Book 3 - The Death of Dulgath - The Riyria Chronicles

I love the author and the characters that he brings to life. Very well written and hard to put down( just ask my boss). I would recommend to anyone who likes stories that are detailed, vibrant and full of life.

Fantastic Book. My favorite of the "Prequels". The first two really set up the pair. This one was a good standalone adventure where they are experienced working together a bit, but are still working out the kinks.

Reader thoughts:
The title of the book spoiled the ending for me. I knew the woman was going to die. So, there was less tension. I'm sure the intention was supposed to be the opposite. Plus, she was never mentioned in the original trilogy, and so I didn't expect much from her.

The painter was done well, eccentric. He was the right person to add to the cast to flavor up the book, I think. The "I kill only vermin" archer guy was interesting, too.

I loved Hadrian's continued trust mishaps! He drinks poison twice! I don't think he's gullible, though, just trusting. He would not be too trusting if he were in a different line of work. He's just in the wrong profession.

The "rescue" by the one poisoner when Hadrian and Royce are locked in the prison wagons was an awkward scene. I knew she was faking, but still.

Writer thoughts:
It's fascinating to read the book and remember that some audiences are coming to this book before the Riyria Revelations books, and some are coming after. Sullivan has to please both audiences, surprise both sets of readers. So far, he's done very well.

Even for a return reader, it's a shock to read about Royce's heritage just because it's a shock to him. If the character is in pain, it's worth reading about again.

Also, the people! Old readers immediately know who's important (Gwen, Hilfred, Albert, etc.), which piques their interest. New readers don't, and that piques their interest, too.

While this installment of the series lacks much of the customary humor of the previous novels, I found that I didn't miss it. Learning more about the characters - their light and heavy sides - is always appreciated. Like Robin Sullivan, I too am infatuated with Hadrian Blackwater, so I would love to see more of the duo. But I also look forward to delving into some of Sullivan's other works.

Not everything ends as everyone would wish it did, much more matured than first books. I still miss hotter romance and deadlier use of force and abilities :). Sometimes one can get an impression our heroes would brake their necks long before present story with so many misshaps.

Another brisk, highly entertaining work from Mr. Sullivan! I should first point out that I'm an avid reading of the author's works, including purchasing the original Riyria series before they were re-published by Tor in 3 volumes instead of 6. To this day, I believe that his series ranks among the best fantasy series of the past decade or so.

Anyways, onto the book at hand: much like the preceding two volumes, Riyria 3 revisits the duo of Royce and Hadrian during their earlier years. Generally, this series tends to be a bit lighter in tone and a bit more playful then the first series. Here, they are hired by the Nyphron Church to help provide advice to prevent the assassination of the titular Countess Dulgath.

New characters abound in this book, and most are colorful and entertaining, with some believable character growth to boot. The plot hums nicely along and the action is well-done and easy to follow. And perhaps most importantly for me, this book really contributes to the mythology of Mr. Sullivan's universe and ties in nicely to the upcoming First Empire (possibly also titled Rhune?) series to be released mid-next year. All in all, those who were looking for an entertaining ride with R+H with the perfect amount of depth shall not be disappointed.

This author work is for readers whom need to read in order to breathe. I must forewarn you that when you are at the end of a book you might find yourself becoming anxious. The only cure is to have the next book at hand.

I have enjoyed all the Riyia books. The main characters Royce and Hadrian are great serious and comic at times.Wish they'd make a movie. Ive read these books several times and would recommend them to any sci fi reader.

A good read but honestly, after reading all of the Riyria books, the dire situations that Royce and Hadrian get into seem ludicrous and the boys seem totally inept at times, which is totally against character.

Started yesterday...finished today. I simply cannot put Michael J. Sullivan's books down! Another great addition to the series that further expands on the backstory of Royce and Hadrian. Hands down one of the top fantasy authors out there.