Wings to the Kingdom

Book Description

The fields at Chickamauga, Georgia--America's oldest national military park--claimed 35,000 casualties during the Civil War. Any good guide will tell you that the grounds are haunted. The battlefield even has its own resident haunt, called Old Green Eyes for his tell-tale luminous gaze. It has long been said that Old Green Eyes intends no harm to those who respect the park. He is no menace, but a guardian of the dead. While he walks, the dead may sleep secure in the knowledge that their rest will be undisturbed. While Old Green Eyes patrols the battlefield, there is nothing to fear, for graves are not robbed and bones are not moved.But suddenly a different phenomenon starts puzzling and frightening visitors, causing tours to be canceled and rangers to quit their jobs. These new ghosts are no illusions carved out of the low-rolling fog. One by one, the solemn-faced spirits in ragged uniforms show themselves, and one by one, they point a determined arm off into the distance. Why do the soldiers march again, and what has become of their unblinking custodian? The spirits need a go-between, someone who can speak to them, and for them.Eden Moore is not interested.But the ghosts aren't taking no for an answer.

Customer Reviews:

Is it Oct yet?.......2007-09-11

My biggest problem with Wings to the Kingdom is that after going back to Four and Twenty Blackbirds, I have to find something worthy to read until Oct 2, when Not Flesh Nor Feathers comes out. I loved Eden. The combat boots, the Death Nugget, the whole thing. And every time Benny nearly pees in his pants from glee or horror, I have to laugh, because he reminds me of that classic dork in all of us, the one who lights up like a six year old at the thought of ghosthunting, no matter who's in the room who might argue. The characters are spelled out just like all Southern literary characters should be- colorful, lovable, and with screws popping loose all over the place.

cherie priest does it again.......2007-08-17

cherie priest is slowly replacing donna tartt as my favorite american female novelist of our time. *wings to the kingdom* is a somewhat slower story than *four and twenty blackbirds*, but every word is heavy with seduction, pulling the reader in with such force that it is hard to stop reading.

in brief, things have happened since *four and twenty blackbirds*. the protagonist eden moore is somewhat older, but still in every aspect a fascinating and multi-dimensional character. the setting is the same as in *four and twenty blackbirds*. new characters are introduced, old characters resurface. eyes glitter in moonlight and the mist grows heavy over chattanooga as the story progresses in a labyrinth of excitement and allure.

cherie priest is a wizard with words, and *wings to the kingdom* is a rich testimony of her magic. read it. I am very glad I did.

outta the park.......2007-03-08

Pardon the pun.
One might worry whether CPriest's follow-up to _Four and Twenty Blackbirds_ might suffer the notorious "sophomore slump", but that would be needless suffering.

_Wings to the Kingdom_ builds on the foundations laid in the first novel, yet works on its own for readers who missed the first book (though, really, you're missing out on a good story if you haven't read it).

_Wings_ is engaging and dynamic. The storytelling is solid, the setting and the characters are real, and the mystery/tension is a treat.

I'm looking forward to the next in the series

Better and better.......2007-03-06

If you enjoyed Four and Twenty Blackbirds, you will love Wings to the Kingdom. Cherie Priest's tale of ghosts at a Civil War battlefield grabbed me from the very first page. Taking an actual legend and weaving it into a spine-tingling story with believable characters, Priest just keeps getting better and better. The main character, Eden Moore, is likeable and interesting, as well as sympathetic. The rest of the characters are also well-rounded, even the publicity-seeking professional psychic investigator, who could easily have become a cliche. A very enjoyable read, and I eagerly look forward to the next installment!

Contemporary Southern Gothic at its best!.......2007-02-19

Phenomenal follow-up to debut novel Four and Twenty Blackbirds. Eden Moore is dragged into a supernatural mystery at the Chickamauga battleground, and must deal with the public reaction to her ability to speak with the dead. Incredibly written, with a fast-paced storyline that still takes time to fully develop character. Priest cements her place in the Southern Gothic canon. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

If you love space opera, here's a series for you
Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5
More Star Wars than Honor Harrington
Too much alien mysticism ruined it.
Much Better than "The Dark Wing"

The Dark Path (Dark Wing)
Walter H. Hunt
Manufacturer: Tor Science Fiction
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0765345641
Release Date: 2004-07-29

Book Description

Walter Hunt's debut novel, The Dark Wing was favorably compared to Ender's Game, Babylon 5, Honor Harrington, and C. S. Forester . . . and the story isn't over yet! Man and zor, once sworn enemies engaged in a mutual campaign of xenocide, now live side by side. The war is over, and Admiral Marais, the legendary "Dark Wing"--both Angel of Death and Species Savior--is long dead, though some of his companions and participants in that great war still survive and have even chosen to live among the zor.Now a mystery from the past has become a threat to the present when an unholy menace jeopardizes both humans and zor alike.Whole space fleets have disappeared, with survivors stricken mad.And now man and zor alike must join forces to meet this adversary head on. . . .

