Sidewinders

Fire Sacraments Series, Book 2

By: Robert V. S. Redick

Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer

The worst of rivals, closest of friends, the two most wanted men in a war-torn world: Kandri and Mektu Hinjuman have cheated death so often it's begun to feel like a way of life. But nothing has prepared them for the danger and enchantment of the Ravenous Lands. This sprawling, lethal desert is the brothers' last hope, for they have killed the favorite son of Her Radiance the Prophet, and her death-priests and magical servants are hunting them.

There are dangers even within their caravan. Some of their fellow travelers worship the Prophet in secret. Others, including Mektu, have become obsessed with a bejeweled dagger that seems to afflict its owners with madness or death.

Kandri is carrying an encoded cure for the World Plague, a disease that has raged for centuries - while far from the desert, certain criminals have learned just how lucrative a plague can be. Who, in this game of shadows, can Kandri trust?

He knows one thing, however: They must reach Kasralys, great and beautiful fortress-city of the east. Only there can Kandri seek word of the lover who vanished one night without a trace.

But Kasralys, never conquered in 3,000 years, is about to face its greatest siege in history.

©2021 Robert V.S. Redick (P)2021 Tantor

Riveting

A well executed follow up to the engrossing first book in the series. Definitely recommend. Excited for the third!

overlooked fantasy gem

I loved it. The world building and character development are next-level, It's even better than the first book, which was great.

Amazing storytelling

This book was great! The story keeps on pulling you in and keeping your attention. Can’t wait for the next one!

Excellent descriptive writing and so much swearing

The writing brings vastly detailed images for one's imagination, yet so few of the characters are likable. The main protagonists are decidedly unlikable - as are the antagonists as well - and their consistent use of profanity is remarkable. The support characters are tolerant for no discernable reasons. Truth be told I found myself yelling at the characters because of the emotionally charged behavior involved.
This is a "book 2" and while the "book 1" is no different, I was compelled to read this one because the first ended on such an intense cliff hanger.