Stone of Farewell
Memory, Sorrow and Thorn, Book 2
By Tad Williams
In the Qanuc village of Yiqanuc, Binabik is held prisoner by his own people, accused of oath-breaking. Simon asks Jiriki to convince the Herdsman and the Huntress to let him speak on Binabik’s behalf, but during the hearing he receives a vision from Geloe. She tells Simon that they must go to the only place of safety from the growing storm, the Stone of Farewell.
With Naglimund destroyed, Josua and his small band of survivors are driven into Aldheorte Forest by the Norns. They meet Geloe, and she begins leading them in the direction of the Stone of Farewell, known to the Sithi as Sesuad’ra.
After securing Binabik’s pardon, Simon’s group begins making their way to the Stone of Farewell. Simon becomes separated from his companions and uses Jiriki’s mirror to call for help. After several days, he is rescued by Jiriki’s sister and taken to the Sithi city of Jao é-Tinukai’i, where he is told he must remain for the rest of his life.
Meanwhile, Princess Miriamele finds herself aboard the ship of Aspitis Preves, an ally of her father. At first she is attracted to the handsome count, but she soon discovers his true nature.
An exciting continuation of the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn tale, The Stone of Farewell never fails to deliver. Williams begins weaving intricate threads of the plot into the battle for Osten Ard, providing a rich tapestry of characters and adventures. This book is a must-read for those interested in fantasy fiction.
This review originally appeared 5 January 2013 on fantasyreviewer.com