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Amra Thetys #2
The Thief Who Spat In Luck's Good Eye
Alternative cover editions for this ASIN can be found here & here.
Amra is a thief with morals—she won’t steal from anyone poorer than she is. Fortunately, anybody that poor generally doesn’t have much worth stealing! Holgren is a mage with a distaste for magic and a soul bartered away to dark powers. Together they embark on a quest for the fabled city of Thagoth, where the secret of immortality is rumored to be hidden.
But Amra and Holgren aren’t the only ones after the secret. Many others seek to utilize the hidden magic for their own twisted ends. And waiting in the ruined city with dark plans for the world are the twin gods Tha-Agoth and Athagos, a brother and sister whose illicit passion is as destructive and vengeful as they are.
Now, as potent sorceries clash in a violent struggle for dominion over all that lives, Amra and Holgren face a choice between the unthinkable and the unbearable—with the fate of the world hanging in the balance...
Amra is a thief with morals—she won’t steal from anyone poorer than she is. Fortunately, anybody that poor generally doesn’t have much worth stealing! Holgren is a mage with a distaste for magic and a soul bartered away to dark powers. Together they embark on a quest for the fabled city of Thagoth, where the secret of immortality is rumored to be hidden.
But Amra and Holgren aren’t the only ones after the secret. Many others seek to utilize the hidden magic for their own twisted ends. And waiting in the ruined city with dark plans for the world are the twin gods Tha-Agoth and Athagos, a brother and sister whose illicit passion is as destructive and vengeful as they are.
Now, as potent sorceries clash in a violent struggle for dominion over all that lives, Amra and Holgren face a choice between the unthinkable and the unbearable—with the fate of the world hanging in the balance...
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2003
182 people are currently reading
510 people want to read
About the author
Michael McClung
36 books392 followersMichael McClung was born in San Antonio, Texas, but now lives in Europe. He has had the requisite number of odd jobs expected of a speculative fiction author, including soldier, book store manager, and bowling alley pin boy. His first book, the Sword & Sorcery novel "Thagoth," won the Del Rey Digital first novel competition in 2002 and was published by Random House in 2003.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
March 18, 2021
Sheer goodness!! Amra is on the roll and I'm with her!
Great cover, btw.
Q:
I’ve never taken anything from someone who had less than I did. (c)
Q:
There’s a thief down in Lucernis, likes to swear by my testicles, of all things. Annoyed me for years, that one. (c)
Q:
I never said I wouldn’t go,” I finally said. “I just said it was pointless. Where do we start? (c)
Q:
I suppose gods see most things differently. Who’s going to tell them they’re wrong? (c)
Q:
Whenever you say things like ‘attempt’ and ‘should be,’ my blood runs cold. (c)
Q:
I never said I wouldn’t go,” I finally said. “I just said it was pointless. Where do we start? (c)
Q:
No one else would be willing to attempt this. I need to keep that in mind and show my appreciation more.”
“You can start by feeding me.” (c)
Q:
Thagoth wasn’t a city at all; it was a vast stone skeleton placed there by the gods for the wind to play with. (c)
Q:
I usually feel better when I know who I have to rob. Not this time. (c)
Q:
“I was. I am that person no more.”
“A thousand years to think about it made you a new man?” (c)
Q:
Can a mirror see itself? Can a coin be minted so thin that it has no edge? Which is more important: words or the space between them? (c)
Q:
I don’t know what you’re talking about, and I’m starting to think you don't either. (c)
Q:
You were a very bad man, my friend. I’m glad you’re not still roaming around loose. (c)
Q:
Impatience struggled with natural curiosity. What did all these things have to do with one another, if anything? I tried to make the facts hang together. (c)
Q:
You tried it, and something went wrong. Now, there’s three of you. The Flame, the Shadow King, and you. Two sides to a coin and its edge. (c)
Q:
I suppose that would have been the perfect time, there on that ledge with the sun rising and the water lapping and a gentle breeze and all. (c)
Q:
“Why would you want to know?”
“I’m working on my conversational skills. (c)
Q:
Change is nature’s way. (c)
Q:
What is right for you isn’t right for everyone. (c)
Q:
I had lived through things that would—had—killed others more capable than me only because I refused to give up, to give in. Survival was ingrained in me. (c)
Q:
I stalked off into the ruins, feeling an ache in my heart that I couldn’t fully explain. (c)
Q:
Maybe the world would be better off without magic, but I suspected that power would just take some other form. (c)
Q:
I hadn’t seen snow in years—it rarely got cold enough in Lucernis, which, while not one of the reasons I’d moved there in the first place, was one of the reasons I’d stayed. (c)
Q:
I pulled myself out of the window and lay on my back, staring up at the sky. From this position, with the walls blocking out the surrounding terrain, I could be anywhere. Sky is sky. (c)
Q:
Eventually, even I can realize when I’m being an idiot. (c)
Q:
I love you too. Now, get up, you lazy bastard, and help me gather firewood. (c)
Q:
Adepts of the Order are taught to make even their deaths serve the will of the Emperor. It is what we call the argilleh, the last blow. In the days when battle mages were an integral part of warfare, sometimes even in defeat, those of the Order would secure victory for the armies of the Empire by preparing themselves in just such a way as you will help me prepare.” (c)
Q:
“I do wish I had access to my sanctum.”
“I wish I had a bottle of wine and a leg of lamb.” (c)
Q:
The front of me sweltered while my backside froze. Such is life. (c)
Q:
Magic was at heart a simple matter of impressing your will on reality... (c)
Q:
The part of the room open to the sky had grown a snow-drift overnight. I watched as more flakes swirled in, driven by the howling wind. (c)
Q:
She was in some sort of trance state, motionless, arms raised to the sky, palms up. (c)
Q:
I fail to see your point.
“That’s because I haven’t made it yet.” (c)
Q:
Free, he said again, and the golden aura grew in intensity. He stretched out his arms, threw his head back, and howled. It made the very stones tremble. There was an undeniable—glory, I suppose—about him. I knew I was in the presence of a power, something greater than me. Greater than I ever would be. I shrugged the feeling off as much as I could. I began to have second thoughts about what we’d just done. (c)
Q:
I don’t know anything about fate. I do know a little about time. Nothing lasts forever. (c)
Q:
I had had enough of wonders. (c)
Q:
They were idiots led by a dangerous deity. (c)
Q:
I have suffered every ill of Aridhall Flamehand, of Halfa the Wanderer King, of Havak Silversword and a dozen-dozen more both famous and obscure. And now, I add Amra Thetys and Holgren Angrado to the list. (c)
Q:
They wouldn’t call it courage if it was easy. (c)
Q:
How many times could I twist events in my favor?
