SFF

Blood Song: A Raven's Shadow Novel

by Anthony Ryan
Ace: Berkley. Jul. 2013. 592p. ISBN 9780425267691. $27.95; ebk. ISBN 9781101622902. FANTASY
COPY ISBN
Left by his father with the Brothers of the Sixth Order to train as a defender of the Faith and of the Realm, ten-year-old Vaelin Al Sorna grows up hating his father for abandoning him. Developing into a natural leader, Vaelin becomes increasingly involved in the politics and practice of war. But he soon finds that he is the target of assassination attempts by unknown enemies. Ryan creates a fascinating world of conflicting religions and the wars fought in the name of those faiths. Though Vaelin's tale resembles that of many fantasy heroes, the author's skill in character development sets his protagonist apart as he struggles with an inner darkness that threatens to draw him toward its seductive evils.
VERDICT Fans of broad-scale epic fantasy along the lines of Robert Jordan's "Wheel of Time" series and George R.R. Martin's "Song of Ice and Fire" novels should find this debut much to their liking.
Reviewed by Jackie Cassada , Jul 01, 2013
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

FICTION

L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future, Vol. 40: The Best New SF & Fantasy of the Year
FICTION

The Sword Unbound
by Hanrahan, Gareth
FICTION

Asunder
by Hall, Kerstin
FICTION

The Witchstone
by Neff, Henry H
FICTION

Yoke of Stars
by Lemberg, R.B
FICTION

Haunt Sweet Home
by Pinsker, Sarah
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?