Sean Randall reviewed The Gilded Chain by Dave Duncan (King's Blades (1))
Review of 'The Gilded Chain' on 'Goodreads'
3 stars
This book has garnered a lot of good will, from some very high-flying people. my views on Duncan are something of a mixed bag - I absolutely loved his Seventh sword series but wasn't too keen on the Alchemists Apprentice.
I was nevertheless presently surprised by the Gilded chain. Perhaps, because the first seventh sword book was that little bit shorter, or perhaps just because it was a different story, I enjoyed it (and subsequently the series) that much more. Gilded chain started to chafe a little; given the overarching morality of Durendal and the introduction and prancing displays of the inquisitor's at almost the outset of the book.
Still, a very solid, fantasy romp, with good swordsmanship and an interesting take on the allegiance of knights to a monarch. The magic is different to many other titles I've seen - in many cases, magic often saves the day or …
This book has garnered a lot of good will, from some very high-flying people. my views on Duncan are something of a mixed bag - I absolutely loved his Seventh sword series but wasn't too keen on the Alchemists Apprentice.
I was nevertheless presently surprised by the Gilded chain. Perhaps, because the first seventh sword book was that little bit shorter, or perhaps just because it was a different story, I enjoyed it (and subsequently the series) that much more. Gilded chain started to chafe a little; given the overarching morality of Durendal and the introduction and prancing displays of the inquisitor's at almost the outset of the book.
Still, a very solid, fantasy romp, with good swordsmanship and an interesting take on the allegiance of knights to a monarch. The magic is different to many other titles I've seen - in many cases, magic often saves the day or becomes a far too pivital plot point. here, requiring an octogram and chanting, as well as having The White Sisters who can detect enchantment's residue, magic becomes a much riskier venture.
it seems that the ending of this book paves the way for the beginning of the next. I suppose I shall come to it soon - not immediately, but despite its shortcomings, I quite enjoyed it.