As many times as it took, I told myself firmly. (c)
Q:
There are some very old souls roaming the world, you know. (c)
Q:
One more thing, Amra: Choose what you swear by a little more carefully from now on. You never know who might be listening. (c)
Q:
... boring was fun. While it lasted. (c)
Great cover, btw.
Q:
I’ve never taken anything from someone who had less than I did. (c)
Q:
There’s a thief down in Lucernis, likes to swear by my testicles, of all things. Annoyed me for years, that one. (c)
Q:
I never said I wouldn’t go,” I finally said. “I just said it was pointless. Where do we start? (c)
Q:
I suppose gods see most things differently. Who’s going to tell them they’re wrong? (c)
Q:
Whenever you say things like ‘attempt’ and ‘should be,’ my blood runs cold. (c)
Q:
I never said I wouldn’t go,” I finally said. “I just said it was pointless. Where do we start? (c)
Q:
No one else would be willing to attempt this. I need to keep that in mind and show my appreciation more.”
“You can start by feeding me.” (c)
Q:
Thagoth wasn’t a city at all; it was a vast stone skeleton placed there by the gods for the wind to play with. (c)
Q:
I usually feel better when I know who I have to rob. Not this time. (c)
Q:
“I was. I am that person no more.”
“A thousand years to think about it made you a new man?” (c)
Q:
Can a mirror see itself? Can a coin be minted so thin that it has no edge? Which is more important: words or the space between them? (c)
Q:
I don’t know what you’re talking about, and I’m starting to think you don't either. (c)
Q:
You were a very bad man, my friend. I’m glad you’re not still roaming around loose. (c)
Q:
Impatience struggled with natural curiosity. What did all these things have to do with one another, if anything? I tried to make the facts hang together. (c)
Q:
You tried it, and something went wrong. Now, there’s three of you. The Flame, the Shadow King, and you. Two sides to a coin and its edge. (c)
Q:
I suppose that would have been the perfect time, there on that ledge with the sun rising and the water lapping and a gentle breeze and all. (c)
Q:
“Why would you want to know?”
“I’m working on my conversational skills. (c)
Q:
Change is nature’s way. (c)
Q:
What is right for you isn’t right for everyone. (c)
Q:
I had lived through things that would—had—killed others more capable than me only because I refused to give up, to give in. Survival was ingrained in me. (c)
Q:
I stalked off into the ruins, feeling an ache in my heart that I couldn’t fully explain. (c)
Q:
Maybe the world would be better off without magic, but I suspected that power would just take some other form. (c)
Q:
I hadn’t seen snow in years—it rarely got cold enough in Lucernis, which, while not one of the reasons I’d moved there in the first place, was one of the reasons I’d stayed. (c)
Q:
I pulled myself out of the window and lay on my back, staring up at the sky. From this position, with the walls blocking out the surrounding terrain, I could be anywhere. Sky is sky. (c)
Q:
Eventually, even I can realize when I’m being an idiot. (c)
Q:
I love you too. Now, get up, you lazy bastard, and help me gather firewood. (c)
Q:
Adepts of the Order are taught to make even their deaths serve the will of the Emperor. It is what we call the argilleh, the last blow. In the days when battle mages were an integral part of warfare, sometimes even in defeat, those of the Order would secure victory for the armies of the Empire by preparing themselves in just such a way as you will help me prepare.” (c)
Q:
“I do wish I had access to my sanctum.”
“I wish I had a bottle of wine and a leg of lamb.” (c)
Q:
The front of me sweltered while my backside froze. Such is life. (c)
Q:
Magic was at heart a simple matter of impressing your will on reality... (c)
Q:
The part of the room open to the sky had grown a snow-drift overnight. I watched as more flakes swirled in, driven by the howling wind. (c)
Q:
She was in some sort of trance state, motionless, arms raised to the sky, palms up. (c)
Q:
I fail to see your point.
“That’s because I haven’t made it yet.” (c)
Q:
Free, he said again, and the golden aura grew in intensity. He stretched out his arms, threw his head back, and howled. It made the very stones tremble. There was an undeniable—glory, I suppose—about him. I knew I was in the presence of a power, something greater than me. Greater than I ever would be. I shrugged the feeling off as much as I could. I began to have second thoughts about what we’d just done. (c)
Q:
I don’t know anything about fate. I do know a little about time. Nothing lasts forever. (c)
Q:
I had had enough of wonders. (c)
Q:
They were idiots led by a dangerous deity. (c)
Q:
I have suffered every ill of Aridhall Flamehand, of Halfa the Wanderer King, of Havak Silversword and a dozen-dozen more both famous and obscure. And now, I add Amra Thetys and Holgren Angrado to the list. (c)
Q:
They wouldn’t call it courage if it was easy. (c)
Q:
How many times could I twist events in my favor?
As many times as it took, I told myself firmly. (c)
Q:
There are some very old souls roaming the world, you know. (c)
Q:
One more thing, Amra: Choose what you swear by a little more carefully from now on. You never know who might be listening. (c)
Q:
... boring was fun. While it lasted. (c)
August 13, 2019
Previous rating: 8 stars.
New rating: 9.5 stars. Obviously.
➽ And the moral of this reread is : if my girlfriend Amra Thetys ever tires of being a thief, I think she should consider a career in butchery. She is, after all, quite spectacularly gifted in the hacking-chopping-whacking-mutilating-severing-cleaving department. And if she decided to embrace this mostdeliciously gruesome respected profession, I would get her this mug to encourage her, and she would undoubtedly 💕lurve me💕 all the more for it.
P.S. You can never go wrong with tentacles. Bloody shrimping never. QED and stuff.
· Book 1: The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids ★★★★★
· Book 3: The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate ★★★★★
· Book 4: The Thief Who Wasn't There ★★★★★
· Book 5: The Thief Who Went to War ★★★★★
· Short stories: The Last God ★★★★★
[Original review]
Actual rating: 8 stars
☛ That feeling you get when a book is so freaking awesome 95% of your Kindle edition is highlighted.
☛ That feeling you get when a book is so freaking awesome you want to start reading it again the minute you finish it.
☛ That feeling you get when a heroine is so freaking awesome you want to be her when you grow up. ← Yes. I know. I also want to be Kate Daniels when I grow up. And Shanti, too. So what? Ever heard of reincarnation? Who says I can't have several lives anyway?
The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids was fantastic but this one? THIS ONE? Oh dear, I can feel it coming again, will you excuse me for a minute? Thank you.
Sorry, sorry, sorry, I promise to keep the crazy fangirling at bay for the rest of this review. Well I promise to try anyway. But it's going to be difficult. Very difficult. Because this was bloody amazing. This has to be one of the most entertaining, enjoyable, action-packed fantasy stories I've ever read. So the crazy fangirling is highly justified. Yes it is.
