This particular version of the book was the “author’s preferred edition”. I first read this novel several years ago immediately after finishing the Empire trilogy, and I recall being underwhelmed. I can’t say how much the story was changed, since I don’t see anything in particular that stands out, but I think the intervening years have given me more perspective on the story.
It can be difficult to wrap up a massive story with iconic and popular characters and then move it forward without repetition. One look at the Dragonlance core sequence is enough to see how difficult it can be to make solid progress. In this case, the author avoids the problem of retread by exploring two untouched areas of the Riftwar: the maturing of two young nobles and a journey through the Empire of Kesh.
Erland and Borric are not the strongest characters in the beginning, so to moderate the annoyance, veterans James and Locklear are brought along on the adventure. In fact, both characters experience life-changing events, which continues the process of continuing the stories of the older generation while introducing the heroes of the next.
One interesting aspect of this book is the increase in adult themes, particularly the strong sexual undertones within the Empress’ palace in Kesh. This does a capable job of painting the picture when it comes to Kesh and its differences from the Kingdom. Given that most of the prominent characters are male, Kesh becomes a faux-Middle Eastern sexual fantasy. Gorgeous royal women wearing almost nothing are ready and willing to serve in every respect, and the princesses are even more adventurous.
In fact, the Empire of Kesh seems to be the author’s reworking of the society in the Empire trilogy, rendered a bit more sexually alluring for the sake of male fans of the saga. For some, it will be excessive; for others, it won’t go quite far enough. The central mystery is interesting, and holds just enough potential political fallout to make it more than a simple retread.
Rating: 8/10
Add A Comment