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The Saga of Recluce #21
The Mage-Fire War
Modesitt continues his bestselling Saga of Recluce with the twenty-first book in this bestselling epic fantasy series.
Once again, prejudices against the use of chaos magic force Beltur and his companions to flee their refuge in Axalt. The rulers of nearby Montgren have offered them sanctuary and the opportunity to become the Councilors of the run-down and disintegrating town of Haven.
Montegren lacks any mages—white or black—making this seem like the perfect opportunity to start again.
However, Beltur and the others must reinstitute law and order, rebuilt parts of the town, deal with brigands—and thwart an invading army.
Once again, prejudices against the use of chaos magic force Beltur and his companions to flee their refuge in Axalt. The rulers of nearby Montgren have offered them sanctuary and the opportunity to become the Councilors of the run-down and disintegrating town of Haven.
Montegren lacks any mages—white or black—making this seem like the perfect opportunity to start again.
However, Beltur and the others must reinstitute law and order, rebuilt parts of the town, deal with brigands—and thwart an invading army.
544 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2019
409 people are currently reading
867 people want to read
About the author
L.E. Modesitt Jr.
191 books2,590 followersL. E. (Leland Exton) Modesitt, Jr. is an author of science fiction and fantasy novels. He is best known for the fantasy series The Saga of Recluce. He graduated from Williams College in Massachusetts, lived in Washington, D.C. for 20 years, then moved to New Hampshire in 1989 where he met his wife. They relocated to Cedar City, Utah in 1993.
He has worked as a Navy pilot, lifeguard, delivery boy, unpaid radio disc jockey, real estate agent, market research analyst, director of research for a political campaign, legislative assistant for a Congressman, Director of Legislation and Congressional Relations for the United States Environmental Protection Agency, a consultant on environmental, regulatory, and communications issues, and a college lecturer and writer in residence.
In addition to his novels, Mr. Modesitt has published technical studies and articles, columns, poetry, and a number of science fiction stories. His first short story, "The Great American Economy", was published in 1973 in Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact.
-Wikipedia
He has worked as a Navy pilot, lifeguard, delivery boy, unpaid radio disc jockey, real estate agent, market research analyst, director of research for a political campaign, legislative assistant for a Congressman, Director of Legislation and Congressional Relations for the United States Environmental Protection Agency, a consultant on environmental, regulatory, and communications issues, and a college lecturer and writer in residence.
In addition to his novels, Mr. Modesitt has published technical studies and articles, columns, poetry, and a number of science fiction stories. His first short story, "The Great American Economy", was published in 1973 in Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact.
-Wikipedia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
August 25, 2019
It's nice to wrap up this trilogy within the Recluce Saga. Beltur's story is an interesting one, but I can't help feeling a shorter book would have worked better. His self-recrimination & out-sized sense of responsibility got really old. There was also a fair amount of redundancy that hampered an otherwise excellent story.
Best of all, we learn a very important piece of history that really changes things up. I wonder if we'll see a couple more books somewhere around 750 where things change. It should be interesting & sad - probably instructive, too. There's obvious comparisons here.
Definitely recommended if you've kept up with the series so far, but it's more of a 3.5 than a 4 star.
Modesitt suggests reading this series in published order, but rereads should be done in chronological order, IMO. He even helped me put them all, including the short stories, in order. You'll find them in my review here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Best of all, we learn a very important piece of history that really changes things up. I wonder if we'll see a couple more books somewhere around 750 where things change. It should be interesting & sad - probably instructive, too. There's obvious comparisons here.
Definitely recommended if you've kept up with the series so far, but it's more of a 3.5 than a 4 star.
Modesitt suggests reading this series in published order, but rereads should be done in chronological order, IMO. He even helped me put them all, including the short stories, in order. You'll find them in my review here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
November 16, 2021
Very much like the rest of the fantasy series, this one continues the close-cropped saga of Beltur and his investment in making Haven, soon to be renamed Fairhaven, into a safe and secure place for outcasts like himself.
You know, welcoming.
Of course, it's locked on a road between two nations that think it's their own stomping ground.
Like many of these enjoyable books, this one sings with to some rather fascinating mage-and-warrior battles with detailed tactics and strategy.
There's nothing truly new here, but I frankly don't care. I read these for the sheer enjoyment of them and whatever new stuff I learn goes right into the enormous tapestry of this world's history. It's quite impressive in its way.
You know, welcoming.
Of course, it's locked on a road between two nations that think it's their own stomping ground.
Like many of these enjoyable books, this one sings with to some rather fascinating mage-and-warrior battles with detailed tactics and strategy.
There's nothing truly new here, but I frankly don't care. I read these for the sheer enjoyment of them and whatever new stuff I learn goes right into the enormous tapestry of this world's history. It's quite impressive in its way.
August 18, 2019
Awesome! Modesitt continues to link the past present and future of Recluse!
How is it that I have become absolutely gripped by Beltur and Jessyla's efforts to find a place for themselves in a world that turns against them? Maybe because we all want a sense of place in our own reality.
Continuing on from the 'Outcasts of Order', they and their companions have fled from Axalt to Montegren. They have been given sanctuary by the Duchess and under a new charter appointed as the Council for the disintegrating town of Haven. 'A part of Montgren that lies between Certis, Lydiar and a tiny piece of Hydlen.' It inconveniently lies in the pathway of the tyrant Duke of Hydlen's access to Lydiar.
Of course the mages are going to have to fight, cajole and threaten to keep Haven free. Everyone from brigands, sullen innkeepers, to imperious traders, and the Duke of Hydlen's invading forces is a challenge.
All of which was not that clear when the mages took the offer from Montgren's rulers. As Beltur ruefully says at one stage, he should have asked for more resources. It is difficult knowing what the right questions are when you don't know what you're facing. Some help is sent by the duchess but it's the mages who will bear the brunt.
Sympathetic captains, lowly troopers, and those townspeople who want more than to bear the continual attentions of bandits, and captured foreign armsmen help.
Again the idea of one action causing such a rippling effect that it changes the course of history is front and center.
I was glued to the actions and strategies that Beltur and his companions were forced to undertake. I appreciated Beltur's constant consideration of the best way forward.
The battles they are forced into by invading forces are horrific and take a toll on all.
I kept wondering about Haven becoming Fairhaven, and then recalled, circling back to the very first Recluse novel, 'The Magic of Recluse', when Lerris was besieged by apparitions as he rode through part of this area, and that in that time, this place was called Frven. That in turn winds back to the now and the vision from the Chaos Mage Beltur and his companions faced in the first battle with Hydlenese troops. The white Mage "had visions of a great city rising [in Haven] ... with a great shining tower, and that mages would make it great.”
In this novel we see the beginnings of that place and the dream Beltur and his companions have for Haven becoming, “Fairhaven. A fair haven for all, but especially for mages, black or white, and for healers, and others who will build and contribute, no matter where they come from."
