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The Proof House: 3 (Fencer Trilogy) - K.J. Parker Our price: £2.78
A brilliant end to a fascinating series K J Parker is a genius. An erratic, possibly crazy genius, but a genius nonetheless. In 'Colours in the steel' we were introduced to the unique Loredan family, each with their own set of problems and distintive talents. In the second book 'The belly of the bow' we learn more about the Loredans, and more about the motivations for their actions, shocking as they may seem. In this final book, the story ends in a way guaranteed to seem unexpected. The technical information in these books is presented in an interesting fashion, and the fluidity of the writing makes the books very easy to read. However, it is the characters in these books that make them so worthwhile. It is rare for something so completely different to come along and I was pleased by the refreshingly unusual approach to the fantasy genre. No one character could be seen as 'good', although I found myself liking them anyway, and the story itself was disturbing. I had to keep reading to find out how it all ended. I would recommend this book, and the others in the series, to anyone who would like a break from the usual run-of-the-mill, sword-and-sorcery type books. For sheer innovativeness, this trilogy cannot be beaten. A superb conclusion to a very different fantasy Oh the relief of an original ending! This one hits you in the gut. Only read if you have read the other (excellent) books. NO NO NO NO!!! Why is it fantasy writers tend not to be able to keep a reign on the plot of their books? Bardas is great. I love the "unwilling hero" aspect of these books. I like the way despite his best efforts Bardas keeps being dragged back tob things he hates but is spupremely good at. However, in this book you get the feeling that Parker doesn't know what to do with the rest of characters. He also doesn't finish his description of the Principle either - really disapointing. I given him 2 stars because of his fascinating desciption of tunnel fighting but I'm afraid this is a "must try harder" moment. Only read if you want to know what the end of the story is. An excellant deconstruction of fantasy Parker showed us brilliantly over the whole fencer trilogy why the cliches of fantasy just don't work. Excellent. Awful conclusion! The whole series, well written and entertaining, worked up to a superb climate, only to immensley disappoint. A very abrupt end hints that the author didn't know how to end it.
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