The Bear and the Nightingale is historical fantasy fiction at its best. A vibrant world, rich characters, more than a hint of the supernatural, and an endearing main character who doesn’t have all the answers but isn’t afraid to find them. Do yourself a favor and get yourself a copy of this book now.
Renegade's Magic concludes the Soldier Son Trilogy. Hobb brings everything full circle, and while I won't say everything works out, it's a happier ending than certain other novels of hers.
If you’re looking for something beyond the traditional Dickens to read this holiday season, A Lot Like Christmas may fit the bill for you. Despite a couple of the stories feeling like duds to me, I’m giving it four rockets because there are many more stories I enjoyed than not, and even a few which stand out as holiday gems.
Titus has entered the Entire before, but when he returned to our world it was by himself; his wife and daughter had stayed behind for reasons Titus does not remember. Upon his return, he makes it his mission to find them and to learn the reason they did not come back with him. The answer is both sad and bittersweet.
Nevare is not the most likeable or heroic character Hobb has ever conceived, but I honestly felt for the guy and kept reading if only because I wanted to see his fortunes turn. More than that, though, Hobb kept me going with her usual excellent writing as she crafts a compelling story in this second novel in the Soldier Son series.