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Second Sons #2
Eye of the Labyrinth
Since the Age of Shadows ended, the people of Ranadon have lived under the merciless heat of two suns and the tyranny of Antonov, the Lion of Senet. Consumed by his lust for power and his unshakable belief in the capricious, almighty Goddess, Antonov's rule is absolute. Only one man has the intelligence and will to break that hold... a man who could be King.
Suddenly widowed, Morna Provin, Duchess of Elcast, has lost her only protector. With her son banished for an unspeakable crime, she faces a horrifying fate at the hands of the Lion of Senet as retribution for her relationship with the heretic Johan Thorn. But it is only part of a cunning scheme to lure her son, Dirk Provin, back into the fold so Antonov can consolidate his power once and for all.
With his mother's life at stake, Dirk Provin must emerge from hiding in the Baenlands and return to Elcast-- setting in motion a rebellion that will expose long-buried secrets and ignite festering hatreds. For a ruler's fears and a madman's prophecy will start Dirk on a quest for truth that will spark a fierce battle between two very different men: one who believes only what his five senses tell him, the other obsessed by his faith in the divine. It is a clash that will bring to light a revelation that may shatter them all.
Suddenly widowed, Morna Provin, Duchess of Elcast, has lost her only protector. With her son banished for an unspeakable crime, she faces a horrifying fate at the hands of the Lion of Senet as retribution for her relationship with the heretic Johan Thorn. But it is only part of a cunning scheme to lure her son, Dirk Provin, back into the fold so Antonov can consolidate his power once and for all.
With his mother's life at stake, Dirk Provin must emerge from hiding in the Baenlands and return to Elcast-- setting in motion a rebellion that will expose long-buried secrets and ignite festering hatreds. For a ruler's fears and a madman's prophecy will start Dirk on a quest for truth that will spark a fierce battle between two very different men: one who believes only what his five senses tell him, the other obsessed by his faith in the divine. It is a clash that will bring to light a revelation that may shatter them all.
528 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2003
26 people are currently reading
1035 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Fallon
62books1,110followersFallon is the author of 17 full-length bestselling novels and a number of published short stories in genres ranging from horror to science fiction.
In addition to 4 complete fantasy series - The Demon Child trilogy, The Hythrun Chronicles, the Second Sons Trilogy,The Tide Lords Quadrilogy and the Rift Runners series - Fallon has written both a tie-novel and short fiction for the TV series, Stargate SG1, an official Zorro story, a novella for the Legends of Australian Fantasy Anthology and has a superhero - The Violet Valet (CHICKS IN CAPES).
Fallon has a Masters Degree from the Creative Arts faculty of QUT. A computer trainer and application specialist, Fallon currently works in the IT industry and spends at least a month each year working at Scott Base in Antarctica.
In addition to 4 complete fantasy series - The Demon Child trilogy, The Hythrun Chronicles, the Second Sons Trilogy,The Tide Lords Quadrilogy and the Rift Runners series - Fallon has written both a tie-novel and short fiction for the TV series, Stargate SG1, an official Zorro story, a novella for the Legends of Australian Fantasy Anthology and has a superhero - The Violet Valet (CHICKS IN CAPES).
Fallon has a Masters Degree from the Creative Arts faculty of QUT. A computer trainer and application specialist, Fallon currently works in the IT industry and spends at least a month each year working at Scott Base in Antarctica.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
September 3, 2018
Love this trilogy thus far!! 🖤🐺🐾
November 25, 2022
😈 Devious Shenanigans FTW Buddy Read (DSFTWBR�) with my long-lost twin and stuff 😈
� And the moral of this reread is: this installment in a nutshell?
� And the other moral of this reread is: this installment in another nutshell?
👋 To be continued and stuff.
[December 2017]
Actual rating: 4.7 stars. And a quarter.
The acronym is strong is this one. Don't say I didn't warn you.
To think I almost nearly virtually DNF the first book in this trilogy. To think that, had I behaved in such a despicably vindictive manner, I would have missed out on a Most Deliciously Devious Machiavellian Plan (MDDMP� ). Then again, how could I have guessed that Disgustingly Youthful and Seemingly Innocuous, Naive Dirk Provin (DYaSINDP�) would turn out to be one my good pal Niccolo M.'s worthiest spiritual successors? I mean, the guy is so wickedly duplicitous he even had me fooled into thinking he was naught but yet another revolting YA anti-hero wannabe! By the shrimpy goddess, this boy is more deceitfully sly than Fleet Admiral DaShrimp on acid (don't ask)! Does Little Dirk have the whole End Justifies the Means Business Thingie (EJtMBT�). Even I, in all my wondrous nefariousness, wouldalmost never take things so far as to spoiler spoiler spoiler my spoiler spoiler spoiler in such a spoiler spoiler spoiler way, and then be so bold as to spoiler spoiler spoiler, too! It's quite beautiful, really. And it makes me want to dance, obviously.
Now, I'm not yet privy to Young Dirk's ultimate goal here, but I do hope his marvelously wicked plan includes the not-so-swift disposal of90% a few characters in this trilogy. I have to say that Second Sons is most exquisitely fraught with quite the lavish array of of loathsome bastards and vicious bitches. Some of them deserve a slow, painful, preferably excruciating death. Others, aka The Lucky Shrimping Few (TLSF�), deserve a slow, painful, preferably excruciating death, preceded by several delicious hours of First Class Pincer-Induced Torment (FCPIT�) courtesy of my murderous children. And the evil, neurotic, delusional, homicidal, conniving little bitch extraordinaire known as Marquel one super extra special character who has a super extra special place in my black, withered heart deserves a slow, painful, preferably excruciating death, preceded by several delicious hours of First Class Pincer-Induced Torment (FCPIT�) courtesy of my murderous children, her lovely limbs to be later chopped into tiny little pieces and her charming little head savagely delicately severed. Only to be slightly stomped on by a herd of stampeding barnacles. I'd originally planned of feeding her remains to the crustaceans in a effort to drive the point home, but I then realized my babies would probably suffer from severe indigestion as a result, so I decided to leave it at that. Outrageously lenient of me, I know. But what can I say, I'm compassionate and magnanimous like that.
See? Even the super hot guy with the sexy mustache and chiseled eyebrows agree!
