Ray Strong’s THE WOUNDED SKY is the second in a series, and while it stands reasonably well on its own, the reader will likely have a richer experience if they read its predecessor, Zephyr’s Flight, first. Astria’s curse and her vendetta with Senekx are referred to here, but their origin is described earlier, and missing out on that story would be a shame. This book mainly concerns her travels through her world as a Singer—a bard, actress, and keeper of cultural traditions and stories—with her new and loyal companions, the giant Tor and the dwarf Ash. Along the way, she becomes entangled in (but never consumed by) local politics and feuds, as they intersect with and complicate her main quest.

Even on its own, though, this book is a fine example of good worldbuilding, solid character development, a compelling plot, and a heroine worthy of the name. Astria’s courage, intelligence, and determination to save and protect those she loves make her quite likeable and easy to cheer for. Tor and Ash add not only a touching brotherly loyalty but also a bright streak of humor to the novel, with lively, mischievous banter cloaking a truly admirable dedication and devotion to their cause and their friends. The loose organization of the Singers—scattered across the world, but still a coherent community that gathers information about the pre-apocalyptic world and the present political situation while serving as a cultural repository and source of entertainment—is a classic trope and well-developed here. The plays and songs they present feel real, as if rooted in real human traditions and tales. (Older readers, and those who enjoy classic comic movies, will particularly enjoy one segment that playfully pays tribute to the late, great Danny Kaye.)

The worldbuilding is elaborate without being tedious. The background setting of the planet Juro (possibly a post-apocalyptic Earth), with its politics, peoples, religious beliefs, and cultures unfolds in front of us without long backstories or extensive explanations. Sometimes there could be a bit more explication, although that’s probably due to this story being the second in a series rather than a standalone novel. One particular case of this is the sudden fall of the Imperium, portrayed as a major threat through the first half of the novel—and then apparently gone in a single battle without much explanation. Still, this is a thoroughly enjoyable adventure with vigorous action, engaging storytelling, and thoughtful character growth.

Ray Strong’s THE WOUNDED SKY is an engaging and entertaining fantasy with fine worldbuilding and a cast of delightful, well-developed characters. But do read its predecessor, Zephyr’s Flight, first for ideal results.

~Catherine Langrehr for IndieReader