Scion of Cyador

Set in the fantasy series the Saga of Recluse and following the characters featured in Magi'i of Cyador, this novel advances the story of Lorn. He is a brilliant man from a respected family who uses his combined prowess as a talented soldier and a magical adept to foresee problems slightly before they occur and then ruthlessly deal with them, so they don't cause worse catastrophes. He's aided in his quest to keep his beloved city of Cyador safe by his magical use of a looking glass in which he can see what his enemies and loved ones are doing. His helpmate and consort, Ryalth, is a singular and exceptionally talented woman, the head of her own merchant house, a rarity for a female in Cyador. Her advice is a constant source of aid and inspiration to Lorn. Making life more precarious is the failure of the magic in the towers that power the army's lances. Also, Cyador's emperor is dying, and he hasn't yet picked a successor. As the story progresses, Lorn becomes ever more able as a commander and magician, and the challenges he faces grow in scope as scores of political enemies, hordes of barbarians and various ever deadlier assassins threaten him and his family. Though the outcome of who will be the next emperor of Cyador is never in doubt, Modesitt meticulously catalogues the details that go into Lorn's rise to greatness. Military buffs should enjoy the stupidity of the army's decisions, while marveling at the fantastic swath one heroic man armed with a magic mirror can cut through politics. (Sept.)