Customer Reviews

The Janus Mask

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is one of several books that I have read by Knaak, and I will tell you that he is one of the better writes I have discovered in his genre. He caries of his twisted plot and fasinateing characters with a realisim that is dificult to find in fanasy books, where most characters sound as though they have steped in from a bygone era, and tend to be a little streotyped. When Viktor discovers that he wears another mans body, the reaer will feel the shock along with him, and feel the sickening feeling when he tries to cast spells with too little magic. Not to spoil the plot, but just immagne when you find out what REALT happened to Viktors body.

I must say, this was some of the most original and intriguing fantasy I've been exposed to(and I have read quite a bit). The characters are extremely well done, so much that this has become one of those rare books that I looked forward to reading next whenever I had to put it down. Mass market fantasy(Jordan and Eddings especially) often spends a little too much time on convoluted history, action, shallow enemies and absurdly cheesy magic without giving the reader any reason to care about such things. This book has none of those faults.

In a world of magic and treachery, one man is face to face with his past. Strong story and characters, with nice surprises. A good read.

It looks as if Mr. Knaak was in need of some fast cash, because this book is the worst I have yet to read by him. The plot is thin, the characters are uninspiring and, despite poor attempts at action, it does not move. What happened to quality books like Huma and The Dragon Realm series??? Thoes were truly great pieces of modern fantasy. I hope that this is not a trend Mr. Knaak. Another book like this and I will stop looking for new Knaak releases. DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME WITH THIS ONE!!