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Greatcoats #2
Knight's Shadow
Following his beloved debut, Traitor's Blade, Sebastien de Castell returns with volume two of his fast-paced fantasy adventure series, inspired by the swashbuckling action and witty banter of The Three Musketeers. Knight's Shadow continues the series with a thrilling and dark tale of heroism and betrayal in a country crushed under the weight of its rulers' corruption.
A few days after the horrifying murder of a duke and his family, Falcio val Mond, swordsman and First Cantor of the Greatcoats, begins a deadly pursuit to capture the killer. But Falcio soon discovers his own life is in mortal danger from a poison administered as a final act of revenge by one of his deadliest enemies. As chaos and civil war begin to overtake the country, Falcio has precious little time left to stop those determined to destroy his homeland.
A few days after the horrifying murder of a duke and his family, Falcio val Mond, swordsman and First Cantor of the Greatcoats, begins a deadly pursuit to capture the killer. But Falcio soon discovers his own life is in mortal danger from a poison administered as a final act of revenge by one of his deadliest enemies. As chaos and civil war begin to overtake the country, Falcio has precious little time left to stop those determined to destroy his homeland.
606 pages, Hardcover
First published December 8, 2014
About the author
Sebastien de Castell
51 books4,737 followersHi Folks!
My sixteenth novel, CRUCIBLE OF CHAOS is now available. Estevar Borros is my favourite swashbuckling investigator of the supernatural, so come investigate alongside him and his dauntless mule, Imperious inside a mysterious abbey where the gods seem to be driving the monks mad!
My fifteenth novel is FATE OF THE ARGOSI. The Argosi series is one of my favourites and I hope you'll come along for Ferius Parfax's adventures!
My fourteenth novel, THE MALEVOLENT SEVEN is about a band of anti-hero mages who may be humanity's last hope.
You can get a pair of free stories here.
The best way to stay up to date is at www.decastell.com, but I'm also on that Facebook thing. Also that Twitter thing. One day I'll even remember to get on that Instagram thing.
As to who I am? Well . . .
Sebastien de Castell had just finished a degree in Archaeology when he started work on his first dig. Four hours later he realized how much he actually hated archaeology and left to pursue a very focused career as a musician, ombudsman, interaction designer, fight choreographer, teacher, project manager, actor, and product strategist. His only defence against the charge of unbridled dilettantism is that he genuinely likes doing these things and that, in one way or another, each of these fields plays a role in his writing. He sternly resists the accusation of being a Renaissance Man in the hopes that more people will label him that way.
Sebastien's acclaimed swashbuckling fantasy series, The Greatcoats. was shortlisted for both the 2014 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy. the Gemmell Morningstar Award for Best Debut, the Prix Imaginales for Best Foreign Work, and the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer. His YA fantasy series, Spellslinger, was nominated for the Carnegie Medal and is published in more than a dozen languages.
Sebastien lives in Vancouver, Canada with his lovely wife and two belligerent cats. You can reach him at www.decastell.com
My sixteenth novel, CRUCIBLE OF CHAOS is now available. Estevar Borros is my favourite swashbuckling investigator of the supernatural, so come investigate alongside him and his dauntless mule, Imperious inside a mysterious abbey where the gods seem to be driving the monks mad!
My fifteenth novel is FATE OF THE ARGOSI. The Argosi series is one of my favourites and I hope you'll come along for Ferius Parfax's adventures!
My fourteenth novel, THE MALEVOLENT SEVEN is about a band of anti-hero mages who may be humanity's last hope.
You can get a pair of free stories here.
The best way to stay up to date is at www.decastell.com, but I'm also on that Facebook thing. Also that Twitter thing. One day I'll even remember to get on that Instagram thing.
As to who I am? Well . . .
Sebastien de Castell had just finished a degree in Archaeology when he started work on his first dig. Four hours later he realized how much he actually hated archaeology and left to pursue a very focused career as a musician, ombudsman, interaction designer, fight choreographer, teacher, project manager, actor, and product strategist. His only defence against the charge of unbridled dilettantism is that he genuinely likes doing these things and that, in one way or another, each of these fields plays a role in his writing. He sternly resists the accusation of being a Renaissance Man in the hopes that more people will label him that way.
Sebastien's acclaimed swashbuckling fantasy series, The Greatcoats. was shortlisted for both the 2014 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy. the Gemmell Morningstar Award for Best Debut, the Prix Imaginales for Best Foreign Work, and the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer. His YA fantasy series, Spellslinger, was nominated for the Carnegie Medal and is published in more than a dozen languages.
Sebastien lives in Vancouver, Canada with his lovely wife and two belligerent cats. You can reach him at www.decastell.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,194 reviews
May 20, 2017
Buddy read with my lovely Greatcoat: Sarah
Gripping, gritty and fast paced, Knight’s Shadow is a splendid sequel that’s better than its predecessor in every way.
I stated before in my Traitor’s Blade review that the book is a combination of 'The First Law' series by Joe Abercrombie and 'The Three Musketeers' by Alexandre Dumas, this book holds true to that statement more than ever, especially towards First Law as the series goes into grimdark territory. This means that Knight’s Shadow is s a book for adult fantasy reader, there’s graphic torture, violence and rape involved here and I would not recommend any young reader to read this series without any guidance.
That said, the direction that Sebastien took for this book improved the quality of this series on every aspect for me. Traitor’s Blade was a fun read but there’s some flaw in it that prevent the debut to reached its potential, Knight’s Shadow erased those flaws, no more Deus Ex Machina elements, world-building elements are introduced more as we started learning more about the Saints, Dashini and a little bit of magic.
I won’t dive into any details on the plot to avoid any kind of spoiler on book 1, it's also why this review will be shorter compared to my usual reviews. The plot in Knight’s Shadow started soon after the end of the first book, all you have to know is that it’s much more thrilling and gripping than before. The trials and tribulation that Falcio and the gang faced here is intense or you could also say, full of bad luck. It’s fast paced with great actions scenes and overall the book is a much more engaging read compared to its predecessor. I find myself struggling to put the book down every time I took a break, especially starting from the the second half of the book right after the Interlude when the story started going into grimdark territory.
I have high praises towards one particular scene; it’s foreshadowed in the prologue of the book, The Greatcoat’s Lament. This scene is definitely the best part of the book, heck it could even be the highest point of the series, it’s gritty, top notch and very well written. Everyone who has read this book will definitely know what I’m talking about here.
Picture: Greatcoat’s Lament (Cover of the ARC edition)
Plus, the character interactions are more intriguing than before. One of the minor cons I had with the first book was that I wanted Falcio to spend more time with Brasti and Kest, their camaraderie and friendship is definitely one of the strongest factors of the series and it please me to see that they do receive many more interactions here. Their camaraderie, bromance are solidified and I should also note, other than the great character developments for Falcio, Brasti, Kest and Darriana, my favorite character in the series so far will have to be Brasti, any actions or dialogue he has is simply golden.
The only two minor cons I have with the book is that I find Falcio during the first half of the book was quite hard to get attached to, his personality, while necessary for his development was annoying to read. The other con is that I think some of the revelations were too predictable, not all of them though, some were really well done and I definitely didn't expect it.
Overall, Knight’s Shadow is a worthy superior sequel and a necessary addition in the Greatcoat series. Sebastien de Castell improves every element from the foundation that was carved in the first book for a more compelling read and experience. It was as I said before, hard to put down, compelling and I will definitely read what he left in store for me for the last two books of the series.
You can find this and the rest of my Adult Epic/High Fantasy & Sci-Fi reviews at BookNest
Gripping, gritty and fast paced, Knight’s Shadow is a splendid sequel that’s better than its predecessor in every way.
I stated before in my Traitor’s Blade review that the book is a combination of 'The First Law' series by Joe Abercrombie and 'The Three Musketeers' by Alexandre Dumas, this book holds true to that statement more than ever, especially towards First Law as the series goes into grimdark territory. This means that Knight’s Shadow is s a book for adult fantasy reader, there’s graphic torture, violence and rape involved here and I would not recommend any young reader to read this series without any guidance.
That said, the direction that Sebastien took for this book improved the quality of this series on every aspect for me. Traitor’s Blade was a fun read but there’s some flaw in it that prevent the debut to reached its potential, Knight’s Shadow erased those flaws, no more Deus Ex Machina elements, world-building elements are introduced more as we started learning more about the Saints, Dashini and a little bit of magic.
I won’t dive into any details on the plot to avoid any kind of spoiler on book 1, it's also why this review will be shorter compared to my usual reviews. The plot in Knight’s Shadow started soon after the end of the first book, all you have to know is that it’s much more thrilling and gripping than before. The trials and tribulation that Falcio and the gang faced here is intense or you could also say, full of bad luck. It’s fast paced with great actions scenes and overall the book is a much more engaging read compared to its predecessor. I find myself struggling to put the book down every time I took a break, especially starting from the the second half of the book right after the Interlude when the story started going into grimdark territory.
I have high praises towards one particular scene; it’s foreshadowed in the prologue of the book, The Greatcoat’s Lament. This scene is definitely the best part of the book, heck it could even be the highest point of the series, it’s gritty, top notch and very well written. Everyone who has read this book will definitely know what I’m talking about here.
Picture: Greatcoat’s Lament (Cover of the ARC edition)
Plus, the character interactions are more intriguing than before. One of the minor cons I had with the first book was that I wanted Falcio to spend more time with Brasti and Kest, their camaraderie and friendship is definitely one of the strongest factors of the series and it please me to see that they do receive many more interactions here. Their camaraderie, bromance are solidified and I should also note, other than the great character developments for Falcio, Brasti, Kest and Darriana, my favorite character in the series so far will have to be Brasti, any actions or dialogue he has is simply golden.
“Happiness is a series of grains of sand spread out in a desert of violence and anguish.”
The only two minor cons I have with the book is that I find Falcio during the first half of the book was quite hard to get attached to, his personality, while necessary for his development was annoying to read. The other con is that I think some of the revelations were too predictable, not all of them though, some were really well done and I definitely didn't expect it.
Overall, Knight’s Shadow is a worthy superior sequel and a necessary addition in the Greatcoat series. Sebastien de Castell improves every element from the foundation that was carved in the first book for a more compelling read and experience. It was as I said before, hard to put down, compelling and I will definitely read what he left in store for me for the last two books of the series.
You can find this and the rest of my Adult Epic/High Fantasy & Sci-Fi reviews at BookNest
May 27, 2024
I freaking love these guys! This book starts right where the other one left off. And then they have to fight some evil peeps a few pages after that.
Kest, Brasti and Falcio are three men I just love and the banter between them is the best. Who could carry on crazy conversations while fighting people.
Anyhoo, so they are helping The Tailor try to get an army together to defeat that freaking a-hole, Trin. She wants to be queen but she's evil and the guys are trying to make sure the rightful Queen, little Aline who is only a child, gets on the throne.
Well, it turns out I wanted to smack The Tailor a few times because she ends up causing chaos as well. The old b*tch gets a ton of people killed.
Valiana is trying to fight with the boys now that she is a greatcoat but she hasn't had much training and it's a sh*t show until Dariana starts training her. She is another greatcoat The Tailor sent with the boys. And she's bad to the bone! I love her. Although, there is one part, but it seems to work itself out.
The Tailor is a rude old crone and I don't like the way she puts down Valiana who is trying her hardest to be a greatcoat and protect little Aline.
The guys and girls go off to see if they can get some aide from some of the Duke's to help fight against Trin and her army. Well, that just becomes another crazy mess of things. Although, I did like when they went to see Duke Issault because he was crazier than a sh*t house rat. Until he wasn't . . .
Then comes all of the twists and turns and I don't see how the author does it. Oh, and another person I didn't like was Shuran <-- I don't even know if I spelled his stupid name right. Either way he's a twat!
All I can say for sure is that I love these guys and I love they have the girls too. But the guys are my favs and so help me they better not die. It's already bad enough but I won't hold my breath because I know people I like die a lot in the books I read.
And I don't like what all Kest went through. I don't like what any of them went through for that matter.
anyway . . . on to the next . . .
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
Kest, Brasti and Falcio are three men I just love and the banter between them is the best. Who could carry on crazy conversations while fighting people.
Anyhoo, so they are helping The Tailor try to get an army together to defeat that freaking a-hole, Trin. She wants to be queen but she's evil and the guys are trying to make sure the rightful Queen, little Aline who is only a child, gets on the throne.
Well, it turns out I wanted to smack The Tailor a few times because she ends up causing chaos as well. The old b*tch gets a ton of people killed.
Valiana is trying to fight with the boys now that she is a greatcoat but she hasn't had much training and it's a sh*t show until Dariana starts training her. She is another greatcoat The Tailor sent with the boys. And she's bad to the bone! I love her. Although, there is one part, but it seems to work itself out.
The Tailor is a rude old crone and I don't like the way she puts down Valiana who is trying her hardest to be a greatcoat and protect little Aline.
The callousness of the Tailor's words, the way she discarded all of Valiana's pain and sorrow-burned in me. I needed her to know how much I hated this, all of it: her cold, calculating strategies, the way she planned and plotted. She wasn't much different from the Dukes we all despised.
The others were looking at me, waiting to see how I would react. I didn't want to be an angry, petulant child. I wanted to be noble and brave and all the things I'd tried to be since the day the King had shaken me out of my madness. But I couldn't. I simply didn't have it in me. "You're a fucking bitch,"I said.
The guys and girls go off to see if they can get some aide from some of the Duke's to help fight against Trin and her army. Well, that just becomes another crazy mess of things. Although, I did like when they went to see Duke Issault because he was crazier than a sh*t house rat. Until he wasn't . . .
Then comes all of the twists and turns and I don't see how the author does it. Oh, and another person I didn't like was Shuran <-- I don't even know if I spelled his stupid name right. Either way he's a twat!
