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Shadow Saga #2
Shadow's Lure
Welcome to a dark world, where even the shadows are deadly...
Danger lurks in the unforgiving Northlands, and a sinister magic lurks in the shadows waiting for its moment to strike. It’s the worst place to be searching for something, even for an assassin with no loyalties and even fewer scruples...
In Othir, he was at the top of the food chain. An assassin beyond compare. A dark shadow in the night. But Caim left that life behind when he helped an empress claim her throne. And now his past has come calling again.
Searching for the truth behind the murder and disappearance of his parents in the bitterly cold Northlands of his birth, Caim finds himself in a land in thrall to the Shadow. A wielder of the darkest kinds of blood magic imaginable holds his homeland in their iron fist, crushing all opposition beneath their tyrannous boot. Haunted by temptations from the Other Side, by turns in control of his magic and at the mercy of the Shadow, Caim becomes mired in a war he does not want to fight.
But there are some things a son of the Shadow cannot ignore, and some battles from which he can’t run. If Caim is going to survive—and if he’s to uncover the truth about his own magic and his parent’s death—then he is going to have to fight. But will his strength and skill be enough? Can anyone resist the Shadow’s Lure...?
Danger lurks in the unforgiving Northlands, and a sinister magic lurks in the shadows waiting for its moment to strike. It’s the worst place to be searching for something, even for an assassin with no loyalties and even fewer scruples...
In Othir, he was at the top of the food chain. An assassin beyond compare. A dark shadow in the night. But Caim left that life behind when he helped an empress claim her throne. And now his past has come calling again.
Searching for the truth behind the murder and disappearance of his parents in the bitterly cold Northlands of his birth, Caim finds himself in a land in thrall to the Shadow. A wielder of the darkest kinds of blood magic imaginable holds his homeland in their iron fist, crushing all opposition beneath their tyrannous boot. Haunted by temptations from the Other Side, by turns in control of his magic and at the mercy of the Shadow, Caim becomes mired in a war he does not want to fight.
But there are some things a son of the Shadow cannot ignore, and some battles from which he can’t run. If Caim is going to survive—and if he’s to uncover the truth about his own magic and his parent’s death—then he is going to have to fight. But will his strength and skill be enough? Can anyone resist the Shadow’s Lure...?
400 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2011
About the author
Jon Sprunk
32 books359 followersFantasy author living in central Pennsylvania. I love to travel (especially places with old ruins), watch football (American NFL, not that soccer stuff), drink (rum and coke, preferred), and enjoy life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
February 25, 2012
I love assassins! I'll not go into the same discussion from my review of Shadow's Son, but by golly those guys are cool and Jon Sprunk is an assassin master.
Shadow's Lure is the second volume in the Shadow Saga as I mentioned before, beginning with Shadow's Son. It's full of assassins, magic, and tons of action. Did I mention TONS OF ACTION!
Shadow's Lure takes up the story almost directly after Shadow's Son. Caim, our fearless assassin, is headed north to the dangerous northlands, on a mission not even he yet knows about. Josey has taken over the throne in Othir as empress amidst protests of the True Church. In Shadow's Lure, there is also an added point of view, also in third-person limited, in the witch Sybelle who is the right hand man woman of the new Duke of the North who is attempting to unite the north through subjugation.
While I enjoyed Josey's part in Shadow's Son, I really had a good time with her sections in Shadow's Lure. It was filled with political intrigue and dastardly characters trying to take advantage of her naivete, not least among them, members of the True Church.
Some of the minor problems I had, and the reason for a 4 instead of a 5 star rating, was the fact that (***Minor spoiler warning***) Kit, Caim's invisible Fae partner, is absent from Caim for much of the book. Hence, the fun, witty banter isn't as prevalent as in Shadow's Son. But then again, her parts in the book end up giving us a glimpse of what all this world Jon Sprunk's created has to offer.
I mentioned in my last review that I was really interested, after reading Shadow's Son, to find out more about the Shadow realm. There are lots of hints, but not a lot of solid facts. In Shadow's Lure, we find out much more about this mysterious place, although it is still mostly a mystery.
The magic system in this series is really impressive drawing from this shadow realm and actually using shadows as the magic. There are lots of fantasy books/series that involve shadows, but I'd never seen one that actually uses the shadows for anything from healing to torture and even fighting. What a great concept that's used in a really unique way.
Why Read Shadow's Lure?
Shadow's Lure is sword and sorcery at its best. Fast-paced, filled with action and realistic characters, and of course...assassins! If you like Brent Weeks or Paul Kearney, you'll really enjoy this series.
4 out of 5 Stars (Loved it!)
Shadow's Lure is the second volume in the Shadow Saga as I mentioned before, beginning with Shadow's Son. It's full of assassins, magic, and tons of action. Did I mention TONS OF ACTION!
Shadow's Lure takes up the story almost directly after Shadow's Son. Caim, our fearless assassin, is headed north to the dangerous northlands, on a mission not even he yet knows about. Josey has taken over the throne in Othir as empress amidst protests of the True Church. In Shadow's Lure, there is also an added point of view, also in third-person limited, in the witch Sybelle who is the right hand man woman of the new Duke of the North who is attempting to unite the north through subjugation.
While I enjoyed Josey's part in Shadow's Son, I really had a good time with her sections in Shadow's Lure. It was filled with political intrigue and dastardly characters trying to take advantage of her naivete, not least among them, members of the True Church.
Some of the minor problems I had, and the reason for a 4 instead of a 5 star rating, was the fact that (***Minor spoiler warning***) Kit, Caim's invisible Fae partner, is absent from Caim for much of the book. Hence, the fun, witty banter isn't as prevalent as in Shadow's Son. But then again, her parts in the book end up giving us a glimpse of what all this world Jon Sprunk's created has to offer.
I mentioned in my last review that I was really interested, after reading Shadow's Son, to find out more about the Shadow realm. There are lots of hints, but not a lot of solid facts. In Shadow's Lure, we find out much more about this mysterious place, although it is still mostly a mystery.
The magic system in this series is really impressive drawing from this shadow realm and actually using shadows as the magic. There are lots of fantasy books/series that involve shadows, but I'd never seen one that actually uses the shadows for anything from healing to torture and even fighting. What a great concept that's used in a really unique way.
Why Read Shadow's Lure?
Shadow's Lure is sword and sorcery at its best. Fast-paced, filled with action and realistic characters, and of course...assassins! If you like Brent Weeks or Paul Kearney, you'll really enjoy this series.
4 out of 5 Stars (Loved it!)
March 5, 2018
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.
In Caim of Shadow’s Son, Jon Sprunk created an assassin worthy of standing beside the likes of Brent Weeks’ Kylar Stern of the Night Angel Trilogy, Brandon Sanderson’s Kelsier of Mistborn, and Michael J. Sullivan’s Royce Melborn of the Riyria series. His story quickly becoming a sword and sorcery delight, filled with non-stop action, intense fighting, shadow magic, and thrills galore. And as the fiendish fun of devious plots, personal tragedy, and long denied revenge converged to a satisfying ending, it was good to know that Shadow’s Lure was waiting to continue on with Caim’s story, as he heads off into the Northlands to uncover the truth about his mysterious past and leaves behind his new love Josey, who has been crowned Empress Josephine of the Nimean Empire.
Immediately upon beginning Lure, however, it becomes clear this book is going to be a different type of story. Yes, Caim the master assassin is still wielding his twin blades to devastating effect, but now, the frenetic pacing, which was the dominate trait of Shadow’s Son, is turned down several notches, while the world building and character development take much more prominent roles in the narrative. And when I say “character development,” I should say “characters,” because the narrative seamlessly shifts back and forth between four of them: Caim, Josey, Kit, and a vile villainess from the shadowlands.
Naturally, Caim’s part of the tale involves lots of fighting. His quest leading him into the teeth of a raging civil war in his childhood homeland. New companions and enemies appear in his life, entangling him in an epic battle to determine the fate of the land. One fight leads to another, (Each one amazingly choreographed and depicted by Mr. Sprunk, who seems to have a real knack for writing engaging and sensible combat.), but during the interludes, Caim also finds himself struggling with revelations about his heritage and wondering if he made the right decision in leaving his life in Othir and his growing relationship with Josey.
Meanwhile, back in Othir, Empress Josephine is dealing with troubles of her own, mainly political machinations. She has nobles who view her as nothing but a silly young woman; she has the Church of True Believers plotting to overthrow her; Othir’s populace is primed to revolt at any minute; enemies are invading Nimean from all directions; a mysterious assassin is trying to kill her; she has trusted counselors demanding that she take a husband to reinforce her position; she is pregnant with Caim’s baby; and she has no idea if her lover ever intends to return to her, or if there brief relationship meant nothing to him.
The third member of our evolving love triangle is Kit. This disembodied guardian alternated between nagging Caim in Shadow’s Son and aiding him, but exactly who and what she really is begins to be revealed here. Not only that, she plays a huge role in opening up the world of shadow for a reader’s view. Yet all the while, Kit’s main focus seems to be expressing her true feelings for Caim, as she completely befuddles him with her sudden shift from mocking friend to inflamed suitor.
