The descriptions in this book are so vivid that as a reader you can almost feel the sun and smell the air. Drothe was amazing! The way that Hulick describes Ildrecca makes me wish it were a real place. But when an ancient book falls into his hands, Drothe finds himself in possession of a relic capable of bringing down emperors-a relic everyone in the underworld would kill to obtain. Reviewed by Moirae the fates book reviews.ĭrothe has been a member of the Kin for years, rubbing elbows with thieves and murderers in the employ of a crime lord while smuggling relics on the side. But the grains of sand are running out fast, and even if Drothe can find his friend, he may not be able to persuade him to help in time. Now Drothe finds himself traveling to the Despotate of Djan, the empires long-standing enemy, to search for the friend he betrayedand the only person who can get him out of this mess. All he wants in exchange is a single favor. As former allies turn their backs and dark rumors begin to circulate, Drothe is approached by a man who says he can make everything right again. So when another Gray Prince is murdered and all signs point to Drothe as the hand behind the knife, he knows its his blood thats in danger of being spilled. A princes blood, as the saying goes, flows just as red as a beggars. As the newest Gray Prince in the underworld, hes not only gained friends, but also rivalsand some of them arent bothered by his newfound title. If you liked the Gentlemen Bastards, Dark Angel, or Riyria series, you might like this one, but don't expect this to be anything like those.Its been three months since Drothe killed a legend, burned down a portion of the imperial capital, and found himself unexpectedly elevated into the ranks of the criminal elite.

I liked this book because the main character is pretty plain and simple, but it is his journey that leaves you wanting to see whats just around the corner. The narrator draws you in even further using his clear unassuming voice and different characterizations. The magic system is hardly explained, but happens in strange ways that still keep it fresh. The author does a good job of making you interested in a man you probably wouldn't have as friend or even care to know.

It leaves the second book wide open for possibilities. The end is a bit of a surprise, ending with Drothe in position even he couldn't have imagined. He bounces from meeting with people to battling for his life while searching the scant clues he finds along the way in search of potent relic. He has the best of luck and the worst of luck, in this mobsters meets fantasy meets mystery tale. He does have his moments of caring and kindness, though. He has no real talent, can be cruel and mean, and short tempered. Drothe is in no way special, not even anti hero special.

Among thieves by douglas hulick