Another stellar installment in the Riyria Revelations series. I loved every chapter of this book, or should I say both books, as this is a combination of books 3 and 4. Anyway, the way Michael J. Sullivan writes just sucks you right into the world. Forget your surroundings, because you will lose all sense of reality. His descriptions of people, places, and things makes you feel like you are right there with Royce and Hadrian in the middle of the action. 
 Book 3, Nyphron Rising, has the dynamic duo of Royce and Hadrian back in the employ of Princess Arista of Melengar. (view spoiler)[With the empire gaining strength and the threat to Melengar growing, Arista leaves with Royce and Hadrian to seek help from the Nationalists, and their leader Degan Gaunt. (hide spoiler)] 
 In Book 4, Emerald Storm, we have Royce and Hadrian acting as sailors to gain employment on a ship by the same name, Emerald Storm. What starts out as a mission to get information about the Empires plans, turns into more than they could have imagined. 
 Royce and Hadrian both have their moments were they take center stage, but Hadrian seemed to get more attention in both of these stories. We learn more about his past when he was young lad, and his travels before he and Royce teamed up to form Riyria. 
 Both books are fast paced with twists and turns you don't see coming until its right in your face. Lots of new characters who help spice up the monologue with their vast personalities. But one of my favorite parts of these books is the humor. Mr. Sullivan has a talent to put a comical aspect into almost any situation. This adds a whole new level of entertainment that makes reading these books so much fun. 
 If you like adventure, with a side of humor, and extra fast paced action these books are for you. If not, then I believe these books are still for you by sheer entertainment level alone. You are missing out on a great read if you don't give these books a try. As for me...I'm on to the next chapter in the Riyria Revelations. 
 5 stars *****