So one of my questions is what happens in the future that Haven / Fairhaven became Frven? It looks like I must do some rereading!
I loved, loved, loved this novel. I look forward to more that must come because of Haven's development and for the answers to even more questions I have.
For a look at the maps of the Recluse Saga and to visually understand where stories have taken place and/or intersected with each other, I found a website showing the 'dynamically generated Magic of Recluce saga map' a real treat and a great trip down memory lane.
In June 2010 in answer to a question on his monthly question page Modesitt said this,
"In “real” life, urban myth and rumors grow from small grains of truth, and I’ve tried to allow that to occur in the Saga of Recluse as well."
This is just one of many simple statements from Modesitt from which larger ideas grow. That to me is part of the vital essence that imbues the Recluse Saga.
The beginnings of Haven under the guidance of the new Council is one such grain.
As an aside I keep thinking about the food. Pearapple I'm supposing is something like Nashi Apples. Indeed there's swathes of interest about the food mentioned in Recluse novels, the request for a cookbook even! All grounding Recluse in a reality that diehard fans like me love!
Hopefully the food in Haven will become more palatable, and Beltur will develop a better yeast for their bread. They seem to be having some small success with their ale requirements.
A Macmillan-Tor/Forge ARC via NetGalley
How is it that I have become absolutely gripped by Beltur and Jessyla's efforts to find a place for themselves in a world that turns against them? Maybe because we all want a sense of place in our own reality.
Continuing on from the 'Outcasts of Order', they and their companions have fled from Axalt to Montegren. They have been given sanctuary by the Duchess and under a new charter appointed as the Council for the disintegrating town of Haven. 'A part of Montgren that lies between Certis, Lydiar and a tiny piece of Hydlen.' It inconveniently lies in the pathway of the tyrant Duke of Hydlen's access to Lydiar.
Of course the mages are going to have to fight, cajole and threaten to keep Haven free. Everyone from brigands, sullen innkeepers, to imperious traders, and the Duke of Hydlen's invading forces is a challenge.
All of which was not that clear when the mages took the offer from Montgren's rulers. As Beltur ruefully says at one stage, he should have asked for more resources. It is difficult knowing what the right questions are when you don't know what you're facing. Some help is sent by the duchess but it's the mages who will bear the brunt.
Sympathetic captains, lowly troopers, and those townspeople who want more than to bear the continual attentions of bandits, and captured foreign armsmen help.
Again the idea of one action causing such a rippling effect that it changes the course of history is front and center.
I was glued to the actions and strategies that Beltur and his companions were forced to undertake. I appreciated Beltur's constant consideration of the best way forward.
The battles they are forced into by invading forces are horrific and take a toll on all.
I kept wondering about Haven becoming Fairhaven, and then recalled, circling back to the very first Recluse novel, 'The Magic of Recluse', when Lerris was besieged by apparitions as he rode through part of this area, and that in that time, this place was called Frven. That in turn winds back to the now and the vision from the Chaos Mage Beltur and his companions faced in the first battle with Hydlenese troops. The white Mage "had visions of a great city rising [in Haven] ... with a great shining tower, and that mages would make it great.”
In this novel we see the beginnings of that place and the dream Beltur and his companions have for Haven becoming, “Fairhaven. A fair haven for all, but especially for mages, black or white, and for healers, and others who will build and contribute, no matter where they come from."
So one of my questions is what happens in the future that Haven / Fairhaven became Frven? It looks like I must do some rereading!
I loved, loved, loved this novel. I look forward to more that must come because of Haven's development and for the answers to even more questions I have.
For a look at the maps of the Recluse Saga and to visually understand where stories have taken place and/or intersected with each other, I found a website showing the 'dynamically generated Magic of Recluce saga map' a real treat and a great trip down memory lane.
In June 2010 in answer to a question on his monthly question page Modesitt said this,
"In “real” life, urban myth and rumors grow from small grains of truth, and I’ve tried to allow that to occur in the Saga of Recluse as well."
This is just one of many simple statements from Modesitt from which larger ideas grow. That to me is part of the vital essence that imbues the Recluse Saga.
The beginnings of Haven under the guidance of the new Council is one such grain.
As an aside I keep thinking about the food. Pearapple I'm supposing is something like Nashi Apples. Indeed there's swathes of interest about the food mentioned in Recluse novels, the request for a cookbook even! All grounding Recluse in a reality that diehard fans like me love!
Hopefully the food in Haven will become more palatable, and Beltur will develop a better yeast for their bread. They seem to be having some small success with their ale requirements.
A Macmillan-Tor/Forge ARC via NetGalley
July 8, 2019
With the caveat that there is one more book in this extended sequence (though taking place some years later and not with beltur as main lead- one can speculate that Taelya will be main lead for various reasons, both related to what we know about Fairhaven to come and intrinsic to this 4 book sequence), so my opinion may change on re-read and /or on reading the next novel in this mini-series as it did in other mini-series of the author set in Recluce or Solidar, I was mostly disapointed by this one - it read slow (lots of pages dedicated to furnishing a house), repetitive even in most of the action sequences and the characters lacked the spark from earlier volumes, felt old and tired in many ways; the last 50 pages or so which change tack to some extent - while having some repeptitivness with other similar action-pieces from other author volumes - were better as they felt fresher and the action moved from the middle of nowhere (as (Fair)haven is still in the days of this book) to a more interesting place
Overall, mostly what one would expect after the previous two books, but the book felt slow, tired and repetitive except maybe for the last 50 pages; still interested in the presumably last novel about the founding of Fairhaven announced by the author for next year and as noted my opinion may change on a later reread
Overall, mostly what one would expect after the previous two books, but the book felt slow, tired and repetitive except maybe for the last 50 pages; still interested in the presumably last novel about the founding of Fairhaven announced by the author for next year and as noted my opinion may change on a later reread
January 5, 2020
When mage Beltur and healer Jessyla are offered an opportunity to live in and guide Haven they land smack dab in the middle of a war. The two and their companions need to take on a vastly superior force with their few resources. Modessitt has produced another excellent tale of Recluce.
August 17, 2019
I waited for this book ever since the previous one came out and bought it on the day it was released. I *really* wanted to like this book.
I can't, though. It's like Modesitt just picked bits and pieces of previous Recluce books and changed the names. There's very little in this book that isn't already covered in previous books, including everyone's favorite: kitchen cisterns. 😐
I came in expecting the gripping conclusion to Beltur and Jessyla's story. Instead, I got a lot of recycled themes and plots. It's Modesitt, so it's written well, but it just feels like I'm rereading an older book instead of a new one.
I can't, though. It's like Modesitt just picked bits and pieces of previous Recluce books and changed the names. There's very little in this book that isn't already covered in previous books, including everyone's favorite: kitchen cisterns. 😐
I came in expecting the gripping conclusion to Beltur and Jessyla's story. Instead, I got a lot of recycled themes and plots. It's Modesitt, so it's written well, but it just feels like I'm rereading an older book instead of a new one.
