From the forest

Modesitt's latest in the Saga of the Recluce series (after Fairhaven Rising, 2021) follows Alyiakal as he grows from a youth with some minor magical abilities in using chaos and order and begins his journey in the Mirror Lancers. Just outside of the walls of Cyador is a forbidden, otherworldly forest where strange creatures live. When Alyiakal meets a woman who is more than she seems, he is intrigued to learn more. She speaks enigmatically with him and encourages his magical studies. As he grows, he makes friends and begins to court an unusual woman who is smart and not afraid to break with societal traditions. This is the first of four books that will follow Alyiakal's life in Cyador, and it provide some fleshed-out history for the foundation of one of the main political forces in the world of Recluce. In the tradition of Pern, Darkover, and the Vorkosigan saga, the Saga of Recluce series is sf with fantasy woven throughout that illuminates a vast, imaginary world.

Modesitt takes his Saga of Recluse series in a new direction in its 23rd volume (after Fairhaven Rising), an atmospheric adventure tale that stands surprisingly well on its own. Alyiakal has always wanted to be a mage, but because his limited magical abilities don't exactly fit the usual specifications, he signs on to the military to become a Mirror Lancer instead. Before leaving home, however, he meets a Adayal, a woman with a mystical connection to the Great Forest in Jakaafra. She and the trees help to bolster Alyiakal's magic and provide him with some early, illicit tutelage, though his increased skills could disqualify him from becoming a Mirror Lancer. As he goes on to complete his combat training, he keeps his magic under wraps, even as it grows ever stronger, evolving into an ability to manipulate order and chaos. After graduating, he is assigned to the border, where he fends off invaders and carefully navigates military politics to avoid detection. As with previous books in the series, the plot moves slowly, but exciting magic battles and an endearing hero will keep readers invested. Series fans and newcomers alike will be rewarded. (Jan.)