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The Legends of Camber of Culdi #1
Camber of Culdi
200 years before Kelson was king of Gwynedd, Camber of Culdi – patron of Deryni magic – watched helplessly as the Kingdoms were ruined by the Deryni rule of Imre and his incestuous sister. He could do no9thing, even when his peasants are killed and his son murdered by Imre.
The he discovered a living descendant of the old Haldane kings – a humble monk. Could this Haldane brave Imre’s magic to claim the Deryni throne?
The he discovered a living descendant of the old Haldane kings – a humble monk. Could this Haldane brave Imre’s magic to claim the Deryni throne?
Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1976
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About the author
Katherine Kurtz
92 books741 followersKatherine Kurtz is an American fantasy novel writer. She is best known for her Deryni series. She currently lives in Virginia.
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April 23, 2020
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths .
Camber of Culdi was originally published in 1976, following on the heels of the thrilling exploits of the young King Kelson Haldane in The Chronicles of the Deryni trilogy. In Deryni chronologically terms, however, this novel is the oldest, going back in time to shed light on the mysterious Saint Camber, who is reviled and revered in equal measure by the populous of the Kingdom of Gwynedd in Kelson’s time. And here readers come face-to-face with this Deryni legend.
The ruler of Gweynedd at this time in Camber’s life is the young Imre; his ancestor Festil I, the Conqueror, having brutally overthrown the human kings centuries before, seizing power for the Deryni race. These very human-like people living along side the population, normal in every way except in their extraordinary mental powers which are rumored to be magic. And while the Deryni overlordship of the land has not been all bad, it has taken a decidedly downward turn upon the ascension of Imre, who is a horrible racist (He views humans as nothing more than livestock to be worked, taxed, and killed as needed.) and more than a little insane. These qualities having caused Camber MacRorie, Earl of Culdi, to retire from court; his duties to the crown passed to his eldest son, Cathan, who has been fast friends with Imre since childhood.
This self-imposed retirement of the Earl seems to be for the best. The quiet life suiting him, allowing Camber to spend his days on ecclesiastical and historical study as well as family time: his daughter Evaine mainly, though he is close with his sons Cathan and Joram too. The greater goings-on of the kingdom still of interest to him, but his belief that younger men should guide the king into more prudent rulership. But then two events occur simultaneously: Imre decreeing that innocent humans must die in punishment for the murder of a Deryni, and an elderly human on his deathbed passing along a deadly secret to Camber’s son-in-law Rhys Thuryn. These unrelated events setting off a chain reaction which forces Camber of Culdi to contemplate betraying his ruling monarch and, perhaps, the Deryni race itself!
Having read this (and the other Deryni novels) as a teenager growing up in the 1980s, picking up Camber of Culdi again after all these years was both a welcome return to a childhood haunt and a trepidatious homecoming for an older, more cynical me. And, after finishing my re-read, I have to admit being both pleased and disappointed with the novel, though I definitely feel more of the former rather than the latter.
On the pleased side, I have to point to the wonderful world of the Deryni, which I still found as engrossing and as entertaining as it was decades ago. This fantasy version of medieval Europe filled with royal houses, political machinations, and the unique Deryni. What set it apart from other series is Katherine Kurtz’s wholesale inclusion of the Catholic Church in her story; medieval Christianity fully in place with Jesus Christ having died on the cross, his followers having spread across the world, monasteries and militant orders dotting the landscape, and the learned quoting Latin Psalms. This inclusion of religion allowing the author to capture the true nature of this historical setting, to show the clash of secular and religious powers, and to juxtapose the dual nature of devotedly religious people committing horrible deeds in the name of secular power.
On the disappointed side, I have to acknowledge this group of characters were a bit of a letdown for me (though, to be completely honest, I never loved them as much as I did Kelson, Morgan, and company). Camber always seemed more a saint than a real person. His children Cathan, Joram, and Evaine (as well as other confidantes like Rhys) had brief flashes of personality, but never received a real opportunity to grow into anyone truly special. King Imre and other “bad guys” were penned as fairly one dimensional creatures, easily labeled as the “insane tyrant”, “the “evil temptress”, or the “scheming liar.” And there was a complete absence of female main characters, though that might be a result of the time period when the book was first published more than anything else.
Overall, Camber of Culdi is a fine fantasy read filled with political scheming, dynastic intrigue, and a touch of magic, set in a wonderfully developed faux-medieval Europe with a fully realized Catholic Church. For longtime lovers of the Deryni novels, it will be a joyful return to a familiar home, replete with iconic characters and an easily followed tale told in Katherine Kurtz memorable style. To those new to the series, I would encourage them to read the first trilogy, The Chronicles of the Deryni, before delving in here, because the revelations in this book could ruin very important plot elements there.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
Camber of Culdi was originally published in 1976, following on the heels of the thrilling exploits of the young King Kelson Haldane in The Chronicles of the Deryni trilogy. In Deryni chronologically terms, however, this novel is the oldest, going back in time to shed light on the mysterious Saint Camber, who is reviled and revered in equal measure by the populous of the Kingdom of Gwynedd in Kelson’s time. And here readers come face-to-face with this Deryni legend.
