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Liked It “The post of Chosen One has lost all respect in the kingdom of Jorsk, to the point where the kingdom has posted a reward for anyone brave---or stupid---enough to try to fill it. But when the Chosen's One lifespan is measured in weeks, few volunteer. Devlin, a man with nothing to lose, takes the...” see full review » see other reviews » |
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“The post of Chosen One has lost all respect in the kingdom of Jorsk, to the point where the kingdom has posted a reward for anyone brave---or stupid---enough to try to fill it. But when the Chosen's One lifespan is measured in weeks, few volunteer. Devlin, a man with nothing to lose, takes the post fully anticipating the trend will continue. Hoping it will. The death he seeks eludes him time and time again, and people are starting to realize they may have gotten an actual hero out of the deal after all . . .
Aelvana wrote this review Saturday, September 19 2009. ( reply | permalink ) Was this review helpful? Yes | No
Devlin's secret motivation makes this book a gripping read from the start. As a man seeking death, he throws himself into danger with a readiness those around him find appalling. His uncertain grip on the language, his reticent nature, and his low position do little to endear him to those at court. And for all his honor and courage, he is a man constrained by the whims of fools. Even Stephen, who at the beginning bore every hallmark of a tiresome cliché, grew past the inept bard to a young man finding his way in the world.
The plot is somewhat unusual for a fantasy. It emphasizes the struggle between Devlin and a council who cares more about their own comfort and safety rather than doing the things that will in the long run ensure they are actually safe. As Chosen One, Devlin sees plenty of action, but the real conflict is in where and how his skills should be used. The kingdom is falling apart and the king is too afraid of making the wrong decision to make any decisions.
My only real disappointment was the slender worldbuilding. Much of the world is assumed rather than created, which leaves some holes in areas like history and geography and religion. I had wanted to see the gods show up, or at least stories about the gods, but religion was mostly confined to a small chat at the beginning where Devlin rejects all gods as traitors and swears on the god of luck for his patron because this god also has a bad reputation. Given the luck that follows Devlin thereafter, it seemed there might be something more than empty words to such a choice of patron, but any role of the gods is pure speculation.
Overall this is still a good read, and one I'm eager to read again. Despite Devlin's morbid nature, his disappointment at his continued failure to end his own life is comical in its own way. The book ends well, though with a very big lead into the sequel. I rate this book Recommended.”
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