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Light in the Dark #2
Shattered Hopes
Drangar Ralgon survived death… twice!
He has no idea how, nor is he any closer to unearthing why his beloved had to die.
Drowning in questions, Drangar receives aid from the unlikeliest of sources. The Chosen Kildanor, immortal warrior of a shunned god, has taken a liking to the mercenary. With his path to answers blocked by a besieging army, Drangar must do his part in defeating the enemy.
Reluctantly, Drangar once more prepares for war.
He has no idea how, nor is he any closer to unearthing why his beloved had to die.
Drowning in questions, Drangar receives aid from the unlikeliest of sources. The Chosen Kildanor, immortal warrior of a shunned god, has taken a liking to the mercenary. With his path to answers blocked by a besieging army, Drangar must do his part in defeating the enemy.
Reluctantly, Drangar once more prepares for war.
470 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2018
11 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Ulff Lehmann
12 books104 followersUlff Lehmann has spent quite a while waiting on his Midlife Crisis, and decided he won't go there. For the past two decades he has been developing the stories he is now publishing. Born and bred in Germany, Ulff chose to write in English when he realized he had spent most of his adult life reading English instead of his mother tongue, and brings with him the oftentimes Grimm outlook of his country's fairy-tales to his stories. A wordsmith with a poet's heart, Ulff's goal is to create a world filled with believable people.
According to his friends, his place is utter chaos and filled to the brim with books, CDs, and DVDs. In an earlier part of his life, Ulff turned his love for music outward, singing in two bands. Nowadays the only singing he does is in concert with his shower, and it thinks his voice is still acceptable. His passion for movies led him to begin Movie and TV studies at university, begin being the operative word. He didn't finish. Instead life pulled him this way and that until he finally understood he was a storyteller.
According to his friends, his place is utter chaos and filled to the brim with books, CDs, and DVDs. In an earlier part of his life, Ulff turned his love for music outward, singing in two bands. Nowadays the only singing he does is in concert with his shower, and it thinks his voice is still acceptable. His passion for movies led him to begin Movie and TV studies at university, begin being the operative word. He didn't finish. Instead life pulled him this way and that until he finally understood he was a storyteller.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 2, 2018
This is the second book in the series, the first of which, Shattered Dreams, was entered into last year’s SPFBO. I enjoyed the first one so when Ulff asked, I agreed to read the second one. This is just as complicated as the first one, which is no surprise. There’s heavy world-building, a lot going on with the different storylines that all mix together in pretty complicated ways. There are a bunch of unfamiliar and long names. Ie: Urgraith Mireynh – General of Chanastradh. I have to say, since I read so many books, and this one is so complicated with unfamiliar names, I could have really used a refresher at the start. It took me several chapters to get back on my feet and understand what was going on. I actually re-read the last chapter of the last book to get me back up to speed.
This book picks up right after the events of the first book, Drangar was attacked by an “unknown” person, which has left him unconscious and very near death. Drangar’s attacker was able to use five different spells at once which is an unreal amount of power. Ealisaid’s a wizard and she goes to investigate the scene where Drangar and two others were attacked. Ealisaid is able to make a room “remember” what sorts of spells have been used recently, and she’s able to peel back the layers of magic to identify different sorts of spells. She remembers her teachers struggling to keep three spells going simultaneously, so when she finds out the attacker had cast five spells at once she’s both concerned and impressed. The strength of the spells are also unheard of – Drangar was being held in an invisible forcefield of sorts, and where the forcefield touched stone, it melted. While Ealisaid and others are trying to find out who the assassin was and where they went, Drangar lies in bed and is very close to being dead.
Meanwhile, there’s an army outside the gates and they mean to take over the city and establish themselves as conquerors. You can think of these guys as the villains since our main POV, Drangar, is on the other side – but they aren’t the evil mustache-twirling villains. They’re just an army doing their job, more or less – I really do like this sort of plotline where it shows people on either side of a war just being ‘people’. It gets a little tiresome to have a world domination villain trying to destroy everything just for the sake of destruction.
Ealisaid’s powers may be needed to fend off this invading force, but she’s drained herself significantly lately. Magic in this world can come with a cost, and it’s described as using “probabilities and finalities”. When a mage disturbs/recreates reality with a spell, they are messing with the “possibilities” of the universe, changing all the possible outcomes into what they want it to be. When doing that, they sacrifice themselves – Ealisaid turned a bunch of people invisible to hide them, and since then she’s become skinny, and weak. When Kaldinar asks for her assistance with keeping away the invaders, she’s left wondering if she can be of any help at all, or if it would kill her.
I think my two favorite characters are Ealisaid and Drangar, we get the most page time with them it feels like, and as a result, I got to know them a lot better. Although I like getting to see two sides of a war, I never found myself connecting much to their characters. I liked seeing what was going on, but I didn’t find myself rooting for them either. Maybe it was written that way intentionally since they are the invading army after all.
It gets a little spoilery to talk about all the unanswered questions I had left over from the first book, but I think I liked finding out what happened to the elves the most. It’s something that was nagging at me through the first book and finally was answered in this one! Yay!
The pacing in this one is hard for me to judge at the start because it took me a bit to get back into it, but I’d say if you’re fresh off Shattered Dreams this one will have similar pacing. It’s a slow but steady book – it’s not dragging, but it’s not exactly fast paced hack and slash action either. There are a lot of moving pieces and much of this book is left up to the reader to figure out. Many things are left in the background kind of like GRRM where you need to read between the lines and make connections for yourself.
Overall I enjoyed this one, and it will be for people who love complex worlds, lots of different angles, and intense world building.