All I can say for sure is that I love these guys and I love they have the girls too. But the guys are my favs and so help me they better not die. It's already bad enough but I won't hold my breath because I know people I like die a lot in the books I read.
And I don't like what all Kest went through. I don't like what any of them went through for that matter.
anyway . . . on to the next . . .
"Tell them the Greatcoats are coming."
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
May 23, 2017
1.) Traitor's Blade ★★★★★
I mean, this is probably the greatest line in any prologue, ever. And if this doesn't make you want to read this amazing series, I'm not sure what will. Yet, I'll try to sing its praises anyway.
Falcio and the gang are up to even move adventures in this second book, while still trying to honor their promises to their dead king. Someone is killing the nine Dukes/Duchesses of Tristia and blaming their murders on the Greatcoats. Falcio, Kest, and Brasti are trying to get to the bottom of it, while also trying to keep their lives in a world where the majority of the population want to see them dead.
The rest of this review will have spoilers from Traitor's Blade, so if you have not read Traitor's Blade - please do yourself a favor and start it tonight then come back and read this portion of my review!
Falcio is on a mission to tell the Dukes and Duchesses of the kingdom how needed King's Law is, since the events in Traitor's Blade have almost started a civil war. Trin, now duchess, is on a mission to rule and has five-thousand soldiers on her side. Falcio tries to win Aline's favor from the different Dukes, until the Dukes, and their family line, start dying.
Oh, and Falcio is dying from the neatha, thanks to Partiana in Traitor's Blade.
Yeah, this book is action-packed to say the least.
The Greatcoats are not the only ones being blamed for the murder; the Dashini assassins from Traitor's Blade are also being suspects.
The citizens of Tristia are also uprising, and have found the numbers and weapons to pose a big threat. Trin lurks in the shadows a great deal of this book, but has enough appearances to remind you she is the true villain.
Kest is constantly struggling to contain his Saint's Fever now that he is the Saint of Swords, which makes him go into a killing frenzy. Brasti is Brasti, the hilarious ladies man that makes me laugh out loud constantly while reading. Brasti's story-arc is actually pretty amazing in this book, and one of my favorite surprises.
We are introduced to a new character, and Greatcoat, named Dariana. I loved her storyline and characters growth, but I'm not sure if I ship her with Brasti or Valiana, to be honest. Regardless, Sebastien de Castell is the master at writing characters and he doesn't just use his talent for his main characters; his side characters are phenomenal, too.
The other character I actually really loved in this book was Duke Jillard. Well, him and Tommer. Seeing Jillard's reactions to his son and his son's actions are one of my favorite things in this book. And when he called Tommer his very soul, my heart exploded into a million confetti shaped hearts, I swear.
Lowkey, Tommer and Aline are my OTP.
This book is heart-wrenching, cruel, unfair, a tad bit soul crushing, and it is truly in a league above the rest. This is the best series I've read in years, and I can't believe it is not more popular. I honestly have fallen so in love with this series and I will sing its praises, like a Bardatti, to anyone who will listen.
RIP Vadren Graff, you will be remembered.
Blog | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram | Youtube | Twitch
“My name is Falcio val Mond, one of the last of the King's Greatcoats, and if you listen very carefully you might still be able to hear me screaming.”
I mean, this is probably the greatest line in any prologue, ever. And if this doesn't make you want to read this amazing series, I'm not sure what will. Yet, I'll try to sing its praises anyway.
Falcio and the gang are up to even move adventures in this second book, while still trying to honor their promises to their dead king. Someone is killing the nine Dukes/Duchesses of Tristia and blaming their murders on the Greatcoats. Falcio, Kest, and Brasti are trying to get to the bottom of it, while also trying to keep their lives in a world where the majority of the population want to see them dead.
The rest of this review will have spoilers from Traitor's Blade, so if you have not read Traitor's Blade - please do yourself a favor and start it tonight then come back and read this portion of my review!
“We'd stood in that room and locked eyes and without having to speak it aloud, shared a single silent promise: if the world is going to fall apart, then we will go down with it. Fighting.”
Falcio is on a mission to tell the Dukes and Duchesses of the kingdom how needed King's Law is, since the events in Traitor's Blade have almost started a civil war. Trin, now duchess, is on a mission to rule and has five-thousand soldiers on her side. Falcio tries to win Aline's favor from the different Dukes, until the Dukes, and their family line, start dying.
Oh, and Falcio is dying from the neatha, thanks to Partiana in Traitor's Blade.
Yeah, this book is action-packed to say the least.
The Greatcoats are not the only ones being blamed for the murder; the Dashini assassins from Traitor's Blade are also being suspects.
The citizens of Tristia are also uprising, and have found the numbers and weapons to pose a big threat. Trin lurks in the shadows a great deal of this book, but has enough appearances to remind you she is the true villain.
Kest is constantly struggling to contain his Saint's Fever now that he is the Saint of Swords, which makes him go into a killing frenzy. Brasti is Brasti, the hilarious ladies man that makes me laugh out loud constantly while reading. Brasti's story-arc is actually pretty amazing in this book, and one of my favorite surprises.
We are introduced to a new character, and Greatcoat, named Dariana. I loved her storyline and characters growth, but I'm not sure if I ship her with Brasti or Valiana, to be honest. Regardless, Sebastien de Castell is the master at writing characters and he doesn't just use his talent for his main characters; his side characters are phenomenal, too.
The other character I actually really loved in this book was Duke Jillard. Well, him and Tommer. Seeing Jillard's reactions to his son and his son's actions are one of my favorite things in this book. And when he called Tommer his very soul, my heart exploded into a million confetti shaped hearts, I swear.
Lowkey, Tommer and Aline are my OTP.
“Happiness is a series of grains of sand spread out in a desert of violence and anguish.”
This book is heart-wrenching, cruel, unfair, a tad bit soul crushing, and it is truly in a league above the rest. This is the best series I've read in years, and I can't believe it is not more popular. I honestly have fallen so in love with this series and I will sing its praises, like a Bardatti, to anyone who will listen.
RIP Vadren Graff, you will be remembered.
Blog | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram | Youtube | Twitch
May 24, 2017
4/5
Buddy read with the Kings heart; Petrik .
I'm really struggling to write this review, due to the complexity of the plot and of course how SPOILERISH my draft review was, so I'm just going to just write a short spoiler free review.
Okay so despite feeling 'meh' about book one of this series, I went into this book with high expectations and I must say this is definitely better then the first. I felt this book had a lot more pro's then con's, and I'm FINALLY starting to see why everyone adores this series.
Once again the book started extremely slow, I thought it was going to be another disappointment, however around 300 pages in shit got exciting and when I say exciting, I really mean it. This book did not slow down until the end, it's brutal, it's terrifying & just downright cool. I'm starting to very slowly become addicted to this series, this author knows how to bring the grim to the dark. I LOVE IT. Holy shit! some scenes had me CRINGING. For all you salty sea dogs that have read this book I will tell you that, THAT SCENE (you know the one I'm talking about) made me love this book, it was fucking amazing, terrible, brutal & savage as fuck, but so good. I'm fangirling over the savagery displayed in this novel. But it wasn't all rainbows & buttercups. I still find the writing kinda choppy and the world building definitely improved and is no longer a hinderance BUT I just can't look past how much I hated the start of this novel and I don't know why I didn't like it, I guess it just felt very similar to book one and the first 30% was boring. I couldn't stand Falcio at the start. So the ending definitely saved the book for me. Still not a favourite but a pretty cool book and I'm really excited to continue with the series.
The story follows Falcio Val Mond, first cantor of the Kings Greatcoats. After the murder of a duke and his whole family, Falcio is determined to find the culprits and bring them to justice, but Falcio is dying from a rare poison. He must not only save himself but he must also save the country. The plot was exciting, thrilling, captivating & fast paced. Definitely a fantastic sequel to an okay predecessor. Although I still don't love this series, I'm definitely enjoying it a lot more. My favourite thing is still Castell's flawless writing style. The magic system is better explained in this book but we didn't find out everything so it is still mysterious. I also really like that the Greatcoats didn't spilt up this book and love their bromance so much, did I mentioned that I laughed until I got a pain in my ribs during this book? No I didn't, but I am now. So make sure you have a change of underwear handy while reading this book because I guarantee you'll piss yourself. ALSO IM SO HAPPY KEST & BRASTI FINALLY GOT SOME PAGE TIME, but the real show stealers for me were the ladies Darriana and Valiana. Valiana is the most well developed character of the whole series & I love her. I also have a soft spot for Brasti, such a big soft dumb oaf that needs to join my harem 😉.
Recommended to all fantasy lovers, this series is definitely for ADULTS and only adults it contains ALOT of rape, violence, torture, swearing & badassery.
You can find this review and my other reviews at Booksprens.
P.s. I kinda wanna be a Greatcoat when I grow up.
Buddy read with the Kings heart; Petrik .
"To mayhem and fighting".
I'm really struggling to write this review, due to the complexity of the plot and of course how SPOILERISH my draft review was, so I'm just going to just write a short spoiler free review.
Okay so despite feeling 'meh' about book one of this series, I went into this book with high expectations and I must say this is definitely better then the first. I felt this book had a lot more pro's then con's, and I'm FINALLY starting to see why everyone adores this series.
Once again the book started extremely slow, I thought it was going to be another disappointment, however around 300 pages in shit got exciting and when I say exciting, I really mean it. This book did not slow down until the end, it's brutal, it's terrifying & just downright cool. I'm starting to very slowly become addicted to this series, this author knows how to bring the grim to the dark. I LOVE IT. Holy shit! some scenes had me CRINGING. For all you salty sea dogs that have read this book I will tell you that, THAT SCENE (you know the one I'm talking about) made me love this book, it was fucking amazing, terrible, brutal & savage as fuck, but so good. I'm fangirling over the savagery displayed in this novel. But it wasn't all rainbows & buttercups. I still find the writing kinda choppy and the world building definitely improved and is no longer a hinderance BUT I just can't look past how much I hated the start of this novel and I don't know why I didn't like it, I guess it just felt very similar to book one and the first 30% was boring. I couldn't stand Falcio at the start. So the ending definitely saved the book for me. Still not a favourite but a pretty cool book and I'm really excited to continue with the series.
“He’d told me the world could be the most lovely place you could imagine, so long as your imagination was fueled by love.”
The story follows Falcio Val Mond, first cantor of the Kings Greatcoats. After the murder of a duke and his whole family, Falcio is determined to find the culprits and bring them to justice, but Falcio is dying from a rare poison. He must not only save himself but he must also save the country. The plot was exciting, thrilling, captivating & fast paced. Definitely a fantastic sequel to an okay predecessor. Although I still don't love this series, I'm definitely enjoying it a lot more. My favourite thing is still Castell's flawless writing style. The magic system is better explained in this book but we didn't find out everything so it is still mysterious. I also really like that the Greatcoats didn't spilt up this book and love their bromance so much, did I mentioned that I laughed until I got a pain in my ribs during this book? No I didn't, but I am now. So make sure you have a change of underwear handy while reading this book because I guarantee you'll piss yourself. ALSO IM SO HAPPY KEST & BRASTI FINALLY GOT SOME PAGE TIME, but the real show stealers for me were the ladies Darriana and Valiana. Valiana is the most well developed character of the whole series & I love her. I also have a soft spot for Brasti, such a big soft dumb oaf that needs to join my harem 😉.
"The problem with Brasti is that he's an idiot. He's handsome and charming, he can outshoot any man or woman with a bow, and he's an idiot."
Recommended to all fantasy lovers, this series is definitely for ADULTS and only adults it contains ALOT of rape, violence, torture, swearing & badassery.
You can find this review and my other reviews at Booksprens.
P.s. I kinda wanna be a Greatcoat when I grow up.
April 30, 2017
An amazing BR with my fellow Greatcoats Craig, Emelia and Samir.
“What people remember about us? That matters. What are we, really, but acts of courage or cowardice, generosity or greed?”
I was intrigued by “Traitor’s Blade” and really waited my playdate with greatcoats in the second book. There were some small flaws I found in the first book and it was interesting to see if the author continued in the same style or made some improvements for carrying out the story. What can I say, “Knight’s Shadow” blew my mind! It’s perfect <3
What is so peculiar about “Knight’s Shadow”? I found stuff I love in my booky treats – action with lots of fighting, breath-taking adventure, gripping drama and wonderful interaction among characters.
Characters. Oh boy, the author really knows how to create memorable and well fleshed out characters. I was amazed following Falcio’s crew to the meetings with various VIP or less important but admirable characters, all created with care and detail. Their witty dialogues continued to charm me with ease even in the saddest moments. I admit, I loved the fun and easy style of interaction, but altogether with tough and real emotional side, it made the book more gripping for me. This book is definitely not an easy read. In a good way. The author used his great skill to let us have a more detailed sneak peak into the relationships, the effect of hopeless situations on people and that allowed me to see the great and touching human element in this story.
Scarred by past, scared of the future, brave till the very last, lovable, some despicable, always interesting and fighting to stay alive. As I continued to follow them, I found them face to face with their own conflicts, entangled in a greater and meaner scheming that will decide the fate of their world.
This book was backed-up by some really great villains, some old some new ones. It gave me a surprise in some revelations.
Narrative. This book is far longer than the first one, but I can assure you, not a page of it was wasted. “Knight’s Shadow” is far more darker and has more detailed cruelty. As I said before, it not a simple read.
The story really is more intriguing, there’s more to lose, omg, and the villains are more evil and way more cruel ( I’m speechless….). As is the first book, the second one has gripping swordfights, political intrigues, mysterious deaths, desperate situations and endless twists. The details let me see the whole amazing picture of the world in greatcoats and that was so great to read. Everything is thought of, everything is entwined into the story and that gives the narrative a sense of depth and realism for sure.
To sum up, “Knight’s Shadow” is a great adventure with mystery, fighting, gripping characters. It sucked me in and didn’t let me go. I want more playdates with my new fave greatcoats for sure.
