Here are comments on the works that I read from beginning to end in the year 2004. Books that I did not enjoy are usually not completed so they do not appear here. Beginning in summer 2002, I added a summary evaluation tag.
The most recently read works appear at the head so this is a column of comments in chronological order. Works read in previous years are available.
"The children of the sorcerer Wyrr did not die, but dwelt for an age in the river as 'nagar'; ghostly spirits. The Knights of the Vow were formed to stop the children of Wyrr from ever finding their way back to the land of the living, but members of the brotherhood were seduced by promises of power and long life, and they hid away 'smeagh'--archane objects that could allow the children of Wyrr to return one day."
Thus begins The Shadow Roads , the third and final volume in the "Swan's War" series. The other two volumes are The Isle of Battle and The One Kingdom. While the author provides a brief prologue to inform the reader of what went before, the novel does require that the reader have read the two earlier volumes and recall the major points. This is a problem when there is a substantial interval between volumes, but this is true of most heroic fantasy stories today.
The plot is complex, involving a broad range of characters and issues. Besides the main thread of the three children of Wyrr returned to this place and time, there are political and military issues as great houses war to dominate or protect their territory and people.Settings vary from chapter to chapter, but all are well written and often evocative of time and place. Characters come alive, and the reader turns pages to discover what will happen next and whether or not a particular character will survive.
Appeal elements include considerable action, richly drawn characters, and elaborate mythology/history that drives the plot, and excellent writing. While the pace varies, it moves along quickly.
Russell is a major author and this series has generated considerable acclaim. It should be in nearly all heroic fantasy collections. The book is well designed and easily read with good white space and dark print. A map would strengthen and make it easier to follow the various journeys. The wrap-around cover art by Stephen Hickman is appealing, but doesn't seem to represent a particular scene in the story.
"FREYA AWOKE EARLY AND lay for a while in the dark, feeling her city shiver and sway beneath her as its powerful engines sent it skimming across the ice."
Thus begins Predator's Gold, the second volume in the "Hungry City Chronicles." Tom and Hester have flown for two years in the Jenny Haniver and life is good. An unexpected encounter with the famed explorer Nimrod Pennyroyal gives them a passenger for their next flight leaving from Airhaven above the Frost Barrens in the far North. Attacked by aircraft from the Green Storm -- an anti- traction [moving cities] alliance, their air ship is severely damaged, but they find themselves near the city of Anchorage where they are able to land. Tom likes Anchorage and its young ruler. Hester fears she will lose Tom and will do anything to keep him. Achorage has its own problems. Plague has left the city with too few people. Mighty Arkangel is chasing it and there seems to be no safe place to go.
Although darker than Mortal Engines, this volume has the
same attributes. A similar, but different environment is revealed with
new
people and characters as well as some very different, but threatening
situations. The plot surprises and the technology used in the story is
new, old, and a bit of a shock. Predator's
Cold is quite a page turner.
Design and readability are identical to the earlier volume -- very good. The wrap-around cover by Christophe Vacher is most appealing and is true to the spirit of the story. Highly recommended. Again, substantial cross-over potential with adults and youth who love adventure, but don't ordinarily read science fiction. For all but the smallest youth SF collection.
"IT WAS A DARK, blustery afternoon in spring, and the city of London was chasing a small mining town across the dried out bed of the old North Sea."
Thus begins Mortal Engines, the first volume of the "Hungry City Chronicles." This is a science fictional novel set in the future after a terrible war that destroyed Earth as we know it. Some standing cities remain, but many, especially the larger ones, have become traction cities mounted on wheels and tracks [like a city tank] driven by great engines that take them from place to place. Among the traction cities, "Municipal Darwinism" prevails so that the larger cities eat the smaller ones, using their materials for fuels and goods while their people become slaves who labor in the "gut" -- the area where the great engines are feed and captured cities transformed into useful stuff.
Two main characters lead the series. Tom Natsworthy, a likeable, but not bold young man, is an apprenctice historian. Without funds or backers, his future looks dim. Hester Shaw is the daughter of an archaeologist and has come from far away. Something terrible happened to her when she was a child so that half of her face is terrible disfigured. She is bold and her life has been a terrible one. Hester comes secretly to London to kill Thaddeus Valentine, London's Head Historian. She fails, but in the attempt she and Tom find themselves in the Out-Country [ordinary land]. Tom desperately wants to return to London and Hester is still determined to kill Valentine.
In many respects, this would have made an outstanding graphic novel. The setting is richly imagined and different from anything I have encountered before. There is a rich variety of characters and a considerable amount of action and adventure. While the story does not have as much depth as it might, the panorama is wide and quickly captures the reader's interest. The tensions between old and new technologies interests and makes the story more compelling.
This unusual and intriguing, if sometimes dark, story should be in all but the smallest science fiction collection for youth. It should also interest many adult SF readers. The writing is first-rate, the plot quickly capture's the reader's attention, and there is more than enough action. Characters intrigue, especially Tom, Hester, and Valentine's daughter Katherine. The book is well-designed with especially attractive chapter openings. The wrap-around cover art by Christophe Vacher appeals with a key scene from the end of book as well as an image of Tom and Hester. Text is clear and very readable.
" Henry got up early on the day that changed his life. He was making a cardboard sculpture and he'd left it the night before for the glue to dry out."
Thus begins Faerie Wars, the first volume in a new series.This volume ends quite satisfactorily, but clearly there is more to come. Faerie Wars contains two intertwined stories. The first is about Henry, who lives in England, and who discovers that his mother is having an affair with his dad's secretary. His father and mother will separate and Henry will live at home with his mother while his father visits. Considering, Henry is surprisingly poised, especially in comparison to his sister. The second story involves the land of Faerie which is connected to earth with a science fictional portal. The Faeries of the Night are preparing to conquer Faerie. Pyrgus Malvae, Crown Prince of Faerie, has been sent to earth when his transmission to a place of safety was altered. He first appears to Henry in the jaws of Mr. Fogarty's dog as a very small person with wings. Henry and Fogarty must find some way to return Pyrgus to Faerie. The Faeries of the Night must be defeated.
The Faerie setting combines a variety of fantasy and science fictional elements as well as some early industrial revolution bits. Henry's England is contemporary. The plot involves the contemporary, the fantastic, a little horror, and some science fiction in a compelling, intriguing manner. Henry is a well developed, compelling character. Pyrgus and his sister Holly Blue are not as well developed, but certainly appeal, especially Holly. The author's descriptions of place and people are especially well done. There is enough action and a considerable sense of wonder.
An unusual combination of appealing elements, content that flows smoothly while engaging the reader, and intriguing male and female characters, make Faerie Wars an essential addition to the youth fantasy collection. This edition is in large print so reading is unusually clear and easy. The butterfly art on the cover is effective and represents a key moment in the story.
"A blue-gray mist lay deep across the meadow and spiraled up trees that looked like slashes of characoal on an ashen canvas. 'Congratulations, young one, on your appointment as a shepherd.'"
Thus begins The Finest Creation which is the first volume in the Finest series. The Finest are creatures send to help selected individuals grow in good works and make a difference in society. In order to be inconspicuous, they come to this world as horses. They can hear and understand human speech and can also communicate with other horses and some animals. They are not allowed to speak to humans or be seen as other than an exceptional horse. Each member of the Finest is assigned to "shepherd" an individual or a group on Paard-Peran where there are also good and bad gods. This story is about Gallant-Stallion who appears [he is uncertain and has received no direction] to be assigned to Meven and Kalantha whose father was the brother of the King.
Both children are young, Meven is barely a teen, and have been raised in a Temple after their parents died unexpectedly far away. Kalantha is adventuresome, realistic, and knows the real world. Her brother is pious, book oriented, and understands little of the real world. When on a trip to a neighboring country with Prince Edan, their group is attacked by mysterious opponents and all are slain except for Meven and Kal. Most of the story focuses on their attempt to avoid those who must kill these only two survivors. Kal blossoms under these difficult wilderness conditions, but Maven does not. In the background, a powerful and familiar friend is not at all what he appears to be while one of the evil gods has intervened in human affairs. Gallant-Stallion is challenged in every way as he tries to keep his charges alive without them knowing what he is.
The setting is medieval with the usual social, economic, political, and technological elements. The nature of the evil ones is different, but not always believable. The plot is a dash for survival followed by evil ones. Pace moves along, but there is time for introducing the Finest and the environment. The two main characters are adequately developed, but Kal much more deeply than Meven.
Although not explicitly tagged, this novel is aimed at a tween or older child audience. The independent heroine and her personal growth as well as the horse will likely appeal to female readers. The story stops at a critical juncture and that may frustrate some readers. The text is clear and readable. The jacket art by Romas, shows Gallant-Stallion against the night in an appealing manner [but he does not look like his portrayal in the story nor is the tack correct]. A map in the front matter would make it easier to follow the story. Recommended for larger heroic fantasy collections for older children and tweens. Also a cross-over title for some adults.
"In the side rush of dawn, the peaks glowed pink, like some travesty of a fondant celebration cake. Hard shadows infilled the vavities like ink."
Thus begins Double Eagle which appears to be a stand-alone novel in the same frame as the "Gaunts Ghosts" series set in the Sabbat worlds wherewell Imperial sources attempt to defeat a massive attack by the land and air forces of the Chaos Lord Anakwanar Sek. In this case, the battles are on the planet Enothis. The focus is on the air war, and the members of a small group of aviators and crew from the Phantine fighter Corps.
Although set in the far future with some science fictional trappings, this is essentially the Battle of Britain where a small group of dedicated aviators flying around the clock attempt to defeat a much larger force. The war-time setting is detailed and quite persuasive as are the aerial tactics. Characters are sometimes stereotypical, but will interest the reader. Descriptions are clear and detailed enough to convince. The tone is gritty and quite realistic. I was uncertain why piston driven aircraft would be used in the far future and why they would all be piloted, but once I ignored that, the story was a good military one.
Abnett is a prolific writer with well-regarded books, games, and graphic novels to his credit. He is a solid story teller and this is an excellent cross-over candidate for those who enjoy military fiction, especially WW II aviation.
This and the other Sabbat stories will appeal to readers of military science fiction and should be added to larger SF collections, especiallly where the military stories are popular. The cover art here shows three aircraft in flight so it is true to the story without being especially appealing. The front matter contains a helpful map of the theatre of operations. Text is clear and readable.
"'Leave the child alone,' Cully said quitetly, barely above a whisper. Cully didn't sould like he had been looking for a fight. He never did -- although he had certainly found more than enough."
Thus begins Paladins which may be a stand-alone novel or part of a series. Set in a world where 17th Century Europe is controled by Britain [Londinium] and the Holy Roman Empire while Islam grows in power in Northern Africa and the the Near East. Mordred the Great defeated King Arthur the Tyrant and Mordred's bodyguards have become knights or paladins of the Order of Crown, Shield, and Dragon. Many of these paladins have magic swords with the souls of saints [white swords] and those of great evil [red swords]. The art of making such swords has perished, but rumour has come to the Order of several red swords found somewhere to the East. Each of these swords could cause great distruction.
One sword has been recovered, but its soul seems unable to communicate any useful information. Gray and Bear, two renowned Order paladins, have finally found Cully -- formerly an active member of the Order -- and "persuaded" him to join them on a quest to find and destroy the new red swords. The story is their quest for the swords. This will involve new companions, naval officers and battles on sea as well as considerable detective work. This gives the author an opportunity to develop a logical, persuasive frame and thoughtfully developed characters as well as some comment on religious experience and coming of age.