Audience:
multi pov
magic
elves
world building
female pov
military pov
lost civilizations
Ratings:
Plot: 12.5/15
Characters: 12/15
World Building: 13.5/15
Writing: 11.5/15
Pacing: 11/15
Originality: 11/15
Personal Enjoyment: 7.5/10
Final Score: 79/100 – 4 stars recommended
This book picks up right after the events of the first book, Drangar was attacked by an “unknown” person, which has left him unconscious and very near death. Drangar’s attacker was able to use five different spells at once which is an unreal amount of power. Ealisaid’s a wizard and she goes to investigate the scene where Drangar and two others were attacked. Ealisaid is able to make a room “remember” what sorts of spells have been used recently, and she’s able to peel back the layers of magic to identify different sorts of spells. She remembers her teachers struggling to keep three spells going simultaneously, so when she finds out the attacker had cast five spells at once she’s both concerned and impressed. The strength of the spells are also unheard of – Drangar was being held in an invisible forcefield of sorts, and where the forcefield touched stone, it melted. While Ealisaid and others are trying to find out who the assassin was and where they went, Drangar lies in bed and is very close to being dead.
Meanwhile, there’s an army outside the gates and they mean to take over the city and establish themselves as conquerors. You can think of these guys as the villains since our main POV, Drangar, is on the other side – but they aren’t the evil mustache-twirling villains. They’re just an army doing their job, more or less – I really do like this sort of plotline where it shows people on either side of a war just being ‘people’. It gets a little tiresome to have a world domination villain trying to destroy everything just for the sake of destruction.
Ealisaid’s powers may be needed to fend off this invading force, but she’s drained herself significantly lately. Magic in this world can come with a cost, and it’s described as using “probabilities and finalities”. When a mage disturbs/recreates reality with a spell, they are messing with the “possibilities” of the universe, changing all the possible outcomes into what they want it to be. When doing that, they sacrifice themselves – Ealisaid turned a bunch of people invisible to hide them, and since then she’s become skinny, and weak. When Kaldinar asks for her assistance with keeping away the invaders, she’s left wondering if she can be of any help at all, or if it would kill her.
I think my two favorite characters are Ealisaid and Drangar, we get the most page time with them it feels like, and as a result, I got to know them a lot better. Although I like getting to see two sides of a war, I never found myself connecting much to their characters. I liked seeing what was going on, but I didn’t find myself rooting for them either. Maybe it was written that way intentionally since they are the invading army after all.
It gets a little spoilery to talk about all the unanswered questions I had left over from the first book, but I think I liked finding out what happened to the elves the most. It’s something that was nagging at me through the first book and finally was answered in this one! Yay!
The pacing in this one is hard for me to judge at the start because it took me a bit to get back into it, but I’d say if you’re fresh off Shattered Dreams this one will have similar pacing. It’s a slow but steady book – it’s not dragging, but it’s not exactly fast paced hack and slash action either. There are a lot of moving pieces and much of this book is left up to the reader to figure out. Many things are left in the background kind of like GRRM where you need to read between the lines and make connections for yourself.
Overall I enjoyed this one, and it will be for people who love complex worlds, lots of different angles, and intense world building.
Audience:
multi pov
magic
elves
world building
female pov
military pov
lost civilizations
Ratings:
Plot: 12.5/15
Characters: 12/15
World Building: 13.5/15
Writing: 11.5/15
Pacing: 11/15
Originality: 11/15
Personal Enjoyment: 7.5/10
Final Score: 79/100 – 4 stars recommended
November 27, 2019
I am giving this 5-stars although for me it is 4.5 because it is more descriptive than book 1.
It isn't the first time that I have read a series using demons as a magic plot device but this is one of the best examples of it. This is ambitious, well written dark fantasy.
As I had hoped at the end of book 1 book 2 does have a little more about the elves, though not as much as I might have liked. The only other thing that might be an issue for some is the number of characters to keep track of, though I think if you have read GRRM's books you won't be in the least bit daunted.
The Phoenix Wizards are all gone now, or are they? Those of you who have read book 1 will know that they have endured and by the end of this book I have begun to understand how deadly they were and perhaps why they were exterminated.
Just as a caution; this book does end a little suddenly but it is intended to run straight into the next instalment. As a writer myself, I know how difficult it is to write a series of books that all have definite endings. This is meant as a book in an ongoing series and should be read as one.
I'd like to congratulate the author for his vivid imagination and encourage him to continue with the writing of the 5-book-series, (it's well worth it!) IMO. For those of you who think they might be interested; book 3 is already available and books 4 and 5 are on their way. Mr Lehmann is a relatively new voice in dark fantasy that I believe will be right up there with the likes of Mark Lawrence, Anna Stephens and Joe Abercrombie!
Thank for reading.
It isn't the first time that I have read a series using demons as a magic plot device but this is one of the best examples of it. This is ambitious, well written dark fantasy.
As I had hoped at the end of book 1 book 2 does have a little more about the elves, though not as much as I might have liked. The only other thing that might be an issue for some is the number of characters to keep track of, though I think if you have read GRRM's books you won't be in the least bit daunted.
The Phoenix Wizards are all gone now, or are they? Those of you who have read book 1 will know that they have endured and by the end of this book I have begun to understand how deadly they were and perhaps why they were exterminated.
Just as a caution; this book does end a little suddenly but it is intended to run straight into the next instalment. As a writer myself, I know how difficult it is to write a series of books that all have definite endings. This is meant as a book in an ongoing series and should be read as one.
I'd like to congratulate the author for his vivid imagination and encourage him to continue with the writing of the 5-book-series, (it's well worth it!) IMO. For those of you who think they might be interested; book 3 is already available and books 4 and 5 are on their way. Mr Lehmann is a relatively new voice in dark fantasy that I believe will be right up there with the likes of Mark Lawrence, Anna Stephens and Joe Abercrombie!
Thank for reading.
August 28, 2018
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
The full review with my picked song can be found on my blog: https://starlitbook.com/2018/08/28/sh...
I’ve received an ARC from the author in exchange of an honest review. I’d like to thank Ulff Lehmann for providing me a copy 🙂
A friendly advice: reread the last two chapters of Shattered Dreams before you get into Hopes. Also, this review may contain spoilers for those who didn’t read Shattered Dreams of which my review can be found here.
Shattered Hopes takes up the story right where Shattered Dreams dropped it. The room of the Cahill house is in ruins and Drangar is in no shape to provide help for Kildanor and Ealisaid who try to put together the picture about what took place. Meanwhile Mireynh and the troops of Chanastardh are still camping outside of the walls of Dunthiocagh, trying to figure out how to get the city under their rule. The General also has to deal with the bickering, incompetent, sometimes cruel lords who cause more problems than they are helpful.