“Because the fights that matter most aren’t won on skill,’ I said.
They’re won on sacrifice”
“What people remember about us? That matters. What are we, really, but acts of courage or cowardice, generosity or greed?”
I was intrigued by “Traitor’s Blade” and really waited my playdate with greatcoats in the second book. There were some small flaws I found in the first book and it was interesting to see if the author continued in the same style or made some improvements for carrying out the story. What can I say, “Knight’s Shadow” blew my mind! It’s perfect <3
What is so peculiar about “Knight’s Shadow”? I found stuff I love in my booky treats – action with lots of fighting, breath-taking adventure, gripping drama and wonderful interaction among characters.
Characters. Oh boy, the author really knows how to create memorable and well fleshed out characters. I was amazed following Falcio’s crew to the meetings with various VIP or less important but admirable characters, all created with care and detail. Their witty dialogues continued to charm me with ease even in the saddest moments. I admit, I loved the fun and easy style of interaction, but altogether with tough and real emotional side, it made the book more gripping for me. This book is definitely not an easy read. In a good way. The author used his great skill to let us have a more detailed sneak peak into the relationships, the effect of hopeless situations on people and that allowed me to see the great and touching human element in this story.
Scarred by past, scared of the future, brave till the very last, lovable, some despicable, always interesting and fighting to stay alive. As I continued to follow them, I found them face to face with their own conflicts, entangled in a greater and meaner scheming that will decide the fate of their world.
This book was backed-up by some really great villains, some old some new ones. It gave me a surprise in some revelations.
Narrative. This book is far longer than the first one, but I can assure you, not a page of it was wasted. “Knight’s Shadow” is far more darker and has more detailed cruelty. As I said before, it not a simple read.
The story really is more intriguing, there’s more to lose, omg, and the villains are more evil and way more cruel ( I’m speechless….). As is the first book, the second one has gripping swordfights, political intrigues, mysterious deaths, desperate situations and endless twists. The details let me see the whole amazing picture of the world in greatcoats and that was so great to read. Everything is thought of, everything is entwined into the story and that gives the narrative a sense of depth and realism for sure.
To sum up, “Knight’s Shadow” is a great adventure with mystery, fighting, gripping characters. It sucked me in and didn’t let me go. I want more playdates with my new fave greatcoats for sure.
“Because the fights that matter most aren’t won on skill,’ I said.
They’re won on sacrifice”
June 5, 2018
Mini Review: [4.5/5 stars] Considering how polarized my opinion was for Traitor’s Blade, it’s surprising even to me how thoroughly I enjoyed Knight’s Shadow. It must have been the perfect combination of elements to satisfy my mood because even while reading it I couldn’t put my finger on exactly why I liked it so much. It just had that addictive quality that kept pulling me back to it in favor of other things, which is something books don’t do to me a lot these days. The balance between humor and grit was well done, so I enjoyed laughing while simultaneously sinking my teeth into a rich story. When de Castell is on his game, I have a hard time pulling away. I’ll I can say is, he seems to have found his groove, so if you’ve waffled on continuing the series, consider this gentle encouragement to keep going. :)
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
Other books you might like:
Via The Obsessive Bookseller at www.NikiHawkes.com
Other books you might like:
October 25, 2018
Being the second book in the series we already know most of the players but they are further characterised as de Castell goes deeper with them giving some unexpected layers. Take Brasti for example, he’s the archer and was the comic relief in the first book, always cracking a joke and having a quip at hand, but in Knight’s Shadow he shows surprising depth and emotion, not just the laughable fool we imagined but a fully rounded character.
The sequel picks up pretty much right after the close of Traitor’s Blade. The great pleasures of Knight’s Shadow is it's many unexpected turns, which serve to keep the reader always on his/her toes, and I can’t think of the last time a book surprised me so often.
The world building is once again top notch, exploring in further detail both The Greatcoats past and Tristia’s history.
The book is also slightly darker in tone than the first, with the revelation of the truly horrifying and sinister cruelty that is The Greatcoat’s Lament. With the darkness we still have the underlying humor from the trio that made the first book such a great read, fantasy Three Musketeers y’all!
Takes everything that was good in Traitor’s Blade raises the bar and improves on it, no second book slump for de Castell with this one, more plot twists, more character development and even better writing make this a magnificent continuation of the Greatcoats story and another entertaining, and surprisingly emotional must-read.
I can safely say that Knight's Shadow is not only every bit as good as its predecessor, but actually surpasses it in numerous ways and paves a very bright road forward for this series. The story is as engaging as it can be, the universe is evermore enthralling and detailed, and most of the characters fall under the category of unforgettable. If you enjoyed the first book in the series, then I highly recommend you keep on going with this one.
The sequel picks up pretty much right after the close of Traitor’s Blade. The great pleasures of Knight’s Shadow is it's many unexpected turns, which serve to keep the reader always on his/her toes, and I can’t think of the last time a book surprised me so often.
The world building is once again top notch, exploring in further detail both The Greatcoats past and Tristia’s history.
The book is also slightly darker in tone than the first, with the revelation of the truly horrifying and sinister cruelty that is The Greatcoat’s Lament. With the darkness we still have the underlying humor from the trio that made the first book such a great read, fantasy Three Musketeers y’all!
Takes everything that was good in Traitor’s Blade raises the bar and improves on it, no second book slump for de Castell with this one, more plot twists, more character development and even better writing make this a magnificent continuation of the Greatcoats story and another entertaining, and surprisingly emotional must-read.
I can safely say that Knight's Shadow is not only every bit as good as its predecessor, but actually surpasses it in numerous ways and paves a very bright road forward for this series. The story is as engaging as it can be, the universe is evermore enthralling and detailed, and most of the characters fall under the category of unforgettable. If you enjoyed the first book in the series, then I highly recommend you keep on going with this one.
May 21, 2017
The fights that matter most aren't won on skill.
Knight's Shadow was undoubtedly an improvement to Traitor's Blade and what a sequel should be; it develops, it expands, it makes you want more and in this case, it is substantially darker. Even though the narrative was still limited to Falcio's first person perspective, there was development for the other two Greatcoats who stuck by Falcio through thick and thin, Kest and Brasti. The friendship between these three individuals is the highlight of this series for me so far. Even in the absence of their POV, de Castell was able to draw out the characterisation of Kest and Brasti from their interactions with Falcio.
The pacing was tighter and the plot more engaging with various arcs that complement the overall story really well. Notable ones include the fantastic growth in Valiana, the slow unveiling of King Paelis' seemingly crazy plans, the revelations around the mysterious Dashini assassins and most of all the ultimate scene which transcended this book into grimdark. For a book which was not directly marketed as such, the Greatcoat's Lament alone would have done the sub-genre proud.
Falcio really had got to be the most lucky and unlucky person in the whole of Tristia. Lucky in that he was able to get himself out of all sorts of dire situations through either a gamble of instinct, coincidence or perhaps providence and sometimes just from being smart. Unlucky in that he always gets himself into the worst possible circumstances. I recalled during my initial read that I found it hard to believe the strength of character that he possesses to withstand what he had to but for some reason, this time around I was somehow convinced.
The ending sequence of Knight's Shadow was glorious, and in spite of the earlier grim proceedings, it reminded me that The Greatcoats is not that kind of story. Well, not yet, I hope.
Knight's Shadow was undoubtedly an improvement to Traitor's Blade and what a sequel should be; it develops, it expands, it makes you want more and in this case, it is substantially darker. Even though the narrative was still limited to Falcio's first person perspective, there was development for the other two Greatcoats who stuck by Falcio through thick and thin, Kest and Brasti. The friendship between these three individuals is the highlight of this series for me so far. Even in the absence of their POV, de Castell was able to draw out the characterisation of Kest and Brasti from their interactions with Falcio.
The pacing was tighter and the plot more engaging with various arcs that complement the overall story really well. Notable ones include the fantastic growth in Valiana, the slow unveiling of King Paelis' seemingly crazy plans, the revelations around the mysterious Dashini assassins and most of all the ultimate scene which transcended this book into grimdark. For a book which was not directly marketed as such, the Greatcoat's Lament alone would have done the sub-genre proud.
Falcio really had got to be the most lucky and unlucky person in the whole of Tristia. Lucky in that he was able to get himself out of all sorts of dire situations through either a gamble of instinct, coincidence or perhaps providence and sometimes just from being smart. Unlucky in that he always gets himself into the worst possible circumstances. I recalled during my initial read that I found it hard to believe the strength of character that he possesses to withstand what he had to but for some reason, this time around I was somehow convinced.
Valor. The word is valor.
There are things stronger than hate and more deadly than fear, and this is one of them. The world demands a response to corruption and decay.
The ending sequence of Knight's Shadow was glorious, and in spite of the earlier grim proceedings, it reminded me that The Greatcoats is not that kind of story. Well, not yet, I hope.
November 24, 2022
“It's stories that inspire people to change. It's stories that make them believe things can be better.”
I planned to leave a small gap between finishing Traitor's Blade and then starting its predecessor, but I loved Falcio, Kest and Brasti for too much, and I just needed more!
I personally actually preferred Knight's Shadow, despite loving Traitor's Blade. We have hilarious scenes once again, a very engaging plot, with mysteries and twists and turns that were executed really brilliantly, shocking me but also making the pieces all fit together.
Of course, the highlight is the bromance at the heart of the story. Falcio, Kest and Brasti are just beyond brilliant. I wish I could hang out with Brasti. It would be crazy, unpredictable and probably dangerous, but a lot of fun!
“Happiness is a series of grains of sand spread out in a desert of violence and anguish.”
The interactions and dispositions of the trio make them so funny together, but they also have such character depth, with their own flaws, their own separate tribulations, and different reactions to the situations they are thrust into, which adds another layer to this story that also makes you very attached to the characters as individuals. I think Knight's Shadow had more moments of gravitas and tension between these characters in precisely the right moments to make them believable and also possible to empathise with.
This continues the story of the surviving Greatcoats attempting to keep their final oath to a dead king. It is a world full of brutality. Full of betrayal and overall a lack of hope. But these characters and what they stand for adds the heart. They continue for the oath, but more so for each other. They are ground down by all these trials and tribulations, but they show character and carry on. It makes them lovable, but also creates a great tone and atmosphere as we follow these essentially good people in a dark and unforgiving world.
Knight's Shadow has Sebastien de Castell's classic sharp and witty humour, but also so much more. The plot is really great. The prose is very effective. The lore and the settings are really well crafted, and I am looking forward to finding much more about the world and characters when I begin the third instalment of this series.
4.5/5 STARS
I planned to leave a small gap between finishing Traitor's Blade and then starting its predecessor, but I loved Falcio, Kest and Brasti for too much, and I just needed more!
I personally actually preferred Knight's Shadow, despite loving Traitor's Blade. We have hilarious scenes once again, a very engaging plot, with mysteries and twists and turns that were executed really brilliantly, shocking me but also making the pieces all fit together.
Of course, the highlight is the bromance at the heart of the story. Falcio, Kest and Brasti are just beyond brilliant. I wish I could hang out with Brasti. It would be crazy, unpredictable and probably dangerous, but a lot of fun!
“Happiness is a series of grains of sand spread out in a desert of violence and anguish.”
The interactions and dispositions of the trio make them so funny together, but they also have such character depth, with their own flaws, their own separate tribulations, and different reactions to the situations they are thrust into, which adds another layer to this story that also makes you very attached to the characters as individuals. I think Knight's Shadow had more moments of gravitas and tension between these characters in precisely the right moments to make them believable and also possible to empathise with.
This continues the story of the surviving Greatcoats attempting to keep their final oath to a dead king. It is a world full of brutality. Full of betrayal and overall a lack of hope. But these characters and what they stand for adds the heart. They continue for the oath, but more so for each other. They are ground down by all these trials and tribulations, but they show character and carry on. It makes them lovable, but also creates a great tone and atmosphere as we follow these essentially good people in a dark and unforgiving world.
Knight's Shadow has Sebastien de Castell's classic sharp and witty humour, but also so much more. The plot is really great. The prose is very effective. The lore and the settings are really well crafted, and I am looking forward to finding much more about the world and characters when I begin the third instalment of this series.
4.5/5 STARS
June 1, 2021
TW: rape; some body horror
While I find these books enjoyable enough for the banter between the characters, it definitely has its issues. Rape has been used as a plot device to show how bad the villains are in both books and it’s just unnecessary. Especially considering the villains remain one note. I will possibly keep reading these on audio because I like the narrator and they are fast paced but I’m in no hurry.
While I find these books enjoyable enough for the banter between the characters, it definitely has its issues. Rape has been used as a plot device to show how bad the villains are in both books and it’s just unnecessary. Especially considering the villains remain one note. I will possibly keep reading these on audio because I like the narrator and they are fast paced but I’m in no hurry.
August 4, 2018
“You are not a Greatcoat because you have to be, Falcio - you are a Greatcoat because you don’t know how to be anything else.”
After finding the elusive King’s Charoite, Falcio val Mond, the First Cantor of the Greatcoats, is facing the challenge of preventing a civil war in Tristia with his enemies having armies, funds and support of the Dukes and him having nothing but the righteous zeal to make the world a better place. Putting a 13-year-old girl on the throne is never an easy task, but things look really bleak ahead of Falcio. And so as he goes off to save the corrupt black pit of a country, he is accompanied by a faithful band of his old companions but also gains new ones along the way. Some of them prove to be true friends in need, others just wait for the right moment to stab him in the back. The novel offers a whirlwind of action, with plot twisting like an angry eel. Heed my advice and never trust anyone or anything as there are false bottoms, double edges, and traps waiting for naive readers every other page. You will need to guess and double guess and retrace your steps or else be prepared for unexpected. And even though I have seen many things coming, anticipating the intrigues and plots, and plans within plans was fun.
At the same time, the fun factor (banter and a certain lightness of the narrative) is down in this instalment, while human grime and slime factor is considerably up. Knight’s Shadow is properly grimdark in many places.
