House of Assassins

Correia piles on the intrigue, action, and cliffhangers in the invigorating second Saga of the Forgotten Warrior epic fantasy (after Son of the Black Sword). In a land without gods, Inquisitors and Protectors work to keep life secular while scheming for personal advancement. Ashok Vadal was once a Protector, before he met Thera Vane and heard the unearthly Voice that uses her to deliver prophecies. With Thera kidnapped by the shape-changing wizard Sikasso, who hopes to steal her power, and Ashok himself hunted by the Lord Protector Devedas, there’s plenty of excitement. Correia also weaves in elements that question the value of belief and the cost of giving authority to those who find more profit in preying on the weak. Rebellion and betrayal complicate matters as Ashok and Thera strive to survive. Brisk fight scenes, lively characters, and plenty of black humor continue to make this series a real pleasure. (Feb.)