The White Road (Nightrunner)

Product Details

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• Condition: New
• ISBN13: 9780553590098

Description

Dissolute nobles, master spies, and the unlikeliest of heroes, Alec and Seregil have survived exile, treachery, and black magic. But the road that lies ahead is the most hazardous they’ve ever traveled. For with enemies on all sides, they must walk a narrow path between good and evil where one misstep might be their last.
 
Having escaped death and slavery in Plenimar, Alec and Seregil want nothing more than to go back to their nightrunning life in Rhíminee. Instead they find themselves saddled with Sebrahn, a strange, alchemically created creature—the prophesied “child of no woman.” Its moon-white skin and frightening powers make Sebrahn a danger to all whom Alec and Seregil come into contact with, leaving them no choice but to learn more about Sebrahn’s true nature.

With the help of trusted friends and Seregil’s clan, the duo set out to discover the truth about this living homunculus—a journey that can lead only to danger or death. For Seregil’s old nemesis Ulan í Sathil of Virèsse and Alec’s own long-lost kin are after them, intent on possessing both Alec and Sebrahn. On the run and hunted, Alec and his comrades must fight against time to accomplish their most personal mission ever.

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Customer Reviews

Follow the White Road
This is the fifth book in the Nightrunner series (following Luck in the Shadows, Stalking Darkness, Traitor's Moon and Shadows Return), and I sincerely recommend starting at the beginning of the series with Luck in the Shadows. It's an excellent series and well worth your time, unless male/male makes you uncomfortable (have it be know that there are no detailed sex scenes in any of the books so far, so whether you find that positive or negative, you have been told).

The White Road (read an excerpt on Lynn Flewelling's website) follows directly where Shadows Return ended, and centers on the issue of What to Do with Sebrahn. (If you don't know who Sebrahn is, you need to read the other books and not the rest of this review.) For fear of any spoilers, I won't say too much more.

Having been unable to sit down and really enjoy a book for a few months, once I settled into this book I devoured it. It's more fast-paced than Flewelling's other books, which had more calm, introspective moments. While I enjoyed the action, I missed some of the character-developing reflection. It felt as though certain parts of the book had not been completely finished, or fully edited. I thought some of the action might have been more tense if the moments before had received more detailed attention. Not that the writing isn't descriptive, but I felt there were some key scenes that ought to have been slowed down instead of being interrupted by a fight sequence. I'm not saying that the fighting should be held off until all emotional issues have been resolved--damn inconvenient ambushes!--but I AM saying that perhaps not all of these moments had to be interrupted. I think it left out the usual thorough character development, and some of the newly introduced characters were not as fleshed-out as they seemed in the past.

I love this series. It's one of my favorites. And I love the characters. But I sincerely miss the focus on nightrunning. I know not all the books can be focused on it, but it has not been so prevalent in the last two books (or even Traitor's Moon). I did get to have my book signed by Lynn Flewelling at Comic-Con this year, which was very exciting, and I asked her about upcoming books. She said, with seeming certainty, that there would be two more Nightrunner books (I'm not sure if this includes the upcoming collection of short stories entitled GLIMPSES). Based on the ending to The White Road, it seems like there will be more actual nightrunning, and I look forward to it.

So overall I seem a little lukewarm on this book. But I really enjoyed reading it, and if you're already a fan of the series then I consider it worth following through with this book. If you have yet to read any of the books in this series (but proceeded to read my review anyway...tsk tsk), you MUST start with Luck in the Shadows. Trust me. I know stuff. Sort of.

Just read the books.

:UPDATE:

I actually revised this from four stars to three. In retrospect, it was rather disappointing. It all felt rushed. Initially the book was supposed to be released in July 2009 I believe, but then it was pushed back to Winter 2010, and then finally released in May 2010. I think perhaps Flewelling had some trouble finishing the book, and then maybe the editing was rushed so it wouldn't be released any later. In the end, it seems like a placeholder; the Sebrahn and Ulan i Sathil storylines had to be wrapped up to make way for another storyline. BUT if you enjoy the Nightrunner series, I maintain that this book is worth reading.

