The saga continues as the telecast turns.Thomas Harlan puts out another fine book, the follow-up to Gate of Fire, and yet another showcase of his literary quality.In religiously festive manner, Rome attempts to rebuild itself and rise from the ashes in the aftermath of Mount Vesuvius's eruption. In the east, Constantinople struggles to defend itself from the onslaught of Persian, Arab, and rebel invaders. But it is not just the cities that undergo internal and external conflicts. It is also the dramatis personae, of course, who undergo their share of internal and external strifes.Prince Maxian and Anastasia De'Orelio wrestle with their guilty consciences stemming from the tens of thousands of lives lost in the volcanic eruption. Gaius Julius and Alexandros find opportunity in their new lives, knowing fully well--not at all surprisingly--that they pine for glory days in ages past. Thyatis takes on a new identity and new purpose in life, if only temporarily. Dwyrin becomes a master in his art and has to face the combined powers of former friends. These are but a few of the plot strings woven into Harlan's intricate fabric that makes up the Oath of Empire.As mentioned earlier, this book, like the previous two, is a display of Harlan's literary quality. The strength of his authorship lies in his skilled ability to describe in finest minute detail the tension of battle, characters' physical appearances, and the quality of surroundings. Harlan immerses the reader in the action.The downside of the book, this reader feels, revolves around plot development near the end. Without disclosing the who and the how, a particular "family reunion" seemed awfully rushed, making this part of the story less emotionally gripping. Next to that, an unexpected death of a beloved warrior robs the tale of a chief supporting character. These thoughts beg the question, was Harlan under extreme pressure to "slash and burn" or "step on the accelerator" with abandon in order meet deadlines and editorial constraints? With regard to character development, how about that Thyatis? She's become quite the over-glorified, bloodthirsty amazon!Recommended, of course, for those who hunger for the third episode of Oath. Having said this, it behooves the reader to first familiarize him/herself with the events and characters of Shadow of Ararat and Gate--read very carefully in that order.
What do You think about The Storm Of Heaven (2001)?