There are so many things I loved about this book, I just don't know where to begin. Well, that's not entirely true, I know exactly where to begin: Amra Thetys I LOVE you! I thought you were awesome in book 1 but now? NOW? [Breathe Sarah, breathe. Do not fangirl like a 15-year-old. These poor people have suffered enough as it is. Come on, you can do it]
Amra's character is much more (and better) developed in this instalment. She is still the straightforward, sarcastic, take-no-BS, ass-kicking girl-who-doesn't-look-like-a-girl I fell in love with in book 1 but there is a lot more depth to her character here. And you know what? I think she just earned a spot in my top ten favourite kick-ass heroines list. Yep. And you know why? Because:
And
And
❣ Amra Thetys, you rock my world ❣
Excuse me? Did someone say something? So sorry, I didn't hear you. What was it? Oh, you're asking when I will stop fangirling about Amra? I'm afraid it's not going to happen anytime soon, sorry if you're getting bored. Another question? Sure, ask away, I'm in a fairly good mood today. Is there anything else to love about this book besides Amra-Amra-Amra? Of course there is, you silly! *eyeroll*
What I LOVE about this book is that while the main characters are the same, the plot, setting and very cool evil nemeses have nothing to do with those in book 1. This is not one of those boring series where you feel like you're reading the same instalment over and over again. No it's not. It's one of those exciting series where you feel like you're discovering a whole new world with each new instalment. The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids revolves around a murder investigation and revenge plot. This one is a (very cool) hero quest-type adventure. The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate (book 3) is a (very cool and action-packed) trip down memory lane for Amra. And it's as bloody amazing as the first two instalments. So yeah, this series is freaking exciting and highly addictive. So where does that take us?
Ha. So not sorry about that one.
This review really is crappy isn't it? I mean, apart from the silly fangirling I haven't actually said a thing about the book, have I? Damn, I haven't even mentioned Holgren, Amra's ever-so-awesome mage sidekick. Kerf's lice-ridden beard, I can be so ungrateful sometimes. Because I love you, Holgren! Okay, I don't love you like I LOVE Amra, but still! There is so much potential in you, I can't wait to read your POV in book 4! I could say many many things about Holgren but I won't. Because reasons. And stuff. And huge spoilers. And stuff.
Okay people, I know you're getting really bored at this point, so I'll just give you a quick list of some of The Awesome and get it over with: knives-knives-knives, a talking flame, a brother/sister/husband/wife/what-the-hell team of gods, blood baths (not the ones you think), I-play-open-sesame-with-my-tripes-type creatures, mule steaks ( a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do), shadow creatures, very cool fights, boundary necklaces, talking severed heads, great dialogues, abandoned kingdoms, lovely and ever-so-delightful blood-and-gore-yay, lots of epic shit and I could say a lot more but I won't. Because reasons. And stuff. And huge spoilers. And stuff.
I guess that's it {insert collective sigh of relief here} Wait, no. One last thing before I leave you alone for good: this review is as lame as this book is amazing. Now this definitely should tell you something.
And that's Amra Thetys for you.
New rating: 9.5 stars. Obviously.
➽ And the moral of this reread is : if my girlfriend Amra Thetys ever tires of being a thief, I think she should consider a career in butchery. She is, after all, quite spectacularly gifted in the hacking-chopping-whacking-mutilating-severing-cleaving department. And if she decided to embrace this most
P.S. You can never go wrong with tentacles. Bloody shrimping never. QED and stuff.
· Book 1: The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids ★★★★★
· Book 3: The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate ★★★★★
· Book 4: The Thief Who Wasn't There ★★★★★
· Book 5: The Thief Who Went to War ★★★★★
· Short stories: The Last God ★★★★★
[Original review]
Actual rating: 8 stars
☛ That feeling you get when a book is so freaking awesome 95% of your Kindle edition is highlighted.
☛ That feeling you get when a book is so freaking awesome you want to start reading it again the minute you finish it.
☛ That feeling you get when a heroine is so freaking awesome you want to be her when you grow up. ← Yes. I know. I also want to be Kate Daniels when I grow up. And Shanti, too. So what? Ever heard of reincarnation? Who says I can't have several lives anyway?
The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids was fantastic but this one? THIS ONE? Oh dear, I can feel it coming again, will you excuse me for a minute? Thank you.
Sorry, sorry, sorry, I promise to keep the crazy fangirling at bay for the rest of this review. Well I promise to try anyway. But it's going to be difficult. Very difficult. Because this was bloody amazing. This has to be one of the most entertaining, enjoyable, action-packed fantasy stories I've ever read. So the crazy fangirling is highly justified. Yes it is.
There are so many things I loved about this book, I just don't know where to begin. Well, that's not entirely true, I know exactly where to begin: Amra Thetys I LOVE you! I thought you were awesome in book 1 but now? NOW? [Breathe Sarah, breathe. Do not fangirl like a 15-year-old. These poor people have suffered enough as it is. Come on, you can do it]
Amra's character is much more (and better) developed in this instalment. She is still the straightforward, sarcastic, take-no-BS, ass-kicking girl-who-doesn't-look-like-a-girl I fell in love with in book 1 but there is a lot more depth to her character here. And you know what? I think she just earned a spot in my top ten favourite kick-ass heroines list. Yep. And you know why? Because:
And
And
❣ Amra Thetys, you rock my world ❣
Excuse me? Did someone say something? So sorry, I didn't hear you. What was it? Oh, you're asking when I will stop fangirling about Amra? I'm afraid it's not going to happen anytime soon, sorry if you're getting bored. Another question? Sure, ask away, I'm in a fairly good mood today. Is there anything else to love about this book besides Amra-Amra-Amra? Of course there is, you silly! *eyeroll*
What I LOVE about this book is that while the main characters are the same, the plot, setting and very cool evil nemeses have nothing to do with those in book 1. This is not one of those boring series where you feel like you're reading the same instalment over and over again. No it's not. It's one of those exciting series where you feel like you're discovering a whole new world with each new instalment. The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids revolves around a murder investigation and revenge plot. This one is a (very cool) hero quest-type adventure. The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate (book 3) is a (very cool and action-packed) trip down memory lane for Amra. And it's as bloody amazing as the first two instalments. So yeah, this series is freaking exciting and highly addictive. So where does that take us?
Ha. So not sorry about that one.
This review really is crappy isn't it? I mean, apart from the silly fangirling I haven't actually said a thing about the book, have I? Damn, I haven't even mentioned Holgren, Amra's ever-so-awesome mage sidekick. Kerf's lice-ridden beard, I can be so ungrateful sometimes. Because I love you, Holgren! Okay, I don't love you like I LOVE Amra, but still! There is so much potential in you, I can't wait to read your POV in book 4! I could say many many things about Holgren but I won't. Because reasons. And stuff. And huge spoilers. And stuff.
