Lord of Souls: An Elder Scrolls Novel Review
Author: Greg Keyes
Publisher: Titan Books
Genre: Fantasy
Release Date: 27th Sep 2011
RRP: £6.99
The Infernal City concluded with what was the very definition of a cliffhanger ending, leaving it well and truly open for a sequel. Lord of Souls: An Elder Scrolls Novel, written by Greg Keyes, wraps up the story arc well.
Like The Infernal City, there are multiple protagonists. One of them is Prince Attrebus who is desperately trying to live up to his lofty reputation by seeking a magical sword to save the world from destruction, he is accompanied by the old Dunmer Sul, meanwhile Annaig and Mere-Glim are still trapped within the confines of the floating city of Umbriel whilst investigator Colin is trying to discover how the city came into the world in the first place.
In terms of characterization, there’s not really much in the way of depth and the dialogue of each character is much the same as one another. Similarly the beautiful Tamriel featured in The Elder Scrolls series deserved denser detail to better immerse the reader into the story and the world, just as is the case with the games. Instead, for the most part, fans have to recall locations, races and such from their memory.
Umbriel is an intriguing primary plot point. It’s a supernatural city from oblivion, floating through Tamirel and leaving death in its wake. It advances towards the imperial city and is powered by the souls that it takes of those below it, of which resurrect as undead soldiers.
Lord of Souls: An Elder Scrolls Novel is an engaging story of the Elder Scrolls universe, told by an obviously skilled storyteller. Fans are sure to enjoy the way that familiar elements have been implemented into the story. It is however disappointing that it isn’t a bit richer in detail, of which would have made for a more authentic portrayal of the Elder Scrolls series. It’s nevertheless still a fine effort from the author and one that is well worth reading by fans that just can’t get enough of Bethesda’s wonderfully imagined universe.
7/10
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