Review – Shield of Winter by Aaron Hodges

**AUDIOBOOK AND MINOR SPOILER WARNING**

I was only commenting recently on how tough it can be the middle book in a trilogy. THIS is the middle book in a trilogy (Legend of the Gods), and the author pretty much nails it.

Alana has been taken by Quinn to the Tsar’s palace, much to her surprise, and there are more surprises to come as she finds out she is so much more than some brave woman rescuing her brother from the fate of other magickers. Devon and Killian head to Trola to find allies. Maybe not his finest idea, as he is known as the hero of Trola after leading the slaughter of thousands of Trolans years before, but he has found allies are in short supply at home.

So far, so standard as far as plotting goes, but in the author’s usual fashion, the characters are far more interesting than meets the eye. Devon murdered thousands of men, women and children in the battle of Trola, and has vowed since to change his ways. His friend Killian had a good life, but gave it all up out of loyalty to his friend. Alana and Braden are on the run from the Tsar, but were never sure why – they find out in shocking fashion. Anala finds out she’s not the only hero from The Sword of Light trilogy still alive (she is also unaware she is a character in a trilogy).

The author has this writing lark down. He writes enjoyable, pacy adventures with interesting characters and epic plots, and is accessible to both (older) teens and adults. He throws in a lot of gallows humour, and his heroes don’t always get their way. The narrator, who I believe also narrated The Sword of Light trilogy as well as Oathbreaker (I could look it up, but I’m too lazy), does a great job in making distinguishable characters and keeping the story ticking along.

Here’s the thing though – I think this series could have ended here. I can see the scope for continuation, but I’m mildly concerned it might drop the ball trying to string out the plot. The author, no doubt, will prove me wrong, and I look forward to the end of the trilogy.

A solid 4.5/5 stars.