Reviews

Ars Magica by Judith Tarr

scheu's review against another edition

4.0

A story of the temptation and corruption of power based on the real-life Pope Sylvester II. It was considerably more entertaining than I'd expected, mostly because the mood of the book was so similar to the Ars Magica game. I don't know offhand which came first. Worth checking out if you have an interest in high magic or medieval history.

avrilhj's review against another edition

3.0

Okay, but definitely not as good as other of her books that I"ve read.

duplica123's review

4.0

This is a historical fantasy of how a young peasant monk rose to be the Roman Catholic Pope in the 10th and 11th century. Ms. Tarr based almost all her characters on real people and real historical events. History also records rumors which said Pope Sylvester II, known to the readers as Gilbert, used magic and the forbidden Arts. Ms. Tarr took this rumor and turned it into a fascinating story of a young monk's rise to power helped by friends, his own resourcefulness and dedication, as well as a little help from his study of magic. The story also emphasizes that nothing comes without a price, as Gilbert is always haunted by death and suspicion.
A great story, especially if you enjoy historical fantasy. Anyone who knows the time period would probably love Ms. Tarr's references to historical information.

hspindlew's review

adventurous mysterious reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

wyvernfriend's review

4.0

An interesting history of Gerbert of Aurillac later Pope Sylvester in the years before 1000 ad. About him and magic and politics and it reads like history as most Judith Tarr novels do