2010-08-27 | Tired Student (Living Room) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 3

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Very good book
After some small hiccups in the delivery that involved the item being returned with me never seeing it, the second order went very well and arrived very quickly. The book itself is a wonderful read and a huge improvement from the last book, which I also thoroughly enjoyed.

2010-07-06 | Shini Neko | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Fresh, yet classic
I fell in love with this series because of Alec and Seregil's swashbuckling antics. I adored the thievery, the spying, the disguises, and of course, the romantic tension. I felt I lost some of that in the previous book, Shadows Return.

The White Road was exactly what I wanted, yet nothing what I expected. I blazed through this book during a weekend family vacation. Every moment was full of tension. There were enemies at every turn. Of course, there were plenty of laughs and cuteness to go around. I finally fell in love with Sebrahn, who confused and annoyed me in the previous book. Not only that, but I have an obsession with owls, and there prevalence in the book made me squeal to exhaustion.

Fans of the series will be delighted. It is different from her previous books, but it definitely has that Flewelling flavor. It is a short read, but not dissatisfying. I couldn't ask for anything more.

2010-06-24 (Kansas City) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 5

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Very good series entry
I've been enjoying this entire series, and this book is a great addition. There's a lot of action and interesting things happen, and I feel as if the overall arc of the story is continued. There was less emphasis on political intrigue and more on action, which was a good thing.

Two things keep this from being a 5-star review. First, I don't think the author fully explores the emotional depths of Seregil's and Alec's relationship, a fault which has been true in previous volumes as well. Yes, I get that they love each other, but they often seem distant from one another, too. If we're to be fully invested in these two, we need a better sense of how they feel, apart from each of them falling apart if the other is wounded or threatened. They certainly don't have to give long speeches to each other or spend pages and pages discussing feelings, because, let's face it, most people don't. But the author could give us more subtle hints about their emotional closeness, especially in the rare times they have alone together.

My other gripe is that the editing is not as good as it could have been. The author is a good writer, and overall the story flows well. But now and then there are mistakes a good editor should catch--such as the unnecessary use of the word "large" three times in one short paragraph--and they're a bit jarring.

2010-06-16 (California) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 4

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great read
I really liked this book better then shadow return,more got done in this book.I just love sebrahn and alec together they are so sweet.I hope in the future that there will be another book where they can be united again.

2010-06-14 | suzee (wi) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Stalking Darkness (Nightrunner, Vol. 2)

Product Details

• ISBN13: 9780553575439
• Adapt: New
• Notes: BUY WITH Assurance, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and mending to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Description

With the Leran threat laid to rest, Alec and Seregil are now able to turn their attention to the ancient evil which threatens their land. The Plenimarans, at war with Skalans, have decided to defeat their ancient enemy by raising up the Dead God, Seriamaius. The early attempts at this reincarnation--masterminded by the sinister Duke Mardus and his sorcerous minion Vargul Ashnazai--once left Seregil in a sorcerous coma. Now, an ancient prophecy points to his continuing role in the quest to stop Mardus in his dread purpose.

Seregil's friend and Mentor, the wizard Nysander, has long been the guardian of a deadly secret. In a secret, silver-lined room hidden well beneath the Oreska, he has served for most of his 300 years as the keeper of a nondescript clay cup. But this cup, combined with a crystal crown and some wooden disks, forms the Helm of Seriamaius, and any mortal donning the reconstructed Helm will become the incarnation of the god on earth.

Nysander holds the cup and Mardus the wooden disks--one of which was responsible for Seregil's coma--but the crown must still be located. Threatened under pain of death by Nysander to keep his quest a secret even from his loyal companion, Alec, Seregil is dispatched to find the last missing piece of the Helm so that he and Nysander can destroy it. But this is only the beginning of one of his deadliest journeys ever, for the prophecy also holds that four will come together in a time of darkness, and gradually all that Seregil values is placed at risk as he, Alec, Nysander and Micum are drawn into a deadly web of terror and intrigue.

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Customer Reviews

Awesome!
The Nightrunner series books are THE best books I have read in a long time! You really get engulfed in the story and totally forget you are reading a book! The characters, story line, twists and turns are just awesome! A must read!

