Orca

Orca (1996) Steven Brust

Set about a year after the events of Athyra, Vlad has wandered into Northport in search of a sorcerer who might be able to cure Sven, the Teckla boy who lost his mind during the events of Athyra. He finds one, however, her price is keeping her from being evicted from her house. To do this, Vlad has to enlist the help of Kiera the Thief, and hope that she holds their friendship higher than the needs of the Jhereg.

The point of view switches from Vlad to Kiera, as Kiera relates the entire incident to Cawti, back in Adrilankha.

With Orca, Steven Brust again shifts his manner of storytelling, however, we are dealing with familiar characters, and so the feel of the story is similar to earlier books.

There are any number of things that I like about Orca. I like Kiera. I like the fact that Vlad is doing something to help Svan. And I really like the story. There’s danger! Intrigue! Excitement! and everything makes sense in the end. Additionally, I like the multiple surprises at the end. As I’d read the book before, this time I was looking for hints as to the secrets. They were there, but I don’t think I would have guessed on my own. Actually, I’d been looking for hints as I read the series, so see if there was any hints earlier.

As usual, the storytelling is excellent. Combine that with the fact that Vlad is again starting to deal with characters I like and have missed, and you have another excellent story. The intrigue of the plot that Vlad must unravel is also fascinating, although I have to admit that I may find failing banks and deals a little more interesting than the average person.

Although I miss Morrolan and Sethra and Krager, it was good to see Kiera again. Vlad is always a little more wittier when he has a sharp wit to duel with.

Again, this is not the place to be jumping into the story. You’ll want to start at Jhereg or Taltos if you’re not already familiar with Vlad. However Orca is an excellent addition to the series, especially as it expands on Vlad’s character without doing horrible things to him.
Rating: 8/10

• Browse the archives:
  
• Dragon » »
• « « Athyra