Conclave of Shadows (3) - Exile's Return [Hardcover]

Exile's Return is largely set on the continent of Novindus and follows the travails of the former Duke of Olasko, none other than Kaspar (the exile of the title), as he strives to regain a life for himself. Feist's real skill is in his description of his fantasy world and in the creation of great characters, and Exile brings this skill to the fore again in a way I have not seen since King's Buccaneer, one of the author's earlier works.

Kaspar is brought to life in this book as we understand the man now freed from the influence of the evil sorceror, Leso Varen. However, Kaspar's fate seems inextricably tied to that of the Conclave of Shadows, and it isn't long before the former Duke is tasked by the Gods themselves with seeking out the secret organisation with a legacy from the Dragon Lords reign that will challenge even the mighty Pug and company.

In summary, this is a great book full of pacey plot, intriguing characters and dialogue and above all, a return to form in terms of quality.

A must-have for all fans of fiction/fantasy - even if you fell out with Feist a while ago. This is his best work in years!

By the end of this book you'll realise that the three books of this series are intended to set the scene for Feist's next series (supposedly the last of the Midkemia/Kelewan series'), the Darkwar Saga.

The story here follows Kaspar of Olasko in his exile in Novindus, where he learns some important life lessons and finds himself burdened with a dark artifact from another world.

Feist remains an excellent writer and this book is very easy to read and appreciate. However, once again there's a feeling of shallowness to the plot, particularly in relation to Kaspar's linear and somewhat contrived quest to rid himself of the Talnoy.

There is a counterbalance to the book's faults in the scenes involving further discussion of the nature of the Gods. Some might find these a boring break in the action, but I love Feist's tangents to explore these concepts.

Another good thing is the new enemy introduced; the cruel Dasati and their (all but) invincible warriors, the Talnoy. The way this new threat is established will leave you in no doubt that the Darkwar Saga will feature a struggle every bit as compelling as those in the Riftwar and the Serpentwar.

The first part of the story is a voyage of self discovery by Kaspar, he gradually starts to come to terms with what has happened to him and gains some insight as to why he acted the way he did. This realisation is very uncomfortable for him on several different levels.

This is however only the first part of the story, it continues with Kaspar meeting up with Flynn and his companions and the mysterious object they are transporting, then finally re-introduces us to some old friends, Pug, Tomas, Nakor et al.

This story is the introduction to a new and even more deadly threat to Midkemia, to find out more read the book, you will not be disappointed.