The Phoenix Guards

The Khaavren Romances #1

by Steven Brust

A thousand years before the birth of Vlad Taltos, the Dragaeran Empire is a hotbed of intrigue, sorcery, intrigue, swashbuckling adventure, and intrigue. For those who would be heroes, it is a delightful time to be alive--and an easy place to die.

Khaavren of the House of Tiassa is a son of landless nobility, possessor of a good sword and "tolerably well acquainted with its use." Along with three loyal friends, he enthusiastically seeks out danger and excitement. But in a realm renowned for repartee and betrayals, where power is as mutable as magic, a young man like Khaavren, newly come from the countryside, had best be wary. His life depends on it. And so does the future of Dragaera.

When swordplay beckons, it's all for one--and one for... The Phoenix Guards.

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Science Fiction Fantasy, Adventure, High Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Speculative Fiction

491 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 1991

About the author

Steven Karl Zoltán Brust (born November 23, 1955) is an American fantasy and science fiction author of Hungarian descent. He was a member of the writers' group The Scribblies, which included Emma Bull, Pamela Dean, Will Shetterly, Nate Bucklin, Kara Dalkey, and Patricia Wrede, and also belongs to the Pre-Joycean Fellowship.

http://us.macmillan.com/author/steven...

(Photo by David Dyer-Bennet)

Reviews

[carol. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swashbuckling adventure! Sinister plots against the Empire! Will good friends, honor and friendliness prevail?

In all reviewer honesty, I've had this book for a number of years now (fine; since I bought the paperback release in 1992. Yes, Grasshopper, I'm that old) and have re-read it more than a few times since. I'm re-reading it now with Fantasy Aficionados, so it's time to trumpet its virtues.

Apparently in the style of The Three Musketeers (which I have not read), Brust goes one better by setting it in an interesting fantasy world and giving us a female fighter in the foursome. Like Dumas, Brust uses the background premise of a manuscript by another author, only in this case, the book is a "notebook" created by a historian surrounding events that preceded the fall of the Empire. It is part of a stand-alone duo set in the same world as the Vlad Taltos series, centering on events that contributed to the Interregnum, a significant world-event that continues to have consequences in Vlad's time.

The plot centers around four young adults heading to the capital city to join the Dragon guard, seeking fame, adventure or a trade (alas, no fire-breathing dragons here). The narrative chiefly focuses on Khaavren, an impoverished country noble seeking a trade. Lacking the sorcerery skills of Tazendra, the deviousness of Pell, or the quiet thoughtfulness of Aerich, he relies on his interest and open demeanor as he finds his way in the city. Together the four are formidable. Though not blood-thirsty, preserving honor is important and they are involved in more than their share of duels defending themselves or each other. Although they don't realize it, they are about to play a role in the politics of the nation as one of them seeks to win a lady's affection. There are swords, and sorcery; plots to overthrow the throne, and plots to support it. Hands will be kissed, brigands defeated, friends made, and rescues attempted.

Dialogue is formal and ornate, with much verbal fencing:

"'It is not a word,' said Pel, tossing his cloak over his shoulder so that the elegant hilt of his blade was visible, 'that pleases my ears.'
'Well,' said the lady who had spoken first, 'I confess that your ears are of only a little concern to me.'
'But,' said Pel, bowing politely, 'your tongue is of great concern to me.'
'For my part,' said Khaavren, 'I am concerned with her feet.'
'How,' said Aerich, who stood between Pel and Khaavren. 'Her feet?'
'Indeed. For if she will use them to move from these cramped quarters, well, I will do her the honor of showing her what my arm can do.'"

With a fair amount of sly asides and subtle banter, this isn't really a laugh-out-loud book; rather it acknowledges the occasional humorous note in clever word-play. For instance:
"'It's amazing!' he [Khaavren] cried to his companions.
Pel smiled complacently, but Tazendra touched his arm and said in a low voice, "Come! Not so loud. Everyone will think that you come from the duchies.'
A puzzled look crossed Khaavren's countenance. 'But I do come from the duchies.'
This time, the look of puzzlement crossed Tazendra's features, while Aerich smiled."

I remember on first read, the initial sections with Paarfi, the self-absorbed and pompous 'chronicler,' as being confusing and distracting. I found them more amusing on the second and third reads. Brust uses a potentially risky technique here of referencing popular works/events within the world of the book, so although the reader remains clueless as to the actual reference, the meaning usually comes clear.

"The creation for the first time of forts and fortresses (the distinction, certain comments by the Lord of Snails notwithstanding, having nothing whatsoever to do with the presence of breastworks, nor the size of buttresses)."

Also, if this is your first entry into Brust's Dragaeran Empire, the social structure takes awhile to piece together. While basically a feudal society, people are members of one of seventeen Houses, or genetic lineages that tend to specific characteristics and traits. Part of the challenge the first time through is piecing the social structure together.

The plotting is complex, and sheer perfection when it comes together at the end. This is a well-crafted book that should appeal to those who love a complex epic fantasy (Malazan, anyone?). It only improves with re-reading, as the extent to which the characters are subject to behind-the-scenes forces becomes clear. When coupled with the Vlad series, it provides a fascinating historical insight into a complex world.

Four and a half comradely stars.

Ps. I'm fairly certain there is a sneaky little homage to The Princess Bride tucked away in chapter twenty-six.
"'You use that word again, Garland.'
'Well, and is it not a perfectly good word, your ladyship?'
'Oh, I have no quarrel with the word.'
'And then?'
'But its application in this case.'
'I must hold to it, your ladyship.'
'And yet I declare that the thing is impossible.'"


