A review by yak_attak
The Dragon Waiting by John M. Ford
4.0
Three chapters in to Ford's inimitable Dragon Waiting, I was all but convinced this was going to be a best of all timer - Three chapters, three distinct sections introducing unique, remarkable characters in vividly painted historical detail. Action, Intrigue, Culture, this had it all...but unfortunately shortly after I was left a little wanting. Why? Honestly I think Ford's just too damn smart for me.
After our cast meets up and travels to England they get embroiled in an alternate history War of the Roses, but influenced by the auspices of the Byzantine empire. And it's clear Ford's in complete command of real history, of his alternate history, and how the complex changes he proposes would cascade through the world and create strange and new possibilities.... It's just I can't necessarily follow it. Paired with an extremely well done style, but one that's sparse in giving context, you do have to have a solid grasp of your own on the context and characters to get the most out of this.
I think though that with some time, research, understanding and patience, this book can and will easily meet the promise it set forth in its opening pages... just give me another chance first.
After our cast meets up and travels to England they get embroiled in an alternate history War of the Roses, but influenced by the auspices of the Byzantine empire. And it's clear Ford's in complete command of real history, of his alternate history, and how the complex changes he proposes would cascade through the world and create strange and new possibilities.... It's just I can't necessarily follow it. Paired with an extremely well done style, but one that's sparse in giving context, you do have to have a solid grasp of your own on the context and characters to get the most out of this.
I think though that with some time, research, understanding and patience, this book can and will easily meet the promise it set forth in its opening pages... just give me another chance first.