Ranger’s Apprentice 2: the Burning Bridge

The second book in this series is as good or better than the first.  Once again, Flanagan focuses on the characters in the story rather than creating maps or vivid geographic details.  How these characters react to each other is what is important.  The relationships are emotionally satisfying without getting treacly, no small feat.  I’m constantly being reminded of the traits that I enjoy about other good series like Harry Potter or A Song of Ice & Fire by Martin.  Maps and physical details are great, but unless they serve to enhance the characters, they are wasted.

Will continues to grow into his role as a Ranger, while Horace becomes a truly spectacular swordsman.  Halt sends Will, Horace and another Ranger, Gilan on a mission to the north to discover what Morgarath’s forces are up to.  The three find plenty of trouble and adventure, and even a princess in disguise, Evenlyn.  The ending was unexpected and Flanagan leaves the reader with a true cliffhanger.  It is hard to see where Flanagan will be taking the readers in book 3, but I will be there to find out.