 This book is a completion of the first in the series To Journey in the Year of the Tiger, which I reviewed on Monday. They must be read in order. Read the review (January 25, 3015) of the first book to have an understanding of the basis of this novel. https://bferrante.wordpress.com/2015/01/26/dickson-h-leighton-to-journey-in-the-year-of-the-tiger-book-review/ In the sequel, Dickson answers the questions raised in the first book and several in the second. All the odd plot twists and turns are pulled together into a gratifying conclusion. In the tradition of Tolkien, Dickson does not give a happily ever after ending but blends joy and tragedy, loss and gain in a believable and satisfying mixture. Readers get to know the travelers on a deeper, more profound level as well as Solomon and the culture he represents. Over the course of the two books, every character changes and grows as a result of their experiences, not always in predictable ways. Although the second book is darker, there are still moments of humor to lighten the read. Dickson puts the main character into a no-win situation. It isn’t as simple as choosing between honor and and love, duty and friendship, Empress and family. The difficulty is in ascertaining what is what and who is who, especially when surrounded by possible traitors and palace intrigue. The book raises some interesting questions about loyalty, racism, love, and duty. Nothing is simple, even for lions. Even though the story could be left at the end book 2, I have purchased book 3 in the series, reluctant to leave this remarkable world. Come back Friday for an interview with the author.
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A local author, blogger and colleague, Bonnie Ferrante picked up what I'm now calling 'The Cat Books' at the famous Mad Hatter's Tea Party this summer. She said they looked interesting and was always looking for new things to read. She's a bit of a local celebrity, so I was pretty excited but a little bit fearful, if I'm honest. When an author reads your work, you are literally under the literary spotlight of a peer. ALMOST as scary as a Goodreads review.
So far, she's read both TIGER and LION, and from her current review, I think I can sleep well tonight... Dickson, H. Leighton. To Journey in the Year of the Tiger. Book Review, by Bonnie Ferrante "The beautiful cover of this fantasy/science fiction novel is intriguing and embodies the story perfectly. A samurai-like character, with long blonde hair and a lion’s face, holds a shining katana. The book is a surprising and seamless blend of magic and science. Dickson merges Asian (Japan, India, and China) cultures and histories together to form a compelling and fascinating new society based on the superiority of cats. (Being a cat lover myself, I can totally buy into this.) Even though the reader will recognize the roots of the feline culture, Dickson incorporates these traditions in a unique and believable way into the rich and fascinating world. The descriptions of clothing, traditions, and beliefs are richly peppered throughout the story giving just the right seasoning. Much of the book is an enigma. Is this an alternate universe or our earth? Where did these animal hybrid species come from? There are lions, tigers, and bears, oh my! Who can be trusted in this odd collection of travelers? Are their goals the same or is someone out to sabotage everything? What or who is killing the members of the Council of Seven? Who is Solomon? Will they ever find him and should they kill him when they do? Is he good or evil and will he bring about the great change predicted by the year of the Tiger? Personally, I hate spoilers. This book has such delicious twists and turns that I don’t want to say too much about the plot. It has drama and humor, fight scenes, intrigue, magic, and even forbidden romance. The plot is clever and believable without being predictable. Be aware that this is a cliffhanger novel. You will definitely have to read the second book in the series (which I review Wednesday) to have your questions answered. However, it is well worth it. It’s so delicious, you won’t want it to end. Also, come back Friday for an interview with the author." I'll post the next review soon - I hope it's as generous as this one. I feel so proud that a fellow writer enjoyed being taken on a journey with my cats. Hmm, I wonder what she'll think once she meets the dogs... Check out Bonnie and her brilliant work here: https://bferrante.wordpress.com or https://www.facebook.com/FerranteAuthor |
H. Leighton DicksonAuthor. Zoologist. Imaginary Genius. Engineer of Fantastical Worlds. Master of None.
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