The ruler of Gweynedd at this time in Camber’s life is the young Imre; his ancestor Festil I, the Conqueror, having brutally overthrown the human kings centuries before, seizing power for the Deryni race. These very human-like people living along side the population, normal in every way except in their extraordinary mental powers which are rumored to be magic. And while the Deryni overlordship of the land has not been all bad, it has taken a decidedly downward turn upon the ascension of Imre, who is a horrible racist (He views humans as nothing more than livestock to be worked, taxed, and killed as needed.) and more than a little insane. These qualities having caused Camber MacRorie, Earl of Culdi, to retire from court; his duties to the crown passed to his eldest son, Cathan, who has been fast friends with Imre since childhood.
This self-imposed retirement of the Earl seems to be for the best. The quiet life suiting him, allowing Camber to spend his days on ecclesiastical and historical study as well as family time: his daughter Evaine mainly, though he is close with his sons Cathan and Joram too. The greater goings-on of the kingdom still of interest to him, but his belief that younger men should guide the king into more prudent rulership. But then two events occur simultaneously: Imre decreeing that innocent humans must die in punishment for the murder of a Deryni, and an elderly human on his deathbed passing along a deadly secret to Camber’s son-in-law Rhys Thuryn. These unrelated events setting off a chain reaction which forces Camber of Culdi to contemplate betraying his ruling monarch and, perhaps, the Deryni race itself!
Having read this (and the other Deryni novels) as a teenager growing up in the 1980s, picking up Camber of Culdi again after all these years was both a welcome return to a childhood haunt and a trepidatious homecoming for an older, more cynical me. And, after finishing my re-read, I have to admit being both pleased and disappointed with the novel, though I definitely feel more of the former rather than the latter.
On the pleased side, I have to point to the wonderful world of the Deryni, which I still found as engrossing and as entertaining as it was decades ago. This fantasy version of medieval Europe filled with royal houses, political machinations, and the unique Deryni. What set it apart from other series is Katherine Kurtz’s wholesale inclusion of the Catholic Church in her story; medieval Christianity fully in place with Jesus Christ having died on the cross, his followers having spread across the world, monasteries and militant orders dotting the landscape, and the learned quoting Latin Psalms. This inclusion of religion allowing the author to capture the true nature of this historical setting, to show the clash of secular and religious powers, and to juxtapose the dual nature of devotedly religious people committing horrible deeds in the name of secular power.
On the disappointed side, I have to acknowledge this group of characters were a bit of a letdown for me (though, to be completely honest, I never loved them as much as I did Kelson, Morgan, and company). Camber always seemed more a saint than a real person. His children Cathan, Joram, and Evaine (as well as other confidantes like Rhys) had brief flashes of personality, but never received a real opportunity to grow into anyone truly special. King Imre and other “bad guys” were penned as fairly one dimensional creatures, easily labeled as the “insane tyrant”, “the “evil temptress”, or the “scheming liar.” And there was a complete absence of female main characters, though that might be a result of the time period when the book was first published more than anything else.
Overall, Camber of Culdi is a fine fantasy read filled with political scheming, dynastic intrigue, and a touch of magic, set in a wonderfully developed faux-medieval Europe with a fully realized Catholic Church. For longtime lovers of the Deryni novels, it will be a joyful return to a familiar home, replete with iconic characters and an easily followed tale told in Katherine Kurtz memorable style. To those new to the series, I would encourage them to read the first trilogy, The Chronicles of the Deryni, before delving in here, because the revelations in this book could ruin very important plot elements there.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
April 10, 2018
Others have described the plot. In the timeline of the Deryni novels this is the earliest.
I read this when it was first released about 40 years ago. I liked it just as well this time as well. I had forgotten many of the plot elements. It was good coming back to this after so many years.
I read this when it was first released about 40 years ago. I liked it just as well this time as well. I had forgotten many of the plot elements. It was good coming back to this after so many years.
April 7, 2014
Re-read. As good as it was the first time, this is what fantasy should be like. And sorry, against this--very much so--most of the current similar efforts still suck donkey balls.
April 18, 2016
3 stars - Metaphorosis Reviews
King Imre is a Deryni, a magic-using descendant of the race that overthrew human kings some generations back. As he begins to abuse his powers, Earl Camber of Culdi and his family, also Deryni, plot a return to the human lineage.
I loved Katherine Kurtz' Deryni books when I first read them back in the seventies. Alaric Morgan and Duncan McLain rediscover ancient magics! There's a secret council! A young man finds he has secret powers! The books were great fun. In this second series, about Camber of Culdi, I liked going back to learn what the title character was really like. I recall being sorry there wasn't more about magic, but still - Camber of Culdi! Sadly, by the time the third trilogy came out, the magic was gone - almost literally. The books had devolved into purely fantasy-political stories. I kept reading, but eventually, when a book (I think King Kelson's Bride) came out in which nothing happened, I mostly gave up. Still, I remember liking the first two trilogies a lot, so I picked up this reissue of Camber of Culdi looking forward to re-reading an old favorite.
A long time back, while I was still enjoying the Deryni series, I read Ursula Le Guin's essay “From Elfland to Poughkeepsie,” in which she cruelly points out the essentially political, non-fantasy nature of the books. I saw her point, and I dislike fictional politics, but I liked these books anyway.