Rounding out our main characters is Sybelle. This formidable denizen of the Shadow realm is the true power behind the forces seeking to overthrow Caim’s childhood home and swarm into the Nimean Empire. No matter her horrid evilness (because she is a nasty thing) she is far from one dimensional, and Jon Sprunk shows all her amazing characteristics: the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Through these four viewpoints, Sprunk weaves a most intoxicating epic fantasy, filled to brimming with plots within plots. All of them whispering the timeless themes of past and future, despair and hope, love and hate, vengeance and justice, good versus evil. It is dark. It is gritty. It is blood soaked. It is sword and sorcery to its core.
But . . . (Yeah, I set you up for the “But” guys.) there were some things about the story which did not work for me and caused it to receive a lower star rating than Shadow’s Son.
The least of these was the sudden infatuation of Kit for Caim, and our heroes confusion about his feelings for her and Josey. To me, the shift from Kit the mocking friend in book one to the enamored suitor in this story was too abrupt. There really wasn’t any hints that this was coming, so when Kit gets all hot and bothered, it was a bit of a weird shock that Caim was so torn about his love for both women, since he’d never seemed to have anything but a friendship with Kit up until this point.
A moderate issue for me was our heroes (Caim and Josey) always having the very best of luck. Josey bumbling from bad situation to worse situation almost constantly, but somehow squeaking by or being saved by the perfectly timed intervention of the absolute correct individual, gradually grew to a distraction and not a relief. And Caim himself – though wounded and unknown in this northern land – managing to attract ally after ally, becoming the leader of a rebellion, and easily learning to use powers it takes other lifetimes to master was a bit hard for me to swallow.
However, the Shadow villains were my biggest disappointment. While Sybelle was fascinating in many ways, she and the other villains never really grew into anything other than obstacles for Caim to overcome. With Mr. Sprunk actually developing their story, I expected some attempt to make them empathetic or, at least, explain their cruelty, but it never really materialized, as they remained Bad Guy #1, Bad Guy #2, et cetera.
Even with my dislikes noted, I’d like to encourage assassin lovers and sword and sorcery aficionados to pick up this very entertaining series. Where Shadow’s Son was an action tour de force, Shadow’s Lure begins the transformation of a simple assassin tale into a grand epic fantasy. Sure, it stumble a little along the way, but it never fails to entertain, keeping your pulse pounding with each swing of Caim’s deadly blades.
In Caim of Shadow’s Son, Jon Sprunk created an assassin worthy of standing beside the likes of Brent Weeks’ Kylar Stern of the Night Angel Trilogy, Brandon Sanderson’s Kelsier of Mistborn, and Michael J. Sullivan’s Royce Melborn of the Riyria series. His story quickly becoming a sword and sorcery delight, filled with non-stop action, intense fighting, shadow magic, and thrills galore. And as the fiendish fun of devious plots, personal tragedy, and long denied revenge converged to a satisfying ending, it was good to know that Shadow’s Lure was waiting to continue on with Caim’s story, as he heads off into the Northlands to uncover the truth about his mysterious past and leaves behind his new love Josey, who has been crowned Empress Josephine of the Nimean Empire.
Immediately upon beginning Lure, however, it becomes clear this book is going to be a different type of story. Yes, Caim the master assassin is still wielding his twin blades to devastating effect, but now, the frenetic pacing, which was the dominate trait of Shadow’s Son, is turned down several notches, while the world building and character development take much more prominent roles in the narrative. And when I say “character development,” I should say “characters,” because the narrative seamlessly shifts back and forth between four of them: Caim, Josey, Kit, and a vile villainess from the shadowlands.
Naturally, Caim’s part of the tale involves lots of fighting. His quest leading him into the teeth of a raging civil war in his childhood homeland. New companions and enemies appear in his life, entangling him in an epic battle to determine the fate of the land. One fight leads to another, (Each one amazingly choreographed and depicted by Mr. Sprunk, who seems to have a real knack for writing engaging and sensible combat.), but during the interludes, Caim also finds himself struggling with revelations about his heritage and wondering if he made the right decision in leaving his life in Othir and his growing relationship with Josey.
Meanwhile, back in Othir, Empress Josephine is dealing with troubles of her own, mainly political machinations. She has nobles who view her as nothing but a silly young woman; she has the Church of True Believers plotting to overthrow her; Othir’s populace is primed to revolt at any minute; enemies are invading Nimean from all directions; a mysterious assassin is trying to kill her; she has trusted counselors demanding that she take a husband to reinforce her position; she is pregnant with Caim’s baby; and she has no idea if her lover ever intends to return to her, or if there brief relationship meant nothing to him.
The third member of our evolving love triangle is Kit. This disembodied guardian alternated between nagging Caim in Shadow’s Son and aiding him, but exactly who and what she really is begins to be revealed here. Not only that, she plays a huge role in opening up the world of shadow for a reader’s view. Yet all the while, Kit’s main focus seems to be expressing her true feelings for Caim, as she completely befuddles him with her sudden shift from mocking friend to inflamed suitor.
Rounding out our main characters is Sybelle. This formidable denizen of the Shadow realm is the true power behind the forces seeking to overthrow Caim’s childhood home and swarm into the Nimean Empire. No matter her horrid evilness (because she is a nasty thing) she is far from one dimensional, and Jon Sprunk shows all her amazing characteristics: the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Through these four viewpoints, Sprunk weaves a most intoxicating epic fantasy, filled to brimming with plots within plots. All of them whispering the timeless themes of past and future, despair and hope, love and hate, vengeance and justice, good versus evil. It is dark. It is gritty. It is blood soaked. It is sword and sorcery to its core.
But . . . (Yeah, I set you up for the “But” guys.) there were some things about the story which did not work for me and caused it to receive a lower star rating than Shadow’s Son.
The least of these was the sudden infatuation of Kit for Caim, and our heroes confusion about his feelings for her and Josey. To me, the shift from Kit the mocking friend in book one to the enamored suitor in this story was too abrupt. There really wasn’t any hints that this was coming, so when Kit gets all hot and bothered, it was a bit of a weird shock that Caim was so torn about his love for both women, since he’d never seemed to have anything but a friendship with Kit up until this point.
A moderate issue for me was our heroes (Caim and Josey) always having the very best of luck. Josey bumbling from bad situation to worse situation almost constantly, but somehow squeaking by or being saved by the perfectly timed intervention of the absolute correct individual, gradually grew to a distraction and not a relief. And Caim himself – though wounded and unknown in this northern land – managing to attract ally after ally, becoming the leader of a rebellion, and easily learning to use powers it takes other lifetimes to master was a bit hard for me to swallow.
However, the Shadow villains were my biggest disappointment. While Sybelle was fascinating in many ways, she and the other villains never really grew into anything other than obstacles for Caim to overcome. With Mr. Sprunk actually developing their story, I expected some attempt to make them empathetic or, at least, explain their cruelty, but it never really materialized, as they remained Bad Guy #1, Bad Guy #2, et cetera.
Even with my dislikes noted, I’d like to encourage assassin lovers and sword and sorcery aficionados to pick up this very entertaining series. Where Shadow’s Son was an action tour de force, Shadow’s Lure begins the transformation of a simple assassin tale into a grand epic fantasy. Sure, it stumble a little along the way, but it never fails to entertain, keeping your pulse pounding with each swing of Caim’s deadly blades.
March 13, 2015
A decent fantasy read with a lot of action.
The pacing I felt was better than in the first book and I ended up enjoying this one more, but the writing still didn't quite wow me. Some of the dialogue is a bit off, and I can't say that I ever fully invested in the story.
Shadow's Lure follows two main characters, Josey and Caim, and while I didn't exactly love either of them I didn't hate them either. My favorite character by far was Kit, and we saw way too little of her in my opinion.
This ended on a cliffhanger, so I'll see if the last book in the series can keep the steady pace or bump it up a notch.
The pacing I felt was better than in the first book and I ended up enjoying this one more, but the writing still didn't quite wow me. Some of the dialogue is a bit off, and I can't say that I ever fully invested in the story.
Shadow's Lure follows two main characters, Josey and Caim, and while I didn't exactly love either of them I didn't hate them either. My favorite character by far was Kit, and we saw way too little of her in my opinion.
This ended on a cliffhanger, so I'll see if the last book in the series can keep the steady pace or bump it up a notch.
May 20, 2012
[7/10]
This is the same rating I gave to Shadow's Son, the debut novel of author Jon Sprunk, so it is safe to say readers who liked the opening of the series, will enjoy the sequel. I find myself though, subtracting half a star instead of adding it, because this novel ramped up the violence and gore about ten times compared with the Shadow's Son, and this is usually a turnoff in my list of preferences.
Still, this is an easy read - which can be taken both as praise and criticism depending on the mood and expectations of the reader. Praise because the author is a natural storyteller, there's planty of swashbuckling action, a fast pace and interesting plot. Criticism, because the ambitious ramp up in scope and in number of POV's serves to accentuate the limitations of an author whose technical means are bellow his enthusiasm and vision. The characterization and dialogue feels shallow and stilted, especially when it comes to rousing heroic discourses. I'm one of the readers who can switch off critical mode when I enjoy the ride, but I can understand the issues raised by other reviewers who were less enchanted by the offering.
The strongpoint of the story is in the action sequences, where the high bodycount with detailed descriptions of torn limbs and spilled entrails seems to be the most popular choice of genre readers in recent years. Both Caim and Josey are a built from the Gary Stu / Mary Sue template, but they have enough particular endearing traits, that it wasn't such a burden to follow their exploits.
