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Emberverse #5
The Scourge of God: A Novel of the Change
“Vivid…Stirling eloquently describes a devastated, mystical world that will appeal to fans of traditional fantasy as well as postapocalyptic SF.” – Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
Rudi Mackenzie—son and heir of the High Priestess Juniper Mackenzie and the Bear Lord Michael Havel—continues his trek across the land that was once the United States of America. His destination: Nantucket, where he hopes to learn the truth behind the Change, which rendered technology across the globe inoperable.
During his travels, Rudi forges ties with new allies in the continuing war against the Prophet. Presiding over his flock, the Prophet teaches his followers that God has punished humanity by destroying technological civilization, and that they must continue to destroy any technology they come across—along with those who dare use it.
But one fanatical officer in the Sword of the Prophet has an even greater mission: to stop Rudi from reaching Nantucket by any means necessary.
Rudi Mackenzie—son and heir of the High Priestess Juniper Mackenzie and the Bear Lord Michael Havel—continues his trek across the land that was once the United States of America. His destination: Nantucket, where he hopes to learn the truth behind the Change, which rendered technology across the globe inoperable.
During his travels, Rudi forges ties with new allies in the continuing war against the Prophet. Presiding over his flock, the Prophet teaches his followers that God has punished humanity by destroying technological civilization, and that they must continue to destroy any technology they come across—along with those who dare use it.
But one fanatical officer in the Sword of the Prophet has an even greater mission: to stop Rudi from reaching Nantucket by any means necessary.
511 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
164 people are currently reading
1633 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Stirling
170 books1,645 followersStephen Michael Stirling is a French-born Canadian-American science fiction and fantasy author. Stirling is probably best known for his Draka series of alternate history novels and the more recent time travel/alternate history Nantucket series and Emberverse series.
MINI AUTO-BIOGRAPHY:
(personal website: source)
I’m a writer by trade, born in France but Canadian by origin and American by naturalization, living in New Mexico at present. My hobbies are mostly related to the craft. I love history, anthropology and archaeology, and am interested in the sciences. The martial arts are my main physical hobby.
MINI AUTO-BIOGRAPHY:
(personal website: source)
I’m a writer by trade, born in France but Canadian by origin and American by naturalization, living in New Mexico at present. My hobbies are mostly related to the craft. I love history, anthropology and archaeology, and am interested in the sciences. The martial arts are my main physical hobby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
December 4, 2008
The hype has been pretty steady for S.M. Stirling as he has written eight different books based on one imaginary event: An as-yet unexplained 1998 event/explosion over Nantucket Island that seriously disrupted the planet – to the extent that 90% of the world’s population died when electric power, internal combustion engines and all non-muscle-powered machinery essentially stopped working. (It also had an impact on medieval times, the subject of the first three books.)
“The Scourge of God” (Roc, $25.95, 450 pages) is the latest, and it confirms an unusual choice for Stirling, who built his reputation as an alternate history writer: That is, there’s been a major change that shifts history’s direction, but aside from that, everything else is normal. In “The Sunrise Lands,” the first book of the second trilogy after the Change (as the event is called), there were hints of fantasy, but they have become the focus of “The Scourge of God.”
Now, our heroes – and heroes they very clearly are, with feats of derring-do and plenty of battles – must overcome what appears to be a demon that can control human beings at long distances, and turn them into unkillable zombie-like creatures. In return, of course, they have some otherwordly help of their own, and the result is that the series has now moved into the category of more traditional fantasy than a logically played out alternate history.
Given that Stirling already has some serious ‘splaining to do (how come the Change allowed just enough electrical activity for our hearts to beat and brains to work but not enough for sparks to ignite combustion, which implies a conscious design), this, to me, is an unnecessary layer. Stirling had a very good thing going with a blank canvas to play with, but decided to do some paint-by-numbers fantasy instead. It’s still pretty good, and I enjoyed reading it, but unless he ties in the demon, the good gods and the Change agent into one big backstory, I think he’s hurt his vision rather than helped it.
“The Scourge of God” (Roc, $25.95, 450 pages) is the latest, and it confirms an unusual choice for Stirling, who built his reputation as an alternate history writer: That is, there’s been a major change that shifts history’s direction, but aside from that, everything else is normal. In “The Sunrise Lands,” the first book of the second trilogy after the Change (as the event is called), there were hints of fantasy, but they have become the focus of “The Scourge of God.”
Now, our heroes – and heroes they very clearly are, with feats of derring-do and plenty of battles – must overcome what appears to be a demon that can control human beings at long distances, and turn them into unkillable zombie-like creatures. In return, of course, they have some otherwordly help of their own, and the result is that the series has now moved into the category of more traditional fantasy than a logically played out alternate history.
Given that Stirling already has some serious ‘splaining to do (how come the Change allowed just enough electrical activity for our hearts to beat and brains to work but not enough for sparks to ignite combustion, which implies a conscious design), this, to me, is an unnecessary layer. Stirling had a very good thing going with a blank canvas to play with, but decided to do some paint-by-numbers fantasy instead. It’s still pretty good, and I enjoyed reading it, but unless he ties in the demon, the good gods and the Change agent into one big backstory, I think he’s hurt his vision rather than helped it.
January 3, 2012
Gah I hate saying this because I have been such a fan of this series... I'm getting bored. The author is still good, things are descriptive and the scenery is nice. It is pretty amazing how this author does not live near where he is writing about but he sounds like he is actually there where he is writing about. He has an incredible imagination to be able to come up with the series and keep it going. But this book is taking forever; it isn't keeping me engaged at all and I'm a pretty loyal reader of this now. Unfortunately the plot line is becoming very repetitive and the plot is no longer moving along like it should. Lots of traveling, scenery, battles, people getting hurt, people resting and more battles. I know the quest is still happening but I would like the gang to get where they are going and get back. There hasn't been any conflict resolution so far, no romance or anything to really keep me engaged which is disappointing. I will of course finish because that is what I have to do just to satisfy personal quirks, but I wish it would hurry up and get to the end. Reached the end and of course the last 7 pages are good and make me want to read the next one but I'll have to wait a bit for that.
December 26, 2009
The Scourge of God by S. M. Stiriling
The gods have tasked Rudi Mackenzie with a task. He must claim a sword across the country in Nantucket and return home. He and his companions set out across a hostile countryside, facing wasteland lands and the fanatic cutters.
Stirling stirs the soul. I find his writing captivating and enthralling. His hero’s embody both realism and astounding strength of character. The modesty and self depreciation of Rudi is contrasted with the self centeredness of Odard. Even Odard appears to be coming less odious. Ingolf is battling his personal demons and still manages to maintain his self respect and personal restraint when faced with the tantalizing Mary. Heroism does not escape unscathed. Stirling does not hesitate to kill off characters or maim them to further the story line. Considering I am generally reading at least three books simultaneously, Stirling is able to enthrall me to the point of charging through his work. Not many authors do that to me. This is the second of an excellent saga of the Change a post-apocalypse society. (or 5 of a continuing story) This book gives some incite as to what caused the fall of society as we know it.
I highly recommend the book.
The gods have tasked Rudi Mackenzie with a task. He must claim a sword across the country in Nantucket and return home. He and his companions set out across a hostile countryside, facing wasteland lands and the fanatic cutters.