As in Shattered Dreams, here we also follow the events through several point of views. First of all Drangar, who at the end of Dreams finally learns who is out to get him and intends to get to the end of things. But Dunthiocagh is under attack, and until the Chanastardhian army remains he has not much chance to get south where the answers are. Besides, he owns his service to Sir Cahill and his family based on guest rights and the fact that Cahill paid for his freedom. Not having much choice in the matter, Drangar focuses on trying to be helpful: he teaches the ladies how to defend themselves in case of an attack, makes friends with Kildanor, Lesganagh’s Chosen and discovers part of him he didn’t really know about. We also learn a bit more about his past through Coinharrim the Upholder of Lliania’s law and Rhea, one of the riders of Nerran as well as his own actions and the Lightbringer’s visions. While trying to be helpful, Drangar also keeps fighting with his demons, his guilt, his fear, despite Cahill’s and Kildanor’s support and encouragement. While I could understand his feelings, and the battle he fought with himself, toward the end he started to wear me down with his self tormenting. Sometimes I felt the urge to throw his big boy pants at him so he could snap out of it. Even so, I’m not sure that Kildanor’s and Cahill’s solution was the best one out there, despite it being a necessity. Nonetheless, Drangar Ralgon’s past is quite intriguing and I can’t wait to find out more.
Kildanor plays the role of a contact person in this book kind of. He builds a relationship with Drangar during their training sessions, but he also gets closer to Ealisaid – whom I still can’t seem to like, but it’s maybe because of her affair with Culain – setting his prejudice aside, realising how rewarding it can be if they work together. The same goes for his and Braigh’s relationship, which continues after their comradeship developed in Dreams.
There are several other side characters in Shattered Hopes I could write several more paragrahps about. Let’s just say, I particularly liked Rhea for her fiercness and wittiness, and Jasgar, because with his character Lehmann breaks away from the trope and has a spy who becomes one not because he choses so and is quite reluctant to learn the profession. I wish there were more scenes about him taking lessons to develop his character a bit more.
As for the Chanastardhian side, the most important characters are Mireynh and Anne accompanied by Gwen. Mireynh is an interesting character. He has strong ideals and once he gets something in his head, he won’t let it go. It’s hard to change his mind and punishes brutally those who cross him. He doesn’t really care who will die as long as he can reach his goal. But of course his personality is more layered than that. There are some driving forces behind his actions. Anne and Gwen make a good pair and I’m looking forward to read more about their adventures.
Another plotline takes us to the Eye. We only get glimpses but things aren’t looking good. They are in need of a strong leader more than ever, but Darlontor is anything but. This is where Lloreanthoran heads after learning as much about the world as he can.
Well, as you can tell, Shattered Hopes is no less intricate than Shattered Dreams was. Curiously, while I wouldn’t say it is fast paced, it’s still a damn interesting read, which makes you turn the pages. Especially if you take the time to think about the little info crumbs Lehmann lays down for you. This book has a few more layers than you can see at first glance. Ultimately everything is linked with everything, and my statement about this story being a treasure hunt still stands. And once you figure out some connections between the different terminologies the races use, you’ll start to put together the pieces. Even though there are several more waiting along the way. Until then, be prepared for your mind to be blown every once in a while.
Shattered Hopes is a cleverly written second book, which not only grew up to the first one, but managed to surpass it. Aside from Drangar starting to wear me down by the end, and the fact that I have to wait to find out some answers, I can’t really complain. Maybe that some things happened too fast, and there wasn’t enough time to develop – like Jasgar’s training or Ealisaid’s experiments. Although under the circumstances… This book had a lot to cover and it did well, but we are left with more questions than answers. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. If you have the patience to wait for the next book to be released.
Shattered Hopes is a character driven, intriguing and multi layered epic fantasy novel, which you don’t want to miss.
The full review with my picked song can be found on my blog: https://starlitbook.com/2018/08/28/sh...
I’ve received an ARC from the author in exchange of an honest review. I’d like to thank Ulff Lehmann for providing me a copy 🙂
A friendly advice: reread the last two chapters of Shattered Dreams before you get into Hopes. Also, this review may contain spoilers for those who didn’t read Shattered Dreams of which my review can be found here.
Shattered Hopes takes up the story right where Shattered Dreams dropped it. The room of the Cahill house is in ruins and Drangar is in no shape to provide help for Kildanor and Ealisaid who try to put together the picture about what took place. Meanwhile Mireynh and the troops of Chanastardh are still camping outside of the walls of Dunthiocagh, trying to figure out how to get the city under their rule. The General also has to deal with the bickering, incompetent, sometimes cruel lords who cause more problems than they are helpful.
As in Shattered Dreams, here we also follow the events through several point of views. First of all Drangar, who at the end of Dreams finally learns who is out to get him and intends to get to the end of things. But Dunthiocagh is under attack, and until the Chanastardhian army remains he has not much chance to get south where the answers are. Besides, he owns his service to Sir Cahill and his family based on guest rights and the fact that Cahill paid for his freedom. Not having much choice in the matter, Drangar focuses on trying to be helpful: he teaches the ladies how to defend themselves in case of an attack, makes friends with Kildanor, Lesganagh’s Chosen and discovers part of him he didn’t really know about. We also learn a bit more about his past through Coinharrim the Upholder of Lliania’s law and Rhea, one of the riders of Nerran as well as his own actions and the Lightbringer’s visions. While trying to be helpful, Drangar also keeps fighting with his demons, his guilt, his fear, despite Cahill’s and Kildanor’s support and encouragement. While I could understand his feelings, and the battle he fought with himself, toward the end he started to wear me down with his self tormenting. Sometimes I felt the urge to throw his big boy pants at him so he could snap out of it. Even so, I’m not sure that Kildanor’s and Cahill’s solution was the best one out there, despite it being a necessity. Nonetheless, Drangar Ralgon’s past is quite intriguing and I can’t wait to find out more.
