ISBN: 0-553-56113-8 Order from: Amazon.com
An well-written but overly ambitious adventure with an assortment of characters, some fairly intelligent and mature; with fighting, magic, discussions of politics, religion and history.
Reviewed by David on December 09, 1998
Genre: Fantasy (High Fantasy, Intrigue, Weird Science, War)
Synopsis: In a world vaguely resembling 19th century Europe, where magic and steam technology are well integrated and are fueling an industrial revolution, the history exerts an inordinate pressure on contemporary politics. Only twelve years ago a Napoleon-like conqueror was defeated, in a war filled with brutality, death and pain. Malachy Kidd, once a brilliant soldier-priest from Ilbeoria, lost his sight and his hope in the war. His eye sockets filled with silver orbs, bitterness and despair blind him more effectively then his wounds.
But even older history hangs heavily over the uneasy peace. Centuries before, the legendary, god-like conqueror Dost Keerana had, for a lifetime, built a continent-wide empire still unequalled for its power and brutality. Considered a myth by some, and a demon incarnate by the Ilbeorian priests, the downtrodden nomads hail him as a savior, longing for his prophesied return to restore the empire and humble the civilized nations.
Full Review: The plot follows several characters as the rumors of Dost reborn stir up the already high tensions between Ilbeoria, the industrialized naval power, and Strana. Strana is a land-based empire, strong but resentful of its erstwhile ally Ilbeoria's trade-based progress.
There are several original aspects in this adventure-filled novel. The political landscape borrows quite a bit from 19-th Europe: there are clear analogues of England, Russia, France, India and Central Asia. The foreign phrases are also borrowed, although the mock-Russian could stand some proof-reading to avoid unintended humor. However, other than the superficial aspects, the characteristics of these countries are not really carried through.
Another interesting aspect is the magic. Commonplace and undergoing integration with technology, we see things like aeromancy used to lift team-powered airships and angel-like paratroopers. Semi-mechanical armor powered by spells replaces tanks, but no chemical firearms are in use.
In addition, the book places repeated emphasis on religious discussions and beliefs. Ultimately, the characters seem to derive ethical maturity in the process. The source of evil is explained by self-absorption and greed, instead of the mindlessly cruel megalomaniacs common in the fantastic fiction.
The book ultimately suffers from trying too much: the extraordinary task of exploration of multiple cultures, outlooks, religions and ethics, from four or five points of view, overwhelms the more ordinary skill of the author. The core plot of adventure, fighting and romance is better handled, and carries the book to the level of successful entertainment.
Overall: 6; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 5; World-building: 5.5; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 1998, Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group (Bantam Spectra), December 1998, Mass market paperback, 447 pages
ISBN: 0-553-56113-8 Order from: Amazon.com