Legends Walking: A Novel of the Athanor

This book suceeded where many others have failled in following up the first novel. However the prices for it second hand here are outrageous! Especially considering the author offers it from her website, signed for much less than most of these prices.

Legends Walking, is the second in this world of Athanor (following Changer), which is placed in contemporary times with the addition of an immortal species co-existing with us. In this tale we discover some new characters, and get to know some of the previous character in more detail.Ms Lindskold's characterization is superb. They have a sense of humor and different personalities which, as one might suspect, sometimes conflict with each other (some don't even like each other and they are on the same side). This makes for a very pleasant and believable read. The plot moves very well and I found myself consuming the 400 + pages without knowing it.I liked this sequel most because it focused on a different set of characters in solving the plot crisis, so we get to see these characters using their unique skills. Jane is very consistent in both plot and characters, so we are NOT treated to discontinuities in characters to conveniently get out of a bad scene. She also has the ability to describe scenes without bludgeoning us to death with detail, which is very refreshing.I must say I dislike giving maximum ratings, just in case the author does better. In this case as in the first tale, Changer, I feel the author deserves a "Bravo" well done, and if she does better, I will just have to deal with it. So, in case you missed my point, I like this author and this tale and believe both needs to be read and enjoyed (if not, no offense is meant by stating the obvious).

Jane Lindskold once again has written a wonderfully fascinating and complex novel. Many different story lines and characters blend to make both "Legends Walking" and "Changer" surprising books. I could hardly put this book down, although I had to in order to process the ideas and plot twists. Both come at a quick pace throughout the story. I loved getting new looks at old characters, and some development of interesting secondary characters from "Changer," as well as the introduction of new friends. The idea of elemental athanor seems wondrous and fun.Biological warfare offers such an ugly, inhumane choice to dictators around the world. I think Lindskold looks into the horrors of plague without preaching about it. This book presents a look at some serious subjects, like biological warfare, AIDS in Africa, and the development of third world countries. Lindskold doesn't give easy or trite answers, but in twisting our everyday world just a bit, she does shed some light on the subjects.I would recommend this book to anyone! It's fun, thoughtful, fun and well written.

I don't even like fantasy, but I couldn't put this one down. Legends Walking, Jane Lindskold's latest "urban fantasy" picks up the quasi-immortal "Athanor" characters she introduced in Changer and sets them loose in wide-ranging adventures that kept my nose planted in the 400-page book until I finished it. The story lines were exciting and the character development was wonderful, at times unexpected, and wholly satisfying. As usual, Lindskold's sense of humor is apparent throughout the book (although perhaps not as bluntly displayed as it was in the closet scene of Lord Demon, her recently released collaboration with Zelazny), bringing an additional level of enjoyment to a good yarn well-told. I've really come to enjoy this author, and I hope Avon realizes what a winner it has with the Athanor novels.

There is so much bad fantasy out there. Sorry but it's the truth. This book, like "Changer" befor it was a breath of fresh air. It playes with themes from mythology without ever becoming cute or tired . Lindskold tips your expectations around and plays with the archetypes of the genera. These two books remind me a bit of Sharon Shin's "Archangel" book in the way they turn old ideas on their ears. Lindskold weaves her imortals into todays world and leaves you wanting more. After reading this book I want to know more about Nigeria. Some of the facts I found out about AIDS in that part of the world when I did a little looking made me wish there were some imortal gardians looking to help their people. I like a book that takes me totally away from the tials of my everyday life, and amuses me. If it makes me think a little that is even better. I can't wait for Lindskold's next Athanor book.