty much it. That being said, the morally grey characters were able to light the flame of my empathy and I honestly believe that Durfee has spectacularly struck a fine balance between heroic and grimdark fantasy with The Blackest Heart.
The action scenes were also improved as the violent and macabre battles have increased in magnitude. The quest that the Company of Nine embarked upon was brutally perilous, the conflict caused by blind beliefs of different faiths was devastating, and the large-scale war that occurred near the end of the book was exhilarating and imaginative in every sense of the word; there’s always a bigger fish that colored the azure sea scarlet. As if I was watching a cinematic dance of death, the harsh wounds inflicted—both physically and mentally—to the bloodstained warriors and victimized innocents due to the terror of war were empathizing and brimming with intensity. Durfee unsheathed the blades of chaos to cut the angelic wings of peace through the continuation of Sør Sevier’s ravaging invasion; the multiple factions’ deadly race to attain the divine weapons became another factor that enhanced the action sequences. Reading about a war that caused colossal casualties being waged in the name of religions resonated with me; seeing the well-written characters fight against each other with grim determination to uphold what they think is right, or maybe just for the sake of survival, made for an enthralling reading experience.
Contrary to some reader’s apprehensions regarding prophecies—they say it made the story easy to guess—in fantasy these days, I found that the multiple prophecies and visions in this series heightened the unpredictability as not everything is what they seem to be. Which one are truth and justice? Which one is lies and betrayal? Which of the prophecies are real? Who, indeed, are the ‘real’ Five Warrior Angels returned? Full of surprises, revelations, and unpredictability, this is an epic fantasy with a prophecy trope done right. Plus, I loved Durfee’s prose. His writings were remarkably vivid, immersive, and flowed really well. Every page left an atmospheric trail that automatically engraved the passing scenes into my memory.
The distribution of talent was spread equally into factors of importance that tightened and amplified the quality of the novel and series itself; with a savage burst of brilliance in every word, I’m astonished by Durfee’s imagination and its vivid translation to the pages of this tome. The Blackest Heart won my utmost admiration. Durfee has created a majestic sequel that exhibited his gleaming crystallization of pure storytelling skill. The Blackest Heart will definitely be included in my annual Best Books of the Year list; it deserves a crowning achievement for character-driven epic fantasy. The Five Warrior Angels has now been stamped with permanent ink into my list of favorite ongoing series, and it has all the strength to stand tall among other critically acclaimed epic fantasy series. I sincerely hope epic fantasy readers will give this series a go because right now it's criminally underrated. I have no idea how Durfee will top this book and I wait for the arrival of the next book, The Lonesome Crown, with inhuman anticipation.
You can order the book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US | Book Depository (Free shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Alya, Annabeth, Blaise, Devin, Diana, Edward, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Lufi, Michelle, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Zoe.
Review copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'm absolutely stunned by this 960 pages marvel.
Seriously, The Forgetting Moon was awesome already, but The Blackest Heart triumphed over its predecessor in every possible way. I don’t even have words to express how grateful I am that the author sent me these two books, which weren’t even on my radar, to review; it’s truly serendipitous that I found a new ongoing favorite series because of it.
Picture: My signed copy of The Blackest Heart!
The Blackest Heart is the second book in The Five Warrior Angels series by Brian Lee Durfee. Taking place two weeks after the end of The Forgetting Moon, the identities of the five warrior angels have been fully revealed. Or have they? If you think the prophecies trope will only give away the main story, you better reconsider that notion immediately. Unpredictability was actually one of the strongest factors of the plot; what I thought was going to be simple ended up becoming more complex due to insane text manipulation and deception. Upon finishing this book, I honestly have no idea who or which prophecies to believe. Durfee deftly implemented how brutal, complex, and dangerous the differences in faith and religion can be. The result? 960 pages of glorious epic fantasy.
‘“With their faith in confliction religions, humans will someday prey upon themselves, ravish and tear and eat one another alive, like uncontrollable beasts of the underworld.”—The Book of the Betrayer’
The first book took its time with providing the necessary groundwork for the series. Although I loved and consider The Forgetting Moon one of the strongest first installments to an epic fantasy series I’ve come across, there were admittedly a few moments in it where the pacing felt a bit too slow; that’s not the case with The Blackest Heart. In this massive sequel, I was so completely addicted, hooked, and captivated by every single character’s POV that taking a break from reading it became a challenge. Durfee has put the pedal to the metal regarding every single factor to create an outstanding sequel that grew in complexities, tensions, and characterizations. One of the methods that Durfee used to achieve this stunning improvement was by including a new perilous quest undertaken by the Company of Nine, an obvious nod to The Fellowship of the Rings that put a smile upon my face. No need to worry about it being a copycat, the Company of Nine and their quest were more of a great tribute to quest based fantasy; Durfee has input more than enough originality to make this specific quest his own unique take on it.
‘“In the ebbing fires of our smoldering souls, we all of us offer up secrecy and deceit to protect ourselves, to protect our cause. We all of us offer up only partial versions of ourselves and beliefs to the world.”—The Way and Truth of Laijon’
It wasn’t only the story and world that grew larger in scope. The number of characters in the series received the same treatment; there were around 130 character names in the glossary. However, don’t be intimidated by this fact, because Durfee has done a spectacular job of making sure that they were easy to remember by focusing the storytelling on several central characters rather than every single character. The learning curve of this series isn’t like reading Malazan Book of the Fallen; if you’re good with A Song of Ice and Fire you should be good with this series. The characterizations were simply fantastic. The majority of each character’s development was unpredictable. Let’s take one of the side character, Liz Hen, as an example. I despised Liz Hen so much in The Forgetting Moon and the first half of The Blackest Heart; little did I know that Durfee’s talent for characterizations would shine through the most through her character development, and she doesn’t even have a POV chapter. Then there’s Beer Mug, another amazing character who didn’t even have any dialogue because he’s a loyal dog, but my god, the things he did in the name of loyalty and friendship should earn him the treats of gods. Also, excluding new POV chapters, Gault and the Bronachell’s POV received the most improvement.
Because of the terrific characterizations, the brutality and struggles the characters faced became palpable. I feel like it’s getting rarer for me to find an author that tortures their characters this much. The pain and wounds inflicted upon them were written extremely well; the groundwork laid for them in the first book totally worked. I feel like I’ve come to know them as ‘real’ people and beings, and I felt their pain, sadness, fury, and fear. Although I wouldn’t categorize this series as grimdark, the characters do retain their morally grey traits and the story did go in darker directions in this novel; there were close to zero moments of happiness or solace to be found here. Sure, there was some comic relief situations that made me laugh, and the friendship formed between the Company of Nine was heartwarming, but that’s pretty much it. That being said, the morally grey characters were able to light the flame of my empathy and I honestly believe that Durfee has spectacularly struck a fine balance between heroic and grimdark fantasy with The Blackest Heart.
‘”The Triumphant hero of any story should be neither wholly good nor wholly innocent, but should be full of both strength and weakness, righteousness and sin, truth and guilt, for contradictions are most interesting in the human soul.”—The Chivalric Illumination of Raijael’
The action scenes were also improved as the violent and macabre battles have increased in magnitude. The quest that the Company of Nine embarked upon was brutally perilous, the conflict caused by blind beliefs of different faiths was devastating, and the large-scale war that occurred near the end of the book was exhilarating and imaginative in every sense of the word; there’s always a bigger fish that colored the azure sea scarlet. As if I was watching a cinematic dance of death, the harsh wounds inflicted—both physically and mentally—to the bloodstained warriors and victimized innocents due to the terror of war were empathizing and brimming with intensity. Durfee unsheathed the blades of chaos to cut the angelic wings of peace through the continuation of Sør Sevier’s ravaging invasion; the multiple factions’ deadly race to attain the divine weapons became another factor that enhanced the action sequences. Reading about a war that caused colossal casualties being waged in the name of religions resonated with me; seeing the well-written characters fight against each other with grim determination to uphold what they think is right, or maybe just for the sake of survival, made for an enthralling reading experience.
‘Strip faith from the most faithful, belief from the heartless believer, and what are you left with? The angriest and most dangerous of enemies.”—The Angel Stone Codex’
Contrary to some reader’s apprehensions regarding prophecies—they say it made the story easy to guess—in fantasy these days, I found that the multiple prophecies and visions in this series heightened the unpredictability as not everything is what they seem to be. Which one are truth and justice? Which one is lies and betrayal? Which of the prophecies are real? Who, indeed, are the ‘real’ Five Warrior Angels returned? Full of surprises, revelations, and unpredictability, this is an epic fantasy with a prophecy trope done right. Plus, I loved Durfee’s prose. His writings were remarkably vivid, immersive, and flowed really well. Every page left an atmospheric trail that automatically engraved the passing scenes into my memory.
‘“Thus, my greatest fear cometh that the writings of the Last Warrior Angels will eclipse the word-of-mouth stories. Indeed, they will eclipse the ancient symbols once scratched into standing stones, totems, and altars. Words on a scrolled parchment carry import. Words on a page within a bound book carry the weight of a world.”—The Angel Stone Codex’
The distribution of talent was spread equally into factors of importance that tightened and amplified the quality of the novel and series itself; with a savage burst of brilliance in every word, I’m astonished by Durfee’s imagination and its vivid translation to the pages of this tome. The Blackest Heart won my utmost admiration. Durfee has created a majestic sequel that exhibited his gleaming crystallization of pure storytelling skill. The Blackest Heart will definitely be included in my annual Best Books of the Year list; it deserves a crowning achievement for character-driven epic fantasy. The Five Warrior Angels has now been stamped with permanent ink into my list of favorite ongoing series, and it has all the strength to stand tall among other critically acclaimed epic fantasy series. I sincerely hope epic fantasy readers will give this series a go because right now it's criminally underrated. I have no idea how Durfee will top this book and I wait for the arrival of the next book, The Lonesome Crown, with inhuman anticipation.
