The Night Angel Trilogy [Paperback]

I never read a book twice, because I have a great memory for the storylines - this entire trilogy I've read twice, it's going into my permanent book collection, and I expect to read the entire series again - for the 3rd time - this coming fall. I was hooked by the first page of the first book and could not pull myself away. I read while making and eating breakfast, I read at lunch time, I read at dinner time, I read in bed. I visited Weeks' website and all the fan-forums. OK, so I'm totally addicted.

This series is filled with the classic quest theme and classic and tragic heroes of all descriptions abound the pages. Characters are complex with an inner life and thought process that demonstrates Weeks ability to generate dynamic and full-fledged characters. My heart wanted to scoop Azoth, Doll Girl and Jarl out of the streets that they struggled to survive. As Azoth's apprenticeship to Durzo evolves, the relationship that starts out simply as master-apprentice - and a means of survival for Azoth - grows into much more for both characters and which culminates in the third book into mutual love and respect of an adult father-son relationship (no they are not related). Supporting characters are just as strong and intriguing.

You'll find these books are page-turners and the threads that go to create the fabulous tapestry of this story coloured by good, evil, hope, human struggle, faith, friendship, trust, personal sacrifice and belief that a better day will come.

Do yourself a favour and buy the trilogy. I bought the first book and then had to go back online three days later to get books two and three. I loaned the first book to a neighbour, who two days later was begging for the next in the series. We just had lunch today to discuss these books and Weeks' promise of a 4th book to come sometime in the future. How many times can you say that about a book?

I bought this trilogy not too long ago. I am currently done with the first book, and I must say I am eagerly awaiting the chance to crack open the second book. This trilogy is a definite page turner. There is never a dull moment and I thoroughly enjoyed the character development. Azoth/Kylar is a joy to discover, as are his friends that play a big role in his decisions. I couldn't believe the price listed here, as I almost bought the trilogy in separate French paperbacks novels for 30$ each. I would recommend this to anyone that has a slight interest in fantasy literature (I am new to genre myself). I will surely pick up more books by Mr. Weeks in the near future.

I bought this trilogy in my ongoing search for new fantasy authors to read. It was a fabulous read from start to finish. This book involved many complex characters such as the "Wetboy" (an assassin with magic skills) Durzo Blint, the child Azoth/Kylar who escapes the gutter by apprenticing himself to Durzo, his friends Jarl and Doll-Face, and wetboy in training Vi. These are only a few of the awesome characters in the book. This book's main characters include kings, lords, simple servants, magicians and criminals and seamlessly integrate their stories into a beautiful tapestry!

Pros:
Complex characters with good character development
Good world building with fascinating history (and lots of room to revisit with additional stories although perhaps not with Azoth as the main character as there isn't much room for additional growth)
Fast-paced, action filled plot
Vivid writing
Awesome magical objects and system

Cons:
I can't think of anything... maybe that it ended? I miss this world and the characters already!

Caveat: This book contains dark themes such as child molestation & prostitution, mutilation, etc. If this type of thing disturbs you, you may want to avoid this novel (though you would be missing out). Its not really a focus though (in my opinion) so much as a fact.

Sadly, I took this on vacation and had to leave it behind when I was over my weight limit on the way back. Otherwise, I would have loved to read it a second time.