On this re-read, Le Guin's views came sharply back into focus. Counter to my memory, there's almost no magic in this book. Instead, it is a heavily political story about dynastic succession, with religious trappings and a hint of magic here and there for flavor. It's well written, but almost all of the writing is about things I don't care about. While I recalled Kurtz as being focused on religion, a lot of the book is what these days people would likely call ecclesiastical porn - lots of details of vestments and monasteries and priestly devotion; certainly far more than there is about magic.
[some mild spoilers below]
The books are also heavily male-centric. There are a few females involved - the evil temptress, the innocent maiden, the sympathetic friend. Granted, the books are a bit dated, but they're from the 70s, not the 30s. It's hard to set aside "if we do not support our men in their good works, what hope is there for any of us". And, of course, it's worse to kill women than men. Yes, it's a vaguely historical fantasy, but if we can have magic powers, why not independent women? Only in the bonus story - one of the best parts of the book - is there a woman who really acts for herself. The implicit condemnation of gays is less frequent, but no more palatable. That's not even touching the devoted servants who will do anything for their kind masters.
The bad guys are caricatures, and not very credible. Camber's son is very close to the cruel tyrant, but there's never any indication of why he would be - the guy is a cartoon villain, while the son is good and noble.
The book is of two minds. On the one hand, the plot machinations are to depose Deryni in favor of humans. On the other, it's clear that Deryni are special. While it's a given of the series that Deryni have special powers, Kurtz also seems to extend their special place to other issues - for example, "a thoroughness possible only for Deryni", which doesn't seem explained by their standard powers. This special place is nowhere more clear than in dealing with Cinhil - the reluctant pretender. Without really any qualms, his 'friend' and confidante waits until he trusts her, then messes with his volition - and we're meant to feel good about it.
All in all, a vastly disappointing return to the magic of yesteryear. I came into this book expecting to love it almost as much as I had before. Instead, I was mostly bored. I'd been looking forward to re-reading the first two Deryni trilogies. Now I'm a little worried about going back even to the first one.
If you want an alternate history stuffed with the ecclesiastical trappings, political machinations, and just the faintest bit of magic, this is for you. If you want a true fantasy, you may want to look elsewhere.
King Imre is a Deryni, a magic-using descendant of the race that overthrew human kings some generations back. As he begins to abuse his powers, Earl Camber of Culdi and his family, also Deryni, plot a return to the human lineage.
I loved Katherine Kurtz' Deryni books when I first read them back in the seventies. Alaric Morgan and Duncan McLain rediscover ancient magics! There's a secret council! A young man finds he has secret powers! The books were great fun. In this second series, about Camber of Culdi, I liked going back to learn what the title character was really like. I recall being sorry there wasn't more about magic, but still - Camber of Culdi! Sadly, by the time the third trilogy came out, the magic was gone - almost literally. The books had devolved into purely fantasy-political stories. I kept reading, but eventually, when a book (I think King Kelson's Bride) came out in which nothing happened, I mostly gave up. Still, I remember liking the first two trilogies a lot, so I picked up this reissue of Camber of Culdi looking forward to re-reading an old favorite.
A long time back, while I was still enjoying the Deryni series, I read Ursula Le Guin's essay “From Elfland to Poughkeepsie,” in which she cruelly points out the essentially political, non-fantasy nature of the books. I saw her point, and I dislike fictional politics, but I liked these books anyway.
On this re-read, Le Guin's views came sharply back into focus. Counter to my memory, there's almost no magic in this book. Instead, it is a heavily political story about dynastic succession, with religious trappings and a hint of magic here and there for flavor. It's well written, but almost all of the writing is about things I don't care about. While I recalled Kurtz as being focused on religion, a lot of the book is what these days people would likely call ecclesiastical porn - lots of details of vestments and monasteries and priestly devotion; certainly far more than there is about magic.
[some mild spoilers below]
The books are also heavily male-centric. There are a few females involved - the evil temptress, the innocent maiden, the sympathetic friend. Granted, the books are a bit dated, but they're from the 70s, not the 30s. It's hard to set aside "if we do not support our men in their good works, what hope is there for any of us". And, of course, it's worse to kill women than men. Yes, it's a vaguely historical fantasy, but if we can have magic powers, why not independent women? Only in the bonus story - one of the best parts of the book - is there a woman who really acts for herself. The implicit condemnation of gays is less frequent, but no more palatable. That's not even touching the devoted servants who will do anything for their kind masters.
The bad guys are caricatures, and not very credible. Camber's son is very close to the cruel tyrant, but there's never any indication of why he would be - the guy is a cartoon villain, while the son is good and noble.
The book is of two minds. On the one hand, the plot machinations are to depose Deryni in favor of humans. On the other, it's clear that Deryni are special. While it's a given of the series that Deryni have special powers, Kurtz also seems to extend their special place to other issues - for example, "a thoroughness possible only for Deryni", which doesn't seem explained by their standard powers. This special place is nowhere more clear than in dealing with Cinhil - the reluctant pretender. Without really any qualms, his 'friend' and confidante waits until he trusts her, then messes with his volition - and we're meant to feel good about it.
All in all, a vastly disappointing return to the magic of yesteryear. I came into this book expecting to love it almost as much as I had before. Instead, I was mostly bored. I'd been looking forward to re-reading the first two Deryni trilogies. Now I'm a little worried about going back even to the first one.
If you want an alternate history stuffed with the ecclesiastical trappings, political machinations, and just the faintest bit of magic, this is for you. If you want a true fantasy, you may want to look elsewhere.