As surprising as it may seem, some characters in this book do not actually deserve to die. I kid you not. Take Little Not So Bloody Shrimping Innocent Anymore Alinor (LNSBSIAA�), for example. I would have gladly unleashed the crustaceans on her, hadn't she graduated from the Pathetically Love Sick Teeny Princess (PLSTP�) she was in Lion of Senet to the Slyly Deceptive Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (SDSSS� ) she became in this book. But she did, so I didn't. The glorious thing about this trilogy is, mostbabe in the woods baby shrimp in the ocean-type characters that were repulsively young and indigenous and candid and trusting and credulous in the first instalment turn into a fabulously deceitful, distrustful, duplicitous lot before in Eye of the Labyrinth. Now that's what I call Gloriously Yummy Character Development (GYCD�)! And what of the ancient, wicked, ruthless, vile characters, you ask? Oh, don't you worry your little selves needlessly, this Heinously Despicable Bunch (HDB�) is still alive and kicking! Well, some of them are more, um, you know, alive than others, but on the whole they are as toxically malicious as ever. Which calls for yet another happy dance.
Yes, it is true, this is Fantasy without magic or witchcraft or monsters, oh my! So bloody fishing what? It's packed with devilish machinations and diabolical plots and triple-crossing schemes and stuff, what more could you possibly ask for, my Little Barnacles? Villainous villains? You got them. Infuriating characters you hate to love and love to hate (and vice versa)? In attendance as well. Twists and surprises and No No No Please Don't Do It Please Don't Do It Please Don't Do It Moments (NNNPDDIPDDIPDDIM� )? Plenty of those to be had. Entertainingly engaging stuff, never a dull moment and all that crap? From the very first page to the very last one. A most stupendous narration by Joe Jameson? Yep, that too. Anything else you can think of? Didn't think so. Ha.
� And the moral of this Oh Wow It Seems That Not All Books Featuring Repulsively Young Characters Are Suicide Inducing and Some of Them Are Actually Quite Scrumpalicious Crappy Non Review (OWISTNABFRYCASIaSoTAQSICNR�) is: please Jennifer Fallon, don't kill Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not his real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not her real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not his real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not her real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not his real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not her real name) in the final instalment, okay? I don't have a heart so I really couldn't care less about them but I know some ridiculously vulnerable puny humans who do and I would hate to see them break down and cry because one of their favourite characters unexpectedly perished in a blaze of utter agony so please try to put a leash on the homicidal maniac in you when one of the above mentioned characters is around but hey, pretty much everyone else can die horribly, so go ahead, knock yourself out and kill the rest of them all super dead and stuff and now this sentence is over so you can resume breathing. I think.
· Book 1: Lion of Senet ★★★★�
· Book 3: Lord of the Shadows ★★★★�
[Pre-review nonsense]
Watch out, Machiavelli, Dirk Provin is bloody shrimping coming for you!
� Full Jennifer Fallon You Better Not Kill Marquel in the Next Instalment I Have Plans for Her that Include Excruciating Pain Endless Torture Hacking Her to Tiny Little Pieces and Feeding Her to the Crustaceans Crappy Non Review (JFYBNKMitNIIHPfHtIEPETHHtTLPaFHttCCNR�) to come.
� And the moral of this reread is: this installment in a nutshell?
� And the other moral of this reread is: this installment in another nutshell?
👋 To be continued and stuff.
[December 2017]
Actual rating: 4.7 stars. And a quarter.
The acronym is strong is this one. Don't say I didn't warn you.
To think I almost nearly virtually DNF the first book in this trilogy. To think that, had I behaved in such a despicably vindictive manner, I would have missed out on a Most Deliciously Devious Machiavellian Plan (MDDMP� ). Then again, how could I have guessed that Disgustingly Youthful and Seemingly Innocuous, Naive Dirk Provin (DYaSINDP�) would turn out to be one my good pal Niccolo M.'s worthiest spiritual successors? I mean, the guy is so wickedly duplicitous he even had me fooled into thinking he was naught but yet another revolting YA anti-hero wannabe! By the shrimpy goddess, this boy is more deceitfully sly than Fleet Admiral DaShrimp on acid (don't ask)! Does Little Dirk have the whole End Justifies the Means Business Thingie (EJtMBT�). Even I, in all my wondrous nefariousness, would
Now, I'm not yet privy to Young Dirk's ultimate goal here, but I do hope his marvelously wicked plan includes the not-so-swift disposal of
See? Even the super hot guy with the sexy mustache and chiseled eyebrows agree!
As surprising as it may seem, some characters in this book do not actually deserve to die. I kid you not. Take Little Not So Bloody Shrimping Innocent Anymore Alinor (LNSBSIAA�), for example. I would have gladly unleashed the crustaceans on her, hadn't she graduated from the Pathetically Love Sick Teeny Princess (PLSTP�) she was in Lion of Senet to the Slyly Deceptive Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (SDSSS� ) she became in this book. But she did, so I didn't. The glorious thing about this trilogy is, most
Yes, it is true, this is Fantasy without magic or witchcraft or monsters, oh my! So bloody fishing what? It's packed with devilish machinations and diabolical plots and triple-crossing schemes and stuff, what more could you possibly ask for, my Little Barnacles? Villainous villains? You got them. Infuriating characters you hate to love and love to hate (and vice versa)? In attendance as well. Twists and surprises and No No No Please Don't Do It Please Don't Do It Please Don't Do It Moments (NNNPDDIPDDIPDDIM� )? Plenty of those to be had. Entertainingly engaging stuff, never a dull moment and all that crap? From the very first page to the very last one. A most stupendous narration by Joe Jameson? Yep, that too. Anything else you can think of? Didn't think so. Ha.
� And the moral of this Oh Wow It Seems That Not All Books Featuring Repulsively Young Characters Are Suicide Inducing and Some of Them Are Actually Quite Scrumpalicious Crappy Non Review (OWISTNABFRYCASIaSoTAQSICNR�) is: please Jennifer Fallon, don't kill Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not his real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not her real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not his real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not her real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not his real name) and Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler (not her real name) in the final instalment, okay? I don't have a heart so I really couldn't care less about them but I know some ridiculously vulnerable puny humans who do and I would hate to see them break down and cry because one of their favourite characters unexpectedly perished in a blaze of utter agony so please try to put a leash on the homicidal maniac in you when one of the above mentioned characters is around but hey, pretty much everyone else can die horribly, so go ahead, knock yourself out and kill the rest of them all super dead and stuff and now this sentence is over so you can resume breathing. I think.
· Book 1: Lion of Senet ★★★★�
· Book 3: Lord of the Shadows ★★★★�
[Pre-review nonsense]
Watch out, Machiavelli, Dirk Provin is bloody shrimping coming for you!
� Full Jennifer Fallon You Better Not Kill Marquel in the Next Instalment I Have Plans for Her that Include Excruciating Pain Endless Torture Hacking Her to Tiny Little Pieces and Feeding Her to the Crustaceans Crappy Non Review (JFYBNKMitNIIHPfHtIEPETHHtTLPaFHttCCNR�) to come.