April 18, 2025
The best of the Mongrel Mage trilogy. Takes over immediately after the end of Outcasts of Order. Beltur, Jessyln et al are offered a deal by the Duchess of Montgard.
They will take over as the ruling council of the border town of Haven. The problem is traders are running rampant over the town, and two neighboring countries have considered annexing it.
A lot of day to day events plus several well written battle scenes.
They will take over as the ruling council of the border town of Haven. The problem is traders are running rampant over the town, and two neighboring countries have considered annexing it.
A lot of day to day events plus several well written battle scenes.
October 9, 2020
2 stars, Metaphorosis Reviews
Summary
Beltur, black mage and occasional healer, his wife, and friends, searching for a place they can live in peace, have agreed to be the councilors for Haven, a town on the edge of the duchy of Montgren. But Montgren's neighbours want the town for themselves, and Beltur and crew have to fight multiple battles just to stay free.
Review
"A mage who's also a healer. That's rare."
"Yes."
"And a healer who's also a mage. I've never heard of that."
With those three lines, you've now read at least a dozen pages of The Mage Fire War. It's an exchange that was repeated ad nauseam in the book before this, and is repeated many, many more times here. Technically, one could argue that for every new character encountered in the book, this is new information. But one element of good writing is presenting things in a way that's interesting to the reader. Otherwise, what you have is a logbook. We don't need a character to explain how many coppers in a silver every time they buy something; once is enough. In this book and its predecessor, I found myself actually shouting at the page, "We got it. Let it go!" Modesitt is a better author than this.
And that, actually, is the explanation that finally came to me in the shower one morning: Modesitt is a better author than this; maybe this isn't Modesitt. Now, I'm not one for conspiracy theories. I don't really believe that someone else is ghost writing Modesitt's books. But it's a pretty fair explanation of what's here - a tone much like Modesitt's usual, but without almost any of the storytelling skill we're used to. Instead, it's endless, ad nauseam repetition of petty details.
Maybe Modesitt is trying something out. Maybe he thought that, for one sub-series, a day-by-day logbook of events would be interesting. It's not, and it should have been obvious after (or before) one book.
That's not to say there aren't interesting elements here; there are, and the sub-series itself contains a good story. But between the last book and this one, there's material for maybe 2/3 of a book instead of this bloated, stultifying, indigestible mass. That sounds harsh. But this book really is dull - not because of concept or subject matter, but because it's just so darned repetitive.
Maybe I made a mistake by reading the book over only a few weeks. Maybe if I put it down for a month between chapters, each repetition of a basic concept would have felt fresh. I don't think so.
The long and the short of it is that this book is only for true Modesitt completists, and perhaps not even for them.
Received gratis in exchange for an honest review.
Summary
Beltur, black mage and occasional healer, his wife, and friends, searching for a place they can live in peace, have agreed to be the councilors for Haven, a town on the edge of the duchy of Montgren. But Montgren's neighbours want the town for themselves, and Beltur and crew have to fight multiple battles just to stay free.
Review
"A mage who's also a healer. That's rare."
"Yes."
"And a healer who's also a mage. I've never heard of that."
With those three lines, you've now read at least a dozen pages of The Mage Fire War. It's an exchange that was repeated ad nauseam in the book before this, and is repeated many, many more times here. Technically, one could argue that for every new character encountered in the book, this is new information. But one element of good writing is presenting things in a way that's interesting to the reader. Otherwise, what you have is a logbook. We don't need a character to explain how many coppers in a silver every time they buy something; once is enough. In this book and its predecessor, I found myself actually shouting at the page, "We got it. Let it go!" Modesitt is a better author than this.
And that, actually, is the explanation that finally came to me in the shower one morning: Modesitt is a better author than this; maybe this isn't Modesitt. Now, I'm not one for conspiracy theories. I don't really believe that someone else is ghost writing Modesitt's books. But it's a pretty fair explanation of what's here - a tone much like Modesitt's usual, but without almost any of the storytelling skill we're used to. Instead, it's endless, ad nauseam repetition of petty details.
Maybe Modesitt is trying something out. Maybe he thought that, for one sub-series, a day-by-day logbook of events would be interesting. It's not, and it should have been obvious after (or before) one book.
That's not to say there aren't interesting elements here; there are, and the sub-series itself contains a good story. But between the last book and this one, there's material for maybe 2/3 of a book instead of this bloated, stultifying, indigestible mass. That sounds harsh. But this book really is dull - not because of concept or subject matter, but because it's just so darned repetitive.
Maybe I made a mistake by reading the book over only a few weeks. Maybe if I put it down for a month between chapters, each repetition of a basic concept would have felt fresh. I don't think so.
The long and the short of it is that this book is only for true Modesitt completists, and perhaps not even for them.
Received gratis in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
I enjoyed the final chapter of Beltur's story and the beginning of the making of Haven, soon to be Fairhaven. However, I found the pacing off in this one. The last bit of the book felt a little rushed while the middle was slower than needed. That being said I still love being in this world. I did find parts of the book a little repetitive and the story could have been told in less pages.
I am looking forward to reading Fairhaven Rising and seeing the world through Taelya's eyes. It'll be interesting to see what Fairhaven is looking like 16 years later. As well as how that city formed by order mages becomes the center for chaos.
I enjoyed the final chapter of Beltur's story and the beginning of the making of Haven, soon to be Fairhaven. However, I found the pacing off in this one. The last bit of the book felt a little rushed while the middle was slower than needed. That being said I still love being in this world. I did find parts of the book a little repetitive and the story could have been told in less pages.
I am looking forward to reading Fairhaven Rising and seeing the world through Taelya's eyes. It'll be interesting to see what Fairhaven is looking like 16 years later. As well as how that city formed by order mages becomes the center for chaos.
August 4, 2019
Back in 2017, I believed that The Mongrel Mage marked the beginning of a brand new story arc, the first book in what would likely be another two-volume Recluce sequence. Yet it turned out that Beltur had a much bigger story to tell. L. E. Modesitt, jr. tried to write this story arc in his habitual two-book format, but the manuscripts soon reached a size that made it impossible for Tor Books to release them as a pair of novels.
The decision was made to split Beltur's tale into three separate installments. This probably explains why The Mongrel Mage did not stand as well on its own as I expected. My fear was that the sequel, Outcasts of Order, would suffer from the middle book syndrome. Given the fact that there was never meant to be a second volume, it did feel a bit incongruous compared to its predecessors.
Which is why I was looking forward to reading The Mage-Fire War. And though I enjoyed the novel, there's no denying that the plot is padded with a lot of filler material to increase the pagecount. Beltur's tale and the creation of Fairhaven are worthy addition to the Recluce canon, no doubt about it. And yet, I feel that it would have worked better as the habitual two-installment Recluce project.