There is enough action to keep pages turning while leaving much space for the details in description and plot that please the reader. Appeal elements include the alternate history, the Arthurian elements, and insight into a naval campaign and those who serve. The pace moves right along, but there is time for some reflection and that strengthens the characters.
Rosenberg is a skilled writer and this is an excellent story. It is also different enough from the usual medieval frame to seem fresh and intriguing. The cover illustration by Gary Ruddell shows a sword battle with a red sword clearly visible. It is a powerful statement and true to the story. A map in the front matter would help with the unfamiliar geography. The text is clear and readable. Highly recommended for larger fantasy collections.
"The funeral pyre caught with a whoosh, lighting the night sky and shadowing the faces of the thousands gathered to witness the Burning. Smoke, scented with fragrant oils to disguise the smell of burning flesh, hung in the warm, still, air, as if reluctant to leave the ceremony."
Thus begins Medalon which is the first volume of the three volume "Hythrun Chronicles" which has already been published in Australia. Volume two is Treason Keep and volume three is Harshini
Medalon is the middle country in a continent of four nations. In particular, it is threatened by Karien on the north and Fardohnya on the South. The country is ruled by the Sisterhood of the Blade through its military arm the Defenders. The Sisters are dedicated to keeping Madalon free from religious influences, especially those who might worship ancient gods, including the fabled Harshini who just have god-like powers. When the First Sister dies, she is replaced by another who is then unjustly exiled. The new First Sister is cruel and will have her way regardless of the cost. She has two children: Tarja who is a gifted soldier and a member of the Defenders and R'shiel who is expected to become a sister. R'shiel hates her mother and has no intention of becoming a Sister
The plot thickens when a member of the Harshini is sent to find R'shiel who may be the fabled Demon Child [here Demons are good] who may be able to protect the continent from the evil priest magicians in Karien and their god. Several adventures take place as Tarja and R'shiel flee the sisters, are caught, and flee again. At the end of this volume, the story pauses, but does not end.
The setting is a fairly typical one, although the Sisters are somewhat different from the ordinary fantasy novel. The time is an early medieval one with limited technology. The plot focuses on a quest to find and protect R'shiel and then begin the campaign against the evil ones. Gods intervene to complicate things and help the innocent. Adventure with a reluctant but strong willed heroine is the major appeal. Pace is fairly quick once the setting is established. There are a variety of characters with the brother and sister being most developed.
Fallon is one of several SF - fantasy authors who have been popular in Australia and are likely to be popular in the U.S. This is a quick, interesting read and will be a good addition to larger fantasy collections. The cover art by Paul Youll appeals, is true to the story, and shows R'shiel before a tapestry showing a Harshini dragon rider. A clear, helpful map is included in the front matter and their is a glossary of place and character names in the back matter.
"The missile salvo came screaming in from astern. Counter-missiles took out eleven. The crippled starboard tethered decoy sucked two more off."
Thus begins Shadow of Sagnami which begins a new series set in the Honor Harrington universe. The story follows new Sagnami Academy graduates assigned to the heavy cruiser HMS Hexapuma as well as the officers and NCOs of that ship.
Following an unexpected attack by the Republic of Haven, Manticore has a new government and is sorely beset. The Hexapuma has been assigned to the Talbot Cluster which is in the process of becoming part of the Manticore system -- if the planets in the Cluster can agree on a proper treaty. This is a backwater and the war appears to be far away. There are some questions about the ship's Captain who survived a terrible battle earlier and still has nightmares about it. There are two major threads here. Solarian League officials and two major Solarian interstellar corporations will use money, weapons, and their agents to foment unrest and prevent the integration of the Cluster into the Manticore system. Pirates in the Cluster seem to have unusually effective ships and weapons. The crew of the Hexapuma must support diplomatic efforts, suppress terrorists on two far-away planets, and deal with an unexpected enemy fleet.
Weber focuses more on the diplomatic and terrorist aspects of the story than the shipboard ones although there is enough of the later to please most readers. The plot contains some surprises, but is similar to those in other Harrington stories. There are many characters, and most are well developed. The midshipmen receive some attention although more consideration of each of them would add interest.
Weber is one of the most popular SF authors and his military SF has been a big hit for several years. This volume and the rest of the series will be automatic selections for the SF collection. The text is readable, but the pace is sometimes slow because Duncan provides contextual details on tactics, strategy, hardware and political history. There is a fair amount of see-through on the pages. This is a substantial story. A substantial, inclusive character list appears in the backmatter. The jacket illustration by David Mattingly immediately identifies the setting with a profile of Honor Harrington and Hexapuma officers, including the midshipmen.
"Something was up. The Royal Guard liked to think it knew all the news and heard it before anyone else did, but that day it had been shut out."
Thus begins Jaguar Knights which is a stand-alone novel in Duncan's King Blades series [this is part of the Chronicles series]. Chronologically, this story follows Sky of Swords but may be read independently.
Many of the ingredients of the story will be familiar to Duncan's readers -- a King's Blade assigned to a difficult mission with a small, but difficult company. What is different is that a major part of the story involves a place much like the Aztec Empire being attacked by another nation much like Spain. Of course, there is magic but of a quite different type than seen in earlier novels in the series.
Sir Wolf has been the "King's Killer" and is a loner. He and the King are not on good terms, and his view of the Kingdom and its monarch is a bitter one. When a unknown enemy attacks a distant castle, slays many, and leaves with the King's former mistress, Wolf and an Inquisitor are sent to investigate. It is soon clear that the invaders used magical means to reach the castle and that they have come from far away. Eventually, Wolfe will marry the Inquisitor, be dismissed from the Blades, and travel far away to learn more about the unusual magic used to reach and attack the castle.
In what outsiders call El Dorado, the Eagle and Jaguar knights used human sacrifice to gain substantial and unusual magical powers. However, that power may not be enough to withstand those who wish to conquer them. Can Wolfe and his party reach this fabled place? Can they learn how to perform the magic? Will they be able to return to Chivial?
The new settings are well done and add a different mood to the story. The medieval world of Chivial contrasts with the Tlixilian [Montezuma's] world. The plot is straight-forward and easily followed. Descriptions of place and people are clear and evocative of appropriate mood and attributes. While there is swordplay and magic, this is a quest, and one that raises questions about good and evil as well as human thirst for forbidden knowledge. There are a variety of interesting and different characters. Wolf and Inquisitor Dolores Hogwood are well developed. The story is a bit more gritty and dark than the others, but this is a characteristic of these stories.Duncan is notably popular. He writes very well, his characters appeal, and the plots differ from the ordinary heroic fantasy. World-building is first rate. The book is easily read. The cover illustration by Paul Robinson is most attractive, appeals, and is true to the story with a snarling jaguar over a castle in flames. Highly recommended for all but the smallest heroic fantasy collections
"Kylara Vatta looked at the mass of paperwork from Belinta's Economic Development Bureau and sighed. The real life of a trade ship captain: paperwork and more paperwork, negotiation with shippers, customers, Customs Officials."
Thus begins Marque and Reprisal which is volume two in the "Vatta's War" series. The first volume was Trading in Danger. This story begins where the other stopped. While Kylara is preparing to leave port, someone launched an attack on Vatta headquarters and most of her family was killed. Vatta ships suddenly disappear from the space lanes. At the same time, the interstellar communications system is down and she cannot communicate beyond the planet. The major thread in this story is simply staying alive since someone wants her dead and her ship destroyed. This is an opportunity for Ky to apply her military training to treacherous situations.
Besides her crew, Ky receives help from a well-trained mercenary force, her cousin Stella [who is not what she was supposed to be] and Stella's former lover who has several unique talents. Ky is a well-developed character and the others are certainly interesting. The plot moves quickly and there are some surprises. Writing is clear and direct. There is enough action to keep the pages turning. The conclusion is satisfactory, but clearly there is more to come.
Space opera, including the military ones, remains popular. This is a good story by a well-regarded author who has quite a following.The cover illustration by Dave Seeley shows Ky in a scene from an incident near the book. It's true to the story and should appeal to SF readers. Text is large and clear enough to be easily read. Recommended for larger collections, especially where the earlier volume was popular.
"Jack woke before dawn and listened to the cold February wind lash the walls of the house. He sighed. It was going to be another rotten day."
Thus begins The Sea of Trolls which appears to be a stand-alone tale, although a sequel would be reasonable. Jack is an eleven year old who is apprenticed to a old Druid bard with considerable magical power. Before he can become comfortable with his nature and calling, Jack and his five year old sister are captured by Viking Berserkers and taken far away from his home [England]. The Viking culture is very difficult and very violent. Lucy retreats into an inner self, especially after she is given to the half-troll Queen. Jack must find a place in Olaf One-Brow's household and identify some way to return to England with his sister. An unexpected magical act by Jack causes the Queen to lose her beautiful hair and turn back into a Troll. Olaf, Jack and a small party are sent North to the home of the Trolls to find a remedy for the Queen who has otherwise threatened to have Lucy slain. Besides coming of age, cultural explorations and comparisons, there is considerable adventure with a troll-bear, dragon, and a giant spider as well as staying afloat in the sea.
The year is 793 and historical elements appear to be accurate and interesting. Farmer does an excellent job of describing people and place with clear, evocative writing. The pace varies, but pages turn quickly. The strength of the story is in the range and quality of the characters. Jack, Lucy, and Olaf occupy center stage, but there are several appealing secondary characters. The use of magic by bards and Trolls is convincing and fits well with the setting.
Farmer has authored three Newbery Honor books and one also won a National Book Award. Excellent writing, an appealing plot, and characters that the reader will care about make this an excellent choice for all but the smallest youth fantasy collection. Jacket art by Tim O'Brien shows a realistic Viking ship at sea. Front matter includes helpful maps and a list of characters. Back matter includes historical notes on the period and some of the characters. Book design is attractive. Type is large and dark with good white space all around.
"Streaked with soot, the Tattooed Monk followed the wavering tracks of a lone fox into the woods. Herds of yak stood like black boulders on the windswept cliffs, their shadows sharp against the snow in the pale morning light."
Thus begins Sign of the Qin which is he first volume in the series "Outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh."The story uses Chinese mythology and legend to tell a complex story involving a variety of magical creatures and beings, including what appear to be gods and demons. The Lord of the Dead is poised to launch an attack that will destroy human kind and its world. The ruler of the Empire is an unknowing partner. Life for ordinary people has become a terrible challenge while the powerful and the corrupt enjoy every privilege. Good people have become outlaws, and the outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh under the leadership of the twins, White Streak and Black Whirlwind, fight against corrupt rulers and the demon creatures. At that same time, Prince Zong is born and will become the fabled Starlord who may be able to challenge the Lord of the Dead. When his father attempts to slay Zong, he is carried to safety by his nurse maid and the adventure really begins.
While the setting is Chinese, elements from other cultures and places are introduced and fit well. The time has a late ancient - early medieval air to it. The plot has several threads, but the main one follows Zong as he quickly becomes a young man and must escape from one danger to another. He has protectors, but they are sometimes distracted. The plot is reasonably complex because of the large number of characters and their situations, but is straight-forward in keeping the main characters alive and avoiding or defeating the demon creatures as well as those of the Emperor and outlaw gangs that really are outlaws. The pace is rapid with new characters and situations, some quite frightening, quickly introduced. Besides Zong and the two brothers, notable characters include Silver Lotus, Zong's mother and the First Consort to the Emperor, who is cast out after Zong's birth, and Jade Mirror, Zong's nursemaid, who will spirit him away from the Emperor. Two guardians, the Tattooed Monk, and Monkey, have notable roles.