January 17, 2017
*** 4.65 ***
A buddy read with my friends @ BB&B! Because Fantasy, y'all!!!
Jennifer Fallon had me all bamboozled in the beginning of the series. She started with this picturesque world with two suns, a young nice boy, his loving family ruling an island paradise, and they were visited by family for the holidays, giving an opportunity for the young nobles to bond. Sounds like fun and games, doesn't it? I knew there would be a budding friendship between the two boys, some possible young romance...
Well, all of this was true, but then things started to go wrong, then go even worst after that!!! By the time we got to this second book in the trilogy, we knew there were many possibilities for the story to turn towards a very dark path... Boy, after some very hope for happiness inducing moments, by the end of the book it was clear that we are heading for disaster! Not that the book itself is a disaster. The opposite. This book was even more engaging and addictive than the one before. I was hooked from the first word and cheered for Dirk and company with all of my heart, while wanting to beat the bad guys to death with a 2X4!!! The slowly growing hatred for Marquel grew even hotter, since there were moments when I actually felt sorry for her and then I was mad at myself for that too!!!
Dirk has undergone most growth and changes in this volume. He was such a naive and gentle boy back in the beginning and I have a feeling that the unspeakable tragedy he goes through here changed him and his strategy for the future in very dramatic manner. I only hope he doesn't loose himself in his pursuit for justice... Also, I hope he doesn't loose all of his friends and support on the way as well...
This series is wonderful! And I mean it in the most Fantasy Genre for the fans way. It is not as ambitious or pretentious as many others, but it delivers a very coherent, engaging and fascinating story of growing up, choosing your life's path, making choices, and definitely going with well researched and informed decision, rather than with what is being sold to you as true. I wish more people would follow this method in real life too..
I hope you guys choose to check this story out! You have to read it in order, since it is a continuous linear sequence of events, so start with book one, it is a trilogy. I can't wait to read the last one as soon as possible!!!
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and many more wonderful books to come!!!
A buddy read with my friends @ BB&B! Because Fantasy, y'all!!!
Jennifer Fallon had me all bamboozled in the beginning of the series. She started with this picturesque world with two suns, a young nice boy, his loving family ruling an island paradise, and they were visited by family for the holidays, giving an opportunity for the young nobles to bond. Sounds like fun and games, doesn't it? I knew there would be a budding friendship between the two boys, some possible young romance...
Well, all of this was true, but then things started to go wrong, then go even worst after that!!! By the time we got to this second book in the trilogy, we knew there were many possibilities for the story to turn towards a very dark path... Boy, after some very hope for happiness inducing moments, by the end of the book it was clear that we are heading for disaster! Not that the book itself is a disaster. The opposite. This book was even more engaging and addictive than the one before. I was hooked from the first word and cheered for Dirk and company with all of my heart, while wanting to beat the bad guys to death with a 2X4!!! The slowly growing hatred for Marquel grew even hotter, since there were moments when I actually felt sorry for her and then I was mad at myself for that too!!!
Dirk has undergone most growth and changes in this volume. He was such a naive and gentle boy back in the beginning and I have a feeling that the unspeakable tragedy he goes through here changed him and his strategy for the future in very dramatic manner. I only hope he doesn't loose himself in his pursuit for justice... Also, I hope he doesn't loose all of his friends and support on the way as well...
This series is wonderful! And I mean it in the most Fantasy Genre for the fans way. It is not as ambitious or pretentious as many others, but it delivers a very coherent, engaging and fascinating story of growing up, choosing your life's path, making choices, and definitely going with well researched and informed decision, rather than with what is being sold to you as true. I wish more people would follow this method in real life too..
I hope you guys choose to check this story out! You have to read it in order, since it is a continuous linear sequence of events, so start with book one, it is a trilogy. I can't wait to read the last one as soon as possible!!!
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and many more wonderful books to come!!!
February 4, 2017
This second instalment of the Second Sons trilogy was every bit as good as the first. This may be a fantasy series that lacks actual magic but it definitely has all the action and intrigue that one could desire.
Just like the first book this story is told from a multitude of POV's which only adds to the excitement as the intrigue often results in shock happenings and shifting alliances which creates moments of real tension as the various characters and factions all scramble to either secure power or just stay alive!
This was even darker than the first book. The dark happenings in the series always seem to catch me so off guard. I've come to the conclusion that it is because I'm lulled by Fallon simplistic almost YA-ish writing style. It feels as safe and friendly as your typical YA fantasy series or something like WoT, then the bad stuff happens and you realize that is just not true!
It is rare that I find myself so caught up in the happenings of a book that I struggle to put it down but this is one of those stories. I find the story interesting and Fallon's strange writing style very engaging. The characters may have their individual flaws but Fallon has really succeeded in making me care for them. Even the villains are a strangely compelling bunch.
The series has a few flaws but the strengths vastly outweigh them.
Fallon put most of our favourite characters through the ringer in this one but I'm still living in hope that things will work out well for at least some of the ones I like. For others, I'm hoping they meet a fitting end!
All in all this was another very enjoyable read.
Rating: 4.5 stars. I feel that rating is on the low side given how compelling I found the story but this does lack some of the depth of the real great fantasy series.
Audio Note: Joe Jamison does a good job with the narration.
Just like the first book this story is told from a multitude of POV's which only adds to the excitement as the intrigue often results in shock happenings and shifting alliances which creates moments of real tension as the various characters and factions all scramble to either secure power or just stay alive!
This was even darker than the first book. The dark happenings in the series always seem to catch me so off guard. I've come to the conclusion that it is because I'm lulled by Fallon simplistic almost YA-ish writing style. It feels as safe and friendly as your typical YA fantasy series or something like WoT, then the bad stuff happens and you realize that is just not true!
It is rare that I find myself so caught up in the happenings of a book that I struggle to put it down but this is one of those stories. I find the story interesting and Fallon's strange writing style very engaging. The characters may have their individual flaws but Fallon has really succeeded in making me care for them. Even the villains are a strangely compelling bunch.
The series has a few flaws but the strengths vastly outweigh them.
Fallon put most of our favourite characters through the ringer in this one but I'm still living in hope that things will work out well for at least some of the ones I like. For others, I'm hoping they meet a fitting end!
All in all this was another very enjoyable read.
Rating: 4.5 stars. I feel that rating is on the low side given how compelling I found the story but this does lack some of the depth of the real great fantasy series.
Audio Note: Joe Jamison does a good job with the narration.
February 6, 2017
A buddy read with�.