2010-08-23 (Swansea, NSW, AU) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Couldn't Put It Down
I was on vacation when I finished the first book in this series, Luck in the Shadows. This book was supposed to last the whole vacation, and when it didn't I ordered Stalking Darkness to be sent to me--I didn't want to stop reading about these amazing characters! I've read some of the other reviews about some details not being in-depth, and some not making sense, but it all works for me. My only disappointment is that L. Flewelling takes so long for S & A to develop their relationship. I'm hoping that in the 3rd book, we get much more in this area. Calling this a gay fantasy, or gay at all, is a bit of a stretch so far.

2009-07-14 (Phoenix, AZ USA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Chilling but great!
I really loved this book as well as the first one in the series. Both are fast paced adventures with sorcery and magic thrown in. I won't give a detailed review of this book as many people have already done so but I will just add a few points.
This book is very dark- in fact having read it I am experiencing nightmares. The author writes so vividly that as the sinister plot and scenes unfold you find yourself getting disturbed by the imagery. Well, I did anyway and I am quite a fan of horror. Despite that I think this is great book, very worth reading. You can't put it down because you so desperately want to know that the characters you have learned to love (over the two books) are okay.
As for the M/M romance, there is hardly any worth mentioning. There is just one page dedicated to the protagonists feelings for each other and it would be sad if people missed out on this book because they are turned off by this aspect of the story. Frankly I wish the romance angle had been stronger to compensate for the darkness in this book.
I highly recommend this book (even though it has spooked me out) because it well written, exciting and full of well developed characters.

2009-05-17 (New York, NY United States) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Stalking Darkness
Love, love, love this author. If you enjoy Fantasy you must buy this book but make sure you read the whole series from begining to end. It isn't necessary to enjoy this book, but you will kick yourself if you don't read the entire series. It is amazing!

2009-03-23 (California) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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I just can't see it, maby it's the darkness
Posted 12/18/2008: I just can't see it, everyone seems to think this story is the best thing since the wheel was invented. I found the developing romance between Seregil and Alec to be the most interesting thing in the book and kept on reading just to see how this turns out. Kudos to Lyn Flewelling for being bold enough step into the 21st century and make her two prime characters of a different persuasion and still keep it rich in real feelings and emotions, but not graphic. The story itself just seems to skip along on and off the path. You are told that the adventures in housebreaking are challenging, dangerous and difficult, but not a moment is spent describing how it is done, when it's done. Just off I go, and pow! I'm back with the goods. The prime villain appears infrequently and with not much gusto. There is little explanation about the spy Rythel who somehow arrives in town takes up a prime position as a blacksmith and wrecks havoc with the towns fortification. If you are looking for a book with lots of action,swordplay and magic, pick up Jenifer Roberson's Sword Maker or C.L. Wilson's King of Sword and Sky. This is a book that will be thought of as a winner by those who are looking for a non chalenging kinda love story with mild action and political sub plots.

2008-12-19 (Palm Springs, CA) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 3

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Traitor's Moon (Nightrunner, Vol. 3)

Product Details

• Educate: New
• Notes: BUY WITH Conviction, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and utility to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
• ISBN13: 9780553577259

Description

Seregil and Alec have spent the last two years in self-imposed exile, far from their adopted homeland, Skala, and the bitter memories there. But their time of peace is shattered by a desperate summons from Queen Idrilain, asking them to aid her daughter on a mission to Aurenen, the very land from which Seregil was exiled in his youth.

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Customer Reviews

Awesome!
The Nightrunner series books are THE best books I have read in a long time! You really get engulfed in the story and totally forget you are reading a book! The characters, story line, twists and turns are just awesome! A must read!

2010-08-23 (Swansea, NSW, AU) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Good book-please edit more in future!
I am enjoying this series on my Kindle, but I would enjoy it WAY more without the many typos! As far as typos go, this is the worst Kindle book I've ever read. They are awful! Many words that are supposed to have 'th' have 'm' instead ('man' instead of 'than', etc.). It took me a while to figure out why there were Haitians (Haman is the name of one of the clans in the story) in a fantasy novel. Also, 'viceregent' is misspelled 'vicegerent' all through the book. Character names are filled with constant typos, too. 'Alec' is often 'A lee' and 'Ilar' (Iliar? I really can't tell) is 'liar' almost throughout. I don't expect a book to be perfect, but this was just awful. Please, whoever edited this needs to retire their spellchecker! I am hoping that I shouldn't expect such sloppy editing from Kindle editions.