A second bonus of Shadow's Lure is the expansion in the worldbuilding, with a convincing rendering of a frozen realm north of Othir and a promising further development in the third and final book in the series. One that I plan to read soon.
This is the same rating I gave to Shadow's Son, the debut novel of author Jon Sprunk, so it is safe to say readers who liked the opening of the series, will enjoy the sequel. I find myself though, subtracting half a star instead of adding it, because this novel ramped up the violence and gore about ten times compared with the Shadow's Son, and this is usually a turnoff in my list of preferences.
Still, this is an easy read - which can be taken both as praise and criticism depending on the mood and expectations of the reader. Praise because the author is a natural storyteller, there's planty of swashbuckling action, a fast pace and interesting plot. Criticism, because the ambitious ramp up in scope and in number of POV's serves to accentuate the limitations of an author whose technical means are bellow his enthusiasm and vision. The characterization and dialogue feels shallow and stilted, especially when it comes to rousing heroic discourses. I'm one of the readers who can switch off critical mode when I enjoy the ride, but I can understand the issues raised by other reviewers who were less enchanted by the offering.
The strongpoint of the story is in the action sequences, where the high bodycount with detailed descriptions of torn limbs and spilled entrails seems to be the most popular choice of genre readers in recent years. Both Caim and Josey are a built from the Gary Stu / Mary Sue template, but they have enough particular endearing traits, that it wasn't such a burden to follow their exploits.
A second bonus of Shadow's Lure is the expansion in the worldbuilding, with a convincing rendering of a frozen realm north of Othir and a promising further development in the third and final book in the series. One that I plan to read soon.
August 17, 2011
Death, despair, political intrigue, sword and sorcery, plots intertwined within plots. Sinister characters who will stop at nothing to accomplish their goals, those who believe in the greater good and suffer for it, clans on the edge of eradication unless they succumb to the will of evil. In the middle again is our man Caim, now in the North, seeking out his past and his future, drawn by the very darkness and shadows that are his birthright. Kit, in love and torn away from her beloved Caim and caught in her own perils. Josey, struggling to become what she feels it takes to be a good ruler as the remnants of the Church and the True Faith pit the people themselves and a dark, near unstoppable assassin against her.
The above is a small portion of what Shadow's Lure brings to the table. Weaved in a dark, gritty tale of intense action scenes, intrigue, deception, and men and women calling into account the things that drive us: love, survival and defending what we believe, the book quickly becomes one that you don't want to put down.
Whether you side with evil, good, or the grey, it's there for you in gobs and gobs of excellently written prose. In Shadow's Son, I thought Jon Sprunk outdid himself with his ability to weave action and description together. Well, this is even better. Last time, I was so caught up in the action, I didn't harp on the plot and characters. Well this book pulls me in so many different directions, I cannot begin to say which part of it is better.
What I can tell you is if you haven't read this series, go get it. Dive into the world. Feel Caim and Josey's pain and loss, relish in their victory and cringe in their despair. You won't regret it. I didn't and look forward to Book 3 of Shadow Saga.
The above is a small portion of what Shadow's Lure brings to the table. Weaved in a dark, gritty tale of intense action scenes, intrigue, deception, and men and women calling into account the things that drive us: love, survival and defending what we believe, the book quickly becomes one that you don't want to put down.
Whether you side with evil, good, or the grey, it's there for you in gobs and gobs of excellently written prose. In Shadow's Son, I thought Jon Sprunk outdid himself with his ability to weave action and description together. Well, this is even better. Last time, I was so caught up in the action, I didn't harp on the plot and characters. Well this book pulls me in so many different directions, I cannot begin to say which part of it is better.
What I can tell you is if you haven't read this series, go get it. Dive into the world. Feel Caim and Josey's pain and loss, relish in their victory and cringe in their despair. You won't regret it. I didn't and look forward to Book 3 of Shadow Saga.
March 21, 2012
The second book in Mr. Sprunk’s Shadow Saga, Shadow’s Lure delivers the same action-packed story as did the first in this series: Shadow’s Son (my review here).
After opening with the massacre of the Northmen clan leaders (body count is high in this book), the story pretty much picks up right after the events in the first book. Josey is Queen, reigning from the palace in Othir, struggling to ward off an unearthly assassin, the church of the True Faith, and keep her realm from falling apart with civil and foreign wars. And Caim and Kit (his fey side-kick) are moving north in search of his past. On his way, he gets embroiled with an evil sorceress and a new revolutionary uprising.
With all that they got going on, Mr. Sprunk manages to put Caim in at least a dozen fights per chapter (a bit of an exaggeration here, but not much!), and each one is deliciously as wicked and heart-pounding as the next. We get to meet a few new characters up north, as well as a new mage down south. And one of my favorite characters from the first book manages to win my heart again: Hubert stands by Josey’s side to ensure she doesn’t get herself killed while trying to turn around an entire country.
In this installment of Caim’s story, we are also given a few more clues about his past. Just who was his mother and why is she imprisoned in the Shadowlands? Will avenging his father’s death bring him peace? Who is the witch that has enthralled the north and what exactly is her son, the creature they call, The Beast?
Caim reluctantly becomes involved in a resurrection that will impact him and the Southlands more than he can predict, and he comes face to face with the sorceress who killed his father. The further he travels north, he increasingly fights the lure of the shadows. The more he uses his power, the more he is able to fight off these new Shadowland invaders, but the less human he becomes, and the more the bloodlust calls him to sate that bloody, sensual (almost sexual) thirst.
If you are squeamish about blood, torture, cannibalism, hedonism, or blades ripping through flesh and piercing lungs, kidneys and hearts, then don’t read this book. Shadow’s Lure has a lot of that sort of stuff in it. But it also has a great story about a man trying to do what is right in the face of increasing odds and a woman trying to wrest a realm from the control of religious zealots with inexperience and determination. Both will have you rooting for them.
Mr. Sprunk also throws in a lot of mystery into the relationship between Caim, Kit and Josey. Which of these two women will win his heart? And just where does Caim’s loyalty stand? Is he a true son of the Shadow or will he ultimately fight for the south? I’m sure all will be answered in the next book: Shadow’s Master.
If some of you have read my review of Mr. Sprunk’s first book, Shadow’s Son, you will note that I wasn’t too much of a fan of the writing. I found some bits boring and in other spots the action was so obscure I was confused. Who stabbed whom? Is he dead or not? And let’s not talk about the really bad rape scene…
Did the writing improve in the second book? Yes, indeed, it did. However, the amount of bloodshed involved in this installment did have me reeling. It was a bit much. Maybe the author spent a little too much time describing how well someone enjoyed hurting someone else. Of course, this is all personal taste. What I might find offense or squirmy, you might take with aplomb. Just be aware this is not for the faint of heart.
A recommended read if you like bloody sword play and wicked sorcery.
After opening with the massacre of the Northmen clan leaders (body count is high in this book), the story pretty much picks up right after the events in the first book. Josey is Queen, reigning from the palace in Othir, struggling to ward off an unearthly assassin, the church of the True Faith, and keep her realm from falling apart with civil and foreign wars. And Caim and Kit (his fey side-kick) are moving north in search of his past. On his way, he gets embroiled with an evil sorceress and a new revolutionary uprising.
With all that they got going on, Mr. Sprunk manages to put Caim in at least a dozen fights per chapter (a bit of an exaggeration here, but not much!), and each one is deliciously as wicked and heart-pounding as the next. We get to meet a few new characters up north, as well as a new mage down south. And one of my favorite characters from the first book manages to win my heart again: Hubert stands by Josey’s side to ensure she doesn’t get herself killed while trying to turn around an entire country.
In this installment of Caim’s story, we are also given a few more clues about his past. Just who was his mother and why is she imprisoned in the Shadowlands? Will avenging his father’s death bring him peace? Who is the witch that has enthralled the north and what exactly is her son, the creature they call, The Beast?
Caim reluctantly becomes involved in a resurrection that will impact him and the Southlands more than he can predict, and he comes face to face with the sorceress who killed his father. The further he travels north, he increasingly fights the lure of the shadows. The more he uses his power, the more he is able to fight off these new Shadowland invaders, but the less human he becomes, and the more the bloodlust calls him to sate that bloody, sensual (almost sexual) thirst.
If you are squeamish about blood, torture, cannibalism, hedonism, or blades ripping through flesh and piercing lungs, kidneys and hearts, then don’t read this book. Shadow’s Lure has a lot of that sort of stuff in it. But it also has a great story about a man trying to do what is right in the face of increasing odds and a woman trying to wrest a realm from the control of religious zealots with inexperience and determination. Both will have you rooting for them.
Mr. Sprunk also throws in a lot of mystery into the relationship between Caim, Kit and Josey. Which of these two women will win his heart? And just where does Caim’s loyalty stand? Is he a true son of the Shadow or will he ultimately fight for the south? I’m sure all will be answered in the next book: Shadow’s Master.