Okay people, I know you're getting really bored at this point, so I'll just give you a quick list of some of The Awesome and get it over with: knives-knives-knives, a talking flame, a brother/sister/husband/wife/what-the-hell team of gods, blood baths (not the ones you think), I-play-open-sesame-with-my-tripes-type creatures, mule steaks ( a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do), shadow creatures, very cool fights, boundary necklaces, talking severed heads, great dialogues, abandoned kingdoms, lovely and ever-so-delightful blood-and-gore-yay, lots of epic shit and I could say a lot more but I won't. Because reasons. And stuff. And huge spoilers. And stuff.
I guess that's it {insert collective sigh of relief here} Wait, no. One last thing before I leave you alone for good: this review is as lame as this book is amazing. Now this definitely should tell you something.
"You keep trying until you're dead, and then you try some more."
And that's Amra Thetys for you.
September 12, 2021
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The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble’s Braids ★★★★
The Thief Who Spat In Luck’s Good Eye ★★ 1/2
Unfortunately and as you can see from my rating of the second book, I preferred the first one much more. I did not understand how is their such a big difference between the two books until one piece of missing information came to light: The author actually wrote this one first under a different name and then it got republished when the first book in this series won the SPFBO with a new name.
So technically, this is the author’s debut one way or another and it felt like that. The writing was very average and it was not “quotable” for me. There is some banter but not enough to make for everything else. I kept finding myself getting in and out of the story and then I just wanted to finish the book and move to the next one which is a bad sign!
The characters are good but not as much as I wanted them to be. The problem is that this one focused more on the plot and kind of ignored the characters. The romance was not convincing for me, very abrupt, came out of nowhere and I did not find myself a fan of it.
The plot is theoretically fun, a lost city, a challenge with Gods and an adventure with Holgren. But the execution was not the best and there was some repetition and the plot lost its sparkle after a few chapters. Maybe it was broader in spectrum than book 1 but it looks like more does not always equal better.
Summary: I don’t have much to say for this one except that I expected more from all aspects; the writing, the characters and the story line. Anyway, given that I enjoyed book 1 and I heard book 3 is more similar to that, I am gonna give the series another chance and continue with book 3 before deciding if it is worth the time and the money.
The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble’s Braids ★★★★
The Thief Who Spat In Luck’s Good Eye ★★ 1/2
Unfortunately and as you can see from my rating of the second book, I preferred the first one much more. I did not understand how is their such a big difference between the two books until one piece of missing information came to light: The author actually wrote this one first under a different name and then it got republished when the first book in this series won the SPFBO with a new name.
So technically, this is the author’s debut one way or another and it felt like that. The writing was very average and it was not “quotable” for me. There is some banter but not enough to make for everything else. I kept finding myself getting in and out of the story and then I just wanted to finish the book and move to the next one which is a bad sign!
The characters are good but not as much as I wanted them to be. The problem is that this one focused more on the plot and kind of ignored the characters. The romance was not convincing for me, very abrupt, came out of nowhere and I did not find myself a fan of it.
The plot is theoretically fun, a lost city, a challenge with Gods and an adventure with Holgren. But the execution was not the best and there was some repetition and the plot lost its sparkle after a few chapters. Maybe it was broader in spectrum than book 1 but it looks like more does not always equal better.
Summary: I don’t have much to say for this one except that I expected more from all aspects; the writing, the characters and the story line. Anyway, given that I enjoyed book 1 and I heard book 3 is more similar to that, I am gonna give the series another chance and continue with book 3 before deciding if it is worth the time and the money.
June 15, 2016
This was the second book in the Amra Thetys series and just like the first it is a fun fast-paced sword and sorcery romp.
Amra is enjoying a bit of down time after the hectic happenings of the first book when her new partner Holgren asks for her help. In his younger days Holgren bartered his soul away to a demon and now desperately wants to avoid an eternity in hell when he dies. He thinks the solution might lie in the fabled dead city of Thagoth. There are rumours that the secret of immortality is to be found there. Unfortunately for Amra and Holgren they are not the only ones seeking the prize. A mad Duke, and one famed for his evil nature, is on the same quest. To complicate the matters further the city of Thagoth itself is still inhabited by the Gods known as the Twins. They are siblings who make the Lannister twins relationship look normal!
The story was fun. Fast paced action and a mix of humor and action. Some of the happenings are pretty dark despite the story having a light-hearted feel. The world building is sparse but decent. The world has a great mix between meddling Gods, magic, and the mundane advancements of technology.
Amra and Holgren are easy characters to like. Holgren is a mage who has no real love for his chosen profession while Amra is a thief with a conscience.
Rating: 4 stars.
Amra is enjoying a bit of down time after the hectic happenings of the first book when her new partner Holgren asks for her help. In his younger days Holgren bartered his soul away to a demon and now desperately wants to avoid an eternity in hell when he dies. He thinks the solution might lie in the fabled dead city of Thagoth. There are rumours that the secret of immortality is to be found there. Unfortunately for Amra and Holgren they are not the only ones seeking the prize. A mad Duke, and one famed for his evil nature, is on the same quest. To complicate the matters further the city of Thagoth itself is still inhabited by the Gods known as the Twins. They are siblings who make the Lannister twins relationship look normal!
The story was fun. Fast paced action and a mix of humor and action. Some of the happenings are pretty dark despite the story having a light-hearted feel. The world building is sparse but decent. The world has a great mix between meddling Gods, magic, and the mundane advancements of technology.
Amra and Holgren are easy characters to like. Holgren is a mage who has no real love for his chosen profession while Amra is a thief with a conscience.
Rating: 4 stars.
April 27, 2019
"It isn't all that much different from what goes on in every soul," he continued. "Good struggles with evil eternally in each of us, doesn't it?"
A tale of meddling gods, determined sorcerer kings, and honorable thieves. Amra and Holgren embark on a new journey to find Thagoth, a city of myth, seeking a way to reclaim Holgren's soul, only to be embroiled in a conflict that has been brewing for millennia. With divine intervention and the fate of humanity swaying in the balance, the two must scheme to defeat the dreaded Shadow King, or suffer an eternity in death and servitude.
Kerf's crooked crutch, I can't get enough of Amra and Holgren! The Thief Who Spat In Luck's Good Eye is Michael McClung's ambitious sophomore installment in his Amra Thetys series, and what an adventure it is. Governed by non-stop action, terrifying monsters that lurk in the shadows, and two thieves that can't seem to elude losing consciousness, it is one hell of a ride through life and death. While it's heavily steeped in the fantastical, deep in its bones it's a story of the battle between good and evil, of conquering fear instead of allowing it to conquer you, and of the strength and determination that lend courage when facing adversity. The setup is quick and the adventure takes off at a breakneck pace, remaining that way throughout, making for a quick and entertaining read. With each book I read, I fall more in love with this world the author has created.