Customer Reviews:

If you love space opera, here's a series for you.......2007-07-23

I won't try to rehash what others here have said so well. My observations are limited to the following: First, the build up and characterization are stunning, but the finish leaves you somewhat unfulfilled. It deserved better. Second, I absolutely, thouroughly enjoyed the way Hunt's alien culture and psychology were driven so convincingly by their physiology. This was opera I could believe, consistant and convincing within it's own universe. Perhaps Hunt will write a 5th book to finish the story in the way it deserves. If he does, I will plunk down my cash without hesitation.

Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5.......2006-01-24

These 4 books - The Dark Wing, The Dark Path, The Dark Ascent, and The Dark Crusade - exhibit many of the standard space opera devices. There are the winged and in many ways admirable aliens, the remorseless insectoid alien adversaries, the hidden powers attempting to manipulate human fates, and the sprawling and somewhat corrupt space empire. There is also more than a touch of mysticism with events mirroring myths of the winged alien species. Nor can it be said that Hunt has done anything particularly novel with these devices.
Nonetheless, Hunt is a more than competent practictioner and these books are a decent read. Hunt does quite well with reasonably tight plotting and characterization. His integration of the mythic elements is better than average. These books are better, for example, than David Weber's very popular books.

More Star Wars than Honor Harrington.......2006-01-15

As I read this, I kept trying to figure out which series the reviewers had not read - this one or the Harrington books. The protagonists are female space navy officers: end of similarity.

Harrington is a retelling of Horatio Hornblower / Admiral Nelson in a science fiction background - complete to loosing an eye and an arm. She commands ships and fleets in battle.

In this book, the heroine is on a quest to repeat the accomplishments of a legendary alien hero - complete with ghosts and mystical visions.

If someone really wants to quibble: Harrington has a symbiotic partner (Nimitz can hardly be called a pet) who is empathic, but stops far short the mysticism found here.

Too much alien mysticism ruined it........2005-10-25

The first book, The Dark Wing was much better, it concentrated more on the space navy side of things and whether or not we commit genocide to save both species. This one is just totally bizarre throughout much of it.

Much Better than "The Dark Wing" .......2004-07-28

Walter Hunt's second book on humanity's Solar Empire and the Zor is a gripping, tantalizing examination of interspecies relationships and Zor psychology. "The Dark Path" is set eighty five years after the last of the human-Zor wars chronicled in "The Dark Wing". Now at peace, humans and Zor are staunch allies, with each serving in the other's military forces. At remote Cicero Naval Base Commodore Jacqueline "Jackie" Laperriere and her exec, Commander Ch'k'te HeYen, are forced to confront mindshifting and shapeshifting aliens, the insectoid Vuhl, whose coming was foretold by the Zor High Lord of the Nest in "The Dark Path". Together they must reenact an ancient Zor myth to win back from the vuhl a sacred sword seized by the Vuhl from its human owner, the aged Serge Torrijos, an envoy of the Zor government.

Walter Hunt approaches Ursula LeGuin in his captivating examination of Zor psychology and religious mythology. And he evokes Orson Scott Card's Ender Wiggin saga in his depiction of the insectoid Vuhl. Much to his credit, Hunt does a fine job creating believable, likeable characters, most notably those of Jackie and Ch'K'Te. Alas he ends the story a bit too neatly at the end, but with enough hints suggesting yet another further installment in the humans-Zor saga.

Average customer rating:

Well Written A-10 Tank Killer Novel
Interesting fiction
an execellent book
GREAT ACTIONS BUT NOT HERMAN'S BEST.
Too many sub plots but great airborne action

Dark Wing
jr., Richard Herman
Manufacturer: Pocket
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0671534939

Customer Reviews:

Well Written A-10 Tank Killer Novel.......2006-09-30

"Dark Wing" was my first trip out with Richard Herman, but I liked his character development, research of the fighter plane and fast-paced description of the air action. As former infantry, I struggled a bit with the alpha slang, but a good glossary helped with almost all of it.