2010-05-18 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 3

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Traitor's Moon
I was rather taken aback by some reviews that stated that they didn't like this book, for the very reasons that I loved it. The rich storytelling, the complicated plot twists, and the intrigue, made this book come alive for me. I enjoyed it from cover to cover. If you were looking for stories with simple, two dimensional characters, with very simple plots, may I suggest that you stick to young adult books? I, for one, will continue to read these intelligent books written by an intelligent author.

2009-04-14 | Kracken (United States) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 5

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Traitors Moon
Lynn Flewelling is a fabulous Fantasy author. I stumbled upon her Tamir Triad series first and was hooked. If you enjoy a great Fantasy novel you must read her books. Traitors Moon is excellent and a must read, but I would suggest begining with the first book in the series which is Luck in the Shadows. You will fall in love with the characters and her story telling is rich and involved. For me she ranks with Dennis McKiernan and Robert Jordan...amazing!

2009-03-23 (California) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Well written ~ and with a gripping conclusion
Traitor's Moon, book three of The Nightrunner Series, finds Seregil and Alec living in self-imposed exile from Skala, their adopted homeland. They have been there for two years when a message arrives from Queen Idrilain ask them to accompany her daughter on a diplomatic mission to Aurenen, Seregil's land of birth, the land from which he has been bannihed since his youth. Maybe he has hopes of this banishment being lifted, but whatever persuades him he and Alec agree to go.

Once they arrive in Aurenen seeking support for the war Skala is engaged in, they find themselves embroiled in plot and counter plot, never knowing who their real allies amongst the Aurenfaie are; and it is not long before new dangers come to haunt them.

Traitor's Moon is a fitting conclusion(?) to the Nightrunner Series; and there is much to be said for it. Firstly for what it avoids. There is no doubt about the strength on the relationship between Seregil and Alec so there are no clichéd ploys over them falling out; and while magical powers play a role, they never employed to rescue impossible situations, and what powers are used are equally balanced on each side.

If there is a fault I feel perhaps a little too much time was spent on the early negotiations, which I found all the more confusing due to the unfamiliar names given to the various parties, if the Queen's mission did not know who to trust, I was all the more perplexed not really knowing who was who; I would have appreciated a list of characters. But that is a relatively minor quibble; perhaps I should just pay more attention to names!

When the action really starts the then book is impossible to put down; there is a lot going on and things really do move quickly. We still do not know who can be trusted almost until the end, and we can never we sure of the final outcome for Alec and especially Seregil, who by this time has done just about everything he can to make his situation worse.

This really is a book in which the intriguing and complex plot takes precedence over the myths and magic, and is all the better for it; if there is to be another book in this series I will certainly not hesitate to add it to my reading list.

2008-11-06 (UK) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Shadows Return (Nightrunner, Bk. 4)

Product Details

• ISBN13: 9780553590081
• Fettle: New
• Notes: BUY WITH Trust, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and putting into play to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Description

With their most treacherous mission yet behind them, heroes Seregil and Alec resume their double life as dissolute nobles and master spies. But in a world of rivals and charmers, fate has a different plan.…

After their victory in Aurënen, Alec and Seregil have returned home to Rhíminee. But with most of their allies dead or exiled, it is difficult for them to settle in. Hoping for diversion, they accept an assignment that will take them back to Seregil’s homeland. En route, however, they are ambushed and separated, and both are sold into slavery. Clinging to life, Seregil is sustained only by the hope that Alec is alive.

But it is not Alec’s life his strange master wants—it is his blood. For his unique lineage is capable of producing a rare treasure, but only through a harrowing process that will test him body and soul and unwittingly entangle him and Seregil in the realm of alchemists and madmen—and an enigmatic creature that may hold their very destiny in its inhuman hands…. But will it prove to be savior or monster?

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Customer Reviews

Awesome!
The Nightrunner series books are THE best books I have read in a long time! You really get engulfed in the story and totally forget you are reading a book! The characters, story line, twists and turns are just awesome! A must read!

