Publishers Weekly
07/29/2019
Third in Zehanat Khan’s Khorasan Archives fantasy series (after The Black Khan), this rousing quest celebrates feminist heroines Arian, First Oralist of Hira, and her companion, Sinnia, who struggle to overthrow the anti-intellectual and patriarchal Talisman. Ashfall, the Black Khan’s capital, is being besieged by the Talisman and heroically defended by the Khan as well as Arian’s lover, Daniyar. Arian and Sinnia travel perilously in search of the Sana Codex, which may hold the key to their eventual victory over the Talisman. These parallel adventures are hampered by continually shifting alliances and revelations of eerie and often malignant powers. Zehanat Khan’s fondness for giving important figures multiple titles often dilutes her narrative pace, causing frequent references to her glossary and voluminous cast of characters. Her lush descriptive passages, echoes of Mideastern lore, and alluring glimpses of idyllic love ring true, and readers will linger on her central message of defiance against destructive book-burning purges and other violence meant to preserve the status quo. With strong writing and vigorous pacing, this is a satisfying addition to the series. Agent: Danielle Burby, Nelson Literary. (Oct.)Correction: An earlier version of this review incorrectly stated this book was the third volume in a trilogy.
From the Publisher
Ultimately, it is the feminist themes that shine throughout that make this not only a worthwhile read for any fantasy fan, but a series that will stand the test of time. Khan has proved herself a master of the genre by telling a timely, necessary story.” — Booklist (starred review)
"Fans of Saladin Ahmed’s Middle Eastern fantasy worlds will appreciate this series for its non-European flavor; those who enjoy Katherine Kurtz’s “Deryni” books will savor its detailed worldbuilding and shifting alliances." — Library Journal
"Her lush descriptive passages, echoes of Mideastern lore, and alluring glimpses of idyllic love ring true, and readers will linger on her central message of defiance against destructive book-burning purges and other violence meant to preserve the status quo. With strong writing and vigorous pacing, this is a satisfying addition to the series." — Publishers Weekly
Booklist (starred review)
Ultimately, it is the feminist themes that shine throughout that make this not only a worthwhile read for any fantasy fan, but a series that will stand the test of time. Khan has proved herself a master of the genre by telling a timely, necessary story.
APRIL 2020 - AudioFile
Jenny Bryce narrates the conclusion to the Khorasan Archives series, building on the conflict and danger of the first two volumes. As a group of warrior women resist a horrific foreign regime, Arian must travel to a new land to form allies and to find an artifact that will lead to the end of authoritarian rule in her homeland. Bryce’s gravelly voice is the perfect complement to the story, as it embodies the tough exteriors of the women. At times, the listener wonders if the warriors will prevail, but Bryce’s determined tone suggests there is hope. Overall, Bryce’s narration will resonate with listeners long after the final chapters. J.O. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine
