Though I enjoy the vast imagination of Patrick W. Carr, and his books do keep me up at night wanting to know the ending, his predictability is at times nauseating. Not only does a princess follow our hero, but he learns and learns and learns with more skill than the average human. The princess is subsequently his learning equal. I think it's his love story that needs work, not so much the fantasy novel part. His fantasy world is large, intricate, and for the most part unique. Their religion boarders on christianity with hints of both greek and nordic mythology thrown in. There were times that I couldn't get enough of his world, the mystery of the corrupt village (which he didn't even fully explain as he does with literally everything else.) There were times of eye rolling ridiculousness in this book, Martin's own compulsion, Rolu's demand to teach Errol the sword, The princess acknowledging the fact she needs to learn to protect herself, and the relationship between Errol and his guard near the end. It's pretty convenient everywhere Errol goes he has secret friends who's desires are near the same. The self loathing and pathetic waste of almost two chapters when Errol loses his will to live is just obnoxious. He turns into a whiney little brat who boarders on equally Bella Swan self-pity. I read these books because i enjoy the story, but i have to admit at times things are just too predictable and cliche. Overall though, Hero's Lot deserves three stars in my opinion. It's unique world, it's ability to draw a reader in, and it's constant action make for a wonderful read. Until the writer expands on character development, less predictable cliches and perhaps avoids all the archetypes he leans toward I doubt that his next book will be any better. You need to read book 1, A Cast of Stones, before reading this one.In this sequel, we have two points of view with divergent threads. Those evil forces who know our hero, Errol's, importance seem desperate to wipe out his perceived threat. Once again he is put under compulsion, this time by enemies within the church, to embark on a hopeless quest to ferret out and kill the corrupt Sarin Valon. Although they won't come out and say it, it's clearly intended to be a murder mission. At the same time, Martin Arwitten, the priest, along with Luis and Kruk, returns to Callowford, hoping to look into the histories of Liam and Errol to clarify the mysteries of the devastating split cast.I thought I'd miss having the story told solely from Errol's point of view, but Martin's part turns out to be gripping and necessary. I was quite happy to go back and forth, as both threads have plenty of excitement, not the least of which is the shock revelation of Errol's parentage during Martin's return to Callowford. Another intriguing part of Martin's story is seeing him learn that his long-cherished church traditions may, in fact, be limited. It's fun to read his amazement as it becomes clear that the so-called 'unknowable' Aurae, (the Illustrian term for the Holy Spirit) may well be knowable after all, trumping the ancient system of lot casting. His painful quandary about how he's going to tell the church is very real. But my favourite part of his story is seeing him grapple with an emotional self-imposed compulsion he puts upon himself.I love the two main female characters. Opposites in many ways, they are each equally strong and admirable.Princess Adora, forced into a betrothal with the despicable bully, Lord Weir, decides to follow Errol on his compulsion to Merakh, and who would blame her? Near the end of 'A Cast of Stones' I'd been concerned that she might turn out to be a typecast beautiful princess, a mere token romantic interest to keep Errol in Erinon. I was delighted to see her strength of character shine through in this story, making her more complex. I loved seeing the delicacy of their feelings for each other being played out. It's touching, to watch this confident princess, brought up in privilege and luxury, seriously wondering if she is indeed worthy of our former drunken street urchin, who in turn melts whenever he's near her. If you're romantically inclined, you'll love the scene with the rose.And Rokha Ru is back again, a great tough, colourful character who keeps getting better. She's so sultry and exotic, and her humour and tendency to call a spade and spade embellish the storyline.Once again, Errol's character makes the story phenomenal. He retains his perfect combination of vulnerability and heroism, set off by his naivety and ignorance of all that vitally concerns him. His inferiority complex and lack of confidence still come into play at times, and his empathy and compassion are as large as ever. As we still haven't fathomed the mystery of why the lots indicate both him and Liam for Sotoregia, getting straight to the conclusion, 'A Draw of Kings' is vital.
What do You think about The Hero's Lot (2013)?
Had me holding my breath for the last few chapters. My lunges were ready to burst. Great book.
—breaker737
Another incredible story spun by Patrick Carr. Can't wait to read the third of the series.
—kay
Once again a really brilliant read. Another well deserved 5 stars
—lilian
