"A fun fantasy"
Emperor Thomen has plenty to worry about already, but now
has looming another major crisis to contend with involving
the death of the very important Baron Forinel (see NOT
QUITE SCARAMOUCHE). The heir to the Barony, Miron is a
nasty individual who does not allow morals or scruples to
stand in the way of his achieving his aspirations; fidelity
to Miron is to one person: himself. However, on the positive side, very few people are privy to
the fact that Forinel died. Cullinane loyalists to the
crown come up with a rather simple solution. They use
magic to transform warrior Kethol into looking like Forinel
so he can serve in that post. However, malevolent Miron
will not allow the return of his half brother to
thwart his goals and he has an ally at the emperor's
court, the Dowager Empress Beralyn. Fantasy readers know that when Joel B. Rosenberg releases a
new tale it is an automatic winner. His latest "Not" tale
is the usual intelligent, exciting Dumas like action
fantasy story that makes magic seem real through strong
characters whether they are the "good guys" or the thugs.
NOT REALLY THE PRISONER OF ZENDA is a superb story set in a
vivid realm. The return of the "Not Exactly the Three
Musketeers" is a welcome treat even if they are frustrated
because they see their hope of opening their dream
establishment diminishing. This novel and its predecessors
are books not to be missed. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted June 12, 2003
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