Shadowheart

Legends of the Raven #2

by James Barclay

James Barclay has rapidly established himself as one of the leading lights of the genre with his two linked trilogies starring fantasy's most popular new heroes in many years: The Raven. The first trilogy was the Chronicles of The Raven and introduced the heroes and the world of Balaia. The second trilogy, The Legends of The Raven, began with Elfsorrow which served as an introduction for new readers. Now, with his fifth book, he tests The Raven to the point of destruction and unleashes a savage war across his world as the magical colleges of Balaia tear the land apart in their struggle for supremacy. Barclay has never been scared of killing off favourite characters, and this has given his books their unique edge. Now he threatens to destroy everything they have known. Can The Raven even survive, let alone triumph?

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Epic Fantasy, Science Fiction Fantasy, Magic, Elves, Novels

448 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Little Timmy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not sure what it is about this series that I like so much. It's fantasy, but to me, reads like a special ops spy novel. I do know I enjoy the way the magic system is very logical and scientific in it's use. The series is a really good read with interesting characters. Very recommended

[Mike Everest Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will review in full when I get around to it - sorry for the delay.

[Allison Erhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgot how amazing these books are. Read them again if you’ve only read them once.

[Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second in the series. A complicated, action packed read. Lots of characters and storylines mean you really have to concentrate to take it all in.

[Sarah Stoppard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adds a lot more to the plot and world building from the first book (Elfsorrow).
Definitely a page turner.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Didn't like it as much as the first. So many battles. It took longer to read than I thought it would. It is still a good story though.

[Andy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The continuing adventures of the Raven, this time trying to raise the Julatsan heart (the source of the Julatsan magic), after the Wesmen had forced the Julatsan's to bury it in order to save it in the first Raven series...

Along the way many battles/escapes from certain death ensue.

Another cracking good read from Barclay, definitely recommended.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really love this series, even if it is RIDICULOUSLY complex. It still takes me longer than usual to read these books, but James Barclay doesn't disappoint. This book is another great addition to the series. I mean, you know, as long as you don't mind terribly gory descriptive battle scenes. I'm pretty sure these books are written with guys in mind.

[Shane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A little shorter than his other books in the series. It felt slightly rushed and almost unfinished which is not characteristic of Barclay. That being said, it was still an amazing read which had me in tears more than once, cracking up several times and sad with the knowledge that I only have 1 book left.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

c2003. Woohoo - go Raven. Loved it as usual. Really happy with the resolution of Sha-Kaan and the Protectors. At least no Raven died in this episode and there was a break through with Thraun. What is the next outing going to give us?

[Taldragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love this series.

engaging characters, a complicated world, believeable dialogue. all-round fun fantasy.

[bluetyson]

isbn,original

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blistering pace throughout and I had trouble putting it down. Tired as I was, I still managed that extra chapter or two every night!

[Peterwilliam · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is HERE.

[Andy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent.

[Rob Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best series of books i have read to date!

[Aaron Dettmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

2nd book in the series. Actually, this book isn't that great. However, it's probably the closest book I've read comparable to a video game; a diverse band battling their way towards victory.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoying the stories about this band of mercenaries where, despite all odds, victories are snatched.

[Bianca · Rating 3 out of 5]

i miss ilkar..

[Felix · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read, but some how I was not overly into it!

[Ruby Ridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gotta love the Raven, they're like a medieval Justice League.

[Colin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like all the Raven series, a good read, strong characters.