Review: sure to keep you engaged until the end
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 25, 2011
when the author promises unforgettable characters, non-stop action, romance, and intrigue, he most certainly delivers. The Blood Gate engages the reader quickly from the beginning and transports them into a world of war and treachery. A definite 5 stars out of 5.This may be my shortest review, but there is a limit to the number of ways I can say this book was awesome--go read it. It has multiple subplots ranging from hired mercenaries, treasonous brothers, insane Kings, and prophetic pseudo-mothers. And last but not least, a war for freedom and a search to harness the power of a god. The author is a master of description and keeps the reader guessing as to what trouble his characters will find themselves in next. A central theme of the book is power coupled with madness, which makes for very intricate and original personalities.In the true spirit of epic fantasy, there are too many characters to name. The author gives the characters such complex back stories and motivations, I felt like I understood each and every one, even the more minor characters. The main character, Prince Hurrus, was upstaged for me by Xanthippus and the heart-wrenching flashbacks to his childhood. I admittedly felt a little nervous for Xanthippus at the end of the book and couldn't help but wonder what life would bring to him after the book's ending--I fear there is much more heartache headed his way.One of my favourite things about this work was the author's establishment of his world's religions and gods. I am forever fascinated by authors who can create deities so flawed and so captivating and that exist so far outside the realm of our current religious systems--and yet make them believable.The Blood Gate is a bit of a longer read, as per most epic fantasy, but it's sure to keep you engaged until the end. The author did a great job of spacing out the action and kept the plot flowing (with many twist and turns) and he did so without making it feel like it was action for action's sake. All of the books subplots weave together beautifully in the end, and leave the reader invested in the characters/world.The only concern I have with this book? I really hope there is a sequel.Review by: Erica of Sift Book ReviewsSift Book Reviews received a free copy for review from the author. This has, in no way, affected the reviewer's opinion.