Graytorris the Mad – that is the name of the big bad – seeks vengeance against the order that exiled him (Cathedral of the Watchful Eye) while trying to find a cure for his own affliction. To this ends he hunts Daemus, a low Keeper of the Cathedral of the Watchful Eye, whose visions lead him to the sorcerer Vorodin. The fate of more than just the followers of Erud lays in the balance, as the answers Vorodin give could launch Daemus – and the realm – to the brink of war.
We return to humbler beginnings. Daemus and his crew are on the run, being chased by the minions of Graytorris. The world is again big, and our heroes and heroines small. It is here that the novel works its best. Hilliard has a talent for really chewing the scene, exposing you to the cold of a smokeless camp, or the welcome of a warm tavern.
As time goes on the plot inevitably becomes more complicated. There’s political intrigue, both in the rebellious former duchies of Warminster, and in the Cathedral of the Watchful Eye. Sometimes, we visit the point of view of one of the antagonists, and there is even a side story involving the north. Like the previous novel these later chapters suffer pacing issues. In the Last Keeper there was significant bloat after the middle, but here we have the opposite problem. Which should be a warning to other authors: beyond be dragons. Or, it is a delicate game adding storylines. Unfortunately in the case of Vorodin’s Lair, this means that this means that events sometimes happen which are supposed to be poignant, but end being forgettable.
So, where does that leave us?
Still wanting more. Despite all my problems with the diverging point of views – and my fear that given more time, Hilliard would just add more – I found there was plenty to keep me interested. Daemus, and his main supporting cast are great characters. The plot of Warminster facing rebellion is well done. The writing, excellent. So, here is my advice. Start with the Last Keeper. Have a nice glass of beer and just enjoy the ride. See where it takes you, I promise at the very least, you will find the time worthwhile.
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