The story takes place in pre-9/11 China in the early stages of a southern province insurrection. Washington wants to help, but must retain deniability, so a black bag operation was set up to send a squadron of A-10's to assist the insurgents. The narrative got a little tedious in the description of Chinese politics and some of the love interest, but it was not a serious interference with the main plot.

After some early combat reversals, the military effort is really starting to pay off, but the timing is bad.....it's almost election time. Congress, just as in real life, suddenly go spineless and the narrative splits between the battlefield and the well-described maneuverings by politicians who want to keep them operational.

Harman had several of the main characters die during the story, some of which had developed to be like old friends. This was not necessarily bad, just a wordsmith technique I had never seen used to such an extent before.

Although a little sluggish in some isolated areas, the novel was a good read and I'd recommend it.

Interesting fiction.......2001-03-03

I knew Dick Sherman personally (Actually, I held up his T-34 checkout at McClellan AFB, CA because my instructor misread the schedule, and we flew an hour past our time...Dick was gracious, though, and thankfully his flight was rescheduled without delay. He also gave me a copy of his book). This story highlights a fictitious colonel's battle between the inherently sexist nature of military life, and his personal struggle to regiment his flagging fighter squadron, which includes a female lieutenant. The colonel's group is suddenly thrust into a shooting war, and mettle is tested among the neophyte combatants. Dick's pen leans to the left on his socio-political observations, but having flown with him, I'd say he's a decent, knowledgable individual who knows the ropes of combat flying.

an execellent book.......2000-01-31

dark wing is an excellent book it covers everything from a to z it gives extrodinary detail on the A-10 warthog, and if you dont understand some of the aberviations in the book it has a glossary in the back

GREAT ACTIONS BUT NOT HERMAN'S BEST........1999-10-06

The actions and combat scenes are great, but the story is not as smooth as Iron Gate. Too many sub-plots hurt the flow of the story. However, Richard Herman fans and readers who love action-packed military stories will enjoy the read. It also gives the readers who intend to read Iron Gate more back ground info about the main characters.

Too many sub plots but great airborne action.......1999-06-01

Alas, I was disappointed. The book's best parts were undoubtedly the A-10 Warthog scenes in the air over China. The research here is as detailed as Dale Brown's best! The Hong Kong scenes were also very well done(more good research there), but in between the action, there is too much talk. The Washington scenes seem to be all planning and not-going-anywhere; I found Shoshana's death quite infeasible(yeah, right, as if someone with a baby at home and a husband would selfishly let her past Mossad training suddenly take over her life) and an unnecessary subplot which turned Matt Pontowski into an unlikely Schwarzeneggar hero. And there are also too many references to actors, TV, and so on, as a device to emphasise a character description or action scene. I am trying to get a manuscript sold myself and I know from experience that this method will send that ms straight to the rejection pile, unless you're a bestseller . . . Nonetheless, I will still give the rest of Herman's work a go! If you're new to him, read FIREBREAK or CALL TO DUTY first, these are the best!

Average customer rating:

Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5
Tries hard to be a mystical Science Fiction story
excellent science fiction fantasy thriller

The Dark Ascent (Dark Wing)
Walter H. Hunt
Manufacturer: Tor Science Fiction
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0765349825
Release Date: 2005-07-28

Book Description

Walter Hunt's debut novel The Dark Wing was favorably compared to Ender's Game, Babylon 5, Honor Harrington, and C.S. Forester. The publication of the second volume The Dark Path was heralded by Analog as "a quest that may well prove science fiction's version of The Lord of the Rings." The Dark AscentThe war with the zor is long over, and Admiral Marais, the legendary "Dark Wing" is long dead, though some of his companions on that campaign of xenocide still remain, and in the alien philosophies of the past their might exist man's hope for salvation in the very near future.The Dark Path introduced a new alien force into the delicate balance of power .... one that was the actual puppetmaster of the human-zor war and now wishes to bring both worlds under its madness inducing shadow.But the same ancient philosophy of the zor race that prophesized "the Dark Wing" has also foreseen a hero that will meet the new menace --a hero now mystically embodied in a rebellious space commodore by the name of Jackie Lappierre.As armadas clash and outposts fall, the overly confident alien menace is forced to confront a zor human alliance that has been warned, their covert and insidious plans of infiltration now exposed. .... though victory is hardly ascertained for either side in The Dark Ascent.

