Rating: 
Summary: A unique American fantasy
Review: This book is truy unique as an American fantasy set in the 19th century instead of some pseudo-medieval Europe fantasy world. One thing I'd like to note about this novel is that the story is not entirely Card's; he wrote it as an allegory of the life of Joseph Smith, founder of the LDS (Mormon) Church. Card is a lifelong Mormon and has woven elements of LDS history, doctrine, and culture into many of his works, most notably the Homecoming series (adapted from the Book of Mormon). As an LDS church member myself, I found this book fascinating. Of course, it stands alone and is well worth the read for anyone. Card makes many important points and raises many valuable questions- and the rest of the series is excellent as well. A MUST if you are a Card fan!
Rating:
Summary: An alternate-reality in early America
Review: While a departure from some of the sci-fi themes in Card's other series, this book and its successors are still distinctly OSC.
Set in an alternate-reality of early America, before the civil war, the story follows the life of Alvin and his family. He is the seventh son, which in this world gives him special abilities. As with most of OSC's stories, there is a dark side to Alvin's life - a constant pursuit by an evil power that he calls the Unmaker, which causes the death of his oldest brother just as Alvin is born. This is a world where some people have a "knack" or special powers, and nothing keep evil away like a good old hex on your front porch and above your window. And no matter how much good Alvin does with his life, the Unmaker is always there, tearing things down, laying snares, inspiring evil men to do evil deeds.
Its a fascinating story, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the entire series. OSC does a great job of keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Rating:
Summary: Here comes the maker
Review: Wow, I picked up this book because I saw the latest book, The Crystal City, and figured why not pick up the first on and see how things go. I believe this was one of the best choices I have ever made. This is a relatively short novel but beware, once you finish the first one, you are going to search out the remaining volumes of the series. The writing of Mr. Card is simply incredible. I have read a few of his books directed to writers and often his primary focus is on characterization. Now that I have delved into a novel and absorbed his use of his own tools, I say thank you. This is an alternate history, which I normally avoid, but the slight elements of magic move it into the realm of fantasy where I feel much more comfortable.
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