You can order the book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US | Book Depository (Free shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Alya, Annabeth, Blaise, Devin, Diana, Edward, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Lufi, Michelle, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Zoe.
June 18, 2022
Check out my new youtube channel where I show my instant reactions to reading fantasy books seconds after I finish the book.
One of the greatest fantasy books ever written.
The Blackest Heart has somehow improved upon The Forgetting Moon in every conceivable way, and has cemented itself easily within my top 10 best fantasy books ever written. It's difficult to put into words how absolutely fantastic this book was to read, and it boggles the mind that this author has not yet been able to be recognized by fantasy fans of being a modern titan in this genre.
The first page of this book left me with my jaw on the floor with the revelation that was dropped. It served as a wonderful primer for this book, as every 100 pages or so I would wonder to myself "is the pace going to slow down at any point?" NOPE. The pacing in this book can best be described as "breakneck speed", and I don't think I've ever read a book that put the pedal to the metal on the first page, and keep it there for so long. This book is over 900 pages, and could almost be described as unhealthy due to how fast it makes the heart pump for such a long duration.
I don't often find that authors can write a book that will literally give me chills - in fact I can probably count on one hand the amount of authors that have successfully done this, but this happened multiple times in this book and left me in awe. The twists to the story are wonderfully done, and the setup that was done over the course of both of these books to reveal them was done perfectly.
I have heard this book often compared to The Faithful and the Fallen by John Gwynne, a series that for me is the second best series I have ever read. And while this comparison is a good one, I think so far two books in, this series exceeds what John Gwynne was able to accomplish with his series. One of the biggest reasons for this, aside from the wonderful pace that is set that I described above, is the way the Brian Lee Durfee has woven this complex take on religious prophecy. Typically prophecy in fantasy books is rather one dimensional, where you have a prophecy that is rather black and white and the book marches you down the path of someone trying to fulfill it. Books that do this wonderfully twist the prophecy around in a surprising, but justifiable way at some point in the story.
This book however has taken this formula and absolutely perfected it by constantly making you question the prophecies and continually twisting it around. One of the central plot points of this series is that there was a huge event that happened far before the setting of these books, and it spawned off multiple different religions that each have a different take on what happened, and what the future has in store. It doesn't have one prophecy, it has several that describe the same event, so you really don't know which one (if any) are true and making you constantly second guess yourself. It's such an amazing storytelling tool that I didn't realize I was desperate to read.
I've never been a huge fan of pets in books, I find they are often thrown in to try to evoke emotions that could better be used with human interaction. But there is a dog in this book named "Beer Mug" that is hands down the coolest pet that I have ever read about in a book. I ended up audibly cheering for this dog and every time he shows up in a chapter the reader is in for a huge treat.
There's also a battle scene towards the end of this book that I really don't want to spoil anything for any future readers, so I will just say that it's one of the greatest battle scenes I have ever read about. It starts out as a somewhat mundane set piece, and ends up in the grandest tier of epic fights that could conceivably be written.
There are a few downsides I need to mention though, but they are quite minor gripes.
A book like this really needs a summary of the previous book at the beginning of this. While all fantasy novels in a series could benefit from this, it's especially needed in a series like this that hasn't blown up yet as there is no place online to read a synopsis of the first book. You have no options other than to just power through it and figure out the details of the first book while reading, or go back and read the first book again.
There are also an annoyingly large number of cliffhangers. A lot of readers prefer this type of writing, as it's a central part of what makes a series like A Song of Ice and Fire so addicting, but I wish it took more from something like A Wheel of Time that spent large amounts of time with the same character plots before moving on to another.
Finally, there are epigraphs at the beginning of each chapter that I thought were fun to read in the first book, but aren't really bringing anything new to the second book. They are all excerpts from the religious texts in this world, but they end up too similar to one another and boring me.
If the last book in this series is as good as the first two, this is going to go down in my top 3 best fantasy series of all time for me. I desperately urge all fans of the fantasy genre that are alright with reading a grimmer book to immediately pick up this series.
One of the greatest fantasy books ever written.
The Blackest Heart has somehow improved upon The Forgetting Moon in every conceivable way, and has cemented itself easily within my top 10 best fantasy books ever written. It's difficult to put into words how absolutely fantastic this book was to read, and it boggles the mind that this author has not yet been able to be recognized by fantasy fans of being a modern titan in this genre.
The first page of this book left me with my jaw on the floor with the revelation that was dropped. It served as a wonderful primer for this book, as every 100 pages or so I would wonder to myself "is the pace going to slow down at any point?" NOPE. The pacing in this book can best be described as "breakneck speed", and I don't think I've ever read a book that put the pedal to the metal on the first page, and keep it there for so long. This book is over 900 pages, and could almost be described as unhealthy due to how fast it makes the heart pump for such a long duration.
I don't often find that authors can write a book that will literally give me chills - in fact I can probably count on one hand the amount of authors that have successfully done this, but this happened multiple times in this book and left me in awe. The twists to the story are wonderfully done, and the setup that was done over the course of both of these books to reveal them was done perfectly.
I have heard this book often compared to The Faithful and the Fallen by John Gwynne, a series that for me is the second best series I have ever read. And while this comparison is a good one, I think so far two books in, this series exceeds what John Gwynne was able to accomplish with his series. One of the biggest reasons for this, aside from the wonderful pace that is set that I described above, is the way the Brian Lee Durfee has woven this complex take on religious prophecy. Typically prophecy in fantasy books is rather one dimensional, where you have a prophecy that is rather black and white and the book marches you down the path of someone trying to fulfill it. Books that do this wonderfully twist the prophecy around in a surprising, but justifiable way at some point in the story.
This book however has taken this formula and absolutely perfected it by constantly making you question the prophecies and continually twisting it around. One of the central plot points of this series is that there was a huge event that happened far before the setting of these books, and it spawned off multiple different religions that each have a different take on what happened, and what the future has in store. It doesn't have one prophecy, it has several that describe the same event, so you really don't know which one (if any) are true and making you constantly second guess yourself. It's such an amazing storytelling tool that I didn't realize I was desperate to read.
I've never been a huge fan of pets in books, I find they are often thrown in to try to evoke emotions that could better be used with human interaction. But there is a dog in this book named "Beer Mug" that is hands down the coolest pet that I have ever read about in a book. I ended up audibly cheering for this dog and every time he shows up in a chapter the reader is in for a huge treat.
There's also a battle scene towards the end of this book that I really don't want to spoil anything for any future readers, so I will just say that it's one of the greatest battle scenes I have ever read about. It starts out as a somewhat mundane set piece, and ends up in the grandest tier of epic fights that could conceivably be written.
There are a few downsides I need to mention though, but they are quite minor gripes.
A book like this really needs a summary of the previous book at the beginning of this. While all fantasy novels in a series could benefit from this, it's especially needed in a series like this that hasn't blown up yet as there is no place online to read a synopsis of the first book. You have no options other than to just power through it and figure out the details of the first book while reading, or go back and read the first book again.
There are also an annoyingly large number of cliffhangers. A lot of readers prefer this type of writing, as it's a central part of what makes a series like A Song of Ice and Fire so addicting, but I wish it took more from something like A Wheel of Time that spent large amounts of time with the same character plots before moving on to another.
Finally, there are epigraphs at the beginning of each chapter that I thought were fun to read in the first book, but aren't really bringing anything new to the second book. They are all excerpts from the religious texts in this world, but they end up too similar to one another and boring me.
If the last book in this series is as good as the first two, this is going to go down in my top 3 best fantasy series of all time for me. I desperately urge all fans of the fantasy genre that are alright with reading a grimmer book to immediately pick up this series.
December 17, 2023
Hands down the best book I've read all year - how does it only have 1000 ratings?!?!
Final Rating: 5.1/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕
I thought the first book was good, but what little did I know. If 'The Forgetting Moon' shines bright like a star, then this book is a flipping supernova! From the very first page, I couldn't put it down. Imagine a book so gripping, so insanely paced that you're left wondering, "Can it really keep this up for 960 pages?" Spoiler alert: YES, it can and it does! Durfee takes 'epic' to a whole new level, crafting a world so rich, so detailed, that you're not just reading a story, you're living in it.
Just so we're clear, this is easily a top 10 fantasy book of all time. Indeed, my favourite fantasy book of all time is most likely "A Storm of Swords" by GRRM or "Words of Radiance" by Brando Sando. This book might possibly beat them. It was Just. That. Good.
Plot: 6/5
I'm a plot driven reader first and foremost. So when the plot hits like this one does, it is likely to blow my scoring out of the water.
The absolute genius of the narrative here (and a series as a whole) is the way Durfee handles prophecy. Forget everything you know about the tired old 'chosen one' trope. This book turns it on its head, spins it around, and throws it out the window. You've got a tapestry of religions, each with their own spin on major events of the past, leaving you in a delicious tangle of "What's real? Who do I believe?" This means that you're finally starting to see where the story is heading (in line with the prophecy) only to have your entire world view changed due to a new bit of information coming to light. Like an onion (that is modified to be delicious) you are left with layer after layer after layer and plot twist after plot twist after plot twist. I cannot WAIT to see where this thing lands - because I've given up trying to guess, and am just holding on for the ride.... Yes, a delicious onion. That's the best analogy I've got.
While I'm here I'll also mention the battles – oh, the battles! They're not just fights; they're epic sagas in themselves, painted with a brush of brutality and beauty. Durfee's skillful writing makes each clash a sensory feast, pulling you right into the heart of the action. And the last battle (not to spoil anything) in this book is amongst the best "epic battle" that I've ever read. And when I say this book is a rollercoaster, I mean it – the emotional highs and lows will have you cheering, gasping, and maybe even shedding a tear or two.