If some of you have read my review of Mr. Sprunk’s first book, Shadow’s Son, you will note that I wasn’t too much of a fan of the writing. I found some bits boring and in other spots the action was so obscure I was confused. Who stabbed whom? Is he dead or not? And let’s not talk about the really bad rape scene…
Did the writing improve in the second book? Yes, indeed, it did. However, the amount of bloodshed involved in this installment did have me reeling. It was a bit much. Maybe the author spent a little too much time describing how well someone enjoyed hurting someone else. Of course, this is all personal taste. What I might find offense or squirmy, you might take with aplomb. Just be aware this is not for the faint of heart.
A recommended read if you like bloody sword play and wicked sorcery.
September 4, 2016
What happened to the plot? There was a major drop in the action.
What in the world is going on with the magic system now? It seems that alot of it got muddled, and the main character seems to dependant on his guardian sprite. Also what in the world is going on with his love interest?
What in the world is going on with the magic system now? It seems that alot of it got muddled, and the main character seems to dependant on his guardian sprite. Also what in the world is going on with his love interest?
July 1, 2020
This book was better than the first, but not by much. There's a lot more action in this one than the previous, but the magic system is vague in its description & I can't make much sense of it. Graphic Audio does make it better, but like the previous this would've been a DNF if I tried to read the book.
December 5, 2014
mivel az első részre már egyáltalán nem emlékszem, mondhatom, hogy ez a rész teljesen élvezhető volt önmagában is.
nagyon bejött a sok harc, az árnyak, a nulla romantika, és Caim, aki mostanra elég karakteresen férfias (és talán emiatt emlékezetesebb)lett.
jó kis dark fantasy, de csak addig ragadott magával, míg olvastam, arra az időre viszont tökéletes szórakozás volt.
általában valamelyik női karakterrel van bajom, itt ez most Zefi volt. ez a csaj annyira nulla személyiséggel rendelkezik, hogy először fogalmam sem volt, ki ez és mit keres itt, és gyanítom, hogy az idő ugyanúgy ki fogja radírozni a fejemből a szerepét, mint az első könyv után.
és sajnálom, hogy ő az oka, amiért Liana nem kapott komolyabb szerepet Caim mellett, többet érdemelt volna.
Kit még mindig nagyon cuki, őt nem is lehet másképp jellemezni. csak kicsit elkeveredett ebben a részben.
nagyon bejött a sok harc, az árnyak, a nulla romantika, és Caim, aki mostanra elég karakteresen férfias (és talán emiatt emlékezetesebb)lett.
jó kis dark fantasy, de csak addig ragadott magával, míg olvastam, arra az időre viszont tökéletes szórakozás volt.
általában valamelyik női karakterrel van bajom, itt ez most Zefi volt. ez a csaj annyira nulla személyiséggel rendelkezik, hogy először fogalmam sem volt, ki ez és mit keres itt, és gyanítom, hogy az idő ugyanúgy ki fogja radírozni a fejemből a szerepét, mint az első könyv után.
és sajnálom, hogy ő az oka, amiért Liana nem kapott komolyabb szerepet Caim mellett, többet érdemelt volna.
Kit még mindig nagyon cuki, őt nem is lehet másképp jellemezni. csak kicsit elkeveredett ebben a részben.
November 10, 2011
http://staffersmusings.blogspot.com/2...
That link also has a giveaway of the first two books open through Nov 17, 2011.
Earlier this year I reviewed Jon Sprunk's 2010 debut novel, Shadow's Son. While I very much enjoyed it, my review was less than glowing. I felt some things were sacrificed to the novel's breakneck pace and that Caim, Spunk's protagonist, was a little too one-dimensional. In a not so stunning development, Shadow's Lure corrects many of these deficiencies and in so doing demonstrates tremendous growth in Sprunk's craft.
Without spoiling too much of what went on in the first novel, Lure picks up right where Son left off. Caim (what?! the main character survives? no way!) leaves his home in Othir behind, heading north to discover the truth behind the murder of his parents and his power over the shadow. He leaves Josey behind, now Empress of the Nimean Empire, to consolidate her power.
The nature of the two stories, which could be read completely separate from one another, blunt the pace that was such a hallmark of Sprunk's debut. Much of the slowdown (never slowness) is affected by much more extensive character development and world building, an almost always welcome and, in this case, necessary inclusion. That lack of frenetic energy shouldn't be taken to mean it's inferior. Quite the opposite. In taking his time to build the narrative, Sprunk has written a different kind of novel that succeeds because of what it doesn't have, almost as much as because of what it does (Yes, that was an awkward sentence, screw it).
Lure is divided primarily into three points of view - Josey, Caim, and Kit. While Sprunk occasionally dips into other characters, it's these three who comprise the bulk of the narrative. He separates them from one another in the novel's early stages, providing him the opportunity to drill down to a level that the structure of the first novel never allowed him to.
Josey's point of view is very political in nature, subject to plots and machinations of factions within the Empire. Through her, the world is capably fleshed out without resorting to information dumps or poorly concealed exposition. Similarly, Kit becomes the defacto spelunker who delves into the Shadow, revealing the world behind the world that is only tangentially touched on prior (for fans of Kit she gets significant page time). In contrast, Caim's sections remain highly kinetic, often going from fight to fight. Moments of rest in between allow him to develop into a textured character and not a simple archetype.
Of course, it should be no surprise that Sprunk continues to shine in his depiction of action sequences. Sure, they compelled a raised eyebrow of disbelief from time to time, but they always left me with a crystal clear picture in my mind of how Caim whipped his opponent(s) - something that other writers (Weeks) in this sub-genre can struggle with. By novel's end, the relentless action connects with the determined expansion of world and character, making Lure a much more complete novel than its predecessor.
There are some hiccups though. Things are on occasion too neat and black and white. At one point there's an attack on Josey where a single bite would kill (or seriously incapacitate) her. Despite the creature being wrapped around her, she somehow manages to avoid such a fate. Sprunk uses the annoying trick of handicapping his protagonist with wound after festering wound. Someday, I would very much enjoy an author letting his protagonist face the final battle at 100%. The series's villain is inherently evil and I never felt that her actions were righteous even from her perspective - something that modern fantasy has become very adept at doing. Mostly these are small quibbles and Sprunk tells such a capable story that none of them remotely imperiled my enjoyment of the novel.
While elements remain decidedly couched in a common, and arguably overused, motif, the Shadow Saga remains a worthy addition to the fantasy Rolodex. Once completed, Sprunk's trilogy will go on the shelf right next to the Night Angel Trilogy where it will compete for the hearts of assassin lovers for years to come. For fans of Brent Weeks, Brandon Sanderson, and to some degree Joe Abercrombie and Scott Lynch, this is a series that shouldn't be missed. Shadow's Master, the third and final volume in the series, is already one of my most looked forward to titles of early 2012.
That link also has a giveaway of the first two books open through Nov 17, 2011.
Earlier this year I reviewed Jon Sprunk's 2010 debut novel, Shadow's Son. While I very much enjoyed it, my review was less than glowing. I felt some things were sacrificed to the novel's breakneck pace and that Caim, Spunk's protagonist, was a little too one-dimensional. In a not so stunning development, Shadow's Lure corrects many of these deficiencies and in so doing demonstrates tremendous growth in Sprunk's craft.
Without spoiling too much of what went on in the first novel, Lure picks up right where Son left off. Caim (what?! the main character survives? no way!) leaves his home in Othir behind, heading north to discover the truth behind the murder of his parents and his power over the shadow. He leaves Josey behind, now Empress of the Nimean Empire, to consolidate her power.
The nature of the two stories, which could be read completely separate from one another, blunt the pace that was such a hallmark of Sprunk's debut. Much of the slowdown (never slowness) is affected by much more extensive character development and world building, an almost always welcome and, in this case, necessary inclusion. That lack of frenetic energy shouldn't be taken to mean it's inferior. Quite the opposite. In taking his time to build the narrative, Sprunk has written a different kind of novel that succeeds because of what it doesn't have, almost as much as because of what it does (Yes, that was an awkward sentence, screw it).
Lure is divided primarily into three points of view - Josey, Caim, and Kit. While Sprunk occasionally dips into other characters, it's these three who comprise the bulk of the narrative. He separates them from one another in the novel's early stages, providing him the opportunity to drill down to a level that the structure of the first novel never allowed him to.
Josey's point of view is very political in nature, subject to plots and machinations of factions within the Empire. Through her, the world is capably fleshed out without resorting to information dumps or poorly concealed exposition. Similarly, Kit becomes the defacto spelunker who delves into the Shadow, revealing the world behind the world that is only tangentially touched on prior (for fans of Kit she gets significant page time). In contrast, Caim's sections remain highly kinetic, often going from fight to fight. Moments of rest in between allow him to develop into a textured character and not a simple archetype.
Of course, it should be no surprise that Sprunk continues to shine in his depiction of action sequences. Sure, they compelled a raised eyebrow of disbelief from time to time, but they always left me with a crystal clear picture in my mind of how Caim whipped his opponent(s) - something that other writers (Weeks) in this sub-genre can struggle with. By novel's end, the relentless action connects with the determined expansion of world and character, making Lure a much more complete novel than its predecessor.
There are some hiccups though. Things are on occasion too neat and black and white. At one point there's an attack on Josey where a single bite would kill (or seriously incapacitate) her. Despite the creature being wrapped around her, she somehow manages to avoid such a fate. Sprunk uses the annoying trick of handicapping his protagonist with wound after festering wound. Someday, I would very much enjoy an author letting his protagonist face the final battle at 100%. The series's villain is inherently evil and I never felt that her actions were righteous even from her perspective - something that modern fantasy has become very adept at doing. Mostly these are small quibbles and Sprunk tells such a capable story that none of them remotely imperiled my enjoyment of the novel.
