After his encounter with the morwhol in The Shadow Within, Abramm Kalladorne is recovering from the wounds he received during the fight. Though he has succeeded in taking his rightful position of king of Kiriath, there is an upward battle to securing Kiriath's peace and security. Abramm is also coming to grips that his injury has scarred and crippled him for life, which evokes depression on his part. It seems that everything that can go wrong has come about.
The evil has again begun plotting his demise, but is taking a different tack this time. While Abramm is promised to be married with the princess of Chesedh, to create an alliance with the neighboring country, he has found himself dangerously attracted to her younger sister. Lady Madeline also is beginning to have feeling for Abramm, but understands that by being a second daughter, she could never act upon them. As the wedding of Abramm and Princess Brellian approaches, Abramm continues working to restore his countries defenses and ferreting out those who are conspiring against him.
Once again, Hancock has written an excellent fantasy. I have loved this series since I read the first one, and I have eagerly awaited each subsequent book. And each time, I have found the next to be better than the one before. Filled with romance, faith, betrayal, and joy even in suffering, Shadow over Kiriath kept me enthralled throughout the whole story. I found I could not put it down until I had finished it. Definitely a must read for all who love fantasy.