2010-08-23 (Swansea, NSW, AU) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Great addition to the series
Have read the whole set of books from Bone Twin's daughter to this one. Great series

2010-04-05 | mpeaslee (Oregon) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Old memories?
This book was.... how can I say this? It was good. But I only say that it was good because I am attached to ALEC and Seregil since I read the earlier books in my younger days. I don't know. If I were to just open this book and had no personal attatchments to the characters... it would have been very bad.

The book was too much, "Seregil this, Seregil that" like all the others. I always feel that Alec is missing the spotlight. And this book was totally his turn to shine... but somehow Seregil wouldn't get off the stage? Haha.

2010-02-10 (Roseville, MI USA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 3

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Cool new direction for the series
I think the negative reviews of the latest installment of the Nightrunners series are a little unfair. While it's true that "Shadows Return" is different from the previous three novels and that it is somewhat unpolished in terms of prose and editing, it is still a wonderfully entertaining book.

First, there are parts where I'm inclined to agree with the critical reviews. "Shadows Return" is not a polished novel and it is not as richly or poetically written as the previous three. It feels like Flewelling was either in a rush, distracted, or simply had a hard time putting her heart into Alec and Seregil's story after a hiatus of 10 years. There are typos and errors in continuity that somebody definitely should have caught. Additionally, the style of the prose is less complex, and it does read more in the style of a YA novel (although the content is still very adult). Like others have mentioned, the writing is also repetitive at times. That said, I don't really think these flaws make this book horrible or disappointing. I found myself wishing Flewelling had put a bit more care into her writing, because I actually thought the plot was phenomenal, full of potential to become rich with interesting types of magic.

One of the main differences, apart from style, is that this book is more about the characters than political intrigue. Actually, I prefer this focus. To me, "Luck" and "Stalking" were both really good because they were a fine blend of Nightrunning action and also explored conflict and growth between Seregil and Alec. IMHO, "Traitor's Moon" is the book that doesn't fit. I found it to be the least enjoyable of the 4 books because it was more of a typical "whodunnit" mystery, and there didn't seem to be much going on other than 1) waiting for everyone to figure out who the bad guy is and 2) exploring Seregil's past. In that book, Seregil and Alec's relationship was resolved, static, and had no interpersonal conflict. And that's where "Shadows" returns us: I was much more emotionally involved in this book. I felt my heart fluttering, felt myself grinning and wincing by turns.

So while this novel is not as well-written or complex, it introduces a lot more character-driven conflict. Seregil and Alec's dynamic is a lot more engaging and I'm glad the author created some problems and issues between the two men. There were some really good scenes between them and they actually didn't spend as much time languishing over each other in their respective prison cells as I had been led to believe by others' reviews. In fact, I thought that they were still the same old Seregil and Alec we know and love. They were strong-willed and strong-minded during their captivity, and, when the time came, they acted exactly like their old selves --resourceful, cunning, and brave.

I felt the addition of two new characters was a good move too, and I was pretty pleased with the way certain, er, people, were handled... Well, I can't give it away, but I really liked that the characters were more complicated, the bad guy(s) had more understandable and realistic motives, and that the characters overall were more in the gray than black-white. I love the new alchemic magic that's been introduced as well. One of my favorite things about the Tamir Triad was the idea of the bound ghost and the bone doll, and I feel like the weird alchemy introduced here retuns us to Flewelling's talent for the creative and slightly macabre in fantasy. The end of the novel is also a bit of a cliffhanger and leaves a lot open for crazy things to happen in the next book. Hopefully, Flewelling will return to her more detailed, lush style of writing in "The White Road", but either way, it seems like there is good promise for twisting plotlines and fun action ahead.

Personally, I think that it's the nature of novels to change as a series progresses. As much as we love the originals, Flewelling has to eventually take the characters in a new direction. In the beginning of Shadows Return, Seregil and Alec express being bored and tired of burglarizing houses and play-acting as nobles. I'm inclined to agree. It's time for them to embark on new adventures. Despite its flawed execution, I really liked "Shadows Return" and I think fans of the series should approach it with an open mind. It's different, but I think you will be surprised at how much you enjoy it.