Characters are adequately developed, but the plot and the richness of the many magical characters take center stage. Writing is clear and direct. Chapters are relatively short and each begins with an appropriate Chinese character and a relevant quote, usually a proverb, from one of the Guardians, or an Immortals.
Outlaws of Moonshadow Marsh is a substantial undertaking and very different from most heroic fantasies written today. This is an example of excellent storytelling with an exotic and appealing setting and cast of characters. The book is attractively designed and the cover art by Tim Zulewski showing the back of the Tattooed Monk is truly excellent. One of the best cover illustrations I have seen in years. Back matter includes a key to the Chinese characters seen in the chapter openings as well as an author's note on the setting and situations. Highly recommended for youth heroic fantasy collections.
"AN ICE STORM blew across the hills that night. It left the tree branches bowed and crystalline. All night the lovers heard them tinkling and snapping."
Thus begins Dragon's Treasure which follows Dragon's Winter and is a middle volume in a three or four volume series. Karadur Atani, is the Dragon of Chingura and the Master of Dragon Keep. In his dragon guise, he is fierce and quick to anger. In fact, it is sometimes difficult to control his anger and that tension is a major theme in this story. Maia Unamira and her brother Treion will test the Dragon Lord. He may love Maia while he seeks to find and punish the outlaw Treion. While there is some action here, this is a story of relationships and how they impact each other. There are several threads, but the most important involve Maia and Treion and those around each of them. Characters, both minor and major, are thoughtfully developed along with the settings.
The medieval setting, especially life at Dragon Keep, is well developed and adds a substantial dimension to the story. The plot is straight-forward, but results are not always what the reader might expect. Lynn writes very well and content flows smoothly even when different story lines appear. Since this is a middle volume, the story ends at a beginning rather than settling things. Still, that is typical of most heroic fantasy today.
Although this series follows a hiatus of several years, Lynn remains a solid choice for any fantasy collection. The story, here especially, is a good cross over candidate because of the romance involving Maia and the fact that she is a strong, independent woman. The compact format is easy to handle and the type is reasonably clear. Cover art by Les Edwards shows an impressive dragon against a fiery background.
"Kharl stood at the front window of his shop, looking westward for a moment at the wedge of twilight sky visible between the slate roofs of the buildings on the far side of the narrow Crafters' Lane. A single lamp was visible through the middle window of Gharan's quarters, above the weaver's shop."
Thus begins Wellspring of Chaos which is volume 12 in the "Saga of Recluce." In some respects, this story reminded me of the first volume, The Magic of Recluce, because Kharl, the main character is a wood worker [a cooper] who must learn how to use order magic after his business and family are taken away from him by evil acts. His journeys and self-education give the reader an opportunity to become more familiar with the theory and practice of order magic while enjoying various adventures. This story may be read by those unfamiliar with the earlier volumes and they will enjoy it.
Kharl owns a cooperage in Brysta, in Norla, and is proud of the high quality barrels that he makes. He makes a reasonable living as a crafter, but is at the mercy of the nobility. When the son of a local lord attacks another craftsman's daughter, Kharl intervenes to save her. When a black staffer from Recluce is attacked and raped, he takes her into his home. Both acts infuriate the vicious son of the local lord. Kharl is jailed and beaten. His wife is hung. His two sons leave him and the cooperage is sold for back taxes. With the help of a young beggar, Kharl manages to stay alive, slay an evil white mage, and leaves aboard an Austran ship where he becomes a carpenter helper. He will learn much about himself as he becomes a mage as well as a cooper. Eventually, he will be involved in a battle against white mages that will decide the fate of Austra
Modesitt is unusually good at developing believable, interesting settings. The details of place, culture, and daily life strengthen the story and add considerable interest. The plot involves a quest for finding one's place and role in the world as well as several adventures. Without being too didactic, characters comment on political and social issues in a way that is convincing and appropriate for the story. Appeal elements include self-discovery, a sort of coming of age, as well as action. Modesitt uses short chapters to enhance readability and the writing is clear and direct. Character development is especially good for Kharl, and quite satisfactory for the many others.
Modesitt is a first-rate story teller and the Recluce stories represent his best work. It is hard to imagine a fantasy collection without all twelve volumes. Type is reasonable large, clear, and white space is used effectively. The end papers and the front matter contain clear, helpful maps. The end papers are in color and are nicely decorated. The wrap-around jacket art by Darrel Sweet shows Kharl facing a white mage. It appeals and the dramatic scene will draw reader attention.
"IN a sheep farmer's low stone house, high in the hills above Three Firs, two words hang now above the mantelpiece. One is very old and slightly bent, a sword more iron than steel, dark as a pot: forged, so the tale runs, by the smith in Rocky Ford -- yet it is a sword, for all that, and belong to Kanas once, and tasted orcs' blood and robbers' blood in its time."
Thus begins the Deed of Paksenarrion, a trilogy that includes Sheepfarmer's Daughter, Divided Allegiance, and Oath of Gold. These three heroic fantasy novels were originally published in 1988 and 1989. All were received with praise. I don't know, but suspect that the originally appeared in mass market paper editions. This all-in-one-volume hard copy edition is a boon to readers and to libraries [although the number of pages may create a problem for the binding]. Moon is accomplished both in heroic fantasy and in science fiction so these stories should be popular.
Paksenarrion is a sheep farmer's daughter who runs away from home to join a mercenary company and becomes quite a warrior. One thread tells of her coming of age as a warrior and the challenges that she faces. Another thread deals with the various battles and skirmishes with various enemies, including those who are servants of evil gods. The third thread, which becomes especially important in the second half of the work is her relationship to Gird, who may be a god and is the patron of warriors. While Paks is true to Gird's tenets, she does not feel called to his service. Captured by dark elves while on a mission with soldiers of Gird, she is treated brutally. Although cleansed [but not entirely] of their evil, she has become broken, fearful, and anxious and her life seems at an end
World building is first-rate. There are many strong and interesting characters. Paks is particularly well done and the changes in her character and her self-doubt make her story of particular value to older children and teens [although a torture scene near the end may offend]. The military details seem authentic and convincing as well as much more realistic than in many other warrior stories. The story moves quickly, although the description and characterization of the environments takes some time. There is considerable action and it is not always clear that the forces of good will triumph.
Recommended with considerable enthusiasm for all but the smallest fantasy collection. This is an unusual opportunity to fill a notable gap in the earlier work of an established, popular author. Text is readable with clear type and a reasonable amount of white space. Cover art by Keith Parkinson shows an exciting scene from the latter part of the story. The front matter contains a clear and helpful map.
"A blue snow was falling on the roof of the embarkation lounge, where it melted and snaked across the glass in inky rivulets. Freeman put his coffee on the table, then slumped in the form chair."
Thus begins Gridlinked which is a stand-alone novel by this new British author. His recent novel Skinner was issued in 2004. Both include a gritty, sometimes dark, realism, with a variety of innovative and thoughtful takes on technology and crime in the future where nearly everyone is "gridlinked" or connected to a nearly omniscient web run by AI's with god-like knowledge.
Agent Cormac has been gridlinked for a long time, much longer than normally allowed, and has begun to lose his humanity. He has been an exceptional security agent, but he must cut his link to the grid if he is to continue. He does that and is then faced with the most challenging case of his career. A runcible [a matter transmitter that moves people from place to place in the wide-spread Polity] has been destroyed and the human settlement on the planet Samarkand has been destroyed. Besides the alien Dragon who may or may not be responsible for the death of the runcible, a psychopathic killer and his men will do anything to kill Cormac and track him from planet to planet.
Asher writes well, although the slower reader may not always understand some of his more complex thoughts, and his descriptions are especially well done. Cormac is a well-developed character, but secondary characters might be brought to life a bit more. The plot is reasonably complex and unexpected encounters keep the reader busy. The action scenes are well-done and Asher's use of technology is especially effective.
Asher is a writer to watch. This is a substantial and thoughtful novel with suspense and action. It is space opera, but at a high level. Technology, and its impact, is handled especially well. The style flows well and the chapter openings with their insight into technology and culture are clear and quite helpful. Wrap-around cover art is excellent and appeals while being faithful to the story. Type is larger than usual and dark with good white space. Binding is average. Highly recommended for larger SF collections.
"The shrill screaming from inside made Captain Pausert open the cabin door with some caution. Not that screaming was necessarily unusual around his present company -- just that it was good idea to meet screaming with due care."
Thus begins The Wizard of Karres which is a sequel to the classic Witches of Karres by James H. Schmitz. The increasingly productive Lackey and her crew have done a fine job of creating a story in the style and content of the earlier work. This is a space opera that has its serious and tongue in cheek moments. It is an easy, fun "read" and a special treat for those who have read and reread the earlier volume. It won't make much sense to those who have not.
Captain Pausert, accompanied by Goth and the Leewit [two of the earlier three Witches of Karres] have a mission to take the Sprite Hatis and the Grik dog Pul to the Empress to warn of an invasion in progress of a nano disease that could destroy civilization. Someone knows where they are going and will do anything to stop them. Pausert's spaceship, the Venture, is chased by pirates, the Imperial Navy, and others. There is considerable adventure, some more development of the lead characters, several well drawn minor characters, and a variety of interesting settings. The vatch, both large and small, continue to play tricks and some are deadly. Pausert continues to develop his vatch handling skills, although without the training and the imprints available to the witches.
This is a wonderful story and absolutely faithful to the spirit of the earlier work. The Wizard of Karres would be an excellent introduction to space opera for older children since it is full of wonder and compelling characters. Both of the Witches are under thirteen and that would add interest. Those more interested in gritty realism and real scientific fiction will look elsewhere. Recommended for all SF collections, especially those for youth.
"Seven days after I was born, my mother named me 'Ugly Screaming Stink Girl.' such birth names were common on my home world -- a planet called Anicca, first colonized by Earthlings of Bamar extraction."
Thus begins Radiant, another novel in Gardner's stories of the Explorer Corps. Each member of the Corps has some visible defect such that their loss will not upset the rest of humanity; all are expendable. Regardless of their defect, they are well trained and highly competent to deal with the unexpected. The primary focus in this story is Explorer Third Class Youn Sue, who has a strange and ugly growth on her left check.
Youn Sue is Buddhist and Buddhist beliefs and practices play a major role in the interaction of the characters, in Youn Sue's motivation and actions, and in the final outcome. The religious aspects are well integrated into the story and are not didactic.
Youn Sue is assigned to the frigate Pistachio with her partner, an explorer named Tut who has skin made of some golden, metallic substance and appears to be crazy. When the ship is asked to investigate a strange situation, Tut and Youn Sue are sent to a Zoonau, a Cashling city, being overcome by Red Moss dropping from the sky -- a sign of the Balrog, a highly advanced alien life form. On Zoonau, the Explorer team meets the legendary Admiral Festina Ramos. Soon, the three Explorers, plus two diplomats, will be sent to the planet Muta where a group of Unity explorers have suddenly disappeared. The remainder of the story deals with their adventures on this planet, including contact with the remnants of a sophisticated civilization which has been gone for thousands of years. Youn Sue has been "captured" in a sense by the Balrog and Ramos no longer trusts her. In order to solve the mystery, and leave the planet, all must make a dangerous journey.
This will be an essential selection in those libraries where Gardner's earlier work has been popular. He is well regarded for creating thoughtful space opera and the notion of the expendable Explorer Corps provides a variety of opportunities for character development and interactions. For some reason, I did not find this story to be quite as much of a page turner as the earlier ones. The characters and their development, especially Youn Sue, is excellent and the use of Buddhism is thought provoking. Writing is clear and direct. The plot is a good one, but drags toward the end.
Type is dark and large enough for comfortable reading. White space is good. Binding is average. The cover art by Fred Gambino is true to the spirit of the story while showing Youn Sue and Ramos [but without their visible defects in front of an abandoned city.
"He was sleeping in his habitent when the cries of the indeigens woke him. 'Ekoh! Ekoh! n'nsa skte me'du!'"
Thus begins Ravenor which follows the Eisenhorn trilogy by Abnett. Those three volumes dealt with the master inquisitor Gregor Eisenhorn and his fight against evil. This volume, likely the first of several, deals with inquisitor Gideon Ravenor, once a pupil of Eisenhorn. Revenor and his elite agents here attempt to discover who is behind the rapid distribution of a drug with terrible consequences. Corruption among powerful planetary leaders complicates things. Eventually, Ravenor and his team must go beyond Imperial space onto a planet with its own rules and culture. They may not survive.
Abnett is an acclaimed writer for action/adventure comics and is notably productive. Ravenor is a good quick read with excellent descriptions of scenes and situations, interesting if one dimensional characters, a quite workable plot, and plenty of action. Urban environments are dark, gritty, and unpleasant, but certainly believable.
Recommended for extensive SF collections or where the author's earlier work has been popular. May appeal to those interested in action/adventure/heroic comics. I appreciated the strong settings, but was disappointed in the lack of character development. The cover is black with skulls and and a red icon representing the inquisition with author and title in bold white. It certainly grabbed my attention. Type and white space are average. Binding appears to be better than average.
"Wednesday ran through the darkened corridors of the station, her heart pounding. Behind her, unseen yet sensed as a constant menacing presence, ran her relentless pursuer -- a dog."
Thus begins Iron sunrise which follows Singularity Sky but may be read independently. Rachel Mansour is certainly involved, but her role is not as central as in the earlier work. There are several important characters here, but the most interesting is the teen who sometimes calls herself Wednesday Shadowmist. Wednesday has a hidden friend who has given her some unusual training and advice. In this case, his advice may lead to her death or to the defeat of a deadly faction intent on conquest.
The setting and time period are similar to the earlier volume, but a bit later. The setting includes several worlds and a variety of characters and cultures. The tone is gritty and realistic. The plot is reasonably complex and will challenge the reader until the very end.
The planet Moscow was destroyed when someone detonated a G2 star and initiated an "iron sunrise" which destroyed the planet and continues to move forward. Moscow had a counter weapon--relatively slow but unstoppable planet destroyers--that was launched when Moscow was destroyed. It will take some time for the planet destroyers to reach their target, perhaps 35 years, but when they do millions of people will die. There is not enough time or resources to remove all of these people from the planet. Ambassadors from Moscow on other worlds have the stop keys, but they are being assassinated. Rachel is sent with others to save ambassadors so that the stop keys may be used and discover who is behind the brutal attacks. At the same time, Wednesday has found and hidden information that will reveal who was behind Moscow's destruction. She is chased by those who must have that information regardless of the cost. Her invisible friend may be able to prevent her death.
Stross continues to do well with constructing an interesting and believable setting and some strong characters. However, Iron Sunrise is not as inventive as the earlier work. The conclusion clearly indicates that this is the beginning of a longer story on the attempt by the Remastered to make the planets into their own image.
Stross has received considerable praise and Singularity Sky was a notable achievement. This is an essential purchase where the earlier work was popular. Otherwise, recommended for medium to larger sized SF collections. Danilo Ducak's front cover illustration shows the "iron sunrise" and a space craft. It is bright, appealing, and true to the story. Type is clear and readable. White space is satisfactory. Binding is average. Chapter openings are attractive and interesting.
"Light fell upon the priest. That single ray of illumination, shaped by the ancient master-carved lens in the ceiling of the long and narrow chapel hewn out of the red rock cliffs, bathed the celebrant."
Thus begins Scepters which is the third volume in the "Corean Chronicles." It is unclear if there will be further volumes. While this volume and the series ends convincingly, there are certainly opportunities for more adventures with the core characters. The back flap copy does refer to the "climax to the first Corean trilogy" which encourages the notion that there will be a second one.
Setting, appeal, characters, and pace are identical to those of the earlier volumes. Modesitt is an excellent story teller and events move quickly. While some characters are stereotypes, others are nicely developed. Descriptions are clear, helpful, and interesting. Once again, Alucius is an army officer defeating a difficult army with energy, cunning, and disregard for his own life. The major difference is that his wife Wendra plays a major role, especially in the final pages. Although this is a fantasy novel, there are strong SF elements and military strategy and tactics are also central to the plot. Note too that the technology includes swords and cannon and rifles. Here, the various genres work well together.
Modesitt is one of the most popular heroic fantasy authors. This final volume in the trilogy will be an essential purchase for most collections. There is a sameness to the succeeding volumes, but the pages turn quickly and few readers will lose interest. The story is readable with good size type and reasonable white space. The end paper maps are helpful. The cover art by Daniel Horne is true to the story and should appeal.
"One cannot raise walls against what has been forgotten. The citadel of Ishual succumbed during the height of the Apocalypse. But no army of inhuman Sranc had scaled its ramparts."
Thus begins The Darkness That Comes Before which is the first volume in the "Prince of Nothing" series. Given the extensive world-building and the scale of those involved, this will be a substantial multi-volume effort.
The setting is complex and quite detailed. The back matter includes helpful information on characters and factions as well as on language and geography. There are two helpful maps. The author is completing a Ph.D in philosophy and the novel contains a considerable number of fundamental philosophical issues. This is not to say that there is a lack of action. Rather, it adds a dimension that is not often found in contemporary heroic fantasy. Again, the setting is a large one with many characters and factions wielding political, religious, or magical powers. Many conspire to achieve their own goals and there appear to be few legitimate good people.
The setting is of an early European medieval type although other cultures appear including warring nomadic tribes. The major issue in the first "book" is the beginning of a holy war of the Inrithi peoples against the Fanim. This is a war that appears to have no legitimate rationale, but is eagerly adopted by the Inrithi. Much of the book considers the various characters and factions involved in the beginning of the war and who shall profit most.
The second thread, and one that will likely receive more attention the following books, is the appearance of those, the Consult, who support the No-God who hope to bring about the Second Apocalypse. Few believe that the Consult exists. It has become a myth. The one exception is the Mandate, a school of Sorcerers dedicated to continuing the war against the Consult and to protect civilization from the return of the No-God, Mog-Pharau. Drusas Achamian is a Mandate sorcerer who has spent years looking for signs of the Consult, often as a spy. He is a major character and excerpts from his accounts of what happened often open chapters. Drusas is a major character who is thoughtful, beleaguered, and powerful in his sorcery but often the victim of events. The third thread involves Anasurimbor Kellhus who is searching for his father who calls him via dreams. Kellhus is not a sorcerer, but he does have some unusual powers and an unusually keen intellect. The appearance of an Anasurimbor may herald the beginning of the end of the world.
The plot comes and goes but essentially moves the main characters to the Holy War setting. Character development receives considerable attention as does description of settings and situations. There is enough action, but this is not primarily about blades and warfare. The pace moves well although some parts are slower than others as the author provides the context for one has happened in the past -- and that is very well done. Drusas is the most likable character. The others included Kellhus use people as needed and seem to have few regrets. The two main female characters are both prostitutes and although they have their strengths, they react rather than acting which makes them seem weak.
This is a major heroic fantasy series and book one should be added to virtually all collections where the genre is popular. The story is sometimes grim and gritty, but the world-building is excellent and the situations intrigue. Bakker is an accomplished writer and there is no doubt that this is serious, perhaps even literary fantasy. That does not mean that it isn't a solid, appealing story.
The wrap around calligraphic dust jacket by David Rankine is attractive and most attractive. The book is well designed and easily read. Print is dark and clear. Binding is average.
"THE ASSEMBLY ROOM of the Deep Reconnaissance Team was as utilitarian and sere as the team itself. The walls, floor and ceiling were a matte-gray unmarked plasteel, blank of lockers, tables or any other appurtenances of human existence.
Thus begins The Hero which could be a stand-alone novel or the beginning of a series. The story is set in the same Posleen War Universe as Ringo's earlier works. Although the scale is smaller than the earlier works, a team and then two individuals, the approach toward military science fiction is similar. The story is strong in convincing details regarding equipment, strategy, and tactics. Although the story is clearly science fictional, in many respects this is a straight-forward adventure story where the good character is chased by the evil one.
The Islendian Confederation has encountered a new enemy. The Tslek, often called the Blobs, have destroyed colony worlds near the edge of human exploration. The Deep Reconnaissance Team is to go to a planet that may have a Tslek base and report what they found. What is different about this mission is that a Darhel named Tirdal will be part of their team. The Darhel had once been "virtual slave masters" of the human race and were still hated by humans. In this case, the Darhel was a sensat [one who could sense creatures nearby, including aliens]. One thread in the story is whether or not Tirdal will be able to become part of the team and help it succeed in its mission. The other thread, the major one, is whether Tirdal can survive after an insane team member kills all but two of the others and then follows Tidal who has an artifact of old technology that is worth a great deal. The Darhel, many, many years ago, were genetically altered so that they cannot kill -- even to protect themselves. Dagger, the team sniper and the one who killed his comrades enjoys killing and also has a sniper rifle with unusual killing power. It seems that Tirdal has little chance
The story is strong in description and in showing thoughts and motivations of three major characters. Although there is some action, much of the story simply describes the chase and the environment. Both will interest most readers of military science fiction and some readers of adventure fiction.
I found one premise, that Dagger could take the artifact off planet and sell it, to be unbelievable since the only way off planet was via the Navy. The concluding chapter seems to indicate that Tirdal's experience was part of a much larger plan. Perhaps that will be explored in future stories.
The book has larger than normal type and generous white space so it is easily read. Binding is average. Cover art by Kurt Miller is appropriate and should attract perspective readers [although it appears to show the villain rather than the hero].
This is a quick, easy read with considerable appeal for those looking for small scale adventure in a science fictional setting. For larger SF collections, especially where Ringo's earlier work has been popular.
"DOWN ALL THAT long, weary shift, they kept after Byul, Khat's voice was low and eerie in the dimness of the common room. The knuckles of Jethri's left hand ached with the grip he had on his cup while his right thumb and forefinger whirled ellipses on the endlessly cool surface of his lucky fractin."
Thus begins Balance of Trade which is likely the beginning of a new series with new characters set in the Liaden Universe. In fact, this is the best introduction to that setting. The story is somewhat different that the others. Besides the different time frame, the main character is a teen-aged boy and there is no romance.The story is set at a time when Terrans and Liadens have relatively little interaction and each group has little understanding of the other.
Jethri Gobelyn is an Assistant Trader on a smallish Terran trader. His distant mother is captain and he is the junior most member of the crew. An impromptu personal trading arrangement goes bad, Jethri is nearly killed, and he finds that he is owed "balance" by a Liaden Master Trader, Norn ven'Deelin. Norn decides that it is important to learn more about Terran ways to advance trade and offers Jethri an opportunity to become her apprentice and become a licensed trader -- a member of the Guild.
While Jethri has some knowledge of Liaden ways, his reading and listening skills leave much to be desired. Too, Liaden culture is complex and not at all intuitive. The wrong form of a bow, for example, could lead to death. The story is certainly one of coming of age, but besides Jethri's honest and capable character, this is a novel about culture, learning, and adaptation. There is relatively little action, but the story moves quickly and the reader is absorbed in learning more about Norn and Jethri, the Liaden ways, and becoming a trader.
The setting is somewhat familiar to readers of the earlier books, but is set in an earlier time. Too, the emphasis on the Old Technology is a new and interesting thread. The pace moves quickly, and the descriptions of people, place, and culture flow naturally within the story. Characters are interesting and nicely developed. Jethri and Norn are especially well done.
The book is well made with larger than usual type and generous white space. There is a helpful list of main characters in the front matter. While I didn't care for the wrap-around cover art by Donato Giancola, it is bright and will likely appeal to many. To me, it did not reflect Jethri as I visualized him.
This is a wonderful cross-over title for older children or teens who might be interested in science fiction. It will also appeal to many adults. For virtually all science fiction collections.
"GROZNY WAS WHERE LEBEAU Street mingled with the Style, where the low haunts of Blunt Street flowed into the Trend and rubbed shoulders with the rich and carefree."
Thus begins the second volume in what may be a longer series although this one ends quite satisfactorily. The initial volume was Hammerfall. The front matter of this volume provides considerable background on the setting and a good summary of the major issues in the earlier volume. That story was planet based while this one focuses on the space station Concord. The setting is a complex one involving humans in a Movement that created nanotech with biotech and changed humans in ways that could be inherited. Movement nanisms had disastrous consequences for the alien Ondat who declared war on human kind. The Movement was defeated by humans and the Ondat maintained a uneasy peace with humans who had defeated the Movement. Humans are divided into those affiliated with the inner worlds of Earth, isolated but powerful and opposed to any use of nanotech and those who are in the outer worlds or Outsiders. Concord station has a governor from Earth, but an Outsider heads the Planetary Office and is Concord chairman.
The Ondat found a planet ruled by a Movement leader and decided to destroy it. Negotiations halted destruction only after some planet killers had struck and dramatically changed the planet. Hammerfall told us about that planet, its ruler Illa, and Marak Trin Tain who would lead his people to a refuge. Marak later became an immortal and plays a major role in this story. On Concord, specially chosen observers watch and communicate with Marak, his wife, and the two Outsider agents on planet. A member of the Ondat, mysterious and unseen also watches from the station and has its own sources of information.
Thus the station, with a substantial population and a unique culture, is balanced politically between the Ondat, Earth, and the Outsiders. When a ship from Earth unexpectedly arrives with an unknown, but feared agenda, things begin to fall apart.
There are two major threads. One, on the planet, involves Marak, his wife, and a small party who will be threatened by dramatic changes to the surface of the planet as they make their way to establish a new relay station. The other thread involves the visit of the Special Ambassador. The Ambassador wants to speak to Procyon [Jeremy Stafford] who is the youngest and newest of those who watch Marek and others on planet. That interview and its consequences will have a sudden and potentially disastrous impact on all who live on the station.
Cherryh is a master in creating an intriguing, rock-solid believable environment. The station, its cultures, the political relationships, and the characters are carefully and thoughtfully done. While there is some action in this story, it is more a story of characters and culture. It is also a story with several "chewy" intellectual issues to ponder. The pace is somewhat slow given the detailed setting and fully realized relationships. Still, the pages turn quickly. The plot is complex enough to be interesting, and there are some surprises along the way.
Cherryh is a master at creating intriguing science fiction novels so this is an automatic selection for all SF collections. The "Reference" section in the front does a good job of setting the stage. The book is quite readable with dark print and reasonable white space. Binding is average. The wrap-around coverer art by Bob Eggleton appeals and is true to the story.
"We were lost. We'd been on a routine patrol, just like hundreds of others, but this time, while making sure the mountains above the small town of Freston were bandit free, we had somehow mislaid the way back."
Thus begins Covenants which may or may not be a stand-alone heroic fantasy tale. "Covenants" in the title refers to agreements or promises made by the main character Rabbit and others.
The story takes place in a typically medieval setting, but with one important difference. The main kingdom of Iversterre faces the Border, a land where magical folk live including dragons, tree sprites, fairies, elves, and speaking animals. In fact, Iversterre was once part of the Border before humans conquered it. Both those in Iversterre and some in the Border plan a new war which will dramatically change the status quo.
Although Rabbit is seen by his colleagues as just another trooper, he is closely related to the present King of Iversterre even though his parents renounced their nobility and moved to the Border. When a magical speaking, walking on two legs mountain cat named Laurel, newly appointed Ambassador to Iversterre, finds Rabbitt and tells him that he must accompany Laurel to meet the King of Iversterre to prevent war, the tale begins. Some on both sides feel threatened by Rabbitt and will attempt to kill him. Others in his army company are most uncomfortable with Rabbit's new status, his border ways, and what appears to be his growing magical powers.
The plot is fairly straight-forward with the trip to the capital city and then a trip to the border. Still, there are surprises, especially toward the end. The story moves quickly with short chapters, a reasonable amount of action and surprise, and interesting character developments. Rabitt is well developed and the other characters are interesting if somewhat stereotypical.
Covenants is a quick, engaging story and I almost read it at one setting. I look forward to another Borderlands novel from the author. Format is typical of a mass market paperback. Cover art by Patrick Jones appeals and is true to the spirit of the story. Recommended for larger heroic fantasy collections. Do give it full processing so readers can find it easily.
"The reif sipped at his clear drink through a glass straw and seemed to have his attention focused beyond his companion, at somewhere in the middle of the opposite wall. Erlin supposed he must be drinking one of the many chemical preservatives he used to prevent his flesh falling from his bones."
Thus begins The Skinner which is likely to be an independent story. The title refers to a particularly evil character [Spatterjay Hoop] guilty of war crimes 700 years ago. Spatterjay literally removed the skin from an enemy; thus, the "skinner." He remains alive although his head has been separated from his body and they are at different locations. Interestingly, his first name has become the name of the planet which is now called Spatterjay. The humans, although now quite different because of changes from the unique ecology, who live on Spatterjay are called Hoopers.
This is a strongly told story about an unusual oceanic world
where nearly everything alive can harm or kill humans. The leeches
vary in size, but their bite spreads a virus that makes humans
unusually strong and long-lived [the body quickly regenerates parts
harmed or missing]. With the exception of an artificial island
where the story really begins, this is an oceanic world with a few
small islands and those humans who inhabit it, called Hoopers after
Mr.. Hoop, fish the terrifying seas.
Three characters arrive on this world with three different
missions, but their lives quickly become intertwined. Sable Keech
is dead [the reif for reification], but kept alive by special
processes and technology. He has slain several of the Hoopers
associated with slavery and great evil during the war with the
Prador after they were defeated. Now, he seeks the last of those,
the "Skinner." Keech will soon discover that other ancient enemies
[the war ended about 700 years ago] are alive and have
returned.
Erlin is an unusual woman, especially with her white hair, blue
eyes, and black skin. She is an accomplished researcher and
physician. She seeks a certain great captain, one from her past,
who may be able to provide her with the guidance and support that
she now needs.
Janer is human, but is an agent for the hornet multi-mind called the Hive. The Hive is interested in learning more about life and death on Spatterjay.
The world's unusual and vicious ecology is solidly and interestingly created -- a particular strength of the story.The setting is used to create a second parallel ecological story that begins each chapter and clearly tells the reader about life and death on this unusually unpleasant planet.
The main and secondary characters, both good and evil, are thoughtfully developed. The interaction between the characters and the environment is especially well done and makes this story very different from most others. On this world, staying alive doing a simple task is a challenge for the off-worlders and can be painful even for the Hoopers. Thus, there is considerable action and constant threat.
The plot is complex enough to be interesting, but simple enough
to be understood. The Prador wish to remove all those who witnessed
their evil doings centuries ago and this includes most of the
senior captains. The Captains do not know that the Prador have
returned. However, they have decided to finally kill the Skinner.
The Warden and his AI agents will attempt to destroy the
Prador.
Asher's Spatterjay is an unusual world vividly pictured. The story combines SF, space opera, some horror, and a complex ecology. Well written and easily read, especially when the various names are gathered and understood. Wrap-around jacket art by Jim Burns is true to the story and most appealing. Type is dark and readable. Binding is average. For all SF collections.
"This is the story of the Messengers -- of the beginning of our faith and of its end. It is also our story, the story of the Brethren, whose task it is to guard the Way of Arata."
Thus begins This Burning
Land which may be an independent story or the beginning of a
series. Strauss earned a BA in comparative religion and this is
very much a novel of ideas, particularly religious ones.
Temptation, belief, and the corruption of "true believers" make
this story both serious and sad if also most believable.
There are two main characters. Gyalo is an unusually strong and
thoughtful member of the order of Arata, the one god of Galea. He
is also a shaper -- one who has the power to create something from
the world around. However, shapers [with their magical powers here
seen as religious powers] are tethered by dosage of an herb
that dramatically limits their awareness and their power. Gyalo is
asked to accompany an expedition into the Burning Lands to see if
there might be a colony of believers who were forced into the Lands
by a cruel and anti-religious government which has recently been
over-thrown.
Axane is the second character. She lives in Refuge, a small,
self-sufficient city in a series of caverns just beyond the
Burning Land, where the small group of exiles now live. Axane is a
dreamer. Her dreams take her far away so that she experiences life
in Galea. Others in Refuge believe that only they exist in the
world. They would see the people in Axane's dream as
"demons."
Both characters are fully developed with considerable focus on
the tension between reality and what their religious beliefs
suggest is true. For Gyalo, it is increasingly clear that the
Brethren, who make decisions for the church, are motivated by
political and all too human emotions. He will be severely tested
when the expedition comes to grief and he must decide whether or
not to use his shaping powers, untethered, to survive and allow his
few companions to also survive. Axane wants the freedom of the
larger world, but she loves her father and cares deeply about the
survival of her community of Refuge.
Perhaps inevitably the expedition leads to tragedy for all
concerned, but especially those in Refuge. Those in Refuge believe
that the others are guilty of a terrible heresy. The Brethren share
the same belief for those in Refuge. The quest for purity will
drive religious leaders to commit terrible acts.
The plot is straight-forward with the expedition, the return of
the survivors, and another expedition. While there is some action,
this is mostly a story of endurance and of sombre reflection. The
setting is quite well done and different from the standard
medieval, Western European one. It has an oriental or a Middle
Eastern flavor. The pace is somewhat slow because of the time and
space given to reflection and interaction.
Strauss has created a thoughtful, if sombre, story that is different from the usual heroic fantasy. There are certainly heroes and heroines here, but they are very different from the usual ones. The jacket art by Mark Harrison appeals and reflects the spirit of the work, but this is not a scene from the book. The front matter contains two useful maps and the back matter adds a helpful glossary. For all larger fantasy collections.
"Eneko Lopez was not the sort of man to let mere discomfort of the body come between him and his God. Or between him and the work he believed God intended him to do."
Thus begins This Rough Magic which is the second volume in a series not yet named. The first volume was The Shadow of the Lion. The Lion is the magical creature that protects Venice. Much of the second volume takes place on the island of Corfu which has an old and powerful magic of its own.