Warning: Small Spoilers for Lion of Senet
I’m not exactly sure what it is about the writing in this book but it just grips me so hard. There is just enough angst, just enough politicking, just enough secrets, just enough danger and just enough romance that I get completely sucked in. It was so hard for me to ever find a good stopping point because I just wanted to read and read and read until I knew all the things.
This is one of the few fantasies I’ve read where there is no magic, none, at all. And still I’m totally wrapped up in this story reading furiously ahead to see when the next shoe is going to drop, who will get the better of who and how will the characters I like fair after all of this. It doesn’t look like there will be many HEAs to dole out by the end of this but I am hoping for one or to at least.
❶❶❶Most Improved Character: ❶❶❶
Oh for me this is Alenor hands down. I liked our little princess in the first book. I mean how could you not like the Princess being raised by her mother’s enemy and using that upbringing as a way to make sure she learned as much as she could about the man that would someday be her adversary. I respected the role she played in the last book but she was still just a besotted girl in love with a boy who might like her but was not in love with her and would tie Alenor to her Enemy.
Well in this book the blinders come off. No more begin completely head over heels in love with someone who doesn’t love you back and letting him do whatever he wants. No more making excuses for him. No more pretending that he will love you eventually. No Alenor has grown out of that and sees the man she will marry for exactly what he is and she has decided on a clear line and will not bend. I applaud her and how she finally stood up for herself in this book.
Dirk I loved all the time. You know he has a plan but to go up against a religion, an empire and a way of life is hard and for his plan to work it seems he has to go it pretty alone. I felt bad for him knowing that there really wasn’t anyone he could confide in and that essentially he is on his own to change the way of the world. Johan tried to do it with a revolution and failed. Dirk means to do it much more subtly.
Good luck Dirk you are going to need it since you seem to have enemies on every side of you.
Tia, well Tia grew on me a little. That girl is a broken mess in a lot of ways and while I’m not sure how she will recover from the events of this book short of killing a lot of people I hope she finds some solace and learns the truths that we the reader know be she does not.
No one can hold a grudge like Tia and it seems that even after a few years she still holds a huge one against Dirk for his part in Johan’s death. I liked how Lexxie came to point out that even our heroes are just people with flaws just like everyone else and shouldn’t be placed so high on a pedestal.
Sometimes it seems our heroes must fall for us to be able to grow and move on.
As much as there are other villains in this book and there are a few, I hate Marquel as much if not more than Cersie Lanaster. I didn’t think I had more character hate in me and then she did what she did in this book and I’m ready for her to die the death of a thousand papercuts. She is so selfish, vile and rotten to the core. I hate everything about her and I really hope she gets her just deserts in the next book.
This book was an emotional journey for me. Some of it was very dark. There are some great moments of humor but I was extremely affected and sad about certain happenings. There are moments I totally loved, characters I rooted for and others I mourned for. I have a few hopes going into the next book because things in this one ended so precariously for some characters I care about. Dirk has so much farther to go to meet his goals and so much standing in his way.
Here is hoping that someone gets some sorta of happily ever after in the conclusion.
Warning: Small Spoilers for Lion of Senet
I’m not exactly sure what it is about the writing in this book but it just grips me so hard. There is just enough angst, just enough politicking, just enough secrets, just enough danger and just enough romance that I get completely sucked in. It was so hard for me to ever find a good stopping point because I just wanted to read and read and read until I knew all the things.
This is one of the few fantasies I’ve read where there is no magic, none, at all. And still I’m totally wrapped up in this story reading furiously ahead to see when the next shoe is going to drop, who will get the better of who and how will the characters I like fair after all of this. It doesn’t look like there will be many HEAs to dole out by the end of this but I am hoping for one or to at least.
❶❶❶Most Improved Character: ❶❶❶
Oh for me this is Alenor hands down. I liked our little princess in the first book. I mean how could you not like the Princess being raised by her mother’s enemy and using that upbringing as a way to make sure she learned as much as she could about the man that would someday be her adversary. I respected the role she played in the last book but she was still just a besotted girl in love with a boy who might like her but was not in love with her and would tie Alenor to her Enemy.
Well in this book the blinders come off. No more begin completely head over heels in love with someone who doesn’t love you back and letting him do whatever he wants. No more making excuses for him. No more pretending that he will love you eventually. No Alenor has grown out of that and sees the man she will marry for exactly what he is and she has decided on a clear line and will not bend. I applaud her and how she finally stood up for herself in this book.
Dirk I loved all the time. You know he has a plan but to go up against a religion, an empire and a way of life is hard and for his plan to work it seems he has to go it pretty alone. I felt bad for him knowing that there really wasn’t anyone he could confide in and that essentially he is on his own to change the way of the world. Johan tried to do it with a revolution and failed. Dirk means to do it much more subtly.
Why didn’t you figure out how to do it?� Dirk asked him, a little peeved by Neris’s patronizing tone. The madman shrugged. “Not my area of expertise, I’m afraid. Ask me how much the world weighs and I’ll figure it out for you, Dirk, but to destroy a whole religion ... that takes a special sort of skill that I don’t have. It takes political cunning, not mathematical ability. And nerves of solid steel,�
Good luck Dirk you are going to need it since you seem to have enemies on every side of you.
Tia, well Tia grew on me a little. That girl is a broken mess in a lot of ways and while I’m not sure how she will recover from the events of this book short of killing a lot of people I hope she finds some solace and learns the truths that we the reader know be she does not.
No one can hold a grudge like Tia and it seems that even after a few years she still holds a huge one against Dirk for his part in Johan’s death. I liked how Lexxie came to point out that even our heroes are just people with flaws just like everyone else and shouldn’t be placed so high on a pedestal.
“You remember Johan as a hero,� Porl remarked. Lexie nodded in agreement. “You never saw the man, Tia, only the tragic figure of a deposed king who was robbed of his kingdom by an evil warlord.�
“But that’s exactly what happened ...�
“In your mind, certainly,� Lexie agreed. “But you weren’t there. The fact is Johan lost Dhevyn because he invited Antonov in. Worse than that, he begged the Lion of Senet for help, and he allowed the true love of his life—�
“He loved you, Lexie!�
“Johan loved Morna, Tia, more than you will ever understand, unless you’ve loved someone the same way. Johan and I came together for comfort as much as love, and we were happy enough together, but his last thoughts were of Morna, not me.�
“L澱…�
“No, let me finish. Johan allowed the love of his life to marry the man Antonov chose because he was too afraid to deny him.�
“Johan wasn’t afraid of anything!� she declared hotly.
“Don’t be ridiculous, Tia. Johan was as full of fear as any other man. Why do you think he never tried to take Dhevyn back? The Johan you have built up in your mind is ten feet tall and made of solid gold. The real Johan was a thoughtful man, a cautious man, and one who spent his entire life paying for his mistakes.
