Synopsis: “Aeons ago, winged dragons spread terror across the Chinese empire. Their descendants, magnificent horses bred and ridden by the wild horsemen, are known as ‘dragon horses’. Now an ancient evil is stirring – and two brothers, Rokshan and An Lushan, are about to be drawn into the coming battle. Rokshan must travel to the Valleys of the Horsemen – and on to the Plain of the Dead where the great stallion Stargazer, lord of the horses, is waiting for him. While his brother, An Lushan, chooses a different path entirely…”

Review: Another lengthy, complex epic fantasy of good vs. evil, but with the twist of being set in China in 818 A.D. The setting is well-realised; small, evocative details ground it in reality and bring it to life. Descriptions – of the dragon horses particularly – are gorgeous. The story is pacey, rich, and satisfying, taking the reader on an uncommon and rewarding journey. At the end is an interesting and helpful ‘Author’s Historical Note’ on The Silk Road, and the history, cultures, and symbology that feed into the story.

2007-12-12