1634: The Bavarian Crisis (The 1632 Universe)

This fictional account of historical events concerning the 30 Years War requires a reader to possess retentive memory for places, people and the detailed plot on the level of a role-playing game. The authors presume or require complete loyalty from the reader in possessing all prior novels in the series to appreciate any references to prior events, leading characters, plot developments and locational references. Contrast between historical and contemporary cultures/attitudes is highly entertaining, reflective and provocative in arousing comparative thinking. The entertainment is chiefly provided by conversations between principle characters and their contemporary religious attitudes and of those of the historical past. Cynicism is rampant and political dialogues provide ample fodder. Yet throughout there exists an element of humanism that puts the plot into the realm of believability. The flavor of the conversations between characters is crisp, humorous and witty. References to maps is required in order to derive any concept of locations, narrative understanding and sequence of events. At times the segues into political, dynastic analysis is tedious and potentially discardable. It interrupts the pacing of the plot without providing defensible consideration as a filler of needed information. Overall, this novel requires devotional loyalty to maintain the readers interest in pursuing a tedious plot. Yet, the novel itself, it's character development, event sequencing, character conversations as topical analysis are intriguing, thought-provoking and potentially addictive. The authors achieve anticipation for the reader to continue each time the book is placed down and laid to rest until a time is available to resume reading. This achievement is masterful.

Overall a good read & worth the price. However, I was distracted by the number of characters on occasion, & wondered whether they were all necessary for the development of the plot. It could be difficult to keep track of everyone in spots. That part of it may be of greater interest to a history buff.

Each of the bookis in this series has been a small treasure - some very good, some just plain excellent. What I most like about the writing is the in-depth grasp of history of the period that Flint and his co-writers display. Coupled with the creativity needed to juxtapose a good-sized chunk of late 20th early 21st century cultural mores and technology it produces an eminently readable treat for the mind. This current volume ranks as one of my favorite, especially introducing the concept of serendipity to influencing the course of events and thus history in the Bavarian Electorate. I could go on, but let me just say I'm delighted and thoroughly entertained. Keep them coming!