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A review by lesserjoke
The Charnel Prince by Greg Keyes
4.0
Another strong entry in this unfairly-obscure fantasy quartet. I don't like it quite as much as the previous volume, in part since a couple of the new storylines -- Anne's to some extent, but especially Aspar's -- seem to consist largely of characters falling into and out of danger as they trek across the landscape, which is a genre staple that I don't wholly love. It also feels a little less motivated when a few of those separate threads reconnect at the novel's end. Mostly, though, I'd rate it as a minor step down simply because everything impressive about the worldbuilding of the debut is basically familiar now, and this sequel doesn't push forward with as many further revelations of history, magic, or plot as I'd ideally want it to. It's still an immersively-detailed setting, but one that offers fewer surprises this time around.
Luckily, I remember that the series does get there eventually! And I've spotted certain subtle hints to that effect here, although that's all just setup so far. But in the meantime, even as a bit of a bridge book, The Charnel Prince has plenty to appreciate. I adore the new court composer protagonist for his efforts to be brave in the face of a censoring church, and Sir Neil's quest to find and safeguard the lost princess has major Brienne of Tarth vibes. There's fun political intrigue in Queen Murielle's chapters too, and Cazio's rakish swordplay and not-so-secret soft heart are always a delight. Overall, all of these heroes are becoming more confident and competent as the peril facing them grows, and alternating among their scattered positions throughout the realm helps build a sense of looming urgency spreading everywhere. So while I wouldn't say this title is as thoroughly excellent as its predecessor, it's a great segue towards the action that's yet ahead.
[Content warning for gore, torture, and sexual assault.]
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Luckily, I remember that the series does get there eventually! And I've spotted certain subtle hints to that effect here, although that's all just setup so far. But in the meantime, even as a bit of a bridge book, The Charnel Prince has plenty to appreciate. I adore the new court composer protagonist for his efforts to be brave in the face of a censoring church, and Sir Neil's quest to find and safeguard the lost princess has major Brienne of Tarth vibes. There's fun political intrigue in Queen Murielle's chapters too, and Cazio's rakish swordplay and not-so-secret soft heart are always a delight. Overall, all of these heroes are becoming more confident and competent as the peril facing them grows, and alternating among their scattered positions throughout the realm helps build a sense of looming urgency spreading everywhere. So while I wouldn't say this title is as thoroughly excellent as its predecessor, it's a great segue towards the action that's yet ahead.
[Content warning for gore, torture, and sexual assault.]
Find me on Patreon | Goodreads | Blog | Twitter