Kildanor plays the role of a contact person in this book kind of. He builds a relationship with Drangar during their training sessions, but he also gets closer to Ealisaid – whom I still can’t seem to like, but it’s maybe because of her affair with Culain – setting his prejudice aside, realising how rewarding it can be if they work together. The same goes for his and Braigh’s relationship, which continues after their comradeship developed in Dreams.
There are several other side characters in Shattered Hopes I could write several more paragrahps about. Let’s just say, I particularly liked Rhea for her fiercness and wittiness, and Jasgar, because with his character Lehmann breaks away from the trope and has a spy who becomes one not because he choses so and is quite reluctant to learn the profession. I wish there were more scenes about him taking lessons to develop his character a bit more.
As for the Chanastardhian side, the most important characters are Mireynh and Anne accompanied by Gwen. Mireynh is an interesting character. He has strong ideals and once he gets something in his head, he won’t let it go. It’s hard to change his mind and punishes brutally those who cross him. He doesn’t really care who will die as long as he can reach his goal. But of course his personality is more layered than that. There are some driving forces behind his actions. Anne and Gwen make a good pair and I’m looking forward to read more about their adventures.
Another plotline takes us to the Eye. We only get glimpses but things aren’t looking good. They are in need of a strong leader more than ever, but Darlontor is anything but. This is where Lloreanthoran heads after learning as much about the world as he can.
Well, as you can tell, Shattered Hopes is no less intricate than Shattered Dreams was. Curiously, while I wouldn’t say it is fast paced, it’s still a damn interesting read, which makes you turn the pages. Especially if you take the time to think about the little info crumbs Lehmann lays down for you. This book has a few more layers than you can see at first glance. Ultimately everything is linked with everything, and my statement about this story being a treasure hunt still stands. And once you figure out some connections between the different terminologies the races use, you’ll start to put together the pieces. Even though there are several more waiting along the way. Until then, be prepared for your mind to be blown every once in a while.
Shattered Hopes is a cleverly written second book, which not only grew up to the first one, but managed to surpass it. Aside from Drangar starting to wear me down by the end, and the fact that I have to wait to find out some answers, I can’t really complain. Maybe that some things happened too fast, and there wasn’t enough time to develop – like Jasgar’s training or Ealisaid’s experiments. Although under the circumstances… This book had a lot to cover and it did well, but we are left with more questions than answers. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. If you have the patience to wait for the next book to be released.
Shattered Hopes is a character driven, intriguing and multi layered epic fantasy novel, which you don’t want to miss.
October 13, 2018
Again: Read. This. Book. (See my Shattered Dreams review)
More excellence. All I can say is that you’ll know a lot more about the reasons for the hero’s rather unique personality traits after finishing Shattered Hopes.
The title’s a bit of a giveaway, but let’s just say that Drangar has some damned good reasons to be the cynical, doubting, bug-up-the-ass and apparently hopeless case that he is. Is he even a hero? Still don’t know. His place in the story screams that he is, but his own voices scream louder.
Lots more shards of the mosaic are in place now. What happened to Drangar? Check. What happened to the elves? Check. What happened to magic? Check. Who the hell are these Sons of Traksor and what are the stories of all the other characters we were introduced to in Shattered Dreams? Check.
Did I find out all I wanted to and finish the book with a sense of satisfaction and closure? Hell no. Those hopes were shattered. :P
Loved it, and can’t wait for the next one Ulff! Thank you :)
More excellence. All I can say is that you’ll know a lot more about the reasons for the hero’s rather unique personality traits after finishing Shattered Hopes.
The title’s a bit of a giveaway, but let’s just say that Drangar has some damned good reasons to be the cynical, doubting, bug-up-the-ass and apparently hopeless case that he is. Is he even a hero? Still don’t know. His place in the story screams that he is, but his own voices scream louder.
Lots more shards of the mosaic are in place now. What happened to Drangar? Check. What happened to the elves? Check. What happened to magic? Check. Who the hell are these Sons of Traksor and what are the stories of all the other characters we were introduced to in Shattered Dreams? Check.
Did I find out all I wanted to and finish the book with a sense of satisfaction and closure? Hell no. Those hopes were shattered. :P
Loved it, and can’t wait for the next one Ulff! Thank you :)
December 9, 2019
Shattered Hopes is the follow up to Shattered Dreams. If you enjoy complex political wars, this will be worth checking out.
With this sequel, Lehmann devotes a lot of page time to showing both sides of the conflict, which certainly brings depth to the story. The characters I enjoyed most from book one were fairly passive for the first half of this book, spending much of their time trying to sort out and recover from events at the end of book one. The driving plot factors in the first half come from other characters that I didn't feel as invested in.
The plot picks up in the second half of the book, and that's when I became much more immersed in the story. Everything leads to a final battle scene which is well-done and full of action. The slow pacing of the tension that built to it was sometimes frustrating for me.
If you're looking for a complex story that unfolds gradually, I encourage you to check out this series.
With this sequel, Lehmann devotes a lot of page time to showing both sides of the conflict, which certainly brings depth to the story. The characters I enjoyed most from book one were fairly passive for the first half of this book, spending much of their time trying to sort out and recover from events at the end of book one. The driving plot factors in the first half come from other characters that I didn't feel as invested in.
The plot picks up in the second half of the book, and that's when I became much more immersed in the story. Everything leads to a final battle scene which is well-done and full of action. The slow pacing of the tension that built to it was sometimes frustrating for me.
If you're looking for a complex story that unfolds gradually, I encourage you to check out this series.
September 23, 2018
SHATTERED HOPES by Ulff Lehmann is the sequel to SHATTERED DREAMS. The premise of SHATTERED DREAMS was an epic war being fought between an invading army and multiple players between it as well as the return of old magic the world. I liked the various characters within it as well as the twists and turns in the subplots. Characters found out their allies were enemies, their memories were untrustworthy, and what they thought was going on was nowhere near the truth.
The sequel picks up immediately after the events of the original novel, which I understand is because they were originally one larger Tolkien-esque omnibus. Drangar, the series protagonist, is recovering unnaturally fast from near-starvation while the invading army becomes temporarily halted by the destruction of a key bridge. The protagonists have been on the defensive for some time but getting access to their own sorceress means they now have a chance of fighting back, however weakly against their previously invincible opponents.