While elements remain decidedly couched in a common, and arguably overused, motif, the Shadow Saga remains a worthy addition to the fantasy Rolodex. Once completed, Sprunk's trilogy will go on the shelf right next to the Night Angel Trilogy where it will compete for the hearts of assassin lovers for years to come. For fans of Brent Weeks, Brandon Sanderson, and to some degree Joe Abercrombie and Scott Lynch, this is a series that shouldn't be missed. Shadow's Master, the third and final volume in the series, is already one of my most looked forward to titles of early 2012.
March 13, 2016
I can say without hesitation that I enjoyed this book more so than the first. Maybe this is because Sprunk took more time to detail the world or because my two favorite characters (Josey and Kit) proved themselves more than Caim's match in dealing with the unknown.
Our Merry Band of Miscreants have gone in different ways after Caim's decision to head North (to help his people) and Josey became Empress of Nimea. I was relieved that Sprunk didn't spend too much time on Josey becoming acclimated to being Empress; having been raised in a noble house she fell into the role of Empress easily enough (as far as manners and customs). Caim for his part didn't spend a lot of time moping that he had to leave Josey despite their feelings (and the beginnings of a relationship). At odd moments he will regret not being with her and accepting the easier road (as her husband), but he's doing what he knows to be right and that sustains him.mostly. By contrast Josey spent more time silently cursing Caim for leaving her, but she had a slightly better reason to do so.
Caim's family history is deeply discomforting. It would be better to say that the culture of his people makes it hard to be comfortable around them. Kit relays news to him that could be construed as good news, but straight on the heels of that revelation she reports about a family member that puts everyone else's Crazy Aunt Judy to shame. Sprunk spends time going from character to character to round out the worldview--we follow Caim, Sybelle, Josey, Kit and a small host of minor characters when they're viewpoint adds something different to the proceedings. This was frustrating at times because not everyone is given equal time--Caim will sometimes have entire chapters to himself while Josey is given only a small portion of one, or Sybelle will repeatedly show within a few chapters.
I think what pleased me the most was in between Caim and his new Merry Band of Miscreants fighting their way further North to purge the menace threatening everyone, we had the time with Josey and the Court machinations. Reading about Josey handling the precarious balance of power and unrest in Nimea, while being hunted by a creature of murderous intent, was more entertaining than the constant battles Caim found himself in. Sprunk definitely upped the body count for this book.
The various plot threads all end with the same purpose in mind--to get North and resolve things one way or another. I look forward to a reunion between Josey and Caim, as well as the nature of Kit and Caim's past being fully revealed. There's a showdown a-brewing and I'm rubbing my hands in glee for it.
review originally posted at Night Owl Reviews
Our Merry Band of Miscreants have gone in different ways after Caim's decision to head North (to help his people) and Josey became Empress of Nimea. I was relieved that Sprunk didn't spend too much time on Josey becoming acclimated to being Empress; having been raised in a noble house she fell into the role of Empress easily enough (as far as manners and customs). Caim for his part didn't spend a lot of time moping that he had to leave Josey despite their feelings (and the beginnings of a relationship). At odd moments he will regret not being with her and accepting the easier road (as her husband), but he's doing what he knows to be right and that sustains him.mostly. By contrast Josey spent more time silently cursing Caim for leaving her, but she had a slightly better reason to do so.
Caim's family history is deeply discomforting. It would be better to say that the culture of his people makes it hard to be comfortable around them. Kit relays news to him that could be construed as good news, but straight on the heels of that revelation she reports about a family member that puts everyone else's Crazy Aunt Judy to shame. Sprunk spends time going from character to character to round out the worldview--we follow Caim, Sybelle, Josey, Kit and a small host of minor characters when they're viewpoint adds something different to the proceedings. This was frustrating at times because not everyone is given equal time--Caim will sometimes have entire chapters to himself while Josey is given only a small portion of one, or Sybelle will repeatedly show within a few chapters.
I think what pleased me the most was in between Caim and his new Merry Band of Miscreants fighting their way further North to purge the menace threatening everyone, we had the time with Josey and the Court machinations. Reading about Josey handling the precarious balance of power and unrest in Nimea, while being hunted by a creature of murderous intent, was more entertaining than the constant battles Caim found himself in. Sprunk definitely upped the body count for this book.
The various plot threads all end with the same purpose in mind--to get North and resolve things one way or another. I look forward to a reunion between Josey and Caim, as well as the nature of Kit and Caim's past being fully revealed. There's a showdown a-brewing and I'm rubbing my hands in glee for it.
review originally posted at Night Owl Reviews
October 23, 2011
This review was completed by Michael Cummings, staff reviewer with the YA Fantasy Guide.
Shadow's Lure is the second book of Sprunk's Shadow Saga, following the debut of "Shadow's Son" last year (2010). In this volume, we return to Othir immediately after the events of "Shadow's Son" as Caim heads north, looking for answers to his past and the murder of his parents. What he finds is a land under the grip of the Shadow, personified in the witch Sybelle and the hints of shadow born magic that darken the land. Meanwhile, Josey, as Empress, is struggling with the politics of a land that seems beset with chaos, not to mention assassins out to remove her. And then there's the fae Kit, who early in the book is whisked away from Caim as she has to deal with her own troubles.
"Shadow's Lure" needs to be read in sequence with the rest of the series, unfortunately. Sprunk gives the new reader nothing to identify with with the characters, plunging the reader into a world where the three main characters have very little direct interaction with one another. readers coming to this book directly from the end of book one, though, will appreciate that this book picks up within days of the first book.
Sprunk keeps the secrets of his world at bay, giving us only hints and suggestions. For now, this is enough, though the third book, "Shadow's Master," has a lot of promises to deliver on. Sprunk's books will appeal to the sword and sorcery fans - assassins, magic, and action litter the novel, leaving very little room for the doldrums to creep in.
Shadow's Lure is the second book of Sprunk's Shadow Saga, following the debut of "Shadow's Son" last year (2010). In this volume, we return to Othir immediately after the events of "Shadow's Son" as Caim heads north, looking for answers to his past and the murder of his parents. What he finds is a land under the grip of the Shadow, personified in the witch Sybelle and the hints of shadow born magic that darken the land. Meanwhile, Josey, as Empress, is struggling with the politics of a land that seems beset with chaos, not to mention assassins out to remove her. And then there's the fae Kit, who early in the book is whisked away from Caim as she has to deal with her own troubles.
"Shadow's Lure" needs to be read in sequence with the rest of the series, unfortunately. Sprunk gives the new reader nothing to identify with with the characters, plunging the reader into a world where the three main characters have very little direct interaction with one another. readers coming to this book directly from the end of book one, though, will appreciate that this book picks up within days of the first book.
Sprunk keeps the secrets of his world at bay, giving us only hints and suggestions. For now, this is enough, though the third book, "Shadow's Master," has a lot of promises to deliver on. Sprunk's books will appeal to the sword and sorcery fans - assassins, magic, and action litter the novel, leaving very little room for the doldrums to creep in.
February 4, 2012
I admit I hadn't initially intended to read the second book in this series, but I'm glad I did. A lot of series have the problem of diminishing quality with each additional book (ie The Hunger Games), but this one gets better. I liked this book more than the first (hence the extra star). I enjoyed the characters more (Josey especially has grown since book 1), and Sprunk does a good job of raising the stakes.
Cool things about this book included the blood-hungry sword, Caim's growing knowledge of his powers/identity, and the fact that he's not strictly tied to Josey. Fitting of his character. There's some good angst in there, too.
The not so cool things are rather small: every now and then the pacing gets a little off, or I don't quite believe a character's emotions. On a side note, one character's hair color changes depending on what chapter you're in. ;)
A good series, so far. I'm eager to read book #3, which should say enough regarding the story.
Cool things about this book included the blood-hungry sword, Caim's growing knowledge of his powers/identity, and the fact that he's not strictly tied to Josey. Fitting of his character. There's some good angst in there, too.
The not so cool things are rather small: every now and then the pacing gets a little off, or I don't quite believe a character's emotions. On a side note, one character's hair color changes depending on what chapter you're in. ;)
A good series, so far. I'm eager to read book #3, which should say enough regarding the story.
May 27, 2015
I thought I'd give the author one more try. Book 2 was even worse 'cause I REALLY didn't care what happened to the main character/assassin. He's wandering up in the war-torn north to sort of figure out who his parents are...maybe? I wasn't ever really sure. I don't think HE knew what the hell he was doing. Oh, and there is a not-at-all-surprise twist of a pregnancy. Look, if you're going to club us over the head with clues, then it's not going to be a shock when you reveal it. And while I personally have never experienced an infection that approached gangrene, I'm pretty sure it's not just itchy & stiff feeling. Gah! I wanted these books to be good. An assassin who can control the shadows & has a ghost-like companion should make for an awesome story. I almost always finish books, even if they suck. Congratulations, I only made it through 5/8ths. You've made it into the extremely small category of books I've given up on. Don't waste your time.
