ALAMUT

by Judith Tarr ‧ RELEASE DATE: Dec. 1, 1989

Following a disappointing fantasy trilogy (Avaryan Rising), Tart returns to the much more satisfying medieval fantasy-world of The Hounds of God trilogy--where, in the time of the Crusades, Prince Aidan of Rhiyana travels to the Holy Land to visit his beloved nephew Gereint and also to serve the brilliant leper boy-King Baldwin of Jerusalem. Unblemished, magical, immortal Aidan arrives in Jerusalem just as poor Gereint succumbs to an Assassin's dagger. Seems that the leader of the dreaded Assassins, Sinan, wishes to gain control of Gereint's Saracen-Frankish family, and has promised to murder them one by one until they yield. Aidan at once vows revenge; but he doesn't know that Sinan's invincible murderer, Morgiana, is also immortal and magical. But then, even though bound by terrible magical oaths to do Sinan's bidding, Morgiana falls desperately in love with Aidan at first sight. Aidan, meanwhile, explores the land and its wonders, chats with Saladin, and has an affair with a kinswoman, Joanna--but will she be Morgiana's next victim? Will Morgiana and Aidan finally get together? Will Sinan ever be defeated? All in good time. Fortunately, Tart employs plenty of Saracen subtlety to deflect attention from the lack of action and the glacially slow narrative. An intriguing tapestry of religions and cultures, woven within a secure and fascinating historical context: an agreeable, eye-filling companion for long, dark winter evenings.

Pub Date: Dec. 1, 1989

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Doubleday

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 1989

Categories: FICTION