The scope of this story is much more grand than book one as it takes us on a journey through faraway places, the death lands, and a deserted and desiccated city which holds the secret of immortality. For such a relatively short book, we're transported to a variety of haunting and beautifully-crafted environments, rich in history and filled with all types of treasures and enemies. We traverse a labyrinthine pyramid, which is prison to a shell of a man, explore the broken remains of the dead city of Thagoth, and visit the mysterious Shadowfall, home to the Shadow King. Each place so distinctly different, yet all tie together to weave a tale so intricately designed and wonderfully executed.
And now for the best part - Amra and Holgren are quite honestly some of my favorite characters ever, and ones that perfectly break their stereotypical yokes. Amra, a thief not afraid to take a life, but with strong morals and a heart of gold, and Holgren, a mage who cares not for the art of magic, seeking to live free of the thing he seems to despise. One brash, the other reserved. One who thrives in shadow, the other the source of the brightest light. Both willing to sacrifice everything for the other and both steadfast in their desire to pave their way to a better life. The two tastefully balance each other, making for a fun dynamic that keeps you coming back for more. In addition to these two, this story introduces Tha-Agoth and Athagos, the Twin Gods with an awe-inspiring and tragic history, as well as Kerf and Isin, father and mother of the gods, who seem to have chosen our two thieves to be the next heroes of the age. Also, the tale and fate of the Sorcerer King serves as the perfect backdrop for this amazing adventure.
"I never asked to be a hero."
Which is why you are suited for it.
As I expected, I had a blast with this book and am really looking forward to diving into the duo's next blunderous misadventure in The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate. I'm always in need of some snark and sharp wit delivered with deadpan execution - I mean, is there any other way to respond to a breathtaking display of ancient magic than by replying with “can I have my knife back now?” I think not. If you haven't picked up this series yes, I really suggest you give it a try. I highly recommend.
A tale of meddling gods, determined sorcerer kings, and honorable thieves. Amra and Holgren embark on a new journey to find Thagoth, a city of myth, seeking a way to reclaim Holgren's soul, only to be embroiled in a conflict that has been brewing for millennia. With divine intervention and the fate of humanity swaying in the balance, the two must scheme to defeat the dreaded Shadow King, or suffer an eternity in death and servitude.
Kerf's crooked crutch, I can't get enough of Amra and Holgren! The Thief Who Spat In Luck's Good Eye is Michael McClung's ambitious sophomore installment in his Amra Thetys series, and what an adventure it is. Governed by non-stop action, terrifying monsters that lurk in the shadows, and two thieves that can't seem to elude losing consciousness, it is one hell of a ride through life and death. While it's heavily steeped in the fantastical, deep in its bones it's a story of the battle between good and evil, of conquering fear instead of allowing it to conquer you, and of the strength and determination that lend courage when facing adversity. The setup is quick and the adventure takes off at a breakneck pace, remaining that way throughout, making for a quick and entertaining read. With each book I read, I fall more in love with this world the author has created.
The scope of this story is much more grand than book one as it takes us on a journey through faraway places, the death lands, and a deserted and desiccated city which holds the secret of immortality. For such a relatively short book, we're transported to a variety of haunting and beautifully-crafted environments, rich in history and filled with all types of treasures and enemies. We traverse a labyrinthine pyramid, which is prison to a shell of a man, explore the broken remains of the dead city of Thagoth, and visit the mysterious Shadowfall, home to the Shadow King. Each place so distinctly different, yet all tie together to weave a tale so intricately designed and wonderfully executed.
And now for the best part - Amra and Holgren are quite honestly some of my favorite characters ever, and ones that perfectly break their stereotypical yokes. Amra, a thief not afraid to take a life, but with strong morals and a heart of gold, and Holgren, a mage who cares not for the art of magic, seeking to live free of the thing he seems to despise. One brash, the other reserved. One who thrives in shadow, the other the source of the brightest light. Both willing to sacrifice everything for the other and both steadfast in their desire to pave their way to a better life. The two tastefully balance each other, making for a fun dynamic that keeps you coming back for more. In addition to these two, this story introduces Tha-Agoth and Athagos, the Twin Gods with an awe-inspiring and tragic history, as well as Kerf and Isin, father and mother of the gods, who seem to have chosen our two thieves to be the next heroes of the age. Also, the tale and fate of the Sorcerer King serves as the perfect backdrop for this amazing adventure.
"I never asked to be a hero."
Which is why you are suited for it.
As I expected, I had a blast with this book and am really looking forward to diving into the duo's next blunderous misadventure in The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate. I'm always in need of some snark and sharp wit delivered with deadpan execution - I mean, is there any other way to respond to a breathtaking display of ancient magic than by replying with “can I have my knife back now?” I think not. If you haven't picked up this series yes, I really suggest you give it a try. I highly recommend.
November 22, 2024
Be careful what you curse by . . .
This was first published in 2003 by Del Rey as Thagoth, now retooled as the first sequel to The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids. My take is that McClung's writing improved since this was first written; it was excellent, but not quite the uber-excellence of Braids. Or maybe it's exactly as good and for whatever ephemeral reasons I simply wasn't quite as into it. Maybe the move from the urban to a remote setting made the difference for me; I love a fantasy setting that feels densely populated, and without other people present, the intended immediacy of the book's events resonated less. There's still a tight control of prose, and a novel's worth of action packed into a novella. My only wish is that there was a bit more time spent on the emotional turning points; the story feels like it blitzes through deeply impactful times in Amra's experience.
I'm very curious to see what the next books will bring. The prior book quietly established a world on the brink of change, one in which the old gods are on their way out despite some lingering affairs, and this book makes that all explicit. Between that and the main characters' status at the end of this one, anything can happen next.
This was first published in 2003 by Del Rey as Thagoth, now retooled as the first sequel to The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids. My take is that McClung's writing improved since this was first written; it was excellent, but not quite the uber-excellence of Braids. Or maybe it's exactly as good and for whatever ephemeral reasons I simply wasn't quite as into it. Maybe the move from the urban to a remote setting made the difference for me; I love a fantasy setting that feels densely populated, and without other people present, the intended immediacy of the book's events resonated less. There's still a tight control of prose, and a novel's worth of action packed into a novella. My only wish is that there was a bit more time spent on the emotional turning points; the story feels like it blitzes through deeply impactful times in Amra's experience.
I'm very curious to see what the next books will bring. The prior book quietly established a world on the brink of change, one in which the old gods are on their way out despite some lingering affairs, and this book makes that all explicit. Between that and the main characters' status at the end of this one, anything can happen next.
October 20, 2019
Amra - what can you say about her. Well I love her character. The first book was good and this one I think was probably a bit better. That said a second book never quite has the freshness of a first read. Gods are watching Amra (and her mage friend). In the case of fantasy writing generally being watched by gods is rarely a good thing! That certainly applies in this case but it makes for a great read. As far as the books I've read are concerned only Jay Kristoff's books can offer a slightly superior read. Certainly anyone liking Amra might find the Nevernight trilogy worth exploring and vice versa. I'll definitely read more of this series.
