KnorraSky The Deception

I just finished reading KnorraSky The Deception by KS (RA Knowlton).

It was a terrible shame that I was so busy at work that I was not able to read KS' novel in one "hit", so to speak, and instead I read it in two time frames. It really was a book that was hard to put down.

I will state the down side first: KS' novel really needed a professional editor, and I apologise for having said this a few too many times before. But having said this, it really, really doesn't change the fact that the novel is a masterful creation. I will state some reasons why, but I will try to keep detail out of this critique so there are no spoilers.

1. The story has a good plot, but its strength is in characterisation, and in particular the Odyssey of the main character's personal conflicts. This was what the story is really about - how the mighty can fall and then come back stronger.
2. The story is not magic-rich - hardly at all. It really leans toward a realistic historical setting, but in a different world, but not entirely. Interestingly, the more "fantastical" happens in the second half of the novel.
3. KS has a great storytelling ability and the novel is full of emotion and tension for the characters. There are sacrifices, and villainy... all the sorts of things one wants from a fantasy.
4. KS is also a teacher. His story (as is a number of his shorts), imparts his views of what is right and wrong - not just in the simplistic evil vs good, but also on more subtle issues, such as religion, propaganda, honour, etc. He doesn't slap us in the face with it either - you have to be sensitive to pick this up.

All in all I enjoyed very much and I look forward to reading his next instalment. Good one, my friend!

I should really get around to reading everyone else's novels. Still haven't read OGO's either.

Thanks G!

The revised edition is corrected.