May 22, 2016
So sometime back in the early 1980s I became aware of Katherine Kurtz' Deryni books -- mostly likely through an article in Dragon Magazine (which I read religiously), although I had probably also seen the books on the shelf in the local bookstore. When I found out that the Camber books, although written after the original Deryni trilogy (Deryni Rising, Deryni Checkmate, High Deryni) were prequels set a hundred years before the original trilogy, I decided I had to start there. (I had to! They happened first!) So I picked them up, took them home, read them a few times during my high school years, and never kind of went any further than that.
Fast forward thirty years. In the intervening years, I did finally get around to reading the original Deryni trilogy (as part of my project to read everything published in the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series in the late 1960s and early 1970s; Kurtz was one of the few authors who debuted in the series, and I believe she's the only one who went on to have any kind of significant career), but I never went back to the Camber books until now, driven by a confluence of circumstances: Judith Tarr's reread on tor.com of the original Deryni trilogy, and the release of the Camber books in eBook format for the very first time.
And I'm pleased to say that the first book holds up quite well after all these years. As I said in my review of Deryni Rising, I think these books are clearly in the lineage that led to Game of Thrones, although they may not always get the credit that they should.
The setting is an imaginary world, but one that is very, very, very close to our own, to the point where the dominant religion (in this area, at least, which is very England/Ireland/Scotland/Wales) is Christianity and the chapters all begin with quotes from scripture -- primarily the Old Testament.
The Deryni are a race of humans who can use magic. A hundred years prior to the events of Camber of Culdi, they overthrew the last human king and installed one of their own upon the throne. Now the latest Deryni king, Imre, came to the throne too young and is casually cruel and brutal, especially to non-Deryni. (And also has a sister with whom he has a mildly skeevy relationship.)
Camber MacRorie, himself a Deryni and one of the old king's favorites, and who has withdrawn to his estate in disgust at Imre's actions, becomes aware that the last Haldane king (the human dynasty) may, in fact, have a legitimate heir although, just to complicate things, that heir took vows and has been living in a monastery for pretty much his entire adult life and so may not be in fit shape to lead an open rebellion ...
Definitely a product of its time -- the narrative does a fair amount of head-hopping, as was the style at the time, and there are some things (a fifteen year old child bride, e.g.) that pass without the sort of comment they might get today -- but well-written, fast-paced and definitely worth revisiting.
Fast forward thirty years. In the intervening years, I did finally get around to reading the original Deryni trilogy (as part of my project to read everything published in the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series in the late 1960s and early 1970s; Kurtz was one of the few authors who debuted in the series, and I believe she's the only one who went on to have any kind of significant career), but I never went back to the Camber books until now, driven by a confluence of circumstances: Judith Tarr's reread on tor.com of the original Deryni trilogy, and the release of the Camber books in eBook format for the very first time.
And I'm pleased to say that the first book holds up quite well after all these years. As I said in my review of Deryni Rising, I think these books are clearly in the lineage that led to Game of Thrones, although they may not always get the credit that they should.
The setting is an imaginary world, but one that is very, very, very close to our own, to the point where the dominant religion (in this area, at least, which is very England/Ireland/Scotland/Wales) is Christianity and the chapters all begin with quotes from scripture -- primarily the Old Testament.
The Deryni are a race of humans who can use magic. A hundred years prior to the events of Camber of Culdi, they overthrew the last human king and installed one of their own upon the throne. Now the latest Deryni king, Imre, came to the throne too young and is casually cruel and brutal, especially to non-Deryni. (And also has a sister with whom he has a mildly skeevy relationship.)
Camber MacRorie, himself a Deryni and one of the old king's favorites, and who has withdrawn to his estate in disgust at Imre's actions, becomes aware that the last Haldane king (the human dynasty) may, in fact, have a legitimate heir although, just to complicate things, that heir took vows and has been living in a monastery for pretty much his entire adult life and so may not be in fit shape to lead an open rebellion ...
Definitely a product of its time -- the narrative does a fair amount of head-hopping, as was the style at the time, and there are some things (a fifteen year old child bride, e.g.) that pass without the sort of comment they might get today -- but well-written, fast-paced and definitely worth revisiting.
April 5, 2012
This is really the first book, chronologically. I love this series and it may well be my all-time favorite. It introduced me to magic and sword and sorcery and alternate worlds, and Katherine Kurtz's works for this series (The Deryni and Gwynedd) are really really good. The characters she draws I want to know (well, the ones that aren't villans), the land she creates is a place I want to live, the magic she describes is magic I would love to know.
For me, the best way to read this series is in this order:
The Legends of Saint Camber
Camber of Culdi
Saint Camber
Camber the Heretic
The Heirs of Saint Camber
The Harrowing of Gwynedd
King Javan's Year
The Bastard Prince
The Chronicles of the Deryni
Deryni Rising
Deryni Checkmate
High Deryni
The Histories of King Kelson
The Bishops Heir
The King's Justice
The Quest for Saint Camber
and then the one called King Kelson's Bride. The childe Morgan series is good, too, but in a slight different style from the way she wrote the others.
