In the empire of Gandistra, a mystical union of elemental magics reigns...Lorand, Rion, Tamrissa, Vallant, Jovvi and Naran have combined their elemental powers and their deep compassion to bring a new era of enlightenment to their once enslaved land. The miraculous reforms decreed by the Ruling Sixfold Blending have enabled all to freely pursue the Limits of their magic. But freedom is a hated thing to some, giving rise to jealousy, deceitfulness and unchecked ambition.
As traitors scheme at home, the Chosen Six are called beyond Gandistra's borders to deal with a dire threat to their empire and their world. For, as the leaders of neighboring Gracely bicker and brood and play politics, an inconceivable army is massing -- an invading wave of impossible terror, dedicated to the total devastation of everything in its path. And it may already be too late to stop a foe immune to every known magic -- including the awesome blended might of Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Sight, and Spirit.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. Attended New York University and graduated with a B.A. in 1963. Married in 1963, had three sons, divorced in 1976. Raised the sons, Andy, Brian and Curtis, alone in New Jersey. Worked for AT&T as a shareowner correspondent, then as an all-around assistant in a construction company, then sold bar steel for an import firm. Left that job as assistant sales manager. I've been writing full time since 1984.
Hobbies: knitting, crocheting, Tae Kwon Do, fencing, archery, shooting, jigsaw puzzles, logic problems, math problems, not cooking.
Don't do my own research, since if I did I'd stay with that and never get any writing done. I usually can finish a novel of about 120,000 words in about three months.
The Seated Blending - Jovvi, Naran, Tamrissa, Lorand, Vallant, Rion - remain in Gracely where they are assisting the local government when news of an invasion force arrives. Fully aware that Gandistra will be next in their sights, the Blending travel with the Gracelians to the danger zone. The Force is unstoppable in its ferocity & seems to be controlled by very powerful blendings. After a few violent encounters it becomes obvious that the Gracelian form of blending is not sufficient to defeat the invaders & that they need to change their way of doing things. The Seated Blending is very heavy-handed in their attempts to force change in a foreign government, feeling no empathy for those who are 'doing it wrong'. I can see their point when they are trying to save lives, & it does give them a chance to get the Gracelian Highs into blendings, but the lack of sensitivity is rather grating. It's a good thing they don't want to be in charge at the end.
Back in Gandistra, former Nobles are still attempting to run amok while the 'good guys' aim to prevent them. At the same time, renegade Holdis Ayl is still at large & formulating plans for overthrowing the current government, once again with a view to a new Nobility with himself in charge. Interesting plans are also afoot in the lives of those sent to Astinda. Lots of activity to keep things moving before the grand finale of Destiny.
Massive reforms, magic and elementals - definitely good for me. I sucked this one down as another mind fluff. This story did impact me by causing me to have more funky dreams. All I know is, I'm always part of rebel forces.
I continue to enjoy the story of the Blending. This book introduced several new characters, and conflicts that were totally unexpected. The story hasn't gotten old. It has twists and turns to keep it interesting.
The seated blending heads out to deal with the returning army which had attacked the neighboring country and finds the situation quite different than expected. Meanwhile at the capitol city former nobles plot while the common people learn how to use their abilities.
The Blending are learning more about their powers as they confront a new enemy on the horizon. Meanwhile back in Gandistra the secondary plot of the rebel Nobles is underway.