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A review by assaphmehr
Dark of the Moon by P.C. Hodgell
5.0
I've recently decided to re-read this excellent epic fantasy cycle, and review as I go.
What to Expect
A highly entertaining story, continuing from where God Stalk left off. Hodgell is now exposing more of the Kencyrath culture and world. We get more of the back stories and histories of the characters, as well as the expected political machinations culminating in an epic battle.
Structurally, the story alternates between Jame (the protagonist of God Stalk) and Tori (her twin). They are each only vaguely aware of each other, and lead different adventures from vastly differing perspectives -- all naturally culminating together at the grand finale.
What I liked
Hodgell's story-telling and world-building are top-notch, her story pacing is excellent, and she balances light and dark themes perfectly. I love the tantalising glimpses into Jame's past, and the building tension around her. Torisen, while he has his annoying blind spots, is also a very deep and engaging character. One can't help but feel immersed in the story, love the characters, be glued to plot, and wish to learn more.
What to be aware of
The story builds up on the previous volume. While referenced events are explained in short, it always helps to read in order. The latest installment of the series (book 8) was published last year -- 35 years on from the first volume. I believe the series is still not complete, though I expect GRRM fans will likely not mind this in the least. I certainly don't, as the stories make an excellent read, even if they leave you hungering for more.
Summary
A highly recommended series. This is epic fantasy done right, with perfect balance of light and dark, and excellent, slowly-building pacing. I'm off to re-read the rest of the series (and read those newer volumes for the first time). If you love fantasy, I strongly suggest you add it to your TBR pile.
--
[a:Assaph Mehr|14422472|Assaph Mehr|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1518065419p2/14422472.jpg], author of [b:Murder In Absentia|29500700|Murder In Absentia (Felix the Fox, #1)|Assaph Mehr|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1457914061s/29500700.jpg|46845657]: A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
What to Expect
A highly entertaining story, continuing from where God Stalk left off. Hodgell is now exposing more of the Kencyrath culture and world. We get more of the back stories and histories of the characters, as well as the expected political machinations culminating in an epic battle.
Structurally, the story alternates between Jame (the protagonist of God Stalk) and Tori (her twin). They are each only vaguely aware of each other, and lead different adventures from vastly differing perspectives -- all naturally culminating together at the grand finale.
What I liked
Hodgell's story-telling and world-building are top-notch, her story pacing is excellent, and she balances light and dark themes perfectly. I love the tantalising glimpses into Jame's past, and the building tension around her. Torisen, while he has his annoying blind spots, is also a very deep and engaging character. One can't help but feel immersed in the story, love the characters, be glued to plot, and wish to learn more.
What to be aware of
The story builds up on the previous volume. While referenced events are explained in short, it always helps to read in order. The latest installment of the series (book 8) was published last year -- 35 years on from the first volume. I believe the series is still not complete, though I expect GRRM fans will likely not mind this in the least. I certainly don't, as the stories make an excellent read, even if they leave you hungering for more.
Summary
A highly recommended series. This is epic fantasy done right, with perfect balance of light and dark, and excellent, slowly-building pacing. I'm off to re-read the rest of the series (and read those newer volumes for the first time). If you love fantasy, I strongly suggest you add it to your TBR pile.
--
[a:Assaph Mehr|14422472|Assaph Mehr|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1518065419p2/14422472.jpg], author of [b:Murder In Absentia|29500700|Murder In Absentia (Felix the Fox, #1)|Assaph Mehr|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1457914061s/29500700.jpg|46845657]: A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.