Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner
Sailing to Sarantium
Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Guy Gavriel Kay
Class/Genre: Fantasy
Series: Sarantine Mosaic # 1
Harper Prism, 1999, $24.00, 438 pp.
Valerius II has attained his life goal when he replaces his uncle as the Emperor of Sarantium. Rumors have persisted, ever since Valerius I took control twelve years ago during a period of bloody chaos, that his nephew, taking full advantage of the mess, managed to attain the throne for him. To honor his own ascent to the Golden Throne, Valerius II orders the renowned mosaicist Martinian to construct a great temple. However, he feels too old to make the perilous journey and knows his best student needs a diversion. Thus, the great artisan persuades Crispin to go in his place.
Crispin remains grieving over the deaths of his family due to the plague ravaging his home city. He lives for his art only and no longer is politically correct. His trek to the legendary city is fraught with danger from mortal and immortal beings. His presence in the legendary city leads to more confrontations and a growing list of enemies. As Crispin inadvertently becomes involved in conflicting conspiracies, he continues to work on the project of a lifetime.
Very few writers of fantasy can take a historical base and convert it into a fabulous tale. That is where the talent of Guy Gavriel Kay surfaces in every one of his novels. His latest quest, SAILING TO SARANTIUM, is definitely going to land on science fiction and fantasy fans top book lists of the year. The details such as describing mosaicism can slow the plot down a bit. Still, overall the story line is filled with action, authentic historical tidbits and background, and a dose of magic that all blends into a fabulous adventure. The characters are all first rate as politics, art, and religion meet in Sarantium.
Harriet Klausner
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner
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