The Illearth War

The second part of the first trilogy about Thomas Covenant. The book itself also consists of three parts. In the first part, we meet TC again, just like in the first book, in his own world. After a decent opening, he once again finds himself in the world of The Land. In The Land, 40 years have passed during TC's absence. For me, the first part was a continuation of the first book, with a Thomas who is insufferable and full of self-pity. Some interesting characters are introduced, such as High Lord Elena and Troy, who also comes from TC's world.

In the second part, we take more distance from TC and see much from the point of view of Troy and Lord Mhoram. This greatly improves the story. The preparations for war, tactics, and the eventual battles are reasonably well done by Donaldson.

The climax in the third part seemed a bit messy, just like in the first book. TC and High Lord Elena have a separate mission that takes them away from the final battles. The ultimate resolution had a hint of a philosophical undertone, which, perhaps intended as a layer in the plot, felt rather cheap to me. Philosophy on the surface, if you will.

TC finally undergoes some slight character development. While the second book may be slightly better than the first book, it doesn't go higher than a maximum of 3.5 stars.

4.5 stars.

A mesmerizing sequel. As always the story is deeply psychological for Covenant, but this book also included a fascinating foil for his character that puts Covenant's relationship with his...circumstances in stark relief, and adds a new war/battle dimension to the story. Covenant is not a hero, but I felt it is written in a way where you actually understand and process with him what that means for a world that cannot help but see him as a hero. He's conniving and selfish, a lesson in what not to be but also a reflection on the worst parts of human nature. The third act was amazing.

How Donaldson followed up on certain “events” from LFB was unsettling and curious.