Customer Reviews:

Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5.......2006-01-24

Tries hard to be a mystical Science Fiction story.......2005-08-09

"The Dark Ascent" is the third book in a series. In the future mankind has expanded out to the stars, they have colonized many planets, and they meet the zor. The zor is an alien race with wings. They have a long history of developing powers of the mind. Those with strong mental powers are called sensitives.

The first book, "The Dark Wing," told the story of how a war between humans and zor ended. We had hints that another alien race was trying to get the humans to destroy the zor. Our heroes are able to work out a peace. The second book, "The Dark Path," sets the stage for the next struggle with a new alien race. In the second book we meet Jackie Kearny who is put on a quest for a special zor sword, the gyaryu.

In some ways these books feel like "The Fellowship of the Ring." There is a quest for a special item which provides great power. There is a struggle between good and evil, and the struggle occurs on several levels. There are many, many characters, and lots happens.

In "The Dark Ascent" Jackie gets the special sword. The new alien race, the vuhl, is able to take over both human and zor minds. In the first part of the book the vuhl takes several key systems from the human empire. Jackie, and others, work to find ways to protect themselves from the vuhl.

There was heavy emphasis on mystical events. The story often bounces between what is happening in the "real world" and what is happening in a spirit world, and what happened in myth. Often the main characters were portrayed as having little control over their lives, and they were often manipulated. I like my science fiction to be more about the heroes making good choices in hard situations, rather than being tricked because the "zor's god" wanted certain things to happen.

Walter Hunt is still a relatively new Science Fiction writer. He has only written the three books. He writes well. The book moves along well. All in all it is a pleasant story. If another book is written in this series I'll probably read it. If you like mystical science fiction, gives this book a try.

excellent science fiction fantasy thriller .......2004-08-29

The insectoid vuhls have changed the dynamics of the galaxy forcing former enemies, humans and the aviary-like zor, to need one another to survive the hypnotic illusion assaults of this new antagonist. Neither human nor zor is pleased with this new arrangement, but both know the vuhls are very determined and powerful adversaries, who are precise killing machine. However, on Mother Earth, most people see conspiracy behind this latest war and the abrupt switching from deadly opponent to needed ally as just another sham to gain extra funding, support is weak and lessoning.

Meanwhile former Commodore Jackie Laperriere is expected to fulfill a zor prophecy by taking possession of the ancient sacred sword possessed by legendary zor warriors and upon climbing Perilous Stair will become an Ou'u avatar; this will enable her to communicate with the heroic souls that make up the sword. Allegedly deceased Captain Thomas Stone lives and warns Jackie that puppeteers are manipulating the three species into constant warfare, but she wonders what she can do to stop this and who is this Machiavellian race?

This latest "Dark" tale runs on two story lines with the confrontations between species very exciting military science fiction and Jackie's ascension as a fantasy quest. The story line moves along both dark paths at a fast pace, but the switching between the two slows down both subplots as readers need to adjust from macro war to micro quest and visa versa. The cast remains powerful regardless of species although at times it is difficult to peruse the "vernacular, but that also adds to the feel of a cross science fiction fantasy thriller that will please Walter H. Hunt's fans.

Harriet Klausner

Average customer rating:

Are Book Sagas Worth It?
Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5
A good combination of mystical and military scifi
I DON'T MIND HANGING, BUT A LOUSY ENDING IS NOT A GOOD WAY TO END A BOOK.
A mystical Science Fiction story. The series goes on and on and on

The Dark Crusade (Dark Wing)
Walter H. Hunt
Manufacturer: Tor Science Fiction
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0765349833
Release Date: 2006-05-30

Book Description

The Dark Path introduced a new alien force into the delicate balance of power.nbsp; This force was the actual puppetmaster of the human-zor war and now wishes to bring both worlds under its madness inducing shadow.nbsp; The Dark Ascent brought into focus a secret conspiracy that is disrupting the balance of power on both a military and metaphysical level.But the same ancient philosophy of the zor race that prophesized "the Dark Wing" has also foreseen a hero that will meet the new menace--a hero now mystically embodied in a rebellious space commodore by the name of Jackie Lappierre.Now in The Dark Crusade as armadas clash and outposts fall, the overly confident alien menace is forced to confront a zor human alliance that has been warned, their covert and insidious plans of infiltration now exposed....but all is not as it seems to be. The "vuhl menace" may not be the ultimate enemy, and the all-powerful puppetmasters that have lurked in the shadows have entered the endgame where the mysteries of alien prophecies may have already determined the outcome.Though victory is hardly attained bynbsp;either side in The Dark Crusade,nbsp;the page turning and thought provoking climax will forever alter the fate of sentient life in the galaxy.