The story is set in the Sixteenth Century but in a very different world. The Holy Roman Empire is the most powerful of the larger imperial states. Poland and Lithuania are controlled by a fierce Demon Chernobog who has taken over the body of the Grad duke Jagiellon of Lithuania. He is determined to defeat the lion and make Venice his own. To the east, the King of Hungary has his own designs on Venetian controlled Corfu and the defeat of Venetian power in the east.
While there are many new characters, including some very important ones, the main characters return from the earlier story. Prince Manfred and his Icelandic bodyguard and trainer Erik are on a journey to the Holy Land, but find themselves besieged in the Citadel at Corfu. Benito Valdosta will become a hero at Corfu, perhaps a dead one. His brother Marco, tied to the Lion, will need to stay in Venice. Benito's love, Maria, with her new husband are also on their way to Corfu.
An unexpected Hungarian invasion of Corfu finds the Venetian garrison under strength and poorly led. A variety of conspiracies exist as various factions attempt to undermine the Venetian resistance. Both Jagiellon and Emeric [King of Hungary] are evil and use dark magics to influence the outcome. While the plot is straight-forward, can the Venetians hold out until help arrives, the large number of characters, tensions, and conspiracies adds many complex sub-plots. While there is a reasonable amount of action, much of the story focuses on characters, situations, and the environment. The story requires more than 800 pages which is an indication of its depth and breadth even though most of the story takes place on a relatively small island between the Ionian and the Adriatic seas.
As far as I can tell, the setting seems to be realistic given the author's created world. It certainly appears to be realistic in terms of political and military settings and situations. There are many characters and character development is a strength throughout. The main characters in particular are very well developed, especially by the time that we finish the second volume. This has always been a strength of Lackey. Both volumes are darker than Lackey's own work. This is seen in the detail given to the evil rites practiced by some of the evil characters. Writing is smooth and most readable. Content is well organized and the separate sections devoted to different places and characters work well.
The jacket illustration by Larry Dixon is true to the story showing Maria in an important scene toward the end of the book. The front matter includes excellent maps of Corfu, Italy and the Adriatic, the Citadel, and the great powers of Europe. The back matter includes an extensive list of characters and a helpful glossary.
Recommendation
This is an excellent story with memorable characters and an unusually broad frame or environment. Lackey is one of the most popular and well regarded heroic fantasy authors and Eric Flint is certainly on his way up. An essential purchase for libraries holding the earlier volume. Other libraries should consider adding both volumes. A solid addition for the larger heroic fantasy collection.
"The Land of Dhrall, if we are to believe the sometimes fanciful legends of the region, has existed in its present location since the beginning of time. Father Earth is unstable, and other continents move hither and yon across the face of Mother sea, wandering, ever wandering, in search of new places in which to abide, but the Land of Dhrall, we are told, was firmly anchored to its present location by the will of the gods of Dhrall, and it shall remain ever so until the end of the world."
Thus begins the Elder Gods which is the first volume in a four volume series called "the Dreamers [the younger gods are the dreamers]." While the setting, and the gods, are different from earlier stories, this is very much a traditional Eddings story and it will be greeted by much enthusiasm by those who have read and reread the earlier stories
The Land of Dhrall is the responsibility of two sets of gods. There are four elder gods and four younger ones. Periodically, one set sleeps while the other set rules. Mother sea and Father Earth are also powerful, but are not responsible for a place and people. In the Wasteland, in the center of Dhrall, is "That-Called-the Vlagh" which seems to be an evil god with designs on the land and the rest of the world. In this series, the gods and their human allies will attempt to defeat "the Vlagh."
In this volume, the "Vlagh" is about to invade the domain of Zelana on the West coast of Dhrall. Zelana, and each of the four elder gods, is raising a child [one of the younger gods but she does not know that] named Eleria. With the help of her brother Dahlaine, Zelana assembles an army of imperial soldiers, a fleet of pirates, and tribal warriors to fight the insect warriors of the Vlagh. Much of the novel provides background information on the context, how the allied forces are assembled, and profiles of the main characters.
The story moves quickly while including well-done descriptions and several appealing characters. The interaction of the characters, an Eddings appeal element, is well done, especially since the characters come from very different backgrounds and situations. The plot is straight-forward, but with interesting twists, especially toward the end.
Eddings is one of the best known and best liked heroic fantasy authors. This is an automatic purchase for all heroic fantasy collections and multiple copies will likely be needed. The physical book is easy to read with good sized print and good white space. Clear, appealing maps appear on the end papers and in the front matter. The jacket illustration by Matt Stawicki appeals with Zelana and Eleria shown against a dramatic scene from the conclusion of the story.
"Of all the lands of Hylor, Mel'Nir has the shortest history and the longest chronicles. The scribes, working away in relays, at cross purposes, and in different colored inks, try to set down everything there is to be known.
Thus begins the Wanderer. While not a sequel, this story is set in the same world as Wilder's earlier trilogy "The Rulers of Hylor" written some time ago. Wilder passed away before this story was complete and Reimann [The Tielmaran Chronicles] finished it.
While the story may be understood without knowledge gained from reading the earlier volumes, the amount of historical detail present in this story can be overwhelming. There is an excellent front matter map by John Ford and Katya Reimann. There is a helpful chronology of the "events in the chronicles of Hylor" and two genealogical charts of the rulers in the back matter.
Gael Maddoc is the daughter of poor peasants whose holding includes the sacred cave, the Holywell. She is eager to take the opportunity to become a kedran, a mounted soldier and make her way in the world. She is very good at her new calling and soon becomes body guard to a prince who is selfish and ignores the welfare of those in his command. Gael leaves the military to become a free lance soldier.
Guarding and guiding a noble couple turns into a disaster, although not at all her fault. She then calls upon the Shee [a few Fair Folk living not too far away] and convinces them to lend her magic to retrieve the noble couple. Reluctantly, they agree and she is successful. Following this event, Gael becomes the Wanderer, a wandering soldier who does good deeds and helps those in need.
The story then becomes a series of separate adventures. While there is some action, the story mostly describes historical events and the political scene. Given Gael's magical powers, there is little question about the positive outcome of her adventures. this weakens the tension in the story.
Building on the frame of the earlier stories, the world building is detailed and impressive. However, it can be overwhelming to the new reader. The plot is fairly straight-forward. Gael is a well-developed character, but the others are not.
The jacket art by John Howe appeals with a scene of Gael on horse with the magical lance and a most attractive landscape. The strange head gear of the nearby riders interests, but I didn't recall that in the story. The physical book is readable with good dark print. Binding is average.
Recommended for large heroic fantasy collections, especially those holding the earlier Hylor novels
"This is not the way to spend a beautiful spring morning! Elena Klovis thought, as she peered around the pile of bandboxes in her arms."
Thus begins The Fairy Godmother. Luna is a new Harlequin imprint focused on romance within the fantasy [and perhaps the science fiction] genre. This is a stand-alone story although sequels are certainly possible.
Lackey is an unusually productive author, both by herself and in partnership with others. While some of her other novels have romantic elements, this seems to be her first story aimed specifically at the romance market. Except for one somewhat erotic episode toward the end, this story is very similar to her other work, especially since she has always featured strong female characters. In this story, the male characters are not as multi-faceted as in some of her earlier work.
Elena is the Cinderella character with an evil stepmother and two self-centered, obnoxious step sisters. She lives a life of poverty within her own house. When stepmother and step sisters leave town seeking an appropriate match, Elena is left alone in a house now bare after creditors have removed every little thing of value. She is rescued by a fairy Godmother to be trained to become a fairy Godmother herself.
One thread deals with Elena's training in a magical cottage under the firm but loving supervision of Godmother Madame Bella. Two Brownie couples tend the cottage and the grounds. The heart of the story rests on the notion of the Tradition which is a powerful force of nature in this fantasy land to see that stories end in a certain way. For example, the Tradition might have three paths or options for a knight on a quest in a certain situation. The tradition is a powerful force to insure that things happen as they should. It is most difficult to establish a new "tradition."
Madame Bella departs when Elena has become competent and resourceful. Among her other responsibilities, Elena must test questers to insure that the right one passes on to the next test to win the princess or whatever. In one situation, she tests three princely sons who hope to win the hand of a princess and become a future king. One prince passes the test and is sent forward with helpful hints. One is sent forth to wander aimlessly in the forest until he learns to behave properly. The third prince is turned into a donkey when he attempts to ride over Elena, who is disguised as an elderly, starved hag. Rather than leave him in that condition, Elena does the unthinkable and takes him back to the cottage. The second thread deals with Elena's attempt to turn the arrogant Prince Alexander into a humble, loving person. This is where the romance element enters.
The third element involves Elena's attempt to defeat a demonic wizard who has just taken over the neighboring kingdom where Alexander's brother has become the king-in-waiting. This is the only part of the story where there is any sword and sorcery action.
The plot is straight-forward, even simple. Lackey has done an excellent job in creating and explaining how magic and the Tradition work in this particular place. While the medieval environment is stereotypical, the magical system is thoughtfully done. Elena is a very well developed character. Other characters are not as well developed, but fit well into the fairy Godmother context.
Except for one sexual scene, this would be an excellent choice for older children and young teens. The story is easily read with larger than usual print and very good white space. Binding is average. The chapter openings feature Elena with wand and stars and will likely appeal to a younger audience. Cover art is realistic and shows Elena, Alexander, and the cottage. It's not especially attractive, but it is reasonably faithful to the story.
Lackey is a notably popular author so that any of her novels will be in demand. This is not her best work, but it is a solid and interesting story. Again, the magical environment is different and very well done. For larger fantasy collections, especially where romantic fantasy is popular.
"Even though the streets of Alberin were being lashed by a rainstorm and the wind was so strong that one could not walk through the gusts in a straight line, the two men who emerged from th mansion were relieved to be outside again. They never once looked back as they hurried to the outer gates of the grounds, and they ignored a guard who cheerily waved a bottle at them as they walked out into the street."
Thus begins Glass Dragons, the second in the "Moonworlds Saga" with Voyage of the Shadowmoon being the first novel in the series. These are substantial stories with considerable text, a complex plot, and a large number of characters. While there is a substantial amount of action, and the plot reveals new and interesting situations, the quality of the characterization, especially the back and forth between Andry and Wallas, is especially strong [sometimes most comical].
The "glass dragons" are encapsulated mages who have turned themselves into dragons of great power. The main thread of the story is the attempt by a large group of magicians to create the Dragon Wall, a massive magical creation that will give unbelievable power to those who create it -- if they succeed. Terikel, well known from the earlier volume as a powerful female magician, will attempt to hinder or destroy the Dragon Wall. Others will attempt to destroy her. Too, there are the usual conspiracies and rebellions to toss the main characters about. Although two of the characters are vampires, both known from the earlier story, this is not really a vampire novel. Rather, it is a comment on the nature of human kind, culture, and values in the midst of a wonderfully told story of fantastic adventure
Ellisa Mitchell has created an attractive and most useful front matter map. Cover art by Todd Lockwood is true to the story and shows a notable scene from near the end of the story with three important characters, including Andry, atop a tower facing a "glass dragon." With so many characters and with the rapid pace of the story, a list of characters in the front would strengthen.
The Voyage of the Shadowmoon received excellent reviews and this volume is even better. McMullen's science fiction novels have also been excellent. While this the second novel in a series, it could be read as a stand-alone work. An essential selection for all but the smallest fantasy collection
"When men first came to Rukbat, a G-type star in the Sagittarian Sector, they settled upon its third planet and named it Pern. The had set out to create an idyllic, low-tech farmers' paradise, escaping the ravages of the late Nathi Wars."
