I have just finished the final chapter in David Gemmell's Jon Shannow trilogy, and what a ride it was. I couldn't imagine a more satisfying conclusion to this thrilling series. Any fan of westerns, fantasy, post-apocalypse, or suspenseful action will love this series about a post-apocalyptic gunslinger that is known as the Jerusalem Man for his early quest for the lost fabled city.This book has everything great about the other two volumes and more. It is the only book in the series that could not be read alone as it is dependent on so much of what happens in both of the previous books. Here are some highlights about this particular novel:1. This book has some very frightening moments with mutated, man-eating "wolvers" and the return of the deadly hellborn armies. This horror factor just capitalizes the heroic nature of those who survive and stand strong against the evil forces of the bloodstone.2. All of the Jon Shannow books are philosophical. This one is doubly so, mixed with heaps of pathos and a more than a touch of melancholy, this book proves to be as thoughtful as it is exciting: a nice balance.3. The character of Jon Shannow is shown as his most complex (and, thus, most human). His sacrifices are poignant. 4. Characters that were introduced in all three of the volumes really come to life here. Gemmell devoted a lot of pages for their development and personal tests and tragedies. When everything comes together for a real standoff with the surviving characters the reader is absolutely invested.5. The Bloodstone is a villain that is truly fantastic and horrific. Gemmell has given us a devil that is believable and horrific in his conception.Mr. Gemmell, like the Jon Shannow has moved on. I know I will not get the chance to read about Jon Shannow again. Except, you can bet that I won't be forgetting about his excellent adventures. In any case, if I do, I will be reading these novels again, I am sure. I can't recommend these books more to the true fantasy lover.
I really like David Gemmell's novels and mourn that there will be nor more. I have reread most of his novels often and bought many extra copies to pass on. So I was somewhat puzzled that as I read this story it seemed completely unknown to me. The odd event seemed familiar so either I read it so long ago I've forgotten or Gemmell's penchant for starting stories from the end, with references to what has already happened, (although he hasn't written that story yet), is what makes it familiar.Either way, I enjoyed it. Another good read from Gemmell.
What do You think about Bloodstone (1997)?
Bloodstone is a very good ending for the saga of Jon Shannow. "I am Jon Shannow and I never lie."Shannow settled down at the end of The Last Guardian. This story starts with him wounded, on the run, and stricken with partial amnesia. The villain of the story, at least in the beginning, is a mysterious religious leader called The Deacon. Shannow's quest takes him across dimensions and ties into the ending of The Last Guardian nicely. Amaziga and Sam Archer make appearances, as do Clem Steiner, Beth McAdam, Daniel Cade, and other characters from the previous two books.The three Jon Shannow books are well worth a read, especially if you like your fantasy with a bit of western flavor, ala The Dark Tower.
—Dan Schwent
