I loved returning to these worlds, filled with nostalgia and adventure! I really enjoyed revisiting so many of my favorite characters and can’t wait for the next leg of this adventure.

This legendary author has been writing bangers for literal decades, and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon. This first book is only the start of another amazing journey!

This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year. Raymond E Feist is one of my favorite fantasy authors so I was eagerly awaiting this release.

I love that this book brings us back to Midkemia and Pug. I love that it ties The Firemane saga into the Riftwar Cycle. And while I suppose you could read this book as a standalone, you’d be missing out on so much detail that’s alluded to or briefly mentioned within this book that is laid put in detail within The Firemane Saga and the Riftwar Cycle series. I would recommend having read, at a minimum, The Riftwar Saga and The Firemane Saga before reading this book.

Also if you aren’t interested in metaphysical theorizing between characters as a fair chunk of dialogue in books, this probably isn’t for you. There’s a fair amount of theoretical discussion between characters that could be boring/uninteresting to some readers. I’m thinking of fantasy readers that don’t like sci-fi elements, this might not be the book for you. If you loved the Riftwar Saga and if you loved the Firemane Saga, this won’t be anything new for you.

This book has it all: found family, complex magic systems, a cult, battles/war, dragons, elves, portal travel/rifts through space and time, political intrigue, heist elements, etc.

My biggest complaint, and it was a complaint I had with Master of Furies (book 3 in the Firemane Saga), is that Hatu feels like a side character…a little bit less so in this book, but he still seems so one dimensional to me and I don’t like him. His power is interesting, but he annoys me and his not understanding his power/just being able to do these incredible things that no one has seen before, no one else understands, etc. it just feels like he’s too “perfect”.
I’m not a huge fan of how Hatu and Hava are written, even Donte can be annoying to read about.

I love Pug, Magnus, and Nakor (mostly lol), Zaakara and Sabella, Declan/sixto/Balven/Daylon. Even Donte grew on me in this book, I really enjoyed his POVs this go round. But Hatu and Hava fell flat for me and for how big of a focus Hatu’s magic is he seems like a minor character.

Still a solid fantasy read. I really enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to book 2!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Voyager for the eARC.

This book is out now!

This is a new book in an exciting fantasy series that picks up right after the last book in The Firemane Saga. We get to revisit incredible characters, their growth, and new challenges, which is fascinating and exciting to read. This book is full of mystery, intrigue, magic, and battles.
The main protagonist of the Firemane books, Hatu, finds his story strongly enmeshed with that of key Riftwar Cycle characters Magnus and Pug, who attempt to uncover the secrets of Hatu’s magic and the dangers hiding in Garn. At the same time, we have a more classic fantasy war story back in Garn as Declan and his brothers prepare for battle against the encroaching Church of One, with his arc featuring several small-scale battles. There are also some intriguing storylines around Hava’s attempts to get back to life on the sea, no matter which world she’s on, the ever-unpredictable Nakor begins to explore certain multi-dimensional areas to quantify the threat coming for both worlds, while Donte goes rogue and starts his own criminal organization in Midkemia.
There is just so much to engage with, and each character and adventure was entertaining. The story does suffer a little from being the first book in a new series, with a lot of time spent on setup and revisiting old storylines, and as a result, A Darkness Return’s conclusion is a little less epic or memorable than it could have been. However, those who persevere through it are in for a lot of fun. I gave this 4 stars.

Well-written, but I was a bit lost since I had not read the previous series.

(I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)

I loved this book. I will admit that I made the mistake of reading this book first before realizing that there were others that come before it. But even though now having the background knowledge meant there were some things that went over my head I still had a good time. Will backtrack and read the whole series.

A powerful entry to a new Feist series. Featuring fascinating intrigue, massive world-building (connecting to other Feist universes) and memorable characters (with many we have known before showing up). Following multiple PoVs was fun but I was definitely more interested in Declan's and the whole fanatical church, but eventually they begin to mesh in different ways. The action kept me interested and it was neat to see how different worlds were being connected. Reminded me kind of Kingdom Hearts? Don't ask.

My biggest mention is that readers "should" read Riftwar and Firemane series to really understand this world. I did not have any prior Feist experience when I read this, and I highly recommend because talking to others I definitely missed a good bit.

Raymond E. Feist returns to the world of Garn and The Firemane Saga. The saga ended with Hatushaly traveling through a rift to Midkemia for training of his magical powers. But A Darkness Returns (hard from Harper Voyager) in the form of ancient evil linked to an evil church on Garn. Favorite characters from the Firemane series along with familiar mages from Midkemia have to fight the evil despite Garn having much less magic than Midkemia. This is a nice beginning to a new trilogy.

This is a really fun and interesting read. I had a great time with it, though there were times when I found myself confused. After receiving this novel, I learned that this book heavily relies on previous works of the author. While I do feel, as someone who had never read those before, that this done a pretty fair job at recapping important information, I do feel as though my enjoyment would have been better had I actually read his previous series - something I was unaware of until starting this story. I do plan on going back to those books and then coming back to this once I am able to have the appreciation I feel it likely deserves.