2010-01-24 (Californa, USA) | Helpful Votes: 4 | Rating: 4

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Very Different from the Others
It was better than I expected. I was a bit nervous after reading many negative reviews, but I actually had trouble putting this one down! Although, I will say that the style was a lot different than the previous books. Granted, the author spent 10 years before picking up the story again, and her writing style has changed since then.
I liked the story well enough. I rather felt that it was an introduction to the next book, and I don't think it's as solid as the others. There are a LOT of loose ends, and the ending wasn't as defined. Nonetheless it was still enjoyable. I loved that there were new kinds of insecurities in Alec and Seregil's relationship, causing the characters to show different sides of themselves and raise questions that have been previously ignored.
The one thing I wasn't sure how I felt about was Sebrahn. The idea was interesting, but something about him felt terribly out of place. Perhaps it's just his ethereal appearance - it clashed badly with my vision of their traditional fantasy world. I really had trouble picturing it. But the "dragon" hint presented at the end definitely made me feel a lot better. I suspect I will warm up to him as more answers are revealed.

All in all I think it was pretty good. Better than I thought it would be, and I have good faith that the next few books will be increasingly enjoyable. YES, it was very different, but the different wasn't bad.
Another note - I finished this surprisingly fast. The font is considerably larger. I wasn't so put off by it since I was eager to finish it, but it took only took me two days to read it. The other ones took about a full week, reading at the same pace. I find that the different book design along with the different writing style disrupts the flow of the series a bit. It's still by FAR my favorite series, though! Can't wait for the next one, I have a feeling it will put this book under a new light. :)

2009-12-07 (California, USA) | Helpful Votes: 2 | Rating: 4

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The Oracle's Queen (Tamir Trilogy, Book 3)

Product Details

• Notes: BUY WITH Nerve, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and worship army to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
• Quarters: New
• ISBN13: 9780553583458

Description

Under the rule of a usurper king, the realm of Skala has suffered famine, plague, and invasion. But now the time for the rightful heir has come, a return to the tradition of warrior queens. And the Lightbearer’s prophecy is to be upheld at last: so long as a daughter of the royal line defends and rules, Skala will never be subjugated.

Now a mystical fire has burned away the male body known as Prince Tobin, revealing Princess Tamír, a girl on the verge of womanhood–and a queen ready to claim her birthright after a life in disguise under the protection of wizards and witches. But will her people, her army–and the friends she was forced to deceive–accept her? Worse, will the crown’s rival heir, friend to Tobin, turn foe to Tamír, igniting civil war in a fierce
battle for Skala?

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Customer Reviews

A magnificent conclusion to a wonderful tale
The Tamir Trilogy is truly a `proper' trilogy - that is, a single story, broken up into three volumes, as opposed to a series of self-contained, interconnected books. Book 3 (The Oracle's Queen) brings all the threads together for a triumphant conclusion. War comes to the kingdom, forcing an end to the awkward stasis that has plagued the land. When the King is slain, Prince Korin must take the throne, having already proven himself a poor choice to lead the land in battle. In order to save the realm from Korin's failings (and the greater failings of his court wizard), Tobin must reveal herself to the world and declare herself Queen Tamir.

**MINOR SPOILERS FOLLOW**

Even though we, as readers, know it's coming - it's inevitable, in fact - the dissolution of the magic, revealing Tobin as Tamir, is absolutely breathtaking. It's bold, it's beautiful, and (for the sake of regal legitimacy) it's very much public. This is an act that needs to be witnessed, and witnessed it is! If her coming out doesn't leave you in tears, then you have my condolences for your absent heart.

Sadly, this magical moment does not mark an end to Tamir's suffering. If anything, it adds to it. Many across the kingdom refuse to believe it, either accusing her (ironically) of being a boy in drag, or simply distrusting the magic used to disguise her for so many years. I have no idea whether Flewelling has any transgender friends, or whether she intended to so accurately mirror the experience of a modern day transsexual, but she does a magnificent job.

2010-08-23 (Ontario, Canada) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Not too bad
*Spoilers if you haven't read the first 2 books*

I wanted to rate this book lower than 3 stars, but I had to be fair. Despite the problems I had with it, I still enjoyed reading. The flaws didn't completely ruin the book for me.

