A profound and evocative story, but containing some violence.
Plot
Four years after the events of The Light of Eidon, the Shadow Within chronicles Abramm Kalladorne’s return to his country, his bid for the throne, and his growing faith in God. And in his task there is plenty to test his faith, as there are many, including his younger brother, who want nothing to do with him and will stop at nothing to see him destroyed.
Morality
As with the first book, there is both good and evil in this story, but both are clearly demarcated.
Spiritual Content
Just as with The Light of Eidon, this book’s message is very spiritual. While Abramm has been saved, there are still vestiges of the ‘old man’ clinging to him, which he must combat as well as his more physical enemies.
One of the chief obstacles is the use of shadowspawn, creatures that are bred out of the darkness of evil and exert their various levels of persuasion of the people around them. I found this to be a very profound addition to the stories by the author, but it can be a little disturbing at times.
Violence
Once again there are plenty of instances of violence, such as a mauling by a wild animal and the killing of a sea-monster, and are described enough to encourage caution in the reader. However, for the age-range this story was written for, it should be acceptable.
Drug and Alcohol Content
Wine is consumed, and there is an instance of drunkenness referenced.
Sexual Content
Abramm is close friends with a Lady Madeleine, and while they are both chaste individuals, the court makes an abundance of rumours about them.
Crude or Profane Language or Content
Profanity is mentioned on occasion.
Conclusion
This story is a powerful portrayal of God’s preservation of the soul in the face of all the world has to fight with. Throughout his doubts and his inadequacies, Abramm continues to return to the truth that God will make him able to execute his tasks, and God’s will is always done.
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