Rating: 
Summary: Dishonest!
Review: A large part of this book has been cannibalized from an earlier series, Merovingen Nights, a shared world based on a novel by C.J Cherryh (Angel with the Sword). This fact is mentioned nowhere in the book or cover and no credit to C.J. Cherryh is given for the concept. This book is a pale imitation of the original sections of the series that Lackey wrote. In my opinion some of the best writing Lackey has done are in the original series. Unfortunately, the series was never completed and the books are now out of print. I find it sad that Lackey has to resort to presenting previously written work as new. Clearly, she has run out of original ideas and her best works are behind her.
Rating: 
Summary: Builds from a slow start
Review: After a few pages I felt this novel had too many characters (dozens), and was confused and confusing. However, as I progressed I enjoyed it more and more, the confusion disapated, the major characters became distinguishable and interesting, and for the first time I enjoyed a book authored (in part at least) by Mercedes Lackey. One warning to fantasy lovers - this book is mainly a kind of coming of age story set in historical Venice - the fantasy element is relatively slight.
Rating:
Summary: Alternate Italian Renaissance Light History
Review: Any book set in the Renaissance is pretty much bound to be a complex amalgam of plots and counter plots. This book lives up to its setting in history. I was cautious in approaching a book that was written by three authors, expecting writing dissonance and perhaps some plot danglies. But the authors did a very good job of developing characters and coherent plot. I didn't expect anything along the lines of a serious historial novel, and so was not disappointed. I would almost classify this as a Young Adult book because the majority of the main characters are in the process of coming of age. This is light fare that is well enough written and well plotted to engage your attention. Very light on the fantasy element, and light on characterization - - but don't think that any of the characters are cardboard cutouts. The plot is woven well enough and moves fast enough that deep characterization isn't missed. Well done entertainment.
Rating: 
Summary: lengthy book allows for good plot and character development
Review: At 823 pages and over 90 chapters long, this is easily Mercedes Lackey's (the lead author) longest single work. It is also more gritty than many of her recent works and collaborations, harkening back to her gutsy early works. Well done! The length of the volume allows for significant character development and plot twists galore (and medieval Italian politics has nothing but plot twists!). This also means the first 50-100 pages of the book kind of drags. That's okay, work your way through that, and you'll be entranced. I finished this sizable volume in less than 3 nights of reading... That good, really. The ending wraps up a little too neatly, quickly, and nicely, something of a Lackey trademark, but it's hard to complain about this meaty and interesting story.
Rating:
Summary: At last
Review: At last, a new series which is substantial and worth reading. This is a "big" book, with a big universe feel. Yet it is easy to read and has some wonderful fast paced sections and some delightful characters. Benito is going to be everyone's favorite rouge. Maria and Kat with their bit of earthy realism were a welcome relief from the usual fantasy women. On the down side I could have skipped the sanctimonious and feminine Marco, and the Cernobog and the long talky bits of politics. But on the scale of serious fantasy since Jordan - outstanding. Congratulations, Ms. Lackey and co.
Rating:
Summary: Brilliant!
Review: Brilliant book! Mercedes' description, Eric's deep plots, and Dave's humor, this book has been one of the best reads I have had for a *long* time. The plot is set in the era of The Byzantium decline - a very turbulent period in history. If you're going to read this book, be prepared for the long haul - this is a more-ish book!
Rating:
Summary: Fantastic!
Review: Fantastic book! I was kept on the edge of my seat from beginning to end! This book is definitely going to be the start of an excellent series. The novel is based back in Venice, just around the decline of the Byzantium era. My favorite characters were without a doubt Manfred and Erik. This book is an excellent buy!
Rating:
Summary: Gotta have it!
Review: Fantastic! Wonderful! Encore, PLEASE!! I haven't read a book this good in a very long time and want more! When is the next book coming out - and can I wait that long? I don't usually recommend books to people, but I definitely recommend this one! The interplay of well-developed characters, the suspense, and the action make this book one you won't be able to put down. There were twists and turns that I couldn't anticipate, and the murky political world of 16th century Venice is the perfect backdrop for the story. If this is a stand alone book with no sequel then the only down side is wondering what happens with such well-developed characters as Benito, Maria, Lopez, Eric, the Prince, Francesca, Dell'Este, the Emperor, the Duke, and Chernobog.
Rating: 
Summary: Disorgainzed
Review: I am an avid SF fan and this book was very hard to follow at first. To many different groups of charectors. After you finally figure out who was who the book was exciting in the end and was very good. Will there be another one? If people are patient they will learn to love this book.
Rating:
Summary: A good solid read, but don't expect pure fantasy
Review: I bought this book because I love fantasy and I love books by Mercedes Lackey. I got quite a surprise. This book was not what I expected but I enjoyed all of it. The typical fantasy book is heavy on the fantastical elements with one or two plot twists thrown in. This book has one basic fantasy premice and is heavy on the plot twists and turns. There are pages and pages that read like a good solid historical novel instead of a fantasy book. For me, this was all the better. I love a good fantasy, but I also appreciate getting a book I can sink my teeth into - and this one is a book that cannot be digested all in one bite. There is a 25 page prologue that takes you over 3 different locations and 8 characters - and these are just the men that pull the strings of power, not the heros and heroines of the book. Then in the next 25 pages you meet Benito, Katerina and Marco the most major characters in the book. Its a daunting 50 pages and can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but once you get past it the book begins to draw you in. As advertised on the front cover, it IS "Rich plotting, vivid characterization.." As a matter of fact, at the end I found myself wondering about the histories and futures of several of the more minor characters as well as what Benito would do in the future. This is not a light read, but it IS a good solid enjoyable one. Buy it and digest it, you'll be glad you did.
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