Stirling stirs the soul. I find his writing captivating and enthralling. His hero’s embody both realism and astounding strength of character. The modesty and self depreciation of Rudi is contrasted with the self centeredness of Odard. Even Odard appears to be coming less odious. Ingolf is battling his personal demons and still manages to maintain his self respect and personal restraint when faced with the tantalizing Mary. Heroism does not escape unscathed. Stirling does not hesitate to kill off characters or maim them to further the story line. Considering I am generally reading at least three books simultaneously, Stirling is able to enthrall me to the point of charging through his work. Not many authors do that to me. This is the second of an excellent saga of the Change a post-apocalypse society. (or 5 of a continuing story) This book gives some incite as to what caused the fall of society as we know it.
I highly recommend the book.
August 14, 2019
This is the fifth in Stirling's Emberverse series, published in 2008. This series is a postapocalyptic saga with a twist. The apocalypse was not caused by nuclear war or a plague, but by "the Change." In the first book, "Dies the Fire," the Change happened in the 1990s. Whoever or whatever caused it, the result was that technology worldwide was rendered inoperable. No electricity. Cars can't start. Phones are silent. And, maybe, most seriously, guns and explosives don't work. Very quickly, our civilization collapses, as society falls back to a feudalistic stage of development--at best. The series centers on the Willamette Valley of Oregon and how a stable society is salvaged there. By the fifth book, we see that a new generation has grown up, a generation that does not remember the pre-Change world and the technology that their elders took for granted in their youth ( it's the year 2021, or "Change Year 23"). It's intriguing to see what Stirling does with this situation in which humanity seems to be blocked from starting up an Industrial Revolution. The title " The Scourge of God" refers to a growing cult based in Montana that's spreading and threatening the Oregonians. There's plenty of military action--Stirling excels at this. But the main story is the mission of young Rudi Mackenzie to go to the east--and get past the cultist hordes--to try to learn the truth behind the Change. This series continues...
July 23, 2014
Why is this book boring?
I've asked myself that a few times as I read through it. I mean I liked the first Emberverse series, so what the hell happened here?
After some thought, I decided that more than anything else, it was Stirling's characters that killed it for me. All the good guys are ridiculously good. All the bad guys are ridiculously evil. In fact, the characters are so extremely cheesy that I have trouble giving a crap about any of them. I mean, no one can possibly be as good, capable, smart, and honorable as Rudi seems to be. Does he not have a single flaw? Be it pride, naivete, or even alcoholism, I just can't believe in a perfect paladin-warrior-Robin Hood that is quite often described as handsome as a god. The same goes for, well, everyone else .
That said, the next most annoying thing would be the fantasy tint this series is getting. I can sorta accept Ingolf's visions, abet with some skepticism and hopes of a reasonable explanation in the future, but the magic zombies are just way too fantastical. Besides that, there is also the annoyingly frequent mentions of all kinds of Wiccan/Christian songs/rituals/prayers. Every time I see that I puke a little and quickly skip it. I literally cannot care less about Raven gods and septs and totems and especially all the damn songs. I swear a third of the book are transcripts of prayers and songs, half of which were first spoken in Gaelic/Sindarin and then condescendingly "translated" into English again by characters.
Oh and also, NOTHING HAPPENS FOR MOST OF THE BOOK.
I've asked myself that a few times as I read through it. I mean I liked the first Emberverse series, so what the hell happened here?
After some thought, I decided that more than anything else, it was Stirling's characters that killed it for me. All the good guys are ridiculously good. All the bad guys are ridiculously evil. In fact, the characters are so extremely cheesy that I have trouble giving a crap about any of them. I mean, no one can possibly be as good, capable, smart, and honorable as Rudi seems to be. Does he not have a single flaw? Be it pride, naivete, or even alcoholism, I just can't believe in a perfect paladin-warrior-Robin Hood that is quite often described as handsome as a god. The same goes for, well, everyone else .
That said, the next most annoying thing would be the fantasy tint this series is getting. I can sorta accept Ingolf's visions, abet with some skepticism and hopes of a reasonable explanation in the future, but the magic zombies are just way too fantastical. Besides that, there is also the annoyingly frequent mentions of all kinds of Wiccan/Christian songs/rituals/prayers. Every time I see that I puke a little and quickly skip it. I literally cannot care less about Raven gods and septs and totems and especially all the damn songs. I swear a third of the book are transcripts of prayers and songs, half of which were first spoken in Gaelic/Sindarin and then condescendingly "translated" into English again by characters.
Oh and also, NOTHING HAPPENS FOR MOST OF THE BOOK.
December 21, 2009
The reasons this tale does not get higher is that the more the author pens, the less consistent his world view seems. Our heroes who are undefeatable and will never die it seems have the laws of the world they know only change to support them.
It causes us to lose the drama and conflict that we should expect, that we had in the first series. Here the bad guys from that are good guys and we are kept being shown just how nice they are now.
The new bad guys are so bad that they have anti-heroes that are undead. Cut their heads off and they still fight undead. So we have a series that once you might suspend your disbelieve in a world where there were changes to the laws of physics to allow for the regression to the medieval non scientific world that Stirling presents. Now we have gone beyond that as we travel across all the US and find similar Rancher Sheriff societies that we have seen before, but each with its view on religion and the gods that they worship, including the Roman Catholic parts we are familiar with, coming to influence in reality these characters.
We have a world where the gods man created to survive the time where science has been destroyed, are now real rather then rationalized for our minds to handle things we generally can not handle. That is, until the last chapter where factories and science works again.
The story is not worthy of a reread and only worthy of reading if you are caught up in the universe Stirling has created. The holes are becoming bigger then even the author can keep track of. Without the Zombie robot killers, the Many Gods by region Living, and the laws of physics selectively working, this series would have been as good as the first, or even the Island in the Sea of Time series.
It causes us to lose the drama and conflict that we should expect, that we had in the first series. Here the bad guys from that are good guys and we are kept being shown just how nice they are now.
The new bad guys are so bad that they have anti-heroes that are undead. Cut their heads off and they still fight undead. So we have a series that once you might suspend your disbelieve in a world where there were changes to the laws of physics to allow for the regression to the medieval non scientific world that Stirling presents. Now we have gone beyond that as we travel across all the US and find similar Rancher Sheriff societies that we have seen before, but each with its view on religion and the gods that they worship, including the Roman Catholic parts we are familiar with, coming to influence in reality these characters.
We have a world where the gods man created to survive the time where science has been destroyed, are now real rather then rationalized for our minds to handle things we generally can not handle. That is, until the last chapter where factories and science works again.
The story is not worthy of a reread and only worthy of reading if you are caught up in the universe Stirling has created. The holes are becoming bigger then even the author can keep track of. Without the Zombie robot killers, the Many Gods by region Living, and the laws of physics selectively working, this series would have been as good as the first, or even the Island in the Sea of Time series.
April 3, 2009
So far, so good. I am impressed that Stirling is putting his characters in real danger and letting them - even our favorites - get really hurt.
There have always been heavy religious elements to the "Change" books, but - ignoring the change itself - there's been little that is truly supernatural with the exception of a few experiences of Juniper's group. For the most part rationalists and agnostics are not given all that much to challenge their positions. But this is changing.
In "Scourge," the CUT (Church Universal and Triumphant) is growing in influence and it becomes inescapably clear that at least the upper echelon of the "church" is well and truly demon possessed.
Not sure where exactly he's going with this element. As a Christian I would love to see him resolve it by discovering that only the Catholics - perhaps in the figure of Father Ignatius - can stand against the CUT leadership. But I don't have much hope of this, really. I expect Rudi and his merry and mixed band of mainly witches will find their purity of heart equal to the challenge. Oh well! :)
There have always been heavy religious elements to the "Change" books, but - ignoring the change itself - there's been little that is truly supernatural with the exception of a few experiences of Juniper's group. For the most part rationalists and agnostics are not given all that much to challenge their positions. But this is changing.
