Sunday, January 26, 2014

Fortress of Mist by Sigmund Brouwer (Book Cover Bingo - Fog)

4 stars for Fortress of Mist by Sigmund BrouwerFortress of Mist by Sigmund Brouwer. WaterBrook Press, 2013. 217p. (9781400071555) Series: Merlin’s Immortals, #2

Almost a year ago I read book one in this series, The Orphan King. That book ends rather abruptly and you know there’s a lot more to the story. The same almost happens with this book, it leaves you waiting for book three. Which fortunately is in the library, so I don’t have to wait. :-)

This series is a revised and expanded version of The Winds of Light series which has 4+ average ratings on Goodreads. I haven’t read that series but my sister did and when she started reading this series she recognized the story and stopped reading (in favor of something she hadn't read before). So if you think the story sounds familiar that might be why.

Goodreads Summary:
Following Thomas' conquest of Magnus, the young ruler must now lead his people into a new era - one which is sure to reveal dark forces at work behind the evil undercurrent that controlled Thomas' kingdom for so long. Who will stand with Thomas to fight against the mysterious Druids? After being abandoned by Sir William, of his remaining "adopted family," who can he trust? Can he trust either Katherine or Isabelle with his secrets-or his heart?

My Review:
Thomas has grown up quite a bit now that he has to rule Magnus and look after the populace all while trying to solve the mystery of Magnus. He also needs to figure out who the people of the Symbol are, what they want, and why the cloaked man opposes them and figure out what he wants.
Bodiam Castle is the castle image used on the cover of the book even though it was built after the story takes place and is located in Southeastern England
It's a lovely old castle and moat though.
(Image from Wikipedia)
There’s lots of mystery but the reader knows who to cheer for even if we don’t know why exactly either group is so interested in Thomas and Magnus. We do get to see more of the workings of the two group members but that only serves to arouse the reader’s curiosity and makes one anxious for Thomas to make the right choices.

I liked the drama with the Earl of York and the campaign against the Scots. While it took the story away from Magnus, Thomas was still surrounded by the mystery of the Symbol and the opposing group.

I think that teens would enjoy this series; some of the themes might be too complex for preteens and having some early British history would help place the time period and way of life in a clearer context. I would also recommend reading the books in order.

If you like adventure and mystery, especially if it’s set in 1300s England then this is a tale for you.

4 stars



Disclosure: I borrowed this book from the library. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission.



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2 comments:

  1. This sounds like a good book and series. I really like the cover. I don't always like when books end abruptly, but since there are three books out (or maybe all of them)- the endings won't be so bad. :) Thanks for sharing!
    ~Jess

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're welcome Jess! I've been busy reading other books and watching the Olympics so I haven't gotten around to reading the third, but it's a fun series. Hope you get a chance to read it! Thanks for visiting and commenting!

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