Honest review of Hunter's Quest

In Simon Shugar's Hunter's Quest (The Path of Pathos), Tomi's return to civilization throws him into a desperate race against time and encroaching war. Haunted by the loss of his father's invaluable book, Tomi embarks on a perilous journey to reclaim his legacy. His quest leads him through treacherous landscapes, forcing him to confront brutal hunters, cunning bandits, and the shadowy Forsworn, exiles clinging to survival. As winter descends and the kingdom teeters on the brink of collapse, Tomi must forge uneasy alliances, questioning loyalty and sacrifice at every turn. His pursuit of the past could shatter his future, demanding choices that will define his destiny.

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4.5 / 223 ratings

Review Hunter's Quest

Oh, my goodness, I just finished Hunter's Quest, the second book in Simon Shugar's Path of Pathos series, and I'm absolutely buzzing! This book completely swept me away. Shugar has a real knack for storytelling; it's the kind of writing that just pulls you in and doesn't let go. You're immediately invested in Tomi's journey, feeling every hardship and celebrating every small victory alongside him.

What struck me most was the realism of Tomi's emotional growth. He's not some invincible hero; he's a young man grappling with immense loss and navigating a treacherous world. He makes mistakes, he doubts himself, and he suffers setbacks – all things that feel incredibly authentic and relatable. It's this grounded portrayal of a character struggling against impossible odds that makes the story so compelling. You genuinely root for him, even when he’s making questionable choices, because you understand his motivations and the weight of his circumstances. He's not just surviving; he's trying to survive, and that makes all the difference.

The world-building is phenomenal. Shugar paints such a vivid picture of this medieval kingdom, complete with its dark forests, treacherous cities, and the chilling presence of winter. The magic system, while simple, is intriguing and feels organic within the story’s context, never overshadowing the characters or the plot. The descriptions are rich enough to transport you to this world, making you feel the biting cold and the tension of impending war.

I especially appreciated the exploration of loyalty and its cost. Tomi’s relationships, both with allies and enemies, are complex and nuanced. There are no easy answers, and he’s constantly forced to make difficult choices with potentially devastating consequences. It’s this moral ambiguity that elevates the story beyond a simple good-versus-evil narrative. He’s caught in a brutal world where survival often demands compromises, and it keeps you constantly guessing.

While some might find the relentless hardship Tomi endures a bit much – the torture, imprisonment, starvation – I found it to be a testament to his resilience. It’s not gratuitous suffering; it underscores his unwavering determination to find his father's legacy and build a future for himself. It certainly keeps you on the edge of your seat! The pacing might not be breakneck, but the deliberate unfolding of the plot allows for a deeper connection with the characters and a richer understanding of the world they inhabit.

In short, Hunter's Quest is a captivating read. It's a story of loss, loyalty, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. It’s a journey that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. If you’re looking for a fantasy novel that combines thrilling adventure with emotionally resonant characters, this series is definitely one to check out. I, for one, am eagerly anticipating the next installment!

Information

• Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.82 x 8.5 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 360
• Publication date: 2024

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