World building: 5/5
Nothing has changed from the first book. Durfee's world-building skill is exceptional, creating an immersive universe reminiscent of timeless classics like Lord of the Rings or the Osten Ard series. The Five Isles, populated by humans, dwarves, orc-like Oghuls, and the graceful Vallé, is a world teeming with life, culture, and history. Each island has its distinct identity, enriched by its inhabitants, customs, and geography.
But Durfee's world-building isn't restricted to the physical landscape alone. Indeed, it's really how he delves deep into the social and political structures of this world that sets his book apart. Intricately detailing their religious beliefs, historical conflicts, and racial tensions. Each island has its own set of traditions and customs, with societal hierarchies and religious doctrines that shape the lives of the inhabitants in profound ways.
Moreover, Durfee doesn't shy away from painting this world with dark, gritty shades, much like Joe Abercrombie's grimdark fantasy realms. Life here is far from idyllic, with the shadow of war looming large and a harsh survival-of-the-fittest mentality governing the actions of the characters. The elements of magic and prophecy, the mythical creatures, the ancient ruins hinting at forgotten civilizations - all contribute to the grandeur and intrigue of this fascinating world. It's an intricate tapestry of fantasy and reality, woven together with threads of skillful storytelling and a vivid imagination.
Characterisation: 5/5
And let's dive into those characters – what a lineup! Each one is crafted with such complexity and depth, it's astounding. Take Beer Mug, the unexpectedly cool and valiant dog (yes, you heard right), and Liz Hen, whose brilliantly fleshed-out character will totally flip your initial impressions. Durfee isn't just inventing characters; he's breathing life into them, layering depth upon depth until they feel as real as you and me.
The character dynamics here remind me of the intricate mix found in "A Song of Ice and Fire." You've got characters that blur the lines between good and evil, embodying shades of grey and amorality that make them fascinatingly human. The new POVs introduced in this book are a game changer. Just like how Liz Hen evolves from a character you might have disliked in the first book to someone you find yourself rooting for – that's storytelling magic.
The raw authenticity of these characterizations makes every moment of brutality and struggle hit home. It's becoming a rarity to encounter an author who isn't afraid to put their characters through the wringer, to really explore their pain, sadness, fury, and fear. Durfee does this masterfully, grounding his characters so deeply in their experiences that they resonate with us as real individuals.
And then there's the art of writing despicable characters – the ones you love to hate. Think Cersei Lannister from "Game of Thrones." In this book, Leaf and Glade Chapperal are those characters. Oh boy, do they evoke some strong feelings! Their characterizations are spot-on, stirring up a storm of emotions. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we don't get their POVs in the next book – some characters are so well-written in their villainy that you never want to find yourself empathizing with them.
Prose: 5/5
"The Blackest Heart" employs a narrative style that masterfully balances mystery and revelation, reminiscent of Steven Erikson's "Malazan Book of the Fallen." Durfee's prose demands the reader's patience and attention, as key information is unveiled gradually, much like unraveling a tapestry of intricate plot threads.
However, in terms of narrative complexity, Durfee's style in "The Blackest Heart" aligns more closely with George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire." The book navigates through a web of intertwined character arcs and political intrigue, maintaining a level of accessibility and engagement similar to Martin's famed series.
Durfee's writing in "The Blackest Heart" is characterized by its vivid and immersive nature. His prose brings to life a complex world where the interplay of faith, power, and the toll of war is explored in depth. The characterizations are rich and nuanced, enhancing the unpredictability of the plot, especially in the use of prophecies. Readers find themselves constantly questioning the truths and deceptions that unfold, reflecting Durfee's skill in weaving a compelling narrative.
Despite its complexity, the book's plot is carefully structured to ensure a coherent and engaging narrative flow. Durfee skillfully balances quieter moments of character development with high-tension sequences of action and revelation, making each plot point feel purposeful and impactful.
A point of critique for "The Blackest Heart" is the absence of a summary of "The Forgetting Moon" at its outset. Given the series' depth and narrative style, a brief refresher would be beneficial for readers, especially for those newly introduced to Durfee's intricately crafted world - indeed I had to go back and read the last few chapters of the previous book so that I could catch of all the narrative threads in this book.
Enjoyment: 5/5
In short, "The Blackest Heart" isn't just a book – it's an experience. A colossal, heart-pounding, gut-wrenching experience that will leave you desperate for more. If you're not already on the Durfee train, it's time to hop on because this series is easily on par with A Song of Ice and Fire, and you don't want to miss the ride. With "The Lonesome Crown" on my horizon, I'm already counting the days. Fantasy fans (especially A Game of Thrones fans), this is your next obsession – don't sleep on it!
Final Rating: 5.1/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕
The Five Warrior Angels :
Book 1. The Forgetting Moon - (My Review) [4.9/5]
My favourite books of 2023 in preferential order
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕:
1. The Blackest Heart - (My Review)
2. The Shadow of the Gods - (My Review)
3. The Grace of Kings - (My Review)
4. The Lies of Locke Lamora
5. The Forgetting Moon - (My Review)
6. Memories of Ice - (My Review)
7. The Justice of Kings - (My Review)
8. Kings of the Wyld - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗:
9. Morning Star - (My Review)
10. The Blade Itself - (My Review)
11. Tress of the Emerald Sea - (My Review)
12. Red Seas Under Red Skies - (My Review)
13. The Escape Artist: The Man Who Broke Out of Auschwitz to Warn the World
14. Empire of the Vampire - (My Review)
15. Assassin's Apprentice - (My Review)
16. Malice - (My Review)
17. Golden Son
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑:
18. Leviathan Wakes - (My Review)
19. The Winter King - (My Review)
20. Of Blood and Fire - (My Review)
21. Gardens of the Moon - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌗🌑:
22. Deadhouse Gates - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑:
23. The Song of Achilles - (My Review)
24. Red Sister - (My Review)
25. The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England - Babel: An Arcane History - (My Review)
Final Rating: 5.1/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕
I thought the first book was good, but what little did I know. If 'The Forgetting Moon' shines bright like a star, then this book is a flipping supernova! From the very first page, I couldn't put it down. Imagine a book so gripping, so insanely paced that you're left wondering, "Can it really keep this up for 960 pages?" Spoiler alert: YES, it can and it does! Durfee takes 'epic' to a whole new level, crafting a world so rich, so detailed, that you're not just reading a story, you're living in it.
Just so we're clear, this is easily a top 10 fantasy book of all time. Indeed, my favourite fantasy book of all time is most likely "A Storm of Swords" by GRRM or "Words of Radiance" by Brando Sando. This book might possibly beat them. It was Just. That. Good.
Plot: 6/5
I'm a plot driven reader first and foremost. So when the plot hits like this one does, it is likely to blow my scoring out of the water.
The absolute genius of the narrative here (and a series as a whole) is the way Durfee handles prophecy. Forget everything you know about the tired old 'chosen one' trope. This book turns it on its head, spins it around, and throws it out the window. You've got a tapestry of religions, each with their own spin on major events of the past, leaving you in a delicious tangle of "What's real? Who do I believe?" This means that you're finally starting to see where the story is heading (in line with the prophecy) only to have your entire world view changed due to a new bit of information coming to light. Like an onion (that is modified to be delicious) you are left with layer after layer after layer and plot twist after plot twist after plot twist. I cannot WAIT to see where this thing lands - because I've given up trying to guess, and am just holding on for the ride.... Yes, a delicious onion. That's the best analogy I've got.
While I'm here I'll also mention the battles – oh, the battles! They're not just fights; they're epic sagas in themselves, painted with a brush of brutality and beauty. Durfee's skillful writing makes each clash a sensory feast, pulling you right into the heart of the action. And the last battle (not to spoil anything) in this book is amongst the best "epic battle" that I've ever read. And when I say this book is a rollercoaster, I mean it – the emotional highs and lows will have you cheering, gasping, and maybe even shedding a tear or two.
World building: 5/5
Nothing has changed from the first book. Durfee's world-building skill is exceptional, creating an immersive universe reminiscent of timeless classics like Lord of the Rings or the Osten Ard series. The Five Isles, populated by humans, dwarves, orc-like Oghuls, and the graceful Vallé, is a world teeming with life, culture, and history. Each island has its distinct identity, enriched by its inhabitants, customs, and geography.
But Durfee's world-building isn't restricted to the physical landscape alone. Indeed, it's really how he delves deep into the social and political structures of this world that sets his book apart. Intricately detailing their religious beliefs, historical conflicts, and racial tensions. Each island has its own set of traditions and customs, with societal hierarchies and religious doctrines that shape the lives of the inhabitants in profound ways.
Moreover, Durfee doesn't shy away from painting this world with dark, gritty shades, much like Joe Abercrombie's grimdark fantasy realms. Life here is far from idyllic, with the shadow of war looming large and a harsh survival-of-the-fittest mentality governing the actions of the characters. The elements of magic and prophecy, the mythical creatures, the ancient ruins hinting at forgotten civilizations - all contribute to the grandeur and intrigue of this fascinating world. It's an intricate tapestry of fantasy and reality, woven together with threads of skillful storytelling and a vivid imagination.
Characterisation: 5/5
And let's dive into those characters – what a lineup! Each one is crafted with such complexity and depth, it's astounding. Take Beer Mug, the unexpectedly cool and valiant dog (yes, you heard right), and Liz Hen, whose brilliantly fleshed-out character will totally flip your initial impressions. Durfee isn't just inventing characters; he's breathing life into them, layering depth upon depth until they feel as real as you and me.
