Distinguished by its sophisticated structure and themes, Duncan's exceptional sequel to The Gilded Chain will satisfy both fantasy fans looking for high adventure and those more interested in rich characterizations... Duncan can swashbuckle with the best, but his characters feel more deeply and think more clearly than most, making his novels, especially this one, suitable for a particularly wide readership.     Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

Duncan is an exceedingly finished stylist and a master of world building and characterization, and with those strengths rather than great originality in plotting he fashions another eminently satisfactory King's Blades adventure.   Booklist

Distinctive and markedly superior to most of the competition.     Kirkus Reviews

Yorick changes his guise dramatically as he moves from Shakespeare to Duncan, but there's much of Hamlet's mixture of japery, deceit, and ghosts in this new tale as well... you'll be well rewarded.    Locus

There's plenty of thrilling adventure, some surprising twists and turns, and a well realized fantasy world. Duncan continues to deliver quality fantasy fiction.    Science Fiction Chronicle

Great swordfights and interesting background aren't all you get. The story is also peopled with fascinating and complex characters who will hold your interest throughout this compelling tale. Don't miss it.    Writers Write

A fully fleshed out, totally realized word of fantasy. Of the King's Blades novels thus far, this is the best yet.    B & N Explorations