L. B. Graham's third book in The Binding Of The Blade series, Shadow In The Deep is his best to date. The series is set in a Tolkien-like world at a time when the evil power, Malek, has begun a massive invasion to try to take over the world. Graham's strength in these books is his ability to create a rich and engaging world that is vast in scope while developing real and exciting characters.

The story picks up right where Bringer Of Storms left off. Aljeron and his army's commanders have successfully rescued almost everyone from Col Marena by placing them on boats floating in the bay. A faint hope leads Aljeron and a small group on a dangerous quest to the ancient mountain called Harak Andunin that lays somewhere in the vast Nolthanin wasteland. With Aljeron on his mission Caan leads the rest of the people on a desparate race to escape Malek's forces as they persue them all across the southern end of Kirthanin.

Several of Graham's characters are developed in Shadow In The Deep. Benjiah is young but he has also been called to be Allfather's prophet. At first he is uncomfortable with the role and uncertain what it is that Allfather wants of him. As the story progresses he begins to realize what he needs to do. He also settles into his position of leadership amongst the people.

Rulalin is another character who changes. More and more he is faced with the results of his betrayal and the effects it has had on others. In one vivid scene he speaks with one of his soldiers who has been fatally wounded. In the soldier's last words he asks if Allfather will forgive them for their actions. Rulalin never has a chance to answer. Rulalin doesn't have an answer for him.

As if one cliffhanger wasn't enough, this book ends with two big ones. I'm afraid that even some subtle hints would spoil the surprise so I won't say anything more about the closing chapters. The book also ends with many unanswered questions. Benjiah's prophecy mentioned that four peoples would be united against Malek. The first three groups are clear but who is the fourth? Will Aljeron ever discover Synoki's true identity and what will happen then? A subplot in the book has been Rulalin's developing guilt about his betrayal. How will he resolve this? And finally, is there now at least a glimmer of hope for the people against Malek?

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