Firstly, we depart from the world of idealistic young king Paelis and even more idealistic commoner named Falcio val Mond who spent life annoying the nobility by enforcing the laws that the nobility found inconvenient and trying to bring them to heel so that the average people could live their lives in freedom and without fear. . However, on the one hand, the King becomes more a man than a perfection, on the other he is also proven to be all-knowing and able to foresee the future which is a bit contradictory.
Falcio, in turn, becomes less a human being more an unbeatable hero. What is more, the tale becomes more and more centred on him. This is fine if you didn’t hope that the other two of the lovely trio would gain some prominence. Whereas I enjoyed getting to know Falcio and loved his story in the previous instalment, I expected that the following books will get us equally intimately acquainted with Brasti and Kest. I wanted more of them. The answer is: forget it. They are still in the background, they form the sky upon which Falcio’s star can rise and shine: Brasti being the useful idiot and Kest being the useful Saint of Swords most of the time.
“I am exactly what the world needs me to be.”
But what exactly is that? A monster or a saint? What is it that decides which fork we take, which one we become? Can we be either or do we have a predestined pathway ahead of us?
I have pointed out previously that in the Greatcoats series, the grimdark content battles with a very idealist, nearly YA design. I am coming to a conclusion that while in fact, we have two subgenres meshed here, it is not grimdark versus YA, but rather grimdark and epic fantasy fighting for primacy. Effectively, very idealist worldview a la Woordow Wilson seeing the best in every human being, and the realist approach to politics assuming that the flawed human nature leads us all into vice and crime and violence. One side is from Venus, the other from Mars (wink, wink, Robert Kagan). The former read Immanuel Kant and believe in his perpetual peace, the latter trust Thomas Hobbes that life is nasty, brutish and short and that war is the state of nature.
Grimdark sports shady characters neither truly bad nor truly good, and the good deeds are not always rewarded accordingly, mostly vice and cunning prosper whereas what is good and beautiful and innocent must perish or harden itself in order to survive. Epic fantasy pitches the forces of good against the forces of evil and while the victory is not always easy, to the contrary, it is written into the logic of the tale. There is no other option, the good hero will win and the good will triumph. When I was reading Knight’s Shadow, I had the feeling that Mr de Castell wants to have a cookie and eat it too. Dukes and Knights are evil by default and hence they prosper. So do the Dashini. They are also beyond redemption. But Valiana who “had a coat she didn’t earn and a sword she didn’t really know how to use” or the torturer turned hero, these characters are there to show that there is some goodness in everyone that can be reached and exercised. How? Where is the difference that some have the chance and others do not?
Other minor things that irked me include the lol factor with the merciful whore at the forefront and inconsistencies either still unexplained or just ignored like the individual missions , certain repetitiveness of motifs nitpicky, but irritating, the similarity of names Valiana-Dariana, especially that the two are paired up.
“Silly man. It’s not about you - it never has been. It’s about what other people do because of you.”
The devolution of Tailor into a ruthless but otherwise ordinary woman is also disappointing But then, I also had the feeling that the King with all his kingly dilemmas and Tailor with her cold calculating strategies and her end justifies the means approach (not so different from the despicable Dukes in the end) just serve as a sharp contrast to accentuate the ever so pristine figure of Falcio, so in effect we replace one ideal with another. I have to say, I finished the novel not liking Falcio that much in the end because everyone is positively fawning over him and elevating him to the demigod status of a really predictable hero.
“The fights that matter most are not won on skill. They are won on sacrifice.” Perhaps Mr de Castell sacrificed his main protagonist to save the whole story. The next instalment will show.
Other Greatcoats books:
1. Traitor's Blade ★★★☆☆
3. Saint's Blood ★☆☆☆☆
4. Tyrant's Throne ★☆☆☆☆
After finding the elusive King’s Charoite, Falcio val Mond, the First Cantor of the Greatcoats, is facing the challenge of preventing a civil war in Tristia with his enemies having armies, funds and support of the Dukes and him having nothing but the righteous zeal to make the world a better place. Putting a 13-year-old girl on the throne is never an easy task, but things look really bleak ahead of Falcio. And so as he goes off to save the corrupt black pit of a country, he is accompanied by a faithful band of his old companions but also gains new ones along the way. Some of them prove to be true friends in need, others just wait for the right moment to stab him in the back. The novel offers a whirlwind of action, with plot twisting like an angry eel. Heed my advice and never trust anyone or anything as there are false bottoms, double edges, and traps waiting for naive readers every other page. You will need to guess and double guess and retrace your steps or else be prepared for unexpected. And even though I have seen many things coming, anticipating the intrigues and plots, and plans within plans was fun.
At the same time, the fun factor (banter and a certain lightness of the narrative) is down in this instalment, while human grime and slime factor is considerably up. Knight’s Shadow is properly grimdark in many places.
Firstly, we depart from the world of idealistic young king Paelis and even more idealistic commoner named Falcio val Mond who spent life annoying the nobility by enforcing the laws that the nobility found inconvenient and trying to bring them to heel so that the average people could live their lives in freedom and without fear. . However, on the one hand, the King becomes more a man than a perfection, on the other he is also proven to be all-knowing and able to foresee the future which is a bit contradictory.
Falcio, in turn, becomes less a human being more an unbeatable hero. What is more, the tale becomes more and more centred on him. This is fine if you didn’t hope that the other two of the lovely trio would gain some prominence. Whereas I enjoyed getting to know Falcio and loved his story in the previous instalment, I expected that the following books will get us equally intimately acquainted with Brasti and Kest. I wanted more of them. The answer is: forget it. They are still in the background, they form the sky upon which Falcio’s star can rise and shine: Brasti being the useful idiot and Kest being the useful Saint of Swords most of the time.
“I am exactly what the world needs me to be.”
But what exactly is that? A monster or a saint? What is it that decides which fork we take, which one we become? Can we be either or do we have a predestined pathway ahead of us?
I have pointed out previously that in the Greatcoats series, the grimdark content battles with a very idealist, nearly YA design. I am coming to a conclusion that while in fact, we have two subgenres meshed here, it is not grimdark versus YA, but rather grimdark and epic fantasy fighting for primacy. Effectively, very idealist worldview a la Woordow Wilson seeing the best in every human being, and the realist approach to politics assuming that the flawed human nature leads us all into vice and crime and violence. One side is from Venus, the other from Mars (wink, wink, Robert Kagan). The former read Immanuel Kant and believe in his perpetual peace, the latter trust Thomas Hobbes that life is nasty, brutish and short and that war is the state of nature.
Grimdark sports shady characters neither truly bad nor truly good, and the good deeds are not always rewarded accordingly, mostly vice and cunning prosper whereas what is good and beautiful and innocent must perish or harden itself in order to survive. Epic fantasy pitches the forces of good against the forces of evil and while the victory is not always easy, to the contrary, it is written into the logic of the tale. There is no other option, the good hero will win and the good will triumph. When I was reading Knight’s Shadow, I had the feeling that Mr de Castell wants to have a cookie and eat it too. Dukes and Knights are evil by default and hence they prosper. So do the Dashini. They are also beyond redemption. But Valiana who “had a coat she didn’t earn and a sword she didn’t really know how to use” or the torturer turned hero, these characters are there to show that there is some goodness in everyone that can be reached and exercised. How? Where is the difference that some have the chance and others do not?
Other minor things that irked me include the lol factor with the merciful whore at the forefront and inconsistencies either still unexplained or just ignored like the individual missions , certain repetitiveness of motifs nitpicky, but irritating, the similarity of names Valiana-Dariana, especially that the two are paired up.
“Silly man. It’s not about you - it never has been. It’s about what other people do because of you.”
The devolution of Tailor into a ruthless but otherwise ordinary woman is also disappointing But then, I also had the feeling that the King with all his kingly dilemmas and Tailor with her cold calculating strategies and her end justifies the means approach (not so different from the despicable Dukes in the end) just serve as a sharp contrast to accentuate the ever so pristine figure of Falcio, so in effect we replace one ideal with another. I have to say, I finished the novel not liking Falcio that much in the end because everyone is positively fawning over him and elevating him to the demigod status of a really predictable hero.
“The fights that matter most are not won on skill. They are won on sacrifice.” Perhaps Mr de Castell sacrificed his main protagonist to save the whole story. The next instalment will show.
Other Greatcoats books:
1. Traitor's Blade ★★★☆☆
3. Saint's Blood ★☆☆☆☆
4. Tyrant's Throne ★☆☆☆☆
July 5, 2021
ebook on sale 5Jul21 for $0.99 on Amazon
Magic + The Three Musketeers
I thought that Falcio went through some trials in the first book but that seems like kids play in comparison to what he endured in this one. The man is this great tragic hero that is beaten and bruised and betrayed at every corner but he has this great will of spirit and just gets up time and time again to just keep going, keep inspiring and keep kicking ass even when every odd is against him.
It’s so hard not to root for a man that at his core is so good and want him to win against the impossible odds and all the horrors of the world.
This book has so many dark moments. You would kind of think that would make it sad or depressing. But it isn’t. Sabastian De Castell incorporates great amount of humor to go along with all the terrible happenings so that while yes things are tense and just when you think they can’t get worse they do there is still a balance of humor that makes you love the characters and the story.
Dariana was my favorite addition to the cast. She is completely insane and a skilled fighter who uses everything to her advantage. She fights like a crazy person acting the damsel in distress running away only to turn around and gut someone bigger and stronger than her. You are never quite sure what crazy thing she will say next or who she’ll kill for that matter. Plus she doesn’t seem to follow directions very well be they from the First Cantor or not.
Kest and Brasti were still fantastic and I adore the love and loyalty of the Trio of men. The Three Musketeer’s feel of all for one and one for all really shines through with them. Kest gets a little more page time since he is dealing with some of the repercussions of the last book. It seems being a Saint comes with a few obstacles of its own.
What This Book Has:
➜ - Fanstastic Dialogue
➜ - Interesting Blend of Gods, Saints and Magic.
➜ - Plots, Sub-plots and twist galore
➜ - Three dimensional characters that you really care about
➜ - Glorious villains that I thought couldn’t become even more despicable but they do and brutal ways you will absolutely never see coming.
➜ - More flashbacks to the former King and hints about what his final strategy was
➜ - SHOCKING MOMENTS, like I couldn’t believe that just happened moments.
➜ - Times that make you want to stand up and cheer *hazzah*
This was a great second installment to a series. There is no drop off, if anything it is so much better than the first book. The only reason I haven’t started into the next one already if because there isn’t an audiobook for the series and so it takes longer for me to read.
Thanks again to my good friend Eon♒Windrunner♒ for bringing this series to my attention.
Magic + The Three Musketeers
My name is Falcio val Mond, one of the last of the King’s Greatcoats, and if you listen very carefully you might still be able to hear me screaming.
I thought that Falcio went through some trials in the first book but that seems like kids play in comparison to what he endured in this one. The man is this great tragic hero that is beaten and bruised and betrayed at every corner but he has this great will of spirit and just gets up time and time again to just keep going, keep inspiring and keep kicking ass even when every odd is against him.
“That on your best day—on your very best day—you could never beat me.”
“I do know that,” I said, “and thanks very much for reminding me.”
“Then why all this pretense? Why go through the motions?” He sounded genuinely interested.
“Because, you . . .” I reached for the worst insult I could think of and settled on, “you stupid son-of-a-Saint, I’ve been beaten and tortured and killed eight times. I’m tired and weak. My best friend sits trapped in that stupid circle, despising himself. The daughter of my King is possessed by ____ through magic, which I hate, by the way, and the woman I love has just set herself up to be killed horribly in a manner that I can’t stop replaying in my head, over and over.”
“I don’t understand your point.”
“My point is, you feckless thug, this isn’t my best day. It’s my worst. So I’m going to use it to put you down.”
It’s so hard not to root for a man that at his core is so good and want him to win against the impossible odds and all the horrors of the world.
This book has so many dark moments. You would kind of think that would make it sad or depressing. But it isn’t. Sabastian De Castell incorporates great amount of humor to go along with all the terrible happenings so that while yes things are tense and just when you think they can’t get worse they do there is still a balance of humor that makes you love the characters and the story.
Dariana was my favorite addition to the cast. She is completely insane and a skilled fighter who uses everything to her advantage. She fights like a crazy person acting the damsel in distress running away only to turn around and gut someone bigger and stronger than her. You are never quite sure what crazy thing she will say next or who she’ll kill for that matter. Plus she doesn’t seem to follow directions very well be they from the First Cantor or not.
“I have a question,” Dariana said after I was done. She was sitting cross- legged on my bed, quite unconcerned that the dirt on her boots was rapidly transferring itself to my blankets.
“What?” I asked.
“Do you have any plans that don’t involve telling Valiana and me to run away and hide somewhere while you—?”
“— while he tries to get Kest and me killed?” Brasti finished. “No. That’s pretty much the crux of all of Falcio’s masterful stratagems, so you might as well get used to it now.”
Kest and Brasti were still fantastic and I adore the love and loyalty of the Trio of men. The Three Musketeer’s feel of all for one and one for all really shines through with them. Kest gets a little more page time since he is dealing with some of the repercussions of the last book. It seems being a Saint comes with a few obstacles of its own.
What This Book Has:
➜ - Fanstastic Dialogue
➜ - Interesting Blend of Gods, Saints and Magic.
➜ - Plots, Sub-plots and twist galore
➜ - Three dimensional characters that you really care about
➜ - Glorious villains that I thought couldn’t become even more despicable but they do and brutal ways you will absolutely never see coming.
➜ - More flashbacks to the former King and hints about what his final strategy was
➜ - SHOCKING MOMENTS, like I couldn’t believe that just happened moments.
➜ - Times that make you want to stand up and cheer *hazzah*
This was a great second installment to a series. There is no drop off, if anything it is so much better than the first book. The only reason I haven’t started into the next one already if because there isn’t an audiobook for the series and so it takes longer for me to read.
