Rate this book

The Shadow At The Gate (2000)

by Christopher Bunn(Favorite Author)

3.77 of 5 Votes: 2

languge

English

genre

Fantasy

series

The Tormay Trilogy

review 1: I won this book in a First Reads contest.The first book in the Tormay trilogy feels like it is setting up the plot. This can cause "The Hawk and His Boy" to feel somewhat disjointed. However, "The Shadow at the Gate" constantly advances the plot, and the characters interact a lot more than in the first book. The second book in the trilogy demonstrates that the author has a clear plan for the plot of the trilogy.As in the first book, the author reveals a lot about the backstory and mythology of Tormay. The author gives hints about plot points, letting readers figure out details about characters' lives long before he directly states the details. Unlike the first book, where it felt like a minor climax was added in order to give "The Hawk and His Boy" a stopping point, "... moreThe Shadow at the Gate" has a climax that is much more relevant to the plot, and clearly sets the direction for the third book of the trilogy.I feel that the chapter titles are somewhat too revealing. The plot would be more surprising if the titles were more vague.The book sometimes suffers because it is part of a trilogy, instead of being stand-alone. For example, one or two characters who are relevant to the plot half-way through the book then disappear for the remainder of the book.Like its predecessor, "The Shadow at the Gate" has a dense mythology, round characters, and an interesting plot. It is a very exciting read.
review 2: In for a penny, in for a pound. This is by far one of the best deals on Amazon for fantasy fans. It's amazing. This second book of the trilogy introduced another aspect of Christopher Bunn's skills...humor. The ghost is a hoot. The story has been dark and cryptic up to the point we meet the ghost with no name.If you are considering reading the series, this is not a stand alone. I feel like the synopsis is too vague and should mention the main characters by name. Jute, the main character, is not the only primary character and is not the only reason to invest in this series. I love Jute and his journey is key but like Frodo Baggins (Lord of the Rings), he is not all of it.Five stars and perhaps the best $2.99 I have spent this year. less

Download links for: The Shadow at the Gate

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