Part of what I enjoy about Ulff Lehmann's writing is the fact he doesn't hesitate to make big complex worlds and let the reader sort them out. This is whole planet of characters with past wars, historical events, geneologies, and countries. Indeed, it is my only complaint about the work that I could have used a refresher course on who is what, where, and how. Giving me a sense of this would have helped me remember what the stakes are better but I was able to get back in the saddle quickly enough.
I also am a big fan of how the author handles religion in his series as the characters are caught between literal gods, competing faiths, corrupt churches, and living saints with no one able to completely separate them. I've always been a big fan of stories which incorporate both the mortal as well as immortal perspective of the supernatural and that plays a big role in this story. We never get to see the gods themselves but can interpret many events through the idea of miracles and portents.
Another element I like about the book is the fact Ulff Lehmann doesn't skimp on the perspective of the antagonists. Indeed, the Chanastardhian (try saying that three times fast) are not really villains, so much as simply invaders. It's what happens in Medieval warfare and they just want to get the job done as efficiently as possible.
Mireynh is close to being a villain but that's because of his bullheaded Stannis Baratheon-like stubborness and the contradictory fact he refuses to respect anyone who surrenders or turns against their nation, even when it means benefiting his side. In short, he has the absolute worst attitude for any form of military diplomacy.
In conclusion, this is a strong continuation of the original book and while I recommend you should probably read them back to back if at all possible (or for a glossary to be included), this is a great work.
The sequel picks up immediately after the events of the original novel, which I understand is because they were originally one larger Tolkien-esque omnibus. Drangar, the series protagonist, is recovering unnaturally fast from near-starvation while the invading army becomes temporarily halted by the destruction of a key bridge. The protagonists have been on the defensive for some time but getting access to their own sorceress means they now have a chance of fighting back, however weakly against their previously invincible opponents.
Part of what I enjoy about Ulff Lehmann's writing is the fact he doesn't hesitate to make big complex worlds and let the reader sort them out. This is whole planet of characters with past wars, historical events, geneologies, and countries. Indeed, it is my only complaint about the work that I could have used a refresher course on who is what, where, and how. Giving me a sense of this would have helped me remember what the stakes are better but I was able to get back in the saddle quickly enough.
I also am a big fan of how the author handles religion in his series as the characters are caught between literal gods, competing faiths, corrupt churches, and living saints with no one able to completely separate them. I've always been a big fan of stories which incorporate both the mortal as well as immortal perspective of the supernatural and that plays a big role in this story. We never get to see the gods themselves but can interpret many events through the idea of miracles and portents.
Another element I like about the book is the fact Ulff Lehmann doesn't skimp on the perspective of the antagonists. Indeed, the Chanastardhian (try saying that three times fast) are not really villains, so much as simply invaders. It's what happens in Medieval warfare and they just want to get the job done as efficiently as possible.
Mireynh is close to being a villain but that's because of his bullheaded Stannis Baratheon-like stubborness and the contradictory fact he refuses to respect anyone who surrenders or turns against their nation, even when it means benefiting his side. In short, he has the absolute worst attitude for any form of military diplomacy.
In conclusion, this is a strong continuation of the original book and while I recommend you should probably read them back to back if at all possible (or for a glossary to be included), this is a great work.
September 6, 2018
Highly recommended read. A strong follow up to the debut Shattered Dreams.
Drangar Ralgon continues his search for answers while fighting the demons within. A war begins and Drangar has no hope for answers but to let the berserker demon within loose upon the invading troops. Culminating in a flurry of revelations, shocking and bloody, it paves the way for a non-stop move right into the next volume.
Not unlike the chapter POV changes of George R.R. Martin, the complex characters and their struggles find their paths crossing as the story builds. The web is pulling tighter and closer. A grim tale from the start, you will find yourself hooked and pulled into this world from the first pages. It’s a big story, and it doesn’t spoon feed the reader. You have to actually focus on the players. The pay off is well worth the time.
You can read my interview with the author at Grimmedian.
https://grimmedian.com/2018/04/01/sha...
Drangar Ralgon continues his search for answers while fighting the demons within. A war begins and Drangar has no hope for answers but to let the berserker demon within loose upon the invading troops. Culminating in a flurry of revelations, shocking and bloody, it paves the way for a non-stop move right into the next volume.
Not unlike the chapter POV changes of George R.R. Martin, the complex characters and their struggles find their paths crossing as the story builds. The web is pulling tighter and closer. A grim tale from the start, you will find yourself hooked and pulled into this world from the first pages. It’s a big story, and it doesn’t spoon feed the reader. You have to actually focus on the players. The pay off is well worth the time.
You can read my interview with the author at Grimmedian.
https://grimmedian.com/2018/04/01/sha...
July 14, 2019
If you enjoy complex epic fantasy stories, then you need to read book 2 in the Light in the Dark Series. Shattered Hopes is just as complex as book 1. BUT...you need to read this book. I LOVE the complexity of the story. A story that keeps you on your toes. This story picks right back up after book 1. Once again, the characters are realistic yet imaginary. The world building has to be my favorite part. A killer world with dynamic characters...who wouldn't want to read it? You need to pick up a copy now! I can't wait for BOOK 3!!!!!! You won't be disappointed when you get your copy of Shattered Hopes.
November 10, 2019
An excellent well written continuation in this series, the author has really upped his game in this second book.
Highly recommended to all my Goodreads friends.
Highly recommended to all my Goodreads friends.
January 7, 2019
Find this review at Forever Lost in Literature!
I read Shattered Dreams, the first book in this series, a few months back and was enamored with the strong world-building, complex characters, and well-built storyline. This sequel, I am happy to say, definitely lived up to the strong start!
The sequel picks up almost immediately after the events of the first book, something that I always appreciate because we're able to jump right back into things with no missing time. For the sake of not going into spoilers, I don't plan to go in depth about plot details in this review, but will focus more on the characters, writing, pacing, etc. so that I don't give anything important away.
Even though I read the first book only maybe two months before reading the second, I still felt as though I needed a slight refresher on the some of the world, characters, events, etc. that were introduced and explained in the first book. There is, quite simply, a lot of detail in this world, which I do appreciate overall because it adds some extra authenticity and depth to the world, as well as captures Lehmann's dedication to his work, but it does require some effort.
