Title: Issola
Author: Steven Brust
First published July 1, 2001
256 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780312859275 (ISBN10: 0312859279)
Rating: 4.28
Overview
It’s been a while since I’ve seen the city lights. As a skilled assassin, I’ve been keeping a low profile until Lady Teldra, the courtly servant of the Dragonlord Morrolan, shows up.
Apparently, Morrolan and Aliera are missing and Sethra Lavode believes they’ve been taken by the Jenoine. Normally, I wouldn’t mess with these beings who control time and space, but I can’t abandon my friends.
It’s time to leave the shadows and enter the cosmic battle. After all, it’s better than waiting in the dark for something worse to come.
About the Author
Meet Steven Karl Zoltán Brust – an author whose works span across the fantasy and science fiction genres. Born on November 23, 1955, Brust has Hungarian roots and is known for being a part of The Scribblies – a group of writers that included Emma Bull, Pamela Dean, Will Shetterly, Nate Bucklin, Kara Dalkey, and Patricia Wrede.
He’s also a member of the Pre-Joycean Fellowship. In case you’re interested, we’ve even included a photo of him taken by David Dyer-Bennet.
Editoral Review
Issola by Steven Brust is a captivating entry in the Vlad Taltos series, featuring the titular character as he navigates a complex web of magic, politics, and relationships. Brust, a veteran author of fantasy and science fiction, brings his signature wit and creativity to the page, crafting a world that is both fantastical and believable.
The novel takes place in the Dragaeran Empire, a society of long-lived, physically imposing beings who are divided into seventeen Houses based on their ancestry and magical powers. Vlad, a human who has earned the respect and fear of many Dragaerans through his exploits as a master assassin and sorcerer, is drawn into a dangerous game of chess with an ancient, mysterious House known as Issola.
As he tries to unravel the secrets of Issola and protect those he loves, Vlad must confront his own past and his place in this complex society. One of the strengths of Issola is its character development.
Brust imbues each member of his sprawling cast with a unique voice and backstory, and he skillfully weaves these different threads together. Vlad, in particular, is a compelling protagonist, balancing his fierce independence and loyalty to his friends with his growing understanding of the wider world he inhabits.
His interactions with his allies and enemies are full of sharp dialogue and emotional nuance. The pacing of the novel is also strong.
Brust keeps the action moving with a deft hand, alternating between tense set pieces and introspective moments. The magical system he has created is both intricate and intuitive, and the scenes of sorcery are a highlight of the book.
Additionally, the world-building is rich and immersive, as readers explore different Houses and their customs. However, some readers may find the complex timeline of the Dragaeran Empire to be a hindrance.
Brust assumes a great deal of familiarity with the series up to this point, and newcomers may struggle to keep track of the various characters and factions. Additionally, some of the political machinations can feel convoluted or repetitive.
Overall, Issola is a strong addition to the Vlad Taltos series, and a worthwhile read for fans of fantasy and political intrigue. Brusts imaginative mind and sharp writing make for a compelling journey through the world of the Dragaeran Empire.
The Washington Post fully recommends this book to readers who are interested in exploring new worlds and appreciate the intricacies of a fascinating society.