Customer Reviews:

Are Book Sagas Worth It?.......2006-07-10

Loved the first book and looked forward to the next one. Got the next one and found out it was turning into a series and groaned "oh no - they never live up to their starting volume!" Got the third and darn it - each book has kept me yearning for the next - not sure where it's going but still keeps up the suspense from the first book and I'm looking forward to finding out where everythings leading :)

Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5.......2006-01-24

A good combination of mystical and military scifi.......2005-11-16

I always thought that this series had been a trilogy. I read the orginal book where the zor were the enemy, and I thought that it was an interesting read. The second book had also been pretty good, and when I saw this book I thought that it was the third in the trilogy. I was thus surprised to find out that not only is it the 4th in the series, it is also itself a cliffhanger.

The story itself is well done, although it did not begin to grab me until the middle of the book where I could see the roots of facism taking hold in the Empire via the Blazing Star. I admit to skipping over a lot of the mystical stuff and focusing on the actions, but the plot and characters are solid. I would be interested in seeing where the story will go next.

I DON'T MIND HANGING, BUT A LOUSY ENDING IS NOT A GOOD WAY TO END A BOOK........2005-11-11

I was completely taken in by Hunt's style and world he has created in the DARK WIND series. The previous reviewer is correct, the culture, religion, villains, politics,etc are all very fascinating. However, having read the first three, I thought some answers would be forthcoming in this fourth book. Without giving anything away here, I have to say that the ending and chapters leading up to it are very very drawn out and in the end, inconclusive. I like the books, don't get me wrong, but I am not going to be reading another 6 or 10 books here to get to the end of the story (I have done this already more than once on other series which are just as good or better) which at this point needs more than the MYSTERIOUS whoever is bad or evil or whatever. If this author wants to keep my attention, the next book better have some clarity. SERIES IS A GOOD IDEA, DO NOT RUIN IT JUST BECAUSE IT WORKS FOR THE SAKE OF DRAWING IT OUT. I know you need to eat too.

A mystical Science Fiction story. The series goes on and on and on.......2005-10-17

This is the fourth book in what seems to be a never ending series. At first glance it seems to be a science fiction book, and it is mainly a classic space opera, but there are strong elements of fantasy. The three main races in these books have mental powers, and there are many themes of a mystical nature.

The first book in the series, "The Dark Wing," set the stage for this series. Humans were fighting with the zor, an alien bird like race which is heavy into a mystical view of the universe. The second book "The Dark Path" takes place years later when the humans and the zor have learned to get along, but are threaten by a new alien race. Some humans are dragged into the zor's approach to life. Jackie Kearny ends up on a quest for a special zor sword, the gyaryu. In the third book "The Dark Ascent" the new alien race, the vuhl, have attack the humans and zor, and initially have great success. The humans and zor learn some ways to protect themselves.

A large part of "The Dark Crusade" focuses on a small group of humans and zor, the Blazing Stars, who have learned a very effective way to fight with the vuhl. Their ultimate goal is to completely destroy the vuhl. The war changes from the humans and zor protecting themselves. It isn't even about conquest; the Blazing Stars want to exterminate the vuhl.

There are clear hints of another form of life which is trying to manipulate the humans, zor, and even the vuhl. We don't know who they are or what limitations they have. Some how this other group, life forms, or beings are tied to six colors of a rainbow. They do seem to be trying to get the humans and zor to destroy the vuhl. One thing I've wondered is are they playing a complicated chess game with humans, zor and vuhl as pieces; that the colors have picked sides and are trying to defeat the other colors. I wish the author gave us a bit more information about them.

The story is complex and rich in detail. There are many characters and the story bounces from viewpoint to viewpoint. The story moves along very well and never drags. It isn't clear that this series will have a conclusion any time soon. More and more characters, races, and threads get added with each book. The story is well written. If you like space opera and don't mind a story that leaves you hanging, then check out "Dark Crusade."

