This second book picks up 36 years after Book of Days, and 15 years after the short stories Book of Shadow, part 1 & 2. Ryden Fabhcun wakes from a dream that is more like a vision, only visions were taken from the elves during the Shadow Wars. Yet, he remembers what visions were like, and he is sure that it is true, and that his queen, Qynh, needs him. Meanwhile, two lords make friends with a thief named Eisean. There are three highwaymen robbing the upper class who seem to be at the right place at the right time far too often. The lady Isabaenna who works for the crown as an ambassador for Iarnrod, is suddenly called back early from her vacation by the king for some important matter. All these divergent tales connect in relation to an ancient text called the Book of Shadow and an ancient tool of power called the Shadow Stone.

This was a fun read. I enjoyed the relationship that develops between Eisean and Isabaenna. They are from divergent cultures, yet they are both strong and unique individuals who find a soul mate in each other. The true villain of this book was well written and full of guile. I enjoyed how the author tied together new and old characters to tell a complete story. You may be upset if you have read the previous books as one character that died in the first book suddenly is alive and a threat to the kingdom in this book. I also found one solution to an impossible situation a little too unbelievable (even having read the short story that somewhat explains it). The concept of the Book of Shadow and the Shadow Stone was interesting. I liked how these items of power were new and interesting yet tied to the enemy in the first book. Readers of epic fantasy should enjoy this book.

Reviewed by: Gretchen