For me, the best way to read this series is in this order:
The Legends of Saint Camber
Camber of Culdi
Saint Camber
Camber the Heretic
The Heirs of Saint Camber
The Harrowing of Gwynedd
King Javan's Year
The Bastard Prince
The Chronicles of the Deryni
Deryni Rising
Deryni Checkmate
High Deryni
The Histories of King Kelson
The Bishops Heir
The King's Justice
The Quest for Saint Camber
and then the one called King Kelson's Bride. The childe Morgan series is good, too, but in a slight different style from the way she wrote the others.
May 27, 2023
Eh. Better than the first trilogy—Kurtz’ writing is much improved on a technical level, plus there’s a lot less standing around + grinning at not-funny dialogue—but it’s still very dry. There’s never anything more than surface to the characters; you never become attached to them, never particularly care if someone lives or dies, never especially hope anyone wins or loses. There’s lots of to’ing & fro’ing, some arcane rituals, some medieval political backstabbing, even some sword fighting…but it never touches any depth of emotion in yours truly. The most all-encompassing word I can think of is superficial.
Two examples (minor spoilers are unavoidable):
—Rhys & Evaine are supposedly so in love, but we never see them interact together, or flirt, or even hold hands. They marry off-page midway through the book & we’re told they’re a Deryni power couple. But there’s no sense of connection between them, even though they’ve known each other for years. Why should there be? It’s only told, never shown, never even implied with subtle looks or dialogue. The reader is just supposed to accept it on faith without delving into their relationship, or even witnessing the culmination of their supposed Twu Wuv in a marriage ceremony. There’s no triumph for these “good guys”—they’re just plastic figurines the reader stares at.
—Imre murders Camber’s oldest son Cathan early in the book. Supposedly Cathan & Imre are bffs, tight as tight can be since they were kids—Cathan is the only member of the family to defend Imre & see anything redemptive in him, or so we’re told. But who cares? We never see their friendship. We never see this loyal tightness; it’s referenced by others, but the few on-page interactions between them show Imre distrusting Cathan & Cathan standing aside while Transparent Villain Coel sneers at him. Likewise, Imre is greatly disturbed after the murder…but why? All we’ve seen is his distrust. There’s no sense of tragedy or pain, whether Imre’s or Camber’s.
So, yeah. 😶 It’s better than the first series…but the characters are still flat as hell, & I don’t know whether Kurtz is deliberately showing the problematic hypocrisy of Deryni manipulation or if we’re supposed to take their “good vs evil” intentions at face value. Who can tell when the author only scratches the surface with such basic prose? *shrug*
Two examples (minor spoilers are unavoidable):
—Rhys & Evaine are supposedly so in love, but we never see them interact together, or flirt, or even hold hands. They marry off-page midway through the book & we’re told they’re a Deryni power couple. But there’s no sense of connection between them, even though they’ve known each other for years. Why should there be? It’s only told, never shown, never even implied with subtle looks or dialogue. The reader is just supposed to accept it on faith without delving into their relationship, or even witnessing the culmination of their supposed Twu Wuv in a marriage ceremony. There’s no triumph for these “good guys”—they’re just plastic figurines the reader stares at.
—Imre murders Camber’s oldest son Cathan early in the book. Supposedly Cathan & Imre are bffs, tight as tight can be since they were kids—Cathan is the only member of the family to defend Imre & see anything redemptive in him, or so we’re told. But who cares? We never see their friendship. We never see this loyal tightness; it’s referenced by others, but the few on-page interactions between them show Imre distrusting Cathan & Cathan standing aside while Transparent Villain Coel sneers at him. Likewise, Imre is greatly disturbed after the murder…but why? All we’ve seen is his distrust. There’s no sense of tragedy or pain, whether Imre’s or Camber’s.
So, yeah. 😶 It’s better than the first series…but the characters are still flat as hell, & I don’t know whether Kurtz is deliberately showing the problematic hypocrisy of Deryni manipulation or if we’re supposed to take their “good vs evil” intentions at face value. Who can tell when the author only scratches the surface with such basic prose? *shrug*
February 3, 2020
Been revisiting a lot of books I read or thought I read, in my teens. After discovering Sanderson's Mistborn I was reminded of Katherine Kurtz's Deryni novels. At the age of 15, not having read much fantasy other than Narnia and some E. Nesbitt I discovered the first Deryni novel all on my own (at an airport. I believe). I spent the summer of that 15th year with my mother's family on Cape Cod and worked by first "real" job in the kitchen of a Portuguese seafood restaurant. I had nightmares of neverending dirty dishes and malfunctioning dishwashers but was able to escape throughout all to this very complete magical other world. By using Christianity as a base for the religion Kurtz has a built in sense of pomp and circumstance. Much more original than Shannara (which had nice covers but was a hack job copy of LOTR). Reading Deryni now I can see how it must have had a profound affect on George R R Martin's creation of a Game of Thrones. Similar in many fundamental ways but in a more innocent 1970's vibe. I loved it then and am loving it all over again now - it stands up to my memories and doesn't disappoint.
September 6, 2017
This was a fun re-read. I first read this back . . . oh, 25 or 30 years ago, I think, and really enjoyed the mix of church politics and court intrigue in a land not entirely dissimilar from medieval Europe. Kurtz has this ability to create characters you really get attached to -- and then kill them off in horrible ways.
I'm tempted to continue on through the series now, chronologically, since I've never read the most recent trilogy in the series.
I'm tempted to continue on through the series now, chronologically, since I've never read the most recent trilogy in the series.