Thus begins Dragon's Kin which could be a stand-alone novel or part of a series involving Kindan. Needless to say, there are several Pern novels and they have been most popular.
While the novel is an agreeable read for audiences of all ages, it will have particular appeal to older children and younger teens. The main character, Kindan, is about eleven years old when the story begins and is still relatively young when it ends. The title Dragon's Kin refers to the watch-wher, a member of the dragon family that has been largely ignored except for its use in mines where it has the ability to sense bad air and warn miners of impending problems. The watch-wher can also be used for rescue work.
Kindan and his family live in Camp Natalon where the miner Natalon expects to find an extensive seam of coal that can be mined for profit. If there is enough coal, the camp could become a Hold -- a more permanent settlement. Kindan's father Danil is bonded to the watch-wher Dask, the only one remaining in the camp. In a terrible accident, Danil, other miners,and Dask are kill. Without a watch-wher, the risk of other, perhaps worse, accidents is substantially increased. Kindan must train and bond with a new watch-wher if the mining is to continue, and that will be a challenge because he does not know how to raise or train a watch-wher. A watch-wher egg is secured at great cost and the challenge begins.
Besides the main thread of whether or not Kindan can train the watch-wher, there is another about his education from the new and very demanding camp Harper and his relationships with others in the camp. Too, there is a mysterious girl about Kindan's age who appears and then disappears.
McCaffrey and the Pern stories are so popular that this is nearly an automatic purchase for any heroic fantasy collection. It would be an excellent vehicle to introduce older children to fantasy and Pern since it is an easy comfortable read, but with some tension. Main characters are nicely developed and there are both a strong male and a strong female hero [and she is physically challenged]. Without being didactic, there are important lessons that Kindan must learn and the reader will benefit from that.
"Thunder rumbled overhead like a distant battering ram, pounding at the hasp of heaven. The harsh grumble was muted in the stone-walled room, but the waterfall sound of pounding rain came through the single open window on the windy breath of the chilly spring night."
Thus begins Wind Rider's Oath which is the third in a series of novels about Bahzell Bahnakson of the Horse Stealer Hradani. The previous volume was The War God's Own. Although the newer volume comes to a reasonable close, it is clearly not the end of the series.
While Weber is best known for his Honor Harrington and other science fiction novels [my favorite is Path of the Fury], he has also created a solid heroic fantasy series featuring Bahzell Bahnakson. The Hradani have many human features and attributes, but they are unusually strong and considerably larger than humans. Bahzell is about seven and one-half foot tall. Hrandani also have a battle rage that makes them unusually fierce opponents. As you might imagine, a tribe called Horse Stealer and with a decidedly warlike nature is not popular with its neighbors, especially the Sothoii who have a very special relationship with horses.
Prince Bahzell, with his companion the bard Lord Brandark, along with a small group of guards, is the unofficial Hradani ambassador to Sothoii's powerful, and thoughtful, Baron Tellian. Tellian has a variety of enemies and the wide-spread hatred of the Hradani will add to his problems. Besides human conspirators eager to weaken or eliminate Tellian, two dark gods have also decided to intervene in order to create chaos.
Prince Bahzell, besides being the son of the Horse Stealer's ruler, is a champion of Tomanak, the God of War and Justice. Tomanak has plans for Bahzell and he will be severely challenged. However, Bahzell is not alone. Dame Kaeritha Seldansdaughter is also a champion of Tomanak. She too will face powerful evil, although Bahzell is the main thread of the story.
Another important character is Tellian's daughter. Attractive, intelligent, and wise beyond her fourteen years. Leeana will face difficult choices and challenges. Her story has cross-over appeal to female YA fantasy readers.
The front matter includes almost three pages that list notable characters beginning with Alfar Axeblade and ending with Yalith Tamalthfressa. Main characters are nicely developed and the other characters are well described and interesting. A major new development in this story is the appearance of the coursers, magically endowed horse-like creatures of unusual size and strength. They have telepathic powers and in a few cases will bond with riders who become "wind riders." They too are characters.
The plot is reasonably complex, but easily understood as it unfolds. There are three main threads. First is the story of the human conspirators and their attempt to threaten Tellian and his Lord Warden Festian. Second is the story of the two champions and their fight against the actions of the dark gods and their minions. Third is the story of Leeana who has become a pawn in the attempts to harm Tellian [she is his only child and he has no other heirs]. There is considerable action, but Weber also does quite a good job of describing the setting and the interaction between characters in an appealing, page-turning manner. The story line is fast moving, but there is always enough context to make events logical and believable [if you believe in dark and light gods].
In many respects, this series reminds me of Eddings' earlier work. The various gods, the back and forth dialog between main characters, the well developed settings, and well described action make the series an essential purchase for any library where Eddings' work has been popular and for most others as well.
Besides an action filled cover by Clyde Caldwell featuring the two champions, and the list of characters, two excellent maps aid the reader, and there is a helpful introduction to the gods of light and the dark gods in the back matter. The book is attractively designed and easily read. Binding is average.
"It had been fourteen years since Lord Challo Hashan was banished from court, but as the years passed he did not grow resigned. Instead he turned bitter in his exile: his once-thin frame became gaunt, lines of discontent etched themselves in his face, his mouth turned downward in a permanent sneer of unhappiness."
Thus begins Daughter of Exile which appears to be a stand-alone fantasy novel by a new author.
When Challo was exiled, his daughter Angarred was four years old. Now she is eighteen and living a solitary life in an increasingly run-down manor. Challo has been selling property to maintain himself and his attempts to regain standing at court. Little is left. When Challo is slain while on a hunt, and an attempt is made on Angarred, she decides to sell what remains of the family property and goods and go to the capital city to seek help from the King in finding those who killed her father. Thus begins, a long and intriguing journey where she will discover her true self and make new friends -- and new enemies.
In the capital, Angarred's thread-bare clothing and country ways create problems in her attempt to seek help from the King. But she soon makes new friends and begins to find a place for herself. Soon, however, her father's death becomes less important when she discovers an evil prince, a "hollowed out" king, a powerful and evil magician, and war with a neighboring country.
The two main characters are Angarred and Mathewar, a powerful magician who has lost his wife and daughter and erases their memory with a powerful drug. The two must find a way to defeat the evil magician and his use of a fabled magic stone with its unusual powers. Both characters are well developed and there are several appealing secondary characters as well.
The plot is somewhat complex with some surprises at the end. Fewer plot elements would strengthen and allow better development for the final part of the book. Writing is clear and quite appealing.
The physical book is well designed, beginning with an appealing and attractive cover done by Kinuko Craft who has done recent covers for Patricia McKillip. A map would interest. Type is clear and reasonably large. White space facilitates easy reading. Binding is average.
While the cover notes that this is "romantic fantasy," it will appeal to most heroic fantasy readers. The strong female heroine will certainly appeal to female readers and this is a good cross-over title for female teen readers. While not as substantial as McKillip's work, Daughter of Exile should appeal to many of her readers. For larger heroic fantasy collections.
"Chu-sa Mitsuharu Hadeishi, captain of the Henry R. Cornuelle, was sitting in the ruins of the senior officer's wardroom when his personal comm chimed. The thin little Nisei gentleman sat down his cup of tea on a utility table covered with departmental readiness reports and tapped his comm-band live."
Thus begins The House of Reeds which is the second volume, following Wasteland of Flint, in the "Time of the Sixth Sun" series. The time of the sixth sun is the contemporary setting of the story while earlier "suns" represent the times of other space-faring civilizations that have come and gone. In this future, Mexica, with the partnership of Imperial Japan, is the dominate power.
In order to make Terozomoc, the weak and foolish youngest son of the Mexica Emperor, appear to be fierce and competent, the Flower Priests plan a "war of flowers" for the planet Jagan. A native uprising will occur with some casualties, but the Mexica will easily win and there will be an opportunity for the dissolute prince to be heroic. However, the uprising becomes be more complicated than planned when an unknown power decides to support the lizard-like Jehanan in their uprising.
Besides the Prince and his two Skawtish Eagle Knight body guards, various Imperial agents and officials play interesting and appropriate roles. Itzpalicu, the accomplished master agent for The Mirror Which Reveals the Truth [the Imperial intelligence service], manipulates with little regard for the human consequences. While the story opens with Mitsuharu Hadeishi, he does not play a major role in this story nor does his ship.
While much of the story is devoted to the war, the best part is the story of Gretchen Anderssen, the xenoarchaeologist for the Honorable Chartered Company [which is not honorable at all], and her two colleagues, David Parker [pilot] and the Hesht Magdalana [technician and computer specialist]. The three have been sent unexpectedly to Jagan to investigate rumors of a First Sun artifact. Needless to say, searching for a hidden artifact in the middle of a war is quite a challenge. This artifact may be hidden somewhere in the House of Reeds located at some distance from the space port. One of the most interesting characters is Malakar, the elderly female lizard teacher and custodian of Jehannan history. She will help Gretchen in her attempt to find the artifact and understand its purpose. Gretchen will also learn that the Jehannan are not native to this planet.
The plot is complex and well orchestrated. It is not difficult to understand, but there are enough unexpected twists to keep the pages turning and to provide a better understanding of these cultures. Major characters are well developed, but some of the secondary ones are stereotypical. Gretchen continues to develop and evolve. The mind wipe briefly mentioned at the end of the previous volume has not removed her "sorcerous" abilities. In fact, they seem to be even more powerful and that provides considerable opportunity for future volumes.
There was too much soldierish violence by the Skewtish Knights [almost a caricature of SF shootem up] in the latter part of the book and that detracted from what was otherwise an excellent story.
The text is quite readable although the font is smaller than some. The jacket illustration by Chris Moore is wonderful. It shows Gretchen and Magdalena in front of a futuristic Mexica setting. The front matter contains a list of the main characters and a list of the ranks in the Imperial Mexica fleet, army, and marines. A brief historical overview in the back matter provides helpful historical context on Jagan.
Harlan has created an excellent series with a different, complex, and most appealing setting. With a few exceptions, the characters are real and fully developed. The plot quickly engages the reader and the pages turn quickly. Descriptions are clear and effective. There is more than enough action, there is much to consider or ponder, and Gretchen, Parker, and Magdalena are a wonderful team. This volume ends in a bit of a cliff hanger and readers will need to wait to see what happens next. Highly recommended for all science fiction collections.
"First there was darkness, complete and absolute. No sounds to disconcert him, no conscious thoughts to concern him. Then came awareness of darkness and everything changed. He felt a pressure against his back and legs, and a gentle thudding in his chest. Fear touched him."
Thus begins Swords of Night and Day which continues the story of Skilgannon the Damned and the Eternal Jianna. This is the tenth volume in the "Drenai Saga" series and follows The White Wolf. Jianna, with considerable magical help, has been reborn many times and her evil empire is about to make another conquest. Skilgannon died 1000 years ago and was buried in secret by a prophet who foretold a vision in which he would return to life to do great deeds and perhaps atone for a great evil in his past.
While the setting is clearly heroic fantasy with considerable swords and sorcery, there is a science fictional element with machines of great power and an advanced technology hidden in a temple which has now disappeared. Among other things, this technology may be used for genetic creations resulting not only in the "reborn," but also in "joinings" where humans and animals are melded into fearsome, violent creatures [also called Jiamids].
An older magician, attempting to atone for his too good service for Jianna, has found the bones of Skilgannon and recreated him. He has also done the same for Druss, the legendary Drenai axe wielder. The two ancient heroes come together to stop Jianna, her Eternal Guard, her grand armies,and her fierce companies of Jiamids.
