All roads lead to Bren... (A Man Betrayed - J.V. Jones)

Member Name: sparkymarky1973

Product:	A Man Betrayed - J.V. Jones
Date:	06/02/09 (20 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A good solid fantasy trilogy

Disadvantages: Sometimes a bit plot-heavy with scheming and intrigue

This is the second installment of the hard-going Book Of Words trilogy that is as much hard work as the late Robert Jordan's Wheel Of Time series but much shorter in stature and ambition. This time around, Prince Kylock is just as determined and focused as ever upon creating a new empire but, when his father finally succumbs to his deabillitating illness brought on by poison, his plans are given a real boost and he begins a war of terror against all who oppose him and his new regime. Meanwhile Jack, the baker's boy, and his companion Melliandra are seperated from each other and find themselves being drawn into the slots appointed them by Fate; their actions already predetermined to fullfill a Destiny and ancient prophecy....

Once again, the political intrigue here flies thick and fast and the novel reads very much like George.R.R.Martin's Game Of Thrones series it is so complex. The advantage here though of course is that with this epic, an end is plainly in sight and fans of this variety of fantasy will be gratified that an ending is very shortly forthcoming with the next volume rather than waiting to see what comes first- the conclusion of the series or the author's death before completion.

Although the book is hard-wearing at times, it is nonetheless enjoyable and the plot-heavy story is lightened by the presence once again of guards Bodger and Grift. I am not sure whether the inclusion of badgers in a dialogue with Bodger at one stage is intended as a less than subtle nod at it's readers but it succeeded with me in bringing back very funny memories of the children's T.V show Bodger and Badger. (Everybody knows...Bodger likes...MASH POTATO!) Also the Arch-Bishop is back once more with his humourous slights at his ever-patient loyal servant and this, again, lightens the mood and alleviates the pace at times! This is ever nessecary as there are times when the plot becomes thicker than your dear nanny's porridge!!

This is a great and phenomenal trilogy that goes from strength to strength but is perhaps a tad too derivative to become a true fantasy classic. There are better fantasy authors out there but not many and though Jones may not be up there with the big girls and boys, he certainly gives the genre a run for it's money.

Would I read this again? Probably not but that doesn't mean it is any less enjoyable first time round only that it would not warrant a repeat performance. There is no catch-up at the beginning so familiarity with the previous novel is essential and I wouldn't leave it too long between installments.

Overall this is pleasent enough fantasy that leaves the reader itching to find out how the story will conclude...

Summary: A group of individuals find their unique Fate drawing them ever closer to each other!