Here's the blurb:
L. E. Modesitt, Jr., continues his bestselling Saga of Recluce with The Mage-Fire War, the third book in a story arc which began with The Mongrel Mage and Outcasts of Order.
Once again, prejudices against the use of chaos magic force Beltur and his companions to flee their refuge in Axalt. The rulers of nearby Montgren have offered them sanctuary and the opportunity to become the Councilors of the run-down and disintegrating town of Haven.
Montegren lacks any mages—white or black—making this seem like the perfect opportunity to start again.
However, Beltur and the others must reinstitute law and order, rebuild parts of the town, deal with brigands—and thwart an invading army.
The worldbuilding is always one of the most fascinating facets of these new Recluce novels. Like several other historical figures, it's evident that Beltur will leave his own indelible mark upon the Recluce timeline. As is usually his wont, Modesitt explores the relationship between Order and Chaos, one of the trademarks of this series. As Beltur trains as a healer and as he trains both Jessyla and young Taelya, we do learn a lot about Chaos, Order, and the manner in which they can both be used for healing and for fighting. Speaking of Taelya, I'm curious to see if she'll get her own story arc in a future Recluce installment. It's obvious that, like Beltur and Jessyla, this girl will have her part to play as Fairhaven grows and welcomes more mages. And given the foreshadowing Modesitt provided in these last three novels, it appears that the future may not be all that bright for the woman she'll become. I also have a feeling that her future storyline may shine some light on how a city founded by Black Mages will some day become a bastion held by the Whites.
Having grown on me over the course of the last two books, Beltur is easier to root for in this final volume. He probably always knew that the price to pay would be higher than they ever envisioned but refused to accept that fact. Be that as it may, in The Mage-Fire War it dawns upon him that they will never be left alone as long as the duke of Hydlen can send troopers and wizards against them. And though it goes against everything he is and believes in, Beltur has no choice but to be utterly ruthless if Fairhaven stands a chance of ever establishing itself. The ending, in particular, was as surprising as it was uncompromising. Once again, the supporting cast is particularly engaging, chief among them Jessyla, as well as Lhadoraak and his wife Tulya and their young daughter.
L. E. Modesitt's works are never fast-paced affairs and The Mongrel Mage was no exception to that rule. The author needed time to establish the various storylines and protagonists. Once done, you then follow the main character as he or she must learn, experiment, and puzzle out ways to escape a number of predicaments before the endgame can take place. In that respect, that novel followed the classic Recluce recipe and long-time fans ended up with another compelling read. Trouble is, as a middle book Outcasts of Order offered nothing in the way of resolution. To a certain extent, the second installment was only meant to give Beltur the opportunity to train more and get more powerful, and to ultimately get the characters to Montgren, where Beltur and company will leave their mark upon the history of Recluce. Not surprisingly, The Mage-Fire War suffers from pacing issues. Essentially, this final volume is meant to feature the series' endgame and the finale, with a number of armed conflicts in between as troops from Hydlen invade Montgren and try to capture Haven. Unfortunately, there was not enough material for a full novel and The Mage-Fire War is padded with lots of extraneous and often superfluous scenes that are totally unnecessary. I mean, did we really need to see Beltur clean the stables this often, or the preparation of so many meals, etc. In the end, though it would have made for two big novels, as I mentioned I feel that Beltur's tale would have worked better as another two-volume sequence.
Still, Beltur's story and the creation of Fairhaven was another satisfying Recluce arc. One that raises as many questions as the answers it provides. As mentioned, the enormous price paid for Beltur's unforgiving response in the hope to end this war and engender long-term peace to allow Haven to grow will undoubtedly have profound repercussions on the young man and those he cares for. And it's obvious that Taelya's own storyline has barely begun, with a lot more in store for her in the coming years. It will be interesting to see if she'll be the main protagonist in Modesitt's next Recluce offering.
Ultimately, regardless of its shortcomings, The Mage-Fire War will please Recluce fans who are eagerly awaiting the resolution of this story arc. Twenty-one books into the saga, with no sign that it might be slowing down any time soon, this bodes well for the future. Here's to hoping that L. E. Modesitt, jr. still has more Recluce surprises in store for his readers.
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com
The decision was made to split Beltur's tale into three separate installments. This probably explains why The Mongrel Mage did not stand as well on its own as I expected. My fear was that the sequel, Outcasts of Order, would suffer from the middle book syndrome. Given the fact that there was never meant to be a second volume, it did feel a bit incongruous compared to its predecessors.
Which is why I was looking forward to reading The Mage-Fire War. And though I enjoyed the novel, there's no denying that the plot is padded with a lot of filler material to increase the pagecount. Beltur's tale and the creation of Fairhaven are worthy addition to the Recluce canon, no doubt about it. And yet, I feel that it would have worked better as the habitual two-installment Recluce project.
Here's the blurb:
L. E. Modesitt, Jr., continues his bestselling Saga of Recluce with The Mage-Fire War, the third book in a story arc which began with The Mongrel Mage and Outcasts of Order.
Once again, prejudices against the use of chaos magic force Beltur and his companions to flee their refuge in Axalt. The rulers of nearby Montgren have offered them sanctuary and the opportunity to become the Councilors of the run-down and disintegrating town of Haven.
Montegren lacks any mages—white or black—making this seem like the perfect opportunity to start again.
However, Beltur and the others must reinstitute law and order, rebuild parts of the town, deal with brigands—and thwart an invading army.
The worldbuilding is always one of the most fascinating facets of these new Recluce novels. Like several other historical figures, it's evident that Beltur will leave his own indelible mark upon the Recluce timeline. As is usually his wont, Modesitt explores the relationship between Order and Chaos, one of the trademarks of this series. As Beltur trains as a healer and as he trains both Jessyla and young Taelya, we do learn a lot about Chaos, Order, and the manner in which they can both be used for healing and for fighting. Speaking of Taelya, I'm curious to see if she'll get her own story arc in a future Recluce installment. It's obvious that, like Beltur and Jessyla, this girl will have her part to play as Fairhaven grows and welcomes more mages. And given the foreshadowing Modesitt provided in these last three novels, it appears that the future may not be all that bright for the woman she'll become. I also have a feeling that her future storyline may shine some light on how a city founded by Black Mages will some day become a bastion held by the Whites.
Having grown on me over the course of the last two books, Beltur is easier to root for in this final volume. He probably always knew that the price to pay would be higher than they ever envisioned but refused to accept that fact. Be that as it may, in The Mage-Fire War it dawns upon him that they will never be left alone as long as the duke of Hydlen can send troopers and wizards against them. And though it goes against everything he is and believes in, Beltur has no choice but to be utterly ruthless if Fairhaven stands a chance of ever establishing itself. The ending, in particular, was as surprising as it was uncompromising. Once again, the supporting cast is particularly engaging, chief among them Jessyla, as well as Lhadoraak and his wife Tulya and their young daughter.