Cross posted at http://clsiewert.wordpress.com/2013/0...

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Good day, my friend. Has your day been a pleasant one?"

"In truth, it has. I have finished reading a unique book."

"How, unique?"

"It is unlike any other book I've read in quite some time."

"Really. And what did you think of this book?"

"Well, I will tell you."

"Please do."

"In truth, I will. It has both tales of action and many conversations."

"Those things do not make a book unique."

"No, but the action is exciting, with many duels and plots of intrigue. The conversations--"

"Yes?"

"They are not unlike this one, in that they go on for quite some time without concision."

"That does seem unique."

"Well, not entirely, but it has gone out of fashion most recently. There is also a narrator who prizes brevity, but who takes forever to get to his points."

"How brevity, then?"

"I suspect the author is using this device to subvert conventions."

"Cha! There are more direct ways."

"But not as unique as this one."

"True. Well, if your reader enjoys dialogues such as ours, then she may well enjoy the book. And if not, she might be advised to pass it by."

"But there are duels, as I said. And women who are well-drawn and speak to each other of subjects other than men. And humor. And--"

"Yes? Where can I purchase a copy?"

"Amazon would probably be your best bet, although I recommend you try your local bookseller first."

"In truth, I will. Now I must be going, as I wish to begin reading with haste. Thank you for the summary."

"Not at all. Fortune speed you on your way."

[Bookwraiths · Rating 2 out of 5]

Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.

Steven Brust is an unabashed fan of Alexander Dumas, and The Phoenix Guards is his attempt to both emulate and exceed the swashbuckling master of such classics as The Man in the Iron Mask and Count of Monte Cristo. And if one begins this work understanding that this tale is a simulacrum of The Three Musketeers, then you shall have a far better chance of enjoying the book.

Like Dumas, Brust opens this work by stating that it is based upon a manuscript by another author. Here that book is a "notebook" created by one Paarfi of Roundwood; a historian who has done extensive research concerning the events preceding the fall of the Dragaeran Empire and the Interregnum, which followed. Unfortunately, for Paarfi, his work titled Toward Beginning a Survey of Some Events Contributing To The Fall of the Empire was rejected for publication, and so, in an effort to inform people of the important events of this time and put to use his extensive research, he has developed this story we are about to enjoy.

Paarfi thereafter spins a yarn centered on one Khaavren (D'Artagnan), an impoverished country noble, and though the point of view in the story does shift occasionally, the majority of the events in the story are told through his eyes. In any event, our young swashbuckler is a young, naive Dragaera, and though he has - as you would expect - a sword which he is "tolerably well-acquainted with," he also has lots to learn about the world. Thus, he finds himself pointed toward Dragaera City to make a name for himself.

Quite early on into Khaavren’s journey, he stumbles into a Lyorn and Dzur, who befriend him; their names are Aerich (Athos) and Tazendra(a female Aramis.)

Now, please understand that the designation of which house these two - and everyone else -belong to is very important in this story, because Dragaera is basically a medieval, feudal society, whose people are members of one of seventeen Houses, or genetic lineages. Each house has its own physical and personality traits, which identify them alone, and so by knowing which house a character is from, a person can instantly make assumptions about said person, and how they will generally behave in almost any given situation.

Naturally, Aerich and Tazendra begin chatting with Khaavren, inform him that they are also lacking in a proper noble income to keep them up and are seeking some redress for this divine prank. To be helpful, Khaavren shares his plan to join the Phoenix Guards, the new Emperor's elite personal troops, and his new friends decide to accompany him on his mission.

When the three arrive in Dragaera City, they meet Pel(Porthos), a Yendi, who is already a member of the guard. Pel helps the trio sign up and even buys their equipment for them. This kind act plus their instant comradery causes Pel to join the trio, and the four musketeers . . . I mean, Phoenix Guards are born. Together the foursome begin swashbuckling their way through adventure after adventure, while they attempt to find their way in the world, uphold their personal honor, fight sword duels, and always cut dashing figures.

Now, this tale that Brust gifts us with is a fine tribute to Dumas, but it is also difficult to digest. There are moments where it is very enjoyable, but there are many, many times it is sheer torture to read. The main problem is, without a doubt, the author’s attempt to replicate the formal and ornate style of Dumas, and while Brust succeeds beyond belief in accomplishing this, it might have been better if he had not, because soon the wordy exchanges between the characters become more annoying than pleasurable.

Would you like me to give you an example of this?

Absolute, sir.

Then I will most definitely do so.

Please do so right this instance.

I most certainly will, and let me begin.

It seems that every simple facet of life becomes an intricate, verbal dance for the people in this book. In one chapter, we have our four friends departing the city, but Tazendra seems ill at ease, so the following conversation commences.

Khaavren said, “My good Tazendra, it seems to me that you are unusually silent.”
“Well, I am,” she said.
“Then tell me, for I am curious, what accounts for this uncharacteristic quietude?”
“I reflect,” pronounced Tazendra.
“Ah! You reflect. Pel, Tazendra has been reflecting.”
“That is right,” said Pel. “And well she should.”
“And yet,” said Khaavren, addressing himself once more to the Dzurlord, “I should like to learn upon what you reflect.”
“Just this,” said Tazendra. “We are leaving the city.”
“The Horse!” said Khaavren. “I think we are.”
“I was wondering-“
“But you just said you were reflecting.”
“Oh, I was, I assure you. Only-”
“Yes?”
“My reflections transformed themselves into wonderings.”
“Well,” said Khaavren, “mine have been known to do the same.”
“It has happened to me,” admitted Pel.
“I never wonder,” said Aerich.
“But then,” resumed Khaavren, “you say your reflections gave over to wonderings on some subject about which you had questions?”
“Yes,” said Tazendra, “you have hit it exactly.”
“And what did you wonder?”
“Just this: we are leaving the city-”
“You had already reached the point while you were merely reflecting.”