In "Scourge," the CUT (Church Universal and Triumphant) is growing in influence and it becomes inescapably clear that at least the upper echelon of the "church" is well and truly demon possessed.
Not sure where exactly he's going with this element. As a Christian I would love to see him resolve it by discovering that only the Catholics - perhaps in the figure of Father Ignatius - can stand against the CUT leadership. But I don't have much hope of this, really. I expect Rudi and his merry and mixed band of mainly witches will find their purity of heart equal to the challenge. Oh well! :)
July 6, 2019
I confess this is a re-read-- I really enjoyed the first three books in this series, and have mostly loathed everything since then. Having read the most recent travesty, I wanted to go back and check out how horrible the books immediately after the first three were (and to see how the characters from the first books made out). This book was better than I remembered, but Stirling already had started "gaming the system" to play out the books with little or no progress in the plot (and I remembered that from the first read). This part of the series, which could easily have been one or two books, gets extended to occupy as many books as possible for all us suckers who want to know what happens. I refuse to read any more of the current drivel, but I am now intrigued to get through Artos' adventures once again. The new characters do make re-appearance in the culminating "Armageddon" but not in a very effective way; having read them all once, I'm hoping that I can stick with the books to see how characters re-appear in the next few books.
July 28, 2009
More of the same from this series, though like the previous book, it ramps up the supernatural side of things. Much of Rudi's story in this one dealt with side quests and downtime.
I guess it's supposed to be part of his hero journey to make allies, but I'd prefer more resolution to earlier issues than introduction of so many new characters and complications. The pace also feels awkward, it took a book and a half for the group to get to the Rockies, and then only a couple of chapters to reach Iowa.
Things are starting to get a bit predictable, though I'm not sure if there is a real change in the writing or I'm just getting used to Stirling's style. There was one killing that I thought was stupid and pointless, especially because it caused no major after-effects. There was also a mystifying addition to the party when a stray they picked up decided, without comment from anyone, to tag along.
I guess it's supposed to be part of his hero journey to make allies, but I'd prefer more resolution to earlier issues than introduction of so many new characters and complications. The pace also feels awkward, it took a book and a half for the group to get to the Rockies, and then only a couple of chapters to reach Iowa.
Things are starting to get a bit predictable, though I'm not sure if there is a real change in the writing or I'm just getting used to Stirling's style. There was one killing that I thought was stupid and pointless, especially because it caused no major after-effects. There was also a mystifying addition to the party when a stray they picked up decided, without comment from anyone, to tag along.
November 20, 2016
I read S.M. Stirling for the Worldswithoutend.com Apocalypse Now Challenge. This was a last-minute addition to my challenge because I realized Mr. Stirling was not well represented in the challenge. This would have been a true crime because no one writes the neomedieval post apoc novel like S.M. Stirling. His “Emberverse” series is a jaunty fest into a renaissance festival gone horribly wrong. The Scourge of God is the 5th novel in the series, or the 2nd novel in the Emberverse II depending on if you decide to split the series.
This novel follows the “changelings” the children of the adults alive during “The change.” The novel slides firmly into the realm of fantasy. The mysticism hinted at in the previous series is fully developed by the 5th novel. I’m still enjoying the series and am glad I took the little break before I started this series up again.
This novel follows the “changelings” the children of the adults alive during “The change.” The novel slides firmly into the realm of fantasy. The mysticism hinted at in the previous series is fully developed by the 5th novel. I’m still enjoying the series and am glad I took the little break before I started this series up again.
August 10, 2013
I didn't like this book less than the last one but it was frustrating because the main story of finding the sword and finding out about what caused the Change made only glacial progress. The action scenes are great and the dynamics of the various tribes and political groups are still interesting, but what I want is for Rudi to get to Nantucket and get is storyline over with.
I am starting to wonder if that storyline is going to be finished in the next book or not. If it is then great. If not I will probably read this series until it does but then pack it in as the series is getting stale.
I am starting to wonder if that storyline is going to be finished in the next book or not. If it is then great. If not I will probably read this series until it does but then pack it in as the series is getting stale.
March 22, 2015
Fifth in the overall Emberverse apocalyptic science fiction series and the second in the second trilogy in the Emberverse, The Change, which revolves around Rudi and his merry country-crossing disparate band that includes Mathilda, Edain with Garbh, Odard, Father Ignatius, Frederick Thurston, and the twins, Mary and Ritva.
My Take
It's a terrifying start and only gets scarier. There is action galore, terrifying adventures, ambushes, torture, attacks, hair-raising escapes, horrible wounds, deaths, Western duels, chases, war. There are disasters and triumphs, times to mourn and time to rest. One mercy are those epigraphs at the start of some of the chapters that quote a ballad or poem written by Fiorbhinn Mackenzie in the first century CY. It helps when I'm hyperventilating over the action!
That battle to rescue Ingolf, Matti, and Odard is terrifying for what it reveals. The truth it displays about what motivates leaders of the CUT. It's in the aftermath of this battle that Father Ignatius and Rudi wonder if their generation is moving back into the time of myths and legends. And Odard told Matti he loved her.
I do enjoy (and feel Rudi's frustration, lol) Stirling's minor conflict of Matti holding true to her faith and holding to her virginity for the man she marries while Rudi's faith has no problem with casual, friendly sex. There are aspects to Rudi's faith that I enjoy and his comments about the differences between Matti's Christian faith and his own are hilarious. That bit about why Catholics think their God likes them to be uncomfortable, the time they waste on guilt.
Odard has the nerve to compare his dad to Chuck Barstow. I loved Rudi's riposte: "…and he picked up a busload of stranded children…".
Oh, lol, I guess Hordle was a Monty Python fan: "Nobody expects the Elvish Inquisition!"
Matti wonders how the Mackenzies and the Buddhists get the same answers as the Christians, and Father Ignatius essentially tells her that Christ's Passion and Resurrection moved backward and forward in time. That it's the only true myth, implying that the rest are simply myth. Figures.
Fred picks up some wisdom with their travels as he notes that the laws of a land are not what's important but the type of men who rule that matter.
Farmers today might be envious of Heuisink's wealth in the Emberverse as he explains tax write-offs in the old days to Rudi.
Wow, Des Moines sounds incredibly impressive with its factories. It also sounds incredibly awful with the soot and smog of the coal.
And Rudi is not looking forward to more than a year of no sex.
The Story
A mystical rite among the clan's priestesses expose the women to their own visions of the future, a prelude of what is to come for our brave band.
It continues with Rudi and the survivors planning to rescue their friends. It makes events at home seem idyllic, really, compared to what Rudy and company have coming up.
And the Boise regulars and Cutters are gathering…
The Characters
The company heading east
Rudi Mackenzie, a.k.a., Artos (and he's riding Epona) and the Sword of the Lady, is the leader of this band of brothers with Ingolf Vogeler, the scavenging explorer as his second-in-command. Princess Mathilda Arminger is the heir to the Portland Protective Association who snuck off to join the troupe along with Sir Odard Liu, Baron Gervais, a.k.a., Chief Good Lance, a knight of the Association, who came to protect her and work his interests. Edain Aylward, Sam Aylward's son, has brought his mastiff bitch, Garbh. Mary and Ritva Havel (the twins are amazing scouts) are Signe's daughters and members of the Dúnedain. Captain Frederick Thurston is Martin's brother, on the run from his father's assassin. Knight-Brother Ignatius of the Order of the Shield of St. Benedict, the former Karl Bergfried, aided Matti in joining the band; Godfrey is his horse.They're still the only ones who know the truth behind the assassination of Frederick's father.
