ISBN: 0-441-00788-0 Order from: Amazon.com
A fairly pleasant adventure with likable characters, and simple, predictable plot.
Reviewed by David on August 24, 2001
Genre: Fantasy (Magic, Intrigue)
Synopsis: Tig, the rather reluctant hero of the liberation of Gil (see Lady in Gil) is happy to retreat into research of antique scrolls and obscure cults. Unfortunately, politics cannot be ignored, and Tig, the erstwhile hero and the brother of the new king is forced into a political marriage. Not only is he denied his favorite books, but his life becomes a maelstrom of intrigue, with some parties trying to kill him, others to capture him, and yet more trying to get his loyalty. But why is a powerless librarian considered such a threat? Perhaps not everyone believes that the guardian magic of Gil was destroyed?
Full Review: This is a good, sometimes humorous, but generally serious and fast-paced adventure. It forms a good sequel to Lady in Gil and ties several threads in a satisfying manner. While not wildely original, it's somewhat less predictable than its predecessor, and provides plenty of chuckles and cliffhangers. Not to mention sighs of relief.
This is a nice, pleasant fantasy, that entertains through adventure and engaging characters, without breaking new ground or creating exotic worlds.
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 4.5; World-building: 4.5; Originality: 4.5;
Copyright date 1997, Berkley Publishing Group (Ace Books), December 2000, Mass-market paperback, 295 pages
ISBN: 0-441-00788-0 Order from: Amazon.com