Summoning Light (Babylon 5: The Passing of the Techno-Mages, Book 2)

I could not believe the twists this book took us on. The technomages are no longer what we thought they were, but are wildly different. This trilogy is a classic and deserves to be read by all!

Yes, I know - media tie-in books are supposed to be pot-boilers. When it comes to the Babylon 5 series of books (dismissing 75% of the earlier series from Dell), prepare to re-evaluate this mind-set. The reasons for these are varied, but primarily they are because a) the universe J. Michael Straczinski created is so rich and deep b) the Babylon 5 television series was a real "Winds of War" type maxi-series that left many side-stories unexplored c) the self-same J. Michael Straczinski provided the plot and structure for this book and d) JEANNE CAVELOS! She amazes me. Many writers would be daunted working with characters that have already had thier futures/fates established by events on the television series not to mention the constrictions of working with another noted author's plot and guidelines. But Ms. Cavelos makes the characters vibrant and captivating. The pages sing with the obvious joy she imbues her writing. As for the story itself - it - well - is very animated; A real "page turner". If you enjoyed Babylon 5 and the much missed short Crusades series - be forwarned! This book is very hard to close once opened!

It is such a pleasure to read a book like this that is highly entertaining, well written and adds further depth to the Babylon 5 universe. Where the first book in the series concentrates on the coming-of-age of Galen in settings that were almost entirely new to B5 fans, this novel weaves in one of the best episodes of the series, set on the station early in the tenure of Captain John Sheridan. By adding back-story and additional details, Jeanne Cavelos has created depth and character development that benefits both this novel, and the original TV episode! She even is able to weave in the rescue of Matthew Gideon, of the "B5: Crusade" series in a way that clarifies, enlightens and intrigues.As the Techno-mages prepare to leave the galaxy, rather than fight in the Shadow War, secrets are exposed, deceptions are played at numerous levels, and sacrifices are made. The personal losses of Galen are nearly overwhelming (both to the character and to the reader) and his motivations become almost a zombie-like search for Elizar, the renegade Techno-mage who has apparently teamed up with the Shadows, who killed Isabelle. Elric, Galen's teacher and mentor, makes sacrifices of his own and tries to balance his commitment to the Circle as well as his commitment to Galen.Highlights to further entice you: Anna Sheridan is present in her incarnation as the heart of a Shadow vessel, Mordden makes his appearance as the constant Shadow dupe, and Kosh keeps up the enigmatic Vorlon role as observer of the younger races. Truly this is a book that no Babylon 5 fan can pass by. Highly Recommended.

I'll be brief. It was a quick read because it had exciting action, a few gut busting laughs, and simply fun. Readers will find a few very interesting new threads in the Babylon 5 universe. Though a sci-fi/fantasy book, I enjoyed its realism insofar as people die. The 'entire crew of the Enterprise' would not always survive in a Jeanne Cavelos B5 book (I wouldn't recommend such a 'Trek' story line.). Its been days after and I really am thinking about the story. I wouldn't say I have a better understanding of the universe and my humble purpose in it; I was not expecting that. This was great fun. I'm ordering book 3, which is to be available in November. These books are greatly increasing my appetite for a return of "Crusade". Is there room for both a "Legends of the Rangers" and "Crusade" series on the Sci-fi channel?Cheers

The second book is better than the first. There is a wonderful integration of story elements with the TV series and books. There is even an explanation of the purple/green Drazi conflict. If you are a fan of B5, this is a perfect summer book. Better than any movie out there, and cheaper!