Alex was Odard's valet who betrayed Mathilda, Ingolf, and Odard to the Cutters.
Clan Mackenzie
There are five priestesses presiding over this rite: Juniper Mackenzie who is also High Priestess, Chief, and Goddess-on-Earth; Sumina; Melissa; BD of the Kyklos; and, Signe Havel.
Dun Juniper
Juniper is Rudi's worried mother; Sir Nigel Loring is her husband. Judy Barstow is one of the priestesses and the chief healer. She's married to Chuck Barstow who is now the First Armsman and the gardener who taught everyone how to plant and survive. Rowan is one of his sons. Oak, bow-captain for Dun Juniper, is one of their foster sons, and he's married to Devorgill. They have three children: Lutra, five-year-old Laere, and a baby. Tamsin has sons now.
Dun Fairfax
Melissa is Edain's mother, equally worried along with her husband, Sam Aylward, the now-retired First Armsman.
The Dúnedain in Mithrilwood are…
…Rangers who provide protection to merchants, travelers, and hunt down bandits. The group was influenced by Astrid née Larsson Loring, who was inspired by the Lord of the Rings. She's married to Sir Nigel's son, Lord Alleyne, and is their Hiril Dúnedain who leads the Rangers along with Eilir, Juniper's daughter, who is married to the massive "Little John" Hordle. Húrin, Melendil, Morwen, and Aratan are part of the ambush in Pendleton.
The Bearkillers
Signe Havel, Mike's widow, is the current regent for the Bearkillers. Eric Larsson, Signe's twin brother, is the Bearkiller war-chief. Bill Larsson is Eric and Luanne's oldest son and became an A-lister this year. Mike Havel, Jr. is 14 now and part of the Allied army.
Mount Angel is…
…a military monastery led by Abbot Dmwoski.
Central Oregon Ranchers' Association is…
…CORA, a loose-knit organization of ranchers who have allied with Clan Mackenzie and the Bearkillers. John Brown of Seffridge Ranch is one of its leading members. Bob is one of his sons.
Corvallis is…
…a university town that has held onto its educational roots. Edward Finney is Luther's son and allies himself with Clan Mackenzie. The rest of the town is somewhat divided between wanting to hunker down and not have to participate and going all in.
Kyklos is…
…is a "scatter of independent villages around Silverton". Beatriz "BD" Dorothea runs the Plodding Pony service delivering high-value freight. She employs Rangers as escorts. On the sly, she collects information for the allies. She brings along her slow cousin "Hugh" on this trip. Chucho is one of her men.
The Portland Protectorate Association is…
…a lot gentler, even though it's still a feudal society. Lady Sandra is acting regent. Lord Conrad Renfrew, Count of Odell, is the Lord Chancellor of the Association. Tiphaine d'Ath, Lady Sandra's pet assassin and the former Girl Scout Collette Rutherton is the Baroness d'Ath as well as the Grand Constable. Lady Delia de Stafford is still with Tiph. Lioncel and Diomede are Delia's sons and pages for Tiph. Armand Georges is Tiph's squire; Rodard is his brother and both are nephews of Tiph's dead love, Katrina Georges. Sir Ivo and Sir Ruffin.
Alexi Stavarov is a pig, and his son Piotr is worse. Cardinal-Archbishop Maxwell. Dowager Baroness Mary Liu is interfering in her son's lands and will be having a very tense conversation with her overlord.
New Deseret is…
…the land of the Mormons, a.k.a, the Saints. Colonel Donald Nystrup is in command of the 2nd Cavalry; Bishop Nystrup and his daughter Rebecca whom we met in The Sunrise Lands , 4, is the colonel's uncle and cousin. Nystrup believes that Martin won't be keeping his father's promises.
Native Americans are…
…a mix of whites and Native Americans. Typical of Change survivors where individuals joined the group or clan nearest them to survive.
Three Tribes are…
…allies of Clan Mackenzie and the Bearkillers. Winnemuca leads the contingent that comes to war.
The Sioux, Lakota, and the Seven Council Fires…
…follow the old ways with a number of ingenious ideas. Some of those ideas came from Ulagan Chinua, a Mongolian studying at South Dakota U, who built a ger. Uncle [John] Red Leaf is a blood brother, er, uncle, to Virginia. He has a BS in Range Science and is now the Kiyuska tiyospaye of the Ogallala and the Lakota tunwan. Rick Mat'o Yamni (Rick Three Bears) is his son. Sungila Win is Red Leaf's wife. Winona is Red Leaf's niece. Black Elk and Jimmy Many Coups take part in the duels. The Kit Foxes are a brotherhood that defends the tribal borders as well as the social organizers for dances, marriages, and more. Other societies include the Tanners and the Virtuous Women.
Chenrezi Monastery was…
…hosting a conference of Buddhist monks from all over the world when "the mother of all service interruptions" happened. Tsewang Dorje is Rimpoche, teacher. Master Hao teaches them their way of fighting. Mr. Ford runs Ford's Khyentse Cowboy Bar & Grill where the troupe can get meat.
My Take
It's a terrifying start and only gets scarier. There is action galore, terrifying adventures, ambushes, torture, attacks, hair-raising escapes, horrible wounds, deaths, Western duels, chases, war. There are disasters and triumphs, times to mourn and time to rest. One mercy are those epigraphs at the start of some of the chapters that quote a ballad or poem written by Fiorbhinn Mackenzie in the first century CY. It helps when I'm hyperventilating over the action!
That battle to rescue Ingolf, Matti, and Odard is terrifying for what it reveals. The truth it displays about what motivates leaders of the CUT. It's in the aftermath of this battle that Father Ignatius and Rudi wonder if their generation is moving back into the time of myths and legends. And Odard told Matti he loved her.
I do enjoy (and feel Rudi's frustration, lol) Stirling's minor conflict of Matti holding true to her faith and holding to her virginity for the man she marries while Rudi's faith has no problem with casual, friendly sex. There are aspects to Rudi's faith that I enjoy and his comments about the differences between Matti's Christian faith and his own are hilarious. That bit about why Catholics think their God likes them to be uncomfortable, the time they waste on guilt.
Odard has the nerve to compare his dad to Chuck Barstow. I loved Rudi's riposte: "…and he picked up a busload of stranded children…".
Oh, lol, I guess Hordle was a Monty Python fan: "Nobody expects the Elvish Inquisition!"
It's outnumbered they are and a bowman cries out that it's simply an opportunity for more targets. Ya gotta appreciate a positive attitude…
Matti wonders how the Mackenzies and the Buddhists get the same answers as the Christians, and Father Ignatius essentially tells her that Christ's Passion and Resurrection moved backward and forward in time. That it's the only true myth, implying that the rest are simply myth. Figures.
Fred picks up some wisdom with their travels as he notes that the laws of a land are not what's important but the type of men who rule that matter.
I can't help but laugh about Winnemuca's comment as well about the Mackenzie war paint:"You white-eyes always go overboard with an idea once you steal it."
Farmers today might be envious of Heuisink's wealth in the Emberverse as he explains tax write-offs in the old days to Rudi.
Wow, Des Moines sounds incredibly impressive with its factories. It also sounds incredibly awful with the soot and smog of the coal.
And Rudi is not looking forward to more than a year of no sex.
I—see—you.
