Book Review: The Splintered Sun by Tad Williams
Anytime someone asks me for a book recommendation in the fantasy genre, my answer, without hesitation, is the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn series by Tad Williams. So when I heard about this new book set in the world of Osten Ard—and the fact that I had been granted an advanced reader copy—my little geek heart about burst!
I downloaded it instantly, began reading, and pre-ordered the hardcover. Because, of course, I did!
The Splintered Sun takes us back to Osten Ard, 300 years before the events of The Dragonbone Chair, and introduces us to a kingdom teetering on the edge of chaos. With a dying king, competing warlords, questions of succession, and dark forces lurking in the shadows, there is plenty of trouble brewing. Enter Flann, a fearless bandit whose unlikely band of allies must navigate the danger and political turmoil to help the rightful heir claim his place.
And let me tell you, this book was better than I could have dreamed.
There is something truly special about returning to a world that has meant so much to you as a reader. Williams has created a rich, immersive fantasy world that continues to draw me in, and The Splintered Sun reminded me all over again why I recommend his work so enthusiastically. The adventure, the characters, the danger, and the sheer scope of Osten Ard make this a wonderful addition to a world I never tire of exploring.
It's been out for a while now (yes, I'm behind on writing this review!), and I've already been posting about it on social media. I felt a little ashamed that I hadn't gotten around to sharing my thoughts here on the blog, too. But better late than never, right?
If you've read the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn trilogy, you already know why a return to Osten Ard is cause for celebration. And if you haven't yet discovered Tad Williams, consider this your invitation to do so. His work is a big part of why I love epic fantasy, and this latest adventure only reinforces my enthusiasm. Honestly, just grab a book by him. Any book. I bet you’ll love it.
I'm so happy to have had the chance to revisit this world, and now I'm about to dive into the other books again. Because apparently, one trip to Osten Ard is never enough!
My recommendation? Pick up your copy of The Splintered Sun now. You won't regret it.
Love Fantasy?
Try Nameless: Illustrated Edition
If you enjoy fantasy, mythology, and stories that take you somewhere unexpected, I invite you to explore Nameless: Illustrated Edition, my own collection of fantasy short stories.
Featuring original illustrations alongside imaginative tales, this collection offers a glimpse into the worlds I create as both an author and an artist.
Comments