Review: A sweeping, majestic story.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 28, 2012
In my review for book 1, I talked about the plot, for book 2, the writing.For this book, I have to talk about the battle.  I don't think that's giving anything away since by about page 10 of the first book, you know there's gonna be a battle.  With most ancient times books that involve a battle, usually my eyes kind of glaze over when the author starts talking about tactics and maneuvers.  I don't get it, and I probably never will.  For this book, I totally understood what was happening at every moment.  The author includes maps showing troop positioning throughout the battle which goes a long way towards helping me conceptualize what's going on.The battle itself is impressive because of it's complexity.  Not many authors can write about military tactics.  And throught most of it, you STILL aren't sure how it's all going to end!  I loved that!  Because the author isn't afraid to damage his characters, as you read, you aren't sure if anyone comes out of the battle in one piece or even alive.Oh, and the characters.  Every time Ryhunzo goes on one of his rants, I die laughing!  He's one of the funniest characters of all time.  All the characters are really amazing.  They each have their own unique voice, a great deal of depth and are very well fleshed-out.Again, I was just so very impressed with the depth and breadth of every aspect of this series.  I can't wait to see what else Andrew Ashling comes out with!!!!