Average customer rating:

Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5
Good 'space navy' type novel.
A Mixed Bag
One of the Better Efforts in Space Opera Lately
Definitely an engrossing read

The Dark Wing
Walter H. Hunt
Manufacturer: Tor Science Fiction
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0765340690

Book Description

The zor is just one of the alien races that humanity encounters when it travels to the stars, and from the very first meeting it has been all-out war. For many years the conflicts have been sporadic, usually ending with an Earth concession and a treaty. But the zor does not respect mankind and has no any intention of honoring the agreements. When the zor decide to mount a surprise attack against human colonies, the normally self-absorbed government of Earth realizes that something must be done before it is too late.A controversial scholar by the name of Marais is brought in. A nonmilitary man, he has spent his entire life studying the zor and claims to have a plan to deal with them once and for all. With so few options remaining, Marais is put in charge of the battlefleet.Earth just wants the threat neutralized and would be happy with a stalemate, but Marais has other ideas. He believes himself to be the mythic Dark Wing, destined to exterminate the zor. . . .

Customer Reviews:

Joint Review of Dark Wing Series; Solid - 3.5.......2006-01-24

Good 'space navy' type novel........2005-10-25

Although the alien mysticism is a bit odd, it isn't overpowering. Good stuff.

A Mixed Bag.......2005-04-11

I have just finished reading THE DARK WING, and am of very mixed feelings about this book. This is indeed a page-turner, a book you don't want to put down, in order to find the answers to the variety of puzzles that crop up over the course of the story. Unfortunately, there are precious few surprises along the way, and many of the resolutions are telegraphed well in advance. The main problem, however, is this: Some parts are beaten to death by the author--we are told, and told, and told again what is happening or what will happen, and then it does. On other occasions, the story simply skips ahead days or weeks into the future, and we get only the most brief explanation of what has happened. An example would be the fate of Admiral Marais. We are told what his likely fate will be, then told about it again, and then again, so that when his fate actually plays out, it can only be met with a yawn. This book also tries to be too many things at once, and can never quite decide what it wants to be. A space-battle shoot 'em up? Not much after about the first hundred pages. A conspiracy tale? In some places, but only rarely, with little development. A sociological look at an alien society? For about the middle third of the book, maybe, but then that goes out the window, too. A trial drama? For a few pages, with no surprises at all, really--and including yet more rehash of what we've already been told over and over. In sum, this is a book with numerous enjoyable moments, that simply does not hang together well as a whole. Coupled with the mostly shallow characters, the book on balance disappoints. Here's hoping THE DARK PATH, which looks to be a bit shorter, will also be more focused and developed.

One of the Better Efforts in Space Opera Lately.......2004-07-19

First-time novelist Walter H. Hunt is surely a writer to watch, writing credible space opera that harkens to some of the finest I have seen from the likes of Gordon Dickson and Jerry Pournelle, to name but a few. Although Hunt isn't nearly as gifted a stylist as both venerable science fiction authors, he does a magnificient job in reviving time-worn space opera in his literary debut "The Dark Wing". This is a spellbinding tale of a scholar and military officer, Admiral Lord Marais, who becomes mankind's savior in the latest war against the zor, an ancient race of bird-like aliens. Marais seems to be the only one capable of understanding zor psychology and religion, which he uses effectively against the zor in a brilliant campaign after a zor sneak attack on the Solar Empire's key outpost of Pergamum. I liked Hunt's depiction of the zor and the internal conflict within their government as they realize that Marais thinks of himself as their destroyer, "The Dark Wing". Hunt does a fine job in creating several intriguing characters along with Marais, most notably the senior naval officers Torrijos, Hudson and Bell. With this novel, Hunt has established himself as a superb writer of military science fiction, with sufficient political and religious intrigue that is similar in scope to J. Michael Straczynski's "Babylon 5" television series. Anyone expecting to read a thin rehash of routine "Star Trek" fiction will be disappointed. But others, including myself, should look forward to Hunt's future efforts in military science fiction and space opera.

Definitely an engrossing read.......2003-12-24

A fascinating story... for military science fiction, more concept and thought than action... Think about Apocalypse Now, not Starship Troopers.

Demon Trilogy Book 1: Ashes and Angel Wings (Fallen, 1)

Average customer rating:

FICTION BY GREG STOLZE IS ALWAYS TOP NOTCH
This is good. For real.
Great book
Good Story, but Chicken out on the premise
Best White Wolf Fiction Ever

Demon Trilogy Book 1: Ashes and Angel Wings (Fallen, 1)
Greg Stolze
Manufacturer: White Wolf Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1588468054

Customer Reviews:

FICTION BY GREG STOLZE IS ALWAYS TOP NOTCH.......2007-07-25

ASHES AND ANGEL WINGS is a World of Darkness novel by Greg Stolze, meant to accompany the roleplaying game DEMON: THE FALLEN. Greg Stolze wrote the narrative part of DEMON, making him an excellent choice for the accompanying fiction. Besides writing the trilogy of which ASHES is the first, Greg has also written two fiction novels for VAMPIRE: THE REQUIEM. He is an excellent novelist, able to write compelling and sympathetic characters with good pacing in his story-telling.