The conversation progresses from there as the four companions debate why they are leaving the city, what they are intending to do, and how they intend to do it. All this done in the most convoluted manner imaginable.

If this was an isolated event, one could overlook it. However, every page contains long, very intricately constructed sentences, where everyone in the novel is determined to be overly formal, overly polite and speak for paragraphs without actually ever getting to the point. When I suggest that the most routine encounter turns into a three page circuitous conversation, I wish I was exaggerating

Even when things become heated between our heroes and others, and it is obvious that swords will be drawn and blood shall be shed, the character’s speak in a byzantine manner.

"'It is not a word,' said Pel, tossing his cloak over his shoulder so that the elegant hilt of his blade was visible, 'that pleases my ears.'
'Well,' said the lady who had spoken first, 'I confess that your ears are of only a little concern to me.'
'But,' said Pel, bowing politely, 'your tongue is of great concern to me.'
'For my part,' said Khaavren, 'I am concerned with her feet.'
'How,' said Aerich, who stood between Pel and Khaavren. 'Her feet?'
'Indeed. For if she will use them to move from these cramped quarters, well, I will do her the honor of showing her what my arm can do.'"

Now, many of you may find that last citation witty, if not laugh out loud funny, and it is humorous. But when it is placed into a book, where every page is overblown meandering, you do not even realize the joke is there; it fades into the gray lifelessness that your mind has become from trying to comprehend the unending obtuseness of everything.

And when the characters themselves are not distracting enough, Brust draws in our historian Paarfi, who is written in an annoying, pompous voice. He makes an appearance every chapter or so, interjecting confusing references to Dragaeran people or events that are suppose to aid a reader’s understanding of the story, but merely serves to add length to the book and confuse one even more than the rambling dialogue.

An example of this is one chapter, where it begins by Paarfi rambling on about “. . . a certain play, which was written by the master playwright Villsni of Cobbletown, which is called The Return of Duke Highwater.” Our narrator goes on to explain what this play was about and compare it to the current story, where a major plot point has never reared its head but will do so now.

I need to know this why?

Wouldn’t it have worked just as well to introduce the plot point instead of giving me a review of a fictitious play and compare the two?

But this is merely one example of Paarfi’s interruptions into the flow of the story. At other points, Paarfi interjects even more obscure things: such as the history of Dragaeran fortifications. There he explains to the edge of the seat reader that: "The creation for the first time of forts and fortresses (the distinction, certain comments by the Lord of Snails notwithstanding, having nothing whatsoever to do with the presence of breastworks, nor the size of buttresses)."

And it goes on and on.

Even the ending, where Brust does his normal tying up of all the loose plot ends, is merely a reflection of the Dumas work, to which this is a tribute. If you are at all familiar with the tale of the musketeers, you have already foreseen how our four friends tale will end, which means there is absolutely no suspense in the novel.

No doubt, you can tell by this point that I did not enjoy my re-read of this book. This is the third time I’ve had the pleasure to purview this novel, and each time it becomes less and less appealing. And while I realize Brust’s writing style is mimicking Dumas’ original, it just does not excuse the problems with the flow of the story.

I do realize many of you already have a desire to read this book, and so you would like me to list the positive aspects of The Phoenix Guard. I will now attempt to do so as simply and succinctly as possible.

PROS

1) This is set in the Dragaeran Empire of Brust’s Vlad Taltos series but a thousand years before Vlad’s birth. If you enjoy those novels and wish to learn more about the “history” of the Dragaera, then The Phoenix Guards will present you with some of that lore. Also, this history will be coming from Dragaeran characters, not an Easterner, and so it should not be tainted by Vlad’s preconceived like or dislike of the Dragaera.

2) The writing style. Even though I criticized its overblown intricacy, it cannot be denied that Brust puts on a mesmerizing display of literary ability here. I myself found it just as interesting how he structured a sentence and placed punctuation marks as I did what was actually going on with the characters. While I - as you the reader already can tell - am no master of the written word, I can recognize an epic display of skill when I see it, and Brust does dazzle in that area in this novel.

With those positive elements aside however, I cannot recommend this book to anyone except a Dumas fan. While there is lore about Vlad Taltos’ world here, I just cannot envision most Vlad fans loving this one, especially considering how different it is in tone and style from those novels. However, if you need another fix of Musketeer magic and don’t want to reread Dumas again, give this book a try. It might make you *YAWN* in its convoluted dialogue, but you can probably force yourself to get through it.

[Phil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brust serves up a swashbuckling homage to Dumas here in high style, set 1000 years before the birth of Vlad Taltos. Instead of three musketeers, however, Brust gives us four loyal friends seeking adventure and redemption. The Dragaeran Empire's new Emperor is still finding his way, beset by all kinds of advisors, intrigue and court politics. Khaavren of the house of Tiassa, unfortunately landless these days, starts the novel looking for excitement and adventure, quickly running into Aerich, Pel and Tazendra. They all travel to Dragaeran City and become Phoenix Guards, and that folks, starts the grand adventure narrated here.

