Title: Talon of the Silver Hawk
Author: Raymond E. Feist
First published January 1, 2002
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780380803248 (ISBN10: 0380803240)
Rating: 4.05
Overview
In a far-off land nestled among towering mountains, a ruthless army of the Duke of Olasko has set out to destroy everything in its path. No one is safe from their merciless attacks, and their brutality leaves only one survivor – a young boy named Jarek.
But Jarek is no ordinary boy anymore. He has but one purpose in his life now: to avenge his fallen kin.
With the guidance of his rescuers, Jarek will undergo an intense training that will turn him into an unstoppable weapon – Talon of the Silver Hawk. But the path to vengeance is not an easy one, for his enemies are also on the lookout for him.
Jarek must choose to pledge his allegiance to the secretive cause that his mysterious mentors follow, or risk losing everything he holds dear. Follow Jarek’s journey in this thrilling adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
About the Author
Raymond E. Feist, originally named Raymond E.
Gonzales III, changed his last name to Feist after his mother remarried Felix E. Feist.
He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts with Honors in 1977 from the University of California, San Diego. During his final year in college, Feist brainstormed ideas for a novel about a young boy who possessed magical abilities.
He authored the novel two years later, which was published in 1982 by Doubleday. Feist presently resides in San Diego with his children and has a keen interest in collecting fine wine, DVDs, and books on various topics that intrigue him such as biographies, history, and, particularly, the history of American Professional Football.
Editoral Review
Talon of the Silver Hawk by Raymond E. Feist is a thrilling epic fantasy novel that will captivate readers from the very first page.
Published in 2002, the book is the first in the Conclave of Shadows series and has since become a beloved classic of the genre. Feist, a renowned fantasy author, is widely regarded as a master of world-building and character development, and this book is no exception.
Set in a magical world filled with wars, dragons, and ancient prophecies, Talon of the Silver Hawk follows the story of a young boy named Talon who sees his entire village massacred by a group of brutal invaders. With nothing left to lose, Talon is forced to flee and eventually finds himself taken in by a group of warriors who become his adoptive family.
As Talon grows up, he hones his fighting skills and learns about the shadowy organization that orchestrated the destruction of his village. Driven by revenge, Talon sets out to join the Conclave of Shadows, a group of powerful heroes devoted to fighting against evil magic and bringing down the people responsible for destroying his home.
Feist’s world-building is the standout feature of this book. His descriptions of the lands and cultures that Talon encounters on his journey are rich and immersive, leaving readers feeling like they are actually living in the story.
The characters are equally impressive, with each one having their own unique backstory and motivations that contribute to the overall plot. Talon, in particular, is a compelling protagonist that readers will root for from start to finish.
While the pacing can be a bit slow at times, the book is well worth the investment of time. The story builds gradually but surely until a climactic battle that will leave readers breathless.
The themes of revenge, loyalty, and the corrupting influence of power are all explored in depth, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the story. Overall, Talon of the Silver Hawk is a must-read for anyone who loves epic fantasy.
Feist’s masterful storytelling and world-building are on full display in this engaging and immersive novel. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy the genre and are willing to invest the time will be richly rewarded.
I give this book a rating of four out of five stars.