Thanks again to my good friend Eon♒Windrunner♒ for bringing this series to my attention.
April 28, 2017
April 2017 reread is now done. Verdict - Even better than I remember! Some seriously dark moments, but freaking awesome!
Apr 2016 reread, because Saint's Blood! Update: 4.5 stars - Ok, so this one is definitely much darker than I remember, but still great. Buy it!
---------------------------------------
Original review:
Knight's Shadow had some big boots to fill after Sebastien de Castell's amazing debut novel and I had my doubts about whether it could be pulled off, but with the follow up entry the author has proven his swashbuckling writing is here to stay.
If you have read the first book, you don't need me recommending this one, as immediately after finishing the first one you either pre-ordered or placed Knight's Shadow on your future tbr pile.
If you haven't yet read Traitor's Blade, what are you waiting for?!?!?
I cannot emphasize enough how much fun you are missing out on!
The story picks up right where it left off, and is definitely much darker than the first entry, but luckily there is plenty of humour interspersed throughout.
Our trio have their work cut out for them as they investigate a string of murders, while also trying to . Twist and turns abound, and the Greatcoat's Lament is also at last revealed. When I mentioned that this book is much darker, I was not referring to the cover art (which is gorgeous btw, but that is neither here nor there). We get to dig a bit deeper into the trio's past as the plot unfolds, and I definitely wouldn't mind if the author decided to pen a prequel novel exploring the adventures this bunch were involved in before we first meet them.
Despite the darker tone, Knight's Shadow doesn't skimp on all those things that made the first book unforgettable with lots of swordfights, humour and even some romance.
Highly Recommended - while it may be almost double the length of the first book, it will definitely leave you wanting more. Tyrant's Throne, you're on my watchlist! Edit: Book name has now changed to Saint's Blood.
PS: Not only are the books great, but so is the author. I mailed him ages ago for bookplates which he sent to me, but then a few months ago I got a message from him saying, "Hey, I'm on holiday in Cape Town if you would like to meet up and get your book signed." O_O
Yep, I was on that like white on rice. #authorsthatrock
Apr 2016 reread, because Saint's Blood! Update: 4.5 stars - Ok, so this one is definitely much darker than I remember, but still great. Buy it!
---------------------------------------
Original review:
Knight's Shadow had some big boots to fill after Sebastien de Castell's amazing debut novel and I had my doubts about whether it could be pulled off, but with the follow up entry the author has proven his swashbuckling writing is here to stay.
If you have read the first book, you don't need me recommending this one, as immediately after finishing the first one you either pre-ordered or placed Knight's Shadow on your future tbr pile.
If you haven't yet read Traitor's Blade, what are you waiting for?!?!?
I cannot emphasize enough how much fun you are missing out on!
The story picks up right where it left off, and is definitely much darker than the first entry, but luckily there is plenty of humour interspersed throughout.
‘The son of a bitch got me,’ he said, showing me a wound barely deeper than a shaving cut.
‘You’ll live,’ I said. ‘Get up.’
‘It’s my hand, Falcio,’ Brasti complained, rising to his feet. ‘I’m an archer, not a swordsman. My art requires finesse and skill; it’s not just swinging a pointy bar of metal around like a doddering old man waving a stick.’
Our trio have their work cut out for them as they investigate a string of murders, while also trying to . Twist and turns abound, and the Greatcoat's Lament is also at last revealed. When I mentioned that this book is much darker, I was not referring to the cover art (which is gorgeous btw, but that is neither here nor there). We get to dig a bit deeper into the trio's past as the plot unfolds, and I definitely wouldn't mind if the author decided to pen a prequel novel exploring the adventures this bunch were involved in before we first meet them.
Despite the darker tone, Knight's Shadow doesn't skimp on all those things that made the first book unforgettable with lots of swordfights, humour and even some romance.
She’s meant for moonlight, I thought. Unfortunately, what I said was, ‘You look nice in the dark.’
Highly Recommended - while it may be almost double the length of the first book, it will definitely leave you wanting more. Tyrant's Throne, you're on my watchlist! Edit: Book name has now changed to Saint's Blood.
PS: Not only are the books great, but so is the author. I mailed him ages ago for bookplates which he sent to me, but then a few months ago I got a message from him saying, "Hey, I'm on holiday in Cape Town if you would like to meet up and get your book signed." O_O
Yep, I was on that like white on rice. #authorsthatrock
August 6, 2021
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Traitor's Blade ★★★ 1/2
Knight's Shadow ★★★★
Knight’s Shadow takes place after the events of book 1. This was better than the first book because I felt more familiar with everything and it added something to the first book. The characters are the main reason that makes it a great read.
The writing is good, I like that it is easy to read and that it is fast paced which makes it an addicting read. This book was actually longer than I thought it is, in fact it is the longest book in the series according to the number of pages in the paperback copies that I bought.
Flacio, Kest and Brasti are definitely unique characters and I like how they all were very distinct and amazing in their own way. Falcio who is the narrator is still my least favorite out of the trio which is a bummer but he is still well written so I can live with that.
There are new characters and there are some revelations about characters that we already know and I think that was great. I wanted more of Brasti because there is never enough of him and he had some awesome moments in this book which makes me happy. I also have to mention that I am not buying one particular romance in this book.
I don’t know if I can discuss the plot without spoiling this book or book 1 so I am not gonna do that. I just believe this is more polished and it is darker too. I am afraid that it is going to become repetitive somehow (I faced that with the author’s other series) and I am not a big fan of those moments that fade into the background and we don’t get the action that we were waiting for.
Summary: Very enjoyable, fast, dark and humorous read. I think it was a step up from book 1 but I am rating them the same for different reasons. I love the characters but the narrator Falcio is my least favorite of them. I liked the plot but some things could have been done better which is why I am not giving it a 5 stars rating. I am very excited (and a bit anxious) for the sequels.
Traitor's Blade ★★★ 1/2
Knight's Shadow ★★★★
“Words matter. Without words you can’t have stories and without stories we would never have heard of the Greatcoats.”
Knight’s Shadow takes place after the events of book 1. This was better than the first book because I felt more familiar with everything and it added something to the first book. The characters are the main reason that makes it a great read.
The writing is good, I like that it is easy to read and that it is fast paced which makes it an addicting read. This book was actually longer than I thought it is, in fact it is the longest book in the series according to the number of pages in the paperback copies that I bought.
Flacio, Kest and Brasti are definitely unique characters and I like how they all were very distinct and amazing in their own way. Falcio who is the narrator is still my least favorite out of the trio which is a bummer but he is still well written so I can live with that.
There are new characters and there are some revelations about characters that we already know and I think that was great. I wanted more of Brasti because there is never enough of him and he had some awesome moments in this book which makes me happy. I also have to mention that I am not buying one particular romance in this book.
I don’t know if I can discuss the plot without spoiling this book or book 1 so I am not gonna do that. I just believe this is more polished and it is darker too. I am afraid that it is going to become repetitive somehow (I faced that with the author’s other series) and I am not a big fan of those moments that fade into the background and we don’t get the action that we were waiting for.
“He’d told me the world could be the most lovely place you could imagine, so long as your imagination was fueled by love.”
Summary: Very enjoyable, fast, dark and humorous read. I think it was a step up from book 1 but I am rating them the same for different reasons. I love the characters but the narrator Falcio is my least favorite of them. I liked the plot but some things could have been done better which is why I am not giving it a 5 stars rating. I am very excited (and a bit anxious) for the sequels.
December 21, 2018
‘Shut up, Brasti!’ ❤️
I see people posting more meaningful and profound quotes from these books and... here I am with my favourite line of the series (so far, at least). Really guys, if you see the things Brasti comes up with, you’d know where I’m coming from.
I love these guys so much! And once again, the unlucky yet unrelenting, witty and hilarious, perpetually-in-danger, trio - Falcio, Kest, Brasti are back in the chaotic world of Tristia and things couldn’t look grimmer.
Knight’s Shadow is one heck of a sequel to the amazing debut, Traitor’s Blade. De Castell delves deeper into the world and delivers a well-plotted story filled with adventure and mayhem on an epic scale.
It has all the goodness of Traitor’s Blade, only with more action and chaos, more emotion and intense personal moments between our characters, more dark-AF moments (I mean, wow), and of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a great dose of insane dialogues and banter among the characters. Though here, it’s more in-tune with the grimmer tone of the book.
It was a great sequel with plenty of twists and turns but Traitor’s Blade remains my favourite(thus far). I’ve always had issues with first books (While for most it’s second books) but TB managed to hit the right notes for me in terms of mystery, plot and characters. There was something about the entirety of the book that kept me glued to the pages until the very end.
That’s not to say that KS doesn’t have those elements, in fact, I think most are rather impressed with this one in comparison to the first book. I’m just... backwards.
I see people posting more meaningful and profound quotes from these books and... here I am with my favourite line of the series (so far, at least). Really guys, if you see the things Brasti comes up with, you’d know where I’m coming from.
I love these guys so much! And once again, the unlucky yet unrelenting, witty and hilarious, perpetually-in-danger, trio - Falcio, Kest, Brasti are back in the chaotic world of Tristia and things couldn’t look grimmer.
Knight’s Shadow is one heck of a sequel to the amazing debut, Traitor’s Blade. De Castell delves deeper into the world and delivers a well-plotted story filled with adventure and mayhem on an epic scale.
It has all the goodness of Traitor’s Blade, only with more action and chaos, more emotion and intense personal moments between our characters, more dark-AF moments (I mean, wow), and of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a great dose of insane dialogues and banter among the characters. Though here, it’s more in-tune with the grimmer tone of the book.
It was a great sequel with plenty of twists and turns but Traitor’s Blade remains my favourite(thus far). I’ve always had issues with first books (While for most it’s second books) but TB managed to hit the right notes for me in terms of mystery, plot and characters. There was something about the entirety of the book that kept me glued to the pages until the very end.
That’s not to say that KS doesn’t have those elements, in fact, I think most are rather impressed with this one in comparison to the first book. I’m just... backwards.
April 14, 2020
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths Reviews
Traitor’s Blade was a novel that took me by surprise. Yes, it sounded interesting, but I never expected to love Sebastien de Castell’s mixture of Three Musketeers-esque swashbuckling fun and Game of Throne-like gritty realism as much as I did. It really was one of the best books of 2014.
Flash forward to 2015. Knight’s Shadow is being released. Yes, I’m overwhelming anxious to get my hands on it, but I’m apprehensive as well. I mean, can the author catch lightning in a bottle twice? Can he find a way to include all those great elements from book one, yet minimizing the less stellar ones – like the constant Falcio flashbacks?
Well, after finishing the novel, I can honestly declare that my doubts were unfounded. Not only did Sebastien de Castell meet my wildest expectations, but exceeded them by far, and by doing so set a ridiculously high standard for all books that follow. Knight’s Shadow is truly a masterpiece of storytelling; one that I hereby declare “THE BEST FANTASY NOVEL OF 2015!”
The tale itself picks up shortly after book one’s ending, but does so in a most fascinating way; our hero Falcio val Mond, swordsman extraordinaire and First Cantor of the Greatcoats, finding himself paralyzed. A state he endures every morning. Poison administered by his vilest enemy the cause. But Falcio must overcome, because time is running out to place Aline securely on the throne, and to accomplish this, he has to find a way to persuade the hated Dukes of the land to support her cause.
At this point, Knight’s Shadow seems content to be a straight forward political story. One that included enough hilarious scenes with Falcio, Kest, and Brasti in full swashbuckling mode to be entertaining, but did not reach for anything other than a credible retelling of book one. But then something happened: Sebastien de Castell pulled the proverbial rug out from under me, revealing a devious plot that might involve the most heinous participation by the Greatcoats themselves, leaving the poisoned Falcio, in his loyal naivete, frantically trying to discover the truth before he dies!
Wow! I hadn’t experienced such a twisted plot line since I first read Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire many years ago. And this was merely the beginning of the surprises, as Knight’s Shadow jetted into the stratosphere, keeping me turning the pages, as I desperately tried to discover the fate of Falcio and all the other spectacular characters.
That brings up one of the stellar improvements in this book from Traitor’s Blade: the characters development. While Kest, Brasti, Aline, Valiana, and all the rest had their moments in book one, here they come into their own. The joker Brasti, who never seemed serious, displaying an unexpected depth of character, as he deals with the utmost despair and devastation. Kest, the Saint of Swords, struggling to balance his devotion to Falcio and his fellow Greatcoats with his desire to seek out opponents worthy of his time. Aline desiring a normal life away from the Dukes and the deadly machinations of the land, but choosing to forego her own personal happiness to try to help others. Valiana, the spoiled noble turned peasant, who slowly evolves from a hopeless wretch into a woman who is willing to change herself and lay down her own life for a cause she deems right. And Darriana, who is revealed late in the story but plays such a pivotal role in its resolution.
Another area where this installment of Greatcoats excels is in the world building. We find out more about the history of the Greatcoats, the true story of their beloved king, and who the legendary Dashini are. Conflicts that were mentioned in broad terms before, filtered through Falcio’s naive eyes, are now show in all their tangled complexity. Hidden motives, vile betrayals, and devious machinations layered one upon the other until every absolute truth of this world is turned upside down, contorted into amazing new directions that never fail to surprise.
Mixing swashbuckling fun with twisted Martin-esque grimness and set in an amazing world, Knight’s Shadow is an absolute triumph. Creative, brilliant, twisted, emotional, and unforgettable, every one of those labels can be fairly assigned to this novel. “THE BEST BOOK OF 2015!” I declared earlier, and I stand by that pronouncement. Now, all I have to do is patiently wait for book three to be published.