Brust somehow manages to make this novel work. Our omnipotent narrator, really a group of historians, supposedly wrote this as part of a larger work Toward Beginning a Survey of Some Events Contributing to The Fall of the Empire. Indeed, some of the infamous characters in Vlad's world populate the pages, all much younger of course. While this could be read as a standalone, I would not recommend it. Brust just does not do big infodumps and many of the nuances of the world here will be missed without some familiarity with the Vlad series.

What makes this such a good read concerns the amazing dialogue amongst the characters, all nobility and oh so polite. The four adventures are also priceless. Khaavren, young, naïve, but with a fast tongue; the mysterious Aerich, a Lyorn, who is a stickler for protocol; Pel, a schemer and also mysterious, and finally, Tazendra, our female Dzurlord, who knows no fear and is always looking for a fight, particularly one where she is outnumbered and expected to die.

Brust's humor here really stands out as well, and while this will (probably) not bring belly laughs, it did make me smile and giggle almost the entire way. I really like the Vlad series, but The Phoenix Guards is Brust at the top of his game. 4.5 swords, happily rounding up!

[Melissa McShane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Steven Brust's work, and this one is near the top of my favorites list. Riffing off The Three Musketeers, Brust manages to fit this story into the world of Dragaera so neatly I almost never remember it's technically a derivative work. The conceit of its being written by Paarfi of Roundwood, a scholar whose personality comes through clearly on every page, makes it even better. I sometimes wonder if I'd be less enthusiastic if I were as emotionally attached to The Three Musketeers as I am to The Count of Monte Cristo (which Brust's latest book, The Baron of Magister Valley, tackles), but as it is I'm happy to read in ignorance.

Brust is good at so many things--characterization, plot, humor, interpersonal relations--and all of that is on display here. Young Khaavren is brash and impetuous, but also loyal and devoted to his friends, and as the heart of the story he makes the plot come alive. But his friends the "musketeers" Aerich, Tazendra, and Pel aren't any less vibrant figures, and I can never decide which of the four is my favorite. Whichever one is currently in the spotlight, I guess.

And the story is a fantastic romp, a wild adventure with swordfights, romance, intrigue, and treachery, made even better by the appearance of familiar characters from the Vlad Taltos novels. In this case, I specifically mean Adron e'Kieron, who is a presence in the Taltos books despite being hundreds of years dead. I loved seeing him take an important if secondary role, given how important he is to Dragaeran history. It's a bittersweet emotion, since I know what happens to him, but I remember the first time I read this how exciting it was to realize I would finally learn the details of what later history refers to as Adron's Disaster. But that's a story for the sequel.

I picked this up again because of the aforementioned new release (which has nothing to do with the Khaavren Romances, as far as I know, but any excuse) and because I recently replaced my battered old paperback with a newer edition I had not yet read. There is something so magical about seeing an old favorite in a new guise...

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Join the Guard! Make new friends! Stumble on to Political Schemes! Have your life threatened! Find love! Experience Betrayal! All while experiencing the roundabout, verbose, inventive prose!

This book is a treat to anyone with a language fetish. Brust was bemoaning the fact that there were no authors in modern times who wrote as Dumas did. And so, he decided to write a version of the Three Musketeers in the style of Dumas, but in his own world of Dragera. This is a fun adventure involving swords, battles, magic, and friendship. If you know the story of the Three Musketeers the tricks and turns of the plot will be easier to foretell, but there are enough differences that the story is still most enjoyable. The style is very different from most modern authors, and yet it is pleasant to read. Like reading Austen, the differences are there and make it somewhat hard to access at first, but once you settle in the pace & rhythm seems so natural that when you encounter modern fiction writing again you will be surprised at the brevity.

Khaavern is the D'artanin mirror. Like his inspiration, he's young in the world, comes from a well bred family that has lost their lands, and is making his way to the Palace to join the elite fighting force, The Phoenix Guards, such to be able to win fame & fortune. Along the way he meets two friends, Tazenda & Aerich, who decide to join him in his pursuit. After arriving in the city, the 3 companions meet up with Pel, who is a newly recruited Guard himself, and they all start off together. There are several duels fought, with and without the legal observations that prevent it from being murder. And, along the way, the four companions are caught up in a plot of treason due to their natural curiosity as well as at the insistence of a lovely lady. And I find I am falling into the style of the author to an extent, for which I refuse to apologize.

I have read Brust's other books (namely Jhereg & company) which follow the assassin Vlad Taltos. This book takes place 1000 years before those books, and the landscape of the world is very different. It is fun to meet some of the historical figures referenced in the Vlad books, as well as read hints of plotlines that surface 1000 years later (Dragerans, it should be understood, live for 400-700 years; or, in the case of Sethra Lavode, have achieved apparent immortality via undeath). While you can certainly start at the Khaavern Romances (which is what this series is called), I had a lot more fun than I would have otherwise having read the Vlad books. If I must condescend to give this worthy history a rating, I would have to give it 5 out of 5 noble Tiassas.

[Mike (the Paladin) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this years ago and found it a great read. It's (purposely I would guess) so reminiscent of a tongue in cheek fantasy take (loosely) on Dumas Three Musketeers. Plenty of action and laughs. I like it.

I plan to plan to pick up the next book...I've planed to for a long time. Long to be read list...oh, well.