Sometimes it seems our heroes must fall for us to be able to grow and move on.
As much as there are other villains in this book and there are a few, I hate Marquel as much if not more than Cersie Lanaster. I didn’t think I had more character hate in me and then she did what she did in this book and I’m ready for her to die the death of a thousand papercuts. She is so selfish, vile and rotten to the core. I hate everything about her and I really hope she gets her just deserts in the next book.
This book was an emotional journey for me. Some of it was very dark. There are some great moments of humor but I was extremely affected and sad about certain happenings. There are moments I totally loved, characters I rooted for and others I mourned for. I have a few hopes going into the next book because things in this one ended so precariously for some characters I care about. Dirk has so much farther to go to meet his goals and so much standing in his way.
Here is hoping that someone gets some sorta of happily ever after in the conclusion.
Read
August 22, 2023DNF at 33%... I hate this series. Hate it.
April 6, 2017
Eye of the Labyrinth by Jennifer Fallon
5
Read with my friends at Buddies, Books and Bauble
The second book in the series picks up two years after we last see Dirk. Antonov is still obsessed with him, as is the High Priestess Belagren. Dirk has been hiding in the Baenlands with his new found friends and family, trying to escape the clutches of the Lion of Senet, but Antonov won't be beaten, and he thinks he's found a way to bring Dirk out in the open once and for all.
The second book has at least as much suspense and character growth as the first book, and I went through my third read of it in a matter of days. I simply couldn't put it down. All of the characters are still recognizable, yet some of them have grown up quite a bit and become more mature people (Alenor) and a few of them haven't managed to grow up at all (Tia). Others have only grown more devious and hateful (Marqel) and Dirk has become something more than he had ever imagined for himself. Plots are being schemed and put into motion and soon all of Ranadon could be thrown into chaos.
5
Read with my friends at Buddies, Books and Bauble
The second book in the series picks up two years after we last see Dirk. Antonov is still obsessed with him, as is the High Priestess Belagren. Dirk has been hiding in the Baenlands with his new found friends and family, trying to escape the clutches of the Lion of Senet, but Antonov won't be beaten, and he thinks he's found a way to bring Dirk out in the open once and for all.
The second book has at least as much suspense and character growth as the first book, and I went through my third read of it in a matter of days. I simply couldn't put it down. All of the characters are still recognizable, yet some of them have grown up quite a bit and become more mature people (Alenor) and a few of them haven't managed to grow up at all (Tia). Others have only grown more devious and hateful (Marqel) and Dirk has become something more than he had ever imagined for himself. Plots are being schemed and put into motion and soon all of Ranadon could be thrown into chaos.
September 24, 2024
Eye of the Labyrinth is the second book of Second Son trilogy. It is a high fantasy with the unique settings of the two suns exist In a fictional world which the religions had been dominating people’s life for decades. After the Age of Shadows, one of the suns had disappeared for a few years, which was the most memorable catastrophe to the people of Ramadan in the history. Dirk is the hero when the time demanding the crisis of the high priestess and the king of Senet co-conspired to control the whole Ranadon kingdoms. Dirk is the hero who had the talents of both mathematics and politic. He seems to be the hero in the miserable period of time in Ranadon; even though he has killed Johan who was his biological father.
Since Dirk killed his father, he escaped to Beanland where is the home to pirates and outcasts. Dirk wanted to be forgotten what he did in The Son of Senet. But the king Alenovor imprisoned Dirk’s mother and waited for exercising her. Dirk and his friends in Beanland had discussed to find the Labyrinth which Neris has built. Marque the magnificent who became the priestess of shadowdancers and wouldn’t forgive Dirk interfered her getting closer to Prince Krish.
The plots are not as exciting to read as in the first book. Mostly for setting up to the third book, Lord of Shadows. Some plots twists and character developments are too convenient to read. Marque is a good character in Son of Senet, but here in the second book of the trilogy, she seems to be forced to do things to compel the plots forward. Especially to some specific characters developments, with Alenor, her hatred and motivation become to overdriven the plot to a particular point. What a shame to see a potential good character becomes to a plot device. Moreover, Marque using drugs to kill the important characters in the story many times that is not a creative way to write the story I expected more from that because I think the writer is able to plot intricate intrigues.
Dirk in this book is a bit better than Marque but mostly he haven’t done any clever things or decisions till near the end of the book. I wanted to see more his tactics to dealt with the other characters. In the end of the book, Dirk betrayed his friends to become the lord of shadows, is that so?
Overall, the setting is interesting to see two suns in a secondary world how that has the impact on people’s life. Some people have used the religions to manipulate other people. I hope to see more scientific explanations to the two suns and it impacts on the age of shadows even though it is a fantasy book. The Second Sun trilogy is more focused on the religions and politickings, dramas and family issues etc. the author knows how to create tension in character developments, and plots the climax to the end of the story.
Personal rating : 6 out of 10 points.
Since Dirk killed his father, he escaped to Beanland where is the home to pirates and outcasts. Dirk wanted to be forgotten what he did in The Son of Senet. But the king Alenovor imprisoned Dirk’s mother and waited for exercising her. Dirk and his friends in Beanland had discussed to find the Labyrinth which Neris has built. Marque the magnificent who became the priestess of shadowdancers and wouldn’t forgive Dirk interfered her getting closer to Prince Krish.
The plots are not as exciting to read as in the first book. Mostly for setting up to the third book, Lord of Shadows. Some plots twists and character developments are too convenient to read. Marque is a good character in Son of Senet, but here in the second book of the trilogy, she seems to be forced to do things to compel the plots forward. Especially to some specific characters developments, with Alenor, her hatred and motivation become to overdriven the plot to a particular point. What a shame to see a potential good character becomes to a plot device. Moreover, Marque using drugs to kill the important characters in the story many times that is not a creative way to write the story I expected more from that because I think the writer is able to plot intricate intrigues.
Dirk in this book is a bit better than Marque but mostly he haven’t done any clever things or decisions till near the end of the book. I wanted to see more his tactics to dealt with the other characters. In the end of the book, Dirk betrayed his friends to become the lord of shadows, is that so?
Overall, the setting is interesting to see two suns in a secondary world how that has the impact on people’s life. Some people have used the religions to manipulate other people. I hope to see more scientific explanations to the two suns and it impacts on the age of shadows even though it is a fantasy book. The Second Sun trilogy is more focused on the religions and politickings, dramas and family issues etc. the author knows how to create tension in character developments, and plots the climax to the end of the story.
