It has been two thousand years since the Apocalypse. Shriah of the Thousand Temples has declared Holy War over the control of the Holy City of the Latter Prophet. However this city is considered Holy for both sides so a quick resolution is not likely.

A sorcerer, a warrior and a concubine find themselves in the midst of the chaos, enchanted by a mysterious traveller who uses insight and revelation as weapons or war. However the attraction of this traveller instils a passion in his followers bringing them further under his control.

Is this just a Holy War between opposing religions or could it be the portent of something more sinister – perhaps the coming of the next Apocalypse?

The Darkness that Comes Before is the first book in The Prince of Nothing Series. It is a complex tale of war, intrigue and religious fanaticism where two opposing faiths battle for the control of a city significant to both their beliefs.

The storyline is intricate and requires a significant level of concentration. The writing style reminded me of some of the classic stories from Ancient Rome, the life of Nero, Claudius or Hadrian. In particular the character of Istriya, mother of the leader of one of the factions. She speaks of making sacrifice to ensure the safe return of her grandson Conphas and refers to him as the Lion of Kiyuth following his victory at a recent battle.

If I am perfectly honest I cannot say this is an easy book to read. It requires a level of commitment from the reader and sufficient time to read it properly. It is not a book that you can just pick up and put down on a whim. You need to give yourself a reasonable amount of time to become entangled in this vibrant world.

So if you prefer the lighter side of the genre enjoying the occasional Terry Pratchett but finding that Tolkien fellow a little heavy, then I suggest you put the book back on the shelf and select something else! But if you are a fan of intense, complex fantasy then this book is for you. It's a world you can lose yourself in!