Shadow Magic

Starred review from June 1, 2009
This entertaining sequel to 2008’s fantasy epic Havemercy
extends Jones and Bennett’s successful blend of cultural diversity and social commentary into postwar diplomacy. After defeating the Ke-Han Empire, loosely based on Japan’s shogun tradition, the kingdom of Volstov, reminiscent of imperial Rome, sends an odd peace delegation to the Ke-Han capital, which is reeling from defeat and the consequent ritual suicide of its emperor. Quirky magician Caius Greylace and brusque General Alcibiades present Volstov’s view of the convoluted political intrigue that ensues, while the appealing young Ke-Han prince Mamoru and his ultra-loyal personal servant Kouje flee the wrath of Mamoru’s brother, the insane new emperor Iseul. Deft characterizations even of minor players, broad humor, convincing dialogue and sure-handed timing, especially in the dueling scenes, make this novel an outstanding example of world-building and good old-fashioned fun.

July 15, 2009
The war between Volstov and Ke-Han has ended, thanks to the metallic dragons of Volstov, and now the peace begins. Charged with opening diplomatic relations and providing for a peaceful future, two men from each country try to forge a unique understanding and overcome the turmoil of a peace almost as deadly as the chaos of war. In this sequel to "Havemercy", coauthors Jones and Bennett explore the "other side" of the Volstov/Ke-Han divide in a tale of shifting loyalties and clashing cultures. VERDICT Expert storytelling and an invigorating new universe make this a strong fantasy addition for genre fans.

Copyright 2009 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2009
At the end of Havemercy (2008), Volstov was victorious over the devastated Ke-Han. Now Volstov sends a delegation to Ke-Han to negotiate the peace, but it arrives inauspiciouslyjust after the Ke-Han emperors ritual suicide. The negotiations, fraught with cultural misunderstandings and buried resentment, do not progress, and they are interrupted when the new emperor declares his innocent younger brother Mamoru a traitor. Two Vostovic delegates, magician Caius Greylace and General Alcibiades, are suspicious of the new emperor, but it is Mamoru, on the run with his devoted servant Kouje, who uncovers the depth of his brothers betrayal. Carrying forward Havemercys character-driven narrative structure, the sequel delivers plenty of thrilling action in its latter half, though some important elements, such as the workings of blood magic, are underdeveloped. But the characters are the real draw here. Foppish, shrewd Caius and stolid, uncompromising Alcibiades make an entertaining sideshow, while the delicate, meaningful changes of Mamoru and Kouje virtually sing. A must-read for Havemercy fans that also stands strikingly well on its own.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)