Description:
Of Swords and Spells overlaps Turner's first book, Nameless Magery. This book is set in the same universe and its narrator is another determined young female who has a lot more to her than it first appears. Their stories converge, however, providing two contrasting perspectives on magic. But Malka faces different circumstances from Lisane's. In this universe, magic runs spaceships, computers, and communications devices. The Enforcers, an interstellar police force, have developed a form not controlled by adepts. Now they are killing mages and the worlds that breed them to consolidate their monopoly on power. Their only opposition is an android named Roder and his crew of free witches, who officially monitor Enforcement and report abuses to the government. Running from the Enforcers and her sadistic master, Malka takes refuge in Roder's ship, then finds that it has also become a target. Malka is small, bad-tempered, and tired of being used. She'd rather not care what happens to Roder, his crew, or his mission, but she's developing human feelings and a conscience as she grows. Besides, Roder is very attractive. Turner blends science fiction and fantasy freely, springs several nifty plot twists, and once again creates compelling protagonists. You'll find Malka a fascinating puzzle and the book quick and entertaining. --Nona Vero
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