Eye of the Labyrinth

Second Sons, Book 2

By: Jennifer Fallon

Narrated by: Joe Jameson

Since the Age of Shadows ended, the people of Ranadon have lived under the merciless heat of two suns and the tyranny of Antonov, the Lion of Senet. Consumed by his lust for power and his unshakable belief in the capricious, almighty Goddess, Antonov’s rule is absolute. Only one man has the intelligence and will to break that hold...a man who could be King.

Suddenly widowed, Morna Provin, Duchess of Elcast, has lost her only protector. With her son banished for an unspeakable crime, she faces a horrifying fate at the hands of the Lion of Senet as retribution for her relationship with the heretic Johan Thorn. But it is only part of a cunning scheme to lure her son, Dirk Provin, back into the fold so Antonov can consolidate his power once and for all. With his mother’s life at stake, Dirk Provin must emerge from hiding in the Baenlands and return to Elcast—setting in motion a rebellion that will expose long-buried secrets and ignite festering hatreds.

For a ruler’s fears and a madman’s prophecy will start Dirk on a quest for truth that will spark a fierce battle between two very different men: One who believes only what his five senses tell him, the other obsessed by his faith in the divine. It is a clash that will bring to light a revelation that may shatter them all.

©2003 Jennifer Fallon (P)2014 Audible Studios

What a page turner

Honestly, I couldn't put it down. It picks up the story two years after the first book finishes, but in terms of pace and feelings -there's no interruption whatsoever.
The intricate web of relationships that the author weaves in this part of the trilogy is sometimes heartbreaking and gut wrenching, but I mean that in the best of way. I was completely absorbed in the plot and the characters. I can't wait to start the next book.
As for the narration - I really think Joe Jameson is one of (if not the) best narrators I've ever listened to. He acts so well and gives each word feeling and meaning and texture. He is really outstanding.