What else…oh, Gifford. He’s been one of my favorites since we first met. Michael writes about unlikely heroes, and no one better illustrates that point than this incredibly talented cripple. I loved that Padera’s mistreatment of him paid off after all, and I was thrilled Tura’s prophecy came true. But even better than those events is the moment when he finally felt Roan’s embrace. How great was that?
But for me, the most significant emotional impact of the book revolved around Persephone and Raithe. Having read The Riyria Revelations, I was aware of Novron’s marriage to Persephone. But I also knew that there were lies in the historical records, and I hoped history got the identity of her husband wrong. When I first read Age of War, I begged Michael to give Persephone and Raithe one last scene together. I wanted her to be able to confess that she did love him. It tore at my heart that he would die not knowing the truth, and she would be forever burdened with regret. Having them reunite was one piece of advice my husband didn’t implement. Damn you, Michael! Instead, he added the scene at the grave, which stomped on the heart he’d already ripped from my chest. That man can be so cruel sometimes. I’m sure you feel the same way about his sadistic tendencies. Remembering it now is still difficult. I’ll have to take a moment. I’ll be right back.
Okay, I’m better now. So how about other things I liked. What about the revelations! I always knew that Nyphron was using the Rhunes to do his dirty work, but I never suspected that he orchestrated the war by an unauthorized attack on Dureya and Nadak—sneaky bastard. And then there was Malcolm! Since the ending of Age of Myth, we knew there was more to him than met the eye, but whether he is “good” or “evil” is a determination that eluded me. Ultimately, we still don’t know at this point in the book, but it was great seeing him reveal himself (somewhat), and I loved being present while he smacked Nyphron around, taking him down a peg or two.
Well, those were my favorite moments from Age of War. I hope you had some as well. As Michael mentioned in his author’s note, he genuinely enjoys receiving email, so if you want to drop a line with some of your favorite aspects (or things that didn’t work for you), then, by all means, send an email to [email protected]. Oh, and leaving a few comments on sites like Amazon, Goodreads, and Audible.com is always graciously appreciated. It’s third-party validation like that that helps to give others the confidence to give the books a try.
In conclusion, I’d like to express that Michael and I are forever grateful for all the support you’ve given the books. Did you know we are coming up on Michael’s tenth anniversary? Yep, The Crown Conspiracy was first published by Aspirations Media Incorporated in October 2008. Back then we never thought the books would earn any “real money,” but the joy Michael received by writing was more than enough reward for us. Still, people have spread the word, and the Riyria books have sprouted incredible legs, and the readership for that series keeps growing. It’s your continued support that makes it possible for me to forgo a day job, and that means I can help Michael get more stories out into the world. It’s a rare thing to be able to do the one activity you love the most for a living, but Michael is one of those people who has become that fortunate, and it’s because of you. We both thank you from the bottoms of our hearts.