L. E. Modesitt's works are never fast-paced affairs and The Mongrel Mage was no exception to that rule. The author needed time to establish the various storylines and protagonists. Once done, you then follow the main character as he or she must learn, experiment, and puzzle out ways to escape a number of predicaments before the endgame can take place. In that respect, that novel followed the classic Recluce recipe and long-time fans ended up with another compelling read. Trouble is, as a middle book Outcasts of Order offered nothing in the way of resolution. To a certain extent, the second installment was only meant to give Beltur the opportunity to train more and get more powerful, and to ultimately get the characters to Montgren, where Beltur and company will leave their mark upon the history of Recluce. Not surprisingly, The Mage-Fire War suffers from pacing issues. Essentially, this final volume is meant to feature the series' endgame and the finale, with a number of armed conflicts in between as troops from Hydlen invade Montgren and try to capture Haven. Unfortunately, there was not enough material for a full novel and The Mage-Fire War is padded with lots of extraneous and often superfluous scenes that are totally unnecessary. I mean, did we really need to see Beltur clean the stables this often, or the preparation of so many meals, etc. In the end, though it would have made for two big novels, as I mentioned I feel that Beltur's tale would have worked better as another two-volume sequence.
Still, Beltur's story and the creation of Fairhaven was another satisfying Recluce arc. One that raises as many questions as the answers it provides. As mentioned, the enormous price paid for Beltur's unforgiving response in the hope to end this war and engender long-term peace to allow Haven to grow will undoubtedly have profound repercussions on the young man and those he cares for. And it's obvious that Taelya's own storyline has barely begun, with a lot more in store for her in the coming years. It will be interesting to see if she'll be the main protagonist in Modesitt's next Recluce offering.
Ultimately, regardless of its shortcomings, The Mage-Fire War will please Recluce fans who are eagerly awaiting the resolution of this story arc. Twenty-one books into the saga, with no sign that it might be slowing down any time soon, this bodes well for the future. Here's to hoping that L. E. Modesitt, jr. still has more Recluce surprises in store for his readers.
For more reviews, check out www.fantasyhotlist.blogspot.com
April 26, 2021
I don’t know what happened to Modesitt, but this book (and the ones directly before it) feels like a poor imitation of his prior work. Repetitious, shallow, and full of clunky sentences, I might be out of Recluce after this storyline.
November 19, 2019
Another good book in this series, but not as good as the first two. The end seemed a little rushed and there wasn't as much plot or character development as I would have liked to see. It is still well worth reading.
October 8, 2019
I enjoyed this. I really did. The problem is ... it's just the same story. Like Safehold, it's continuing and repeating the same plot and plot elements. Not just from book to book but within the book as well. He's been filling in history lately in his series, and maybe it's time to move forward. See how the industrial revolution affects Imager; work on a series where Recluce goes the way of Fairhaven and Cyador. We've never seen a heavily entrenched order-based civilization fall. It would be interesting to see how that happens.
May 19, 2019
The Mage-Fire War by L.E. Modesitt, Jr.
This book follows the Outcasts of Order. Beltur and Jessyla have taken up residency in Haven by grace of the Duchess. They are expected to bring order (pun intended) to Haven, a lawless and seemingly ungovernable community.
Modesitt writes a great story. In this book he shows how determination and wit can overcome brawn and witlessness, impulsiveness and rancor. Beltur and company must find a way to overcome daunting odds to defeat the Duke’s troops and protect their community.
Modesitt spins a plausible tale while showing that karma really can bite you in the butt.
I am a Modesitt fan and I loved this book.
This book follows the Outcasts of Order. Beltur and Jessyla have taken up residency in Haven by grace of the Duchess. They are expected to bring order (pun intended) to Haven, a lawless and seemingly ungovernable community.
Modesitt writes a great story. In this book he shows how determination and wit can overcome brawn and witlessness, impulsiveness and rancor. Beltur and company must find a way to overcome daunting odds to defeat the Duke’s troops and protect their community.
Modesitt spins a plausible tale while showing that karma really can bite you in the butt.
I am a Modesitt fan and I loved this book.
September 3, 2019
I have been following this series for years. It is interesting but ... I get a distinct impression that the author is padding the word count by detailing the menu for breakfast lunch and dinner.
And what was all that self-blame that the protagonist feels for things that weren't even his fault? It gets almost as tiresome as currying his horse. This overly detailed narrative is becoming increasingly common in the author's work as the series progresses.
Once you have established that a character is conscientious and caring, get on with the story. And if you are going to detail every meal, it is only a matter of time before you are going to pass gas and take a dump.
And what was all that self-blame that the protagonist feels for things that weren't even his fault? It gets almost as tiresome as currying his horse. This overly detailed narrative is becoming increasingly common in the author's work as the series progresses.
Once you have established that a character is conscientious and caring, get on with the story. And if you are going to detail every meal, it is only a matter of time before you are going to pass gas and take a dump.
June 1, 2020
“I don’t think power and wealth make people mean. I think power and wealth allow people to be what they are at heart.”
September 3, 2022
he Saga of Recluce is an interesting series, told in small book arcs and self-contained novels, jumping back and forth through the timeline, with each story adding more depth and color to the world. Books 19 through 21 form one such arc, centered around a mage by the name of Beltur. They are an interesting read, but not one of L.E. Modesitt Jr.’s better efforts.
While the books do have their moments, I found them to be largely dry in both the telling and the details, sluggish in their pacing, and repetitive in content. I’m okay with a leisurely told story, so long as it does move forward, developing the characters and advancing the plot. In The Mongrel Mage we spend the first 150 pages riding to a handful of identical villages, having the same conversations with the same stock characters, and watching as Beltur skulks around similar-looking walls, listening to similarly banal snippets of conversation. In Outcasts of Order we spend 200 pages healing, smithing, marching, talking, and walking through snow. In The Mage-Fire War we seem to keep reading in circles, with characters doing something in one chapter, talking about it in the next, and thinking about in the one that follows.
It doesn’t help that Beltur is such a bland protagonist. He does grow on you, but he’s too good, too nice, too even to be interesting. It’s rare that we see any emotion from him other than casual concern for the social injustices of the world or mildly frustrated romantic longing for Jessyla. Okay, so that last one is a bit unfair as his courtship of Jessyla is one of the high points of the trilogy (alongside Taelya), and the books only really come alive when either of them step onto the page.
Where the books do excel, and this is something Modesitt always does well, is in the more intellectual aspects. There are puzzles and mysteries galore, medical and magical experimentation that further builds upon what we know of Order, Chaos, and the shades of grey in between. There is a solid story behind all that, an intellectual journey that establishes Beltur’s place in history, and were the three books condensed into one, with all the repetition removed, there’s a strong novel to be found.