[Skallagrimsen]

From the final chapter of The Four Musketeers: The True Story of D'Artagnan, Porthos, Aramis Athos by Kari L. Maund and Phil Nanson:

"The most complex of the homages [to The Three Musketeers] is The Phoenix Guards and its sequels, by American writer Stephen Brust. Four young soldiers--Khaavren, Aerich, Tazendra and Pel--form an unshakable friendship against a background of intrigue, duels, magic and romance, and succeed in saving the day, however the odds are stacked against them. Brust is one of very few writers to tackle the entire arc of Dumas's musketeer novels, and he does so with great deftness and skill. A long-time fan of Dumas, he has also chose to write this sequence in a voice deliberately echoing the style both of Dumas himself and of his early English translators. His books are amongst the most accomplished of all those written in the shadow of the musketeers, and probably come closest of all the finding the same flavor and atmosphere as the originals."

I second the motion.

[Amanda · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried to read this book because I love the Vlad Taltos series by this author, but I just could not get through it. He changed his writing style to be very High-Victorian-England style of proper english and grammar, but to me, it's just dry. It's so hard to get through the words that all of the action and humor is completely lost to me. I was sad, because I think the story idea is great one and I was really excited about this book! Now I'm just mad.

[Richard Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know how it happens that I haven't read anything by Steven Brust yet. I've seen his books hundreds of times. Having passed by his books once or twice, I made a habit of it, I guess.

Big mistake.

It was only when I finished the D'Artagnan romances that I discovered that this group of books is modeled on them but set in his usual fantasy world. That sold it for me. The plot has echoes, for sure, but the most perfect correlation is between his main characters and the original Three Musketeers plus D'Artagnan. With loving satire, he recreates them and their milieu--reimagined, to be sure, but still unmistakable--and, especially, the fearless, nonchalant violence you find in the original.

I loved the cadence of their dialogue, which resembled (and exaggerated, perhaps) the original, but was perfect for their devil-may-care attitude throughout. Here's a sample, with Aerich talking to Khaavren:

"So, you wish to hear my plan?"
"Kieron's Boots! I've been asking for nothing else for an hour!"
"Very well, here it is: instead of taking this road, turn rather to the north."
"How, the north?"
"Exactly."
"That's your advice?"
"In its entirety."
"Yet, I fail to see how that will solve the problem."
"Then I will explain."
"I am most anxious for you to do so."

I laughed out loud many times, but even though it's clever and amusing it's never absurd. There's a perfect internal consistency throughout.

I'll admit, the plot is somewhat ragged. IMO. But the story rolls along with so much to enjoy (like a Dumas novel) that I didn't miss it. Just let the four guards and do their thing.

Recommended 29 years after the fact. Sorry it took me so long. :)

[Tim Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read and enjoyed this book years ago. Recently I re-read Dumas' The Three Musketeers and enjoyed it greatly, and of course I was reminded of this book. What a hoot!

It's hard enough to write a tribute in the style of another author. It's harder to set in a complex existing world, even if you are the creator of that world. To also include a moderately complex plot that resolves very neatly makes it quite an achievement.

If this is the first book you've ever read that's in the ruffles-and-flourishes style used here, you'll have to get used to it. Be assured it's written this way on purpose, and there's a good chance you'll come to enjoy it.

The characters are one-dimensional, just as are Dumas' Musketeers. They are impulsive, quick to decide and quick to act, except for those many, many occasions on which they are bound by their honour, or by the rules of their society, or their perceived duty to each other or to someone else. But this is what makes the plot move.

I particularly enjoyed the scene in which the four of them are trapped in an inn. Told that there are twenty soldiers, Tazendra announces that it wouldn't be fair to fight only 20 at once. You know she totally believes it, and at that point in the book you know she may be right. They talk their way out of this one, as they do on many occasions once we have been shown that they are deadly killers when they have to be.

Great fun. I will re-read the sequel, too.

[Linda · Rating 1 out of 5]

UGH. This book does not deserve any stars. I devoutly hope that his writing improved *GREATLY* after this story considering how many books he has published. I didn't get past the first few chapters. Not only was the writing stilted and flat, it was like reading a gaming session and a bad one at that. The MC arrives in town, goes to a bar. Forms an immediate connection with two other people after exchanging a sentence or two of conversation. At the end of the last chapter I read, they head off into the sunset ready to face whatever life holds with their faithful companions.

...

...

...

All through that sections, my brain was hiding behind a bubble of disbelief. Surely, I wasn't reading this. I was hallucinating the words...or something. But alas, I was. And so, The Phoenix Guards went back to the library, unfinished. I am just very happy I did not *pay* for this.

Edit: After reading other reviews of The Phoenix Guards by people who have read other books by him, the writing style used in this book is not his usual and a lot of people agreed that he did not succeed with what he was trying to do with the writing style. However, I cannot forgive the utterly idiotic manner in which the main characters join forces. And I doubt I will ever waste my time trying other books of his unless they are specifically recommended to me by someone whose judgement I trust.

[Kate Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Phoenix Guards is easy to list among my favorite books of all time, in part because it manages to effortlessly deliver on so many seeming contradictions. It's the start of an engaging character-driven saga that is satisfying as a standalone work. Readers familiar with Brust's other works set in the same fantasy universe will delight in backstory regarding familiar characters and events, but those new to his writing get a solid foundation for reading further. It's also a transparent homage to Alexandre Dumas' d'Artagnan Romances (The Three Musketeers, etc.) while still teeming with original ideas. Sure, it's more of a lighthearted romp than a life-changing read but it pulls it all off with amazing style.