The character dynamics here remind me of the intricate mix found in "A Song of Ice and Fire." You've got characters that blur the lines between good and evil, embodying shades of grey and amorality that make them fascinatingly human. The new POVs introduced in this book are a game changer. Just like how Liz Hen evolves from a character you might have disliked in the first book to someone you find yourself rooting for – that's storytelling magic.
The raw authenticity of these characterizations makes every moment of brutality and struggle hit home. It's becoming a rarity to encounter an author who isn't afraid to put their characters through the wringer, to really explore their pain, sadness, fury, and fear. Durfee does this masterfully, grounding his characters so deeply in their experiences that they resonate with us as real individuals.
And then there's the art of writing despicable characters – the ones you love to hate. Think Cersei Lannister from "Game of Thrones." In this book, Leaf and Glade Chapperal are those characters. Oh boy, do they evoke some strong feelings! Their characterizations are spot-on, stirring up a storm of emotions. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we don't get their POVs in the next book – some characters are so well-written in their villainy that you never want to find yourself empathizing with them.
Prose: 5/5
"The Blackest Heart" employs a narrative style that masterfully balances mystery and revelation, reminiscent of Steven Erikson's "Malazan Book of the Fallen." Durfee's prose demands the reader's patience and attention, as key information is unveiled gradually, much like unraveling a tapestry of intricate plot threads.
However, in terms of narrative complexity, Durfee's style in "The Blackest Heart" aligns more closely with George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire." The book navigates through a web of intertwined character arcs and political intrigue, maintaining a level of accessibility and engagement similar to Martin's famed series.
Durfee's writing in "The Blackest Heart" is characterized by its vivid and immersive nature. His prose brings to life a complex world where the interplay of faith, power, and the toll of war is explored in depth. The characterizations are rich and nuanced, enhancing the unpredictability of the plot, especially in the use of prophecies. Readers find themselves constantly questioning the truths and deceptions that unfold, reflecting Durfee's skill in weaving a compelling narrative.
Despite its complexity, the book's plot is carefully structured to ensure a coherent and engaging narrative flow. Durfee skillfully balances quieter moments of character development with high-tension sequences of action and revelation, making each plot point feel purposeful and impactful.
A point of critique for "The Blackest Heart" is the absence of a summary of "The Forgetting Moon" at its outset. Given the series' depth and narrative style, a brief refresher would be beneficial for readers, especially for those newly introduced to Durfee's intricately crafted world - indeed I had to go back and read the last few chapters of the previous book so that I could catch of all the narrative threads in this book.
Enjoyment: 5/5
In short, "The Blackest Heart" isn't just a book – it's an experience. A colossal, heart-pounding, gut-wrenching experience that will leave you desperate for more. If you're not already on the Durfee train, it's time to hop on because this series is easily on par with A Song of Ice and Fire, and you don't want to miss the ride. With "The Lonesome Crown" on my horizon, I'm already counting the days. Fantasy fans (especially A Game of Thrones fans), this is your next obsession – don't sleep on it!
Final Rating: 5.1/5 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕
The Five Warrior Angels :
Book 1. The Forgetting Moon - (My Review) [4.9/5]
My favourite books of 2023 in preferential order
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕:
1. The Blackest Heart - (My Review)
2. The Shadow of the Gods - (My Review)
3. The Grace of Kings - (My Review)
4. The Lies of Locke Lamora
5. The Forgetting Moon - (My Review)
6. Memories of Ice - (My Review)
7. The Justice of Kings - (My Review)
8. Kings of the Wyld - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗:
9. Morning Star - (My Review)
10. The Blade Itself - (My Review)
11. Tress of the Emerald Sea - (My Review)
12. Red Seas Under Red Skies - (My Review)
13. The Escape Artist: The Man Who Broke Out of Auschwitz to Warn the World
14. Empire of the Vampire - (My Review)
15. Assassin's Apprentice - (My Review)
16. Malice - (My Review)
17. Golden Son
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑:
18. Leviathan Wakes - (My Review)
19. The Winter King - (My Review)
20. Of Blood and Fire - (My Review)
21. Gardens of the Moon - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌗🌑:
22. Deadhouse Gates - (My Review)
🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑:
23. The Song of Achilles - (My Review)
24. Red Sister - (My Review)
25. The Frugal Wizard’s Handbook for Surviving Medieval England - Babel: An Arcane History - (My Review)
June 27, 2021
Full video review here: https://youtu.be/m0GwtU5tVow
Another brilliant entry by Brian Lee Durfee and yet another 5 star read for me this month. This series is seriously awesome and I hate that I have to wait until next year for book 3! I have absolutely fallen in love with the writing and the plotting in this story. Durfee has created some incredibly interesting and unique characters, as well as create believable motivations for them.
The violence in this book is next level and he is putting on a clinic for how to create a world that is under the control of religion. The religion is this world has quite literally gripped society and is being warped and abused to control the people. There is great commentary in this series about how interpretations of religious text can be used to justify an awful lot of shit and it shines a light on those that are pulling the strings.
Amongst the strong characters, violence and lore there is a particular line that really struck home with me and it makes sense given Durfee's day job. Since he works at the Utah State Prison I can't help but think this rings particularly true for him.
Does being imprisoned make one man worse than another? Does the prisoner not have hope, or dreams, or potential to change? Or are those imprisoned naught but forgotten souls, condemned to be used in some cruel sacrament.
Powerful stuff and a great series so far through 2 books. I'm not quite sure how this will wrap up in the next book but I'm very excited.
Another brilliant entry by Brian Lee Durfee and yet another 5 star read for me this month. This series is seriously awesome and I hate that I have to wait until next year for book 3! I have absolutely fallen in love with the writing and the plotting in this story. Durfee has created some incredibly interesting and unique characters, as well as create believable motivations for them.
The violence in this book is next level and he is putting on a clinic for how to create a world that is under the control of religion. The religion is this world has quite literally gripped society and is being warped and abused to control the people. There is great commentary in this series about how interpretations of religious text can be used to justify an awful lot of shit and it shines a light on those that are pulling the strings.
Amongst the strong characters, violence and lore there is a particular line that really struck home with me and it makes sense given Durfee's day job. Since he works at the Utah State Prison I can't help but think this rings particularly true for him.
Does being imprisoned make one man worse than another? Does the prisoner not have hope, or dreams, or potential to change? Or are those imprisoned naught but forgotten souls, condemned to be used in some cruel sacrament.
Powerful stuff and a great series so far through 2 books. I'm not quite sure how this will wrap up in the next book but I'm very excited.
May 10, 2019
"Love of god is not always equal to the love of good."- The Angel Stone Codex
The Blackest Heart is another amazing installment in Brian Lee Durfee's The Five Warrior Angels series. I wasn't sure it could be done, but he has managed to surpass the greatness of the first book, which is also a stunning read. How did he do this you ask? Well, Durfee writes with a passion and unpredictability that I have rarely experienced. There are so many fantasy writers out there now, that I'm sure it's hard to be original without being compared to someone else. I can think of a couple of fantasy writers he reminds me of with his style, but I wouldn't dare compare him to them. No sir! Durfee has a unique style of his own and it really stands out in his characters personalities, his ability to keep the reader guessing, and how creative he is with each characters storyline.
"It is what we do with out own selves that defines us. Not where we came from. Or who gave us birth.
At 960 pages, this is a behemoth of a book. But don’t let that scare you away at all. Every word, page, and chapter are worth your time and attention. This is a very detailed world, with a rich history in both war and religion. This history is the real driving force of the series. It is molded into almost every fabric of the story, and the attention to detail Durfee put into this is really second to none. You may think that such a huge book, with a detailed world, and a slew of characters would be hard to follow. But that is not the case at all. The flow of the story was well thought out and it’s not like you have 20 characters, in 10 different places. The storylines tend to weave around each other and intersect at times. A lot of these characters are interacting with each other. You just get new perspectives from a different POV.
Well, I believe I have managed to convey how much I love these books without giving a trace of anything away. This series is seriously underrated. My goal was to show the passion I have for these books to hopefully influence my fellow fantasy lovers to give them a try. If you enjoy Epic fantasy, or fantasy at all for that matter, you won’t be disappointed. For me, this is right up there with The Stormlight Archive as most anticipated series going forward for the next few years. So, let that sink in all you Sanderson fans out there.
"The triumphant hero of any story should be neither wholly good nor wholly innocent, but should be full of both strength and weakness, righteousness and sin, truth and guilt, for contradiction are most interesting in the human soul.”- The Chivalric Illuminations of Raijael
Actual Rating - 5 stars *****
August 31, 2021
4.5
Loved the final chapter.
Loved the final chapter.
June 14, 2019
I went straight from book 1 of this series into the second and I was pleasently surprised to find that the second one is even more ambitious and exciting than the first. Whereas the first feels like it's an introduction to the world and the characters, this one is really just the continuation of all of their adventures and I have to say it's got a LOT happening!
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Rape, Gore, Death, Mutilation, Murder, Violence and a whole lot more...It's basically one of the darker fantasy books I have read.
Some of the characters who are most vital to the story are below. I won't go into too much detail on their plot as I think it's best to get to know them yourself as you go, but as the third book is not yet out and I do want to remember who is who when I get to it I think a small guide would be helpful :)
Crystalwood - A Blackwood assassin in training, daughter of Gault. The addition of this storyline to the second book was definitely exciting and I think it added some political implications and also a very dark dynamic. This is what kicks off the book and it's a pretty brutal storyline.
Nail - Our main character from book 1, a typical orphan with a destiny. I have to say this one wasn't as impactful as in book 1 for me, but I still enjoyed seeing what happened.
Gault Aulbrek - Part of the invading army and a renowned fighter. Somewhat softer than expected for a fighting/brute character as he has feelings for Ava Shay.
Tala Bronachell - A young princess caught in the traps, lies and game of a Bloodwood assassin in order to help her cousin.
