SFF

Arcanum

by Simon Morden
Orbit: Hachette. Jan. 2014. 450p. ISBN 9780316220101. pap. $17. FANTASY
COPY ISBN
A thousand years after the fall of Rome, Europe has redeveloped a civilization that allows for the flow of trade among states (when not engaged in war), easier methods of farming, the preservation of knowledge, and time for occasional celebrations—all owing to the magic that is controlled by the powerful, secretive hexmasters. A few people, however, have noticed signs that magic is fading: unicorns have disappeared almost entirely from the forests, and the hexmasters are no longer approachable. The future of the Palatinate of Carinthia may lie in the knowledge possessed by a novice magic user, an unassuming librarian, and a Jewish scholar and his educated, independent-minded daughter, particularly when the water stops flowing, the lights go out, and enemies make good their threat of war.
VERDICT Morden (The Lost Art; "Metrozone" series) has created a version of the Middle Ages caught in the transition from magic to science. Vividly drawn characters, a compassionate understanding of medieval daily life, and the ability to combine action scenes with domestic and philosophic interludes make Morden's latest novel both an entertaining journey and a learning experience.
Reviewed by Jackie Cassada , Dec 01, 2013
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

FICTION

L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future, Vol. 40: The Best New SF & Fantasy of the Year
FICTION

The Sword Unbound
by Hanrahan, Gareth
FICTION

Asunder
by Hall, Kerstin
FICTION

The Witchstone
by Neff, Henry H
FICTION

Yoke of Stars
by Lemberg, R.B
FICTION

Haunt Sweet Home
by Pinsker, Sarah
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?