The Alliance one can be summed up rather quickly.

Varian hears about the attacks on the Night Elves, and automatically assumes Thrall is behind it…because…you know…Thrall hasnt proved himself to be quite the awesome peaceful guy in just about every situation. Varian sends a missive to Thrall telling him that he will accept the apology of the Horde, and that the Horde should send over those responsible. He essentially, also includes a part where Thrall personally asks Varian for forgiveness.

Thrall pretty much says, “LOL NOPE.” to the last part. He tells Jaina that he will apologize for breaking the treaty, but not for the way it was broken.

And he will most certainly not ask Varian for forgiveness personally. Because Thrall doesn’t grovel to anyone.

Varian gets pissed, as usual.

Meanwhile, Magni messes with some tablets and gets himself frozen in diamond. His daughter shows up and takes over Ironforge, Varian shows up and saves the day in his usual “Im awesome” way…. which is bloody, reckless and without any real logic or reason.

His son shows up, having met with not only Jaina, but Baine Bloodhoof, and quotes Cairne Bloodhoof to his father. His father is all, “wow thats pretty wise.” and the reader is sitting there thinking, “How is it that a 13 year old son is a better leader in, literally, every aspect than his 40 something father?”

Ridiculous.

Anyways, so at the end of the book, Thrall and his girlfriend are getting on the boat Draka’s fury.

What boat is assaulted and who is on it in the Goblin starting zone? Draka’s fury, and Thrall and his woman.

Who is attacking them?

SI:7 Alliance operatives.

Essentially, Varian is stupid.

His son is awesome and actually a well written character unlike his father. Anduin is also a priest, and not a fighter. More about peace than anything.

Jaina is sad about Arthas, but is still uber powerful.

The Dwarves have the Council of Three Hammers.

Everyone else was pretty much non-existent throughout the book.