I think one of my favorite things about this book is how Lehmann portrays all of the characters. They are all unique and complex and truly feel as though they have been brought to life. What I really like is that even the 'villain' type of characters are portrayed in a way that shows there is more to them than just the typical antagonist to our main cast. Sure, they may not be doing the best things all the time (who is, really?), but they aren't just evil for the sake of being evil and that is a villain I can get behind. Drangar and Ealisaid remain the two most prominent characters and also the two most interesting ones. Even though we got to know them quite a bit in the first book, I really felt that they were developed even more in this one and I got to know them even better. Their personalities are both endlessly enjoyable and kept me wanting to know more about them. In addition to Drangar and Ealisaid are other POVs as well, which provides even more to explore in the story.
I mentioned the religion that Lehman created in the first book, and I want to briefly touch on that again because it adds so much intrigue to these books. It's very immersive and plays a large role in the plot of this overarching story, something that it does extremely well. It also adds extra depth to the motivations and lives of the characters as we get to see how it affects both our main protagonists and those on a larger scale.
The pacing in Shattered Hopes is very much similar to that of Shattered Dreams, which shows some great consistency. It's still definitely a slower pace, but very steady and easily grabs the reader's attention. As I mentioned in my review for the first book, the reader really needs to be actively paying attention to the story in this book, as there is lot to both follow and to discern and understand for yourself.
Overall, I've given Shattered Hopes four stars! This was a solid continuation of a great start to a fantasy series. I am most impressed by Lehmann's continued world-building and ability to juggle so many different subjects and ideas in one cohesive book. Definitely give this series a shot if you enjoy some multi-perspective epic fantasy.
I read Shattered Dreams, the first book in this series, a few months back and was enamored with the strong world-building, complex characters, and well-built storyline. This sequel, I am happy to say, definitely lived up to the strong start!
The sequel picks up almost immediately after the events of the first book, something that I always appreciate because we're able to jump right back into things with no missing time. For the sake of not going into spoilers, I don't plan to go in depth about plot details in this review, but will focus more on the characters, writing, pacing, etc. so that I don't give anything important away.
Even though I read the first book only maybe two months before reading the second, I still felt as though I needed a slight refresher on the some of the world, characters, events, etc. that were introduced and explained in the first book. There is, quite simply, a lot of detail in this world, which I do appreciate overall because it adds some extra authenticity and depth to the world, as well as captures Lehmann's dedication to his work, but it does require some effort.
I think one of my favorite things about this book is how Lehmann portrays all of the characters. They are all unique and complex and truly feel as though they have been brought to life. What I really like is that even the 'villain' type of characters are portrayed in a way that shows there is more to them than just the typical antagonist to our main cast. Sure, they may not be doing the best things all the time (who is, really?), but they aren't just evil for the sake of being evil and that is a villain I can get behind. Drangar and Ealisaid remain the two most prominent characters and also the two most interesting ones. Even though we got to know them quite a bit in the first book, I really felt that they were developed even more in this one and I got to know them even better. Their personalities are both endlessly enjoyable and kept me wanting to know more about them. In addition to Drangar and Ealisaid are other POVs as well, which provides even more to explore in the story.
I mentioned the religion that Lehman created in the first book, and I want to briefly touch on that again because it adds so much intrigue to these books. It's very immersive and plays a large role in the plot of this overarching story, something that it does extremely well. It also adds extra depth to the motivations and lives of the characters as we get to see how it affects both our main protagonists and those on a larger scale.
The pacing in Shattered Hopes is very much similar to that of Shattered Dreams, which shows some great consistency. It's still definitely a slower pace, but very steady and easily grabs the reader's attention. As I mentioned in my review for the first book, the reader really needs to be actively paying attention to the story in this book, as there is lot to both follow and to discern and understand for yourself.
Overall, I've given Shattered Hopes four stars! This was a solid continuation of a great start to a fantasy series. I am most impressed by Lehmann's continued world-building and ability to juggle so many different subjects and ideas in one cohesive book. Definitely give this series a shot if you enjoy some multi-perspective epic fantasy.
November 10, 2020
So many characters, so many story lines. You can’t stop reading, it’s physically impossible. The author sent me an ebook in exchange for an honest review, and i’m so glad because I liked this one even better than the first.
Some of our protagonists are meeting each other, their paths colliding, which is fascinating to read about. Some bonds are strengthened like Drangar and Kildanor and others are breaking like Darlontor with the Sons of Traksor. I’d say this book's protagonist is Drangar, he’s fighting his own demons… literally. He’s in a very difficult situation, no one really knows what’s going on with him and it’s hard to accept help when he thinks he doesn’t deserve it.
It’s an epic fantasy with lots of political drama, action scenes and believe it or not, a lot of funny situations, I laughed a lot while reading. I had a great time reading this series, and I think you would too, the first book is called Shattered Dreams, so make sure to check it out.
Some of our protagonists are meeting each other, their paths colliding, which is fascinating to read about. Some bonds are strengthened like Drangar and Kildanor and others are breaking like Darlontor with the Sons of Traksor. I’d say this book's protagonist is Drangar, he’s fighting his own demons… literally. He’s in a very difficult situation, no one really knows what’s going on with him and it’s hard to accept help when he thinks he doesn’t deserve it.
It’s an epic fantasy with lots of political drama, action scenes and believe it or not, a lot of funny situations, I laughed a lot while reading. I had a great time reading this series, and I think you would too, the first book is called Shattered Dreams, so make sure to check it out.
September 17, 2019
Ulff is a tease... 4.5 stars. Two books in and with a city under siege the shitfest of wall attacks never materialise. Like two boxers, factions and characters circle and weave around each other with polished back stories and several kicks up the arse.
Considering the classic Gemmell produced in legend - you can see the oddity. Drangar and Kilandor take centre stage in a gripping tale with a fancy sword, depth and pacing right to the end. It is by no means dull and personally I’d have liked to have seen more of the mage and a tad less of Drangar as her character evolution is equally interesting.
