Lord of the Fire Lands: A Tale of the King's Blades

Rating:
Summary: An excellent work, but for one flaw
Review: More of a stand-alone than a sequel, instead of picking up where The Gilded Chain left off, this novel tells the story of events that happened somewhere in the middle of that book, ones that were just barely mentioned because they didn't relate to Durendal. I liked the change in focus. This focuses on new characters, but there are some familiar names for those who have read The Gilded Chain, which gives a pleasant sense of recognition and connection. These new characters are engaging, just as the old ones, and there is increased explanation of the special connection between a Blade and his ward. All in all, I enjoyed this book and sped through it almost as quickly as the first. But when I reached the end, I was somewhat disappointed. For some reason, it seems Dave Duncan decided to alter the history between his first and second books. It seemed to kill all the connection that the story had established. I searched the remaining pages for some sort of explanation, but none existed. If anyone knows of any reason for this, I'd love to hear it.

Rating:
Summary: Good book, better than the first
Review: I enjoyed the characters and the well-crafted story. An engaging read, better than most of the fantasy/sci-fi crud out there.

Rating:
Summary: Very good sword and sorcery
Review: In a crowded field this book stands out. It is well written, has great character development and never stops. I read it from start to finish in one night and couldn't wait to order the next Blade book.

Rating:
Summary: Good, but the first one was better.
Review: The first book in this series really held me spellbound. I couldn't wait to read what happened next. This second one didn't seem to do that as well, but it was still enjoyable reading. I hated the ending. It contradicted the first book. I get the feeling the author just got tired of writing and quit, to go on to the next project....

Rating:
Summary: Just what happened at the end?
Review: I really enjoyed this book. However, the end of it left me wanting. Maybe I'm just not following all that's going on, but in The Guilded Chain, Lady Malinda married King Radgar! If I'm wrong about this, by all means, someone let me know. However, until then, I find myself quite annoyed with Mr. Duncan.

Rating:
Summary: AWESOME, EVEN WITH THE CONTRADICTION!
Review: I thought this new book by Dave Duncan was wonderful! And, I'm looking foward to the next book to see how Mr. Duncan handles and explains the contradiction he left for us in this new book, Lord of the Fire Lands. I can't wait!

Rating:
Summary: Blades still sharp!
Review: LORD OF THE FIRE LANDS is another piece in the puzzle of Dave Duncan's novels of the King's Blades. The new Blades are as sharp as the old; King Ambrose is at his villainous/heroic best, and another piece of the mysterious world is revealed. The redhaired, viking-like Baels are well-thought-out, and their thralls are a nasty, scary idea. But, er, where have I heard this plot before? An indecisive prince whose uncle has designs on his father's throne and wife? Alas, Sir Yorick. Something's rotten in Baelmark. And only half a witch; what economy! Duncan's use of the Anglo-saxon 'eth' and 'thorn' characters adds depth to the Baelish society, and the thralls add a nightmarish edge. The ending contradicts that of GILDED CHAIN, which is why I say it's a puzzle. More puzzle pieces, please, Mr. Duncan. Keep 'em coming. You're on a roll!

Rating:
Summary: More swashbuckling fun
Review: While this book is set in the same world, and deals with some of the same characters, as The Gilded Chain, it is most definitely its own book -- it has new protagonists, is largely set in a different part of the world, and has a largely independent plot (which, while it comes to a satisfying completion, works in conjunction with the first book to set the stage for some interesting events in the upcoming third book). I didn't like this quite as much as The Gilded Chain, primarily because I found the pseudo-Viking society in which much of this book was set less interesting than the pseudo-Tudor society in which the first book took place. Nevertheless, an enjoyable book, and I'm looking forward to the sequel.

Rating:
Summary: Two awesome books.
Review: Both books are awesome and I recommend them to readers. Can't wait for the third book, which would clarify the mystery formed by an apparent contradiction between the two books, which happens at the end of the second book.. Awesome hanging ending at the end of the second book, made me crave for more...

Rating:
Summary: Awesome!
Review: Great stories (both books). Fire Lands is just as good as Gilded. I can not wait for another installment of the King's Blades. Great stories and Duncan does not explain everything so, you can use your imagination and/or investigation skills to fiqure things out. The story was told like you were watching it. Great!