4.5 stars

You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.

This is a fantastic new book in an exciting new fantasy series that picks up right after the last book in The Firemane Saga. I'm so excited to revisit Pug, Magnus, Nakor and Midkemia in this next installment. Hatu, Hava and Donte are whisked away to Sorcerer’s Isle where Hatu is provided guidance and instruction to help harness his ever-evolving magical power.

Meanwhile back on Garn, Declan and his brothers are working to secure their newly developed kingdom of Marquensas, but are harassed by soldiers from the Church of One. While on Midkemia the magicians realize the Void, the evil they've fought and barely beat multiple times, is on the rise again and this time, seeks to destroy all life, in every universe.

This book is like settling into a comfortable chair with a warm blanket before a roaring fire. The incredible characters, their growth, and new challenges are fascinating to read. I couldn't put the book down and devoured it in less than two days. The book is full of mystery, intrigue, magic, and battles. Lots and lots of battles. I can't wait to see how this series plays out and just pray that this isn't the end of the books in this fantastic world.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley, Avon and Harper Voyager. All opinions are my own.

Returns, a novel that transports readers back to the richly woven tapestry of Midkemia. While the novel promises to rekindle the magic and nostalgia of Feist’s earlier works, it also treads on familiar ground, delivering both the comfort of the known and the longing for something new.

The story is centered around a familiar premise: the looming threat of an ancient evil that could plunge the world into darkness. Fans of Feist's previous works will appreciate the return of some beloved characters, as well as the introduction of new ones who bring fresh dynamics to the narrative. The intricate world-building, one of Feist’s trademarks, is as robust as ever, with detailed landscapes, complex societies, and a history that feels as real as our own.

However, while the world of Midkemia is vividly rendered, A Darkness Returns occasionally struggles with pacing. The first half of the novel is a slow burn, filled with extensive exposition and character development. While this depth can be rewarding, it may also test the patience of readers eager for action. The plot picks up considerably in the latter half, culminating in a thrilling climax, but the uneven pacing might leave some wishing for a more consistent momentum throughout.

Feist’s writing style remains engaging, though some may find it a bit dated, especially compared to the more contemporary fantasy works dominating the genre today. The dialogue is often formal, which suits the epic nature of the story but can sometimes feel stilted. Nevertheless, Feist excels in crafting moments of genuine emotional impact, particularly in the interactions between characters who have grown over the course of the series.

One of the strengths of A Darkness Returns is its exploration of themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the gray areas between good and evil. Feist doesn’t shy away from portraying the moral complexities faced by his characters, making their struggles relatable and their victories hard-won.

For long-time fans of Feist, A Darkness Returns is a welcome return to a beloved world, offering a mix of nostalgia and new adventures. However, for newcomers, it may feel like a daunting entry point, as much of the book’s emotional resonance is tied to events and characters from earlier in the series.

In conclusion, A Darkness Returns is a solid addition to Feist’s expansive body of work. While it may not break new ground in the fantasy genre, it delivers a satisfying story that will likely please fans of the Riftwar saga. If you’re looking for a tale steeped in tradition, with well-crafted characters and a richly detailed world, this novel will not disappoint, even if it occasionally feels like it’s walking a well-trodden path.

**I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**

Thanks NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of "A Darkness Returns". This was my first experience reading a Raymond E. Feist book and really enjoyed the pacing and the world building. I'd like to read more from this author as his writing style is what I enjoyed most. Overall great story and would recommend to any fellow fantasy lovers.

I grew up reading Feist with my dad, immersed myself in the Riftwar Saga and talking about the books with my dad. So, when I learned that Feist was starting a new fantasy series, I emailed the publisher and begged for copies for my dad and I. And, they delivered! So, thank you for doing that for us.

I loved the book. It is a perfect High Fantasy Feist book, with the plot writing, prose, and character development you come to expect from Feist. I loved the world building in this book, it never felt too slow or too much. I devoured this book in one setting, so really really recommend.

It’s hard to believe that I’ve been reading Feist’s work since the early 80s. I feel old…mostly because I suppose I am, lol. And that means Raymond is even older, but he’s still continuing to entertain! His newest book, A Darkness Returns, is the first entry in a new series: Book one of the Dragonwar Saga. Even though it’s a new series, it takes place within Feist’s already well established world. Does that mean you’ll have to have read the previous books to understand and appreciate this book. Not necessarily, he includes a fairly detailed recap of recent events within the world by beginning the book with a section titled “Our Story So Far”. Would that be enough for someone completely unfamiliar with his work to jump in? Likely, but it’s hard for me to judge since as a long time fan I’ve read most of his books. But for those unfamiliar with his work (first, where have you been?) Feist writes epic fantasy, his books usually including a large cast of characters, complex storylines, and he’s been doing incredible world building since…well the early 80s (as I might have mentioned earlier.) And that is definitely still the case this with this new series. We have some fascinating characters, excellent intrigue and action, and some truly wild events. The original Riftwar Saga still remains my favorite series by Feist (nostalgia and whatnot, lol), but I enjoyed this opening book to the Dragonwar Saga and look forward to seeing what comes next. 4.5 stars. I’d like to thank Avon and Harper Voyager, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an eARC of A Darkness Returns.