March 31, 2025
After absolutely adoring The Thief Who Pulled On Trouble’s Braids, I had to grab the sequels, although it took me a while to get around to book two.
This instalment continued the titular Amra’s journey, though instead of being set in the city with people to steal from and double cross, this adventure took us far out into pastures new.
The writing in this is excellent, as I learned from book one, though the tone is decidedly darker. It quickly moved into dark fantasy territory, and even into horror (with several body horror sequences that had me reading with one eye closed). We have meddling gods (which I loved), terrifying magic, shadow monsters, and death and grievous injury lurking around every corner.
I am not a huge fan of horror, so my enjoyment of this book was much less than the first. Amra is thrown from pillar to post throughout, mostly at the beck and call of creatures and deities far greater than herself. Although not as enjoyable as book one, it was a solid read :D
This instalment continued the titular Amra’s journey, though instead of being set in the city with people to steal from and double cross, this adventure took us far out into pastures new.
The writing in this is excellent, as I learned from book one, though the tone is decidedly darker. It quickly moved into dark fantasy territory, and even into horror (with several body horror sequences that had me reading with one eye closed). We have meddling gods (which I loved), terrifying magic, shadow monsters, and death and grievous injury lurking around every corner.
I am not a huge fan of horror, so my enjoyment of this book was much less than the first. Amra is thrown from pillar to post throughout, mostly at the beck and call of creatures and deities far greater than herself. Although not as enjoyable as book one, it was a solid read :D
January 17, 2023
Класичне епічне фентезі у всіх розуміннях цього жанру. Закинуте місто, боги, потужні маги, монстри, кишки, кров, боги над богами, героїка, артефакти ери бетону 😁 Я навіть сприйняв би його за продовження "Малазану", якби автор був невідомий. Проте є одне АЛЕ - я не хотів читати ЕФ. Досить. Це для мене вже обмежений жанр для сюжетних ходів і читацьких хотілок. Це наче я жив на вулиці, а потім мені подарували маєток (перша книга). Було кілька вау, цікаво, і непередбачуваностей вистачало. Але в цій книзі, мене наче виселили жити на балкон. І я знову бачу вулицю!
Любовна складова найс. Рушійна сила сюжету. Все решта - як у грі ДаркСайдерс.
Кінцівка спонукає до думок, що мене все ж впустять до маєтку! Але ж ті Наглядачі, без епіку не обійтися.
Знову подяка полігНОТУ за переклад. Шкода, що інші частини ще в процесі(
Любовна складова найс. Рушійна сила сюжету. Все решта - як у грі ДаркСайдерс.
Кінцівка спонукає до думок, що мене все ж впустять до маєтку! Але ж ті Наглядачі, без епіку не обійтися.
Знову подяка полігНОТУ за переклад. Шкода, що інші частини ще в процесі(
May 12, 2019
There is a lot to like about this. Amra's narration is sharp, witty, and just shy of 'prickly'. Her relationship to Holgren the reluctant mage is deep and complicated as they try to figure out what they are to each other--it is a rare protagonist in sword and sorcery who would say something biting and then provide a heartfelt apology. And all this hangs on a scaffold of story with rich worldbuilding and hair-raising adventure that ratchets up intensity to nearly unbearable levels.
Amra and Holgren are compelling. Tha-Agoth and Athagos and their weird divine relationship is surprising and disturbing. The Flame and the Shadow King and the husk are astonishing. The two remaining gods and their packing-up of the current Age is jaw-dropping.
Amra and Holgren are compelling. Tha-Agoth and Athagos and their weird divine relationship is surprising and disturbing. The Flame and the Shadow King and the husk are astonishing. The two remaining gods and their packing-up of the current Age is jaw-dropping.
December 27, 2017
Another fun tale, this time full of Gods and strong sorcerer's!
Once again a lot of action, wit and fun, adventures, traveling and slaying of monsters...
This will definitely become one of my favourite fast paced series!
There was a bit of romance in this one, but it was not dripping through the book, and only took a few pages, so I didn't mind it much. This is a direct quote: "We said and did the things that lovers say and do, and never you mind about the details" That is the sort of romance I can live with! ;)
Once again a lot of action, wit and fun, adventures, traveling and slaying of monsters...
This will definitely become one of my favourite fast paced series!
There was a bit of romance in this one, but it was not dripping through the book, and only took a few pages, so I didn't mind it much. This is a direct quote: "We said and did the things that lovers say and do, and never you mind about the details" That is the sort of romance I can live with! ;)
February 23, 2021
This series continues to surprise me. I don’t say this often, but the blood/gore aspect in this was fascinating. Instead of being grossed out, I was like TELL ME MORE.
I can’t tell if I’m evolving as a reader or if McClung is just really stellar with his magic system/ creative descriptions.
The only area that I think had room for improvement was the romance deployment.
...And maybe the pearls of wisdom sometimes felt cheesy. But overall, this fun series is TBR worthy. 4/5
I can’t tell if I’m evolving as a reader or if McClung is just really stellar with his magic system/ creative descriptions.
The only area that I think had room for improvement was the romance deployment.
...And maybe the pearls of wisdom sometimes felt cheesy. But overall, this fun series is TBR worthy. 4/5
November 9, 2021
🔪 Kerf's shriveled balls, we are doing this! BR with MacHalo Asylum inmates Elinor - Gif Mistress, Ñandu - Colonialist Extraordinaire & Sh3lly - The Great Ghost 🔪
Get your Quotes here:
How many times could I twist events in my favor?
As many times as it took, I told myself firmly. You keep trying until you’re dead, and then, you try some more.
~Page 183
Get your Quotes here:
April 15, 2021
I love Amra! Another great, fast paced and pleasant listen. I'm downloading the next book on Audible as I write this!
February 19, 2019
This was soooooooo very good. Amra is the best. Also Holgren is great. And this series is DA BOMB. One of the best fantasy I've ever read.
February 7, 2020
Another hit!
First person perspective!
This time around Amra and Holgren go on the road; sort of. Involves a quest for a lost city, and an ancient feud between gods. Our heroes are put through a crucible on this adventure which cements their bond into something intimate and unbreakable.
Onward to The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate!
Recommended!
First person perspective!
This time around Amra and Holgren go on the road; sort of. Involves a quest for a lost city, and an ancient feud between gods. Our heroes are put through a crucible on this adventure which cements their bond into something intimate and unbreakable.
Onward to The Thief Who Knocked on Sorrow's Gate!
Recommended!
November 1, 2015
I was lucky enough to be introduced to Michael McClung’s Amra Therys series by Mark Lawrence’s Self-Published Fantasy Blog Off, and came away impressed with McClung’s tight, compelling noir story. It was a trim, enjoyable tale with an interesting protagonist and a plot that kept the action coming.
