Warrior Review

Warrior (Book 2 of Wolfblade Trilogy)
- Jennifer Fallon

Publisher: UK - Orbit

Why I picked it up: It was actually the first Jennifer Fallon book I picked as it was in a second book store and in good condition. Wasn’t till I got it home I realised it was the middle book of a trilogy.

Back Blurb: It's been eight long years since Marla Wolfblade buried her husband and claimed royal power - and its responsibilities - for herself. Now she must teach her son, Damin, the skills he needs to survive as warring factions at Court manoeuvre for power, and ultimately for the throne itself. Damin proves an apt pupil as his mother's advisor teaches him the Rules of Gaining and Wielding Power. However, as he nears the age when he will take the throne, his position becomes increasingly dangerous. The head of the Sorcerers' Collective, a powerful and influential faction, decides to either turn the young ruler into a puppet or tear the throne away from him. Damin must decide whom it is safe to trust - and how to claim his birthright.

What I thought: Most trilogies do drag a little in the middle book – carrying on the story and unable to wrap it up. This book does have some of that aspect. The first half continues the story of Marla Wolfblade and her fight for her family and paving the way for her son to take the High Prince throne in the future. The story then jumps forward in time again to Damin’s early twenties and a threat to the country form the neighbouring kingdom. Both parts are strong as Fallon characterisation is her strong point and each character seems to jump out of the page fully formed. Although I liked the political intrigue, the large cast of characters made it difficult to keep everyone in mind at times – especially with the number of stepchildren, cousins, foster sisters and all the other family relations that are cramped into the book. The first book in the trilogy was a perfect introduction to Marla and how she learns to take up the reigns of power. This book, while I enjoyed it immensely seemed to lack that clarity of focus and the telling of one complete story. It ends on a cliff hanger but it is still a marvellous journey and I can’t wait for the next one.

Recommended for: Fans of Karen Miller and Fiona McIntosh

Rating: 7.5 out of 10