The Story
A mystical rite among the clan's priestesses expose the women to their own visions of the future, a prelude of what is to come for our brave band.
It continues with Rudi and the survivors planning to rescue their friends. It makes events at home seem idyllic, really, compared to what Rudy and company have coming up.
And the Boise regulars and Cutters are gathering…
The Characters
The company heading east
Rudi Mackenzie, a.k.a., Artos (and he's riding Epona) and the Sword of the Lady, is the leader of this band of brothers with Ingolf Vogeler, the scavenging explorer as his second-in-command. Princess Mathilda Arminger is the heir to the Portland Protective Association who snuck off to join the troupe along with Sir Odard Liu, Baron Gervais, a.k.a., Chief Good Lance, a knight of the Association, who came to protect her and work his interests. Edain Aylward, Sam Aylward's son, has brought his mastiff bitch, Garbh. Mary and Ritva Havel (the twins are amazing scouts) are Signe's daughters and members of the Dúnedain. Captain Frederick Thurston is Martin's brother, on the run from his father's assassin. Knight-Brother Ignatius of the Order of the Shield of St. Benedict, the former Karl Bergfried, aided Matti in joining the band; Godfrey is his horse.They're still the only ones who know the truth behind the assassination of Frederick's father.
Alex was Odard's valet who betrayed Mathilda, Ingolf, and Odard to the Cutters.
Clan Mackenzie
There are five priestesses presiding over this rite: Juniper Mackenzie who is also High Priestess, Chief, and Goddess-on-Earth; Sumina; Melissa; BD of the Kyklos; and, Signe Havel.
It sends chills down my spine every time I read the Mackenzie war chant:
"We are the point —
We are the edge —
We are the wolves that Hecate fed!"
Dun Juniper
Juniper is Rudi's worried mother; Sir Nigel Loring is her husband. Judy Barstow is one of the priestesses and the chief healer. She's married to Chuck Barstow who is now the First Armsman and the gardener who taught everyone how to plant and survive. Rowan is one of his sons. Oak, bow-captain for Dun Juniper, is one of their foster sons, and he's married to Devorgill. They have three children: Lutra, five-year-old Laere, and a baby. Tamsin has sons now.
Dun Fairfax
Melissa is Edain's mother, equally worried along with her husband, Sam Aylward, the now-retired First Armsman.
The Dúnedain in Mithrilwood are…
…Rangers who provide protection to merchants, travelers, and hunt down bandits. The group was influenced by Astrid née Larsson Loring, who was inspired by the Lord of the Rings. She's married to Sir Nigel's son, Lord Alleyne, and is their Hiril Dúnedain who leads the Rangers along with Eilir, Juniper's daughter, who is married to the massive "Little John" Hordle. Húrin, Melendil, Morwen, and Aratan are part of the ambush in Pendleton.
The Bearkillers
Signe Havel, Mike's widow, is the current regent for the Bearkillers. Eric Larsson, Signe's twin brother, is the Bearkiller war-chief. Bill Larsson is Eric and Luanne's oldest son and became an A-lister this year. Mike Havel, Jr. is 14 now and part of the Allied army.
Mount Angel is…
…a military monastery led by Abbot Dmwoski.
Central Oregon Ranchers' Association is…
…CORA, a loose-knit organization of ranchers who have allied with Clan Mackenzie and the Bearkillers. John Brown of Seffridge Ranch is one of its leading members. Bob is one of his sons.
Corvallis is…
…a university town that has held onto its educational roots. Edward Finney is Luther's son and allies himself with Clan Mackenzie. The rest of the town is somewhat divided between wanting to hunker down and not have to participate and going all in.
Kyklos is…
…is a "scatter of independent villages around Silverton". Beatriz "BD" Dorothea runs the Plodding Pony service delivering high-value freight. She employs Rangers as escorts. On the sly, she collects information for the allies. She brings along her slow cousin "Hugh" on this trip. Chucho is one of her men.
The Portland Protectorate Association is…
…a lot gentler, even though it's still a feudal society. Lady Sandra is acting regent. Lord Conrad Renfrew, Count of Odell, is the Lord Chancellor of the Association. Tiphaine d'Ath, Lady Sandra's pet assassin and the former Girl Scout Collette Rutherton is the Baroness d'Ath as well as the Grand Constable. Lady Delia de Stafford is still with Tiph. Lioncel and Diomede are Delia's sons and pages for Tiph. Armand Georges is Tiph's squire; Rodard is his brother and both are nephews of Tiph's dead love, Katrina Georges. Sir Ivo and Sir Ruffin.
Alexi Stavarov is a pig, and his son Piotr is worse. Cardinal-Archbishop Maxwell. Dowager Baroness Mary Liu is interfering in her son's lands and will be having a very tense conversation with her overlord.
New Deseret is…
…the land of the Mormons, a.k.a, the Saints. Colonel Donald Nystrup is in command of the 2nd Cavalry; Bishop Nystrup and his daughter Rebecca whom we met in The Sunrise Lands , 4, is the colonel's uncle and cousin. Nystrup believes that Martin won't be keeping his father's promises.
Native Americans are…
…a mix of whites and Native Americans. Typical of Change survivors where individuals joined the group or clan nearest them to survive.
Three Tribes are…
…allies of Clan Mackenzie and the Bearkillers. Winnemuca leads the contingent that comes to war.
The Sioux, Lakota, and the Seven Council Fires…
…follow the old ways with a number of ingenious ideas. Some of those ideas came from Ulagan Chinua, a Mongolian studying at South Dakota U, who built a ger. Uncle [John] Red Leaf is a blood brother, er, uncle, to Virginia. He has a BS in Range Science and is now the Kiyuska tiyospaye of the Ogallala and the Lakota tunwan. Rick Mat'o Yamni (Rick Three Bears) is his son. Sungila Win is Red Leaf's wife. Winona is Red Leaf's niece. Black Elk and Jimmy Many Coups take part in the duels. The Kit Foxes are a brotherhood that defends the tribal borders as well as the social organizers for dances, marriages, and more. Other societies include the Tanners and the Virtuous Women.
Chenrezi Monastery was…
…hosting a conference of Buddhist monks from all over the world when "the mother of all service interruptions" happened. Tsewang Dorje is Rimpoche, teacher. Master Hao teaches them their way of fighting. Mr. Ford runs Ford's Khyentse Cowboy Bar & Grill where the troupe can get meat.
Powder River Basin is…
…located after the monastery in Wyoming and encompasses a number of ranches. Some have succumbed to the CUT while others are holding out. Virginia Kane's father, Dave Kane, was one who was holding out until he was cut down, a big wheel in the Powder River Ranchers' Organization. Vince Rickover of the Bar Q is a greedy neighbor.
Lord Wanderer is a god who comes to Rudi in a dream with prophecy. And warns him that time is a serpent. A warning that ties in with what Father Ignatius and Rudi wonder about.
The Corwinites are…
…religious fanatics whose Prophet is possessed and intends to conquer North America. Sethaz is the nutjob Prophet (now that his stepfather died) of the Church Universal and Triumphant, a.k.a., the Cutters or the CUT. One of their goals is speeding up their breeding program. Jesus, they've got breeding pens! Kuttner was the spy at the Bossman's house in Des Moines who betrayed Ingolf. General Walker will lead the armies.
Major Peter Graber, raised in the Houses of Refuge, is the intent soldier sent to capture Rudi. High Seeker Twain is possessed. Their scout is part of the Morrowlander Troop tribe and one of their best at tracking. Their next Seeker, Dalan, is almost more terrifying.
