2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
Conclusion that would make a Minotaur proud, Aug 23 2005
By Victor Hwang - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Empire of Blood: The Minotaur Wars, Volume Three (Hardcover)
Knaak begins the end of this impressive trilogy around the time the Gods of Krynn come back to the world (coinciding with the end of the third book, Dragons of a Vanished Moon, in the Dragonlance War of Souls trilogy). Empire of Blood is epic in scope. Sargonnas, original patron god of the minotaur race, and Morgion, currently holding sway over the minotaurs in his aspect as the Lord of the Bronze Tower, both play an active role in the story. Their respective mortal champions, Faros and Ardnor, command mighty armies and wield great divine power. At stake is the fate of the whole minotaur race and the overall balance of power for most of Krynn. It is a very entertaining read and fans of the first two books will not be left disappointed with either the plot or the quality of writing. I have a few gripes pertaining to Knaak devoting little time to flesh out certain parts of the story. Without giving away any major spoilers, Knaak seems to abandon Bastion, warrior brother of Ardnor, towards the end of the novel without ever telling the reader of Bastion's fate. The same can be said of another major character in Lord Golgren, leader of the ogres. There are a couple other settings and events that could've been clarified with more detail. In addition, Knaak's attempt at salvaging any romance in the series is downright pathetic. These are somewhat minor concerns, but added up, I did not feel this was one of Knaak's best novels. It is certainly enjoyable and up to the standards of most Dragonlance fans. Knaak did a solid job of setting the table for new future adventures in the ever advancing Dragonlance timeline.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
KNAAK DELIVERS ANOTHER HIT!!!, Jun 23 2005
By L. Petrino - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Empire of Blood: The Minotaur Wars, Volume Three (Hardcover)
Richard Knaak has always been one of the best Dragonlance writers outside of Weis/Hickman. Since the Legend of Huma he has given us stories with great characters, drama, action, and overall creativity. Unlike most Dragonlance authors, he tends to think outside the box.
Finally we get the conclusion to the Minotaur Wars trilogy and it is a must read. Even casual fantasy readers could pick up this trilogy and have little trouble following it. But true fans who just read the War of Souls will appreciate it more I think. I loved the idea of using Morgion as the new evil picking up where Takhisis left off. The book slows down a little midway through but it continues to urge you on to the thrilling conclusion.
My only complaint is from a Dragonlance fan's point of view. Faros' sword is clearly the Sword of Tears from previous Knaak novels but it is never actually named. It almost seems like he goes out of his way not to say the name. The same goes for the mysterious minotaur saviors led by Gaerth who are obviously of the Kazinganthi clan. Maybe he felt casual readers wouldn't understand or be confused. Just a little nitpick, doesn't effect anything really.
I also don't understand where he is going with the Golgren storyline. What the hell were the Titans? What was that about making a potion? I can only assume he is planning another trilogy with Faros leading the minotaur empire to war against Golgren and the ogres. I guess we wait and see. I can't wait!
5.0 out of 5 stars
Incredible Series!, Dec 31 2011
By Charles Landreth "Sword Bearer: Seeds of a Le... - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Empire of Blood: The Minotaur Wars, Volume Three (Hardcover)
Empire of Blood was a great book. As an avid fantasy book reader, I rarely find books that follow main characters that are not the usual Human or Elven heros. Following Faros through his trials as the political structure of the Minotaur race unravels is exciting and interesting. Empire of Blood was written very well and I could really envision the story and felt connected with the characters.
I would definitely recommend this series to any fantasy reader, but even more so to those that are looking for a new perspective on the fantasy environment and how the different races view the events that unfold in the world.