Personal rating : 6 out of 10 points.
August 30, 2015
Note that this review covers both Eye of the Labyrinth and Son of Shadows.
In some ways the shine wore off after the first book. The plot throughout the trilogy is very linear -- there is one objective, and the MC sticks to that sole objective throughout (although of course there are many steps along the way) -- so it's very much like one long book rather than three semi-independent books. And since this is a world without magic and with no interesting creatures, the author has nothing more to fall back on than any writer of historical fiction.
Fortunately, the plot was interesting, and I always wanted to see how the MC worked his way out of various political knots he had worked his way into. Unfortunately, some of the characters got tiresome along the way or started doing exceedingly stupid things. And one character who was supposed to be one of the Good Guys was such an unremittingly hate-filled idiot that I was actively rooting for her to get strangled by someone -- but no, she just continued to get OTHER people killed with her stupidity, even though everyone around her kept remarking on how intelligent and sensible she was. Bah. And then the only sensible female character from the first book turned into a whining ninny as soon as she fell in love. Bah again. We did at least get a new sensible female character, and we could all see from twenty miles away where she was going to end up (not a bad fate, just a "seriously? this was supposed to be a plot twist?" fate).
So -- if you like politics and intrigue, this may be a good series for you. Not a good series if you want sympathetic female characters who actively influence the plot's resolution, though, and neither magic nor wonder for those who seek such things in their fantasy. And, of course, strictly speaking, it was actually science fiction (shhhhhhhhh! don't tell!) simply clothed in the language and tropes of fantasy.
I'm giving this about 3.5 stars. I'm rounding up for now to give credit to all the machinations of the plot, but I could just as easily round down if I were writing this in a bad mood.
In some ways the shine wore off after the first book. The plot throughout the trilogy is very linear -- there is one objective, and the MC sticks to that sole objective throughout (although of course there are many steps along the way) -- so it's very much like one long book rather than three semi-independent books. And since this is a world without magic and with no interesting creatures, the author has nothing more to fall back on than any writer of historical fiction.
Fortunately, the plot was interesting, and I always wanted to see how the MC worked his way out of various political knots he had worked his way into. Unfortunately, some of the characters got tiresome along the way or started doing exceedingly stupid things. And one character who was supposed to be one of the Good Guys was such an unremittingly hate-filled idiot that I was actively rooting for her to get strangled by someone -- but no, she just continued to get OTHER people killed with her stupidity, even though everyone around her kept remarking on how intelligent and sensible she was. Bah. And then the only sensible female character from the first book turned into a whining ninny as soon as she fell in love. Bah again. We did at least get a new sensible female character, and we could all see from twenty miles away where she was going to end up (not a bad fate, just a "seriously? this was supposed to be a plot twist?" fate).
So -- if you like politics and intrigue, this may be a good series for you. Not a good series if you want sympathetic female characters who actively influence the plot's resolution, though, and neither magic nor wonder for those who seek such things in their fantasy. And, of course, strictly speaking, it was actually science fiction (shhhhhhhhh! don't tell!) simply clothed in the language and tropes of fantasy.
I'm giving this about 3.5 stars. I'm rounding up for now to give credit to all the machinations of the plot, but I could just as easily round down if I were writing this in a bad mood.
May 6, 2009
I guess this is 'fantasy' but it's not your classic myth and magic story - fairly grounded in politics, actually. And this is where this trilogy truly shines.
This isn't Fallon's best trilogy - I feel that ball lies well in the Hythrun Chronicles court - but in terms of plotting and "oh my god, you know what? I really have no idea what's going to happen next" it's unbelievably good. In terms of morality and fate it's also a bit bleaker and harder than the Hythrun and Medalon - more Hobb-like.
I started reading this book fairly soon after Hyrthun and Medalon and was a bit turned off by it's lack of classic fantasy-ness, but I definitely advise readers to stick into it. I was fairly intrigued by the end of the first book, but by the end of the second book I was on one of the biggest plot-influenced tenterhooks I can remember in my life. Brilliant! Absolutely brilliant!
This isn't Fallon's best trilogy - I feel that ball lies well in the Hythrun Chronicles court - but in terms of plotting and "oh my god, you know what? I really have no idea what's going to happen next" it's unbelievably good. In terms of morality and fate it's also a bit bleaker and harder than the Hythrun and Medalon - more Hobb-like.
I started reading this book fairly soon after Hyrthun and Medalon and was a bit turned off by it's lack of classic fantasy-ness, but I definitely advise readers to stick into it. I was fairly intrigued by the end of the first book, but by the end of the second book I was on one of the biggest plot-influenced tenterhooks I can remember in my life. Brilliant! Absolutely brilliant!
March 6, 2013
I'd rate it higher but some characters are just too annoying (I'm looking at you, Tia!)
November 28, 2021
WOW!!!
This series is blowing my mind.
It's unexpected: I keep thinking I know how situations will turn out and what will happen next, and I keep getting surprised! You may think you're reading a standard fantasy, and maybe that it will even be a bit mundane since there is absolutely NO magic, but you will be wrong. There is nothing mundane about it! And all the little plots/storylines are some of the most creative I've ever read.
It's highly dramatic: Get ready for a racing heart, stomach flips, and gasping out loud. But, IN A GOOD WAY. Not in an angsty, manufactured drama way.
Love/Hate literally EVERYONE: Except maybe Eryk. No one can hate Eryk. Everyone else? Fair game.
Just a side note: Fallon doesn't pull any punches. You might want to brace yourself before reading. It can get intense, and a bit gut-wrenching at times.
Another side note (that's actually sort of important):
I specifically chose what edition I am reviewing rather than leaving it on the default, Bantam published one, for a REASON. I listened to this one, mostly, but also have the kindle edition, published by Bantam (Random House), and sometimes I would listen and read simultaneously so that I could highlight things I wanted to discuss by my fellow buddy reader, my long lost twin.
During this, I discovered a lot of missing text in the kindle edition. Like, whole chunks of dialogue that I thought really added to the story, even. So I researched a little bit and discovered that the Bantam version is a full 100 pages less than any other version of this book! So, IF YOU CAN, I highly recommend seeking out one of the other editions (by Harper Collins or Voyager), or, listen to the audible version published in 2014 (I can't speak to the one repubbed in 2015...not sure why they remade it a year later).
That's my public service announcement. Now off to convince my dear sister we need to read book 3 poste haste!
This series is blowing my mind.
It's unexpected: I keep thinking I know how situations will turn out and what will happen next, and I keep getting surprised! You may think you're reading a standard fantasy, and maybe that it will even be a bit mundane since there is absolutely NO magic, but you will be wrong. There is nothing mundane about it! And all the little plots/storylines are some of the most creative I've ever read.
