Raymond E Feist
Raymond E Fiest’s latest novel again takes us back to his world of Midkemia. This is the sequal to his much acclaimed Talon of the Silver Hawk, and as such, the second book in his new series “The Conclave Of Shadows”
As usual Feist does not disappoint his avid reader. This series is set about 100 years in the future from the more famous “Riftwar” novels and few of the original characters are still treading the pages. The magician Pug, his wife Miranda and Nakor, the Blue Rider from the earlier books are still with us, but play mainly peripheral roles in this tale.
The main heroic character is a young man called Talwin Hawkins, who started life as “Talon of the Silver Hawk”, last surviving member of an annihilated mountain clan. This book continues Tal’s quest for revenge against the conspirators in the slaughter of his family and his parallel mission to collect information and intelligence for Pug’s magical “conclave of shadows” who are always striving to thwart the Machiavellian designs of those who would do harm to Midkemia.
In a funny way there is a parallel here between terrorism in the present day and the machinations of Pug’s enemies in the fantasy world of Midkemia – in that the battle being waged, is for the most part carried out in the shadows with quarter neither being asked for or given.
In this story Tal, having earlier gained fame after winning the title of Champion of the Blades at the Masters Court in Roldem – Midkemia’s primary tournament for the sword, returns there with the sole purpose of entering the service of the Duke Kaspar of Olasko. This duke and his minions were responsible for the destruction of Tal’s clan and he is bent on their downfall from within.
After many twists and turns, deceits and betrayals Tal comes at last into a position where he can cause ruin to his enemy, but to understand the outcome – you will have to read the book yourself. Suffice to say, with Raymond E Feist, things are not always as they seem!
Feist’s style of writing has changed little in that he continues to write fast paced novels where the reader finds himself carried along in the adventures of the characters. His books, I find are always a pleasure to read and for the most part his characters are easy to understand and relate to. This style of writing has brought him many fans and will continue to delight readers around the globe.
I would highly recommend ”The King of Foxes” to anyone, especially readers who have already experienced Feist before. The “conclave of Shadows novels can be read on their own, but I would suggest a first time reader get hold of the Riftwar saga books first to allow for a greater understanding of Midkemia and the wonderful world that Raymond E Feist has created.
As a last point if ever anyone can tell me who is actually the King of Foxes.. I would be most grateful!
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