Review: A fantasy series to really sink your teeth into
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 13, 2013
I became embroiled in Sarah Bean's quest in the first book in this new and imaginative "Age of the Flame" series, The Sword of Sighs. The second still features James's trademark use of imagery and horror/dark fantasy elements, but further rounds out the many worlds created by the first novel and tantalisingly adds to Sarah's mission, adding the Sceptre of Storms to Sarah's arsenal of weapons. Sarah's progression from teased teen to mature, capable young adult becomes more obvious in this second offering, which promises some truly grotesque monsters and impediments but also hope of redemption later in the series. James's imagination is second to none when it comes to world-building. The second in the series showcases James's masterful use of language almost as much as his fantastic imagination. A coherent, well-planned and engaging dark fantasy for younger readers. I highly recommend it.