September 15, 2008
I liked it, but was disappointed by the sequels. Even then, the first trilogy is better than later additions.
March 15, 2019
I really loved how Katherine Kurtz managed to put this huge story into 300 pages. It doesn't drag but it's not too fast-paced either, it's just perfect. This Deryni world really is something
January 27, 2017
I. ADORE. Terry Brooks.
Back a few years…and by “a few,” I mean sixteen years ago…I was living in a new town. I didn’t know anyone, I was far away from family and friends and lonely as all heck. One day, I was driving around, trying to familiarize myself with the town, when I passed a library. I pulled over immediately, went inside, discovered the Shannara books there by Terry Brooks, and have been a fanatic fan of his ever since.
But what do you do, when you’ve read every book that the author has released about eighteen times and need something new?
You read Katherine Kurtz.
I had never heard of Katherine Kurtz, until about a month ago. (I know, I know. I’ll go sit in a corner and think about my bad behavior.) But I was literally driving myself nuts, wanting to find an author…specifically a series…that had the Shannara feel to it. And I had been striking out for a few months. But when I was offered the opportunity to read “Camber of Culdi,” I jumped at the chance. The reviews looked pretty great, and the story sounded pretty dang awesome.
Now, from what I understand, this is not a new book. This is simply a newly released edition (i.e. same book, new cover). The original one was released on June 12, 1976. It was the fourth novel in her Deryni novels and the first book in her second Deryni trilogy, The Legends of Camber of Culdi. However, “Camer of Culdi” is the first book in the internal story. Clear as mud? (In other words, read this one first.)
I was so excited, as I dug into this book. The storyline is so good. It has the perfect amount of mystery, magic and medieval. The characters are incredibly developed, easy to relate to, and easy to develop an affection for. The one thing that I love about the Shannara books, is that you forget that you are reading a book. The same holds true for this book, as well. I would be so engrossed in the happenings, the surroundings and the author’s wonderful ability to paint pictures with words, that I would forget that I was reading a book. That, my dear readers, is when you know you’ve struck gold with an author. When they are able to trigger your imagination to such a degree, that you lose all sense of time and space, then you know that you’re holding a treasure.
I can’t wait to get the other books in this series, as well as the others that she has written as well. Something tells me that I’ll be reading them for the next sixteen years.
Back a few years…and by “a few,” I mean sixteen years ago…I was living in a new town. I didn’t know anyone, I was far away from family and friends and lonely as all heck. One day, I was driving around, trying to familiarize myself with the town, when I passed a library. I pulled over immediately, went inside, discovered the Shannara books there by Terry Brooks, and have been a fanatic fan of his ever since.
But what do you do, when you’ve read every book that the author has released about eighteen times and need something new?
You read Katherine Kurtz.
I had never heard of Katherine Kurtz, until about a month ago. (I know, I know. I’ll go sit in a corner and think about my bad behavior.) But I was literally driving myself nuts, wanting to find an author…specifically a series…that had the Shannara feel to it. And I had been striking out for a few months. But when I was offered the opportunity to read “Camber of Culdi,” I jumped at the chance. The reviews looked pretty great, and the story sounded pretty dang awesome.
Now, from what I understand, this is not a new book. This is simply a newly released edition (i.e. same book, new cover). The original one was released on June 12, 1976. It was the fourth novel in her Deryni novels and the first book in her second Deryni trilogy, The Legends of Camber of Culdi. However, “Camer of Culdi” is the first book in the internal story. Clear as mud? (In other words, read this one first.)
I was so excited, as I dug into this book. The storyline is so good. It has the perfect amount of mystery, magic and medieval. The characters are incredibly developed, easy to relate to, and easy to develop an affection for. The one thing that I love about the Shannara books, is that you forget that you are reading a book. The same holds true for this book, as well. I would be so engrossed in the happenings, the surroundings and the author’s wonderful ability to paint pictures with words, that I would forget that I was reading a book. That, my dear readers, is when you know you’ve struck gold with an author. When they are able to trigger your imagination to such a degree, that you lose all sense of time and space, then you know that you’re holding a treasure.
I can’t wait to get the other books in this series, as well as the others that she has written as well. Something tells me that I’ll be reading them for the next sixteen years.
April 7, 2016
4.5 stars
Although I've read this series before, it's been a number of years, so this was a relatively fresh read for me.
For those completely unfamiliar with the Deryni series, it's alternative history/fantasy set in the early medieval period in Gwynedd (what we know as northern Wales) and presented as a historical record. Instead of Norman conquerors, the locals have the Deryni - sorcerors. Although sometimes their interests align, these two races are more often in conflict. One has the power, while the other has the numbers... this isn't a good solution.
So that's the background. This book, the first in the series, sets the scene for rebellion and the transformation of the ruling class during the hunt for the last true Haldane king. And this time, to prevent further wars, the king must be neither Deryni *or* human, but something between the two. Those who believe in the cause are passionate believers; they know something must be done, and are willing to make incredible sacrifices for it.
That sounds dry, but it's enthralling! If you like historical novels set in the early medieval period, and if you like a touch of magic mixed in with the early Catholic religion, you'll find yourself fascinated by this new world.
Word of warning though: the story ends at 78% in the Kindle book. What follows is a preview of Book 2, a bonus short story set about 200 years later, and the appendices (characters, place names, genealogies). I'd hold off on the short story if you haven't yet read the later books, because it may not make as much sense to you. Read the preview to see how the overall plot continues though!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Although I've read this series before, it's been a number of years, so this was a relatively fresh read for me.