The framing of the book is reminiscent of what I loved about The Princess Bride. There's a narrative within a narrative here that's every bit as playful, and the dialogue is just as quotable. Fair warning: catchphrases from the work can start to seep into your every day conversation, much to your own amusement and everyone else's bewilderment.

In short, I can't recommend the book enough. Nor could I bring myself to be specific and spoil one moment of what I hope you'll have time to sit down and enjoy as I have, and so many who have read the book in the past at my urging.

[Mornblade Keltoislave · Rating 2 out of 5]

While I am a fan of Steven Brust's Vlad Taltos series, I wasn't as happy with this book.
"Why is that?"
I will tell you.
"I hope you do."
I certainly will.
"Then please continue."
Thank you, I will.
"You are welcome."
So it is this, then... Steven Brust wrote this in hopes of creating something of his own in a style similar to that of Alexandre Dumas ("The Three Musketeers", "Count of Monte Cristo"). And he did a good job at that. But the book comes off as unnecessarily wordy, with lots of annoying interchanges like the one above. Dumas wrote like that in his books as well, but he didn't do it for reasons of style or because the people of the time spoke that way. He wrote that way because he was paid by the word (which I certainly hope Brust is not).

When writing "The Phoenix Guards", Brust created a good story that could have been told in two-thirds of the time. While not a bad read over all, it would be much better in an abridged version.

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

My absolute favorite book by Brust. I’ve read this book every couple years since it came out. I have two first Ed hardbacks, one signed, and a tatty paperback that’s been thumbed through at least ten times. Finally this year I gave it to the wife to read and she loved it nearly as much as I do. We ended up listening to the audiobook as well, and I encourage anyone else who has not heard this book read to do so as well. The only thing I could wish for is to have had SKZB read it himself.

[Meredith · Rating 1 out of 5]

Review, The Phoenix Guards

In which it is shown that Meredith apparently does not understand whatever it was Burst was trying to do.


"While we are not familiar with this concept of truth as you may know it, it appears you have some opinion on the matter. Come now, tell us what this truth is."

"You are asking me what I thought of The Phoenix Guards. While I fear this endeavor is beyond my meager capabilities I will indeed make this attempt on your behalf."

"Well, you may tell us. You have said that you will tell us. Enough with this obviously empty repartee and get on with it."

"Surely you can see it as plainly as the words on this screen. Perhaps I should not bother myself with the effort of...."

"....! Even as we may see this truth already we still await you telling us as you see it. And quickly please... we care not for this teasing. Surely you don't expect us to beg you."

"Absolutely not! As to telling you this truth, I will. I will tell you what I thought. and on my own time and in my own way or not at all!"

"Go on then. We grow tired of this game. Tell us."

"I will."

[Neeuqdrazil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've not *read* this, but I've listened to it a number of times - mostly because it puts me to sleep within a half-dozen pages. And this is a good thing!

To explain further:

Matt tried to read this to me, but I kept falling asleep within a couple of pages. It became a bit of a joke between us - if I couldn't sleep, I'd ask him to read this to me.

Along came Audible, and this was one of the first books I bought. It took me about a year and a half to listen to the whole thing, a few minutes at a time, but I did eventually finish it.

The book is absolutely delightful. The way Brust plays with language, plays with the conventions of Dumas and that entire genre of novel (brevity being valued, but not much, because they were paid by the word). It's hysterically funny, and there are a few places where I would never fall asleep, because it was just too enjoyable - the foursome's first patrol with the Phoenix Guards is one of them.

Highly recommended. Even if I can't stay awake.

[Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this book several times and it's a bit of a comfort read for me. It's funny that I came back to this after finishing Doctorow's Walkaway, because where Walkaway exhausted me with it's wordiness, The Phoenix Guards charmed me with it's own. For example, when one chapter concludes with the characters deciding to take a carriage to the capital, the next chapter begins with "There were seven levels of carriage built at this point in the empire's history..."!
Much like reading a Neal Stephenson novel, the reader will either enjoy the style of writing in these novels, or hate them. You will figure it out pretty quick. I love it and look forward to re-reading the rest of the series as well.
(You do really need to have read some of the Jhereg books prior to this one. Also, their style is much more conventional.)

[Geoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had read this before years ago, and the Dumas-homage felt annoying, especially in terms of the overly polite and ornamented dialogue. But this time, I loved that aspect; the dialogue felt funny rather than onerous padding. Not sure.if it's a change in me or evidence of the importance of a good audiobook reader.

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am seriously conflicted about this book. I love the story the writing style though makes it extremely hard for me to read. I have tried twice in the past to read it but was unable to get far due to the style.

Thankfully I found it on audio and was able to soldier through the rough patches of the style that don't lend well to me personally reading them.

[Manosthehandsoffate · Rating 1 out of 5]

Convoluted plot with verbose expositions and dialog. I understood that it was a Dumas homage but it still came off as a bit annoying. Still entertaining though to fans of Brust. I probably wouldn't recommend it to most people.

[Joel Adamson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is quite charming and even funny, like Dumas meets Dungeons and Dragons. Beyond that I found it hard to get invested in the characters and even found the pages upon pages of snappy dialogue somewhat tiresome. Not sorry I read it, but I was constantly waiting for it to be over.