February 7, 2013
I always enjoy any viking inspired cultures . The separate plots were interestingly well done, providing two conflicts one in the north and one in the south. Then POV chapters following an antagonist is always an interesting way to make the reader omnipresent. I enjoyed this book.
August 5, 2011
I enjoyed this every bit as much as Shadow's Son, and am looking forward to the next adventure in this series. Bonus: read this on the beach in St. Thomas.
February 11, 2018
Shadow’s Lure is the second in Jon Sprunk’s Shadow Saga. This series of a half human assassin deals with Caim, the protagonist, and his intense effort to discover the truth regarding himself and his parents. He learned long ago, as a child, that he had a connection to the shadows that come from a parallel universe of sorcery to his aide in times of extreme danger. In the second part of the story, he calls to these shadows frequently to assist him in battles where the odds are drastically favored against him.
If you are an action fan and appreciates well written battle scenes, you will enjoy the journey as we follow Caim in his journey through the bitter cold of the Northlands where he barely survives the trials of nature presented to him through starvation, freezing temperatures and an attacking bear. In this, he finds himself in the middle of a rebellion as the clans in the North have determined to fight for their freedom against the tyranny of the Duke. Their rebellion is no different from the entire upheaval of law and order in the kingdom sense Josi’s coronation as the empress. Sense then, Josi struggles with the challenge of gaining law and order as an assassin attempts to take her life and the “True Church” attempts to usurp her throne.
The mix of sixteen century swordplay and sorcery is more overt in the second book of the series and at times, the reader may question the appropriateness of the battles. This is not to say that Sprunk does a poor job of telling a story; on the back drop of the fight scenes is a genuine struggle that Caim has in accepting himself, his relationship with Kit, the death of his parents, and his desire to go at his journey alone. He wants to be a loner despite fate’s tenacious wielding of events that force him to help others and change their lives for the better. What Sprunk misses is an opportunity to make the fight scenes connect to Caim’s interpersonal struggle. It would be nice if Sprunk was able to make the battle scenes more symbolic of Caims struggles. If he had done so, the confrontation between Caim and the witch, who we learn is his aunt, would have been as compelling as the dramatic and unforgettable confrontation between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. This is why I give three stars.
Despite that missed opportunity, Sprunk does a good job at throwing curve balls at the reader. There are characters who I did not expect to die and there is a good development of Josi coming to her own. She is brave and genuine in her desire to gain the trust of her subjects.
I will read the third part of the series, as the second part makes it clear that a third part is coming. We can guess that in the third part we will get some unanswered questions relating to Josi’s child and the motivation behind the evils of the Shadow world.
If you are an action fan and appreciates well written battle scenes, you will enjoy the journey as we follow Caim in his journey through the bitter cold of the Northlands where he barely survives the trials of nature presented to him through starvation, freezing temperatures and an attacking bear. In this, he finds himself in the middle of a rebellion as the clans in the North have determined to fight for their freedom against the tyranny of the Duke. Their rebellion is no different from the entire upheaval of law and order in the kingdom sense Josi’s coronation as the empress. Sense then, Josi struggles with the challenge of gaining law and order as an assassin attempts to take her life and the “True Church” attempts to usurp her throne.
The mix of sixteen century swordplay and sorcery is more overt in the second book of the series and at times, the reader may question the appropriateness of the battles. This is not to say that Sprunk does a poor job of telling a story; on the back drop of the fight scenes is a genuine struggle that Caim has in accepting himself, his relationship with Kit, the death of his parents, and his desire to go at his journey alone. He wants to be a loner despite fate’s tenacious wielding of events that force him to help others and change their lives for the better. What Sprunk misses is an opportunity to make the fight scenes connect to Caim’s interpersonal struggle. It would be nice if Sprunk was able to make the battle scenes more symbolic of Caims struggles. If he had done so, the confrontation between Caim and the witch, who we learn is his aunt, would have been as compelling as the dramatic and unforgettable confrontation between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader. This is why I give three stars.
Despite that missed opportunity, Sprunk does a good job at throwing curve balls at the reader. There are characters who I did not expect to die and there is a good development of Josi coming to her own. She is brave and genuine in her desire to gain the trust of her subjects.
I will read the third part of the series, as the second part makes it clear that a third part is coming. We can guess that in the third part we will get some unanswered questions relating to Josi’s child and the motivation behind the evils of the Shadow world.
August 31, 2024
Druhý díl je slabším odvarem úvodní knihy. Tentokrát je děj rozdělen mezi dvě místa. Josi zůstala v hlavním městě a potýká se s problémy svého nového postavení. Obyvatelé se rozdělili na zastánce a odpůrce koruny a tato situace je pro ni nová a těžká. Caim na druhou stranu odešel do ciziny, kde pátrá po své minulosti. Cesta je dlouhá a nebezpečná a od cíle ho neustále něco zdržuje, čemu se musí věnovat. Čeká ho mnoho rozhodnutí o tom, jak daleko chce zajít a jakou budoucnost si připraví.
Na jednu stranu bylo dobré sledovat jejich vývoj, protože se oběma změnil život dost zásadním způsobem. Na druhou stranu to bylo poměrně dlouhé a depresivní. Neustále se bojovalo a umíralo. Když už to vypadalo, že se konečně něco vydařilo, tak přišel další zvrat a problémy a opět téměř beznaděj. Tak nějak mi chyběly nějaké šťastnější a veselejší chvilky, které by tu neustálou temnotu trochu projasňovaly.
Začátek příběhu byl velice dobrý a zajímavý. Bylo těžké určit, co se vlastně bude dít, kam to bude směřovat, ale byla jsem spokojená. Prostřední část se nekonečně vlekla, přestože byla plná akce a bitek, byla nudná svojí délkou, a až závěr se opět rozjel, protože se vlastně připravoval na pokračování. Tehdy se konečně vše rozmotalo a udalo nový směr.
Zbývá tedy už jen dojít do třetího dílu a zjistit, jak to s hlavními hrdiny vlastně dopadne. Zatím není nic pořádně jasné, je tu jen mnoho náznaků a "co by kdyby". Vůbec nemám tušení, co od poslední knihy čekat...
Na jednu stranu bylo dobré sledovat jejich vývoj, protože se oběma změnil život dost zásadním způsobem. Na druhou stranu to bylo poměrně dlouhé a depresivní. Neustále se bojovalo a umíralo. Když už to vypadalo, že se konečně něco vydařilo, tak přišel další zvrat a problémy a opět téměř beznaděj. Tak nějak mi chyběly nějaké šťastnější a veselejší chvilky, které by tu neustálou temnotu trochu projasňovaly.
Začátek příběhu byl velice dobrý a zajímavý. Bylo těžké určit, co se vlastně bude dít, kam to bude směřovat, ale byla jsem spokojená. Prostřední část se nekonečně vlekla, přestože byla plná akce a bitek, byla nudná svojí délkou, a až závěr se opět rozjel, protože se vlastně připravoval na pokračování. Tehdy se konečně vše rozmotalo a udalo nový směr.
Zbývá tedy už jen dojít do třetího dílu a zjistit, jak to s hlavními hrdiny vlastně dopadne. Zatím není nic pořádně jasné, je tu jen mnoho náznaků a "co by kdyby". Vůbec nemám tušení, co od poslední knihy čekat...
January 3, 2020
This book really should have been called, "How Josey Got Her Groove Back." I absolutely loathed how there were glimmers of strength shown by Josey in the first novel, but dimmed quickly, making her into the worn out damsel in distress. Book two, while creating a love... triangle? rectangle? square? Certainly cast Josey in a more commanding role (no pun intended). But as much as I loved Josey's new-found imperial backbone, I hated Caim's indecision over the women in his life just as much. Let's get real. Pick a damn woman. Pining over Josey while wondering about Kit, while curling up with Liana. Yes I realize the curling up was more about staying alive, but dear lord, 3 women fawning over Caim was ridiculous. Josey's constant pleas fo Caim to come back were annoying and disheartening. Get a grip girlfriend! Take matters into your own hands! After all, you'll soon have an illegitimate child who may or may not be a child born of rape or passion to provide for... talk about left field on that one! It's story line in this felt thrown in, without much thought or explanation. I wish she would have stayed in the barrier. While there were moments of great action, it felt choppy and not entirely put together, and not even Caim could save me from my distress on this. 2.5 stars rounded to 3 because Josey finally takes charge!
January 26, 2022
Ok, so this was a very good second book to the trilogy. The same parts of the writing came together again to create yet one more novel by Jon Sprunk. I enjoyed the justice that was meted out to the Church - hmmm their behavior in the book is not too far from the reality of our world (except the “vampire” of course) Josey’s strength is shown that she is maturing into her role as Empress & it’s a good fit. She still loves Caim & that is also driving her. Then we we Caim, his travels take him to the North where he has to follow the “Pull” to find his mother. The events that ensue with the people of the North (who once knew his father) while fighting the Evil Woman who has taken control of the Duke comes to a wild conclusion that continues the overall story in a good way. I have to say that the entire back and forth between both POVs throughout the book - between Josey’s experiences & Caim’s experiences - was an excellent way to have the story continue with action & exciting events. This has a great Segway into the last book of the series. I’m excited to read it! I hope Sprunk continues his great story-telling!
