The Raven must work with the Kaan brood, protectors of the Balia dimension, to repair the damage done and save Balia. Dragons, barbarian hordes, sorcerers, demonic summonings, shape-shifters, and the threat of worldwide devastation are all tossed into the mix as the tale unfolds. It is an epic tale and Barclay tells it with a mastery that is astonishing for only a second novel. The plot has multiple layers and multiple story lines. The characterization is rich and detailed.
Individual characters have their own lives and struggles beyond the central story.
Yet, at no time does the tale bog down under the weight of the details. As an added bonus, the Chronicles of the Raven are just that, a series of tales. This means that we can expect to see more of the Raven and more of James Barclay. In fact the next installment is due in 2001, if you can survive the wait. More of his opinions are available on our Book Reviews pages.