Everything does end on a high note inThe Mage-Fire War (which was, otherwise, the weakest of the three books), with the standoff in Haven, the establishment of Fairhaven, and the development of Taelya – who, despite my reservations about this arc, I’m eager to catch up with in Fairhaven Rising next year.
https://femledfantasy.home.blog/2020/...
While the books do have their moments, I found them to be largely dry in both the telling and the details, sluggish in their pacing, and repetitive in content. I’m okay with a leisurely told story, so long as it does move forward, developing the characters and advancing the plot. In The Mongrel Mage we spend the first 150 pages riding to a handful of identical villages, having the same conversations with the same stock characters, and watching as Beltur skulks around similar-looking walls, listening to similarly banal snippets of conversation. In Outcasts of Order we spend 200 pages healing, smithing, marching, talking, and walking through snow. In The Mage-Fire War we seem to keep reading in circles, with characters doing something in one chapter, talking about it in the next, and thinking about in the one that follows.
It doesn’t help that Beltur is such a bland protagonist. He does grow on you, but he’s too good, too nice, too even to be interesting. It’s rare that we see any emotion from him other than casual concern for the social injustices of the world or mildly frustrated romantic longing for Jessyla. Okay, so that last one is a bit unfair as his courtship of Jessyla is one of the high points of the trilogy (alongside Taelya), and the books only really come alive when either of them step onto the page.
Where the books do excel, and this is something Modesitt always does well, is in the more intellectual aspects. There are puzzles and mysteries galore, medical and magical experimentation that further builds upon what we know of Order, Chaos, and the shades of grey in between. There is a solid story behind all that, an intellectual journey that establishes Beltur’s place in history, and were the three books condensed into one, with all the repetition removed, there’s a strong novel to be found.
Everything does end on a high note inThe Mage-Fire War (which was, otherwise, the weakest of the three books), with the standoff in Haven, the establishment of Fairhaven, and the development of Taelya – who, despite my reservations about this arc, I’m eager to catch up with in Fairhaven Rising next year.
https://femledfantasy.home.blog/2020/...
March 28, 2021
I like reading L.E. Modesitt, Jr.’s work. His latest in paperback in the Recluce series is The Mage-Fire War. It is the third book with Beltur as the main character. He and his consort, Jessyla, along with another black mage and his consort and daughter are given the opportunity to run a town called Haven. It’s a tough go from the start, and it gets worse as an army descends on them. The Duchess does send some troopers to help along with three companies from a neighboring small domain, but Beltur and his allies are outnumbered about four to one.
The pace is typical for Modesitt’s work. It moves along rather leisurely except in the actual battles, but most of the book is in the planning and interactions of the allies and the people from the town. There are homey scenes of cooking and eating, and there are governmental issues of setting up rules for the town and patrolling and so forth. Beltur tries to do what is right and to give various people opportunities to do what is right. Those who don’t behave often end up dead. There is some justice in this mythical world. Not all things are fair, but there is both hope and movement toward a better life for all concerned as long they play by the rules.
I liked the book. It met my expectations, and there were no real surprises. Beltur did discover a technique new to him to use his shields more effectively to take out enemy troops, and he used it well. The end of the book was hinted at a couple of times since the neighboring ruler was portrayed as being quite irrational and vindictive in his decisions. There is some violence, but that’s what happens in a war or when dealing with folks who refuse to obey the rules. Swearing is reduced to a minced oath here and there, but even that is relatively rare. There are a few hints of conjugal love making, but they are just hints.
There is a side story about Taelya, a young girl who is a white mage. Beltur is helping her develop her skills. She calls him Uncle Beltur, so they have a good relationship. She will likely be a bigger player as the series goes on. While a person could read this book in isolation, it would be profitable to read the two that precede it. The sequel will be about how the town, now to be named Fairhaven, will grow and prosper. It will likely do so with some struggles, but that is for the next book. I look forward to reading it.
The pace is typical for Modesitt’s work. It moves along rather leisurely except in the actual battles, but most of the book is in the planning and interactions of the allies and the people from the town. There are homey scenes of cooking and eating, and there are governmental issues of setting up rules for the town and patrolling and so forth. Beltur tries to do what is right and to give various people opportunities to do what is right. Those who don’t behave often end up dead. There is some justice in this mythical world. Not all things are fair, but there is both hope and movement toward a better life for all concerned as long they play by the rules.
I liked the book. It met my expectations, and there were no real surprises. Beltur did discover a technique new to him to use his shields more effectively to take out enemy troops, and he used it well. The end of the book was hinted at a couple of times since the neighboring ruler was portrayed as being quite irrational and vindictive in his decisions. There is some violence, but that’s what happens in a war or when dealing with folks who refuse to obey the rules. Swearing is reduced to a minced oath here and there, but even that is relatively rare. There are a few hints of conjugal love making, but they are just hints.
There is a side story about Taelya, a young girl who is a white mage. Beltur is helping her develop her skills. She calls him Uncle Beltur, so they have a good relationship. She will likely be a bigger player as the series goes on. While a person could read this book in isolation, it would be profitable to read the two that precede it. The sequel will be about how the town, now to be named Fairhaven, will grow and prosper. It will likely do so with some struggles, but that is for the next book. I look forward to reading it.
September 11, 2019
This book is part of Modesitt's longest-running fantasy series, "The Saga of Recluce." The full saga contains over twenty books and covers hundreds (maybe thousands?) of years of history in his imagined world. This installment is the concluding volume in a trilogy about the mage Beltur, whom I found among Modesitt's most likable protagonists. The fact that I've read all the Recluce books reflects how much I've enjoyed the series as a whole. Taken together, the books offer an exploration of power and its abuse, of the ethics of violence, even of law and economics. There is plenty of magery, and a good helping of military action. While I haven't loved every single book, collectively I do love them. I know they won't appeal to every reader. No book can, and these books are less swashbuckling, less stylistically flamboyant than, for example, Scott Lynch. But once I care about the characters, everything else takes second place. At their best, these books immerse me in the lives of their protagonists, so that I wish I could just keep turning the pages to read one more scene. I cared about Beltur. I wish there was one more scene to read.
About my book reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).
About my book reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).
March 26, 2021
Beltur and Jessyla have now been made the councillors of Haven along with their companions and have been charged with getting it under control as it has been essentially lawless for a few years at this stage. However they find that there are bigger forces at play and find themselves caught up in a war that they weren’t expecting.
I definitely struggled more with this book than the previous two. I think in my head I was expecting a more low key entry, in that the focus would be of the town building up gradually, overcoming obstacles etc. There were elements of that but the main story of the book ended up being a full scale war and I really didn’t see that coming. I generally enjoy those style of books a lot but for whatever reason it didn’t grab me as much this time.