In THE THIEF WHO SPAT IN LUCK’S GOOD EYE, McClung changes the formula. TROUBLE’S BRAIDS was strictly limited to the city in which Amra lived, but we barely get a few pages into LUCK’S GOOD EYE before Amra and Holgren are off in search of the lost city of Thagoth on a quest for the secret to immortality. In the first book, McClung made Lucernis feel like a real city by introducing us to scores of interesting characters who made the city feel vibrant and alive. But here, the outer world seems largely unpopulated, and almost everyone we meet is either immortal, a monster or both.
The setting is just a symptom of the changed focus, as brief interludes are interspersed between scenes. In these interludes, we see the gods Kerf and Isin looking down on Amra and Holgren from the heavens. While Kerf’s confusion as to why Amra constantly uses “Kerf’s balls” as a swear term is amusing, for the most part, these scenes didn’t do much for me, and the idea that the gods were playing a hands-on role in Amra’s adventures didn’t bring any additional stakes or excitement to the proceedings.
Unfortunately, that was part of a trend. When Amra and Holgren eventually find the city of Thagoth, they soon find themselves in the midst of a battle between a powerful sorceror and two immortal gods, a battle that requires Amra and Holgren to understand a long history between the key players. This probably has more to do with my interests than McClung’s skill as a writer and storyteller, but I found myself largely disinterested. I was also uninterested (and, admittedly, a bit confused by) Amra’s new love interest, which seemed to come out of nowhere.
The story wasn’t helped by the discovery that one god’s blood could bring dead characters back to life, which ends up becoming something of a crutch throughout the story — so much so that one character is brought back to life twice.
On the plus side, Amra remains the same strong, principled protagonist as before, even as we get a chance to explore her dark past and why she continues to see herself as a questionable character. Her flashbacks were illuminating and lent depth to a character I already liked.
Ultimately TROUBLE’S BRAIDS was a very personal story, in which Amra investigates a friend’s murder and shows that she’s willing to go to incredible lengths to find the truth. In LUCK’S GOOD EYE, the stakes are raised, but the story feels far less personal, and I found myself disappointed as a result.
In THE THIEF WHO SPAT IN LUCK’S GOOD EYE, McClung changes the formula. TROUBLE’S BRAIDS was strictly limited to the city in which Amra lived, but we barely get a few pages into LUCK’S GOOD EYE before Amra and Holgren are off in search of the lost city of Thagoth on a quest for the secret to immortality. In the first book, McClung made Lucernis feel like a real city by introducing us to scores of interesting characters who made the city feel vibrant and alive. But here, the outer world seems largely unpopulated, and almost everyone we meet is either immortal, a monster or both.
The setting is just a symptom of the changed focus, as brief interludes are interspersed between scenes. In these interludes, we see the gods Kerf and Isin looking down on Amra and Holgren from the heavens. While Kerf’s confusion as to why Amra constantly uses “Kerf’s balls” as a swear term is amusing, for the most part, these scenes didn’t do much for me, and the idea that the gods were playing a hands-on role in Amra’s adventures didn’t bring any additional stakes or excitement to the proceedings.
Unfortunately, that was part of a trend. When Amra and Holgren eventually find the city of Thagoth, they soon find themselves in the midst of a battle between a powerful sorceror and two immortal gods, a battle that requires Amra and Holgren to understand a long history between the key players. This probably has more to do with my interests than McClung’s skill as a writer and storyteller, but I found myself largely disinterested. I was also uninterested (and, admittedly, a bit confused by) Amra’s new love interest, which seemed to come out of nowhere.
The story wasn’t helped by the discovery that one god’s blood could bring dead characters back to life, which ends up becoming something of a crutch throughout the story — so much so that one character is brought back to life twice.
On the plus side, Amra remains the same strong, principled protagonist as before, even as we get a chance to explore her dark past and why she continues to see herself as a questionable character. Her flashbacks were illuminating and lent depth to a character I already liked.
Ultimately TROUBLE’S BRAIDS was a very personal story, in which Amra investigates a friend’s murder and shows that she’s willing to go to incredible lengths to find the truth. In LUCK’S GOOD EYE, the stakes are raised, but the story feels far less personal, and I found myself disappointed as a result.
November 24, 2015
Follow-up to one of my favorite books I've read recently, The Thief Who Tugged On Trouble's Braids. Amra and her sorcerer pal Holgren are back, undertaking a quest to find a magical city and claim the rich reward being offered, only to find themselves trapped in a web of magic and ancient plots being spun by the gods. Exciting and terrifying, and with a dose of romance that I always appreciate. Lots of fun.
July 25, 2024
I really loved the first one, but this one lacked the charm and fun of book 1. It was less than 200 pages and felt like it took forever to get through. I couldn’t wait for it to end sadly.
December 14, 2017
Fun, fast-paced and extremely read-able. This is second in a series starring Amra Theyts - a thief with morals, high level of sarcasm and a deep vein of stubborn. She's a great character and I enjoyed this adventure where she gets to go on a quest, defeat gods and generally kicks arse.
January 23, 2023
Ok. Just didn't have the fizz and polish of the 1st book.
February 25, 2015
This second entry in the Amra Thetys series really cranks up the thrills!
When the mage Holgren asks Amra to accompany him on a quest to the legendary city of Thagoth, rumored to hold the secret of immortality, our favorite thief reluctantly agrees in the hope that she can help save her friend's eternally-damned soul.
What follows is a grand adventure featuring gigantic monsters, powerful (and insane) twin-gods, and plenty of action...and, in the midst of great peril, Amra and Holmgren discover a chance to obtain the greatest treasure of them all.
THE THIEF WHO SPAT IN LUCK'S GOOD EYE is an outstanding addition to the series, once again distinguished by Michael McClung's typically clever pacing and sharp wit. Great stuff!
When the mage Holgren asks Amra to accompany him on a quest to the legendary city of Thagoth, rumored to hold the secret of immortality, our favorite thief reluctantly agrees in the hope that she can help save her friend's eternally-damned soul.
What follows is a grand adventure featuring gigantic monsters, powerful (and insane) twin-gods, and plenty of action...and, in the midst of great peril, Amra and Holmgren discover a chance to obtain the greatest treasure of them all.
THE THIEF WHO SPAT IN LUCK'S GOOD EYE is an outstanding addition to the series, once again distinguished by Michael McClung's typically clever pacing and sharp wit. Great stuff!
January 12, 2015
An enjoyable read, full of action adventure fantasy heroism and 2 heroes worth reading about. Lots of mayhem and sorcery with gods and god-like beings and fearsome horrors stymied only by quick wits and wrists snapping comebacks, blades, and magic. A fine read, though not quite as fun or quick paced as Amra's first tale, which for me was pretty much spot on.
