After failing to completely close The Rift, Lusam and Neala travel south in search of the illusive Pearl Isle, where they hope to discover the fourth Guardian book, and return in time to try again. Time, however, is not on their side, as the dark God, Aamon, sets in motion a plan to restore his own power, and once again tear open The Rift to unleash the horrors of the Netherworld upon their world. Aysha's new inability to see his destiny, along with her prophetic warnings about a hidden realm and Neala's certain death if she enters it, all weigh heavily on Lusam's mind. Old friendships are rekindled, and new ones forged along the way, some more strange than they could ever have imagined. And a new discovery is made, one so profound that it will change Lusam's life forever, as well as rewrite the very history of Afaraon.
I loved it, couldn't put it down. I loved finding out how and why the books were hidden in mores detail. It was nice to see Lusam find his father. I can't wait for the next book and to see Lusam bond with Dragon as magnificent as Ryuu and finally defeat Lord Zelroth and the evil Zedd. I hope Cole can finally get away from his clutches.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is without doubt the best of the five books. While I expected a few of the turns, many where just a surprise. Can't what to read of the trip North!
One more book to go. They are free with kindle unlimited. I am mildly entertained by the storyline, but the writing quality is weak.
Most of this book takes place in a different realm, hidden from the world, hidden from Aysha. A realm with wyverns, orcs, fairies, and other mythical creatures -- even a dragon.
Although I enjoyed the orc storyline, and got into the characterization of the orc and the fairies, it felt too long -- a lengthy digression from the main story. In the final third, Lusam meets a very special person. This was interesting and surprising. I did expect his lessons to be more profound. Several chapters focused on Zedd and Cole. I have no idea why the author wants us to spend so much time with these guys. It is clear that Zedd is a sociopath / psychopath, and Cole is cowardly.
Strangely enough, Arturo has the same sense of humor as Lusam. Like The Three Stooges, they laugh at each other when they fall down, trip, bump their head, etc. This type of slapstick comedy is not for me. At one point, Arturo is actually rolling on the floor, crying with laughter, at the hilarity of it all. At another point, he thinks it hysterical when Lusam trips face-first into a particularly spiky bush. Really?? Does the author expect me to roar with laughter, or even chuckle, just because the characters do?? Not funny. And it portrays their characters as juvenile or else mean-spirited.
Language is a problem for me. In ancient days — even today — nobody speaks of their own "demise" and no one back in horse-cart days says, "theoretically, yes." Also, even today we don't say that we "reside" somewhere.
Also, in the prior book, Captain Waylon spoke in standard english, like a somewhat educated man. Now he sounds like a country bumpkin, but the author is inconsistent with his dialect, interchanging "you" and "ya" repeatedly. Example: "seeing you two 'ere....I don't know if you both realize it, but ya kinda famous." And "I suppose that depends on who you ask, lad," Captain Waylon replied...."What's the last thing ya remember?" (This section felt sooo bad. It would be better to use normal language if you cannot write consistent dialect.)
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars because, uh, dragons. Another good adventure with Lusam as he struggles to fight the Evil God Amman and his minion Lord Z something or other. I am impressed with Lusam's growth, both in magic and maturity, throughout this series. His many adventures, deadly confrontations, interactions with others and the value system he lives by appear to be not only a natural build from what came before, but exciting to read.
What I don't like is reading about Zed and Cole. I find myself skimming the chapters with POV'S from them. Take them out of the book and I would have given a higher rating. Still a good book series though.
Often books in this genre that should have been trilogies are pro!longed ,so the author can stay published or for the obvious monetary reasons. That is not the case Mr Cadman's Lusam! The fifth book gives us many answers to previous questions and continue the development of our main characters Lusam and Neela. These books are a must read for all us lovers of magic, wizards, faeries, and for this book a fresh look at orcs! Book 6 can't get here quickly enough. Thanks again Mr Cadmen.
I was truly shocked at what secrets this book revealed and devoured the book despite wanting to take my time in discovering Lusam’s story. Alas, my need to know more won and here I am at the end with but one book to go. I can already tell I will be sad to say goodbye to this story.
Excellent writing. I wish the stories were longer and ex-added upon more so the journey could last longer.
I have been kept enthralled throughout the whole series. It stands out as one of the best I have ever read. The battle between good and evil is astounding and riviting. The characters come to life and it's like you are there as a witness. A book well worth reading it you enjoy a good fantasy. Thank you Mr. Cadman for such a good book.
After completing this book, I have finally found myself enjoying the the characters. The First 4 books have good world building but a very disjointed writing style. The abrupt change in the 5th book was refreshing I was a bit fatigued with a characters and plot lines.
I now find myself looking forward to the next one.
I've. Cried, laughed, and gotten angry and could not put your books down. Your imagination is astonishing! Can't wait to read how it all ends.
Fantastic imagination of characters. Storyline was great. So much action going on couldn't out it down. Can't wait to see what happens in book six. This one made me cry for Lusam's loss.
If you've made it to this book, you'll most likely already be in love Lusam and Neala. However, what I was not expecting, was to start liking Zedd! (In a "he a good villain type character, yet has a somewhat soft side" ) I have to say this, and it's a very small spoiler. When Zedd finally made it back to his wife, and she opens the door, I literally laughed our loud!! Love this whole series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I loved this book. It was the best one if the series yet. Sometimes it is hard to keep up the momentum after a few books in a series, but this had lots of twists and turns. So sad to have to wait for the next one.
This series keeps getting better! Took a chance in this series and very glad that I did. Was a bit disconcerting to read from so many viewpoints, but they do tie in. Waiting with bated great for the series finale.
As the writer continues with the story, Lucan grows his powers and finds someone he's not expecting and say's Good-by to a good friend. Another fun book to read.