For those completely unfamiliar with the Deryni series, it's alternative history/fantasy set in the early medieval period in Gwynedd (what we know as northern Wales) and presented as a historical record. Instead of Norman conquerors, the locals have the Deryni - sorcerors. Although sometimes their interests align, these two races are more often in conflict. One has the power, while the other has the numbers... this isn't a good solution.
So that's the background. This book, the first in the series, sets the scene for rebellion and the transformation of the ruling class during the hunt for the last true Haldane king. And this time, to prevent further wars, the king must be neither Deryni *or* human, but something between the two. Those who believe in the cause are passionate believers; they know something must be done, and are willing to make incredible sacrifices for it.
That sounds dry, but it's enthralling! If you like historical novels set in the early medieval period, and if you like a touch of magic mixed in with the early Catholic religion, you'll find yourself fascinated by this new world.
Word of warning though: the story ends at 78% in the Kindle book. What follows is a preview of Book 2, a bonus short story set about 200 years later, and the appendices (characters, place names, genealogies). I'd hold off on the short story if you haven't yet read the later books, because it may not make as much sense to you. Read the preview to see how the overall plot continues though!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2015
The Legends of Camber of Culdi are intriguing for their setting: a fantasy Earth where humans live uneasily alongside the magic-using race of Deryni. The names of the places and the existence of magic demonstrate that this is not our world, but humans and Deryni alike worship the familiar Christian God with rites and sacraments indistinguishable from those of the Catholic Church. Religion serves to animate and motivate the characters -- memorably, the human heir-in-exile, Cinhil, who is unwilling to consider overthrowing the Deryni despot Imre because of his deeply felt monastic calling. [To correct a possible misconception: apart from treating religion as serious, the series is not in the least preachy or evangelical.] The trilogy, which continues in Saint Camber and Camber the Heretic, traces the fatal consequences of the title character's decision to force Cinhil to the throne.
July 20, 2016
Reread with Judith Tarr and Tor.com
I'm definitely enjoying my reread of the Deryni books, but an in-depth, 21st century look at these books is also showing up problematic elements that I never noticed as a teenager and early-20s reader.
I'm kind of sad about that, as I still have hugely fond memories of them and the world building and the details are still fantastic. I want to reread them and find all that love again, and while there's a lot of good feelings, I can't all out fall in love with them like I did all those years ago.
These aren't bad books - in fact, they're generally still very good ones - but there are issues that I have to acknowledge and be a bit sad about. I still recommend them, but there's a but. And as I said, that makes me sad.
I'm definitely enjoying my reread of the Deryni books, but an in-depth, 21st century look at these books is also showing up problematic elements that I never noticed as a teenager and early-20s reader.
I'm kind of sad about that, as I still have hugely fond memories of them and the world building and the details are still fantastic. I want to reread them and find all that love again, and while there's a lot of good feelings, I can't all out fall in love with them like I did all those years ago.
These aren't bad books - in fact, they're generally still very good ones - but there are issues that I have to acknowledge and be a bit sad about. I still recommend them, but there's a but. And as I said, that makes me sad.
September 16, 2017
Every once in a while I get the urge to revisit old favourites and Katherine Kurtz's Deryni novels are definitely faves of mine. I think the Camber books and the Heirs of Camber books are some of Katherine's strongest work.
Yeah, there's stuff in here that might be problematic these days - I mean, it was originally published in 1976 - but I can deal with that. I'm happy to say that although I notice the problems over 40 years later (with a few rereads between), they don't impinge on my enjoyment of the book.
Magic, intrigue, memorable characters, tension, humour, tragedy, it's all here. I still cry at certain passages and chuckle out loud at others. (More crying than chuckling in this one.)
Yeah, still faves, even 40+ years later. :)
Yeah, there's stuff in here that might be problematic these days - I mean, it was originally published in 1976 - but I can deal with that. I'm happy to say that although I notice the problems over 40 years later (with a few rereads between), they don't impinge on my enjoyment of the book.
Magic, intrigue, memorable characters, tension, humour, tragedy, it's all here. I still cry at certain passages and chuckle out loud at others. (More crying than chuckling in this one.)
Yeah, still faves, even 40+ years later. :)
August 26, 2020
Another great classic from the pen of Katherine Kurtz written in 1976. This first book in the Legends of Camber of Culdi casts back two hundred years from the days of King Kelson and Lord Alaric Morgan to the tale of the man who risked everything to restore the Haldane kings of Gwynedd, a man who rose from a noble lord to saint, and then a heretic. By the days of King Kelson, Saint Camber had grown into a legend, a whispered name. Little was known of him or his life, except his name and even less of the powerful magic he possessed. In this wonderful series we learn about the great man and saint himself, a man who became the greatest among the Deryni.
Read
March 5, 2015This is a well written book by a lady who really knows her medieval culture. By that I mean that even though this is a secondary world, her scholarship enabled her to bring all sorts of small details to make it real.
Now it's not an action-packed story, so if you're looking for epic battles and sword fights, this isn't it. But the characters are well done, the world building is deep, and the read is satisfying.
I felt the end came about a bit too quick, but that's me.
