MADreads

When war ends

January 20th, 2007 Jane J. - Central Library

The Tonk and the Eastils have been at war for over 300 years in Holly Lisle’s Talyn: A Novel of Korre.  Both sides use conventional ground forces and Shielders who are able to use magic as a weapon.  Talyn is a Shielder for the Tonk.  She’s been a soldier since her magic awoke and Talyn expects to die a soldier. 

Though the war is hard, a sudden peace comes a little harder.  The Feegash, known for their diplomatic and peace-brokering abilities, have entered the fray.  Soon the leaders in both countries have agreed to lay down their weapons and disband their armies.  Talyn sees her comrades depart for jobs in farflung places but decides to stay in her hometown near her family.  As one of the few Shielders left in the area Talyn begins to notice odd things about the Feegash diplomats.  Her tentative attempts to investigate set in motion a series of events that make it clear that “peace” isn’t always what it seems.  

Complex characterization and plotting made Talyn an engrossing and sometimes difficult novel.  Why and who we fight is a compelling theme and though I read this one almost cover-to-cover, I’m still not sure whether I loved it or not.

Entry Filed under: Fantasy