A Shadow in Summer

A Shadow in Summer
by Daniel Abraham

Huge, multi-volume epic fantasies have been all the rage in recent years, exemplified by the classic Tolkien works then expanded with series by George R.R. Martin, Robert Jordan, David Eddings, Stephen R. Donaldson, and the like. A Shadow in Summer, though it is the first volume in a quarter, feels considerably different. Instead of a faux medieval European-type background Abraham's "Long Price Quartet" has more of a middle-eastern or asian feel to it. The world of these novels is incredibly complex, detailed, gritty and believable. The plot of this novel is complex as well, with several focal characters, whose stories all criss-cross over each other in a multi-layered tale of conspiracy, faith, personal discovery, politics, bureaucracy and love. The characters are all strong and believable, and the "magic system" of this world is quite intriguing. You'll not find elves, gnomes, dragons, white-bearded wizards and epic quests here. But if you're interested in a complex, well-developed world, peopled by intriguing characters, whose stories you become emotionally involved in, I highly recommend giving A Shadow in Summer a try...you won't be disappointed. [This is the first volume in a quarter, of which the libraries do NOT own the other volumes -- try them through InterLibrary Loan: "A Betrayal in Winter", "An Autumn War" and "The Price of Spring".] -- recommended by Scott C. - Bennett Martin Public Library [subscribe to Scott's monthly booklist newsletter - It's All Geek to Me! - and many other newsletters...]

[ official Long Price Quartet page on the official Daniel Abraham web site ]

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