Extremely Brief review: Tamir is now Queen and is hesitant about fighting her cousin Korin for the throne before they get a chance to talk things out. Korin on the other hand is being manipulated by Lord Niryn and even his companions suffer. Tamir and Ki's relationship is strained as Ki still sees Tobin and can't love Tamir the way she wants. Oh and Tamir and co manage a few victories and gather an army for the final show down.

What I didn't like:
- Tamir is suddenly very weepy and damsel in distress-y. The personality change just..irked me. She was stronger in book 2, and yes, inner turmoil and all the change might cause a few tears. But most of the time, it felt fake "she threw her arms around his waist and wept" etc.

- Ki's epiphany & the tower experience. What was that about? Couldn't it have been done in a less obvious way.

- It was predictable..but didn't really bother me.

The first book was the best, and this isn't so bad. I don't regret reading it, just wish more thought had gone into the making of it.

2010-04-13 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 3

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An enjoyable read
Thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy. Took me back to the beginning of my reading experiences as a kid when all I read was fantasy!

2010-02-01 | Clio and Aria's mom (Loma Linda, CA USA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Oracle's Queen
I wept at the end of this book. I so rarely find a book or indeed, a series that makes me want more,but this one did. I read all three books in one weekend and was heartbroken to find that it really ends here. Too bad,I would have bought more!

2010-01-25 | G (Indiana, USA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Dark fantasy becomes Cinderella story
This book was enjoyable enough on its own, but was a very dramatic departure from the rest of the series.

I absolutely adored the first book and have recommended it to friends and family. The mood/feel of this book is pretty much the opposite of the first.

Oracle's Queen essentially does away with the darker aspects of the storyline. There are no questionable or outright evil actions taken that the characters aren't *forced* into doing (meaning, the question of morality/ends justifying the means is COMPLETELY gone). I can't really go into more detail without spoilers, so here goes:


***** SPOILERS *****

1. Arkoniel, where art thou? Our wizard buddy was a major reason for the charm of the first book, and it's sad to see him relegated to "cast pretty spells in the background and show up to be nice to people on occasion" status. His relationship with Tamir was barely even explored, only mentioned briefly in side notes.

2. Anticlimactic battles. You can't say that evil barbarians are attacking from across the sea, ones who will never retreat and are fearsome warriors, and then shrug it off with a few spells and a stern speaking-to (throwing the "no retreat" bit out of the window). No one cares if [insert likable character] charges an army more than twice the size of their own, if they are ALWAYS going to come out safe on the other side. You can't build up to an epic civil war if the only causalities are going to be people who had to die (Korin), the bad guys (killed by those who hated them most, of course!), and hordes of nameless nobodies. It cheapens the victory.

Besides that, *everyone* important or likable lives happily ever after. Only one squire - who had a one-line introduction - bites the dust, not a single lord that Tamir likes gets more than a scratch, and the likable characters who were *on the other side* come out fine and dandy with absolutely perfect situations to be placed in. Even Iya escapes brother's "I have to kill her or else I'll never be free" wrath.

3. Ki and Tamir. I may be alone in this, but I find it profoundly disturbing that these two ended up together. Tamir had a crush on him when she was a preteen boy, and somehow THAT developed into a corny "I'll love you forever and ever" relationship?

A major strength of the series was the "can't always have what you want" angle, and the angst related to it. I much preferred Ki as the loyal squire who just couldn't quite give Tamir what she wanted. It would have been more in keeping with the established themes if they had remained best friends, but had to look elsewhere for romantic relationships.

Still, I may have been able to accept it if it weren't for the "straight from fan fiction" scenes used to create the supposed "spark" between them. Ki saves Tamir from an evil ghost, is shocked to tears because he almost lost her, discovers that he can't live without her, and kissing ensues. You've gotta be kidding me...