Throw in dwarves, ancient enemies and the elf sorcerer lurking in the background, the siege in a way becomes almost peripheral beyond a focus point. Where Jordan plods, the rich layers sparkle. Amazon may call it high fantasy, which seems inaccurate with a brutal grimdark core tugging and teasing the characters. A great story, with a rich potential of characters in both sexes and little to dislike.
As with book one, the conclusion feels like pause rather than a full on romp, but the writing feels tighter and punchier and the end skirmishes feel more rounded. I can’t wait to get into book three. Well after A Little Hatred...
Considering the classic Gemmell produced in legend - you can see the oddity. Drangar and Kilandor take centre stage in a gripping tale with a fancy sword, depth and pacing right to the end. It is by no means dull and personally I’d have liked to have seen more of the mage and a tad less of Drangar as her character evolution is equally interesting.
Throw in dwarves, ancient enemies and the elf sorcerer lurking in the background, the siege in a way becomes almost peripheral beyond a focus point. Where Jordan plods, the rich layers sparkle. Amazon may call it high fantasy, which seems inaccurate with a brutal grimdark core tugging and teasing the characters. A great story, with a rich potential of characters in both sexes and little to dislike.
As with book one, the conclusion feels like pause rather than a full on romp, but the writing feels tighter and punchier and the end skirmishes feel more rounded. I can’t wait to get into book three. Well after A Little Hatred...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2019
Shattered Hopes is the second in the series by Ulff Lehmann, and continues where Shattered Dreams left off. It's an Epic in every way but delves deeply into the hopes, fears and motivations of the main characters continuing seamlessly from the events that unfolded in the last chapters of Shattered Dreams.
You're quickly drawn into the minutae of the story; Lehmann has a style that combines lots of detail and colour, without reducing the overall pace of the story. Each chapter could almost sit apart as a short story in its own right, but together they weave together a richly detailed tale that does the genre proud. Once you start, it's difficult not to keep coming back to.
Lehmann has done a lot of deep research for this book and it shows in the portrayal of what would be regarded, in this world, as medieval weapons and tactics. Not a read for the squeamish, any reader who pays attention will finish the book with a much deeper understanding of how specific weapons work and where their strengths and weaknesses lie. He builds upon this with complex but understandable canons of both magic and religion and has carefully balanced their effects in the world so that each arm of power seems broadly equivalent, and balanced.
Of course, it's not entirely balanced, and there are reasons for that but... that's for the story to take us.
You're quickly drawn into the minutae of the story; Lehmann has a style that combines lots of detail and colour, without reducing the overall pace of the story. Each chapter could almost sit apart as a short story in its own right, but together they weave together a richly detailed tale that does the genre proud. Once you start, it's difficult not to keep coming back to.
Lehmann has done a lot of deep research for this book and it shows in the portrayal of what would be regarded, in this world, as medieval weapons and tactics. Not a read for the squeamish, any reader who pays attention will finish the book with a much deeper understanding of how specific weapons work and where their strengths and weaknesses lie. He builds upon this with complex but understandable canons of both magic and religion and has carefully balanced their effects in the world so that each arm of power seems broadly equivalent, and balanced.
Of course, it's not entirely balanced, and there are reasons for that but... that's for the story to take us.
February 22, 2020
Definitely left me wanting to read the next book, a lovely fantasy adventure story, filled with people you get involved with as the story progresses, this is one of those books that brings you right into the story with it and you feel what they are going through right along with the people in the story, can’t wait to read the next book! Thank you for an awesome story!
September 24, 2018
Ready for more
As I was reading this appreciated sequel I kept getting the impression of another writer David Baldacci. I always anticipate a new book by Mr. Lehmann as I do a book from Mr. Baldacci. Different genres of course but both authors get inside their characters so well to give us a full impression of what is going on nside their heads. Most definitely looking forward to the next 3 books in this series and any others from Mr. Lehmann.
As I was reading this appreciated sequel I kept getting the impression of another writer David Baldacci. I always anticipate a new book by Mr. Lehmann as I do a book from Mr. Baldacci. Different genres of course but both authors get inside their characters so well to give us a full impression of what is going on nside their heads. Most definitely looking forward to the next 3 books in this series and any others from Mr. Lehmann.
January 20, 2019
Second part of the epic story about Drangar, who just came back from the dead (again), the besieged city of Duntiocagh and all the likely and unlikely heroes associated with it. It was a great second novel, that, didn't just managed to reach the (quite high to be fair) expentations but also surpassing it. I can't wait for the 3rd novel to come up soon enough!
June 26, 2019
I have been aching to write a review about this book since I read it (I've read it twice!), but somehow I've always got carried away or caught up in something else.
I love this book; the choice of names of characters are impeccable. And the way he tells the story from the POV of major characters, reminds me so much of G.R.R Martin's Fire and Ice.
Actions are intriguing, so much that you find yourself stuck to the pages of this book even when you are hungry.
And I love Drangon!
I highly recommend this book. ☺
I love this book; the choice of names of characters are impeccable. And the way he tells the story from the POV of major characters, reminds me so much of G.R.R Martin's Fire and Ice.
Actions are intriguing, so much that you find yourself stuck to the pages of this book even when you are hungry.
And I love Drangon!
I highly recommend this book. ☺
May 21, 2021
Once in a while, an author comes along who writes a character so well, you feel that you can get inside their head. You understand their reasoning and their choices, even if you don't agree with them. Mr Lehmann is one of those authors.
Hopes, like Dreams before it, is a character driven, technical work of art. Mr. Lehmann's world is immersive, his characters, alive... often prone to self doubt and brooding. I find myself specifically relating to Kildanor, and his black and white sense of morality, challenged by his desire to help his new friend, Drang, and, oddly enough, relating to General Mireynh, who while being a narrow minded, single focused prick, has only his family's safety at heart.
No, this isn't a sword fight on every page type read, and the pacing could seem slow to some readers, but it's clear that the author's intention was to make you feel the sense of anticipation and dread that Drang, and Mireynh, Eliasaid and Kildanor (among others), feel.
Read it.