March 5, 2013
Shadow's Lure is the follow-up to Jon Sprunk's debut novel, Shadow's Son. We continue to follow the events of Caim, the penchant assassin and master of the Shadows. His decisions of helping young Josey rise to the throne as the Empress of Nimea continues to unfold in Shadow's Lure, as the story is told from three major varying viewpoints: Caim, Josey, and Kit. Two other viewpoints include Sybelle, the sorcerous witch of the north and a young man named Keegan.
So, Shadow's Lure was a great story. The events pick up slightly after the conclusion of Shadow's Son. Caim is on the move to learn more about his family's deaths, Josey is learning how to become an Empress, and Kit is being herself: a sexy spirit that bugs Caim with her endless wit and humor.
Caim's profile in Shadow's Lure is expanded so much more as we continue to learn more about the new powers he has gained over the Shadows. His history is opened up and the connections he has to the Sybelle drawn out in a very nicely written backstory. No heavy info dump there, either. Caim's control over the Shadows is interesting to read through most of the story, as he describes them as being a nuisance and won't leave him alone. They chitter and crawl, bite and slink over his body. They drip from the ceilings as he walks around places, invisible to all others. They follow in his true shadow, passing by like a wave. They're given a personality and purpose. While Caim is one this journey and he continues to learn more about his powers, he is also continuously plagued about using a black-steel sword that belonged to his father. The sword also seems to have a personality of sorts, as it "tugs" him in certain directions, or when he finally does decide to use it in battle against enemies, it draws his strikes in certain directions. I wasn't a fan of that at all, and it actually detracted to Caim's assassin side. Don't get me wrong: his affinity for those seute knives are still strong throughout the story.
And damn, is there a lot more blood, killing, gore and overall carnage in Shadow's Lure when compared to its predecessor. Like way more. A good thing. In the final confrontation with the witch, however, another thing begins to bug me with Caim. He just happens to learn how to use shadow portals (self-explanatory) and, if I read it correct, a type of magic. The shadow portals was an okay addition, but again, not a fan of the magic. Caim's control over the Shadows was enough for me. It's unique and his a blood killer. That's all I really needed. The introduction of him potentially being able to use magic along side the power of the Shadows is overkill for me. Now, the only way I would have accept this is if it came gradually, as if he started to realize he could do more drastic things with his Shadow powers that reach out into the realm of using magic. Somewhere in the story, the witch Sybelle uses a term to describe him as a shadowwalker. That's all to it though. There's nothing expanded on this term and ultimately nothing gained for me as a reader who is trying to see Caim develop.
Onto to Josey: the Empress of Nimea. Josey's side of the story remains interesting through most of the book. I wasn't too fond of her in Shadow's Son primarily because she was very whiny and clingy. Although that can be expected considering what she went through. However, all of that suddenly changes when she puts on the crown. Okay, I can sort of see this making sense now. The obligations of the crown change her, but we see it happening slowly and with a very noticeable struggle. That's also makes sense. She is debating all of this, how she can accomplish great things as the Empress, wondering where Caim is, and trying to fight off the enemy of her the city Othir, the True Church. Lastly comes this weird, paranormal and alien like creature that is revealed to be an assassin. The assassin constantly going after Josey as she struggles with these issues kept me engaged most the time. However, what I had a great issue with was the end of her story in Shadow's Lure. So, this whole time she's contemplating all of what she needs to to do. She's still weak at times, very vulnerable, and seeking help from friends to steer her in the right direction. Then, at the end, she gains this MASSIVE OVERWHELMING boost of confidence to finally take on the True Church because it is revealed this assassin was sent after her by them. Now, I can understand anger and rage, but the confidence matter when she is addressing the subjects of the Church at the end really jarred me.
Last comes Kit. She didn't have a point of view story in Shadow's Son, which begs the question why Sprunk decided it was best served to try it here. I wasn't a fan of her point of view. There are about five or six scenes in which Kit is seen by herself because of some strange, unexplained occurrence that separates her from Caim indefinitely. Kit becomes trapped in a place called the Between, the realm in middle of the Shadowlands and the Brightlands. My only guess as to how this happens is the closer Caim is coming to the witch, or perhaps the more attuned he is becoming with his Shadow powers, it is weakening the bond between them. This remains unexplained. And all the sudden, near the end, Kit finds a way to return to Caim and rejoin him. That was a rather large fail for me as a reader. Her point of view didn't serve me a purpose. The only other thing that I can see it benefited was that we got to see Caim alone. In Shadow's Son, she was always around him. Thinking. Speaking. Watching out for him. If there was anything that benefited from Kit's point of view, it is that Caim became more developed because we were able to see him think his way through things without Kit.
Overall, I really liked Shadow's Lure. I will go on to read the final installment, Shadow's Master, as I am again kept engaged by Caim's story. And of course, there is the cliffhanger at the end that makes me want to know what is next for Caim and Kit.
So, Shadow's Lure was a great story. The events pick up slightly after the conclusion of Shadow's Son. Caim is on the move to learn more about his family's deaths, Josey is learning how to become an Empress, and Kit is being herself: a sexy spirit that bugs Caim with her endless wit and humor.
Caim's profile in Shadow's Lure is expanded so much more as we continue to learn more about the new powers he has gained over the Shadows. His history is opened up and the connections he has to the Sybelle drawn out in a very nicely written backstory. No heavy info dump there, either. Caim's control over the Shadows is interesting to read through most of the story, as he describes them as being a nuisance and won't leave him alone. They chitter and crawl, bite and slink over his body. They drip from the ceilings as he walks around places, invisible to all others. They follow in his true shadow, passing by like a wave. They're given a personality and purpose. While Caim is one this journey and he continues to learn more about his powers, he is also continuously plagued about using a black-steel sword that belonged to his father. The sword also seems to have a personality of sorts, as it "tugs" him in certain directions, or when he finally does decide to use it in battle against enemies, it draws his strikes in certain directions. I wasn't a fan of that at all, and it actually detracted to Caim's assassin side. Don't get me wrong: his affinity for those seute knives are still strong throughout the story.
And damn, is there a lot more blood, killing, gore and overall carnage in Shadow's Lure when compared to its predecessor. Like way more. A good thing. In the final confrontation with the witch, however, another thing begins to bug me with Caim. He just happens to learn how to use shadow portals (self-explanatory) and, if I read it correct, a type of magic. The shadow portals was an okay addition, but again, not a fan of the magic. Caim's control over the Shadows was enough for me. It's unique and his a blood killer. That's all I really needed. The introduction of him potentially being able to use magic along side the power of the Shadows is overkill for me. Now, the only way I would have accept this is if it came gradually, as if he started to realize he could do more drastic things with his Shadow powers that reach out into the realm of using magic. Somewhere in the story, the witch Sybelle uses a term to describe him as a shadowwalker. That's all to it though. There's nothing expanded on this term and ultimately nothing gained for me as a reader who is trying to see Caim develop.
Onto to Josey: the Empress of Nimea. Josey's side of the story remains interesting through most of the book. I wasn't too fond of her in Shadow's Son primarily because she was very whiny and clingy. Although that can be expected considering what she went through. However, all of that suddenly changes when she puts on the crown. Okay, I can sort of see this making sense now. The obligations of the crown change her, but we see it happening slowly and with a very noticeable struggle. That's also makes sense. She is debating all of this, how she can accomplish great things as the Empress, wondering where Caim is, and trying to fight off the enemy of her the city Othir, the True Church. Lastly comes this weird, paranormal and alien like creature that is revealed to be an assassin. The assassin constantly going after Josey as she struggles with these issues kept me engaged most the time. However, what I had a great issue with was the end of her story in Shadow's Lure. So, this whole time she's contemplating all of what she needs to to do. She's still weak at times, very vulnerable, and seeking help from friends to steer her in the right direction. Then, at the end, she gains this MASSIVE OVERWHELMING boost of confidence to finally take on the True Church because it is revealed this assassin was sent after her by them. Now, I can understand anger and rage, but the confidence matter when she is addressing the subjects of the Church at the end really jarred me.
Last comes Kit. She didn't have a point of view story in Shadow's Son, which begs the question why Sprunk decided it was best served to try it here. I wasn't a fan of her point of view. There are about five or six scenes in which Kit is seen by herself because of some strange, unexplained occurrence that separates her from Caim indefinitely. Kit becomes trapped in a place called the Between, the realm in middle of the Shadowlands and the Brightlands. My only guess as to how this happens is the closer Caim is coming to the witch, or perhaps the more attuned he is becoming with his Shadow powers, it is weakening the bond between them. This remains unexplained. And all the sudden, near the end, Kit finds a way to return to Caim and rejoin him. That was a rather large fail for me as a reader. Her point of view didn't serve me a purpose. The only other thing that I can see it benefited was that we got to see Caim alone. In Shadow's Son, she was always around him. Thinking. Speaking. Watching out for him. If there was anything that benefited from Kit's point of view, it is that Caim became more developed because we were able to see him think his way through things without Kit.
Overall, I really liked Shadow's Lure. I will go on to read the final installment, Shadow's Master, as I am again kept engaged by Caim's story. And of course, there is the cliffhanger at the end that makes me want to know what is next for Caim and Kit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2019
DNF @ 20%.
I don't get easily attached to books, and dropping mediocre ones has become an almost daily occurrence. The question of whether I finish a novel or not comes down to a battle between the author and my attention span. You can probably guess from my rating who won this bout. Why? Well it simply comes to down my boredom with the characters. They'd already finished their character arc and the development and tension left for them was shallow and uninteresting.