The story has three threads. First, Skillgannon and Druss, especially the latter, must become familiar with their new situation and rediscover their legendary skills. This is easier for Skillgannon than for the young man who will become Druss. Second, enemy forces must be defeated in battle, even though the odds are overwhelmingly against the good guys [the Drenai--descendants of those who fought with Druss centuries ago]. Finally, Skillgannon must find some way to destroy the power source that keeps the hidden and forbidden technology alive. If he can do that, there will be no more reborns and no more joinings. Jianna will no longer be eternal since she could not be reborn.
Characters are well developed, especially Druss and Skillgannon, but also some of the secondary characters. The humanity of the "good" Jiamids is especially well done. Jianna, although off stage for most of the book, is reasonably developed but might receive more attention.
Gemmel does a good job of mixing action, character development, and description so that the reader who has not read the earlier works can read this one without any particular difficulty.
The dust jacket features an evocative illustration by John Picacio that shows Skilgannon and the two swords with Jianna in the background [but she is not as beautiful here as the text suggests]. A clear and useful map serves as the frontispiece. Good white space and a reasonably large font makes reading easy.
Gemmel is extremely popular and this title should be a mandatory purchase for all but the smallest heroic fantasy collection. Both Skillgannon and Druss are appealing characters, and having them reborn provides an opportunity for more adventures for characters who died in previous stories. Skillgannon will be around for at least one more story in the future.
"Peter crouched over the fire, stirring the embers so that the sparks swarmed up like imps on the rocky walls of hell. Behind him, his shadow shook and flared across the wall and half the ceiling of our little bedroon, and the cracks between the floorboards shone like golden rivers in the darkness."
Thus begins Count Karlstein. Pullman is highly visible for his "His Dark Materials" series so this shorter and less ambiguous story should be held in all collections. The cover by Kevin Hawkes shows Count Karlstein looking scary and evil with Lucy and Charlotte, his young nieces, in the background. Diana Bryan has added wonderful black illustrations for each of the major characters. They are delightful, adding much to the book's charm and appeal. Each chapter opens with the image of the characters that dominates that part of the story.
Lucy and Charlotte have been brought to Castle Karlstein after their parents died in a shipwreck. They are very English and are avid readers of ghostly and scary romances.These influence how they react to danger and may seem somewhat strange to contemporary American readers.
The Count has made a deal with Zamiel, the Demon Huntsman. In exchange for one adult sacrifice, or two children, Zamiel has given Karlstein wealth and power. Zamiel will soon come to claim his due. The Count has planned that Lucy and Charlotte will be sacrificed. A variety of interesting characters are involved in attempting to prevent that from happening, but ....
The book is unusually well designed and that will be appreciated by adults and thoughtful children. The story would be a wonderful read-aloud with the range of characters, some curious, some ordinary, and others comical, plus the evil Count and his sneaky employee Herr Snivelwurst. The story is easily read.The plot interests, but is straight-forward and the characters are well developed. The Swiss setting is different, but not that different. Add this title if not held.
"Trembling, the boy crouched in the shadow of the bridge. He pressed his hot, wet face against the ancient stones and fought to stop the waves of nausea that swept through him."
Thus begins Secret Sacrament. Jordan has received awards for her young adult fiction and this work is highly regarded. It appears to be the first in a series, but I am unaware of sequels.
The wonderful color cover by the Dillons is attractive, true to the story, and immediately grabs the attention of the potential reader. The front matter includes a clear and helpful map and a list of characters.
Gabriel Vala is the son of a powerful merchant, living in the capital city of Navora, and enjoying the benefits of being a member of a powerful family in a powerful empire [Navoran]. However, all is not well. The Empire is failing with the Queen overcome by a corrupt and powerful magician. Gabriel does not want to be a merchant or manage the family business even when sorely pressed. Instead, he will become a healer. He has a special way with patients and his healing ways include some magical power.
Selected to join the priesthood of the Citadel as a Healer, Gabriel learns quickly and becomes visible to the Queen when he accompanies the Master Healer to heal her. Gabriel has some power in truth-telling and the Queen asks him to interpret difficult and frightening dreams. He does this well and soon earns the hatred of the Queen's advisor who does not welcome the truth and who wishes Gabriel slain.
When seven, Gabriel met a dying Shinali women and could not help her -- even when she cried for help. As the story moves forward, Gabriel leaves Navora and encounters the Shinali women Ashila with whom he will fall in love. The story, in a thoughtful way, discusses the encounter between two thoughtful, loving individuals from very different cultures. Gabriel stays with the Shinali, but he is unable to protect them or himself from the Navoran army.
Jordan writes very well. Main characters are nicely developed and the interactions are believable and keep the pages turning. While there are a variety of powerful, thoughtful messages here, the story is not didactic and flows very well. The setting is simple and convincing. The title clearly reveals the ending as does some dialog earlier in the story. My only disappointment, which says more about me than the story, was that the ending was sad -- certainly realistic, but still sad.I suspect that the sequels will place this in perspective and cause me to move my rating to **. For most YA collections, especially where Jordan's other works have been popular.
"On Dreamer's Plain, the gathering of delegations from the Twelve Crowns of Raine for the coronation of the Queen of Raine looked like an invading army. So the young transcriptor thought, gazing out a window as she awaited a visiting scholar."
Thus begins Alphabet of Thorn. McKillip is well known for her striking descriptions and intriguing plots as well as for fully developed characters in unusual situations and settings. Here the reader encounters two stories that will be united at the end. One is the story of the orphan Nepenthe who works in the Royal Library as a translator. She has a special gift for rare and unusual languages including those that are image-based. Nepenthe has known no life outside of the library and is quite content with her life.
The second story is that of Axis and Kane, Emperor and mage, who long ago ruled the known world and more. Axis and Kane were friends when they were very young and became inseparable as adults. He became the warrior king and Kane became an unusually powerful magician. Together, they defeated all before them.
A less important but still important story is that of Bourne, a magician from the Floating School, who falls in love with Nepenthe. Bourne has been asked to give a magical book, but untranslatable, at least to the School's magicians, to the Library to see if it can be translated. Nepenthe becomes the one to meet Bourne and take the book. Their encounter is a powerful one, but the encounter with the book is even more powerful. Nepenthe becomes addicted to teasing out its mysterious message in an alphabet made of thorns. However, when fully translated, the book's contents may mean the end of Raine and her world.
Other notable characters include the shy new Queen, an older but powerful female magician and a solid, thoughtful general. The Queen is young with her father dead unexpectedly. She seems unable to keep the realm together in the face of the powerful rulers of the twelve crowns. But there is more to the Queen than is recognized -- even by the Queen herself.
Binding is average. Print is reasonably clear but a little light. There is good white space.
A wonderful story and one of the author's best. Characters intrigue and sometime startle. The settings are fresh and convincing. The magic is well developed and fascinates. The plot is thoughtful and the way that the two stories are brought together at the end is artful and convincing. Too, McKillip has a wonderful way with words. This would be an outstanding audio book because of the power of her words and sentences. The jacket illustration by Kinuko Y. Craft is a marvel with two scenes of Nepenthe with one in the wood receiving the book from Bourne and the front cover showing her with the thorns, the sea, and the palace high above the ocean. The cover art is unusually attractive. For all heroic fantasy collections.
"Makenna had to stretch onto her toes to reach the small stone lamp, for the shelf that held it was higher than a grown woman's head, and she was only eleven. She'd drawn the fire rune in the sweet-smelling sawdust that littered the floor of Goodman Branno's workshop."
Thus begins Goblin Wood Makenna is the daughter of Ardis, a hedgewitch who had done much good for the small community surrounding. However, the church and the government [the Hierarchy] of the Realm of the Bright Gods has condemned all sorcery except its own and Ardis is killed by the villagers while Makenna watches. She takes revenge and flees northward toward the Goblin Wood and the Goblin Wall [intended to keep goblins out of the realm but long broken]. She has some small magical powers and unusual determination.
Makenna soon encounters goblins and they make her life miserable until she discovers how to earn their trust and place them in her debt. These are not the hugh goblins of Tolkin and others. THere they are smaller than humans, but are very intelligent with their own particular magical abilities such as starting fires.
Because of fierce attacks on its southern borders, the Realm intends to move many of its people north into Goblin country. This will upset the traditional balance between humans and goblins. Makenna becomes a general for the goblins in their attempt to save their homeland from invading humans who slay whatever goblins they encounter. She is quite successful and the Realm sends a powerful knight with a magical stone to defeat her. Tobin is that knight and he will do all in his power to defeat Makenna.
While there is clearly a message here about hate and discrimination, this is an adventure story with a strong female heroine who grows in strength and confidence as the story progresses. Tobin is also a strong person who must discover what his values really are and who to believe. Characters, including some of the goblins, are well drawn and interesting. The two main characters are fully developed. The setting appeals and rings true. An attractive, easily read front matter map by Gary Tong makes it easy to follow Makenna's journey as well as Tobin's. There is a substantial amount of action and there are enough close calls to keep the reader turning the pages anxiously.
Binding is average. Print and white space are good and the text is easily read.
Librarian Hilary Bell's earlier A Matter of Profit, a SF novel, was an ALA Best Book for Young Adults. Goblin Wood is well written with strong characters and an excellent plot. The cover art by Eric Bowman is faithful to the spirit of the story with an attractive Makenna and a scarry goblin in the wood. For all but the smallest heroic fantasy collections in public and school libraries.
"The day war was declared, a rain of telephones fell clattering to the cobblestones from the skies above Novy Petrograd. Some of them had half melted in the heat of re-entry; others pinged and ticked, cooling rapidly in the postdawn chill."Thus begins Singularity Sky . Set in the further 21st Century at a time when there human colonies are spread across space and where different colonies have very different attitudes and values. The New Republic planets were very much opposed to technology, except for the military and the police. This society has feudal elements amid a society somewhat like pre-revolutionary Russia. Rochard's World is part of the New Republic. It is attacked by the Festival, an advanced life form that is no longer human, but with dramatic technological capability and a strong belief that all should have access to information and entertainment. The Festival is especially interested in providing backward planets with technology designed to dramatically change their society. The technology is a "gift," but the Festival seeks entertainment from the recepients.
The United Nations exists not as a world government, but as a trouble shooter and mediator. The Eschaton is a powerful and free intelligence that is nearly all knowing and all powerful. It ruthlessly punishes those who seek to use time travel for military or other purposes. Such punishment could consist of destroying planets.
The New Republic, failing to understand the nature of the Festival and its advanced technology, sends a space fleet to destroy it. The fleet will use time travel technology to arrive at Rochard's World sooner than otherwise possible. Martin Springfield has been sent to the New Republic as an enginnering contractor [he is a space drive engineer] for the Admiralty. He will be working on the drives needed by the fleet to go to Rochard's World. He may be more than he seems. Rachel Mansour is an agent for the UN Committee on Multilateral Interstellar Disarmament charged to prevent inappropriate action during wartime, especially causality-violation devices [time travel]. She is an experienced and quite talented intelligence agent.
When the fleet leaves for Rochard's World, both Martin and Rachel will be aboard. If causality devices are used, they will try to prevent their use. They will also try to stay alive when the fleet attacks the unusually powerful Festival defenders.
Stross has done an excellent job in creating a creative and absorbing setting. While the societies and the worlds are somewhat commonplace, the Festival is certainly different and adds much to the story. Most of the characters are stereotypical, but Martin and Rachel are well done. There is enough action, but not enough for this to be space opera of