Feist is at it again! These books are beautifully written and I love his use of language, the story, the characters, the descriptions. If you liked his other books, you'll love this one!

I enjoyed the writing, while a bit wordy it was very easy to read. There is just a ton of information being fire-hosed down your throat and finally I realized there are a bunch of other books before this one that I guess should be required reading in order to understand what's going on. I'll take the blame on that because I really should've just assumed but I was thrown off by the description stating this is book 1 of a new trilogy.

Even though I had difficulty connecting with the story and characters I can respect that this book has everything for a great fantasy.

Raymond E Feist has been one of the fantasy authors my parents started me reading over 20 years ago and I have an entire shelf dedicated to his books. This was wonderful and everything I expected and hoped it to be. This is the start to a new trilogy/saga in the Raymond E Feist universe and I am SO HERE FOR IT. I love this writing, I love these tales, and I can't get enough.

Thank you to Netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

Having just finished another good book by Mr. Fiest I am satisfied as usual. The pacing and story are really well done. The characters are all likable, I think. The story is continuing in certain predictable patterns but then again there are some surprises that you may not expect as well. There is a thing where Pug and others always say to Hatu and others about events happening that's it a long story and they will tell them later. This became a little annoying for me after reading it more than a couple of times. Besides that, I have no complaints. I hope he will have the next book soon even though just finishing this one as I want to continue reading and enjoying the journey. Long time reader of this author's book and look forward to reading them again. I am wondering how this series will go on for though. Thanks to netgalley and the publishers to be able to read another good book.

This was a solid book. I enjoy Feist's writing in this book and I liked the setting up of the world. Very eager to read the next one.

Summary
Continuing the Firemane Saga and the Riftwar Saga overall, Hatushaly, Hava, and Donte, brought to Midkemia, must, with Pug and Magnus' help, find their way on two worlds, while facing a threat to the existence of ... everything.

Review
Long, long ago, I was enthralled by the story of Pug as he struggled through his travails in Magician. I read the book split into two volumes: Apprentice and Master, and greatly enjoyed them. Unfortunately, the thrill departed pretty quickly, and I read the sequels Silverthorn and A Darkness at Sethanon much more slowly and don’t really recall either. After that, I occasionally dipped back into the Riftwar saga, but nothing drew me back with any enthusiasm. I tried the first volumes of the next few subtrilogies (Daughter of the Empire, starting Kelewan; Prince of the Blood, starting Krondor’s Sons; and (Shadow of a Dark Queen, starting Serpentwar) but couldn’t get myself to care. The whole universe seemed to me to be getting too involved, complex, and perhaps stodgy. Still, the initial good impression of Magician has never left me. So, when I saw what was labeled a new trilogy, I thought it might be a good chance to jump back in after 40 years.

Unfortunately, while the Dragonwar Saga is a new trilogy, it’s very much a subtrilogy, and a pretty direct sequel to the Firemane Saga I didn’t even know existed. In fact, looking back at Feist’s ISFDB entry, I’m startled to learn how many books there are – far, far more than the many I’d heard of. Feist’s foreword also makes some mysterious references to the world’s origin that true fans probably understand but I found confusing..

It’s nice that the book comes back to some of its beginnings with Pug (and mentions of his old friend Tomas) from way back when. But there’s also a great deal about Hatushaly (from Firemane) and a host of other characters I didn’t recognize. And while the book is comprehensible – Feist does a pretty good job of settling us in – it’s clear that there’s a vast amount of lore and inside references that newcomers (and occasional visitors like me) just won’t get. Probably after so many books in the world (32 at a quick count), that would be too much to ask. And I’d bet that for fans, all of this is great, especially since it seems to be tending toward a grand finale.

At the same time, the book feels rushed. All sorts of new information, clever solutions, etc. are noted casually and then ignored; there’s just too much being discovered to linger, I guess. Even (what were to me) some startling developments in Pug himself are set out and then quickly passed by; they’re referred to often, but not developed or really explored.

That’s unfortunately true for much of the story – there are some serious plot holes here. The characterization is on the thin side, and there’s quite a bit of awkward, “I guess there’s no point in torturing you? [smirk]” – good characters explicitly saying they won’t do evil.

We do, sort of, in dribs and drabs, learn some things about magic and the nature of rift space, and more is promised for future volumes. I’m sorry to say that I probably won’t come along for them, though. This new trilogy promises to be great for fans, but I’m afraid I’m not one, and, looking back, never really have been a fan of more than just the book that started it all.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

This was a solid book. I enjoy Feist's writing in this book and I liked the setting up of the world. Very eager to read the next one.