It's highly dramatic: Get ready for a racing heart, stomach flips, and gasping out loud. But, IN A GOOD WAY. Not in an angsty, manufactured drama way.
Love/Hate literally EVERYONE: Except maybe Eryk. No one can hate Eryk. Everyone else? Fair game.
Just a side note: Fallon doesn't pull any punches. You might want to brace yourself before reading. It can get intense, and a bit gut-wrenching at times.
Another side note (that's actually sort of important):
I specifically chose what edition I am reviewing rather than leaving it on the default, Bantam published one, for a REASON. I listened to this one, mostly, but also have the kindle edition, published by Bantam (Random House), and sometimes I would listen and read simultaneously so that I could highlight things I wanted to discuss by my fellow buddy reader, my long lost twin.
During this, I discovered a lot of missing text in the kindle edition. Like, whole chunks of dialogue that I thought really added to the story, even. So I researched a little bit and discovered that the Bantam version is a full 100 pages less than any other version of this book! So, IF YOU CAN, I highly recommend seeking out one of the other editions (by Harper Collins or Voyager), or, listen to the audible version published in 2014 (I can't speak to the one repubbed in 2015...not sure why they remade it a year later).
That's my public service announcement. Now off to convince my dear sister we need to read book 3 poste haste!
July 29, 2012
The Second Sons Trilogy really picks up speed in this book. Just like the one before it, Eye of the Labyrinth absolutely stands up to a second read-through. Somewhat unlike the one before it, the characters all take on distinctly unique personalities that really brings the world to life.
While in the first book, all the children seemed to be tugged along whichever way the adults in their lives wanted, here they start to realize the power each one of them has.
Tia, probably my favorite part of the first book, does become irritating at points. I forgot just how tired of her constant insistence that Dirk is the enemy gets... but thankfully that transforms somewhat before the point of being utterly obnoxious.
The other kids, meanwhile, are flat and predictable children no longer! There aren't words to express my delight in Alenor and the way she comes into her confidence. I've become rather fond of Kirsh, but it was still beyond refreshing to see her put him in his place and stand up for herself. That she manages to do it without ever straying from the roll of the caring and polite girl we were introduced to in the first book is a testament to Ms. Fallon's ability.
Even Dirk seems remarkably more rounded in this book. He stops trying to pretend he isn't special, stops letting everyone else lead him around by the nose, and actually starts to use that brain of his! It's refreshing! More importantly, we see evidence that he's still very much a young man when it comes to certain important things, and just as prone to making poor choices as everyone else.
Even knowing what was coming, I found myself jerked into the narrative in a very visceral way. By the time I reached the 60% point, I couldn't set it down for anything in the world, as the bags under my eyes from lack of sleep can attest.
While in the first book, all the children seemed to be tugged along whichever way the adults in their lives wanted, here they start to realize the power each one of them has.
Tia, probably my favorite part of the first book, does become irritating at points. I forgot just how tired of her constant insistence that Dirk is the enemy gets... but thankfully that transforms somewhat before the point of being utterly obnoxious.
The other kids, meanwhile, are flat and predictable children no longer! There aren't words to express my delight in Alenor and the way she comes into her confidence. I've become rather fond of Kirsh, but it was still beyond refreshing to see her put him in his place and stand up for herself. That she manages to do it without ever straying from the roll of the caring and polite girl we were introduced to in the first book is a testament to Ms. Fallon's ability.
Even Dirk seems remarkably more rounded in this book. He stops trying to pretend he isn't special, stops letting everyone else lead him around by the nose, and actually starts to use that brain of his! It's refreshing! More importantly, we see evidence that he's still very much a young man when it comes to certain important things, and just as prone to making poor choices as everyone else.
Even knowing what was coming, I found myself jerked into the narrative in a very visceral way. By the time I reached the 60% point, I couldn't set it down for anything in the world, as the bags under my eyes from lack of sleep can attest.
April 30, 2014
All I can say about this book is oh my God!! This book was definitely a lot better than the first one!! I can definitely anticipate that the third, and final book in this trilogy will be even better!! It's astounding to me as to what extreme measures some people will do a order to get to what they want!! Even if it's for the cost of good! I firmly believe that Dirk is one of the most intelligent characters in this entire series!! I can't believe he was able to figure everything out! Even at the cost of everybody else's feelings, even if he knew he have to betray the one that he love to get to what he needs to do to achieve his goal for the price of good!! I will say however that Tia is one of the most aggravating characters I have ever met!! She is even more annoying in this book than she was in the first one!! I truly wish that someone would just punch her in the mouth to get it over with!! She is so stupid comment such a moron, that I'm surprised she lived this long through the entire series!! Is a bit of romance in this book. Not much though. However, fantastic novel! I cannot wait to read the third and final book! I love the fact that he decided to call himself a lord of shadows! Absolutely genius! Jennifer Fallon is a phenomenal writer! This book definitely gets five stars in my book
April 24, 2012
Splendid! A very smart book that makes you fall in love with Dirk Provin! One of the best books I've ever read!I seriously recommend it.
September 21, 2008
This story is just plain delicious. The complex politics, the multiple layers of intrigue, and the personal agendas all add up to a riveting read. This is one of those books you will find extremely hard to put down. Every page seems to add another twist or layer or flat out shock. You honestly have no idea what is going to happen next and if you think you have it figured out, think again because Dirk has more tricks up his sleeve then a magician. Heck, poor Dirk has to think fast on his feet too because his grand plan keeps hitting unexpected roadblocks so he ends up pretty much winging it as he goes along. I know, I'm gushing but I really love this book. The characters continue to grow and develop in leaps and bounds. You know that Dirk has a grand scheme in mind but you have absolutely no idea what it is or how he expects to pull it off without getting killed. There are a couple of romantic scenarios too that you likely expected would happen but when they do take twists that you could not have seen coming. I absolutely adore a story that keeps me constantly on my toes, quickly turning pages and shaking my head in disbelief.
April 3, 2013
There are few books that can claim the sequel to be better than the first book, and this is one of them. "The Lion of Senet" was a fantastic read and a great introduction to all the characters. In the "Eye of the Labyrinth", the story continues two years after the first book leaves off. We find Alenor thrust into the role of queen and Kirsh training with the Queen's Guard. Marquel is even more deadly and dangerous proving that there's nothing she won't do to get what she wants. Tia will reluctantly learn to trust Dirk only to live to regret that decision, and Dirk is the most complicated individual of all the characters. These are only a few of the many characters involved, and how the ending will play out, remains to be seen in the last book "Lord of the Shadows" Fallon's characters are so well written that it's hard not to view them as real people instead of individuals in a fantasy novel.