I received this book from Jo Fletcher Publishing and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank both of them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
Traitor’s Blade was a novel that took me by surprise. Yes, it sounded interesting, but I never expected to love Sebastien de Castell’s mixture of Three Musketeers-esque swashbuckling fun and Game of Throne-like gritty realism as much as I did. It really was one of the best books of 2014.
Flash forward to 2015. Knight’s Shadow is being released. Yes, I’m overwhelming anxious to get my hands on it, but I’m apprehensive as well. I mean, can the author catch lightning in a bottle twice? Can he find a way to include all those great elements from book one, yet minimizing the less stellar ones – like the constant Falcio flashbacks?
Well, after finishing the novel, I can honestly declare that my doubts were unfounded. Not only did Sebastien de Castell meet my wildest expectations, but exceeded them by far, and by doing so set a ridiculously high standard for all books that follow. Knight’s Shadow is truly a masterpiece of storytelling; one that I hereby declare “THE BEST FANTASY NOVEL OF 2015!”
The tale itself picks up shortly after book one’s ending, but does so in a most fascinating way; our hero Falcio val Mond, swordsman extraordinaire and First Cantor of the Greatcoats, finding himself paralyzed. A state he endures every morning. Poison administered by his vilest enemy the cause. But Falcio must overcome, because time is running out to place Aline securely on the throne, and to accomplish this, he has to find a way to persuade the hated Dukes of the land to support her cause.
At this point, Knight’s Shadow seems content to be a straight forward political story. One that included enough hilarious scenes with Falcio, Kest, and Brasti in full swashbuckling mode to be entertaining, but did not reach for anything other than a credible retelling of book one. But then something happened: Sebastien de Castell pulled the proverbial rug out from under me, revealing a devious plot that might involve the most heinous participation by the Greatcoats themselves, leaving the poisoned Falcio, in his loyal naivete, frantically trying to discover the truth before he dies!
Wow! I hadn’t experienced such a twisted plot line since I first read Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire many years ago. And this was merely the beginning of the surprises, as Knight’s Shadow jetted into the stratosphere, keeping me turning the pages, as I desperately tried to discover the fate of Falcio and all the other spectacular characters.
That brings up one of the stellar improvements in this book from Traitor’s Blade: the characters development. While Kest, Brasti, Aline, Valiana, and all the rest had their moments in book one, here they come into their own. The joker Brasti, who never seemed serious, displaying an unexpected depth of character, as he deals with the utmost despair and devastation. Kest, the Saint of Swords, struggling to balance his devotion to Falcio and his fellow Greatcoats with his desire to seek out opponents worthy of his time. Aline desiring a normal life away from the Dukes and the deadly machinations of the land, but choosing to forego her own personal happiness to try to help others. Valiana, the spoiled noble turned peasant, who slowly evolves from a hopeless wretch into a woman who is willing to change herself and lay down her own life for a cause she deems right. And Darriana, who is revealed late in the story but plays such a pivotal role in its resolution.
Another area where this installment of Greatcoats excels is in the world building. We find out more about the history of the Greatcoats, the true story of their beloved king, and who the legendary Dashini are. Conflicts that were mentioned in broad terms before, filtered through Falcio’s naive eyes, are now show in all their tangled complexity. Hidden motives, vile betrayals, and devious machinations layered one upon the other until every absolute truth of this world is turned upside down, contorted into amazing new directions that never fail to surprise.
Mixing swashbuckling fun with twisted Martin-esque grimness and set in an amazing world, Knight’s Shadow is an absolute triumph. Creative, brilliant, twisted, emotional, and unforgettable, every one of those labels can be fairly assigned to this novel. “THE BEST BOOK OF 2015!” I declared earlier, and I stand by that pronouncement. Now, all I have to do is patiently wait for book three to be published.
I received this book from Jo Fletcher Publishing and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank both of them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
June 13, 2024
4.5 ☆
”Words matter. Without words you can't have stories and without stories we would never have heard of the Greatcoats.”
after the events of Traitor’s Blade, Falcio is left scrambling to warn and take a stand against what’s gearing up to be a full on war. there’s more politics in this one but the characters remain my biggest highlight.. words just can’t describe how much i adore the camaraderie between Kest, Falcio and Brasti. there’s something so satisfying about getting a deeper look into each of them as individuals since they’re all dealing with their own inner struggles while trying to honor their code as Greatcoats.. Falcio’s ailment lended him space to show more of his compassionate side, while strong willed Kest is slowly losing control and Brasti just continues being as hilarious as ever.
“We stood in the room and locked eyes and without having to speak it aloud, shared a single silent promise: if the world is going to fall apart, then we’ll go down with it. Fighting.”
this book was so insanely action packed and fast paced, there was always something going on in the background. i caught myself rewinding the audiobook a few times out of shock from a couple reveals that blind sided me too. now that im even more obsessed with these characters my heart rate is through the roof at the possible turns the plot can take.. what a great follow up to a series that’s quickly becoming a comfort read!
”Words matter. Without words you can't have stories and without stories we would never have heard of the Greatcoats.”
after the events of Traitor’s Blade, Falcio is left scrambling to warn and take a stand against what’s gearing up to be a full on war. there’s more politics in this one but the characters remain my biggest highlight.. words just can’t describe how much i adore the camaraderie between Kest, Falcio and Brasti. there’s something so satisfying about getting a deeper look into each of them as individuals since they’re all dealing with their own inner struggles while trying to honor their code as Greatcoats.. Falcio’s ailment lended him space to show more of his compassionate side, while strong willed Kest is slowly losing control and Brasti just continues being as hilarious as ever.
“We stood in the room and locked eyes and without having to speak it aloud, shared a single silent promise: if the world is going to fall apart, then we’ll go down with it. Fighting.”
this book was so insanely action packed and fast paced, there was always something going on in the background. i caught myself rewinding the audiobook a few times out of shock from a couple reveals that blind sided me too. now that im even more obsessed with these characters my heart rate is through the roof at the possible turns the plot can take.. what a great follow up to a series that’s quickly becoming a comfort read!
May 23, 2017
"The fights that matter most aren't won on skill"
4 Stars. But *just* barely ;].
The Knight's Shadow was an improvement upon Traitor's Blade in almost every way. Completely changed the tone of the story, and added some entirely new dynamics to the plot, even though certain aspects of it still felt very flawed to me. The few quibbles I had with this book almost directly relate to the issues I mentioned in my review of book one.
I think the thing I love most about this book are the themes. There's a huge message all throughout this book of what true justice is, and the value of sacrifice, and what it really means to be brave. There's even themes of faith and belief throughout this series, as the story is primarily about three men who are fighting out of a belief in a king who has been long dead. It's genuinely inspiring to read, and I'm shoving a bunch of quotes into this review because it really was that good. The quality of writing in this book went up A LOT (although... It might just be the Kindle edition, but I highlighted roughly a dozen typos and grammatical errors. Anybody else find this in their editions of the book? I don't hold this against the author, because that's an editing problem, but it still bothers me haha.)
"We need justice to be a river, Falcio, always flowing, always wearing against the rocks that stand in its way, not a sword that shatters when you strike it against stone"
This book isn't so much about worldbuilding or super well developed characters, so I won't really kill a lot of time on that. Falcio is still the only character we get to know really well; we only have one point of view; and the worldbuilding/magic is still very basic. I don't think people will read this book for that stuff though.
People will read this book because it's just good old fashioned storytelling. That's really what it all boils down to, for me anyways. If you enjoy a good story with really heroic heroes, truly evil villains, with all of the blood and gore and action and violence that goes along with it, you will probably love this book. Sebastian de Castell does an amazing job of combining fast-paced action with truly powerful moments that can inspire and touch even the hardest of hearts. He somehow even manages to squeeze in plenty of humor amid his rather unusual cast of characters, which is another plus for the storytelling.
"We were five broken people trying to hold together a broken country. But we were all that was left"
I gave it four stars because there really is plenty to love, and at times I almost couldn't put it down.
But I have some problems haha.
1. Ethalia is as annoying to me in this book as she was in the first. Every time she pops up I want to cringe, because her presence and her relationship with Falcio are never explained, at all. Like why did they fall in love? I don't get it at all.
2. I don't think de Castell has any clue who the Tailor is actually supposed to be, if I'm being honest. In book one, she was practically this all-seeing all-knowing seer, who knew exactly where everybody was going to be, and where they would wind up, and where they were going to go. Switch over to book two, and she's literally clueless - all of the time. Her ever-expansive knowledge was not explained in book one, and her lack of knowledge in book two makes even less sense.
3. I'm tempted to not even mention this, because I don't have a problem with dark books, but compared to book one, this book felt like it took a trip off the deep end. I really was not expecting it, and for the book as a whole, it isn't a bad thing. I'm just very sensitive to certain things. Rape is one of them. Sadistic/twisted sexual stuff is another. There was a pretty lengthy scene in this book that left a really bad taste on my tongue, and it felt totally out of sync with the rest of the content in this series. Again, I have no problem with authors dealing with stuff like this in their books, but to have a scene described in so much detail was very unexpected from everything else I read in books one and two. I might be overly-sensitive, but I can't help that, and I wanted to mention it since it definitely contributed to me not liking this book as much.
**EDIT: This entire section of the book was really powerful. I don't intend to detract from that. I'm only pointing out this one specific thing that bothered me, not trying to say that this entire part of the book was bad. It was really powerful and necessary and definitely a highlight of the book.
4. I can only handle so many twists in a story. It's like if you get in a car, and you're the passenger. One or two spins or sharp turns/drifts as a passenger with a professional can be fun. Too many sharp turns and donuts and general crazy driving, and you'll eventually get car-sick and nauseous. That's kind of how I felt by the end of this book. Way too many plot twists, and the identity of the characters changed SO MANY TIMES. One character, , changed sides TWICE. Two other characters had dramatic reveals, exposing that they weren't who we thought they were. It happened again, but not just with one or two characters, but with an entire group of people in the story.
I just got tired of it after awhile, because it was like he was throwing twists into the story just for the sake of having unexpected twists in the story, which isn't always a good thing. It's like we were in a constant state of having brand new revelations, but pretty much all that this communicates to the reader is that we can't trust anything that in this story. Or worse, that de Castell actually has no clue what is happening in the book, so he has to keep changing it up haha.
I enjoyed it, and it wasn't a bad book by any means, but when I say it just *barely* got four stars from me, it really was just barely haha. I just hope book three is a continued improvement on the series, rather than a repeat of book one, which felt very sloppy.
OH ALSO. This was my favorite quote from the book:
"The law only matters if we hold it higher than ourselves"
I love that so much. Nobody is above the law - even those that enforce it. These guys really are the ideal of justice, and it's inspiring to see somebody writing about that.
ON TO BOOK THREE.
May 1, 2017
Knight's Shadow is the undisputed high point of the series so far. De Castell removed the obnoxious, fairy-tale elements from the first book (Magical horse, wicked step mother, princess-for-rescue), and staved off the protagonists from the safe zone (Spoiler: Well, not entirely, but the whole "I cut my own hand" thing was cool and totally unexpected).
The plot twists were again amazing, with some of them being pleasantly shocking, and others oh-not-so-much. The protagonists are even further developed, providing a personal feeling to the story, and putting the reader in their place, or as the fourth member of the team.
“He’d told me the world could be the most lovely place you could imagine, so long as your imagination was fueled by love.”
In the negative part, I found a rather disturbingly lack of direction in the story (although there was a ultimate goal). I felt like I was reading some (seemingly random) short stories, that eventually (and miraculously) connected to each other- like watching an episodic tv series. You enjoy it, but don't really care about the ending.
All in all, Knight's Shadow is the best installment on the Greatcoats so far, and I totally recommend it to every light-fantasy reader out there.
You can find more of my reviews over at http://BookNest.eu/
The plot twists were again amazing, with some of them being pleasantly shocking, and others oh-not-so-much. The protagonists are even further developed, providing a personal feeling to the story, and putting the reader in their place, or as the fourth member of the team.
“He’d told me the world could be the most lovely place you could imagine, so long as your imagination was fueled by love.”
In the negative part, I found a rather disturbingly lack of direction in the story (although there was a ultimate goal). I felt like I was reading some (seemingly random) short stories, that eventually (and miraculously) connected to each other- like watching an episodic tv series. You enjoy it, but don't really care about the ending.
All in all, Knight's Shadow is the best installment on the Greatcoats so far, and I totally recommend it to every light-fantasy reader out there.
You can find more of my reviews over at http://BookNest.eu/
June 19, 2018
I felt like Knight's Shadow was a decent instalment of the Greatcoats series but that it was not quite as enjoyable as Traitor's Blade. A few of the flaws of the first book were magnified in this one. I did still enjoy this one even if it did not reach the heights I felt it could have! This is a fun fantasy world and I still find de Castell's writing and storytelling quite engaging despite the flaws.
The story picked up from where the first book finished. Falcio and his Greatcoats are battling to keep Aline from the clutches of the scheming Dukes and Duchesses of Tristia and scheming to find a way to put her on her father's throne. The Dukes and Trin have their own intrigues and plots going on. To complicate things even further a peasant uprising is brewing as the people of Trista get sick of being mistreated by the nobility and nights. As if that was not enough Falcio has to battle a debilitating sickness while Kest has issues of his own to deal with after finding out there is more to being the Saint of Swords than just glowing red!
The story was fine. Nothing special but it did hold my attention and even managed to squeeze in a few shock twists and turns along the way. The real thing this series has going for it is the characters. Falcio, Kest, and Brasti were back and they were as fun and likeable as ever. I've love the trio's banter but I also love how they are all guys that are easy to root for despite the fact that they have a few flaws. The other good thing de Castell realizes is that good secondary characters really help a story. This one has the likes of Valiana, Aline, Dariana, and even crazy old Ugh appearing again for a few scene stealing moments! If I was to moan it would be to say I'm not happy with how de Castell has dealt with his main villain. The secondary villains were mostly good but I feel he really missed a chance to make the series lead villain a special one but blew it by making her a carbon copy of her mother. It was a real pity as given her relationship with a lot of the characters she had the potential to be a far more complicated and fun adversary.
