Dark Skies

Dark Skies is the second instalment in the “Dark Shores” series. Interestingly, the first two books occur at the same time in the fictional world and can be read in either order. This novel’s heroine, Lydia, is the best friend of Teriana, and, if you read Dark Shores first, you briefly met her. The first few chapters here are a recap of what happened in the previous novel. In Dark Skies, we followed along with Teriana and Marcus. Now we learn the truth of the betrayal of Teriana’s’ friend Lydia and follow along with her as she takes another route to Mudamora and meets Killian, leader of the King's forces. Killian is a soldier, marked by the God of War for great things, and he is sworn to protect the Princess of Mudamore whose principality is on the brink of war.

Lydia's transformation along her journey is truly inspiring to behold. Readers will watch this bespectacled bookworm gradually transform into a strong heroine as she survives an attempted assassination, being robbed, beaten up and then being Marked. Killian is also a well-rounded character. Following a tragic misjudgement that led to the deaths of thousands, he determinedly grows into his role of being Marked by the God of War.

The magic of the world was hinted at in the first novel, but Dark Skies begins to reveal its complexity. The God-Marked people each have a supra natural ability, like strength, healing, growing/restoring, or water breathing. It’s a fascinating idea, and it is taken even further. Healers are used in battle to regenerate solders. However, Healers drain their own life force, resulting in a unique battlefield triage.

Dark Skies has an Ancient Roman feel to the world, dark and foreboding, with gods and mythical creatures. Jensen’s writing is smooth and descriptive. It is easy to imagine oneself within the walls of Mudaire or in the filthy sewer tunnels where orphans seek refuge from disease, hunger and the dragon-like creatures that terrorize the night sky.

Lydia and Killian are both strong, engaging characters. Of course, they have their flaws, but they are also endlessly brave, are good problem solvers, and are both loyal to no end. Secondary characters are also well-fleshed out. Even princess Malahi’s behaviour is thoroughly believable in its self-motivation. Humorous moments were shared, including the banter between Malahi, Killian and the female guards. Each character in Dark Skies brought its strengths, including Killian's mother who is a rare gem.