Review: The Fiend and the Forge

The Fiend and the Forge by Henry H. Neff

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



GoodReads Synopsis: The Fiend and the Forge, is an unforgettable dystopian adventure across a landscape overrun with goblins and trolls. The world has changed almost beyond recognition, for with the Book of Origins firmly in his possession, the villainous Astaroth now has the power to reshape history at will. Plucking pivotal discoveries from mankind’s past, he has reduced the world to a preindustrial nightmare.

But while most humans toil as slaves within four demonic kingdoms, Astaroth allows those at Rowan to thrive in peaceful isolation. Theirs is a land where magic and nature flourish . . . so long as none dare oppose the new order.

That proves too steep a price for Max McDaniels. Unsure of his place at Rowan, Max sets out to explore the shifting landscape of the world beyond. In the course of his travels, he will become many things: Prisoner. Gladiator. Assassin. But can he become the hero that mankind so desperately needs?

My Thoughts: I am stunned at how this series has changed since the first book! The tone of the story as well as the plot points are growing and changing as the main character, Max, is growing and changing. In this installment, he’s about 17, has gone through a lot, and the challenges he faces now are well beyond his years. Quite a change from the first book which was reminiscent of the first Harry Potter book.

In book 2, The Second Siege, the bad guy “won” the war…not what I was expecting! In this installment, the story delves into the dystopian world the bad guy created as a result. Neff is not afraid to remove beloved characters…something that really adds a new level of emotion and interest in the story. You can bet that whatever happens it will be unexpected. This is also the first series I’ve read where we get to watch our current society change into the dystopian society that the story shifts into. Once again adding yet another level of interest.

This series is huge in terms of size and scope! Neff is keeping it very fresh. While I initially thought this series would be pointed to the middle school reader, I am finding that it would appeal to all ages. If you are at all curious as to what the world would have been like had Voldemort won the battle, you should read The Tapestry series.




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