The Darkening Storm: book 2 in the epic fantasy series (Power & Empire)

Still finding it comp!located with trying to keep track of all the characters but I am enjoying it so Mich

The action is more exciting and with higher stakes; theplots have thickened nicely and there are plans and counterplans leading to excellent trickery and deception. As bothIslanders and their enemies the Abend begin to search forthe Treasures an intriguing, page turning and imaginativeIndiana Jones' style treasure hunt ensues with fantastic andfantastical results.Things don't always go to plan for our heroes or indeed their enemies and this makes for a gripping read, with LJ Hutton's plotting you really do have to expect the unexpected. A stunning range of situations, difficulties, geography and emotion is on display.There is a wonderful moment with some thyme of all things that is innovative and introduces a new level of magic andmythology into the series; one that fits seamlessly intothe world as we know it, involving many of the differentcharacter threads and adding some fun as well as mystery.All the diverse cast of Book 1 are back and they form someinteresting new groupings, which, combined with newchallenges ensures they continue to develop as characters;especially Jacinto and Ivain. One of the most compellingfeatures of L.J. Hutton's writing is the inclusion of theviewpoint and plans of the enemy. This continues and isexpanded - we meet the exceedingly powerful, highly strung,nymphomaniac, competitive and ambitious beings that are the four Abend witches.Revelations come thick and fast throughout and haveimplications relevant to characters across the Islandseffectively keeping the reader aware of the whole pictureas each chapter moves a group of characters forward. Weare given clues to how, as well as by whom, the amazingtreasures will be wielded in future battles and this is just one example of how L. J. Hutton assures the reader that this is a series well under control.All too often the second instalment in a series can be adisappointment - not so with `The Darkening Storm'.This master storyteller has written a worthy sequel that will leave you both well satisfied at this the half-way point of the quartet ... and, like me, eagerly awaiting Book 3.

I dont normaly write reviews, I just give the appropriate number of stars and move on. This saga is worth commenting on, and recommending. There are so many characters that I can barely keep them straight in my head. They are worthy charactors though. I see myself reading this a few times, and finding new things every time.

Thoroughly enjoyable read. Continues to entertain in this second book of the series. Outstanding character development with great insight in their hearts and hopes.Highly recommend….