Hope and jubilation are transient riding compassions as the Knights and squires depart Castle Liberum for a tournament of nations. Those spurious emotions quickly evaporate, as a journey meant to unite the fracturing realms of Verngaurd promptly turns into a battle for survival. Dark creatures spread roots of death and deceit, infecting ancient alliances, intent on turning the soil red with civil war. Can the Knights fight through the gathering enemy forces and turn back the coming storm before the sands of time run out?
Alpha Four, or A4, is an enigmatic figure from the turn of the first millennium of the Common Era (C.E.). Although the formality of his education is uncertain, we know he studied military history, martial skills, languages, history, philosophy, mathematics, religion, and wrote extensively. Evidence suggests he was a ranking courtier and military advisor in the turbulent environment that was England one thousand years ago. He likely served in Æthelred II’s court (and possibly Sweyn I, the Danish sovereign who briefly sat on the English throne in 1013 C.E.).
I would like to endlessly thank the author for providing a finished copy for review purposes! I guess I only ever spammed this book on IG and blog without a GR review 😭
Hourglass Of Destruction picks up right where Na Cearcaill left off, in the middle of a plains battle. The dragons, dwarves, and allies survive despite heavy losses, and proceed to the Tournament of Flags, which is supposed to unite the allied kingdoms in games of strength and skill.
This book took on a much darker tone than book one. The allies are being driven apart by the Dark Warriors and evil White Wizard, certain sects framed for attacks in an effort to break alliances and ignite civil war. Seemingly successfully too.
The knights see just how deep the Proliates have nested into the cities, destroying libraries and reverting buildings into temples to their god Tallcon. How will the Knights and allies prevent war when it is so clearly brewing?
The treachery and betrayal and sadness ramp up as the knights suffer a huge loss among their own at the tournament. It was fun to see how the games took place, competitions and challenges are some of my favorite book events. Most of the action took place at the tournament so there is plenty of that, but also occurring is a deep exploration of the political meltdown that occurred and is occurring to shape the future of Verngaurd. The book also contains plenty of life wisdom, continuing that large philosophical contribution from book one
We finally meet Bellae’s protector as well, and learn more about the dragons. I love how the knights and squires lean on each other throughout the tournament, but there is still a level of detachment between the characters and the reader. I still love Bellae and Lontas and Finn, also Ritari is growing on me. I gotta say I saw it coming but the end of this one had me bawling.
Filled with plenty of amazing artwork and action for a book that only chronologically covers a few days, this is a great fantasy series for middle grade / YA / or anyone that likes their fantasy with a deep world build, plenty of battle and magic, and a philosophical twist.
Love this series. I love Bellae, she is my favorite! Lots of serious action in this one and it seems like the series is just about to take out. Lots of great quotes in this book as well.
After reading Book One in the Far Forest Scrolls fantasy series, I wondered if the follow-up books would hold the same appeal. One thing’s for sure – this book, Book Two, definitely does. It offers the same excitement and philosophical insight. Set in the Far Forest of England in the magical nation of Verngaurd, the story is populated with magicians, dragons, knights, squires, warriors and wizards. They are gathering this time for the Tournament of Flags, pitting nations against one another. The area is on the brink of a Dark War but also, it would seem, a Civil War. The library has been shut down, statues of philosophers, scholars and mathematicians are gone, and the world is all about fighting and power. The theme of this book is change, and how inevitable it is. It is also about accepting change and letting it lead you to what’s next. One quote that I liked pertaining to worrying over change: “Don’t get too caught up in the anxieties of the future and forget to enjoy the here and now.” And the book is sprinkled, as was Book One, with many such inspirational and eye-opening quotes. Another I liked: “Acts of compassion always have an infinitely greater return on investment than anything monetary.” A cliffhanger ends Book Two and I can’t wait till Book Three comes out! Definitely a fan!
Great story! Love the tournament of flags (except for the dragon battle :( ---mild spoiler: one of my fav characters does not do well at the tournament). Writing is great.
Great series! This book, like the first one ended on a cliffhanger! I need book three! Also mild spoiler going to come next: So I have to admit not many books make me cry, but I was bawling when a certain character who was one of my favorites died! Why? Anyway, hope book three comes out soon. If you like fantasy and dragons and knights I would recommend this series.
Very enjoyable second book in series. Superb writing, good story, great characters. If anything good is coming from this shelter in place around the world, it is my reading time has increased.
Enjoyed the tournament and the dragons, was not too happy with the way the fight with the dragon ended for the knights! If you read carefully lots of great aphorisms and well written.