It's never fair to compare artists' work. Saying that such-and-such a singer is "The new Ella Fitzgerald" or "The British Courtney Love" does neither the established diva nor the newcomer much of a compliment. Therefore I say this with apology but - For those of us who love George MacDonald Fraser's "Flashman" series, and are lamenting the author's passing, reading William Dietrich's "Ethan Gage" books is a hell of a good way to wean yourself off of old Flashy, may he rest in peace. This is not to say there's any sign that Dietrich has deliberately set out to copy the Scot's work, or capitalize on his success. Gage is a very different character from Flashman in many ways, with his own quirks, tastes and traits. He's a nicer guy altogether, with at least rudimentary ethics, some conception of honor, and (when there's something to be gained) a willingness to put life and limb on the line.Nonetheless, given the activities described in the books, there's evidence he could be Flashy's American great great grandad. There's the same ability to bump into every famous person from the period in question (and, if they are a reasonably attractive female, bed them), get himself into all kinds of scrapes - while frankly admitting he's terrified out of his wits - and the same fast-paced, witty and captivating writing.And as an added bonus, there's all kinds of occult references as well.This particular book - the third in Gage's memoirs - takes us from the Paris of Napoleon's consulship to the wild frontier of the Louisiana territory (now part of the American West), encountering nymphomaniac incestuous British aristocrats, French canoe navigators, various Native American tribes, a Norwegian freedom fighter with the wonderful name of "Bloodaxe", and various luminaries from Napoleon's court, including of course the pin up girl of the eighteenth century, Pauline Bonaparte herself! Gage is (half willingly, as usual) in search of Thor's legendary hammer, supposedly hidden in the wilds of the American continent by the Norse voyagers that visited the continent many years before Columbus "discovered" it... it's a fascinating quest, with a truly exciting climax, action all the way, and with some truly great writing. I recommend any reader who likes adventure, suspense or just great witty writing should get to know Ethan Gage as soon as possible. The Dakota Cipher is a fast-paced action-packed read. It is more fanciful than Dietrich's other books as it includes a lot of Norse, aboriginal, and Freemason mythology, including a ridiculously large tree linked to some pretty fancy electrical gadgetry including Thor's Hammer.There is good information about travel in the fur trade days and regarding aboriginal groups of the time. Were I an attractive female character I would not want to be involved with Ethan Gage as he usually makes sexual use of them shortly before they meet their demise through some misfortune.Fun to read but not as significant as some of his other books.
What do You think about Dakota Cipher (2011)?
Not accurate. Not moral. Did not finish. Deleted. Did not read the first 2 books, and now I won't.
—mumof2now3
An good beach book. Enjoyed it along with the other 2 in the series. Great fun.
—guera93
first time for Dietrich. Interesting read, not too deep but fun.
—sle
Totally engrossing, now I need to read the first two books.
—chelsea