[Carlex · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 and half stars

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brust writes this novel (and the 6 others in this mini-series) with the voice of his character, Paarfi. Paarfi writes with a much more formal and flowery tongue than most modern authors, and if you are not prepared or simply not attuned to this style it might, for you, be off-putting. For me, Paarfi is absolutely wonderful. He never wastes 5 words for what can be described with 20, and he has so many wonderful turns of phrase that, were you to use them in modern conversation (and after enjoying reading them, you might find yourself looking for opportunities to do so), would probably provoke reactions ranging from quizzical glances to sneering derision. To those who would react that way, I can only offer pity, for these bon mots are full of such delicious wit and powerful expression. Perhaps if you are not immediately enchanted by his verbiage, if you persist you will have the great delight of finding that it grows on you.

I hope it does please you, because through all the ornament is a quite lovely story of intrigue, action, betrayal, and honor. A truly wonderful journey.

[Kes · Rating 2 out of 5]

It would seem, therefore, that if we were to allow our readers, by virtue of being in the company of the historian, to eavesdrop on this interchange, we will have, in one scene, discharged two obligations; a sacrifice, if we may say so, to the god Brevity, whom all historians, indeed, all who work with the written word, ought to worship. We cannot say too little on this subject.

This is a book engrossed with using twenty words when ten would suffice instead; it is in love with the sound of its voice, and immoderate with its extensive prose. It is, in a word, circumlocutious.

I'm going to stress that this book review is subjective, because I got frustrated with it.

Khaavren wants to be a Phoenix Guard, which is a kind of royal guard. He therefore journeys to the city. Along the way, he meets Aerich, Pel, and Tazendra. Aerich is a melancholy guy who likes crochet. Tazendra is a Dzur (known for their swordsmanship). Pel is a short guy who is extremely acquainted with Court intrigue. The four of them become part of the Phoenix Guard, and we follow their adventures. They wander around getting involved in fights (and winning).

This is basically crack fic. When the four of them are admitted to the guard, the following exchange takes place with their Captain, G'aereth:

Khaavren said, "My lord, we are prepared to assume our duties."

"That is well," said the Captain. "Are you aware of what these duties consist?"

"No, my lord," said Kaavren frankly.

"But we hope to learn," said Aerich with a slight bow.

"Then I will tell you," said G'aereth. "There remain two more days of festivities in the city. Those who enjoy these festivities may, in their enthusiasm, become a menace to the other more restrained citizens. It falls upon us, then, to make certain there are no, or at least few, needless injuries. We must also strive to our utmost to see that the dueling code is upheld."

They nodded.

"Very well," said the Captain, "you are to enforce the laws of the Empire."

"And what laws are these, Captain?" asked Aerich.

"Heh," said G'aereth. "Use your judgement. If it looks illegal, then it probably is."

That's rather... idiosyncratic. I was amused when I read it, though. Other things that amused me: Mica's sole weapon is a bar stool. He carries it around and prepares to engage in battle with it (even as everyone else carries around bladed weapons) - and no one acts like there is anything unusual about this.

This excerpt highlights also what is frustrating about the writing.

1. They're just been admitted to the Phoenix Guards - it is extremely unlikely that they would know the duties of the guards, and in any case, it never does any harm to repeat it.

2. Is there a need for Aerich to put in his two cents?

In modern real life conversation, we would go straight to G'aereth expounding on their duties. But this exchange is typical of most conversation! Person A: Do you know of X? Person B: No. But do tell. Person A: Okay, I will tell you. Person B: I am all ears.

Unnecessary, in my view. I understand that this is a feature for others, and not a flaw - and thus highlights the subjectivity of personal taste.

There's also one chapter which they devote entirely to discussing what they will pack. Khaavren asks Tazendra how long she needs to prepare flash stones, she tells him how long the preparation of each component takes, he presents her the total time it would take, and she would be impressed that he can do simple arithmetic. It feels pointless to me.

Other parts I liked include:

"Have a care, Kaavren," said Pel. "The grass is wet."

"Well, and is it not equally wet for him and for me?"

"Nevertheless, have a care."

"I have more than a care," said Kaavren. "I have a fine piece of skin which is wrapped around all of those charming organs that allow my breath to flow, my blood to pump, and my mind to think. I will, therefore, do my utmost to see that my epidermis finishes this conflict in the same condition in which it began it."

"That is right," said Pel.

Uh, duh.

I did chuckle at this:

"Your ladyship, it seemed that we were caught in an ambuscade, and, to avoid a massacre, I ordered that we retreat at once."

"Well, and did your troop obey?"

"They more than obeyed, most of them were gone before I gave the command."

Lol.

Another thing that was interesting was ages. Sixty to seventy appeared to be a child, over ninety a teenager, and everyone lived for hundreds of years. I couldn't get a grasp of relative ages, but I felt it was a small thing that emphasised how this world was different.

In general, if you have patience for a book that take ages to get to the point, this is a fairly fun and lighthearted book to read. It's comedic fantasy (if there is such a thing). The four friends fight battles, and people don't seem to take injuries or other people dying seriously. They appear to float through life in a way that seems charmed - things happen because they happen, and because the characters are good. There's not much depth to the book.

Lastly, I mentioned this before, but I loved that Aerich crochets. I rarely see crafting-as-a-hobby in fantasy, so I liked that aside.

So, fun read, but I can't say I liked it. 2/5.

[Jess Knowles · Rating 4 out of 5]

This slapped. Very funny.

[Grace · Rating 1 out of 5]

I quit once I realized I was skipping entire pages of text. See all other reviews commenting on the ridiculously obtuse dialogue. I wanted to like it but could not finish. Hats off to all Dumas fans who love it - not for me.

[Chy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, it is amazing.

