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Like most readers of fantasy and sci-fi, I’m also a big sports fan. (What? Don’t look at the screen like that.) Either way, you’ve most likely heard the phrase “sophomore slump.�� If not, well, think about it and you’ll get the meaning (Google works, too). This is a term I’m going to apply, loosely, to Shadow Chaser by Alexey Pehov. Shadow Chaser is the second in The Chronicles of Siala trilogy, translated from Russian to English (and quite well, I might add) by Andrew Bromfield. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a good book; Shadow Chaser just didn’t meet my expectations.

Caution: There may be an occasional spoiler for .

Shadow Harold and his companions are back, minus one, and pick up almost immediately were they left off at the end of Shadow Prowler. Harold is still questioning his acceptance of the King’s commission and continuing his indifferent attitude toward the goblin prophecies; Kli-Kli (the jester goblin) still acts the fool—but clearly has more depth—while the rest of the group is soldiering along.

Now in the city of Ranneng, the companions face a number of obstacles. Harold is bound through shamanistic magic to the Key that will open Hrad Spein, and it doesn’t take long for his enemies to steal it and hide it in the city. Harold and his group must rely on their wits, brawn, and more than a little luck to get it back and to avoid being killed in the process.

Along the way, Harold begins to have nightmares that may hold the secrets to defeating a powerful enemy and possibly saving the world—if only he could understand the meanings. With the help of his new friends, Harold may save the world, or he may end up in the belly of a h’san’kor.


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