The Hand That Bears the Sword (Trophy Chase Trilogy, #2) by George Bryan Polivka

The Hand That Bears the Sword (Trophy Chase Trilogy, #2) Reviews

• 
  Jon

  
  4 stars
• 
  Belinda Vlasbaard

  4 stars - English Ebook
  
  As the story of the Trophy Chase continues we find the suspense building, action more frequent, the political intrigue deepening and the war mounting.
  
  As good as book one was I found book two to be a great improvement. I had read book one two years ago and found it had a good stopping point at the end so I never got back to the trilogy until now. I don't have an excuse but I did find the first book effected me so much I jumped right in to book two and remembered everything. Not bad for someone my age.
  
  The writing is very good. Mature in it's style with indepth characters and a storyline that is well thought-out. This is not your Errol Flynn adventure. There's never been a high seas adventure movie made like this.
  
  Biblically the book is powerful, even to the point that I read some out-loud to my wife. The power of God's Word is honored, Jesus is glorified and a few of the characters live a Christ-centered life. As with the first book the debate on whether a Christian should fight physically or just stand by and see God move. I found the debate aggravating at times so I'm hoping book three will give a final conclusion on the issue. The enemy has their man-made religion which curiously resembles Islam. I'm sure it's just a coincidence.
  
  If you enjoy a good swashbuckling adventure you'll love this trilogy. If you don't care for this genre read it anyway and I believe you'll enjoy it just the same.
• 
  Ron

  Better. Much Better. Polivka seems to have mastered the formula he started in The Legend of the Firefish. His mix of created world and actual scripture works better this time. The evangelizing is better
  integrated into the story line.
  
  He still does jarring point of view changes mid-paragraph. An omnipresent narrative admits any POV, but Polivka's lack of signaling the change frequently knocks the readers out of the story.
  
  Also he still sets up really good points of conflict, but doesn't wring all the tension potential in them. Many are resolved too soon and too easily.
  
  Unfortunately, like too many second installment of trilogies, much of the story is a set up for the third book. Still, it is a story well told, and many Star Wars fans like The Empire Strikes Back best of the three original movies.
• 
  Claire Tucker

  I loved the moral conflict in this book, as well as the themes of trusting God, surrender, sacrifice, and doing the right thing come what may. Okay, I just loved this book. Yes, it's worth reading. But start with book 1 ("The Legend of the Firefish"). Trust me, you'll be glad you did.
• 
  Je74393

  I enjoy the author's writing, but I have some spiritual discrepancies with this book.
• 
  Addison S

  This book was AMAZING!!! I loved every second of it. There was absolutely nothing to complain about in it! Definitely worthy of five stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• 
  Diane Holm

  Packer Throme is torn between loyalty to his new wife, his country, and his God…
  
  Interrupted in the middle of their “Honeymonth”, Packer is forced away from Panna, his new bride. Celebrated as the hero and the great hope of Nearing Vast, loyalty requires that he must set sail with the Vast Navy. Packer’s influence is far reaching and many believe he is preserved by the hand of God. But how much influence can just one man have over an entire enemy navy? The odds that he will return are not good, for there are many who seek his demise.
  
  Packer is forced to fight against pirates, fire fish and the massive Drannun Navy. There are times when he seems to surpass human capabilities, amazing his fellow seamen. Does Packer’s strength come from within or are there miracles at work? Does God intervene or is it just coincidence?
  
  Panna, left alone in Nearing Vast, is confined to the castle by Prince Mather. She is very strong willed and blatantly refuses his growing affections. Pana is a brave soul, but fear for those she loves is ever constant in her mind. Will God lead Packer home to her heart or is he lost forever?
  
  The Kingdom of Drammun is well prepared war against the Kingdom of Nearing Vast. Their navy has many ships and their warriors are clad with an amazing armor. However, there are plots brewing that could alter the very heart of the Drammun government. The Law, the Rahk-Taa, becomes a powerful weapon when used for personal gain. Will the worthy Hezzan of Drammun be victorious? Will the unworthy Vasts be easily defeated?
  
  What will become of Packer Throme? A hero remembered or a legend that lives on?
  
  The Hand That Bears The Sword is full of many intriguing twists and unexpected turns. It was difficult to relate to the characters without a prologue. However, if you keep reading the characters sort themselves out and the vividness of detail opens your imagination.
  
  
• 
  Catrina

  I thought Panna was very interesting. If she was the main character I would give the book 3 stars. But then we come to Packer- a swordsman who won't fight. I understand letting God fight, but seriously Packer's in a war! I just found that SUPER annoying. Plus too many 'passive' sentences (had, was), that could be removed. I do really like the Firefish. Overall not a bad book, but it could be better.
• 
  Jami

  This book will not disappoint as a sequel. In fact, Polivka takes it a step further and it is even more exciting than the first book!! I love the practical intelligence of both Packer and Panna, it is totally believable. No super humans here just ordinary people with strong faith in God and a healthy dollop of cleverness. Can't wait to finish the series!!
• 
  Kat

  In many ways, the least action of the trilogy but the most amazing outcomes. Even though we start at war and fight both naval battles and the first and second land battle, the true story is in the hearts of our characters battling themselves and their beliefs. And Panna Throme escaping the Prince.
• 
  Marion Hill

  The second book in the Trophy Chase Trilogy. A good read!
• 
  Lainey

  Was even better than the first book. Definitely going on my all times favorite list.
• 
  Ndanu Asmani

  The writing style instantly transports you to a fantasy world while still anchored in Biblical principles. A good read for those easy rainy stay indoors Sunday afternoons