Jondralyn Bronachell - The older princess who is hoping to work with the brotherhood to uncover the moonscrolls secrets and all the magical items and more in time. Constantly at battle with her brother who is an absolute brute.
Ava Shay - A young girl who is abducted by the leader of the invaders, she spends a lot of the book being raped/drunk or not knowing what to do in such horrible circumstances. I find her frustrating as I hate seeing her go through things and not fighting back, but I have hope she may gradually learn how to defend herself and move forward.
Lindholf Le Graven - A young man and cousin to Tala and Jondralyn. He is in training to become a thief and he is also part of the prophecies.
The plot for this story spans a lot of time, and many adventures which all connect. I found the plot fairly fast in this one and although it took me a while to finish it up as I was audiobooking and had limited time, I really do think it was captivating when I listened.
Overall, I think this was a very solid continuation and I am looking forward to continuing the series when the next one comes out. 4*s
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Rape, Gore, Death, Mutilation, Murder, Violence and a whole lot more...It's basically one of the darker fantasy books I have read.
Some of the characters who are most vital to the story are below. I won't go into too much detail on their plot as I think it's best to get to know them yourself as you go, but as the third book is not yet out and I do want to remember who is who when I get to it I think a small guide would be helpful :)
Crystalwood - A Blackwood assassin in training, daughter of Gault. The addition of this storyline to the second book was definitely exciting and I think it added some political implications and also a very dark dynamic. This is what kicks off the book and it's a pretty brutal storyline.
Nail - Our main character from book 1, a typical orphan with a destiny. I have to say this one wasn't as impactful as in book 1 for me, but I still enjoyed seeing what happened.
Gault Aulbrek - Part of the invading army and a renowned fighter. Somewhat softer than expected for a fighting/brute character as he has feelings for Ava Shay.
Tala Bronachell - A young princess caught in the traps, lies and game of a Bloodwood assassin in order to help her cousin.
Jondralyn Bronachell - The older princess who is hoping to work with the brotherhood to uncover the moonscrolls secrets and all the magical items and more in time. Constantly at battle with her brother who is an absolute brute.
Ava Shay - A young girl who is abducted by the leader of the invaders, she spends a lot of the book being raped/drunk or not knowing what to do in such horrible circumstances. I find her frustrating as I hate seeing her go through things and not fighting back, but I have hope she may gradually learn how to defend herself and move forward.
Lindholf Le Graven - A young man and cousin to Tala and Jondralyn. He is in training to become a thief and he is also part of the prophecies.
The plot for this story spans a lot of time, and many adventures which all connect. I found the plot fairly fast in this one and although it took me a while to finish it up as I was audiobooking and had limited time, I really do think it was captivating when I listened.
Overall, I think this was a very solid continuation and I am looking forward to continuing the series when the next one comes out. 4*s
February 23, 2025
A bunch of new great characters, fantastic developments, and interesting situations. I eagerly await The Lonesome Crown
8.4/10
8.4/10
February 21, 2024
I really enjoyed this and feel it was a step up from book 1 (which I did enjoy). I really enjoyed feeling like I was along for the ride with this book; so many plot turn were a result of misdirection but landed perfectly, and honestly kept me on my toes throughout. I especially liked getting to the end and having to reevaluate what I thought I knew about what was going on. And the non-POV characters with unclear motivations continue to be one of my favorite parts of this series. I'm definitely looking forward to book 3! 4.5/5
January 26, 2023
Reread edits: Getting ready for the last installment led me to reread the first two volumes and I am glad I did. Durfee has so many dishes in the air, and wheels within wheels regarding the plot that I would suggest reading these back to back. Glad you listened to Stockton's advise Mr. Durfee!
The second doorstop in the Five Warrior Angels series displays a bit more polish than the debut and over all, a rock-solid edition to the series to be sure. The Blackest Heart picks up right were the first left off, and while a few new characters are added, the cast is largely the same, and it is a huge cast. As I mentioned in my review of the first, The Forgetting Moon, Durfee employs a number of well worn fantasy tropes here, but gives them twists and turns along the way that really makes this series unique. Perhaps the most heavily relied upon trope is that of prophecy and fated characters.
Almost 1000 years ago, a great war was waged on the Five Isles to cast down the 'demons'/dragons into the underworld once again. The Five Isles are now populated by humanity, along with some Fae-like elves and oghul, which are something like orcs. After the war, several different accounts of five warrior angels emerged and each became the basis of a religion, with two versions dominating. In something akin to the protestant/catholic 'wars' in Europe, this lead to several wars over the years and is the basis of the war currently ongoing in the story. True to form, the believers of each version consider the others false, but one thing that lies in common are the five warrior angels and their 'magical' artifacts they employed in the war-- a battle helm, a shield, a sword, a crossbow and a battle axe, each one also having some relationship with a small gem stone.
One religion claims that the leader of the five angels, when he died, took these items to 'heaven' with him when he died. Two other versions, however, claim these items are still around the Five Isles somewhere, and each has protagonists searching for them, as something like the 'end of days' is fast approaching, and somehow these artifacts will save the day for the side that holds them. The trick here, and this relates to prophecy and fate, is that only blood descendants of the original five angels can employ these artifacts; to others, they will cause death. Now the twist on prophecy-- who are the actual descendants? Durfee keeps pulling the rug from us just when we think we have it figured out and The Blackest Heart (itself the name of one of these artifacts, just like the Forgetting Moon) does little to clarify matters here.
A few other tropes Durfee uses successfully here involve a quest (looking for some of these artifacts) and a major battle between the two leading religious factions. Durfee tosses in some black humor along the way and lots of pulse pounding action, which he does very well. My main issue for not giving this all the stars concerns the uni-dimensional bad guys (although they are a bit more complicated here) and that once again, Durfee leaves us with a massive cliff hanger! This is a long book, but really easy reading and even though the cast is huge, and the POVs changes with every chapter, it is not confusing and flows nicely. Recommended for any fantasy fans! 4 solid stars!!
The second doorstop in the Five Warrior Angels series displays a bit more polish than the debut and over all, a rock-solid edition to the series to be sure. The Blackest Heart picks up right were the first left off, and while a few new characters are added, the cast is largely the same, and it is a huge cast. As I mentioned in my review of the first, The Forgetting Moon, Durfee employs a number of well worn fantasy tropes here, but gives them twists and turns along the way that really makes this series unique. Perhaps the most heavily relied upon trope is that of prophecy and fated characters.
Almost 1000 years ago, a great war was waged on the Five Isles to cast down the 'demons'/dragons into the underworld once again. The Five Isles are now populated by humanity, along with some Fae-like elves and oghul, which are something like orcs. After the war, several different accounts of five warrior angels emerged and each became the basis of a religion, with two versions dominating. In something akin to the protestant/catholic 'wars' in Europe, this lead to several wars over the years and is the basis of the war currently ongoing in the story. True to form, the believers of each version consider the others false, but one thing that lies in common are the five warrior angels and their 'magical' artifacts they employed in the war-- a battle helm, a shield, a sword, a crossbow and a battle axe, each one also having some relationship with a small gem stone.
One religion claims that the leader of the five angels, when he died, took these items to 'heaven' with him when he died. Two other versions, however, claim these items are still around the Five Isles somewhere, and each has protagonists searching for them, as something like the 'end of days' is fast approaching, and somehow these artifacts will save the day for the side that holds them. The trick here, and this relates to prophecy and fate, is that only blood descendants of the original five angels can employ these artifacts; to others, they will cause death. Now the twist on prophecy-- who are the actual descendants? Durfee keeps pulling the rug from us just when we think we have it figured out and The Blackest Heart (itself the name of one of these artifacts, just like the Forgetting Moon) does little to clarify matters here.
A few other tropes Durfee uses successfully here involve a quest (looking for some of these artifacts) and a major battle between the two leading religious factions. Durfee tosses in some black humor along the way and lots of pulse pounding action, which he does very well. My main issue for not giving this all the stars concerns the uni-dimensional bad guys (although they are a bit more complicated here) and that once again, Durfee leaves us with a massive cliff hanger! This is a long book, but really easy reading and even though the cast is huge, and the POVs changes with every chapter, it is not confusing and flows nicely. Recommended for any fantasy fans! 4 solid stars!!
February 15, 2021
November was an extremely busy month for me so I completely forgot to write any type of review for what I thought was one of my favorite fantasy reads of 2020.
I discovered Brian Lee Durfee's books via his Youtube channel where he reads and reviews books in a diverse amount of genres. That appealed to me as someone who reads in a lot of genres. Since I was a fan and since the cover art and premise of the books sounds fantastic I decided to pick them both up.
I loved book 1, The Forgetting Moon, and The Blackest Heart builds and improves upon everything I loved about book 1. The characters are even better and more fleshed out. The action is visceral and dark without being a grimdark book. The prophecy and religious factions that were so well done in book 1 get even more depth here. Durfee is creating a world in full blown religious war based on magic and prophecy that really no one in the world of the books understands. Truthfully that was one of my favorite things about this book and this series. Lots of authors in fantasy write prophecy, but very few subvert the trope and are willing to undercut your expectations like Durfee in this book. You think you know what something means...until you don't. If that wasn't enough to keep the pages turning the way the relationships are written in this book will make you pay attention. There aren't just religious factions at each other's throats in this book. There are interesting dynamics between and within families that cause almost as much strife. This is all borne out through interesting POVs where I never feel like there is a dull chapter.
The last thing I want to mention here is how awesome the worldbuilding is in this series. We have creatures like merfolk, Valle, and Oghuls each with their own unique attributes and importance to the story. You have 5 different ancient texts that inform the story. You have a group of assassins that could come off extremely tropey, but are done in a way that feels fresh and I can't get enough of them.