Beltur has transformed from a somewhat different protagonist than usual to the more standard determined one, and I think that is a bit of a shame. He is now completely ruthless and is killing people by the thousands. Jessyla is pretty much the same in a lot of respects. There is never much tension in the books but what I’ve always found interesting is how they overcome the obstacles set in front of them. Beltur is strong and capable, but limited in what he can do, so I did find his ingenuity good but nothing much changed from this book compared to the last except for one thing, so it was lacking even that dynamic.
I did enjoy it, not my favourite entry by any means, but still entertaining. It could be the problem of reading too many Modesitt books in a row, I have found more than two in a row can get too samey. I’m going to take a small break before getting to the last book in this arc, which I believe is set a bit more in the future with a different protagonist.
3.5 rounded down
Please see this and other reviews at https://barrysbloodybooks.home.blog/
I definitely struggled more with this book than the previous two. I think in my head I was expecting a more low key entry, in that the focus would be of the town building up gradually, overcoming obstacles etc. There were elements of that but the main story of the book ended up being a full scale war and I really didn’t see that coming. I generally enjoy those style of books a lot but for whatever reason it didn’t grab me as much this time.
Beltur has transformed from a somewhat different protagonist than usual to the more standard determined one, and I think that is a bit of a shame. He is now completely ruthless and is killing people by the thousands. Jessyla is pretty much the same in a lot of respects. There is never much tension in the books but what I’ve always found interesting is how they overcome the obstacles set in front of them. Beltur is strong and capable, but limited in what he can do, so I did find his ingenuity good but nothing much changed from this book compared to the last except for one thing, so it was lacking even that dynamic.
I did enjoy it, not my favourite entry by any means, but still entertaining. It could be the problem of reading too many Modesitt books in a row, I have found more than two in a row can get too samey. I’m going to take a small break before getting to the last book in this arc, which I believe is set a bit more in the future with a different protagonist.
3.5 rounded down
Please see this and other reviews at https://barrysbloodybooks.home.blog/
August 19, 2019
Mongrel Mage, Outcasts of Order, and The Mage-Fire War are less a trilogy than one book published in three parts. While the first does almost have the typical "semi-conclusion" common to the first volume of the paired Recluce novels, the second and third flowed so directly into each other that I almost expected the chapter numbering to be continuous. As a series it has been fascinating to see a part of that world's history which we had not yet explored, and to learn that that part's history is remarkably different than previously hinted at.
"His dream wasn't what he thought it would be... and ours likely won't be, either."
Those who have read the rest of the series know how true those words are.
"Those who are left aren't the fighting kind. They'll try to survive quietly under the worst of rulers. They deserve better."
As usual, mages are tasked with doing the impossible, facing terrible odds and trying to protect those around them. In this case those around them are not even people they would necessarily choose, but having mage powers gives them a responsibility to even the sleazy, the cowardly. If you're the leader of a people, whether family, town, city, country, you don't get to pick and choose who among that group you're the leader of. There might be an element of the current political climate coming through there. Also, here:
"Nothing that relies on lies and untruths generally ever turns out well."
"His dream wasn't what he thought it would be... and ours likely won't be, either."
Those who have read the rest of the series know how true those words are.
"Those who are left aren't the fighting kind. They'll try to survive quietly under the worst of rulers. They deserve better."
As usual, mages are tasked with doing the impossible, facing terrible odds and trying to protect those around them. In this case those around them are not even people they would necessarily choose, but having mage powers gives them a responsibility to even the sleazy, the cowardly. If you're the leader of a people, whether family, town, city, country, you don't get to pick and choose who among that group you're the leader of. There might be an element of the current political climate coming through there. Also, here:
"Nothing that relies on lies and untruths generally ever turns out well."
March 25, 2020
Author L. E. Modesitt Jr (https://www.lemodesittjr.com) published the novel “The Mage-Fire War” in 2019. Mr. Modesitt has published 80 novels. This is the 21st in his “Saga of Recluse” series.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains Violence. The story is set on a fantasy world. The primary character is Black Mage Beltur.
Beltur and his wife, along with another mage and his family have traveled to the country of Montgren. The Duchess of Montgren offers them the position of Town Councilors of Haven. Of course, they must bring it out of a state of decay. Beltur and the Council face opposition from some of the townspeople. They all soon find themselves under threat of invasion as well. They must fight for their new home
I enjoyed the 16 hours I spent reading this 538-page fantasy novel. This is the fourth Modesitt novel I have read. I enjoy this author’s work. This is a continuation of the founding story of Freehaven. I have read both of the other books (The Mongrel Mage and Outcasts of Order) in this subseries of Recluse. I have enjoyed these three novels. Modesitt weaves a good tale with rich characters. I look forward to more of his work. I like the chosen cover art. I give this novel a 5 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I received an ARC of this novel through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this novel as ‘R’ because it contains Violence. The story is set on a fantasy world. The primary character is Black Mage Beltur.
Beltur and his wife, along with another mage and his family have traveled to the country of Montgren. The Duchess of Montgren offers them the position of Town Councilors of Haven. Of course, they must bring it out of a state of decay. Beltur and the Council face opposition from some of the townspeople. They all soon find themselves under threat of invasion as well. They must fight for their new home
I enjoyed the 16 hours I spent reading this 538-page fantasy novel. This is the fourth Modesitt novel I have read. I enjoy this author’s work. This is a continuation of the founding story of Freehaven. I have read both of the other books (The Mongrel Mage and Outcasts of Order) in this subseries of Recluse. I have enjoyed these three novels. Modesitt weaves a good tale with rich characters. I look forward to more of his work. I like the chosen cover art. I give this novel a 5 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
September 27, 2019
Why does one read fantasy? 1. character development (check!), 2. quest/good vs evil (check!) and to gain examples of familial loyalty (double check!!). If you know from prior books that there are "black" mages who are usually defensively minded, and "white" mages who usually attack, you think at first you have the entire plot in your hand. BUT...once you realize that a lead character has examples of both types of mage magic, you know where the author will eventually lead to you to when the series draws to a close (whenever that may be).
As usual in this series, the author's method of getting the characters introduced is by tossing out all the names you met before (thrillingly nice for those of us who love to follow the same characters) and yet still slowly letting you know each personality, quirk, ability, and outlook on life by continuing the character's growth and development. This "character introduction" happens in the first couple of pages, and if, like me, you have only read a few of this series instead of all 20 previous books, it is somewhat overwhelming. However, Modesitt knows how to spin a yarn and keep a plot moving, and even if you have never read a single prior book, you will find this one hard to put down.
As usual in this series, the author's method of getting the characters introduced is by tossing out all the names you met before (thrillingly nice for those of us who love to follow the same characters) and yet still slowly letting you know each personality, quirk, ability, and outlook on life by continuing the character's growth and development. This "character introduction" happens in the first couple of pages, and if, like me, you have only read a few of this series instead of all 20 previous books, it is somewhat overwhelming. However, Modesitt knows how to spin a yarn and keep a plot moving, and even if you have never read a single prior book, you will find this one hard to put down.