Some years back, I came into possession, quite by accident, of The Paths of the Dead. I'm still somewhat confused (but not seeking any answer) about how that book falls in with this specific series. I know it's included, always, as a "part" of The Viscount of Adrilankha. But, in all areas, I have deduced that this book is the first in the series, and since that's what I've just read, I shall endeavor to stick to this.

It's been years since I've read Dumas, and I've never read The Three Musketeers. (We've gone on a few dates, one of which occured last week, and I do believe is a prelude to a more significant romance.) That is to say, I've been waiting for the "right time" with that one.

Still, that date was enough to refresh me with the style, and therefore allow me to be astounded that Brust pulled it off in this novel. Oh, yes, it is an homage to The Three Musketeers, set in the world of Dragaerans, which is the same world the title character of the Vlad Taltos series lives. This book takes place about a thousand years before that, though, with the long lifespans of Dragaerans, there are a couple of familiar faces, a few familiar names, and lots of treasures that pertain to events in Vlad's stories (such as the painting!)

I thought it was great fun. I've heard complaints about the dialogue, but I enjoyed the dialogue most when it got so stilted and drawn out as to be absurd. It was immensely entertaining to me. Same goes for some of the narration, especially when the author (a fictional author, by the name of Paarfi) spends a couple of paragraphs talking about how he'll skip over somesuch description for the sake of brevity. And, see, it's obvious such a description would have been more brief than him writing about how he was skipping it and what a favor this was to the reader.

I love crap like that, when done the way it's done here, and when I'm in a mood for it---which I have been. And without it, we'd miss entertaining things, like the history of the town whose name, after translating the four languages that make it up, basically translates to, "Ford ford ford ford."

Two things I keep meaning to say of this world of Brust's, and the works of Brust in general, respectively:

1.) I have, quite without fully realizing it until recently, always appreciated the way Brust handles the equality of the sexes in Dragaeran society. In this book, if we're to draw parallels between the four main friends and the four main friends in The Three Musketeers, then the most Porthos-like character is a woman. Part of why I appreciate the method so much is because it never draws attention to itself, it never shouts, "Look! Look how the sexes are equal!" I mean that part of the reason I appreciate it so much is because I so rarely even note it. It's just part of what is.

2.) Mistakes. Every time there is a seeming mistake or incontinuity, I sit around assuming---at least at first---that Brust did it on purpose. To the point that I even give typos a sideways glance and wonder what they "could really mean." In the Taltos books, I think they really mean less-than-perfect editing. In this book, however, my knee-jerk reaction, I think, pays off because, it seems to me, the typos further instill the notion of the thing having been written by a fictional writer who is paid by the word, and who most likely has no proofreaders, editers, et. al.

That's the magic of Brust; I have no idea how many mistakes are actually in his writing, because I know for sure some are contrivances. Brust himself supplies the best analogy for this, in the case of Vlad talking about Dzur mountain. He tells us that we know, for sure, the left ear was fabricated. There are suspicions about the whole dzur-shaped wonder, but we're sure about the left ear.

I could keep going, because Brust is awesome, but I'd rather be reading the next book.

[Boris Slocum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlettered oaf that I am, it took me two readings of this book (fifteen years apart) to realize it was a recasting of "The Three Musketeers." The surprising part is that Brust did a pretty good job of telling the story and breathing fresh life into it. If you like good fantasy fun with a thick slather of swashbuckling, you can't do much better than "The Phoenix Guards." Oh, and did I mention the sorcery? The intrigue? The lusty lads and perilous adventure? Oh, yes. There's that too. Have fun.

[Lee Dunning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I get started on my review, allow me to make one thing clear—do not read this book simply based on my liking it. You could very well hate it. It is one of the few books I've read which has such a polarizing effect on those who pick it up. It is written in a specific style no longer utilized by modern writers and as such turns a lot of folks off. Read an excerpt if you can. You'll quickly discover if you find the writing entertaining or annoying.

"The Phoenix Guards" is not a new book, but it's been on my "to read" list for ages, and lurking on my Kindle almost as long, so I thought it high time to consume it. Anyone who is a fan of Alexander Dumas will recognize the writing style immediately. Mr. Brust emulated Dumas' style beautifully. This is a good thing for folks like me who enjoy long exchanges of inane banter between characters, often without accompanying tags to help you keep track of who said what.

Dumas also used his books to transport his readers to exotic lands. Nowadays we can travel from L.A. to Tokyo in about thirteen hours. In Dumas'time, people just didn't get around as much, or have access to the internet or coffee table books with large photos. As such, Dumas' books were part adventure, part travelogue. Mr. Brust takes this route for his story too (though not to quite the extremes as Dumas). You'll finish the story knowing all sorts of things about a typical roadside inn, you'll learn about the different architectural styles of each emperor, you'll be able to label horses based on color, build and strengths/weaknesses, etc. Yes, lots of detail.

It's not unusual for the story to come to a screeching halt while the narrator describes in exquisite detail what a new character is wearing, how they carry themselves, what about their bone structure, skin color and hair color distinguishes them as a Dragonlord or a Yenti, and even what weapon style they favor. In between are dozens of fights, many of them duels based on honor, and the body count is high. Apparently, it's exhausting to be a gentleman in Mr. Brust's world. One never knows when he might have to defend himself against a verbal slight. I'm fairly certain none of us have run into an artist so hot-headed she lopped someone's head off because he insulted her painting. That's passion!

In the end, the story threads get pulled together neatly, and in a very "Three Musketeers" sort of way, our group of friends go their own way, but leaving us with the hope they might find the time to get together again for more adventures down the road. It's all in good fun and I loved it.