September 25, 2017
Honestly, I couldn't put it down. It picks up the story two years after the first book finishes, but in terms of pace and feelings -there's no interruption whatsoever.
The intricate web of relationships that the author weaves in this part of the trilogy is sometimes heartbreaking and gut wrenching, but I mean that in the best of way. I was completely absorbed in the plot and the characters. I can't wait to start the next book.
I should mention that I listened to the audiobook version of this book, and I really think Joe Jameson is one of (if not the) best narrators I've ever listened to. He acts so well and gives each word feeling and meaning and texture. He is really outstanding.
The intricate web of relationships that the author weaves in this part of the trilogy is sometimes heartbreaking and gut wrenching, but I mean that in the best of way. I was completely absorbed in the plot and the characters. I can't wait to start the next book.
I should mention that I listened to the audiobook version of this book, and I really think Joe Jameson is one of (if not the) best narrators I've ever listened to. He acts so well and gives each word feeling and meaning and texture. He is really outstanding.
January 21, 2010
started 11/01/10
This second book had me gripped from the beginning. So much so, I'm going straight on to the 3rd book now.
The characters are fantastic really well established. I'm so intrigued with the way Dirk is going about trying to bring down Antonov and Belagren. Excited too. So far I haven't been able to work out exactly what he's up to. I also can't work out why he needs to push everyone away to accomplish this. I suppose if you haven't got any apparent weaknesses that can be exploited, then there is nothing that the enemy can do to hurt you. Onto number 3!!!
This second book had me gripped from the beginning. So much so, I'm going straight on to the 3rd book now.
The characters are fantastic really well established. I'm so intrigued with the way Dirk is going about trying to bring down Antonov and Belagren. Excited too. So far I haven't been able to work out exactly what he's up to. I also can't work out why he needs to push everyone away to accomplish this. I suppose if you haven't got any apparent weaknesses that can be exploited, then there is nothing that the enemy can do to hurt you. Onto number 3!!!
May 28, 2014
Even better than the previous book. The political machinations are engaging, and I especially liked the fact that "bad guys" actually manage to win a lot of victories here. It's a fresh perspective to see the good guys suffer without uncovering the plots against them and finding the truth...
Anyway....great read. The series is getting better, which is awesome (I had the misfortune to encounter a lot of series that started well, but got worse with each sequel...) This isn't the case, fortunately :) Enjoy!
Anyway....great read. The series is getting better, which is awesome (I had the misfortune to encounter a lot of series that started well, but got worse with each sequel...) This isn't the case, fortunately :) Enjoy!
January 11, 2011
excellent! read straight through for about 17 hours to finish both this one and the next!
November 1, 2018
I have two words for you: Dirk Provin!
August 27, 2023
I am a little surprised with all of the 5-star reviews of this book. In my opinion, it just barely ekes out 3 stars. Compared to , I find the strengths of the first book are diminished here, and the weaknesses amplified. The first book had a fair amount of politicking, as well as quite a number of different plot threads going simultaneously with many characters. Here the story becomes much more linear, focusing mainly a on just a few characters and a couple of fairly straightforward story arcs. Additionally, some of the annoyances I had with the way that several of the characters were written were actually significantly more prominent here, probably because they were the characters who received much of the focus. This all added up to a book that felt longer than the first in the series, and not exactly in a good way.
The plot progression of Eye of the Labyrinth does seem somewhat contrived at times, moved forward by characters making some suspect decisions. I believe that there were some signs of this in the first book, but it was less noticeable to me. There are also a lot of times where the plotting of characters are highly dependent on a number of unlikely things occurring in just a certain way, or certain characters not talking to each other about what they know. However, for the sake of the story, you know that events will almost certainly play out in just that improbably manner. On top of that, there is way too much time spent on a very trope-heavy, obnoxious, YA-style romance that started to border on the ridiculous.
I realize that this review is largely negative, and perhaps for that reason it should be 2 stars. Despite the criticisms though, there was something that kept me entertained enough to keep reading. Perhaps it was the writing style, the pacing, or the very short chapters that constantly had me saying, "I'll read just one more." In the end I liked it well enough to want to pick up the final book of the trilogy at some point in order to find out how Fallon decided the conclude the story. Eye of the Labyrinth does end on a rather interesting development/cliffhanger.
The plot progression of Eye of the Labyrinth does seem somewhat contrived at times, moved forward by characters making some suspect decisions. I believe that there were some signs of this in the first book, but it was less noticeable to me. There are also a lot of times where the plotting of characters are highly dependent on a number of unlikely things occurring in just a certain way, or certain characters not talking to each other about what they know. However, for the sake of the story, you know that events will almost certainly play out in just that improbably manner. On top of that, there is way too much time spent on a very trope-heavy, obnoxious, YA-style romance that started to border on the ridiculous.
I realize that this review is largely negative, and perhaps for that reason it should be 2 stars. Despite the criticisms though, there was something that kept me entertained enough to keep reading. Perhaps it was the writing style, the pacing, or the very short chapters that constantly had me saying, "I'll read just one more." In the end I liked it well enough to want to pick up the final book of the trilogy at some point in order to find out how Fallon decided the conclude the story. Eye of the Labyrinth does end on a rather interesting development/cliffhanger.
September 2, 2022
Awesome, onto the next!
January 28, 2016
A lot of trilogies struggle in the middle. They get a solid start and a roaring finish but just sort of sag and twiddle their thumbs halfway through. Not so with this book. This is probably the most plot-twisty of the three. A lot happens very fast, and the ending is a bit of a cliff hanger, but not in an irritating "the main character looks like he's going to die but totally won't" sort of way, more of a "I know something bad has probably happened, but I don't know what it is going to mean for the characters and plot" sort of way. The characters gain further depth and continue to be witty and believable and endearing. It is an all-round good read.
May 6, 2023
Much more satisfying than the first novel, which mostly gave me anxiety. Things start falling into place and interactions between characters become more satisfying. Still more drama than an episode of Jerry Springer, but the plot is coming along nicely.
July 16, 2017
I'm too busy starting book three already...no time to write a review!
This series should be read!
There- that should suffice.
This series should be read!
There- that should suffice.
April 2, 2018
Now that I've read chapter 57, I dig Tia x Dirk. Fallon knows how to write a steamy scene!
May 29, 2018
I thought this one was a little better than the first. I like that it has a complicated plot and I can’t see how things are going to unravel.
July 6, 2018
Oh what a wicked web and there's plenty of well intentioned deceit as well as straight up betrayal in these books. It's complex and well done.
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