The Liar’s Key by Mark Lawrence is the second instalment in the Red Queen’s War trilogy that once again follows in the footsteps of two of fantasy’s most unlikely companions in Prince Jalan Kendeth and Snorri ver Snagason. I awaited this book with eager anticipation and can say from the outset that it lived up to my expectations and then some. The story begins as Snorri and Jal take a somewhat less than cheerful departure from the Northern town in which they’ve been Winter bound. Whilst Jal dreams of returning to his sun soaked home and jumping back into his former hedonistic lifestyle Snorri has other ideas and ultimately, the two being connected by strange magic, and Snorri having a mission of sorts, it looks like Jal’s desires will meet with temporary suspension. Joined by the one remaining member of Snorri’s clan, Tuttugu, the three set sail on a dark quest. Snorri has designs to use the magical key that he now owns to unlock the Gates to the Underworld and recover his family. This key is very powerful, it can open any doors, it was forged by a trickster however and it is ultimately sought by others. Snorri’s road is certainly…