Opening up the world is a worthwhile endeavour, it just should've been done with other characters.
I don't get easily attached to books, and dropping mediocre ones has become an almost daily occurrence. The question of whether I finish a novel or not comes down to a battle between the author and my attention span. You can probably guess from my rating who won this bout. Why? Well it simply comes to down my boredom with the characters. They'd already finished their character arc and the development and tension left for them was shallow and uninteresting.
Opening up the world is a worthwhile endeavour, it just should've been done with other characters.
August 21, 2020
Did Not Finish: 50%
I tried man, I really tried. But when you'd rather find work to do over reading your book, it's a sign. It has everything that should interest me: assassins, magic, fighting, fantasy setting. But for some reason, I just couldn't get into it. I think what got me to lose interest was that the character relations that I liked from the first book were missing from this one and replaced with characters that I truly didn't care about. The dialogue was bland, there was no reason to care about anyone, the new characters had no personality. I'm sad.
I tried man, I really tried. But when you'd rather find work to do over reading your book, it's a sign. It has everything that should interest me: assassins, magic, fighting, fantasy setting. But for some reason, I just couldn't get into it. I think what got me to lose interest was that the character relations that I liked from the first book were missing from this one and replaced with characters that I truly didn't care about. The dialogue was bland, there was no reason to care about anyone, the new characters had no personality. I'm sad.
May 31, 2018
This book was like the first one, I wish it was written better, and the dialogues made more sense. The plot at the end started to get exciting, although the rest was the usual: Caim was killing people despite bleeding from sixteen mortal wounds while Zefi was having a bunch of problems until after 300 pages she figured out she can deal with them even if she couldn't for the entire book. It was a nice and light reading tho, onwards to the third book.
April 14, 2024
Le deuxième tome de cette saga très agréable à lire. Légèrement en dessous du premier mais vaut vraiment le coup !
Les deux protagonistes sont forcés de s’éloigner mais les sentiments restent 👀
Hâte du tome 3
TW vi0l ⚠️
Les deux protagonistes sont forcés de s’éloigner mais les sentiments restent 👀
Hâte du tome 3
TW vi0l ⚠️
February 3, 2019
Didn't enjoy this one so much. The plot felt very underdeveloped when compared to it's predecessor. Not bad by any means, just doesn't grab and hold you like the first novel.
April 12, 2020
Marginally better than the first one. The women are getting better, but they are still vastly outnumbered by strong men. Still a decent plot and I especially like how the shadows are “characters”.
March 20, 2021
DNF at 49% I was EXTREMELY bored.
May 8, 2022
3.75/5
July 25, 2013
I was a big fan of “Shadow’s Son”, Jon Sprunk’s debut assassins novel, so when I got the second book, “Shadow’s Lure” and the last part of the trilogy “Shadow’s Master” in the mail, some neighbors might have seen me do an elaborate happy-dance. After finishing “Shadow’s Lure”, I feel even more lucky to have received these from Pyr, so a big thank you is in order here. The second part of Caim’s story was, just as the first one, a joy to read. And here’s why:
Jon Sprunk is a fabulous writer. The writing is clean and compelling, just as it was in the first book. He paints such a vivid image of his characters and their surroundings, it’s easy to lose yourself in this story. This is the kind of book where you keep flipping the pages without even noticing it. Sprunk knows how to pull his audience in and how to make the readers feel like what he’s writing about is happing around them instead of on mere pages.
This is a story about an assassin, so obviously there are a lot of detailed fighting scenes in this book and they are a real treat. I don’t think it’s easy to write a compelling detailed fighting scene. Describing every move, every sword thrust, every step… I’m pretty sure an author needs a certain talent to write these sort of scenes the right way, to make them compelling and not tiresome. Jon Sprunk definitely has that talent. I could vividly image every move Caim made, how the bodies fell, where he struck or how he got injured. It made for some exhilarating action that got my blood pumping.
Sprunk also knows exactly how to bring his main character alive. Caim is flawed and not always a ray of sunshine (well, actually, most of the time he’s rather grumpy), he’s not the most positive person and he has his struggles, but he’s so easy to love. That may sound weird, but Caim is really a character that pulled me in completely. I can’t help but feel for him and fear for his life when he’s got himself into another battle. Sprunk did an amazing job there, because the connection with a character is very important to me and it’s usually the lacking of said connection that makes a book fall flat for me.
As for the other characters, though good, they weren’t as easy to love as Caim. Josey is someone is mostly felt compassion for throughout the book, I feel for her for the ordeal she has to go through, but she lacked some strength for the most part of the book. Not that she can’t stand her ground when she has to, she just made a vulnerable impression on me in this book, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but I’m more of a “strong-women” fan. She made up for it in the end though.
The story itself was more of a build-up towards the final book, but nonetheless very entertaining to read. The thing that intrigued me most in the first book, was Caim’s past. There’s a veil of mystery there. After “Shadow’s Son” we know some bits and pieces about what happened, but in this installment we discover a lot more about the tragic event when Caim goes back to his roots in the North to find out what happened that night.
Meanwhile, Josey has to struggle through her first weeks as the new Empress of Nimea. Not an easy position, as she almost immediately has to face danger and uprisings.
We also get a glimpse of Kit’s side of the story, which I thought was really great. It was nice getting to know her better and finding out where she came from and how she got where she is now.
The struggle between church and state for authority and power is still an interesting subject and is a well-chosen background for the struggles of one of our main characters. Little mentions of it keep popping up in other storylines too, which weaves them together at some level.
The use of magic and sorcery is rather dark and grim in this trilogy, but that puts it in an interesting light, it’s definitely not a bad thing. It’s also not overwhelming. I like how the author went a bit further in this book and explored Caim’s powers and the possibilities/consequences of it.
“Shadow’s Lure” was definitely on the same high level as the first book was. It’s not better, but equal to it. After reading two books in the trilogy, I wouldn’t put them on my top shelve, but definitely not far below it. These are good, solid Fantasy books, not masterpieces, but they are among the better Fantasy I’ve read so far.
I’m hoping the third book, “Shadow’s Master”, will make a satisfying ending to what has been a magnificent story so far.
Jon Sprunk is a fabulous writer. The writing is clean and compelling, just as it was in the first book. He paints such a vivid image of his characters and their surroundings, it’s easy to lose yourself in this story. This is the kind of book where you keep flipping the pages without even noticing it. Sprunk knows how to pull his audience in and how to make the readers feel like what he’s writing about is happing around them instead of on mere pages.
This is a story about an assassin, so obviously there are a lot of detailed fighting scenes in this book and they are a real treat. I don’t think it’s easy to write a compelling detailed fighting scene. Describing every move, every sword thrust, every step… I’m pretty sure an author needs a certain talent to write these sort of scenes the right way, to make them compelling and not tiresome. Jon Sprunk definitely has that talent. I could vividly image every move Caim made, how the bodies fell, where he struck or how he got injured. It made for some exhilarating action that got my blood pumping.
Sprunk also knows exactly how to bring his main character alive. Caim is flawed and not always a ray of sunshine (well, actually, most of the time he’s rather grumpy), he’s not the most positive person and he has his struggles, but he’s so easy to love. That may sound weird, but Caim is really a character that pulled me in completely. I can’t help but feel for him and fear for his life when he’s got himself into another battle. Sprunk did an amazing job there, because the connection with a character is very important to me and it’s usually the lacking of said connection that makes a book fall flat for me.
As for the other characters, though good, they weren’t as easy to love as Caim. Josey is someone is mostly felt compassion for throughout the book, I feel for her for the ordeal she has to go through, but she lacked some strength for the most part of the book. Not that she can’t stand her ground when she has to, she just made a vulnerable impression on me in this book, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but I’m more of a “strong-women” fan. She made up for it in the end though.
The story itself was more of a build-up towards the final book, but nonetheless very entertaining to read. The thing that intrigued me most in the first book, was Caim’s past. There’s a veil of mystery there. After “Shadow’s Son” we know some bits and pieces about what happened, but in this installment we discover a lot more about the tragic event when Caim goes back to his roots in the North to find out what happened that night.
Meanwhile, Josey has to struggle through her first weeks as the new Empress of Nimea. Not an easy position, as she almost immediately has to face danger and uprisings.
We also get a glimpse of Kit’s side of the story, which I thought was really great. It was nice getting to know her better and finding out where she came from and how she got where she is now.
The struggle between church and state for authority and power is still an interesting subject and is a well-chosen background for the struggles of one of our main characters. Little mentions of it keep popping up in other storylines too, which weaves them together at some level.
The use of magic and sorcery is rather dark and grim in this trilogy, but that puts it in an interesting light, it’s definitely not a bad thing. It’s also not overwhelming. I like how the author went a bit further in this book and explored Caim’s powers and the possibilities/consequences of it.
“Shadow’s Lure” was definitely on the same high level as the first book was. It’s not better, but equal to it. After reading two books in the trilogy, I wouldn’t put them on my top shelve, but definitely not far below it. These are good, solid Fantasy books, not masterpieces, but they are among the better Fantasy I’ve read so far.
I’m hoping the third book, “Shadow’s Master”, will make a satisfying ending to what has been a magnificent story so far.
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