Spanning many years and creating a whole universe to emcompass it, the Shannara saga finally comes to an end. This is book 2 of the 4 book conclusion and it does not disappoint. Brooks' strength has always lay in weaving together the stories of multiple characters at once, and this book is no different. It boasts an outstanding plot as well as multiple characters whose stories intersect and interweave. His characterizations have always supported his intricate plots well and again in this book he works his magic. As the Skaar invaded the four lands, conquerors who wish to rid the lands of their current population, it looks like they are unstoppable. Princess Ajin's manipulations threated to set each group against the other while the Skaar methodically eliminate them one by one. Only Paranor and the Druids can stop them, but Paranor is gone and the Druids dead, except for Drisker and he is trapped. The Black Elfstone and the power of the Wishsong might save him, but Tarsha is under assault by the rogue Druid Clizia and Tarsha's own brohter. Meanwhile, who is this Shea Ohmsford? An exceptional read and I am looking forward to the 3rd book and the concluding volume. The only problem is once I've read them, it will be done... ( )

Great fun, a big improvement over the Black Elfstone. I really am enjoying the Skaar, they're a much more interesting group than the usual demons who invade the Four Lands. Their motivations and politics are another great side to the story that you don't normally see in Shannara books. Looking forward to the third! As it seems to be the case in many of the recent books, there are a few callbacks to Shannara legends and I'm all for it, fan service or not. ( )

The saga rolls on!!! ( )

The saga rolls on!!! ( )

Another not very exciting episode. Terry Brooks has added little unnecessary descriptions about the characters of characters that have already demonstrated what they are. And we are treated to another cliffhanger. ( )