Now it's not an action-packed story, so if you're looking for epic battles and sword fights, this isn't it. But the characters are well done, the world building is deep, and the read is satisfying.
I felt the end came about a bit too quick, but that's me.
February 10, 2018
I decided I wanted to reread the Deryni series from Katherine Kurtz which I loved when I was younger. After some research I discovered, to my delight, that the original six books has grown to 16 ( plus a couple of short story collections). Rather than read them in order of publication I plan to read them in chronological order and began with this title, which is actually the fourth book published. It was as good as I remembered and I look forward to future titles.
May 5, 2011
I loved this when I read it many moons ago (early 80s at the latest)--so I'm giving it four stars based on foggy memories of that love. I don't know if this would be my kind of book now.
July 1, 2014
Umpteenth re-read: still as enjoyable as ever.
April 1, 2017
the christian religious magic was interesting, but I'm bored of books about kings
December 10, 2022
This book may well have been innovative for 1976, but having read it for the first time in 2022, it struck me as a fairly straightforward historical-ish fantasy. The standard cast of royals and priests and men-at-arms comes across as rather run-of-the-mill, and even the magic use is a bit superficial, with not much sense of mystery or wonder.
I haven’t read the original Deryni trilogy, to which this book begins a prequel trilogy, but presumably that series had references to historical events, and this book starts to lay out those events. As such, to me it reads a bit as an expansion of an outline, with little room for twists and unexpected occurrences.
There are a few interesting aspects - the relationship between Imre and Ariella surprised me, as did the shockingly tragic occurrence near the end. The conferring of power on Cinhil was the only time when I felt any depth to the supernatural aspect.
The ending feels a bit rushed, again as if Kurtz was just going through the motions to wrap up the story at an appropriate point in the known history. So, not badly written, but just not particularly impressive either.
I haven’t read the original Deryni trilogy, to which this book begins a prequel trilogy, but presumably that series had references to historical events, and this book starts to lay out those events. As such, to me it reads a bit as an expansion of an outline, with little room for twists and unexpected occurrences.
There are a few interesting aspects - the relationship between Imre and Ariella surprised me, as did the shockingly tragic occurrence near the end. The conferring of power on Cinhil was the only time when I felt any depth to the supernatural aspect.
The ending feels a bit rushed, again as if Kurtz was just going through the motions to wrap up the story at an appropriate point in the known history. So, not badly written, but just not particularly impressive either.
January 16, 2023
I originally read this series when I was in high school, not long after the books came out. I skimmed a lot back then, because the political stuff didn't engage with me.
Upon re-reading I find I still don't much care for the political stuff, but its really well done and if you like that sort of thing you'll find this a very engaging, interesting read. The magic is very limited and specific, but subtle and powerful.
Deryni are a sub race of humans that have psychic powers and can use it for very unusual magical effects, even to shapeshifting others and creating gates to move around the word. Grey-eyed and often white haired, these people conquered normal humans in the area this series takes place, but are seeing problems with their ruling family and at least some start working on a plot to place the old human dynasty back on the throne.
As I said, a lot of this is not my cup of tea but it is well done and I recommend it to anyone who liked Game of Thrones and that sort of book -- but this is better, in my opinion.
Upon re-reading I find I still don't much care for the political stuff, but its really well done and if you like that sort of thing you'll find this a very engaging, interesting read. The magic is very limited and specific, but subtle and powerful.
Deryni are a sub race of humans that have psychic powers and can use it for very unusual magical effects, even to shapeshifting others and creating gates to move around the word. Grey-eyed and often white haired, these people conquered normal humans in the area this series takes place, but are seeing problems with their ruling family and at least some start working on a plot to place the old human dynasty back on the throne.
As I said, a lot of this is not my cup of tea but it is well done and I recommend it to anyone who liked Game of Thrones and that sort of book -- but this is better, in my opinion.
February 25, 2018
Came into this completely cold - had never heard of it or the author (it was part of a Humble Bundle).
Nothing all that special or new here. I suppose I'll put a
Nothing all that special or new here. I suppose I'll put a
February 5, 2025
I randomly picked up this trilogy of books from my local used bookstore and what a lucky find! Loved this world! The magic! The religion! The treachery! Sometimes fantasy stories can move slow but COC wasted no time and got right to the good stuff.
Everything feels so fleshed out and lived in. I can't wait to read the next two books (and all the rest!)
Everything feels so fleshed out and lived in. I can't wait to read the next two books (and all the rest!)
January 7, 2018
About Time...
Another Kindle daily deal, one I knew had been around for many years, yet never read. It took a while to get into the story, but once I did, I enjoyed it. The plot dragged in some places, but not impossibly. Overall, a decent book, but I'm not really interested enough to read the rest of the series. Worth the $1.99 deal, though! 😆
Another Kindle daily deal, one I knew had been around for many years, yet never read. It took a while to get into the story, but once I did, I enjoyed it. The plot dragged in some places, but not impossibly. Overall, a decent book, but I'm not really interested enough to read the rest of the series. Worth the $1.99 deal, though! 😆
March 2, 2024
This was one of my favorite series long ago in high school. It is as wonderful to read now as then. Complex characters, intrigue, and attention to detail. A wonderful book in a wonderful series of a world that never was, but should have been.
February 14, 2025
3.5 stars
May 21, 2017
Not much meat in this sandwich. Only two and half stars from me.
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