To sum up this is probably the best fantasy series you are not reading. If you like dark fantasy, creatures, prophecy, magic weapons, assassins, quest adventures, and really well written descriptive prose then you are missing out by sleeping on the Five Warrior Angels.
*note the author recently announced this series will be a trilogy and the 3rd book, The Lonesome Crown, will likely be out and the series complete in 2021*
I discovered Brian Lee Durfee's books via his Youtube channel where he reads and reviews books in a diverse amount of genres. That appealed to me as someone who reads in a lot of genres. Since I was a fan and since the cover art and premise of the books sounds fantastic I decided to pick them both up.
I loved book 1, The Forgetting Moon, and The Blackest Heart builds and improves upon everything I loved about book 1. The characters are even better and more fleshed out. The action is visceral and dark without being a grimdark book. The prophecy and religious factions that were so well done in book 1 get even more depth here. Durfee is creating a world in full blown religious war based on magic and prophecy that really no one in the world of the books understands. Truthfully that was one of my favorite things about this book and this series. Lots of authors in fantasy write prophecy, but very few subvert the trope and are willing to undercut your expectations like Durfee in this book. You think you know what something means...until you don't. If that wasn't enough to keep the pages turning the way the relationships are written in this book will make you pay attention. There aren't just religious factions at each other's throats in this book. There are interesting dynamics between and within families that cause almost as much strife. This is all borne out through interesting POVs where I never feel like there is a dull chapter.
The last thing I want to mention here is how awesome the worldbuilding is in this series. We have creatures like merfolk, Valle, and Oghuls each with their own unique attributes and importance to the story. You have 5 different ancient texts that inform the story. You have a group of assassins that could come off extremely tropey, but are done in a way that feels fresh and I can't get enough of them.
To sum up this is probably the best fantasy series you are not reading. If you like dark fantasy, creatures, prophecy, magic weapons, assassins, quest adventures, and really well written descriptive prose then you are missing out by sleeping on the Five Warrior Angels.
*note the author recently announced this series will be a trilogy and the 3rd book, The Lonesome Crown, will likely be out and the series complete in 2021*
August 15, 2019
*** 4.75 ***
This one was soooo much better than the first! It was exciting and addictive! The style of writing has improved leaps and bounds! I have nothing but praise for this book and this up and coming young author! The only problem - the next book is not yet!!! I would go nuts waiting for it!!! Strongly recommend it to all fans of Epic Fantasy!!!
This one was soooo much better than the first! It was exciting and addictive! The style of writing has improved leaps and bounds! I have nothing but praise for this book and this up and coming young author! The only problem - the next book is not yet!!! I would go nuts waiting for it!!! Strongly recommend it to all fans of Epic Fantasy!!!
July 15, 2023
PLEASE READ BRIAN LEE DURFEE, The Blackest Heart it doesn’t disappoint !!!
Take everything I reviewed on the first book and amplify by 10.
Now we have to wait.. for the next in the series!!!
Take everything I reviewed on the first book and amplify by 10.
Now we have to wait.. for the next in the series!!!
November 7, 2021
The Blackest Heart is a great sequel to The Forgetting Moon, building on the previous set-up to take the story in unexpected, interesting directions being an improvement in every aspect compared to the first book.
For a tome close to a thousand pages long, it is excellently paced. The story progresses at a steady pace, has regular PoV switches between the various plotlines that give all of them equal attention. The writing is clear and easy to read, a highlight being the scene-setting with evocative descriptive passages. This book expands on the worldbuilding as well, with more information about the Valle, Oghul, and the other races in addition to the more mystical aspects of the lore and history.
While the number of PoV characters are higher than in the first book, most of them belong to characters travelling in particular groups or present in certain plotlines providing different perspectives, rather than introducing a lot of additional plot threads. I did enjoy reading most of the various PoVs, even characters like Nail who I wasn't the biggest fan of in book 1 becomes more interesting here. New PoVs like Lindholf were also great, I didn't expect a minor side character to get this much attention but he is definitely one of the most compelling ones. There are a few characters with mysterious motivations, so anything they do seems suspicious or for some ulterior motive, but there isn't really a way to know, making them even more intriguing.
Though my favourite characters remain Tala, Jondralyn, and Gault. Tala's plotline especially is quite fun, where all the ill-considered implications and consequences of her previous supposedly harmless actions and machinations come back to largely shape events; seeing the political side of the court and how Tala's impulsive actions inform the decisions that lead to major changes. There are some cool nods to Tolkien with the Company of the Nine, and them embarking on a quest. That was probably my favourite plotline, the characters were individually memorable, while also introducing more lore about the Five Warrior Angels. The interactions between these quest members were the highlights of those sections. Crystalwood's chapters are the only major new thread, and I quite enjoyed them: they had some surprising revelations that will have major implications for the future. It was cool to see more of the Bloodwood Assassins as well, getting a closer look at their secretive ways and their mission.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book was how it dealt with prophecy and religion. They are an integral part of the world and drive many characters' actions and decisions. How they interpret prophecies and ancient texts, how certain people twist things to their benefit, people who clash over interpretations of the same texts, people believing in certain prophecies but not others. The twists and revelations and mysteries about them took the story in unexpected directions that I thought were really cool. With the large cast, there were a few that I didn't feel too attached to, and there were a few moments where I felt some of the emotion felt out of place, but those are quibbles. The author is unafraid to kill off characters, and it adds stakes and palpable tension when dangerous events transpire.
Overall, it's a great sequel that is well-paced with interesting and distinctive characters. Its plot has great twists and revelations, building off all the setup done in the previous book. I liked this quite a bit more than the first one, and am looking forward to reading the concluding volume.
For a tome close to a thousand pages long, it is excellently paced. The story progresses at a steady pace, has regular PoV switches between the various plotlines that give all of them equal attention. The writing is clear and easy to read, a highlight being the scene-setting with evocative descriptive passages. This book expands on the worldbuilding as well, with more information about the Valle, Oghul, and the other races in addition to the more mystical aspects of the lore and history.
While the number of PoV characters are higher than in the first book, most of them belong to characters travelling in particular groups or present in certain plotlines providing different perspectives, rather than introducing a lot of additional plot threads. I did enjoy reading most of the various PoVs, even characters like Nail who I wasn't the biggest fan of in book 1 becomes more interesting here. New PoVs like Lindholf were also great, I didn't expect a minor side character to get this much attention but he is definitely one of the most compelling ones. There are a few characters with mysterious motivations, so anything they do seems suspicious or for some ulterior motive, but there isn't really a way to know, making them even more intriguing.
Though my favourite characters remain Tala, Jondralyn, and Gault. Tala's plotline especially is quite fun, where all the ill-considered implications and consequences of her previous supposedly harmless actions and machinations come back to largely shape events; seeing the political side of the court and how Tala's impulsive actions inform the decisions that lead to major changes. There are some cool nods to Tolkien with the Company of the Nine, and them embarking on a quest. That was probably my favourite plotline, the characters were individually memorable, while also introducing more lore about the Five Warrior Angels. The interactions between these quest members were the highlights of those sections. Crystalwood's chapters are the only major new thread, and I quite enjoyed them: they had some surprising revelations that will have major implications for the future. It was cool to see more of the Bloodwood Assassins as well, getting a closer look at their secretive ways and their mission.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book was how it dealt with prophecy and religion. They are an integral part of the world and drive many characters' actions and decisions. How they interpret prophecies and ancient texts, how certain people twist things to their benefit, people who clash over interpretations of the same texts, people believing in certain prophecies but not others. The twists and revelations and mysteries about them took the story in unexpected directions that I thought were really cool. With the large cast, there were a few that I didn't feel too attached to, and there were a few moments where I felt some of the emotion felt out of place, but those are quibbles. The author is unafraid to kill off characters, and it adds stakes and palpable tension when dangerous events transpire.
Overall, it's a great sequel that is well-paced with interesting and distinctive characters. Its plot has great twists and revelations, building off all the setup done in the previous book. I liked this quite a bit more than the first one, and am looking forward to reading the concluding volume.
December 17, 2018
THE BLACKEST HEART is the second novel of a planned five-volume series, “The Five Warrior Angels,” by Brian Lee Durfee. The first volume, THE FORGETTING MOON, was released in 2017.
Many classic fantasy novels and series employ the prophesy trope. Sometimes, as in Robert Jordan’s “The Wheel of Time” series, the prophecy could apply to several characters, and serves to push them along their paths. Other times, like in David Eddings’s “Belgariad” series, there are competing prophecies representing the goals of Good and Evil. Durfee turns prophesying on its head. In the Five Warrior Angels world, there are three main prophesies, representing the three schisms of a religion based on the historic savior Laijon, his wife Mia, and their son, the “Angel Prince,” Raijael. There are also two banned prophesies, plus conflicting prophesies from the non-human religions of the world: the dwarves, the cold elvish Vallè, the “Skulls” of deep history, and the blood-sucking oghuls. Importantly for the human characters, it is not at all clear whether the Vallè and oghul prophesies account for any survival of the human race beyond the coming war.
Followers of Laijon believe that the five warrior angels, the Thief, the Slave, the Princess, the Gladiator, and the Assassin, will return to the world to fight against demons. But there are several characters who would fit these titles, and not all of them survive. The supposed protagonist of the first novel, an orphan bastard boy named Nail, actually has less “screen time” in the second novel. Is he the son of kings? Or is his twin sister the prophesied savior? Or are they both merely anonymous kidnapped children drawing attention away from the actual royal twins of prophesy? Has Nail’s entire life been a lie, steering him into fulfilling someone else’s destiny—or dying in someone else’s place?
For both the characters and the reader, it is wise to follow these bits of advice from prophecy:
“Be wary of belief, cautious of faith. For one’s identity can only be killed from within. We become what we think.” – The Angel Stone Codex, and
“For even the vainness, frailties, and foolishness of dishonest men can fulfill prophecy and make cursed things blessed.” – The Way and Truth of Laijon
If you like sprawling, bloody, epic fantasy of the style of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” (Game of Thrones) series or Brian Staveley’s “Chronicle of the Unhewn Throne” series, you’ll like Durfee’s books. The point of view shifts among many characters, blurring the line between “bad guys” and “good guys.” The expansive, richly-populated, epic fantasy will also appeal to fans of Robert Jordan’s “The Wheel of Time” series and Brandon Sanderson’s “Stormlight Archive” series, although Durfee’s books are significantly bloodier and gorier than Jordan’s or Sanderson’s. The books are not appropriate for a younger reader.
Many classic fantasy novels and series employ the prophesy trope. Sometimes, as in Robert Jordan’s “The Wheel of Time” series, the prophecy could apply to several characters, and serves to push them along their paths. Other times, like in David Eddings’s “Belgariad” series, there are competing prophecies representing the goals of Good and Evil. Durfee turns prophesying on its head. In the Five Warrior Angels world, there are three main prophesies, representing the three schisms of a religion based on the historic savior Laijon, his wife Mia, and their son, the “Angel Prince,” Raijael. There are also two banned prophesies, plus conflicting prophesies from the non-human religions of the world: the dwarves, the cold elvish Vallè, the “Skulls” of deep history, and the blood-sucking oghuls. Importantly for the human characters, it is not at all clear whether the Vallè and oghul prophesies account for any survival of the human race beyond the coming war.
Followers of Laijon believe that the five warrior angels, the Thief, the Slave, the Princess, the Gladiator, and the Assassin, will return to the world to fight against demons. But there are several characters who would fit these titles, and not all of them survive. The supposed protagonist of the first novel, an orphan bastard boy named Nail, actually has less “screen time” in the second novel. Is he the son of kings? Or is his twin sister the prophesied savior? Or are they both merely anonymous kidnapped children drawing attention away from the actual royal twins of prophesy? Has Nail’s entire life been a lie, steering him into fulfilling someone else’s destiny—or dying in someone else’s place?
For both the characters and the reader, it is wise to follow these bits of advice from prophecy:
“Be wary of belief, cautious of faith. For one’s identity can only be killed from within. We become what we think.” – The Angel Stone Codex, and
“For even the vainness, frailties, and foolishness of dishonest men can fulfill prophecy and make cursed things blessed.” – The Way and Truth of Laijon
If you like sprawling, bloody, epic fantasy of the style of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” (Game of Thrones) series or Brian Staveley’s “Chronicle of the Unhewn Throne” series, you’ll like Durfee’s books. The point of view shifts among many characters, blurring the line between “bad guys” and “good guys.” The expansive, richly-populated, epic fantasy will also appeal to fans of Robert Jordan’s “The Wheel of Time” series and Brandon Sanderson’s “Stormlight Archive” series, although Durfee’s books are significantly bloodier and gorier than Jordan’s or Sanderson’s. The books are not appropriate for a younger reader.
May 24, 2020
There it comes: my highlight of 2020!
I had very high expectations for this book and Brian Lee Durfee managed to EXCEED them.
"The Blackest Heart" is the most dark-brutal-and-epic fantasy book I have read for a very long time ... maybe since Game of Thrones.
Almost 1000 pages of an epical composition of brutal force, dangerous intrigue, tricky manipulation, terrible fates and compelling characters, all wrapped up in a complex story.
If there is one thing to say about this epic beast, it is: It won't let you be indifferent. At all.
There is a big cast of very different characters and most of them are very grey on the moral compass. Some you want to shake for their own stupidity, some you want to yell at for not knowing when to shut up, others you want to kick and spit at or strangle very slowly to death.
You have to keep in mind: If all characters were perfect, there would be no character development, right?
This book made me agitated a lot, in all ways that matter for a good book. You absolutely don't have to like all the characters in order to enjoy the plot. And it is one hell of a plot.
Every chapter was a feast. I could almost never guess what will happen, with so many twists, manipulations and turns to happen. Because of that I even started to read more slowly, so I could enjoy it more. I rarely do that. But it was worth it. Such a huge payout. I loved that there were consequences, terrible things happened and you have to deal with them. And so many unsolved questions and riddles...
Even my least favorite part of high fantasy, the vexed prophecies, were being used very skillfully as a plot element that gave the story another complex layer to enjoy.
I'm absolutely thrilled about this series and I can't wait for more.
@Brian Lee Durfee: If you are reading this, I think you are doing a TERRIFIC job, so keep going. I want to thank you for (mis)pronouncing the german title of The Blackest Heart in a video (don't worry the mispronounciation is what makes it so hilarious), for it shows respect for german readers. There is only one more thing to ask you: Why on earth did you call the bulldog "Café Colza"?!?!? Is it some inside joke? Haha. I'm so intrigued to find out.
I had very high expectations for this book and Brian Lee Durfee managed to EXCEED them.
"The Blackest Heart" is the most dark-brutal-and-epic fantasy book I have read for a very long time ... maybe since Game of Thrones.
Almost 1000 pages of an epical composition of brutal force, dangerous intrigue, tricky manipulation, terrible fates and compelling characters, all wrapped up in a complex story.
If there is one thing to say about this epic beast, it is: It won't let you be indifferent. At all.
There is a big cast of very different characters and most of them are very grey on the moral compass. Some you want to shake for their own stupidity, some you want to yell at for not knowing when to shut up, others you want to kick and spit at or strangle very slowly to death.
You have to keep in mind: If all characters were perfect, there would be no character development, right?
This book made me agitated a lot, in all ways that matter for a good book. You absolutely don't have to like all the characters in order to enjoy the plot. And it is one hell of a plot.
Every chapter was a feast. I could almost never guess what will happen, with so many twists, manipulations and turns to happen. Because of that I even started to read more slowly, so I could enjoy it more. I rarely do that. But it was worth it. Such a huge payout. I loved that there were consequences, terrible things happened and you have to deal with them. And so many unsolved questions and riddles...
Even my least favorite part of high fantasy, the vexed prophecies, were being used very skillfully as a plot element that gave the story another complex layer to enjoy.
I'm absolutely thrilled about this series and I can't wait for more.
@Brian Lee Durfee: If you are reading this, I think you are doing a TERRIFIC job, so keep going. I want to thank you for (mis)pronouncing the german title of The Blackest Heart in a video (don't worry the mispronounciation is what makes it so hilarious), for it shows respect for german readers. There is only one more thing to ask you: Why on earth did you call the bulldog "Café Colza"?!?!? Is it some inside joke? Haha. I'm so intrigued to find out.
September 16, 2022
I remember loving this book on my first read and it's safe to say I loved it every bit as much on my reread. This time I took the book really slow and read carefully trying to pick up as many hints and foreshadowing that I could. Surprise, there is a ton of stuff in here that is deftly placed that one can pick up on it.
I will say on my second read that I didn't enjoy the Tala chapters in this one as much as I remembered enjoying them the first time and I think they are the weakest part of the series. The good news is there really aren't that many since there are new POVs in this book. The things I loved the first time were all still as good as I remembered. The action scenes are well written and happen in fun and unexpected ways. The battle at the climax of this book is a ton of fun and pretty unique. The mysteries are maybe my favorite part of this series and Durfee really does a good job of messing with the reader in this book. At the end of book 1 you think you know some things, and here Durfee does a good job of making you question all of it by presenting new elements and giving you different characters that all may fit the same prophecy. Also, the pacing is quite good. He sticks with short-ish punchy chapters that keep you turning the page. I will say though that the book may start a bit slow, but then again this is a long book. After I got to chapter 27 where a big even happens it was all rise after that until the end. And finally the epitaphs before the chapters here are a must read. If you skip them you are skipping important parts of the story. I love the role of religion and religious texts in this story.
Overall thoughts are that this is a great series and depending on how book 3 sticks the landing it could make my list of all time favorites. Any series that has me theorizing like this series does is always going to land with me. Importantly it does that without being purposely obtuse like other series I've read. I can't wait to read The Lonesome Crown because there are things I need to know asap.
I will say on my second read that I didn't enjoy the Tala chapters in this one as much as I remembered enjoying them the first time and I think they are the weakest part of the series. The good news is there really aren't that many since there are new POVs in this book. The things I loved the first time were all still as good as I remembered. The action scenes are well written and happen in fun and unexpected ways. The battle at the climax of this book is a ton of fun and pretty unique. The mysteries are maybe my favorite part of this series and Durfee really does a good job of messing with the reader in this book. At the end of book 1 you think you know some things, and here Durfee does a good job of making you question all of it by presenting new elements and giving you different characters that all may fit the same prophecy. Also, the pacing is quite good. He sticks with short-ish punchy chapters that keep you turning the page. I will say though that the book may start a bit slow, but then again this is a long book. After I got to chapter 27 where a big even happens it was all rise after that until the end. And finally the epitaphs before the chapters here are a must read. If you skip them you are skipping important parts of the story. I love the role of religion and religious texts in this story.
Overall thoughts are that this is a great series and depending on how book 3 sticks the landing it could make my list of all time favorites. Any series that has me theorizing like this series does is always going to land with me. Importantly it does that without being purposely obtuse like other series I've read. I can't wait to read The Lonesome Crown because there are things I need to know asap.
October 1, 2021
4.5
You need to read this series!
You need to read this series!
January 17, 2024
Perfection. Oh my goodness, this was crazy good. The best fantasy book I’ve read so far in my life.
