Overview

C S Brown returns to the enchanting world of the seven kingdoms with “Onward, Ye Heroes,” the climactic finale of the Smoke Without Ash duology. This novel picks up directly where its predecessor, “Gather, Ye Heroes,” concludes, thrusting readers into a gripping tale of courage and conflict.

The Heroes’ Quest

The narrative centers around the prophesied Heroes of Destiny—Tian, Elsbeth, and Torg—as they join forces to combat the ominous threat known as the Smoke Without Ash, or simply “the Dark,” which emanates from the Northern Wastes. The stakes are high, and the challenges they face are more formidable than anticipated, leading to their individual paths diverging for a confrontation on three battlefronts.

Three Battlefronts

Tian’s Eastern Expedition

Tian journeys eastward to support a neighboring kingdom under siege by the Dark. Upon arrival, he encounters unexpected resistance that challenges his authority and alliances.

Elsbeth’s Defense of the West

In the west, Elsbeth returns to her homeland, where she teams up with Prince Roble and his father to protect their capital from imminent danger. Her journey underscores the theme of sacrifice as she grapples with difficult decisions that will determine the fate of her people.

“Sometimes responsibility means we have to do what we would rather not.”

Torg’s Northern Stronghold

Meanwhile, Torg retreats to Innis, the capital of Annishere, where he hopes to leverage the city’s geography against the Dark. However, the cost of victory may be greater than he ever imagined.

Unraveling Magic and Secrets

Concurrently, a group of knowledgeable savants, led by Konrad, continues their exploration of the Dark’s nature, hoping to uncover vital secrets about magic. However, mastering their craft proves arduous, raising questions about the personal toll of wielding such power.

Throughout their journeys, crucial revelations emerge regarding the legendary dragonsteel—humanity’s only weapon against the Dark—and dragonfire, the Dark’s most potent weapon. As these characters converge for the definitive battle at WorldsTop, the revelations lead to a shocking conclusion regarding the true Hero of Destiny.

Character Development and Dynamics

Brown’s narrative intricately entwines multiple plotlines and character arcs, enhancing the complexity of the storyline. All protagonists display notable growth as they endure trials that test their leadership and resolve. Particularly compelling are Konrad’s emergence as a critical player and Elsbeth’s evolution into a formidable leader.

A Satisfying Conclusion

As with the first installment, “Onward, Ye Heroes” features unforeseen twists that are central to the overarching narrative. The resolution ties up various character developments and plot threads, providing a gratifying close to the duology. Readers will discover how these heroes’ legacies reverberate throughout time, leaving an indelible mark on their realm.