The other reasons I did not enjoy KS as well as TB was because I felt like de Castell dragged out a few of the mysteries from the start of the series a bit too long and I felt like he recycled a few story arcs from the first book for this second one without even making much effort to give them a new spin. It felt a bit lazy! This series can also get a bit over the top ridiculous at times with its plot conveniences. I can forgive that most of the time as the story really is fun but occasionally it gets to much even for me to be able to suspend my disbelief.
I also want to mention Ethalia. How much more fun would this series be if she just did not exist? I'm not even sure I've read many YA romances as bad the one involving Ethalia in my life and I've read a fair few bad YA romances in my time!
On the whole I did enjoy this second Greatcoats book but definitely not as much as I enjoyed the first one.
Rating: 3.5 stars. I'll round up to 4 stars because I feel like de Castell has that undefinable something in his writing that sucks me into his story even at the moments when something in the plot is annoying me.
Audio Note: Joe Jameson is a decent narrator who give a solid performances of this series.
The story picked up from where the first book finished. Falcio and his Greatcoats are battling to keep Aline from the clutches of the scheming Dukes and Duchesses of Tristia and scheming to find a way to put her on her father's throne. The Dukes and Trin have their own intrigues and plots going on. To complicate things even further a peasant uprising is brewing as the people of Trista get sick of being mistreated by the nobility and nights. As if that was not enough Falcio has to battle a debilitating sickness while Kest has issues of his own to deal with after finding out there is more to being the Saint of Swords than just glowing red!
The story was fine. Nothing special but it did hold my attention and even managed to squeeze in a few shock twists and turns along the way. The real thing this series has going for it is the characters. Falcio, Kest, and Brasti were back and they were as fun and likeable as ever. I've love the trio's banter but I also love how they are all guys that are easy to root for despite the fact that they have a few flaws. The other good thing de Castell realizes is that good secondary characters really help a story. This one has the likes of Valiana, Aline, Dariana, and even crazy old Ugh appearing again for a few scene stealing moments! If I was to moan it would be to say I'm not happy with how de Castell has dealt with his main villain. The secondary villains were mostly good but I feel he really missed a chance to make the series lead villain a special one but blew it by making her a carbon copy of her mother. It was a real pity as given her relationship with a lot of the characters she had the potential to be a far more complicated and fun adversary.
The other reasons I did not enjoy KS as well as TB was because I felt like de Castell dragged out a few of the mysteries from the start of the series a bit too long and I felt like he recycled a few story arcs from the first book for this second one without even making much effort to give them a new spin. It felt a bit lazy! This series can also get a bit over the top ridiculous at times with its plot conveniences. I can forgive that most of the time as the story really is fun but occasionally it gets to much even for me to be able to suspend my disbelief.
I also want to mention Ethalia. How much more fun would this series be if she just did not exist? I'm not even sure I've read many YA romances as bad the one involving Ethalia in my life and I've read a fair few bad YA romances in my time!
On the whole I did enjoy this second Greatcoats book but definitely not as much as I enjoyed the first one.
Rating: 3.5 stars. I'll round up to 4 stars because I feel like de Castell has that undefinable something in his writing that sucks me into his story even at the moments when something in the plot is annoying me.
Audio Note: Joe Jameson is a decent narrator who give a solid performances of this series.
October 13, 2019
Check out my review for this fantastic book on Grimdark Magazine at: Grimdark Magazine
Wow. What a story.
Sebastien de Castel is a master at work here. Knight’s Shadow, book 2 of The Greatcoats series continued from the unrelenting pace of Traitor’s Blade, but somehow manages to shift a few gears up. There is rarely a chance to pause for breath within this story, where Falcio, Kest and Brasti carry on with their adventure.
“Happiness is a series of grains of sand spread out in a desert of violence and anguish.”
These three characters have some of the best dialogue in fantasy that I have read. Sebastien is as consistent at writing fun, witty and thought provoking dialogue as Brasti is at making an un-modest but hilarious remark about anything and everything. Each page containing these three was a pleasure to read (or listen to, this was an audible listen, Joe Jameson did a superb job).
We follow the changing band of Greatcoats as they are thrown (or seemingly run, walk, shuffle and even amble) into danger, political intrigue, swashbuckling and breath-taking action sequences, duels, immense torture, (The Greatcoat’s Lament is one of the darkest and most disturbing scenes I’ve read in fantasy. It made me feel sadness and sorrow that I really had not expected to feel from a Greatcoat instalment), philosophical conversations and hopeless moments of frustration.
“Do you always run headlong into certain death?” “Sometimes he walks,” Dariana said. “Occasionally he shuffles. Once I’m pretty sure I saw him amble into certain death.”
After having met Sebastien several times, I can see where his witty dialogue stems from. This story is full of moments that had me laughing out loud, much to the odd looks from people around me as I listened to Knight’s Shadow. I really love our three protagonists, and cannot wait to continue reading their journey. Also, a massive shoutout to characters who don’t have as much page time as Falcio, Kest and Brasti, but are equally as enjoyable and unique in their own rights. Valiana’s arc is a breath of fresh air, and Dariana is a force that matches Brasti in his amusing ways. Even a surprise appearance from my favourite torturer turned forgetful law-sayer.
Also, there had to be characters I hated in this story. In the words of Nigel Benn, I actually do hate them. De Castell did a fantastic job in making betrayals feel heart wrenchingly brutal, and made the baddies just an even darker shade of bad. It is rare to find a book that really explores the ‘bad’ characters, their motives and own personalities. Knight’s Shadow did this brilliantly and really made me feel anger and sorrow.
“It's stories that inspire people to change. It's stories that make them believe things can be better."
There was a lot of to and fro and this story, travelling and a lot happened. But it was done in a fantastic way and I really am sold on this story. I’m also sat here wondering, can Falcio (or even Kest) have ANY MORE BAD LUCK?
The answer, presumably is yes. Yes they can.
Time for Saint’s Blood.
5/5 - a swashbuckling adventure that will have you laughing, punching the air, squirming and pondering all of the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ in the world. Scenes that will shock people, and others that will make them root forever for the Greatcoats. Sebastien de Castell is brilliant.
Wow. What a story.
Sebastien de Castel is a master at work here. Knight’s Shadow, book 2 of The Greatcoats series continued from the unrelenting pace of Traitor’s Blade, but somehow manages to shift a few gears up. There is rarely a chance to pause for breath within this story, where Falcio, Kest and Brasti carry on with their adventure.
“Happiness is a series of grains of sand spread out in a desert of violence and anguish.”
These three characters have some of the best dialogue in fantasy that I have read. Sebastien is as consistent at writing fun, witty and thought provoking dialogue as Brasti is at making an un-modest but hilarious remark about anything and everything. Each page containing these three was a pleasure to read (or listen to, this was an audible listen, Joe Jameson did a superb job).
We follow the changing band of Greatcoats as they are thrown (or seemingly run, walk, shuffle and even amble) into danger, political intrigue, swashbuckling and breath-taking action sequences, duels, immense torture, (The Greatcoat’s Lament is one of the darkest and most disturbing scenes I’ve read in fantasy. It made me feel sadness and sorrow that I really had not expected to feel from a Greatcoat instalment), philosophical conversations and hopeless moments of frustration.
“Do you always run headlong into certain death?” “Sometimes he walks,” Dariana said. “Occasionally he shuffles. Once I’m pretty sure I saw him amble into certain death.”
After having met Sebastien several times, I can see where his witty dialogue stems from. This story is full of moments that had me laughing out loud, much to the odd looks from people around me as I listened to Knight’s Shadow. I really love our three protagonists, and cannot wait to continue reading their journey. Also, a massive shoutout to characters who don’t have as much page time as Falcio, Kest and Brasti, but are equally as enjoyable and unique in their own rights. Valiana’s arc is a breath of fresh air, and Dariana is a force that matches Brasti in his amusing ways. Even a surprise appearance from my favourite torturer turned forgetful law-sayer.
Also, there had to be characters I hated in this story. In the words of Nigel Benn, I actually do hate them. De Castell did a fantastic job in making betrayals feel heart wrenchingly brutal, and made the baddies just an even darker shade of bad. It is rare to find a book that really explores the ‘bad’ characters, their motives and own personalities. Knight’s Shadow did this brilliantly and really made me feel anger and sorrow.
“It's stories that inspire people to change. It's stories that make them believe things can be better."
There was a lot of to and fro and this story, travelling and a lot happened. But it was done in a fantastic way and I really am sold on this story. I’m also sat here wondering, can Falcio (or even Kest) have ANY MORE BAD LUCK?
The answer, presumably is yes. Yes they can.
Time for Saint’s Blood.
5/5 - a swashbuckling adventure that will have you laughing, punching the air, squirming and pondering all of the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ in the world. Scenes that will shock people, and others that will make them root forever for the Greatcoats. Sebastien de Castell is brilliant.
February 16, 2018
I fell into this second book with no hesitation, read through its long pages with great joy, and ended it feeling so satisfied.
This is odd.
Why? Because despite being a party to a great character's prolonged torture and hellish defeat, I still feel like I came out on top. Falcio has it really rough in this novel. Really, really rough.
And yet, all the humor is intact, all the brilliant action scenes, all the corruption and vice in the kingdom and all the desperate idealism of those few who still believe in mercy and justice in the face of an overwhelming need to get all revenge-y on those Knights' asses. :)
It's a hell of a good balancing act and the author pulls it off beautifully. The world-building is deep and thoughtful and larger than life, but it's the people inside it that live and breathe.
And then there's the whole Saint business, the visiting gods and their inability to shape anything except obliquely, and, again, the brilliant action scenes filled with despair, skill, heartbreak, and sacrifice. I can't emphasize these bits enough.
As a fantasy, I'm placing it right up there on some of the best of the best, but not for the flash of magic or the scope, but for the nitty-gritty heart, the detail, and the characters.
What can I say? I'm in love. :)
This is odd.
Why? Because despite being a party to a great character's prolonged torture and hellish defeat, I still feel like I came out on top. Falcio has it really rough in this novel. Really, really rough.
And yet, all the humor is intact, all the brilliant action scenes, all the corruption and vice in the kingdom and all the desperate idealism of those few who still believe in mercy and justice in the face of an overwhelming need to get all revenge-y on those Knights' asses. :)
It's a hell of a good balancing act and the author pulls it off beautifully. The world-building is deep and thoughtful and larger than life, but it's the people inside it that live and breathe.
And then there's the whole Saint business, the visiting gods and their inability to shape anything except obliquely, and, again, the brilliant action scenes filled with despair, skill, heartbreak, and sacrifice. I can't emphasize these bits enough.
As a fantasy, I'm placing it right up there on some of the best of the best, but not for the flash of magic or the scope, but for the nitty-gritty heart, the detail, and the characters.
What can I say? I'm in love. :)
March 6, 2024
Not changing my rating from my original read. 5 stars and still one of my favourite books of all time ever.
March 31, 2017
Sometimes book #2 is worse #1 and everyone is annoyed...sometimes it's better...this one is DEFINITELY better, it's SO GOOD :D
This story is the continuation of Falcio Val Mond and his loyal friends Brasti and Kest as they journey the landscapes seeking to bring justice and order to the land once again despite the untimely death of the King. The three fellows are friends, fighting companions and confidants to one another, and they won't let something like a false Queen and an army of skilful warriors defeat them (not when they can help it anyway).
This book definitely upped the anti. Not only did I not see many of the twists coming, when they did turn up I was excited and compelled by the events unfolding on the page before me. I loved being inside Falcio's world and mind and getting to see the way that he thinks and the way that the story unfolded from his POV. I definitely think he's a great character himself (as are his friends) but I was also very happy to see more ladies on the centre stage in this book too.
What I really enjoy about this series is the pure fun and malice some of the characters here have. We get to meet some more ladies in this book and that means we have a lot more going on in the battles and more dynamics to play with all around. I just enjoyed seeing the various characters work with or against one another in various plots and threads which all paid off in the end and set the stage for something even more epic in the next book (no doubt).
Honestly, I am trying to be a lot more harsh and critical with giving out 5* reviews, but I couldn't have made this book better so I am grateful I finally read it and that book #3 is out and #4 very soon to be released so I can have more time in this world and with these characters :) 5*s overall and highly, highly recommended. :P
This story is the continuation of Falcio Val Mond and his loyal friends Brasti and Kest as they journey the landscapes seeking to bring justice and order to the land once again despite the untimely death of the King. The three fellows are friends, fighting companions and confidants to one another, and they won't let something like a false Queen and an army of skilful warriors defeat them (not when they can help it anyway).
This book definitely upped the anti. Not only did I not see many of the twists coming, when they did turn up I was excited and compelled by the events unfolding on the page before me. I loved being inside Falcio's world and mind and getting to see the way that he thinks and the way that the story unfolded from his POV. I definitely think he's a great character himself (as are his friends) but I was also very happy to see more ladies on the centre stage in this book too.
What I really enjoy about this series is the pure fun and malice some of the characters here have. We get to meet some more ladies in this book and that means we have a lot more going on in the battles and more dynamics to play with all around. I just enjoyed seeing the various characters work with or against one another in various plots and threads which all paid off in the end and set the stage for something even more epic in the next book (no doubt).
Honestly, I am trying to be a lot more harsh and critical with giving out 5* reviews, but I couldn't have made this book better so I am grateful I finally read it and that book #3 is out and #4 very soon to be released so I can have more time in this world and with these characters :) 5*s overall and highly, highly recommended. :P
July 31, 2015
The Knights Shadow is a perfect book if you love engaging and hilarious characters, amazingly well sculpted fight scenes and that rush of excitement that only comes with being truly and utterly swept away by a writer of incredible talent. It is action, adventure, fantasy and mystery all at it’s finest and will chew you up and spit you out in that best possible way.
