Ancient secrets are buried with the dead. A Bone Reader can unlock them all.
Teguin Dorst and Herbert Tanasen are willing to defy the Imperial Empress herself to rescue Teguin’s kidnapped master, a woman with the rare ability to recall memories of the dead through their bones. But when they find her hard at work, Teguin realizes that the knowledge she uncovers could remove the Empress from power, and reveal hidden magic left behind by the old gods.
New alliances are forged in blood and steel, and the magic that brought Teguin and Herbert together threatens to end more than their friendship. Some secrets demand both loyalty and sacrifice -- if they don’t kill you first.
Perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson and George R.R. Martin, this sequel to The Emperor’s Horn will sweep you away on an epic fantasy adventure.
*This review is based on an ARC provided by the author*
This book shifts away from Praxis and a school setting while Herbert and Teguin go into the desert to find Teguin's Master, who was seemingly kidnapped by the rebel group. In so doing they get caught up in the budding conflict in the Imperium as a whole.
Meanwhile, the Empress' agents react to the theft of the Emperor's Horn, things for neighbors and enemies of the Imperium seem to be dire indeed.
There continues to be good world building and excellent prose.. I was impressed at the author's ability to lead the characters and events down paths I didn't expect, but yet still were completely logical.. something I find is rare for this jaded reader.
The book does start off a bit slow, and much of what happens is a lead in to the next book..not uncommon in books that are leading up to the big events that this one seems to be leading to. I'm definitely looking forward to the series continuing!
Jordan Murray is learning, and fast. The first novel in this series was excellent for a debut novel, but average for published fantasy. Her second novel is simply excellent, without qualification. The action, mystery, and cool magic never stop. Some SF&F tropes are used in innovative ways (the Dune influence is obvious), while others are completely subverted- just wait till you see what happens when our two heroes set out to rescue a maiden in distress. Strongly recommend. Follows directly from the events and characters of the first novel but I think it could stand on its own well too.
Once again, Jordan Murray presents us with an excellent fantasy novel. Her writing is clear, the characters are compelling, and the plot does not follow the expected path. I'm excited for the next book in the series!
Murray writes with a descriptive authority that makes one believe she has actually been to the Imperium. The world building continues as our established characters pursue their quests. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Great story full of vibrant characters. Fast paced, with an intriguing magical system. Lots of twists and turns. Some violence but no graphic sex that I can recall. I highly recommend this book.