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yaj's review
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
kim_hoag's review against another edition
4.0
This is the second in the trilogy begun by Janissaries. I truly thought it would not be as good as the first since the mystery was solved and all questions answered. I expected mostly swords and battles à la a fantasy epic. Some of that was there, but there was also a great deal more depth than I presumed with even more questions arising. The captain of the Earth mercenaries transported to a planet populated by other time periods (a result of alien necessities), becomes a war leader and must, for the sake of all (no spoilers here) bring together various kingdoms. Pournelle's knowledge of people and political systems shows itself in the surprises and turns the plot takes. In such a world, even Machiavelli's principles makes a startling appearance. Mix in the science fiction elements and you have a very satisfying and original yarn.
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