Rancher Jed Smith of the Rippling Waters ranch commands the levies from his ranch, Runamuk, and Sweetgrass. Ted, Andy, and Mark are his sons. His nephew, Jack, is an idiot. Lin, Dave Thorsson who's a second cousin, and Artie are some of his men. I'm not sure if Katy and Lorrie are his wives or daughters.
The Houses of Refuge is where the Corwinites send the children they orphaned where they are indoctrinated into the religion.
The U.S. of Boise was…
…the assassinated General Lawrence Thurston's idea. Well, actually, he saw it as the kernel of a re-birth of a new United States. Everyone else adds on the of Boise. General-President Martin Thurston is his oldest son, and he's thrown in with the Church with dreams of empire in his eyes. Colonel Jacobson is in charge of a unit of lancers.
Sergeant Rosita Gonzalez will lead her detachment in feeling out the troops, spreading the truth behind the assassination. Major Hanks, the engineering officer, will set up a network.
Pendleton is…
…another association of ranchers which gives refuge to bandits and pirates. Carl Peters is its bossman. He's held onto power mostly through the loyal fanaticism of his Registered Refugee Regiment, men with special privileges who are unpopular with Pendleton's citizens. Estrellita is his wife. Some say she's the power behind the throne. They have two sons and Jorge is one of them. Rancher Sandy Jenson is an old customer of BD's. George is one of his men and infatuated with the CUT religion. Captain Carlos da Costa is one of the militiamen. Ben Murdoch is a spy for Lady Sandra; he runs Murdoch and Sons, an importer. Sim and Stan are some of his day laborers.
Isherman's shop, Weapons Shop of Isherman and Sons, is renowned for the quality of their work.
Rovers are…
…people, now outlaws, who barely survived the Change. They move from place to place and have very little. It makes them susceptible to any group who will offer them anything. Or they'll take it.
Des Moines is…
…ruled by Tony Heasleroad, the bossman who sent Kuttner and Ingolf back east to bring back treasures (see The Sunrise Lands). His father, Tom, was the man who took out Alexandra's father. The State Police are Heasleroad's personal force. Captain Edgar Denson tells our troupe the rules when they enter. Captain Schlenker is with the Iowa National Guard and in charge at Hawarden. Sergeant Morrison is part of Schlenker's command. Tancredo is a contact of Ingolf's.
Colonel Abel Heuisink is a Farmer and Sheriff with land, the Victrix Century Farm, near Des Moines. Alexandra is his second wife; her father had been the legitimate governor until his "accident". He's the father of a close friend of Ingolf's, Corporal Jack Heuisink. Jack is married to Cecilia and they just had another child, a son, young Ingolf. His sister Louise married Hauk, Sheriff Clausen's son. George is a younger brother while Andrea and Dorothy are sisters. Francine and Marian are maids in the household.
Edain and Rudi are offended that one family has 50,000 square miles of land.
Changelings are the children born after the Change or too young at the time to remember the old world. The nemed is a circle of trees around a circle of grass with a stone altar at its center. Sindarin is the Elvish the Dúnedain speak amongst themselves, from the Lord of the Rings. An anamchara is a soul-sister or -brother, bound life-long to protect each other's lives and secrets. Vakis are what they call evacuees in Iowa.
Seekers are war-priests.
The Cover and Title
The cover is an urban background of oranges, rust, and cream, of a city missing a span of bridge, the nearer end mounted on huge piers with Rudi standing with his back to us. He appears to be in black and wearing combat boots. An incongruous sight with that sword slung over his shoulder and his crossbow in his right hand.
I think the title refers to the church and its mad Prophet, The Scourge of God.
September 30, 2019
We have officially gone off the deep end.
This, the 5th book of the series, we take a hard right into mysticism, demonic possession and supernatural powers taking an active role in the world ... and it actually kind of works. It might be a little over the top but really Stirling does a fairly decent job of balancing it out.
This book is actually a departure from the rest of the series which, up to this point I have felt generally start weak and end strong. Scourge of God actually starts off decently, peaks mid book then tails off into a solid if not spectacular ending. The less the pacing, character development, and writing in general seems to have improved as well over the opening trilogy as Stirling seems to have a better feel for his subject matter.
Noticeably absent (though not missed) are the confusing month long leaps through time. However, a new annoyance has arisen, which is the over use of the phrase "Classical Reference" to refer to anything pre-change ... its a little thing but has really begun to grate on me.
Despite the heavy dose of mysticism and supernatural powers, this is a very solid entry into the series.
This, the 5th book of the series, we take a hard right into mysticism, demonic possession and supernatural powers taking an active role in the world ... and it actually kind of works. It might be a little over the top but really Stirling does a fairly decent job of balancing it out.
This book is actually a departure from the rest of the series which, up to this point I have felt generally start weak and end strong. Scourge of God actually starts off decently, peaks mid book then tails off into a solid if not spectacular ending. The less the pacing, character development, and writing in general seems to have improved as well over the opening trilogy as Stirling seems to have a better feel for his subject matter.
Noticeably absent (though not missed) are the confusing month long leaps through time. However, a new annoyance has arisen, which is the over use of the phrase "Classical Reference" to refer to anything pre-change ... its a little thing but has really begun to grate on me.
Despite the heavy dose of mysticism and supernatural powers, this is a very solid entry into the series.
July 23, 2010
Definitely enjoyed this one - 5th in the series (or 2nd in the second series, depending on how you want to look at it)
The books are starting to move more from an "alternate present" that happens to have an unexplained plot mcguffin (the change) into something that definitely feels like urban fantasy, with the occasional appearance of a god, a spirit, or a mystical vision that tells one of the main characters the way to go. That doesn't bother me in the slightest - I can usually switch gears pretty easily, but I do wonder if it's going to start annoying other readers.
The characters are all fairly consistent with who we've discovered them to be in the first book, and I love the constant lampshading of the Tolkien-ish quest. Well, that and the pop culture puns (at least, pop culture as seen through the eyes of someone who's never been part of the culture, 20 years after it existed). My favourite had to be Rudi introducing himself to an older sovereign who still remembered life before the change through the vague haze of insanity as "Rudi MacKenzie, tanist of the Clan MacKenzie", and getting a giggling "There can be only one" in response.
I'm happy to give this book a 7.5/10 - it's a little eating Burger Fuel. It's junk food and doesn't pretend to be anything else other than junk food - but of the various kinds of junk food available, it's probably some of the better quality stuff - well prepared, with decent ingredients, and you know it's not as bad for you as some of the stuff out there (and it tastes damn good!)
The books are starting to move more from an "alternate present" that happens to have an unexplained plot mcguffin (the change) into something that definitely feels like urban fantasy, with the occasional appearance of a god, a spirit, or a mystical vision that tells one of the main characters the way to go. That doesn't bother me in the slightest - I can usually switch gears pretty easily, but I do wonder if it's going to start annoying other readers.
The characters are all fairly consistent with who we've discovered them to be in the first book, and I love the constant lampshading of the Tolkien-ish quest. Well, that and the pop culture puns (at least, pop culture as seen through the eyes of someone who's never been part of the culture, 20 years after it existed). My favourite had to be Rudi introducing himself to an older sovereign who still remembered life before the change through the vague haze of insanity as "Rudi MacKenzie, tanist of the Clan MacKenzie", and getting a giggling "There can be only one" in response.
I'm happy to give this book a 7.5/10 - it's a little eating Burger Fuel. It's junk food and doesn't pretend to be anything else other than junk food - but of the various kinds of junk food available, it's probably some of the better quality stuff - well prepared, with decent ingredients, and you know it's not as bad for you as some of the stuff out there (and it tastes damn good!)
