The Gutter Shrike

Kingdom of Erishum Trilogy, Book 2

De: Gwen DeMarco

Narrado por: Janine Granda

Vallen, once a member of the king’s shrikes, now stands accused of treason against the Kingdom of Erishum. Alongside four others, he has been condemned to serve as a sacrifice to the monstrous hyva that roam the Dying Wilds.

His only hope for survival is a shadowy map and religious amulet his childhood friend Nyssa slipped him. Despite terrible odds, Vallen manages to escape from the sacrificial mound, but not before uncovering a terrible secret – one that could shatter the very bedrock of Erishum – only known to King Jorek and the Grand Enumerox Berossus. Now he must return to Erishum to save Nyssa from the fate of an irreconcilably corrupt kingdom.

Their quest for escape takes them through the perilous heart of the Dying Wilds in the hopes of finding a new home. Their journey is fraught with challenges that stretch their bravery and resilience. Venturing into the treacherous depths of the corrupt land, Vallen and Nyssa find themselves locked in a relentless struggle against the ever-present dangers of hyvas, treacherous landscapes, unpredictable weather, and startling revelations. They forge on without knowing if there is even life beyond the vast dead lands.

Experience Vallen and Nyssa’s audacious struggle to reshape their world and fight the lurking shadows of the Dying Wilds.

©2023 Gwen DeMarco (P)2024 Gwen DeMarco

Fantastic Adventure Fantasy

I enjoyed the second book of the "Kingdom of Erishum Trilogy" as much as the first one. This book related the tale of Vallen's and Nyssa's travels through the "Dying Wilds". Once the audiobook started, I was so captivated by the story that I listened until the end without stopping. I enjoyed the character growths of Vallen and Nyssa. There were some surprising revelations. I'm looking forward to the next book in the trilogy. Janine Granda's narration was skillful, and her performance was entertaining. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.

Very very good.

I thought that Mudlark was good, but Gutter Shrike was even better. I was compelled to listen to the whole book non-stop. I can hardly wait for the last book,

Vallen

when Nyssa tries to save Vallen he learns the truth of what's going on and comes back for Nyssa so they can get help from the other kingdoms everyone believes no long exist.

So much better than the Hunger Games!

Why are these books not as popular as...or more than...the Hunger games books? Interestingly, in this book the point of view switches from Nissa, who is the protagonist in the first book, to Vallen. It took a while for me to adjust to viewing Nissa through Vallen's eyes, because in The Mudlark, her thoughts indicate a quick mind and ultimately brave soul, and her quietness is less obvious. But she is very quiet and appears timid until faced with a decisive moment. Once I realized that her outward appearance doesn't necessarily reflect her inner self, I enjoyed this book even more. Imagine how well you must know your character to write her from two perspectives! It is a very good story, and there is even a kind of peace they find together. However, they are planning to retrace their steps at the end, armed with greater knowledge and perspective this time. I am delighted to jump into the final book of the trilogy!