Helpful Score: 5
Yes, I loved this book. GGK has a way of putting you directly in the shoes of each character and provoking you to love, hate or at least sympathize with them.
He pulls from historic times and events and pieces together a well thought out plot from them. This story has somewhat of a typical storyline -war, overthrowing a bad king, ect- but it does have some twist that makes it set in a completely different world of it's own. You can read the description itself, but I will just comment on what I think about the book itself. This story is deep and has the action, mystery and a tad of romance in it. All put together to making a great fantasy book. I actually like his stand alone books way better than the Summer Tree series....
You could try a Song for Arbonne as well...I think I like that one even better....
Either way, Lions of Al-Rassan is a great read, and stays well with you when you put it down.
He pulls from historic times and events and pieces together a well thought out plot from them. This story has somewhat of a typical storyline -war, overthrowing a bad king, ect- but it does have some twist that makes it set in a completely different world of it's own. You can read the description itself, but I will just comment on what I think about the book itself. This story is deep and has the action, mystery and a tad of romance in it. All put together to making a great fantasy book. I actually like his stand alone books way better than the Summer Tree series....
You could try a Song for Arbonne as well...I think I like that one even better....
Either way, Lions of Al-Rassan is a great read, and stays well with you when you put it down.
Helpful Score: 2
I enjoyed this novel immensely. Set in an alternate-reality version of Moorish Spain, the scope of the conflict, the depth of the characters, and the richness of the environment are all drawn well. This was a very satisfying read. I'm only willing to let it go so someone else can enjoy it, too!
Helpful Score: 1
from back...In a magnificant setting, hauntingly evacative of medieval Spain, The Lions of Al-Rassan is both a brilliant adventure and a deeplly moving story of love, divided loyalties, and what happens to man and women when hardening beliefs begin to remake - or destroy - a world.
My thoughts - About the collision between the Arabs, Jews and the Christians trying to retake Spain. Classified as a fantasy book. I found the characters believable and the whole situation somewhat tragic
My thoughts - About the collision between the Arabs, Jews and the Christians trying to retake Spain. Classified as a fantasy book. I found the characters believable and the whole situation somewhat tragic
Helpful Score: 1
My favorite Guy Gavriel Kay book! I love everything about it. Even if you don't like fantasy, but like historical fiction, I'd give this book a try. There is hardly any fantastical element in it at all. And it's really, really good!
Helpful Score: 1
Over the centuries, the once stern rulers of Al-Rassan have been seduced by sensuous pleasures. Now King Almalik of Cartada is on the ascendancy, adding city after city to his realm, aided by his friend and advisor, the notorious Ammar ibn Khairan --poet, diplomat, soldier--until a summer day of savage brutality changes their relationship forever. Meanwhile, in the north, the Jaddite's most celebrated--and feared--military leader, Rodrigo Belmonte, and Ammar meet. Sharing the interwoven fate of both men is Jehane, the beautiful, accomplished court physician, whose own skills play an increasing role as Al-Rassan in swept to the brink of holy war, and beyond.....
Excellent novel, couldn't put it down!
Guy Kay has the ability to make you really care about his characters, who are shown with all their human fallibility. A great story about what might have been in Spain during the Moorish occupation.
This book has no sorcery, dragons or other fantastical creatures. Instead, it's set in a very realistic medieval Spain (called Esperana) when the Muslims invaded it. It's very well written and engaging and I like the "reality fantasy" feel to it. The characters are endearing, and the only fault I could give the characterization is that the author seems a little too in love with his female lead. Overall, an excellent read.
Love this author!