Hopes, like Dreams before it, is a character driven, technical work of art. Mr. Lehmann's world is immersive, his characters, alive... often prone to self doubt and brooding. I find myself specifically relating to Kildanor, and his black and white sense of morality, challenged by his desire to help his new friend, Drang, and, oddly enough, relating to General Mireynh, who while being a narrow minded, single focused prick, has only his family's safety at heart.
No, this isn't a sword fight on every page type read, and the pacing could seem slow to some readers, but it's clear that the author's intention was to make you feel the sense of anticipation and dread that Drang, and Mireynh, Eliasaid and Kildanor (among others), feel.
Read it.
May 18, 2021
I received an ARC of shattered hopes by the author himself. This is the second book in this series and truly lived up to my expectations! A very well written book with the evolution of characters as you progress in the book and the series. My favorite characters are Kildanor and Drangar as they bring so much to the book. I just wish there was more time given to the Elf though that would’ve really a treat to read. The last few chapters of the book went by really quick for me as I was really intrigued to find out how the war climax evolves. A fun book to read for all those who like fantasy and a bit of magic in their books!
March 17, 2021
A Brilliant Read
I'm not retelling this story in a review. I thoroughly enjoyed this Book. It is well written and the story was fascinating. It is detailed in every way and reads like poetic prose. I was mesmerized from beginning to end and lost a bit of sleep not wanting to put it down. I highly recommend this book to mature readers that can follow a great storyline. I can't wait for the next installment. What great world building.
I'm not retelling this story in a review. I thoroughly enjoyed this Book. It is well written and the story was fascinating. It is detailed in every way and reads like poetic prose. I was mesmerized from beginning to end and lost a bit of sleep not wanting to put it down. I highly recommend this book to mature readers that can follow a great storyline. I can't wait for the next installment. What great world building.
August 29, 2024
What would you do if faced with a world unraveling before your eyes?
If you’re curious, then Shattered Hopes the 2nd book in the Light in the Dark series by Ulff Lehmann is a must-read.
This incredible sequel offers a gripping continuation that’s hard to resist. The story unfolds with an intensity that keeps the pages turning, making it a perfect follow-up to the first book in the series.
The highlight that truly stood out in this book is the deepening complexity of both the characters and the storyline. The storyline is rich with tension as they face a looming war, making each moment a blend of action, emotion, and discovery.
The author has crafted a world rich in detail, with writing that flows effortlessly. The narrative is easy to follow, yet filled with depth and emotion. The world-building is expansive, yet never overwhelming, making it easy to get lost in the story.
This book is an ideal read for anyone who enjoys epic fantasy filled with battles, inner conflicts, and a touch of mystery. I found this book to be a compelling and well-written adventure that left me eager for more. The blend of action and introspection is masterfully balanced, keeping the story exciting and thought-provoking.
The author’s writing skills shine through, delivering vivid descriptions and memorable moments that linger long after the final page. I can’t wait to dive into the remaining books in the series.
Overall, a thrilling and captivating read.
If you’re curious, then Shattered Hopes the 2nd book in the Light in the Dark series by Ulff Lehmann is a must-read.
This incredible sequel offers a gripping continuation that’s hard to resist. The story unfolds with an intensity that keeps the pages turning, making it a perfect follow-up to the first book in the series.
The highlight that truly stood out in this book is the deepening complexity of both the characters and the storyline. The storyline is rich with tension as they face a looming war, making each moment a blend of action, emotion, and discovery.
The author has crafted a world rich in detail, with writing that flows effortlessly. The narrative is easy to follow, yet filled with depth and emotion. The world-building is expansive, yet never overwhelming, making it easy to get lost in the story.
This book is an ideal read for anyone who enjoys epic fantasy filled with battles, inner conflicts, and a touch of mystery. I found this book to be a compelling and well-written adventure that left me eager for more. The blend of action and introspection is masterfully balanced, keeping the story exciting and thought-provoking.
The author’s writing skills shine through, delivering vivid descriptions and memorable moments that linger long after the final page. I can’t wait to dive into the remaining books in the series.
Overall, a thrilling and captivating read.
October 12, 2023
The epic continuation of Shattered Dreams provides so much depth to the worldbuilding, intriguing new elements to the magic and a cast of characters worthy of A Song of Ice and Fire.
Although I struggled to get into this seconds instalment in the Light in the Dark series, I did thoroughly enjoy it once I'd found my feet. The floundering was specifically brought on by my decision to take a bit of a break between books in this series, and I will surely not be repeating that. My troubles were first and foremost with remembering what had gone on with which in the first novel. Now that I've found my bearings again and fell in love with the characters all over again, I'm definitely going to keep reading and not take such a long break between books.
I'm particularly enjoying the concept of a "washed-up" hero trying to find out the truth about himself and where his prowess as a young man came from as well as figuring out who he is and what he should be doing now that he doesn't actually want to be a hero at the forefront of battle. The new insights we gain for Dragnar are very intriguing and have definitely set things up for a very interesting continuation.
The politics of the different factions and all the infighting definitely kept me reading the pages!
Although I struggled to get into this seconds instalment in the Light in the Dark series, I did thoroughly enjoy it once I'd found my feet. The floundering was specifically brought on by my decision to take a bit of a break between books in this series, and I will surely not be repeating that. My troubles were first and foremost with remembering what had gone on with which in the first novel. Now that I've found my bearings again and fell in love with the characters all over again, I'm definitely going to keep reading and not take such a long break between books.
I'm particularly enjoying the concept of a "washed-up" hero trying to find out the truth about himself and where his prowess as a young man came from as well as figuring out who he is and what he should be doing now that he doesn't actually want to be a hero at the forefront of battle. The new insights we gain for Dragnar are very intriguing and have definitely set things up for a very interesting continuation.
The politics of the different factions and all the infighting definitely kept me reading the pages!
August 11, 2019
What a book! It started right where book 1 left off. Lots of action. Something exciting always going on. We learned a few more things about our characters. Right at the end, the story climaxed & ended with a cliffhanger. To be continued in book 3. All in all, I really enjoyed this book.
September 14, 2023
Loved it like the first minus a few chapters. The whole Drangar situation feels like it's just overdone with all the controlling the fiend chapters. Still love this series and recommend it. Great world building
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