This third volume in Tad Williams’ epic return to Osten Ard continues the adventure. Simon wrestles with the biggest challenge of his kingship while young prince Morgan trips through perilous situations in the Aldheorte forest. The white foxes press from the north while the grasslanders rise in the south. It’s not a good time to be king!

Tad writes, to use the cliché , like an author at the top of his game. He develops character without slowing the pace, making it feel effortless. My only minor quibble with this volume is the unsatisfying ending. Of course, since this was originally the first half of the final volume, later split into its own work, that should probably be expected. After this latest 550 pages of Tad Williams goodness, I’m still left wondering what the Narrowdark’s all about.

Having just re-listened to the original trilogy, it was fascinating to consider the parallels between the two works. There are so many parallels to be drawn between Morgan and Simon as a boy, for example. Even the threat, the deception, recalls the original work.

All that’s left to do is to wait for the final volume.

Williams, Tad. Into the Narrowdark. DAW Books, 2022. The Last King of Osten Ard 3.