2009-07-02 (California) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 2

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Luck in the Shadows (Nightrunner, Vol. 1)

Product Details

• Notes: BUY WITH Trust, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and rite to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
• ISBN13: 9780553575422
• Fitness: New

Description

"A new star is rising in the fantasy firmament...teems with magic and spine-chilling amounts of skullduggery."–Dave Duncan, author of The Great Game

When young Alec of Kerry is taken prisoner for a crime he didn’t commit, he is certain that his life is at an end. But one thing he never expected was his cellmate. Spy, rogue, thief, and noble, Seregil of Rhiminee is many things–none of them predictable. And when he offers to take on Alec as his apprentice, things may never be the same for either of them. Soon Alec is traveling roads he never knew existed, toward a war he never suspected was brewing. Before long he and Seregil are embroiled in a sinister plot that runs deeper than either can imagine, and that may cost them far more than their lives if they fail. But fortune is as unpredictable as Alec’s new mentor, and this time there just might be…Luck in the Shadows.

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Customer Reviews

FREAKIN' AWESOME!!
OMG....I love these freakin' books. I couldn't put them down. I literally became the character during the series!!!!! AWESOME. I haven't read a book in years; I picked up this book as a recommendation from a friend. It totally rocked. I could not put it down. I recommend it to anyone that is looking for a passionate adventure. Rock out!

2010-09-03 | LilE4494 (Delaware, USA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Good book-good series
I read all the Nightrunner books over the course of this summer, and I was very pleased with both of them. Though there were a few hiccups here and there, overall I was very impressed with the books. The stories are involving and the dialogue convincing (with a few exceptions in the beginning of Shadows Return), and the characters are well crafted and lovable. Not your average stock fantasy, with truly interesting and unique magic and an engaging central plot. I was extremely pleased with the first two books, and enjoyed all the others as well, though the first two were in my opinion slightly better than the rest. Read them both, and if you haven't had enough, read the rest. I know I couldn't stop myself.

2010-08-01 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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One word...Boring
I tried and wanted to like this book, but it was a chore to finish it. I did finish it eventually. But it was soooo slow and boring. It never went anywhere! I mean, sure it's a series, but doesn't SOMETHING have to happen in the first book?? I didn't care about the characters, I thought they were flat and uninteresting. I mean, there isn't even much to say about this book. It is forgettable....boring.

2010-03-17 (WV) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 2

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Not your Same 'ol Same 'ol
I got this book originally because a friend of mine who has good taste recommended it. One chapter in and I was hooked. The author has a interesting twisty mind that translates well to the page. The book might sound, in the little bits on the back of the book, like your normal run of the mill 'different world, spies, swords, magic, ho hum' but it's SO not.
The characters are really interesting people, the situations are not something you saw coming ahead of time, and the world isn't the same world you read in every other Sci-fi/Fantasy novel.
I don't classify this as a 'gay novel' or 'bisexual'. Which is all ok with me, I think it's great that a more mixed bag of books is available to the general public. Which is to say I read the book, and will read more in the series because it's just plain good reading, instead of supporting the book because the author had the courage to write conviction (which is also awesome)
I highly recommend reading this series.

2010-02-01 | ~ Mom of Four (Southern Georgia) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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You wouldn't want to miss this one
I would be honest: I started reading this book because of the M/M relationship. I figured if I won't like the book at least this part will be to my taste. What can I tell you, homosexual themes or no, this is one great book! I read the summary and some reviews (negative) so I didn't expect it to be that good. Aside from the engaging plot which made it impossible to stop reading, there is another part that made this book stand out among all the other books I read from the library recently: the characters. There are too many books which leave me with no impression after I finish reading them, and the characters there are just to deliver the plot. Not that there is a visible flaw in the writing (not to me anyway) but they're just...there.

Well not in this book. Each and one of them has ten layers and it actually feels like you're reading about real people, with real personalities who are not mostly defined by their fears, insecurities and other flaws/advantages (what other authors seem to do much).

Another thing that makes this book stand out in my eyes is that the writer doesn't try to force any emotion on the reader. Without all those silly attempt at drama or angst or even humor, she just tells the story and if the reader chooses to laugh or cry it's done because of the events in the book entirely and not because the author wanted it to be a dramatic/funny part. I don't think that there is a need to mention how much more real the story feels that way, lighter and more enjoyable to read.

By the time I finished reading this book I felt like Alec and Seregil are my friends. That didn't happen a long time with a book. If I had it in my language I would buy it to my friends and family.

2009-12-27 | Helpful Votes: 2 | Rating: 5

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