The Hidden City (The Tamuli, #3) Summary & Key Insights

'The Hidden City', the third book in David Eddings' 'The Tamuli' series, continues the intertwined adventures of Sparhawk and his companions as they navigate the treacherous political landscape of the world and confront the looming threat of the demonic forces of Malkor. Picking up immediately after 'The Lost Gods', the story focuses on the desperate search for the legendary city of Pervil, the last bastion of the Tamuli, a powerful and ancient race capable of opposing Malkor.

The central plot revolves around Sparhawk's relentless pursuit of Pervil, guided by cryptic clues and the enigmatic prophecies of the Tamuli. His quest is interwoven with the ongoing struggle against Malkor's influence, which is subtly manipulating events across the land. He is accompanied by his loyal companions, including his wife, the powerful sorceress Auriana, and the ever-resourceful and cunning Pandion. Their journey takes them through perilous lands, forcing them to confront both physical and magical dangers. They are aided, reluctantly at times, by various factions, some genuinely seeking to aid them, others driven by self-interest.

A key character is the enigmatic and reclusive Queen Asha’b, a powerful Tamuli who initially mistrusts Sparhawk and his companions. Her skepticism stems from centuries of prejudice and betrayal suffered by her people at the hands of the outside world. Her eventual cooperation, however, proves crucial in their search for Pervil. The character of Pandion, always a clever strategist, takes on a more prominent role, showcasing his ability to navigate the intricate webs of political intrigue. Auriana, though less directly involved in the action than in previous books, remains a powerful force, lending her magical abilities and wisdom to their cause.

The overarching theme is the struggle between good and evil, represented by the forces of Sparhawk and Malkor respectively. However, Eddings adds layers of complexity by exploring themes of prejudice, trust, and the burden of leadership. The Tamuli's isolation and distrust of outsiders mirror the larger themes of societal divisions and the difficulty of overcoming ingrained biases. The discovery of Pervil and the subsequent interaction with its inhabitants reveal the consequences of centuries of isolation and the complexities of rebuilding trust and bridging cultural divides.

The book culminates in the discovery of Pervil, not as a pristine paradise, but as a city struggling under the weight of its history and the threat of Malkor's forces. The climactic battle establishes a new front in the war against evil, setting the stage for the final confrontation in the subsequent books. 'The Hidden City' maintains the high fantasy elements of the series, showcasing thrilling battles, magical encounters, and intriguing political machinations, all while furthering the larger narrative arc of the struggle against Malkor and the destiny of Sparhawk and his companions.