The Song of Homana (Chronicles of the Cheysuli, Book 2)

Rating:
Summary: Clever follow up
Review: As a sequel to Shapechangers (the first in the series), I think Jennifer Roberson did a fairly good job in keeping interest and the plot going. I like it that she wrote this book in the first person - it created some changes with the first book. However, i think the story was too much focused on Carillon. THe book was written from his POV, and although some scenes were very well done, I wanted to hear more of Alix's story. Shapechangers, which is definitely my favorite in the Cheysuli series, made me love Alix's character, and that she was almost a side character and of only minor importance (except at the end) in this book bothered me. But overall, I thought this was a good book - there are some unexpected plot twists and changes which make you keep reading, despite how much you like or dislike the book.

Rating:
Summary: Clever follow up
Review: As a sequel to Shapechangers (the first in the series), I think Jennifer Roberson did a fairly good job in keeping interest and the plot going. I like it that she wrote this book in the first person - it created some changes with the first book. However, i think the story was too much focused on Carillon. THe book was written from his POV, and although some scenes were very well done, I wanted to hear more of Alix's story. Shapechangers, which is definitely my favorite in the Cheysuli series, made me love Alix's character, and that she was almost a side character and of only minor importance (except at the end) in this book bothered me. But overall, I thought this was a good book - there are some unexpected plot twists and changes which make you keep reading, despite how much you like or dislike the book.

Rating:
Summary: Completely Disgusted
Review: I have rarely been more offended and disgusted by a female author before. I can't believe the number of high ratings this book has received. I can't believe anyone liked this thing.

There are certain things heroic characters do not do. Things that make them, in fact, a villain. Things like telling a woman you're going to kill her father and then force her to marry you. This is something the most despicable of villains does. This is also something Carillon does. And despite my clinging to the hope that he'd have a moment of sanity and realize that his plans made hima disgusting, deplorable human being, he carried through with these plans.

I feel nothing but utter contempt for this character, and for the author who expects readers to like a book about a man who is nothing better than a rapist.

Rating:
Summary: Pretty standard, enjoyable, easy fantasy reading
Review: Roberson doesn't break much new ground in this book. The characters and plot are standard fantasy material; a young prince intending on reclaiming his usurped throne; an evil sorcerer standing in the way; the beautiful, haughty daughter of the usurper. These, however, are not criticisms. I didn't want to stop reading. Roberson takes these standard themes and employs them expertly, and even manages to introduce a few twists. What's lacking in originality is made up for by the detail and the slow, steady development of characters. In the fantasy genre, I would not go so far as to call this a classic, but Roberson's unique use of such typical themes puts it on a special level apart from the other cliches.

Rating:
Summary: Really good book
Review: The sequal to Shape Changers, The Song of Homana is a very good read. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say that it's really good, and not confusing. If you like this book you should also read Sword Dancer, which is also by Jennifer Roberts, but takes place in a differnt world.

Rating:
Summary: An exciting follow-up
Review: This is easiest my favorite novel in the "Chronicles of the Cheysuli" series. This novel provides a certain turning point for character appreciation (specifically with respect to Carillon) and also acts as an incredible catalyst for the time progression in the books to come. I don't want to spoil it for those who have no read it yet. Oh, and don't forget to read "Shapeshifters" first.