Stillbright

An ancient goddess has chosen five heroes to serve her-and deadly enemies have taken notice-in this epic fantasy sequel to Ordination.
"[A] gripping second installment. . . . Ford completely banishes all thoughts of middle-book sag. This is heroic fantasy far above the usual hack-and-slash, raising compelling questions about morality and belief in a tale full of excitement and high-stakes action." -Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Once a disenchanted knight, Allystaire Coldbourne wandered the fractured and war-torn Baronies alone. Now he is a paladin, a hero of legend, and one of an ancient goddess's five ordained servants. She blessed each one with unique powers to restore peace and unity to the land. But first Allystaire needs their help to escape the clutches of sorcerers and wicked rulers desperate to stop him.
With the Longest Night of mid-winter approaching, the Goddess weakens just as her servants need her the most. Blood-thirsty armies are approaching, determined to make destruction and terror rain down on the paladin and all who follow him. The servants of the Goddess must rely on their wits, their powers, and each other if they hope to complete their mission and survive. And the Paladin must be a beacon of hope and light in the encroaching darkness . . .