How Does Silverthorn Compare To Other Fantasy Novels?

I’ve been a huge fan of Raymond E. Feist’s 'Riftwar Saga' for years, and 'Silverthorn' is one of those books I’ve reread so many times my copy is practically falling apart. Finding a PDF version can be tricky because of copyright laws, but there are some legitimate ways to get it digitally. If you’re looking for a free option, Project Gutenberg or Open Library might have it if it’s in the public domain (though Feist’s works usually aren’t yet). Otherwise, retailers like Amazon or Kobo sell e-book versions—sometimes even during sales! If you’re tight on budget, checking your local library’s digital catalog is a great move. Many libraries offer apps like Libby or OverDrive where you can borrow e-books legally. Pirate sites might pop up in search results, but I’d avoid those; not only is it unfair to the author, but the quality is often awful (missing pages, weird formatting). Feist’s worldbuilding deserves better!

The world of 'Silverthorn' is packed with memorable characters, but a few stand out as the core of the story. First, there's Arutha conDoin, the young prince who's forced to step up when his kingdom is threatened. He's not your typical hero—more of a reluctant leader, but his growth throughout the story is compelling. Then there's Jimmy the Hand, a thief with a sharp wit and even sharper skills. His charm and street smarts make him one of my favorites. Rounding out the group is Martin Longbow, a tracker with a quiet strength, and Anita, who brings both heart and political savvy to the mix. What I love about these characters is how they play off each other—Arutha’s seriousness balances Jimmy’s humor, while Martin’s steadiness anchors the group. It’s the kind of dynamic that makes 'Silverthorn' such a gripping read, blending action with deep personal stakes.

Finding 'Silverthorn' online for free can be tricky, but I’ve stumbled across a few options over the years. Some sites like Project Gutenberg or Open Library occasionally host older fantasy novels, though Raymond E. Feist’s works aren’t always available there. I’ve also heard whispers of fans sharing PDFs in niche forums, but I’d be cautious—those aren’t always legal or safe. Honestly, I’d recommend checking your local library’s digital lending service first; apps like Libby or Hoopla often have e-books like this for free with a library card. If you’re really set on reading it online, you might have better luck with a trial subscription to a service like Scribd, where ‘Silverthorn’ sometimes pops up. I’ve used that before for hard-to-find titles, and it’s a decent temporary solution. Just remember that supporting authors by buying or legally borrowing their work keeps the fantasy genre alive!

Silverthorn' is actually the second book in Raymond E. Feist's 'Riftwar Saga,' and it picks up right where 'Magician: Apprentice' left off. I stumbled upon it years ago while browsing a used bookstore, and at first glance, I thought it might be a standalone fantasy novel because the cover didn’t scream 'sequel.' But once I started reading, I quickly realized it was deeply tied to the events of the first book. The characters—Pug, Arutha, and Jimmy the Hand—carry over, and the political tensions from 'Magician' escalate here. If you jump into 'Silverthorn' without reading the first book, you’d miss so much context, like the Tsurani invasion or Pug’s growth as a magician. Feist’s world-building is so interconnected that each book feels like a chapter in a bigger story. That said, 'Silverthorn' does have its own self-contained plot about a poisoned princess and a quest for the titular cure, but the ending clearly sets up the next book, 'A Darkness at Sethanon.' I love how Feist balances standalone arcs with overarching series threads—it’s satisfying yet leaves you hungry for more. For newcomers, I’d absolutely recommend starting with 'Magician.' The 'Riftwar Saga' is one of those classics where the sum is greater than its parts, and 'Silverthorn' shines brightest when you’re already invested in Midkemia. Plus, Jimmy’s antics in this one are even funnier if you know his backstory!

Silverthorn' is the third book in Raymond E. Feist's 'Riftwar Saga,' and boy, does it pack a punch! The story kicks off with Prince Arutha conDoin preparing for his wedding to Princess Anita. But just when things seem peaceful, Anita is struck by a mysterious poison called Silverthorn, which only grows in the distant land of the moredhel (dark elves). Arutha, alongside his loyal friends Jimmy the Hand, Martin Longbow, and others, embarks on a desperate quest to find the antidote. The journey takes them through treacherous territories, facing assassins, ancient curses, and political intrigue. What really stands out is how Feist balances personal stakes with larger conflicts. While Arutha races against time to save Anita, the shadow of the Riftwar still looms, and old enemies resurface. The pacing is tight, blending action with deep character moments—especially Jimmy’s growth from a street thief to a crucial ally. The finale in the dark elf city is both eerie and thrilling, leaving you eager for the next book, 'A Darkness at Sethanon.' It’s a classic fantasy adventure with heart and grit.