The third book in the Conclave of Shadows takes a dramatic turn, shifting its narrative focus from the lead of the first two books TALON OF THE SILVER HAWK; KING OF FOXES, to the that of the erstwhile villain, and expanding the scope from a personal tale of revenge to something quite a bit more epic.

The story centers on the exiled former Duke of Olasko, Kaspar, and starts immediately after the end of KING OF FOXES. At first, Kaspar only seeks to return home and reclaim his country, but is soon embroiled in a global threat.

The book moves in a hurry, rapidly shifting its focus from Kaspar's struggle to survive and come to terms with what's happened to him, to introducing an epic threat to the world of Midkemia. Once again, Feist's breezy prose moves the story along, but leaves elements seriously underdeveloped. Kaspar coming to realize the depravity of his actions while influenced by an evil wizard is rich ground for character development and drama, ground that is largely left fallow by Feist as he speeds along with the story.

Exile's Return is, on the whole, a competent piece of escapist fantasy, and brings the series into high gear. I'm quite interested to see where Feist goes with this.