Books Read in 2021 - No. 5
Hi Readers
Continuing my reading journey of my favourite author David Gemmell, I have now moved onto another popular series of his. The Rigante series.
Comprising of 4 novels it isn't as well known as his Drenai series.
Sword in the Storm - book 1 - took me by surprise as it is definitely a Gemmell novel, yet has a slightly different writing style which I wasn't sure about at first, but then loved.
It is different as most of his novels take place at a certain point in time like a siege in Legend or a hunt in Waylander 2. This novel spans years even decades, as it follows the birth and eventual rise to Rigante leader of Connavar. Spoilers!
The book not only follows Connavar as he grows, feels heartache, fights a bear, becomes a hero and fights alongside his enemies - the Stone army - but lots of side characters and even minor ones.
Gemmell has the ability within a few paragraphs to explain who a person is, how they think and act and even backstory. This all adds to the overall story and action.
Connavar grows up with his mother Meria and stepfather Ruathain, after his father dies in battle. He grows believing his father is a coward and makes sure he isn't like his father. His friend Banouin is older and comes from over seas where his people, the Stone army are a warmongering race. Connavar goes with Banouin overseas where there is tragedy and Connavar works with the Stone army.
When Connavar returns home he knows it's only a matter of time before the Stone army rampages across the peaceful Rigante lands and makes it his job for them to prepare for war. In doing this he becomes the leader.
There is some magic but not much in the book. There is the Witch Vorna, and ancient spirits in the woods called the Seidh whose magic is dying.
I couldn't help but think Gemmell was writing an environmental novel as the Stone army is going to come destroy the woods and lands. Like we are doing now, until the magic of woods and country is gone. Replaced by houses, shops and roads.
Overall - Already Sword in the Storm is one of my favourite Gemmell novels. With multiple POVs, which I've tried to emulate in my stories but readers are left asking whose POV is it. They need to read this as it manages it so easily and I'll just keep practising.
With plenty of action and emotion, Connavar goes through a lot, this book will take you into Rigante lands and have you care for the characters. One of Gemmells best books so far.
Score - 10/10
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