Rating: 
Summary: One of the best books I've ever read!
Review: This is a story about two men who don't like each other very much. And why should they? Alexander is a royal prince - intelligent, confident, capable, proud. He knows his worth; he knows it is high; and he is not mistaken. He is, you get the sense sometime when you rush past the first half of "Transformation" in one breath, much like Seyonne once was ... before he was captured, beaten; before his magic was burned out of him; before the husk of a man that remained was enslaved. The man he was before is no more. For sixteen years, Seyonne was property - debased, worthless. Alexander's people have taught the Ezzarian his place in the world. What's more, they have taught Seyonne to believe that the role fits. The story begins with both men being entirely hopeless - Seyonne, because he has lost himself; Alexander, because he is so full of his own virtue, that he never bothered to look for himself. Then the prince purchases the slave and slowly, slowly they learn to look at each other, they learn to see each other - and to see themselves reflected in each other's eyes. Before long, they find they have somehow become friends. Even crazier - they respect each other.
Then, of course, the author offer a little kick to remind them that this is, after all, a fantasy series. There is, of course, a force threatening the world - a force that Seyonne was once equipped to fight. Now, to his dismay, he finds that Alexander may be the one person in the world who can turn the tide. What a horrifying thought! The entire series is written magnificently. It is the third on my list, just after Tolkien and Robin Hobb. The characters are real, the plot - engaging, twisty. It keeps you on the edge of your seat and, while you're there, keeps you guessing. The world is believable and natural to the characters. The magic is subtle and feels right (as opposed to the common: "And the fireball blasted out of his hand and shattered the world! Ooops..."). I tell you this - I did not sleep overmuch when Carol Berg's books were in my hands. They're wonderful. You won't be disappointed!
Rating:
Summary: Very engrossing story
Review: STORY: Seeyone is a slave in the courts of the heir to the throne, Prince Aleksander. Racial prejudices abound as this slave is used as a pawn in the prince's schemes to manipulate and offend everyone around him.
It is the abnormal acceptance of ambassadors of a rival empire that begin the adventure and friendship between the prince and his slave. As things progress, the realization of Seeyone's true power as one of the last magic users of his race, the Ezzarians, begins to come to fruitrition as consipiracies and plots within plots unfold in an attempt to take control of the throne away from Aleksander. MY FEEDBACK:
1) SETTING: This is a fantasy world like many others where there is a king, prince and all those that wish to take control of the throne. Magic is discouraged by the "church" and prejudices are common depending on the race of the person. Functional setting that didn't use the typical elf, dwarf, orcs, and goblin races. This new setting is nothing really special, but it wasn't meant to be more than that. It worked. 2) CHARACTERS: This is where the story truely shines. From the first few pages you are gripped by the characters of Seeyone and Aleksander. They are complex characters who pull out some surprises here and there. Their growing friendship is believable and necessary for the story. Well constructed and enjoyable to read. 3) STORY: Some turn of events were expected and predictable as other events unfolded, but overall it was a refreshing story of friendship, loyalties and happy endings. Some fair twists and turns and close calls helped to make things more interesting. It isn't necessary to read the next two books because everything resolves itself by the end of this one. OVERALL: I loved this book for the characterization and its compelling story of friendship. You won't waste your time if you get this one.
Rating: 
Summary: Different
Review: Very original. I've never read any book that contained the same basis of fantasy as this book. The warrior enters the body to fight against the demons. There was a lot of intregue and even a hint of mystery. I especially liked seeing the characters grow. The character of the prince was extremely well rounded. My only complaint was that it dragged just a little bit in a couple of areas.
Rating:
Summary: Beautifully written and keeps you guessing!
Review: It's so rarely that I have seen a book so well written. The story line is complex. The characters are three dimensional. Most interestingly, the story keeps you guessing. It is not the usual black and white, good and evil kind of stuff. Seyonne's people are supposed to be this good and righteous race, but their stubbornness and blindness caused more injustices and harm than Prince Aleksander's barbarous race. Prince Aleksander seems to be cruel and selfish, but he is actually willing to change himself to be a better person. The story of Seyonne's willingness to do the right thing through thick and thin, Prince Aleksander's willingness to change his traditional view point to be a better person, and the friendship between Seyonne and Prince Aleksander across prejudice and racial hatred are uplifting in today's world of hatred and war. I have read the whole trilogy, and they are well worth reading.
Rating:
Summary: excellent book!
Review: I just completed this novel and it was as good a read as the reviews indicate. What makes this novel original is the concept of mage-warriors whose battle ground is the human soul made into a tangible reality by their talent. After being immersed in fantasies with a surplus of ritual magic or god-like beings, it was wonderful to read something different. The main character is Seyonne, oneof these mages who has become a slave to the people who are his races worst enemies. The story is about him rediscovering who he is and who he can be. It is also the story of Alexander, the proud young prince who is so changed by the advent of Seyonne in his life. Personally, I think the title of the story could well refer to this characters evolution. Berg is an excellent writer and her use of the first person is wonderful. I feel good in recommending this book to anyone who would enjoy something a bit fresh in fantasy.
Rating:
Summary: An original fantasy
Review: An original, complex and unique fantasy. The characters are appealing and the plot is unpredictable. You won't be disappointed in this book if you enjoy fantasy that's off the beaten path.
Rating:
Summary: Utterly mesmerizing!
Review: Transformation has everything a great fantasy has and more. It is beautifully written and laced with heart felt emotions. Its plot is tightly woven and almost flawless. Its magical world is utterly fascinating. And above all Seyonne, the protagonist, is an endearing hero. Courageous, vulnerable and sensitive this is the type of hero any great fantasy series should endeavor to have. This book could stand on its own. However I am hooked and will definitely read the rest of the trilogy and future effort from Berg.
Rating:
Summary: A promising and engrossing new series beginning.
Review: _Transformation_ kicks off one of the most promising new series in a long time. Berg's story of Seyonne's slavery and his purchase by a new cruel master is masterful both in its plotting and use of detail. I tore through this book and immediately ran out to buy the other two. Highly recommended for fantasy fans.
Rating:
Summary: An unusual fantasy
Review: I tought I was not going to read any more fantasy. I surely have had enough whit stale Tolkien imitators. But this book is an original variation, set a strange alternative world who reminds me of the world of Storm Constantine's Burying the Shadow. I've found the evolving relationship between Seyonne and Alexander most interesting. And Carol Berg writes like an angel.
Rating:
Summary: Better than the hype!
Review: This is one of the most enjoyable, perceptive and mesmerizing fantasy novels in a long time. Seyonne is a character that you will truly care about and root for. The writing is smooth, the conflicts plentiful and the final pages will blow you away.
"Transformation" reminded me of Gary Jennings's novel "Raptor" in many ways, even though "Raptor" isn't considered to be a fantasy. Everything about the book is superb except for the back cover. "FREEDOM IS THE ABILITY TO MAKE A CHOICE." What drivel! Ability has nothing to do with it. Freedom is the OPPORTUNITY to make a choice.
Carol Berg is a sparkling talent and this book is highly recommended.
| 
