Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Book Reviews
Book Review: Breath and Bone
By Sandy Amazeen
Jan 14, 2008, 21:42 GMT

Berg’s conclusion to the complex two-part series begun with Flesh and Spirit finds Navronne falling deeper into civil war as the land succumbs to the effects of an unyielding winter. As a pureblood, Valen had his services as a sorcerer contracted out to Prince Osriel, a fate he rebels against even as he vows to serve his master during this turbulent time when Navronne’s fate hangs in the balance. Valen swore to protect Jullian; a bright young man who was kidnapped from the monastery where they both sought shelter, an oath that gets him into trouble with Prince Osriel yet could potentially save his life. Kol, one of the Danae whose magical dance has the power to transform the world, takes on a new role as he instructs Valen at the risk of his life. Evil abounds as warring factions strive for power and Valen appears to hold the key that will bring about healing and redemption or utter destruction.

Populated by a rich cast of protagonists and villains, Valen has his work cut out trying to sort friend from foe while remaining true to his vows, which he tended to ignore in the past, but with maturity, feels obligated to at least try to fulfill. Indeed, watching Valen come to terms with his heritage while discovering his powers is what makes this slower paced fantasy epic so enjoyable.  Berg combines druid and Christian influences against a backdrop of sorcerers, priestesses, priests, deep evil and a dying land to create an engrossing tale to get lost in.