Publishers Weekly
11/20/2023
Modesitt takes his Saga of Recluse series in a new direction in its 23rd volume (after Fairhaven Rising), an atmospheric adventure tale that stands surprisingly well on its own. Alyiakal has always wanted to be a mage, but because his limited magical abilities don’t exactly fit the usual specifications, he signs on to the military to become a Mirror Lancer instead. Before leaving home, however, he meets a Adayal, a woman with a mystical connection to the Great Forest in Jakaafra. She and the trees help to bolster Alyiakal’s magic and provide him with some early, illicit tutelage, though his increased skills could disqualify him from becoming a Mirror Lancer. As he goes on to complete his combat training, he keeps his magic under wraps, even as it grows ever stronger, evolving into an ability to manipulate order and chaos. After graduating, he is assigned to the border, where he fends off invaders and carefully navigates military politics to avoid detection. As with previous books in the series, the plot moves slowly, but exciting magic battles and an endearing hero will keep readers invested. Series fans and newcomers alike will be rewarded. (Jan.)
From the Publisher
Praise for From the Forest
“In the tradition of Pern, Darkover, and the Vorkosigan saga, the Saga of Recluce series is sf with fantasy woven throughout that illuminates a vast, imaginary world.”—Booklist
“It’s a good time and pure comfort food. Bring on the next.”—Nerds of a Feather
“Modesitt takes his Saga of Recluse series in a new direction in its 23rd volume (after Fairhaven Rising), an atmospheric adventure tale that stands surprisingly well on its own.”—Publishers Weekly
Praise for Fairhaven Rising
“Extraordinary.” —Publishers Weekly
Praise for The Mongrel Mage
USA Today Bestseller
“No writer does it better.”—Kirkus
“Smart, thoughtful, and entertaining.”—Pat's Fantasy Hotlist
Praise for Outcasts of Order
USA Today Bestseller
“Always a pleasure to abide in Modesitt's universe, if only for a few hours or days.”—Kirkus Reviews
Praise for The Mage-Fire War
USA Today Bestseller
“Readers with a fondness for family sagas will appreciate the focus on day-to-day life”—Publishers Weekly
“I don’t think I’ve disliked a single one of Modesitt’s Recluce books but I was still a bit surprised . . . how quickly [The Mage-Fire War] has become one of my favorite books in the series.”—The Arched Doorway