ASHES AND ANGEL WINGS is a story about a demon who escapes from Hell to possess a human body, and his conflicting desires between serving the demonic authority over him and following his own selfish interests. On the one hand, I feel sympathy for the demon; he loves his host's daughter and tries to protect her and others in his life. On the other hand, he is ruthless in pursuing his own interests, to the point of torture and murder. The demon is a complex character, as are most struggles to determine what is right and what is wrong. The tension between the human host's desire to follow some moral code and the demon's desire to assert its ability to exert unrestrained power is an interesting one.

This is good. For real........2007-03-23

I never had a high regard for RPG fiction. Overall, I thought this kind of book ranged from OK to just plain bad, stuff that only gaming fans (like me) should read. That's because these books are usually very nice if you want to immerse yourself into the setting feeling and follow your favorite game's canon plots, but they fail to deliver as literature a little bit too often.

I changed my mind thanks to Greg Stolze.

Greg Stolze's writing is golden in every sense. He is able to portray ancient supernatural creatures without sounding artificial, nor plain. Stolze's favorite trick is to build several plots and then intertwine them in one big sick picture. He pulls that trick incredibly well. I was hooked from the beginning.

Demon: The Fallen is a very good game, that deals with difficult, heavy themes, and has a great dramatic potential. Ashes and Angel Wings succeeds in capturing that mood, and, here is the thing, is also very entertaining reading.

Great book.......2005-01-02

I don't normally read game fiction, but I really loved White Wolfs 'Demon: the Fallen' setting because it appealed to my love of dogma. I first read 'Lucifers Shadow' and it's short story 'A Legitimate Obligation'. When I found out that there was a whole book dedicated to Hasmed, I had to have it.

I'll have to admit, the book isn't ALL about Hasmed, but the side stories work their way into the main plot in such an amazing way, it makes it all worth it.

'Ashes and Angel Wings' tells us how Hasmed came to control the body of Harvey Ciullo, how he works to gain influence in the mortal crime sydicate for his own and his masters gain, and how, most importantly, he looks out for his daughter Tina.

While there is definitely a climax at the end, it doesnt really wrap things up and it leaves you wanting to know more. It's not enough of a let down to ruin the book, though. Just enough to urge me to buy 'The Seven Deadlies'.

Good Story, but Chicken out on the premise.......2003-09-18

I wish authors weren't so predictable and cowards when it comes to the subject of good and evil, God and the Devil. This book / series has such a great premise and potential, but the author chickens out when he deals the Good side of the Good v Evil equation. Evil is all powerful. Human have no resistance to it. Demon's can posses, destroy and manipulate at will. But good can do... nothing. There are no angels. God is nothing but a figment that is mentioned, but he "can't" intervien on earth because of... what. It's God, the creator of the universe.. who stops God from doing anything. Stolze tried to make the demons sympathetic even as the continue to do evil things. How they are misunderstood by God. Honestly, the story makes God sound like he is the manager of a 7-11 who just doesn't understand his employees or customers. How about a real story of good vs evil. Demons who know they are evil, revele in it. Angels who are good, know they are good and as the army of God will fight the Demons. Humans who have free will to choose between the two and are no powerless in the face of the ultimate choice in life and afterlife. Who can choose to fight on either side and face said consequences for doing so. One more thing... how can you tackle this subject with out talking about religion. Christian, Jew, Muslim.. how can you discount the books man uses to learn of God and our history. Since Lucifer is central to Christianity, how can you leave out Jesus Christ in the story of good v evil.

I wish someone would write a good story about the fight between good and evil, Angels and Demons, God and the Devil without skirting the religious aspect of it.

Best White Wolf Fiction Ever.......2003-04-24

I must admit to being an avid fan of Mr. Stolze but would like to add the caveat that he deserves the high praise that I give his novel. I find that many times a product driven novel usually loses sight of one of the most important goals of any piece of literature: Simply, to tell a good story. Ashes and Angel Wings is a great story, with well rounded and interesting characters. Even if you aren't a fan of White Wolf's game systems I heartily recommend picking up Mr. Stolze's finely crafted novel, you won't be disappointed. My only warning is to be prepared to buy the next two books in the series because you will definitely want to continue down such an engaging road.