July 20, 2018
The second in the series by the winner of the SPFBO (self published...) 2015 competition.
The scene moves dramatically from the city confines of the first book to a mysterious and distant location in this world. In addition, the cast is almost entirely made up of demons, mages and gods, apart from the heroine Amra the thief, who is, thankfully, magic free.
Normally that’s not my scene at all for fantasy literarure. I far more prefer ‘magic lite’ fantasy worlds.
However, I do like this author’s writing style. Clean and sharp. Simple story telling at a good pace, mixed with a fine imagination. I just wanted to know how the plot was going to move on, and it did so, not hanging around. It wasn't complicated, no deep twists.
The heroine was the stand out personality. Determined and smart. Despite being surrounded by gods and mages she was the one who’d cut through any prevarications or doubts. In fact she was so sharp and grounded that I couldn’t really relate her to the romantic element brought in for the lead characters. She didn’t seem the romantic type!
The downside for me as in the first book is that the characters aren’t that deeply drawn, even Amra. There’s an interesting god, narcissistic and aloof, in best Roman/Greek mythological traditions! But it’s hard to give these characters any human characteristics one can emphasise with.
So, in summary, a good simple crisp piece of storytelling. Easy to wolf down in short reading sessions and easy to pick up later. Not quite in the character driven or Grimdark flavours (despite a couple of gory scenes!) of modern fantasy that I normally seek out. But I’m still interested enough to give the next book in the series a go, where I expect to find a crisp, crackling storyline on past experience.
The scene moves dramatically from the city confines of the first book to a mysterious and distant location in this world. In addition, the cast is almost entirely made up of demons, mages and gods, apart from the heroine Amra the thief, who is, thankfully, magic free.
Normally that’s not my scene at all for fantasy literarure. I far more prefer ‘magic lite’ fantasy worlds.
However, I do like this author’s writing style. Clean and sharp. Simple story telling at a good pace, mixed with a fine imagination. I just wanted to know how the plot was going to move on, and it did so, not hanging around. It wasn't complicated, no deep twists.
The heroine was the stand out personality. Determined and smart. Despite being surrounded by gods and mages she was the one who’d cut through any prevarications or doubts. In fact she was so sharp and grounded that I couldn’t really relate her to the romantic element brought in for the lead characters. She didn’t seem the romantic type!
The downside for me as in the first book is that the characters aren’t that deeply drawn, even Amra. There’s an interesting god, narcissistic and aloof, in best Roman/Greek mythological traditions! But it’s hard to give these characters any human characteristics one can emphasise with.
So, in summary, a good simple crisp piece of storytelling. Easy to wolf down in short reading sessions and easy to pick up later. Not quite in the character driven or Grimdark flavours (despite a couple of gory scenes!) of modern fantasy that I normally seek out. But I’m still interested enough to give the next book in the series a go, where I expect to find a crisp, crackling storyline on past experience.
January 4, 2021
This one started out strong: lost city, chance at immortality, evil gods? count me in!
I liked the first 40% of the book very much, the premises are cool and something happened at the beginning that made me gasp, but by the end I kinda lost interest in the plot.
Right now I don't feel the urge to read other books in the series, but maybe I'll pick up the next installment when I'll want something quick and easy.
We'll see!
I liked the first 40% of the book very much, the premises are cool and something happened at the beginning that made me gasp, but by the end I kinda lost interest in the plot.
Right now I don't feel the urge to read other books in the series, but maybe I'll pick up the next installment when I'll want something quick and easy.
We'll see!
December 23, 2019
I found this one a bit more difficult to get on with compared to the first book. That the protagonists were immensely ancient and powerful magical entities is perhaps at the root of this feeling. I prefer my fantasy to have more believable human interactions. Still a decent story and continued character development for Amra.
April 25, 2021
I enjoyed this book, but not as much as the first one. I think that they are on two different levels altogether. But I enjoyed the reading anyway, especially because Amra is quite unique in her own ways, she takes "pragmatic" on another lever, and seeing her carrying a grudge, and resenting someone was an unique experience.
I am not a fan of the romance either (in this book, not in general). And I am saddened by this because I was expecting to like it more.
So, all things considered, I enjoyed my time with it, but I didn't love it. I really hope to fall back in love with the next book!
I am not a fan of the romance either (in this book, not in general). And I am saddened by this because I was expecting to like it more.
So, all things considered, I enjoyed my time with it, but I didn't love it. I really hope to fall back in love with the next book!
June 23, 2019
"Now sit down, shut up, and drink. Or leave. I'm busy enjoying my ill-gotten gains."
Ah, I do enjoy the antics of Amra Thetys - this was 288 pages of fun!
Perfect quick read between door stoppers :-)
Ah, I do enjoy the antics of Amra Thetys - this was 288 pages of fun!
Perfect quick read between door stoppers :-)
August 25, 2020
Less fun than the first, still a good enough read though.
May 20, 2022
A sort of 2.5 star read. I liked it... But also found aspects of it flat and repetitive. What really got me was the unnecessary romance angle that came out of nowhere and felt so forced it put me off the characters because they were so out of character. Knowing that this story was written first prior to The Thief Who Pulled on Trouble's Braids which is now book one makes the areas that this one lacks in makes sense. The romance also explained to me why Amra was written a female character even though she has the kind of voice I associate with the usual male fantasy protagonist.
The plot of this one was very strange; easy to follow, but with a lot of to-ing and fro-ing and dramatic sounding events that lacked tension. Problems encounters could easily be overcome, dastardly villains you assumed Amra would have to deal with again got dispatched without much fanfare, and red shirt characters instead of the extended cast of book one. A lot of things didn't quite add up for me, what with the odd continuity and lack of description. It's a bit D&AD module with some slightly detailed violence and/or disturbing elements.
While I like the easy to read narration, I couldn't help but feel like instalment wasn't as well plotted or developed as the first. I'm still not 100% sold on Amra; she's a bit tell-not-show with her thieving and seems dragged along by events. I'd still like to read more from her world considering I know that this was written before the first book which felt a much stronger lite fantasy bite.
The plot of this one was very strange; easy to follow, but with a lot of to-ing and fro-ing and dramatic sounding events that lacked tension. Problems encounters could easily be overcome, dastardly villains you assumed Amra would have to deal with again got dispatched without much fanfare, and red shirt characters instead of the extended cast of book one. A lot of things didn't quite add up for me, what with the odd continuity and lack of description. It's a bit D&AD module with some slightly detailed violence and/or disturbing elements.
While I like the easy to read narration, I couldn't help but feel like instalment wasn't as well plotted or developed as the first. I'm still not 100% sold on Amra; she's a bit tell-not-show with her thieving and seems dragged along by events. I'd still like to read more from her world considering I know that this was written before the first book which felt a much stronger lite fantasy bite.
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