We pick up the plot almost directly after events of Traitor’s Blade and, like the first book, it has an incredible pace and is impossible to put down. More than once I found myself musing that there had not been a single slow moment or boring part where I felt I knew what was coming. As was hinted in the first book we get to know a lot more about the Tailor and her role in the world that is trying to stop itself being ripped apart, we delve deeper into the role of the Saints and the magic that lies within them and we get further clues as to the grand plan of the dead King. I loved the structure that gave us plenty of time with the Trio of Falcio, Kest and Brasti but also found time to explore the two most prominent ladies Dariana and Valiana. There are unexpected twists and turns taking place in all of their lives and watching the different ways each character approaches these hurdles is incredibly satisfying.
Castell plays with his characters like an evil but strategically gifted child, think Ender Wiggan gone Sith. He throws them in the darkest holes and makes them work their own way out and I was continually amazed and impressed with the complexity of what was unfolding in front of me as the plot developed with a stark brutality that was well matched by the moments of lightness and heroism. More often than not it is the ties of friendship that pulls them through the barest of margins and as always it is accompanied by dialogue that truly gives the impression these men have known each other and fought together for their entire lives.
“There was something else the three of us shared, too: a belief that there are some fights you don’t walk away from, no matter what the cost. That’s why I knew, at that moment when the Tailor offered us respite and resignation from our duty, that none of us would take it. We’d stood in that room and locked eyes and without having to speak it aloud, shared a single silent promise: if the world is going to fall apart, then we will go down with it. Fighting.”
Falcio, pronounced Fal-key-oh, is honour and valour personified and is as worthy a lead of a series as Logan Nine Fingers, Kaladin or Darrow. He’s the main focus of the plot and also the architect of much that befalls him, his crew and, as it turns out, much of the world around him. Kest was a big favourite of mine in this book. His skill in battle is only really matched by the battle waging within him as he is forced to constantly seek the strongest opponent, both due to his recent Sainthood and the way he sees the world around him though eyes that weigh every single possible option. Brasti is more emotionally weighted and is most often the one to speak his, and our, fears out loud. He brings both light and darkness to any situation and follows his own sense of right and wrong. Not being as beholden to the letter of the Law gives him more choices and makes him a bit more unpredictable that the other two. He’s often got the best lines and always seems eager to take the piss out of Falcio and Kest in way that shows his superiority.
“I was about to fall down on my bed when I realized Brasti had his hand up.
‘Do you have a question?’
‘No’, he said. ‘I just wanted to call first strike on Duke Isault.’
‘What do you mean?’ Kest asked.
“Well, when we show up in the throne room in the morning and Isault betrays us and Shuran and his knights surround us and Falcio is jumping up and down giving speeches about the Law and staying true to one’s word and the other rubbish he spews at times like there, I get to stab Isault first.’”
I am a big fan this Author and it was great to hear that Sebastian recently signed a nice big deal to bring out a new series of books with another publisher. I hope he can give the Greatcoat series with Joe Fletcher the time it deserves to finish with a bang, and with two books to go I hope they double in size with each release. I could not get enough.
I leave you with one of my favourite quotes from Knight’s Shadow.
“I met a blind man years ago, selling fruit along the trade road, being led around by a very old woman whom I assumed was his wife. I’d asked him what it was like to be without sight. ‘Close your eyes’, he’d said. ‘Think of a beautiful woman. That’s what I see every minute of every day.’ His wife had looked over at him fondly. He’d told me the world could be the most lovely place you could imagine, so long as your imagination was fuelled by love.”
This review is dedicated to Vadren Graff. How did you know Sebastian?
Charlie Hopkins, A loyal Bardatti.
This review and more like it can be found at www.areadingmachine.com
We pick up the plot almost directly after events of Traitor’s Blade and, like the first book, it has an incredible pace and is impossible to put down. More than once I found myself musing that there had not been a single slow moment or boring part where I felt I knew what was coming. As was hinted in the first book we get to know a lot more about the Tailor and her role in the world that is trying to stop itself being ripped apart, we delve deeper into the role of the Saints and the magic that lies within them and we get further clues as to the grand plan of the dead King. I loved the structure that gave us plenty of time with the Trio of Falcio, Kest and Brasti but also found time to explore the two most prominent ladies Dariana and Valiana. There are unexpected twists and turns taking place in all of their lives and watching the different ways each character approaches these hurdles is incredibly satisfying.
Castell plays with his characters like an evil but strategically gifted child, think Ender Wiggan gone Sith. He throws them in the darkest holes and makes them work their own way out and I was continually amazed and impressed with the complexity of what was unfolding in front of me as the plot developed with a stark brutality that was well matched by the moments of lightness and heroism. More often than not it is the ties of friendship that pulls them through the barest of margins and as always it is accompanied by dialogue that truly gives the impression these men have known each other and fought together for their entire lives.
“There was something else the three of us shared, too: a belief that there are some fights you don’t walk away from, no matter what the cost. That’s why I knew, at that moment when the Tailor offered us respite and resignation from our duty, that none of us would take it. We’d stood in that room and locked eyes and without having to speak it aloud, shared a single silent promise: if the world is going to fall apart, then we will go down with it. Fighting.”
Falcio, pronounced Fal-key-oh, is honour and valour personified and is as worthy a lead of a series as Logan Nine Fingers, Kaladin or Darrow. He’s the main focus of the plot and also the architect of much that befalls him, his crew and, as it turns out, much of the world around him. Kest was a big favourite of mine in this book. His skill in battle is only really matched by the battle waging within him as he is forced to constantly seek the strongest opponent, both due to his recent Sainthood and the way he sees the world around him though eyes that weigh every single possible option. Brasti is more emotionally weighted and is most often the one to speak his, and our, fears out loud. He brings both light and darkness to any situation and follows his own sense of right and wrong. Not being as beholden to the letter of the Law gives him more choices and makes him a bit more unpredictable that the other two. He’s often got the best lines and always seems eager to take the piss out of Falcio and Kest in way that shows his superiority.
“I was about to fall down on my bed when I realized Brasti had his hand up.
‘Do you have a question?’
‘No’, he said. ‘I just wanted to call first strike on Duke Isault.’
‘What do you mean?’ Kest asked.
“Well, when we show up in the throne room in the morning and Isault betrays us and Shuran and his knights surround us and Falcio is jumping up and down giving speeches about the Law and staying true to one’s word and the other rubbish he spews at times like there, I get to stab Isault first.’”
I am a big fan this Author and it was great to hear that Sebastian recently signed a nice big deal to bring out a new series of books with another publisher. I hope he can give the Greatcoat series with Joe Fletcher the time it deserves to finish with a bang, and with two books to go I hope they double in size with each release. I could not get enough.
I leave you with one of my favourite quotes from Knight’s Shadow.
“I met a blind man years ago, selling fruit along the trade road, being led around by a very old woman whom I assumed was his wife. I’d asked him what it was like to be without sight. ‘Close your eyes’, he’d said. ‘Think of a beautiful woman. That’s what I see every minute of every day.’ His wife had looked over at him fondly. He’d told me the world could be the most lovely place you could imagine, so long as your imagination was fuelled by love.”
This review is dedicated to Vadren Graff. How did you know Sebastian?
Charlie Hopkins, A loyal Bardatti.
This review and more like it can be found at www.areadingmachine.com
January 5, 2016
As Falcio val Mond deals with the increasing side effects of poison, new dangers arise that the Greatcoats must solve. Falcio fights with whatever time the poison permits to save his homeland from civil war.
Knight's Shadow is a solid sequel to Traitor's Blade. All the primary Greatcoats have returned and find themselves once again going against impossible odds to earn justice and freedom for all.
I really enjoyed the increased Greatcoat interaction Falcio had in this book compared to the first of the series. There is no massive gap where Falcio is fighting solo to save a girl by impossible odds and that was certainly an improvement.
It was nice that the author took a moment to ensure that everyone was pronouncing Falcio's name properly in the story. As a rumor of Falcio's exploits are being spread throughout Tristia his name is mentioned as Falsio which in truth was the way I thought his name was pronounced. Thanks to this moment we learned his name is pronounced as Falkeyoh.
My main grievance with Knight's Shadow and this series thus far as a whole is that everything seems overly convenient. The perfect things happen at the perfect moment time and time again. There are at least a few moments that go from Falcio and friends being screwed until A voice called out to Falcio and the team's savior arrives at just the right time. That got old for me.
Knight's Shadow is really a solid book and sequel with some interesting ideas.
3 out of 5 stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Knight's Shadow is a solid sequel to Traitor's Blade. All the primary Greatcoats have returned and find themselves once again going against impossible odds to earn justice and freedom for all.
I really enjoyed the increased Greatcoat interaction Falcio had in this book compared to the first of the series. There is no massive gap where Falcio is fighting solo to save a girl by impossible odds and that was certainly an improvement.
It was nice that the author took a moment to ensure that everyone was pronouncing Falcio's name properly in the story. As a rumor of Falcio's exploits are being spread throughout Tristia his name is mentioned as Falsio which in truth was the way I thought his name was pronounced. Thanks to this moment we learned his name is pronounced as Falkeyoh.
My main grievance with Knight's Shadow and this series thus far as a whole is that everything seems overly convenient. The perfect things happen at the perfect moment time and time again. There are at least a few moments that go from Falcio and friends being screwed until A voice called out to Falcio and the team's savior arrives at just the right time. That got old for me.
Knight's Shadow is really a solid book and sequel with some interesting ideas.
3 out of 5 stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2017
“If on a winter’s night a traveler like you finds shelter in one of the inns that line the trade roads of Tristia, sitting close to the fire, drinking what is quite likely watered-down ale and doing your best to stay out of the way of the local bully-boys, you might chance to see a Greatcoat wander in.
You’ll know him or her by the long leather coat of office, weathered to a deep brown and tempered by a hint of dark red or green or sometimes even blue.
I will not bore you with the details, gentle traveler, for they are unfit for conversation between folk of good breeding.
All you need to know that is someone was murdering my country. And I…
Alas… What good are the threats of a corpse, even when it hasn’t discovered its own death yet?
But, there had to be an answer.
My name is Falcio val Mond, one of the last of the King’s Greatcoats, and if you listen very carefully you might still be able to hear me screaming.”
Infatuating continuation of Falcio’s misfortunes in a breathtaking sequel.
RTC
August 25, 2016
This book took me longer to read than it should have, for one main reason; I didn't want it to end. Yes, there are still 2 more books in the series. Well, one out now and the other coming out soon, but this did nothing to ease the pain of finishing a great book. Before I started this one I was nervous due to how amazing the first book was. I was scared that Castell wouldn't be able to do as good, and especially wouldn't be able to do any better. But man, was I wrong. This book was even better than Traitor's Blade. The fight scenes seemed more realistic, there was even more character development, we got to meet some amazing new characters, and the story itself was just a step above most books. The way I know that an author is really talented is when he/she makes me feel empathy for a completely terrible person. I mean, how is it possible for someone to feel empathy for someone who tortures people for a living? This book does. This book made me feel happy, sad, excited and about 50 other emotions. Most all within a single chapter. He continued to amaze me with how greatly detailed he can be without being boring. Most authors can be very detailed about a scene or the world but end up carrying on too long and become more boring than interesting. Don't even get me started on how much I loved the last few chapters. They ended the book pretty much as well as we could've hoped. Really excited for book 3 and looking forward to the release of 4!
PS- can Falcio please just find peace and happiness? Hahaha
PS- can Falcio please just find peace and happiness? Hahaha
November 7, 2016
Full review to come. Very fun book in the same vein as the first one, but with a bit more political and historical complexity. As always great banter and action.
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Wow, I have no idea how I let this one get away from me. But yeah, this was a really fun book to read. Obviously it has been a while since I read it so I can't give you good folks a full run down but is was pretty much just like the first book in terms of banter, action, character development, etc. etc. etc. Not a carbon copy mind you, but a book that kept all the strong points of the first while also doing a wonderful job advancing the overall story and developing the characters. So, if you liked the first, you'll feel about the same about this one. If you did not like the first one you will not like this one. I have plenty of fun quotes in my status updates so be sure to check them out!
...
Wow, I have no idea how I let this one get away from me. But yeah, this was a really fun book to read. Obviously it has been a while since I read it so I can't give you good folks a full run down but is was pretty much just like the first book in terms of banter, action, character development, etc. etc. etc. Not a carbon copy mind you, but a book that kept all the strong points of the first while also doing a wonderful job advancing the overall story and developing the characters. So, if you liked the first, you'll feel about the same about this one. If you did not like the first one you will not like this one. I have plenty of fun quotes in my status updates so be sure to check them out!
September 9, 2017
4.5 stars.
We are currently in a Golden Age of quality fantasy writers and authors. So much so that it's actually hard to keep up at times!
Within the last few years alone, we've gotten "Chronicles of the Unhewn Throne", "Faithful and the Fallen", the Lotus War" trilogy, amongst MANY others.
And I'm proud to add the Greatcoats saga to the list! After a really strong opening salvo, this second volume ratchets the narrative tension even further. It's uncommon that a second volume lives up to the promise of the first, but this does so in spades.
While there were a few minor quibbles/nitpicks, I truly couldn't justify giving it a 4 star rating.
Here's hoping the momentum holds as I go to Book 3!!
We are currently in a Golden Age of quality fantasy writers and authors. So much so that it's actually hard to keep up at times!
Within the last few years alone, we've gotten "Chronicles of the Unhewn Throne", "Faithful and the Fallen", the Lotus War" trilogy, amongst MANY others.
And I'm proud to add the Greatcoats saga to the list! After a really strong opening salvo, this second volume ratchets the narrative tension even further. It's uncommon that a second volume lives up to the promise of the first, but this does so in spades.
While there were a few minor quibbles/nitpicks, I truly couldn't justify giving it a 4 star rating.
Here's hoping the momentum holds as I go to Book 3!!
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