Although I am familiar with Joshua Robertson’s books, I’m still amazed by the rich worldbuilding and subtle elegance of the themes in these novels. New races and cultural beliefs have emerged in Maharia during the time Dorofej and Branimir were trapped in the Netherworld, which adds a little of the exotic to the familiar setting. Branimir has matured and grown substantially since Melkorka, the first book in Joshua Robertson’s Kaelandur trilogy. Through his expanded view of the world, we begin to see a greater depth to Dorofej and the intricacy of his motivations. Branimir’s difficulty in grasping the distinction between good and evil avoids the common discourse to make this age-old question seem new. There is a distinct Tolkein feel underlying the originality of Dyndaer’s world and characters, which imbues the book with the comforting sense of having picked up an old favourite to read, until the plot kicks you from your comfy chair with a surprising twist.
Read my reviews of other books of the Thrice Nine Legends Saga: Melkorka, and The Name of Death
Reviewed for Reader's Favorite