October 31, 2019
Each of the dozens of books in this series and related ones use the same characters and plots with only slight variation. There's the amazingly powerful and righteous magic user battling human nature to survive and improve the world, married to a smarter woman, with a few intelligent allies (some sacrificed to show loss) and stupid or evil opponents who usually end up dead. The magic-user wields the same trick over and over again. Ungrateful simpletons complain endlessly to him.
Meanwhile, we have overly detailed discussion of trivialities such as food, weather, clothing, and furniture. There's also a lot of introspection, philosophizing, and repetition. References to other books go over my head as I rarely remember them.
In this outing, Beltur and allies (but mostly Beltur) arrive in Haven, a long-neglected border town run by bandits. The beginning briefly deals with setting up the town and chasing away criminals. Once the enemy soldiers show up, the rest of the extremely long book is a military campaign. Beltur realizes that they were given the town because the monarchs didn't have the money to administer and protect it. The brief ending is telegraphed far in advance, and has often occurred in previous books.
Meanwhile, we have overly detailed discussion of trivialities such as food, weather, clothing, and furniture. There's also a lot of introspection, philosophizing, and repetition. References to other books go over my head as I rarely remember them.
In this outing, Beltur and allies (but mostly Beltur) arrive in Haven, a long-neglected border town run by bandits. The beginning briefly deals with setting up the town and chasing away criminals. Once the enemy soldiers show up, the rest of the extremely long book is a military campaign. Beltur realizes that they were given the town because the monarchs didn't have the money to administer and protect it. The brief ending is telegraphed far in advance, and has often occurred in previous books.
March 11, 2020
Predictable.
Once you've read a few of the books in The Saga of Recluce series. You pretty know how things are going to go down in the end, not that it isn't interesting. In its own placid way it can be entertaining. I will admit that towards the end there I couldn't wait for it to end.
Modesitt is a very good writer his stories are impeccably well thought out and consistent but there are no curve balls. Despite that I still prefer reading his works than tons of the inconsistent, horribly written drivel that is being churned out (YA fantasy)
Some new stuff did occur though.
Once you've read a few of the books in The Saga of Recluce series. You pretty know how things are going to go down in the end, not that it isn't interesting. In its own placid way it can be entertaining. I will admit that towards the end there I couldn't wait for it to end.
Modesitt is a very good writer his stories are impeccably well thought out and consistent but there are no curve balls. Despite that I still prefer reading his works than tons of the inconsistent, horribly written drivel that is being churned out (YA fantasy)
Some new stuff did occur though.
September 23, 2019
This is yet another marvelous installment in the Saga of Recluce, and it neatly ties up the character arcs for Beltur and his consort, Jessyla. This novel is the third and final book in their story arc, which began with The Mongrel Mage and continued in Outcasts of Order. Once more, Modesitt immerses the reader in a realistic feeling environment with lands painted with vivid landscapes and each with rich histories of their own. Though most of the focus remains around the Montgren town of Haven, there is lofty intrigue inserted from the kingdoms of both Lydiar and Hydlen. I would love to see more written about both the characters in this trilogy, as well as future generations of Haven as it develops into something much more than its humble roots. As always with the Reculce Saga, this is an outstanding, MUST READ novel!
August 22, 2022
The Recluce novels are an odd series. They bring "Game of Thrones" to mind, with their vast fantasy world of white and black magic, yet they are much more sedate and measured. This particular tale, of the black mage Beltur's quest to establish a peaceful home for his wife and family, often reads like a typical story of the Wild West, where the peaceful lawman arrives in town and rids it of the crooked sheriff and his cronies. (Beltur's horse, Slowpoke, even seems lifted from such a story.) Modesitt is a good writer, but this book, as with all the others in the series, suffers from the same shortcomings: the story's outcome is predictable, the characters are mostly one-dimensional, and our hero rarely seems to be in any actual danger. Nevertheless, I'll probably continue reading the series!
February 14, 2023
I have greatly enjoyed the Recluce series, and have even dealt with the repetitive themes and storylines. This book, however, went a little overboard. I'm sure others who have read it will agree: there's only so many times you can hear about blacks who are healers and healers who are mages. Or how blacks can't kill. It got a little repetitive.
The ending felt rushed. Granted we spent the first 85% of the book reading about the war to take over Haven, but the ending just felt rushed. One day to scout and then a morning of action? And done that quickly?
In a sense, Beltur's story comes a bit full circle. Soon after we meet him, he's put in a room with mage-fire flying everywhere and kills a lot of people. At nearly the very end, he is the one causing the mage-fire that kills a lot of people.
Looking forward to the next book, but just a little disappointed in this one.
The ending felt rushed. Granted we spent the first 85% of the book reading about the war to take over Haven, but the ending just felt rushed. One day to scout and then a morning of action? And done that quickly?
In a sense, Beltur's story comes a bit full circle. Soon after we meet him, he's put in a room with mage-fire flying everywhere and kills a lot of people. At nearly the very end, he is the one causing the mage-fire that kills a lot of people.
Looking forward to the next book, but just a little disappointed in this one.
August 30, 2019
Beltur has no choice, really.
After he and his friends had been asked to leave four countries, they must make a stand in Haven (Montgren), no matter that their forces will be vastly outnumbered. They are arms-mages, though, so this gives them a chance, however small.
This is the third of the Beltur trilogy and I have really enjoyed all three of these books. The Mage-Fire War is a fine conclusion to Beltur's time as protagonist and a very satisfying read!
I'm also especially pleased that we get one more novel with these characters, set sixteen years later when the young beginning white mage daughter will be 23 years old. I really wanted to see what she'll be like when she grows up and I'm excited that we will get that chance!
After he and his friends had been asked to leave four countries, they must make a stand in Haven (Montgren), no matter that their forces will be vastly outnumbered. They are arms-mages, though, so this gives them a chance, however small.
This is the third of the Beltur trilogy and I have really enjoyed all three of these books. The Mage-Fire War is a fine conclusion to Beltur's time as protagonist and a very satisfying read!
I'm also especially pleased that we get one more novel with these characters, set sixteen years later when the young beginning white mage daughter will be 23 years old. I really wanted to see what she'll be like when she grows up and I'm excited that we will get that chance!
September 4, 2019
Beltur, his consort, Jessyla, and friends Lhadoraak and Tulya with their daughter Taelya have traveled to the town of Haven as the new councilors appointed by Montgren's Duchess. They new that they had to restore law, deal with merchants and brigands, but they did not expect to face white mages upon their arrival. And they certainly did not expect that they would have to com up with a scheme to defuse an invasion by Hydlen when they took the job. But this is where they decided to make their stand and try to create a place that would be open to both black and white mages, a "fair haven" for all that could abide by the rules they would establish. A satisfying end to this arc of the Recluce saga and an interesting look at the birth of the city of Fairhaven.
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