February 28, 2019
I read an advance reader copy of this book. And it is epic. Not just because it belongs to the epic fantasy genre, but because there are so many characters and scenes, and plot-lines even, that are huge and epic. This second installment is even better than the first. Great characters, incredibly well-thought out world, great drama and pathos, and some of the best, bloodiest combat scenes I've ever read. I eagerly await the next installment. And unlike many other writers in this genre, Durfee is actually producing.
Content warning: this book is very dark and gritty, though brightened with some honest-to-goodness good guys. It's very violent and it has very foul language--stuff that made me cringe (though I'm an admitted prude). Thankfully, it has none of the sex scenes that so many other authors are writing nowadays (Martin, Weeks, etc.).
Content warning: this book is very dark and gritty, though brightened with some honest-to-goodness good guys. It's very violent and it has very foul language--stuff that made me cringe (though I'm an admitted prude). Thankfully, it has none of the sex scenes that so many other authors are writing nowadays (Martin, Weeks, etc.).
February 24, 2023
To see my full thoughts check out my youtube channel and review of The Blackest Heart- https://youtu.be/SPpTU4bfy50
WOW! This book is all gas and no brakes. You really see Brian's growth as a writer in this book. So much goes on in this 960 page behemoth. Brian added several new POV characters that I really enjoyed, some characters stories sadly came to an end.
The things that I enjoyed the most- further expansion of the world, the lore, the politics, the religious division and lastly the character development. For such a large book it moves at a break neck pace that kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. The ending to this book was spectacular with one of the best final battle scenes in a novel. I go into greater detail in my video review.
Last point, Bloodwood assassins are awesome, this series is awesome. I cannot wait to read Lonesome Crown next!
WOW! This book is all gas and no brakes. You really see Brian's growth as a writer in this book. So much goes on in this 960 page behemoth. Brian added several new POV characters that I really enjoyed, some characters stories sadly came to an end.
The things that I enjoyed the most- further expansion of the world, the lore, the politics, the religious division and lastly the character development. For such a large book it moves at a break neck pace that kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. The ending to this book was spectacular with one of the best final battle scenes in a novel. I go into greater detail in my video review.
Last point, Bloodwood assassins are awesome, this series is awesome. I cannot wait to read Lonesome Crown next!
June 8, 2025
June 2025 - re-read
More enjoyable on the re-read.
I am still none the wiser as to exactly what is going to happen in book 3.
BLD has done an amazing job of creating lots of open storylines and character arcs that keep you guessing. Now on to book 3
Original Review
Absolutely phenomenal !!!!
Book one was such an amazing book and this one just follows suit.
The best praise I can give this book is that I have been genuinely gobsmacked by some of the revelations and I also still am unsure on what is going to happen in the end. It’s so enjoyable to read a book that can keep you guessing and surprise you.
I am not even sure I can write anything that will do the book justice. It builds on all the storylines from book one and adds in a few more POV characters which are all great.
If the third book is as good as these two I think this might be a new favourite series of all time !!
More enjoyable on the re-read.
I am still none the wiser as to exactly what is going to happen in book 3.
BLD has done an amazing job of creating lots of open storylines and character arcs that keep you guessing. Now on to book 3
Original Review
Absolutely phenomenal !!!!
Book one was such an amazing book and this one just follows suit.
The best praise I can give this book is that I have been genuinely gobsmacked by some of the revelations and I also still am unsure on what is going to happen in the end. It’s so enjoyable to read a book that can keep you guessing and surprise you.
I am not even sure I can write anything that will do the book justice. It builds on all the storylines from book one and adds in a few more POV characters which are all great.
If the third book is as good as these two I think this might be a new favourite series of all time !!
July 24, 2025
4.5/5
This a step up from The Forgetting Moon, which is loved as well. Brian Lee Durfee is doing incredible stuff in this series. His character work is phenomenal, his violence and action is really well done, and the battle at the end of this book is incredible and so different from many battles I’ve read before. I can’t to see how he wraps up this story in The Lonesome Crown.
This a step up from The Forgetting Moon, which is loved as well. Brian Lee Durfee is doing incredible stuff in this series. His character work is phenomenal, his violence and action is really well done, and the battle at the end of this book is incredible and so different from many battles I’ve read before. I can’t to see how he wraps up this story in The Lonesome Crown.
July 31, 2019
Read this book right now!
Have you been looking for that deep, rich, adult epic fantasy series to quench your post Malazan, post-Wheel of Time, post-Game of Thrones fire? If so, look no further than ‘The Five Warrior Angels’ series by Brian Lee Durfee.
Two books in, with The Blackest Heart, and the trajectory is through the roof: a multifaceted tail of multiple perspectives - complete with a revisitation of some (Nail, Tala, etc) from book 1, as well as new ones (Stefan, Bishop Goodwyn) this mammoth tome shreds through its volume at a pace of early Jordan- or, perhaps, Martin’s classic ‘Storm of Sword.
Want multiple epic set pieces ( glaciers, mines, ‘oceans’)? Got it
Want hints of existential crises of faith? Got it
Want ‘subverted’ expectations that are acceptably logical and not season 8 Game of Thrones Hot Garbage? You bet.
Want gripping combat? Yep
Is this book perfect? No. I caught at least one typo. ;-) also,a case can be made that the plot moved so swiftly that some character arcs were inferential at the end (Nail- I am looking at you).
As with a certain character in the mines who questions whether anything is real, the author deftly and successfully leaves the reader questioning if the 5 warrior angels are real. And who they may be. Whether destiny is real or Prophecy is bullsh#t. Or whether maybe, just maybe, we control the life we live in our circumstances even if we don’t control them.
Marvelous and fantastic. More people need to read this book. And promote this author. Now.
Finally- Liz Hen. Oh Liz Hen. And Beer Mug. FTW.
Have you been looking for that deep, rich, adult epic fantasy series to quench your post Malazan, post-Wheel of Time, post-Game of Thrones fire? If so, look no further than ‘The Five Warrior Angels’ series by Brian Lee Durfee.
Two books in, with The Blackest Heart, and the trajectory is through the roof: a multifaceted tail of multiple perspectives - complete with a revisitation of some (Nail, Tala, etc) from book 1, as well as new ones (Stefan, Bishop Goodwyn) this mammoth tome shreds through its volume at a pace of early Jordan- or, perhaps, Martin’s classic ‘Storm of Sword.
Want multiple epic set pieces ( glaciers, mines, ‘oceans’)? Got it
Want hints of existential crises of faith? Got it
Want ‘subverted’ expectations that are acceptably logical and not season 8 Game of Thrones Hot Garbage? You bet.
Want gripping combat? Yep
Is this book perfect? No. I caught at least one typo. ;-) also,a case can be made that the plot moved so swiftly that some character arcs were inferential at the end (Nail- I am looking at you).
As with a certain character in the mines who questions whether anything is real, the author deftly and successfully leaves the reader questioning if the 5 warrior angels are real. And who they may be. Whether destiny is real or Prophecy is bullsh#t. Or whether maybe, just maybe, we control the life we live in our circumstances even if we don’t control them.
Marvelous and fantastic. More people need to read this book. And promote this author. Now.
Finally- Liz Hen. Oh Liz Hen. And Beer Mug. FTW.
June 12, 2025
5.0 Stars
Bloody Rotted Angels
This is NO sophomore slump. Mind blown. The plot twists are beyond imagination. Between all the hallucinations, revelations, and prophecy....
The planning for this series had to be intense.
Book 2 is book 1 on steroids. I am so excited for book 3.
Bloody Rotted Angels
This is NO sophomore slump. Mind blown. The plot twists are beyond imagination. Between all the hallucinations, revelations, and prophecy....
The planning for this series had to be intense.
Book 2 is book 1 on steroids. I am so excited for book 3.
May 10, 2019
Oh, man, what wouldn't I give for a peek at Mr. Durfee's storyboard! :D It should be a thing to behold... Well, I already read the second book too, so - in as few words as possible - it's ambitious, large, and multi-layered. Slightly derivative, but what isn't nowadays. I'm excited for the next installment, that's for sure.
April 29, 2021
You know when they say an author knows how to take a trope and turn it on its head? Well, Brian Lee Durfee cuts it open and makes you look at its rotten, stinking guts. Cannot wait for the next book because I have so many theories!!!
June 30, 2021
Amazing. Amazing. Amazing.
This is the 2nd book in the five warriors angel trilogy and damn, it was so damn good than the forgetting moon. Just absolutely awesome!
The story begins 2 weeks after the events of the forgetting moon. And each POVs were in grave situations or going to be, and it's just elevated. And the new POVs introduced are particularly interesting to read. The growth of all the characters is so unpredictable that you can't guess a single thing and mind you it's not abrupt. And the animal companionship is very beautiful to read.
The itch from the first book was it didn't discover the other places in the first book, but this book explores some places and gets deep into the making of certain people and it was very good to discover.
The action scenes were so awesome and my God I enjoyed them so bloody much. And the politicking, my God I haven't read this much politicking anywhere so far.
Just one thing, whoever thinks that the first book was not good and abandoned the series please give this beast a try, you won't regret it.
This is the 2nd book in the five warriors angel trilogy and damn, it was so damn good than the forgetting moon. Just absolutely awesome!
The story begins 2 weeks after the events of the forgetting moon. And each POVs were in grave situations or going to be, and it's just elevated. And the new POVs introduced are particularly interesting to read. The growth of all the characters is so unpredictable that you can't guess a single thing and mind you it's not abrupt. And the animal companionship is very beautiful to read.
The itch from the first book was it didn't discover the other places in the first book, but this book explores some places and gets deep into the making of certain people and it was very good to discover.
The action scenes were so awesome and my God I enjoyed them so bloody much. And the politicking, my God I haven't read this much politicking anywhere so far.
Just one thing, whoever thinks that the first book was not good and abandoned the series please give this beast a try, you won't regret it.
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