Mr. Barclay manages to elevate a rather bored genre into something new. His characters far exceed the usual cookie-cutter types we meet in these books, real moral dilemmas are examined. Villains aren't what they seem (neither are allies) and things are never just black and white. It's sword and sorcery set in a world similar to ours, with the difference being that the consequences of your actions end up biting you in the nose a lot quicker there then they do here.
When they attempted to save the world with the Dawnthief spell, the boundaries between all dimensions were changed. First a rift between the dragons' world and Balaia is opened and has to be closed before they are destroyed by an invasion of dragons. Then The Raven must deal with aftermath of the barbarian invasion that necessitated Dawnthief.
Finally there is one inter-dimensional spell cast too many. Demons who have been lurking in the wings awaiting their chance to invade take advantage of a new rip to threaten dominance so supreme that it will even encompass the realm of the dead. Phew! That sure sounds like a lot of story.
But spaced over six books, it's perfect. Characters develop, friendships grow, hatreds are nourished, and never once does Mr. Barclay strike a wrong note. Emotions are never manipulated, but nurtured through the development of people we care for and respect. His characters aren't perfect, but just do the best they can in the situations they are in. In others words they are human (well as human as a 120 ft dragon can get, although watching him trying to learn to be funny is a hoot).
If you're looking for good exciting adventure that are not just escapist fun, than this series of books is for you. To me the fact that I’ve already been able to read them through twice in the short time that I’ve owned them, coupled with feeling compelled to buy them one after another, speaks volumes about their value.
How many books have a 120ft long dragon as a hero? Don’t miss out on the adventures of The Raven and their friends.
Ed:NB
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