Series: Book 3 in Ranger's Apprentice
Author: John Flanagan
Publisher/Year: Puffin / 2005
Date Finished: 13 November 2011
Source/Format: B&N / Print
Book #: 85
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The Short and Sweet of It (from Amazon)
Kidnapped after the fierce battle with Lord Morgarath, Will and Evanlyn are bound for Skandia as captives aboard a fearsome wolfship. Halt has sworn to rescue Will, and he will do anything to keep his promise—even defy his King.
Expelled from the Rangers he has served so loyally, Halt is joined by Will’s friend Horace as he travels toward Skandia. On their way, they are challenged constantly by freelance knights—but Horace knows a thing or two about combat. Soon he begins to attract the attention of knights and warlords for miles around with his uncanny skill. Even so, will they be in time to rescue Will from a horrific life of slavery?
A Bit of a Ramble
What fascinated me most about this story was not the fighting scenes or the heroism, but rather I was struck by the loyalty portrayed. The first two books focus on Will's developing love and loyalty to his mentor and friends, but in this installment, the loyalty is returned. Halt purposefully gives up what he loves, dishonors his country and defies his beloved Ranger Corp, to save his apprentice. Horace bravely leaves his training and his home to save his friend. And Evanlyn finds a strength within herself she never knew she possessed to rescue her friend.
I am drawn to characters, and the people in this tale are not only intriguing in their own right, but their connections to each other really lends a level of believability and relatability I appreciate. The things we do for each other and because of each other define us as humans, and seeing this quality carried out in fiction is a real treat for me. I am enjoying the community being built in this series, and I sincerely hope this sense of togetherness and interconnectedness continues in the remaining installments.
Now, on to book four!
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Question: What are other truly wonderful communities of characters you think I should take a look at?
I am loving that you have found a new series to so enthrall you and that you are tearing through them! It's good to hear that the ensuing books don't lose their flavor or their action as well. Fantastic review today! Thanks for sharing it!
ReplyDeleteI am enjoying reading your reviews on this series.
ReplyDeleteOh, what an interesting question! A wonderful community of characters, hmm. I will inevitably mention Terry Pratchett, who has so many recurring characters in his books and storylines that revolve around groups of them that are so wonderful and strong and amazing, particularly the Night Watch. I also think Lindsey Davis' Falco series of ancient Roman mysteries has a strong community of characters. I guess it's always series that seem that way to me!
ReplyDeleteYou mentioned one of the things I love best about this series...the relationships. I think Flanagan does an excellent job of portraying real relationships in a flattering light. Things are not always smooth, or warm, or perfect, and he manages to bring that all together in every relationship.
ReplyDeleteThe fourth book is one of my favorites of the series, so I am looking forward to your thoughts. :)
I have got to get my hands on this series! :-)
ReplyDelete