December 2, 2013
The thing that kept this book from getting five stars for me was that the first hundred or so pages were painfully slow. After that it picked up a bit and things went faster as the action unfolded. All told, this is a great series and one that still tentatively shelve as Post Apocalyptic.
Personally, I can't wait until the group (fellowship?) reaches the eastern deadzone. I'm not sure that I like the way that the book ended. It was a bit of a cliffhanger but in a direction and with a twist that I personally was not a fan of.
I love the character development and especially the world (re)building that went into this series. I think it's a very realistic way that things would progress with a collapse of this type. Different regions reverting back to different styles of living based on who came out on top and their personal knowledge of history and their own preferences. I'm not sure what way I would have gone. I think that one of things I find interesting is how the cultures are going back to almost absolutes in a way. Myself, I would have tried to incorporate the best of everything. Rome had the best infantry so I would have modeled on that, but the English Longbow and the Crossbow both have a place and would be invaluable. Cavalry is something that would have to be dependent and possible based on the availability though. Not a fan of the neo-Sioux. No series is perfect, but this one comes close and has definitely earned a place in my favorites.
Personally, I can't wait until the group (fellowship?) reaches the eastern deadzone. I'm not sure that I like the way that the book ended. It was a bit of a cliffhanger but in a direction and with a twist that I personally was not a fan of.
I love the character development and especially the world (re)building that went into this series. I think it's a very realistic way that things would progress with a collapse of this type. Different regions reverting back to different styles of living based on who came out on top and their personal knowledge of history and their own preferences. I'm not sure what way I would have gone. I think that one of things I find interesting is how the cultures are going back to almost absolutes in a way. Myself, I would have tried to incorporate the best of everything. Rome had the best infantry so I would have modeled on that, but the English Longbow and the Crossbow both have a place and would be invaluable. Cavalry is something that would have to be dependent and possible based on the availability though. Not a fan of the neo-Sioux. No series is perfect, but this one comes close and has definitely earned a place in my favorites.
June 23, 2011
** "The Scourge of God" (E5) by S. M. Stirling is the evil possessed self-proclaimed prophet's equally nasty patricidal heir. The preceding "Sunrise Lands" (E4) set a future US returned to remembered culture styles, medieval, tribal, by a sudden Change when all technology stopped working. Trouble and allies arise among ranchers, Indians, then a military traditional camp. The cliffhanger was hostages to be rescued. After a monastery retreat, again, the end is hostages, held by the same nasty, now in the court of a whimsical tyrant in a wealthy agricultural Iowa where Ingolf's trials started. Rudi and friends quest from the west coast east to Nantucket, for a sword. The story starts with Wiccan Celt faith come alive, and the series goes farther woo-woo when the bad guys can mind-control anyone into a puppet till beyond normal death, who ignore and survived fatal commands and injuries. In an of-course prophetic dream, Rudi learns he will die before growing old. When he dances naked in familiar wiccan celebrations, his Catholic beloved mistakenly doubts his fidelity. The plot returns west oftimes with letters. I plow dense detail, ignore Elvish. I don't know whether repetition between books is background or overkill.
December 3, 2011
12/11 I'm bumping this up to four stars. The second reading left me less concerned with plot progression, and more willing to luxuriate in the world that Stirling's made. Yes, there's no doubt that Rudi is going to triumph in every situation, but it's because he's Hero Incarnate. It's a lovely escape, and a wonderfully convincing dystopia.
12/10 Another solid entry in the Emberverse saga, this book takes Rudi Makenzie and his cohorts deep into the middle of what used to be the United States. Their adventures are grueling and (need I say it?) gruesome.
3.5 stars, really. A lot of interior monologues keep this from being quite as gripping as its predecessors. Also, there begins to be a sameness, a muchness to the plotlines. This does not hinder my desire to finish the series, however. The characters are strong, likable and most important of all, interesting. I care what happens to them, and I'm interested in seeing what will happen in Nantucket- I so hope we get to Nantucket in the next book.
12/10 Another solid entry in the Emberverse saga, this book takes Rudi Makenzie and his cohorts deep into the middle of what used to be the United States. Their adventures are grueling and (need I say it?) gruesome.
3.5 stars, really. A lot of interior monologues keep this from being quite as gripping as its predecessors. Also, there begins to be a sameness, a muchness to the plotlines. This does not hinder my desire to finish the series, however. The characters are strong, likable and most important of all, interesting. I care what happens to them, and I'm interested in seeing what will happen in Nantucket- I so hope we get to Nantucket in the next book.
November 18, 2008
The fifth book in the series of Dies the Fire, The Protector's War, A Meeting at Corvallis, and the Sunrise Lands. The first three book occur shortly after a cataclismic change occurs on Earth which results in a fundamental change in how people live and how society is organized. The fourth book and this one are the exploits of the generation after the 1998 Change. Our heros are one an epic quest somewhat similar to that in Tolkien's the Lord of the Rings. The adventure is continuous and entertaining. Stirling's diving into new age, buddism, animism and other religions adds to the back drop of the story for the most part but is somewhat preachy at times. In this book we get a better ideas on what caused the Change. I am ready for the next book.
May 29, 2009
Am almost done with this book 2 of the second trilogy. I got it in hardcover for my birthday. I'm sure to read it cover to cover again. absolutely love how the characters seem to be living and breathing.
something new in this book... that I never saw from Stirling before... He has made the characters explore and learn other cultures, faiths, and beliefs. Its broadened my mindset. It reminds me if Tolkien were to rewrite Lord of the Rings in a different way... Scourge of God reminds me of LOTR in many levels.
Especially love how Stirling does not give more info than is necessary about the story. He allows the story to flow from the relationships of the characters.
Only wish there was a better map in certain spots in the book to see the progression of the quest. the small map in the front of the book is the same from the other books more or less.
something new in this book... that I never saw from Stirling before... He has made the characters explore and learn other cultures, faiths, and beliefs. Its broadened my mindset. It reminds me if Tolkien were to rewrite Lord of the Rings in a different way... Scourge of God reminds me of LOTR in many levels.
Especially love how Stirling does not give more info than is necessary about the story. He allows the story to flow from the relationships of the characters.
Only wish there was a better map in certain spots in the book to see the progression of the quest. the small map in the front of the book is the same from the other books more or less.
December 18, 2008
The Change series continues as Rudy attempts to travel to Nantucket--where the Event that rendered modern technology useless supposedly originated--to retrieve a sword. His band was waylaid in Boise's fight with The Prophet and these crazy religious warriors track them on their journey to Lakota lands and to Iowa.
The book is fun to read, but it is a tad long as Stirling has the characters thinking private asides on too many pages. This slows down the interactions, the action, and the story. While it helps to develop the characters a bit, most of it could have been cut. Still, we have to find out what happens, eh?
The book is fun to read, but it is a tad long as Stirling has the characters thinking private asides on too many pages. This slows down the interactions, the action, and the story. While it helps to develop the characters a bit, most of it could have been cut. Still, we have to find out what happens, eh?
March 1, 2010
Stirling can't write a plot without a war. This is, i think, the 8th novel of his that I've read, and while i'll almost certainly finish the series, The Sword of the Lady will probably be the last Stirling novel I read. they're getting boring and predictable. each series starts with a great intro, vivid characters, and fascinating core concepts. and then devolves into war war war war war, in which everybody becomes flat and attenuated and dull. it's barely worth it.
edited to add: i gave up around page 150. boring. no character development, only war war war. blech.
edited to add: i gave up around page 150. boring. no character development, only war war war. blech.
April 18, 2017
This series has totally changed into a fantasy adventure, discarding the really neat distopian sci-fi elements in the first three books (Dies the Fire, etc) for this kind of sword and sorcery epic. I find these new books uninteresting, only keeping the worst elements of the first three books, the wiccans and discarding all the interesting technological work arounds the characters of the first three books had to engage in.
January 27, 2009
Unfortunatly, this started off directly after the last book.
I've grown tired of the arrows piercing skulls, same old same old.
At this point I just want to know the broad generalities rather than read the same book over and over and over.
I've grown tired of the arrows piercing skulls, same old same old.
At this point I just want to know the broad generalities rather than read the same book over and over and over.
March 7, 2013
I loved this series right up until I didn't. You can only dangle the carrot for so long before it loses its pull. I went from "What was the event?" to "WHAT WAS THE EVENT?!?" to "Screw it. I no longer care."
October 27, 2008
I'm interested enough in the series to keep at it but....
I really didn't like how the book just stopped: no real end. It's like you have to wait for the next volume to get the next chapter.
I really didn't like how the book just stopped: no real end. It's like you have to wait for the next volume to get the next chapter.
September 30, 2020
And here I was thinking "Well, at least this apocalypse doesn't have zombies."
February 22, 2023
In the second three book ark of the Change series, we're dealing primarily with a second generation of characters. The children of the rulers/leaders of the various groups and factions from the initial trilogy, plus new characters introduced throughout the arc that are children of rulers/leaders of other groups around the continent. There's a pretty clear thematic focus on heredity and feudalism, as well a more supernatural good v. evil theme. I think there's a bit of the hero's journey combined with the long journey of LotR as the ever expanding party journeys across the continent gathering allies and facing challenges before reaching the goal of their quest. The story also skews a lot harder into Fantasy territory, with magic becoming a real thing...though by the end of this three book ark I think there's an attempt to reign it back around to pseudo-science. The magic elements give us some nice material teasing the edge of horror, but honestly I think I would have preferred the story stay grounded primarily in the low-fantasy/no magic space with the function and cause of the Change left entirely unexplained. There's also a little bit of the weirdly specific and unsettling anti-lesbian commentary from the prequel trilogy rearing its head here, though in a much more subdued way. Its strange that its so specific given that no other part of the lgbtqia+ community gets that treatment in the books. By the second book there are some of the pacing issues and repetitive plot element problems that I think the final book of the initial trilogy suffered from, though nothing that flat out made me quit reading. There's an effort made to acknowledge that the characters themselves feel a bit frustrated with the pacing of their own adventures around the time it gets burdensome here as well, so Stirling was undoubtedly aware of it. That begs the question, why not alter the pacing instead though? I'll probably read through at least one more arc, which should bring me to the conclusion of this particular generation's story and the 'return of the king' and vanquishing of the supernatural foes arc, as they were in the pile I was given, but unless a few of the factors that lead me to feel indifferent to the story overall change that's probably where I'll stop.
September 20, 2023
After spending so much of the previous book taking an extremely long and circuitous route down alongside the rocky mountains instead of going straight to Idaho, Our Heroes have finally made it from Oregon to Idaho in nearly 6 months travel time.
A whole lot of this part of the book suffers from what some of the earlier entries in the series did; incredibly bad pacing, both in terms of the in-universe actions and the writing itself. Though nothing as bad as "The Protector's War" where the majority of the book essentially got told in flashback form for no real reason, or "A Meeting at Corvallis" where entire chapters were spread around covering a single day, only for subsequent chapters to leap ahead by weeks or even months.
At last we are also moving out of the pacific northwest region and starting to encounter more of post-apocalypse and post-gun America. We also start to focus more attention back west to the usual group, now getting older, and having to get involved in more cynical politics and subterfuge in preparation for the obvious impending invasion by the CUT, who have now essentially vassalized the United States of Boise.
Our Heroes journeying east, despite having taken months and months and not even left the Rocky Mountains behind in the previous book, get to make much better time now and encounter some interesting places, such as a self-sustaining small Buddhist town that emerged from a pre-Change conference of visiting Buddhist figures, Lakota tribes struggling to maintain their native identity as more and more of its members are caucasian, to the Provisional Republic of Iowa, which seemingly has fared the best on the continent after the Change and has the largest population of any major faction we've encountered thus far, as well as functioning ironworks and mines and rail system.
My only real complaint is that despite the previous book showing the Prophet Sethaz as declaring himself the Scourge of God, and this book being titled "The Scourge of God", he is almost completely absent from this entry and there's almost no point of view from anyone within the CUT itself.
A whole lot of this part of the book suffers from what some of the earlier entries in the series did; incredibly bad pacing, both in terms of the in-universe actions and the writing itself. Though nothing as bad as "The Protector's War" where the majority of the book essentially got told in flashback form for no real reason, or "A Meeting at Corvallis" where entire chapters were spread around covering a single day, only for subsequent chapters to leap ahead by weeks or even months.
At last we are also moving out of the pacific northwest region and starting to encounter more of post-apocalypse and post-gun America. We also start to focus more attention back west to the usual group, now getting older, and having to get involved in more cynical politics and subterfuge in preparation for the obvious impending invasion by the CUT, who have now essentially vassalized the United States of Boise.
Our Heroes journeying east, despite having taken months and months and not even left the Rocky Mountains behind in the previous book, get to make much better time now and encounter some interesting places, such as a self-sustaining small Buddhist town that emerged from a pre-Change conference of visiting Buddhist figures, Lakota tribes struggling to maintain their native identity as more and more of its members are caucasian, to the Provisional Republic of Iowa, which seemingly has fared the best on the continent after the Change and has the largest population of any major faction we've encountered thus far, as well as functioning ironworks and mines and rail system.
My only real complaint is that despite the previous book showing the Prophet Sethaz as declaring himself the Scourge of God, and this book being titled "The Scourge of God", he is almost completely absent from this entry and there's almost no point of view from anyone within the CUT itself.
December 27, 2016
I really liked the story and the voice of the man reading the story was perfect. If only he pronounced things correctly. Or, I should probably say, as I expect them to be pronounced. For example, if you are shortening the word machete into chete, presumably it would be pronounced something like 'shetty' rather than 'sheet'. It kept throwing me out of the story. There were others but the chete one was way too often as it was the weapon of choice for most of the players in the book (and sometimes the weapon of disguise for those that don't normally choose them). So in short, good story, good narration but pronunciation counts!!
September 4, 2025
More pseudo-Medieval adventuring from our Oregonian heroes! This didn't stand out as particularly noteworthy within the series but I enjoyed listening to it.
I like how the crew's Eastward quest is giving us an opportunity to explore how other communities in North America dealt with/adapted to The Change. If you take the starting premise for granted, these all seem like realistic-ish takes on what might happen if all modern technology suddenly disappeared. The revival of slavery (in various forms) seems almost guaranteed to happen and I like the Church of the Universal Triumphant as a supreme enemy. Classic bad guy!
I like how the crew's Eastward quest is giving us an opportunity to explore how other communities in North America dealt with/adapted to The Change. If you take the starting premise for granted, these all seem like realistic-ish takes on what might happen if all modern technology suddenly disappeared. The revival of slavery (in various forms) seems almost guaranteed to happen and I like the Church of the Universal Triumphant as a supreme enemy. Classic bad guy!
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