Black Oak 2: The Hush of Dark Wings (Black Oak, 2)

Average customer rating:

"Episode 2" promises much but explains less
Black Oak #2 fun, if not a bit confusing
"This week, on Black Oak . . ."
Supernatural or mundane-read it and find out

Black Oak 2: The Hush of Dark Wings (Black Oak, 2)
Charles L. Grant
Manufacturer: Roc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0451457331

Customer Reviews:

"Episode 2" promises much but explains less.......2000-05-07

If Charles Grant dies soon I'm going to kill him! Words cannot explain just how addictive this series of books is going to become for me. Its like watching the X-files back when its was going from good to great. There is a lot more than meets the eye in the mystery of this small town, someone (or THING? ) is playing with Ethan Proctor, does it have to do with the murder in Atlantic City? Or the disappearance of that girl so many years ago? One thing is for certain, we are going to have to wait a little while longer to find out. So when is the next one, I cannot wait!

Black Oak #2 fun, if not a bit confusing.......1999-10-17

Charles Grant is the best writer you never heard of. Black Oak #2, although it is a bit perplexing at times, has its moments. Grant uses his classic Oxrun Station charm to give the novel some muscel. Dark-winged women stalk from the sky in exhilirating suspense. Only question I have is where did the entities come from?

"This week, on Black Oak . . .".......1999-04-12

With Black Oak, award-winning author Charles Grant is clearly creating something that works better as a series than a bunch of individual novels. While not a serialized novel like King's Green Mile, readers will get more out of The Hush of Dark Wings if they've read the previous volume (and presumably still more when the next installment comes out). It should come as no surprise that the reader is coming in on an ongoing story; the book is clearly labeled #2 on the cover and spine, and "Episode Two" inside. Having said that, while The Hush of Dark Wings does pick up on elements from Genesis, and parts of this book appear to carry over into the next installment, the main story does begin and end in this volume. Additionally, the story opens with a "Previously in Black Oak" recap of the important events from Genesis (a lesson more series should learn), and ends with a "Next, in Black Oak" teaser, letting us know that the author knows he didn't explain everything, and that's by choice, not sloppiness.

While The Hush of Dark Wings has the same overall tone as the first book, the plot is considerably less complex. At one point, the characters even realize how little time has passed over the course of the story. The book serves primarily as an introduction for (presumably) new regular Vivian Chambers. We also learn more about how the mysterious Ethan Proctor works and how he thinks, if not much more about his background. The paranormal mystery is weird and creepy, with some particularly vivid and graphic scenes. Graphic, that is, in the Charles Grant sense, where he gives the reader just enough information that you imagine something truly gruesome, without being spoon-fed all the gory details.

It's easy to make comparisons to X-Files, and I'm sure this series, like Chet Williamson's Searchers trilogy, owes its existence to that TV series' popularity. What makes Black Oak distinct is its varied cast of characters. Grant manages to create vivid personalities who come to life in front of the reader. I find myself looking forward to the next installment, not only to find out what happens next, but also to spend more time with these people and learn more about them. The Black Oak books may be quick reads, but they're a lot of fun, and may be one of the best TV series in print.

Supernatural or mundane-read it and find out.......1998-12-06

Black Oak Security, owned and operated by Ethan Proctor, is recognized as one of the top investigative corporations in the country. Proctor has his fill of mundane cases, but occasionally deals with an eerie investigation that hints at the supernatural. To his credit, Proctor does not rule out the seemingly impossible.

He wonders if something otherworldly is the cause behind a case in Hart Junction, Kansas, a town that was used at one time in many movies. Residents seem to vanish without a trace. The few remaining citizens hear footsteps, but no one is ever seen. Even more frightening to the few remaining townsfolk is the flying sounds that are heard by all just before someone dies. All these nocturnal events began when the Morning Star Cult moved into the vicinity about four years ago. Proctor predominately looks at the cult without ruling out other culprits in an effort to save a town that is near death.

Charles Grant has the uncanny ability to make readers doubt their conclusions while perusing one of his brilliant novels. The titillating wonder of not knowing whether Proctor battles the natural or supernatural world propels BLACK OAK #2: THE HUSH OF WINGS into a one sitting experience in order to obtain some answers. This engrossing and impossible to predict novel leaves the audience impatiently clamoring for book # 3 and searching for book #1.

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